Shirazi Thyme Research Articles

Antioxidative properties, phenolic compounds, and invitro protective efficacy of multi-herbal hydro-alcoholic extracts of ginger, turmeric, and thyme against the toxicity of aflatoxin B1 on mouse macrophage RAW264.7 cell line.

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), the most potent toxic and carcinogenic secondary fungal metabolite, has frequently been reported in food/feed. Nowadays, herbal extracts are considered safe dietary additives to reduce the toxicity of such compounds. The protective capability of various combinations of hydro-alcoholic extracts (HAEs) of ginger, turmeric, and Shirazi thyme, against the toxicity of AFB1 on the RAW264.7 cell line was investigated. The RAW264.7 cells were exposed to six different concentrations of AFB1 (0.09, 0.18, 0.37, 0.75, 1.5, and 3 μg mL-1) for 48 h to determine the IC50 of AFB1. AFB1 was estimated to have an IC50 of 1.5 μg mL-1 for RAW264.7 cells. Then, the cells were simultaneously incubated with 1.5 μg mL-1 AFB1 and the HAEs for 24 h. The HAEs significantly reduced the toxicity of AFB1 in RAW264.7 cells. HAE of Shirazi thyme showed the highest amount of total phenol content (TPC) and the highest DPPH• activity. In addition, a combination of ginger, turmeric, and Shirazi thyme extract showed the highest antioxidant activity. Rutin, quercetin, and apigenin were the main phenolic components of ginger HAE. A significantly positive correlation was observed between TPC of hydro-alcoholic extract with ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) values. Consequently, the simultaneous consumption of such extracts is recommended to protect the cells against dietary toxins.

Expression of the changes in essential oil components of Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora Boiss.) as affected by various drying methods

The purpose of this research was to investigate the impact of various drying techniques on the quality characteristics of Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora Boiss.) using a completely randomized design with three replications. The treatments included fresh samples, shade-drying (SHD), sun-drying (SD), oven and vacuum-drying (OD and VD) each at three different temperatures (45, 55, and 65 °C), and microwave-drying (MD) at three different power levels (200, 400, and 600 W). The results indicated that vacuum and oven-drying at 45 °C were effective in preserving valuable secondary metabolites compared to traditional drying methods. The essential oil (EO) content was lowest in the microwave-drying at 600 W (1.3 %), and highest in vacuum-drying at 45 °C (2.99 %). Vacuum-drying at 45 °C also produced the highest levels of carvacrol (72.5 %) and thymol (7.21 %) content, while the lowest levels were found in fresh samples. The main components in the EO were monoterpene hydrocarbons (11.47–27.33 %), oxygenated monoterpenes (74.81–86.9 %), and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (76.50–86.50 %). The results showed that the amount of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated monoterpenes were higher at low temperatures. Furthermore, the color parameters showed changes based on the drying methods, with vacuum-drying at 45 °C increasing the L* parameter (lightness), vacuum-drying at 65 °C increasing the a* parameter)brightness(, and oven-drying at 45 °C increasing the b* parameter)greenness). Understanding the different methods and operations of drying Shirazi thyme can provide valuable insight for its professional application and development in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Co-encapsulation of Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora) essential oil and nisin using caffeic acid grafted chitosan nanogel and the effect of this nanogel as a bio-preservative in Iranian white cheese.

The current study aims to co-encapsulate Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora) essential oil (ZEO) and nisin into chitosan nanogel as an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent to enhance the shelf-life of cheese. Chitosan-caffeic acid (CS-CA) nanogel was produced to co-encapsulate Zataria multiflora essential oil and nisin. This nanogel was characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. The effect of free (TFZN) and encapsulated ZEO-nisin in chitosan nanogel (TCZN) on the chemical and microbiological properties of Iranian white cheese was assessed. The particle size, polydispersity index value (PDI), zeta potential, antioxidant activity, and encapsulation efficiency of the optimal chitosan-ZEO-nisin nanogel were 421.6 nm, 0.343, 34.0 mV, 71.06%-82.69%, and 41.3 ± 0.5%, 0.79 ± 0.06 mg/mL. respectively. FTIR and XRD approved ZEO and nisin entrapment within chitosan nanogel. The chitosan nanogel showed a highly porous surface with an irregular shape. The bioactive compounds of ZEO and nisin decreased the pH changes in cheese. On the 60th day of storage, the acidity of treated samples was significantly lower than that of control. Although the lowest anisidine index value was observed in samples treated with sodium nitrate (NaNO3) (TS), there was no significant difference between this sample and TCZN. The lowest microbial population was observed in TCZN and TS. After 60 days of ripening, Coliforms were not detected in the culture medium of TCZN and TS. The results can contribute to the development of a natural preservative with the potential for application in the dairy industry.

Single-to-combined effects of gelatin and aloe vera incorporated with Shirazi thyme essential oil nanoemulsion on shelf-life quality of button mushroom

Button mushrooms are considered one of the most sensitive agricultural products due to the mechanical damages that can significantly decrease their quality and color. Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of aloe vera and gelatin edible coatings containing Shirazi thyme essential oil nanoemulsion on the shelf life, enzymatic browning, physicochemical, microbiological, textural, and sensorial properties of a button mushroom. Seven samples, including the control (C) and those coated with 1% gelatin (G1), 3% gelatin (G3), 1% aloe vera (A1), 3% aloe vera (A3), 1% gelatin + 2% aloe vera (G1A2), and 2% gelatin + 1% aloe vera (G2A1), were produced. Parameters such as weight loss, pH, firmness, color, microbiological, and sensory attributes were analyzed to evaluate these features. Our results showed that aloe vera and edible gelatin coatings are capable of efficiently maintaining the physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory properties of button mushrooms. The lower microbial counts, including mesophilic bacteria, yeasts, and molds in treated samples during storage, could be due to the coating containing Shirazi thyme essential oil nanoemulsion. Regarding the efficient role of aloe vera coating (3%) in preventing the growth of microorganisms and maintaining the sensory properties of samples, this treatment could be a promising technique for the preservation of button mushrooms and other vegetables and fruits.

The effects of Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora) oil nanoemulsion on the quality of shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) during refrigerated storage.

The effects of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) coating incorporated with Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora) oil nano emulsion (SNE), in different concentrations (10, 20, and 30mg/ml), on the melanosis and the quality of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) was investigated during 10days in refrigerated temperature (4 ± 0.5°C). The results showed that incorporating SNE into CMC could significantly (P < 0.05) improve the microbial and lipid oxidation quality of the shrimp. During storage, the incremewnt of total volatile basic-nitrogen and trimethylamine in the SNEs-treated groups were lower than that of the other groups (P < 0.05). Also, the application of SNEs improved the textural, melanosis, and sensory acceptability of the coated shrimps. However, treating the shrimp with SNE in 30mg/ml concentration caused an increase in the a* and b* values of samples and a decrease in the acceptability of this group. Hence, the SNE incorporation at lower concentrations (10, 20mg/ml) into CMC coating could be useful in extending the shelf life of the shrimp during refrigerated storage and could be a substitute for sodium metabisulphite.

Withdrawal: “Shelf‐life extension of buffalo meat using Farsi gum edible coating containing Shirazi thyme essential oil,” by Elnaz Saffari Samani, Hossein Jooyandeh, and Behrooz Alizadeh Behbahani, Food Science &amp; Nutrition , 2022

Withdrawal: “Shelf‐life extension of buffalo meat using Farsi gum edible coating containing Shirazi thyme essential oil,” by Elnaz Saffari Samani, Hossein Jooyandeh, and Behrooz Alizadeh Behbahani, <i>Food Science &amp; Nutrition</i> , 2022

Antifungal effects of Zataria multiflora Boisss (Shirazi Thyme) extract against Aspergillus fumigatus Afs35 genes: crza and rpda

Aspergillus fumigatus causes a fatal infection particularly among immunocompromised individuals. Nowadays herbal and medicinal essential oils play a vital role as an alternative safe medication. Zataria multiflora Boiss essential oils have antifungal activities mainly on the expression of some gene required for fungal survival. The main objective of the study was evaluation of antifungal effects of Z. multiflora Boiss extract against A. fumigatus AfS35 strain. The strain was obtained from department of biology, Baghdad University. Various concentrations (10-300mg/mL) of Z. multiflora Boiss extract were prepared and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were determined using micro-broth dilution method. The expression of crzA and rpdA genes was evaluated using the quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) technique. The concentrations ≥100mg/mL of extract inhibited the fungal growth which was non-toxic to normal cell line (MIC=100mg/mL and MFC=150mg/mL). The combination of 50mg/mL of extract plus each of amphotericin B (10mg/ml) and nystatin (10mg/mL) significantly decreased the MIC level (p&lt;0.001). The concentration of 10mg/mL of the extract decreased the expression of crzA and rpdA genes 2.4 (p&lt;0.001) and 3.6 (p&lt;0.0001) fold, respectively. The same concentration of amphotericin B non- significantly decreased the crzA and rpdA genes expression by 0.6 (p=0.224) and 1.1 (p=0.033) fold, respectively. The study concluded that Z. multiflora Boiss extract exerted antifungal effect against A. fumigatus by inhibiting the cell wall biosynthesis (down-regulation of crzA), sustainability and virulence expression (rpdA). The combination therapy with Z. multifora Boiss is promising to eradicate A. fumigatus infections.

Interleukin-4 can play a role in allergic rhinitis patient during treatment with Zataria multiflora

BackgroundAllergic rhinitis is a widespread disorder across the globe. The Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora) has been shown to have considerable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study assessed the effect of this herbal product on alterations in inflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokines.MethodThis study was conducted on the bank sample before and after the intervention to measure interleukin-4, interleukin-5, and interferon -γ levels with the ELISA test method in a supernatant taken from the PBMC cell culture from 30 allergic rhinitis patients.ResultsThe IL-4 level had no significant difference between the two groups before the treatment. However, it had a significant increase in the case group after the treatment. The IL-5 level was significantly higher in the case group before the treatment. Nevertheless, there were no significant differences between the case and control groups after the treatment. Similarly, no significant differences were observed between the two groups considering IFN-γ before and after the treatment.ConclusionConsuming thyme with an increase in anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4 and a decrease in IL-5 cytokine control inflammation and improvement in allergic rhinitis symptoms.Clinical trial details This clinical trial study was recorded at 22.5.2014 in the Iran Registry of Clinical Trials code: (IRCT2016121823235N6) https://www.irct.ir/trial/19852

Withdrawal: "Shelf-life extension of buffalo meat using Farsi gum edible coating containing Shirazi thyme essential oil", by Elnaz Saffari Samani, Hossein Jooyandeh, Behrooz Alizadeh Behbahani, Food Science & Nutrition, 2022.

At the present research, the effect of Farsi gum (FG) containing Shirazi thyme essential oil (STEO) as an edible coating was investigated on the shelf life of buffalo meat at the refrigerator temperature (4°C). The meat samples were coated with FG containing STEO at levels of 0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1% and compared with control (uncoated meat) in terms of microbial, physicochemical, and sensorial properties on the days 0, 3, 6, and 9 of the storage. The cytotoxic effect of STEO on colorectal cancer cell lines (HT29) was also evaluated by MTT method. The cytotoxic result of STEO showed that as its concentration increased, the level of cytotoxicity noticeably enhanced, and the cell percentage viability decreased. The count of the pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms was significantly (p < .05) lower in the coated meat samples than in the control. This effect was more pronounced at the highest STEO concentration (1%). The edible coating significantly restrained the pH increase, moisture loss, color change, and hardness reduction in the meat samples. The sensory attributes of the buffalo meat were also retained to a greater extent in the presence of the bioactive edible coating. According to the total viable count assessment, the shelf life of the control and the sample coated with FG without STEO was only 3 days, while that for the samples coated with FG containing 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1% STEO was more than 3, 6, 6, and 9 days, respectively. In conclusion, the FG edible coating containing STEO could desirably extend the shelf life of buffalo meat during the refrigerated storage.

Remediation of zearalenone mycotoxin contamination in rumen fluid by phytochemical compounds of Zataria multiflora.

Zearalenone (ZEA), which is one of the most prevalent wheat and corn seeds mycotoxins causes acute and chronic toxicities in ruminants, poultry, and aquatic animals. Among commercial toxin binders, only a few active charcoals have the significant ability to adsorb ZEA contamination; nevertheless, active charcoal is not considered a sound additive by the feed industry. This study aimed to screen and identify the ZEA-degradation compounds of the Zataria multiflora (Shirazi thyme) in the cattle rumen fluid. In this investigation, essential oil and different extracts (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol) of the aerial part of Shirazi thyme (at three concentrations of 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/ml) were screened to reduce ZEA contamination conditions (2 µg/ml) in rumen fluid. ZEA-content was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a fluorescence detector. In addition, Shirazi thyme phytochemical compounds responsible for eliminating ZEA were localized by HPLC-based activity profiling and then identified by mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Both n-hexane and methanol extracts of Z. multiflora, considerably remediated ZEA (63-78%) from rumen fluid. According to HPLC-based activity profiling of Z. multiflora extract and LC-MS analysis, two triterpene compounds, including ursolic and oleanolic acids were introduced as ZEA degradation agents. Z. multiflora could be recommended as a new botanical source, and ursolic and oleanolic acids could be introduced as new phytochemical compounds that degrade ZEA.

Evaluation of the properties and antibacterial activity of microchitosan film impregnated with Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora) and garlic (Allium sativum) essential oils.

Recent research has shown that chitosan has good moisture-absorbing properties at the micro and nanoscale, and seems to be a good candidate for the production of biodegradable moisture-absorbing films. The aim of this study was to evaluate the properties and antibacterial activity of starch-based microchitosan (MCH) films impregnated with two essential oils (EOs). MCH films with varying thicknesses were made from cornstarch (6%), microchitosan (1%), glycerol (2.25%), and/or EOs (2%), and their characteristics, including swelling degree (SD), tensile strength (TS), and elongation at break (EB%), were examined. The film structures were confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). To determine the antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, two EOs of Shirazi thyme, garlic, and a mixture of them were used in the experimentation. The EB% and TS had a linear relationship with the thickness of samples and improved by increasing the thickness of films. The XRD pattern showed that the MCH films had an amorphous structure. SEM of the films showed a homogeneous dispersion of MCH in the starch matrix without any porosity. The AFM images showed a simultaneous increase in the thickness of the MCH films and surface roughness. The film was able to absorb water up to 15.78 times its weight in 48 h. The inhibition zone of films containing 2% thyme EO was 42.0 mm for S. aureus and 12.3 mm for E. coli (P<0.05). MCH film containing Shirazi thyme can be described as a moisture-absorbing antibacterial pad and is a new idea for active food packaging to increase the shelf life of foods with fully degradable properties.

Effect of Sodium Alginate in Combination with Zataria multiflora Boiss. on Phenolic Compounds, Antioxidant Activity, and Browning Enzymes of Fresh In-Hull Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.)

The color of fresh pistachio is used as a postharvest quality indicator. The present study was performed to investigate the chemical properties of fresh pistachios coated with different sodium alginate concentrations (1 and 1.5%), various amounts of Shirazi thyme essential oil (0.3 and 0.5%), and their combination during storage (2 ± 1°C and 85 ± 5% RH). Over the storage duration, chemical parameters were measured on days 13, 26, and 39. The results showed that although the application of sodium alginate in combination with thyme essential oil decreased polyphenol oxidase activity in comparison with other treatments, the highest total phenolics and phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity were found in pistachios coated with alginate (1%) + thyme essential oil (0.3% and 0.5%). In general, it was proven that treatments containing 1% alginate + 0.3% essential oil had the ability to maintain the quality of fresh pistachio fruit approximately over 39 days of storage.

Ffect of 8 Weeks of Resistance Exercise Combined with Shirazi Thyme Supplementation on Plasma Levels of INF-γ and TNF-alpha in Men With Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver

bjective: Resistance exercise and supplementation by Shirazi thyme has beneficial effects on inflammatory processes. The present study aims to assess the effect of 8 weeks of resistance exercise combined with Shirazi thyme supplementation on plasma levels of Interferon-gamma (INF-γ) and Tumor Necrosis Factor- alpha (TNF-α) in men with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Methods: This is a clinical trial with a quasi-experimental design. Participants were 60 non-athlete men with NAFLD selected using a convenience sampling method and divided into four groups of placebo (n=15), exercise (n=15), supplementation (n=15), and exercise + supplementation (n=15). The exercise program consisted of eight weeks of resistance exercise at 3 sessions per week with an intensity of 50-80% of one repetition maximum). For supplementation, a 20 mg soft capsule (Barij Gastrolith) was prescribed three times per day and half an hour before meals. Blood samples were taken before and after the intervention. Data analysis was conducted in SPSS software using one-way analysis of variance considering a significance level of 0.05. Results: Resistance exercise (9.20±5.67), Shirazi thyme supplementation (8.36±4.80) and their combination (7.80±4.02) had no significant effect on INF-γ level (p≥0.05). Moreover, resistance exercise (4.56±1.69), Shirazi thyme supplementation (4.25±2.43) and their combination (5.21±2.22) had no significant effect on TNF-α level (p≥0.05). Conclusion: Resistance exercise alone, Shirazi thyme supplementation alone, or their combination cannot improve inflammatory markers of fatty liver in people with NAFLD. However, it requires further research.

Incorporation of Zataria multiflora Boiss essential oil into gum Arabic edible coating to maintain the quality properties of fresh in-hull pistachio (Pistacia vera L.)

Edible coatings of gum Arabic (GA) (6.0 and 8.0 %) with Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora) (0.3 and 0.5 %) were assessed as potential postharvest treatments to protect the quality of fresh in-hull pistachio when stored at 85 ± 5 % RH and 2 ± 1 °C for up to 36 days. The results showed that 6 % GA combined with thyme at the concentrations of 0.3 and 0.5 % decreased color change and PPO activity of fresh pistachio in comparison with untreated control fruits. Treated fruit (6 % GA alone with the addition of 0.3 % thyme) also had higher PAL activity and total phenolics. Higher free fatty acid and peroxide value were also found in fruits coated with GA (8 %) containing thyme (0.5 %). Both 0.3 % thyme and 6 % GA solutions were found to be the most effective on saturated and unsaturated fatty acids of kernel.

Effects of green iron nanoparticles on iron changes and phytoavailability in a calcareous soil

Green iron nanoparticles (Fe NPs) can be a practical solution to combat iron (Fe) deficiency in calcareous agricultural soils. The main aim of the present work was to assess the effects of green Fe NPs on Fe availability in calcareous soils. For this purpose, green Fe NPs were synthesized using green tea (G-Fe NPs), Shirazi thyme (T-Fe NPs), walnut green hull (W-Fe NPs), and pistachio green hull (P-Fe NPs) extracts and applied as a source of Fe fertilizer to sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) plants. Results of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) indicated that the green Fe NPs were amorphous in nature and the polyphenols obtained from plant-part extracts acted as both capping and reducing agents. Similar to the behavior of Fe-ethylenediamine-N,N′-bis(2-hydroxyphenyl) acetic acid (Fe-EDDHA) in calcareous soils, G-Fe NPs, T-Fe NPs, W-Fe NPs, and P-Fe NPs increased Fe release compared with the control and FeSO4 treatment. Cumulative Fe release data fitted well to the power function, intra-particle diffusion, and Elovich kinetic models. According to the pot experiment, the increment in soil Fe availability upon Fe-EDDHA and Fe NPs application led to an increase in Fe uptake, growth, and photosynthetic pigment contents of the sorghum plants. Although further research is needed to evaluate the residual effect and environmental impact of green Fe NPs, they may be an appropriate substitute for traditional Fe fertilizers in calcareous soils.

Anti-aging effects of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) and Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora Boiss.) plant extracts

Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora Boiss.) have been reported to exhibit several biological beneficial activities. However, the biological activities related to anti-ageing have not been reported so far. In this study, we evaluated anti-aging properties of the peppermint and Shirazi thyme extracts in rat mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from bone marrow and adipose tissue. Beta-galactosidase staining revealed cellular anti-senescence-associated β-galactosidase in the treated stem cells. Significantly higher expression of anti-aging related gene, Nanog, and lower expression of aging-related genes, P53 and NF-kB were detected in the treated cells compared to the controls. Moreover, treatment was found to decrease the number of cells in the G2/M phase's indicating anti-apoptosis effect of the plant extracts. Overall, our finding revealed that peppermint and Shirazi thyme extracts can promote anti-aging process in mesenchymal stem cells.

Medicinal Plants Effective in the Prevention and Control of Coronaviruses

Objective: Coronaviruses often cause acute complications in the respiratory system with cold-like symptoms. A number of them, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) have killed thousands of people and have caused epidemics and pandemics. This review study aims to investigate the most common medicinal plants in Iran and introduce their natural products with antiviral effects on coronaviruses and strengthening the immune system in order to prevent and control them. Methods: In this review study, a search was conducted in national and international databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, SID, MagIran and IranMedex by using keywords such as COVID-19, Coronaviruses, SARS, MERS, SARS-CoV-2, PEDV in both Persian and English for studies published until 2020, and finally 51 articles were selected. Results: There are 10 plants with antiviral effects on members of the family Coronaviridae among which Ginger, Galangal, Cinnamon, Fennel flower, Grapefruit (peel), and Purple coneflower were effective on COVID-19. Elder, Ginseng, Aloe vera, Milkvetch, and Shirazi Thyme plants were effective in boosting the immune system and preventing viral diseases. Conclusion: Inhibiting the replication of viruses is the common mechanism in antiviral drugs, but natural compounds usually counteract it by disrupting key proteins and virulence factors of viruses. Therefore, the use of the antiviral components of reported plants can be useful in producing drugs for these viruses, especially the one causing COVID-19.

Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora) extract can alleviate allergic rhinitis: a randomized clinical trial.

IntroductionAtopic diseases are global concerns in the today’s industrialized world. Allergic rhinitis is the most common allergic condition affecting 20% of individuals. This disorder is associated with remarkable morbidity and rising healthcare expenditure.AimConsidering the anti-inflammatory properties of a plant Zataria multiflora (ZM) with the common name of Shirazi thyme, a randomized clinical trial was designed to evaluate the alleviation of the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.Material and methodsA total of 30 allergic rhinitis patients were randomly and equally assigned to experimental and control groups. Afterwards, the case group was treated with an extract of ZM and the control group with placebo for 2 months. Finally, the clinical signs and symptoms before and after the treatment according to the SNOT22 questionnaire were analysed.ResultsComparing the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and an average score of SNOT22 questionnaire between the two groups before the intervention provided some difference, which was significantly greater after the treatment. Based on this questionnaire, our patients in the ZM syrup group had lower grades than before the treatment and experienced amelioration.ConclusionsRegarding the significant effect of the ZM syrup in reducing symptoms of allergic rhinitis, its use is highly recommended. Since allergic rhinitis is a multifactorial condition, the use of herbal antioxidants along with conventional treatment would result in a more effective improvement of the disease.

Traditional and complementary medicines usage and associated factors in gastrointestinal outpatients in Shiraz, Iran: a cross-sectional survey

BackgroundTraditional and complementary medicines (T&CM) have been widely used globally for a wide variety of conditions, but there is limited data are available on the use of T&CM in Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Shiraz, Iran, among 244 adult patients with GI disorders referred to outpatient GI clinics during April to September 2016. Data were collected by means of a valid and reliable questionnaire comprised of three sections; demographic characteristics, disorders diagnosis, and information related to T&CM. ResultsDuring the past year 36.5 % of GI patients had used at least one T&CM therapy. Of individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease, dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation, T&CM therapies were used by 51 %, 27 %, 6.74 %, and 13.5 %, respectively. There was a direct relationship between the duration of the disorders and the use of T&CM, with longer duration resulting in more T&CM use (P = 0.008). Logistic regression analysis indicated that individuals ≥ 60 years old were more likely to use T&CM use (P = 0.019), while high level of education showed reverse significant relationship (P = 0.002). Herbal medicine was the most frequently used T&CM therapy, with the most popular herbs were Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora - 60.7 %) and yellow chamomile (Cota tinctoria- 20.2 %). Most T&CM users (72 %) reported the effectiveness of T&CM in management of gastrointestinal conditions. However, 78.7 % of the patients had not consulted their physicians prior to their utilization of T&CM. ConclusionGiven the high frequency of use of T&CM in patients with GI disorders, patients and health care providers have to be educated to prevent the potential complications and guide effective and appropriate T&CM use.

Diversity of phytochemical components and biological activities in Zataria multiflora Boiss. (Lamiaceae) populations

Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora Boiss.) belongs to the Lamiaceae family, an aromatic perennial shrub native to Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. In the present study, diversity of thirty-one Zataria multiflora populations (ZMPs), collected from different geographical regions of Iran was studied based on total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), rosmarinic acid (RA) content, antioxidant and antibacterial activity for further consideration in domestication, breeding and cultivation programs. RA content of studied ZMPs ranged between 1.4–8.0 mg/g dry weight (DW). The minimum (9.6 ± 0.6 mg GAE/g DW) and maximum (43.8 ± 2.9 mg GAE/g DW) TPC was observed in ZMP27 (Sirjan1) and ZMP22 (Konar Siah) populations, respectively. TFC varied from 54.6 ± 2.2 to 137.0 ± 2.9 mg rutin/g DW. Antioxidant activity (IC50) of ZMPs extracts ranged from 0.03 to 32 µg/mL. Broth microdilution procedure was utilized to determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against ten pathogenic bacteria. The plant extracts were found to be effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Our findings revealed that some Iranian ZMPs are potential sources of beneficial compounds with health-preventing effects, which can be exploited agricultural systems for further uses in food and pharmaceutical industries. Consequently, habitat suitability of Z. multiflora was depicted by frequency ratio (FR) model based on altitude, averages of annual rainfall and annual temperature. This information can be considered for further habitat modeling to find suitable cultivation areas for this economic medicinal and aromatic plant.