Use Of Herbal Extracts Research Articles

Unveiling the chemical composition, antioxidant and antibacterial properties, and mechanistic insights of Convolvulus arvensis extract through molecular docking simulations

The use of herbal extracts has gained significant importance in modern health practices, making it essential to explore their properties and applications in detail. This study investigates the effect of ultrasound on the extraction yield of Convolvulus arvensis leaves, with a focus on its chemical composition, antioxidant properties, cytotoxicity, antimicrobial activities, and mechanism of action. Antimicrobial activity was determined using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), well diffusion agar, and disk diffusion agar assays. The antioxidant properties were assessed through ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and DPPH free radical scavenging assays. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were utilized to identify the chemical composition and functional groups present in the extract. The findings revealed that ultrasound-assisted extraction exhibited significantly higher extraction efficiency (p < 0.05). The extract displayed significant antimicrobial activity against Listeria innocua, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. The total phenolic and total flavonoid contents of the extract were measured at 328.85 ± 0.046 (mg GAE/100 g) and 226.23 ± 0.043 (mg QE/100 g), respectively. Moreover, the extract demonstrated notable radical scavenging activity against DPPH, with a value of 37.40 ± 0.111 (g/100 g). The FRAP assay revealed that the antioxidant activity of C. arvensis extract was quantified at 23.796 ± 0.045 μmol Fe²⁺. The highest amount of phenolic and alkaloid compounds in the extract was related to β-Phellandrene (341.52 µg/mL) and Swainsonine (360.24 µg/mL), respectively. Furthermore, the in vitro cytotoxic activity of the extract was evaluated against the Caco-2 cell line, with the IC50 value determined to be 26.55 mg/mL. The results of the docking study demonstrated that Ferulic acid displayed a significant binding energy of −6.2 kcal/mol, suggesting a robust interaction with the target enzyme and the potential to act as a modulator of glutathione peroxidases. The findings of the present study revealed that the alcoholic extract of C. arvensis possesses proper antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Therefore, it has been used as a food preservative. However, further medical and clinical researches are required before any application in human health.

Innovative Formulation and Evaluation of Phytosomal Nanoparticles from Ixora Coccinea Linn and its Pharmacological Screening

The use of herbal extracts in pharmaceutical formulations has gained significant attention due to their therapeutic potential and minimum side effects and shows pharmacological profiles as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial. Thus, the intent of the current study was to develop a potential drug carrier system phytosomal nanoparticle using an extract of the plant “Ixora coccinea”. The extract of Ixora coccinea was prepared by using the maceration method and it is incorporated into Phytosome nanoparticles by using the solvent evaporation method. The impact of various process parameters and material attributes on the average particle size and drug entrapment efficacy. Extract loaded Phytosomal nanoparticles were characterized by particle size determination, Zeta potential, FTIR, and UV spectroscopy. The pharmacological screening consolidated antimicrobial activity was carried out by the well diffusion method, wherein it was performed against Gram Positive (B. Cerus, NCIM-2703) and Gram Negative (E. coli, NCIM 2832) bacteria strains. Which resulted in showing phytosomal nanoparticles show good activity than the extract. The anti-inflammatory activity was carried out by the protein denaturation method, which concluded that Ixora Coccinea phytosomal nanoparticles show better activity. Therefore, it results in moderate anti-inflammatory activity as compared to standard Diclofenac sodium. Keywords: Phytosome nanoparticles, Solvent evaporation method, Invitro anti-inflammatory activity.

Edible Coatings: A Novel Approach to Extending the Shelf Life of Fruits and Vegetables

The rapid deterioration of fruits and vegetables during pre- and post-harvest conditions leads to significant post-harvest losses, affecting both quality and shelf life. Edible coatings have emerged as an effective solution to mitigate these issues, providing a protective layer that can be safely consumed as part of the food. Recently, there has been growing interest in using herbal extracts such as lemongrass, oregano, Aloe vera, Tulsi, mint, neem, cinnamon, and clove for edible coatings due to their beneficial properties. These herbal-based coatings have been shown to prevent water loss, control the ripening process and respiration rate, delay oxidative browning, and reduce microbial growth in various fruits and vegetables, including grapes, papaya, oranges, cucumbers, tomatoes, apples, and mangoes. Research indicates that these herbal edible coatings can extend the storage time of fresh produce to 15-35 days at low temperatures, compared to the 8-10 days for uncoated produce. The use of herbal extracts in edible coatings is a promising alternative to post-harvest chemical treatments, offering an innovative approach for commercial application. Edible coatings not only extend the post-harvest life of fresh produce but also improve food appearance and safety due to their environmentally friendly nature. They can be derived from animal or vegetable sources and may consist of proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, resins, or combinations thereof. Acting as barriers to moisture and gases, these coatings reduce food deterioration and enhance safety, often incorporating antimicrobial compounds. The advantages of edible coatings include reduced packaging waste, extended shelf life, and protection from environmental effects while maintaining the transfer of oxygen, carbon dioxide, moisture, aroma, and taste. Given the high market demand for nutritious fruits and vegetables and their perishable nature, edible coatings present an effective method to address post-harvest challenges, benefiting both consumers and the environment. This review discusses the components, benefits, and application techniques of edible coatings, focusing on their potential to enhance the shelf life and quality of fresh produce.

Antibacterial Activity of Hibiscus Flower Extracts

In Ayurveda and the traditional Chinese medicine system, it is well documented that the use of herbal extracts and nutritional supplements for the treatment of various diseases. The Hibiscus plant has been used as a diuretic, mild laxative, and treatment for cardiac and nerve diseases. This plant is used for mild laxative effect, the ability to increase urination, relief during hot weather, and treatment of cracks in the feet, bilious, sores, and wounds. The purpose of this study was to examine the evolution of antimicrobial activity of flower extract of Hibiscus against human pathogens. Fresh flowers and dried flower powder were used for extract production. Two types of extracts were prepared, viz. aqueous and solvent extracts. Their antibacterial activity was studied against different human pathogens. Well agar diffusion assay was used for antibacterial investigation.

Antibacterial potential of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles using Nepeta sessilifolia Bunge and Salvia hydrangea DC. ex Benth. extracts from the natural habitats of Iran's Rangelands

BackgroundNowadays, the use of herbal extracts for the production of nanoparticles has attracted a lot of attention due to the fast reaction, economy, and compatibility with the environment. The aim of the present study is the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles from the extracts of Nepeta sessilifolia Bunge and Salvia hydrangea DC. ex Benth. and their antibacterial activity was measured.MethodsFor this purpose, the flowering branch of N. sessilifolia and the flower of S. hydrangea were randomly collected from three places, respectively, from the rangelands of Aqdash Mountain and Biabe in Isfahan province, Iran in May 2021. After extracting aqueous extracts by hot method, silver nanoparticles were synthesized by the biological method. Green synthesized silver nanoparticles were analyzed by UV–Vis spectroscopy, XRD, FTIR, and FESEM-EDAX. The antibacterial effect was evaluated by diffusion method in agar and determination of minimum growth inhibitory and lethal concentration (MIC and MBC) by dilution method in liquid culture medium.ResultsBased on the results of UV–Vis spectroscopy, silver nanoparticles synthesized from N. sessilifolia and S. hydrangea had distinct absorption peaks at wavelengths of 407 to 424 nm and 414 to 415 nm, respectively. The crystalline nature of these synthetic silver nanoparticles was confirmed by XRD. FESEM analysis showed that the size of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles from N. sessilifolia and S. hydrangea extracts were 10–50 nm and 10–80 nm, respectively, and were cubic. The results of diffusion in agar showed that the largest diameter of the growth inhibition zone belonging to the synthetic silver nanoparticles from both extracts of N. sessilifolia (~ 26.00 mm) and S. hydrangea (~ 23.50 mm) was against Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. The most vigorous killing activity by synthetic silver nanoparticles from N. sessilifolia extract was against Klebsiella pneumoniae with a value of 250 μg/mL, two times stronger than rifampin.ConclusionTherefore, the studied extracts can be suitable options for fast and safe green synthesis of silver nanoparticles effective against some bacterial strains. These synthetic silver nanoparticles can be used as possible options and have strong potential for the production of natural antibiotics.

Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Toothpaste against Biofilm Producing Staphylococcus aureus

Dental and oral hygiene is essential for overall health and well-being. Tooth brush and dental floss help remove food debris and plaque, while tooth paste and mouth wash are a key part of oral hygiene as they reduce bacterial growth. The use of chemical agents in tooth paste formulations are effective but can have undesirable side effects. The use of herbal extracts instead can be equally effective due to the presence of phytochemicals which render antibacterial and antiseptic properties, with no side effects. In this study we have formulated toothpaste using the extracts of orange peel, tomato peel and Eucalyptus leaves. The extracts were positive for phytochemicals like terpenoids, flavonoids and tannins. The formulated tooth paste demonstrated antibacterial and biofilm degrading activity against Staphylococcus aureus isolated from dental plaques. On comparison with commercially available toothpastes, the herbal formulation was observed to be more effective against the biofilm forming Staphylococcus aureus. Rakhi Bajpai3, Chitranshu Pandey4, Varaprasad Kolla*5

Effects of Plantago major leaf aqueous extracts against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from wound infections

Background: The use of herbal extracts is becoming more popular as a result of the rise in bacterial resistanceto conventional antibiotics. Plantago major is a commonherbal plant used in conventional medicine. It was well known to have a number of medicinal benefits. Aim: The currentstudy aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activityof aqueous extractof P. major leaves against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from burn infections. Materials and Methods: One hundred and thirty five of P. aeruginosa were collected from hospitalized patients in Emergency hospital in Duhok city. The isolates were identified by routine methods. P. major leaves antibacterial activity were performed by using aqueous extract in serial dilutions with the concentrations of (100, 75, 50, 25, and 10 %) by agar well diffusion assay, also antibiotics susceptibility test were done by the disc diffusion method using Muller-Hinton agar medium. Results: Varied aqueous extractof P. major leaves concentrations showed differentinhibitory zones of P. aeruginosa. The inhibitory zone measured by the efficacy of the aqueous extract of P. major leaves on P. aeruginosa ranges fro m [6.8-16.4] mm in diameter.The zone of inhibition grew as extract concentration increased; P. aeruginosa was most inhibited by an extract conc entration of [100%] ethanolic extract, which exhibited a [16.4 mm] inhibition zone. Additionaly, the bacteria display ed a high level of resistance to the utilized antibiotics. Conclusion: The results of this study show that the replacement of chemical drugs with herbal extract could be effective in the elimination of bacterial growth.

Effects of Plantago major leaf aqueous extracts against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from wound infections

Background: The use of herbal extracts is becoming more popular as a result of the rise in bacterial resistanceto conventional antibiotics. Plantago major is a commonherbal plant used in conventional medicine. It was well known to have a number of medicinal benefits. Aim: The currentstudy aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activityof aqueous extractof P. major leaves against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from burn infections. Materials and Methods: One hundred and thirty five of P. aeruginosa were collected from hospitalized patients in Emergency hospital in Duhok city. The isolates were identified by routine methods. P. major leaves antibacterial activity were performed by using aqueous extract in serial dilutions with the concentrations of (100, 75, 50, 25, and 10 %) by agar well diffusion assay, also antibiotics susceptibility test were done by the disc diffusion method using Muller-Hinton agar medium. Results: Varied aqueous extractof P. major leaves concentrations showed differentinhibitory zones of P. aeruginosa. The inhibitory zone measured by the efficacy of the aqueous extract of P. major leaves on P. aeruginosa ranges fro m [6.8-16.4] mm in diameter.The zone of inhibition grew as extract concentration increased; P. aeruginosa was most inhibited by an extract conc entration of [100%] ethanolic extract, which exhibited a [16.4 mm] inhibition zone. Additionaly, the bacteria display ed a high level of resistance to the utilized antibiotics. Conclusion: The results of this study show that the replacement of chemical drugs with herbal extract could be effective in the elimination of bacterial growth.

The use of herbal extracts in lacquer paint coloring and determination of some mechanical resistance properties on wood-based surfaces

The use of herbal extracts in lacquer paint coloring and determination of some mechanical resistance properties on wood-based surfaces

Antibacterial activity of ethanolic extracts of Plantago major leaves against Pseudomonas aeruginosa from burn infections

The use of herbal extracts is increasing because of the increase in bacterial resistance to conventional antibiotics. Plantago major is frequently used in traditional medicine because of its medicinal properties. The aim of the current study was to assess the antibacterial efficacy of an ethanolic extract of P. major leaves against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from burn infections. One hundred and twenty burn samples were collected from hospitalized patients at the Burn Hospital in Duhok city. The bacterium was identified using Gram stain, colony morphology, biochemical tests and selective differential media. Antibacterial activity of P. major leaves was assessed by using an ethanolic extract in serial dilutions of 100, 75, 50, 25, and 10 % and disc diffusion assay. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was also performed by disk diffusion using Muller-Hinton agar medium. Different concentrations of the ethanolic extract of P. major leaves exhibited different zones of inhibition against P. aeruginosa from 9.93 mm to 22.18 mm in diameter. The inhibition zone increased as the concentration of the extract increased. The 100% ethanolic extract had the greatest inhibitory effect, inhibiting bacteria in the zone of 22.18 mm diameter. This bacterium showed a high level of resistance to the antibiotics used. This study demonstrated that herbal extracts could be used as a combination therapy with antibiotics and chemical drugs in the elimination of bacterial growth. Further investigations and future experiments, need to be carried out before recommending use of herbal extracts.

Computational Assisted-Molecular Imprinted Polymer Design for Magnetic Solid Phase Extraction of Pinostrobin from Krachai

The Covid-19 pandemic is driving the use of herbal extracts to treat early stages of Covid-19 symptoms, particularly in light of the increased demand for Krachai (Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf.) with significant pharmacological properties. However, the relevance of establishing extract methods is still necessary for Krachai standardization at an industrial level for continued industrial development of food and health products. The purpose of this work was to develop a unique solid phase extraction with particular recognition produced by imprinting technology on the suface of Fe3O4 nanoparticles that may enable selective absorption of pinostrobin, an active ingredient in Krachai. Pre-polymerization procedure of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) nanoparticles specific to pinostrobin was critical to computational aided-design MIP nanoparticles in this preliminary study. The molecular modeling interactions between two mixed functional monomers, methacrylic acid and vinylpyridine, in the presence of pinostrobin, a printed molecule were used by Hyperchem 7.5 software package. The complex was built and simulated in various ratios of template and functional monomer conformations in order to geometrically optimize it to the lowest energy state in the gas phase. The estimated free binding energies of each conformation were calculated using the semi-empirical PM3 simulation method. The results showed that interactions with the ratio of 1:2:2 (pinostrobin: methacrylic acid: vinylpyridine) had the maximized free binding energy when compared to interactions with other ratios. Additionally, the FT-IR approach was

Impact of the Current Scenario and Future Perspectives for the Management of Oral Diseases: Remarkable Contribution of Herbs in Dentistry

Background: Background: Herbs are the primary feedstock for treating numerous infectious diseases occurring in humans. The herb serves as a potential resource for managing dental disorders by maintaining oral hygiene and reducing the growth of microbes through the use of antimicrobial agents. The body-to-mouth connection helps essential facets that reduce the vulnerability of inflammation and infections in the mouth. The herbal product offers a better alternative for oral care than antibiotics due to reduced side effects and increased patient compliance. : Herbs used in dentistry contain antimicrobial, antiseptic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties that help in reducing irritation, infections, and pain in the oral cavity. The resistance to antibiotics and overcoming their untoward side effects promoted the usage of herbals in dentistry. In addition, due to the affordability issues of allopathic medicines in rural areas, the dependency of poor people on herbal medicines has gained significant popularity in the Indian subcontinent. Objective: Oral disorders would be a significant health setback for humankind due to their severity if they remained untreated. This review promotes the efforts made to overcome the side effects of allopathic medicines and provide cost-effective herbal treatment for oral care. Oral disorders cause various infections like tooth decay, dental caries, gingivitis, fungal, viral and bacterial infections, plaque formation, pemphigus vulgaris, pyorrhoea and mouth ulcers. The use of herbal extracts of tulsi, neem, and turmeric as a natural healer and the safest antimicrobial provides better dental care treatment. In addition, aromatic agents like tulsi, neem, mint, clove, ginger, and turmeric as dental products have increased palatability for patients who have lost their taste buds with growing age and diseases. Method: The literature search was conducted through academics, Google scholar, PubMed, WHO, and Sci.org using keywords dentistry, antimicrobials, herbs for dental management, experimental findings, bacterial strains, oral health, and hygiene. Results: The beneficial results of using various antimicrobial-containing herbs are gaining popularity throughout the world. Subsequently, it has been further suggested that antimicrobials and herbal extracts maintain oral hygiene, reduce bacterial lichens and biofilm adhesion, help in the management of oral infections, and improve health. Conclusion: Screening of newer antimicrobial formulations like dentifrices, gargles, throat paints, mouthwashes, and mouth sprays containing cost-effective herbals for promoting healthcare plays a pivotal role in developing herbal industries for dental care.

Study of the Antioxidant Properties of Filipendula ulmaria and Alnus glutinosa.

The demographic situation of the last few decades is characterized by the increased numbers of elderly and senile people, i.e., by the aging of the population. In humans, ageing is closely associated with the enhanced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), development of systemic inflammation and related vascular atherosclerotic alterations and metabolic disorders, like obesity, diabetes mellitus and neurodegenerative diseases. As these age-related alterations are directly associated with up-regulation of ROS production and development of chronic oxidative stress, their onset can be essentially delayed by continuous daily consumption of dietary antioxidants—natural products of plant origin. Such antioxidants (in the form of plant extracts, biologically active complexes or individual compounds) can be supplemented to functional foods, i.e., dietary supplementations for daily diet aiming prolongation of active life and delay of the senescence onset. Thereby, use of widely spread medicinal plants might essentially improve cost efficiency of this strategy and availability of antioxidant-rich functional foods. Therefore, here we addressed, to the best of our knowledge for the first time, the antioxidant activity of the extracts prepared from the aerial parts of Filipendula ulmaria and Alnus glutinosa growing in the Kaliningrad region of Russia, and assessed the contents of the biologically active substances underlying these properties. It was found that the extract prepared with the leaves of Filipendula ulmaria and female catkins of Alnus glutinosa demonstrated high antioxidant activity, although the former plant was featured with a higher antioxidant potential. The highest antioxidant activity detected in the methanol extracts of Alnus glutinosa reached 1094.02 ± 14.53 µmol TE/g, radical scavenging of activity was 584.45 ± 35.3 µmol TE/g, reducing capacity at interaction with iron complex—471.63 ± 7.06 µmol TE/g. For the methanol extracts of Filipendula ulmaria the antioxidant activity reached 759.78 ± 19.08 µmol TE/g, antioxidant activity for free radical removal was 451.08 ± 24.45 µmol TE/g and antioxidant activity for restorative ability with iron complex was 332.28 ± 10.93 µmol TE/g. These values are consistent with the total yields of the extracts and their content of ellagic acid. The ethyl acetate extracts of the both plants showed just minimal antioxidant activity. Thus, the considered extracts have an essential potential. This creates good prospects for the further use of herbal extracts of Filipendula ulmaria and Alnus glutinosa as a source of natural antioxidants.

Literature Review on the Use of Herbal Extracts in the Treatment of Non- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a common chronic liver injury disease, and its incidence is rapidly increasing across the globe, thus becoming a serious threat to human health. So far, the clinical prevention and treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease mainly include single-targeted drug therapy, surgical treatment and lifestyle changes. However, these treatments cannot completely address the complex pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and have various side effects. Recent studies reveal that many herbal extracts are found to have potential anti-non-alcoholic fatty liver disease activities. This paper presents a review on herbal extracts used for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in experimental studies to provide a theoretical basis for their clinical application in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and for new drug development. Scientific papers were retrieved by searching the PubMed database up to Feb 2021 using the following keywords: 'non-alcoholic fatty liver disease', 'herbal extracts' ('flavonoids', 'saponins', 'quinones', 'phenolic compounds', 'alkaloids', 'polysaccharides', 'ginkgolide B', 'schizandrin B', 'ursolic acid') and 'mechanism'. The pharmacological effects and mechanisms of many herbal extracts can reverse the adverse health effects of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In vitro and in vivo experimental studies indicated that herbal extracts can improve the symptoms of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by inhibiting inflammation, antioxidant stress, improvement of lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity and regulating intestinal bacteria flora. However, there needs to be sufficient data from human clinical trials to prove their efficacy and safety.

A blend of Guava, Bitter, and Neem Leaf extracts improves haematology and resistance to co-infection of Streptococcus agalactiae and Aeromonas jandaie but not Liver health in Nile tilapia

Given the intense interest in the use of herbal extracts to improve fish growth, fish health, and disease resistance in fish in culture systems, in this study, we examined the effects of a blend of Guava, Bitter and Neem leaf extracts (GBNL) (i.e., 1:1:1 for GL, BL, and NL respectively) at different inclusion (i.e. 0 GBNL gkg−1, 1 GBNL gkg−1, 3 GBNL gkg−1, 5 GBNL gkg−1, 7 GBNL gkg−1 and 10 GBNL gkg−1) levels on growth, haematology, immunity, liver toxicity and resistance to bacterial co-infections in Nile tilapia. After 8 weeks of feeding, Nile tilapia fed 3 GBNL gkg−1 diets showed significant effects in improving weight gain compared to those fed the control diet. GBNL fed fish showed improved health of fish by stimulating significant increases in levels of White blood cells, Red blood cells, Haemoglobin, and Haematocrit in relation to those fed the control diet. Also, the applications of deferent GBNL levels in Nile tilapia diets showed the potential to upregulate the expression of the immune-related genes heat shock protein 70, chicken type lysozymes, and Beta-defensin, with significant effects shown in fish fed 5GBNL gkg−1 diets in comparison to the control. The results also indicate that GBNL supplementation can decrease mortalities to co-infection of Streptococcus agalactiae and Aeromonas jandaie in Nile tilapia with the lowest mortalities of 13.65% and relative per cent survival of 82.57 % in fish fed 5GBNL gkg−1. Despite the potential of GBNL applications in Nile tilapia, findings of this study indicate fish fed the different concentrations of GBNL, particularly with 7 GBNL gkg−1 can promote the leaching of the liver enzymes: alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphate into the bloodstream which is suggestive of potential liver damage in Nile tilapia. Histological examinations of a cross-section of the liver tissues of fish fed GBNL showed various injuries including hydropic changes, pyknosis nuclei, erythrocytes congestion and vacuolation with the severest seen in those fed 7 GBNL gkg−1. Taking all of the above into consideration, 5GBNL gkg−1 application could improve the health and disease resistance of Nile tilapia; however, prolong use thus after 8 weeks of administration could be injurious to fish liver health.

Neuromodulatory and Protective Effects Induced by the Association of Herbal Extracts from Valeriana officinalis, Ziziphus jujuba, and Humulus lupulus with Melatonin: An Innovative Formulation for Counteracting Sleep Disorders

Background: The use of herbal extracts could represent an advantageous approach for treating sleeping disorders, especially in mild-to-moderate conditions, before the onset of a specific therapy with first-line drugs. Specifically, the focus was posed about the use of extracts from Valeriana officinalis, Ziziphus jujuba, and Humulus lupulus. Multiple studies demonstrated the efficacy of these medicinal plants to positively manage insomnia symptoms. Additionally, their efficacy in the treatment of sleeping disorders could also be improved by their pharmacological association. In the present study, extracts from Valeriana officinalis, Ziziphus jujuba, Humulus lupulus, melatonin, and their pharmacological association, Vagonotte® MEL, were studied for potential application in the treatment of insomnia. Methods: The extracts and melatonin were tested on hypothalamic neurons and tissue for evaluating biocompatibility and protective and neuromodulatory effects. The neuromodulatory effects were evaluated as orexin A gene expression and serotonin steady state level, in the hypothalamus. Results: The extracts and melatonin, although with evident differences, were effective as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents; additionally, they were also able to reduce the hypothalamic gene expression of orexin A and the steady state level of serotonin, playing master roles in wakefulness. It is noteworthy that the formulation displayed all the effects of the single ingredients, without any sign of toxicity and pharmacological interference in the hypothalamus. Conclusions: Concluding, the present study explored the biological effects of melatonin and herbal extracts with phytotherapy interest in V. officinalis, Z. jujuba, and H. lupulus. The study demonstrated their intrinsic scavenging/reducing activity, together with protective and neuromodulatory effects in the hypothalamus, with a significant reduction of both orexin A gene expression and serotonin steady state level. Additionally, the study also considered their pharmacological association, which displayed an overall pharmacological spectrum mirroring, including all the effects of the single ingredients, without showing any sign of toxicity in the brain and interference between the extracts and melatonin.

Plant and Herbal Extracts as Ingredients of Topical Agents in the Prevention and Treatment Radiodermatitis: A Systematic Literature Review

Background: The use of herbal extracts as the source of antioxidant substances capable of neutralizing free radicals and providing protection from ionizing radiation appears to be an alternative therapy for radiodermatitis. As concerns the prevention and treatment of side effects, a lot of recommendations are based on proper experience of radiotherapy centers. We summarize recent research aiming at reducing radiation-induced skin injuries by use of proper skin care, using topical preparations with herbal extracts including onco-cosmetics. Methods: This article is limited to a critical analysis of scientific and professional literature. It concerns preparations in different physicochemical forms, e.g., gels, emulsions, ointments. We stress the connection between the type of applied skin care (type of preparation, its composition, the dose), the properties of the herbal extract and the evaluation of its efficiency in preventing and treating radiation reaction on skin. Conclusions: Herbal extracts can be added to recipes because they are part of a category of cosmeceutical supplements and can be introduced into preparations without prescription. The effectiveness evaluation for herbal extracts in radiotherapy is not an easy task since there are no strict guidelines. Studies should be preceded by the analysis of herbal extracts and recipe in terms of physicochemical, dermatological and performance characteristics.

Effects of the Hydnophytum formicarum plant extract on collagen density, angiogenesis, wound length, and re-epithelialization in wound healing: Experimental study on rats.

The formation of scar tissue in the wound healing process is associated with fibroblasts that are produced during the proliferation phase (3-14 days after surgery/injury). One of the strategies to suppress the formation of excessive scar tissue is to use wound care material. The use of herbal extracts is currently being investigated by researchers, as it allows avoiding the side effects of synthetic drugs. The Hydnophytum formicarum extract has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. The aim of the study was to analyze the effects of the Hydnophytum formicarum plant extract on collagen density, angiogenesis, wound length, and re-epithelialization in wound healing. Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 2 groups: the control group; and the treatment group. Skin wounds were made on the dorsum of the rats, using the biopsy punch technique. Four rats from each group were sacrificed on days 4, 7 and 14 after injury. Collagen density, angiogenesis, wound length, and re-epithelialization were analyzed using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and Masson's trichrome staining. There were significant differences in the results of the angiogenesis analysis, wound length and re-epithelialization between the treatment and control groups. When considering angiogenesis, there were fewer vessels in the treatment group, but they were more mature as compared to the control group. There was also a meaningful interaction between the application of the Hydnophytum formicarum extract and the necropsy day with regard to collagen density and the re-epithelialization rate. No secondary infection was found in either group. The topical use of the Hydnophytum formicarum extract affected the formation of scar tissue, as indicated by the positive area of collagen, the extent of angiogenesis, wound length, and the re-epithelialization rate in the early, middle and final granulation phases. The inhibition of angiogenesis through the application of Hydnophytum formicarum was probably related to the formation of scar tissue in the wound.

Apigenin, a Single Active Component of Herbal Extract, Alleviates Xerostomia via ERα-Mediated Upregulation of AQP5 Activation.

Xerostomia is a common symptom in menopausal women, suggesting the role of sex steroids in disease development. Shreds of literature had reported the potential use of herbal extracts to relieve xerostomia. However, a cocktail of multiple components in herbal extract makes it difficult to understand the exact mechanism of action. Aquaporin5 (AQP5), the specific aquaporin expressed in salivary glands, plays an important role in salivary secretion as a downstream of estrogen signaling. In this study, we aimed to unravel a single active herbal component as a therapeutic for xerostomia and investigate its mechanism of action. The effects of apigenin (flavonoid), dauricine (alkaloids), protopine (alkaloids), and lentinan (polysaccharides) on AQP5 transcription were screened in vitro. Only apigenin robustly induced AQP5 transcription and expression, and this effect was even robust compared to the effect of estradiol (E2, a positive control). Overexpression of estrogen receptor α (ERα) in the human salivary gland cell line (HSG) upregulated the AQP5 transcription and expression and the knockdown ERα reversed this effect, suggesting the role of ERα signaling on AQP5 activation in HSG cells. Docking results showed apigenin-specific binding sites in ERα. We further analyzed the therapeutic effect of apigenin on ovariectomized mice as a xerostomia model. The saliva secretion in the xerostomia group was reduced to one-third of the sham group, whereas the apigenin or E2 treatment for 12 weeks reversed this effect. Meanwhile, the water consumption in the xerostomia group was augmented obviously compared to the sham group, whereas the water consumption in the apigenin and E2 group was declined to the level of the sham group. Immunohistochemistry of submandibular glands revealed the downregulation of AQP5 expression in xerostomia mice compared to control. Apigenin, or E2 treatment, upregulated AQP5 expression in xerostomia mice. In conclusion, apigenin, a single active component of herbal extract, upregulated AQP5 expression in HSG cells via activation of ERα signaling and restored saliva flow rates in OVX mice. These results revealed apigenin as a single active component of herbal extract with the potential to treat xerostomia.

Chemical Composition and Antifungal Activities of the Essential Oils of Thymus Species (Thymus pectinatus, Thymus convolutus, Thymus vulgaris) Against Plant Pathogens

The use of herbal extracts can be considered as an alternative method to minimize the effects of synthetic chemical pesticide used to control plant pathogens on human and environmental health. The essential oils (EOs) obtained from Thymus pectinatus (TP), Thymus convolutus (TC), and Thymus vulgaris (TV) by hydrodistillation were analyzed by GC/MS. The main components of TP, TC, and TV were thymol (52.2%), p-cymene (17.03%), eucalyptol (24.47%), camphor (16.84%), α-pinene (12.88%), and carvacrol (72.47%). The antifungal activity of EOs against plant pathogens including Fusarium oxysporum f. sp radicis-Iycopersici (FORL), Phytophthora infestans, and Rhizoctonia solani was evaluated by using the agar dilution method. The EOs of TV and TP inhibited mycelium growth 100 % in FORL P. infestans, and R. solani at 4 μL/petri dose. The EOs of TC did not affect mycelial growth of R. solani and R. infestans while the mycelial growth of FORL was inhibited by 36.11%. Our findings suggested the use of these essential oils can prevent fungal infections on plants as alternatives to synthetic ones.