Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts—3rd Edition

A special issue of Antioxidants (ISSN 2076-3921). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural and Synthetic Antioxidants".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2024 | Viewed by 17859

Special Issue Editors


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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Our previous Special Issues, the first and second volume “Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts” (https://www.mdpi.com/journal/antioxidants/special_issues/X0EES32U3F), received an overwhelming number of submissions and comprised a successful compilation of research and review articles. As this is a rapidly evolving topic, we would like to further explore the different actions of extracts or essential oils derived from herbs and spices, including ascertained antioxidant activity in the abovementioned critical situations, with a follow-up Special Issue in 2024.

Herbs and spices, with their well-known antioxidant activity, can prolong the shelf life of fresh and manufactured foods, preserving their quality and safety. For thousands of years, extracts and essential oils recovered from herbs and spices have also been used in folk medicine to limit pathology-associated cell damages linked to a dis-balance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, which might allow the occurrence of inflammatory and dis-metabolic and cardiovascular diseases and, in some cases, concur with the onset of some cancer forms. They are used to fight against attacking and resistant pathogenic microorganisms, bacteria, fungi, and viruses, whose higher resistance to conventional drugs represents a severe problem for human health. Conversely, through their metabolites, they could be used as a support to stimulate the growth and the biological properties of beneficial bacteria (probiotics). In recent decades, the role of such antioxidants has also been investigated for their protective action in combating and curing ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract; hence, they may represent good therapeutic agents for developing new phyto-therapeutic medicines with antioxidant activity for treating such pathologies. Due to such a vast “portfolio” of beneficial effects, extracts and essential oils from herbs and spices are always interesting research fields. In addition, it must be taken into account that waste products can also represent a precious source of antioxidants.

Dr. Filomena Nazzaro
Prof. Dr. Vincenzo De Feo
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • plant secondary metabolites
  • antioxidant effects
  • antimicrobial effects
  • anti-inflammatory effects cytotoxic effects
  • antiproliferative effect
  • gastrointestinal tract
  • food safety
  • neuroprotective effects
  • pre-biotics
  • post-biotics

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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20 pages, 5758 KiB  
Article
Spotlight on Secondary Metabolites Produced by an Early-Flowering Apulian Artichoke Ecotype Sanitized from Virus Infection by Meristem-Tip-Culture and Thermotherapy
by Roberta Spanò, Patrizia Gena, Vito Linsalata, Valeria Sini, Isabella D’Antuono, Angela Cardinali, Pietro Cotugno, Giuseppe Calamita and Tiziana Mascia
Antioxidants 2024, 13(7), 852; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13070852 - 16 Jul 2024
Viewed by 871
Abstract
Globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. subsp. scolymus) is an important crop of the Mediterranean basin characterized by many properties, like hepatoprotective, anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, antibacterial, and beneficial to human health. The high bioactive compounds (BACs) content, as polyphenols, has attracted the research [...] Read more.
Globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. subsp. scolymus) is an important crop of the Mediterranean basin characterized by many properties, like hepatoprotective, anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, antibacterial, and beneficial to human health. The high bioactive compounds (BACs) content, as polyphenols, has attracted the research interest in artichoke extracts. We analysed the changes in polyphenol transcriptome profile between sanitized (S) virus-free and non-sanitized (NS) artichoke plants, focusing on genes involved in phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway and flavonoid biosynthesis. A total of 2458 upregulated and 2154 downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were functionally characterized. Among them, 31 and 35 KEGG orthology entries characterized by upregulated and downregulated DEGs, respectively, were involved in the biosynthesis of other secondary metabolites. A downregulation of PAL, C4H, 4CL, HST/HQT, C3′H, CCoAMT, CCR1, and F5H, was observed in S artichoke compared to NS one, whereas the CSE, CHS, and CHI genes were upregulated in S samples. Transcriptome results were compared to the polyphenols accumulation in S and NS artichoke leaves. A higher content of total polyphenols was observed in older leaves of NS samples, compared to extracts obtained from young leaves or from S plants, and this result was associated with the presence of viral infections in NS plants. In all the conditions tested, the most represented compound was chlorogenic acid, followed by luteolin-7-O-glucoside. The different composition of each extract was evaluated by a polyphenol dose–response treatment on the rodent hepatoma FaO cell line to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). A significant reduction in ROS content ranging between −40% and −48% was observed when 10–20 mg/L of polyphenols from NS or S plants were used, characterized by a specific profile of compounds. To reduce MetOH residues in polyphenol extracts, a supercritical fluid CO2 extraction was evaluated to propose a sustainable green extraction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts—3rd Edition)
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15 pages, 1030 KiB  
Article
Isolation, NMR Characterization, and Bioactivity of a Flavonoid Triglycoside from Anthyllis henoniana Stems: Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Effects on MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells
by Amani Ayachi, Guillaume Boy, Sonda Samet, Nathan Téné, Bouthaina Bouzayani, Michel Treilhou, Raoudha Mezghani-Jarraya and Arnaud Billet
Antioxidants 2024, 13(7), 793; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13070793 - 28 Jun 2024
Viewed by 677
Abstract
Plant extracts are considered as a large source of active biomolecules, especially in phytosanitary and pharmacological fields. Anthyllis henoniana is a woody Saharan plant located in the big desert of North Africa. Our previous research paper proved the richness of the methanol extract [...] Read more.
Plant extracts are considered as a large source of active biomolecules, especially in phytosanitary and pharmacological fields. Anthyllis henoniana is a woody Saharan plant located in the big desert of North Africa. Our previous research paper proved the richness of the methanol extract obtained from the stems in flavonoids and phenolic compounds as well as its remarkable antioxidant activity. In this research, we started by investigating the phytochemical composition of the methanol extract using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). Among the 41 compounds identified, we isolated and characterized (structurally and functionally) the most abundant product, a flavonoid triglycoside (AA770) not previously described in this species. This compound, which presents no cytotoxic activity, exhibits an interesting cellular antioxidant effect by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and an antiproliferative action on breast cancer cells. This study provides a preliminary investigation into the pharmacological potential of the natural compound AA770, isolated and identified from Anthyllis henoniana for the first time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts—3rd Edition)
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22 pages, 4500 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Potential, Metabolite Composition and Inorganic Profile of Cistus monspeliensis L. Aerial Parts and Roots
by Eileen Mac Sweeney, Ilaria Chiocchio, Manuela Mandrone, Cinzia Sanna, Fabjola Bilo, Giuseppina Maccarinelli, Vlad Sebastian Popescu, Mariachiara Pucci, Stefania Morandini, Maurizio Memo, Daniela Letizia Uberti, Laura Borgese, Simona Trincia, Ferruccio Poli, Andrea Mastinu and Giulia Abate
Antioxidants 2024, 13(7), 753; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13070753 - 21 Jun 2024
Viewed by 721
Abstract
This work focuses on Cistus monspeliensis L. aerial parts (AP) and roots (R) extracts, investigating the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of the two organs in comparison. At dosages between 1.56 and 6.25 µg/mL, both extracts showed a protective effect against LPS inflammatory stimulus [...] Read more.
This work focuses on Cistus monspeliensis L. aerial parts (AP) and roots (R) extracts, investigating the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of the two organs in comparison. At dosages between 1.56 and 6.25 µg/mL, both extracts showed a protective effect against LPS inflammatory stimulus on a macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7). Interestingly, only R was able to significantly reduce both IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA gene expression in the presence of LPS. Moreover, the treatment of a neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y) with AP and R at 6.25 µg/mL increased the cell survival rate by nearly 20% after H2O2 insult. However, only R promoted mitochondria survival, exhibited a significantly higher production of ATP and a higher activity of the enzyme catalase than the control. Both AP and R had similar primary metabolites; in particular, they both contained 1-O-methyl-epi-inositol. Labdane and methoxylated flavonoids were the most characteristic compounds of AP, while R contained mainly catechins, gallic acid, and pyrogallol derivatives. Considering the importance of elemental composition in plants, the inorganic profile of AP and R was also investigated and compared. No potentially toxic elements, such as Pb, were detected in any sample. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts—3rd Edition)
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18 pages, 4689 KiB  
Article
Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Sophora flavescens Aiton and Protective Effects against Alcohol-Induced Liver Injury and Oxidative Stress in Mice
by Ye Jin Yang, Min Jung Kim, Ju-Hye Yang, Ji Woong Heo, Hun Hwan Kim, Woo H. Kim, Gon Sup Kim, Hu-Jang Lee, Young Woo Kim, Kwang Youn Kim and Kwang Il Park
Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050541 - 28 Apr 2024
Viewed by 964
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the hepatoprotective effects of an ethanol extract of Sophora flavescens Aiton (ESF) on an alcohol-induced liver disease mouse model. Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) was caused by the administration of ethanol to male C57/BL6 mice who were given a [...] Read more.
In this study, we investigated the hepatoprotective effects of an ethanol extract of Sophora flavescens Aiton (ESF) on an alcohol-induced liver disease mouse model. Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) was caused by the administration of ethanol to male C57/BL6 mice who were given a Lieber−DeCarli liquid diet, including ethanol. The alcoholic fatty liver disease mice were orally administered ESF (100 and 200 mg/kg bw/day) or silymarin (50 mg/kg bw/day), which served as a positive control every day for 16 days. The findings suggest that ESF enhances hepatoprotective benefits by significantly decreasing serum levels of aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT), markers for liver injury. Furthermore, ESF alleviated the accumulation of triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC), increased serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH), and improved serum alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity in the alcoholic fatty liver disease mice model. Cells and organisms rely on the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1- Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Keap1-Nrf2) system as a critical defensive mechanism in response to oxidative stress. Therefore, Nrf2 plays an important role in ALD antioxidant responses, and its level is decreased by increased reactive oxidation stress (ROS) in the liver. ESF increased Nrf2, which was decreased in ethanol-damaged livers. Additionally, four polyphenol compounds were identified through a qualitative analysis of the ESF using LC-MS/MS. This study confirmed ESF’s antioxidative and hangover-elimination effects and suggested the possibility of using Sophora flavescens Aiton (SF) to treat ALD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts—3rd Edition)
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13 pages, 1135 KiB  
Article
Ultra-High-Resolution Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Electrospray Ionization Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Tessaria absinthioides (Hook. & Arn.) DC. (Asteraceae) and Antioxidant and Hypocholesterolemic Properties
by Mariana Rey, María Sol Kruse, Jessica Gómez, Mario J. Simirgiotis, Alejandro Tapia and Héctor Coirini
Antioxidants 2024, 13(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13010050 - 28 Dec 2023
Viewed by 1261
Abstract
Recently, we reported the chemical profile and the hypocholesterolemic effects of a decoction of Tessaria absinthioides (Hook. & Arn.) DC. (Asteraceae). In this study, we evaluated a methanolic extract (METa) instead. Metabolite profiling was conducted using ultra-high-resolution liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization [...] Read more.
Recently, we reported the chemical profile and the hypocholesterolemic effects of a decoction of Tessaria absinthioides (Hook. & Arn.) DC. (Asteraceae). In this study, we evaluated a methanolic extract (METa) instead. Metabolite profiling was conducted using ultra-high-resolution liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS), identifying thirty compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, fatty acids, and phorbolesters. Antioxidant properties were assessed through 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Trolox equivalent antioxidant activity (TEAC), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and inhibition of lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes (ILP) assays, exhibiting robust antioxidant activity. The in vivo impact of METa on serum lipid parameters and liver X receptors (LXRs) was evaluated in a hypercholesterolemic animal model. After 14 days on a high-fat diet, male rats received either a vehicle (V) or METa100, METa200 or METa500 (100; 200 and 500 mg METa/kg animal, respectively) for an additional two weeks. METa500 reduced total cholesterol levels (17.62%; p < 0.05) and all doses increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (METa100: 86.27%; METa200: 48.37%, and METa500: 29.42%; p < 0.0001). However, METa did not alter LXRs expression. The observed antioxidant and hypocholesterolemic properties of METa may be linked to the presence of six di-caffeoylquinic acids. These findings underscore T. absinthioides as a potential candidate for the treatment of metabolic disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts—3rd Edition)
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20 pages, 1423 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant Properties and Geroprotective Potential of Wheat Bran Extracts with Increased Content of Anthocyanins
by Daria V. Mikhailova, Oksana G. Shevchenko, Denis A. Golubev, Elena Y. Platonova, Nadezhda V. Zemskaya, Olesya Yu. Shoeva, Elena I. Gordeeva, Sergey A. Patov, Mikhail V. Shaposhnikov, Elena K. Khlestkina and Alexey Moskalev
Antioxidants 2023, 12(11), 2010; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12112010 - 17 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1357
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a focus on breeding wheat with high anthocyanin levels in order to improve food quality and human health. The objective of this study was to examine the antioxidant and geroprotective properties of wheat bran extracts using both [...] Read more.
In recent years, there has been a focus on breeding wheat with high anthocyanin levels in order to improve food quality and human health. The objective of this study was to examine the antioxidant and geroprotective properties of wheat bran extracts using both in vitro and in vivo research methods. Two wheat lines were used: one with uncolored pericarp (anthocyanin-free) and another with colored pericarp (anthocyanin-containing). These lines differed in a specific region of chromosome 2A containing the Pp3/TaMyc1 gene, which regulates anthocyanin production. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed the presence of cyanidin glucoside and cyanidin arabinoside in the anthocyanin-containing wheat bran extract (+AWBE), while no anthocyanins were found in the anthocyanin-free wheat bran extract (−AWBE). The +AWBE showed higher radical scavenging activity (DPPH and ABTS assays) and membrane protective activity (AAPH oxidative hemolysis model) compared to the −AWBE. Both extracts extended the lifespan of female Drosophila, indicating geroprotective properties. This study demonstrates that wheat bran extracts with high anthocyanin levels have antioxidant and geroprotective effects. However, other secondary metabolites in wheat bran can also contribute to its antioxidant and geroprotective potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts—3rd Edition)
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15 pages, 2668 KiB  
Article
Demethylcalabaxanthone from Garcinia mangostana Exerts Antioxidant Effects through the Activation of the Nrf2 Pathway as Assessed via Molecular Docking and Biological Evaluation
by Simona De Vita, Milena Masullo, Sabrina Grambone, Paloma Bermejo Bescós, Sonia Piacente and Giuseppe Bifulco
Antioxidants 2023, 12(11), 1980; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12111980 - 7 Nov 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1353
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway activation promotes the expression of antioxidant enzymes in response to rising oxidative stress, resulting in reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification and playing a central role in the maintenance of intracellular redox homeostasis and regulation of [...] Read more.
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway activation promotes the expression of antioxidant enzymes in response to rising oxidative stress, resulting in reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification and playing a central role in the maintenance of intracellular redox homeostasis and regulation of inflammation. Moreover, the biological effects of Nrf2 pathway activation contribute to reducing apoptosis and enhancing cell survival. The activity of Nrf2 is negatively regulated by Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1). Prompted by the recent results reporting the impact of xanthone metabolites on oxidative stress, cancer, and inflammation, the antioxidant properties of xanthones isolated from Garcinia mangostana (γ-mangostin, α-mangostin, 8-deoxygartanin, demethylcalabaxanthone, garcinone D) were assessed. In particular, the capability of these natural products to disrupt the interaction between Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), triggering the activation of the Nrf2-mediated pathway, was evaluated using molecular docking experiments and in vitro tests. The modulation of some key Nrf2-related mediators like glutathione (GSH) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) to highlight a possible direct antioxidant effect was investigated. Among the tested compounds, demethylcalabaxanthone showed an indirect antioxidant effect, as corroborated by a Western blot assay, displaying a significant increase in the translocated protein upon its administration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts—3rd Edition)
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Review

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36 pages, 7223 KiB  
Review
Ginkgo biloba: A Leaf of Hope in the Fight against Alzheimer’s Dementia: Clinical Trial Systematic Review
by Guilherme Lopes de Oliveira Pagotto, Livia Maria Oliveira dos Santos, Najwa Osman, Caroline Barbalho Lamas, Lucas Fornari Laurindo, Karina Torres Pomini, Leila M. Guissoni, Enzo Pereira de Lima, Ricardo de Alvares Goulart, Virginia M. C. Strozze Catharin, Rosa Direito, Masaru Tanaka and Sandra Maria Barbalho
Antioxidants 2024, 13(6), 651; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13060651 - 27 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2650
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a stealthy and progressive neurological disorder that is a leading cause of dementia in the global elderly population, imposing a significant burden on both the elderly and society. Currently, the condition is treated with medications that alleviate symptoms. Nonetheless, [...] Read more.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a stealthy and progressive neurological disorder that is a leading cause of dementia in the global elderly population, imposing a significant burden on both the elderly and society. Currently, the condition is treated with medications that alleviate symptoms. Nonetheless, these drugs may not consistently produce the desired results and can cause serious side effects. Hence, there is a vigorous pursuit of alternative options to enhance the quality of life for patients. Ginkgo biloba (GB), an herb with historical use in traditional medicine, contains bioactive compounds such as terpenoids (Ginkgolides A, B, and C), polyphenols, organic acids, and flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin). These compounds are associated with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties, making them valuable for cognitive health. A systematic search across three databases using specific keywords—GB in AD and dementia—yielded 1702 documents, leading to the selection of 15 clinical trials for synthesis. In eleven studies, GB extract/EGb 761® was shown to improve cognitive function, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and functional abilities in both dementia types. In four studies, however, there were no significant differences between the GB-treated and placebo groups. Significant improvements were observed in scores obtained from the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Short Cognitive Performance Test (SKT), and Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI). While the majority of synthesized clinical trials show that Ginkgo biloba has promising potential for the treatment of these conditions, more research is needed to determine optimal dosages, effective delivery methods, and appropriate pharmaceutical formulations. Furthermore, a thorough assessment of adverse effects, exploration of long-term use implications, and investigation into potential drug interactions are critical aspects that must be carefully evaluated in future studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts—3rd Edition)
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40 pages, 7715 KiB  
Review
Investigating the Neuroprotective and Cognitive-Enhancing Effects of Bacopa monnieri: A Systematic Review Focused on Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, and Apoptosis
by Luiz José Valotto Neto, Matheus Reverete de Araujo, Renato Cesar Moretti Junior, Nathalia Mendes Machado, Rakesh Kumar Joshi, Daiene dos Santos Buglio, Caroline Barbalho Lamas, Rosa Direito, Lucas Fornari Laurindo, Masaru Tanaka and Sandra Maria Barbalho
Antioxidants 2024, 13(4), 393; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13040393 - 25 Mar 2024
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6851
Abstract
The aging of the global population has increased the prevalence of neurodegenerative conditions. Bacopa monnieri (BM), an herb with active compounds, such as bacosides A and B, betulinic acid, loliolide, asiatic acid, and quercetin, demonstrates the potential for brain health. Limited research has [...] Read more.
The aging of the global population has increased the prevalence of neurodegenerative conditions. Bacopa monnieri (BM), an herb with active compounds, such as bacosides A and B, betulinic acid, loliolide, asiatic acid, and quercetin, demonstrates the potential for brain health. Limited research has been conducted on the therapeutic applications of BM in neurodegenerative conditions. This systematic review aims to project BM’s beneficial role in brain disorders. BM has anti-apoptotic and antioxidant actions and can repair damaged neurons, stimulate kinase activity, restore synaptic function, improve nerve transmission, and increase neuroprotection. The included twenty-two clinical trials demonstrated that BM can reduce Nuclear Factor-κB phosphorylation, improve emotional function, cognitive functions, anhedonia, hyperactivity, sleep routine, depression, attention deficit, learning problems, memory retention, impulsivity, and psychiatric problems. Moreover, BM can reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory biomarkers and oxidative stress. Here, we highlight that BM provides notable therapeutic benefits and can serve as a complementary approach for the care of patients with neurodegenerative conditions associated with brain disorders. This review adds to the growing interest in natural products and their potential therapeutic applications by improving our understanding of the mechanisms underlying cognitive function and neurodegeneration and informing the development of new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Biological Properties of Plant Extracts—3rd Edition)
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