Search Results (82)

Jefea lantanifolia (S. Schauer) Strother is traditionally used in Hidalgo, Mexico, to manage type 2 diabetes (T2D). The aerial parts are prepared as an infusion and consumed throughout the day. This study conducted a 2 h acute experiment under both fasting and postprandial conditions to evaluate the effects of the aqueous infusion (AE), the ethanol–water extract (EWE), and their isolated constituents in hyperglycemic rats. Structures were established using conventional spectroscopic methods. The absolute configuration was determined by optical rotation and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) methods. Phytochemical analysis led to the isolation of six compounds: luteolin (1); 2β-hydroxy-dimerostemma brasiolide-1-O-(3-hydroxymethacrylate) (2); homoplantaginin (3); cynarin (4); luteolin-7-O-glucoside (5); and nepitrin (6). The extract was deemed safe at a dose of 2 g/kg b. w. in acute toxicity assays. In vivo experiments showed significant reductions in blood glucose levels during fasting, with compounds 2 and 3 achieving reductions of 42% and 40%, respectively, compared to 51% with glibenclamide. Postprandially, all treatments demonstrated effective glucose-lowering activity, particularly compound 3 and the EWE. These findings support the traditional use of J. lantanifolia and highlight its phytochemicals as promising candidates for further pharmacological investigation. Long-term studies and high-dose evaluations are warranted to validate therapeutic potential and establish safety profiles. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cinnamon leaves, an important source of the functional compound cinnamaldehyde (CA), have been shown to be effective in improving type II diabetes and Parkinson’s disease (PD) in rats following the incorporation of cinnamon leaf extract into a nanoemulsion. However, the effect of a cinnamon leaf extract nanoemulsion (CLEN) on improving Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most prevalent type of dementia, remains unexplored. The objectives of this study were to determine functional compounds in cinnamon leaves by UPLC-MS/MS, followed by the preparation of a nanoemulsion and its byproducts to study their effects on AD and PD in rats. Methods: Oven-dried (60 °C for 2 h) cinnamon leaf powder and hydrosol, obtained by steam distillation of cinnamon leaf powder, were stored at 4 °C. After determination of basic composition (crude protein, crude fat, carbohydrate, moisture and ash) of cinnamon leaf powder, it was extracted with 80% ethanol with sonication at 60 °C for 2 h and analyzed for bioactive compounds by UPLC-MS/MS. Then, the CLEN was prepared by mixing cinnamon leaf extract rich in CA with lecithin, soybean oil, tween 80 and ethanol in an optimal ratio, followed by evaporation to form thin-film and redissolving in deionized water. For characterization, mean particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and surface morphology were determined. Animal experiments were done by dividing 90 male rats into 10 groups (n = 9), with groups 2–8 being subjected to mini-osmotic pump implantation surgery in brain to infuse Amyloid-beta 40 (Aβ40) solution in groups 2–8 for induction of AD, while groups 9 and 10 were pre-fed respectively with cinnamon powder in water (0.5 g/10 mL) and in hydrosol for 4 weeks, followed by induction of AD as shown above. Different treatments for a period of 4 weeks included groups 1–9, with group 1 (control) and group 2 feeding with sterilized water, while groups 3, 4 and 5 were fed respectively with high (90 mg/kg), medium (60 mg/kg) and low (30 mg/kg) doses of cinnamon leaf extracts, groups 6, 7 and 8 fed respectively with high (90 mg/kg), medium (60 mg/kg) and low (30 mg/kg) doses of nanoemulsions, groups 9 and 10 fed respectively with 10 mL/kg of cinnamon powder in water and hydrosol (0.5 g/10 mL). Morris water maze test was conducted to determine short-term memory, long-term memory and space probing of rats. After sacrificing of rats, brain and liver tissues were collected for determination of Aβ40, BACE1 and 8-oxodG in hippocampi, and AchE and malondialdehyde (MDA) in cortices, antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH-Px) and MDA in both cortices and livers, and dopamine in brain striata by using commercial kits. Results: The results showed that the highest level of CA (18,250.7 μg/g) was in the cinnamon leaf powder. The CLEN was prepared successfully, with an average particle size of 17.1 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.236, a zeta potential of −42.68 mV, and high stability over a 90-day storage period at 4 °C. The Morris water maze test revealed that the CLEN treatment was the most effective in improving short-term memory, long-term memory, and spatial probe test results in AD rats, followed by the cinnamon leaf extract (CLE), powder in hydrosol (PH), and powder in water (PW). Additionally, both CLEN and CLE treatments indicated a dose-dependent improvement in AD rats, while PH and PW were effective in preventing AD occurrence. Furthermore, AD occurrence accompanied by PD development was demonstrated in this study. With the exception of the induction group, declines in Aβ40, BACE1, and 8-oxodG in the hippocampi and AchE and MDA in the cortices of rats were observed for all the treatments, with the high-dose CLEN (90 mg/kg bw) exhibiting the highest efficiency. The antioxidant enzyme activity, including that of SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px, in the cortices of rats increased. In addition, dopamine content, a vital index of PD, was increased in the striata of rats, accompanied by elevations in SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px and decreased MDA in rat livers. Conclusions: These outcomes suggest that the CLEN possesses significant potential for formulation into a functional food or botanical drug for the prevention and treatment of AD and/or PD in the future. Full article

Ginkgo biloba is one of the most consumed medicinal plants and broadly included as an ingredient in plant food supplements (PFS) and herbal infusions, being potential targets for economically motivated adulteration. This work aimed at comparing the use of DNA and phytochemical markers to authenticate the botanical origin of ginkgo-leaf extracts and PFS. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to detect ginkgo DNA, while ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry detection (UHPLC-MS/MS) determined its main phytochemicals (terpene lactones and flavonol aglycones). DNA was detected in all ginkgo leaf extracts, mainly water, while the highest levels of phytochemicals were obtained using ethanol or acetone as solvents. The results suggested that 4 out of a total of 19 PFS samples were adulterated, with two samples evidencing the addition of quercetin from sources other than ginkgo. The other two samples showed low amounts of ginkgo phytochemicals, which was corroborated by low DNA content, suggesting the use of reduced amounts of G. biloba leaf material. Full article

The present study investigates the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and in vitro antidiabetic potential of cold infusions prepared from different parts of the Greek carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.), which is a xerophytic species. Carob samples, including green and ripe pods and leaves, were collected from an urban area of Attica, Greece, and extracted using food-grade solvents (water and a water–ethanol mixture, 90:10, v/v). The extracts were evaluated for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 using automated turbidometry. In addition, total phenolic content and antioxidant and antiradical activities were determined via spectrophotometry; the phenolic profile was analyzed using liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QToF-MS), and α-amylase inhibitory activity was assessed through an in vitro assay. All extracts exhibited statistically significant (p < 0.05) bacteriostatic effects, with green pods and leaves showing the highest activity. Ripe pods demonstrated the most potent α-amylase inhibition (up to 96.43%), especially when extracted with water–ethanol mixture (90:10, v/v). Liquid chromatography coupled with tandem quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QToF-MS) analysis revealed a rich phenolic profile across all samples. While carob leaves showed no α-amylase inhibition, their phenolic profile suggests other potential health-related bioactivities. These findings support the development of carob-based functional food products and highlight the nutritional and pharmaceutical potential of this resilient Mediterranean crop. Full article

Background: Atypical atrial flutter (AFL) is a complex clinical challenge, particularly in patients with prior atrial fibrillation (AF) treated with pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Arrhythmias involving the vein of Marshall (VOM) often require extensive lesion sets, including ethanol infusion, to effectively target the epicardial substrate. To minimize tissue damage, an alternative strategy has been proposed, emphasizing advanced electroanatomical mapping, entrainment maneuvers, and highly targeted ablation techniques. Case Presentation: We describe a 72-year-old woman with recurrent atrial arrhythmias following pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), who presented with palpitations as her primary symptom. After ineffective pharmacological therapy, she underwent a catheter ablation procedure. Electroanatomical mapping revealed significant left atrial scarring and suggested a macroreentrant circuit involving the VOM. Entrainment maneuvers confirmed the VOM’s involvement. A single targeted endocardial ablation guided by the ablation index terminated the arrhythmia within 12 s, without the need for ethanol infusion or extensive lesion sets. Discussion: This case underscores the VOM’s role in sustaining atypical AFL post-PVI and highlights the effectiveness of precise electroanatomical mapping combined with targeted endocardial ablation. Unlike broader ablation or ethanol infusion strategies, a focused lesion at the critical isthmus achieved arrhythmia termination with minimal tissue damage. Conclusions: Endocardial ablation at the site of entrainment can safely and effectively treat VOM-related AFL, offering symptom relief and restoration of sinus rhythm. This approach may reduce procedural risks and expand the feasibility of VOM-related arrhythmia management in centers without access to ethanol infusion. Full article

Ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) in the tribe Xyleborini are economically important pests of woody ornamentals, tree nuts, and fruit orchards, including pecans in the United States. Among them, the granulate ambrosia beetle, Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Motschulsky), is the most common species in pecan orchards in Georgia. Various traps, including ethanol-mediated Lindgren multi-funnel traps, panel traps, bottle traps, sticky cards, and ethanol-infused wooden bolts, are used in ambrosia beetle monitoring programs. Trap color and placement height are important factors that increase trap effectiveness. To improve trap effectiveness for ambrosia beetles, we conducted a color and height preference experiment under field conditions using six different colored sticky cards, including black, blue, green, red, transparent, and yellow, placing them at three different heights (15, 60, and 120 cm from ground level). The results show that red and transparent sticky cards consistently captured a higher number of ambrosia beetles, whereas yellow-colored sticky cards consistently captured a lower number of ambrosia beetles compared to all other tested colors of sticky cards. A similar trend was observed with X. crassiusculus in field and laboratory settings. Among the evaluated trap heights, more ambrosia beetles, including X. crassiusculus, were consistently captured in the sticky cards placed at a height of 60 cm from the ground surface. Additionally, we monitored natural infestations of ambrosia beetles in commercial pecan orchards in Georgia and found more damage to pecan trees near the ground surface (45 cm) compared to the upper parts. We also recorded three ambrosia beetle species, X. crassiusculus, the black stem borer, X. germanus (Blandford), and the Southeast Asian ambrosia beetle, Xylosandrus amputatus (Blandford). Among them, X. crassiusculus (90.50%) was the most abundant species in the pecan orchards. Therefore, red and transparent sticky cards placed at a height of 45 to 60 cm could improve the trap efficacy and can be used for monitoring ambrosia beetles in pecan orchards. Full article

This study used Juglans regia leaves from the Gran Jefe variety; this indigenous cultivar from Nerpio is highly valued for its quality and distinct characteristics. This type of walnut is traditionally cultivated in the region and is noted for its organoleptic properties and adaptation to local climatic conditions. Two solvents were tested to determine the optimal extraction conditions for phenolic compounds: 80% ethanol and water. Direct homogenization with an Ultra-Turrax, direct ultrasound, and indirect ultrasound treatments were compared for ethanol extraction. Water extractions were conducted using direct and indirect ultrasound, infusion, and decoction. Compared to water extraction, 80% ethanol proved to be more efficient. Extracting phenolic compounds from ’Gran Jefe’ walnut leaves was most effective when using direct extraction methods without either ultrasound assistance or indirect ultrasound treatment. The main compounds identified were trans-3-caffeoylquinic acid and quercetin-3-hexoside isomer 1. The ethanolic extract obtained through direct extraction was selected to study further the bioactivities of ’Gran Jefe’ walnut leaves using C. elegans as an in vivo model. Results indicated that the leaf extract enhanced thermal and oxidative stress resistance, promoted fertility, and exhibited neuroprotective effects in models of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. The observed bioactivities were attributed to the free phenolics present in the ethanolic extract. Full article

Kombucha is a well-known fermented drink that gained interest due to its gut health benefits. However, it has a harsh taste of acetic acid and is hard to consume. Thai Cannabis leaves (Cannabis sativa sp. Hang Kra Rog Phu phan ST1) contain high protein and phytochemicals which can improve the growth of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and enhance the organoleptic quality of the Kombucha. This study revealed the effect of infusing assam green tea leaves with cannabis leaves on the fermentation rate, microbial communities, volatile compounds, and overall quality and taste of the kombucha. The high protein content (23.10%) of Cannabis leaves was found. Phytonutrients and phytochemicals found in the leaves promotes LAB growth, which resulted in the higher number of LAB in the treatment with cannabis leaves. At the end of fermentation (day 7), the highest LAB count (5.53 log CFU mL⁻¹) was presented in kombucha infused with 30% cannabis leaves. Kombucha with better quality, higher pH, and less acidity was obtained in a dose manner. The change in microbial communities was detected using metagenomic analysis. The prominence of Dekkera and Komagataeibacter, with low abundance of Zygosaccharomyces and Weissella were identified. These microorganisms improved flavor by lessening strong fermented odor and harsh acidic taste. From volatile compounds, HS-SPME-GCMS revealed that kombucha infused with 30% cannabis leaves possessed less acetic acid, ethanol, and carbon dioxide and gave a better odor and taste. Hence, cannabis leaves was the novel substrate for kombucha fermentation by enhancing LAB growth and improving the overall qualities. Full article

Eragrostis plana is an invasive plant in horticulture that is extremely difficult to control. The use of chemical herbicides causes weed resistance and contamination of crops. Therefore, leaf extracts obtained from E. camaldulensis, C. barbatus, and L. leucocephala were evaluated in the control of this weed. The extracts were obtained from leaves by infusion, pressurized liquid extraction, and ultrasound-assisted extraction using water or ethanol as solvents, which are green methods. The phytochemicals from E. camaldulensis and C. barbatus reduced the germination and growth of the weed, reaching up to 97% inhibition of germination, 52% reduction in shoot length, and 46% reduction in root length for the germinated seeds. Full article

To address unpredictable flavor changes in postharvest peaches during storage, this study investigated the use of bioactive packaging with melatonin-infused P34HB films. Films with melatonin concentrations of 0%, 1%, 3%, and 5% were prepared using the extrusion casting method and applied to peach storage at room temperature. Comprehensive film properties were characterized, showing that melatonin minimally impacted the films’ mechanical properties, including gas and water vapor permeability, but significantly increased film haze. Using GC-IMS, 30 organic compounds affecting peach flavor were effectively identified, including 8 aldehydes, 5 alcohols, 4 ketones, 12 esters, 1 pyrazine, 1 olefin, and 1 furan. Unpackaged, naturally ripening peaches served as a reference for assessing flavor and quality changes across various packaging groups during storage. The results indicated that the appearance of off-flavor organic compounds, such as ethanol produced by peach anaerobic respiration and complex esters, was the primary cause of flavor deterioration. The P34HB film with 1% melatonin most effectively preserved the original flavor and juiciness of peaches, highlighting its potential as an active packaging solution for fruit. Full article

This study evaluates the effects of fortifying bread with different concentrations (3%, 10%, and 30%) of Matricaria chamomilla L. (MC) infusion and powder, derived from the plant’s aerial parts (stem, leaf, and flower). UPLC/MS-MS analysis of MC infusion and powder ethanolic extract confirmed the presence of polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids, contributing to enhanced antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory properties. The physicochemical, antioxidant, and sensory properties of the enriched breads were assessed. Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed that breads enriched with 30% MC powder (BP-MC 30%) and infusion (BI-MC 30%) exhibited superior overall quality compared with other formulations. The enriched breads showed increased protein, fiber, and antioxidant content. Specifically, BI-MC 30% demonstrated superior antioxidant activity, while BP-MC 30% provided the highest fiber content. Sensory evaluation indicated that the enriched breads retained sensory properties similar to those of the control bread, despite the nutritional improvements. These findings suggest that incorporating Matricaria chamomilla, particularly at 30%, enhances the nutritional profile and antioxidant properties of bread while maintaining sensory characteristics close to those of traditional bread. This research highlights the potential of using chamomile’s aerial parts in the valorization of plant-based by-products for functional bakery product development. Full article

Hypericum perforatum L., commonly known as St. John’s wort, is a widely distributed herbaceous plant utilized in traditional and phytomedicinal applications, particularly for its hydrophilic bioactive compounds. It is often used for treating early depressive states. In this study, we focused on reporting the tocotrienols—lipophilic phytochemicals with health-promoting properties—in St. John’s wort. H. perforatum flowerheads predominantly contained tocotrienols compared with tocopherols (54 and 30 mg/100 g dry weight, respectively). The major tocotrienols (T3) were δ-T3 and α-T3 (34.0 and 17.6 mg/100 g dry weight, respectively). Tocopherols and tocotrienols are lipophilic phytochemicals that cannot be present in St. John’s wort water extracts (tea infusions), but they can be recovered from the remaining residues of H. perforatum tea infusions by using hydroethanolic solutions. A 50.0% (v/v) hydroethanolic solution was not effective in the recovery of tocochromanols. The greatest increase in the extractability of tocochromanols was observed for 70.0–80.0% (v/v) hydroethanolic extracts, while increasing the ethanol concentration from 90.0% to 96.2% (v/v) only slightly improved extractability (not statistically significant). For each ethanol concentration, the recovery was proportionally higher for tocotrienols than for tocopherols. Residues of H. perforatum tea infusions can be proposed as valuable by-products rich in tocotrienols. Full article

Hedeoma piperita Benth. (Lamiaceae) is a native medicinal plant from Mexico. It grows in pine, oak, and oyamel forests, as well as grasslands. In the Purépecha Plateau of Michoacán, it is called quiensabe and traditionally used to treat stomach pain, colic, cough, and low blood pressure, among other ailments. This study aimed to determine the phytochemical profile of infusions and ethanolic extracts of the stems and green and purple leaves of H. piperita collected in Cherán, Michoacán. Total phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and terpenoids were analyzed using UV–visible spectrophotometry; specific phenolic acids and flavonoids were detected by high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC); and the volatile profile of stems, green and purple leaves was determined by solid phase microextraction in GC-MS. Biological activities such as antioxidant activities (via DPPH and ABTS methods), antihypertensive activities (angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition), antibacterial activities (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), anti-inflammatory activities (xanthine oxidase enzyme (XOD) inhibition) and antidiabetic activities (α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition) were evaluated in vitro. Results showed key compounds like rosmarinic acid, luteolin, menthone, menthol, and pulegone were identified using HPTLC and SPME/GC-MS, with organ-specific variations. Green and purple leaves infusions inhibited DPPH and ABTS⁺ by 90–99% (IC₅₀ 3.3–3.8 and 7.4–11.5 µg/mL, respectively) and purple leaves infusion showed a 69.88% XOD enzyme inhibition (IC₅₀ 47.991 µg/mL) and an 85.12% α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition (IC₅₀ 72.49 µg/mL). Purple leaves ethanolic extract exhibited the lowest MIC and MBC against Shigella flexneri and ACE inhibition at 97.25% (IC₅₀ 11.19 µg/mL). These results demonstrate the biological potential of H. piperita in the development of natural drugs and expand its use as an herbal remedy. Full article

Background: Annona muricata L. (guanabana) leaves are rich in bioactive compounds with potential antioxidant properties. In the state of Colima, both ethanolic extracts and infusions are traditionally used in folk medicine to address various ailments. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the phytochemical composition and antioxidant activities of ethanolic extracts and infusions of A. muricata leaves from three geographic regions in Colima, Mexico, with a focus on how geographic origin affects their bioactive properties. Methods: Ethanolic extracts and infusions were prepared from A. muricata leaves and analyzed using phytochemical screening; DPPH, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and total phenolic content (TPC) measurements; and HPLC. TLC was also conducted to examine the presence of specific compounds, such as flavonoids and phenols. Results: Both the ethanolic extracts and infusions contained significant levels of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds. The infusions demonstrated superior antioxidant capacity, with DPPH inhibition values of 72.5%, 68.3%, and 65.1% in the northern, central, and southern regions, respectively, compared to the ethanolic extracts’ values of 50.3%, 48.9%, and 45.0%. HPLC identified quercetin as a major compound across all samples. Geographically, the northern region exhibited higher concentrations of bioactive compounds, particularly total flavonoid content (TFC) and iron-reducing power (FRPA). Conclusions: Both the ethanolic extracts and infusions of A. muricata leaves exhibited significant antioxidant properties, with the infusions showing superior performance. The results suggest that A. muricata infusions may have potential applications in managing oxidative stress-related diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Exploring their use in traditional medicine and employing this type of approach can help discern the metabolite profile responsible for these bioactivities. Geographic factors influence the bioactive profile of the plant, and further research is needed to isolate specific bioactive compounds and elucidate their therapeutic mechanisms. Full article

Skin protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation has long been crucial due to its role in photoaging, sunburn, and wrinkles. This study focuses on developing a bio-based sunscreen from Calendula arvensis capitula extract. Various extraction methods (maceration, sonication, and infusion) and solvents (EtOH, EtOH-H₂O, and H₂O) were explored in order to identify the most effective extract for use in a sunscreen formulation. Each extract was analyzed for its phenolic content, as well as antioxidant activities (assessed through DPPH, CAT, and FRAP assays). Enzyme inhibition assays for tyrosinase, elastase, and collagenase highlighted the low IC₅₀ values of the hydroethanolic extract. Furthermore, the in vitro sun protection factor (SPF) against UVB radiation was measured using ultraviolet spectrophotometry. A phytochemical analysis showed phenolic levels between 8 and 27 mg GAE/g, flavonoid concentrations of 7–13 mg QE/g, and tannin levels of 1.15–1.68 mg/mL, alongside moderate antioxidant activity. The ethanol maceration extract reduced the interfacial tension to 2.15 mN/m in 600 s, outperforming the conventional emulsifier polysorbate 20. The sonicated hydroethanolic extract demonstrated remarkable SPF efficacy (SPF = 193.65 ± 0.02), far exceeding that of the standard zinc oxide (SPF = 11.88 ± 0.03). The proposed formulations meet the COSMOS standards, suggesting their potential for certification as biological products. Further clinical and in vivo studies are necessary to confirm their safety and commercial viability. Full article