Effect of dehydration methods on retention of carotenoids, tocopherols, ascorbic acid and antioxidant activity in Moringa oleifera leaves and preparation of a RTE product

Moringa oleifera (drumstick tree)-nutraceutical, cosmetological and medicinal importance: a review

Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae) is a species of tree with an increasing utility, occurring naturally mainly in Pakistan and northern India. M. oleifera is currently cultivated in Africa, South America, Asia and the Middle East. The usage of its leaves, seed oil, bark, fruits, flowers and roots has positive opinions of FDA (American Food and Drug Administration), EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) and CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredients database). The chemical composition of M. oleifera is dominated by: proteins (consisting mainly of amino acids such as arginine or serine), fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6), vitamins (vitamin A, B and C and tocopherols), mineral salts (including several bioelements, such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium), valuable polyphenolic compounds from the group of phenolic acids (e.g., gallic acid, ferulic acid) and flavonoids (e.g., myricetin, rutoside, and kaempferol). The raw materials show antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Dietary supplements and alimentary products containing M. oleifera are recommended as health-promoting and "novel food" preparations. The main purpose of this work was a review of the latest scientific literature on M. oleifera, with particular emphasis on the studies focusing on its chemical composition, biological activity and safety. Moreover, the review tends to discuss the results of biotechnological studies using this material and the agronomical significance.

Effects of Roasting on the Quality of Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder and Loaf Volume of Moringa oleifera-Supplemented Bread

Although a decrease in bread volume on adding nutrient-rich Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MLP) is known, to our knowledge, improving the swelling of MLP-added bread has not been attempted. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MLP and roasted MLP (RMLP) on bread quality. Bread was supplemented with MLP and RMLP treated at varying temperatures and times; the baked bread was then biochemically evaluated relative to the control. The specific volume of MLP-supplemented bread was 2.4 cm3/g, which increased to >4.0 cm3/g on using MLP roasted at 130 °C for ≥20 min, demonstrating remarkable swelling. The specific volume of bread supplemented with MLP roasted at 170 °C for 20 min was 4.6 cm3/g, similar to that of the control. Additionally, MLP interfered with carbon dioxide production in bread, thus decreasing the abundance of yeast cells; however, RMLP had no such effect and allowed normal fermentation. Scanning electron microscopy revealed gluten formation independent of MLP roasting. Thus, MLP-containing breads generally exhibit suppressed fermentation and expansion due to the bactericidal properties of raw MLP, but these effects are alleviated by heat treatment. These findings highlight the importance of heat treatment in mitigating the effects of MLP on bread fermentation and swelling.

Immunostimulant potential of Moringa Oleifera leaves alcoholic extract versus Oregano Essential Oil (OEO) against cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in broilers chicks

The current study was conducted to evaluate the immunoenhancement effect of Moringa oleifera leaves alcoholic extract (MOLE) versus Oregano essential oil (OEO) against cyclophosphamide induced immunosuppression in broilers chicks. A total of a three hundred one-day-old chicks were assigned randomly into three main dietary groups, control, MOLE, and OEO for 14 days. After 14 days the three main experimental groups were subdivided into six groups, control, cyclophosphamide, MOLE, MOLE and Cyclophosphamide, OEO, and OEO and cyclophosphamide. Each group of these six groups was subdivided into three subgroups. Supplementation of broiler chicks with MOLE and OEO for 14 days significantly increased body weight compared to the control group. However, injection of broiler chicks with cyclophosphamide significantly induced body weight loss, impaired immunological response represented by decreasing total leukocytic count, differential leukocytic count, phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, and hemagglutinin inhibition titer for New Castle disease virus, lymphoid organs depletion, and increased the mortality rate. In contrast, supplementation of cyclophosphamide treated chicks with MOLE and OEO significantly reduced cyclophosphamide induced body weight loss and impaired immunological responses, as it showed significant increase in body weight, total leukocytic count, differential leukocytic count, phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, and hemagglutinin inhibition titer for New Castle disease virus, lymphoid organs proliferation, and reduced the mortality rate. This study indicated that MOLE and OEO supplementation ameliorated cyclophosphamide induced body weight loss and impaired immunological responses.

Can consumption of local micronutrient- and absorption enhancer-rich plant foods together with starchy staples improve bioavailable iron and zinc in diets of at-risk African populations?

Iron and zinc deficiencies remain prevalent in developing countries, often due to monotonous starchy diets that are low in bioavailable minerals. This review addresses the question as to whether consumption of starchy staple foods in Africa together with micronutrient-dense and absorption enhancer-rich plant foods can enhance iron and zinc bioavailability in the diets of at-risk populations. While green leafy vegetables (GLVs) fortification of starchy staples can improve mineral contents, especially iron, it may not improve bioavailable iron and zinc, due to GLVs' high contents of mineral absorption inhibitors, notably polyphenols, phytate and calcium. Fruits, although low in minerals, could improve bioavailable iron and zinc in the staples because of their high ascorbic and citric acid and/or β-carotene contents, which can form soluble chelates with the minerals. More human studies are needed to establish whether such a technology or fortification strategy can improve bioavailable iron and zinc in African-type plant-based diets.

Profiling of Nutritionally Vital Bioactive Compounds in Emerging Green Leafy Vegetables: A Comparative Study

Green leafy vegetables (GLVs), especially lettuce and spinach, are the key source of bioactive antioxidants in a diet. This research compared the contents and composition of lettuce and spinach bioactive compounds with emerging GLVs, moringa and fenugreek. Liquid chromatography (LC)-mass spectrometry (MS) with single ion monitoring (SIM) was used to examine carotenoids and tocols, while phytosterols were examined using gas chromatography (GC)-MS. Among the studied GLVs, the (all-E)-lutein was the most dominating carotenoid ranging between 31.3 (green/red lettuce)−45.3 % (fenugreek) of total carotenoids, followed by (all-E)-violaxanthin and (all-E)-β-carotene. Surprisingly, (all-E)-β-carotene, a provitamin A carotenoid, was the second most dominating carotenoid in moringa, accounting for 109.2 µg/g fresh weight (FW). Moreover, the significantly highest (p < 0.05; Tukey HSD) contents of total carotenoids (473.3 µg/g FW), α-tocopherol (83.7 µg/g FW), and total phytosterols (206.4 µg/g FW) were recorded in moringa. Therefore, moringa foliage may serve as an affordable source of nutritionally vital constituents in a diet.

Vitamin E and carotenoid profiles in leaves, stems, petioles and flowers of stinging nettle (Urtica leptophylla Kunth) from Costa Rica

BACKGROUND

Local leafy vegetables are gaining attention as affordable sources of micronutrients, including vitamins, pro-vitamin carotenoids and other bioactive compounds. Stinging nettles (Urtica spp.) are used as source of fibers, herbal medicine and food. However, despite the relatively wide geographical spread of Urtica leptophylla on the American continent, little is known about its content of vitamin E congeners and carotenoids. We therefore investigated the particular nutritional potential of different plant structures of wild Costa Rican U. leptophylla by focusing on their vitamin E and carotenoid profiles.

RESULTS

Young, mature and herbivore-damaged leaves, flowers, stems and petioles were collected and freeze-dried. Vitamin E and carotenoids were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography after liquid/liquid extraction with hexane. α-Tocopherol was the major vitamin E congener in all structures. Flowers had a high content of γ-tocopherol. Herbivore-damaged leaves had higher contents of vitamin E than undamaged leaves. Lutein was the major and β-carotene the second most abundant carotenoid in U. leptophylla. No differences in carotenoid profiles were observed between damaged and undamaged leaves.

CONCLUSION

The leaves of U. leptophylla had the highest nutritional value of all analyzed structures; therefore, they might represent a potential source of α-tocopherol, lutein and β-carotene. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Carotenoids in Drug Discovery and Medicine: Pathways and Molecular Targets Implicated in Human Diseases

Carotenoids are isoprenoid-derived natural products produced in plants, algae, fungi, and photosynthetic bacteria. Most animals cannot synthesize carotenoids because the biosynthetic machinery to create carotenoids de novo is absent in animals, except arthropods. Carotenoids are biosynthesized from two C20 geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) molecules made from isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP) via the methylerythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) route. Carotenoids can be extracted by a variety of methods, including maceration, Soxhlet extraction, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), pulsed electric field (PEF)-assisted extraction, and enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE). Carotenoids have been reported to exert various biochemical actions, including the inhibition of the Akt/mTOR, Bcl-2, SAPK/JNK, JAK/STAT, MAPK, Nrf2/Keap1, and NF-κB signaling pathways and the ability to increase cholesterol efflux to HDL. Carotenoids are absorbed in the intestine. A handful of carotenoids and carotenoid-based compounds are in clinical trials, while some are currently used as medicines. The application of metabolic engineering techniques for carotenoid production, whole-genome sequencing, and the use of plants as cell factories to produce specialty carotenoids presents a promising future for carotenoid research. In this review, we discussed the biosynthesis and extraction of carotenoids, the roles of carotenoids in human health, the metabolism of carotenoids, and carotenoids as a source of drugs and supplements.

Assessing the Usefulness of Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract as a Biostimulant to Supplement Synthetic Fertilizers: A Review

The extensive use of synthetic chemical fertilizers is associated with environmental pollution and soil degradation. In addition, the high costs of these fertilizers necessitate the search for alternative, eco-friendly and safe natural sources of phytonutrients. The liquid extracted from moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) leaves has been used in agriculture to improve the growth and productivity of several crops. The efficacy of moringa leaf extract (MLE) is attributed to its high content of mineral nutrients, protein, vitamins, sugars, fiber, phenolics and free proline. In addition, MLE contains significant amounts of phytohormones, such as auxins, cytokinins and gibberellins. Furthermore, MLE is a valuable product promoting seed germination, plant growth and deeper root development, delaying fruit senescence and increasing the yield and quality of crops grown under normal or stressful conditions. Here, we review the research on MLE as a biostimulant to enhance crop growth and productivity. Moreover, we emphasize its possible introduction to smallholder farming systems to provide phytonutrients, and we further highlight research gaps in the existing knowledge regarding MLE application. Generally, MLE is an inexpensive, sustainable, eco-friendly and natural biostimulant that can be used to improve the growth and productivity attributes of various crops under non-stressful and stressful conditions.

Impact of Bioactive Compounds of Plant Leaf Powders in White Chocolate Production: Changes in Antioxidant Properties during the Technological Processes

Bioactive compounds present in the powdered leaves of matcha green tea (Camellia sinensis L.) (MGTP) and moringa (Moringa oleifera) (MOLP) seem to be related to health benefits due to their antioxidant properties. The growing accessibility of these powders has led to their being more widely used in food production. The aim of this study was to evaluate the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity (AC) of white chocolate (WCh) supplemented with MGTP and MOLP. AC was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), cupric ion-reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, whereas TPC was determined by the Folin–Ciocalteu (FC) method. Both additives were incorporated at four levels (1, 2, 3 and 4%) in two chocolate processing steps (conching and tempering). Additionally, the amounts of phenolic acids, tocopherols, and carotenoids in WCh samples enriched by MGTP and MOLP were determined to explain their influence on AC. The results showed that the chocolates supplemented with MGTP were characterized by higher antioxidant properties than those with MOLP. In turn, MOLP significantly increased the content of lipophilic antioxidants in chocolates, tocopherols and carotenoids, which also exhibit pro-health effects. Furthermore, the incorporation of these additives during the tempering process was more relevant to the improvement of the antioxidant properties of WCh.

The antioxidant properties and microbial load of Moringa oleifera leaves dried using a prototype convective air-dryer

The recent COVID-19 pandemic resulted in major postharvest losses because most fresh produce could not be sold. Drying is an important thermal-based food preservation method which could have prolonged the shelf-life of these produce, but most drying technologies are costly, and cannot be afforded by small-time farmers. From this context, we were interested in evaluating the drying of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOL) using a low-cost self-built prototype convective-air dryer (CAD), alongside conventional drying methods for its antioxidant properties, microbial load and phytoconstituents. Results showed total polyphenol content was the highest (p < 0.05) in our CAD samples, and it retained among the highest total flavonoid content, total antioxidant capacity, total alkaloid content and DPPH radical scavenging activity. Furthermore, methanolic CAD extract presented lower coliform and yeast and mold count than the aqueous CAD extract. We also briefly explored MOL as a sanitizer where the microbial load of the methanolic extract was comparable (p > 0.05) with several commercial non-alcoholic sanitizers, indicating its commercialization potential as a bio-friendly sanitizer. Finally, using GC–MS, we are the first to report (best of our knowledge) on the presence of caprolactam, an important bio-medical field compound, in the CAD sample’s aqueous extract.

Improving Rabbit Doe Metabolism and Whole Reproductive Cycle Outcomes via Fatty Acid-Rich Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract Supplementation in Free and Nano-Encapsulated Forms

Simple Summary

Under intensive rabbit production systems, due to the increased energy requirements of reproductive events, specifically pregnancy and lactation, rabbit does may confront several metabolic disorders as a result of energy imbalance. Moringa oleifera leaf ethanolic extract (ME) is one of the phytogenic extracts that has an impressive range of phytochemicals, specifically fatty acids (FAs). These phytochemicals may be biologically effective to support metabolism and reproductive functions of rabbit does during different reproductive cycle events. However, the high FAs content of ME makes them highly susceptible to lipid oxidation, diminishing their nutritional value and biological effects. In this study, we aimed to test the effects of FAs of ME either in a free-from or in a nano-encapsulated form on metabolism, immunity, milk production, milk composition, and reproductive performance of rabbit does during different physiological status (premating, mating, pregnancy, and lactation). The results showed that ME improved health, metabolism, immune functions, milk production and composition, and reproductive performance of rabbit does. These effects remained obvious even when a lower dose of ME was used in a nano-encapsulated form.

Abstract

The effects of free and nano-encapsulated ME supplementations on the metabolism, immunity, milk production and composition, and reproductive performance of rabbit does during premating, mating, pregnancy, and lactation were investigated. Multiparous rabbit does (n = 26 per group) received 50 mg of free ME (FME) daily, 25 mg of nano-encapsulated ME (HNME), or 10 mg of nano-encapsulated ME (LNME) per kilogram of body weight or were not supplemented (C) during a whole reproductive cycle. The ME contained 30 fatty acids with 54.27% total unsaturated fatty acids (USFAs). The fatty acid encapsulation efficiency of alginate nanoparticles was 70.46%. Compared with the C group, rabbits in all ME treatments had significantly increased body weight, feed intake, and glucose concentration and significantly decreased non-esterified free fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations. Rabbits supplemented with ME also had significantly increased white blood cell counts, phagocytic activity, lysozyme activity, and immunoglobulin G and decreased interleukin-1β concentrations. Moreover, ME supplementation significantly increased the concentrations of colostrum immunoglobulins, milk yield and energy content, and milk USFAs (omega-3 and 6). Rabbit does in the ME treatments had significantly higher conception and parturition rates and better litter characteristics than the C rabbit does. These results demonstrate the positive role of ME fatty acids on the health status and productive and reproductive performance of rabbit does at different physiological stages. Compared with the FME treatment, these parameters were further improved in rabbits that received nano-encapsulated ME at lower doses, illustrating how nano-encapsulation technology improves the bioavailability of ME.

Potential Applications of Moringa oleifera in Poultry Health and Production as Alternative to Antibiotics: A Review

Because of developing bacterial resistance and increased public awareness of health and food safety problems, the use of antibiotics as growth promoters in the chicken industry has been outlawed. This problem has spurred the poultry industry and sector to explore for safe antibiotic alternatives and to focus on developing better long-term feed management solutions in order to improve chicken health and growth. As a result, phytogenics have developed as natural antibiotic alternatives, with a lot of potential in the poultry industry. Moringa oleifera has gotten a lot of attention from researchers in the recent past as a natural product with a lot of health advantages for poultry. Moringa is known for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hypocholesterolemic properties, as well as its capacity to activate digestive enzymes in the stomach, owing to the presence of hundreds of essential ingredients. The potential influence of M. oleifera as a natural feed supplement on overall gut health, nutritional digestibility, blood biochemical profile, antioxidant benefits, antibacterial potential, and immunological response is emphasized in this review.

The Future of Moringa Foods: A Food Chemistry Perspective

The tree Moringa oleifera Lam. provides its leaves, pods, flowers and seeds for human nutrition. The chemical profile of all these Moringa products varies substantially, not only among the different parts of the plants used. Cultivating, processing as well as storage conditions chiefly determine the contents of nutrients and anti-nutritive constituents. Anti-nutrients, e.g., phytic acid or tannins, are present in notable amounts and may affect micronutrient bioavailability. Although Moringa oleifera products have been promoted for several health benefits and are discussed as an alternative treatment in various diseases, risk assessment studies evaluating contamination levels are scarce. Recent investigations have demonstrated alarming contents of heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and mycotoxins in Moringa oleifera products, indicating the need for a comprehensive risk assessment and contingent legal regulation of these products. In this mini review, we briefly outline pivotal, food chemistry and nutrition related data on Moringa preparations in order to stimulate in-depth research to close the presented knowledge gaps.

Phytochemical Characterization, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-diabetic properties, Molecular Docking, Pharmacokinetic Profiling, and Network Pharmacology Analysis of the Major Phytoconstituents of Raw and Differently Dried Mangifera indica (Himsagar cultivar): an In Vitro and In Silico Investigations

Mango (Himsagar cultivar) is a high moisture-bearing seasonal fruit and cultivated in a wide range of the world. Mango pulp is generally preserved by sun drying. In recent days, industries are using hot-air oven, freeze, and microwave drying for mango leather (dried mango pulp in the sheet like texture) processing. Here, all these four drying methods were studied to determine the effect of drying on mango leather processing. RP-HPLC and FTIR were studied for analysis of polyphenol profile and predominant functional groups in raw and processed samples. The phytochemical analysis and medicinal properties (antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory activity) of all five mango samples were studied. The bioinformatics approach was studied to evaluate the bioactive potential of the phytochemicals derived from the samples. Freeze-dried mango leather was found to be the highest in DPPH (74.23%) and Superoxide (66.04%) activity, though raw mango pulp was observed with the highest H₂O₂ activity (73.24%). Gallic acid was the predominant phenolic acid present in all five samples and it was maximum in the case of freeze-dried sample (2.76 ± 0.04 mg/100 g MD). On the other hand, quercetin was the predominant flavonoid, it was found maximum for freeze-dried sample (3.93 ± 0.21 mg/100 g MD).

Nutritional significance and therapeutic potential of Moringa oleifera: The wonder plant

Moringa oleifera is a multi-purpose plant and a comprehensive source of dietary components such as proteins, essential amino acids, vitamins, antioxidants, etc. The plant is also a rich source of other bioactive components, including flavonoids, glucosinolates, isothiocyanates, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolics, etc. Incorporating M. oleifera in diet can improve the nutritional status of pregnant and nursing mothers and helps to combat malnutrition and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) among children. The phytochemicals and secondary metabolites, especially the polyphenolic compounds from Moringa, have a significant free-radical scavenging effect attributed to this plant's therapeutic potential. Investigations targeting to explore M. oleifera for its nutritional makeup, novel bioactive components, and analysis of their health-promoting attributes have received much attention. This review demonstrates an overview of recent (past ten years) advancements and patenting activity in discovering different parts of M. oleifera plant for providing adequate nutritive and bioactive components. The pharmacological potential and action mechanisms of M. oleifera in many diseases like diabetes mellitus, cancer, hypertension, ulcer, etc., are also discussed. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Moringa oleifera is a vital plant that has a varied set of nutritional and therapeutic properties. The indigenous components of Moringa can treat humankind of its diseases and contribute to overall health. The qualitative and functional characteristics of its components indicate possible commercial exploitation of this high-value plant by utilizing its plant parts in many proprietary medicines and nutraceuticals. In conclusion, the Moringa plant needs to be used commercially. It can lead to tremendous economic development if the industries and researchers exploit its potential for highly nutritional super food and therapeutic application by undertaking further research to corroborate earlier studies.

Effects of different drying methods and ascorbic acid pretreatment on carotenoids and polyphenols of papaya fruit in Ethiopia

Frequent consumption of fruits can prevent nutrient deficiencies and promote health. However, the perishability and unaffordability of fruits had led to very low levels of fruit consumption in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The objective of this study was to evaluate the retention of nutrients and bioactive compounds of papaya fruit (Carica papaya L) with/without ascorbic acid pretreatment and drying under different techniques, to then estimate the vitamin A intakes for vulnerable population. Yellow pulp ripped papaya fruits (i.e., >75% level of skin color/stage level 4) (n = 14), with and without ascorbic acid pretreatment were dried using (a) solar drying: open-air, tray driers, and glasshouse; (b) refractance window drying; (c) oven drying; and (d) freeze-drying (control). The fresh fruit had high moisture content (87%) and an acidic pH. The dried papaya had a water activity of 0.5-0.6. The highest TPC, TFC, total carotenoids, and ß-carotene were found in freeze-dried papaya samples, followed by refractance window, and solar glass house (p < .05). The highest retention in total carotenoids (81.5%) and ß-carotene (61.9%) relative to freeze-drying was for the refractance-window; 25 g of dried papaya could contribute to 38% of the retinol equivalents' requirement for young children. Ascorbic acid pretreatment increased the retention of total carotenoids, ß-carotene, TPC, and TFC (p < .05) by (6-11)%, (8-34)%, (7-58)%, and (6-30)%, respectively, for all the drying methods. Refractance window and solar glass house drying can improve diets and constitute a promising food systems' intervention that can increase year-round availability, accessibility, and affordability of vitamin A-rich fruits like papaya.

Synthesis of biocompatible, BSA capped fluorescent CaCO3 pre-nucleation nanoclusters for cell imaging applications

Novel, photostable, multicolour fluorescent, highly biocompatible, water soluble, BSA capped pre-nucleation CaCO3 nanoclusters (FCPN) (∼1.3 nm) are developed using a facile biomineralization process. M. oleifera leaf extract and BSA protein are used as sources of ascorbic acid and capping agent, respectively. The developed FCPN shows fluorescence in the blue, green, and yellow/red region with an average life time of 1.05, 6.23 and 30.60 ns, respectively. The MALDI-MS measurements reveal that these nanoclusters are 16, 50, 73, 222 and 936 molecules big. These FCPN, when incubated (up to 7 days) with MG-63 cells, demonstrate an increase in cell viability percentage with time period as compared to their control samples. Furthermore, these incubated cells were investigated using confocal microscopy to estimate the FCPN diffusion penetration depth using CTCF analysis. It has been observed that blue and green emitting FCPN penetrated 6 μm, whereas red emitting FCPN traversed only 4 μm. The relative quantum yield (Rhodamine 6G = 0.92) of FCPN for green emission was found to be 0.0175 in water. The prepared nanoclusters displayed four months shelf-life. These FCPN were prepared using an environmentally benign, inexpensive, green synthetic route without using toxic reducing agents. Furthermore, the current report discusses the detailed results, obtained from X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, MALDI-MS, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV-visible, fluorescence spectroscopy, lifetime measurements, electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy and confocal microscopy.

Effects of Adding Moringa oleifera Leaves Powder on the Nutritional Properties, Lipid Oxidation and Microbial Growth in Ground Beef during Cold Storage

The utilisation of Moringa oleifera leaves powder (MOLP) to improve the nutritional properties and inhibit lipid oxidation and the proliferation of microorganisms in ground beef during cold storage was examined. The effects of 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8% MOLP on the nutritional properties (proximate composition, total phenolic and total flavonoid content), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), microbial composition, physicochemical characteristics (pH value, colour attributes, and cooking properties), and sensory analysis of ground beef were investigated. The findings showed that ash, protein, polyphenolic compounds, pH, colour, and microbial growth increased significantly, while moisture, fat content, and TBARS decreased significantly, with an increase in the concentration of MOLP during cold storage. Moderate levels (0.2 and 0.4%) of MOLP did not affect the sensory attributes of stored ground beef. Evidently, MOLP can be utilised as a natural preservative in ground beef to improve the nutritional value and inhibit lipid oxidation.

Role of dietary Moringa oleifera leaf extract on productive parameters, humoral immunity and lipid peroxidation in broiler chicks

The plants originated from an agroforestry system have gained immense importance in livestock health and production. The trial was planned to examine the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MLE) supplementation on the performance, blood metabolites, immunity and lipid peroxidation in broiler chicks. A total of 350 day old broiler chicks were divided into negative control (MLE₀), positive control (antibiotic; AB-enro), M. oleifera supplementation at the concentration of 60 (MLE₆₀), 90 (MLE₉₀) and 120 mL/L (MLE₁₂₀) of drinking water. Performance parameters such as feed intake, body weight and feed conversion ratio, antibody titer against Newcastle disease and infectious bronchitis, heterophils and lymphocytes ratio, blood glucose, protein, and malanodialdehyde were determined. The results showed that carcass yield was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in MLE₉₀ followed by MLE₁₂₀ and AB-enro. MLE₆₀ and MLE₉₀ showed significant (p < 0.05) increase in antibody titer against New-castle (ND) and Infectious-bronchitis (IB) respectively. Significantly (p < 0.05) lower Heterophil to lymphocyte (H:L) ratio was observed in MLE₉₀ and MLE₁₂₀ compared to the negative control. Significantly (p < 0.05) lower blood glucose concentration and significantly (p < 0.05) higher mean serum protein value were found in MLE₁₂₀. The MLE₁₂₀ showed significantly (p < 0.05) lower concentration of malanodialdehyde (MDA). It was concluded that M. oleifera leaf extract supplementation at the concentration of 120 mL/L of drinking water improved carcass yield, immunity, blood metabolites and reduced lipid peroxidation in broiler chicks.HighlightsMoringa improved the carcass yield of broilerMoringa is an excellent immune potentiating agent in broilerMoringa enhanced the antioxidant potential of broiler.

Health Benefits of Uses and Applications of Moringa oleifera in Bakery Products

Moringa oleifera belongs to the Moringaceae family and is the best known of the native Moringa oleifera genus. For centuries, it has been used as a system of Ayurvedic and Unani medicine and has a wide range of nutritional and bioactive compounds, including proteins, essential amino acids, carbohydrates, lipids, fibre, vitamins, minerals, phenolic compounds, phytosterols and others. These characteristics allow it to have pharmacological properties, including anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, cardioprotective, antimicrobial and hepatoprotective properties. The entire Moringa oleifera plant is edible, including its flowers, however, it is not entirely safe, because of compounds that have been found mainly in the root and bark, so the leaf was identified as the safest. Moringa oleifera is recognised as an excellent source of phytochemicals, with potential applications in functional and medicinal food preparations due to its nutritional and medicinal properties; many authors have experimented with incorporating it mainly in biscuits, cakes, brownies, meats, juices and sandwiches. The results are fascinating, as the products increase their nutritional value; however, the concentrations cannot be high, as this affects the organoleptic characteristics of the supplemented products. The aim of this study is to review the application of Moringa oleifera in bakery products, which will allow the creation of new products that improve their nutritional and functional value.

The impact of raw and differently dried pineapple (Ananas comosus) fortification on the vitamins, organic acid and carotene profile of dairy rasgulla (sweetened cheese ball)

Pineapple, a tropical fruit that is well known for its excellent nutritional characteristics. Rasgulla (sweetened cheese ball) is a dairy based popular sweet found all over India. To enrich the nutritional profile, vitamin content, organic acid and carotene content profile of normal dairy rasgulla (sweetened casein ball) and to make it functionally more active for human health, fortification of rasgulla has been done by using normal pineapple pulp along with hot air, freeze, microwave and microwave convective dried pineapple pulp for overall comparative analysis and they are coded as PP, PH, PF, PMW and PMWC respectively. By using RP-HPLC method quantification of vitamin A, vitamin B group (B₁, B₂, B₃, B₅, B₆, B₇ and B₁₂), tocopherols (α, β, γ and δ form), vitamin C, carotene (α, β, γ and δ form) profile and organic acid profile (oxalic acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, lactic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, propionic acid, succinic acid [SA], and fumaric acid) of all the rasgulla samples are estimated. A significant increase is found for differently fortified rasgulla samples in terms of vitamins content, organic acid and carotene content. B₁, B₃, B₇ and B₁₂ are found maximum in PF whereas B₅, B₆ and B₂ are found maximum for PMWC, PP and NR. The maximum amount of vitamin C and tocopherol are found in PP and PF. PMWC is reported to have maximum carotene content compared to all other samples.

Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity of Moringa Leaves Grown in Spain Versus 28 Leaves Commonly Consumed in Pre-Packaged Salads

Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) evaluated by ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, ABTS, DPPH, and Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay, and total polyphenol content (TPC) by Folin–Ciocalteu were determined in Moringa oleifera leaves (MO) grown in Spain, and compared with 28 different vegetable leaves pre-packaged for consumption as a salad. Total carotenoids, flavonoids, and chlorophylls were also determined in the samples with highest TAC. Two different extraction procedures were applied to obtain the methanolic fraction and the lipophilic and hydrophilic fractions. The highest TAC and TPC contents were found in MO. High values were also found in red chicory, “lollo rosso”, and oak lettuce. The lowest TAC and TPC values were obtained in iceberg lettuce. The correlations between the extraction procedures and methods assayed were high and statistically significant. In the light of these results, we suggest the addition of MO to the existing range of fresh-cut salad foods would increase their antioxidant content by up to six times.

Characterization of phytochemicals, minerals and in vitro medicinal activities of bael (Aeglemarmelos L.) pulp and differently dried edible leathers

Aegle marmelos (L.) is a seasonal fruit that contains significant amounts of bioactives like, phenolic acids (gallic acids, 2,3-dihydroxy benzoic acid, chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, vanillic acid), flavonoid (rutin), organic acids (oxalic acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, lactic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, propionic acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid), vitamin C, vitamin B group (thiamine, niacin, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid, biotin, cobalamins, riboflavin), tocopherols (α-tocopherol, β-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, δ-tocopherol), carotenes (α-carotene, β-carotene, γ-carotene, δ-carotene) and also rich in essential minerals (potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, iron, copper, manganese). This study provides a comprehensive composition analysis (determined using RP-HPLC and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) Spectroscopy). In vitro medicinal activities (antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory activity, anti-diabetic activity) are quantified for different bael samples. The study also investigates the changes of these bioactive components with freeze, sun, hot air, and microwave drying. The study gives a proper vision to preserve the nutraceutically rich pulp by converting it into fruit leather.

Moringa oleifera L. Extracts as Bioactive Ingredients That Increase Safety of Body Wash Cosmetics

The work attempts to obtain a multifunctional plant extract derived from Moringa tree leaves. Obtained results indicate a strong antioxidant potential of the tested extracts. It was shown that Moringa oleifera leaf extract is a rich source of flavonoid and phenolic compounds. Furthermore, it shows a strong antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals. In vitro toxicity studies showed that the tested extracts in concentrations up to 5% showed a positive effect on cell proliferation and metabolism and may contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress in cells. It was noted that the tested model formulation of cosmetic (1% SCS) with the addition of different types of extracts might contribute to the reduction of skin irritation and improve the safety of the product.

Evaluation of Various Drying Methods on Bioactives, Ascorbic Acid and Antioxidant Potentials of Talinum triangulare L., foliage

The aim of this study was to assess the efficiency of different drying methods (room, sun, oven, microwave, cross-flow, infra-red, dehumidifier, and freeze-drying) on maximum retention of the nutritional and bioactive compounds profiling of Talinum triangulare, which is a less-known perishable leafy-vegetable. The evaluation of various drying methods is to learn the best appropriate strategy for a post-harvest drying method for retaining all the potential benefits with minor loss. Microwave and freeze-dried samples held the maximum ascorbic acid quantified by HPLC with 1.36 and 1.11 g/100 g DW, respectively. The main carotenoid compounds identified were violaxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, β-carotene isomers, trans-β-carotene, and cis-β-carotenes. Gallic, protocatechuic, catechin, para-coumaric, ferulic, rutin, trans-cinnamic, and quercetin are the significant phenolics and flavonoids identified and quantified by liquid chromatography. The efficiency of different solvents on bioactive extractions uncovered that the methanol and 80% aqueous ethanol were good for retention of total phenolics, total flavonoids, and antioxidant compounds, which was affirmed through phosphomolybdate, DPPH, and FRAP assays. Dried T. triangulare foliage could be productively utilized as a promising raw material for food and pharma businesses because of its rich bioactive composition.

Effect of a Diet Supplemented with the Moringa oleifera Seed Powder on the Performance, Egg Quality, and Gene Expression in Japanese Laying Quail under Heat-Stress

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of three concentrations of the Moringa oleifera seed powder as a feed supplement on the productive performance and egg quality traits of laying Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) exposed to heat stress. The expression patterns of the genes estrogen receptors (ESR2), follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), prolactin receptor (PRLR), and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR) were estimated in ovaries, using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. A total of 200 laying quail aged seven weeks were randomly allocated to the following four experimental groups-the control (CNT), T1, T2, and T3 groups; each group comprised 50 quail females with 5 replicates (10 per group). The CNT group was fed a basal diet, whereas the T1, T2, and T3 groups were fed the basal diet supplemented with 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3% M. oleifera seed powder, respectively. The results revealed that the T3 group showed the highest hen-day egg production (%) as well as the highest egg yolk index. Feed intake and feed conversion ratio improved significantly (p < 0.05) with increased concentrations of the M. oleifera seed powder supplementation. Furthermore, the mRNA expressions of ESR2, FSHR, and STAR increased significantly in the T3 group, compared to those in the CNT group. Alterations in ovarian gene expressions corresponded to the reproductive patterns of the treated Japanese quail. Thus, it was concluded that the supplementation of the Japanese quail feed with 0.3% M. oleifera seed powder during the laying period might enhance resistance to heat stress and consequently improve egg productivity.

Pomegranate peel and moringa-based diets enhanced biochemical and immune parameters of Nile tilapia against bacterial infection by Aeromonas hydrophila

We previously reported that Aeromonas hydrophila exhibited the highest prevalence rate amongst 182 bacterial strains isolated from naturally diseased Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) collected from El-Abassa Fish Farm, Egypt (Hassan et al., Egypt. J. Aquac., 10, 23-43, 2020). The overuse of antibiotics for controlling diseases has led to acquired antibiotics resistance of aquatic bacteria, besides the developments of human, aquatic animal and environmental risks arising from residual antibiotics. Therefore, the evaluation of safe alternative phytotherapies is of great importance. This study was conducted to evaluate and compare growth performance and immune potentiating activities of moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaves extract (Moringa LE) and pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel extract (Pomegranate PE) on Nile tilapia against infection with a pathogenic bacterium, Aeromonas hydrophila. A total of 150 Oreochromis niloticus were randomly divided into 5 groups to be fed at 3% of body weight with isonitrogenous/isoenergetic diets supplemented with Moringa LE at 0.15 and 0.25% kg^-1 or Pomegranate PE at of 0.3 and 0.5% kg^-1, separately. Growth performance was significantly affected by Moringa LE as compared with the control group without supplementation of plant extract, while Pomegranate PE levels did not affect growth performance. Maximum average daily gains, specific growth rate, albumin, globulin, total protein, A/G ratio, alanine amino transaminase (ALT), aspartate amino transaminase (AST), cholesterol, triglyceride, creatinine, urea, and lysozyme were analyzed. Antioxidant enzymes of catalase and superoxide dismutase were also evaluated in liver tissues. After feeding experiment, the results indicated that the addition of Moringa LE and Pomegranate PE improved lipid profile, liver and kidney functions, immune response towards the emerging bacterial diseases. Besides this, feeding the fishes on diets supplemented with Moringa LE at concentration 0.25% kg^-1 showed the best growth performance, and improved immunity. Moreover, it exhibited the highest protection against bacterial infection with Aeromonas hydrophila achieving the lowest mortality rate of 10% as compared to 80% of mortality rate at the control group.

Effects of Different Drying Methods on Untargeted Phenolic Metabolites, and Antioxidant Activity in Chinese Cabbage (Brassica rapa L. subsp. chinensis) and Nightshade (Solanum retroflexum Dun.)

Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. subsp. chinensis) and Nightshade (Solanum retroflexum are popular traditional leafy vegetables consumed predominantly by rural Africans. Sun drying is adopted as a traditional method of postharvest preservation to store theses leaves during off seasons. The influence of different types of postharvest processing treatments, such as conventional oven drying, solar cabinet drying, sun drying and freeze drying, on the changes on colour properties and antioxidant components were investigated. Freeze-drying retained the ascorbic acid content, antioxidant activities, total chlorophyll content, green colour by reducing the colour difference (∆E). With regard to Chinese cabbage and Nightshade leaves, sun and microwave drying respectively had the most negative impact on all the identified phenolic compounds. The OPLS-DA and the UPLC–QTOF/MS and chemometric approach showed kaempferol-3-O-sophoroside, kaempferol-3-sophorotrioside-7-glucoside and hydroxyoctadecenedioic acid as the markers responsible for the separation of sun-dried samples from the other drying treatments in Chinese cabbage. Sinapoyl malate was not detected in sun-dried samples. Caffeoylmalic acid was identified as the marker compound to separate the other drying treatments from the microwave dried samples of Nightshade leaves. Trihydroxyoctadecadiene derivative and hydroxyoctadecanedioic acid were detected in microwaved samples. Due to the cost effectiveness, solar dryer cabinet treatment was recommended for drying both vegetables. The proximate analysis of solar dried functional powder of Chinese cabbage and Nightshade vegetables demonstrated higher contents of protein and dietary fibre.

Cosm-nutraceutical nanovesicles for acne treatment: Physicochemical characterization and exploratory clinical experimentation

The full exploration of the 'nutraceuticals' therapeutic potential in cosmetics has been hindered by their poor stratum corneum permeation. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to formulate a nutraceutical; quercetin, in novel vitamin C based nanovesicles (aspasomes), and to explore their beneficial effects in the treatment of acne. Aspasomes were characterized for their particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE%), 3-months storage stability, skin deposition/permeation, antioxidant potential, and morphology. Aspasomes antibacterial efficacy on Propionibacterium acnes using the zone of inhibition assay was also tested, whilst their safety on skin fibroblastic cells was assessed in vitro using 3T3 CCL92 cell lines. An exploratory clinical trial was conducted in acne patients, and the percentage reduction of inflammatory, non-inflammatory and total acne lesions was taken as the evaluation criterion. Results revealed that quercetin-loaded aspasomes displayed a desirable nanometer size (125-184 nm), negative charge with good storage stability, and high skin deposition reaching 40%. Aspasomes managed to preserve the antioxidant activity of quercetin, and exhibited a significantly higher antibacterial effect (15 ± 1.53 mm) against Propionibacterium acnes than quercetin alone (8.25 ± 2.08 mm), and were safe on skin fibroblastic cells. Upon clinical examination in 20 acne patients (14 females, 6 males), quercetin aspasomes exhibited reduction percentages of 77.9%, 11.8% and 55.3% for inflammatory lesions, comedones and total lesions respectively. This opens vast applications of the presented formulation in the treatment of other oxidative skin diseases, and delineates the nutraceuticals and nanoformulations prepared from natural materials as promising dermatological treatment modes.

Performance of broilers and layers supplemented with Moringa stenopetala leaf meal under hot humid tropical conditions

Context Heat stress poses a major limit to poultry production. Moringa stenopetala leaf meal (MSL) could be a promising feed additive for poultry raised under heat stress, as it is rich in antioxidants. Aims To determine the effect of (MSL) supplementation on the production and quality of broilers under heat-stress conditions. Methods In the broiler performance trial, 156 1-day old Cobb 500 broilers were assigned to four groups, with each containing three replicates of 13 chicks. For the egg production trial, 108 Bovan Brown layers aged 20 weeks were allocated to four groups, with each containing three replicates of nine hens. The four groups of broiler and layer chicken were supplemented with MSL at a level of 0% (control), 1% (MSL1), 1.5% (MSL1.5) and 2% (MSL2). Relative humidity, and minimum and maximum temperatures were 82%, 13°C and 23°C respectively. The effects of MSL supplementation on growth performance, characteristics of digestive organs, carcass traits, egg production and egg quality were analysed with one-way ANOVA. Key results Moringa stenopetala-leaf supplementation at a level up to 2% (MSL2) did not significantly affect feed intake, weight gain or feed conversion ratio of the birds. Supplemented broilers had a significantly longer large intestine (24% for MSL1, 37% for MSL1.5 and 49% for MSL2) and a heavier pancreas (82% for MSL1, 67% for MSL1.5, and 57% for MSL2) than did the control broilers. Hot and cold carcass weights, dressing yield, dressing percentage, breast-meat weight, drumstick and thigh-meat weights, wing-meat weight, back weight and meat pH were not significantly affected by MSL supplementation. Ash content of meat of the MSL2-fed birds was significantly higher than that of the control birds (3.51% vs 2.74% respectively). Egg production, feed conversion ratio and interior and exterior egg-quality parameters were not significantly affected by MSL supplementation. Intensity of yolk colour was significantly and linearly enhanced due to MSL supplementation (by ~5–8 times compared with the control). Conclusions Supplementation with MSL at a level up to 2% improved yolk colour of Bovan Brown layer eggs, with no effect on meat and egg production. Implications Yolk colour of eggs of layers raised under heat stress can be improved by MSL supplementation at 1%, with there being a minimum increase in the diet cost.

Effect of oven and intermittent airflow assisted tray drying methods on nutritional parameters of few leafy and non-leafy vegetables of North-East India

Given a sizable proportion of bio-resource production in the North-east (NE) India and the need to enhance the shelf life of perishable horticultural regional produce, this work addresses the optimality of inexpensive oven and intermittent airflow assisted tray drying processes for Kolmou (Ipomoea aquatica Forssk.), Pui (Basella alba), Jatialao sak (Lagenaria siceraria leaves), Kolphul (Musa balbisiana Colla blossom), Kaskal (Musa splendida), green Komora (Benincasa hispida) and Posola (Musa balbisiana Colla pseudostem) vegetables of NE India. Characterization parameters for process parametric optimality include proximate analysis based evaluation of moisture content, yield, carbohydrate, crude protein, soluble protein, vitamin C, antioxidant activity, ash, crude fibre and fat content. For most vegetables, tray drying process performance is superior in terms of better moisture removal, higher yield and higher anti-oxidant activity. Among all considered samples, tray dried Kolmou possessed highest antioxidant activity. Vitamin C content was seen to be highest in tray dried Komora.

Analyses of African elephant (Loxodonta africana) diet with various browse and pellet inclusion levels

To more closely simulate the diet of free-ranging elephants, the diet of six (2.4) African elephants (Loxodonta africana) was altered to include more browse and less pelleted complete feed (5% total diet). Dietary proximate compounds, minerals, vitamins A (and carotenoids), D and E, and fatty acids were analyzed on pelleted diet items and forages including hay, grass, and browse. A total of 42 browse species were offered over 1 year with an average total diet inclusion of 5.2% (dry matter basis) per day. Dietary Na and Se were low while Fe and Mn were high compared to published intake levels for elephants. Analyzed nutrients within browse varied widely among seasons and species. Ingredient analyses were used to create predicted elephant nutrient intake for (a) the current diet, (b) a diet excluding pellets, and (c) a diet excluding pellets and providing browse at doubled levels. Formulated diets excluding pellets had lower mineral levels than the current diet and doubled browse did not alter mineral inclusions of concern. This study provides seasonal data on the nutrient levels of Southeastern browse species important for various pachyderm and herbivorous species. Predicted nutrient intake with new diet scenarios does not support the exclusion of pellets in the diets of African elephants without greater browse quantity availability, strict diet management, or additional supplements.

Deesterification of astaxanthin and intermediate esters from Haematococcus pluvialis subjected to stress

Haematococcus pluvialis is the richest biological source of astaxanthin under unfavorable growing conditions. Many reports have discussed the optimal astaxanthin extraction methods. Free-astaxanthin could be still hindered by microalgae extracts composition or by prolonged extraction times. In this study we evaluated the effect of enzymolysis and saponification deesterification processes of astaxanthin and its carotenoid precursors under high irradiance and nitrogen deprivation stress time conditions. Results showed that cholesterol esterase facilitated astaxanthin deesterification (975.65 μg mg^-1 DW) while saponification positively affected zeaxanthin (1038.68 μg mg^-1 DW).

Application of Moringa (Moringa oleifera) as Natural Feed Supplement in Poultry Diets

Application of natural herbs with a view to enhancing production performance and health status has created an important demand in poultry production. With the increasing concerns on this issue, greater attention paid to alternatives to antibiotics for organic meat and egg production has led to a great demand. This study was conducted with view to assessing the possible role of M. oleifera as a natural feed supplement in poultry ration. Various scientific findings and published research articles were considered concerning issues including the study background, objectives, major findings, and conclusions of the review. M oleifera is known as a miracle tree because of its wealthy resource of various nutrients with high biological values. M. oleifera has been used as a growth promoter, immune enhancer, antioxidant, and has a hypo-cholesterol effect on chickens. It has both nutritional and therapeutic values. However, there is still much confusion in past published articles involving the major roles of M. oleifera in production performance and health status of chickens. Taking this into account, the present study highlights an outline of the experimental uses of M. oleifera on growth performance, egg production performance, egg quality, and health status in broilers and laying hens justified with the past findings to the present. The knowledge gaps from the past studies are considered, and the feasibility of M. oleifera in poultry ration is suggested. The findings have motivated further study on M. oleifera to find out the most active ingredients and their optimal doses in both broiler and laying hen rations. Finally, the present study highlights that supplementation of M. oleifera may play a role in the immunity, sound health, and production performance in poultry.

Hormonal changes, semen quality and variance in reproductive activity outcomes of post pubertal rabbits fed Moringa oleifera Lam. leaf powder

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae) is an important plant based staple food, known for its nutritional and medicinal value and is usually prescribed by herbal practitioners in Nigeria and in other tropical countries for the treatment of male infertility problems and reproductive diseases in females. Although the aphrodisiac properties and fertility enhancement potential in males have been reported, the underlying mechanisms for the activity remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the influence of supplementing the diet with M. oleifera Lam. leaf powder on reproductive hormones and semen quality of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two (32) NZW rabbits of 50:50 ratio bucks to does, were randomly distributed to four treatment groups (n = 4 bucks, n = 4 does per group). Graded levels (0, 5, 10 and 15 g/kg) of M. oleifera Lam. leaf powder was incorporated into rabbit growers pellet. The does and bucks were housed separately in hutches and sheltered under the same environmental conditions with free access to their respective treatment diets for a period of 12 weeks.

RESULTS

In female rabbits, treatment revealed significant (P < 0.05) dose-dependent reduction in the concentration of serum FSH, LH and oestrogen. While in contrast the highest dose of leaf powder significantly (P < 0.05) increased progesterone and prolactin concentrations remained unaffected. On the other hand, the concentration of FSH and LH in bucks was significantly (P < 0.05) increased in treatment groups compared to the control group. Serum testosterone concentrations were significantly lower in the 5 and 10 g/kg treatment groups. Semen volume, sperm count and motility were significantly improved in a dose dependent manner with increasing amounts of M. oleifera Lam. leaf powder in the diet.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that M. oleifera Lam. leaf powder supplementation to the diet was more beneficial to male rabbit fertility than the female, where it tended to have a negative impact through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. However, with the varying impact of M. oleifera Lam. leaf powder on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of male and female animals, further investigation is necessary to determine the mechanism through which it operates.

A Review of the Phytochemical and Pharmacological Characteristics of Moringa oleifera

Moringa oleifera is a valued medicinal plant in traditional folk medicine. Many pharmacological studies have shown the ability of this plant to exhibit analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, anticancer, antioxidant, nootropic, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, anti-ulcer, cardiovascular, anti-obesity, antiepileptic, antiasthmatic, antidiabetic, anti-urolithiatic, diuretic, local anesthetic, anti-allergic, anthelmintic, wound healing, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and antidiarrheal properties. This review is a comprehensive summary of the phytochemical and pharmacological activities as well as the traditional and therapeutic uses of this plant. M. oleifera has wide traditional and pharmacological uses in various pathophysiological conditions. We will review the various properties of M. oleifera (drumstick tree) and focus on its various medicinal properties. We think that it is an attractive subject for further experimental and clinical investigations.

Significance of Genetic, Environmental, and Pre- and Postharvest Factors Affecting Carotenoid Contents in Crops: A Review

Carotenoids are a diverse group of tetraterpenoid pigments that play indispensable roles in plants and animals. The biosynthesis of carotenoids in plants is strictly regulated at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels in accordance with inherited genetic signals and developmental requirements and in response to external environmental stimulants. The alteration in the biosynthesis of carotenoids under the influence of external environmental stimulants, such as high light, drought, salinity, and chilling stresses, has been shown to significantly influence the nutritional value of crop plants. In addition to these stimulants, several pre- and postharvesting cultivation practices significantly influence carotenoid compositions and contents. Thus, this review discusses how various environmental stimulants and pre- and postharvesting factors can be positively modulated for the enhanced biosynthesis and accumulation of carotenoids in the edible parts of crop plants, such as the leaves, roots, tubers, flowers, fruit, and seeds. In addition, future research directions in this context are identified.