Anti-inflammatory, tissue remodeling, immunomodulatory, and anticancer activities of oregano (Origanum vulgare) essential oil in a human skin disease model

Hydroxypropyl Cellulose Hydrogel Containing Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum Essential-Oil-Loaded Polymeric Micelles for Enhanced Treatment of Melanoma

Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum essential oil (OEO) is a natural oil with high therapeutic potential. For some applications, however, the development of novel formulations is still needed to improve the bioavailability and stability of OEO. In this study, we describe the fabrication of an original nanocomposite hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) physical hydrogel, containing OEO-loaded polymeric micelles, for topical delivery. The concentration of the main active compounds of OEO-carvacol and thymol-was determined using gas chromatography (GC) analysis. OEO was first encapsulated into Pluronic F127 micelles, and then embedded into HPC gel. Micellar and gel formulations of pure polymers and OEO-containing systems were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and rheology measurements, respectively. Selected formulations were evaluated for cytotoxicity and antiproliferative activity. The hydrogel formulation of HPC with micellar OEO (8% HPC, 2% F127, 1% OEO) exhibited sustained release of the oil and selectivity towards SH-4 tumor cells (an in vitro model of melanoma).

Effect of dietary medicinal plants on physiological responses of broiler chickens challenged with Campylobacter jejuni

BACKGROUND

Phytogenic additives would be helpful to alleviate the adverse effect of Campylobacter jejuni on the performance and physiological responses of broiler chickens.

OBJECTIVE

This experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of Echinacea purpurea (EP) and Thymbra spicata (TS) on the performance, nutrient digestibility, serum biochemistry, intestinal morphology, intestinal microbiota and immune responses of broilers challenged with C. jejuni from 0 to 42 days of age.

METHODS

A total of 240 male broiler chickens were divided into 6 groups and fed various diets: a control diet; the control diet supplemented with EP at 0.25% (EP25) or 0.50% (EP50); the control diet supplemented with TS at 0.25% (TS25) and 0.50% (TS50); or the control diet containing erythromycin at 55 ppm. Chicks were orally challenged with C. jejuni on Days 21 and 23 of age.

RESULTS

EP and TS25 diets enhanced European production efficiency factor, feed conversion ratio and digestibility of dry matter and organic matter. TS25 increased duodenal villous height (VH) and surface area on Day 42 of age. EP25 diet increased ileal VH compared to control and erythromycin diets. Diets containing certain EP25 and TS increased the Bifidobacterium population and decreased C. jejuni population on Day 39 of age. EP50 and TS50 diets increased antibody titration against Newcastle disease virus.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, EP and TS dietary supplementation improved performance, microflora, intestinal morphology and immune responses in C. jejuni-challenged broilers.

Evaluation of Chemical Profile and Biological Properties of Extracts of Different Origanum vulgare Cultivars Growing in Poland

This research studied the phenolic content compared with the antioxidant properties of various O. vulgare (Lamiaceae) cultivars grown in Poland. The research results in this paper indicate that the dominant ingredient in all oregano cultivars was rosmarinic acid, known for its strong antioxidant properties. The highest amounts of rosmarinic acid (87.16 ± 4.03 mg/g dm) were identified in the O. vulgare spp. hirtum (Link) Ietsw. Other metabolites identified in the studied extracts include luteolin O-di-glucuronide-O-di-pentoside (30.79 ± 0.38 mg/g dm in the 'Aureum' cultivar), 4'-O-glucopyranosyl-3', 4'-dihydroxy benzyl-protocatechuate (19.84 ± 0.60 mg/g dm in the 'Margerita' cultivar), and p-coumaroyl-triacetyl-hexoside (25.44 ± 0.18 mg/g dm in the 'Margerita' cultivar). 'Hot & spicy' and 'Margerita' cultivars were characterized by the highest activity in eliminating OH• and O2•- radicals. Extracts from Greek oregano had the highest ability to scavenge DPPH radicals and chelate iron ions. This research has also provided new evidence that oregano has anti-migratory, cytotoxic properties and influences the viability of gastric cancer cells (the highest cytotoxicity was attributed to the 'Hot & spicy' cultivar, which performed the worst in antioxidant properties tests). Extracts from the tested cultivars at a concentration of 0.625% effectively inhibited the growth of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa bacteria. It seems that the oregano grown in Poland is of good quality and can be successfully grown on a large scale if the appropriate use is found.

Chemical and Bioactive Evaluation of Essential Oils from Edible and Aromatic Mediterranean Lamiaceae Plants

The Lamiaceae family, which includes several well-known aromatic plants, is scientifically relevant due to its essential oils (EOs). In this work, four EOs from Mediterranean species, namely Origanum vulgare L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., Salvia officinalis L., and Thymus vulgaris L., were evaluated for their volatile profiles and the biological activity in vitro to assess their potential use in the food and cosmetic sector. GC/MS analysis revealed dominant compounds, such as carvacrol, thymol, and eucalyptol. Regarding biological action, the samples exhibited antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal activities, with O. vulgare and T. officinalis standing out. T. vulgaris showed the lowest EC50 in the reducing power assay, and O. vulgare had the lowest EC50 in the DPPH assay. Most EOs also displayed excellent anti-inflammatory responses and antifungal properties, with O. vulgare and T. vulgaris also demonstrating antibacterial activity. All EOs from Mediterranean species showed cytotoxicity against tumoral cell lines. Overall, the selected EOs stood out for their interesting bioactivities, with the obtained results underscoring their potential as natural preservatives and bioactive agents in various industrial applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

Oregano Essential Oil in Livestock and Veterinary Medicine

With a growing global concern over food safety and animal welfare issues, the livestock and veterinary industries are undergoing unprecedented changes. These changes have not only brought challenges within each industry, but also brought unprecedented opportunities for development. In this context, the search for natural and safe products that can effectively replace traditional veterinary drugs has become an important research direction in the fields of animal husbandry and veterinary medicine. Oregano essential oil (OEO), as a natural extract, is gradually emerging in the fields of animal husbandry and veterinary medicine with its unique antibacterial, antioxidant, and multiple other biological activities. OEO not only has a wide antibacterial spectrum, effectively fighting against a variety of pathogenic microorganisms, but also, because of its natural properties, helps us to avoid traditional veterinary drugs that may bring drug residues or cause drug resistance problems. This indicates OEO has great application potential in animal disease treatment, animal growth promotion, and animal welfare improvement. At present, the application of OEO in the fields of animal husbandry and veterinary medicine has achieved preliminary results. Studies have shown that adding OEO to animal feed can significantly improve the growth performance and health status of animals and reduce the occurrence of disease. At the same time, pharmacokinetic studies in animals show that the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion processes of OEO in animals shows good bioavailability. In summary, oregano essential oil (OEO), as a substitute for natural veterinary drugs with broad application prospects, is gradually becoming a research hotspot in the field of animal husbandry and veterinary medicine. In the future, we look forward to further tapping the potential of OEO through more research and practice and making greater contributions to the sustainable development of the livestock and veterinary industries.

In ovo delivery of oregano essential oil activated xenobiotic detoxification and lipid metabolism at hatch in broiler chickens

In ovo interventions are used to improve embryonic development and robustness of chicks. The objective of this study was to identify the optimal dose for in ovo delivery of oregano essential oil (OEO), and to investigate metabolic impacts. Broiler chickens Ross 308 fertile eggs were injected with 7 levels of OEO (0, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 µL) into the amniotic fluid at embryonic d 17.5 (E17.5) (n = 48). Chick quality was measured by navel score (P < 0.05) and/or hatchability rates (P < 0.01) were significantly decreased at doses at or above 10 or 20 µL/egg, respectively, indicating potential toxicity. However, no effects were observed at the 5 µL/egg, suggesting that compensatory mechanisms were effective to maintain homeostasis in the developing embryo. To pursue a better understanding of these mechanisms, transcriptomic analyses of the jejunum were performed comparing the control injected with saline and the group injected with 5 µL of OEO. The transcriptomic analyses identified that 167 genes were upregulated and 90 were downregulated in the 5 µL OEO compared to the control group injected with saline (P < 0.01). Functional analyses of the differentially expressed genes (DEG) showed that metabolic pathways related to the epoxygenase cytochrome P450 pathway associated with xenobiotic catabolic processes were significantly upregulated (P < 0.05). In addition, long-chain fatty acid metabolism associated with ATP binding transporters was also upregulated in the OEO treated group (P < 0.05). The results indicated that low doses of OEO in ovo have the potential to increase lipid metabolism in late stages (E17.5) of embryonic development. In conclusion, in ovo delivery of 5 µL OEO did not show any negative impact on hatchability and chick quality. OEO elevated expression of key enzymes and receptors involved in detoxification pathways and lipid metabolism in the jejunum of hatchling broiler chicks.

A Comprehensive Review of Essential Oils and Their Pharmacological Activities in Neurological Disorders: Exploring Neuroprotective Potential

Numerous studies have demonstrated essential oils' diverse chemical compositions and pharmacological properties encompassing antinociceptive, anxiolytic-like, and anticonvulsant activities, among other notable effects. The utilization of essential oils, whether inhaled, orally ingested, or applied topically, has commonly been employed as adjunctive therapy for individuals experiencing anxiety, insomnia, convulsions, pain, and cognitive impairment. The utilization of synthetic medications in the treatment of various disorders and symptoms is associated with a wide array of negative consequences. Consequently, numerous research groups across the globe have been prompted to explore the efficacy of natural alternatives such as essential oils. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the existing literature on the pharmacological properties of essential oils and their derived compounds and the underlying mechanisms responsible for these observed effects. The primary emphasis is on essential oils and their constituents, specifically targeting the nervous system and exhibiting significant potential in treating neurodegenerative disorders. The current state of research in this field is characterized by its preliminary nature, highlighting the necessity for a more comprehensive overlook of the therapeutic advantages of essential oils and their components. Integrating essential oils into conventional therapies can enhance the effectiveness of comprehensive treatment regimens for neurodegenerative diseases, offering a more holistic approach to addressing the multifaceted nature of these conditions.

Use of Nile tilapia (Oreocromis niloticus) processing residues in the production of pâtés with the addition of oregano (Origanum vulgare) essential oil

The effect of the use of Nilo tilapia filleting residues in the production of pâtés with the addition of oregano essential oil stored for 90 days at 4 °C was evaluated. For that, 5 treatments were performed as follows: TSA-control treatment; TES with the addition of sodium erythorbate; and formulation TOE1 with 600 ppm oregano essential oil; TOE2 with 1000 ppm essential oil; and TOE3 with 1400 ppm essential oil. The pâtés showed adequate technological and physicochemical characteristics and microbiological counts within the legislation standards. No significant differences were observed in the luminosity of the pâté formulations during storage, and the addition of oil contributed to the increase in a* values and stability of b* values. Regarding the lipid and protein oxidation, TOE3 showed lower values at the end of the shelf-life. The addition of essential oil did not affect the hardness and cohesiveness of the products. The fatty acids in greater amounts in the samples were linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids. The analysis of biogenic amines indicated that only the treatments with the highest amounts of sodium erythorbate (TES and TOE1) showed losses of spermidine. It was observed that decreasing the inclusion of sodium erythorbate and increasing the inclusion of oregano essential oil resulted in a drop in cadaverine values. A total of 46 volatile compounds were detected in the samples with the highest amount of free fatty acids and all the formulations were well accepted sensorially.

Can Origanum be a hope for cancer treatment? A review on the potential of Origanum species in preventing and treating cancers

In this study, the potential of aromatic Origanum species belonging to Lamiaceae family to prevent and treat cancer was investigated. Since aromatic plants contain phytochemicals such as essential oils, phenolic acids, terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, vitamins, enzymes and minerals with beneficial biological activities, they have become more interesting and important in medicine, pharmacy and industry. Publications/research between 1950 and 2022 were screened to investigate the effects of Origanum species on cancer, and the effects of their extracts and essential oils in cancer prevention and treatment. Essential phytochemicals found in plants provide efficacy in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. Besides, the essential oils found in these plant extracts are another reason that makes them important. Therefore, it is preferred in traditional medicine in the fight against many diseases as well as cancer. Essential oils of Origanum species mainly contain monoterpenes such as p-cymene, carvacrol, thymol and γ-terpinene. Since these compounds exhibit anticancer properties, Origanum species are becoming the plants of choice in the fight against cancer. In this context, Origanum majorana L. Origanum vulgare and Origanum munzurense are promising species, considering the composition of their extracts and essential oil.

Cutaneous Polymeric-Micelles-Based Hydrogel Containing Origanum vulgare L. Essential Oil: In Vitro Release and Permeation, Angiogenesis, and Safety Profile In Ovo

Origanum vulgare var. vulgare essential oil (OEO) is known as a natural product with multiple beneficial effects with application in dermatology. Oregano essential oil represents a potential natural therapeutic alternative for fibroepithelial polyps (FPs), commonly known as skin tags. Innovative formulations have been developed to improve the bioavailability and stability of essential oils. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the morphology of a polymeric-micelles-based hydrogel (OEO-PbH), the release and permeation profile of oregano essential oil, as well as to assess in vivo the potential effects on the degree of biocompatibility and the impact on angiogenesis in ovo, using a chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis indicated a regular aspect after the encapsulation process, while in vitro release studies showed a sustained release of the essential oil. None of the tested samples induced any irritation on the CAM and the limitation of the angiogenic process was noted. OEO-PbH, with a sustained release of OEO, potentially enhances the anti-angiogenic effect while being well tolerated and non-irritative by the vascularized CAM, especially on the blood vessels (BVs) in the presence of leptin treatment. This is the first evidence of in vivo antiangiogenic effects of a polymeric-micelle-loaded oregano essential oil, with further mechanistic insights for OEO-PbH formulation, involving leptin as a possible target. The findings suggest that the OEO-containing polymeric micelle hydrogel represents a potential future approach in the pathology of cutaneous FP and other angiogenesis-related conditions.

Farm or Lab? A Comparative Study of Oregano's Leaf and Callus Volatile Isolates Chemistry and Cytotoxicity

Oregano (Origanum vulgare, Lamiaceae plant family) is a well-known aromatic herb with great commercial value, thoroughly utilized by food and pharmaceutical industries. The present work regards the comparative assessment of in vitro propagated and commercially available oregano tissue natural products. This study includes their secondary metabolites' biosynthesis, antioxidant properties, and anticancer activities. The optimization of callus induction from derived oregano leaf explants and excessive oxidative browning was performed using various plant growth regulators, light conditions, and antioxidant compounds. The determination of oregano callus volatiles against the respective molecules in maternal herbal material was performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis. In total, the presence of twenty-seven phytochemicals was revealed in both leaf and callus extracts, from which thirteen molecules were biosynthesized in both tissues studied, seven compounds were present only in callus extracts, and seven metabolites only in leaf extracts. Carvacrol and sabinene hydrate were the prevailing volatiles in all tissues exploited, along with alkanes octacosane and triacontane and the trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivative of carvacrol that were detected in significant amounts only in callus extracts. The MTT assay was employed to assess the in vitro cytotoxic properties of oregano extracts against the epithelial human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 and the human neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cell lines. The extracts displayed concentration and time-dependent responses in cell proliferation rates.

Exploring Iberian Peninsula Lamiaceae as Potential Therapeutic Approaches in Wound Healing

Skin tissue has a crucial role in protecting the human body from external harmful agents, preventing wounds that frequently demand proper healing approaches. The ethnobotanical knowledge of specific regions with further investigation on their medicinal plants has been paramount to create new and effective therapeutical agents, including for dermatological purposes. This review attempts, for the first time, to investigate the traditional applications of Lamiaceae medicinal plants that are already used by local communities in the Iberian Peninsula in wound healing. Henceforward, Iberian ethnobotanical surveys were reviewed, and the information about the traditional wound healing practices of Lamiaceae was comprehensively summarized. Afterwards, the scientific validation of each Lamiaceae species was exhaustively checked. From this, eight out of twenty-nine Lamiaceae medicinal plants were highlighted by their wound-related pharmacological evidence and are in-depth presented in this review. We suggest that future studies should focus on the isolation and identification of the active molecules of these Lamiaceae, followed by robust clinical trials that may confirm the security and effectiveness of such natural-based approaches. This will in turn pave the way for more reliable wound healing treatments.

Origanum vulgare Essential Oil Modulates the AFB1-Induced Oxidative Damages, Nephropathy, and Altered Inflammatory Responses in Growing Rabbits

The current study was performed to investigate the toxic effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) through the evaluation of kidney function tests and histopathological examination of renal tissues, targeting the therapeutic role of Marjoram (Origanum vulgare essential oil-OEO) in improving health status. Forty-eight New Zealand Whites growing rabbits (four weeks old) weighing on average 660.5 ± 2.33 g were randomly and equally distributed into four groups, each of which had four replicas of three animals as the following: Control group (only basal diet), AFB1 group (0.3 mg AFB1/kg diet), OEO group (1 g OEO/kg diet) and co-exposed group (1 g OEO/kg + 0.3 mg AF/kg diet). Our study lasted eight weeks and was completed at 12 weeks of age. The results revealed that OEO decreased the toxic effects of AFB1 in rabbit kidneys by substantially reducing the cystatin C levels in the AFB1 group. Additionally, OEO decreased oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation levels in the co-exposed group. Moreover, OEO reduced DNA damage and inflammatory response in addition to the down-regulation of stress and inflammatory cytokines-encoding genes. Besides, OEO preserved the cytoarchitecture of rabbits' kidneys treated with AFB1. In conclusion, O. vulgare essential oil supplementation ameliorated the deleterious effects of AFB1 on the rabbits' kidneys by raising antioxidant levels, decreasing inflammation, and reversing oxidative DNA damage.

Investigation on wound healing effect of Mediterranean medicinal plants and some related phenolic compounds: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The human skin constitutes a biological barrier against external stress and wounds can reduce the role of its physiological structure. In medical sciences, wounds are considered a major problem that requires urgent intervention. For centuries, medicinal plants have been used in the Mediterranean countries for many purposes and against wounds.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

Provides an outlook on the Mediterranean medicinal plants used in wound healing. Furthermore, the wound healing effect of polyphenolic compounds and their chemical structures are also summarized. Moreover, we discussed the wound healing process, the structure of the skin, and the current therapies in wound healing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The search was performed in several databases such as ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. The following Keywords were used individually and/or in combination: the Mediterranean, wound healing, medicinal plants, phenolic compounds, composition, flavonoid, tannin.

RESULTS

The wound healing process is distinguished by four phases, which are respectively, hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. The Mediterranean medicinal plants are widely used in the treatment of wounds. The finding showed that eighty-nine species belonging to forty families were evaluated for their wound-healing effect in this area. The Asteraceae family was the most reported family with 12 species followed by Lamiaceae (11 species). Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco, and Algeria were the countries where these plants are frequently used in wound healing. In addition to medicinal plants, results showed that nineteen phenolic compounds from different classes are used in wound treatment. Tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, curcumin, luteolin, chrysin, rutin, kaempferol, quercetin, icariin, morin, epigallocatechin gallate, taxifolin, silymarin, hesperidin, naringin, isoliquiritin, puerarin, genistein, and daidzein were the main compounds that showed wound-healing effect.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, medicinal plants and polyphenolic compounds provide therapeutic evidence in wound healing and for the development of new drugs in this field.

Phytochemical Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Origanum vulgare L. Essential Oil Formulated as Polymeric Micelles Drug Delivery Systems

This study presents phytochemical characterization and biological evaluation of Origanum vulgare L. essential oil (OEO) formulated as polymeric micelles drug delivery systems as a possible non-invasive approach for the management of skin tags. GC-MS analysis of Romanian OEO revealed the identification and quantification of 43 volatile compounds (thymol and carvacrol being the main ones). The antioxidant activity was shown by four consecrated methods: CUPRAC, ABTS, ORAC and DPPH. OEO was incorporated by micellar solubilization into a binary hydrogel based on a Pluronic F 127/L 31 block-copolymers mixture. The pH, consistency, spreadability, particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential of the OEO-loaded poloxamer-based binary hydrogel (OEO-PbH) were investigated. OEO-PbH was skin compatible in terms of pH and exhibited adequate spreadability and consistency. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of the tested OEO were similar to those obtained for the formulation, lower (2.5 µg/mL) for yeast and higher (40-80 µg/mL) for Gram-negative bacilli. As keratinocytes are among main components of skin tags, an in vitro evaluation was conducted in order to see the effect of the formulation against HaCaT human keratinocytes. OEO-PbH decreased HaCaT cells migration and proliferation and elicited a cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effect in a dose- and time-dependent manner. No harmful effect on the viability of dendritic cells (DCs) was detected following the incubation with different concentrations (0-200 µg/mL) of the 5% formulation. Treatment in inflammatory DCs (+LPS) indicated a decrease in cytokine production of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-23 but no significant effect on IL-10 in any of the tested concentrations.

Therapeutic application of carvacrol: A comprehensive review

Carvacrol is a major natural constituent and is significantly present as an essential oil in aromatic plants and is well known for its numerous biological activities. Therapeutic properties of carvacrol have been demonstrated as anti-oxidant, anticancer, diabetes prevention, cardioprotective, anti-obesity, hepatoprotective and reproductive role, antiaging, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties. The carvacrol biosynthesis has been mediated through mevalonate pathway. Carvacrol has the anticancer ability against malignant cells via decreasing the expressions of matrix metalloprotease 2 and 9, inducing apoptosis, enhancing the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins, disrupting mitochondrial membrane, suppressing extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 mitogen-activated protein kinase signal transduction, and also decreasing the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B. It also decreased the concentrations of alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase as well as also restored liver function, insulin level, and plasma glucose level. Carvacrol also has been found to exert antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Coagulase-negative staphylococcus, Salmonella spp., Enterococcus sp. Shigella, and Escherichia coli. The current review article summarizes the health-promoting perspectives of carvacrol through various pathways.

An Up-To-Date Review Regarding Cutaneous Benefits of Origanum vulgare L. Essential Oil

Due to the plethora of pharmacological activities reported in the literature, Origanum vulgare L. is a valuable aromatic plant for the medicine of the XXI century. Recent studies highlight that Origanum vulgare L. essential oil (OvEo) has gained attention in the dermatological field due to the cosmeceutical potential correlated with the presence of thymol and carvacrol. As a result of the fulminant expansion of bacterial resistance to antibiotics and the aggressiveness of skin infections, OvEo was extensively studied for its antimicrobial activity against Staphyloccocus spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, researchers have also assessed the anti-inflammatory activity of OvEo, suggesting its tissue remodeling and wound healing potential. Whereas OvEo comprises important biological activities that are used in a wide range of pathologies, recently, essential oils have shown great potential in the development of new therapeutic alternatives for skin disorders, such as acne, wounds or aging. Furthermore, substantial efforts have been committed to the development of modern formulations, such as microemulsions and nanoemulsions, in order to create the possibility for topical application. The review brings to the fore the most recent findings in the dermatological field regarding potential plant-based therapies involving OvEo, emphasizing the modern pharmaceutical formulation approaches and the cutaneous benefits in skin disorders.

Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Phytogenic Substances for Optimizing Gut Health in Poultry

The gut microbiota has been designated as a hidden metabolic ‘organ’ because of its enormous impact on host metabolism, physiology, nutrition, and immune function. The connection between the intestinal microbiota and their respective host animals is dynamic and, in general, mutually beneficial. This complicated interaction is seen as a determinant of health and disease; thus, intestinal dysbiosis is linked with several metabolic diseases. Therefore, tractable strategies targeting the regulation of intestinal microbiota can control several diseases that are closely related to inflammatory and metabolic disorders. As a result, animal health and performance are improved. One of these strategies is related to dietary supplementation with prebiotics, probiotics, and phytogenic substances. These supplements exert their effects indirectly through manipulation of gut microbiota quality and improvement in intestinal epithelial barrier. Several phytogenic substances, such as berberine, resveratrol, curcumin, carvacrol, thymol, isoflavones and hydrolyzed fibers, have been identified as potential supplements that may also act as welcome means to reduce the usage of antibiotics in feedstock, including poultry farming, through manipulation of the gut microbiome. In addition, these compounds may improve the integrity of tight junctions by controlling tight junction-related proteins and inflammatory signaling pathways in the host animals. In this review, we discuss the role of probiotics, prebiotics, and phytogenic substances in optimizing gut function in poultry.

Ethnopharmacological Survey and Comparative Study of the Healing Activity of Moroccan Thyme Honey and Its Mixture with Selected Essential Oils on Two Types of Wounds on Albino Rabbits

Wound healing consists of several continuous phases involving various cells and chemical intermediates. As a rich source of nutrition elements, honey has proved to have potential benefits in the treatment of various diseases. The present study was designed to investigate the healing effect of a honey mixture with selected essential oils on chemical and thermal wound models in rabbits. Dressing mixtures of Thymus vulgaris honey with three essential oils (Origanum vulgare, Rosmarinus officinalis, and Thymus vulgaris) were prepared and applied daily in the treatment groups. These essential oils were rich in phytochemicals and had significant antibacterial activity against four selected ATCC bacterial strains. Madecasol ointment was used as a standard control. The healing effect of the mixtures was evaluated by measuring wound surface area and comparing healing time. The results showed that the healing rate in the treatment groups was significantly higher than that of the untreated group and standard group. The best healing effect for burns was seen in the mixture of honey and Thymus vulgaris essential oil, which had wound closure rates of 85.21% and 82.14% in thermal- and chemical-induced burns, respectively, and showed the shortest healing time (14 days) in comparison to other groups. Therefore, it can be concluded that honey mixtures have significant beneficial effects on skin wound healing and, thus, they may be used as a healing agent in different types of wounds in humans after specific clinical trials.

In vitro antiviral activity of Thymbra spicata L. extract on bovine respiratory viruses (BCoV, BPIV-3, BRSV, BVDV and BoHV-1)

AIMS

Viral pathogens are the primary agents in bovine respiratory disease cases, and there is no direct effective antiviral drug application. Thymbra is a genus of oregano commonly found in Turkey. The primary component (34.9%) of the extract obtained from Thymbra spicata L. is the carvacrol which is used in traditional medicine. This study evaluates the potential antiviral activity and inactivation efficiency of T. spicata L. extract against bovine respiratory viruses, including BCoV, BPIV-3, BRSV, BVDV and BoHV-1.

METHODS AND RESULTS

To evaluate its effect on viral replication, viral titres were taken from infected cells treated with non-cytotoxic T. spicata L. extract concentrations (0.75% and 1.5%, 1.32 and 2.64 µg/ml of carvacrol as active ingredient, respectively) and compared to non-treated infected cells. The viruses were treated directly with 1.5% T. spicata L. extract, and the viral titres were evaluated at certain time points to determine the efficiency of direct inactivation. The number of infectious virions for BCoV, BPIV-3, BRSV, BVDV and BoHV-1 treated with 1.5% T. spicata L. extract were decreased by 99.44%, 100.0%, 94.38%, 99.97% and 99.87%, respectively.T. spicata L. extract strongly inhibits the replication of mentioned viruses in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. In addition, T. spicata L. extract shared direct inactivation efficiency on the mentioned viruses in a time-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

This study shows the antiviral efficiency of T. spicata L. on BRD-related viral agents for the first time. The oregano species T. spicata and its main component, carvacrol, may have a potential for antiviral activity in the alternative treatment of respiratory viral diseases in cattle.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Given the similarity of replication strategies, obtained data suggest the possible efficiency of T. spicata L. on human respiratory viruses.

Possibility of Pulsed Electric Field and Essential Oil Pre-treatment, Microwave-air Dehydration to the Quality of the Dehydrated Sesban (Sesbania sesban) Flower

Non-heat ahead-treatment in advance of the main dehydration is essential to preserve the quality and ensure food safety. Pulsed electric field (PEF) utilizes a high-voltage electric field in a very short duration to inhibit microbes and enzymes while maintaining the most sensory and nutritional characteristics. For thermal sensitive components, the dehydration process should be performed at low temperatures. Freeze dehydration, vacuum dehydration required high cost for equipment, energy consumption, low quantity in long dehydration time. Microwave-air dehydration is considered as a promising alternative technical approach. Sesban (Sesbania sesban) flower contains numerous phytochemical components promoting health-benefit. However, it’s highly perishable after harvesting. Consumers enjoy the dried sesban flower as a healthy drink. This study examined the possibility of PEF ahead-treatment in microbial inhibition and enzymatic inactivation; essential oil and Microwave-air dehydration on retention of total phenolic content (TPC), vitamin C, 2,2 diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl of free radical scavenging (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) of the dehydrated sesban flower. Research also monitored the microbial stability of the dehydrated sesban flower during 12 months of preservation. Results showed that PEF at pulse strength 1000 kV/cm, pulse duration 90 µs, pulse number 45 was remarkably inactivated polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase in raw material. Rosemary essential oil soaked for sesban flower before dehydration positively preserved the ascorbic acid, phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. These PEF and essential oil ahead-treatments strongly facilitated for the main Microwave-air dehydration. Among different air temperatures from 20°C to 40°C in microwave-air dehydration, the highest Vitamin C, TPC, DPPH and FRAP of the dried flower were recorded at air temperature from 20°C to 30°C with no significant difference. Meanwhile, airspeed 1.2 m/s showed the highest Vitamin C, TPC, DPPH and FRAP of the dried flower with no significant difference with airspeed 1.4 m/s and 1.6 m/s. There was no significant difference in Vitamin C, TPC, DPPH and FRAP of the dried flower by microwave power from 1.15 to 1.45W/g. Therefore, a combination of microwave and air dehydration at air temperature 25°C, airspeed 1.2 m/s, the microwave energy density of 1.45 W/g was recommended to better preserve vitamin C, TPC, DPPH, FRAP. Microbial stability of the dehydrated flower was also observed during 12 months of storage by 3 month-interval sampling. Coliform, yeast and mold criteria in dried product were stable within acceptable limits.

Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum (Lamiaceae) Essential Oil Prevents Behavioral and Oxidative Stress Changes in the Scopolamine Zebrafish Model

Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum has been used as medicinal herbs promoting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective activities. We investigated the protective effects and the mechanism of O. vulgare ssp. hirtum essential oil (OEO) on cognitive impairment and brain oxidative stress in a scopolamine (Sco)-induced zebrafish (Danio rerio) model of cognitive impairment. Our results show that exposure to Sco (100 µM) leads to anxiety, spatial memory, and response to novelty dysfunctions, whereas the administration of OEO (25, 150, and 300 µL/L, once daily for 13 days) reduced anxiety-like behavior and improved cognitive ability, which was confirmed by behavioral tests, such as the novel tank-diving test (NTT), Y-maze test, and novel object recognition test (NOR) in zebrafish. Additionally, Sco-induced brain oxidative stress and increasing of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were attenuated by the administration of OEO. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses were used to elucidate the OEO composition, comprising thymol (38.82%), p-cymene (20.28%), and γ-terpinene (19.58%) as the main identified components. These findings suggest the ability of OEO to revert the Sco-induced cognitive deficits by restoring the cholinergic system activity and brain antioxidant status. Thus, OEO could be used as perspective sources of bioactive compounds, displaying valuable biological activities, with potential pharmaceutical applications.

Biomedical Effects of the Phytonutrients Turmeric, Garlic, Cinnamon, Graviola, and Oregano: A Comprehensive Review

Phytonutrients are plant foods that contain many natural bioactive compounds, called phytochemicals, which show specific biological activities. These phytonutrients and their phytochemicals may play an important role in health care maintaining normal organism functions (as preventives) and fighting against diseases (as therapeutics). Phytonutrients’ components are the primary metabolites (i.e., proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids) and phytochemicals or secondary metabolites (i.e., phenolics, alkaloids, organosulfides, and terpenes). For years, several phytonutrients and their phytochemicals have demonstrated specific pharmacological and therapeutic effects in human health such as anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and immune response. This review summarizes the effects of the most studied or the most popular phytonutrients (i.e., turmeric, garlic, cinnamon, graviola, and oregano) and any reported contraindications. This article also presents the calculated physicochemical properties of the main phytochemicals in the selected phytonutrients using Lipinski’s, Veber’s, and Ghose’s rules. Based on our revisions for this article, all these phytonutrients have consistently shown great potential as preventives and therapeutics on many diseases in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies.

Formulation, Optimization, and Evaluation of Oregano Oil Nanoemulsions for the Treatment of Infections Due to Oral Microbiota

Introduction

Natural oil-based nanoemulsions (NEs) have been widely investigated in many diseases that affect the oral cavity. NEs are delivery systems that enhance the solubility of lipid therapeutics and improve their delivery to target sites; they are known as self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDSs). The current investigation's aim was to produce an oregano essential oil-based nanoemulsion (OEO-SNEDD) that would have antibacterial and antifungal effects against oral microbiota and improve oral health.

Methods

Several OEO-SNEDDSs were developed using different percentages of OEO (10%, 14%, and 18%), percentages of a surfactant mixture Pluracare L64:Lauroglycol FCC (18%, 32%, and 36%), S_mix ratios (1:2, 1:1, and 2:1), and hydrophilic-lipophilic balances (HLBs) of the surfactant mixture (8, 10, and 12) using the Box‒Behnken design. The optimized concentration of excipients was determined using a pseudoternary phase diagram to obtain the NEs. The formulations were evaluated for their droplet size, stability index, and antibacterial and antifungal activities.

Results

The NEs had a droplet size of 150 to 500 nm and stability index of 47% to 95%, and the produced formulation reached antibacterial and antifungal inhibition zones of up to 19 and 17 mm, respectively. The Box‒Behnken design was adopted to get the optimum formulation, which was 18% OEO, 36% S_mix, 10.29 HLB of S_mix, and a 1.25:1 S_mix ratio. The optimized formulation had a lower ulcer index compared with various other formulations evaluated in rats.

Conclusion

This study illustrated that OEO-SNEDDSs can provide good protection against oral microbial infections.

Prolonged continual consumption of oregano herb interferes with the action of steroid hormones and several drugs, and effects signaling across the brain-gut axis

Herbs and spices have been used throughout human history for their medicinal qualities. The advent of cheap and readily available medicines have lessened the need for herbs and spices as traditional medicines, however, they are rapidly regaining popularity with rising interest of the general population in health, natural products and nutrition. The need for alternative medicines with antimicrobial properties, such as herbs and spices, has also come to the forefront in light of the recent bans of antibiotic use in the livestock industry, including the poultry industry. This large scale use presents an opportunity to observe nutrigenomic effects of prolonged use of herbs on a substantial number of birds fed high concentrations of these products throughout the production cycle. In this manuscript, we investigated the transcriptional effect of continual prolonged oregano supplementation on chicken ileum gene expression. Based on ileum transcriptomics, we report that continual supplementation with 2% oregano altered microbiota-gut-brain axis signalling, rearranged cancer susceptibility towards reduced steroid hormone-related cancers and altered expression of genes targeted by many registered drugs, thus likely affecting their efficiency and side effects. Transcriptional toxicology analysis indicated significant activation of Ventricular Septal Defect and Congenital Heart Disease categories. Our results, counter the notion that natural products such as oregano have the potential for little to no side-effects as they are "natural". The nutrigenomic approach of understanding benefits and side effects of the food we eat, can revolutionize disease management and therapy and have special significance in designing the diets for individuals or livestock with known disease predispositions.

A Recent Insight Regarding the Phytochemistry and Bioactivity of Origanum vulgare L. Essential Oil

Origanum vulgare L. is a widely used aromatic plant, especially due to its content in essential oil, mainly rich in carvacrol and thymol. The ethnopharmacological uses of Origanum vulgare L. essential oil (OEO) comprise digestive, respiratory, or dermatological disorders. The review focuses on the increasing number of recent studies investigating several biological activities of OEO. The bioactivities are in tight relation to the phytochemical profile of the essential oil, and also depend on taxonomic, climatic, and geographical characteristics of the plant material. The antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, skin disorders beneficial effects, next to antihyperglycemic and anti-Alzheimer activities were reported and confirmed in multiple studies. Moreover, recent studies indicate a positive impact on skin disorders of OEO formulated as nanocarrier systems in order to improve its bioavailability and, thus, enhancing its therapeutic benefits. The review brings an up to date regarding the phytochemistry and bioactivity of Origanum vulgare L. essential oil, underlining also the most successful pharmaceutical formulation used for skin disorders.

Antiviral mechanism of carvacrol on HSV-2 infectivity through inhibition of RIP3-mediated programmed cell necrosis pathway and ubiquitin-proteasome system in BSC-1 cells

BACKGROUND

Carvacrol, as the major components of aromatic plants used for treating human skin diseases including origanum, Satureja, thymus, and coridothymus species, presented a kind of antiviral activity. To explore the mechanisms of carvacrol against herpes simplex virus (HSV) in vitro.

METHOD

The BSC-1 cells model of HSV infection was established, and from the two aspects of viral replication level and cell death pathway, the antiviral effects of carvacrol on HSV infected cells were also evaluated by plaque assay under the three modes including prevention, treatment, and direct inactivation.

RESULTS

In the three ways, the half-maximal effective concentration (EC50) of 2% true carvacrol solution on HSV-2 infected cells were severally 0.43, 0.19 and 0.51 mmol/L, and the corresponding therapeutic index (TI) were 4.02, 9.11 and 3.39, respectively. It's the opposite of the increased levels caused by HSV-2 infection, that both the expressions at the transcription genes and protein levels of virus own replication key factors (including ICP4, ICP27, VP16, gB, and UL30) and cytokines (including RIP3, TNF-α, and MLKL) of infected cells treated with carvacrol were dose-dependently inhibited. Besides, HSV-2 infection can cause the decrease of intracellular protein ubiquitination level, and carvacrol can reverse the ubiquitination decrease level caused by HSV-2 infection.

CONCLUSION

Carvacrol exhibits significant antiviral activity by inhibiting the HSV-2 proliferation process and HSV-2-induced TNF-α increasing levels, decreasing RIP3 and MLKL protein expressions through the intracellular RIP3-mediated programmed cell necrosis pathway. In addition, carvacrol also may exhibit anti-HSV-2 activity by reversing the ubiquitination decrease level caused by HSV-2 infection on the ubiquitin-proteasome system, which provides insights into the molecular mechanism.

PLCL/Silk fibroin based antibacterial nano wound dressing encapsulating oregano essential oil: Fabrication, characterization and biological evaluation

The use of natural biocompatible drugs is highly desirable in wound dressing compared to synthetic chemicals. Oregano essential oil (OEO) is a promising natural compound with marked antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The topical delivery of OEO may result in lower therapeutic efficacy and irritation to the skin. Moreover, OEO is a volatile compound results in instability as well. To overcome these drawbacks, we successfully encapsulated OEO in Poly (L-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL)/ Silk fibroin (SF) nanofibers membrane (NF) and achieved the encapsulation efficiency (%) up to 59.14 ± 0.58. The fabricated membranes were undergone through physicochemical as well as biological evaluation. SEM characterization revealed that OEO could be successfully encapsulated maintaining a smooth profile of nanofibers. The biocompatibility of the NF membrane was confirmed by cytotoxicity assay. Antibacterial results indicated that OEO containing nanofibrous membranes are highly active against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The result revealed that 5% is the optimized concentration of OEO capable to completely inhibit bacterial growth. Moreover, the NF membranes were evaluated for their in vivo wound healing potential. The results confirmed that OEO containing NF membrane is not only capable to accelerate the wound contraction but also enhances the quality of wound healing confirmed through histology analysis. H&E and Masson's trichrome staining indicated the neo-epithelialization, granulation tissue formation, angiogenesis, and collagen deposition in a group treated with PLCL/SF/5% OEO. Based on the physicochemical and biological evaluation, PLCL/SF/5% OEO NF membrane can be considered as a potential wound dressing candidate.

Phytochemical constituents, biological activities, and health-promoting effects of the genus Origanum

Origanum species are mostly distributed around the Mediterranean, Euro-Siberian, and Iran-Siberian regions. Since time immemorial, the genus has popularly been used in Southern Europe, as well as on the American continent as a spice now known all over the world under the name "oregano" or "pizza-spice." Origanum plants are also employed to prepare bitter tinctures, wines, vermouths, beer, and kvass. The major components of Origanum essential oil are various terpenes, phenols, phenolic acids, and flavonoids with predominant occurrence of carvacrol and thymol (with reasonable amounts of p-cymen and -terpinene) or of terpinene-4-ol, linalool, and sabinene hydrate. Many species of Origanum genus are used to treat kidney, digestive, nervous, and respiratory disorders, spasms, sore throat, diabetes, lean menstruation, hypertension, cold, insomnia, toothache, headache, epilepsy, urinary tract infections, etc. Origanum essential oil showed potent bioactivities owing to its major constituents' carvacrol, thymol, and monoterpenes. Several preclinical studies evidenced its pharmacological potential as antiproliferative or anticancer, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, anti-obesity, renoprotective, antiinflammatory, vasoprotective, cardioprotective, antinociceptive, insecticidal, and hepatoprotective properties. Its nanotechnological applications as a promising pharmaceutical in order to enhance the solubility, physicochemical stability, and the accumulation rate of its essential oils have been investigated. However, Origanum has been reported causing angioedema, perioral dermatitis, allergic reaction, inhibition of platelet aggregation, hypoglycemia, and abortion. Conclusive evidences are still required for its clinical applications against human medical conditions. Toxicity analyses and risk assessment will aid to its safe and efficacious application. In addition, elaborate structure-activity studies are needed to explore the potential use of Origanum-derived phytochemicals as promising drug candidates.

Bioactive Natural Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oils from Spice Plants: New Findings and Potential Applications

Spice plants have a great influence on world history. For centuries, different civilizations have used them to condiment the foods of kings and nobles and applied them as embalming preservatives, perfumes, cosmetics, and medicines in different regions of the world. In general, these plants have formed the basis of traditional medicine and some of their derived substances have been utilized to treat different human diseases. Essential oils (EOs) obtained from these plants have been also used as therapeutic agents and have shown supportive uses in remedial practices. The discovery and development of bioactive compounds from these natural products, based on their traditional uses, play an important role in developing the scientific evidence of their potential pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food applications. In the present review, using recent studies, we exhibit a general overview of the main aspects related to the importance of spice plants widely used in traditional medicine: Cinnamomum zeylanicum (true cinnamon), Mentha piperita (peppermint), Ocimum basilicum (basil), Origanum vulgare (oregano), Piper nigrum (black pepper), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), and Thymus vulgaris (thyme); and we discuss new findings of the bioactive compounds obtained from their EOs, their potential applications, as well as their molecular mechanisms of action, focusing on their antioxidant activity. We also exhibit the main in vitro methods applied to determine the antioxidant activities of these natural products.

The Applications of Origanum Vulgare and Its Derivatives in Human, Ruminant and Fish Nutrition – A Review

Origanum vulgare L. is an aromatic enduring herb that belongs to Lamiaceae family. The bioactive constituents of this herb, such as carvacrol and thymol possess several medicinal properties, such as antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antiparasitic, anti-neoplastic, and immune modulatory. Moreover, it is considered a standard natural, less toxic, and residue free feed additive, that is successfully used in livestock and fish. Additionally, in human, Origanum vulgare is extensively used with promising health benefits against respiratory, digestive and urinary disorders. This review casts light on description, chemical composition and structure of Origanum vulgare, as well as its therapeutic applications in human and its biological activities in ruminants and fish, data that will be possibly useful for physiologists, nutritionists and veterinarians.

Physico-Chemical and Biological Evaluation of PLCL/SF Nanofibers Loaded with Oregano Essential Oil

Essential oils are complex volatile compounds, extracted from specific plant species, with promising therapeutic potentials. However, their volatile nature presents a major hindrance in using them as therapeutic agents. In the current study, we successfully encapsulated oregano essential oil (OEO) into Poly (l-lactic acid-co-e-caprolactone) /Silk Fibroin (PLCL/SF) polymers through electrospinning. The nanofibrous membrane (NF) was fabricated and characterized for various physico-chemical and biological attributions. Homogenous and bead free morphology was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) confirmed the successful loading of OEO and its physical interaction with the blend of PLCL/SF. Moreover, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) also confirmed the successful loading and thermostability of the OEO. Although a significant change was noted in tensile strength due to the loading of OEO, the mechanical behaviour still falls into the acceptable ranges required for skin tissue engineering. Similarly, fabricated material was evaluated for its biological significance. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was employed to determine the release behaviour of OEO from electrospun membranes. LC-MS data, noted for 48 h, confirmed the biphasic release of OEO. Furthermore, NF membranes have shown strong antioxidant and anti-tumor activities. This material is promising and can be implanted to avoid the recurrence of the tumor after its surgical removal.

Do recent research studies validate the medicinal plants used in British Columbia, Canada for pet diseases and wild animals taken into temporary care?

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

There are insufficient safe and effective treatments for chronic pain in pets. In cases such as osteoarthritis there is no commercially available cure and veterinarians use NSAIDs to manage pain. Pet owners may have to plan for a lifetime of plant-based treatment for the conditions that lead to chronic pain in pets. Phytopharmacotherapies have the advantage of being less toxic, cheap or free, readily available, are more likely to be safe for long-term use and have the potential to reset the immune system to normal functioning.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To examine the recently published medicinal plant research that matches unpublished data on ethnoveterinary medicines (EVM) used for pets in Canada (British Columbia) to see if the EVM data can provide a lead to the development of necessary drugs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In 2003 semi-structured interviews were conducted with 60 participants who were organic farmers or holisitic medicinal/veterinary practitioners obtained using a purposive sample. A draft manual prepared from the data was then evaluated by participants at a participatory workshop that discussed the plant-based treatments. A copy of the final version of the manual was given to all research participants. In 2018, the recently published research matching the EVM data was reviewed to see if the EVM practices could serve as a lead for further research.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Medicinal plants are used to treat a range of conditions. The injuries treated in pets in British Columbia included abscesses (resulting from an initial injury), sprains and abrasions. Dogs were also treated with medicinal plants for rheumatoid arthritis, joint pain and articular cartilage injuries. More than 40 plants were used. Anal gland problems were treated with Allium sativum L., Aloe vera L., Calendula officinalis L., Plantago major L., Ulmus fulva Michx., Urtica dioica L. and Usnea longissima Ach. Arctium lappa, Hydrangea arborescens and Lactuca muralis were used for rheumatoid arthritis and joint pain in pets. Asthma was treated with: Linum usitatissimum L., Borago officinalis L., Verbascum thapsus L., Cucurbita pepo L., Lobelia inflata L., and Zingiber officinale Roscoe. Pets with heart problems were treated with Crataegus oxyacantha L., Cedronella canariensis (L.) Willd. ex Webb & Berth, Equisetum palustre L., Cypripedium calceolus L., Pinus ponderosa Douglas ex Lawson, Humulus lupulus L., Valeriana officinalis L., Lobelia inflata L., Stachys officinalis (L.) Trev., and Viscum album L. The following plants were used for epilepsy, motion sickness and anxiety- Avena sativa L., Valeriana officinalis, Lactuca muralis (L.) Fresen., Scutellaria lateriflora L., Satureja hortensis L., and Passiflora incarnata L. Plants used for cancer treatment included Phytolacca decandra, Ganoderma lucidum, Lentinula edodes, Rumex acetosella, Arctium lappa, Ulmus fulva, Rheum palmatum, Frangula purshiana, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ulmus fulva, Althea officinalis, Rheum palmatum, Rumex crispus and Plantago psyllium. Trifolium pratense was used for tumours in the prostate gland. Also used were Artemisia annua, Taraxacum officinale and Rumex crispus. This review of plants used in EVM was possible because phytotherapy research of the plants described in this paper has continued because few new pharmaceutical drugs have been developed for chronic pain and because treatments like glucocorticoid therapy do not heal. Phytotherapuetic products are also being investigated to address the overuse of antibiotics. There have also been recent studies conducted on plant-based functional foods and health supplements for pets, however there are still gaps in the knowledge base for the plants Stillingia sylvatica, Verbascum thapsus, Yucca schidigera and Iris versicolor and these need further investigation.

In vitro effects of Origanum vulgare leaf extracts on gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.) leucocytes, cytotoxic, bactericidal and antioxidant activities

Origanum vulgare is a well-known medicinal plant that has been used since ancient times as an additive in foods and cosmetic preparations. The possible application of O. vulgare extracts in fish was assessed by using gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) as a marine fish model due to its importance in aquaculture. The in vitro effects of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts of O. vulgare were tested in order to observe any immunostimulant, cytotoxic, bactericidal or antioxidant properties. The results showed that medium or high concentration of aqueous extracts and low concentrations of ethanolic extract, increased head kidney leucocyte activities as well as the number of SAF-1 cells. However, moderate to high concentrations of ethanolic extracts decreased both leucocyte activities and the number of viable SAF-1 cells, suggesting some possible toxic effect towards them. Only the highest concentration of the aqueous extract and medium to high concentrations of the ethanolic extracts showed cytotoxic activity against the tumor PLHC-1 cell line. Bactericidal activity was only detected against Vibrio harveyi, V. anguillarum and Photobacterium damselae when using the highest concentration of aqueous extract and moderate to high concentrations of ethanolic extract. Finally, both plant extracts presented antioxidant activity particularly the aqueous extract. Overall, the results suggest that both extracts (when used at the appropriate concentration) have immunostimulant, cytotoxic, bactericidal and antioxidant properties, making O. vulgare an interesting candidate for incorporation as additive in functional diets for farmed fish.

Anti-inflammatory activity of clove (Eugenia caryophyllata) essential oil in human dermal fibroblasts

CONTEXT

Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata Thunb. [Myrtaceae]) essential oil (CEO) has been shown to possess antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. However, few studies have focused on its topical use.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the biological activity of a commercially available CEO in a human skin disease model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated the effect of CEO on 17 protein biomarkers that play critical roles in inflammation and tissue remodelling in a validated human dermal fibroblast system, which was designed to model chronic inflammation and fibrosis. Four concentrations of CEO (0.011, 0.0037, 0.0012, and 0.00041%, v/v) were studied. The effect of 0.011% CEO on genome-wide gene expression was also evaluated.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

CEO at a concentration of 0.011% showed robust antiproliferative effects on human dermal fibroblasts. It significantly inhibited the increased production of several proinflammatory biomarkers such as vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), interferon γ-induced protein 10 (IP-10), interferon-inducible T-cell α chemoattractant (I-TAC), and monokine induced by γ interferon (MIG). CEO also significantly inhibited tissue remodelling protein molecules, namely, collagen-I, collagen-III, macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP-2). Furthermore, it significantly modulated global gene expression and altered signalling pathways critical for inflammation, tissue remodelling, and cancer signalling processes. CEO significantly inhibited VCAM-1 and collagen III at both protein and gene expression levels.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides important evidence of CEO-induced anti-inflammatory and tissue remodelling activity in human dermal fibroblasts. This study also supports the anticancer properties of CEO and its major active component eugenol.

Chemical composition analysis and in vitro biological activities of ten essential oils in human skin cells

Research on the biological effects of essential oils on human skin cells is scarce. In the current study, we primarily explored the biological activities of 10 essential oils (nine single and one blend) in a pre-inflamed human dermal fibroblast system that simulated chronic inflammation. We measured levels of proteins critical for inflammation, immune responses, and tissue-remodeling processes. The nine single oils were distilled from Citrus bergamia (bergamot), Coriandrum sativum (cilantro), Pelargonium graveolens (geranium), Helichrysum italicum (helichrysum), Pogostemon cablin (patchouli), Citrus aurantium (petitgrain), Santalum album (sandalwood), Nardostachys jatamansi (spikenard), and Cananga odorata (ylang ylang). The essential oil blend (commercial name Immortelle) is composed of oils from frankincense, Hawaiian sandalwood, lavender, myrrh, helichrysum, and rose. All the studied oils were significantly anti-proliferative against these cells. Furthermore, bergamot, cilantro, and spikenard essential oils primarily inhibited protein molecules related to inflammation, immune responses, and tissue-remodeling processes, suggesting they have anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. Helichrysum and ylang ylang essential oils, as well as Immortelle primarily inhibited tissue remodeling-related proteins, suggesting a wound healing property. The data are consistent with the results of existing studies examining these oils in other models and suggest that the studied oils may be promising therapeutic candidates. Further research into their biological mechanisms of action is recommended. The differential effects of these essential oils suggest that they exert activities by different mechanisms or pathways, warranting further investigation. The chemical composition of these oils was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Essential Oils of Oregano: Biological Activity beyond Their Antimicrobial Properties

Essential oils of oregano are widely recognized for their antimicrobial activity, as well as their antiviral and antifungal properties. Nevertheless, recent investigations have demonstrated that these compounds are also potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and cancer suppressor agents. These properties of oregano essential oils are of potential interest to the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. The aim of this manuscript is to review the latest evidence regarding essential oils of oregano and their beneficial effects on health.