Phytotherapy of hypertension and diabetes in oriental Morocco

Nutrigenomic insights and cardiovascular benefits of blackberry (Rubus ulmifolius Schott.) and mugwort (Artemisia campestris L.)

Blackberry (Rubus ulmifolius Schott) and mugwort (Artemisia campestris L.) are plants traditionally used to treat various pathologies, including hypertension. The vasodilatory and hypotensive effects of blackberry were investigated through experiments in rat models (n = 5 rats per group) and compared with those of mugwort, which had been demonstrated previously. A nutrigenomic experiment in mouse models (n = 3 mice per group) was also performed for both plants to associate biomarker genes with these effects. Additionally, a phytochemical analysis was carried out to identify the bioactive molecules responsible for the cardiovascular effects. A dose-dependent hypotensive effect and a carbachol-like vasodilatory effect were observed for blackberry and compared with those of mugwort. These effects were associated with the deregulation of gene expression related to vessel lumen expansion (Amotl2, Cdh1 and Tfcp2l1) and circulatory system morphology and activity (Dsp, Ahnak, Prcp and Smtnl2) for both plants. Their functional potential also includes antiproliferative, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and appetite-regulating properties. Chlorogenic acids, quercetin and kaempferol derivatives were identified in blackberry as the main bioactive molecules likely to be responsible for its cardiovascular effect. The blackberry extract exhibited a vasorelaxant effect 20 times greater than mugwort, attributed to the exclusive presence of the hypotensive galloyl-bis-HHDP glucose derivative and a more pronounced upregulation of Tfcp2l1, which is involved in epithelial cell maturation. This study validates the traditional use of blackberry and mugwort in treatment of hypertension, identifies marker genes and bioactive molecules for vasodilatory and hypotensive effects and expands their potential applications to cancer prevention, inflammation reduction and appetite regulation.

Evaluation of the antiproliferative, cytotoxic and phytochemical properties of Zimbabwean medicinal plants used in cancer treatment

BACKGROUND

Cancer cases have been on the rise globally and several treatment strategies have been developed but mortality rates remain high. Zimbabwe, like many other countries, has also experienced a surge in cancer cases. In Zimbabwe, medicinal plants have been widely used to treat cancer for centuries. However, there has been limited research on the effectiveness, safety, and chemical composition of these plants. The current study assessed antiproliferative, cytotoxic and phytochemical properties of selected Zimbabwean medicinal plants.

METHOD

Cytotoxic activity of Agelenthus pungu, Carissa edulis, Dombeya rotundifolia, Flacourtia indica, Lannea discolor, Leonotis ocymifolia, Leucas martinicensis, Plicosepalus kalachariensis, Pseudolachnostylis maproneifolia, Solanum incanum, Strychnos cocculoides, Strychnos spinosa and Viscum verrucosum extracts were evaluated on normal murine peritoneal cells and sheep erythrocytes while antiproliferative activity was assessed on Jurkat T and HL60 cell lines. Cell viability was determined using the trypan blue exclusion and sulforhodamine B assay. Additionally, the effect of reduced glutathione on cytotoxic extracts was examined. The phytochemicals of the methanolic extracts were qualitatively determined using standard methods.

RESULTS

Agelenthus pungu, Carissa edulis, Flacourtia indica, Strychnos cocculoides, Strychnos spinosa and Viscum verrucosum were cytotoxic to normal murine peritoneal cells. Flacourtia indica and Viscum verruscosum caused haemolysis of sheep erythrocytes at a concentration of 250 µg/mL for both plant extracts and 125 µg/mL for Viscum verrucosum. Cell viability increased on addition of 25 µg/mL of reduced glutathione to the extracts considered the most cytotoxic extracts, Agelenthus pungu and Viscum verrucosum. Agelenthus pungu, Carissa edulis, Leonotis ocymifolia, Leucas martinicensis and Viscum verrucosum significantly inhibited Jurkat T and HL60 cell proliferation. Viscum verrucosum was the most potent with the lowest half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 33 and 34 µg/mL on Jurkat T and HL60 cell lines respectively. The most dominant phytochemical classes were alkaloids, flavonoids and saponins.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that Agelenthus pungu, Carissa edulis, Leonotis ocymifolia, Leucas martinicensis and Viscum verrucosum have antiproliferative activity against Jurkat T and HL60 cell lines. Viscum verrucosum was the most potent. These findings emphasise the importance of medicinal plants as well as their potential use as sources of novel compounds in anticancer drug discovery.

Phytochemical Composition of Ziziphus lotus (L.) Lam and Its Impact on the Metabolic Syndrome: A Review

The long-term pathological state known as metabolic syndrome is characterized by hypertension, insulin resistance diabetes, abdominal obesity, and hyperlipidemia. Seeking healthcare strategies with fewer side effects, such as herbal remedies, is preferable in terms of mitigating the negative consequences of synthetic medications. Ziziphus lotus (L.) (Rhamnaceae) or wild jujube, commonly known as "Sedra," is one of the best choices as it contains a variety of phytochemicals and biologically active compounds. Several flavonoids and stilbenes have been recognized as the primary bioactive components in wild jujube, including rutin, hyperin, isoquercitrin, and resveratrol. These polyphenols are pharmacologically active and have broad-spectrum beneficial effects for reducing the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. They exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, regulate lipid metabolism, and possess antiobesity, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic characteristics. However, there are certain limitations to their therapeutic application, such as low bioavailability. Various strategies have been proposed to enhance their pharmacokinetic profile and therapeutic potential for future use. The main goal of this review is to explore the underlying mechanisms related to the therapeutic effects of wild jujube and its active compounds in the treatment and prevention of metabolic syndrome.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal and aromatic plants used by the population of Settat Province, Morocco

To promote Morocco's medicinal and aromatic plants, an ethnobotanical study was conducted in the Settat Province, part of the Casablanca-Settat region, Morocco. The methodology employed in this study involved a direct, oral survey conducted with 30 herbalists from various villages in the Settat province, after obtaining their informed consent. Additionally, an online survey was distributed, to which 212 individuals from the local population, representing different age groups, responded. The sample size was chosen to ensure a confidence level of 88 %. The results provided a database on the modes of use, plant parts utilized, treated pathologies, and recommended dosages for 51 medicinal and aromatic plants from the Settat province and enabled us to calculate their Familiarity Index (FI). The data collected showed that the Lamiaceae, Apiaceae, and Fabaceae families are the most represented. The calculated Familiarity Index indicated that the most commonly used species were Verbena, Pimpinella anisum L., and Origanum vulgare, with Familiarity Index of 0.22, 0.22, and 0.18, respectively. The most frequently utilized plant part was the leaves, and 70.59 % of respondents preferred drying the plants before preparing them as infusions or decoctions. The results highlighted the primary ailments treated with these plants, such as diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, oral conditions, cancers, insomnia, and stress. Additionally, the study referenced traditional medicinal uses from various national studies and international scientific research that validated the therapeutic properties of each plant.

Carob leaves: Phytochemistry, antioxidant properties, vasorelaxant effect and mechanism of action

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ceratonia siliqua L., is a species of significant nutritional and industrial interest with extensive traditional uses. This fabaceae is renowned for its medicinal properties, including the treatment of high blood pressure. Due to its chemical composition, carob exhibits several valuable therapeutic functions such as antioxidant, antidiarrheal, antidiabetic, and antibacterial actions.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This study investigates the chemical composition of Ceratonia siliqua L. leaves aqueous extract (CsAE) and explores the vasorelaxant effect and its underlying mechanisms. Acute toxicity and antioxidant activity of CsAE were also examined.

METHODS

The phytochemical profile was elucidated using TLC and UHPLC-MS. The vasorelaxant effect and mechanisms were studied on thoracic aortic rings from normotensive rats, using various antagonists. Acute toxicity was assessed by orally administering the extract to mice. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using β-carotene bleaching and DPPH.

RESULTS

TLC analysis of CsAE reveals flavonoids and hydrolysable tannins. Gallic acid, myricitrin, quercitrin as well as galloylglucopyranoside derivatives were identified by UHPLC-MS. CsAE relaxed phenylephrine-precontracted aorta in a concentration-dependent manner. This response was reduced when the aorta was denuded or pretreated with L-NAME, hydroxocobalamin, ODQ, 4-AP, TEA, calmidazolium chloride, and thapsigargin. CsAE showed significant antioxidant activity with no observed toxicity in the experimental animals.

CONCLUSION

CsAE has a significant vasodilatory effect, mediated through the CaM/eNOS/sGC pathway, activation of Kca and Kv, and intracellular calcium mobilization into SERCA. It also exhibits strong antioxidant activity, with no observed toxicity in the experimental animals. These findings represent the first evidence of the vasorelaxant effect of Ceratonia siliqua L. leaves from Eastern Morocco.

Urtica dioica L. Leaf Extract Dose-Dependently Modulates Oxidative Stress in the Kidney and Exerts Anti-Fibrotic and Anti-Inflammatory Properties by the Molecular Mechanisms Independent of NRF-2 Signalization Mirroring the Effects of Losartan in SHR

Previously, we confirmed systemic antihypertensive and antioxidant properties of Urtica dioica L. leaf extract (UE) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Here, we aimed to evaluate whether UE can alter the NO and Nrf-2 signaling to prevent local oxidative stress and kidney damage in the model of essential hypertension. SHR were divided into five groups: SHRC-control, received 0.5 mL/day of water, SHR+L received 10 mg/kg/day of losartan, SHR+UE10, SHR+UE50, and SHR+UE200 received 10, 50, and 200 mg/kg/day during next 4 weeks. At the end of the experiment, urine samples were collected for albuminuria and nitrate/nitrite assessment. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured, and blood samples were collected for plasma creatinine evaluation. Kidneys were analyzed for nitrate/nitrite, oxidative stress, and target molecules by biochemical, Western blot, and immunofluorescent techniques. Losartan and UE50 significantly reduced MAP, albuminuria, oxidative stress, fibroinflammatory markers, and NRF-2/CAT/SOD signaling, with a significant increase in 6-nitrotryptophan and eNOS expressions compared to control. The effects of UE showed dose dependence. Beneficial effects of UE and losartan were independent of NRF-2 signalization in SHR. Interestingly, all treatments induced the increase in 6-nitrotryptophan expression, thus further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms of such nitrated tryptophan.

Gastroprotective Efficacy of North African Medicinal Plants: A Review on Their Therapeutic Potential for Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcer disease remains a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder worldwide. Current treatments often have limitations, sparking interest in alternative therapies from medicinal plants. This review examines the gastroprotective potential of 54 North African medicinal plants against peptic ulcers. An extensive literature search was conducted, focusing on plants with preclinical and clinical evidence of anti-ulcer efficacy and documented use in North African traditional medicine. The review identified several promising plant species, such as licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), olive (Olea europaea), pomegranate (Punica granatum), Aloe vera, and black seed (Nigella sativa), along with their bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids. These compounds exhibit gastroprotective properties through multiple mechanisms, such as enhancing the gastric mucosal barrier, inhibiting acid secretion, displaying antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, promoting ulcer healing, and combating Helicobacter pylori infection. The evidence presented includes in vitro assays, animal models, and some clinical studies. While many of the 53 plants reviewed demonstrated significant anti-ulcer effects compared to standard drugs, further clinical research is needed to establish efficacy and safety in humans. The synergistic actions of phytochemical mixtures in medicinal plant extracts likely contribute to their therapeutic potential. This review highlights the role these North African medicinal plants may play in the prevention and treatment of peptic ulcers and identifies promising candidates for further research and development of evidence-based botanical therapies.

Nutritional Composition and Effect of Loquat Fruit (Eriobotrya japonica L. var. Navela) on Lipid Metabolism and Liver Steatosis in High-Fat High-Sucrose Diet-Fed Mice

Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica L.) is a popular fruit known for its sweet and slightly tangy flavor, which is widely consumed both fresh and in various processed forms. This study aimed to analyze the biochemical composition of loquat juice and investigate its metabolic benefits in mice fed a high-fat/high-sucrose diet (HFSD). Mice were fed either a standard diet or an HFSD and received or not the loquat juice at 4 or 8 mL/kg body weight for 8 weeks. Body weight, food efficiency ratio, plasma lipoprotein profile, plasma glucose, and lipid indices were monitored throughout the experiment. At the end of the experiment, additional assessments were performed, including lipid content measurements in liver, adipose tissue, bile, and feces; hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase and catalase); hepatic malondialdehyde content; plasma biomarkers of liver injury; liver histology; and organ relative weight. Feeding mice with the HFSD resulted in a significant perturbation in lipid and glucose metabolism, obesity, liver steatosis, and oxidative stress-related enzymes. However, the concomitant administration of loquat juice significantly corrected this imbalance. Fresh loquat juice is low in fat and protein, moderately sugary, and energetically light; however, it is rich in minerals, vitamin C, and various phytochemicals compounds, such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and carotenoids. The loquat juice could be considered a functional food and could be valorized through the extraction of active substances and their use as food supplements to prevent lipid metabolism disorders and the resulting health complications.

Ethnobotanical survey on herbal remedies for the management of type 2 diabetes in the Casablanca-Settat region, Morocco

BACKGROUND

Morocco faces a substantial public health challenge due to diabetes mellitus, affecting 12.4% of adults in 2023. The Moroccan population makes extensive use of phytotherapy and traditional medicine to address the difficulties this chronic condition poses. The aim of this study is to document the use of medicinal plants in traditional medicine for managing type 2 diabetes in the provinces of the Casablanca-Settat region.

METHODS

The study employed a semi-structured questionnaire for data collection. A study was conducted between August 1st and September 30th, 2023, and 244 individuals diagnosed with diabetes were invited to take part in the research, all of whom used at least one medicinal plant to manage type 2 diabetes, by visiting primary healthcare facilities in Morocco. The analysis included the use of Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) to scrutinize the data.

RESULTS

A total of 47 plant species belonging to 25 families were documented. Notably, the Apiaceae, Lamiaceae, and Fabaceae families were frequently mentioned in the context of treating type 2 diabetes in Morocco. Prominent among the cited plant species were Sesamum indicum L., Lepidium sativum L., followed by Foeniculum vulgare Mill., and Rosmarinus officinalis L. Seeds emerged as the plant part most commonly mentioned, with infusion being the prevailing preparation method and oral consumption being the most frequently depicted method of administration.

CONCLUSION

This research underscores the practicality of incorporating traditional medicine into the healthcare framework of the Casablanca-Settat region. The findings not only offer valuable documentation but also have a vital function in safeguarding knowledge regarding the utilization of medicinal plants in this locality. Moreover, they provide opportunities to delve deeper into the phytochemical and pharmacological potential of these plants.

Overview of Ethnobotanical-Pharmacological Studies Carried Out on Medicinal Plants from the Serra da Estrela Natural Park: Focus on Their Antidiabetic Potential

The Serra da Estrela Natural Park (NPSE) in Portugal stands out as a well-preserved region abundant in medicinal plants, particularly known for their pharmaceutical applications in diabetes prevention and treatment. This comprehensive review explores these plants' botanical diversity, traditional uses, pharmacological applications, and chemical composition. The NPSE boast a rich diversity with 138 medicinal plants across 55 families identified as traditionally and pharmacologically used against diabetes globally. Notably, the Asteraceae and Lamiaceae families are prevalent in antidiabetic applications. In vitro studies have revealed their significant inhibition of carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes, and certain plant co-products regulate genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and insulin secretion. In vivo trials have demonstrated antidiabetic effects, including glycaemia regulation, insulin secretion, antioxidant activity, and lipid profile modulation. Medicinal plants in NPSE exhibit various activities beyond antidiabetic, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and more. Chemical analyses have identified over fifty compounds like phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and polysaccharides responsible for their efficacy against diabetes. These findings underscore the potential of NPSE medicinal plants as antidiabetic candidates, urging further research to develop effective plant-based antidiabetic drugs, beverages, and supplements.

Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin and Clemants: bridging traditional knowledge, photochemistry, preclinical investigations, and toxicological validation for health benefits

Dysphania ambrosioides L. (Chenopodiaceae) is a Moroccan medicinal plant known locally as "M'Khinza." It is widely used in traditional medicine to treat numerous ailments, such as diabetes, digestive disorders, fever, fertility problems, immune disorders, hypertension, bronchitis, respiratory conditions, pharyngitis, cough, and flu. As part of this review, comprehensive preclinical investigations, including in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies, were conducted to better understand the mechanisms of action of D. ambrosioides. Additionally, the phytochemical profile of the plant was examined, highlighting the presence of certain bioactive secondary metabolites. The information was gathered from electronic data sources such as Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Springer Link, and Google Scholars. Numerous studies have mentioned the pharmacological properties of D. ambrosioides, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal activities. Furthermore, research has also suggested its potential as an anticancer, antidiabetic, and vasorelaxant agent. Phytochemical characterization of D. ambrosioides has revealed the presence of over 96 major bioactive compounds, including terpenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and fatty acids. As for the toxicity of this plant, it is dose-dependent. Furthermore, more in-depth pharmacological studies are needed to establish the mechanisms of action of this plant more accurately before considering clinical trials. In conclusion, this review highlights the traditional use of D. ambrosioides in Moroccan medicine and emphasizes its potential pharmacological properties. However, to fully harness its therapeutic potential, further research, both in terms of chemistry and pharmacology, is necessary. These future studies could help identify new active compounds and provide a better understanding of the mechanisms of action of this plant, thus opening new prospects for its pharmaceutical application.

Moroccan Antihypertensive Plants and their Mechanisms of Action

BACKGROUND

The use of herbal remedies, medicinal plants, and their derivatives for the treatment and control of hypertension is well-known and widespread throughout Morocco.

AIMS

The aim of the study was to review the antihypertensive and vasorelaxant medicinal plants of the Moroccan pharmacopeia.

OBJECTIVE

To date, no review on Moroccan medicinal plants exhibiting antihypertensive effects has been performed, and their mechanism of action has not been specified. The objective of this review was to collect, analyze, and critically assess published publications on experimental and clinical research that explored the blood pressure-reducing abilities of Moroccan medicinal plant extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study collected, processed, and critically analyzed published studies related to experimental and clinical research that investigated Moroccan herbal derivatives' blood pressure-lowering abilities using a number of scientific databases, including ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and others. Plantlist.org was used to validate the right plant names.

RESULTS

The results revealed 22 species of Moroccan medicinal plants belonging to 13 different groups with recognized antihypertensive properties. The species were abundant in a variety of chemical elements. Asteraceae (08 species), Lamiaceae (3 species), Apiaceae (2 species), and 1 species each from the following families: Parmeliaceae, Fabaceae, Cistaceae, Malvaceae, Polygonaceae, Brassicaceae, Myrtaceae, Rutaceae, Amaranthaceae, Rosaceae, and Lauraceae were the most frequently mentioned families for their antihypertensive properties. The most used parts were the leaves and the aerial parts. The two main methods of preparation among Moroccans were decoction and infusion. This study demonstrated the known antihypertensive and vasorelaxant properties of Moroccan medicinal plants in vivo and in vitro, as well as their mechanisms of action. Interestingly, phytochemicals can operate on blood vessels directly via a vasorelaxant impact involving a range of signaling cascades or indirectly by blocking or activating multiple systems, such as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), renin-angiotensin system (RAS), or diuretic activity.

CONCLUSION

The review of the available data reveals that more work needs to be done to examine all the Moroccan medicinal plants that have been suggested as antihypertensive in published ethnopharmacological surveys. A review of the literature in this area reveals that methodologies of the experimental study need to be standardized, and purified molecules need to be studied. In addition, mechanistic investigations, when they exist, are generally incomplete. In contrast, only a few advanced clinical investigations have been conducted. However, all studies fail to determine the efficacy/safety ratio.

Exploring the anti-obesity bioactive compounds of Thymelaea hirsuta and Ziziphus spina-christi through integration of lipase inhibition screening and molecular docking analysis

Activity-guided fractionation of the ethanolic extracts of Thymelaea hirsuta and Ziziphus spina-christi furnished eight compounds with pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity. Six compounds were isolated from the chloroform fraction of T. hirsuta. It is worth mentioning that this is the first report for the isolation of 5,7,4'-trihydroxy-8-methoxycarbonyl flavanol (2), daphnodorin G-3''-methyl ether (4) and daphnodorin G (5) from genus Thymelaea. Moreover, daphnoretin (1), neochamaejasmin A (3) and daphnodorin B (6) were also isolated from the chloroform fraction of the same plant. On the other hand, quercetin 3-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-[α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 6)]-β-d-galactopyranoside (7) and 3-O-[α-l-fucopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-α-l-arabinopyranosyl] jujubogenin (christinin A) (8) were isolated from the n-butanol fraction of Z. spina-christi. Structure elucidation of the isolated compounds was carried out by detailed analysis of 1D and 2D spectral data. These compounds showed percentage inhibitions of 72% (1), 52% (2), 61.8% (3), 39% (4), 69.5% (5), 3.5% (6), 68% (7) and 75% (8) at the concentration of 250 μM and XP-G scores of lipase inhibition were 11.40 (1), 8.71 (2), 6.13 (3), 8.23 (4), 6.22 (5), 9.76 (6), 14.66 (7) and 12.00 (8). This is the first report of the isolation of lipase inhibitors from both plants T. hirsuta and Z. spina-christi. In addition to that, this might result in presenting the biscoumarin, daphnoretin, and the dammarane saponin, christinin A, as potent lipase inhibitors.

Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad.: A Promising Pharmaceutical Resource for Multiple Diseases

Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad. (Cucurbitaceae) is widely distributed in the desert areas of the world. The fruit bodies of C. colocynthis are recognized for their wide range of nutraceutical potential, as well as medicinal and pharmaceutical uses. The plant has been reported for various uses, such as asthma, bronchitis, cancer, colic, common cold, cough, diabetes, dysentery, and jaundice. The fruit has been extensively studied for its biological activities, which include insecticide, antitumor, and antidiabetic effects. Numerous bioactive compounds have been reported in its fruit bodies, such as essential oils, fatty acids, glycosides, alkaloids, and flavonoids. Of these, flavonoids or caffeic acid derivatives are the constituents associated with the inhibition of fungal or bacterial growth, whereas eudesmane sesquiterpenes or sesquiterpene lactones are most active against insects, mites, and nematodes. In this review, the scientific evidence for the biological activity of C. colocynthis against insecticide, cytotoxic, and antidiabetic effects is summarized.

Polyphenol-rich extract from loquat fruit peel prevents hyperlipidemia and hepato-nephrotoxicity in mice: in vivo study and in silico prediction of possible mechanisms involving identified polyphenols and/or their circulating metabolites

Hyperlipidemia is the most well-known cause of metabolic complications and tissue toxicity such as liver steatosis, atherosclerosis and obesity. This study aims to evaluate the preventive effect of loquat fruit peel extract (PE) against tyloxapol-induced hyperlipidemia and related tissue lipotoxicity in mice. The in vivo study was conducted on mice injected daily with tyloxapol at 100 mg per kg B.W. and treated simultaneously with the PE at concentrations of 100 and 200 mg kg-1 or fenofibrate for 28 days. Plasma and tissue lipid biochemical analyses were undertaken using enzymatic methods. The antioxidative stress was revealed by measuring the malondialdehyde content and activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase as well as the scavenging activity against lipoperoxyl radicals. The PE significantly prevented oxidative stress and restored lipid metabolism, plasma glucose, body weight, organ relative mass and biomarkers of hepato-nephrotoxicity as well as the histological structure of the liver and kidneys. It contains five major polyphenols, namely, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, neochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid and quercetin. According to molecular docking analysis, these compounds and their circulating metabolites could interact with major proteins implicated in lipid metabolism and oxidative stress. Overall, the study suggests that PE could prevent hyperlipidemia and related toxic tissue complications.

Loquat fruit peel extract regulates lipid metabolism and liver oxidative stress in mice: In vivo and in silico approaches

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Moroccan traditional medicine, fresh or dried loquat (Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl.) fruit peels infused in water and taken for 45 days are used as natural remedies against hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia and cardiovascular diseases. This is the first experimental study approving the folk medicinal use of loquat fruit peels originated from eastern Morocco.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study aims to investigate the effect of loquat fruit peel extract on lipid metabolism and liver oxidative status in mice as well as to predict the possible mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was carried out using high fat/fructose diet-induced hyperlipidemic mice model treated with the loquat peel extract for 45 days at two doses (100 and 200 mg/kg/day) in comparison to fenofibrate drug. The plasma, tissue, fecal and biliary lipids and blood glucose were analyzed using enzymatic methods. The liver oxidative status was evaluated and the polyphenol profiling was conducted using the HPLC-DAD method. Possible mechanisms involved in the observed pharmacological effects were predicted by in silico method.

RESULTS

The extract at a dose of 200 mg/kg possessed higher effect than at 100 mg/kg. It significantly reduced plasma total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), LDL-cholesterol, atherogenic index, LDL-C/HDL-C ratio and plasma glucose (-36%, -45%, -45%, -82%, -87%, 58%, respectively), while the HDL-cholesterol was increased (+172%). Moreover, the extract reduced TC and TG in the liver and adipose tissue by increasing their excretion in bile and fecal matter. It prevented the liver oxidative stress and decreased body weight and organ relative mass. The extract appears to be nontoxic (LD₅₀ > 5000 mg/kg) and contains five polyphenols including ferulic acid (32.74 ± 0.71 mg/g), caffeic acid (21.48 ± 0.32 mg/g), 5-O-Caffeoylquinic acid (112.15 ± 1.86 mg/g), chlorogenic acid (42.05 ± 0.92 mg/g) and quercetin (32.69 ± 0.68 mg/g). These phenolics and/or their circulating metabolites presented differential interaction capacities with the potential enzymes and transcription factors implicated in lipid homeostasis such as HMG-CoA reductase, lipoprotein lipase, fatty acid synthase, Cyp7a1, ABCG, PPARs, RXR, FXR and RAR.

CONCLUSION

Our findings justify the traditional use of loquat fruit peels and suggest that their aqueous extract could be used as substrate to produce phytotherapeutic drugs or dietary supplements to prevent hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia and related cardiovascular diseases.

The Role of Globularia alypum Explored Ex Vivo In Vitro on Human Colon Biopsies from Ulcerative Colitis Patients

The existing literature indicates that Globularia alypum L. (GA) influences inflammation and oxidative stress modulation in rats and in vitro. The present study aims to investigate the effects of this plant in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and normal controls. In our experiments, we pretreated colon biopsies from 46 UC patients and normal controls with GA leaves aqueous extract (GAAE) used at two concentrations (50 and 100 µg/mL) for 3 h, followed by Lipopolysaccharides (from Escherichia coli) stimulation. We analyzed the effects on inflammation by studying the cyclo-oxygenase-2, the intercellular adhesion molecule-1, the nuclear factor kappa B, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase expression. Moreover, we assessed the levels of interleukin 6, the superoxide dismutase activity, and nitric oxide release in the supernatant of cultures. Our data showed that GAAE influences UC patients and normal controls for most studied markers and enzymes. These results acknowledge, with some scientific evidence, the traditional belief in the anti-inflammatory properties of GA and represent the first demonstration of its effect in a human in vitro model of inflammatory conditions.

Potential Antihypertensive Activity of the Aqueous Extract of Ammi visnaga and its Effect on ACE-2 in Rats

AIMS

This work aimed to investigate the antihypertensive activity of Ammi visnaga.

BACKGROUND

The aqueous extract of Ammi visnaga has traditionally been used to treat hypertension in Morocco.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of Ammi visnaga aqueous extract (AVAE) on arterial blood pressure, systolic blood pressure (SBP), mean blood pressure (MBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and heart rate (HR) in normotensive and hypertensive rats. In addition, the effect of the aqueous extract of Ammi visnaga on vasodilatation was assessed in isolated rat aortic rings with functional endothelium pre-contracted with epinephrine EP or KCl.

METHODS

AVAE was obtained, and its antihypertensive ability was pharmacologically investigated in L-NAME hypertensive and normotensive rats. The rats received oral AVAE at two selected doses of 70 and 140 mg/kg for six hours (acute experiment) and seven days (sub-chronic). Thereafter, systolic, diastolic, mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate were evaluated. Moreover, the vasorelaxant activity of AESA was performed in thoracic aortic ring rats. In addition, the mechanisms of action involved in the vasorelaxant effect were studied.

RESULTS

AVAE lowered blood pressure only in L-Name-induced hypertensive rats. Furthermore, AVAE (0.375-1.375 mg/ml) showed a vasodilator effect in isolated aortic rats. In addition, not all of the medications used in our study were responsible for the signaling pathway. As a result, additional pharmaceuticals are required to confirm the mechanism of this signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

The aqueous extract of Ammi visnaga exerts an interesting antihypertensive activity, which could be mediated through its vasorelaxant activity. The study supports its use as a medicinal plant against hypertension in Morocco.

Development of a Thin-Layer Chromatography-Enzymatic Test Combination Method for the Isolation of α-Glucosidase Inhibitors From Thymelaea hirsuta

A rapid, easy and simple method for the isolation and purification of α-glucosidase inhibitors of the ethyl acetate extract of Thymelaea hirsuta (EaTh) by a combination of thin layer chromatography (TLC) and enzymatic test has been developed. EaTh was demonstrated previously a potent α-glucosidase inhibitory effect. In this study, we developed a simple TLC-enzymatic test (TLC/EZ) combination to isolate α-glucosidase inhibitors present in EaTh.EaTh was extracted by Soxhlet from Thymelaea hirsuta (T. hirsuta). The EaTh was separated on a silica gel column and then on a TLC plate. After TLC separation, the TLC/EZ combination method was applied. α-glucosidase inhibitors were detected directly in the TLC plate using the glucose oxidase peroxidase method (GOD-POD). A good detection of active compounds was obtained in the TLC favoring the TLC/EZ method. Active compounds were then characterized using high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis. The main α-glucosidase inhibitors present in EaTh have a molecular ion [M + H]+ at m/z = 543. This proposed method is suitable for a reliable isolation and purification of α-glucosidase inhibitors present in EaTh. It could be proposed as an interesting alternative of the classical method for the isolation and purification of α-glucosidase inhibitors in plant extracts.

Comparative Investigation of Chemical Constituents of Kernels, Leaves, Husk, and Bark of Juglans regia L., Using HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS Analysis and Evaluation of Their Antioxidant, Antidiabetic, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities

Leaves, husk, kernels, and bark methanolic extracts of Juglans regia L. were tested for their in vitro antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. For these purposes, α-amylase and α-glucosidase were used as the main enzymes to evaluate antidiabetic activities. Moreover, lipoxidase and tyrosinase activities were tested to estimate anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidant properties of Juglans regia L., extracts were determined using three different assays. Leaves extract has an important radical scavenging activity and a-amylase inhibition. Similarly, husk extracts showed high total phenolic content (306.36 ± 4.74 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry extract) with an important α-amylase inhibition (IC50 = 75.42 ± 0.99 µg/mL). Kernels exhibit significant tyrosinase (IC50 = 51.38 ± 0.81 µg/mL) correlated with antioxidant activities (p < 0.05). Husk and bark extracts also showed strong anti-lipoxidase activities with IC50 equal to 29.48 ± 0.28 and 28.58 ± 0.35 µg/mL, respectively. HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analysis highlights the phenolic profile of methanolic extracts of Juglans regia L. plant parts. The identified polyphenols were known for their antioxidant, antidiabetic (dicaffeoyl-quinic acid glycoside in kernels), and anti-inflammatory (3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid in leaves) activities. Further investigations are needed to determine molecular mechanisms involved in these effects as well as to study the properties of the main identified compounds.

Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad (Bitter Apple): An Overview of its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Potential

Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad is an important cucurbit plant, commonly distributed in the sandy areas of the world. In the Indian continent it is mainly found in the North West, the Punjab and in Central and southern India. The Citrullus colocynthis plant is usually known for its traditional uses as a remedy in the treatment of asthma, diabetes, common cold, leprosy, cough, bronchitis, joint pain, jaundice, cancer, toothache, mastitis, and in gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroenteritis, indigestion, dysentery, constipation, colic pain and other microbial infections. Phytochemicaly the compounds like glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic acids fatty acids, carbohydrates and essential oils were reported from the plant and the main components isolated from the Citrullus colocynthis plant are Cucurbitacins. The plant has been studied extensively for its wide range of pharmacological activities, which include anticancer, antidiabetic, antioxidant, cytotoxic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory antilipidemic, and insecticide but the therapeutic potential for cardiovascular, gut, airways and many other diseases remain to be explored.

Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb) Lindl.): Evaluation of nutritional value, polyphenol composition, antidiabetic effect, and toxicity of leaf aqueous extract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl.) is an evergreen tree native to China, which is introduced in many Mediterranean countries. As in many ancient medical systems, loquat leaves have been used in Moroccan traditional medicine to treat diabetes and its complications.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to determine the nutritional and polyphenol composition and to evaluate the in vivo antidiabetic, and antihyperlipidemic properties and oral toxicity of a leaf aqueous extract (LLE) derived from loquat grown in Morocco.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Energy value and fiber, fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, total carbohydrate, sugar, lipid, and protein contents were determined according to international methods committee guidelines. Polyphenol profiling was carried out using the HPLC-DAD method. Mice fed a high-fat and high-glucose (HFG) diet for 10 weeks were used as a model to assess the antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic effects of a daily administration of LLE at three different doses (150, 200, 250 mg/kg body weight (BW)/day), in comparison with metformin (50 mg/kg BW/day) and pravastatin (20 mg/kg BW/day). The oral toxicity was determined following OECD 425 Guideline.

RESULTS

Loquat leaves were found to be rich in fiber, minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and sodium), and vitamins (B2, B6, and B12) and lower in energy, sugar, and fat. Ten different phenolic compounds were characterized. Naringenin, procyanidin C1, epicatechin, and rutin were the more abundant compounds in LLE. The administration of the LLE dose-dependently ameliorated hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and hyperlipidemia in HFG diet-fed mice. The median lethal dose of LLE was higher than 5000 mg/kg BW.

CONCLUSIONS

Loquat leaves are a potential source of micronutrients and polyphenols with beneficial effects on diabetes and its complications.

Aqueous extracts of Urtica dioica (stinging nettle) leaf contain a P2-purinoceptor antagonist-Implications for male fertility

Stinging nettle root and leaf extracts were tested for their effect on prostatic smooth muscle contractility. Root extract did not affect electrical field stimulation induced-nerve mediated contractions of isolated rat prostates. On the other hand, leaf extract attenuated electrical field stimulation-induced contractions at all frequencies. Similarly, contractions elicited by exogenous administration of ATP and αβ-methylene ATP were inhibited by leaf extract, whereas contractions elicited by exogenous administration of noradrenaline or acetylcholine were unaffected. The active component was present within the aqueous phase of the leaf extract. In mouse mating studies, stinging nettle leaf extract (50 mg p.o. daily) reduced male fertility by 53% compared to vehicle-treated male mice. Cardiovascular parameters were unaffected by administration of stinging nettle leaf extract (p ≥ 0.057). Treated mice exhibited normal mating behaviour. Bladder and testes weighed less in stinging nettle leaf extract treated mice. All other organs and total body weight were unaffected. It is concluded that stinging nettle leaf extract reduces contractility of genitourinary smooth muscle by acting as an antagonist at postjunctional P2X1-purinoceptors. These data indicates that blocking sperm transport through pharmacological blockade of P2X1-purinoceptors via oral administration is consistent with an effective and convenient biological strategy male contraception.

Profile of Medicinal Plants Traditionally Used for the Treatment of Skin Burns

Moroccan folk healers use medicinal plants to treat several diseases including skin burns. The traditional knowledge of wound healing is not common among the general population. Only one ethnobotanical survey was carried out in Rabat, Morocco, to track the traditional use of medicinal plants in wound healing. Therefore, our report aimed to study the medicinal plants used in Taza region to treat wound healing. In total, 218 individuals participated in this survey. More than 40 medicinal plants belonging to 30 botanical families were cited as anti-burn remedies. The most commonly used medicinal plants were Agave sisalana L., Nerium oleander L., Tetraclinis articulata Benth., Lawsonia inermis L., Artemisia herba-alba Asso., and Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Most of the used medicinal plants belong to Asteraceae family. Comparing our results with the previous survey, we noted that twelve plants were reported for the first time as wound healing agents. The ethnomedicinal use showed that plants leaves are the most commonly used parts. Pulverization was the selected method of preparation. The direct application of powder to the burns was the most common way of treatment. Our study revealed, for the first time, the importance of medicinal plants to treat skin burns in Taza region. Our results could be considered as the stepping stone for creating a database of wound healing medicinal plants to promote scientific studies on these plants revealing their constituents and side effects.

A review of the effects of Urtica dioica (nettle) in metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a serious health condition, yet a common worldwide disorder. It includes several risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and high glucose levels which lead the patients to higher risks of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and stroke. Phytotherapy plays an important role in treating components of metabolic syndrome. Nettle (Urtica dioica) is considered a valuable plant due to bioactive compounds such as formic acid and rich sources of flavonoids. To acknowledge the role of nettle in metabolic syndrome, several mechanisms have been suggested such as alterations in potassium and calcium channels which improve hypertension. Antihyperlipidemic properties of nettle are mediated by inhibition of HMGCoA reductase and amelioration of lipid peroxidation via antioxidant effects. Also, one of the flavonoids in nettle, quercetin, is responsible for decreasing total cholesterol. Moreover, nettle is responsible for anti-diabetic effects through processes such as increasing insulin secretion and proliferation of pancreatic β-cells. This review aims to gather different studies to confirm the potential efficacy of nettle in metabolic syndrome.

Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activity of Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin and Clemants Essential Oils: Experimental and Computational Approaches

Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin and Clemants, also known as Mexican tea, and locally known as Mkhinza, is a polymorphic annual and perennial herb, and it is widely used in folk medicine to treat a broad range of illnesses in Morocco. The aim of this study was to determine the phytochemical content and the antioxidant and the antibacterial properties of essential oils isolated from D. ambrosioides aerial components, growing in Eastern Morocco (Figuig). Hydrodistillation was used to separate D. ambrosioides essential oils, and the abundance of each phytocompound was determined by using Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). In vitro 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and inhibition of β-carotene/linoleic acid bleaching assays were used to determine D. ambrosioides essential oils' antioxidant activity. The findings revealed relative antioxidative power and modest radical scavenging. The antibacterial activity of the essential oils was broad-spectrum, with Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecalis as the most susceptible strains tested. To elucidate the physicochemical nature, drug-likeness, and the antioxidant and antibacterial action of the identified phytocomponents, computational techniques, such as ADMET analysis, and molecular docking were used.

Valorization of Moroccan Pistacia lentiscus L. Leaves: Phytochemical and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity Evaluation Compared to Different Altitudes

This study examined the secondary metabolite content and the antioxidant activities of hydromethanolic P. lentiscus L. leaves extracts at different altitudes. The results indicated that the contents of polyphenols and flavonoids were significantly ( $p\le 0.05$ ) high in the low altitude, unlike the Chl (chlorophyll), tannins, and ascorbic acid, which were reported to have higher content in the high altitude. These results showed that the P. lentiscus L. is more adaptable to higher elevations than low elevation, where the plant was probably stressed. On the other hand, the analyses of correlation between the antioxidant activity and phytochemical content affirmed that the antiradical activity (DPPH) correlated with the content of polyphenols; however, the total antioxidant activity is correlated with the flavonoid content. These results revealed the importance of P. lentiscus L. leaves as a natural antioxidant and gave an idea of the altitude effect on the biochemical parameters of leaves.

Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants Used as Therapeutic Agents to Manage Diseases of Humans

Objective

This work aimed to survey medicinal plants used in phytotherapy in the Fez-Boulemane region, Morocco.

Methods

A comprehensive ethnobotanical survey was conducted using a questionnaire to collect data from thirty herbalists on medicinal plants used for therapeutic purposes in the Fez-Boulemane region, Morocco.

Results

The mean age of herbalists interviewed was 52.13 years. Forty percent of the herbalists were illiterate, and 73% referred to the experiences of their parents as knowledge of the properties and uses of medicinal plants. One hundred and eight medicinal plants belonging to 51 botanical families were recommended by herbalists in the region of Fez-Boulemane, Morocco, for treatment. According to the respondents, Lawsonia inermis L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., and Lavandula coronopifolia L. were the most used plants with the percentage of 13%, 12%, and 11%, respectively. Most plants had been involved in the treatment of digestive disorders (25%) and osteoarticular diseases (24%). Some (7.4%) of the plants mentioned in our survey were potentially toxic.

Conclusion

It was learned that irrational use of toxic plants and unknown compositions of recipes are recommended to consumers. As a result, particular attention should be paid to risks related to plants used in traditional treatment without scientific validation. It is envisaged that increasing awareness, by conducting educational campaigns and transferring evidence-based scientific knowledge, on traditional treatments among the local population is expected to have beneficial impacts on health and disease management.

Can Artemisia herba-alba Be Useful for Managing COVID-19 and Comorbidities?

The focus of this roadmap is to evaluate the possible efficacy of Artemisia herba-alba Asso. (Asteraceae) for the treatment of COVID-19 and some of its symptoms and several comorbidities using a combination of in silico (molecular docking) studies, reported ethnic uses, and pharmacological activity studies of this plant. In this exploratory study, we show that various phytochemicals from Artemisia herba-alba can be useful against COVID-19 (in silico studies) and for its associated comorbidities. COVID-19 is a new disease, so reports of any therapeutic treatments against it (traditional or conventional) are scanty. On the other hand, we demonstrate, using Artemisia herba-alba as an example, that through a proper search and identification of medicinal plant(s) and their phytochemicals identification using secondary data (published reports) on the plant's ethnic uses, phytochemical constituents, and pharmacological activities against COVID-19 comorbidities and symptoms coupled with the use of primary data obtained from in silico (molecular docking and molecular dynamics) studies on the binding of the selected plant's phytochemicals (such as: rutin, 4,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, and schaftoside) with various vital components of SARS-CoV-2, it may be possible to rapidly identify plants that are suitable for further research regarding therapeutic use against COVID-19 and its associated symptoms and comorbidities.

Ethnobotanical survey about medicinal plants used in traditional treatment of insomnia, asthenia, and oral and gum infections in the region Fez-Meknes, Morocco

An ethnobotanical survey was conducted among herbalists in the north-central region of Morocco using a questionnaire in order to highlight knowledge and know-how and to establish an inventory of herbal remedies used in the treatment of diseases common in the region and rarely cited in the bibliography: in this case, it is insomnia, asthenia, and oral-gum infections. The results showed that 120 herbalists were interviewed in different areas of the Fez-Meknes region, about 86 species were cited and grouped into 60 families (47 plants to treat asthenia, 25 to treat insomnia, and 21 to treat oral and gum infections). The reported plants have been identified and presented with the binomial name, family, part used, and method of preparation. In addition, the versatility was observed in several plants, indicating that the same plant could be used to treat conditions of different groups. Herbalists are people of both sexes belonging to different age groups and have different socioeconomic and intellectual levels. Eighty percent of surveyed herbalists are willing to provide us information about plants in the studied area. The most cited plants for treating these diseases are Lavandula dentata, Matricaria chamomilla, Rosmarinus officinalis, Allium cepa, Origanum vulgare, Origanum majorana, Marrubium vulgare, Lepidium sativum, and Ocimum basilicum. The Lamiaceae are the most quoted family. The leaves are the most commonly used organs. Infusion is the most common form of preparation. The results of this ethnobotanical study could constitute an important source of information and databases for further research in the fields of phytochemistry and pharmacology in order to find new bioactive molecules. In addition, this document can be used in the protection of indigenous knowledge.

Antihyperglycemic Effect of Aqueous Extract of Tetraclinis articulata in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats and Acute Toxicity Analysis

AIMS

The study aimed to evaluate the glucose-lowering effect of Tetraclinis articulata.

BACKGROUND

Tetraclinis articulata is commonly used for the treatment of diabetes characterized by chronic hyperglycemia.

OBJECTIVE

This work aimed to evaluate the effect of Tetraclinis articulata (T. articulata) Aqueous Extract (TAAE) on glycemia and lipid profile in normal and Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Additionally, its acute toxicity, phytochemical composition, and antioxidant capacity were assessed.

METHODS

To highlight the effect of TAAE on plasma glucose levels and lipid metabolism, blood glucose levels were measured at 1, 2, 4, and 6 hours of treatment for the acute test and on days 2, 4 and 7 over the daily oral administration for the subchronic test at two selected doses (10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg). Furthermore, Triglycerides (TGs), Total Cholesterol (TC), and High-Density Lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) were measured after the treatment. The rats' liver, extensor digitorum longus (EDL), and soleus muscle were isolated from diabetic rats treated with TAAE at a dose of 20 mg/kg at the end of the experiment to measure glycogen content using a standard method. The acute toxicity of TAAE was examined according to the OECD guideline. In addition, body weight, signs of toxicity, and/or mortality were observed for 14 days. Besides, a preliminary phytochemical screening, quantification of phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin contents as well as the antioxidant activity, were evaluated.

RESULTS

The results showed that TAAE at the doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg possesses a potent antihyperglycemic effect in STZ-treated diabetic rats and an acute hypoglycemic effect in normal rats, as well as the extract provoked a decrease of blood glucose levels after glucose loading in the glucose tolerance test in a dose-dependent manner. TAAE at a dose of 20 mg/kg revealed a significant improvement in the lipid profile. However, treatment with TAAE at a dose of 20 mg/kg did not significantly modify the glycogen content. In the same way, the acute toxicity analysis revealed no death or signs of toxicity in rats, and the LD50 value was more than 2 g/kg. In addition, preliminary phytochemical screening revealed that TAAE revealed the presence of polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, saponins, quinones, sterols and terpenoids. Furthermore, TAAE exhibited a potent antioxidant activity, which may be due to the richness in polyphenol content (756.21 ± 6.72 mg GAE/1 g of extract).

CONCLUSION

The current study demonstrates for the first time that aqueous Tetraclinis articulata extract has a potent glucose-lowering effect.

An Insight into Phytochemical, Pharmacological, and Nutritional Properties of Arbutus unedo L. from Morocco

Arbutus unedo L. (Ericaceae) is an evergreen shrub widely distributed in the Mediterranean region, particularly through the Moroccan forests. It is an important medicinal plant of great scientific interest due to its nutritional, pharmacological, and chemical properties. The objective of this review is to provide insights into traditional medicinal uses and phytochemical and pharmacological properties of A. unedo from Morocco. In Morocco, the plant has been used as a traditional medicine to treat several pathological conditions. Many phytochemical compounds have been reported in the plant, of which vitamins, carotenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins, and their derivatives are the most prevalent. Leaves and fruits of A. unedo contain the most significant number of phytochemicals among the species. Furthermore, researchers have demonstrated that A. unedo exhibited antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, antidiabetic, antiaggregant, and antihypertensive activities due to the presence of many biochemical compounds with health-promoting properties. According to different toxicity tests, the use of A. unedo is devoid of any significant side effects and/or toxicity. Despite its nutraceutical and health-promoting properties, Moroccan A. unedo remains underexploited mainly, and most of its traditional uses have not yet undergone scientific evidence-based research; therefore, improved knowledge about the potential value of the plant would allow understanding of its biological activity based on its phytochemical compounds that may contribute to the species preservation and valorization.

Alien woody plants are more versatile than native, but both share similar therapeutic redundancy in South Africa

Understanding why alien plant species are incorporated into the medicinal flora in several local communities is central to invasion biology and ethnobiology. Theories suggest that alien plants are incorporated in local pharmacopoeias because they are more versatile or contribute unique secondary chemistry which make them less therapeutically redundant, or simply because they are locally more abundant than native species. However, a lack of a comprehensive test of these hypotheses limits our understanding of the dynamics of plants knowledge, use and potential implications for invasion. Here, we tested the predictions of several of these hypotheses using a unique dataset on the woody medicinal flora of southern Africa. We found that the size of a plant family predicts the number of medicinal plants in that family, a support for the non-random hypothesis of medicinal plant selection. However, we found no support for the diversification hypothesis: i) both alien and native plants were used in the treatment of similar diseases; ii) significantly more native species than alien contribute to disease treatments particularly of parasitic infections and obstetric-gynecological diseases, and iii) alien and native species share similar therapeutic redundancy. However, we found support for the versatility hypothesis, i.e., alien plants were more versatile than natives. These findings imply that, although alien plant species are not therapeutically unique, they do provide more uses than native plants (versatility), thus suggesting that they may not have been introduced primarily for therapeutic reasons. We call for similar studies to be carried out on alien herbaceous plants for a broader understanding of the integration of alien plants into the pharmacopoeias of the receiving communities.

Inventory of Medicinal Plants Used Traditionally to Manage Kidney Diseases in North-Eastern Morocco: Ethnobotanical Fieldwork and Pharmacological Evidence

Kidney disease is one of the most common health problems and kidney failure can be fatal. It is one of the health disorders associated with extreme pain and discomfort in patients. In developing countries, such as Morocco where socioeconomic and sanitary conditions are precarious, medicinal plants are considered the primary source of medication. In the present work an ethnobotanical survey was conducted in a remote area of North-Eastern Morocco and we focused on (1) establishing a record of medicinal plants used traditionally by local people to treat kidney diseases and (2) correlate the obtained ethnomedical use with well-studied pharmacological evidence. From February 2018 to January2020, information was gathered from 488 informants using semi-structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using three quantitative indices: The use value (UV), family use value (FUV), and informant consensus factor (ICF). A total of 121 plant species belonging to 57 botanical families were identified to treat kidney diseases. The families most represented were Asteraceae (14 species), followed by Lamiaceae (12 species) and Apiaceae (10 species). The most commonly used plant parts were leaves, followed by the whole plant and they were most commonly prepared by decoction and infusion. The highest value of the (UV) index was attributed to Herniaria hirsuta L. (UV = 0.16), and the highest family use value (FUV) was assigned to Caryophyllaceae with (FUV = 0.163). Regarding the informant consensus factor (ICF), this index's highest values were recorded for kidney stones (ICF = 0.72). The use of 45% of the selected plants were validated based on literature review. This study helped document and preserve crucial traditional plant knowledge of 121 plant species used to treat kidney problems that can be used in the search for new biologically active compounds through more upcoming pharmacological studies.

Chemical Profiling, Antioxidant, Antiproliferative, and Antibacterial Potentials of Chemically Characterized Extract of Citrullus colocynthis L. Seeds

Background: Citrullus colocynthis L. (C. colocynthis) is commonly known as colocynth. It belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae that is frequently used in alternative medicine in the north of Africa. The aim of the study: the present research was undertaken to investigate the chemical composition, antioxidant, antiproliferative, and antibacterial potentials of C. colocynthis seed extract. Material and methods: the chemical composition of C. colocynthis seed organic extract was characterized using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antioxidant property was carried out using both β-carotene bleaching and DPPH assays. The antibacterial effect was effectuated using the agar disc diffusion method. The antiproliferative activity vs. human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (HT-29) and human breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MDA MB 231) were carried by WST-1 test. The chemical analysis showed the presence of interesting potentially bioactive compounds. The studied plant extract exhibited antioxidant potential with IC50 value of 2. 22 mg/mL (β-carotene bleaching) and 8.98 ± 0.619 mg/mL (DPPH). Concerning the antiproliferative activity, the seed extract was effective in MDA-MB-231 and HT-29 cancer cells with IC50 values 86.89 ± 3.395 and 242.1 ± 17.9 μg/mL, respectively, whilst the extract of Citrullus colocynthis seeds was non-toxic in healthy human dermal fibroblasts. Regarding the antibacterial test, the extract was effective in Gram-positive bacteria only. Conclusion: The outcome of this research indicated that the extracts from C. colocynthis seeds may compose a promising source with interesting compounds that can be used to fight cancer, free radicals damage, and bacterial infections.

Ethnomedical uses, chemical constituents, and evidence-based pharmacological properties of Chenopodium ambrosioides L.: extensive overview

Background

The Chenopodium genus is a plant family widely spread worldwide that includes various plant species reputed to possess several medicinal virtues in folk medicines. Chenopodium ambrosioides L. is among the most used plants in traditional medicines worldwide. This review aimed to highlight ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical status, and pharmacological properties of C. ambrosioides L.

Main body of the abstract

The analysis of relevant data highlights various ethnomedicinal uses against human and veterinary diseases in forty countries. Most indications consisted of gastrointestinal tract dysfunctioning troubles and worms parasitemia. Around 330 chemical compounds have been identified in different plant parts, especially in its essential oil fractions (59.84%). However, only a few compounds—mainly monoterpenes and glycosides—have been isolated and characterized. Experimental pharmacological studies validated a large scale of significant health benefits. It appeared that many monoterpenes are antioxidant, insecticidal, trypanocidal, analgesic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, acaricidal, amoebicidal, anthelmintic, anticancer, antibacterial, antidiabetic, antidiarrheal, antifertility, antifungal, anti-leishmanial, antimalarial, antipyretic, antisickling, antischistosomal, antiulcer, anxiolytic, immunomodulatory, molluscicidal, and vasorelaxant agents.

Short conclusion

Thus, the Chenopodium ambrosioides species necessitates further chemical studies to isolate and characterize new bioactive secondary metabolites and pharmacological investigations to precise the mechanisms of action before clinical trials.

Attitude and awareness of medicinal plants in treatment of kidney lithiasis in eastern Morocco: a retrospective study

Introduction: Kidney stone is a major public health problem. Over 5% of the population is affected by kidney stones, with causes a lifetime risk of transmitting renal lithiasis of about 8 to 10%.

Objective: The goal of our study is the attitude and awareness of lithiasis patients regarding the use of medicinal plants in eastern Morocco.

Methods: We carried out a study on lithiasis patients to retrospectively identify medicinal plants used in this disease, using a pre-established questionnaire. The study was carried out from 10 December 2017 to 28 February 2018.

Results: Our survey describes several medicinal plants used to treat renal lithiasis in eastern Morocco. Most patients used Herniaria hirsuta L., Zea mays L., Urtica dioica L., and Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss. This preliminary study showed that the first reason to use medicinal plants in half of lithiasis patients is to calm the pain and expel the stones. The primary source of plant use information is oral tradition. However 67% of lithiasis patients are unaware of the harmful and toxic effects that can appear.

Conclusion: Medicinal plants must, like medicines, comply with strict requirements and standard rules of use to which only the specialist in herbal medicine can respond and sensitize people to the dangers of irrational consumption of medicinal plants.

Ethnomedicinal use, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of Daphne gnidium: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Daphne gnidium L., (Lazaz or Metnan) is a perennial plant that grows around the Mediterranean basin, in Southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. It is used in different countries for hair care and to treat several diseases including skin cancer, diabetes, nervous breakdowns, sinusitis, poisoning, rheumatic disorders, odontalgia, muscular pain, and gastrointestinal infections. It is also used as anti-inflammatory, insecticide, and anti-parasitic remedy.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

In this review, previous studies on D. gnidium including its botanical description, taxonomy, geographical distribution, medicinal use, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties were critically highlighted and discussed for suggesting the exploration of this specie and its bioactive compounds in medical applications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data on D. gnidium were gathered from Scientific search engines including PubMed, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Web of Science, Scopus, Wiley Online, SciFinder, and Google Scholar. Reports on D. gnidium written in English published before September 2020 were summarized.

RESULTS

In traditional medicine, D. gnidium is used to treat diabetes, gastrointestinal infections, skin cancer, nervous breakdowns, and sinusitis. The extracts and essential oil of D. gnidium exhibited several biological properties such as antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antigenotoxic, hemolytic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, allelopathic, and insecticidal effects. Phytochemical investigations identified several chemical classes of secondary metabolites in D. gnidium essential oil and extracts including terpenoids, coumarins, flavonoids, fatty acids, and alkanes.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings presented in this study showed a link between the traditional medicinal use and scientific biological results about D. gnidium. However, further investigations should be carried out to support medical and cosmetic applications of this species. Indeed, D. gnidium and its main compounds should be confirmed concerning their safety and their bioavailability. Moreover, pharmacodynamic studies should be conducted to support their efficacy in medical applications.

Potential Toxicity of Medicinal Plants Inventoried in Northeastern Morocco: An Ethnobotanical Approach

Herbal medicine and its therapeutic applications are widely practiced in northeastern Morocco, and people are knowledgeable about it. Nonetheless, there is a significant knowledge gap regarding their safety. In this study, we reveal the toxic and potential toxic species used as medicines by people in northeastern Morocco in order to compile and document indigenous knowledge of those herbs. Structured and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, and simple random sampling was used as a sampling technique. Based on this information, species were collected, identified, and herbarium sheets were created. The collected data were analyzed using two quantitative indices: informant consensus factor (ICF) and fidelity level (Fl), as the degree of these indices give an insight into the level of toxicity of a given plant. The results revealed the knowledge of 55 species belonging to 36 families. The most represented families were Apiaceae, Asteraceae, Solanaceae, and Fabaceae. Furthermore, the majority of the species cited were herbs (67%), and the most common toxic parts were seeds, followed by leaves and roots. According to the informant consensus factor, death (0.81%) had the highest agreement, followed by the urological (0.76%) and skin (0.75%) categories. The most significant plants in terms of fidelity level were Solanum sodomaeum L. and Nerium oleander L. for death, Arisarum vulgare O. Targ. Tozz., Mentha spicata L., and Morus alba L. for the digestive category, Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss. and Citrus x aurantium L. for cardiovascular category, Urtica dioica L. for skin category, Datura stramonium L, and Ephedra altissima Desf. for neurological category, and finally Crocus sativus L. for general and unspecified category. This work highlights a valuable traditional knowledge of poisonous and potential poisonous plants in northeastern Morocco. Further phytochemical and toxicological research is needed to determine the safety of these prized herbs.

Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants Used by Traditional Healers to Treat Diabetes in the Taza Region of Morocco

Type 2 diabetes is one of the noncommunicable diseases that is becoming a pandemic in Africa. In Morocco, traditional healers have started to use herbal medicines for the treatment of diabetes either individually or in combination with food. The current study aimed to perform an ethnobiological survey of antidiabetic plants use in the Taza region of Morocco. A total of 193 traditional healers were interviewed using a semistructured questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed utilizing the use value (UV), fidelity level (FL), and relative frequency citation (RFC) indices. Forty-six plant species belonging to 28 families were recorded for the treatment of diabetes in the Taza region of Morocco. The most frequently cited plant species are Salvia officinalis, Marrubium vulgare, and Ajuga iva. Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, and Fabaceae were the most reported families. Leaves are the most used part of plants to prepare drugs, the decoction is the preferred mode of preparation, and remedies are often administered orally. Interestingly, Cytisus battandieri, Urginea maritima, Plantago ovata, and Ziziphus jujuba were reported as new medicinal plants used to treat diabetes in the Taza region of Morocco. People in the Taza region still rely on indigenous plants for their basic healthcare needs. Further research should be carried out to validate the antidiabetic effect of the newly reported plant species. This validation can be investigated by the determination of bioactive compounds and evaluation of their in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic effects.

An overview on ethnobotanico-pharmacological studies carried out in Morocco, from 1991 to 2015: Systematic review (part 1)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The full bibliometric records of data retrieved from ethnobotanical field studies carried out in Morocco (1991-2015) was quali-quantitatively analysed. Despite the importance of traditional medicinal uses in Morocco, any comments about the methodologies and approaches adopted by reviewed studies have been undertaken. Include more data about the importance of traditional medicinal uses in Morocco.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Three key points were targeted in this review: (i) to contribute to original compilation of medicinal plants traditionally used by people at whole Morocco, by gathering and documenting the current status of these ancestral medical practices, (ii) to provide a novel insight into the relationship between local and biomedical disease concepts in Moroccan society, taking into account health-related beliefs, and their influences on medicinal plant uses, (iii) to figurout the weaknesses and the strengths of the conceptual approches and methods adopted by researchers in ethnobotanical field works.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

With the help of a computerized database querying, we conducted an extensive literature search respecting our integration criteria. We performed this bibliographic research by using the following search engines available over the Web: Google Scholar, PUBMED, Sciencedirect, Current Content Connect, SCOPUS, SPRINGER LINK, GLOBAL PLANTS, Cochrane Library and SCIRUS. The scientific names listed in the present paper have been validated according to the "The Plant List" and the African Plants Database in order to standardize ethnobotanical data on an international level. For the analysis of data gathered, quali-quantitative analyses have been performed.

RESULTS

A total of 905 medicinal plant species belonging to 116 families and 726 genera have been selected from 63 published articles. The dominant families were ASTERACEAE (111 species) followed by the FABACEAE (77 species), LAMIACEAE (75 species) and APIACEAE (46 species). The plant species listed are used to cure several public ailments. The digestive ailments represented the most important category (494 species) followed by dermatological diseases (407 species), diabetes (315 species) and urinary diseases (277 species). We assigned the importance of the plant species by several measures (including Frequency Cited (FC), Number of Uses (NU), Number of Respondents (NR) and Index of Performance (IP). The ICF (Informant Consensus Factor) calculated was important in all categories of diseases averaging 47%.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained, which cover the whole country, delineate the profile of rich wealth of indigenous knowledge on traditional uses of medicinal plants heald by Moroccan society. The total number of 905 plant species listed in this paper, are currently being utilized as medicines and the number is expected to grow as infrastructure allows greater access to unexplored parts of the country. Furthermore, the know how, regarding the plants used, is consistent because the ICF has recorded important values for most diseases treated. Furthermore, in the present paper, we suggested, for authors, some useful recommendations for ethnobotanical field works such as the respect of ethnobotanical standards including checklist of plants with international data base, the deposited voucher specimens, sampling and collection methods.

Beneficial Effect of Thymelaea hirsuta on Pancreatic Islet Degeneration, Renal Fibrosis, and Liver Damages as Demonstrated in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rat

OBJECTIVE

In Morocco, Thymelaea hirsuta (T. hirsuta) (Thymelaeacea) is a medicinal plant widely used to treat and prevent diabetes. The present study aimed to evaluate the medium-term antidiabetic effect of aqueous extract (AqTh) and ethyl acetate fraction (EaTh) of Th and to investigate their putative protective effect on pancreatic islet degeneration, diabetic nephropathy, and liver damages in streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats.

METHODS

Experimental diabetes in rats was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 50 mg/kg of STZ. During the treatment period (4 weeks), 200 mg/kg AqTh and 50 mg/kg EaTh were orally administrated daily to STZ-diabetic rats. A group of parameters including fasting blood glucose, biochemical parameters, and intestinal α-glucosidase inhibition were studied. Furthermore, histological study of the pancreas, kidney, liver, and aorta was also realized.

RESULTS

At the end of the treatment, both AqTh and EaTh had normalized fasting blood glucose to 1.08 and 1.25 g/l, respectively. AqTh has also reduced urinary creatinine and HbAc1. The EaTh showed inhibitory activity against intestinal α-glucosidase, whereas AqTh did not have this inhibitory effect. Furthermore, pancreas hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that AqTh or EaTh prevents pancreatic islet cell degeneration. As the same kidney, Masson's trichrome staining has shown a significant prevention of renal fibrosis in AqTh- or EaTh-treated diabetic rats. On the other hand, liver hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that AqTh and EaTh prevent liver damage.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that medium-term administration of AqTh and EaTh exerts significant antihyperglycemic effect in STZ-diabetic rats possibly through intestinal α-glucosidase inhibition and protection against pancreatic islet cell damage. Moreover, AqTh and EaTh treatment prevent nephropathy and liver complications in STZ-diabetic rats.

Anticancer medicinal plants used by Moroccan people: Ethnobotanical, preclinical, phytochemical and clinical evidence

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cancer is a major health problem worldwide. Drugs' side effects and high cost of treatment remain the main limitations of conventional therapy. Nowadays, developing new therapeutic strategies is necessary. Therefore, medicinal plants can be used to promote novel, safe, and potent anticancer drugs through their natural compounds.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review aims to provide scientific evidence related to the anticancer activities of medicinal plants used by Moroccan people as well as approving their efficiency as an alternative cancer therapy.

METHODS

An ethnopharmacological review approach was conducted by analyzing Moroccan published ethnobotanical surveys from 1991 to 2019 and consulting peer-reviewed articles worldwide to investigate the pharmacological, phytochemical, and clinical effects related to the anticancer activities. Plants with anticancer proprieties were classified into four groups: (a) plants only cited as anticancer, (b) plants pharmacologically investigated, (c) plants with bioactive compounds tested as anticancer, and (d) plants clinically investigated.

RESULTS

A total of 103 plant species belonging to 47 botanical families used by Moroccans to treat cancer have been recorded. Aristolochia fontanesii Boiss. & Reut, Marrubium vulgare L., and Allium sativum L. are the most referred species in Morocco. Medicinal plants used for cancer treatment were classified into four groups: 48 species were used traditionally as anticancer (group a), 41 species pharmacologically investigated for their anticancer activities (group b), 32 plants with bioactive compounds tested against cancer (group c), and eight plants were clinically investigated for their anticancer effects (group d). Out of 82 plants' extracts pharmacologically tested (from plants of group b), only 24 ones show a significant cytotoxic effect. A total of seventy-seven compounds are isolated from plants of group (c). However, only six ones were clinically evaluated, and most of them exhibit a beneficial effect on cancerous patients with few side effects.

CONCLUSION

Medicinal plants can be a promising candidate for alternative cancer therapy. Nevertheless, it is critical to increasing the clinical trials to confirm their beneficial effect on patients with cancer. Overall, this review can serve as a database for further studies.