Antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities and phytochemical screening of some yemeni medicinal plants

Phytochemical screening, antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities of Geranium pusillum leaves

Traditional medicinal plants play an important role in primary health care worldwide. The phytochemical screening and activities of Geranium pusillum were investigated in this research. The dried plant leaves were extracted with ethanol, n-hexane, chloroform, dichloromethane, methanol, acetone, and aqueous solvents. These extracts were qualitatively analyzed, GC-MS, antimicrobial activities by using the disc diffusion method, antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) radical scavenging, and cytotoxic activity was analyzed by the hemolytic activity of human red blood cells. The results showed phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, phenols, saponins, tannins, and cardiac glycosides were detected in plant leaves. The ethanol extract at a concentration of 10 mg/mL showed a maximum inhibition zone 17.5 ± 0.09, 15.6 ± 0.11, 14.2 ± 0.17, 18.4 ± 0.11, 16.6 ± 0.15, 12.5 ± 0.13, 15.9 ± 0.10, and 13.1 ± 0.11 mm, and at 15 mg/mL showed 24.5 ± 0.09, 27.2 ± 0.12, 26.3 ± 0.17, 28.4 ± 0.10, 27.9 ± 0.16, 22.5 ± 0.13, 27.1 ± 0.10, and 24.1 ± 0.16 mm against Escherichia coli, Pasturella multocida (gram-negative), Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilus (gram-positive), Rhizopus solani, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Alternaria alternate (fungal strain), respectively, and dichloromethane showed a minimum inhibition zone as compared to other extracts against bacterial as well as fungal strains. Chloroform extract had maximum antioxidant activity (45.00 ± 0.08%) and minimum in dichloromethane (12.20 ± 0.04%). Cytotoxic activity was found maximum in acetone extract (19.83 ± 0.07%) and minimum in ethanol extract (4.72 ± 0.04%). It is concluded that phytochemicals like phenols, flavonoids, and others may be responsible for these activities, which is why this plant is used for traditional medicine. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Geranium pusillum has therapeutic properties that exhibit various biological activities beneficial for human health. G. pusillum has significant inhibitory effects against bacterial and fungal strains. Chloroform solvent extract indicates potential free radical scavenging abilities. Acetone extract exhibits notable effects on human red blood cells and demonstrates significant cytotoxic activity.

Cytotoxic and antiviral activities of Jatropha variegata and Jatropha spinosa in relation to their metabolite profile

Jatropha variegata and Jatropha spinosa (family: Euphorbiaceae) are utilized in Yemeni traditional medicine to treat respiratory tract infection and in different skin conditions such as wound healing, as antibacterial and hemostatic. In this study, we evaluated the cytotoxicity and the antiviral activities of the methanolic J. variegata (leaves: Ext-1, stems: Ext-2, and roots: Ext-3), and J. spinosa extracts (aerial parts: Ext-4 and roots: Ext-5), in addition to their methylene chloride fractions of roots extracts (F-6 and F-7, respectively). All samples were tested against three human cancer cell lines in vitro (MCF-7, HepG2, and A549) and two viruses (HSV-2 and H1N1). Both plants showed significant cytotoxicity, among them, the methylene chloride fractions of roots of J. variegata (F-6) and J. spinosa roots (F-7) showed the highest activity on MCF-7 (IC50 = 1.4 and 1 μg/mL), HepG2 (IC50 = 0.64 and 0.24 μg/mL), and A549 (IC50 = 0.7 and 0.5 μg/mL), respectively, whereas the IC50 values of the standard doxorubicin were (3.83, 4.73, and 4.57 μg/mL) against MCF-7, HepG2, and A549, respectively. These results revealed that the roots of both plants are potential targets for cytotoxic activities. The in vitro results revealed potential antiviral activity for each of Ext-3, Ext-5, F-6, and F-7 against HVS-2 with IC50 of 101.23, 68.83, 4.88, 3.24 μg/mL and against H1N1 with IC50 of 51.29, 27.92, 4.24, and 3.06 μg/mL respectively, whereas the IC50 value of the standard acyclovir against HVS-2 was 83.19 μg/mL and IC50 value of the standard ribavirin against H1N1 was 52.40 μg/mL .The methanol extracts of the roots (Ext-3 and Ext-5) of both plants were characterized using UPLC/MS. A total of 73 metabolites were annotated, including fourteen diterpenoids, eleven flavonoids, ten phenolic acid conjugates, twelve fatty acids and their conjugates, five triterpenes and steroids, two sesquiterpenes, and six coumarins. The cytotoxicity and antiviral activities determined in the present work are explained by the existence of flavonoids, coumarins and diterpenes with commonly known cytotoxicity and antiviral activities.

Exploring the Antioxidant Potential of Tragia volubilis L.: Mitigating Chemotherapeutic Effects of Doxorubicin on Tumor Cells

Several plants of the genus Tragia L. have shown antibacterial, fungicidal, and antiproliferative activity, among other types of activities; however, most species of the genus have not been investigated. Tragia volubilis L. is native to tropical America and Africa, and although it has been reported as medicinal in the literature, it has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, the phytochemical screening, isolation, and identification of compounds and the determination of the antioxidant activity of the aqueous extract of Tragia volubilis L. and its partitions were carried out. Ethyl acetate and n-butanol partitions of the extract present high antioxidant activity according to the Antioxidant Activity Index. Due to their activity, these partitions were tested on RKO cells as a representative model, both individually and in combination with Doxorubicin. It was found that the partitions significantly reduced the effect of Doxorubicin, as well as the expression of proteins involved in DNA damage and cell death. While the reduction of the chemotherapeutic effect of Doxorubicin on tumor cells may not be a desired outcome in therapeutic settings, the findings of the study are valuable in revealing the antioxidant potential of Tragia volubilis L. and its partitions. This highlights the importance of carefully regulating the application of antioxidants, especially in the context of cancer chemotherapy.

The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Plectranthus hadiensis (Lamiaceae) and phylogenetic analysis

Plants of the genus Plectranthus are used for the treatment of digestive problems, skin diseases, and allergies, with a wide variety of uses. Here, the complete chloroplast genome sequence of Plectranthus hadiensis (Benth. ex E.Mey) Codd. 1788 was assembled and characterized for the first time. The full length of the chloroplast genome is 152,484 bp, consisting of a small single-copy region of 17,686 bp, a large single-copy region of 83,380 bp, and a pair of inverted repeats of 51,418 bp. The overall GC content is 37.73%. The chloroplast genome contains 131 unique genes, including 87 protein-coding genes, 36 transfer RNA genes, and eight ribosomal RNA genes. Phylogenetic tree construction based on the complete chloroplast genome sequences of 25 species (23 Nepetoideae, two Ajugoideae) of the Lamiaceae family showed that P. hadiensis exhibited the closest relationship with Isodon.

Antibacterial Effect of Ethanolic Extracts of Dodonaea viscosa L. Jacq. and Mammea americana L. against Staphylococci Isolated from Skin Lesions

Background

The resistance to antibiotics shown by some dermatological pathogenic microorganisms has increased the interest of pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries in developing natural products that possess different biological activities, including antimicrobial effects.

Methods

In the present investigation, the antibacterial activity of ethanolic extracts of Dodonaea viscosa aerial part and Mammea americana leaves and seed was evaluated against resistant strains of Staphylococcus isolated from skin lesions and against S. aureus ATCC 25923 (reference strain). Column chromatography (CC) and preparative thin-layer chromatography (PTLC) were used to obtain separate fractions of the seed extract of M. americana. We also determined the antimicrobial resistance of the strains against antibiotics using the agar disc diffusion assay. In addition, phytochemical screening was performed by colorimetric standard techniques.

Results

M. americana seed extract showed the highest antibacterial activity with MBC from 2.3 μg/mL to 19.5 μg/mL without differences with gentamicin (p = 0.998). The isolated strain S. epidermidis I showed the highest antimicrobial resistance against the tested antibiotics. PTLC-fractions of M. americana seed extract showed MBC from 3.2 μg/mL to 40.7 μg/mL against S. epidermidis I and S. aureus 25923 (reference), respectively, which suggests a synergistic effect of the secondary metabolites present in the crude ethanolic extract compared to its active PTLC-fractions, where only coumarins and compounds with lactone groups were detected in the phytochemical screening.

Conclusion

M. americana seed extract has promising effects that should be considered in further studies as an alternative or adjuvant in treating skin infections caused by staphylococci.

Flavonoid Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Tragia volubilis L. Methanolic Extract

Several species from the genus Tragia L. in the family Euphorbiaceae are part of the ethnomedicine of traditional cultures, and have a variety of uses. Tragia volubilis L. is a species spread through tropical America and Africa with several ethnomedical uses, particularly for wound healing and reproductive issues. In this study, we assess the phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract of the aerial parts of T. volubilis collected in southern Ecuador. The phytochemical screening of the extract shows the preliminary presence of carbohydrates, alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins. The extract shows an Antioxidant Activity Index of 1.14, interpreted as strong antioxidant activity. Four flavonoid compounds were isolated through chromatographic procedures and identified through NMR spectroscopy: avicularin, quercitrin, afzelin, and amentoflavone. The biological activity of these compounds matches the ethnopharmacological uses of the species. This is the first phytochemical study of T. volubilis and supports its traditional medicinal uses.

Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and quantitative screening of phytochemicals of Fraxinus excelsior L. and Eschscholtzia californica Cham. mother tinctures

The antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Fraxinus excelsior L. and Eschscholtzia californica Cham. mother tinctures against a range of foodborne bacteria were investigated to determine the major components and to analyse the action spectrum and antimicrobial effectiveness of the extracts. Results demonstrated a significant antioxidant activity of Fraxinus excelsior L. and a lower activity of Eschscholtzia californica Cham. and a good chemical phenolic composition with the highest content of flavonoids. The Fraxinus excelsior L. and Eschscholtzia californica Cham. mother tinctures demonstrated a middle-high antimicrobial activity against, respectively, 66.67% and 43.33% of all tested bacteria. The inhibitory activity showed a moderate effect on the growth of the sensitive strains in presence of extracts minimum inhibitory concentration. The synergistic actions of bioactive compounds detected in the extracts might be on the basis of antioxidant and biological activities observed and should be used in pharmaceutical, food preservation, alternative medicine and natural therapies fields.

Protective role of Dodonaea viscosa extract against streptozotocin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in rats

Previous investigations have shown that D. viscosa herbal extract is often used to treat a variety of diseases. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate any additional potential impacts on rat liver and kidney damage induced by diabetes. Streptozotocin (STZ) (60 mg/kg/day) was given as a single dosage to cause type 1 diabetes. After then, diabetic rats received oral doses of D. viscosa for four weeks at 150 and 300 mg/kg/day. Blood, liver, and kidney tissues were collected at the end of the treatment and examined. Analysis was made of the serum lipid profile, liver, and kidney functions, as well as blood biochemistry. Moreover, the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), prostaglandin E-2 (PGE-2), and nitric oxide (NO) were estimated in serum. In liver and kidney samples, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs) and reduced glutathione (GSH), as well as the pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymatic activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reeducates (GR), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were analyzed. Histological changes in liver and kidney cross-sections were also observed. Our findings demonstrated that D. viscosa dramatically decreased pro-inflammatory indicators in blood, kidney, and liver tissues as well as blood glucose, and restored insulin levels, and lipid profiles. Additionally, it significantly raises the antioxidant enzyme activity SOD, CAT, GPx, and GST, while significantly lowering TBARs levels. The above-mentioned biochemical changes that took place in tissues were further supported by histological alterations. These findings imply that D. viscosa protects against STZ-induced hyperglycemia, aberrant lipid synthesis, and oxidative stress and that these benefits may be mediated by interacting with various targets to increase the levels of antioxidant enzymes in the liver and kidneys. Its mode of action and safety for use as medicine against various metabolic problems caused by diabetes require more research.

Chemical Constituents from Ficus sagittifolia Stem Bark and Their Antimicrobial Activities

The phytochemical investigation of the ethylacetate fraction of an ethanolic extract obtained from the stem bark of Ficus sagittifolia (Moraceae) led to the isolation of four flavonoids: (2R)-eriodictyol (1), 2'- hydroxygenistein (2), erycibenin A (3), and genistein (4); a dihydrobenzofuran: moracin P (5); a coumarin: peucedanol (6); and an apocarotenoid terpenoid: dihydrophaseic acid (7). These were identified via 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and ultra-high-resolution liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectroscopy (UHPLC-QTOF MS). Moracin P (5) is being reported for the first time in the genus Ficus, while the others are known compounds (1-4 and 6-7) isolated previously from the genus but being reported for the first time from the species F. sagittifolia. Their antimicrobial activity against various pathogens (five bacteria: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhi; two fungi: Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans) was tested. The mixture of genistein and moracin P (4+5) exhibited strong activity against K. pneumoniae (MIC < 0.0039 mg/mL), whereas dihydrophaseic acid (7) was the most active against P. aeruginosa and A. niger (MIC = 0.0078 and <0.0039 mg/mL, respectively). These compounds might be considered potential antimicrobial agents with the potential to be starting points for the development of antimicrobial drugs.

Phytochemical Analysis of Anastatica hierochuntica and Aerva javanica Grown in Qatar: Their Biological Activities and Identification of Some Active Ingredients

Plant-derived compounds and their extracts are known to exhibit chemo preventive (antimicrobial, antioxidant and other) activities. The levels of such chemo preventive compounds vary depending on environmental factors, including the regions where they grow. Described in this study are: (i) a phytochemical analysis of the two plants grown in the desert environment of Qatar, viz., Anastatica hierochuntica and Aerva javanica; (ii) the antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant activities of various solvent extracts of these plants; (iii) a report on the isolation of several pure compounds from these plants. The phytochemical screening indicated the presence of glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, phenol and anthraquinones in various extracts of each of the plants. Antibacterial and antioxidant activities were studied using agar diffusion and DPPH methods, respectively. The extracts of Anastatica hierochuntica as well as Aerva javanica inhibit the growth of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial species. Various extracts of the two plants also exhibited higher or similar antioxidant activities as those of the standard antioxidants, α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid. The extracts of these plants were further purified by HPLC and characterized by IR and NMR techniques. This process has led to identification of β-sitosterol, campesterol and methyl-9-(4-(3,4-dihydroxy-1'-methyl-5'-oxocyclohexyl)-2-hydroxycyclohexyl)nonanoate from Anastatica hierochuntica, and lupenone, betulinic acid, lupeol acetate and persinoside A and B from Aerva javanica. The results reported herein suggests that Anastatica hierochuntica and Aerva javanica are potent sources of phytomedicines.

Identification of novel potential inhibitors of varicella-zoster virus thymidine kinase from ethnopharmacologic relevant plants through an in-silico approach

Although Varicella or chickenpox infection which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) has significantly been managed through vaccination, it remains an infection that poses threats to the nearest future due to therapeutic drawbacks. The focus of this research was geared towards in silico screening for the identification of novel compounds in plants of ethnopharmacological relevance in the treatment of chicken pox in West Africa. The work evaluated 65 compounds reported to be present in Achillea millefolium, Psidium guajava and Vitex doniana sweet to identify potential inhibitors of thymidine kinase, the primary drug target of varicella zoster virus. Out of the 65 compounds docked, 42 of these compounds were observed to possess binding energies lower than -7.0 kcal/mol, however only 20 were observed to form hydrogen bond interactions with the protein. These interactions were elucidated using LigPlot⁺ and MM-PBSA analysis with residue Ala134 predicted as critical for binding. Pharmacological profiling predicted three potential lead compounds comprising myricetin, apigenin- 4' -glucoside and Abyssinone V to possess good pharmacodynamics properties and negligibly toxic. The molecules were predicted as antivirals including anti-herpes and involved in mechanisms comprising inhibition of polymerase, ATPase and membrane integrity, which were corroborated previously in other viruses. These drug-like compounds are plausible biotherapeutic moieties for further biochemical and cell-based assaying to discover their potential for use against chickenpox. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Evaluation of phytochemical and antioxidant potential of various extracts from traditionally used medicinal plants of Pakistan

The antioxidant potential of various extracts was evaluated using different antioxidant assays such as 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, and 2,2-azinobis-ethylbenzothiozoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) using UV spectrophotometer. The highest absorbance was observed in ethanolic extracts (EEs) of Euphrasia stricta 71.92 ± 1.22%, 65.77 ± 1.38%, and 67.88 ± 0.74%, followed by methanolic extracts (MEs) 70.14 ± 0.82%, 64.84 ± 0.74%, and 65.48 ± 1.40% for DPPH assay (517 nm), FRAP assay (700 nm), and ABTS assay (734 nm), respectively. The EEs of Euphorbia platyphyllos L. showed the antioxidant activity of 69.76 ± 1.48%, 64.42 ± 0.88%, and 65.54 ± 1.36% and MEs 68.00 ± 1.50%, 62.92 ± 0.64%, and 63.42 ± 0.94% for DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS assays, respectively. So, this research suggested that these medicinal plants possess a significant antioxidant potential and are important source of natural antioxidants and can be effectively used in treating oxidative stress disorders.

An Overview on Rumex dentatus L.: Its Functions as a Source of Nutrient and Health-Promoting Plant

Rumex dentatus L. (Polygonaceae), also known as toothed dock or Aegean dock, is a medicinal plant with a high culinary value in addition to being used as an ethnomedicinal plant. This review focuses on the botanical, nutritional, phytochemical, and pharmacological activities of R. dentatus, as well as the future prospects for systematic investigations into these areas. R. dentatus has been subjected to scientific evaluation, which has confirmed its traditional uses and demonstrated a wide range of biological and pharmacological potentials, including antioxidant, anticancer, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and other biological properties. Phytochemical analyses showed the presence of anthraquinones, chromones, flavonoids, and essential oils. As a result of this current review, the medicinal significance of R. dentatus has been confirmed, and future research on its unexplored aspects, such as the identification of pharmacologically active chemical constituents and related mechanisms and safety, may be stimulated, with the goal of developing it into a drug.

Enzymes Inhibition and Antioxidant Potential of Medicinal Plants Growing in Oman

The recent study was designed to explore Dodonaea viscosa, Juniperus excelsa, Helianthemum lippii, and Euryops pinifolius using methanolic (MeOH) extract. Their subfractions were examined against urease, carbonic anhydrase II (CA-II), α-glucosidase enzymes, and free radicals scavenging significance based on local practices via standard methods. Significance potential against the urease enzyme was presented by ethyl acetate fraction (EtOAc) of D. viscosa with (IC₅₀ = 125 ± 1.75 μg/mL), whereas the H. lippii (IC₅₀ = 146 ± 1.39 μg/mL) in the EtOAc was found efficient to scavenge the free radicals. Besides, that appreciable capacity was observed by the J. excelsa, D. viscosa, J. excelsa, and E. pinifolius as compared to the standard acarbose (IC₅₀ = 377.24 ± 1.14 μg/mL). Maximum significance was noticed in methanolic (MeOH) extract of J. excelsa and presented carbonic anhydrase CA-II (IC₅₀ = 5.1 ± 0.20 μg/mL) inhibition as compared to the standard (acetazolamide). We are reporting, for the first time, the CA-II inhibition of all the selected medicinal plants and α-glucosidase, urease, and antioxidant activities of the E. pinifolius. Thus, further screening is needed to isolate the promising bioactive ingredients which act as an alternative remedy to scavenge the free radicals, antiulcer, and act as a potential source to develop new antidiabetic drugs for controlling postprandial blood sugar as well as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

Quantification of biomarkers and evaluation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxicity properties of Dodonaea viscosa grown in Saudi Arabia using HPTLC technique

Dodonaea viscosa (Sapindaceae) was collected from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. For the simultaneous measurement of quercetin and kaempferol, a validated high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) approach was devised in D. viscosa leaf extract. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using diphenyl 1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays. Moreover, the cytotoxic effect was tested against three cancer cell lines A549, HepG2, and MDA-MB-231. The potential anti-inflammatory properties of different fractions of D. viscosa were also evaluated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced THP-1 macrophages cells. The test samples include a crude extract of leaves and its solvent-soluble fractions of D. viscosa. The results showed that the crude extract and its fractions exhibited various significant biological activities, the fraction of chloroform demonstrated the highest free radical scavenging activity with IC50 values: 172.2 and 257.7 µg/mL for both DPPH and ABTS tests. Additionally, the chloroform fraction had the greatest cytotoxic activity against MDA-MB-231 (IC50 values: 24.6 ± 0.4 µg/mL). Moreover, the chloroform fraction exhibited the highest downregulation of the LPS-induced expression of TNF-α and IL-6. Quercetin and kaempferol were estimated concurrently in leaves crude extract using a validated technique on an HPTLC plate (10 cm2 × 10 cm2) with a combination of toluene–ethyl acetate–formic acid (5:4:0.2; v/v/v) as the mobile phase and a λ max of 254 nm. The amount of quercetin and kaempferol was found to be 31.8 and 15.01 mg/g of dried leaf extract, respectively. The presence of high levels of quercetin and kaempferol in D. viscosa leaves extract could explain its remarkable antioxidant, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory effects. The devolved HPTLC method can be used for routine analysis and standardization of D. viscosa crude plant material, extracts, and/or finished products using quercetin and kaempferol as appropriate markers.

In-vitro and in-vivo pharmacological screening of Iris Albican

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the anti-oxidant, enzyme inhibition, anti-pyretic, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic activities of Iris albicans.

METHODS

Anti-oxidant assay was evaluated using DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging and ABTS (2, 2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) inhibitory protocol while enzyme inhibitory assay was evaluated by lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitory protocol respectively. Antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic potential was evaluated using brewer's yeast induced pyrexia, carrageenan induced paw edema and streptozocin induced diabetes protocols respectively. Serum biochemical parameters were monitored for the period of study.

RESULTS

The anti-oxidant activity of chloroform fraction of Iris albicans showed the highest scavenging potential against DPPH and ABTS while the maximum inhibitory action recorded against lipo-oxygenase and cyclooxygenase-2 enzymes was shown by n-hexane and chloroform fractions respectively. The anti-pyretic potential of the crude methanolic extract showed dose dependent activity in reducing pyrexia, thereby when the dose was increased the anti-pyretic effect was also enhanced. The anti-inflammatory action of the crude methanolic extract administered at the dose of 300 mg/kg was significant at 1 h after its administration, which was found maintained up to 5 h. Similarly the anti-diabetic effect of the crude methanolic extract administered at the dose of 200 and 300 mg/kg was noted highly significant at day 6 and was found well maintained throughout the study time period up to 10 days. Significant (P < 0.001) improvement appeared in hemoglobin, protein, cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, creatinine, HDL and LDL of extract treated diabetic mice.

CONCLUSION

From this data it could be concluded that Iris albicans have significant anti-oxidant, enzyme inhibition, ant-pyretic, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic potential.

Tragia L. Genus: Ethnopharmacological Use, Phytochemical Composition and Biological Activity

Tragia L. is a genus of plants belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family with worldwide intertropical distribution, composed of more than 150 species. In this literature review, 26 species of the genus used as medicinal plants were found, mainly in East Africa and the Indian subcontinent, with a variety of uses among which antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and reproductive health are most common. Research has been done on a few of the species, mostly those of the Old World, with emphasis on four of them: Tragia involucrata Linn., Tragia spathulata Benth., Tragia benthamii Baker and Tragia plukenetii Radcl.-Sm., confirming several ethnomedicinal claims. Moreover, a variety of active phytochemicals have been isolated, mainly ethers, hydrocarbons, flavonoids and sterols. There is ample field for the evaluation of the activity of Tragia extracts and essential oils and the identification of their active compounds, particularly of the New World species, for which there is still very little research.

Partially purified lead molecules from Dodonaea viscosa and their antimicrobial efficacy against infectious human pathogens

BACKGROUND

The utilization of medicinal plants and their drugs have the advantage of reducing side effects compared with manufactured antimicrobials. Artificial drugs have unpleasant side effects, further, the number of drug resistant pathogens is increasing, thus huge challenge for control of resistant pathogens. Therefore, the current research explores the potential of partially purified bioactive compounds from Dodonaea viscosa against certain human pathogens.

METHODS

Healthy leaves of D. viscosa (L.) were collected, extracted and optimized with different solvents. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the extracts was done and antibacterial activities were tested against human pathogens. The active crude extract was further purified by column chromatography and the homogeneity was confirmed by thin layer chromatography (TLC). The partially purified compounds were screened further for antibacterial, antibiofilm and anticancer activities.

RESULTS

The crude ethanol extract of D. viscosa leaves showed the presence of phytochemical like tannins, alkaloids, flavanoids, terpenoids, glycosides, steroids and phenols. Ethanol extract exhibited the maximum zone of inhibition (11 mm) against S. agalactiae, B. cereus, S. typhi and E. coli at 15 mg when compared with other bacteria. Column chromatography fractions Dv12 and Dv20 exhibited the maximum zone of inhibition against B. cereus. 1000 μg of Dv12 partially purified compound against streptococcus isolates in glass test tube showed biofilm inhibition range of 34.4%-63.1%. Whereas B. cereus, S. aureus, S. typhi, and K. pneumoniae showed 31.1%-53.6% biofilm inhibition compared to curcumin control. Active fractions of Dv12 and Dv20 increased concentration confirmed that the gradual decrease in cell density and possesses growth inhibition towards A 549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells.

CONCLUSION

We have extracted the bioactive compounds from D. viscosa (L.) leaves and tested the activity of a partially purified compound against human pathogenic bacteria, biofilm formation and cytotoxicity against A 549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells. The purified bioactive compounds might be used as therapeutic agents against different microbial infections such as skin infection, throat infection and other infectious diseases.

Detoxification of Aflatoxin B1 and Ochratoxin A Using Salvia farinacea and Azadirachta indica Water Extract and Application in Meat Products

Seventy-five samples of selected meat products, including luncheon, beef burger, sausage, basterma, and kofta, were collected from Alexandria and New Borg El-Arab cities (Egypt). The samples were subjected to mycological examination as well as for detection of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) residues. Besides, the study evaluated the effect of aqueous leaf extracts from mealycup sage (Salvia farinacea) and neem (Azadirachta indica), individually and in combination, on the growth of human pathogens Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus flavus producing AFB1, as well as Aspergillus ochraceus and Aspergillus niger which produce OTA. The obtained results revealed that sausage samples had the highest mould count with a mean value of 13.20×102/g, followed by basterma samples 12.05×102/g, then beef burger 7.39×102/g. In contrast, luncheon and kofta samples had the lowest count with a mean value of 5.51×102/g and 2.82×102/g. The findings revealed the antifungal potential of tested extracts. The total inhibition of A. parasitcus and A. niger growth was observed at 2 mg/mL of the combined extract. Salvia farinacea extract had the highest total phenolic content and total flavonoid content with a value of 174.1 and 52.6 mg g-1, respectively. Rutin was the major phenolic component in neem and combined extracts, accounting for 19123 and 8882 μg/g, respectively. Besides, the study investigated detoxification of AFB1 and OTA using combined extract in albino rats. The results confirmed the convenient and safe use of Salvia farinacea and Azadirachta indica extract and their combination as natural antifungal and antioxidant agents. The combined extract could be used as a natural preservative in food processing to control or prevent contamination.

Pharmacological Assessment of the Antiprotozoal Activity, Cytotoxicity and Genotoxicity of Medicinal Plants Used in the Treatment of Malaria in the Greater Mpigi Region in Uganda

We investigated the potential antimalarial and toxicological effects of 16 medicinal plants frequently used by traditional healers to treat malaria, fever, and related disorders in the Greater Mpigi region in Uganda. Species studied were Albizia coriaria, Cassine buchananii, Combretum molle, Erythrina abyssinica, Ficus saussureana, Harungana madagascariensis, Leucas calostachys, Microgramma lycopodioides, Morella kandtiana, Plectranthus hadiensis, Securidaca longipedunculata, Sesamum calycinum subsp. angustifolium, Solanum aculeastrum, Toddalia asiatica, Warburgia ugandensis, and Zanthoxylum chalybeum. In addition, the traditional healers indicated that P. hadiensis is used as a ritual plant to boost fertility and prepare young women and teenagers for motherhood in some Ugandan communities where a high incidence of rapidly growing large breast masses in young female patients was observed (not necessarily breast cancer). We present results from various in vitro experiments performed with 56 different plant extracts, namely, 1) an initial assessment of the 16 species regarding their traditional use in the treatment of malaria by identifying promising plant extract candidates using a heme biocrystallization inhibition library screen; 2) follow-up investigations of antiprotozoal effects of the most bioactive crude extracts against chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum K1; 3) a cytotoxicity counterscreen against human MRC-5SV2 lung fibroblasts; 4) a genotoxicity evaluation of the extract library without and with metabolic bioactivation with human S9 liver fraction; and 5) an assessment of the mutagenicity of the ritual plant P. hadiensis. A total of seven extracts from five plant species were selected for antiplasmodial follow-up investigations based on their hemozoin formation inhibition activity in the heme biocrystallization assay. Among other extracts, an ethyl acetate extract of L. calostachys leaves exhibited antiplasmodial activity against P. falciparum K1 (IC50 value: 5.7 µg/ml), which was further characterized with a selectivity index of 2.6 (CC50 value: 14.7 µg/ml). The experiments for assessment of potential procarcinogenic properties of plant extracts via evaluation of in vitro mutagenicity and genotoxicity indicated that few extracts cause mutations. The species T. asiatica showed the most significant genotoxic effects on both bacterial test strains (without metabolic bioactivation at a concentration of 500 µg/plate). However, none of the mutagenic extracts from the experiments without metabolic bioactivation retained their genotoxic activity after metabolic bioactivation of the plant extract library through pre-incubation with human S9 liver fraction. While this study did not show that P. hadiensis has genotoxic properties, it did provide early stage support for the therapeutic use of the medicinal plants from the Greater Mpigi region.

A Bibliographic Assessment Using the Degrees of Publication Method: Medicinal Plants from the Rural Greater Mpigi Region (Uganda)

In ethnopharmacological research, many field assessment tools exist. Yet, these miss that critical point of how to really determine which species merit the costly lab studies, e.g., evaluation of traditional use via pharmacological assays and isolation of bioactive secondary metabolites. This gap can be filled with the introduction of a new tool for literature assessment: the Degrees of Publication (DoPs). In this study, its application is illustrated through an extensive bibliographic assessment of 16 medicinal plant species that were recently identified in the Greater Mpigi region of Uganda as being frequently used by local traditional healers in the treatment of medical disorders (namely, Albizia coriaria, Cassine buchananii, Combretum molle, Erythrina abyssinica, Ficus saussureana, Harungana madagascariensis, Leucas calostachys, Microgramma lycopodioides, Morella kandtiana, Plectranthus hadiensis, Securidaca longipedunculata, Sesamum calycinum subsp. angustifolium, Solanum aculeastrum, Toddalia asiatica, Warburgia ugandensis, and Zanthoxylum chalybeum). These species are suspected to be understudied, and a thorough bibliographic assessment has not been previously performed. Thus, the objectives of our study were to undertake a comparative assessment of the degree to which each of these plant species has been studied in the past, including evaluation of the quality of the journals where results were published in. The determination of the DoPs enabled successful assessment of the degrees to which each individual plant species has been studied so far, while also taking into account the methodological “research chain of ethnopharmacology” from ethnobotanical studies (“traditional use”) to pharmacological assays (“bioactivity”) and finally to pharmacognostic research (“structure elucidation”). The significance of a research paper was assessed by determining whether its journal and publishing house were members of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). In total, 634 peer-reviewed publications were reviewed covering the period of 1960–2019, 53.3% of which were published in journals and by publishing houses affiliated with COPE (338 publications). The literature assessment resulted in the identification of understudied plants among the selected species. The majority of plants reviewed have not been sufficiently studied; six species were classified as being highly understudied and three more as being understudied: C. buchananii, F. saussureana, L. calostachys, M. lycopodioides, M. kandtiana, and S. calycinum subsp. angustifolium and A. coriaria, P. hadiensis, and S. aculeastrum, respectively. The newly introduced DoPs are a useful tool for the selection of traditionally used species for future laboratory studies, especially for pharmacological bioassays, isolation procedures, and drug discovery strategies.

The Reproductive Toxicity Associated with Dodonaea viscosa, a Folk Medicinal Plant in Saudi Arabia

Dodonaea viscosa is a medicinal plant which is being used to treat various diseases in humans. The available safety data suggest that the plant does not produce any side effects, or toxicity, in tested adult experimental animals. However, the influence of D. viscosa on fetus or embryonic development is largely not known. This study was conducted in order to find out the reproductive toxicity of D. viscosa in experimental animals. Zebrafish embryos were used as the in vivo developmental toxicity animal model. Methanolic crude extract, hexane, chloroform, and butanol fractions were prepared from the leaves of D. viscosa. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to serial dilution of crude extract and other fractions. The crude extract and hexane fraction induced higher level of toxicity in zebrafish embryos as compared to chloroform and butanol fractions. The phenol and flavonoid estimation revealed that crude leaves extract and hexane fractions had lower content of phenol and flavonoid. Two major compounds, phytol and methyl ester, of hexadecanoic acid were identified by gas chromatography and mass spectrophotometry (GC-MS) analysis. More detailed studies are needed to check the toxicity of D. viscosa in pregnant experimental animals; however, the results from this study have shown that D. viscosa possesses reproductive toxicity and its use and doses must be carefully monitored in pregnant patients.

Molecular Docking Studies on the Anti-viral Effects of Compounds From Kabasura Kudineer on SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro

The COVID-19 has now been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization. No approved drug is currently available; therefore, an urgent need has been developed for any antiviral therapy for COVID-19. Main protease 3CL^pro of this novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) play a critical role in the disease propagation, and hence represent a crucial target for the drug discovery. Herein, we have applied a bioinformatics approach for drug repurposing to identify the possible potent inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 main proteases 3CL^pro (6LU7). In search of the anti-COVID-19 compound, we selected 145 phyto-compounds from Kabasura kudineer (KK), a poly-herbal formulation recommended by AYUSH for COVID-19 which are effective against fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath (similar to SARS-CoV2-like symptoms). The present study aims to identify molecules from natural products which may inhibit COVID-19 by acting on the main protease (3CL^pro). Obtained results by molecular docking showed that Acetoside (−153.06), Luteolin 7 -rutinoside (−134.6) rutin (−133.06), Chebulagic acid (−124.3), Syrigaresinol (−120.03), Acanthoside (−122.21), Violanthin (−114.9), Andrographidine C (−101.8), myricetin (−99.96), Gingerenone -A (−93.9), Tinosporinone (−83.42), Geraniol (−62.87), Nootkatone (−62.4), Asarianin (−79.94), and Gamma sitosterol (−81.94) are main compounds from KK plants which may inhibit COVID-19 giving the better energy score compared to synthetic drugs. Based on the binding energy score, we suggest that these compounds can be tested against Coronavirus and used to develop effective antiviral drugs.

Ethnopharmacological Use and Biological Activities of Tragia involucrata L

Plants have been utilized as medicines to treat various ailments since ancient times. Formulations made by plant materials have been used in traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine and remain widespread in both developing and developed countries. In developing countries, traditional medicines are widely practiced due to its accessibility and affordability, while in developed countries, complementary and alternative medicine are widely popular due to the adverse effects of chemical drugs. Tragia involucrata Linn. (family: Euphorbiaceae) is a highly used medicinal plant used in both Sri Lankan and Indian traditional medical systems. Since this plant is a weed, it is being extensively destroyed due to the lack of knowledge regarding the medicinal value of this plant. Hence, the objective of this study was to collect data on the medicinal value of this plant by correlating its scientifically validated biological activities with its ethnopharmacological uses. An attempt was made to gather as much information available regarding the ethnopharmacological uses and scientifically validated biological activities of Tragia involucrata through authentic traditional texts, scientific journals, and other authentic texts regarding medicinal plants. Thus, the review provides an insight to the capability of Tragia involucrata to be used as a monoherbal formulation for diseases pertaining to multiple systems of the body. With all the scientifically validated biological activities and the ethnopharmacological uses, Tragia involucrata may qualify as a potent candidate to be developed into a phytomedicine to be utilized as both a preventive and as a therapeutic agent.

[Acute and subacute toxicity of Garcinia huillensis Baker, a plant used against urogenital schistosomiasis in Haut-Katanga, DR Congo]

This research evaluated acute and subacute toxicity of aqueous and methanolic extract from stem bark of Garcinia huillensis Baker, a plant used in Congolese traditional medicine against urogenital schistosomiasis. The acute toxicity is evaluated on guinea pigs by single oral administration of 1500, 2000, 2500, 3000 and 3500mg/kg of body weight of extracts based on the method described by protocol 423 of the Organization for Cooperation and Economic Development. Subacute toxicity is assessed after 28 days after daily administration of 4.5, 45, 450 and 1500mg/kg of body weight of extracts. Weight evolution, hematological and biochemical parameters of the guinea pigs that survived were analyzed and compared with those of the controls. Acute oral toxicity data were used to calculate the LD₅₀ of 2717.39 and 2625.00mg/kg bw for the aqueous and methanolic extract, respectively. Some signs of intoxication were noted, and certain haematological and biochemical parameters analyzed in the treated guinea pigs sometimes presented statistically significant differences compared to those of the controls. The minimum tolerated dose (1652.17mg/kg bw) found for the aqueous extract is far greater than the therapeutic dose administered by traditional therapists (4.5mg). Thus, the study shows that the stem bark of G. huillensis would be moderately toxic and would present a good margin of safety under the conditions of our experimentation, which would justify the non-toxic use of the plant under the traditional conditions of preparation and oral administration.

In-vitro antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory activities of selected medicinal plants from western Nepal

Background

This study was focused on the measurement of anticancer properties of six medicinal plants from western Nepal in three cell lines; HeLa, Hep3B, and HCT116, and anti-inflammatory properties in RAW 264.7 cell line through NO, PGE2, and TNF-α production. In addition, the phytochemical screening, total phenolic, flavonoid content, and antioxidant properties were evaluated.

Results

The qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of different secondary metabolite and range of total phenolic and total flavonoid content. The highest antioxidant activities were observed in Bergenia pacumbis against both DPPH (IC50 = 25.97 ± 0.19 μg/mL) and ABTS (IC50 = 14.49 ± 0.40 μg/mL). Furthermore, the highest antiproliferative effect against cervical, liver, and colon cancer cell lines were observed in Melia azedarach as IC50 values of 10.50, 5.30, and 1.57 μg/mL respectively, while the strongest anti-metastatic potential on liver cancer cell line was found in Pleurospermum benthamii. In addition, P. benthamii showed the most potent anti-inflammatory effect in RAW264.7 murine macrophage cells.

Conclusion

This study provided the evidence for M. azedarach and P. benthamii to have great anticancer potential and finding builds the enough scientific backgrounds in future to isolate and purify the bioactive compounds for further applications.

Antimicrobial activity, phytochemical characterization and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of Aspilia pluriseta Schweinf. extracts

Aspilia pluriseta is associated with various bioactivities, although with limited scientific justification. In this study, we evaluated the antimicrobial activity, and characterized the phytochemicals of root extracts of A. pluriseta aimed at validating its therapeutic potential. We used BACTEC MGIT™ 960 system to test for antitubercular activity, disc-diffusion together with the microdilution method to evaluate antimicrobial activities and qualitative phytochemical tests together with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to determine the phytochemicals that associated with A. pluriseta extracts activity. We show that methanolic crude extract (at 1 g/mL) had high Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) inhibitory activity (0 growth unit) and considerable potency against Escherichia coli (11.7 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (9.0 mm), and Candida albicans (7.7 mm). All the extract fractions exerted remarkable antimycobacterial activities with minimum inhibitory activity of between 6.26 – 25 μg/mL. The highest antimicrobial activity of petroleum ether and dichloromethane fraction was against E. coli at inhibition zone diameters of 8.3 mm, and 8.0 mm, respectively, while ethyl acetate fraction was against S. aureus with an inhibition zone of 8.7 mm. Methanolic fraction exhibited broad-spectrum activity against 87.5% of the tested microbes (inhibition zones 6.3–8.3 mm). Furthermore, we qualitatively detected terpenoids, alkaloids, and phenolics such as flavonoids, and anthraquinones in extract fractions. GC-MS analysis detected an abundance of fatty acid esters, 2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl) ethyl ester-hexadecanoic acid, and 2,3-dihydroxy propyl ester-octadecanoic acid and four alkanes. Taken together, we show that A. pluriseta extract fractions (especially ethyl acetate and methanolic fractions) have strong selective antitubercular activity, and thus, we scientifically validate the use of A. pluriseta as a potential source for the discovery of novel antitubercular agents.

Evaluation of Polyphenol Content and Antioxidant Capacity of Aqueous Extracts from Eight Medicinal Plants from Reunion Island: Protection against Oxidative Stress in Red Blood Cells and Preadipocytes

Background—Medicinal plants are traditionally used as infusions or decoctions for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic and anti-diabetic properties. Purpose—The aim of the study was to define the polyphenol composition and to assess the antioxidant capacity of eight medicinal plants from Reunion Island referred to in the French Pharmacopeia, namely Aphloia theiformis, Ayapana triplinervis, Dodonaea viscosa, Hubertia ambavilla, Hypericum lanceolatum, Pelargonium x graveolens, Psiloxylon mauritianum and Syzygium cumini. Methods—Polyphenol content was assessed by biochemical assay and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Antioxidant capacity was assessed by measuring DPPH reduction and studying the protective effects of herbal preparation on red blood cells or preadipocytes exposed to oxidative stress. Results—Polyphenol content ranged from 25 to 143 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/L for infusions and 35 to 205 mg GAE/L for decoctions. Liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry analysis showed the presence of major bioactive polyphenols, such as quercetin, chlorogenic acid, procyanidin and mangiferin. Antioxidant capacity assessed by different tests, including DPPH and Human red blood cell (RBC) hemolysis of herbal preparations, demonstrated a dose-dependent effect whatever the extraction procedure. Our data suggest that decoction slightly improved polyphenol extraction as well as antioxidant capacity relative to the infusion mode of extraction (DPPH test). However, infusions displayed a better protective effect against oxidative stress-induced RBC hemolysis. Conclusion—Traditional preparations of medicinal plant aqueous extracts (infusions and decoctions) display antioxidant properties that limit oxidative stress in preadipocytes and red blood cells, supporting their use in the context of metabolic disease prevention and treatment.

Chemotherapeutic Potential of Carthamus Oxycantha Root Extract as Antidiarrheal and In Vitro Antibacterial Activities

Our research work was designed to investigate the curative and preventive effects of Carthamus oxycantha root extract against diarrhea and microorganisms. For the antibacterial experiment, the agar well diffusion method was used against standard bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, and Salmonella typhi, while for the assessment of antidiarrheal activity, castor oil and the magnesium sulfate-induced diarrhea method was used on albino, laboratory-bred (BALB/c) mice at a dose rate of 200 and 400 mg/kg (body weight, b.w) orally. The methanol extract of C. oxycantha significantly (p < 0.001) decreased the frequency of defecation, and wet stools in a dose depended on the manner of after receiving magnesium sulfate (2 g/kg (b.w)) and castor oil (1.0 mL/mice). Furthermore, the extract of C. oxycantha showed concentration-dependent antimicrobial properties against S. aureus followed by S. typhi, E. coli, and P. aeroginosa bacterial strains, with inhibitions ranging from 10.5–15 mm. These findings show significant results that C. oxycantha is effective as an antidiarrheal and antibacterial agent. However, further works are needed to establish its mode of action.

Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Wound Healing Potential of Jatropha variegata - An Interesting Plant Endemic to Yemen

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Jatropha variegata is traditionally used in Yemeni folk medicine for antiseptic and hemostatic purposes. In this study, the methanolic extract of the plant leaves was evaluated for its antioxidant, antibacterial and wound healing activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antioxidant activity was assessed using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay. The antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was tested using disc diffusion and broth microdilution assays. In vivo, the ability of the extract to accelerate wound healing in rats was evaluated using both wound area measurements and histological analyses.

RESULTS

The leaves extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 16.7 μg mL-1. The extract exhibited moderate antibacterial activity against S. aureus with inhibition zones of 10.6 mm, and the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value was 5 mg mL-1. The extract significantly accelerated the rate of wound healing closure compared to those treated with the vehicle. In addition, histopathological analyses of wound granulation tissues showed significantly better healing signs after 14 days in the extract-treated groups, with denser collagen deposition at the injury site.

CONCLUSION

The leaves of J. variegata appear to contain bioactive compounds that may be utilized clinically in combating oxidative stress and in wound management.

Assessment of selected Saudi and Yemeni plants for mosquitocidal activities against the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti

As part of our continuing investigation for interesting biological activities of native medicinal plants, thirty-nine plants, obtained from diverse areas in Saudi Arabia and Yemen, were screened for insecticidal activity against yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti (L.). Out of the 57 organic extracts, Saussurea lappa, Ocimum tenuiflorum, Taraxacum officinale, Nigella sativa, and Hyssopus officinalis exhibited over 80% mortality against adult female Ae. aegypti at 5 μg/mosquito. In the larvicidal bioassay, the petroleum ether extract of Aloe perryi flowers showed 100% mortality at 31.25 ppm against 1st instar Ae. aegypti larvae. The ethanol extract of Saussurea lappa roots was the second most active displaying 100% mortality at 125 and 62.5 ppm. Polar active extracts were processed using LC-MS/MS to identify bioactive compounds. The apolar A. perryi flower extract was analyzed by headspace SPME-GC/MS analysis. Careful examination of the mass spectra and detailed interpretation of the fragmentation pattern allowed the identification of various biologically active secondary metabolites. Some compounds such as caffeic and quinic acid and their glycosides were detected in most of the analyzed fractions. Additionally, luteolin, luteolin glucoside, luteolin glucuronide and diglucuronide were also identified as bioactive compounds in several HPLC fractions. The volatile ketone, 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one was identified from A. perryi petroleum ether fraction as a major compound.

Antifungal activity and Shore A hardness of a tissue conditioner incorporated with terpinen-4-ol and cinnamaldehyde

PURPOSE

This study investigated the anti-Candida activity and the Shore A hardness of a tissue conditioner (Softone™) modified by incorporation of terpinen-4-ol and cinnamaldehyde.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Agar diffusion, microdilution, and mechanism of action methods were performed to determine to evaluate the antifungal activity of phytoconstituents. Then, phytoconstituents in varying concentrations were incorporated into the tissue conditioner. The anti-Candida effect of the modified conditioner was evaluated through agar punch well and biofilm formation methods. Shore A hardness of the experimental liners was evaluated after baseline, 24 h, 48 h, 4 days, and 7 days immersion on artificial saliva.

RESULTS

The phytoconstituents incorporated into Softone showed completely inhibited fungal growth in concentrations of 20-40% and did not present significant antifungal activity until their concentrations where higher than 5%. There were differences between non-modified Softone and M5, M10, C10, and T10% (p < 0.05). The groups containing 10-40% of cinnamaldehyde incorporated into Softone were able to completely inhibit the biofilm. Concentrations below 40% of terpinen-4-ol showed unsatisfactory biofilm inhibition. The T40% and C40% groups presented the lowest Shore A hardness values. Hardness values from groups T40% at 7 days (p = 0.476); C40% at 4 days (p = 0.058); and T20% (p = 0.058), C20% (p = 0.205), T30% (p = 0.154), and C30% (p = 0.874) after 48 h did not differ from the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Cinnamaldehyde incorporated into Softone inhibited Candida biofilm formation at concentrations of 10-40%, being more effective than terpinen-4-ol modification despite of halo inhibition observed by both products.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

All modifications showed a very similar pattern of hardness being useful for clinical practice.

Chemometric analysis of Amaranthus retroflexus in relation to livestock toxicity in southern Australia

Amaranthus retroflexus L., an introduced invasive weed in southern Australia, has been associated with acute renal failure and/or mortality in a number of livestock species. While its leaves, flowers and stems are generally reported to contain high levels of nitrogen, few studies have fully characterised the chemical composition of A. retroflexus foliage with respect to mammalian toxicity. We performed extensive metabolic profiling of stems, leaves, roots and inflorescence tissues of A. retroflexus collected from three spatially and/or temporally distinct toxicity outbreaks, and report on the 1) composition of primary and secondary metabolites in methanolic extracts of A. retroflexus tissues using HPLC and HPLC-MS QToF and 2) chemometric analysis of A. retroflexus extracts in relation to the associated toxin(s). All tissues of A. retroflexus possessed an abundance of N-containing metabolites, particularly quaternary ammonium compounds which were identified as betaines, two of which (valine betaine and isoleucine betaine) are rarely encountered in plants. Cytotoxicity to murine fibroblasts was highest in extracts of leaf tissue and was associated with a single, a small modified peptide with high similarity to N-acetyl-L-α-aspartyl-L-alanyl-L-α-aspartyl-L-α-glutamyl-O-(carboxymethyl)-L-tyrosyl-L-leucinamide, a synthetic phosphotyrosyl mimic involved in cell signaling processes. One possible mode of action leading to acute renal failure in grazing livestock by a modified peptide such as this is proposed.

African Herbal Remedies with Antioxidant Activity: A Potential Resource Base for Wound Treatment

The use of traditional herbal remedies as alternative medicine plays an important role in Africa since it forms part of primary health care for treatment of various medical conditions, including wounds. Although physiological levels of free radicals are essential to the healing process, they are known to partly contribute to wound chronicity when in excess. Consequently, antioxidant therapy has been shown to facilitate healing of such wounds. Also, a growing body of evidence suggests that, at least, part of the therapeutic value of herbals may be explained by their antioxidant activity. This paper reviews African herbal remedies with antioxidant activity with the aim of indicating potential resources for wound treatment. Firstly, herbals with identified antioxidant compounds and, secondly, herbals with proven antioxidant activity, but where the compound(s) responsible for the activity has not yet been identified, are listed. In the latter case it has been attempted to ascribe the activity to a compound known to be present in the plant family and/or species, where related activity has previously been documented for another genus of the species. Also, the tests employed to assess antioxidant activity and the potential caveats thereof during assessment are briefly commented on.

Anxiolytic effects of Lippia citriodora in a mouce model of anxiety

Lippia citriodora is commonly used in Iranian folk medicine for treatment of many disorders. Since there scientific data to prove the anxiolytic properties of this plant in Iran are scarce, we aimed to evaluate the sedative and anxiolytic activity of the leaf extract and essence of L. citriodora in an animal model of anxiety. The extract and the essence used were obtained after maceration and hydro-distillation of the leaves of L. citriodora, respectively. We evaluated the anti-anxiety profile and sedative activity of diazepam (1 mg/kg i.p. as the standard), hydroethanolic extract (200 and 400 mg/kg i.p.) and the essence (10, 15, and 50 mg/kg i.p.) of leaves of L. citriodora using elevated plus-maze and locomotor activity. We also used flumazenil, to find out if the possible effects are mediated through gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)/benzodiazepine receptor complex. The results showed that the essence of L. citriodora at a dose of 15 mg/kg is the most effective anxiolytic dose. Interestingly, flumazenil reversed this action of the essence as well as that of diazepam. The extract even at a dose of 400 mg/kg did not show significant anxiolytic effect. In locomotor activity studies, the essence caused sedation to a lesser extent than diazepam. The results suggest that the essence of this plant could be a better candidate for further analysis and fractionation. As the anxiolytic effect of the essence is reversed by flumazenil, it is possible that the GABA receptor could be involved in mediating these effects.

Ameliorating Effects of Leaf Water Extract of Three Aromatic Plant Species on Ozone-Polluted Snap Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L. 'Jiangjunyoudou')

Ozone (O₃) is one of the major pollutants in near-surface air. In order to protect sensitive plants from O₃ pollution, many kinds of protectants including synthetic ones, were assessed in previous studies. Although they have certain protective effects, some of them are not environment-friendly. In the present study, leaf water extracts of aromatic plants [Plectranthus hadiensis var. tomentosus (PHT), Pelargonium hortorum (PHB), Tagetes patula (TP)] were compared for mitigating the damages caused by O₃ (150 ppb for 3 days, 8 h day^-1) on snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris 'Jiangjunyoudou'). Our results showed that O₃ fumigation impaired plasma membrane, decreased chlorophyll content, increased contents of malondialdehyde and superoxide anion, inhibited photosynthesis, and caused visible injury. Leaf water extracts of PHT, PHB or TP ameliorated the negative effects of O₃. Among them, extract of PHT showed the greatest potential to alleviate the O₃-caused injury, followed by PHB and TP.

In vitro antiprotozoan activity and mechanisms of action of selected Ghanaian medicinal plants against Trypanosoma, Leishmania, and Plasmodium parasites

Trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, and malaria are protozoan infections of public health importance with thousands of new cases recorded annually. Control of these infection(s) with existing chemotherapy is limited by drug toxicity, lengthy parenteral treatment, affordability, and/or the emergence of resistant strains. Medicinal plants on the other hand are used in the treatment of various infectious diseases although their chemical properties are not fully evaluated. In this study, we screened 112 crude extracts from 72 selected Ghanaian medicinal plants for anti-Trypanosoma, anti-Leishmania, and anti-Plasmodium activities in vitro and investigated their mechanisms of action. Twenty-three extracts from 20 plants showed significant antiprotozoan activity against at least 1 of 3 protozoan parasites screened with IC₅₀ values less than 20 μg/ml. Eleven extracts showed high anti-Trypanosoma activity with Bidens pilosa whole plant and Morinda lucida leaf extracts recording the highest activities. Their IC₅₀ (selectivity index [SI]) values were 5.51 μg/ml (35.00) and 5.96 μg/ml (13.09), respectively. Nine extracts had high anti-Leishmania activity with Annona senegalensis and Cassia alata leaf extracts as the most active. Their IC₅₀ (SI) values were 10.8 μg/ml (1.50) and 10.1 μg/ml (0.37), respectively. Six extracts had high anti-Plasmodium activity with the leaf and stem-bark extracts of Terminalia ivorensis recording the highest activity. Their IC₅₀ (SI) values were 7.26 μg/ml (129.36) and 17.45 μg/ml (17.17), respectively. Only M. lucida at 25 μg/ml induced significant apoptosis-like cell death in Trypanosoma parasites. Anti-Leishmania active extracts induced varying morphological changes in Leishmania parasites such as multiple nuclei and/or kinetoplast, incomplete flagella division, or nuclear fragmentation. Active extracts may be potential sources for developing new chemotherapy against these infections.

Chemical Composition and Evaluation of the Biological Properties of the Essential Oil of the Dietary Phytochemical Lippia citriodora

The aim of the study was to characterize the chemical composition and biological properties of the essential oil from the plant Lippia citriodora grown in Greece. The essential oil volatiles were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry GC-MS indicating citral as the major component. Τhe antimicrobial properties were assayed using the disk diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory and non-inhibitory concentration values were determined. Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Aspergillus niger were sensitive to Lippia citriodora oil, but not Escherichia coli, Salmonella Enteritidis, Salmonella typhimurium, and Pseudomonas fragi. Adversely, all microbes tested were sensitive to citral. 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assays were used to assess direct antioxidant activity, which proved to be weak for both agents, while comet assay was utilized to study the cytoprotective effects against H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage in Jurkat cells. Interestingly, the oil showed a more profound cytoprotective effect compared to citral. The antiproliferative activity was evaluated in a panel of cancer cell lines using the sulforhodamine B (SRB) and 2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-S-(phenylamino) carbonyl-2-tetrazolium hydroxide (XTT) assays and both agents demonstrated potent antiproliferative activity with citral being more cytotoxic than the oil. Taken together, the essential oil of Lippia citriodora and its major component, citral, exert diverse biological properties worthy of further investigation.

Phenolic profiling and therapeutic potential of local flora of Azad Kashmir; In vitro enzyme inhibition and antioxidant

The current study supports the phytochemical screening, evaluation of antioxidant and enzyme inhibition potential and correlations between antioxidant activities and phenolics of Rumex dentatus (Family: Polygonaceae), Mentha spicata (Family: Lamiaceae), Withania somnifera (Family: Solanaceae), Nerium indicum (Family: Apocynaceae) and Artemisia scoparia (Family: Asteraceae). The herbal materials were extracted in ethanol (90%) and partitioned between several solvents based on polarities. Total phenols were determined with FC method and ranged 21.33 ± 1.53 - 355.67 ± 6.03 mg GAE/ mg of the extract. Antioxidant activities (DPPH, total iron reducing capacity, phosphomolybdate assay & FRAP) and enzyme inhibition potential (Protease, AChE & BChE) were performed by the standard protocols. The results showed that all extracts exhibited significant DPPH activity ranging from 12.67 ± 2.08 - 92.67 ± 1.53%. The extracts that were active in DPPH activity also potrayed marvelous FRAP, total iron reducing and phosphomolybdate values. Correlation studies of antioxidant activities and the content of phenolic compounds in plant materials exhibited positive correlation between them. The outcome of enzyme inhibition activity exhibited that about 80% of the fractions under surveillance plants intimated more than 50% inhibition. Isolation of bioactive compounds from these plants is in progress.

Phytochemical and Bioactive Potential of in vivo and in vitro Grown Plants of Centaurea ragusina L. - Detection of DNA/RNA Active Compounds in Plant Extracts via Thermal Denaturation and Circular Dichroism

INTRODUCTION

The phytochemical composition and biological activity of non-volatile components of Centaurea ragusina L. has not been studied previously.

OBJECTIVES

Our aim was to evaluate the phytochemical and bioactive potential (including interactions with polynucleotides) of C. ragusina L. depending on the origin of plant material (in vivo - leaves from natural habitats, ex vitro - leaves from plants acclimated from culture media, in vitro - leaves and calli from plants grown in culture media) and polarity of solvents used in extract preparation (80 and 96% ethanol and water combinations or single solvents).

METHODOLOGY

The polyphenol composition was determined by spectrophotometric and HPLC analysis. Biological activity of extracts was evaluated by following methods: 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) methods for antioxidative activity, 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) microdilution method for antibacterial activity, crystal-violet test for cytotoxic activity and thermal denaturation (TD) and circular dichroism (CD) for DNA/RNA interactions.

RESULTS

Conditions for the most efficient polyphenol extraction were determined: the 80% ethanol/water solvent system was the most suitable for callus and leaf ex vitro samples and 80 or 96% ethanol for leaf in vivo samples. Significantly higher levels of chlorogenic acid and naringenin were detected in callus tissue than in vivo plant. Ethanolic extracts exhibited the significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. DNA/RNA active compounds in plant extracts were detected by TD and CD methods.

CONCLUSIONS

Callus tissue and ex vitro leaves represent a valuable source of polyphenols as in vivo leaves. TD and CD can be applied for detection of DNA/RNA active compounds in extracts from natural resources. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Flavonoidal Constituents, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Cytotoxic Activities of Dipterygium glaucum Grown in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Background:

Dipterygium glaucum Decne. herb is one of the common traditional plants with multiple medicinal uses.

Objective:

To isolate the major constituents and to investigate the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities of this herb.

Materials and Methods:

Methanolic extract of D. glaucum herb was fractionated using n-hexane, dichloromethane, and n-butanol. Butanol fraction was chromatographed using column chromatography and preparative thin layer chromatography to isolate the major constituents. Isolated compounds were elucidated by means of spectroscopic methods, including 1D, 2D NMR (¹H, ¹³C, DEPT, COSY, HSQC, HMBC, NEOSY) and MS analysis. Total phenolic content using Folin–Ciocalteu reagent and antioxidant activity using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay of the total methanolic extract were evaluated. Cytotoxic potential of both methanolic extract and butanol fraction was tested using a crystal violet viability assay. Antimicrobial activities of both extracts were investigated using diffusion agar technique.

Results:

Apigenin 6, 8-di-C-glucopyranoside (vicenin-2), quercetin-3`-O-methyl-3-O-glucopyranoside, quercetin-3`-O-methyl-3-O-galactopyranoside, quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, and quercetin-3-O-β-D-galactopyranoside were isolated and elucidated. Total phenolic content was (83.89 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract). The EC₅₀ value of scavenging DPPH radical was 152.0 ± 2 mg/mL. Butanol fraction showed the highest cytotoxic activity against cervical and breast carcinoma cells (IC₅₀ 3.6 and 6.1 mg/mL, respectively). Both methanolic extract and butanol fraction showed wide spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and some fungi. The highest activity was from methanolic extract against Enterococcus faecalis (83.25%) and against Candida tropicalis (77.03%) as compared to reference antibiotics.

Conclusion:

Data obtained from this study demonstrate that D. glaucum possesses significant antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antimicrobial activities which could be ascribed to its flavonoidal content.

SUMMARY

Dipterygium glaucum Decne. herb is one of the common traditional plants with multiple medicinal uses in KSA

Five flvonidal glycosides were isolated and elucidated

This study demonstrated that D. glaucum possesses significant antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antimicrobial activities.

Abbreviations used: KSA: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; TLC: Thin Layer Chromatography; DPPH: 2,2`-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl; EC50: Half maximal effective concentration; IC₅₀: Half maximal inhibitory concentration; DMSO: dimethyl sulfoxide; NMR: Nuclear Magnetic Resonance; ESIMS: Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry; MeOH: Methyl alcohol.

Antioxidant and Intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species/Reactive Nitrogen Species Scavenging Activities of Three Porcupine Bezoars from Hystrix brachyura

BACKGROUND

Porcupine dates are phytobezoar stones that are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments against cancer, postsurgical recovery, dengue fever, etc. The medicinal values have not been scientifically investigated due to the availability and high pricing of the dates.

OBJECTIVES

This paper represents the first report on the phytochemical content, in vitro antioxidant and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS)/reactive nitrogen species (RNS) scavenging properties of the extracts of three porcupine dates: grassy date (GD), black date (BD), and powdery date (PD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dried samples were extracted with methanol and lyophilized. Samples were screened for phytochemical constituents, in vitro antioxidant assays based on total phenolic content (TPC), free radical scavenging, and ferric reducing power (FRP) as well as intracellular ROS and RNS scavenging properties.

RESULTS

Phytochemical screening and total tannins assay revealed that tannins, cardiac glycosides, and terpenoids were found in all porcupine dates with tannins forming the major portion of the TPC. In comparison to GD, BD and PD were found to contain significantly high TPC, radical scavenging activity, and FRP. At 200 μg/ml, BD and PD remarkably scavenged 2, 2-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride-induced ROS in RAW264.7 cells and significantly reduced nitric oxide in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated cells.

CONCLUSION

Overall, BD and PD exhibited promising in vitro antioxidant as well as intracellular ROS/RNS scavenging properties.

SUMMARY

Tannins, cardiac glycoside, and terpenoids were found in all three types of porcupine dates with tannins being the major compoundsAntioxidant contents and properties of three dates were in the order black date (BD) > powdery date (PD) > grassy dateBD and PD extracts showed significant intracellular reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species scavenging properties. Abbreviations Used: TCM: Traditional Chinese Medicine, BD: Black date, GD: Grassy date, PD: Powdery date, TPC: Total phenolic content, FRS: Free radical scavenging, FRP: Ferric reducing power, NO: Nitric oxide, ROS: Reactive oxygen species, RNS: Reactive nitrogen species, GAE: Gallic acid equivalent, AAE: Ascorbic acid equivalent, PVPP: Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone, DCFH-DA: Dichloro-dihydro-fluorescein diacetate, AAPH: 2, 2-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride, LPS: Lipopolysaccharide.

Plant-based remedies for wolf bites and rituals against wolves in the Iberian Peninsula: Therapeutic opportunities and cultural values for the conservation of biocultural diversity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Combined approaches to local knowledge and folk plant use improve awareness and promote effective strategies for the conservation of significant biocultural patrimony. Moreover, the information reported might be the basis for further appropriate phytochemical and pharmacological research. Therefore we provide an insight into traditional herbal remedies and practices for healing bite injuries in humans and domestic animals caused by the Iberian wolf. Wolf bites are associated with inflammatory processes and rabies is a potential complication AIMS: This paper describes and summarises the medicinal-veterinary empirical and ritual uses of the Iberian flora for wolf injuries and reviews the ethnopharmacological data of specific plants that are already published. The Iberian wolf is a critically endangered subspecies of the grey wolf. Livestock attacks attributed to wolves are increasingly frequent in the Iberian Peninsula, resulting in serious social problems. Interesting strategies for Iberian wolf conservation might be related to traditional grazing practices that are deeply linked with empirical knowledge and local practices passed on by oral tradition, which are also vulnerable now.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Based on documentary sources from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present, we systematically searched old monographs, regional documents, technical papers, project reports, as well as the international and national databases and the available scientific literature, without restrictions regarding the language of the publications consulted.

RESULTS

A total of 39 remedies for healing wolf bite injuries in humans and domestic animals was reported, highlighting the medicinal use of 33 species of vascular plants, mostly wild herbs, belonging to 18 botanical families. The use of wood ashes was also reported. The number of use-reports found represents a very high number considering similar European studies. Leaves were the predominant plant part mentioned. Boiling plant materials in water for topical uses was the most frequent method of preparation found. Some traditional remedies combined two or more plant species in order to potentiate their effects. Moreover, some plant-based traditional practices and rituals to ward off wolves and to prevent wolf attacks were also documented. In these practices eleven other species (belonging to seven more families) were used.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the decline of the Iberian wolf over the last few decades, wolves are still in the imaginary of rural communities that perceive this large carnivore as both a diabolic creature and a mythic and benign animal. Wolf-related cultural heritage is of great interest in terms of conservation strategies. This review emphasises the importance of local knowledge and provides useful information about several potential sources of phytochemicals and their claimed therapeutic effects, aiming at contributing to the conservation and appreciation of the Iberian biocultural heritage.

The Effects of Piper Guineense versus Sesamum Indicum Aqueous Extracts on Lipid Metabolism and Antioxidants in Hypercholesterolemic Rats

BACKGROUND

Piper guineense (PG) and Sesamum indicum (SI) have been shown to be rich sources of antioxidants and other health benefits; hence, we evaluated the impact of its consumption in hypercholesterolemic model on lipid metabolism.

METHODS

Forty-eight animals were divided into eight groups of six rats each. Rats were given cholesterol (40 mg/0.3ml), PG and SI extract (100 and 200 mg/kg), and Questran (0.26 g/kg) orally, five times a week for 28 days. Lipid profile, hepatic antioxidant status, biomarkers of liver toxicity, and tissue histopathology were examined. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and P<0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Cholesterol feeding caused 100% gain in weight, significantly increased AST, LPO (P=0.41 and 0.002) but significantly decreased SOD (P=0.003) compared to control. CHPG(1)/(2) and CHSI(1)/(2) caused a significant decrease (P=0.01, 0.005, 0.003, and 0.023) in cholesterol-induced body-weight gain and decreased serum total cholesterol by 20-30% compared to untreated-hypercholesterolemic rats. Triglyceride and LDL-c decreased with extract administration and specifically HDL-c increased significantly (P<0.001) by CHSI(1) compared to untreated-hypercholesterol rats. Furthermore, an increase in HDL-c was higher (P=0.04 and 0.002) by SI compared to PG at both doses.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that PG and SI exerts a hypolipidemic effect, reduces cholesterol intake induced body weight gain, and increases the body's antioxidant defense system in experimental hypercholesterolemia.

Validation of the AlamarBlue® Assay as a Fast Screening Method to Determine the Antimicrobial Activity of Botanical Extracts

Plant compounds are a potential source of new antimicrobial molecules against a variety of infections. Plant extracts suppose complex phytochemical libraries that may be used for the first stages of the screening process for antimicrobials. However, their large variability and complexity require fast and inexpensive methods that allow a rapid and adequate screening for antimicrobial activity against a variety of bacteria and fungi. In this study, a multi-well plate assay using the AlamarBlue® fluorescent dye was applied to screen for antimicrobial activity of several botanical extracts and the data were correlated with microbial colony forming units (CFU). This correlation was performed for three pathogenic model microorganisms: Escherichia coli (Gram negative bacteria), Staphylococcus aureus (Gram positive bacteria) and for the yeast-like fungi Candida albicans. A total of ten plant extracts from different Mediterranean plants, including several Cistus and Hibiscus species, were successfully tested. HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analysis was utilized for the characterization of the extracts in order to establish structure-activity correlations. The results show that extracts enriched in ellagitannins and flavonols are promising antibacterial agents against both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. In contrast, phenolic acids, anthocyanidins and flavonols may be related to the observed antifungal activity.