The Genus Heracleum : A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Ethnobotanical Values as a Useful Herb

Bioactivities and Chemotaxonomy of Four Heracleum Species: A Comparative Study Across Plant Parts

Background/Objectives: This study investigates the phytochemical profile, essential oil composition, and bioactivities-including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibio-film, and anti-quorum sensing (QS) activities-of four Heracleum L. species (H. crenatifolium Boiss, H. paphlagonicum Czeczott, H. sphondylium subsp. montanum Schleich. ex Gaudin, and H. pastinacifolium subsp. incanum (Boiss. & A.Huet) P.H.Davis). Methods: Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified using the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride colorimetric methods, respectively. Essential oils were extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed via Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), while Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) evaluated chemical variability among the species. Antioxidant activities were assessed using DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging assays. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the broth microdilution method to determine Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values, while antibiofilm activity was evaluated using an in vitro microplate-based biofilm model against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. Anti-QS activity was analyzed using a disc diffusion assay with Chromobacterium violaceum ATCC 12472 as the reporter strain. Results: It was observed that the amounts of total phenolic compounds and total flavonoids were higher in root extracts than in aerial parts extracts for the four species in this study (H. sphondylium subsp. montanum excluding phenolic content). In the analysis of essential oil, it was determined that the major component in the roots was mostly myristicin, and in the fruits it was mostly octyl acetate. Phenolic and flavonoid contents were positively correlated with antioxidant activity. Methanol and n-hexane extracts of H. pastinacifolium (aerial parts) and n-hexane extracts of H. paphlagonicum (root) exhibited notable antimicrobial activity, primarily against Gram-positive bacteria, but none of the extracts showed activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13383 or P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853. Among methanol extracts, H. pastinacifolium (aerial parts) exhibited the highest antibiofilm activity (73.2%), while H. paphlagonicum (aerial parts) showed the highest activity among n-hexane extracts (75.5%). All n-hexane extracts exhibited anti-QS activity, whereas the methanol extracts showed no activity. Conclusions: These findings underscore the chemical diversity and bioactive potential of Heracleum species, contributing to the chemotaxonomic understanding of the genus and supporting their potential applications in medicine and industry. To our knowledge, this is the first study that reveals the antibiofilm and anti-QS properties of these Heracleum species.

Drugs from poisonous plants: Ethnopharmacological relevance to modern perspectives

The world of plant diversity is endlessly fascinating and essential for life on Earth. Since the inception of early civilization, humans have utilized plants for several purposes, particularly for their medicinal value. While some plants are known for their toxicity, they also contain beneficial phytochemicals that are important for both plants and humans, indicating their dual nature. This study aims to explore and synthesize the existing knowledge on various poisonous plant species found worldwide. It primarily focuses on the therapeutic potential of specific types of phytochemicals responsible for treating multiple diseases. This review includes a list of 70 poisonous plants with medicinal properties for treating various ailments, as well as some of their traditional uses. A few of these plants are emphasized, which have been tremendously explored and studied, hold significant potential to contribute to modern drug discovery. Furthermore, it addresses the possible prospects and challenges of using poisonous plants and their phytochemicals as therapeutic agents. Although the therapeutic potential of poisonous plants is substantial, many toxins remain unexplored. This review accentuates the need for rigorous scientific investigations, prior to clinical trials to validate their traditional uses, which would reveal the pharmacological interventions that will eventually advance human health and well-being.

Invasive Plants as a Source of Polyphenols with High Radical Scavenging Activity

The wide occurrence and expansive nature of invasive plant species are worldwide problems because these plants by their competitive character can lead to the loss of biodiversity. As a result, they significantly disrupt ecosystems, create economic damage and threats to human health, and diminish the quality of recreational resources. Therefore, sustainable, bio-based solutions are needed for their control, focusing on the utilization of their biomass after eradication. To better understand the potential application possibilities of invasive plants and their potential role in bioeconomy, species such as Lupinus polyphyllus-Lindl., Impatiens glandulifera Royle, Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden, Solidago canadensis L., Echinocystis lobata (Michx.), and Elodea canadensis Michx. were studied. These plants are not only widely spread but also form dense mono-stands and produce substantial amounts of biomass, which provides more options for their harvesting. In particular, their composition was analysed to assess the feasibility of their use for bioactive compound extraction. The amount of total polyphenols and flavonoids was determined in various parts of the studied invasive plants, and their corresponding radical scavenging activities were determined using DPPH, ABTS, FRAP and CUPRAC. The studied invasive plants are rich sources of polyphenols, and the highest concentrations were found in Impatiens glandulifera leaves, reaching a concentration of 7.78-11.75 g GAE/100 g DW, but in Lupinus polyphyllus, the highest concentrations of polyphenols were identified in the extracts of the flowers (12.77 g GAE/100 g DW) and leaves (11.88 g GAE/100 g DW) of the plant. Among the various plant parts studied, the leaves and flowers consistently showed the highest concentrations of polyphenols and flavonoids, as well as the greatest antioxidant and radical scavenging activities. These findings underscore the potential of invasive plant biomass as a source of valuable bioactive substances, particularly polyphenols, after the eradication of these invasive species.

The complete chloroplast genome of Heracleum hemsleyanum Diels (Apioideae), a traditional medicinal herb in China

Heracleum hemsleyanum Diels is a traditional medicinal herb in China. We reported its first complete chloroplast genome. The chloroplast genome was 146,775 bp in length with 37.53% GC content, containing a large single copy region (LSC, 93,309 bp), a small single copy region (SSC, 17,502 bp), and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs, 17,982 bp). Moreover, the chloroplast genome encoded 130 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 36 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), and eight ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs). Phylogenetic analysis indicated that H. hemsleyanum was closely related to Heracleum moellendorffii and Heracleum yungningense. This assembled chloroplast genome will provide vital information on the genetic resources, phylogenetic relationships, and the species identification of the genus Heracleum.

Phytochemical investigation and assessment of the anti-inflammatory activity of four Heracleum taxa growing in Turkey

Introduction

Heracleum L. has been known as "hogweed" and used for inflammatory diseases, including fever, enteritis, and bronchitis, for many years worldwide. The Heracleum genus is also prominently recognized for its high content of coumarins, which are considered a significant group of natural compounds known for their noteworthy anti-inflammatory properties.

Methods

The present study evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity of dichloromethane and methanolic extracts from H. paphlagonicum, H. sphondylium subsp. ternatum, H. sphondylium subsp. elegans, and H. sphondylium subsp. cyclocarpum (100 mg/kg), which have not been previously investigated for their anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation models induced by carrageenan, prostaglandin E2, and serotonin were employed to evaluate anti-inflammatory activity, using indomethacin (10 mg/kg) as the reference standard. Statistical differences between treatment and control groups were evaluated using ANOVA with Student-Newman-Keuls post-hoc tests. Additionally, the coumarin contents of the extracts were quantified as mg/g by high-performance liquid chromatography.

Results and discussion

H. sphondylium subsp. cyclocarpum roots displayed the highest inhibition for carrageenan, prostaglandin E2, and serotonin-induced hind paw edema, with inhibition ranges of 22.8%-36.9%, 5.4%-35.7%, and 3.9%-17.9%, respectively, while the inhibition ranges for indomethacin were 12.8%-44.3%, 2.7%-41.3%, and 7.1%-30.6%, respectively. The highest bergapten and imperatorin quantities were found in H. sphondylium subsp. cyclocarpum roots (0.49% and 0.14%) and in H. sphondylium subsp. elegans roots, which had the highest xanthotoxin level (0.06%). Angelicin was detected in H. paphlagonicum, H. sphondylium subsp. elegans, and H. sphondylium subsp. cyclocarpum roots at concentrations of 0.04%, 0.04%, and 0.02%, respectively. The correlation between the highest inhibitory activity observed in H. sphondylium subsp. cyclocarpum roots and the elevated levels of coumarins, particularly bergapten and imperatorin, suggests a potential link between coumarin concentration and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, our findings support the traditional use of this genus for treating inflammatory disorders. Further investigations are necessary to identify the active compounds and elucidate the mechanisms of action of these plants, potentially leading to the discovery of novel therapeutic options for the treatment of inflammation.

Unveiling the Larvicidal Potential of Golpar (Heracleum persicum Desf. ex Fisch.) Essential Oil and Its Main Constituents on Aedes and Anopheles Mosquito Vectors

Natural products are thoroughly studied as valuable alternatives to synthetic insecticides. Heracleum persicum Desf. ex Fisch. (Apiaceae), commonly known as Golpar, is an Iranian medicinal plant largely employed as a spice, which has previously revealed insecticidal potential. The chemical composition of H. persicum essential oil (EO) was investigated by GC-MS and was mainly dominated by hexyl butyrate (36.1%) and octyl acetate (23.7%). The EO and its main esters were tested on three mosquito species. Aedes aegypti (L.) larvae were the most sensitive to all tested products. Lethal concentrations (LC50) of 59.09, 53.59, and 47.05 ppm were recorded for the EO, hexyl butyrate, and octyl acetate, respectively. Aedes albopictus (Skuse) and Anopheles gambiae Giles demonstrated comparable sensitivity to the EO, with LC50 values of 102.97 and 97.91 ppm, respectively, whereas the isolated constituents appeared more active on An. gambiae (LC50 of hexyl butyrate and octyl acetate of 70.97 and 60.71 ppm, respectively) with respect to Ae. albopictus (LC50 of hexyl butyrate and octyl acetate of 85.40 and 91.38 ppm, respectively). Low toxicity was registered for both EO and single components against human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. Overall, the H. persicum EO, hexyl butyrate, and octyl acetate could be further considered for larvicide development.

Aroma component analysis by HS-SPME/GC-MS to characterize Lager, Ale, and sour beer styles

The world of beer is a rich tapestry woven with diverse styles, each with its unique character. Lager, known for its crispness, ferments at lower temperatures, while ale, at warmer ones, boasts a wide spectrum of aromas. Belgian beers dazzle with their complexity, from fruity Trappist ales to sour lambics. German wheat beers, like hefeweizens, charm with their effervescence and fruity undertones. India Pale Ales (IPAs) showcase a hoppy burst, while sour ales tantalize with their tanginess. Craftsmanship, history, and regional ingredients intertwine in this world of brewing, offering aficionados an array of delightful experiences. Research on craft beer aromas is limited, and molecular fingerprint could be crucial. To date, there have been no studies focused on characterizing compound profiles to differentiate beer styles. The Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction (HS-SPME) method provides a rapid and solvent-free approach to volatile compound. The present study aims to characterize the aroma profile of a wide range of beers by using HS-SPME/GC-MS technique combined with multivariate data processing. A total of 120 beer samples were collected and divided into five categories: Pilsen (n = 28); Lager (n = 23); Ale (n = 32); Sour (n = 24); and Belgian Ales (n = 13). Among the Pilsen beers, 18 unique compounds were found for beers with hop extract and hops, and 2 for beers with hop extract (Octyl acetate; and alpha-Terpineol). When comparing the remaining groups to each other, Belgian beers exhibited 5 unique compounds, and Lagers had one (nonanal). Sours and Ales did not have unique compounds but shared 2 distinct compounds with the Belgian group each. We concluded that Belgian beers are the most complex in terms of various aroma-related compounds, and that it is possible to distinguish beers that use pure hops from hop extract.

Insight into Romanian Wild-Grown Heracleum sphondylium: Development of a New Phytocarrier Based on Silver Nanoparticles with Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Cytotoxicity Potential

Background: Heracleum sphondylium, a medicinal plant used in Romanian ethnopharmacology, has been proven to have remarkable biological activity. The escalating concerns surrounding antimicrobial resistance led to a special attention being paid to new efficient antimicrobial agents based on medicinal plants and nanotechnology. We report the preparation of a novel, simple phytocarrier that harnesses the bioactive properties of H. sphondylium and silver nanoparticles (HS-Ag system). Methods: H. sphondylium's low metabolic profile was determined through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and electrospray ionization-quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometry. The morphostructural properties of the innovative phytocarrier were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using total phenolic content, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) in vitro assays. The antimicrobial activity screening against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli was conducted using the agar well diffusion method. The 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay estimated the in vitro potential cytotoxicity on normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells. Results: A total of 88 biomolecules were detected, such as terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, coumarins, phenylpropanoids, iridoids, amino acids, phytosterols, fatty acids. The HS-Ag phytocarrier heightened efficacy in suppressing the growth of all tested bacterial strains compared to H. sphondylium and exhibited a significant inhibition of HeLa cell viability. Conclusions: The new HS-Ag phytocarrier system holds promise for a wide range of medical applications. The data confirm the capacity to augment the pertinent theoretical understanding in the innovative field of antimicrobial agents.

Heracleum sphondylium L. subsp. sphondylium (Apiaceae) of the Isle of Skye (Scotland): the chemical composition of essential oil from the flowering aerial parts

Heracleum is a large genus of plants belonging to Apiaceae family that includes about 90 species of biennial or perennial herbs. Several species of this genus are extensively used in various traditional medicines and, despite their content in toxic furanocoumarins, also as food. In the present study the chemical composition of the essential oil (EO) from flowering aerial parts of Heracleum sphondylium L. subsp. sphondylium, a plant distributed in Europe and North-West Africa, collected in the Isle of Skye (Scotland), was analyzed by GC and GC-MS. No one report has been previously published on any British accession. The result showed the presence of large quantity of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons and aliphatic esters, with bicyclogermacrene (31.6%) and octyl acetate (29.5%), by far, as the most abundant components. Considerations with respect all the other EOs of H. sphondylium taxa, studied so far, were carried out.

High-Altitude Medicinal Plants as Promising Source of Phytochemical Antioxidants to Combat Lifestyle-Associated Oxidative Stress-Induced Disorders

Oxidative stress, driven by reactive oxygen, nitrogen, and sulphur species (ROS, RNS, RSS), poses a significant threat to cellular integrity and human health. Generated during mitochondrial respiration, inflammation, UV exposure and pollution, these species damage cells and contribute to pathologies like cardiovascular issues, neurodegeneration, cancer, and metabolic syndromes. Lifestyle factors exert a substantial influence on oxidative stress levels, with mitochondria emerging as pivotal players in ROS generation and cellular equilibrium. Phytochemicals, abundant in plants, such as carotenoids, ascorbic acid, tocopherols and polyphenols, offer diverse antioxidant mechanisms. They scavenge free radicals, chelate metal ions, and modulate cellular signalling pathways to mitigate oxidative damage. Furthermore, plants thriving in high-altitude regions are adapted to extreme conditions, and synthesize secondary metabolites, like flavonoids and phenolic compounds in bulk quantities, which act to form a robust antioxidant defence against oxidative stress, including UV radiation and temperature fluctuations. These plants are promising sources for drug development, offering innovative strategies by which to manage oxidative stress-related ailments and enhance human health. Understanding and harnessing the antioxidant potential of phytochemicals from high-altitude plants represent crucial steps in combating oxidative stress-induced disorders and promoting overall wellbeing. This study offers a comprehensive summary of the production and physio-pathological aspects of lifestyle-induced oxidative stress disorders and explores the potential of phytochemicals as promising antioxidants. Additionally, it presents an appraisal of high-altitude medicinal plants as significant sources of antioxidants, highlighting their potential for drug development and the creation of innovative antioxidant therapeutic approaches.

Identification of plant based potential antifungal compounds against BMK-1 protein of Bipolaris oryzae using molecular docking approach

Rice brown spot is an important disease of rice worldwide that inflicts substantial yield losses. The antimicrobial potential of methanol, acetone and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) extracts of different medicinal plants, viz., Syzygium aromaticum, Saussurea costus, Acorus calamus, Bergenia ciliate, Geranium pratense, Mentha longifolia, Inula racemosa, Podophyllum hexandrum, Heracleum candicans and Picrorhiza kurroa, against the brown spot pathogen Bipolaris oryzae in vitro was evaluated via mycelial growth inhibition and spore germination inhibition assays. Among the plant extracts tested, 100% mycelial inhibition was observed for the methanol extract of Syzygium aromaticum at all three concentrations (2000 ppm, 3000 ppm and 4000 ppm), followed by the methanol extract of Inula racemosa (90.33%) at 4000 ppm. A maximum conidial germination inhibition of 83.54% was exhibited by the Heracleum candicans leaf extract. Phytochemical profiling of Syzygium aromaticum and Inula racemosa through liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (HR-LCMS) revealed the presence of several compounds, such as eugenol, ursolic acid, quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and noscapine. A molecular docking approach was used to identify key inhibitory molecules against B. oryzae. Among the compounds detected in S. aromaticum and Inula racemosa, ursolic acid and noscapine were found to have the greatest binding affinity for the Big Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase (BMK-1) enzyme present in B. oryzae. In conclusion, S. aromaticum and Inula racemosa are potent compounds that could serve as lead compounds for drug discovery in the future.

Phytochemical analysis and biological evaluation of essential oils and extracts from Heracleum pastinacifolium subsp. incanum (Boiss. & A.Huet) P.H.Davis, an endemic plant from Turkey

Essential oil content of and phenolic compounds flower-fruit, root, and aerial parts of Heracleum pastinacifolium subsp. incanum were analysed by GC/MS and LC/MS methods, respectively. Antidiabetic, anticholinesterase, and antioxidant activities of flower-fruit, root, aerial parts methanol extracts were evaluated. Apiole (35.0%), myristicine (72.2%), and myristicine (15.1%) were found as major compounds of fruit-flower mixture, root, aerial part essential oils, respectively. Hesperidin was found the highest amount in aerial part and flower-fruit extracts with 8904.2621 ng/mL and 11558.3634 ng/mL values, respectively. Fruit-flower extract showed the highest activity against α-glucosidase (24%). Root extract demonstrating the highest activity (18%) against AChE enzyme. Flowers-fruits mixture methanol extract had a higher % inhibition value on ABTS·+ and DPPH•. Flowers-fruits mixture methanol extract was rich in total phenol, total tannin, and protein content. All the extracts were determined as genetoxically safe according to the results of Ames/Salmonella, Escherichia coli WP2 and Allium cepa assays.

Does the Invasive Heracleum mantegazzianum Influence Other Species by Allelopathy?

Heracleum mantegazzianum is an invasive species in middle Europe. The mode of action of its invasiveness is still not known. Our study focuses on observation of potential allelopathic influence by the production and release of phytochemicals into its environment. Plant material was collected four times within one season (April, May, June, July 2019) at locality Lekárovce (eastern Slovakia) for comparison of differences in composition and potential allelopathy. Water extracts from collected samples were used for different biological assays. The total phenols and flavonoids were determined spectrophotometrically. The profile and content of phenolic components, including coumarins, were determined by two techniques of liquid chromatography along with in vitro evaluation of the free radical scavenging activity of extracts (DPPH, Hydroxyl, Superoxide, and FRAP). The changes in composition in extracts in different seasonal periods were evident as well as potential phytotoxic activity in some concentrations on specific model plants. The slight antioxidant activity was noted. The invasiveness of the current species could be supported by the excretion of its phytochemicals into its surroundings and by different modes of action influencing living organisms in its environment.

Role of mitochondrial farnesyltransferase gene in the prevention of the food spoilage fungi Aspergillus flavus by the antimicrobial natural preservative perillaldehyde

Aspergillus flavus, one of the most widely distributed and abundant genus of Aspergillus worldwide, poses an evident threat as a source of food contamination in grains and cereals. Perillaldehyde (PAE), a volatile essential oil extracted from the stem and leaves of Perilla frutescens L., exhibits potent antifungal activity. In our study, we investigated the role of Cox10, a key enzyme in the heme A synthesis pathway crucial for maintaining mitochondrial function. We found that cox10 is a sensitive gene of A. flavus in response to PAE by gene expression assay and GFP fluorescent localization tagging, and then we found that the deletion of this gene affects the growth and development of A. flavus, but the drug resistance is elevated. Through transcriptome sequencing and its experimental validation, the molecular mechanisms of stress triggered by the deletion of cox10 were further clarified, such as the decrease in intracellular drug content due to the increase in the expression of drug efflux proteins, and the increase in the thickness of cell wall due to the increase in the content of cell wall chitin. Clearly, cox10 plays a critical role in regulating various cellular processes of A. flavus, including growth, reproduction, development, as well as pathogenicity and drug resistance. These significant findings establish a solid theoretical foundation for the development of environmentally friendly, safe, and effective antifungal agents to combat A. flavus contamination.

The genus Actinidia Lindl. (Actinidiaceae): A comprehensive review on its ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Actinidia Lindl. belongs to the family Actinidiaceae. Plants of this genus are popularly known as kiwifruits and are traditionally used to treat a wide range of ailments associated with digestive disorders, rheumatism, kidney problems, cardiovascular system, cancers, dyspepsia, hemorrhoids, and diabetes among others.

AIM

This review discusses the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical profile, and known pharmacological properties of Actinidia plants, to understand their connotations and provide the scientific basis for future studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data were obtained by surveying journal articles, books, and dissertations using various search engines such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Springer Link, and Web of Science. The online databases; World Flora Online, Plants of the World Online, International Plant Names Index, and Global Biodiversity Information Facility were used to confirm the distribution and validate scientific names of Actinidia plants. The isolated metabolites from these species were illustrated using ChemBio Draw ultra-version 14.0 software.

RESULTS

Ten (10) species of Actinidia genus have been reported as significant sources of traditional medicines utilized to remedy diverse illnesses. Our findings revealed that a total of 873 secondary metabolites belonging to different classes such as terpenoids, phenolic compounds, alcohols, ketones, organic acids, esters, hydrocarbons, and steroids have been isolated from different species of Actinidia. These compounds were mainly related to the exhibited antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antiproliferative, anti-angiogenic, anticinoceptive, anti-tumor, and anticancer activities.

CONCLUSION

This study assessed the information related to the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical compounds, and pharmacological properties of Actinidia species, which indicate that they possess diverse bioactive metabolites with interesting bioactivities. Actinidia plants have great potential for applications in folklore medicines and pharmaceuticals due to their wide ethnomedicinal uses and biological activities. Traditional uses of several Actinidia species are supported by scientific evidences, qualifying them as possible modern remedies for various ailments. Nonetheless, the currently available data has several gaps in understanding the herbal utilization of most Actinidia species. Thus, further research into their toxicity, mechanisms of actions of the isolated bioactive metabolites, as well as scientific connotations between the traditional medicinal uses and pharmacological properties is required to unravel their efficacy in therapeutic potential for safe clinical application.

Ethnobotanical and ethnomedicinal research into medicinal plants in the Mt Stara Planina region (south-eastern Serbia, Western Balkans)

BACKGROUND

Ethnobotanical research in Southeast Europe-one of the most important European hotspots for biocultural diversity-is significant for the acquisition of Traditional Ecological Knowledge related to plants as well as for encouraging the development of local environments. The current ethnobotanical research was conducted in the region of Mt Stara Planina (south-eastern Serbia), which is characterised by rich phytodiversity with a large number of endemic and relict plant species. The aim of the study was to document the diversity of uses of medicinal plants and of traditional knowledge on their therapeutic uses.

METHODS

Ethnobotanical data was collected through both open and semi-structured interviews with locals. Fifty-one inhabitants were interviewed (26 men and 25 women), aged 30-91, and data was analysed by means of use reports, citation frequency, use values (UV), and the informant consensus factor (ICF).

RESULTS

The study identified 136 vascular medicinal plant taxa and one lichen species belonging to 53 families and 116 genera. Lamiaceae (19), Rosaceae (18), and Asteraceae (17) had the highest species diversity. The plant parts most commonly used to make a variety of herbal preparations were the aerial parts (54 citations), leaves (35 citations), fruits (20 citations), flowers (18 citations), and roots (16 citations), while the most common forms of preparation were teas (60.78%), consumption of fresh tubers, leaves, roots, and fructus (6.86%), compresses (5.88%), juices (5.39%), decoctions (3.92%), 'travarica' brandy (3.92%), and syrups (2.45%). Of the recorded species, 102 were administered orally, 17 topically, and 18 both orally and topically. The plants with a maximum use value (UV = 1) were Allium sativum, Allium ursinum, Gentiana asclepiadea, Gentiana cruciata, Gentiana lutea, Hypericum perforatum, Thymus serpyllum and Urtica dioica. The highest ICF value (ICF = 0.95) was recorded in the categories of Skin and Blood, Blood Forming Organs, and Immune Mechanism.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that medicinal plants in the research area are an extremely important natural resource for the local population as they are an important component of their health culture and provide a better standard of living.

Sub-chronic Toxicity Study of Heracleum lasiopetalum Extract Towards Healthy Sprague Dawley Rats

Background

Heracleum species are commonly used as spices, flavorings, and food additives. Members of the genus Heracleum offer many medicinal benefits but may also pose adverse effects on human health.

Objectives

To prepare a crude leaf extract of Heracleum lasiopetalum and assess its toxicity profile towards healthy rats.

Methods

The H. lasiopetalum leaf extract was prepared using pure methanol and ethyl acetate (1:10) at room temperature over a period of 72 hours. After filtration, the crude extract was obtained using a rotary evaporator at 40 - 45°C. Subsequently, various doses of the H. lasiopetalum extract were administered orally to healthy Sprague Dawley rats at three doses (300, 600, and 900 mg/kg body weight) for four weeks to test for toxicity. Blood samples were examined for hematologic and biochemical changes, while the liver, kidneys, and heart were examined for histopathological changes.

Results

The toxicity study revealed no mortality at low and medium doses, as well as no clinical toxicity indicators. Additionally, there were no significant alterations observed in the haematological, biochemical, and histopathological profiles of the treated animals throughout the 28-day experiment. However, at high doses, the mortality rate was significantly elevated, accompanied by notable histopathological changes.

Conclusions

Continuous administration of high doses of H. lasiopetaum may induce potential toxic effects in the treated animals.

The effect of flavorings on PAHs level in the roasted sunflower seeds

The amount of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can be reduced by food additives. In this study, the impact of various flavors was investigated on the formation of PAHs in roasted sunflower seeds. PAHs was measured in the shell and kernel of sunflower with the flavors of lemon, golpar (hogweed), salt, ketchup and raw sunflower. Measuring the amount of PAHs was analyzed by Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). PAHs with low molecular weight were detected. The total of PAHs of sunflower seeds were in the range of 0.4-3.2 mg kg-1. The lowest amount was related to the hogweed kernel, and the highest amount was related to the lemon. High molecular weight PAHs were not detected because the temperature did not rise above 100 °C during roasting. Some flavors, such as hogweed can reduce the amount of PAHs because of their antioxidant properties. On the contrary, the PAHs level with lemon juice was higher than other flavors.

Isolation of coumarins with anti-Trichophyton rubrum activity from Heracleum vicinum Boiss

Heracleum vicinum Boiss., a perennial plant of Angelica in Umbelliferae, is mainly distributed in Sichuan and Hunan of China. Trichophyton rubrum is a common skin fungus causing dermatophyte. The previous experimental study found that the ethanol extract from Heracleum vicinum Boiss. had excellent anti-Trichophyton rubrum activity, especially the ethanol extract further extracted with petroleum ether and dichloromethane has the best antibacterial effect and has good potential for treating dermatophytes. In this study, Heracleum vicinum Boiss. was extracted with ethanol by microwave-assisted ultrasonic extraction method and isolated with silica gel column to obtain a coumarin compound M1-1 by the guidance of anti-Trichophyton rubrum activity, which was characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy(13C-NMR), hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS), and ultraviolet (UV) and identified as imperatorin and belonged to coumarins, with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Trichophyton rubrum of 12.5 μg/mL. According to the discussion on the inhibitory mechanism of the compound, we found that the compound may exert its inhibitory effect by destroying the mycelial membrane and inhibiting the mycelial growth of Trichophyton rubrum. In a word, imperatorin isolated from Heracleum vicinum Boiss. is expected to be used as an antibacterial agent to treat dermatophytes a potential natural compound against Trichophyton rubrum, and a template for drug development of dermatophytes the future.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Natural Feed Additives for Meat Chickens

Broiler chickens are increasingly kept in large numbers in intensive housing conditions that are stressful, potentially depleting the immune system. With the prohibition of the use of antibiotics in poultry feed spreading worldwide, it is necessary to consider the role of natural feed additives and antibiotic alternatives to stimulate the chickens' immune systems. We review the literature to describe phytogenic feed additives that have immunomodulatory benefits in broilers. We initially review the major active ingredients from plants, particularly flavonoids, resveratrol and humic acid, and then describe the major herbs, spices, and other plants and their byproducts that have immunomodulatory effects. The research reviewed demonstrates the effectiveness of many natural feed additives in improving the avian immune system and therefore broiler health. However, some, and perhaps all, additives have the potential to reduce immunocompetence if given in excessive amounts. Sometimes additives are more effective when given in combination. There is an urgent need to determine tolerance levels and optimum doses for additives deemed most suitable to replace antibiotics in the diet of broiler chickens. Effective replacement is most likely with readily available additives, such as olive oil byproducts, olive leaves and alfalfa. It is concluded that effective replacement of antibiotic function with plant-derived additives will be possible, but that further research is necessary to determine optimum doses.

Hogweed Seed Oil: Physico-Chemical Characterization, LC-MS Profile, and Neuroprotective Activity of Heracleum dissectum Nanosuspension

The seeds of dissected hogweed (Heracleum dissectum Ledeb., Apiaceae) are the source of hogweed oil (HSO), which is still underexplored and requires careful chemical and biological studies. The performed physico-chemical analysis of HSO elucidated basic physical characteristics and revealed the presence of fatty acids, essential oil components, pigments, and coumarins. High-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection and electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometric detection (HPLC-PDA-ESI-tQ-MS/MS) identified 38 coumarins that were characterized and quantified. Various furanocoumarins were the major components of HSO polyphenolics, including imperatorin, phellopterin, and isoimperatorin, and the total coumarin content in HSO varied from 181.14 to 238.42 mg/mL. The analysis of storage stability of the selected compounds in HSO indicated their good preservation after 3-year storage at cold and freezing temperatures. The application of the CO₂-assisted effervescence method allowed the production of an HSO nanosuspension, which was used in a brain ischemia model of rats. The HSO nanosuspension enhanced cerebral hemodynamics and decreased the frequency of necrotic processes in the brain tissue. Thus, H. dissectum seeds are a good source of coumarins, and HSO nanosuspension promotes neuroprotection of the brain after lesions, which supports earlier ethnopharmacological data.

Heracleum persicum Desf. ex Fisch., C.A.Mey. & Avé-Lall. fruit essential oil: content, antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity against ovarian cancer cell line

BACKGROUND

One of the most important aromatic species of the Apiaceae family is Heracleum persicum Desf. ex Fisch., C.A.Mey. & Avé-Lall, which used as a spice and condiment in food. It is widely used in traditional Iranian medicine due to its anti-toxic properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the essential oil of this plant in terms of content and ingredients, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity.

METHODS

The fruit of H. persicum was collected in June 2019 from Maragheh region of Kashan, Iran. The essential oil was extracted by water distillation using Clevenger for 3 h. Identification analysis of H. persicum fruit essential oil (HPFEO) components was performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Evaluation of the effect of the HPFEO on the growth and proliferation of ovarian cancer cell line (OVCAR-3) was performed using MTT colorimetric method. Its antimicrobial activity was evaluated by agar diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal/fungal lethality concentration (MBC/MFC).

RESULTS

The results of analysis of the HPFEO by GC-MS showed that there were 35 compounds with 99.54% relative content. Hexyl butyrate (35.24%), octyl 2-methylbutyrate (11.65%), octyl isobutyrate (9.23%), and octyl acetate (8.42%) were the predominant compounds. Examination of cell survival showed that the viability of cells decreased depending on the concentration of the HPFEO in 24 h and had value of IC50 ~ 12.08 μg/ml against OVCAR-3 cell line. The strongest inhibitory activity of the HPFEO was against Gram-negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella paratyphi-A serotype (MIC < 62.50 μg/mL). Also, the strong inhibitory and lethal activity of this essential oil against Candida albicans (MIC and MBC 250 μg/mL was one degree weaker compared to nystatin (MIC = 125 μg/mL).

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, HPFEO, in addition to its traditional use, may have a strong and potential potential for the production of anti-proliferative and antimicrobial drugs.

In Vitro and In Silico Studies for the Identification of Potent Metabolites of Some High-Altitude Medicinal Plants from Nepal Inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein

Despite ongoing vaccination programs against COVID-19 around the world, cases of infection are still rising with new variants. This infers that an effective antiviral drug against COVID-19 is crucial along with vaccinations to decrease cases. A potential target of such antivirals could be the membrane components of the causative pathogen, SARS-CoV-2, for instance spike (S) protein. In our research, we have deployed in vitro screening of crude extracts of seven ethnomedicinal plants against the spike receptor-binding domain (S1-RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Following encouraging in vitro results for Tinospora cordifolia, in silico studies were conducted for the 14 reported antiviral secondary metabolites isolated from T. cordifolia-a species widely cultivated and used as an antiviral drug in the Himalayan country of Nepal-using Genetic Optimization for Ligand Docking (GOLD), Molecular Operating Environment (MOE), and BIOVIA Discovery Studio. The molecular docking and binding energy study revealed that cordifolioside-A had a higher binding affinity and was the most effective in binding to the competitive site of the spike protein. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies using GROMACS 5.4.1 further assayed the interaction between the potent compound and binding sites of the spike protein. It revealed that cordifolioside-A demonstrated better binding affinity and stability, and resulted in a conformational change in S1-RBD, hence hindering the activities of the protein. In addition, ADMET analysis of the secondary metabolites from T. cordifolia revealed promising pharmacokinetic properties. Our study thus recommends that certain secondary metabolites of T. cordifolia are possible medicinal candidates against SARS-CoV-2.

Phytochemical and biological activities of some Iranian medicinal plants

CONTEXT

Due to adverse effects of synthetic compounds, there is a growing interest in utilization of plant-derived natural products in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Iranian endemic medicinal plants widely used in traditional practice have attracted much attention as antibacterial and antioxidant agents.

OBJECTIVE

This review attempts to compile the accessible scientific research pertained to phytochemical compounds, antibacterial and antioxidant effects of essential oils obtained from some of the most widely used and distributed medicinal plants in Iran.

METHODS

This review has been compiled using references via reliable databases (Google Scholar, SID and Science Direct) from 2010 to 2020. This literature review was limited to references published in English and Persian languages.

RESULTS

Based on studies heretofore carried out, essential oils isolated from mentioned medicinal plants exhibited strong antioxidant activity which is attributed to their main phytochemical compounds; thymol, carvacrol, p-cymene and γ-terpinene. In addition, the antibacterial activities of essential oils of most plant species from Apiaceae and Asteraceae families were more susceptible against Gram-positive bacteria; Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus than Gram-negative bacteria; however, essential oils of other studied plant species manifested similar behaviours against both Gram-positive and -negative bacteria.

CONCLUSIONS

As there is rich ethnobotanical knowledge behind Iranian endemic medicinal plants, further scientific research is required to prove their safety and efficacy. This review revealed that there are numerous valuable medicinal plants adoptable in food and pharmaceutical industries in the near future.

Comparative Content, Biological and Anticancer Activities of Heracleum humile Extracts Obtained by Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Method

As the safety and effectiveness of synthetic drugs remain in doubt, researchers are trying to develop natural medicines from medicinal plants. Herein, ethyl acetate, methanol and water extracts from the Heracleum humile plant were obtained by an ultrasonic-assisted extraction process and the aim was to evaluate some biological effects of the extracts due to the limited data on the pharmacological properties of Heracleum humile in the literature. Weak antibacterial activity was observed on tested bacterial species. The minimum inhibitory concentration and the minimum bactericidal concentration values ranged from 250 to 500 μg/mL. In addition, cytotoxic activity was determined using the MTT test. The strongest findings were determined for ethyl acetate extract on the MDA-MB-231 cell lines at the 48^th  hour (IC₅₀ :97.94 μg/mL), followed by the MCF-7 cell lines at the 24^th  hour (IC₅₀ :103.9 μg/mL). All extracts of Heracleum humile contained mainly flavonoids, phenolic acids and their derivatives, i. e., well-known compounds that possess numerous biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial etc. The study results could provide important information that Heracleum humile could be a potential candidate as a natural enzyme inhibitor. It can be concluded that these extracts could be useful in the elementary step of improving novel plant-derived multifunctional pharmaceuticals.

Heracleum persicum Essential Oil Nanoemulsion: A Nanocarrier System for the Delivery of Promising Anticancer and Antioxidant Bioactive Agents

Essential oils are important compounds for the prevention and/or treatment of various diseases in which solubility and bio-accessibility can be improved by nanoemulsion systems. Heracleum persicum oil nanoemulsion (HAE-NE) was prepared and biological properties were investigated against human breast cancer cells and normal human fibroblasts foreskin. Particle size, zeta potential and poly dispersity index were 153 nm, −47.9 mV and 0.35, respectively. (E)anethole (57.9%), terpinolene (13.8%), ɣ-terpinene (8.1%), myrcene (6.8%), hexyl butyrate (5.2%), octyl butanoate (4.5%) and octyl acetate (3.7%) was detected in nanoemulsion. Proliferation of cancer cells at IC50 = 2.32 μg/mL was significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited, and cell migration occurred at 1.5 μL/mL. The HAE-NE at 1.5, 2.5 and 3.5 µg/concentration up-regulated caspase 3 and enhanced sub-G1 peak of cell cycle with nil cytotoxic effects in the liver, kidney and jejunum of mice. Villus height, villus width, crypt depth and goblet cells in mice group fed with 10 and 20 mg/kg body weight of HAE-NE improved. Cellular redox state in the liver indicated 10 and 20 mg/kg body weight of nanoemulsion significantly up-regulated the expression of SOD, CAT and GPx genes. Heracleum persicum oil nanoemulsion could be an eco-friendly nanotherapeutic option for pharmaceutical, cosmetological and food applications.

Effect of Heracleum sosnowskyi extract aqueous solution on the Allium cepa root meristem

Heracleum sosnowskyi (Apiaceae) contains a lot of useful chemical ingredients that can be used in industry, medicine and other fields as plant component extracts and as chemical compounds that have been extracted in different ways, which requires the last to be tested for chemical safety, including a genotoxic test in vivo. In the present paper, the 96-hour effect of the H. sosnowskyi extract aqueous solution at concentrations of 0.01, 0.05, 0.10, and 0.50 mL/L on the genetic apparatus and mitotic activity of the cells of the Allium cepa (Alliaceae) root meristem is discussed. Distilled water was applied as a negative control, and hydrogen peroxide 1% as a positive one. The extract was prepared from the plant’s fresh leaves by soaking them in acetone. It was then distilled at 57 ºС and diluted with distilled water to obtain the experimental concentrations. As extract content in the aqueous solution increased, a statistically significant decrease in mitotic activity, an increase in aberrant cell percentage and a concentration-dependent inhibition of root growth were observed. In the 0.5 mL/L solution, if compared against the other experimental concentrations, an increase in the metaphase, anaphase and telophase indices along with a decrease in the prophase index were observed. The most common aberrations for all the concentrations were lagging and sticking chromosomes, anaphase bridges, ring chromosomes and nuclear buds. The same solution and the positive control produced membrane damage; giant and ghost cells. The results of the experiment performed have demonstrated the extract’s aneugenic effect that causes spindle disturbance, mitodepression and inhibits the cells of the Allium cepa root meristem, prevails over its clastogenic effect.

Recent development in biological activities and safety concerns of perillaldehyde from perilla plants: A review

Monoterpene Perillaldehyde (PAE) is a major component of the essential oil extracted from perilla plants (Perilla frutescens), which has been used as a leafy vegetable and a medicinal agent. PAE has gained a lot of attention in recent years because of its antifungal and other microbial activities and, human health benefits. PAE has also been used as food additives, perfume ingredients, and traditional medicine concoctions. Biological analyses of PAE have revealed that it has good antioxidant activities and can serve as organic fruit and food preservative. Animal studies indicated potent anticancer, anti-depressant, and anti-inflammatory effects of PAE. Also, PAE is certified "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) and not mutagenic. However, moderation during usage is advisable, as minor adverse effects are associated with a very high dosage. Despite the newly reported findings, its properties have not been thoroughly summarized and reviewed. Also, clinical trials and official large-scale field applications of PAE in the agricultural sectors are yet to be reported. In this review, updated PAE research progress was provided, focusing on its antifungal and other antimicrobial properties and the mechanisms behind it, phytochemical profile, pharmacological effects, and safety concerns.HighlightsIsolation and recovery techniques of PAE from perilla plants have been developed and improved in recent years.PAE is a potential anti-oxidant and antifungal agent that can be widely used in the food industry.PAE can be developed into drug ingredients for pharmaceutical industries due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-depressant activities.PAE can be safely used in human when low and moderate dosage is used.

The taxonomic significance of ddRADseq based microsatellite markers in the closely related species of Heracleum (Apiaceae)

Many studies on Heracleum have shown poor correspondence between observed molecular clusters and established taxonomic classification amongst closely related species. This might reflect both unresolved taxonomy but perhaps also a lack of good genetic markers. This lack of appropriate and cost effective species-specific genetic markers hinders a resolved relationship for the species complex, and this in turn causes profound management challenges for a genus that contains both endemic species, with important ecological roles, and species with an invasive potential. Microsatellites are traditionally considered markers of choice for comprehensive, yet inexpensive, analyses of genetic variation, including examination of population structure, species identity, linkage map construction and cryptic speciation. In this study, we have used double digest restriction site associated DNA sequencing (ddRADseq) to develop microsatellite markers in Heracleum rechingeri. Genomic DNA from three individuals were digested with Sbf1 and Nde1 and size selected for library construction. The size-selected fragments were sequenced on an Ion Torrent sequencer and a total of 54 microsatellite sequences were bioinformatically confirmed. Twenty five loci were then tested for amplification, resulting in 19 of these being successfully amplified across eight species, comprising both the so-called thick-stemmed species (H. persicum, H. rechingeri, H. gorganicum and H. lasiopetalum), and thin-stemmed species (H. anisactis, H. pastinasifolium and H. transcaucasicum). Both Bayesian and distance-based clustering, and principal coordinate analyses clearly separated these into two groups. Surprisingly, three H. pastinacifolium populations were not separated from populations of the morphologically similar endemic species, H. anisactis, suggesting lack of genetic differentiation. Likewise, high genetic similarity was found between H. persicum and H. rechingeri populations, questioning taxonomic separation at the species level between these taxa. Further analyses are needed to re-evaluate the taxonomic significance of observed morphological variability currently applied to distinguish these sister taxa. Nevertheless, our results represent progress in the effort to develop cost-efficient molecular tools for species discrimination in this genus.

Quality retention and shelf life extension of fresh beef using Lepidium sativum seed mucilage-based edible coating containing Heracleum lasiopetalum essential oil: an experimental and modeling study

The instability and strong flavor or odor of essential oils (EO) limit their direct incorporation into food products. In this study, the antioxidant and antimicrobial Heracleum lasiopetalum essential oil (HLEO) was added to Lepidium sativum seed mucilage (LSSM) solution at four concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5%) to develop a novel edible coating and expand its food application. HLEO-loaded LSSM coating was then used to improve the shelf life and quality of beef as a model food system. The coated and control beef samples were periodically analyzed for physicochemical analysis, microbiological, and sensory characteristics over a period of 9 days at 4 °C. The HLEO-enriched LSSM coating, particularly 1.5% loaded one resulted in a significant (p < 0.05) increase in oxidative and microbiological stability and overall acceptance of the beef samples, compared to the control counterpart. HLEO-loaded LSSM coating, therefore, provides a promising alternative to preserve the meat products under cold storage.

Angelicin-A Furocoumarin Compound With Vast Biological Potential

Angelicin, a member of the furocoumarin group, is related to psoralen which is well known for its effectiveness in phototherapy. The furocoumarins as a group have been studied since the 1950s but only recently has angelicin begun to come into its own as the subject of several biological studies. Angelicin has demonstrated anti-cancer properties against multiple cell lines, exerting effects via both the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways, and also demonstrated an ability to inhibit tubulin polymerization to a higher degree than psoralen. Besides that, angelicin too demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in inflammatory-related respiratory and neurodegenerative ailments via the activation of NF-κB pathway. Angelicin also showed pro-osteogenesis and pro-chondrogenic effects on osteoblasts and pre-chondrocytes respectively. The elevated expression of pro-osteogenic and chondrogenic markers and activation of TGF-β/BMP, Wnt/β-catenin pathway confirms the positive effect of angelicin bone remodeling. Angelicin also increased the expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) in osteogenesis. Other bioactivities, such as anti-viral and erythroid differentiating properties of angelicin, were also reported by several researchers with the latter even displaying an even greater aptitude as compared to the commonly prescribed drug, hydroxyurea, which is currently on the market. Apart from that, recently, a new application for angelicin against periodontitis had been studied, where reduction of bone loss was indirectly caused by its anti-microbial properties. All in all, angelicin appears to be a promising compound for further studies especially on its mechanism and application in therapies for a multitude of common and debilitating ailments such as sickle cell anaemia, osteoporosis, cancer, and neurodegeneration. Future research on the drug delivery of angelicin in cancer, inflammation and erythroid differentiation models would aid in improving the bioproperties of angelicin and efficacy of delivery to the targeted site. More in-depth studies of angelicin on bone remodeling, the pro-osteogenic effect of angelicin in various bone disease models and the anti-viral implications of angelicin in periodontitis should be researched. Finally, studies on the binding of angelicin toward regulatory genes, transcription factors, and receptors can be done through experimental research supplemented with molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation.

Furanocoumarin Content, Antioxidant Activity, and Inhibitory Potential of Heracleum verticillatum, Heracleum sibiricum, Heracleum angustisectum, and Heracleum ternatum Extracts against Enzymes Involved in Alzheimer's Disease and Type II Diabetes

Hexane extracts of Heracleum verticillatum, H. sibiricum, H. angustisectum, and H. ternatum were studied for their furanocoumarin content antioxidant potential and acetylcholinesterase and α-amylase inhibitory activities. Quantification of the furanocoumarins was performed by ¹ H-NMR. Pimpinellin was found to be the main component in the roots of all studied species. Bergapten and imperatorin were the major compounds in the fruits of H. sibiricum and H. verticillatum, respectively, while byakangelicol dominated in H. angustisectum and H. ternatum fruits. The leaf and fruit extracts of H. angustisectum demonstrated the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity and TEAC (IC₅₀ 0.58 mg/mL and 1.83 mm, respectively). The root extracts of H. verticillatum and H. angustisectum were found to be the most effective against acetylcholinesterase (IC₅₀ 0.30 and 0.34 mg/mL, respectively). The studied extracts were not active or demonstrated a weak inhibitory effect (%Inh. up to 29.7) towards α-amylase.

Antibacterial activity and sensory properties of Heracleum persicum essential oil, nisin, and Lactobacillus acidophilus against Listeria monocytogenes in cheese

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial and chemical effect of Heracleum persicum essential oil (EO), nisin, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and their combination against Listeria monocytogenes both in vitro and in Iranian white cheese model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chemical compositions of H. persicum EO were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. After production of Iranian white cheese, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration of EO and nisin and agar spot test of L. acidophilus against L. monocytogenes were evaluated.

RESULTS

Hexyl butanoate (25.98%), octyl isobutyrate (17.82%), methyl butyrate (14.37%), and pentyl cyclopropane (12.77%) were the main components of the EO. MIC of the EO against L. monocytogenes was 2.5 mg/mL. Combination of nisin (5.3 IU/mL) and H. persicum EO (2500 µg/mL) showed increasing effect against L. monocytogenes (fractional inhibitory concentration = 0.9), while a higher concentration of EO and nisin showed undesirable effect on the cheese flavor. Furthermore, a combination of 1012 CFU/g L. acidophilus with H. persicum EO at the concentration of 2.5 mg/mL (T12) showed acceptable sensorial and also antibacterial results in Iranian white cheese.

CONCLUSION

Combination of H. persicum EO, L. acidophilus, and nisin can be recommended as natural preservatives and flavoring agents in cheese.

Chemosystematic Significance of Essential Oil Constituents and Furanocoumarins of Underground Parts and Fruits of Nine Heracleum L. Taxa from Southeastern Europe

The composition of the essential oils and the furanocoumarin profiles of CH₂ Cl₂ extracts from underground parts and fruits of nine Heracleum taxa (Apiaceae) from Southeastern Europe were statistically analyzed to evaluate their chemosystematic significance. Eight investigated taxa (H. orphanidis and members of H. sphondylium group: H. sphondylium, H. sibiricum, H. montanum, H. ternatum, H. pyrenaicum subsp. pollinianum, H. pyrenaicum subsp. orsinii and H. verticillatum) belong to the type section of the genus. Additionally analyzed taxon, H. austriacum subsp. siifolium, belongs to H. sect. Wendia. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the essential oils was performed by GC-FID and GC/MS, and of the furanocoumarins by LC/MS. Furanocoumarins were identified using standards and/or based on UV, MS, ¹ H- and ROESY NMR spectra. Multivariate statistics (PCA, nMDS, UPGMA) of analyzed metabolites showed that the investigated taxa were grouped according to their taxonomic classification. PCA revealed the significance of some monoterpenes and (Z)-falcarinol of the underground parts oils, octyl esters of the fruit oils, and most of the total of 12 identified furanocoumarins.

Essential oils of three cow parsnips - composition and activity against nosocomial and foodborne pathogens and food contaminants

Although some widespread, native cow parsnips (Heracleum L. spp., Apiaceae) had broad medicinal and culinary applications throughout history, the knowledge about their volatile constituents is insufficient. This work investigates the composition and bioactivities of H. sphondylium L. (HSPH), H. sibiricum L. (HSIB) and H. montanum Schleich. ex Gaudin (HMON) essential oils. The composition was tested by GC and GC-MS. (Z)-β-Ocimene was the most abundant in HSPH (28.9%) and HMON (20.4%) root oils, while in HSIB root oil, β-pinene (26.2%), methyl eugenol (22.3%) and elemicin (25.6%) prevailed. Leaf and flower oils were dominated by various sesquiterpenes (germacrene D, β-sesquiphellandrene, (E)-β-farnesene and/or (E)-caryophyllene) and/or phenylpropanoids (apiole, methyl eugenol, elemicin and/or (Z)-isoelemicin). Octyl acetate (57.5-67.1%) was the main constituent of all fruit oils. The antimicrobial activity was screened by a microdilution method against eight bacteria and eight fungi. The strongest antimicrobial effect, in several cases better than the activity of antibiotics, was shown by HSPH (MICs = 0.12-3.30 mg mL^-1) and HMON (MICs = 0.10-1.30 mg mL^-1) flower oils against bacteria, and HSIB fruit oil against fungi (MICs = 0.15-0.40 mg mL^-1). The MTT test revealed that the oils were not or weakly cytotoxic against human malignant HeLa, LS174 and/or A549 cells (except HSPH root oil; IC₅₀ = 5.72-24.31 μg mL^-1) and that tested oils were not toxic against human normal MRC-5 cells (at 200.00 μg mL^-1). Significant activity observed against microorganisms that are the common cause of foodborne diseases, food contamination and/or hospital-acquired infections justifies certain traditional uses of the investigated plants and represents a good basis for further research of these Heracleum oils.

Large Scale Geographical Mapping of Essential Oil Volatiles in Heracleum (Apiaceae): Identification of Novel Compounds and Unraveling Cryptic Variation

Conspecific populations of plants in their native range are expected to show considerable variation due to long-term ecological and evolutionary factors. We investigated the levels of secondary metabolites in Heracleum including H. persicum a valuable medicinal plant to depict the magnitude of cryptic variation and the potential significance of novel chemical traits. The essential oil volatiles from fruits of 34 populations from different species of Heracleum in Iranian distribution range and a native of H. sphondylium and an invasive population of H. persicum from Norway were analyzed with GC/MS. Out of 48 compounds identified, a contrasting pattern in the level of two major compounds, octyl acetate and hexyl butyrate was found among all studied species. Interestingly, a significant geographic pattern was observed; the hexyl butyrate/octyl acetate ratio was high (range 1.8 - 3.2) in the northwestern Iranian populations of H. persicum compared to that in northern and central populations (range 0.3 - 0.9). Four populations from Zagros mountains also exhibited a unique composition. Anethole was found in two populations of H. persicum from central Zagros, which has not been previously reported for essential oil of fruits of Heracleum so far. The results suggest high efficiency of large scale sampling from distribution range of species in identifying novel compounds. The unique pattern of geographic structuring also provides novel information to unravel cryptic variation in Heracleum.

Effects of golpar (Heracleum persicum Desf.) and probiotics in drinking water on performance, carcass characteristics, organ weights, blood plasma constituents, and immunity of broilers

Increasing levels of Heracleum persicum (golpar) in drinking water were studied in broilers. Two hundred and forty-one-day-old male chickens were allocated to one of six treatments: control, without added phytogenics nor probiotics in drinking water, and probiotics at recommended manufacturer's level (P) or 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 ml/l of golpar extract solution (G1, G1.5, G2, and G2.5 treatments, respectively) in drinking water. As a result of this study, no linear or quadratic trends in the feed intake (FI) and feed conversion rate (FCR) due to golpar supplementation were found. Body weight gain, final body weight, and relative carcass weight showed a positive linear response with increasing levels of golpar supplementation. Neither golpar nor probiotics had effects on the percentages of edible parts of the carcass. Golpar supplementation levels caused a linear negative response of the albumin content in blood plasma, whereas both abdominal fat as percentage of carcass weight and uric acid levels in blood plasma linearly increased. The effects on Ig responses were only observed at 42 days of age and were similar in probiotics and the highest level of golpar supplementation. Based on our results, both probiotics and golpar supplementation could improve broiler performance and immune function.

Biological activity and safety profile of the essential oil from fruits of Heracleum mantegazzianum Sommier & Levier (Apiaceae)

A composition of essential oils obtained from Heracleum mantegazzianum (Apiaceae) was examined using a GC-MS method. n-Octyl acetate (19.92%), n-hexyl-2-methylbutanoate (10.84%), n-octanol (10.13%), n-octyl butanoate (8.88%), n-octyl-2-methylbutanoate (8.01%), n-hexyl acetate (7.11%), n-octyl isobutanoate (5.5%) and n-hexyl isobutanoate (5.43%) were the main compounds. The high-performance counter-current chromatography was applied for purification of aliphatic alcohols and esters. A mixture of n-hexane, acetonitrile and tetr-butyl methyl ether (1:1:0.1, v/v) allowed to obtain n-octanol, n-octyl acetate, n-hexyl-2- methylbutanoate, n-octyl isobutanoate and n-octyl-2-methylbutanoate, with the purity range of 94-99%, in one single 74 min run. The antimicrobial activity was also determined against plant and foodborne pathogens. While n-octanol shares responsibility for the antibacterial activity of the essential oil, n-octyl acetate determines its antifungal action. The cytotoxic activity assessed on two normal kidney fibroblast cell lines: Vero (animal) and HEK-293 (human embryonic), and two human cancer cell lines: FaDu (squamous cell carcinoma of the pharynx) and SCC25 (squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue), showed a moderate cytotoxicity with CC₅₀ values ranging from 262.3 to 567.8 μg/mL. Results indicate that normal cell lines were more sensitive to the tested essential oil than cancer cell lines. The antioxidant activity of oil and pure compounds was not significant.