Analysis of Phenolic Acids and Flavonoids in Rabbiteye Blueberry Leaves by UPLC-MS/MS and Preparation of Nanoemulsions and Extracts for Improving Antiaging Effects in Mice

Blueberry leaves as a promising sustainable source of polyphenols: Chemical composition, functional activities and future application perspectives

Blueberry leaves are a byproduct of blueberry cultivation, often overlooked despite their potential value. As global consumption of blueberries continues to rise, the area under cultivation expands, leading to an increased production of blueberry leaves. Blueberry leaves are a rich source of polyphenols, and in recent years, extensive research has been conducted on the composition and biological functions of these compounds. However, studies on blueberry leaves are often fragmented and lack a comprehensive overview of their potential applications. This review outlines the biosynthetic pathways of polyphenols in plants and compares the variations in polyphenol content and composition in blueberry leaves, influenced by factors such as cultivars, harvesting seasons, and extraction methods. Current research indicates that the primary constituents of blueberry leaf polyphenols (BLPs) are caffeoyl quinic acids, flavonols, and flavan-3-ols. These active compounds endow blueberry leaves with a range of functional properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antitumor, and metabolic syndrome-modulating effects. As a cost-effective and potentially beneficial by-product of agricultural production, blueberry leaves represent a promising area for further development. Therefore, this review discusses the opportunities and challenges associated with the applications of blueberry leaves, offering insights into their future processing, utilization, and potential for sustainable development.

Anti-Aging Effects of Flavonoids from Plant Extracts

Aging is a natural and irreversible process, affecting living organisms by negatively impacting the tissues' and cells' morphology and functionality and consequently being responsible for aging-related diseases. Taking into account the actual preoccupations of both consumers and researchers, healthy anti-aging alternatives are being intensively studied in order to address such concerns. Due to their functional features, plant flavonoids can be considered valuable nutraceuticals. This paper highlights the possibilities to use flavonoids extracted from various plants for their anti-aging potential on the skin, brain, and heart. Moreover, their anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties are summarized, along with the senescence-associated mechanisms. Both the nutraceutical and cosmeceutical fields are continuously developing and flavonoids originating from plants are promising candidates to obtain such products. Thus, the bioactive compounds' extraction and their subsequent involvement in innovative product manufacturing must be carefully performed while being aware of the various intrinsic and extrinsic factors that may affect the phytochemicals' structures, bioavailability, and health effects.