Pharmacological and therapeutic effects of Mentha Longifolia L. and its main constituent, menthol

β-(1 → 3) Linked Sulfated Polygalactan from a Seaweed-associated Bacillus velezensis MTCC 13097: A Potential Lead Against Human Hepatocellular Adenocarcinoma

Among tumors, liver cancer has an inferior prognosis. Therefore, exploring alternative strategies to improve the effectiveness of treatment for this ailment is of utmost urgency. In this study, we focused on analyzing the anti-cancer properties of bacterial exopolysaccharide from Bacillus velezensis associated with the seaweed Sargassum wightii against hepatocellular adenocarcinoma. A culture-dependent method was used to isolate heterotrophic B. velezensis, which was then evaluated for its antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. A β-(1 → 3) linked sulfated polygalactan exopolysaccharide (BVEP-2) was isolated from the bacterial extract and characterized by spectroscopic analysis. The anti-cancer property was analyzed through assays involving 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), neutral red uptake (NRU), and apoptosis (by annexin V-FITC/PI staining) against the human hepatocellular adenocarcinoma cell line (HepG2). BVEP-2 demonstrated potential cytotoxicity in the MTT assay (IC50 65.05 μg/mL) and 23.02% cell viability in the NRU assay at a 100 µg/mL concentration of BVEP-2 against HepG2, compared to the standard doxorubicin. Potential antioxidant properties of BVEP-2 (IC50 112-117 µg/mL) corroborated the anti-cancer activities, and the attenuation of free radicals could play a significant role in its anti-cancer potential. BVEP-2 induced approximately 9% early apoptosis and 39% late apoptosis in the HepG2 cell line, whereas the standard drug resulted in around 38% early apoptosis and 37% late apoptosis, along with 6% necrotic cells. The β-(1 → 3) linked sulfated polygalactan exopolysaccharide (BVEP-2) of B. velezensis MTCC13097 showed potential antioxidant and anti-cancer activities, and thus, could be developed as a promising pharmacophore lead against human hepatocellular adenocarcinoma.

Relationship between structural properties and biological activity of (-)-menthol and some menthyl esters

Menthol is a naturally occurring cyclic terpene alcohol and is the major component of peppermint and corn mint essential oils extracted from Mentha piperita L. and Mentha arvensis L.. Menthol and its derivatives are widely used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. Among its eight isomers, (-)-menthol is the most effective one in terms of refreshing effect. While the invigorating property of (-)-menthol is generally known, this claim is based on a substantial amount of literature and experience. (-)-Menthol has consistently been reported to possess better cooling and refreshing qualities in comparison to its isomers, making it the preferred choice in a broad range of applications such as personal care products, pharmaceuticals and food additives. Additionally, the (-)-menthol molecular structure allows it to have a tighter fitting with the thermoreceptors in the skin and mucous membranes, and thus to provide a more intense cooling feeling. Thus, although others have similar properties to a degree, (-)-menthol is the best compared to all in its refreshing capacity. This study focuses on menthol and some of its esters, viz. menthyl acetate, propionate, butyrate, valerate and hexanoate, with the purpose of establish a connection between structural, electrostatic and electronic characteristics and biological effects. The mostly favoured interactions of the esters with biotargets were investigated at a molecular level, offering a plausible foundation for their bioactivity elucidation. This study is conducted at a quantum mechanical and molecular docking level. The results may be of possible usefulness in areas of applications, such as pharmacological research and drug.

An Overview of the Bioactivity of Spontaneous Medicinal Plants Suitable for the Improvement of Lung Cancer Therapies

Lung cancer is the second cause of death in the world, being the most common type of cancer. Conventional therapies are not always recommended due to the particularities of patients. Thus, there is a need to develop new anticancer therapeutic agents. Medicinal plants constitute a source of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential in lung cancer. The purpose of our narrative review is to evaluate and summarize the main studies on the cytotoxic effects of ten medicinal plants and their extracts, volatile oils, and bioactive compounds. We have also included studies that reported protective effects of these natural products against chemotherapy-induced toxicity. Studies were identified by assessing five databases using specific keywords. The investigated natural products possess cytotoxic effects on lung cancer cell cultures. Several mechanisms of action have been proposed including cell death by apoptosis, necrosis or autophagy, cell cycle arrest, the modulation of signaling pathways (PI3K/Akt and MAPK), the inhibition of migration, invasion and metastasis, antiangiogenesis, and targeting inflammation. Different bioactive compounds exhibit protective effects against chemotherapy-induced toxicity. Studies have shown promising results. To develop new therapeutic agents useful in treating lung cancer, the plants included in this review should be more deeply investigated to reveal their molecular mechanisms of action.

Antibacterial Activity of Selected Essential Oil Components and Their Derivatives: A Review

Essential oils (EOs) are gaining ground and have been intensively studied due to their widespread use in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics industries. The essential components of EOs have been recognized for diverse therapeutic activities and have gained significant attention for their potential antibacterial activities. Despite the popularity of EOs and potent biological properties, their bioactive components and their derivatives are still not comprehensively characterized. This review explores the antibacterial efficacy of selected EO components and their derivatives, focusing on monoterpenes chosen (i.e., carvacrol, menthol, and thymol) and phenylpropanoids (i.e., cinnamaldehyde and eugenol). Furthermore, this review highlights recent advancements in developing derivatives of these EO components, which have shown improved antibacterial activity with reduced toxicity. By summarizing recent studies, this review reveals the potential of these natural compounds and their derivatives as promising candidates for pharmaceuticals, food preservation, and as alternatives to synthetic antibiotics in combating bacterial resistance.

Monoterpenoid synergy: a new frontier in biological applications

Monoterpenoids, compounds found in various organisms, have diverse applications in various industries. Their effectiveness is influenced by the oil's chemical composition, which in turn is influenced by plant genotype, environmental conditions, cultivation practices, and plant development stage. They are used in various industries due to their distinctive odor and taste, serving as ingredients, additives, insecticides, and repellents. These compounds have synergistic properties, resulting in superior combined effects over discrete ones, potentially beneficial for various health purposes. Many experimental studies have investigated their interactions with other ingredients and their antibacterial, insecticidal, antifungal, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This review discusses potential synergistic interactions between monoterpenoids and other compounds, their sources, and biological functions. It also emphasizes the urgent need for more research on their bioavailability and toxicity, underlining the importance and relevance of this comprehensive study in the current scientific landscape.

Mentha haplocalyx Briq. (Mint): a comprehensive review on the botany, traditional uses, nutritional value, phytochemistry, health benefits, and applications

Mentha haplocalyx Briq. (M. haplocalyx), a notable member of the Lamiaceae family, occupies a significant role in the realm of health foods and botanical medicines. Traditionally, it has been employed to address various diseases, including colds, coughs, fever, indigestion, asthma, and influenza. Recent phytochemical investigations have identified the presence of terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, anthraquinones, alkanes, and polysaccharides in M. haplocalyx, with terpenoids being the primary bioactive constituents. Notably, both in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated its diverse health benefits, such as neuroprotective, anti-asthmatic, anti-inflammatory, gut health improvement, hypoglycemic, anti-aging, anti-bacterial, and antioxidant effects. Additionally, M. haplocalyx is a rich source of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins, further underscoring its nutritional value. A thorough literature review was conducted using databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) to consolidate existing knowledge on M. haplocalyx. This review synthesizes recent advancements in the botany, traditional uses, nutritional value, phytochemistry, health benefits, and research on the edible uses of M. haplocalyx. Furthermore, the commercial potential and future research opportunities for M. haplocalyx are briefly explored, with the goal of fostering continued interest in this multifunctional plant and inspiring future research and commercial endeavors.

Effect of medicated toothpastes and Tooth Mousse on cariogenic microbes of the oral cavity: An in vitro study

Background

Dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay is a widespread oral health problem mainly attributed to the activity of cariogenic bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species. Tooth Mousse, containing remineralizing agents, herbal and fluoride containing toothpaste with antimicrobial agents have been developed to target cariogenic bacteria. Herbal, fluoride toothpaste, and Tooth Mousse are commonly prescribed to prevent, reduce, and control dental caries.

Aim

This study aims to analyze the effect of Tooth Mousse and medicated toothpastes on S. mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus using direct contact test.

Methodology

L. acidophilus and S. mutans were cultured on Mueller-Hinton agar (MHA-Hi media) using sterile cotton swabs and plates were dried for 15 min. Toothpastes (Dabur Red, Pepsodent) and Tooth Mousse were used at 1:1 dilution using sterile pyrogen-free distilled water. Fifty microliter of toothpastes and Tooth Mousse were introduced into each well. The plates were incubated at 37°C for 24 h.

Results and Discussion

The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by measuring the diameter of zones of inhibition (mm). The toothpaste containing fluoride (A) showed greater zone of inhibition compared to herbal toothpaste (B) whereas Tooth Mousse (C) did not show any zone of inhibition.

Conclusion

Among herbal and fluoride toothpaste, fluoride containing toothpaste showed more zone of inhibition thereby attributing to its increased antimicrobial property on S. mutans and L. acidophilus.

Identification of Potential Therapeutics of Mentha Essential Oil Content as Antibacterial MDR Agents against AcrAB-TolC Multidrug Efflux Pump from Escherichia coli: An In Silico Exploration

Multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens, such as E. coli, represent a major human health threat. Due to the critical need to overcome this dilemma, since the drug efflux pump has a vital function in the evolution of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria, we have investigated the potential of Mentha essential oil major constituents (1-19) as antimicrobial agents via their ability to inhibit pathogenic DNA gyrase and, in addition, their potential inhibition of the E. coli AcrB-TolC efflux pump, a potential target to inhibit MDR pathogens. The ligand docking approach was conducted to analyze the binding interactions of Mentha EO constituents with the target receptors. The obtained results proved their antimicrobial activity through the inhibition of DNA gyrase (1kzn) with binding affinity ΔG values between -4.94 and -6.49 kcal/mol. Moreover, Mentha EO constituents demonstrated their activity against MDR E. coli by their ability to inhibit AcrB-TolC (4dx7) with ΔG values ranging between -4.69 and -6.39 kcal/mol. The antimicrobial and MDR activity of Mentha EOs was supported via hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions with the key amino acid residues at the binding site of the active pocket of the targeted receptors.

Peppermint and menthol: a review on their biochemistry, pharmacological activities, clinical applications, and safety considerations

In this manuscript, we conducted a comprehensive review of the diverse effects of peppermint on human health and explored the potential underlying mechanisms. Peppermint contains three main groups of phytochemical constituents, including essential oils (mainly menthol), flavonoids (such as hesperidin, eriodictyol, naringenin, quercetin, myricetin, and kaempferol), and nonflavonoid phenolcarboxylic acids. Peppermint exhibits antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-cancer, anti-aging, and analgesic properties and may be effective in treating various disorders, including gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, dyspepsia, constipation, functional gastrointestinal disorders, nausea/vomiting, and gallbladder stones). In addition, peppermint has therapeutic benefits for psychological and cognitive health, dental health, urinary retention, skin and wound healing, as well as anti-depressant and anti-anxiety effects, and it may improve memory. However, peppermint has paradoxical effects on sleep quality and alertness, as it has been shown to improve sleep quality in patients with fatigue and anxiety, while also increasing alertness under conditions of monotonous work and relaxation. We also discuss its protective effects against toxic agents at recommended doses, as well as its safety and potential toxicity. Overall, this review provides the latest findings and insights into the properties and clinical effects of peppermint/menthol and highlights its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for various health conditions.

Mentha Pulegium: A Plant with Several Medicinal Properties

The species Mentha Pulegium L. (M. pulegium L.) belongs to the family Lamiaceae, native to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, and the genus Mentha. It has been traditionally used in food, cosmetics, and medicines. It is a perennial, fragrant, well-liked, herbaceous plant that can grow up to half a meter tall. It is extensively used as a food flavoring, particularly for Moroccan traditional drinks. Chewing mint and M. pulegium, a relaxing and refreshing plant, can be used to treat hiccups and act as an anticonvulsant and nerve relaxant. Pennyroyal leaves that have been crushed have a pungent, spearmint-like scent. Pennyroyal is used to make herbal teas, which, while not proven to be harmful to healthy adults in small doses, are not recommended due to their liver toxicity. Infants and children can die if they consume it. Pennyroyal leaves, both fresh and dried, are particularly effective at repelling insects. Pennyroyal essential oil should never be taken internally because it is highly toxic, even in small doses, it can be fatal. This plant is used in traditional Moroccan medicine to treat a wide range of conditions, including influenza, rheumatism, migraine, infertility, ulcer, pain, gastrointestinal problems, fever, diabetes, obesity, mental and cardiac disorders, constipation, respiratory ailments, and cough. M. pulegium is a great candidate for contemporary therapeutic usage since it contains a wide variety of biologically active compounds, including terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and saponins in all its parts. Among the different parts used are the whole plant, the aerial part, the stem, and the leaves. More interestingly, the entire plant contains a variety of compounds including Pulegone, Isomenthone, Carvone, Menthofuran, Menthol, 1,8-Cineole, Piperitone, Piperitenone, Neomenthol, -humulene, and 3-octanol. Eriocitrin, Hesperidin, Narirutin, Luteolin, Isorhoifolin, Galic acid, and Rosmarinic acid are found in the leaves. p-hydroxybenzoic acid, Ferulic acid, Caffeic acid, Vanillic acid, Syringic acid, Protocatechuic acid, Cinnamic acid, Phloretic acid, o-coumaric acid, p-coumaric acid, Catechin, Epicatechin, Chrysin, Quercetin, Naringenin, Carvacrol are all found in the areal part. Alterporriol G, Atropisomer, Alterporriol H, Altersolanol K, Altersolanol L, Stemphypyrone, 6-O-methylalaternin, Macrosporin, Altersolanol A, Alterporriol E, Alterporriol D, Alterporriol A, Alterporriol B, and Altersolanol J are also found in the stem of fungus. Pulegone, Piperitone, p-Menthane-1,2,3- triol, β-elemenene, guanine (cis-), Carvacrol acetate, and Phenyl ethyl alcohol are all components of this plant's essential oils. Moreover, the study also sought to investigate and document all currently available evidence and information on the nutritional composition and therapeutic uses of this plant ornamental. Its pharmacological applications include antimicrobial, antioxidant, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, antifungal, anticancer, burn wound healing, antispasmodic, and hepatotoxicity. Finally, toxicological studies have revealed that while low doses of extracts of the plant M. pulegium are not toxic, however, its essential oils of it are extremely toxic. In order to evaluate future research needs and investigate its pharmacological applications through clinical trials, the current assessment focuses on the distribution, chemical composition, biological activities, and primary uses of the plant.

Aromatic Plants as Potential Resources to Combat Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, which affects an estimated 10% of men and 18% of women over the age of 60 and is increasing in genetic prevalence and incidence, is acknowledged as the condition that degrades the quality of life for older adults in the world. There is currently no known treatment for osteoarthritis. The majority of therapeutic methods slow the progression of arthritis or treat its symptoms, making effective treatment to end the degenerative process of arthritis elusive. When non-pharmacological therapy is ineffective, various pharmacological therapies may be used to treat osteoarthritis. Pharmacological therapy, however, can have major adverse effects and be very expensive. As a result, alternative remedies have been researched. The promise for the safe and efficient management of osteoarthritis has been demonstrated by herbal remedies. Experimental research suggests that herbal extracts and compounds can reduce inflammation, inhibit catabolic processes, and promote anabolic processes that are important for treating osteoarthritis. Due to their therapeutic and innate pharmacological qualities, aromatic herbs are frequently employed as herbal remedies. Recent research has shown that aromatic plants have the potency to treat osteoarthritis. Additionally, complex mixtures of essential oils and their bioactive ingredients, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and are obtained from aromatic plants, are frequently utilized as complementary therapies for osteoarthritis. To establish new study avenues, the advantageous anti-osteoarthritic effects of aromatic herbal medicines, including plants, essential oils, and their bioactive components, are extensively discussed.

Moroccan Antihypertensive Plants and their Mechanisms of Action

BACKGROUND

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

AIMS

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

OBJECTIVE

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

MATERIALS AND METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Pleiotropic effects of Mentha longifolia L. extract on the regulation of genes involved in inflammation and apoptosis induced by Clostridioides difficile ribotype 001

Introduction

The dramatic increase in multidrug-resistance of Clostridioides difficile isolates has led to the search for new complementary medicines against C. difficile infection (CDI). In this study, we aimed to examine the inhibitory effects of hydroethanolic extract of Mentha longifolia L. (ETOH-ML) on the growth of C. difficile RT001 and its toxigenic cell-free supernatant (Tox-S)-induced inflammation and apoptosis.

Methods

The active phytochemical components of ETOH-ML were detected using GC and HPLC. The antimicrobial properties of the extract were examined against C. difficile RT001. Furthermore, cell viability and cytotoxicity of Caco-2 and Vero cells treated with various concentrations of ETOH-ML, Tox-S of C. difficile RT001, and their combination were assessed. Anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities of ETOH-ML were explored in Tox-S stimulated Caco-2 cells using RT-qPCR.

Results

Based on our results, rosmarinic acid was the main phytochemical component of ETOH-ML. The extract showed significant antimicrobial activity against C. difficile RT001 by agar dilution and broth microdilution methods. Moreover, ETOH-ML at concentrations of <25 μg/ml had no significant effect on cell viability compared to untreated cells. Treatment cells with the extract (10 or 25 μg/ml) significantly increased the cell viability and reduced the percentage of cell rounding in Caco-2 and Vero cells treated by Tox-S, respectively (P < 0.0001). Co-treatment of Tox-S stimulated Caco-2 cells with ETOH-ML showed significant anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities by downregulating the gene expression level of IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α, iNOS, TGF-β, NF-κB, Bax, and caspase-3, while upregulating the expression level of Bcl-2.

Discussion

Our results demonstrated for the first time the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects of M. longifolia extract on C. difficile RT001 and its Tox-S. However, further research is needed to evaluate the potential application of M. longifolia extract on CDI treatment in clinical setting.

A Comprehensive Review of the Key Characteristics of the Genus Mentha, Natural Compounds and Biotechnological Approaches for the Production of Secondary Metabolites

Context

The genus Mentha is one of the most aromatic and well-known members of the Lamiaceae family. A wide range of bioactive compounds has been reported in mints. Regarding the high economic importance of Mentha plants due to the presence of valuable metabolites, the demand for their products is growing exponentially. Therefore, to supply such demand, new strategies should be adopted to improve the yield and medicinal quality of the products.

Evidence Acquisition

The current review is written based on scientific literature obtained from online databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science regarding the characteristic features of some species of the genus Mentha, their distribution and cultivation, main uses and benefits, phytochemical composition, biotechnological approaches for the production of secondary metabolites, and strategies for enhanced production of mints secondary metabolites.

Results

In this article, we offer an overview of the key characteristics, natural compounds, biological properties, and medicinal uses of the genus Mentha. Current research describes biotechnological techniques such as in vitro culture methods for the production of high-value secondary metabolites. This review also highlights the strategies such as elicitation, genetic, and metabolic engineering to improve the secondary compounds production level in mint plants. Overall, it can be concluded that identifying the biosynthetic pathways, leading to the accumulation of pharmaceutically important bioactive compounds, has paved the way for developing highly productive mint plants with improved phytochemical profiles.

Nutritionally rich biochemical profile in essential oil of various Mentha species and their antimicrobial activities

The Mentha species of family Lamiaceae are famous for their flavor and are commercially used in many food products worldwide. They are widely used to cure digestive problems as well as a natural source of antioxidants and antimicrobials. In this report, the essential oils (EOs) of five Mentha species, namely Mentha citrata, Mentha x piperita, Mentha pulegium, Mentha spicata, and Mentha suaveolens were extracted and their chemical diversity was investigated through gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). The differential doses (5, 10, and 15 µl) of EOs were tested for antimicrobial potential against two gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis), five gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Salmonella typhi, Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella pneumoniae) and a fungal strain (Candida albicans). The GC-MS results revealed the major components in the EOs were Carvone, Linalool, Hotrienol, Menthol, Isopulegone, Furanone, Piperitone, and Thymol. Moreover, the higher dose (15 µl) of EOs of M. citrata inhibited the growth of S. typhi and C. albicans (35.8 ± 2.4 and 35.2 ± 2.5 mm), M. x piperita inhibited E. coli, B. subtilis, and C. albicans (28.5 ± 3.5, 26.1 ± 2.1, and 25.4 ± 1.1 mm), M. pulegium inhibited K. pneumoniae, B. subtilis, and C. albicans (26.8 ± 1.8, 24.2 ± 2.2, and 25.3 ± 0.9 mm), M. spicata significantly inhibited S. typhi and B. subtilis (35.7 ± 2.7 and 36.3 ± 2.1 mm), and M. suaveolens inhibited K. pneumoniae, C. albicans, and S. typhi (30.8 ± 1.9, 26.9 ± 1.1, and 20.1 ± 0.8 mm) respectively. This study concluded that the EOs of M. citrata was effective against S. typhi and C. albicans. The M. x piperita exhibited strong activities against E. coli, B. subtilis, and C. albicans. Furthermore, the M. pulegium strongly inhibited the growth of K. pneumoniae and C. albicans. The EO of M. spicata was more potent against S. typhi and B. subtilis, while the M. suaveolens was comparatively more effective against S. typhi, K. pneumoniae, and C. albicans. These EOs offer a natural source of antimicrobial agents with high commercial values and social acceptance and could be scale up by food and pharmaceutical industries to control pathogenic diseases.

Determining the Antibacterial Effect of Mentha Longifolia Essential Oil on Cariogenic Bacteria and Its Compounds: an in vitro Study

Statement of the Problem

Continuous use of chemical agents to reduce the number of cariogenic bacteria leads to adverse effects; therefore, in recent years, many studies have focused on plant-based substances.

Purpose

This study explores the antibacterial effects of Mentha Longifolia (M. longifolia) essential oil on Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), Streptococcus sobrinus (S. sobrinus), and Lactobacillus as cariogenic microorganisms and determines the compounds in it.

Materials and Method

In this experimental study, S. mutans, S. sobrinus, and Lactobacillus isolates were collected from the saliva samples of five children with severe early childhood caries (S-ECC). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of M. longifolia essential oil were determined by Broth microdilution method. Chlorhexidine 0.2% and phosphate-buffered normal saline (pH= 7.0) were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. The chemical composition of M. longifolia essential oil was evaluated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The data were analyzed with a paired t-test and the p below 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

The MIC and MBC ratios for S. mutans were 3.12% and 6.25%, for S. sobrinus were 6.25% and 12.5%, ​​and Lactobacillus were 3.12% and 6.25%, respectively. Chemical analysis of M. longifolia essential oil showed that 34 various compounds. Piperitone oxide (27.59%), Transcariophylline (14.55%), and 2-cyclohexane-1-one (12.24%) were the major constituents.

Conclusion

M. longifolia essential oil has both growth inhibitory and bactericidal effects on all the three species of bacteria. This antibacterial effect was similar against S. mutans and Lactobacillus, which was greater than S. sobrinus, thus, it can be used as a supplementary for caries prevention compounds.

Medicinal plants used for the management of respiratory diseases in Zimbabwe: Review and perspectives potential management of COVID-19

Respiratory diseases have in the recent past become a health concern globally. More than 523 million cases of coronavirus disease (COVID19), a recent respiratory diseases have been reported, leaving more than 6 million deaths worldwide since the start of the pandemic. In Zimbabwe, respiratory infections have largely been managed using traditional (herbal) medicines, due to their low cost and ease of accessibility. This review highlights the plants' toxicological and pharmacological evaluation studies explored. It seeks to document plants that have been traditionally used in Zimbabwe to treat respiratory ailments within and beyond the past four decades. Extensive literature review based on published papers and abstracts retrieved from the online bibliographic databases, books, book chapters, scientific reports and theses available at Universities in Zimbabwe, were used in this study. From the study, there were at least 58 plant families comprising 160 medicinal plants widely distributed throughout the country. The Fabaceae family had the highest number of medicinal plant species, with a total of 21 species. A total of 12 respiratory ailments were reportedly treatable using the identified plants. From a total of 160 plants, colds were reportedly treatable with 56, pneumonia 53, coughs 34, chest pain and related conditions 29, asthma 25, tuberculosis and spots in lungs 22, unspecified respiratory conditions 20, influenza 13, bronchial problems 12, dyspnoea 7, sore throat and infections 5 and sinus clearing 1 plant. The study identified potential medicinal plants that can be utilised in future to manage respiratory infections.

Mentha: Nutritional and Health Attributes to Treat Various Ailments Including Cardiovascular Diseases

A poor diet, resulting in malnutrition, is a critical challenge that leads to a variety of metabolic disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Mentha species are famous as therapeutic herbs and have long served as herbal medicine. Recently, the demand for its products, such as herbal drugs, medicines, and natural herbal formulations, has increased significantly. However, the available literature lacks a thorough overview of Mentha phytochemicals' effects for reducing malnutritional risks against cardiovascular diseases. In this context, we aimed to review the recent advances of Mentha phytochemicals and future challenges for reducing malnutritional risks in cardiovascular patients. Current studies indicated that Mentha species phytochemicals possess unique antimicrobial, antidiabetic, cytotoxic, and antioxidant potential, which can be used as herbal medicine directly or indirectly (such as food ingredients) and are effective in controlling and curing cardiovascular diseases. The presence of aromatic and flavor compounds of Mentha species greatly enhance the nutritional values of the food. Further interdisciplinary investigations are pivotal to explore main volatile compounds, synergistic actions of phytochemicals, organoleptic effects, and stability of Mentha sp. phytochemicals.

Carbonyl Composition and Electrophilicity in Vaping Emissions of Flavored and Unflavored E-Liquids

It has been demonstrated that propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), and flavoring chemicals can thermally degrade to form carbonyls during vaping, but less is known about carbonyl emissions produced by transformation of flavoring chemicals and the interactive effects among e-liquid constituents. This study characterized carbonyl composition and levels in vaping emissions of PG-VG (e-liquid base solvents) and four e-liquid formulations flavored with trans-2-hexenol, benzyl alcohol, l-(-)-menthol, or linalool. Utilizing gas chromatography (GC)- and liquid chromatography (LC)-mass spectrometry (MS) methods, 14 carbonyls were identified and quantified. PG-VG emitted highest levels of formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein. However, flavored e-liquids contributed to the production of a wider variety of carbonyls, with some carbonyls directly corresponding to the oxidation of alcohol moieties in flavoring compounds (e.g., trans-2-hexenol and benzyl alcohol transformed into trans-2-hexenal and benzaldehyde, respectively). Detections of formaldehyde-GSH and trans-2-hexenal-GSH adducts signify interactions of carbonyls with biological nucleophiles. The global reactivity descriptors (I, A, μ, η, and ω) and condensed Fukui parameters (fk0, fk-, fk+, and dual-descriptor) were computed to elucidate site reactivities of selected simple and α,β-unsaturated carbonyls found in vaping emissions. Overall, this study highlights carbonyl emissions and reactivities and their potential health risk effects associated with vaping.

Mentha longifolia Alleviates Exogenous Serotonin-Induced Diabetic Hypoglycemia and Relieves Renal Toxicity via ROS Regulation

Diabetic kidney disease is one of the most common microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus with consequences of diabetic nephropathy. Here we amined to evaluate the nephroprotective potential of methanolic Mentha longifolia (MML) against serotonin-induced hypoglycemia allied toxicity in the rat model of diabetes. Diabetes was induced in rats via alloxan administration and validated by blood glucose level measurement. After that, the animals were treated with serotonin and methanolic extract of Mentha longifolia. Surprisingly, serotonin treatment significantly reduced the glucose levels to hypoglycemic conditions, accompanied by impaired redox defense system, abnormal kidney histopathology, dyslipidemia, and altered level of liver toxicity markers. Interestingly these changes were rescued by the methanolic extract of M. longifolia. The present study suggests that impaired serotonin levels during diabetic conditions may accelerate hypoglycemic allied free radical-dependent abnormalities; however, medicinal plants like M. longifolia can reduce these deleterious effects by scavenging free radicals and their associated toxicity.

Antimicrobial Potential and Chemical Profiling of Leaves Essential Oil of Mentha Species Growing under North-West Himalaya Conditions

Mentha essential oil is one of the most utilized essential oil in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The present study reports the chemical composition and antibacterial properties of leaf essential oils of Mentha species. Further, the effect of the harvesting period on essential oil yield was also investigated. Firstly, the cultivated Mentha piperita and wild Mentha longifolia, revealed significant differences in their chemical profile. M. longifolia essential oil was characterized with endo-borneol (1.12-6.2%), caryophyllene (2.72-7.03%), isopipertenone (0.07-0.36%), germacrene D (0.98-3.22%), 3-cyclopentene-1-one,2-hydroxy-3-(3-methyl-2-butenyl)- (21.91-56.72%) and piperitone oxide (8.96-39.31%), whereas, M. piperita leaves essential oil was found rich in isomenthone (5.97-6.75%), 1-menthone (7.32-18.32%) and menthol (18.03-58.53%), etc. The essential oils of both Mentha species exhibited strong antimicrobial activity as evaluated using poisoned food technique, dry weight method, and disc diffusion method against Candida albicans, Fusarium oxysporum, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. Secondly, the maximum essential oil yield was observed in July month, 0.63±0.01 and 0.56±0.01%, respectively for M. piperita and M. longifolia.

New Approach for Using of Mentha longifolia L. and Citrus reticulata L. Essential Oils as Wood-Biofungicides: GC-MS, SEM, and MNDO Quantum Chemical Studies

BACKGROUND

Fungi growing on wood cause deterioration of stored food materials or discoloration of the wood itself, and the search for new and safe bioagents is recently needed.

METHODS

Essential oils (EOs) from aerial parts from Mentha longifolia L. and Citrus reticulata L., analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), were tested for their antifungal activity by the vapor method against four common fungi, Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, A. fumigatus, and Fusarium culmorum, and confirmed by SEM examination as the oils applied on wood samples.

RESULTS

The most abundant compounds identified in the EO from M. longifolia were menthone and eucalyptol; in C. reticulata EO, they were β-caryophyllene, β-caryophyllene oxide, and β-elemene. EOs from M. longifolia and C. reticulata, at 500 and 250 µL/mL, showed potent antifungal activity against A. flavus and A. fumigatus, with 100% fungal mycelial inhibition growth (FMIG). C. reticulata and M. longifolia EOs, at 125 µL/mL, observed FMIG values of 98% and 95%, respectively, against A. fumigatus. M. longifolia EO, at 500 and 250 µL/mL, showed potent activity against A. niger, with 100% FMIG. F. culmorum completely inhibited (100% FMIG) EOs from M. longifolia and C. reticulata applied at 500 µL/mL. Pinus roxburghii Sarg. Wood, treated with M. longifolia at 125 µL/mL, showed inhibition zone values of 7.33 and 21.33 mm against A. flavus and A. niger, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Both oils possessed good wood-biofungicide activity with the vapor method, as clearly shown by the SEM examination. These activities suggest their possible use as natural wood preservatives.

A Descriptive Overview of the Medical Uses Given to Mentha Aromatic Herbs throughout History

Mints have been among the most widely used herbs for medicinal purposes since ancient civilizations. They are still presently used for numerous purposes, including non-medicinal, which makes them economically relevant herbs. Information regarding the medical and scientific uses given to mints throughout history are vastly scattered and/or incomplete. The aim of this paper is to provide an extensive descriptive overview of the medical uses given to these herbs, highlighting both the authors in medical culture responsible for their dissemination, as well as their major galenic formulations. Databases on medical science, reference textbooks on medical history, botanics (aromatic herbs), and pharmacognosy were consulted. The use of mints remotes to Classical Antiquity, with major contributions from Pliny the Elder. In the Middle Ages, the increased knowledge surrounding mints came from Byzantine physicians, while, in the Modern Age, technological developments allowed the production of mint-based products which have become part of elaborate galenic formulas employed by an increasing number of physicians, as well as have also stimulated both scientific and artistic interests alike. In present-day medicine, several mints and mint-based products are being researched as potential therapeutic alternatives for many diseases, while also being vastly employed in food and cosmetic industries.

Chemical composition and antibacterial effects of some essential oils individually and in combination with sodium benzoate against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Yersinia enterocolitica

Side effects of chemical preservatives and drug resistance have raised interest in use of herbal products. This study aimed to examine the chemical composition and antibacterial effects of Cuminum cyminum, Mentha spicata, and Mentha longifolia essential oils individually and in combination with sodium benzoate against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Yersinia enterocolitica. The essential oils were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Disc diffusion and microdilution assays were used for in vitro antimicrobial screening. The main components were cumin aldehyde, carvone, and pulegone in C. cyminum, M. spicata, and M. longifolia essential oils, respectively. Antibacterial data analysis showed significant differences between different antibacterial effects of essential oils individually and in combination with sodium benzoate. In terms of individual effects, antibacterial effect of M. longifolia and C. cyminum essential oils were the highest against methicillin-resistant S. aureus and Y. enterocolitica, respectively. The antibacterial effects of sodium benzoate combined with essential oils showed significant differences with the individual effect of sodium benzoate in most cases. The results indicated that the combined effect of these essential oils with sodium benzoate could reduce the use of sodium benzoate as an antimicrobial agent, which could decrease its possible side effects. Thus, for more significant effects, these essential oils could be combined with other agents for the preservation of drug and food products.

A review of medicinal plant of Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region as source in tuberculosis drug discovery

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease that affects one-third of the world's population. Although currently available TB drugs have many side effects, such as nausea, headache and gastrointestinal discomfort, no new anti-TB drugs have been produced in the past 30 years. Therefore, the discovery of a new anti-TB agent with minimal or no side effects is urgently needed. Many previous works have reported the effects of medicinal plants against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). However, none have focused on medicinal plants from the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) region. This review highlights the effects of medicinal plants from the MENA region on TB. Medicinal plants from the MENA region have been successfully used as traditional medicine and first aid against TB related problems. A total of 184 plants species representing 73 families were studied. Amongst these species, 93 species contained more active compounds with strong anti-MTB activity (crude extracts and/or bioactive compounds with activities of 0-100 µg/ml). The extract of Inula helenium, Khaya senegalensis, Premna odorata and Rosmarinus officinalis presented the strongest anti-MTB activity. In addition, Boswellia papyrifera (Del) Hochst olibanum, Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh leaves (river red gum), Nigella sativa (black cumin) seeds and genus Cymbopogon exhibited anti-TB activity. The most potent bioactive compounds included alantolactone, octyl acetate, 1,8-cineole, thymoquinone, piperitone, α- verbenol, citral b and α-pinene. These compounds affect the permeability of microbial plasma membranes, thus kill the mycobacterium spp. As a conclusion, plant species collected from the MENA region are potential sources of novel drugs against TB.

Polyphenol Profile and Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Activities of Natural Mentha × piperita and Mentha longifolia Populations in Northern Saudi Arabia

New sources of polyphenols with anticancer, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties in arid environments are critical for the development of alternative medicines and natural remedies. This study explored the polyphenol profiles and biological activities of methanolic leaf extracts from natural Mentha × piperita and Mentha longifolia populations in northern Saudi Arabia. Chromatographic analyses identified several polyphenols in M. × piperita including phenolic acids: rosmarinic acid (1547.6 mg/100 g DW (dry weight)), cryptochlorogenic acid (91.7 mg/100 g DW), and chlorogenic acid (69.4 mg/100 g DW), as well as flavonoids: naringin (328.8 mg/100 g DW) and cynaroside (162.8 mg/100 g DW). The major polyphenols in M. longifolia were: rosmarinic acid (781.6 mg/100 g DW), cryptochlorogenic acid (191.1 mg/100 g DW), p-coumaric acid (113.0 mg/100 g DW), m-coumaric acid (112.2 mg/100 g DW), and chlorogenic acid (63.8 mg/100 g DW). M. × piperita and M. longifolia leaf extracts had high antioxidant activities due to the major polyphenols (cynaroside, rosmarinic and cryptochlorogenic acids). M. × piperita had higher activities against different cancer cells than M. longifolia. Naringin, cryptochlorogenic acid, and rosmarinic acid had the highest activities against cancer cells. The leaf extracts had antibacterial effects against most bacteria species (Pseudomonas aeruginosa was most sensitive), which was attributed to the polyphenols. Antifungal activities were similarly broad (Aspergillus flavus was most sensitive) and attributed to naringin, cryptochlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid. Populations of M. × piperita and M. longifolia in Northern Riyadh may be a valuable source of natural biologically active compounds.

Essential Oil Phytocomplex Activity, a Review with a Focus on Multivariate Analysis for a Network Pharmacology-Informed Phytogenomic Approach

Thanks to omic disciplines and a systems biology approach, the study of essential oils and phytocomplexes has been lately rolling on a faster track. While metabolomic fingerprinting can provide an effective strategy to characterize essential oil contents, network pharmacology is revealing itself as an adequate, holistic platform to study the collective effects of herbal products and their multi-component and multi-target mediated mechanisms. Multivariate analysis can be applied to analyze the effects of essential oils, possibly overcoming the reductionist limits of bioactivity-guided fractionation and purification of single components. Thanks to the fast evolution of bioinformatics and database availability, disease-target networks relevant to a growing number of phytocomplexes are being developed. With the same potential actionability of pharmacogenomic data, phytogenomics could be performed based on relevant disease-target networks to inform and personalize phytocomplex therapeutic application.

Chemical characterization, phytotoxic, and cytotoxic activities of essential oil of Mentha longifolia

The present study assessed the phytotoxic and cytotoxic potential of the essential oil (EO) extracted from aboveground parts of Mentha longifolia (L.) Huds. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed 39 compounds constituting 99.67% of the EO. The EO was rich in monoterpenoids (mostly oxygenated monoterpenes), which accounted for 89.28% of the oil. The major components in EO were monoterpene ketones such as piperitone oxide (53.83%) and piperitenone oxide (11.52%), followed by thymol (5.80%), and (E)-caryophyllene (4.88%). The phytotoxic activities of EO were estimated against Cyperus rotundus, Echinochloa crus-galli, and Oryza sativa (rice) through pre- and post-emergence assays at concentrations ranging from 10 to 250 μg/ml and 0.5-5%, respectively. In pre-emergence assay, the phytotoxic effect of EO was most pronounced on C. rotundus, thereby significantly affecting percent germination, plantlet growth, and chlorophyll content. On the contrary, the impact was comparatively lesser on rice, with ~ 40% germination in response to 250 μg/ml of EO treatment. In the post-emergence assay, the spray treatment of EO caused a loss of chlorophyll and wilting in test plants, and subsequently affected the growth of plants, even leading to death in some cases. The cytotoxic activity of EO (at 2.5-50 μg/ml) was studied in meristem cells in onion (Allium cepa L.) root tips. EO exposure to the onion roots induced various chromosomal aberrations such as chromosomal bridges, c-mitosis, stickiness, vagrant chromosomes, etc., and negatively affected the mitotic index. At 50 μg/ml, EO treatment triggered the complete death of roots. The study concludes that M. longifolia EO has phytotoxic activities due to the mito-depressive effect, along with other physiological effects on target plants. Therefore, EO of M. longifolia could be developed into a novel bioherbicide for sustainable management of weeds in agricultural systems.

Investigation of the Antibiofilm Effects of Mentha longifolia Essential Oil on Titanium and Stainless Steel Orthopedic Implant Surfaces

Objective

This study aimed to determine the antibiofilm activity of Mentha longifolia essential oil (EO) against biofilms forming on in-vitro implant surfaces.

Materials and Methods

Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Candida albicans biofilms were used. Stainless steel and titanium samples were grouped as control, water diluted, no EO addition, and reducing amounts of EO doses. The six microorganisms included in the study were investigated to examine if there were differences between the doses on the implant surfaces. The eradication effect of the EO in samples investigated with electron microscope was classified as 0: none, 1: mild, 2: moderate, and 3: severe. The chemical composition of the EO was determined with gas chromatography.

Results

In terms of biofilm formation, no difference was observed between implant surfaces. While S. aureus and C. albicans were observed to be the most susceptible, P. aeruginosa was identified as the most resistant. According to gas chromatography, M. longifolia EO comprised 61.40% carvacrol and 0.28% thymol.

Conclusion

In vitro, M. longifolia EO was shown to be effective against gram negative/positive and fungal biofilms forming on the surface of stainless steel and titanium implants.

The Effect of Mentha Pulegium on Healing of Burn Wound Injuries in Rat

BACKGROUND

Burn is one of the most common injuries and the 4th common cause of trauma globally. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of the Mentha pulegium extract on second degree burn injuries in rats assessing histopathologic and macroscopic.

METHODS

M. Pulegium extract dressings was used as a treatment to deep dermal contact burns in rats, compared with two control groups of vaseline dressing and simple dressing by normal saline. After creating second-degree burn on the dorsum of rats, the treatments were applied for 15 min in three groups. Wound dressings were performed on days 1, 3, 7, 14 and 21^st and at the same time macroscopic assessment was performed using a digital camera and software processing of photos. Pathologic evaluation of skin specimens was undertaken on days 1, 3,7, 14 and 21^st. Wound healing parameters such as epithelialization, angiogenesis, granulation tissue formation, inflammatory cells were compared between these 3 groups.

RESULTS

Application of M. Pulegium extract on second degree burn wounds significantly decreased burn surface area and increased fibroblasts in comparison to simple dressing. There was not any statistically significant relationship between M. Pulegium extract treated group and vaseline treated or simple dressing groups on other wound healing parameters.

CONCLUSION

This study delineated that M. Pulegium extract had a positive effect on healing process of second degree burns.

Mediterranean herb extracts inhibit microbial growth of representative oral microorganisms and biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans

In light of the growing antibiotic resistance, the usage of plant-derived antimicrobial agents could serve as an effective alternative treatment against oral infections. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of Mediterranean herb extracts against representative oral microorganisms. The extraction procedures and the analysis of the obtained extracts were performed under established experimental conditions. The minimum inhibitory (MIC) and bactericidal (MBC) concentrations of the methanol extracts of Cistus creticus ssp. creticus, Cistus monspeliensis, Origanum vulgare, Rosmarinus officinalis, Salvia sclarea and Thymus longicaulis against eight typical oral bacteria and the fungus Candida albicans were determined. The antibiofilm activity against Streptococcus mutans was also quantified using the microtiter plate test. Overall, all tested extracts inhibited effectively the screened obligate anaerobic microorganisms and in concentrations ≥0.3 mg ml-1 had moderate to high antibiofilm activity comparable to that of chlorhexidine (CHX) against S. mutans. In particular, R. officinalis (MIC: 0.08-5.00 mg ml-1) and S. sclarea (MIC: 0.08-2.50 mg ml-1) showed the highest antibacterial activity, while Cistus spp., R. officinalis and S. sclarea significantly inhibited S. mutans biofilm formation at 0.60, 1.25 and 2.50 mg ml-1, respectively. Porphyromonas gingivalis and Parvimonas micra were high susceptible to O. vulgare (MIC = 0.30 mg ml-1), whereas T. longicaulis eradicated all oral bacteria (MBC: 0.15-2.50 mg ml-1). Nevertheless, C. albicans showed no sensitivity to the tested extracts. In conclusion, the tested plant extracts could serve as alternative natural antibacterial and antibiofilm components against oral infections.

A Review of Herbal Therapy in Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a complex autoimmune disorder which characterized by demyelination and axonal loss in the central nervous system (CNS). Several evidences indicate that some new drugs and stem cell therapy have opened a new horizon for multiple sclerosis treatment, but current therapies are partially effective or not safe in the long term. Recently, herbal therapies represent a promising therapeutic approach for multiple sclerosis disease. Here, we consider the potential benefits of some herbal compounds on different aspects of multiple sclerosis disease. The medicinal plants and their derivatives; Ginkgo biloba, Zingiber officinale, Curcuma longa, Hypericum perforatum, Valeriana officinalis, Vaccinium macrocarpon, Nigella sativa,Piper methysticum, Crocus sativus, Panax ginseng, Boswellia papyrifera, Vitis vinifera, Gastrodia elata, Camellia sinensis, Oenothera biennis, MS14 and Cannabis sativa have been informed to have several therapeutic effects in MS patients.

The effects of vitamin C and menthone on acyclovir induced DNA damage in rat spermatozoa: An experimental study

BACKGROUND

Acyclovir (ACV) is known to be toxic to gonads, inducing apoptosis in the reproductive system. The beneficial effects of vitamin C (Vit C) and menthone, both as antioxidant agents on various organs has been reported.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the potential role of the Vit C and menthone on the DNA damage in rat spermatozoa induced by the ACV.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, adult male albino Wistar rats with average weight of 250±10 gr, were divided into six groups (n=18/each), as: ACV (15 mg/kg/day), ACV+Vit C (20 mg/kg/day), ACV+ menthone (100 µl/d), ACV+ menthone (250 µl/d), ACV+ menthone (400 µl/day) and control group without any treatment. At the end of experiment, the animals were sacrificed and sperm samples were collected and isolated in phosphate-buffered saline and examined by TUNEL staining process. The percentage of TUNEL positive spermatozoa was evaluated by fluorescence microscopy. Each experiment was performed in three repeats.

RESULTS

Male rats exposed to ACV had significant increase in DNA damages in comparison to other groups. The percentage of TUNEL positive sperm cells was 90.83 (p<0.001) in ACV group. The protective role of both antioxidants used in high dose, compensate the adverse effects of the ACV. The results showed that the percentage of apoptotic sperm in the ACV+Vit C group was 16.38 (p<0.001) and in the ACV+ menthone (400 µl/d) group was 16.05 (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The present results showed that Vit C and menthone at higher dose have a good compensatory effect with significant reduction in DNA damages in sperm cells by reversing the adverse effect of ACV on the reproductive system in male rat.

Analgesic-Like Activity of Essential Oil Constituents: An Update

The constituents of essential oils are widely found in foods and aromatic plants giving characteristic odor and flavor. However, pharmacological studies evidence its therapeutic potential for the treatment of several diseases and promising use as compounds with analgesic-like action. Considering that pain affects a significant part of the world population and the need for the development of new analgesics, this review reports on the current studies of essential oils’ chemical constituents with analgesic-like activity, including a description of their mechanisms of action and chemical aspects.

Therapeutic evaluation of "Ayush Tulsi Jiwan Plus" oil for chronic musculoskeletal pain relief

Background:

Chronic pain of musculoskeletal origin is a very common symptom and has major effect on the physical, mental, and economic aspects of the patients. There is always a crave among physicians and patients for effective analgesic, curable preparation that can be locally applied.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of “Ayush Tulsi Jiwan Plus” oil in chronic pain management of musculoskeletal origin.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty patients of chronic musculoskeletal pain of unknown origin of mild to moderate condition were advised to apply “Ayush Tulsi Jiwan Plus” oil locally twice daily for 6 weeks and examined weekly. After completion of the treatment, the efficacy of the therapy was assessed on the basis of the subjective criteria such as perception of pain, tenderness, swelling, and joint mobility.

Results:

In this study, mean baseline score versus last visit score of pain (2.84 ± 0.68 vs. 1.33 ± 0.76), tenderness (1.64 ± 0.74 vs. 0.36 ± 0.56), and swelling (0.64 ± 0.85 vs. 0.38 ± 0.66) was significantly decreased, and also clinical improvement was seen in the study participants along with no evidence of adverse drug reactions.

Conclusion:

The analysis of the overall effect of this “Ayush Tulsi Jiwan Plus” oil preparation was found efficacious and topically safe in chronic pain conditions. However, further study will be required with larger sample size and in heterogeneous population to elicit long-term effect of this polyherbal preparation.