Evaluation of Nutritional, Phytochemical, and Mineral Composition of Selected Medicinal Plants for Therapeutic Uses from Cold Desert of Western Himalaya

Role of nutraceutical against exposure to pesticide residues: power of bioactive compounds

Pesticides play a crucial role in modern agriculture, aiding in the protection of crops from pests and diseases. However, their indiscriminate use has raised concerns about their potential adverse effects on human health and the environment. Pesticide residues in food and water supplies are a serious health hazards to the general public since long-term exposure can cause cancer, endocrine disruption, and neurotoxicity, among other health problems. In response to these concerns, researchers and health professionals have been exploring alternative approaches to mitigate the toxic effects of pesticide residues. Bioactive substances called nutraceuticals that come from whole foods including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices have drawn interest because of their ability to mitigate the negative effects of pesticide residues. These substances, which include minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and polyphenols, have a variety of biological actions that may assist in the body's detoxification and healing of harm from pesticide exposure. In this context, this review aims to explore the potential of nutraceutical interventions as a promising strategy to mitigate the toxic effects of pesticide residues.

Corchorus tridens L.: A Review of Its Botany, Phytochemistry, Nutritional Content and Pharmacological Properties

Phytotherapy is a cost-effective alternative that continues to evolve. This has sparked significant research interest in naturally occurring compounds found in edible plants that possess antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Corchorus tridens L. is a wild edible plant widely recognised for its edible leaves, which are used for vegetable and animal feed. The plant is widely distributed across the African continent and is utilised in numerous countries for treating fever, pain, inflammation, and sexually transmitted diseases. Extracts from various parts of this plant exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, and pesticidal properties. This plant is a rich source of amino acids, vitamins, essential fatty acids, proteins, and minerals, as well as secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, quinines, steroids, terpenoids, phenols, and tannins. Additional studies are still needed to determine other biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory activity, involvement in the treatment of measles, prevention of anaemia, and pain-relieving properties. The current review aims to provide information on the characteristics, distribution, nutritional content, bioactive compounds, traditional uses, and biological activities of the edible plant species C. tridens L. to stimulate further research interest to address the existing literature gaps concerning this plant.

Nutritional Composition and Antinutritional Factors of Five Wild Edible Fruits Grown in the Mekdela District, South of Wollo, Ethiopia

This study was carried out to determine the mineral content and nutritional properties of five wild fruits Rhus vulgaris, Rosa abyssinica, Rhus natalensis, Euclea racemosa, and Ficus sur. The proximate composition parameters (moisture, ash, crude fiber, crude fat, and crude protein) and antinutritional factors were evaluated using methods of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists and elemental analysis using the atomic absorption spectroscopy technique. Among the five wild edible fruit species, Rhus vulgaris had the highest carbohydrate content (83.3 ± 0.28 g/100 g) and a high total energy (344.5 ± 2.21 kcal/100 g). Euclea racemosa was found to have the maximum ash content (12.8 ± 0.37 g/100 g), protein content (3.22 ± 0.01 g/100 g), and moisture (16.24 ± 0.003 g/100 g), respectively. Rhus natalensis showed the highest fiber content (9.54 ± 0.003 g/100 g). Mineral analysis showed that local wild fruits contained a considerable amount of minerals. The calcium concentration ranged from 99.51 mg/100 g in Euclea racemosa to 160.12 mg/100 g in Ficus sur. Potassium concentration varied from 54.34 mg/100 g in Euclea racemosa to 234 mg/100 g in Rhus vulgaris. Iron ranges from 21.4 mg/100 g in Rosa abyssinica to 41 mg/100 g in Rhus natalensis, and zinc ranges from 2.3 mg/100 g in Rhus vulgaris to 4.2 mg/100 g in Ficus sur. A high saponin content (2.12 mg/100 g) and a low tannin content (0.23 mg/100 g) were obtained in Rosa abyssinica. The phytate content (1.52 mg/100 g) and the oxalate content (0.9 mg/100 g) were high in Rhus natalensis. In conclusion, the present study shows that wild fruits can be used as food supplementation in food in a safe area.

The Effect of Osthole on Transient Receptor Potential Channels: A Possible Alternative Therapy for Atopic Dermatitis

Introduction

Chronic recurrent skin inflammation and severe itching in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) significantly impair their quality of life. The H4 histamine receptor plays a key role in histamine-induced itching. During the skin inflammation associated with AD, pro-inflammatory mediators (interleukins, cytokines) are released from neurons. Ultimately, a cascade of reactions leads to the activation and sensitization of transient receptor potential channels (TRP), which exacerbate the inflammation and itching associated with AD. Osthole (OST) is a natural coumarin with a proven versatile pharmacological effect: anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory. However, the molecular mechanism of OST in relieving inflammation in histamine-mediated itching is not yet clear.

Purpose

In the studies presented, the possible effect of the OST action on the inhibition of the gene expression of the histamine H4 receptor and the key genes of the TRP channels as well as on the concentration of proinflammatory interleukins was analyzed.

Methods

Inflammation was induced in a 3D skin model and a keratinocyte cell line Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes (NHEK) identical to that of AD, and then OST was administered at various doses. The concentrations of IL-4/-13 were determined by ELISA. RNA was isolated from the 3D skin cells and the NHEK cell line, and the qPCR method was used to determine the expression of: IL-4α, H4R, TRPV1, TRPV4, TRPM8 analyzed.

Results

The study showed that OST significantly reduced the secretion of IL-4/-13 in a keratinocyte cell line and in a 3D skin model. In addition, OST was found to significantly decrease the gene expression of IL-4α, H4R, TRPV1, TRPV4 and increase TRPM8 in both the NHEK cell line and the organotypic 3D skin model.

Conclusion

The data obtained provide the first in vitro evidence of itch relief following the application of OST to atopic skin. Research on the use of OST as an active component of emollients in the treatment of AD should be continued in the future.

Phytochemical Profiles and Biological Activities of Plant Extracts from Aromatic Plants Cultivated in Cyprus

Medicinal and aromatic plants' properties, still an interesting research area, are attributed to the presence of various specialized products that possess important pharmacological activities. In the present study, six medicinal/aromatic plants (Sideritis cypria, Origanum dubium, Melissa officinalis, Mentha piperita, Thymus capitatus, and Salvia fruticosa) were evaluated for their phytochemical and nutritive composition, as well as their biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic properties. The results obtained indicate that M. piperita was rich in proteins and minerals such as N and Mg, while S. cypria accumulated more K, Na, P, and Ca. The highest content of phenols and flavonoids was observed in M. piperita, followed by O. dubium and T. capitatus, which eventually influenced their high antioxidant capacity. NMR screening revealed the presence of (i) triterpenoids and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives in M. officinalis; (ii) terpenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acid derivatives in S. fruticosa; (iii) flavonoids and phenolic acid derivatives in M. piperita; (iv) phenolic monoterpenes in O. dubium and T. capitatus; and (v) terpenoids, flavones, and phenylethanoid glycosides in S. cypria. The results of the antimicrobial activity showed that the tested samples overall had quite good antimicrobial potential. High antibacterial activity was found in O. dubium and T. capitatus, while O. dubium and S. cypria exhibited great antifungal activities. The studied species also had an important effect on the viability of female-derived and colon cancer cells. In particular, in colon cancer cells, the extracts from T. capitatus, M. officinalis, M. piperita, and S. fruticosa exhibited a stronger effect on cell viability in the more metastatic cell line at significantly lower concentrations, indicating an important therapeutic potential in targeting highly metastatic tumors. This finding is worth further investigation. The present study unveiled interesting phytochemical profiles and biological properties of the six medicinal/aromatic plants, which should be further explored, contributing to green chemistry and the possible creation of natural health products for humans' health/nutrition and additives in cosmetics.

Ceratocarpus arenarius: Botanical Characteristics, Proximate, Mineral Composition, and Cytotoxic Activity

Ceratocarpus arenarius (Chenopodiaceae) is an under-investigated annual plant that occurs in dry areas stretching from eastern and south-eastern Europe to East Asia. This article presents the botanical characterization and examination of proximate parameters, minerals and cytotoxic activity of C. arenarius that grows wild in Kazakhstan. The results of morphological analysis using a light microscope, based on cross-sections of stems, roots and leaves, provide the necessary data to develop a regulatory document for this herbal substance as a raw material for use in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. The investigated proximate characteristics included moisture content (6.8 ± 0.28%), ash (5.9 ± 0.40%), fat (12.5 ± 21.28%) and protein (392.85 ± 25.50). The plant is also rich in minerals (mg/100 g dry weight); Na (20.48 ± 0.29), K (302.73 ± 1.15), Zn (4.45 ± 0.35), Fe (1.18 ± 0.03), Cu (0.11 ± 0.02), Mn (0.76 ± 0.01), Ca (131.23 ± 0.09) and Mg (60.69 ± 0.72). The ethanolic extract of C. arenarius showed no acute toxicity against the brine shrimp nauplii.

Synthetic polyploid induction influences morphological, physiological, and photosynthetic characteristics in Melissa officinalis L

Melissa officinalis L., a well-known herb with diverse industrial and ethnopharmacological properties. Although, there has been a significant lack in the breeding attempts of this invaluable herb. This study aimed to enhance the agronomical traits of M. officinalis through in vitro polyploidization. Nodal segments were micropropagated and subjected to oryzalin treatment at concentrations of 20, 40, and 60 mM for 24 and 48 hours. Flow cytometry, chromosome counting, and stomatal characteristics were employed to confirm the ploidy level of the surviving plants. The survival rate of the treated explants decreased exponentially with increasing oryzalin concentration and duration. The highest polyploid induction rate (8%) was achieved with 40 mM oryzalin treatment for 24 hours. The induced tetraploid plants exhibited vigorous growth, characterized by longer shoots, larger leaves, and a higher leaf count. Chlorophyll content and fluorescence parameters elucidated disparities in photosynthetic performance between diploid and tetraploid genotypes. Tetraploid plants demonstrated a 75% increase in average essential oil yield, attributed to the significantly larger size of peltate trichomes. Analysis of essential oil composition in diploid and tetraploid plants indicated the presence of three major components: geranial, neral, and citronellal. While citronellal remained consistent, geranial and neral increased by 11.06% and 9.49%, respectively, in the tetraploid population. This effective methodology, utilizing oryzalin as an anti-mitotic agent for polyploid induction in M. officinalis, resulted in a polyploid genotype with superior morpho-physiological traits. The polyploid lemon balm generated through this method has the potential to meet commercial demands and contribute significantly to the improvement of lemon balm cultivation.

Comparative metabolomic profiling and nutritional chemistry of Chenopodium quinoa of diverse panicle architecture and agroecological zones

Chenopodium quinoa possesses remarkable nutritional value and adaptability to various agroecological conditions. Panicle architecture influences the number of spikelets and grains in a panicle, ultimately leading to productivity and yield. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the metabolites, nutrients, and minerals in Chenopodium quinoa accessions of varying panicle architecture. Metabolic profiling using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis identified seventeen metabolites, including flavonoids, phenolics, fatty acids, terpenoids, phenylbutenoid dimers, amino acids, and saccharides. Eight metabolic compounds were reported in this study for the first time in quinoa. Some metabolites were detected as differentially expressed. The compound (Z)-1-(2,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl) butadiene and chrysin were found only in SPrecm. Sodium ((2R,3S,4R,5R)-5-(6-amino-9H-purin-9-yl)-3,4-dihydroxtetrahydrofuran-2-yl) methyl hydrogen phosphate and elenolic acid were detected only in CHEN-33, and quercetin, 3-hydroxyphloretin-3'-C-glucoside, kurarinone, and rosmarinic acid were identified only in D-12175. Variable importance in projection (VIP) scores annotated ten metabolites contributing to variability. Mineral analysis using atomic absorption spectrophotometry indicated that the quantity of magnesium and calcium is high in D-12175. In comparison, SPrecm showed a high quantity of magnesium compared to CHEN-33, while CHEN-33 showed a high quantity of calcium compared to SPrecm. However, the proximate composition showed no significant difference among quinoa accessions.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12298-023-01398-2.

The Added-on of Ziziphus jujube Syrup in the Treatment of Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Resistant to Standard-Dose of Secondary-generation H1 Antihistamine: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Background

Although antihistamines are the first-line treatment for chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), 50% of patients don't respond to standard doses. In this study, the effectiveness of Ziziphus jujube fruit syrup in combination with antihistamines was assessed in patients with CSU.

Methods

This double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted in Shiraz between December 2019 and December 2020. 64 patients with CSU who had experienced hives for at least six weeks and did not respond to the usual treatments were enrolled in the study. They were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups using permuted block random allocation. For four weeks, the intervention group received 7.5 mL Ziziphus jujube syrup twice a day, while the control group received 7.5 mL simple jujube syrup twice a day. Both groups received cetirizine 10 mg every night. Urticaria activity score (UAS) and CU-Q2oL questionnaires were used to assess urticaria state and sleep quality before and after each week for four consecutive weeks. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 18, and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Before the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups' mean of UAS (P=0.490) and sleep quality (P=0.423). During the follow-up, UAS in the intervention group was significantly lower (P=0.001). Moreover, this difference was significant on the day 28 (P=0.046). During the follow-up, the quality of sleep in both groups improved significantly, and this improvement was more significant in the intervention group.

Conclusion

Ziziphus jujube syrup could be an effective adjuvant treatment for CSU.Trial Registration Number: IRCT20190304042916N1.

Biological Characterization of Cleome felina L.f. Extracts for Phytochemical, Antimicrobial, and Hepatoprotective Activities in Wister Albino Rats

The present study aims to explore the phytochemical constitution and biological activities of Cleome felina L.f. (Cleomaceae). C. felina (leaves, stem, and root) extracts (acetone, methanol, and water) were qualitatively assessed for phytochemical presence. Methanolic leaves extract revealed more positive phyto-compounds among all the extracts; further, methanolic leaves extract was evaluated for FTIR, EDX, GCMS, antimicrobial assay, acute toxicity, and paracetamol-induced hepatoprotective activity in Wister albino rats. FTIR and EDX analysis unveiled important functional groups and elements in the leaves. GCMS analysis of methanolic leaves extract exposed 12 active phyto-compounds: major constituents detected were 1-Butanol, 3-methyl-, formate-48.79%; 1-Decanol, 2-ethyl-13.40%; 1,6-Anhydro-β-d-talopyranose-12.49%; Ethene, 1,2-bis(methylthio)-7.22%; Decane-4.02%; 3-Methylene-7, 11-dimethyl-1-dodecene-3.085%; Amlexanox-2.50%; 1,2,3,4-Cyclopentanetetrol, (1α,2β,3β,4α)-2.07%; L-Cysteine S-sulfate-1.84%; n-Hexadecanoic acid-1.70%; and Flucarbazone-1.55%. The antimicrobial assay showed a moderate zone of inhibition against S. aureus, B. cereus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, C. albicans, and C. glabrata at 100 µL/mL concentration. Additionally, acute toxicity revealed no behavioral sign of the toxic effect. The significant results were obtained for methanolic leaves extract (low-50 and high-100 mg/kg b.wt. dose) for hepatoprotective activity, where it dramatically reduced serum blood biochemical markers (AST, ALT, ALP, Total bilirubin, and cholesterol) and exhibited elevated hepatic antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GSH) concentration with lipid peroxidation retardation. To conclude, C. felina methanolic leaves extract ameliorated important phytochemical compounds and showed significant antimicrobial and hepatoprotective efficacy; therefore, utilization of C. felina leaves suggested in pharmacological applications, and in numerous cosmetics, herbicides, and food industries, would be a great scope for future hepatoprotective drug designing.

In ovo effect of Soursop (Annona muricata L.) leaf extract on hatching and post-hatch performance of Noiler chickens

Pharmacological and nutritional benefits of plant leaf extracts can be harnessed to address the problem of poor chick quality, performance and high mortality, which affect both hatchery and farm managers. This study sought to evaluate the in ovo effect of Soursop leaf extract (SLE) on the hatching and post-hatch performance of Noiler chicks. A total of 640 fertile eggs were randomly distributed into four groups of five replicates: (0.25 µg SLE), (0.5 µg SLE), (0.75 µg SLE) and a non-injected control. On day 18 of incubation, 0.2 ml of SLE was injected into the airspace of the eggs. At hatch, embryonic mortality, hatchability, and chick quality were evaluated. Hatched chicks were reared to assess feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and mortality. Results showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) in embryonic mortality, hatchability and weight gain among the treatment groups. Chick weight and feed intake were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in SLE groups, while FCR and mortality were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in SLE groups. It was concluded that in ovo injection of SLE improved chick weights, feed conversion and livability of Noiler chicks.

Phytochemical Composition of Combretum molle (R. Br. ex G. Don.) Engl. & Diels Leaf and Stem Extracts

The demand for medicinal plants is on a rise due to their affordability, accessibility and relatively non-toxic nature. Combretum molle (Combretaceae) is used in African traditional medicine to treat a number of diseases. This study aimed to screen the phytochemical composition of the hexane, chloroform and methanol extracts of C. molle leaves and stems using qualitative phytochemical screening. Additionally, the study aimed to identify the functional phytochemical groups, determine the elemental composition and provide a fluorescence characterization of the powdered leaves and stems by performing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalyses and fluorescence microscopy. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, polyphenols, terpenoids, tannins, coumarins, saponins, phytosterols, gums, mucilage, carbohydrates, amino acids and proteins within all leaf and stem extracts. Lipids and fixed oils were additionally present within the methanol extracts. FTIR demonstrated significant peaks in absorption frequency in the leaf at wavelengths of 3283.18, 2917.81, 1617.72, 1318.83, 1233.97, 1032.32 and 521.38 cm^-1, and in the stem at 3318.91, 1619.25, 1317.13, 1032.68, 780.86 and 516.39 cm^-1. These corresponded to the functional groups of chemical compounds including alcohols, phenols, primary amines, alkyl halides, alkanes and alkyl aryl ethers, corroborating the presence of the detected phytochemicals within the plant. EDX microanalyses showed the elemental composition of the powdered leaves (68.44% C, 26.72% O, 1.87% Ca, 0.96% Cl, 0.93% Mg, 0.71% K, 0.13% Na, 0.12 % Mn and 0.10% Rb) and stems (54.92% C, 42.86% O, 1.7% Ca, 0.43% Mg and 0.09% Mn). Fluorescence microscopy provided a characteristic evaluation of the plant in its powdered form and revealed distinct colour changes in the material when treated with various reagents and viewed under ultraviolet light. In conclusion, the phytochemical constituents of the leaves and stems of C. molle confirm the suitability of this species for use in traditional medicine. The findings from this study suggest the need to validate the use of C. molle in the development of modern medicines.

Biochemical Profile and In Vitro Therapeutic Properties of Two Euhalophytes, Halocnemum strobilaceum Pall. and Suaeda fruticosa (L.) Forske., Grown in the Sabkha Ecosystem in the Algerian Sahara

This study reports the biochemical profile and in vitro biological activities of the aerial part of two shrubs: Halocnemum strobilaceum and Suaeda fruticosa, a halophytes species native to saline habitats. The biomass was evaluated by determining its physiological properties and approximate composition. Hydro-methanolic extracts from Halocnemum strobilaceum and Suaeda fruticosa have been investigated for the inhibition of bacterial growth, the protection of proteins (albumin) from denaturation, and cytotoxicity to hepatocellular carcinomas (Huh-7 and HepG2). Their antioxidant activity was evaluated by five tests, including one that examined their ability to inhibit hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced hemolysis. The profile of their phenolic compounds was also determined. These two euhalophytes had a high moisture content, high levels of photosynthetic pigments, elevated levels of ash and protein, low oxidative damage indices, MDA (Malondialdehyde) and proline, and low lipids levels. Their content was also characterized by a moderate acidity with good electrical conductivity. They contained abundant levels of phytochemicals and varied phenolic contents. Reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis revealed the presence of caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, rutin, and quercetin in both plant extracts. On the pharmaceutical level, the two euhalophytes had anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties, and therefore it was recommended to isolate and identify biologically active compounds from these plants and evaluate them in vivo.

Potassium Application Enhanced Plant Growth, Mineral Composition, Proximate and Phytochemical Content in Trachyandra divaricata Kunth (Sandkool)

Wild leafy vegetables are commonly included in the diet of people in rural homesteads. Among various wild edible vegetables in South Africa, Trachyandra divaricata (Sandkool) is one of the most abundant but underutilized due to the dearth of literature on its cultivation and nutritional value. In the present study, the effect of potassium application and pruning on growth dynamics, mineral composition, and proximate and phytochemical content in T. divaricata were evaluated. Treatments consisted of three potassium concentrations (0.0072, 0.0144, and 0.0216 M) supplemented in the form of potassium sulphate (K2SO4) with four pruning levels (unpruned, 5, 10, and 15 cm) applied in each treatment. The potassium doses were added to the nutrient solution, while the control treatment was sustained and irrigated with nutrient solution only. The results revealed a significant increase in flower bud yield, height, total dry and wet weight of shoots and roots, as well as ash and neutral detergent fibre in plants irrigated with 0.0072 M of K2SO4 without pruning. Conversely, chlorophyll content and Ca were comparable among treatments, while the highest yield of Na, P, N, and Zn was recorded in treatment 100 mL of K2SO4 with 10 cm pruning. Likewise, the highest antioxidant value (Polyphenols, Flavonol and DPPH) was obtained from plants irrigated with 0.0072 M of K2SO4 with 10 cm pruning. Based on these findings, T. divaricata is a promising leafy vegetable as a minimum dose (0.0072 M) of K with moderate pruning optimised its productivity in terms of growth, biomass parameters, nutritional content, and antioxidant potential. Due to its rich nutritional value, the plant should be domesticated and studied further for its potential nutraceutical benefits.

Proximate, Vitamins, Minerals and Anti-Nutritive Constituents of the Leaf and Stem of Helichrysum odoratissimum (L.) Sweet: A Folk Medicinal Plant in South Africa

Helichrysum odoratissimum (L.) Sweet (Asteraceae) is a perennial shrub used in South African folk medicine to combat human diseases such as diabetes, coughs, asthma, and diarrhoea, and for wound treatment. This study evaluated the leaf and stem of H. odoratissimum for their nutritive and anti-nutritive qualities using the standard methods of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC), atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) and colorimetry. Crude fat and protein were high in the leaf (7.61% and 7.82% DW), but low in the stem (2.25% and 3.4%), respectively. The neutral detergent fibre (NDF) content was significantly higher in the stem (68.5%) compared to the leaf (43.6%), while non-fibre carbohydrate (NFC) in the leaf (24.93%) was higher than in the stem (15.67%). Mineral analysis showed that both the leaf and stem of H. odoratissimum are good sources of potassium, calcium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron. Appreciable amounts of vitamins B2, C and E in the leaf and stem supports the folkloric utility of the plant in the traditional treatment of wounds, coughs and colds. A tolerable amount of phytate in both leaf (0.36%) and stem (1.06%) might be a factor for safer consumption of the plant as food and medicine. These findings suggest the use of the plant as a source for dietary supplementation and ethnomedicinal applications.

A survey on ethnoveterinary medicines used by the tribal migratory shepherds of Northwestern Himalaya

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tribal migratory shepherds (Gaddi) living in the Northwestern Himalayan region are well known for their nomadic lifestyle in which tribal migratory shepherds along with their livestock which mainly include sheep and goat migrate seasonally in the Northwestern Himalayan region from high hills to low hills for the survival of their livestock from cold winters and hot summer. Due to harsh environmental conditions, heavy snowfall, heavy rainfall, wild animal attacks, no medical facilities, no transportation, and no electricity facilities tribal migratory shepherds mostly rely on plant species mentioned for ethnoveterinary use to treat livestock disease.

AIM OF STUDY

The aim of our study is to conduct ethnoveterinary survey for the first time to document the contemporary oral ethnoveterinary knowledge of Gaddi shepherds living in Northwestern Himalayan region.

METHODOLOGY

The documentation of plant species mentioned for ethnoveterinary use was executed through extensive field surveys from 2017 to 2019. Data were collected through direct interviews by administrating questionnaire among tribal migratory shepherds.

RESULTS

A total of 181 plant species mentioned for ethnoveterinary use belonging to the same or different families were documented during the seasonal migration of shepherds from Northwestern Himalayan region. Most frequently occurring family of plant species mentioned for ethnoveterinary was Poaceae, leaves and roots were reported to be the most frequently used plant parts. Most frequently documented plant species for ethnoveterinary use were Cynodon dactylon, Chenopodium album, Zanthoxylum armatum, Aloe vera, Azadirachta indica and Cannabis sativa. Chrysopogon serrulatus, Cynodon dactylon, and Vitex negundo were reported with high use reports. Some of the endemic species of Northwestern Himalayan region such as Elymus himalayanus and Euphorbia pilosa and one endangered species Picrorhiza kurrooa were reported in current study.

CONCLUSION

It is observed that there is a need to raise awareness among the tribal migratory shepherds about the sustainable use and conservation of some of the plant species mentioned for ethnoveterinary use. This study provided an inventory of plant species mentioned for ethnoveterinary use having significant ethnoveterinary potential, however there is need of scientific evaluations by in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies.

Onion anthocyanins: Extraction, stability, bioavailability, dietary effect, and health implications

Anthocyanins are high-value compounds, and their use as functional foods and their natural colorant have potential health benefits. Anthocyanins seem to possess antioxidant properties, which help prevent neuronal diseases and thereby exhibit anti-inflammatory, chemotherapeutic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective activities. They also show different therapeutic effects against various chronic diseases. Anthocyanins are present in high concentrations in onion. In recent years, although both conventional and improved methods have been used for extraction of anthocyanins, nowadays, improved methods are of great importance because of their higher yield and stability of anthocyanins. In this review, we compile anthocyanins and their derivatives found in onion and the factors affecting their stability. We also analyze different extraction techniques of anthocyanins. From this point of view, it is very important to be precisely aware of the impact that each parameter has on the stability and subsequently potentiate its bioavailability or beneficial health effects. We present up-to-date information on bioavailability, dietary effects, and health implications of anthocyanins such as antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancerous, antiobesity, cardioprotective, and hepatoprotective activities.

An acidic polysaccharide from Oxalis corniculata L. and the preliminary study on its antioxidant activity

It has been reported that the aqueous extract from Oxalis corniculate has excellent pharmacological effects, but its polysaccharide as the major ingredient in the aqueous extract has not been reported. When the temperature of 50°C, ultrasonic power of 270 W, time of 25 min, solid to liquid ratio of 30 ml·g^-1 , the optimal O. corniculate polysaccharide (OCP) yield was 9.45%. The physicochemical properties indicated that OCP-3, as the major fraction of OCP, was an acidic polysaccharide with 31.5 kDa, and it mainly consisted of arabinose (47.83%), galacturonic acid (17.81%), and galactose (14.25%). In addition, OCP-3 displayed an excellent antioxidant activity in vitro, including scavenging free radical, anti-lipid peroxidation, and protecting plasmid DNA from oxidative damage. Meanwhile, OCP-3 significantly reduced the levels of malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl by significantly increasing the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, which protected the HEK 293 cell and Caenorhabditis elegans from oxidative damage. All the results suggested that OCP-3 might be the major active ingredient of the aqueous extract from O. corniculate, and OCP-3 might be a potent antioxidant supplement in the food, cosmetics, and medical industries. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Oxalis corniculate is a kind of wild vegetable and ethnomedicine, and it is widely distributed in temperate zones. Unfortunately, its utilization rate is low compared to its yield. Our research suggested that the polysaccharide of OCP-3 from O corniculate might be used as a potent antioxidant supplement in the food, cosmetics, and medical industries.

Quality Control, Anti-Hyperglycemic, and Anti-Inflammatory Assessment of Colvillea racemosa Leaves Using In Vitro, In Vivo Investigations and Its Correlation with the Phytoconstituents Identified via LC-QTOF-MS and MS/MS

Colvillea racemosa is a cultivated ornamental plant that is a monotypic genus of Fabaceae. It is native to Madagascar, with limited studies. For the first time, the leaf quality control parameters, the anti-hyperglycemic and anti-inflammatory in vitro activity of Colvillea racemosa ethanol extract (CRE) and its fractions of petroleum ether (CRP), methylene chloride (CRMC), ethyl acetate (CREA), n-butanol (CRB), and methanol (CRME) were evaluated. It exhibited significant inhibition against α-amylase, α-glucosidase and membrane stabilization. CRB was the most active fraction, and in vivo studies revealed that oral treatment with CRB of STZ-induced diabetic rats efficiently lowered blood glucose by 67.78%, reduced serum nitric oxide and lipid peroxide levels by 41.23% and 38.45%, respectively, and increased the GSH level by 90.48%. In addition, compared with the diabetic group, there was a 52.2% decrease in serum VCAM, a 55.5% increase in paraoxonase, an improved lipid profile, and improved liver and kidney functions for a treated diabetic group with CRB. Metabolite profiling of CRB was determined by UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS and tandem MS/MS. Twenty-three chromatographic peaks were identified, which were classified into phenolic compounds and amino acids. The characterized flavonoids were apigenin and luteolin derivatives.

Documentation of Commonly Used Ethnoveterinary Medicines from Wild Plants of the High Mountains in Shimla District, Himachal Pradesh, India

The aim of current study is to provide a significant traditional knowledge on wild medicines used for ethnoveterinary purposes in the rural area of Maraog region in district Shimla. The medicinal plants have played a significant role in the treatment of human as well as animal’s diseases. The rural people of the Maraog region were interviewed through a questionnaire and extensive field surveys were conducted from June 2020 to July 2021. The discussion, observations and interviews were conducted in study site and included 96 informants. The information gathered from the residents is presented in a table format and includes scientific and local names, different parts used, diseases treated and mode administration. The most commonly used taxa are calculated with used value. The study revealed 100 plants in which trees (7), shrubs (26), herbs (56), ferns (5), grasses (3) and climbers (3) were identified. The most commonly documented livestock diseases were found to be hoof infections, eyes infections, poisoning and skin infections. In the current study, the Rosaceae family was reported as being the highest number (11), followed by Asteraceae (10) and then Lamiaceae (6). It was found that leaves, roots, flowers and fruits are the commonly used parts for ethnoveterinary medications. The phytochemicals present in the plant, such as alkaloids, sterols, glycosides, flavonoids, lignin, coumarins and terpenoids, etc., may be responsible for their medicinal properties. In this documentation, it was observed that the younger generation does not have good knowledge of medicinal plants as compared to the older ones. Therefore, it is necessary to preserve the traditional knowledge of these medicinal plants before their permanent loss. The documentation and conservation of medicinal plants can be a good start for novel phytopharmacological research in the veterinary field.

Therapeutic Uses of Wild Plants by Rural Inhabitants of Maraog Region in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India

The main aim of this study is to document important ethnomedicinal plants from the Maraog region, located in the district of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, India. A total of 110 medicinal plant species belonging to 102 genera and 57 families were reported from the study site. All of the species were collected from wild habitats. The rural people of the Maraog region were surveyed through interview methods, group discussions, and participatory observations. In the current study, data were collected from 88 informants through the snowball method. A total of 110 plant species were collected from the study area, including 64 herbs, 24 shrubs, 9 trees, 5 climbers, 3 grasses, and 5 ferns. Most of the plant species, reported from the study area, belong to the Rosaceae and Asteraceae families, each contributing 12 plant species, followed by the Lamiaceae family with 6 plant species. The most used part of the plant in the preparation of herbal medications is the leaves, which have been reported in 62 plants, followed by roots in 14 plants, and flowers and other aerial parts in 9 plants. The ethnomedicinal data were analyzed using “Use Value,” a statistical quantitative method, with Artemisia vestita having the highest use value (1.00), followed by Cannabis sativa (0.79), Rhododendron arboreum (0.79), and Datura stramonium (0.71). Older people were found to have a vast knowledge of wild medicinal plants, while the younger generation’s knowledge was lacking. As a result, traditional knowledge about the use of plants as a source of medicine has decreased day-by-day. Therefore, there is a need to document traditional ethnobotanical knowledge. The data could serve as a basis for research by pharmacological and nutraceutical industries for the development of novel drugs.

Traditional Uses, Nutritional and Pharmacological Potentials of Clerodendrum volubile

Clerodendrum volubile is an underutilized leafy vegetable consumed in some parts of Nigeria. The interest in C. volubile has continued to increase due to its multipurpose values, including traditional uses, nutritional properties, and some therapeutic potentials; however, the pharmacological prospects of the plant are yet to be fully explored. Therefore, in the present review, different databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, etc. were explored to retrieve publications used to write this review. The pharmacological potentials of C. volubile, such as anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and anti-hypertensive properties, were highlighted. The toxicological potential of the plant is also discussed. Proposed mechanisms that underline its biological activities include modulation of redox homeostasis, leading to decreased oxidative stress; down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) expression; inhibition of key enzymes implicated in diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and neurological diseases; and inhibition of oxidative burst and inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, the prospect of endophytes from C. volubile as a bioresource to produce novel therapeutic agents, as well as the development of nanotherapeutics from the plant extracts and its phytoconstituents, are discussed. In conclusion, C. volubile possesses an enormous number of possible pharmacological properties and therapeutic potentials waiting to be explored.

Ethnomedicinal Plants Used in the Health Care System: Survey of the Mid Hills of Solan District, Himachal Pradesh, India

The study was performed in the mid hills of the Dharampur region in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, India. At the study site, a total of 115 medicinal plants were documented (38 trees, 37 herbs, 34 shrubs, 5 climbers, 1 fern, and 1 grass). In the study region, extensive field surveys were performed between March 2020 and August 2021. Indigenous knowledge of wild medicinal plants was collected through questionnaires, discussions, and personal interviews during field trips. Plants with their correct nomenclature were arranged by botanical name, family, common name, habitat, parts used, routes used, and diseases treated. In the present study, the predominant family was Rosaceae, which represented the maximum number of plant species, 10, followed by Asteraceae and Lamiaceae, which represented 8 plant species. The rural inhabitants of the Dharampur region in the Solan district have been using local plants for primary health care and the treatment of various diseases for a longer time. However, information related to the traditional knowledge of medicinal plants was not documented. The rural inhabitants of the Dharampur region reported that the new generation is not so interested in traditional knowledge of medicinal plants due to modernization in society, so there is an urgent need to document ethnomedicinal plants before such knowledge becomes inaccessible and extinct.

Plant-Based Antioxidant Extracts and Compounds in the Management of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer continues to be a leading cause of death worldwide, and its prevalence is particularly high in developing countries, where people chew tobacco and betel nut on a regular basis. Radiation-, chemo-, targeted-, immuno-, and hormone-based therapies along with surgery are commonly used as part of a treatment plan. However, these treatments frequently result in various unwanted short- to long-term side effects. As a result, there is an urgent need to develop treatment options for oral cancer that have little or no adverse effects. Numerous bioactive compounds derived from various plants have recently attracted attention as therapeutic options for cancer treatment. Antioxidants found in medicinal plants, such as vitamins E, C, and A, reduce damage to the mucosa by neutralizing free radicals found in various oral mucosal lesions. Phytochemicals found in medicinal plants have the potential to modulate cellular signalling pathways that alter the cellular defence mechanisms to protect normal cells from reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induce apoptosis in cancer cells. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of various medicinal plants and phytoconstituents that have shown the potential to be used as oral cancer therapeutics.