Nutrition & Food
Pharmacognostic, GC-MS, and In silico Molecular Docking Studies of Phytoconstituents from Urtica dioica and Zanthoxylum armatum for Male Antifertility Potential
Research on non-hormonal alternatives to traditional methods of male contraception has been prompted by the growing world population as well as the need for effective and reversible treatments. This study aimed to examine the possible antifertility potential of two medicinal herbs i.e. Urtica dioica and Zanthoxylum armatum that have been utilized for centuries in different cultures.
A thorough pharmacognostical analysis was carried out to identify the ingredients of these plants. The phytoconstituents from Urtica dioica aqueous 96% methanolic leaf extract and Zanthoxylum armatum fruit essential oil were subjected to in silico molecular docking screening. The phytoconstituents were profiled using GC-MS analysis. To investigate how these phytoconstituents interact with important proteins involved in male fertility and identify potential candidates for the development of a plant-based oral contraceptive for men further in silico molecular docking (receptor protein ID of 7FIH (3.20 Å) 7BPR (1.95 Å) and 2Q7J (1.90 Å) experiments were carried out.
The GC-MS analysis revealed a wide variety of bioactive chemicals. Promising interactions between the discovered phytoconstituents and specific protein targets were found by the in silico molecular docking investigation indicating the possibility of antifertility effects.
The results of this study demonstrate the medicinal use of these plants and provide the basis for the development of novel male contraceptive medicines and their further experimental validation.
Functionality of Semolina Pasta Supplemented with Grapefruit Flavedo Byproduct: Effect on Phytochemical, Functional, Textural, Cooking, and Sensorial Quality
Pasta is consumed worldwide and can be an excellent food matrix for supplementation. Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) flavedo byproduct is reported to contain considerable amounts of bioactive compounds which represent a valuable and sustainable source of phenolics. So far there is limited information available about the utilization of grapefruit flavedo byproducts for supplementation of pasta.
The present study aimed to investigate the effect of freeze-dried grapefruit flavedo powder (GFP) incorporation at various concentrations (3 6 9 and 12%) on the phytochemical functional textural microstructural and sensory quality of the developed pasta.
Fortification with GFP significantly (P<0.05) enhanced antioxidant activities relative to DPPH and FRAP and increased the total phenolic and flavonoid content from 132.41–211.63 mg GAE/100 g and 73.20–96.83 mg QE/100 g respectively. Supplementation with GFP significantly (P<0.05) reduced the optimum cooking time of pasta while cooking loss increased up to 6.32% with 12% GFP incorporation which was still under the acceptable limits (<8%). The addition of GFP decreased the L* value while the a* and b* values increased for the pasta. SEM analysis presented that GFP incorporation in pasta affected the structural integrity attributable to the enhanced fiber levels inducing a weaker matrix as ascertained by textural profile analysis (TPA) with a decline in hardness attribute with increasing GFP concentration. Sensory analysis divulged overall acceptability scores of 8.4 for the pasta with 6% GFP while further increments in GFP levels led to decreased sensory scores.
Grapefruit peels are typically discarded as waste the outer layer of which i.e. flavedo could be used to enrich pasta. The present research divulged that pasta supplementation with freeze-dried flavedo powder could provide total phenolic content flavonoid content and antioxidant potential without compromising on the technological and sensory quality of pasta. Utilization of this citrus waste as a bioactive food ingredient with promising effects represents a valuable byproduct valorization strategy.
Production and Characterization of Pomelo Albedo Powder Based Pasta: Physicochemical, Functional, Textural and Sensorial Attributes
Pomelo albedo peel byproducts are composed of many health-beneficial phytochemicals during processing. This study aimed to maximize the potential of incorporating pomelo albedo powder as a bioactive ingredient in pasta.
In the present study pomelo albedo was fortified with pasta at five different concentrations (0 3 6 9 and 12%) and its effects on the antioxidant functional textural and sensorial attributes of pasta were investigated.
The results showed that the incorporation of albedo powder remarkably elevated the antioxidant properties and significantly increased the WAC (121.23 to 188.97%) and OAC (110.15 to 136.55%). An increase in pomelo albedo is associated with a decrease in cooking time from 10.24 to 8.28 min with cooking loss that is within an acceptable range. The pomelo albedo formulation improved the color and sensorial attributes. A higher albedo concentration significantly reduced the breaking stress fracturability firmness and hardness but increased the adhesiveness and cohesiveness of pasta. FTIR spectra revealed the presence of characteristic peaks and SEM reflects pomelo albedo's impact on the structural integrity of the pasta.
On the basis of physicochemical cooking and sensory data pasta with a 6% pomelo albedo formulation was found to be the most acceptable with an overall acceptability of 8.51. Thus pomelo albedo can be incorporated into the industry for the preparation of pasta with enhanced nutritional characteristics.
Therapeutic Potential of Quercetin Analogues: Prospective and Advances
The purpose of the article is to investigate the therapeutic potential of quercetin and related compounds by elucidating their pharmacological characteristics and molecular mechanisms of action. The potential benefits of quercetin and its analogs for cardiovascular health disorders of the brain metabolic disorders and more are discussed in the discussion part of this article. Concerns about their clinical efficacy due to issues with bioavailability and distribution are also discussed. This section of the paper emphasizes the importance of researchers and clinicians working together to maximize the incorporation of these chemicals into real-world therapeutic approaches. In conclusion quercetin along with related substances shows great potential in a wide range of therapeutic settings. Potentially useful for the management of a wide variety of illnesses their multiple methods of action include the regulation of pathways for cell signaling and interaction with different enzymes. However additional clinical trials are needed to verify their efficacy and safety.
Biochar Amendment Alleviates the Risk of High-Salinity Saltwater Intrusion for the Growth and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Saltwater intrusion poses a serious risk to global food security. As a soil amendment biochar mitigates the negative effects of saltwater intrusion in rice yet the beneficial effects on agricultural productivity with different exposure times and salt concentrations have not been fully examined.
A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of 30% (w/w) rice husk biochar on the growth ion accumulation and yield of the Phitsanulok 2 rice cultivar under salt stress due to saltwater intrusion. Rice plants were grown in saline soil amended with biochar and were salinized with 6 8 and 10 dS/m saltwater for 1 2 and 3 months. A treatment without biochar was taken as the control.
The results showed that biochar amendment significantly increased the survival shoot height and tiller numbers of rice treated with the 6-10 dS/m saltwater for 1 and 2 months as well as the treatment with 6 dS/m salt water for 3 months in comparison with the control. The grain yield was about 40 g/pot for rice with biochar treated for 1 month with 6-10 dS/m saltwater and for the rice treated for 2 months with 6 dS/m. The results indicated that biochar application could alleviate the intrusion of high-salinity water for 1 month of salt exposure and it could alleviate the intrusion of medium-salinity water for 2 months.
Therefore a 30% (w/w) rice husk biochar amendment is a reliable strategy for mitigating the risks of saltwater intrusion for the growth and productivity of rice.
Patent Selections
Recent Trends on Plants and Agricultural Products as Nutritional Source in Treating Diabetes
A metabolic disease that requires insulin and is marked by consistently high blood sugar levels is known as diabetes mellitus. Many healthcare systems throughout the world have long relied on medicinal herbs as a means of addressing diabetes and its complications. Traditional medicine derived from plant extracts has several advantages over contemporary pharmaceuticals including lower costs greater clinical efficacy and fewer side effects. Primarily the condition has been managed by a range of synthetic medications that improve the altered glycemic state in individuals with diabetes. Synthetic medications work well but along with their benefits they come with noticeable adverse effects. Due to the lack of knowledge regarding their chemical composition preparation method active bio-actives potential side effects and the optimal way to administer them medicinal plants have not been fully utilised as acceptable drugs in the treatment of diabetes despite their long history of use as primary health care. Because of a lack of sufficient data on the parameters described earlier most medicinal plants that show promise as anti-diabetic agents do not make it to the clinical trial phase. Medicinal plants that have been studied in humans with diabetes and shown promise as a treatment for the disease either alone or in conjunction with other plants are summarised in this review. Pharmacologically active phytomolecules with an antidiabetic action that are derived from medicinal plants were the primary topic of this review article. Its goal was to discuss their importance in diabetes management and therapy. These all-natural substances have the potential to be successful and alternative diabetes treatments as well as a new method of approaching the disease.
Redefining Chronic Disease Care: Unleashing the Potential of Phytomedicines
Phytomedicines represent a diverse array of plant-derived compounds renowned for their therapeutic potential. Traditionally these mixtures were extracted using water or ethanol but simpler methods like tea infusions are gaining prominence. However ensuring the efficacy and safety of phytomedicines demands high-quality plant material and stringent production processes. Advancements in biological screening techniques have shed light on the mechanisms of action of phytomedicines emphasizing the significance of synergistic interactions among their constituents. Ten widely-used phytomedicines are outlined detailing their applications efficacy and safety profiles underscoring their global importance in healthcare. Moreover ongoing research in phytomedicine development showcases the rich biodiversity's capacity to yield novel medicinal compounds. These studies highlight the potential of untapped plant sources in providing innovative solutions to medical challenges offering promising avenues for future therapeutics. In essence the utilization of phytomedicines underscores a fusion of traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches emphasizing both the importance of respecting ancient remedies and harnessing contemporary advancements for improved healthcare outcomes.
Preface
Exploring Moisture Content in 50 Rough Rice through Micro Oven for Deeper Dietary Insights
Rice an ancient cereal grain and a dietary staple in India is globally cherished for its affordability accessibility and nutritional richness. It is a rich source of energy containing essential nutrients such as carbohydrates calcium iron and more. However its moisture content significantly influences quality taste and safety affecting shelf life and susceptibility to spoilage and microbial growth. Improper storage practices lead to substantial losses of milled rice worldwide.
To address this issue a study was conducted on 50 raw rice (uncooked) samples from India to determine their moisture levels using a microwave method with a 900 W power output for specific durations.
The results revealed an overall moisture content of 7.12 ± 1.87% ranging from 3.73% to 28.49%. Significant differences were observed across locations rice varieties and size with long-grain rice ranging from 4.90% to 11.02% medium-grain from 3.73% to 8.63% and short-grain from 4.17% to 28.49%. Long-grain had the highest average moisture content of 7.21 ± 1.85% followed by short-grain rice at 7.80 ± 1.84% and medium-grain at 6.03 ± 1.44%. Attap Rice stood out with higher moisture levels highlighting the importance of careful storage practices. Parboiled rice tends to have higher moisture content than milled rice. Therefore storing rice properly is crucial in terms of security for public health.
Moisture data aid in optimizing harvesting and drying practices adjusting milling and packaging techniques and calculating rice's nutritional intake accurately; and economically disadvantaged individuals should opt for rice with lower moisture content for higher carbohydrate content per unit. By employing these data for various rice types food manufacturers can implement tailored storage conditions and processing techniques to ensure optimal product safety and consistency.
Diosgenin Unveiled: From Nutritional Insights to Nano Applications and Molecular Marvels
Diosgenin (DSG) is a steroidal sapogenin identified in the Dioscorea tokoro Makino ex Miyabe Trigonella foenum-graceum and Solanum virginianum plant and used as a natural source of steroidal hormones. It possesses anti-inflammatory anti-apoptotic anti-oxidant and several other pharmacological properties that make it a highly dependable drug for research purposes. The objective of this review is to provide a scientific rationale to researchers regarding the target-specific bio-potential of DSG as an ethnomedicine and to make it advantageous for drug designing and therapy modifications in the future.
Relevant literature was searched up to the current year by using online databases such as Scopus Google Scholar PubMed Research Gate and Science Direct by applying related search terms.
This review first addressed the molecular action of DSG on NF-κB TGF-β1/Smad AMPK/ACC/CPT-1A and SERBP-1c/FAS etc. that are pathologically involved in a variety of diseases for better understanding as limited clinical research has been conducted to date. Further the review explored the diverse pharmacological applications of DSG like neuroprotective anti-cancer and anti-microbial activity. At last we discussed the Green nanotechnology that is widely adopted to improve DSG’s pharmacokinetic profile.
Overall the current review tries to update all the information about DSG's nutritional benefits its application as nanomedicine and diverse pharmacological actions based on various molecular targets for its commendable pre-clinical and clinical applications.
Ricinus communis: Unlocking the Potential of a Medicinal Powerhouse
The Euphorbiaceae family comprises over 7500 species and 300 genera with the castor bean plant Ricinus communis being one of the most valuable traditional and medicinal plants. Phytochemical assessments have shown that R. communis possesses a broad variety of chemical compounds with interesting pharmacological properties. This plant exhibits numerous beneficial properties including effects against implantation failure antifertility antinociceptive anticancer antioxidant hepatoprotective immunomodulatory antidiabetic antimicrobial antiulcer insecticidal molluscicidal and larvicidal bone regeneration central analgesic antihistaminic antiasthmatic cytotoxic lipolytic anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities.
The review aims to examine the pharmacological properties phytochemical composition and potential applications of Ricinus communis as a plant source. Given its diverse range of phytochemicals and pharmacological activities R. communis may be a promising option for the discovery of innovative complementary medicines.
This review will involve an extensive analysis of existing literature on Ricinus communis. Sources will include peer-reviewed journals clinical studies and traditional medicine texts. The focus will be on identifying the pharmacological properties therapeutic potential and safety profile of the plant along with its phytochemical composition.
The pharmacological therapeutic and safety potential of Ricinus communis and its phytochemicals as herbal and complementary medicine for treating various illnesses and disorders require further investigation through advanced clinical and experimental research.
This review underscores the need for continued exploration of R. communis to unlock its full potential as a source of innovative medicinal therapies.
Promising Herbal Strategies in the Treatment of Psoriasis
The incidence of Psoriasis has been recorded as around 125 million cases worldwide which comprises of around 2-3% of the general population throughout the globe. Major complications coupled with the disease comprise of psoriatic arthritis depression and cardio syndrome leading to compromised palliation of aggravated depreciation of Health. Contemporary strategies intervene only in symptomatic relief without complete cure and occasionally even lead to skin melanoma. Henceforth this compilation reviews the diverse clinical features of this skin disease and discusses relevant therapeutic strategies and outcomes therein.
An accumulated amount of evidence was obtained via relevant keywords from authentic databases viz. Web of Science Science direct and Scopus. A comprehensive exploration unveiled an imperative role of plant-derived therapeutics in combating side effects related to synthetic drugs. The data also exhibited an association between synthetic and natural alternatives where the role of combination strategies is indispensable deduced by both in vitro and in vivo research. The clinical trial data also appeared to be encouraging with respect to herb-induced treatment and prevention of Psoriasis.
Exploring the Phytochemical Composition and Pharmacological Potential of the Plant Cissus quadrangularis in Herbal Formulations
Cissus quadrangularis a perennial plant from the Vitaceae family is widely recognized for its extensive use in traditional medicine across tropical and subtropical regions. This review explores the phytochemical composition and pharmacological potential of Cissus quadrangularis focusing on its application in herbal formulations. The plant exhibits a diverse array of bioactive compounds including triterpenoids steroids flavonoids and phenolic glycosides found in various parts such as the stem leaves fruits and roots. These phytochemicals contribute to its broad pharmacological activities which include anti-ulcer anti-inflammatory analgesic anti-diabetic antioxidant antimicrobial and bone-healing properties.
Significant attention is paid to the plant's potential in managing bone-related disorders such as osteoporosis and fractures owing to its anabolic and mineral absorption-enhancing effects. Moreover Cissus quadrangularis demonstrates promising anti-obesity effects as evidenced by its ability to reduce body weight waist circumference and blood cholesterol levels. Its anti-ulcer activity is attributed to the enhancement of mucosal defense mechanisms and the reduction of gastric secretions. The review also highlights the plant's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties showing substantial efficacy in various experimental models. Its anti-diabetic potential is confirmed through studies on alloxan and streptozotocin-induced diabetic models. Additionally the antioxidant capacity of Cissus quadrangularis facilitated by its secondary metabolites supports its use in combating oxidative stress-related conditions. Furthermore the plant's central nervous system activities including anticonvulsant and muscle relaxant effects are discussed. The antimicrobial and anti-helmintic properties of the plant underline its therapeutic versatility. The review concludes by emphasizing the need for further research to elucidate the molecular mechanisms structure-activity relationships and potential synergistic effects of the plant's components paving the way for its integration into modern pharmacological applications.
A Mechanism-Based Comparative Review on Functional Food with Phytomolecules and Marketed Formulation for Type II Diabetes Mellitus
Type II diabetes mellitus is a chronic disorder characterized by pancreatic beta cell dysfunction insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. Administration of different classes of anti-diabetic drugs over the long term is essential to maintain normoglycemic levels in affected individuals. This study is focused on natural analogs as substitutes for the most marketed synthetic and semi-synthetic anti-diabetic drugs. This study aimed to review phytoconstituents with their mechanism of action which are comparatively equivalent to that of the allopathic anti-diabetic marketed drugs like biguanides sulphonylurea and thiazolidinediones. The methodology used for the review involved using the keywords collected from online sites like PubMed ScienceDirect and Google Scholar. At present different drugs are available for the treatment of diabetes and work with different mechanisms like metformin induces the AMPK pathway in hepatocytes and muscle fibers with increased glucose uptake in peripheral tissues whereas the phytoconstituents like quercetin (flavonoid) mahanimbine and koenidine (carbazole alkaloids) involve same mechanism as metformin. Sulfonylureas drugs bind to specific receptors in hepatocytes resulting in glucose-independent insulin release. The phytomolecule amyrins (pentacyclic triterpenoid) and kaempferol (flavonoid) have similar effects as that of sulphonylureas. Thiazoglinediones target adipocytes and cause GLUT-4 translocation and up-regulation of PPAR and adiponectin gene expression. Phytoconstituents like cyanidin-3-glucoside (anthocyanin) and protocatechuic acid (tannin) exhibit a similar mechanism of action to that of thiazolidinediones. In this review it can be concluded that the selected compounds have the same antidiabetic activity as the synthetic drugs. In the future a new polyherbal formulation can be developed with these selected molecules having the same mechanisms of action with significant therapeutic value without side effects.
Beyond Traditional Remedies: Blue Tansy Oil’s Progressive Approach to Acne
Tansy oil which is derived from the Tanacetum annuum plant has shown great promise as a therapeutic agent in aromatherapy and skincare because of its many uses. This study thoroughly investigates the chemical makeup extraction techniques mechanisms of action adjuvant qualities and incorporation of blue tansy oil into skincare regimens. Blue tansy oil's chemical profile reveals the complexity of its composition emphasizing important ingredients like myrcene chamazulene sabinene camphor and others each of which has a unique skincare advantage. The extraction method of steam distillation is emphasized as a means of guaranteeing purity and potency. Differences in composition resulting from growth site and extraction methods are also discussed. Comprehensive knowledge of the therapeutic effects of blue tansy oil is made possible by insights into the ingredients' mechanisms of action. One of the main ingredients chamazulene has strong anti-inflammatory properties. It is especially helpful in lowering the redness and inflammation linked to acne. Beyond this the oil's antibacterial antioxidant and analgesic qualities are enhanced by the presence of sabinene camphor and myrcene. Blue tansy oil has a broad range of adjuvant activities from antioxidant and calming benefits to anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities. Its potential is investigated offering chances for its incorporation into many therapeutic methods including support for skin health stress relief and scar reduction among other benefits. The suggested uses of blue tansy oil for skincare regimens include face masks spot treatments dilution and cleansing. It is important to conduct patch tests and follow recommended dosages to prevent negative reactions. Upcoming research opportunities provide pathways for investigating pharmacological impacts safety characteristics clinical effectiveness formulation improvements chemical analysis and comparative evaluations with alternative natural therapies. These studies seek to advance our knowledge of the potential benefits of blue tansy oil and open the door for evidence-based skincare and medical applications.
Effect of Supplementation of Black Seeds (Nigella sativa) on Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress: An Updated Narrative Review of Clinical and Preclinical Studies
Increased generation and accumulation of free radicals (reactive oxygen species) and a decrease in the activity of antioxidant systems can result in oxidative stress. In this study we investigate the antioxidant properties of black seeds (Nigella sativa). To find pertinent papers searches were conducted using reference lists Web of Science Medline/PMC/PubMed Scopus Google Scholar and Science Direct among other web-based resources. Black seed (Nigella sativa) supplementation has been demonstrated in several preclinical and clinical studies to decrease lipid peroxidation and raise levels of antioxidant enzymes. There are several ways in which black seeds (Nigella sativa) can exhibit antioxidant activity: they can do this by reducing oxidative stress and free radical formation scavenging superoxide and other reactive oxygen species inhibiting lipid peroxidation inhibiting nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) upregulating genes encoding antioxidant enzymes lowering malondialdehyde levels elevating total antioxidant capacity levels and enhancing antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase catalase glutathione peroxidase etc. For individuals suffering from chronic conditions including diabetes hypertension dyslipidemia cancer etc. black seeds (Nigella sativa) may thus be used as an adjuvant therapy in addition to standard drugs.
Antioxidant Capacity and Phenolic Content of Some Indian Spices and Herbs
Spices and herbs have been a natural source of antioxidants for many years. Spices and herbs have been shown to have medicinal properties that are attributed to the phytochemicals present in them. Thus a comparative study on phenolic content and antioxidants in some common Indian spices/ herbs like ginger garlic onion bay leaf cumin and coriander was undertaken in the present study.
Total phenolics and total antioxidant activity (DPPH radical scavenging) were estimated in water as well as methanolic extracts of the spices/herbs. Catalase and peroxidase enzyme activity was estimated spectrophotometrically in the aqueous extracts of spices/herbs.
The highest catalase and peroxidase activity was estimated in ginger. Phenolic and antioxidant content were also highest in the ginger methanolic extract. The antioxidant content in the methanolic extracts of ginger bay leaves onion and garlic was significantly higher than that in the water extract (p-value <0.001).
Our results showed that the selected Indian spices and herbs are rich in phenolic constituents and demonstrate good antioxidant activity. Although much of the antioxidant capacity of plant extracts has been shown to be contributed by phenolic compounds the present study did not show any significant correlation between the two. This indicated that compounds other than phenolics can serve as good sources of natural plant-based antioxidants. Therefore they need to be studied and explored further. Moreover solvents used for extraction significantly affect the results and therefore they need to be considered while interpreting results.
Emerging Traditional and Pharmacological Health Benefits of Trachyspermum ammi (Ajwain): Future Aspects
Trachyspermum ammi commonly known as Ajwain or Carom seeds is a versatile medicinal plant of the Apiaceae family widely utilized in traditional medicine systems including Ayurveda Unani and Siddha. This review consolidates the phytochemical composition traditional applications and pharmacological activities of T. ammi alongside its potential in modern therapeutics. A systematic methodology was employed to gather data focusing on peer-reviewed articles ethnobotanical reports and experimental studies published in renowned databases. Specific search terms such as “Trachyspermum ammi” “Ajwain pharmacology” and “phytochemical analysis” were used to extract relevant information. Selection criteria included recent advancements in phytochemistry pharmacology and therapeutic applications ensuring a comprehensive synthesis of traditional knowledge and modern scientific evidence. Ajwain seeds characterized by their bioactive components such as thymol and carvacrol exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties including antioxidant anti-inflammatory antimicrobial antihypertensive and antidiabetic effects. Emerging evidence highlights its role in combating neurodegenerative diseases cancer and metabolic disorders. Despite its established uses further studies on the pharmacokinetics bioavailability and clinical efficacy are essential. Advanced drug delivery systems such as nanoencapsulation and lipid-based formulations are discussed as strategies to enhance the stability and bioavailability of Ajwain's active compounds. This review emphasizes integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches to unlock Ajwain’s full therapeutic potential addressing existing limitations and paving the way for its incorporation into evidence-based healthcare practices. Future directions include comprehensive clinical trials standardization of extracts and exploration of its role in gut microbiota modulation and integrative medicine.