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Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and bioactivity of the genus Turnera (Passifloraceae) with a focus on damiana - Turnera diffusa
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Half a dozen of the currently accepted 135 Turnera species are used in traditional medicine, most notably Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. which is one of the most highly appreciated plant aphrodisiacs. Other traditional uses of Turnera L. species include the treatment of anaemia, bronchitis, cough, diabetes, fever, fungal disease, gastrointestinal complaints, pain, pulmonary and respiratory diseases, skin disorders, and women׳s health problems. Additionally, Turnera species are used as abortives, expectorants, and laxatives.
Phytochemistry:
Flavonoids (22 different compounds), maltol glucoside, phenolics, cyanogenic glycosides (7 different compounds), monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, the polyterpene ficaprenol-11, fatty acids, and caffeine have been found in the genus Turnera.
Bioactivity:
Bioactivities experimentally proven for members of the genus Turnera encompass antianxiety, antiaromatase, antibacterial including antimycobacterial, antidiabetic, antioxidant, adapatogenic, antiobesity, antispasmodic, cytotoxic, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, and aphrodisiac activities. Most of these activities have so far been investigated only in chemical, cell based, or animal assays. In contrast, the antiobesity activity was also investigated in a study on healthy human subjects and with a herbal preparation containing among other ingredients Turnera diffusa leaves. Moreover, the enhancement of female sexual function was assessed in humans; again the product contained besides Turnera diffusa other potentially bioactive ingredients. However, with only few exceptions, most of the traditional uses and the experimentally verified bioactivities can currently not be related to a particular compound or compound class. A notable exception is the flavonoid apigenin, which was identified animal experiments as the antinociceptive principle of Turnera diffusa.
Conclusion:
In this review, the current knowledge on ethnobotanical uses of members of the genus Turnera, the secondary metabolites reported from Turnera, and experimentally documented bioactivities from Turnera extracts and pure compounds derived from Turnera extracts are compiled. Moreover, some of the most interesting avenues for future research projects are being discussed briefly. These include in particular the aphrodisiac activity of Turnera diffusa and the antibiotic activity potentiating effect of Turnera ulmifolia L. against aminoglycoside resistant bacteria.
... The antioxidant activity of Turnera spp. has been widely reported and has been found to be related mainly to the flavonoid content present in this genus [4]. Tables 1-5 show the reports in the literature that have evaluated the antioxidant activity of Turnera spp., either by biochemical or radical methods, in vivo models, or others. ...
... In a previous review, ethnobotanical and phytochemical information on the plants of this genus was collected and categorized as well as details of their bioactivity [4]. Since then, much new scientific information has appeared, so the objective of the present revision is to collate the experimental data published in the last 10 years (2013-2023) that reveal some of the biological activities reported for the plants of the genus, with particular emphasis on T. diffusa. ...
... In their review, Szewczyk et al. [4] reported on the anti-inflammatory activity of T. ulmifolia with the carrageenan-induced edema model in rats. Similar results were obtained by Lawal et al., who evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity of EO from the leaves and stem bark of T. diffusa using the same model. ...
Turnera is a genus of plants whose biological activity has been widely studied. The importance of this genus, particularly Turnera diffusa, as a source of treatment for various conditions is evidenced by the large number of new studies that have evaluated its biological activity. Accordingly, the objective of this review was to compile the information published in the last ten years concerning the biological activities reported for Turnera spp. The present work includes 92 publications that evaluate 29 bioactivities and toxicological and genotoxic information on five species of this genus. Among the pharmacological effects reported, the antioxidant, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, hypoglycemic, and aphrodisiac activities seem more promising. Phytochemicals and standardized plant extracts could offer alternative therapeutic remedies for various diseases. Although several flavonoids, cyanogenic glycosides, monoterpenoids, triterpenoids, and fatty acids have been isolated for Turnera plants, future research should focus on the identification of the main active principles responsible for these pharmacological activities, as well as to perform clinical trials to support the laboratory results.
... Lippia origanoides Kunth (Verbenaceae) is employed to prepare gastrointestinal and respiratory remedies [20]. Turnera diffusa Willd ex Schult (Passifloraceae), commonly known as damiana, is used as a tonic and sexual stimulant, and to treat influenza, gastrointestinal and skin disorders [21]. Piper aduncum L. (Piperaceae) is utilized in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anthelminthic, and analgesic properties [22]. ...
... Among the medicinal plants growing in Colombia, we have selected six species used in both, folk medicine, and the food and pharmaceutical industries [19][20][21][22][23][24]. We have previously studied the chemical compositions of EOs distilled from L. alba and L. origanoides [33,34], and the chemical profile of the EO samples analyzed in this study resembled, with minor differences. ...
... The two EO samples of T. diffusa in this study showed differences in their chemical constituents from each other and from another sample from Colombia that we analyzed in a previous study [35]. Chemical variability among T. diffusa EOs due to geographic location, vegetative state of the plant, and storage time of the harvested is documented [21]. The chemical composition of the EOs of P. aduncum, O. basilicum, and V. curassavica from Colombia is not yet documented. ...
Currently, there are no therapies to prevent severe dengue disease. Essential oils (EOs) can serve as primary sources for research and the discovery of phytomedicines for alternative therapy. Fourteen EOs samples were obtained by distillation from six plants used in Colombian folk medicine. GC/MS analysis identified 125 terpenes. Cytopathic effect (CPE) reduction assays revealed differences in antiviral activity. EOs of Lippia alba, citral chemotype and carvone-rich fraction; Lippia origanoides, phellandrene chemotype; and Turnera diffusa, exhibited strong antiviral activity (IC50: 29 to 82 µg/mL; SI: 5.5 to 14.3). EOs of Piper aduncum, Ocimum basilicum, and L. origanoides, carvacrol, and thymol chemotypes, exhibited weak antiviral activity (32 to 53% DENV-CPE reduction at 100 µg/mL; SI > 5.0). Cluster and one-way ANOVA analyses suggest that the strong antiviral activity of EOs could be attributed to increased amounts of non-phenolic oxygenated monoterpenes and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons. Docking analyses (AutoDock Vina) predicted binding affinity between the DENV-2 E protein and terpenes: twenty sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (−8.73 to −6.91 kcal/mol), eight oxygenated monoterpenes (−7.52 to −6.98 kcal/mol), and seven monoterpene hydrocarbons (−7.60 to −6.99 kcal/mol). This study reports for the first time differences in the antiviral activity of EOs against DENV, corresponding to their composition of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes.
... Regarding the phytocomposition, it is noteworthy that phenolic compounds are the main class among the secondary metabolites present in Turnera genus [22]. Accordingly, T. subulata flower and leaf extract analyses revealed the presence of three phenolic compounds: vitexin-2-O-ramnhoside as a valuable chemical constituent, as well as 7-O-beta-glucopyranosyl-4 -hydroxy-5-methoxyisoflavone and ferulate. ...
... These phenolic compounds are scarce in the genus Turnera, and this is the first report on the identification of these secondary metabolites for the genus. Studies have only identified the presence of other secondary metabolites in Turnera leaves, flowers, and roots [22], such as four different lutein structures and two apigenin structures [41], as well as naringenin, three apigenin coumaroyl glucosides, and five flavone aglycones [42]. The presence of these flavonoids in T. subulata extracts is possibly related to the climatic conditions of the Brazilian caatinga biome, a place of flower and leaf collection, where high exposure to solar radiation favors the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds such as flavones [43]. ...
... Overall, these results support ethnopharmacological studies, which describe the use of flowers and leaves of the genus Turnera in folk medicine to treat inflammatory diseases [22]. Experimental data indicate the immunomodulatory effect of aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of T. subulata flowers and leaves through the inhibition of inflammatory cytokine secretion and an increase in anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 levels. ...
The anti-inflammatory properties of Turnera subulata have been evaluated as an alternative drug approach to treating several inflammatory processes. Accordingly, in this study, aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of T. subulata flowers and leaves were analyzed regarding their phytocomposition by ultrafast liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, and their anti-inflammatory properties were assessed by an in vitro inflammation model, using LPS-stimulated RAW-264.7 macrophages. The phytochemical profile indicated vitexin-2-O-rhamnoside as an important constituent in both extracts, while methoxyisoflavones, some bulky amino acids (e.g., tryptophan, tyrosine, phenylalanine), pheophorbides, and octadecatrienoic, stearidonic, and ferulic acids were detected in hydroalcoholic extracts. The extracts displayed the ability to modulate the in vitro inflammatory response by altering the secretion of proinflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines and inhibiting the PGE-2 and NO production. Overall, for the first time, putative compounds from T. subulata flowers and leaves were characterized, which can modulate the inflammatory process. Therefore, the data highlight this plant as an option to obtain extracts for phytotherapic formulations to treat and/or prevent chronic diseases.
... ex Schult.) (Warner, 2007;Szewczyk and Zidorn, 2014). ...
... Across the Caribbean, a leaf decoction serves as a menstrual regulator, abortifacient (induces abortion), and emmenagogue (stimulates menstrual ow) (Szewczyk and Zidorn, 2014). ...
... A maceration of the ower is used against injuries. A decoction and infusion of the root is used for kidney stones and liver disease (Szewczyk and Zidorn, 2014). • India: Turnera ulmifolia is a remedy for joint pain (Szewczyk and Zidorn, 2014). ...
Common names in Jamaica: Ramgoat regular , ramgoat dashalong
... While Mexico generally has access to medical services, certain rural areas still prefer natural remedies for diverse ailments, a practice observed throughout the country. In Mexico's semi-desert regions, specific plants, such as J. dioica, T. diffusa, L. tridentata, F. cernua, among others, are recognized for their bioactive compounds with antiviral, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties, potentially inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganism responsible for pneumonia, tuberculosis, and viral flu [46][47][48][49]. ...
... It is one of the most highly appreciated plant aphrodisiacs. In addition, it was also used against cerebral weakness, impotence, and orchitis [47]. It is a medicinal plant studied for its pharmacological action and their properties antioxidant and antimicrobial. ...
Medicinal plants have been a traditional remedy for numerous ailments for centuries. However, their usage is limited due to a lack of evidence-based studies elucidating their mechanisms of action. In some countries, they are still considered the first treatment due to their low cost, accessibility, and minor adverse effects. Mexico is in second place, after China, in inventoried plants for medicinal use. It has around 4000 species of medicinal plants; however, pharmacological studies have only been carried out in 5% of its entirety. The species of the Mexican arid zones, particularly in semi-desert areas, exhibit outstanding characteristics, as their adverse growing conditions (e.g., low rainfall and high temperatures) prompt these plants to produce interesting metabolites with diverse biological activities. This review explores medicinal plants belonging to the arid and semi-arid zones of Mexico, focusing on those that have stood out for their bioactive potential, such as Jatropha dioica, Turnera diffusa, Larrea tridentata, Opuntia ficus-indica, Flourensia cernua, Fouquieria splendes, and Prosopis glandulosa. Their extraction conditions, bioactive compounds, mechanisms of action, and biological efficacy are presented, with emphasis on their role in the treatment of respiratory diseases. Additionally, current research, novel applications, and perspectives concerning medicinal plants from these zones are also discussed.
... This inhibition can result in hypoestrogenism and can be caused by pharmacy and natural products, still quasi exclusively studied in women [74][75][76][77]. These compounds are aimed to inhibit the production of E2 in postmenopausal women; thus, a current clinical usage of anastrozole, exemestane, and letrozole as they became useful in the management of patients with breast cancer lesions found to be E2 receptor positive. ...
... Other common disruptors of aromatase are widely used in agriculture as herbicide and antifungal and their long term toxicity measured in vitro and evaluated in cohorts of patients could harbor a large number of defects that are still to grow in diagnostic among many farming populations, ignored by industrial agriculture developments, unawareness or neglect of administrative policies in public health [e.g. Ref. [74][75][76][77][78][79][80][81][82][83][84][85][86][87][88]. Finally, among traffic pollutants, lead can affect fertility and therefore it is crucial that long-term clinical surveys would verify this environmental public topic [78]. ...
Background
This survey highlights some of the fine structures and functions associated with estrogen in the human testes, ageing and contraception.
Methods and Results
Clarifications obtained with knockout mice models as well as some clinical investigations showed that estrogen receptors significantly influenced the overall maintenance of the testis functions through aromatase activity, intervening in the testosterone production by the Leydig cells and, indirectly with the Sertoli cells. Other autocrine, paracrine and endocrine fading activities of the seminiferous tubule's interstitium, including vascular supply, curtail the maturation of the male gametes while maintaining the blood-testis barrier in ageing.
Conclusions
Do Reinke, Charcot-Böttcher and Lubarsch crystalloids, biopsy markers of specific testis cells, resulted of normal or altered functions and/or accumulated deposits out of ageing? The hypothalamo-pituitary-testis axis and feed-back homeostasis (with pineal influence?) regulating the reproductive tissues and phenotype characteristics, can be progressively changed according to individual health history, encompassing life time accumulated environmental toxicants, pharmaceuticals, and age-reduced cardiovascular fitness. The monitoring of all those long-term effects is needed to be better understood to provide future human public health in the care for the old adult, aging population.
... Libido enhancer Increased sexual performance and reduces intromission and ejaculation latencies [77] Geographical divisions correspond to the United Nations geoscheme for the Americans, Mexico is included as Central America. RCT, randomize controlled trial. ...
... The Mayas used to call this plant mis kok, which means "creature that fights bad wind." Bad wind was thought to be the cause of respiratory problems, which are nowadays referred to as asthma, alongside depression and impotency [77]. There is evidence supporting these claims. ...
Native American populations have been using herbs for millennia to treat ailments and diseases. Male sexual and reproductive health has also been addressed by traditional American herbal medicine using mainly native plants. As a megadiverse zone, the materia prima of this therapeutic approach is vast. In recent years, scientific methods have been used to test the validity of traditional knowledge and to find novel pharmacological agents to treat the ever-growing demand for andrological therapies. This chapter aims to gather evidence of American herbs with attributed effects in andrological issues. Species from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean and South America are reviewed. The majority of studies have been done with in vitro and in vivo models and lack human trials to confirm reliably their properties but enough evidence to justify further research is provided, especially in species such as Lepidium meyenii (Maca), Serenoa repens, and Cucurbita pepo.
... Thus, this plant has been associated with multiple ethnopharmacological uses, one of which is hepatoprotective because it contains a flavonoid called "hepatodamianol" which helps counteract liver problems. T. diffusa is also recognized for its activation of the nervous system and its aphrodisiac, diuretic, hypoglycemic, and antimicrobial properties [79]. Morphologically, it is a small, branched shrub that reaches heights between 60 cm and 1 m, with lanceolate leaves ranging from 10 to 25 mm in length. ...
Medicinal plants represent promising sources for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders because of their abundance in bioactive compounds with therapeutic properties. Throughout history, various plant species have been used to alleviate digestive ailments, and studies have revealed the presence of metabolites with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, antidiarrheal, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. The secondary metabolites responsible for these properties include alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds, with the latter, particularly flavonoids, being the most associated with their bioactivities. Gastrointestinal diseases, such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and gastrointestinal cancer, are caused primarily by bacteria, parasites, viruses, and the consumption of raw or undercooked foods. These conditions significantly impact human health, necessitating the development of safer and more effective therapeutic alternatives. After an extensive literature review, several plant species with widespread use in the treatment of these disorders were identified, including Matricaria chamomilla, Mentha spicata, Melissa officinalis, Artemisia ludoviciana, Flourensia cernua, Phoradendron californicum, and Turnera difusa. This study revealed that the analyzed plants are rich in bioactive compounds, which confer their medicinal properties. However, many other plants commonly used to treat digestive disorders have been scarcely studied, highlighting the need for further research.
... This antimicrobial activity of the plant is related to the presence of polyphenols, terpenoids, and essential oils [67]. The main phenolic compounds related to the antimicrobial activity are vitexin-2-O-rhamnoside, 7-O-beta-glucopyranosyl-4 ′ -hydroxy-5-methoxyisoflavone, and ferulic acid [68][69][70]. ...
This review article covers the therapeutic potential of the plants Harpagophytum procumbens and Turnera subulata in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the recognition of their beneficial properties, there is notable shortage of specific clinical and in vitro studies on these species regarding neurodegenerative diseases. Compounds such as harpagosides and vite-xin-2-O-rhamnoside, found in Harpagophytum procumbens and Turnera subulata, respectively, as well as other antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, are associated with mechanisms of action that involve reducing oxidative stress and modulating the inflammatory response, indicating their therapeutic potential in these pathologies. Additionally, the use of nutraceuticals derived from medicinal plants has emerged as a promising approach, offering natural therapeutic alternatives. However, the pressing need for studies focusing on the pharmacokinetics, safety, and pharmacological interactions of these extracts for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases is emphasized. This review also evaluated advances in nutraceutical delivery systems, highlighting technological innovations that can optimize the precise delivery of these compounds to patients. Such findings highlight the gaps in the study of these plants for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and, at the same time, the potential for opening new perspectives in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, providing expectations for innovative solutions in this critical domain of medicine.
... In the latter study, arbutin modulated interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) levels in rats. In other studies, using animal models, Damiana administration has been evaluated on sexual behavior [24], memory [25], spermatogenesis [26], among other conditions, disorders, and diseases [27]. In Almaco Jack fish (Seriola rivoliana), spleen leukocytes incubated with Damiana infusion extracts increased several immunological parameters, including phagocytosis, respiratory burst, myeloperoxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities, and upregulated the transcription of IL-1β [21]. ...
... Turnera diffusa, commonly known as damiana, is extensively diffused as a tonic, a stimulant, and an aphrodisiac in folk medicine [21]. Its active ingredients, including arbutin, caffeine, and flavonoids, promote sexual function, reduce post-ejaculation latency time, and increase libido. ...
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a pathology that affects both an individual’s life and their partner’s, representing an increasing health concern. Currently, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) remain the first-line therapy for erectile dysfunction, and no other drugs are approved. However, the high cost of these drugs and related adverse events limit their use. Since the concept of nutraceuticals has been extended from health promotion to the treatment of diseases, in this work, a novel mixture of different natural substances named Icarifil (L-Citrulline, L-Carnitine, Eruca vesicaria, Panax ginseng, Tribulus terrestris, Turnera diffusa, Taurine, Vitamin E, Zinc) was studied to verify its ability to increase the proliferation of muscle epithelium cells and cell turgor, as well as, due to containing antioxidants, its ability to reduce the amount of ROS that are mediators in the pathophysiological process of ED. Moreover, Icarifil showed efficacy in inhibiting PDE5 levels higher than 65% compared to the control and 35% compared to the mixture of L-Citrulline and L-Carnitine, the major components of the formulation. In association with the low dosage of a phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor (tadalafil), the inhibitory capacity of tadalafil was significantly increased and comparable to high-dosage drug response, promoting the possibility of reducing the daily dosage of the drug and consequently its adverse effects.
... Experimental studies have documented the bioactivity of this plant for some of these uses. Furthermore, ethno pharmacological studies have reported its use for the treatment of hepatic illness, and there is a preliminary report of its hepatoprotective effects in vitro, although no active compound has been identified as being responsible for this activity (Torres-González et al., 2011;Szewczyk and Zidorn, 2014). (Brito et al., 2012). ...
... Other common names include "hierba de la pastora", "hierba del venado" and "pastorcilla" [1]. Following the classification proposed by APG IV [2], the 135 species of the genus Turnera belong to the family Passifloraceae, although some botanists maintain that it should continue to be recognized within the separate family Turneraceae [3]. Damiana is widely distributed from California and Texas in the southwestern United States, through Mexico and Central America to Bolivia in South America. ...
Damiana (Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult.) is a species of plant used in traditional Mexican medicine for its aphrodisiac properties. Although it has a high commercial demand, both nationally and internationally, its sexual propagation is not usual due to the low percentage of seed germination. It has been proposed that ants play an important role in germination, due to the presence of elaiosomes. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to characterize the seed morphology of T. diffusa for agronomic purposes, analyze their viability, and evaluate their germination by simulating environmental conditions of an ant nest. For the morphological characterization, 30 seeds were selected and evaluated for the variables of color, size, and weight. Viability was evaluated with a tetrazolium test using two lots of seeds collected in 2016 and 2017, with different concentrations and three exposure times at 40°C. The germination of T. diffusa was evaluated under three pre-germination treatments and nine germination treatments. The results of the study showed that the seeds of T. diffusa have an average size of 0.725 mm long and 0.182 mm wide; the color of the seeds varies from brown to black when ripe and yellowish white when immature. There are no significant differences in the viability percentage (60%) for seeds collected in 2016 and 2017 (p = 0.20). On the other hand, there are significant differences between all the pre-germination and germination tests analyzed. Seeds of T. diffusa have the highest percentage of germination (36%) with the presence of elaiosome and 500 ppm of GA3. The germination interval of the seeds occurs over a period of six to 39 days. The application of GA3 in the germination of the seeds indicates that they present a physiological latency which was inhibited at concentrations of 500 and 300 ppm.
... From an ethnobotanical perspective, plants containing apigenin and AP7Glu have been used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments, including anxiety, sleep disorders, gastroprotective effects, hepatoprotective effects, and pain relief (7). Pharmacologically, apigenin and AP7Glu possess antioxidant (8), anti-inflammatory (9), apoptotic (10), anti-cancer (11), anti-anxiety, and antidiabetic effects (12). Notably, AP7Glu has been shown to regulate a series of signaling pathways leading to apoptotic cell death, including mitochondrial membrane potential loss and caspase activation (13). ...
Aim: Apigenin-7-O-glucoside (AP7Glu) is a glycoside derivative of a flavonoid called apigenin and is found in various fruits and vegetables. This compound has the same basic structure as apigenin, which exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor activities in various cancer cell lines. However, the exact workings and which cellular pathways are affected by the apoptotic effects of apigenin-7-O-glucoside remain not fully understood. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the anticancer effects of AP7Glu against PANC-1 cells through apoptotic and autophagic pathways. Materials and Methods: The XTT test was used to determine the cytotoxic dose of AP7Glu in PANC-1 cell lines. Apoptosis was determined both by the colorimetric TUNEL test and the ELISA-based caspase-3 activity test. Expression changes in apoptosis and autophagy pathway genes were analyzed by RT-qPCR. Finally, autophagic activity was tested with the colorimetric LC3 activity test. Results: It was determined that AP7Glu had a cytotoxic effect at a concentration of 15 μM over 48 hours against PANC-1 cell lines. AP7Glu treatment led to caspase-3 mediated apoptosis in PANC-1 cells. Moreover, the increase in Bax and cleaved PARP gene expressions and the decrease in Bcl-2 gene expression support mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. The significant decrease in genes involved in the autophagy pathway, ATF4 and XBP1, and the significant increase in the CHOP gene indicate that AP-7Glu also affects cellular death through autophagic mechanisms. Conclusion: While AP-7Glu exhibits antiproliferative and apoptotic effects against PANC-1 cells, further studies are intriguing. Keywords: AP-7Glu, Apoptosis, Autophagy, PANC-1, Cytotoxicity.
... Damiana contains Z-equinacin and apigenin-7-glycoside, which have estrogenic activity [80]. To date, only in vitro studies have been conducted that revealed the ability of Damiana to inhibit aromatase activity [81]. ...
Since time immemorial, people have been trying to influence different aspects of their sexuality. They seek ways to increase sexual activity or sexual desire in themselves and their partners. In addition to resorting to all sorts of mystical rituals, people were looking for various effects from the use of natural raw materials. Some plant, animal, or fungal products have been shown to affect libido, sexual arousal, erectile function, orgasm or erogenous zone sensitivity. Such substances have been called "aphrodisiacs" in honor of the ancient Greek goddess of love - Aphrodite. Most often, aphrodisiacs were taken orally, but some were smoked while others applied to the genitals. In modern clinical practice, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors are used. These are substances, which enhance erection and prevent detumescence in the presence of sexual arousal. Another group of drugs is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which reduce sexual arousal and sexual afferent from the genitals, thus preventing the premature onset of orgasm in men and prolonging sexual intercourse. However, drugs from other pharmacological groups have not found widespread clinical application. Another issue now is a trend among people taking drugs of natural origin, therefore, all kinds of traditional aphrodisiacs are actively used to the present day. Very little is known about almost all of them. Clinical trials are in most cases limited to a few, often not randomized, studies. In this regard, it is very difficult to evaluate the adequate therapeutic and toxic doses of remedies. The situation is complicated by the fact that those few clinical studies were based on questionnaires, that is, the indicators taken into statistical calculations were extremely subjective. Moreover, it was uncertain whether all patients could adequately assess their dynamics in terms of parameters such as sexual satisfaction, or clearly distinguish between libido and sexual arousal. Since the majority of the studies were not blinded, a psychogenic influence on the results of the investigations could not be eliminated, which in the sexual area may be huge. It is worth emphasizing the toxicity of many traditional aphrodisiacs. Of course, there is a serious deficit in the spectrum of pharmacotherapy for sexual disorders. Perhaps further large, randomized, placebo-controlled trials would add some of the traditional aphrodisiacs or their modifications to the arsenal of the clinical specialist.
... The other promising EO was distilled from the Turnera diffusa (damiana) (Passifloraceae) plant. It is a medicinal plant used traditionally as an aphrodisiac, especially in Central America, and is effective against diabetes and gastric, skin, and respiratory diseases [22]. In contrast with EO19, its main EO constituents were mostly bicyclic sesquiterpenes (except β-elemene), in descending order: dehydrofukinone > epi-aristolochene > β-selinene > valencene > β-elemene > trans-β-caryophyllene (Table 1). ...
The study aimed to determine the enhanced effects of essential oils (EOs) and plant-derived molecules (PDMs) as penetration enhancers (PEs) for transdermal drug delivery (TDD) of caffeine. A 1% w/w solution of eight EOs and seven PDMs was included in the 1% caffeine carbopol hydrogel. Franz diffusion cell experiments were performed using mice with full-thickness skin. At various times over 24 h, 300 μL of the receptor were withdrawn and replaced with fresh medium. Caffeine was analyzed spectrophotometrically at 272 nm. The skin irritation effects of the hydrogels applied once a day for 21 days were investigated in mice. The steady-state flux (JSS) of the caffeine hydrogel was 30 ± 19.6 µg cm−2 h−1. An increase in caffeine JSS was induced by Lippia origanoides > Turnera diffusa > eugenol > carvacrol > limonene, with values of 150 ± 14.1, 130 ± 47.6, 101 ± 21.7, 90 ± 18.4, and 86 ± 21.0 µg cm−2 h−1, respectively. The Kp of caffeine was 2.8 ± 0.26 cm h−1, almost 2–4 times lower than that induced by Lippia origanoides > Turnera diffusa > limonene > eugenol > carvacrol, with Kp values of 11 ± 1.7, 8.8 ± 4.2, 6.8 ± 1.7, 6.3 ± 1.2, and 5.15 ± 1.0 cm h−1, respectively. No irritating effects were observed. Lippia origanoides, Turnera diffusa, eugenol, carvacrol, and limonene improved caffeine’s skin permeation. These compounds may be as effective as the PE in TDD systems.
... (Nishida, 2002) [67] . [90] 2. Sequestration mechanism in insects (Physiological mechanism involved in sequestration) (Petschenka and Agrawal, 2016) [73] . 2. Contact the peritropic membrane. ...
Herbivorous insects commonly use sequestration of chemical defences from host plants to avoid predation. The ability to create and handle bioactive chemicals is a critical component in the co-evolution of plants and insects. Plants create bioactive natural chemicals to defend themselves; however some insects detoxify and/or sequester the substances, allowing new niches with fewer competitors to emerge. The cyanogenic glucosides, which are found in over 2500 plant species and are thought to play a significant role in plant defence against herbivores due to their bitter taste and release of lethal hydrogen cyanide upon tissue damage, are one of the most important bioactive components.
... Especially among Lepidoptera, many species can thrive on plants defended by CNGs. Specialists may even sequester CNGs from their host plants in their larvae [23,30] or engage in de novo synthesis of CNGs. CNGs in insects can be used as defense compounds against natural enemies or may play a role in mating based on male transfer of CNGs to females [31,32]. ...
Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), Oriental fruit moth (OFM), attacks fruits and shoots of the economically important trees in Rosaceae. Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glucoside of rosaceous plants that may be related to the seasonal patterns of infestation in many pests. The amygdalin concentration of fruits and shoots of peach, pear, and apple varies over the growing season. However, the relationship between the amygdalin concentration and G. molesta performance has not been reported. Here, we measured the performance (feeding, growth, development, and fecundity) of G. molesta larvae (as subsequent adults) reared on artificial diets with six amygdalin concentrations (0, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 mg/g), and we then calculated the population parameters. We found that these different concentrations of amygdalin affected the developmental time and fecundity, except for the proportion of larvae feeding on the diet and the survival rates of larvae and pupae. When compared with the control diet without amygdalin, diets with 3 or 6 mg/g (low and moderate concentrations) of amygdalin shortened developmental times and increased the number of eggs laid by females; however, a diet with 12 mg/g (moderate concentration) of amygdalin only increased the number of eggs laid by females and did not affect the larval and pupal developmental rate. A diet with 48 mg/g (high concentration) of amygdalin prolonged developmental times and reduced the number of eggs laid by females when compared with the control diet without amygdalin. Furthermore, the intrinsic rate of increase (rm) for insects reared on diets with 3 or 6 mg/g (low and moderate concentrations) of amygdalin versus the control diet without amygdalin showed a slightly improved population growth. However, this increase in the rm value did not persist over ten successive generations of rearing on the same diet. We concluded that the diet with 6 mg of amygdalin per g of diet can enhance the performance and population growth of G. molesta, but the effects of amygdalin are concentration-dependent.
... Turnera diffusa (commonly called damiana) is a shrub that grows in the arid and semiarid regions of South America, Mexico, and USA; its leaves are small and wrinkled with a strong odor and yellow flowers. In traditional medicine, it has been used for the relief of colds and coughs, among other conditions [1]. T. diffusa is considered the most important species of the turneraceae; evidence of this is the growing number of scientific publications focused on the study of its therapeutic effects as well as in the quality control of herbal products [2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]. ...
The quantification of low-abundance secondary metabolites in plant extracts is an analytical problem that can be addressed by different analytical platforms, the most common being those based on chromatographic methods coupled to a high-sensitivity detection system. However, in recent years nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) has become an analytical tool of primary choice for this type of problem because of its reliability, inherent simplicity in sample preparation, reduced analysis time, and low solvent consumption. The versatility of strategies based on quantitative NMR (qNMR), such as internal and external standards and electronic references, among others, and the need to develop validated analytical methods make it essential to compare procedures that must rigorously satisfy the analytical well-established acceptance criteria for method validation. In this work, two qNMR methods were developed for the quantification of hepatodamianol, a bioactive component of T. diffusa. The first method was based on a conventional external standard calibration, and the second one was based on the pulse length-based concentration determination (PULCON) method using the ERETIC2 module as a quantitation tool available in TopSpin software. The results show that both procedures allow the content of the analyte of interest in a complex matrix to be determined in a satisfactory way, under strict analytical criteria. In addition, ERETIC2 offers additional advantages such as a reduction in experimental time, reagent consumption, and waste generated.
... Extracts of Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult (Passifloraceae) are traditionally used as a tonic in neurasthenia, also related with their flavonoid composition (Szewczyk and Zidorn, 2014). ...
Flavonoid-based therapies supported by nanotechnology are considered valuable strategies to prevent or delay age-related and chronic neurodegenerative disorders. Egg yolk phospholipids were combined with flavonoid-rich extracts obtained from Trichilia catigua A.Juss. (rich in flavan-3-ols and phenylpropanoid derivatives) or Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult (dominated by luteolin derivatives) to prepare nanophytosomes. The nanophytosomes showed that size and surface charge of the lipid-based vesicles are dependent of their phenolic composition. In vitro assays with SH-SY5Y cells showed that both formulations protect cells from glutamate-induced toxicity, but not from 6-hydroxydopamine/ascorbic acid. T. diffusa nanophytosomes promote a decrease of nitric oxide produced by BV-2 cells stimulated with interferon-γ. Nanophytosomes dialysed against a mannitol solution, and then lyophilised, allow to obtain freeze-dried products that after re-hydration preserve the essential physicochemical features of the original formulations, and exhibit improved colloidal stability. These results indicate that these flavonoid/phospholipid-based nanophytosomes have suitable features to be considered as tool in the development of therapeutic and food applications.
... Usually, the leaves of the plant are used to prepare a decoction [78,79]. Phytochemical investigations have been conducted to isolate and identify some components present in the plant, among which are flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, triterpenes, polyterpenes, fatty acids, and xanthine-derived sugars [40,80]. In a recent study, methanolic extract of T. diffusa was demonstrated to have an antidiabetic effect of Teuhetenone A in a diabetic mice model [81]. ...
Mexico, a megadiverse country, hosts approximately 10–12% of the world’s biodiversity
and at least 21,989–23,424 vascular plants, 3350 of which are traditional medicinal flora. The Mexican Regulation categorizes herbal medicinal products into two groups: herbal medicines products and herbal remedies products. To date, there is no available information that describes and includes analyzed data about these two types of herbal medicinal products registered in Mexico. The purpose of the study was to analyze national sanitary registries of herbal products from 2001 to 2020 and identify native Mexican plants that are most used in herbal products. Further, the study aims to
highlight the impact and relevance of this large number of medicinal plants, which represent a great source of information, genetic resources, bioactive compounds, and potential use in subsequent therapies based on scientific evidence. The future of medicines and herbal remedies is underestimated; thus, the significance of evaluating the great potential in studying plants for medicinal use must be taken into account.
... The herbal preparation capsules delays gastric emptying, reducing the time to perceived gastric fullness and induces weight loss. [401,402] ...
Background
Obesity is a complex health and global epidemic issue. It is an increasing global health challenge covering significant social and economic costs. Abnormal accumulation of fat in the body may increase the health risks including diabetes, hypertension, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, cardiovascular diseases, stroke and cancer. Synthetic drugs available on the market reported to have several side effects. Therefore, the management of obesity got to involve the traditional use of medicinal plants which helps to search the new therapeutic targets and supports the research and development of anti-obesity drugs.
Objective
This review aim to update the data and provide a comprehensive report of currently available knowledge of medicinal plants and phyto-chemical constituents reported for their anti-obesity activity.
Methodology
An electronic search of the periodical databases like Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Scielo, Niscair, ScienceDirect, Springerlink, Wiley, SciFinder and Google Scholar with information reported the period 1991-2019, was used to retrieve published data.
Results
A comprehensive report of the present review manuscript is an attempt to list the medicinal plants with anti-obesity activity. The review focused on plant extracts, isolated chemical compounds with their mechanism of action and their preclinical experimental model, clinical studies for further scientific research.
Conclusion
This review is the compilation of the medicinal plants and their constituents reported for the managements of obesity. The data will fascinate the researcher to initiate further research that may lead to the drug for the management of obesity and their associated secondary complications. Several herbal plants and their respective lead constituents were also screened by preclinical In-vitro and In-vivo, clinical trials and are effective in the treatment of obesity. Therefore, there is a need to develop and screen large number of plant extracts and this approach can surely be a driving force for the discovery of anti-obesity drugs from medicinal plants.
... (19) Recientemente, se ha revisado el potencial de especies del género Turnera como fuente de compuestos antimicrobianos. (20) Como era de esperar, (21) los compuestos utilizados como control (timol y carvacrol) mostraron actividad antibacteriana contra las células de S. aureus. ...
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is a serious public health problem and the most common cause of hospital infection worldwide. Our work assess the antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus of essential oils from plants growing in Colombia and its potentiating effects on the activity of β-lactam antibiotics. The antibacterial activity of twenty-seven essential oils obtained by microwave-assisted hydrodistilation was assessed, for which the micro-dilution method was used, both in Staphylococcus aureus strains resistant to methicillin and in Staphylococcus aureus sensitive to methicillin. To this end, their minimum inhibitory concentration values were determined. The enhancing effect of essential oils on the activity of β-lactam antibiotics was evaluated using cotreatment
procedures in the methicillin-resistant strain of Staphylococcus
aureus. Based on the values of minimum inhibitory concentration
in methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, the essential oils of Psidium sartorianum and Turnera diffusa showed antibacterial effect, and at non-inhibitory concentrations, significantly reduced the values of minimum inhibitory concentration of antibiotics
in the Staphylococcus aureus strain resistant to methicillin.
The results indicate that the essential oils of P. sartorianum and T.
diffusa have antibacterial properties and may enhance the activity of β-lactam antibiotics in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The species P. sartorianum and T. diffusa are sources of agents that modify bacterial resistance to antibiotics.
... Besides, various examinations have uncovered the advantages of damiana against numerous sicknesses, Taha et al. (2012) tracked down that the Turnera diffusa has against ulcer action, which could adjust the lipid peroxidation, immunomodulatory and hostile to oxidant components just as balancing the degrees of interleukin-6, interleukin-10 and TNF-α. Additionally, Kumar et al. (2008;Szewczyk and Zidorn, 2014) announced that damiana has positive exercises for soothing, against nervousness and pain relieving. Also, Estrada-Reyes et al. (2013) educated that anxiolytic-like impacts for Turnera diffusa (fluid concentrate) were assigned by a markdown in combined covering conduct. ...
Tricyclic Antidepressants Including Amitriptyline (AMI), stop the reabsorption of norepinephrine and serotonin, so the levels of transmitters is elevated in the brain to lead to several side effects. Therefore, current study aimed to assay liver dysfunction that attended by AMI administration and monitoring of damiana Turnera diffuse role as adjuvant therapy to improving amitriptyline hepatic effects in male rats. 60 rats (adult, male, albino) were used divided into six groups (n = 10); 1st group, control; 2nd group, damiana; 3rd group, AMI; 4th group, co-treated AMI with damiana; 5th group, post-treated AMI with damiana and 6th group, self-healing AMI. Results showed that; AMI induces an elevation in AST, ALT and ALP; while it reduced albumin and total protein content. Besides, autoimmune liver disorders (ANA), hepatic DNA damage, p53 and PCNA protein expressions and histopathological injury were detected. However, the groups administered with damiana showed positive effects by increasing cellular response and reducing pathological changes. It concluded that treatment with AMI causes liver dysfunction, while damiana can: Protective against the toxic effects induced by AMI in rats.
... Plants have been used in traditional medicine for the treatment and control of many diseases because of low costs and high efficacy. Secondary metabolites are known to be potent immunostimulators [6]. But the use of plant in the supplemented feed may leads to digestive problems. ...
Aquaculture is one of the important globally growing industries. It serves as an important food source of protein for human beings. With the expanding demand for the fish and their products it has become extremely important to improve the aquaculture practices. Aquaculture in India has witnessed huge mortalities caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, nematodes etc. Aquatic weeds plants are harmful for aquaculture in many ways. Present study is aimed to overcome the disease caused by Aeromonas hydrophila (fish pathogenic bacteria) through feed supplementation of two aquatic weed plants (Azolla pinnata and Ceratophyllum demersum). The fish were divided into 6 groups: experimental groups (fish fed on supplementary feed at 5% and 2.5% concentration for individual plant and challenged with bacteria), positive control (fish fed on non-supplemented feed and challenged with bacteria) and negative control (fish fed on non-supplementary feed and not challenged with bacteria). It was observed that supplemented feed enhanced both cell mediated and humoral immunity in fish. Therefore, we advocate that feed formulated with incorporation of Azolla pinnata and Ceratophyllum demersum leaf powder at 5% and 2.5% could be used to prevent disease caused by A. hydrophila or can be used to enhance fish health by boosting its immune system. The results of this study also showed an improved digestibility in fish fed on supplemented feed.
... Most of the antioxidant potential in plants is caused by the redox properties of phenolic compounds that make it possible for them to act as hydrogen donors, reducing agents, and singlet oxygen quenchers. Their antioxidant activity is a result of different mechanisms such as free radicals scavenging, metal ion chelation, reduction, oxidase inhibition, as cofactors of enzymes catalyzing oxidative reactions, free radical stabilization and radical chain reaction termination [62,65,66]. ...
The genus Cephalaria, belonging to the Caprifoliaceae family, is a rich source of interesting secondary metabolites, including mainly saponins which display a variety of biological activities, such as immunomodulatory, antimicrobial and hemolytic effects. Besides these compounds, flavonoids and phenolic acids were identified in Cephalaria species. Cephalaria is employed in traditional medicine e.g., to cure cardiac and lung diseases, rheumatism, and regulate menstruation. In this review we focus on the phenolic compound composition and antioxidative activity of Cephalaria species. The antioxidant effect can be explained by flavonoids present in all parts of these plants. However, future efforts should concentrate more on in vitro and in vivo studies and also on clinical trials in order to confirm the possibility of using these plants as natural antioxidants for the pharmacology, food or cosmetic industries.
... Turnera diffusa or 'Damiana de California' is an important species of traditional medicine in Mexico. This 'Damiana de California' is a native desert plant of the Baja California peninsula with great ethnopharmacological significance, including aphrodisiac, anti-obesity, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antimycotic and cytotoxic activities (Szewczyk & Zidorn, 2014). ...
Plant‐mediated nanoparticle synthesis is an eco‐friendly method designed to reduce toxicity. This research reports the effects of gold nanoparticle green synthesis on immune modulation for the first time, using aqueous extract from Turnera diffusa. First, the chemical composition showed that T. diffussa is abundant in compounds, such as oplopanone, γ‐eudesmol, hydroquinone‐β‐d‐glucoside (arbutin) and inositol. The synthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPDam) were confirmed by ultraviolet visible (UV‐Vis) spectrophotometry; the micro‐graphical analysis confirmed the average size that was estimated about 24 nm, which were mostly spherical in shape. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) technique helped to confirm the functional groups of the synthesized AuNPDam. Its antioxidant capability was analysed using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydarzyl (DPPH), superoxide radical scavenging and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) methods. These results indicated a worthy antioxidant activity. The synthesized AuNPDam showed strong antibacterial activity against Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Aeromonas hydrophila. Interestingly, AuNPDam were nontoxic to Longfin yellowtail head kidney leukocytes after 24 h. The phagocytosis activity, production of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide were also enhanced in leukocytes treated with AuNPDam. Overall, the results suggested that AuNPDam is non‐cytotoxic, displays strong bactericidal activity and has therapeutic properties by enhancing the immune system.
... Damiana was reported to contain sitosterol 3-O-β-D-glucoside, while Malaysian ginseng has a lanostane derivative, tirucallane (64 and 65, Figure 11). Again, there is very little evidence that the compounds present in extracts of these plants increase endogenous T levels [106][107][108][109]. ...
Testosterone derivatives and related compounds (such as anabolic-androgenic steroids—AAS) are frequently misused by athletes (both professional and amateur) wishing to promote muscle development and strength or to cover AAS misuse. Even though these agents are vastly regarded as abusive material, they have important pharmacological activities that cannot be easily replaced by other drugs and have therapeutic potential in a range of conditions (e.g., wasting syndromes, severe burns, muscle and bone injuries, anemia, hereditary angioedema). Testosterone and related steroids have been in some countries treated as controlled substances, which may affect the availability of these agents for patients who need them for therapeutic reasons in a given country. Although these agents are currently regarded as rather older generation drugs and their use may lead to serious side-effects, they still have medicinal value as androgenic, anabolic, and even anti-androgenic agents. This review summarizes and revisits the medicinal use of compounds based on the structure and biological activity of testosterone, with examples of specific compounds. Additionally, some of the newer androgenic-anabolic compounds are discussed such as selective androgen receptor modulators, the efficacy/adverse-effect profiles of which have not been sufficiently established and which may pose a greater risk than conventional androgenic-anabolic agents.
... ex Schult. (Passifloraceae), a species traditionally used as aphrodisiac and as a tonic in neurasthenia and impotency (Szewczyk, and Zidorn, 2014;Cáceres, 1996), was described as a rich-flavonoid mixture, mainly composed by luteolin derivatives, with the ability to counteract neuronal glutamate-induced toxicity via oxidative stress, and inhibit key-enzymes of monoaminergic and cholinergic systems (Bernardo et al., 2017). Hence, it is recognized that these species can provide extracts, or isolated compounds, with neuroactive potential. ...
Ethnopharmacological relevance
Flavonoids interact with multiple targets in Central Nervous System resulting in a broad neuroprotection mediated by complementary processes and synergic interactions. Therefore, flavonoid-based therapies may input positive outcomes in the prevention and early management of neurodegenerative diseases. In Brazilian folk medicine Trichilia catigua is used for its neuroactive properties, such as neurostimulant, antioxidant and anti-neuroinflammatory, while Turnera diffusa is traditionally used as a tonic in neurasthenia. Both species are known to be rich in flavonoids.
Aim of the study
To study aqueous extracts of T. catigua and T. diffusa in terms of their antioxidant and antiglycation effects, inhibition of tyrosinase activity, and interaction with enzymes and pathways engaged in neuroinflammation. Moreover, whenever possible, to establish a relationship between the studied activities and the traditional usage of the species.
Materials and Methods
The phenolic profiles of the aqueous extracts were validated by HPLC-DAD. The effect of the extracts over mushroom tyrosinase and 5-lipoxygenase activities, as well as their capacity to impair bovine serum albumin glycation, were assessed by in vitro assays. The anti-neuroinflammatory potential of the same extracts was evaluated by their capacity to mitigate the pro-inflammatory stimulus induced in BV-2 microglia cells by interferon-gamma.
Results
T. catigua extract, a rich mixture of phenolic acids, catechins and flavonolignans, excels by its ability to decrease lipid peroxidation (EC50=227.18±9.04 μg/mL), and to work as anti-glycation agent, and inhibitor of both tyrosinase and 5-lipoxigenase (IC50=358.84±19.05 and 56.25 ± 14.53 μg/mL, respectively). However, only T. diffusa extract, mainly composed by luteolin derivatives, is able to lower NO production by BV-2 microglia cells stimulated with interferon-gamma, despite its lower activities in the other assays.
Conclusions
Overall, this work highlights the value of medicinal plant extracts as sources of bioactive flavonoid-rich extracts with neuroactive effects. Furthermore, these results support their application as alternative strategies to develop functional foods and therapeutics to fight chronic neurodegenerative disorders.
... Species of Turnera is recognized for their medicinal properties. In galenic medicine, this plant is used to treat bronchitis, coughs, gastrointestinal complaints, tumours, pain relief, pulmonary and respiratory ailments (Agra et al. 2007;Szewczyk and Zidorn, 2014). Moreover, T. subulata that planted in the rice field could help in controlling insect pest population as this plant provides refuge for the natural enemies of insect rice pest (Badrulhadza et al. 2018). ...
... (65) Várias espécies de Turnera são usadas como abortivas no Nordeste brasileiro. (66) Os usos mais comuns da planta são na forma de chá, garrafada, lambedor, banho e compressa.(64)(65)(66)(67)(68) A flor, por indicação de Diógenes da Cunha Lima, é símbolo poético da cidade de Natal pelos seguintes motivos: assim como a flor, apesar dos cenários adversos, a cidade tem a qualidade da persistência, da resistência, da beleza e da fortaleza.(69) ...
Este livro apresenta informações e receitas elaboradas pelo LabNutrir/UFRN, a partir do estudo de Plantas Alimentícias Não Convencionais (PANC). As PANC são plantas comestíveis, exóticas ou nativas, que geralmente não são facilmente reconhecíveis ou disponíveis para compra pela população em geral. O trabalho com essas espécies, e refletido neste livro, é fruto das ações desenvolvidas pelo LabNutrir, o qual se concretiza como projeto de horta urbana pedagógica da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN). Como primeiro laboratório horta do Brasil em uma instituição de ensino superior, seu objetivo é colaborar com a formação de profissionais do ramo da alimentação, a fim de que possam oferecer serviços úteis à comunidade.
Đặt vấn đề: Nghiên cứu hoạt tính kháng khuẩn và gây độc tế bào ung thư của dược liệu đã được tiến hành từ rất lâu. đông hầu vàng là loài thực vật được du nhập từ nước ngoài nhưng chưa được nghiên cứu nhiều ở nước ta, các loài thảo dược cùng chi đã thể hiện hoạt tính kháng khuẩn và gây độc tế bào. Mục tiêu nghiên cứu: Đề tài được thực hiện nhằm khảo sát hoạt tính kháng khuẩn và gây độc tế bào ung thư của các cao chiết từ lá đông hầu vàng. Đối tượng và phương pháp nghiên cứu: Lá đông hầu vàng được chiết bằng ethanol 96% được cao cồn toàn phần. Một phần cao TP được hòa tan với nước, sau đó chiết phân đoạn lần lượt với các dung môi là n-hexan, chloroform, n-butanol thu được các cao chiết tương ứng. Tất cả các cao chiết được xác định khả năng kháng khuẩn theo phương pháp xác định đường kính vòng kháng khuẩn (mm) cũng như giá trị MIC (μg/mL) và gây độc tế bào ung thư (trên dòng tế bào HepG2) theo phương pháp Sulforhodamine B. Kết quả: Cao hexan của đông hầu vàng có hoạt tính kháng khuẩn cao nhất, giá trị MIC (μg/mL) với các chủng acillus subtilis và Staphylococcus aureus lần lượt là 1.25 mg/mL và 0.625 mg/mL. Cao chloroform của đông hầu vàng thể hiện hoạt tính ức chế tế bào HepG2 cao nhất với giá trị ức chế 20.00 ± 4.73% ở nồng độ 100 μg/mL. Kết luận: Cao chiết đông hầu vàng thể hiện hoạt tính ức chế vi khuẩn Gram dương và khả năng gây độc tế bào ung thư gan thấp.
Water effluents are excessively contaminated by organic dyes, causing significant damage to the flora and fauna. In this research, photocatalysis was used for the removal of three organic dyes, methylene blue (MB), methyl orange (MO), and rhodamine B (RhB). ZnO nanoparticles biosynthesized through an eco-friendly route were used as photocatalysts, employing extracts of Turnera diffusa as the reducing agent of the metallic precursor in these nanoparticle syntheses. The nanoparticles were characterized to know their structure by Attenuated Total Reflectance Spectroscopy (ATR-IR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and X-ray Emitted Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was used to evaluate the thermal behavior, the BET method was used to evaluate the specific surface area, the morphology was analyzed by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and finally, the TAUC model was used to obtain the energy gap by UltraViolet-Visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) spectra. The photocatalytic activity results presented a 100% degradation in 180 and 50 min for MB and MO dyes, respectively. And a 77% degradation for RhB at 180 min. This indicates that the biosynthesized NPs are adequate for removing contaminants found in water.
Introduction Damiana has been used as aphrodisiac in ethnomedicine for centuries. However, the use of Damiana in homeopathy is diverse, e.g. for migraine treatment of, amenorrhoea, spermatorrhoea, urinary tract infection and prostate related issues. However, this medicinal plant is non-native to India. Hence, it is imperative to investigate the quality of the medicine samples available and prepared in India. Hence, we undertook in-depth chemical analysis of the raw drugs and the commercially available samples of this medicine.
Material and Methods The reported chemical study includes determination of the physicochemical parameters of the raw drug involving, foreign matter, loss on drying, extractive values in different solvents, ash values total fixed oil and total volatile oil. Also, the study includes the analysis of the in-house and commercial mother tinctures consisting of, pH, organoleptic parameters, total solids, total phenol content, ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy and high performance thin layer chromatography. Phytochemical screening of the mother tinctures and extracts of the raw drugs in different solvents was done. A preliminary molecular docking study was done to evaluate the applicability of apigenin as the homoeopathy-specific marker.
Result In-house mother tincture, mother tinctures from Indian and multinational companies show similar quality. Molecular docking revealed that apigenin may be a good candidate for homoeopathy-specific marker.
Conclusion Our study provides pharmacopoeial standards which show that even for exotic plants the quality of mother tinctures from Indian and international companies is similar.
Practice and Re-emergence of Herbal Medicine focuses on current research in Indian traditional medicine. Chapters cover many facets of herbal medicine, including quality control and experimental validation, intellectual property issues, pharmacovigilance and the therapeutic use of herbal medicine. The book informs readers about the effectiveness of traditional medicine systems, like Ayurveda and Siddha, in the region with reference to specific communities. The book also highlights herbal medications for diseases such as COVID-19, cancer and erectile dysfunction. The book is a timely reference for researchers interested in ethnobotany, alternative medicine and the practice of herbal medicine in indigenous communities.
Series Introduction:
Natural Medicine is a series of edited volumes that aims to be a repository of knowledge on herbal and traditional medicine with the goal of attracting a global audience. Contributions to the series will present evidence of the efficacy of plant-based medicine against disease. The series will also highlight issues in herbal medicine practice and research.
Medicinal plants have been used to cure diseases for thousands of years, including to treat male reproductive problems such as male infertility, impotence, etc. Their utilization in treating various ailments has grown in popularity within the last decade. Several plants such as Chlorophytum borivilianum, Turnera diffusa, Smilax china, and Eurycoma longifolia have been claimed to have beneficial effects in combating andrological problems. This chapter addresses the beneficial effects of these selected medicinal plants in treating male reproductive problems, including abnormal sperm parameters, deranged male reproductive hormones' profile, and male reproductive senescence as well as their roles as potential male contraceptives. This chapter also provides a quick overview and a detailed evaluation of these natural herbs and their potential benefits on men's health as well as their use as herbal components in assisted reproduction.
Practice and Re-emergence of Herbal Medicine focuses on current research in Indian traditional medicine. Chapters cover many facets of herbal medicine, including quality control and experimental validation, intellectual property issues, pharmacovigilance and the therapeutic use of herbal medicine. The book informs readers about the effectiveness of traditional medicine systems, like Ayurveda and Siddha, in the region with reference to specific communities. The book also highlights herbal medications for diseases such as COVID-19, cancer and erectile dysfunction. The book is a timely reference for researchers interested in ethnobotany, alternative medicine and the practice of herbal medicine in indigenous communities.
Series Introduction:
Natural Medicine is a series of edited volumes that aims to be a repository of knowledge on herbal and traditional medicine with the goal of attracting a global audience. Contributions to the series will present evidence of the efficacy of plant-based medicine against disease. The series will also highlight issues in herbal medicine practice and research.
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Sexual dysfunction is a multifactorial health condition characterized by distressing disturbances in the sexual response and libido, leading to an inability to maintain penile erection and achieve pleasure. Considering the huge Brazilian biodiversity, many plants are traditionally used for aphrodisiac purposes. However, the use of native medicinal plants as sexual boosters in Brazil has been poorly studied.
Aim of the study:
This review focuses on the composition, pharmacology, and results of experimental trials of the main native plants used in Brazilian folk medicine with alleged aphrodisiac effects. We aimed to provide a state-of-the-art reference for research on herbs for the treatment of male sexual dysfunction by summarizing and discussing the main studies found.
Materials and methods:
The relevant information was collected by searching keywords (aphrodisiac, sexual tonic, sexual stimulant, sexual vigor stimulant, sexual impotency, erectile dysfunction, etc.) from books containing primary surveys conducted in the original communities and bibliographic surveys prepared by authors linked to the national academic and scientific environment edited in Brazil. Preclinical and clinical studies of the compiled plant species were performed using scientific databases (Scopus, PubMed, SciELO, and SciFinder).
Results:
Seventy-four plant species belonging to 44 families used in Brazil to treat sexual dysfunction were compiled from ethnopharmacological literature. Fourteen plants, including Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen, Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco Schltdl., Anemopaegma arvense (Vell.) Stellfeld ex de Souza, Mimosa pudica L., Heteropterys tomentosa A. Juss., Trichilia catigua A. Juss., and Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. were pharmacologically studied to confirm these therapeutic properties. Probable modes of action include antioxidant and androgenic activities, inhibition of the PDE5 enzyme, increase in NO levels, and activation of dopaminergic and noradrenergic pathways. In addition, several different species popularly known as "catuaba" were identified, leading to adulterations and controversial effects.
Conclusion:
The overall results of the present review of Brazilian folk literature reveal that Brazil has a long tradition of using plants with potential aphrodisiac effects. However, further research is required to identify, characterize, and standardize the active ingredients and herbal preparations used in aphrodisiacs.
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. (T. diffusa) has traditionally been used to treat male reproductive dysfunction and have aphrodisiac properties.
Aims of the study:
This study aims to investigate the ability of T. diffusa to ameliorate the impairment in testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in DM that might help to improve testicular function, and subsequently restore male fertility.
Materials and methods:
DM-induced adult male rats were given 100 mg/kg/day and 200 mg/kg/day T. diffusa leaf extract orally for 28 consecutive days. Rats were then sacrificed; sperm and testes were harvested and sperm parameter analysis were performed. Histo-morphological changes in the testes were observed. Biochemical assays were performed to measure testosterone and testicular oxidative stress levels. Immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence were used to monitor oxidative stress and inflammation levels in testes as well as Sertoli and steroidogenic marker proteins' expression.
Results:
Treatment with T. diffusa restores sperm count, motility, and viability near normal and reduces sperm morphological abnormalities and sperm DNA fragmentation in diabetic rats. T. diffusa treatment also reduces testicular NOX-2 and lipid peroxidation levels, increases testicular antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) activities, ameliorates testicular inflammation via downregulating NF-ΚB, p-Ikkβ and TNF-α and upregulating IκBα expression. In diabetic rats, T. diffusa treatment increases testicular steroidogenic proteins (StAR, CYP11A1, SHBG, and ARA54, 3 and 17β-HSD) and plasma testosterone levels. Furthermore, in diabetic rats treated with T. diffusa, Sertoli cell marker proteins including Connexin 43, N-cadherin, and occludin levels in the testes were elevated.
Conclusion:
T. diffusa treatment could help to ameliorate the detrimental effects of DM on the testes, thus this plant has potential to be used to restore male fertility.
Herbal cigarettes, known as tobacco-ree or nicotine-ree cigarettes, are those recognized as being-tobacco ree, being composed o a mixture o various herbs claimed to lessen the smoking habit hazards. However, controversial data regarding its properties occur in the literature with no comprehensive overview or analysis o its eects. Like herbal smokeless tobacco, they are oten used to substitute or tobacco products (primarily cigarettes) regarded as a "nonsmoking" aid. This review capitalizes on herbal cigarettes with regard to their quality characteristics, sensory attributes, chemical composition, and health properties to rationalize their choice as a nonsmoking aid. Furthermore, the impacts o heat and/or pyrolysis that occur during smoking on its chemical composition are presented or the rst time. Some herbal smokes may produce notable metabolic problems that increase the risk o several chronic metabolic diseases. In general, burning substances rom plants can have a variety o negative eects on the body attributed to toxic chemicals such as carbon monoxide, polyaromatics, nicotine, and N-nitrosamines. This review compiles and discusses the phytochemical compositions detected in various herbal cigarettes alongside sensory and quality attributes and health eects.
The essential oils of Turnera diffusa (commonly called Damiana) leaves and stem were extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed using Gas Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Turnera diffusa leaf and stem yielded the same percentage of essential oils (0.6%), respectively. The major components of the leaf oil are α-pinene (15.47%), cubebol (9.59%), junenol (6.31%), spathunelol (6.12%), and caryophyllene (5.47%) while the major components of the stem oil are junenol (8.29%), germacrene D (7.42%), caryophyllene (4.21%), σ-cadinene (3.77%), and spathunelol (3.58%). The result showed that there was a considerable variation in the chemical composition of the leaf and stem essential oils of T. diffusa.
Turnera ulmifolia L. is used in folk medicine and it is known to have anti-hyperglycemic effect on the organism in order to reduce complications in diabetic patients. Glycation process is directly related to oxidative stress, acting as an important endogenous source, inducing the production of free radicals, and thus increasing the production of reactive oxygen species. The encapsulation technology on natural compounds can minimize and even mitigate the risk of loss of biological activity in order to maintain their activities against oxidative stress and glycation. The present study aimed to evaluate the antiglycation and antioxidant activities of T. ulmifolia extract before and after encapsulation and cytotoxicity of the crude extract. This study presents important information about the biological activities, highlighting antioxidant and antiglycation potential and no cytotoxicity of Turnera ulmifolia crude extract, a species of genus Turnera that has been poorly studied. T. ulmifolia crude extract presented flavonoids as main active compounds. The results showed a promising activity in scavenging free and peroxyl radicals, chelating iron ions and inhibiting BSA glycation. In addition, this study showed the possible encapsulation of bioactive compounds using maltodextrin as wall material.
Damiana (Turnera diffusa), of the family Passifloraceae, has been widely studied for its pharmacological effects, especially for antioxidant and antibacterial actions. However, there are limited scientific findings describing its antiphotoaging effects on the skin. In the present study, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the protective effect of Damiana were investigated in keratinocytes (HaCaTs) and normal human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) subject to UVB irradiation. The mRNA expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and procollagen type I was determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The protein expression of antiphotoaging-related signaling molecules in the activator protein-1 (AP-1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2)/antioxidant response element (ARE) pathways was assessed by Western blotting. We observed that Damiana blocked the upregulated production of reactive oxygen species induced in UVB-irradiated HaCaTs and HDFs in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with Damiana also significantly ameliorated the mRNA expression of MMPs and procollagen type I. In addition, the phosphorylation level of c-Jun and c-Fos was also decreased through the attenuated expression of p-38, p-ERK, and p-JNK after treatment with Damiana. Furthermore, the treatment of cells with Damiana resulted in the inhibition of Smad-7 expression in the TGF-β/Smad pathway and upregulated the expression of the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway. Hence, the synthesis of procollagen type I, a precursor of collagen I, was promoted. Collectively, these results provide us with the novel insight that Damiana is a potential source of antiphotoaging compounds.
Since ancient times, humans across diverse cultures have shown keen interest in traditional herbal products which enhance sexual abilities, pleasure and libido, and improve sexual functions and potency. Herbal aphrodisiacs have been claimed to possess antistress as well as adaptogenic properties that assist in combating disease-associated stress and improving physical strength ultimately helping to alleviate the anxiety linked with lack of sexual desire and performance. Even in the modern era, particularly due to social or cultural reasons, some men still prefer the use of traditional herbal aphrodisiac products to counter sexual and/or reproductive dysfunctions. Important herbal aphrodisiacs—such as Panax ginseng, Tribulus terrestris, Eurycoma longifolia, Chlorophytum borivilianum, Ginkgo biloba, and Turnera diffusa var. aphrodisiaca have been discussed in this chapter in accordance with their effects and the potent molecules/compounds that manifest their activity. In fact, the constituent biomolecules present as the active principles of the herbal preparations behind their noticeable effects. However, there can be various pathways through which they may affect the sexual and reproductive functions, ranging from enhancement of spermatogenesis; modulation of hormonal levels (particularly testosterone) and steroidogenesis; erectogenic properties including improvement in sexual motivation, copulatory behavior, and modulation of neurotransmitters; to reduction of oxidative stress. For their potential incorporation into the clinical management of male reproductive and/or sexual disorders such as erectile dysfunction or male infertility in future, these herbal aphrodisiac biomolecules have to pass through stringent confirmatory studies including proper assessment of their safety and regulatory issues together with any side effect and associated toxicity for safe human administration.
Turnera subulata Sm. belongs to the family Turneraceae and is found in Brazil. The present study evaluated the antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycemic potential of T. subulata flower extract (EtFloTsu) in zebrafish (Danio rerio). The total phenol and flavonoid contents of EtFloTsu were determined and identified using the Folin Ciocalteu reagent and aluminum chloride (AlCl3), respectively. The constituents of the extract were identified by HPLC-DAD, and the in vitro antioxidant activity (DPPH) was determined, toxicity in brine shrimp, and acute toxicity of 96 h in adult zebrafish. In addition, adult zebrafish (n = 6/fish) were treated orally with EtFloTsu (4, 20, or 40 mg/kg; vo) and subjected to formalin-induced nociception tests (with its possible mechanism of action with camphor), carrageenan-induced inflammation, and D-glucose-induced hyperglycemia (111 mM). Oxidative stress in the liver and brain tissues was assessed. EtFloTsu showed high levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds with antioxidant activity. The phytochemicals chlorogenic acid, luteolin-7-o-glucoside, vitexin, and apigenin-7-o-glucoside were also identified in EtFloTsu. The synergism between these constituents was possibly responsible for the antinociceptive (via TRPA1), anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycemic effects of EtFloTsu in adult zebrafish, without causing toxicity in animals. Therefore, T. subulata flowers have therapeutic agents that could treat pain, inflammation, diabetes, and related complications.
Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma
Several medicinal plants are traditionally used in different regions of Africa for the treatment of male infertility, sexual asthenia, erectile dysfunction, and impotency or used as an aphrodisiac. Scientific studies, mostly conducted in vitro or in animals, have proven the acclaimed traditional use of these plants to enhance sexual activities or sperm concentration, motility, and viability. Some of the mechanisms of actions associated with these plants include increased level of testosterone and the relaxation of the smooth cavernosal muscles. However, some plants were also shown to have detrimental effects on the male reproductive system. This may be due to the varying modes of plant extraction, duration of treatment, experimental design, dosage used, quality of the plant, or toxic effects. There is a need to standardize the protocols as well as to better understand the mechanism of actions of the respective plants. Further studies should be conducted using human subjects.
Turnera diffusa WILLD is a plant used in folk medicine as a natural stimulant, and the objective of this research is to perform the phytochemical analysis of the secondary metabolites of the damiana of occurrence in the Juazeiro region, northern Bahia - Brazil. A phytochemical screening was performed from three Crude Ethanol Extracts (BSE), EEB1: leaves and flowers; EEB2: stems and EEB3: root. A thin analytical layer chromatography was performed using specific developers to detect each chemical class. Alkaloids, coumarins, anthranic derivatives, phenolic compounds, mono, sequi and diterpenes, naphthoquinones, triterpenes and steroids, saponins, hydrolyzed tannins and xanthines were identified in the three extracts. Only in the BSE of leaves and flowers observed the presence of antroquinones and aglycones. The secondary metabolites identified in the study evidence the pharmacological potential of Turnera diffusa. Phytochemical screening concluded the presence of fourteen classes of secondary metabolites in damiana, indicating important medicinal potential with pharmacological effects reported in the literature.
Mexico has a rich tradition in medicinal plant use within its diverse traditional healing practices. Many people have used medicinal herbs to treat a variety of diseases and ailments for many generations. Located in the northeast, Monterrey is Mexico’s third largest city and one of the most industrialized cities in Latin America. In spite of widespread use of modern pharmaceuticals, and the availability of "scientific" or mainstream medicine in this city, many people still rely on traditional healers, as well as the use medicinal plants to combat illness. This study was undertaken in order to obtain information regarding the most popular medicinal plants used in Monterrey, as well as their uses, forms of application, and origin. Thirteen herbal providers voluntarily accepted to be interviewed within 2 of the city’s largest popular herbal marketplaces. A questionnaire written in the Spanish language was provided to all interviewees, regarding their years in business, their source of information or expertise in recommending herbs, as well as the type of herbs employed for the treatment of various diseases or afflictions. Fifty-six medicinal plants belonging to 27 botanical families, mostly sold as crude herbs, were mentioned by the herbal providers as being the most commonly used to treat various ailments.
Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic abnormality often deliberating with sever complications of retinopathy, nephropathy and microangiopathy1 , which is one of the most common endocrine disorders in all populations and all age groups. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study. A total of 1118 adult subjects were enrolled in the OPD in NMCTH. The case records of the patients of both genders aged range from 20-70 years. A definitive diagnosis was made based on clinical features, fasting blood sugar, post- Prandial blood sugar and lipid profiles estimation. Results: Out of total patients, 142 were male and 71 were female Type –II diabetes patients. Male diabetes was maximum in 41-50 years age groups. Associated risk factors and co-morbid conditions were analyzed. Factors like physical activity, socio-economical status, family history, obesity have shown statistically significant association with diabetes mellitus. About 42 % have systolic BP> 140 mm of Hg and 47 % have diastolic BP> 80 mm of Hg. Conclusion: This study showed a trend of diabetes with age in both sexes, reaching the highest in the age 41-50 years. Based on our study, we may concluded that these factors need to be addressed in prevention and control strategies in this area.
The distribution of traditional knowledge about plants used in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases among the inhabitants of Zapotitlan Salinas, Puebla, Mexico, was evaluated. The study was performed using ethnobotanical methods applied to 119 representative persons of the community. A total of 44 species were recorded as used for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. The species with highest values of relative importance, most frequently mentioned in the interviews, were "Orégano" (Lippia graveolens Kunth), "Cinco Negritos Blanco" (Lantana achyranthifolia Desf), "Itamo Real" (Turnera diffusa Willd), "Salve Real" (Lippia oaxacana Rob. & Greenm.), "Zempoalxóchitl Chiquito" (Gymnolaena oaxacana (Greenm.) Rydb), "Barredor" (Cordia curassavica (Jacq) Roem. & Schul.), "Cinco Negritos Rojo" (Lantana camara L), and "Hierba del Pastor" (Acalypha hederacea Torrey). Variation was found regarding the access to traditional knowledge, clearly related to the different roles the informants play in the community. The general pattern in the traditional knowledge distribution among the people was random, which suggests that there is a good communication regarding medicinal plants among the people of Zapotitlán Salinas.
Turneraceae, with just over 200 species in 10 genera, is today often included in a widely circumscribed Passifloraceae. The vast majority of the species are found in the New World, whereas generic diversity is largest in the Old World. According to current circumscriptions, three of the genera show trans-Atlantic disjunctions: Turnera with over 135 species in America and two species in Africa (one in the south-western and one in the north-eastern part), Piriqueta with 44 species in America and one in southern Africa, and Erblichia with one species in Central America and four in Madagascar. The phylogeny of Turneraceae is reconstructed based on DNA sequences from plastid trnL-F and nuclear ITS and sampling for all genera, including both New and Old World species for the trans-Atlantic groups to test their monophyly. The genera of Turneraceae form a strongly supported monophyletic group, the Turneraceae clade, within Passifloraceae s.l. The phylogeny is geographically structured, with one clade comprising American species only, except for the two African species of Turnera, and another clade with all other African species plus the Central American Erblichia odorata. Turnera is retrieved as monophyletic with the two African species appearing as close relatives of T. ulmifolia, the type of Turnera. The existence of a trans-Atlantic disjunction in Turnera is therefore supported. It is most likely caused by long-distance dispersal and estimated to be not older than late Miocene. In Piriqueta only the American species are supported as a monophyletic group, whereas the single African species is resolved as a member of the African clade. The trans-Atlantic disjunction in Piriqueta is therefore not supported and the African species is proposed to be placed in a genus of its own, Afroqueta gen. nov., as Afroqueta capensis comb. nov. Erblichia on Madagascar is supported as sister to Mathurina, a genus endemic to Rodrigues Island in the Mascarenes, and does not group with E. odorata in Central America, the type of Erblichia. The trans-Atlantic disjunction in Erblichia is therefore not supported either and the genus Arboa gen. nov. is proposed to accommodate the four Malagasy species, Arboa integrifolia comb. nov., Arboa berneriana comb. nov., Arboa madagascariensis comb. nov., and Arboa antsingyae comb. nov.
A revised and updated classification for the families of flowering plants is provided. Many recent studies have yielded increasingly detailed evidence for the positions of formerly unplaced families, resulting in a number of newly adopted orders, including Amborellales, Berberidopsidales, Bruniales, Buxales, Chloranthales, Escalloniales, Huerteales, Nymphaeales, Paracryphiales, Petrosaviales, Picramniales, Trochodendrales, Vitales and Zygophyllales. A number of previously unplaced genera and families are included here in orders, greatly reducing the number of unplaced taxa; these include Hydatellaceae (Nymphaeales), Haptanthaceae (Buxales), Peridiscaceae (Saxifragales), Huaceae (Oxalidales), Centroplacaceae and Rafflesiaceae (both Malpighiales), Aphloiaceae, Geissolomataceae and Strasburgeriaceae (all Crossosomatales), Picramniaceae (Picramniales), Dipentodontaceae and Gerrardinaceae (both Huerteales), Cytinaceae (Malvales), Balanophoraceae (Santalales), Mitrastemonaceae (Ericales) and Boraginaceae (now at least known to be a member of lamiid clade). Newly segregated families for genera previously understood to be in other APG-recognized families include Petermanniaceae (Liliales), Calophyllaceae (Malpighiales), Capparaceae and Cleomaceae (both Brassicales), Schoepfiaceae (Santalales), Anacampserotaceae, Limeaceae, Lophiocarpaceae, Montiaceae and Talinaceae (all Caryophyllales) and Linderniaceae and Thomandersiaceae (both Lamiales). Use of bracketed families is abandoned because of its unpopularity, and in most cases the broader circumscriptions are retained; these include Amaryllidaceae, Asparagaceace and Xanthorrheaceae (all Asparagales), Passifloraceae (Malpighiales), Primulaceae (Ericales) and several other smaller families. Separate papers in this same volume deal with a new linear order for APG, subfamilial names that can be used for more accurate communication in Amaryllidaceae s.l., Asparagaceace s.l. and Xanthorrheaceae s.l. (all Asparagales) and a formal supraordinal classification for the flowering plants.
Citrus paradisi has been used traditionally to reduce stress and anxiety; however no pharmacological work has been done to substantiate these claims. The present study was designed to evaluate the anti-anxiety activity of various extracts viz petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol and water, of the leaves of Citrus paradisi var. star ruby using elevated plus maze (EPM) model in Swiss albino mice. Albino mice were treated orally with different doses of the extracts (i.e.100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) and behavior was observed on the EPM. Diazepam (2mg/kg, P.O) was used as a positive control. Results show that methanol extract at the dose of 100mg/kg of the leaves of Citrus paradisi var. star ruby markedly increased the average time spent in the open arms of the EPM. This effect was comparable to the effect produced by diazepam. Hence this plant may be developed as a potentially useful anti anxiety agent.
Hepatoprotective activity of Tridax procumbens L. a medicinal herb commonly used in folklore system for wound healing and also against jaundice, was evaluated against paracetamol (acetaminophen) induced hepatic damage in male albino rats. Paracetamol (2gm/kg body weight) induced hepatic damage was well manifested by significant increase in the activities of Alanine aminotransferase, Aspartate aminotransferase, Alkaline phosphatase in serum and enhanced lipid peroxidation. On the other hand, the activities of Superoxide dismutase and Catalase in liver tissue were lowered. Consequent to paracetamol induced hepatic injury, the Serum Bilirubin level was increased. Paracetamol toxicity, also resulted in, significant reduction in total serum protein and the hepatic glutathione and glycogen contents. The oral administration of varying doses of ethanolic extract of Tridax procumbens L. (100, 200, 300 and 400mg/kg body weight) for the period of 7 days reversed these altered parameters to normal levels indicating the antioxidative and hepatoprotective efficacy of Tridax procumbens L. against paracetamol induced liver injury.
Ethnopharmacological research investigates the plants and other medicinal and toxic substances utilized by different traditional populations. One approach in this field is a literature search of the available publications on medicinal plants. The purpose of the current study was to select plants with psychoactive effects described in a Brazilian literary work written by Pio Correa in 1926. Those mentioned plants were classified in accordance with their indications for use as stimulants and depressors of the central nervous system. For the phytochemical study herein, we researched these species via a database search, and all the obtained information was compiled into a new database to analyze possible correlations between the chemical compounds and the psychoactive categories. Of the 813 plants searched in the literary work, 104 presented chemical data in the scientific periodicals consulted. Seventy-five of them belong to the stimulant category, while 31 are depressors and two of them belong to both categories. Phenols and flavonoids were the main compounds observed in plants of both categories, though at different frequencies. Monoterpenes (29.9%) and sesquiterpenes (28.6%) were also observed in plants from the stimulant category, while 25.8% of plants from the depressor category were comprised of carotenoids and 22.6% of steroids. The main specific compounds were identified as ferulic acid, α-pinene, limonene, α-humulene and kaempferol among the stimulant plants. Otherwise, in depressor plants were characterized caffeic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, β-carotene, physalins and withanolides as specific compounds. The association between ethnopharmacological and chemotaxonomic data, as presented in this study, could support plant selection in further investigations by research groups whose studies focus on psychoactive plants as potential therapeutics.
We examine the cyanogenesis polymorphism in Turnera ulmifolia on Jamaica with respect to our hypothesis that seedlings in some populations have significantly higher levels of cyano-genesis than mature plants because of the developmental loss of cyanogenesis. Furthermore, we provide estimates of among-family variance, as estimates of broad sense heritability, for a number of fitness-related traits, and also examine the potential cost of cyanogenesis in this species. Our data reveal that there is a marked developmental loss of cyanogenesis in some populations of T. ulmifolia. Seedlings have significantly greater levels of cyanogenesis than mature plants in 'acyanogenic' populations, but this developmental loss is absent in pre-dominantly cyanogenic populations. This is the first study to document extensive develop-mental loss of chemical defence in a cyanogenic species. We suggest that, in these populations, there might be selection favouring cyanogenesis in seedlings. There is substantial among-family variance in a number of traits in five T. ulmifolia populations examined, including plant height, time to first flowering, total flower production and cyanogenesis. Phenotypic and, more importantly, negative genetic correlations between total flower production and cyanogenesis provide evidence for a cost of cyanogenesis in three of five populations.
We examine the effects of the cyanogenesis polymorphism in Turnera ulmifolia on larvae, pupae, and adults of Euptoieta hegesia, the most damaging herbivore of T. ulmifolia in terms of tissue loss per unit time. We provide evidence that female E. hegesia do not show preference for host plants on the basis of their cyanogenesis level but do prefer T. ulmifolia over equally cyanogenic, closely related secondary host-plant species (Passiflora sp.). Similarly, cyanogenesis in T. ulmifolia has little effect on the food preference, growth, or development of the larvae. The potential host range of E. hegesia is limited, even within the genus Turnera, but this does not appear to be due to host-plant cyanogenesis. Pupae suffer very high mortality levels in the wild that are not associated with host-plant cyanogenesis, although our studies indicate that larvae are capable of sequestering cyanogenic glycosides from their host plants and possibly of synthesizing these or similar compounds. We provide evidence that the presence of sequestered cyanogenic compounds in the larvae protects them from terrestrial-based predators such as Anolis lizards
This work is a comparative pharmacobotanical study between the leaves of Turnera chamaedrifolia Cambess. and Turnera subulata Sm. (Turneraceae), which are used in folk medicine. The botanical identifications and macroscopical morphodiagnosis were done after morphological studies. The microscopical morphodiagnosis was carried out by paradermic and transversal cuts of the leaves (blade and petiole), clarified and coloured with safranin and astrablue. The leaves of T. chamaedrifolia have hypostomatics epidermis, with wavy cells walls; the mesophyll is dorsiventral; and the vascular system of the peciole has three vascular bundles in the distal and medium portions, and only one, in the proximal portion. T. subulata has amphihypostomatic epidermis, with sinuous cells walls; the mesophyll is isobilateral; and the vascular system of the petiole has only one vascular bundle in the distal portion and three in the medium and proximal portions. The vegetative and reproductive morphologies associated to the leaf anatomy constitute a set of distinctive characters for these species.
Aim of study: Ancient literature alluded to the use of a number of plants/preparations as sex enhancer. One of such botanicals is Phoenix dactylifera in which the pollen grain has been acclaimed to be used as an aphrodisiac. However, the validity has not been scientifically tested. Dopamine is known to facilitate male sexual function. Therefore, the pre- sent study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of Phoenix dactylifera pollen on the sexual behavior of male rats and to measure of serum Estradiol and Testostrone. Also, dopamine transmission in the nucleus accum- bence (NAc) was studied in male rats using in vivo microdialysis. Methods and Materials: sixty male rats were ran- domized into 6 groups (A-F). Group A received 0.2 ml of Normal Saline mixed with Dimethyl Sulphate (DMSO), while groups B-F were injected same volume containing 35 mg/kg, 70 mg/kg, 105 mg/kg, 140 mg/kg and 350 mg/kg of DPP extract, respectively. Sexual behavioral parameters including mounting, intromission and ejaculation frequencies and latencies were recorded in male rats one hour after injection of extract by mating with a receptive female (1:1). The male serum testosterone and estradiol concentrations were also determined. Results: All doses stimulated male sexual behavior. Extract significantly increased mount, ejaculation, intromission frequencies and ejaculation latency in com- parison to controlled ones (p < 0.001). Mount and intromission latencies significantly reduced (p < 0.001). Maximum effect was observed in dose 140 mg/kg. This extract was found to enhance Testestrone, Estradiol and the orientation of males toward female ones by increasing mounting and ano-genital investigatory behavior. Conclusions: Data from this study identified that the aqueous extract of Phoenix dactylifera pollen grain enhanced sexual behaviour in male rats. The improved sexual appetitive behaviour in male rats may be attributed, to the alkaloids, saponins, and or flavonoids since these phytochemicals has engorgement, androgen enhancing. Also, our findings support the traditional use of this plant as acclaimed aphrodisiac and for the treatment of pre-ejaculation and impotency.
Keywords: Aphrodisiac Activity; Microdialysis; Dopamine; Testostrone; Estradiol; Male Rat; Phoenix dactylifera Pollen Grain; Pre-Ejaculation; Sexual Behavior
"Quality control of polar extracts from Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult., Turneraceae." This work describes the development of a methodology for the quality control of ethanol and infusion extracts from Turnera diffusa Wild ex Schult., Turneraceae, using phenolic compounds as chemical markers. This species is used both as aphrodisiac and antiulcerogenic. We used chromatographic techniques: HPLC couplet do ultraviolet detector as well as thin layer chromatography. Flavonoids were detected as major compounds in this species.
The present study aimed to identify the different uses of medicinal plants native to Caatinga biome in a rural community from Caicó Municipality, Rio Grande do Norte State, Brazil. Semi-structured and structured interviews with local specialists were used to collect information about the use of such plants. The medicinal uses of 62 species were described by 12 informants (woodsmen, faith healers, herb doctors, farmers and housewives) older than 35 years. The most representative families reported in the survey were Fabaceae (13 spp), Euphorbiaceae (6 spp.), Cactaceae (3 spp.), and Lamiaceae (3 spp.). The degree of consensus among responses was adopted to determine the most important species. The species "aroeira" (Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão) and "cumaru" (Amburana cearensis (Allemão) A. C. Sm.) were most frequently mentioned and indicated for therapeutic uses. Barks and roots were the most consumed parts. The data obtained in this study indicated a diversity of flora species with medicinal potential in Seridó region (Rio Grande do Norte State) and reinforced the importance of biodiversity in rural communities, starting the study on the local vegetation management.
The essential oil obtained from the leaves of Eugenia uniflora L., Myrtaceae, which grows in the Brazilian savannah, was studied by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Furanodiene (1.2%) was thermally rearranged to curzerene (85.1%) to produce a combined content of 86.3%. GC analysis carried out under mild conditions (with a constant temperature of 100 ºC) showed that the furanodiene concentration was three-fold greater than the curzerene concentration, i.e., the essential oil contained 64.7% furanodiene and 21.6% curzerene. Germacrene B also rearranged to γ-elemene and the concentration of both was 2.3%. Special care should be taken when conventional gas chromatography analysis is used for quantifying compounds that can rearrange at high temperatures.
The objective of the present study was to assess whether Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult., Turneraceae, (TD), plant known in popular medicine as tonic and aphrodisiac, has other effects that are characteristic of an adaptogen substance, such as improvement of the memory and reduction of the damage caused by stress. We carried out an initial screening to detect a possible toxicity of the plant. In that phase of the study we used tests of observational screening; evaluation of acute toxicity; measurement of motor activity and motor coordination, and sleeping time induced by pentobarbital, and observed that the extract presented low toxicity and no stimulant or depressant effect on the animals. We then performed specifi c tests for the evaluation of an adaptogen effect. TD did not protect the stomach of the animals from the formation of ulcers, neither did it alter the plasmatic levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone of the animals submitted to immobilization and cold. As regards the evaluation of memory in passive avoidance, TD did not inhibit scopolamine-induced amnesia. Additionally, the hydroalcoholic extract presented low antioxidant activity in vitro. In the models used, TD produced no changes in relation to a possible adaptogen effect.
In Brazil, many plants are used as tonic, fortifier, aphrodisiac, anti-stress, among other uses that are similar to the indications of an adaptogen. In general, such plants are used unspecifically, in situations of stress and fatigue, in the recovery after a previous pathological or debilitating state, or simply aiming at the maintenance of a healthy state. This article discusses the popular terms employed in the Brazilian folk medicine for the plants with this profile, their particularities and limitations. The article also discusses the possible mechanisms of action of an adaptogen and compares the main Brazilian plants used for that purpose: guarana (Paullinia cupana Kunth, family Sapindaceae), muirapuama (Ptychopetalum olacoides Benth., Olacaceae), catuaba (Anemopaegma arvense (Vell.) Stellfeld & J.F. Souza, Bignoniaceae, and Trichilia catigua A. Juss., Meliaceae), nó-decachorro (Heteropterys aphrodisiaca O. Mach, Malpighiaceae), damiana (Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult., Turneraceae) and pfaffia or Brazilian ginseng (Pfaffia sp, Amaranthaceae).
Substances which are used to treat sexual dysfunction or to improve sexual behavior and satisfaction in humans and animals are called “aphrodisiac”. Uses of plant material to treat sexual disorder is a long back history in the different system of medicine and it was practiced by different type of vaidyas and traditional healer in almost all the countries in the world, like China, India, Egypt, Rome and Greek. Even though there was an unavailability of the scientific data, these substances have been used as aphrodisiac. During the historic times Lytta vesicatoria, Tribulus terrestris, Ptychopetalum olacoides, Crocus sativus, Bufo marinus, Myristica fragrans, Theobroma cocao and other plants have been investigated for its aphrodisiac activity by in vivo and in vitro model. Even though the study showed positive response to a particular substance, there is always a need to run the clinical trial before administering the tested drug in human being. The present review article summarizes the plant material which has been tested for its aphrodisiac activity in different experimental model (in vitro, in vivo on animal models, or in human clinical trials) and comply its claim in the different system of medicine. A brief overview about the data of percentage study in the last eighteen years duration on aphrodisiac activity of plant material was done on the basis of the CAB abstract database.
The popularity of ‘herbal highs’ as an alternative to common illegal drugs is becoming an emerging concern for forensic laboratories and medical facilities. One of the herbal ingredients often claimed by the suppliers to be present in their products is Turnera diffusa, commonly known as ‘damiana,’ which has a long history as a pharmaceutical drug and an intoxicating substance due to its alleged psychoactive effects. The present project focused on the analysis of the chemical signature of damiana for its identification in different herbal blends of forensic interest. Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography proved to be a powerful tool for the extensive analysis of the wide range of volatile compounds present in extracts of damiana and related herbal products. Due to the absence of unique compounds in Turnera diffusa, the chemical pattern has to be considered to ascertain the presence of this species in herbal blends. Differentiation to the closely related species Turnera ulmifolia was provided based on the chemical profile. Compound alignment based on both retention times and mass spectral data revealed the presence of damiana in all ‘herbal high’ products, regardless of whether the presence was declared on the product or not. For several blends, damiana appeared to be the exclusive herbal component. Thus, it confirms the presumption that Turnera diffusa is one of the preferred herbs used as a matrix for ‘herbal high’ products. Utilizing principle component analysis, 31 compounds were selected, which provided discrimination of five commercial damiana batches.
Damiana (Turnera diffusa Willd) is traditionally used in the elaboration of tea, liquors, in the production of cosmetic products, and as a medicinal plant. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant content and trace element concentrations in leaves and stems from damiana grown wild and under cultivated conditions in semi-arid zones. Plants were collected at three different sites, two where damiana grows wild and one where it is cultivated for experimental purposes. Significant differences in the concentration of trace elements, vitamin C and total phenolic compound content, as well as antioxidant enzyme activities, total antioxidant capacity, and lipid peroxidation levels were found between leaves and stems, as well as among sampling sites. Environmental conditions, in combination with genetic factors, apparently affect the trace element concentrations, antioxidant content, and total antioxidant capacity in damiana grown wild. Results suggest that nutrient enrichment, via the addition of fertilizers, contributed to increased antioxidant defenses in the cultivated damiana plants. Furthermore, we suggest that genetic selection, controlled environmental conditions, and specific agrotechnical practices can increase the antioxidant yield in leaves and stems of cultivated damiana.
The methanolic extract of leaves of Turnera ulmifolia L was evaluated for its effect on blood glucose in alloxan-induced diabetic and euglycemic rats. The extract were administered at three doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o. Glibenclamide (10 mg/kg, p.o.) was used as standard for control group. In euglycemic rat, extract were administered at three doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o. Extract at 400 mg/kg and glibenclamide significantly reduced blood glucose level in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats and raised the liver glycogen content significantly. This indicates that the leaves extract of Turnera ulmifolia L posses anti-hyperglycemic activity. Diabetes mellitus is abnormal carbohydrate metabolism and mainly characterized by hyperglycemia. According to world health organization (WHO), the prevalence of diabetes is likely to increase by 35% [ 1]. Currently, there are over 150 million diabetics patients worldwide and this is likely to increase to 300 million or more by the year 2025 [ 2]. Though different types of oral hypoglycemic agents are available along with insulin for the treatment of diabetes mellitus, there is a growing interest in herbal remedies because of perceived effectiveness and minimal side effects. Cell damage caused by free radicals appears to be a major contributor to aging and to degenerative disease of aging such as cancer, diabetes, cataract, and brain dysfunction [ 3]. Free radical formation is controlled naturally by various beneficial antioxidant compounds. Many plant derived substances are becoming increasingly known for their antioxidant activity. The plants containing nutrients serve as protectors against a wide variety of environmental stresses [ 4]. The plant source of the Turnera ulmifolia L. (Turneraceae) can grow to a height of about 2 – 3 feet tall. The leaf is more like an ovate shape. It is com-monly-found in India, Brazil, Japan, China and many countries. The margin of leaf is dentate. The leaves branch out alternately. It is traditionally used for treat-ment of chest ailments, biliousness, indigestion and rheumatism, wound, diabetic disorder and hepatitis [ 5]. The leaves contain sterol, flavonoids and terpenes and seed contain the unusual fatty acids 9, 10-epoxy-octadec-cis-12-enoic acid [ 6]. Anti-oxidant capacity, peroxidation suppression and thiobarbituric acid reac-tive substance inhibition in concentration–dependent assays show that the anti-oxidant activities are strongly correlated with phenolic compound [ 7]. The leaves ex-tract showed anti-inflammatory activity in rat colitis [ 8]. Aerial part of the plants showed anti-inflammatory and an anti-ulcerogenic activity [ 9]. The present study report the preliminary phytochemical screening and anti-hypergycemic activity of methanolic extract of Turnera ulmifolia leaves in euglycemic and alloxan induced dia-betic rats.
Cambridge Core - Natural Resource Management, Agriculture, Horticulture and forestry - Mabberley's Plant-book - by David J. Mabberley
Cancer is a public health problem all over the world. Medicinal herbs have been on the forefront whenever we talk about anticancer remedies, Herbal medicines have a vital role in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Large number of plants and their isolated constituents have been shown to potential anticancer activity. Methanol extracts of Moringa oleifera seeds showed in vitro cytotoxicity against different human cancer cell lines such as lung, neuroblastima, and colon. There was no growth of inhibition recorded against liver cancer cell line. Sulforhodamine B dye (SRB) assay was done for in vitro cytotoxicity test assay. The in vitro cytotoxicity was performed against five human cancer cell lines namely of lung (A-549), liver (Hep-2) colon (502713 HT-29) and neuroblastima (IMR-32). The activity was done using 100μg/ml of the extract. Against lung (A-549) cell line plant extract showed 80% growth of inhibition. In case of liver (Hep-2) showed no activity reported, where as in case of colon 502713 cell line plant extract showed maximum activity. In case of HT-29 liver human cancer line and IMR-32 neuroblastima cell line plant extract showed 95% and 93% activity respectively.
Turnera ulmifolia Linn. belonging to family Turneraceae was investigated to evaluate in-vitro antibacterial activity of ethanol extract of the leaves against gram negative bacteria such as Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. The pathogens were tested by disc diffusion assay method and minimum inhibitory concentration was evaluated. An attempt has been made to compare the activity of extract with standard ciprofloxin. The pathogens were used in the study was showed potential activity of the ethanolic extract of the plant. Maximum activity was seen in case of Pseudomonas fluorescens where the zone diameter was 32 mm (300μg/ml).
Throughout history and cross-culturally, healers have employed procedures and medicinal substances to expel toxins, poisons, evil spirits, etc. from a sick patient's body. Purging, blood-letting, sweat induction and the use of natural laxatives, expectorants, and diuretics are all prominently featured in traditional medical systems. Diuretic herbs have been frequently prescribed to rid the body of excess fluids through increased urine production, as well as for detoxification and dehydration for such conditions as high blood pressure, kidney infections, obesity, and the edema associated with pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) or traumatic injuries. A survey of 92 medicinal plant shops (“botanicas”) in Miami, Florida discovered 13 botanical species sold specifically for their diuretic effects. An additional 394 species used for this purpose worldwide were catalogued in the literature for a total of 407. These plants contain a number of phytochemical compounds that induce diuresis, including saponin (C27H42O3) and arbutin (C12H16O7). Research suggests that saponin ingestion is associated with reduced incidence of kidney stones, and arbutin has an anti-bacterial effect on the urinary tract. Many of the plants contain a number of flavonoids and polyphenols which also may impart therapeutic benefits for the renal system. The two main preparation methods of herbal medicines—decoction and infusion—permit the extraction and concentration of their curative bioactive constituents while simultaneously eliminating or neutralizing toxins, irritants and impurities. The most commonly utilized plant parts to produce traditional diuretic medications are leaves, stems, seeds, roots, berries, barks, saps, resins, pollens, and fruit juices. Many of the plants used as diuretics are also recommended by traditional healers for a variety of other health problems, including high and low blood pressure, dental disorders, and fertility-related applications. Rigorous double-blind/placebo trials are needed to verify the therapeutic value and safety of botanical diuretics.
The present study was carried out at the community "Quilombola de Olho D'agua dos Pires", located in the micro-region of the lower Parnaiba, in the town of Esperantina, Piaui, Brazil. Field excursion was carried out, between the period from April/2003 to February/2004; questionnaires were applied to all family groups belonging to the community, the ones which indicated the key-informants with recognizable knowledge, who followed and indicated the ethnospecies of medicinal use to be collected. After this phase, the species were identified in a laboratory and their use value (VU) was calculated for each species. The material was incorporated to the "Herbário Graziela Barroso" (TEPB/UFPI). It was observed that out the 33 family groups interviewed, only 5 people above 60 years of age, one 55 years old and tree people between 21 and 30 years of age had full knowledge of the use and properties of the plants for medicinal purposes. 82 species were identified, belonging to 69 genders and 41 botanic families. It is mentioned in the community the use of medicinal plants mainly for the treatment of respiratory diseases and intestinal infections, drunk as tea mixed with " garrafada" (kind of different tree barks syrup) and the rest as lollypops, juices, baths, and macerations, among others. The most utilized parts in the preparation of the medicines are the leaves and barks. The species that deserves special attention in relation to the frequency and coherent citations is "janaguba" (Hymatantus sucuuba (Spruce ex Müll. Arg) Woodson), being this cited in 100% of the questionnaires applied for the cure of influenza, sore throat, cough, as blood depurative and inflammations in general.
A revised and updated classification for the families of the flowering plants is provided. Newly adopted orders include Austrobaileyales, Canellales, Gunnerales, Crossosomatales and Celastrales. Pertinent literature published since the first APG classification is included, such that many additional families are now placed in the phylogenetic scheme. Among these are Hydnoraceae (Piperales), Nartheciaceae (Dioscoreales), Corsiaceae (Liliales), Triuridaceae (Pandanales), Hanguanaceae (Commelinales), Bromeliacae, Mayacaceae and Rapateaceae (all Poales), Barbeuiaceae and Gisekiaceae (both Caryophyllales), Geissolomataceae, Strasburgeriaceae and Vitaceae (unplaced to order, but included in the rosids), Zygophyllaceae (unplaced to order, but included in eurosids 1), Bonnetiaceae, Ctenolophonaceae, Elatinaceae, Ixonanthaceae, Lophopyxidaceae, Podostemaceae (Malpighiales), Paracryphiaceae (unplaced in euasterid II), Sladeniaceae, Pentaphylacaceae (Ericales) and Cardiopteridaceae, (Aquifoliales). Several major families are recircumscribed. Salicaceae are expanded to include a large part of Flacourtiaceae, including the type genus of that family; another portion of former Flacourtiaceae is assigned to an expanded circumscription of Achariaceae. Euphorbiaceae are restricted to the uniovulate subfamilies; Phyllanthoideae are recognized as Phyllanthaceae and Oldfieldioideae as Picrodendraceae. Scrophulariaceae are recircumscribed to include Buddlejaceae, and Myoporaceae and exclude several former members; these are assigned to Calceolariaceae, Orobanchaceae and Plantaginaceae. We expand the use of bracketing families that could be included optionally in broader circumscriptions with other related families; these include Agapanthaceae, and Amaryllidaceae in Alliaceae s.l., Agavaceae, Hyacinthaceae and Ruscaceae (among many other Asparagales) in Asparagaceae s.l., Dichapetalaceae in Chrysobalanaceae, Turneraceae in Passifloraceae, Erythroxylaceae in Rhizophoraceae, and Diervillaceae, Dipsacaceae, Linnaeaceae, Morinaceae and Valerianaceae in Caprifoliaceae s.l. (C) 2003 The Linnean Society of London.
Turnera ulmifolia Linn. has been traditionally used for the treatment of various ailments such as rheumatism, vertigo, dysmenorrhea and dysentery. Microscopically, leaf of T. ulmifolia showed the presence of abundant stellate non-glandular trichomes, anisocytic stomata and large number of calcium oxalate crystals along the veins. Lignified spiral vessels, pericyclic fibres, and starch grains were observed in powdered aerial parts of T. ulmifolia . Total ash of the aerial parts of T. ulmifolia was about 3 and 6 times more than acid insoluble and water soluble ash respectively. Water soluble extractive value of the plant was found to be approximately twice the alcohol soluble extractive value. TLC of petroleum ether extract showed 6 spots using hexane:chloroform
( 17:3) as mobile phase, chloroform extract showed 7 spots using toluene:ethylacetate:glacial acetic acid (35:4:1), and methanol extract showed 9 spots
using toluene:ethylacetate:glacial acetic acid (15:4:1) on spraying 0.5% anisaldehyde followed by heating for 5minutes at 105°C. Phytochemically, the plant was found to contain alkaloids, cyanogenic glycosides, steroids, saponins, flavonoids, carbohydrates and proteins. Keywords : Turnera ulmifolia , Turneraceae, Ash values, Extractive values, Thin layer chromatography, Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Carbohydrates, Glycosides, Proteins. Nigerian Journal of Natural Products and Medicine Vol. 11 2007 pp. 5-9
Purpose
To update the 2003 American Society of Clinical Oncology technology assessment on adjuvant use of aromatase inhibitors.
Recommendations
Based on results from multiple large randomized trials, adjuvant therapy for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor–positive breast cancer should include an aromatase inhibitor in order to lower the risk of tumor recurrence. Neither the optimal timing nor duration of aromatase inhibitor therapy is established. Aromatase inhibitors are appropriate as initial treatment for women with contraindications to tamoxifen. For all other postmenopausal women, treatment options include 5 years of aromatase inhibitors treatment or sequential therapy consisting of tamoxifen (for either 2 to 3 years or 5 years) followed by aromatase inhibitors for 2 to 3, or 5 years. Patients intolerant of aromatase inhibitors should receive tamoxifen. There are no data on the use of tamoxifen after an aromatase inhibitor in the adjuvant setting. Women with hormone receptor–negative tumors should not receive adjuvant endocrine therapy. The role of other biomarkers such as progesterone receptor and HER2 status in selecting optimal endocrine therapy remains controversial. Aromatase inhibitors are contraindicated in premenopausal women; there are limited data concerning their role in women with treatment-related amenorrhea. The side effect profiles of tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors differ. The late consequences of aromatase inhibitor therapy, including osteoporosis, are not well characterized.
Conclusion
The Panel believes that optimal adjuvant hormonal therapy for a postmenopausal woman with receptor-positive breast cancer includes an aromatase inhibitor as initial therapy or after treatment with tamoxifen. Women with breast cancer and their physicians must weigh the risks and benefits of all therapeutic options.
RESUMO: O presente estudo foi realizado na comunidade quilombola de Olho D'água dos Pires, localizada na microrregião do Baixo Parnaíba Piauiense, no município de Esperantina, Piauí. Foram realizadas excursões de campo, no período de abril/2003 a fevereiro/2004, onde se aplicou questionários com todos os grupos familiares pertencentes à comunidade, os quais indicaram os informantes-chave com reconhecido saber, que acompanharam e indicaram as etnoespécies de uso medicinal a serem coletadas. Após esta etapa, as espécies foram identificadas em laboratório e calculado o valor de uso (VU) para cada espécie. O material foi incorporado ao acervo do Herbário Graziela Barroso (TEPB/UFPI). Observou-se que dos 33 grupos familiares entrevistados, cinco pessoas com faixa etária acima de 60 anos, uma com 55 anos e três pessoas entre 21-30 anos possuem pleno saber de uso e propriedade das plantas para fins medicinais. Foram identificadas 82 espécies, pertencentes a 69 gêneros e 41 famílias botânicas. Na comunidade menciona-se o uso das plantas medicinais principalmente para o tratamento de doenças respiratórias e infecções intestinais, na forma de chás, misturados em garrafadas e o restante como lambedores, sucos, banhos, macerações, dentre outros. As partes mais utilizadas no preparo dos medicamentos são às folhas e cascas. A espécie que merece destaque em relação à freqüência e coerência de citações é a janaguba (Hymatantus sucuuba (Spruce ex Müll. Arg.) Woodson), sendo esta citada em 100% dos questionários aplicados para cura de gripe, inflamação na garganta, tosse, como depurativo do sangue e inflamações gerais. Palavras-chave: categorias de uso, etnobotânica, plantas medicinais, Piauí, quilombo.
The anti-inflammatory activity of 4 plant extracts [guava (Psidium guajava) leaf, capillary wormwood (Artemisia capillaris Thunb.), Chinese goldthread (Coptis chinensis), and dandelion (Taraxacum platycarpum)] was investigated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Six phenolic compounds (gallic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, catechin, quercetin, and baicalin) were analyzed using LC-MS/MS. Guava leaf extracts showed the highest inhibitory effects on LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO, 52.58%) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2, 43.45%) production. The total phenolic contents (TPC) in guava leaf, capillary wormwood, Chinese goldthread, and dandelion were 426.84, 154.42, 41.73, and 122.04 mg of gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g of extract, respectively. TPC was positively correlated with the NO-inhibitory effect (r= 0.963, p<0.05) and the PGE2-inhibitory effect (r=0.971, p<0.05) at 30 μg/mL of treatment. The guava leaf extracts contained the highest levels of gallic acid and catechin, while the capillary wormwood extracts contained the highest levels of chlorogenic acid and quercetin.
The methanolic extract of leaves of Turnera ulmifolia L was evaluated for its effect on blood glucose in alloxan-induced diabetic and euglycemic rats. The extract were administered at three doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o. Glibenclamide (10 mg/kg, p.o.) was used as standard for control group. In euglycemic rat, extract were administered at three doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o. Extract at 400 mg/kg and glibenclamide significantly reduced blood glucose level in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats and raised the liver glycogen content significantly. This indicates that the leaves extract of Turnera ulmifolia L posses anti-hyperglycemic activity.