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Review on Thymus vulgaris Traditional Uses and Pharmacological Properties

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... Leaves are usually 2.5-5 mm long, have a very short petiole or sessile, and are rectangular to oval in shape. Moreover, above-ground parts of this plant are used for the production of volatile oil through the vapor distillation process and dried thyme is available in the market for culinary purposes (Reddy et al. 2014). ...
... The roots could be replanted and divided from May to September. It grows better in lightweight and well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.0-8.0 (Reddy et al. 2014). Various strategies might be present in the range from sun drying to high-class automatic drying devices, but unfortunately, the use of the sun drying method indicates deprived volatile oil quality, whereas artificial drying techniques approve the higher product quality management. ...
... Thyme may also have the ability to improve liver function and act as a stimulant of appetite because thymol protects the microvilli action in stomach and increases the nutrients' absorption that in turn increases the appetite and food intake as well as being useful for the treatment of inflammation and laryngitis (Saleh et al. 2014). Topical application of thyme is important in the sense that it can possibly be utilized for skin-related problems, for example, acne, oily skin, bug bites, dermatitis (eczema), stings and also relieves severe pain due to damaged nerve anywhere in the body that may be caused by aging, diabetes, multiple sclerosis (disabling disease of brain and spinal cord), infection, pains, and rheumatic aches (Reddy et al. 2014) ( Table 2). ...
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Thymol is a phenol monoterpene that is naturally derived from cymene and is an isomer of carvacrol. It constitutes a significant portion (10%–64%) of the essential oils found in thyme (Thymus vulgaris L., Lamiaceae), a medicinal plant renowned for its therapeutic properties. Wild thyme is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used in cooking and medicine for a long time. In contemporary contexts, both thymol and thyme offer diverse functional applications in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Thymol has attracted scientific interest for its potential therapeutic applications in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Studies have explored its efficacy in treating respiratory, nervous, and cardiovascular disorders, highlighting its promising role in diverse therapeutic interventions. Additionally, this compound demonstrates antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, anti‐inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties. It also shows potential as a growth enhancer and has immunomodulatory properties as well. Other discussed aspects include thymol toxicity, bioavailability, metabolism, and distribution in animals and humans. This review summarizes the most significant data regarding the beneficial effects of thyme bioactive compounds and their applications as a food preservative while taking into account the thyme plant extract and its essential oil.
... Both the stem and the leaves of T. vulgaris have traditionally been used as home remedies for various diseases. The aerial parts of this herb have culinary uses, particularly in sauces, and meats [17]. ...
... Among Thymus species, T. vulgaris represents a semi-evergreen shrub, which typically grows to a maximum height of 10-14 cm, and possesses leaves that measure 3-8 cm with a strong odor [17]. Its pink or purple tubular flowers have a unique fragrance [9]. ...
... Another study examined the antiviral acidity of T. vulgaris extracts against HSV-1 and HSV-2 acyclovir drug-resistant viral strains [17]. ...
Article
The Thymus genus includes various medicinal and aromatic species, cultivated worldwide for their unique medicinal and economic value. Besides, their conventional use as a culinary flavoring agent, Thymus species are well‐known for their diverse biological effects, such as antioxidant, anti‐fungal, anti‐bacterial, anti‐viral, anti‐tumor, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐cancer, and anti‐hypertensive properties. Hence, they are used in the treatment of fever, colds, and digestive and cardiovascular diseases. The pharmaceutical significance of Thymus plants is due to their high levels of bioactive components such as natural terpenoid phenol derivatives (p‐cymene, carvacrol, thymol, geraniol), flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids. This review examines the phytochemicals, biological properties, functional food and nutraceutical attributes of some important Thymus species, with a specific focus on their potential uses in the nutra‐pharmaceutical industries. Furthermore, the review provides an insight into the mechanisms of biological activities of key phytochemicals of Thymus species exploring their potential for the development of novel natural drugs.
... The Thymus vulgaris is a plant native in the Mediterranean regions, and it is widespread in Sicily (Italy). This perennial semi-evergreen bush is used as an aromatic plant to flavor foods and liqueurs, and as a medicinal plant for its antimicrobial and antioxidative properties to treat various diseases such as bronchitis and gastrointestinal disorders [38][39][40]. The Thymus vulgaris is also employed in cosmetics to prepare products for hair and skin care [38,40]. ...
... This perennial semi-evergreen bush is used as an aromatic plant to flavor foods and liqueurs, and as a medicinal plant for its antimicrobial and antioxidative properties to treat various diseases such as bronchitis and gastrointestinal disorders [38][39][40]. The Thymus vulgaris is also employed in cosmetics to prepare products for hair and skin care [38,40]. ...
... The first part of the work was dedicated to the green synthesis of TiO 2 nanoparticles by using a Thymus vulgaris extract (this material will be simply called "TiO 2 " hereafter). Scientific papers on Thymus vulgaris [38][39][40], and on the syntheses of ZnO nanoparticles by Thymus vulgaris leaf extract [47,48] helped us in understanding the formation process of the TiO 2 nanoparticles in this work. Phytochemical analyses of Thymus vulgaris leaf extract revealed the presence phenols, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, and volatile oils [38,39,48]. ...
... Thyme prefers lightweight, well drained soils with a pH of 5.0 to 8.0. Thyme species do best in coarse, rough soils that may be unsuitable for several alternative plants (Reddy et al, 2014). ...
... It is used for skin issues like oily skin, sciatica, acne, dermatitis, skin condition and bug bites. Relieves neuralgic and rheumatic aches and pains, antioxidant properties and anti viral property (Reddy et al, 2014). ...
... Thymus vulgaris(Reddy et al, 2014). ...
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Diabetes mellitus is metabolic disease due to hyperglycemia result from insufficient insulin inability of insulin secretion, sensitivity that lead to loss of glucose homeostasis. DM can affect in every organ system in the human body. Thirty adult male albino rats weighing 150-200 g, five adult male albino rats were divided into 5 experimental groups. The result showed a significantly increased (p< 0.05) in sugar, creatinine urea and uric acid in group that inject with alloxan when compared with control group (thymus + alloxan) and (thymus only) and (thymus + Glimepiride) groups that showed significantly decreased (p< 0.05) due to presence of polyphenols and flavonoids in thyme that responsible for the antioxidant. While, the total protein significantly decreased (p< 0.05) in alloxan group when compare with control. Also showing significantly decreased (p> 0.05) in WBC, RBC, HB and platelet in diabetic rats, but when use Thymus vulgaris that showed significantly increase in (WBC, RBC, HB platelet).
... Thymus vulgaris L. (thyme) is a flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae, native to southern Europe from the western Mediterranean to southern Italy. It is growing up to 15-30 cm tall by 40 cm wide (Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). Thyme is helpful in treatment of laryngitis, sciatica, bug bites, acne, dermatitis, wounds, nausea, tiredness, water retention, colds, and coughs (Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). ...
... It is growing up to 15-30 cm tall by 40 cm wide (Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). Thyme is helpful in treatment of laryngitis, sciatica, bug bites, acne, dermatitis, wounds, nausea, tiredness, water retention, colds, and coughs (Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). Recent studies have shown that this plant has different biological properties, such as antihelminthic, antiviral, diaphoretic, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antioxidative, sedative, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antirheumatic, antibacterial, carminative and anti-fungal effects (Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). ...
... Thyme is helpful in treatment of laryngitis, sciatica, bug bites, acne, dermatitis, wounds, nausea, tiredness, water retention, colds, and coughs (Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). Recent studies have shown that this plant has different biological properties, such as antihelminthic, antiviral, diaphoretic, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antioxidative, sedative, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antirheumatic, antibacterial, carminative and anti-fungal effects (Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). Active compounds in thyme are oils, saponins, and tannins. ...
Article
Morocco is facing the emergence of high blood pressure which is increasingly becoming a real public health issue. In the long term, it is an important risk factor for several other related diseases. This study aimed to compile all the available knowledge on traditional medicine for the treatment of hypertension in different regions of Morocco. The compilation indicated that 104 medicinal plant species were reported to be traditionally used in the treatment of hypertension in Morocco. The most cited families were Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Apiaceae, Amaranthaceae and Fabaceae. Petroselinum crispum, Tetraclinis articulata, Rosmarinus officinalis, Olea europaea, Allium sativum, Syzygium aromaticum, Peganum harmala and Aloysia citriodora were the most frequently reported plant for their antihypertensive use. The leaves are the most used plant part and decoction is the preferred mode of preparation. The present findings showed that the people of Morocco use a large variety of plants for the treatment of hypertension. More attention should be paid to these plant to confirm safety and efficacy in clinical practice and to identify pharmacologically active metabolites.
... Thyme prefers lightweight, well drained soils with a pH of 5.0 to 8.0. Thyme species do best in coarse, rough soils that may be unsuitable for several alternative plants (Reddy et al, 2014). ...
... It is used for skin issues like oily skin, sciatica, acne, dermatitis, skin condition and bug bites. Relieves neuralgic and rheumatic aches and pains, antioxidant properties and anti viral property (Reddy et al, 2014). ...
... Thymus vulgaris(Reddy et al, 2014). ...
... The leaves are terribly little, highly aromatic, grey-green and vary significantly in form and hair covering. The flowers have a tubelike calyx and tubular corolla with a three lobed lower lip (Hosseinzadeh et al., 2015;Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). Thyme is helpful in treatment of laryngitis, sciatica, bug bites, acne, dermatitis, wounds, nausea, tiredness, water retention, colds, and coughs (Hosseinzadeh et al., 2015;Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). ...
... The flowers have a tubelike calyx and tubular corolla with a three lobed lower lip (Hosseinzadeh et al., 2015;Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). Thyme is helpful in treatment of laryngitis, sciatica, bug bites, acne, dermatitis, wounds, nausea, tiredness, water retention, colds, and coughs (Hosseinzadeh et al., 2015;Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). Recent studies have shown that this plant has different biological properties, such as antihelminthic, antiviral, diaphoretic, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antioxidative, sedative, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antirheumatic, antibacterial, carminative and anti-fungal effects (Hosseinzadeh et al., 2015;Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). ...
... Thyme is helpful in treatment of laryngitis, sciatica, bug bites, acne, dermatitis, wounds, nausea, tiredness, water retention, colds, and coughs (Hosseinzadeh et al., 2015;Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). Recent studies have shown that this plant has different biological properties, such as antihelminthic, antiviral, diaphoretic, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antioxidative, sedative, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antirheumatic, antibacterial, carminative and anti-fungal effects (Hosseinzadeh et al., 2015;Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014;Rizwan, 2021). Active compounds in thyme are oils, saponins, and tannins. ...
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The incidence of hypertension is very high in human societies and its treatment is the most important priority in many countries. Knowledge of the plants that are used may provide insight on their properties, for further exploration. This study aimed to collect the knowledge on traditional medicine for the treatment of hypertension in different regions of Morocco. We reviewed 145 research publications based on data from the six explored regions of Morocco published until August 2021 in various journals. This was achieved using literature databases: Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, Medline, Science Direct and Researchgate. The findings of this study indicated that 23 plants have been reported to possess antihypertensive activities in in vivo / in vitro experiments, while 81 plants had not been studied for such an activity. Plants from the Lamiaceae, Asteraceae and Apiaceae families were used most often. Leaves were the plant parts used most often. Decoction was the main preparation method. Twenty three plants have been explored experimentally for their antihypertensive activity. This review provides baseline data for plant species used to treat hypertension in Morocco and provides new areas of research on the antihypertensive effect of these plants.
... These antimicrobial activities are usually associated with phytochemicals such as phenols, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and other components. It is intriguing to note that some floral sources of the Mediterranean diet, such as flower of H. italicum (Antunes Viegas et al., 2014), Thymus vulgaris L. (Mandal & Debmandal, 2016;Reddy, 2014), and R. officinalis L. (Nieto et al., 2018), have prominent antimicrobial activity. Specifically, terpenes and flavonoids in H. italicum exert antimicrobial action by interacting with the cytoplas-mic membrane of Staphylococcus aureus and inducing its structural and functional instability. ...
... The essential oil of T. vulgaris L. flowers has strong antimicrobial activity, especially against Gram-negative bacteria, and has been widely used for food preservation, especially in meat. It is also an effective antifungal agent for the inhibition of Fusarium moniliforme, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus fumigates (Mandal & Debmandal, 2016;Reddy, 2014). In addition, T. vulgaris L. flowers extract inhibits periodontal bacteria, including Actinobacillus, Capnocytophaga, Fusobacterium, Eikenella, and Bacterioides (Stahl-Biskup & Venskutonis, 2012). ...
... Besides the bioactivities described above, the high content of bioactive compounds in edible flowers provides more health promoting properties, including antiviral activity (Lu et al., 2016). Calendula officinalis flower extract exhibited potent anti-HIV activity in an in vitro methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide-based assay (Fernandes et al., 2017) and T. vulgaris extract showed inhibitory activity against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), type 2 (HSV-2) (Reddy, 2014). ...
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The Mediterranean diet is acknowledged to be the healthiest dietary pattern around the world, mainly based on plant foods from the rich Mediterranean flora. It is also known to increase longevity and have positive effects on chronic diseases. This review aimed to investigate the knowledge about the use and consumption of edible flowers as part of the Mediterranean cuisine, based on ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological studies especially from the last 10 years, and highlight their uses as a nutritious and functional food. In this review, a total of 32 edible flower species used in the Mediterranean diet were listed with their phytochemical composition, edible applications, bioactive properties, and dose, highlighting their nutritional contribution to the Mediterranean diet as well as their health effects. Edible flowers are consumed and widely contribute to the health‐promoting properties of the Mediterranean diet through being good sources of macro and micronutrients that enhance the nutritive value of Mediterranean dishes and foods, as well as providing more phytonutrients. Based on this, Mediterranean dishes have the remarkable characteristics of being conducive to mitochondrial health and anti‐metabolic diseases. The functional components in edible flowers are clarified here, which might be considered as a new factor for rational diet, natural product development, and medical improvement. This review aimed to investigate the knowledge about the use and consumption of edible flowers as part of the Mediterranean cuisine, based on ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological studies especially from the last 10 years, and highlight their uses as a nutritious and functional food. In this review, a total of 32 edible flower species used in the Mediterranean diet were listed with their phytochemical composition, edible applications, bioactive properties, and dose, highlighting their nutritional contribution to the Mediterranean diet as well as their health effects.
... Its extracts, applied in traditional medicine for respiratory diseases like asthma and bronchitis, possess antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitussive, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-oxidant, and antiviral properties [134]. Thyme's expectorant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, carminative, and analgesic effects are beneficial for chronic gastritis, stomach ulcers, intestinal parasites, and in calming nervous agitation, insomnia, headache, and anemia [131,135]. ...
... Antimicrobial properties, anti-oxidants, respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis, and for the treatment of other pathologies antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitussive, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-oxidant, antiviral, calming nervous agitation, insomnia, headache, and anemia; [131][132][133][134][135] Parsley (Petroselinu m crispum) Diuretic, gastric remedy, abortifacient, treatment of the urinary tract and against the formation of kidney stones, antimicrobial, anticoagulant, antihyperlipidemic, antihepatotoxic, anti-oxidant, laxative effect, treatment of lumbago, eczema, knee pain, impotence, nosebleeds and as a blood pressure regulator, hypoglycemic activity, antidiabetic functions, prevention of intestinal spasms and diarrhea; [118,136,[138][139][140][141][142][143][144]158,159] Dill (Anethum graveolens) ...
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Aquaponics, defined as a sustainable technology combining aquaculture and hydroponics, integrates plant and fish production into one system. Aquaponics technology offers several major advantages over conventional methods of raising fish and/or plants. In this system, plants act as a natural biological filter, purifying the water so that the same amount can be used repeatedly. Fish, on the other hand, are a natural source of nutrients. This contributes to the aquaponics system’s substantial economic potential, thanks to its use of virtually free nutrients, dramatically reduced water consumption, and the elimination of filter systems, making this system innovative and sustainable. On the other hand, the use of medicinal plants for the needs of the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food industries is often associated with a decrease in their natural reserves. Utilizing aquaponics for the production of medicinal plants could reduce the pressure on these natural reserves. As a result, aquaponics has emerged as one of the most environmentally friendly methods of cultivating plant species. The concept of aquaponics, which evolved from traditional hydroponic systems, has gained worldwide recognition through the effective use of symbiosis. It refers to the coexistence and interaction of different organisms, facilitating their growth and life cycle processes. Unlike hydroponics, which requires the purification of nutrient solutions due to plant waste, aquaponics takes advantage of the natural cycle of waste and nutrient exchange between plants and fish. Fish waste serves as organic fertilizer for the plants, while the plants help purify the water for the fish. This symbiotic relationship not only reduces the environmental impact associated with aquaculture wastewater but also provides a sustainable method of food production. The integrated system reduces infrastructure costs, conserves water, and minimizes the potential for environmental pollution. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity for increased profitability from both crop and fish production. Cultivation of medicinal plants within aquaponic systems can be carried out year-round, offering a continuous supply of valuable pharmacological resources. This review examines suitable medicinal plants for aquaponic cultivation and evaluates their pharmacological benefits to humans.
... Thyme was touted as an antimicrobial, an antiseptic, an anthelmintic, an astringent, a disinfectant, a carminative, a tonic, and a medicinal drug [25] . In situations of various intestinal illnesses and infestations, such as the ascarids, hookworms, gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, fungi, and yeasts such as Candida albicans, thyme is tremendously helpful. ...
... White Thyme oil, a rectified product that is kinder to the skin, is also employed. Thyme can be applied to the skin to treat neuralgia, rheumatic pain, and stings and bites [25] . ...
... plant essential oil and different extracts have been shown. In a study conducted in mice fed a high-fat diet using diethyl ether and ethyl acetate extracts of the aerial part of spicata and the remaining aqueous extract, it was determined that the extracts had different levels of antihypercholesterolemic, antioxidant and liver protective effects [10][11][12][13][14]. ...
... In Southeastern Anatolia, the dried leaves and bunches of the plant are used for its antiseptic and stimulating tea effect. As a result of some studies, it has been shown to have antioxidant, antibacterial, insecticide, anthelmintic, cholesterol-lowering, analgesic, antifungal, liver protective and anti-carcinogenic properties [10,[12][13][14]. ...
... Due to its antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effects, it is useful in the treatment of dementia. 61 As mentioned before, the best therapeutic approach for the treatment of dementia is the inhibition of AChE. Based on the results of several surveys, Thymus vulgaris had a neuroprotective effect on scopolamine-induced memory impairment in zebrafish. ...
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Background: Cognition is critical for functional independence as people age. Neurodegenerative dementias are more likely to affect older adults due to the aging process. The inadequate response of conventional therapeutic approaches, besides numerous side effects, can cause patients to explore complementary and alternative medical options. This study aimed to introduce the most common medicinal herbs used in Persian medicine for the prevention and treatment of cognitive impairments. Methods: In order to identify medicinal herbs for the treatment and prevention of cognitive diseases, manuscripts were searched by keywords such as "Nesyan", "Fesad-al-Zekr", and "Zekr". Afterwards, the scientific names and pharmacological properties of selected plants were also searched in scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Results: The results of the review indicate that herbal remedies could be effective in treating cognitive impairment and dementia. The neuroprotective, antioxidant, and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities are the basis for how these remedies work. Conclusion: The neuropharmacological effects of medicinal plants on numerous pathways make them promising candidates for future drugs or adjunct therapies in combination with established pharmaceuticals; however, further clinical research is required to establish the safety and effectiveness of these treatments.
... Phenolic terpenoids are biologically active compounds and have superior antibacterial activity compared to other substituted derivatives 42 . Monoterpenes comprised mainly hydrocarbons (10.05%), with α-pinene (5.05%) 43 reported that the major constituent in TEO was oxygenated monoterpenes (56.53%), whereas the dominant compound was thymol (51.34%). The amount of all other compounds in EO was less than 19%. ...
... The red variety of Thymus vulgaris L. oil and T. vulgaris L. oil is used to cure bodily aches and skin conditions. Recent research on anti-inflammatory agents has shown that Thymus vulgaris L. is effective at reducing oxidative stress and cell-mediated immunity [45]. ...
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The increasing resistance of microbes to standard antibiotics is a major concern in the management of contagious infections and has led to an unprecedented increase in mortality rates. The identification of the microbial "superbugs" responsible for hospital-acquired pathogenic maladies has prompted a significant amount of research in recent years, with the hope of revealing potentially beneficial answers to the ensuing health challenges by leveraging on ethnomedicinal remedies. The antibacterial activity of phytophenols was demonstrated against a wide range of pathogens, including those that have developed resistance to conventional antibiotics via their aligning resistance mechanisms. Here, we have recapitulated the most important bacterial drug resistance pathways and elucidated the dynamics of the phytophenols in Thymus vulgaris, Piper nigrum, Nigella sativa, and Annona muricata in potentially hindering and disrupting the antibiotic resistance dynamics of microbial superbugs implicated in nosocomial infections. The in-vitro antibacterial activity of phytophenolic substances and their synergistic selectivity with chemotherapeutics validated an efficacy in combating antibiotic resistance mechanisms in microbial superbugs in-vitro. The mechanisms of antibiotic resistance synthesis and polyphenolic interactions with microbial cellular pathways via antioxidant properties showed promising prospects in ameliorating the public health threat posed antibiotic-resistant superbugs. The major challenge in developing new phytochemicals with public health importance for microbial "superbugs" is the replication of in-vitro explorations via in-vivo experimentation and, ultimately, human medical testing for clinical trial. However, additional research is needed to confirm the activity pathways and stability of these phytoactive compounds, as a number of these phytoactives exhibit synergistic antimicrobial effects with chemotherapeutics.
... Thymus vulgaris, belonging to the referred family, is a tiny perennial shrub [3], native to southern Europe and Mediterranean region [4]. However, it is distributed worldwide and can also be found in Northern Africa and many European countries [5]. ...
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In the present work, methanolic extracts from thyme and dittany plants were prepared and characterized in terms of their polyphenolic content through analytical and spectrophotometric techniques. Rosmarinic acid, thymol and carvacrol were found to be the main components of the extracts, which were further biologically assessed for their antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, anti-lipase and antibacterial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. As found, thyme extracts exhibited superior antioxidant activity (SC50 at 33.9 μg mL−1), while dittany extracts inhibited the microbial growth to a great extent against Bacillus subtilis strain (MIC at 0.5 mg mL−1) and E. coli strain (MIC at 2 mg mL−1). Furthermore, the thyme extract was proven to strongly inhibit the activity of lipase from Candida rugosa (IC50 at 63.9 μg mL−1), comparable to the standard inhibitor orlistat, while its inhibitory effect against mushroom tyrosinase was weak. On the other hand, the dittany extract presented an inhibitory effect against the tested lipase (IC50 over 500 μg mL−1) and an activation effect against tyrosinase (at concentrations > 500 μg mL−1). Additionally, molecular docking studies of the main compounds of the extracts showed that rosmarinic acid plays a crucial role on the inhibitory activity of the extracts against lipase, while thymol has a stronger effect on inhibiting tyrosinase. Furthermore, both extracts were employed in the preparation of gelatin-deep eutectic solvent (DES) hydrogels that were further studied for their antioxidant and antibacterial activity. The results showed that the incorporation of the extracts offered antibacterial properties to the biopolymer-based hydrogels and enhanced the antioxidant activity of gelatin up to 85%.
... Род Thymus L., представляет интерес как источник фармакологически значимых соединений в медицине, пряно-ароматическое растение в пищевой промышленности, источник эфирного масла для парфюмерно-косметического производства [20]. В настоящее время оба вида тимьяна: тимьян обыкновенный (Thymus vulgaris L.) и тимьян ползучий (Thymus serpyllum L.) -входят в Государственную фармакопею Российской Федерации (ГФ РФ) XIV, XV изданий [1, 2]. ...
Article
Thymus vulgaris L. and Thymus serpyllum L. are sought-after medicinal plants in many countries of the world for their essential oils, flavonoids and tannins. The species of this genus are extremely polymorphic, both in their morphological and anatomical structure and in their biochemical composition. Stomata play an important role in growth and yield formation. The study of the stomatal apparatus and its features is a relevant research topic for agricultural crops.Eight specimens of Th. vulgaris and three specimens of Th. serpyllum from different geographical origins were used for the work. Standard methods of preparation of preparations were used in the study. The results show that both species are characterized by the presence of stomata on both sides of the leaf. In the epidermis of both species analyzed, the diacytic type of the stomatal apparatus predominates, but occasionally the anomocytic type is also found. The size of the stomata for each cultivar was almost constant regardless of the weather conditions of the year, which probably indicates the genetic determinism of the size of the stomata and allows this indicator to be considered as a diagnostic sign in the pharmacognostic analysis of raw materials. The number of stomata on the upper side of the leaf was relatively low (16 to 129 pcs/mm2), while on the lower side of the leaf it ranged from 97 to 701 pcs/mm2 (in Th serpyllum VILAR and Th. vulgaris cv. ‘Colchis’, respectively), but mostly fell within the range of 300 to 400 pcs/mm2.
... It is used as an antiseptic, antimicrobial, and anthelmintic (R. Prasanth et al., 2014), in respiratory disorders (asthma, whooping cough, and bronchitis), toothache treatment, urinary tract infection, and dyspepsia, also arthritis can be improved by drinking Thyme tea regularly. (Lucchini, 1990, Faleiro et al., 2005. ...
... T. vulgaris leaves are oval to rectangular in form and somewhat fleshy aerial components are used for volatile oil production, principally by steam distillation. The contemporary and dried herb market uses it for cooking [17]. The generic name comes from the Greek verb Thyme, which translates to perfume, in allusion to the intense and pleasant aroma of the plant. ...
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A B S T R A C T Thyme's high concentration of bioactive chemicals and ethnopharmacological significance make it one of the most significant therapeutic herbs. The alternative natural antioxidant and antibacterial thyme, which has potential applications in the food business, is the main topic of this review. This is in keeping with the tastes of the modern customer, who seeks for natural and healthy items. Thyme is a desirable natural additive because various studies have shown that using it prolongs the shelf-life of foods (meat, meat products, milk, fish, or seafood products) and decreases lipid oxidation. In contrast to other natural preservative extracts, thymus extracts and essential oils are used less frequently as natural food additives despite these findings. Taking into consideration the source of the thyme (plants, plant extracts, or essential oils), this study offers a summary of the most significant research on the beneficial effects of the plant's bioactive constituents and its applications as a food preservative.
... The essential oil of T. vulgaris has a high content of oxygenated monoterpenes (56.53%) and low contents of monoterpene hydrocarbons (28.69%), sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (5.04%) and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.84%) [4]. The predominant compound among the components of essential oils is thymol (51.34%) [38]. Maximum mortality and repellency of up to 100% have been reported for Thymus vulgaris in previous studies [30]. ...
... 22−25 Therefore, Thyme oil obtained from the plant has been reported for its diverse medicinal applications for treating acne and skin infections, relieving coughs and respiratory infections, preventing hair loss, supporting heart health, and fighting cancer. 24,26,27 Considering that Thyme oil contains an inclusive phytochemical constituent and has a significant capability for bioactivity, it has triggered further exploration of the mechanisms by which these phytochemical constituents exert their effects, potentially offering novel approaches for breast cancer treatment. ...
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Breast cancer is a major global health issue for women. Thyme oil, extracted from Thymus vulgaris L., has shown promising anticancer effects. In the present study, we investigated how Thyme oil can influence breast cancer treatment using a multimethod approach. We used network pharmacology to identify the active compounds of Thyme oil, their molecular targets, and the pathways involved in breast cancer. We found that Thyme oil can modulate several key proteins (EGFR, AKT1, ESR1, HSP90AA1, STAT-3, SRC, IL-6, HIF1A, JUN, and BCL2) and pathways (EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, prolactin signaling pathway, HIF-1 signaling pathway, estrogen signaling pathway, ERBB signaling pathway, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, JAK-STAT signaling pathway, FoxO signaling pathway, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathway) related to breast cancer progression. We then used molecular docking and dynamics to study the interactions and stability of the Thyme oil–compound complexes. We discovered three potent compounds (aromadendrene, α-humulene, and viridiflorene) that can bind strongly to important breast cancer proteins. We also performed in vitro experiments on MCF-7 cells to confirm the cytotoxicity and antiproliferative effects of Thyme oil. We observed that Thyme oil can inhibit cancer cell growth and proliferation at a concentration of 365.37 μg/mL. Overall, our results provide a comprehensive understanding of the pharmacological mechanism of Thyme oil in breast cancer treatment and suggest its potential as a new or adjuvant therapy. Further studies are needed to validate and optimize the therapeutic efficacy of Thyme oil and its active compounds.
... Thyme (Thymus officinalis L.) is a plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is used for food flavoring and preservation. This plant can be found in Europe, North Africa, and Asia [1]. Thyme is rich in essential oil (EO), which is part of the secondary metabolites of the plants (up to 2.5% EO for the dried herb [2]). ...
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In this paper, the essential oil (EO) extraction from thyme by the consecutive use of ultrasound and microwave treatments is presented. The aim of this study was to apply an ultrasound pre-treatment of thyme leaves to enhance the thymol content and the extraction yield of the EO obtained by microwave-assisted hydro-distillation (MWHD). Compared with conventional hydro-distillation (CHD), the consecutive use of ultrasound pre-treatment and microwave extraction resulted in a 72% lower extraction time. When the ultrasound pre-treatment (using the ultrasonic processor with an amplitude of 70%) was applied, the EO content was 23% higher compared to the extraction without pre-treatment (2.67 ± 0.06 g EO/100 g DM for the MWHD with ultrasound pre-treatment compared with 2.18 ± 0.07 g EO/100 g DM for the MWHD without pre-treatment). The EO samples were analyzed by GC/MS. The results showed that the major component, thymol, varied from 43.54% (by CHD) to 65.94% (by the consecutive use of ultrasound and microwave treatments).
... Thyme (Thymus officinalis L.), which belongs to the Lamiaceae family, is a perennial shrub that is used for food flavoring and preservation. This plant can be found in Europe, North Africa, and Asia [1]. Thyme is rich in essential oil (EO) which is part of the secondary metabolites of the plants. ...
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In this paper, the extraction of essential oil (EO) from thyme by consecutive use of ultrasound and microwave treatments is presented. The aim of the study was to apply an ultrasound pre-treatment of thyme leaves to enhance the thymol content and the extraction yield of the EO obtained by microwave-assisted hydro-distillation (MWHD). Compared with the conventional hydro-distillation (CHD), the consecutive use of ultrasound and microwave treatments resulted in a 72% lower extraction time. When the ultrasound pre-treatment (using the ultrasonic processor with an amplitude of 70%) was applied, the EO content was 23% higher compared to the extraction without pre-treatment. The EO samples were analyzed by GC/MS. The results showed that the major component, thymol, varied from 43.54% (by CHD) to 65.94% (by consecutive use of ultrasound and microwave treatments).
... (Thymus vulgaris (L.) merupakan tanaman dari suku Lamiaceae yang dimanfaatkan sebagai obat. Tanaman yang mengandung saponin, kuinon, terpenoid, tanin dan flavonoid ini memiliki khasiat sebagai analgesik, antioksidan, anti kanker, anti mikroba, anti jamur, hepatorotektor, mengatasi keracunan, anti inflamasi, dan antitusif (Fauzan dan Zuhrotun 2019; Miraj dan Kiani 2016; Reddy et al., 2014). Tanaman aromatik yang merupakan introduksi dari Eropa ini di Indonesia dikenal dengan nama Timi. ...
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Thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) is one type of medicinal plant that has been widely used in industry. Utilization of thyme as mostly in the form of dry or commonly known as simplicia. The quality of simplicia (including extractive and ash value) cannot be separated from the drying method used. In addition to the drying method, it is also necessary to know the drying time so that the quality of the water content that meets the requirements is obtained. One way that can be done is to find out the drying kinetic models of the drying method. This study aims to determine the drying kinetic models so that it can be determined prediction of water content during the drying process and its effect on the levels of extractive and ash value simplicia of thyme. Research conducted using 5 drying methods, including drying combination of sunlight and oven cabinet 42oC (P1), combination of sunlight and oven room 40oC (P2), oven room 40oC (P3), oven cabinet 42oC (P4), and sunlight drying (P5) with 3 replications. The results showed that the drying method with oven cabinet produced the highest drying rate approach to the drying kinetic models which was more appropriate for presenting thyme drying, namely the Page method yielded the equation MR = exp (-3.0719t) 0.1314. The drying method has no significant effect on the extractive value and ash value.
... Other components are α-cymene, carvacrol, α-thujene, α-pinene, β myrcene, trans-ocimene, γ terpinene, limonene. Prasanth et al. [12] reported high content of oxygenated monoterpene (56.53 %) and low contents of monoterpene hydrocarbons (28.69 %), sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (5.04 %) and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.84 %) in the essential oil of T. vulgaris. The predominant compound among the essential oil components was thymol (51.34 %) while the amount of all other components of the oil was found to be less than 19 %. ...
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Jain et al.: Biological aspect of Thymus vulgaris Thymus vulgaris L. commonly known as thyme or garden thyme belonging to family Lamiaceae is a pleasant smelling flowering perennial shrub, cultivating all over the world. Thyme has great importance due to the possibility of its use in various applications, as food additives, in medicines and in cosmetic industry. Thyme leaves are highly aromatic therefore commonly used fresh or dried as a seasoning in a variety of culinary applications including soups, stews, sauces, meat, fish dishes and for flavoring liqueurs, herbal tea preparations. Thymus is an important medicinal plant, highly endorse due to a broad range of therapeutic properties of their chemical components such as antirheumatic, antidermatophytic, antioxidants, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, cardiac, carminative, astringent, diuretic and expectorant. The plant is also useful against cough, cold, chest infections, diabetes and for digestive upset. Flavonoids have good potential as antioxidants and antifungal behavior. The present review article gives comprehensive information about various medicinal and traditional utility and pharmacological activities of the thymus plant and its constituents.
... Thymus vulgaris L (TvL) belongs to the Thyme L genus and the Lamiaceae family. This plant is small and perennial which grows in hot and dry climates (Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014). ...
Article
Introduction: A worldwide pandemic infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of a deadly disease called COVID-19. Interaction of the virus and the Angiotensin converting-enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor leads to an inflammatory-induced tissue damage. Thymus vulgaris L. (TvL) is a plant with a long history in traditional medicine that has antimicrobial, antiseptic, and antiviral properties. Thymol and Carvacrol are two important biological components in Thyme that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. This study is a molecular review on the potential effects of TvL and its active compounds on SARS-COV2 infection. Method: This is a narrative review in which using PubMed, Scopus, ISI, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, Google scholar, and Arxiv preprint databases, the molecular mechanisms of therapeutic and protective effects of TvL and its active compounds have been discussed regarding the molecular pathogenesis in COVID-19. Results: Thyme could suppress TNF-alpha, IL-6, and other inflammatory cytokines. It also enhances the anti-inflammatory cytokines like TGF-beta and IL-10. Thyme extract acts also as an inhibitor of cytokines IL-1-beta and IL-8, at both mRNA and protein levels. Thymol may also control the progression of neuro-inflammation toward neurological disease by reducing some factors. Thyme and its active ingredients, especially Thymol and Carvacrol, have also positive effects on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and intestinal microbiota. Conclusions: Accordingly, TvL and its bioactive components may prevent COVID-19 complications and has a potential protective role against the deleterious consequences of the disease.
... Other components are α-cymene, carvacrol, α-thujene, α-pinene, β myrcene, trans-ocimene, γ terpinene, limonene. Prasanth et al. [12] reported high content of oxygenated monoterpene (56.53 %) and low contents of monoterpene hydrocarbons (28.69 %), sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (5.04 %) and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.84 %) in the essential oil of T. vulgaris. The predominant compound among the essential oil components was thymol (51.34 %) while the amount of all other components of the oil was found to be less than 19 %. ...
... Other components are α-cymene, carvacrol, α-thujene, α-pinene, β myrcene, trans-ocimene, γ terpinene, limonene. Prasanth et al. [12] reported high content of oxygenated monoterpene (56.53 %) and low contents of monoterpene hydrocarbons (28.69 %), sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (5.04 %) and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (1.84 %) in the essential oil of T. vulgaris. The predominant compound among the essential oil components was thymol (51.34 %) while the amount of all other components of the oil was found to be less than 19 %. ...
... The fungistatic and fungicidal potential of Thymus vulgaris L. EO was determined in previous studies [47,59] and these actions were associated with the chemical composition of the EO and explained by the alteration of the membrane potential of strain cells [60]. The mode of antifungal action at the cellular level was also investigated. ...
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This study aimed to investigate the antifungal and antimycotoxicogenic effect of binary and tertiary mixtures of Thymus vulgaris, Origanum sativum, and Coriandrum sativum essential oils (EOs), as well as emulsions based on EO mixtures, on fungi developed on wheat grains destined for the bakery industry. The chemical composition of the EO mixtures, the physical characteristics of the emulsions, and the influence of treatments on the proximate composition of wheat seeds were also studied. The methods used included the microbiological analysis of fungi developed on wheat seeds, the ELISA technique for determining the deoxynivalenol content (DON), gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to detect the chemical composition of the EOs, Zetasizer to analyse the particle sizes and their electric charge at the surface, and NIR analysis of the proximate composition of wheat. The chemical composition analysis revealed that thymol and o-cymene were the major components in the binary mixture of the EOs with thyme, linalool in the binary mixtures of the EOs with coriander and carvacrol, and o-cymene in the binary mixtures of the EOs with oregano. The results showed that, based on the zeta potential, the tertiary mixture ensured maximum emulsion stability, while the emulsion based on thyme and oregano was the less stable system. Regarding the antifungal and antimycotoxicogenic effect, the results showed that the highest inhibition potential on fungi was observed with the binary mixtures of the EOs based on thyme and oregano, and on deoxynivalenol (DON) when the binary emulsion based on the same EOs was applied to wheat seeds. The proximate composition of wheat seeds contaminated with DON showed an increase in protein content and mineral substances, and there were changes in the colour of the wheat seeds after treatment with the EOs. In conclusion, the results obtained in this study showed the possibility of using binary/tertiary mixtures of EOs and emulsions as healthy and environmentally friendly alternatives in the bakery industry.
... According to pharmacological studies conducted so far, this plant has exhibited significant activities against inflammation, bacterial infections, against insecticides, virus infection among other things. It contains a number of medicinally significant phytochemicals, including thymol, Carvacrol, Eugenol, Linalool, Apigenin, and Rosmarinic Acid, among others (Prasanth Reddy et al., 2014, Hosseinzadeh et al., 2015. ...
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Due to their prevalence, respiratory diseases have attained great attention from the historical time. Furthermore, it has been explored in a new dimension due to recent viral outbreaks such as COVID-19. Even though modern medicine treats the majority of respiratory ailments, it is reported that the majority of people (≥ 80%) who suffer from respiratory disorders do not take medication for their conditions, and a considerable number of people still believe in and use herbal medicines. Herbal therapies have been utilized all over the world for thousands of years. Traditional herbal treatment has long been seen as a valuable practice in Saudi Arabia, long before modern medicine. Due to its location in the desert and humid climate, Saudi Arabia suffers from a high rate of respiratory illnesses caused by dust, pollens, and viruses. Several published literature have employed different plants and plant products for respiratory problems, but there has yet to be a single, complete study centered on Saudi Arabia. In this review, 41 plants were identified, which has complete details regarding their usage in traditional practice for respiratory disorders. A thorough investigation was conducted and the results were detailed.
... Oxidation is a chemical process during which electrons or hydrogen are transferred from a certain substance to an oxidizing agent [23]. Besides, lipid oxidation is one of the major problems encountered during food processing, storage and consumption. ...
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A perennial wild shrub from the Lamiaceae family and native to the Mediterranean region, thyme is considered an important wild edible plant studied for centuries for its unique importance in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industry. Thyme is loaded with phytonutrients, minerals and vitamins. It is pungent in taste, yet rich in moisture, proteins, crude fiber, minerals and vitamins. Its chemical composition may vary with geographical location but is mainly composed of flavonoids and antioxidants. Previous studies have illustrated the therapeutic effects of thyme and its essential oils, especially thymol and carvacrol, against various diseases. This is attributed to its multi-pharmacological properties that include, but are not limited to, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antineoplastic actions. Moreover, thyme has long been known for its antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic activities, in addition to remarkable disruption of microbial biofilms. In the COVID-19 era, some thyme constituents were investigated for their potential in viral binding. As such, thyme presents a wide range of functional possibilities in food, drugs, and other fields and prominent interest as a nutraceutical. The aims of the current review are to present botanical and nutritive values of this herb, elaborate its major constituents, and review available literature on its dietetic and biological activities.
... Flowers are pink, rarely whitish; the calyx is campanulate, richly covered by reddish glands [50] ( Figure 5). This species is rich in essential oils glands, presenting an important variety of forms [51,52] and a high diversity of chemotypes [53][54][55][56], giving it a wide variety of medicinal constituents [57,58]. For that reason, it is considered as an officinal and aromatic plant, largely known and used for several purposes (e.g., in gastronomy, perfumery, medicine, and as a ritual plant) (viz. ...
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Thymus vulgaris L. is an emblematic species of the Mediterranean tradition. As a crop, this species has been spread wherever possible by man around the World. Often escaped from cultivations, defining its natural environment and the limits of its natural range is very much complicated as these have been greatly altered and influenced by human presence, in a positive or in a negative way. In addition to ecology and biogeography studies, we carried out human ecology research to understand whether, in a multidisciplinary (pan-ecological) approach, the case study of the Th. vulgaris subsp. vulgaris community can be considered of natural or of naturalised origin. An ecological, bio-geographical, and floristic review on this species is reported to help the discussion. Our study could be a good way to improve scientific discussions and applications even for other places and other situations. Some outlook and proposals are reported to improve management and conservation measures, in order to foster our ″green-sphere″ protection strategies through plants.
... The other bioactive component found in thyme are caffeic acid, gentisic, acid, p-coumaric acid, syringic acid, ferulic acid,flavonoids and p-hydroxybenzoic acid (Kivilompolo and Hyötyläinen, 2007;Stahl-Biskup and Venskutonis, 2012). The yield of natural products (essential oil and polyphenols) and proportion of individual constituents vary due to intrinsic (seasonal and ontogenetic variations) and extrinsic (soil, climate, light) factors (Reddy V, 2014;Stahl-Biskup and Venskutonis, 2012). Carvacrol and thymol are only a plant material with high phenolic contents used for commercial interest. ...
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Aromatic plants such as thyme have been shown promising results as a natural feed additive in livestock feed due to the presence of the bioactive compounds in the herb. Carvacrol and thymol are among essential oil extracted from thyme with high phenolic contents used for commercial interest. Essential oil components extracted from thymus plants are used widely in pharmaceutical applications and exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenesis, anti-inflammatory and are used as immunostimulants without residual effect like synthetic antibiotics. Thyme essential oil had also the ability to inhibit methanogenic microbes; addition of essential oil to the rumen can reduce methane emitted from ruminant animals. The aerial part of thyme contains a high amount of carbohydrates and a low concentration of tannin. Incorporation of thyme in animal nutrition as a powder or essential oil extract form can promote growth, productive and reproductive performance, increase feed intake, improve digestion and absorption of nutrients, increase carcass quality, reduce morbidity and mortality rate. This paper aims to review the beneficial application and recent finding of thyme in livestock feed
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You are invited to a journey full of health and taste! Step into a world full of the miracles of nature and open the doors to a life full of health! The book ""Medical Spices"" is designed for you to discover the magical world of natural spices, which have been used for thousands of years and are known for their health benefits. This book proves that spices that add flavour to your cuisine are not ordinary sweeteners. Because each spice can be an important source for health. ""Medical Spices"" reveals the secrets of these spices to you: it discusses in detail which spices are good for which health problems, which spices are perfect with which dishes, and how they can be used. The book touches on many topics, from recipes to health tips, from the history of medicinal spices to their modern uses. Additionally, the nutritional properties and health benefits of each spice are examined in detail. In addition to being a great resource for those seeking health, the book ""Medical Spices"" will be a reference book for anyone who wants to cook delicious and healthy meals in their kitchens. We invite everyone who wants to discover the healing powers offered by nature and take the first step towards a healthy life to read this book!
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Essential oils (EOs) are complex mixtures of volatile secondary metabolites extracted from different parts of aromatic plants such as leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds. They are also referred to as aromatic oils. In general, EOs are cocktail of different low-molecular-weight compounds, such as flavonoids, terpenoids, terpenes, and phenylpropanoids. They represent a diverse class of stereochemistry that results in a range of medicinal properties, viz., antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral effects. Additionally, EOs are biodegradable and hardly affect non-targeted species, which can be beneficial in delaying the development of resistance. EOs have been used for a long time in various areas such as food, medicine, cosmetics, and aromatherapy. However, due to certain limitations associated with them such as high volatility, intense aroma, and chemotypic variation, etc., they were replaced by chemical alternatives that were more efficient and better in terms of bioactivity. However, in view of green consumerism and the increased negative concerns (non-biodegradability and the adverse effects of their by-products on the environment and human health) associated with the indiscriminate use of synthetic chemicals, industries are looking toward green chemicals as a preferred alternative to synthetic ones.
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Endophytes, as crucial components of plant microbial communities, significantly contribute to enhancing the absorption of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus by their hosts, promote plant growth, and degrade pathogenic fungal mycelia. In this study, an experiment was conducted in August 2022 to explore the growth-promoting potential of endophytic bacterial strains isolated from two medical plant species, Thymus altaicus and Salvia deserta, using a series of screening media. Plant samples of Thymus altaicus and Salvia deserta were collected from Zhaosu County and Habahe County in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, in July 2021. Additionally, the inhibitory effects of endophytic bacterial strains on the four pathogenic fungi (Fusarium oxysporum, Fulvia fulva, Alternaria solani, and Valsa mali) were determined through the plate confrontation method. A total of 80 endophytic bacterial strains were isolated from Thymus altaicus, while a total of 60 endophytic bacterial strains were isolated from Salvia deserta. The endophytic bacterial strains from both Thymus altaicus and Salvia deserta exhibited plant growth-promoting properties. Specifically, the strains of Bacillus sp. TR002, Bacillus sp. TR005, Microbacterium sp. TSB5, and Rhodococcus sp. TR013 demonstrated strong cellulase-producing activity, siderophore-producing activity, phosphate solubilization activity, and nitrogen-fixing activity, respectively. Out of 140 endophytic bacterial strains isolated from Thymus altaicus and Salvia deserta, 104 strains displayed anti-fungal activity against Fulvia fulva, Alternaria solani, Fusarium oxysporum, and Valsa mali. Furthermore, the strains of Bacillus sp. TR005, Bacillus sp. TS003, and Bacillus sp. TSB7 exhibited robust inhibition rates against all the four pathogenic fungi. In conclusion, the endophytic bacterial strains from Thymus altaicus and Salvia deserta possess both plant growth-promoting and anti-fungal properties, making them promising candidates for future development as growth-promoting agents and biocontrol tools for plant diseases.
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Background In terms of death rates, occurrence, costs, and prevalence, respiratory tract diseases, which include minor issues like the common cold and life-threatening ones like bacterial pneumonia, lung cancers, and tuberculosis, are extremely significant. People have been worried about their health for a long time because of respiratory diseases. Old-style medication has tended to these diseases; however, the accumulation of information produced by elective methodologies, among which medication assumes a significant role, is insignificant. Phytotherapy has consistently given proficient solutions for constant and moderate wellbeing inconveniences and, occasionally, for intense and serious problems. Alleviating the aggravated nasal sections and aviation routes was a shared need in antiquated societies. In this study, we conducted a systematic literature review to gain evidence about herbal products and their phytoconstituents that play a role in respiratory illness. We also predicted the physicochemical properties of various phytoconstituents from therapeutic plants employed to cure respiratory ailments (such as asthma, COPD, cough, tuberculosis, etc.). Objectives The main objective of this critical study is to explore phytotherapy-based molecules for respiratory illnesses. The physicochemical properties of already isolated compounds have been evaluated to screen for the drug-like behavior of phytoconstituents. Methodology A wide variety of literature has been collected from PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline, and other scientific databases. After an exhaustive review, the chemical structures of phytoconstituents responsible for curing respiratory illness were sketched in ChemDraw Ultra 8.0, and these structures have been taken for further analysis of the physicochemical properties of these phytoconstituents. The crucial parameters of phytoconstituents' physicochemical properties were analyzed using the pkCSM webserver. Result The results suggest that a variety of phytoconstituents have the potential to treat respiratory illnesses, and the physicochemical parameters reveal that 65 compounds out of 130 screened compounds exhibit Lipinski's rule of five and Veber's rule, while others don't obey these rules. Compounds with optimal physicochemical properties could be promising candidates for emerging respiratory illness treatments. Conclusion This critical review highlights the possible therapeutic potential of plant-based medicine to cure respiratory illnesses. The finding shows that a wide range of alkaloids, glycosides, terpenoids, and flavonoids isolated from different herbs may be able to treat respiratory problems. More research is needed to find out the IC50 and MIC values of these compounds against respiratory pathogens like S. pneumoniae and M. tuberculosis.
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Historically, numerous plants have been used to alleviate various diseases, particularly viral diseases (bronchitis, influenza virus and dengue virus). This review evaluated their therapeutic potential against Covid-19 and mapped the 10 most studied plants during the pandemic. The standardized protocol for systematic reviews (PRISMA-P) was developed in this study. All studies involving medicinal plants and their potential against Covid-19 infection were also considered. Two specific search fields “traditional medicine and Covid-19” and “medicinal plants and Covid-19” with appearance in the title, abstract and keywords were used to search for information. Only papers (review and original) published between 2020 and October 2021 were included. Short communications, letters to the editor, books and book chapters were excluded. A total of 24,046 articles were recorded among the four databases and an increase of 69% in publications for the 2021 search date, a higher percentage compared to the previous year (31%). China was the country with the highest production with 28% (2725 papers). The analysis of variance showed that the number of studies of Nigella sativa L. (1.62 ± 0.21; p = 0.02), Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (1.50 ± 0.32; p = 0.03), Zingiber officinale Roscoe (1.51 ± 0.32; p = 0.03) were statistically significant with respect to the other species. This is probably because these species show compounds with high antiviral spectrum. Despite the pharmacological potential found in medicinal plants, more large-scale clinical trials are still needed to demonstrate the efficacy of phytocompounds against viral diseases.
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Introdução: O uso de plantas medicinais como recurso terapêutico é reportado desde a antiguidade. A fitoterapia é a ciência que estuda os efeitos farmacológicos destas plantas, dentre as que se destacam na literatura está o Thymus vulgaris, pertencente à família Lamiaceae, uma erva medicinal aromática, popularmente conhecido como tomilho no Brasil. Objetivos: avaliar as propriedades botânicas, químicas e farmacológicas do tomilho. Metodologia: Trata-se de uma revisão narrativa de literatura realizada nas bases de dados Google Acadêmico, PubMed e CAPES, entre os anos de 2015 a 2020. A triagem dos artigos foi realizada mediante leitura crítica e análise de títulos, resumos e textos completos de escritos nas línguas portuguesa e inglesa sobre o tema. Resultados e discussão: Dentre os principais componentes químicos do tomilho estão o timol, o carvacrol e p-cimeno, responsáveis por seu potencial terapêutico antimicrobianao, antioxidante, etc. O óleo essencial de Thymus vulgaris, especificamente, tem atividade antibacteriana contra microrganismo gram positivos e gram negativos, danificando diretamente a membrana citoplasmática bacteriana. O uso terapêutico na saúde é apenas uma das suas aplicabilidades, o tomilho também é utilizado como especiaria culinária, perfume e inseticida. Conclusão: O tomilho é uma planta rica em substâncias farmacológicas bioativas com atividades terapêuticas importantes para o tratamento de inúmeras enfermidades. Sendo assim, seu uso racional baseado no conhecimento científico, em conjunto com o saber popular, faz-se necessário e é vantajoso para a sociedade e seu bem-estar.
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In this chapter, the traditional use, the phytochemical composition, and the pharmacological activities of African medicinal plants displaying antibacterial effects were reported. We have pooled together the plants and phytochemicals active in pathogens of the family Enterobacteriaceae, as well as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Gram-positive bacteria, and Mycobacteria. We also identified potent antibacterial medicinal plants of Africa having other pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-diabetic, central nervous system, cardiovascular, anti-parasitic, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, nephroprotective, reproduction and digestive systems, antiviral, and wound healing activities. The documented plants can be further investigated globally by scientists to develop new herbal drugs to combat various types of bacterial infections.
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Context: The contagious global pandemic of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has prompted many Moroccans to turn to traditional phytoremedies. Aims: To highlight the ethnopharmacological information and the risks of intoxication related to the use of herbal medicine to combat COVID-19. Methods: Through a semi-structured questionnaire and using the "Free listing" technique, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted among 36 herbalists of the Meknes prefecture to collect ethnopharmacological data on species used in the fight against COVID-19. Then, many databases were used to document their pharmacological and toxicological activities. Results: A total of 36 species in 22 families were reported to be used to prepare traditional recipes against COVID-19. According to the relative frequency index of citation, the species Artemisia herba-alba Asso, Eucalyptus globulus Labill, Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M. Perry, Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck, and Zingiber officinale Roscoe. were recommended by all respondents and recorded the highest usage values. Based on the value of the plant parts index, leaves were the most used part (PPV = 0.37). Most of the remedies were prepared as infusions and administered orally. The bibliographic research revealed that the plants used have several biological activities and are frequently used to treat respiratory diseases. However, some of them have been reported to be toxic. Conclusions: Recommended species are endowed with innumerable biological activities. They can be a promising alternative to combat COVID-19. However, their toxic effects require pharmacotoxicological studies to ensure the safety and efficacy of these natural remedies. Keywords: COVID-19; ethnobotany; herbalism; Morocco; Meknes; phytotherapy; toxicity.
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In recent years, people in search of healthy food have turned to different alternatives such as "natural food", "organic food", "preservative-free food". For this reason, studies to increase the taste, aroma and shelf life of foods with plants and natural substances of plant origin have intensified. Secondary metabolites (polyphenols, terpenoids, alkaloids, lectins, polypeptides and polyacetylenes) secreted by plants to protect themselves against biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) stresses are antimicrobial agents. Many of these metabolites are also approved as a GRAS (generally recognized as safe) material for food products with negligible side effects. Therefore, many plant-derived bioactive compounds are considered good alternatives to synthetic antimicrobial and antioxidant food additives. It is known that approximately 1340 plants that can be produced in the world are potential sources of antioxidant and antimicrobial components. The antimicrobial activity in plants can be strong; It depends on the type, composition and concentration of the plant, the composition of the food, the type and load of the target microorganism, and the processing and storage conditions. On the other hand, antimicrobial activities of phenolic substances in plants are affected by pH, proteins, salts, lipids and temperature. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris), Nigella sativa, mint (Mentheae), cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), cumin (Cuminum cyminum), turmeric (Curcuma longa), ginger (Zingiber officinale), clove (Eugenia caryophyllata), tilia, lavender (Lavandula officinalis), silverberry (Eleagnus angustifolia L.) and licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) are medicinal plants that are commonly added to the composition of foods and/or consumed alone. In this study, black cumin, thyme, mint and cinnamon were discussed.
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The geographical as well as topographical position of Iran together with different climates makes it a biodiversity spot of special prominence in the world. There are more than 8000 plant species distributed in the country and many are endemics. There are 12 geographical divisions of Iran. This has allowed the growth of a large number of medicinal plants. However, in the last 30 years, medicinal plants trade has been diminished. Out of a large number of medicinal and aromatic plants, the genus Thymus is considered very important. It is distributed on a wide range of habitats. The plants from this genus are bushes with a strong root system, which is significant because of its impact on soil adjustment and growth in sloppy mountainous areas. In Iran, we find 14 Thymus species from Kotschyani and Serpyllum subsections. This chapter presents general information on these taxa mainly their ethnobotanical, phytochemical, molecular, and pharmacological features with the aim of their sustainable evaluation in the country.KeywordsEthnobotanyMolecular aspectsPhytochemistryPharmacology Thymus
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Objectives: Thymus vulgaris species are well known as medicinal plants because of their biological and pharmacological properties, however, to the best of our knowledge there are no earlier reports yet available regarding the detailed chemical characterization and evaluation of biological and antioxidant principles of essential oils from plants of Lamiaceae family, native to Yemen. Methods: The extraction of essential oils of leaves of Thymus vulgaris is obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for determining their chemical composition. Their antimicrobial activity were studied in vitro on bacterial strains: Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Mycobacterium smegmatis and fungal strains: Candida albicans and Candida vaginalis. Findings: The essential oil yield of the study was 0.76 g 100g-1. The major component was thymol (51.34%), p-cymene (18.35%), other predominant components were caryophyllene (4.26%), α-pinene (2.95%), β-myrcene (2.50%), thymyl methyl ether (2.16%), carvacrol (2.03%), β-pinene (1.97%), α-cadinol (1.41%), 3-carene (1.10%), thymyl acetate (0.92%), camphene (0.913%), germacrene D (0.78%), sabinen (0.76%), o-cymene (0.63%), linalool (0.60%), terpineol (0.56%), α-terpinol (0.55%), 1,8-cineol (0.53%), farnesol (0.52%), 3-octanone (0.47%), caryophyllene oxide (0.43%), and α-phellandrene (0.15%). The bacterial and fungal strains tested were found to be sensitive to essential oil studied and showed a very effective bactericidal and antifungal activity with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranging from 75 to 1100 μg/mL and 80 and 97μg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: These results represent an inexpensive source of natural antibacterial and antifungal substances that exhibited potential for use in pathogenic systems. Keywords: Essential oil composition, GC/MS, antimicrobial activities, Thymus vulgaris
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The insecticidal activity of Thymus vulgaris essential oil, thymol and carvacrol was evaluated in laboratory against different larval stages of lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus Panzer, Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae). The earlier and later larval stages were reared on diets containing 1 or 2% acetone solutions of tested compounds. Insecticidal activity of thyme essential oil and pure monoterpenes against A. diaperinus larvae depended on the dose and age of larvae. The growth of younger larvae was significantly affected, while those of older larval stage was less influenced and only by pure oil components. In young larvae the application 1% thyme oil, thymol and carvacrol, caused mortality of 50.0, 86.67 and 85 %, respectively. However, the mortality was less in old larvae (17.5, 27.5 and 27.5%, respectively). At the highest dose (2%) thyme oil, thymol and carvacrol killed 62.5, 91.67 and 97.5% of young larvae, respectively. These results showed that thymol and carvacrol were more active against A. diaperinus larvae than thyme oil, thus these two pure components (thymol and carvacrol) can effective control this pest.
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The essential oils of three wild-growing Thymus species, collected from west of Iran during the flowering stage, were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Under the optimum extraction and analysis conditions, 44, 38, and 38 constituents (mainly monoterpenes compounds) were identified in T. kotschyanus Boiss. and Hohen, T. eriocalyx (Ronniger) Jalas, and T. daenensis subsp lancifolius (Celak) Jalas which represented 89.9%, 99.7%, and 95.8% of the oils, respectively. The main constituents were thymol (16.4-42.6%), carvacrol (7.6-52.3%), and γ-terpinene (3-11.4%). Antioxidant activity was employed by two complementary test systems, namely, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free-radical scavenging and β-carotene/linoleic acid systems. Antioxidant activity of polar subfraction of T. daenensis subsp lancifolius (Celak) Jalas was found to be higher than those of the others in DPPH assay, while nonpolar subfraction of T. eriocalyx (Ronniger) Jalas has most antioxidant activity in β-carotene/linoleic acid test (19.1 ± 0.1 μg/mL and 96.1 ± 0.8% inhibition rate, resp.).
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The leafy parts of thyme and its essential oil have been used in foods for the flavor, aroma and preservation and also in folk medicines. The aim of the current study was to determine the components of Thymus vulgaris L essential oil and to evaluate the protective effects of this oil against aflatoxin-induce oxidative stress in rats. Thirty six mature male Sprague-Dawley were divided into six treatment groups and treated for 2 weeks as follows: control group; the groups treated orally with low and high doses of T. vulgaris oil (5 and 7.5 mg/kg b.w.); the group fed AFs-contaminated diet (2.5 mg/kg diet) and the groups fed AFs-contaminated diet and treated orally with the oil at the two tested doses. Blood and tissue samples were collected at the end of treatment period for biochemical study and histological examination. The results indicated that the oil contains Carvarcrol (45 mg/g), Thymol (24.7 mg/g), β-Phellandrene (9.7 mg/g), Linalool (4.1 mg/g), Humuline (3.1 mg/g), α-Phellandrene (2.3 mg/g) and Myrcene (2.1 mg/g). However, α and β-pinene, Myrcene, α-thyjone, Tricyclene, 1, 8-cineole, and β-sabinene were found in lower concentrations. Treatment with AFs alone disturbs lipid profile in serum, decreases Total antioxidant capacity, increase creatinine, uric acid and nitric oxide in serum and lipid peroxidation in liver and kidney accompanied with a sever histological changes in the liver tissues. The oil alone at the two tested doses did not induce any significant changes in the biochemical parameters or the histological picture. The combined treatment showed significant improvements in all tested parameters and histological pictures in the liver tissues. Moreover, this improvement was more pronounced in the group received the high dose of the oil. It could be concluded that the essential oil of T. vulgaris has a potential antioxidant activity and a protective effect against AFs toxicity and this protection was dose dependent.
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The essential oils obtained from Thymus vulgaris L. harvested at four ontogenetic stages were evaluated for their biological activity and chemical composition. The thyme essential oils were tested for their inhibitory effects against nine strains of gram-negative bacteria and six strains of gram-positive bacteria. The bioimpedance method was chosen for studying the antibacterial activity of the essential oils and the parameter chosen for defining and quantifying the antibacterial activity of the essential oils was the detection time. The plate counting technique was used to study the inhibitory effect by direct contact. All the thyme essential oils examined had a significant bacteriostatic activity against the microorganisms tested. This activity was more marked against the gram-positive bacteria. The oil from thyme in full flower was the most effective at stopping the growth of the microbial species examined. The oils tested were also shown to have good antibacterial activity by direct contact, which appeared to be more marked against the gram-negative bacteria. Only a few of the species were capable of recovering at least 50% of their metabolic function after contact with the inhibitor, while most of the strains were shown to have been inactivated almost completely. Escherichia coli O157:H7 was the most sensitive species, given that after contact with even the lowest concentration of oil cells could not be recovered.
Article
In continuation of our effort on data correlation of antimicrobial activities of aroma compounds among various essential oils and plant extracts [1], the aromatic volatiles p-cymene, carvacrol, eugenol and thymol as well as the essential oils of Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Eugenia caryophyllus, Origanum vulgare, Pimenta dioica, Pimenta racemosa, Satureja hortensis, Trachyspermum ammi and Thymus vulgaris were investigated. Therefore, these samples and as reference substances synthetic antibiotics as well as the natural antimicrobial components carveol, m-cresol, o-cresol and p-cresol were tested against strains of two Gram-(+) and five Gram-(-) bacteria and the fungus Candida albicans using agar dilution and agar diffusion methods. The analysis of the chemical composition of the essential oils by means of GC and GC-MS focusing on aromatic volatiles resulted as follows: C. zeylanicum: eugenol (74.9%); E. caryophyllus: eugenol (76.8%); O. vulgare: carvacrol (66.1%); p-cymene (9.2%); P. dioica: eugenol (76.0%); P. racemosa: eugenol (45.6%); S. hortensis: carvacrol (41.5%), p-cymene (10.7%), thymol (8.7%); T. ammi: thymol (43.7%), p-cymene (17.7%); T. vulgare: thymol (43.4%), p-cymene (23.5%) and carvacrol (4.1%). All investigated aromatic volatiles and essential oils exhibited a medium to strong antimicrobial activity against the Gram-(+) bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis and the Gram-(-) bacteria Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella sp., whereas merely weak to medium effects were observed against Candida albicans. References: [1] Jirovetz, L. et al. (2006) Recent Progress in Medicinal Plants, Vol. 13: Search for Natural Drugs (Govil, J.N., Singh, V.K., Arunachalam, C., eds.), Studium Press LLC, Houston (Tx), USA.
Article
The essential oils of three wild-growing Thymus species (Thymus kotschyanus Boiss. & Hohen., Thymus eriocalyx (Ronniger) Jalas. and Thymus daenensis Celak subsp lancifolius (Celak) Jalas. collected from west of Iran during the flowering stage, were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Under the optimum extraction and analysis conditions, 44, 38 and 38 constituents (mainly monoterpenes) were identified in T. kotschyanus, T. eriocalyx and T. daenensis subsp. lancifolius which represented 89.9%, 99.7% and 95.8% of the oils, respectively. The main constituents were thymol (16.4–42.6%), carvacrol (7.6–52.3%) and γ-terpinene (3.0–11.4%). Antioxidant activity was employed by two complementary test systems namely 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging and β-carotene/linoleic acid systems. Antioxidant activity of polar sub-fraction of T. daenensis subsp lancifolius was found to be higher than those of the others in DPPH assay while non-polar sub-fraction of T. eriocalyx has most antioxidant activity in β-carotene/linoleic acid test (19.1±0.1µg/ml and 96.1±0.8% inhibition rate, respectively).
Article
The essential oils obtained from the aerial parts of Thymus daenensis subsp. daenensis and Thymus kotschyanus were analyzed by using GC and GC/MS. Twenty six compounds representing 99.7% of T. daenensis subsp. daenensis oil were identified. The main ones were thymol (74.7%), p-cymene (6.5%), β-caryophyllene (3.8%) and methyl carvacrol (3.6%). Thirty one components accounting for 98.7% of T. kotschyanus oil were identified. The major constituents were thymol (38.6%), carvacrol (33.9%), γ-terpinene (8.2%) and p-cymene (7.3%). Both oils were found to be rich in monoterpene phenols, especially thymol and carvacrol.
Article
The pure aromatic volatiles p-cymene, carvacrol, eugenol and thymol as well as commercial essential oils of Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Origanum vulgare, Pimenta dioica, Pimenta racemosa, Satureja hortensis, Syzygium aromaticum, Thymus vulgaris and Trachyspermum ammi were investigated concerning antimicrobial activities. Therefore, these samples and, as reference substances, synthetic antibiotics and the natural antimicrobial components carveol, m-, o- and p-cresol were tested against strains of two Gram-positive and five Gram-negative bacteria and the yeast Candida albicans using agar dilution and agar diffusion methods. The analysis of the chemical composition of the essential oils by means of GC and GC/MS focusing on aromatic volatiles produced the following results: C. zeylanicum: eugenol (74.9%); O. vulgare: carvacrol (66.1%) and p-cymene (9.2%); P. dioica: eugenol (76.0%); P. racemosa: eugenol (45.6%); S. hortensis: carvacrol (41.5%), p-cymene (10.7%) and thymol (8.7%); S. aromaticum: eugenol (76.8%); T. vulgaris: thymol (43.4%), p-cymene (23.5%) and carvacrol (4.1%); T. ammi: thymol (43.7%) and p-cymene (17.7%). All investigated aromatic volatiles and essential oils exhibited strong effects against the yeast Candida albicans and medium to strong antimicrobial activity against the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis and the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris, and Salmonella sp., whereas weaker effects were observed against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Article
Aqueous extracts from species of the Lamiaceae family were examined for their antiviral activity against Herpes simplex virus (HSV). Extracts from lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), peppermint (Mentha x piperita), prunella (Prunella vulgaris), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), sage (Salvia officinalis) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris) were screened. Their inhibitory activity against Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), type 2 (HSV-2) and an acyclovir-resistant strain of HSV-1 (ACV (res)) was tested in vitro on RC-37 cells in a plaque reduction assay. The 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC (50)) of the extracts for HSV plaque formation were determined in dose-response studies. All test compounds showed a high antiviral activity against HSV-1, HSV-2 and ACV (res). In order to identify the mode of antiviral action, the extracts were added to the cells or viruses at different stages of infection. Both types of Herpes virus including ACV (res) were considerably neutralized after treatment with the extracts prior to infection. At maximum non-cytotoxic concentrations of the extracts, plaque formation was significantly reduced by > 90% for HSV-1 and HSV-2 and > 85% for ACV (res). In time-response studies over a period of 2 hours, a clearly time-dependent activity was demonstrated. These results indicate that the extracts affect HSV before adsorption, but have no effect on the intracellular virus replication. Therefore, the extracts exert their antiviral effect on free HSV and offer a chance to use them for topical therapeutic application against recurrent HERPES infections.
RHS A-Z encyclopedia of garden plants
  • Christopher Brickell
Christopher Brickell (2008) RHS A-Z encyclopedia of garden plants. Dorling Kindersley, United Kingdom.
ESCOP Monographs: The Scientific Foundation for Herbal Medicinal Products. The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy in collaboration with Georg Thieme
ESCOP (2007) ESCOP Monographs: The Scientific Foundation for Herbal Medicinal Products. The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy in collaboration with Georg Thieme.