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Antibacterial and antifungal activity of Senecio inaequidens DC. and Senecio vulgaris L
Phytotherapy Research
Abstract
The antibacterial and antifungal activities of methanol extract, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, n-hexane, n-butanol and chloroform fractions of Senecio inaequidens DC. and Senecio vulgaris L. were assayed. The hexane extract of Senecio vulgaris L. (MIC 0.031 mg/ml) showed significant activity against Trichophyton tonsurans.
... Research has shown that Ch. coronarium essential oil can inhibit the formation of hyphal colonies on agricultural pathogens and has good antibacterial properties against Gram-positive bacteria [52,53]. As per the study carried out by Loizzo et al. in 2004, it has been found that the methanol extract obtained from S. vulgaris possesses antibacterial properties against Gram-positive bacteria, while its effectiveness against fungi is limited [54]. In the meantime, research has been undertaken on S. leucanthemifolius's antibacterial and antifungal capabilities against seven distinct pathogenic organisms. ...
... According to a previous study, campesterol (5), isolated from Ch. Coronarium, was found to exhibit antiangiogenic potential [90]. A benzofuran glucoside, 2,3-dihydro-3βhydroxyeuparin 3-O-glucopyranoside (4), isolated from S. glaucus, has demonstrated potent cytotoxicity against PANC-1 cancer cell lines (IC 50 7.5 µM) [55]. In addition, Jacaranone (6), a major active component of the dichloromethane extract obtained from S. leucanthemifolius, has shown remarkable activity against the COR-L23, Caco-2, C32, and HepG-2 cell lines with IC 50 values between 2.86 and 3.85 µg/mL [84]. ...
... A recently discovered compound called 2,3-dihydro-3-hydroxyeuparin 3-O-glucopyranoside (4) has been isolated from S. glaucus. This compound belongs to the benzofuran glucoside class [55]. A trisaccharide D-galactopyranosyl-(1→6)-α-D-glucopyranosyl-(1 ↔ 1)-β-D-glucopyranoside (233) was isolated from C. flammula [30]. ...
Jordan’s flora is known for its rich diversity, with a grand sum of 2978 plant species that span 142 families and 868 genera across four different zones. Eight genera belonging to four different plant families have been recognized for their potential natural medicinal properties within the Mediterranean region. These genera include Chrysanthemum L., Onopordum Vaill. Ex. L., Phagnalon Cass., and Senecio L. from the Asteraceae family, in addition to Clematis L. and Ranunculus L. from the Ranunculaceae family, Anchusa L. from the Boraginaceae family, and Eryngium L. from the Apiaceae family. The selected genera show a wide variety of secondary metabolites with encouraging pharmacological characteristics including antioxidant, antibacterial, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-ulcer, and neuroprotective actions. Further research on these genera and their extracts will potentially result in the formulation of novel and potent natural pharmaceuticals. Overall, Jordan’s rich flora provides a valuable resource for exploring and discovering new plant-based medicines.
... Senecio (tribe Senecioneae) is the largest genus of family Asteraceae (Compositae) consisting of more than 1500 species with worldwide distribution. The genus has been extensively studied for secondary metabolite composition (Loizzo et al. 2004). Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), eremophilanolides, and cacalolides are the characteristic classes of compounds contained in the genus (Burgueno-Tapia et al. 2004). ...
... Their toxicity concerns are mainly attributed to their content of pyrrolizidine alkaloids and some furanoeremophilanes (Burgueno-Tapia and Joseph-Nathan 2003). Senecio species were used in folk medicine for the treatment of wounds and in antiemetic, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory preparations (Loizzo et al. 2004). The phytochemistry of a number of Senecio species has resulted in the identification of diverse classes of constituents which include pyrrolizidines, eremophilanes, flavonoids, diterpenes, triterpenes, and sesquiterpenes (F. ...
... These compounds are pharmacologically potent and characteristic secondary metabolites for most species of the genus Senecio which cause hepatotoxicity to animals (Suau et al. 2002). Senecio species possess antibacterial and antifungal activities (Loizzo et al. 2004). A thorough biological study of the genus Senecio has revealed that the extracts as well as compounds of the genus possess hepatotoxic, teratogenic, or carcinogenic effects; antifeedant activity, antimitotic effect, and inhibition of angiotensinogen-converting enzyme (ACE); and insecticidal and neurotoxic activity (Dong-Liang et al. 1992;Steenkamp et al. 2001;Reina et al. 2001Reina et al. , 2002Tundis et al. 2005;Xu et al. 2003). ...
Senecio graciliflorus DC root extract was studied for secondary metabolite composition following the bioactivity-guided isolation technique. The ethyl acetate extract of Senecio graciliflorus root yielded nine chemical constituents: 3,4-di-tert-butyl toluene, stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, 2β-(angeloyloxy)furanoeremophilane, gallic acid, 2β-{[(Z)-2-hydroxymethylbut-2-enoyl]oxy}furanoeremophilane, 1-hydroxypentan-2-yl-4-methylbenzoate, sarcinic acid, and sitosterol 3-O-β-d-glucopyranoside. The structures of the chemical constituents were elucidated on the basis of spectral data analysis in the light of literature. All the compounds are being reported for the first time from this plant. The isolated constituents were screened for neuroprotective effects against corticosterone-induced impairment in neuroblastoma cell lines (SH-SY5S cells). The viability of SH-SY5S cells was determined using MTT assay. Among various isolated compounds, three natural products (sarcinic acid, gallic acid, and β-sitosterol) displayed robust neurotropic activity. The compounds increased neuronal cell survival in differentiated neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y) from high-dose corticosterone (400 µM)–induced cell death. All the three constituents showed maximum AKT/ERK pathway activation at 20 µM concentration. The studies are aimed to explore small molecules for treating neurodegeneration underlying various neurological disorders to restore neuronal cell plasticity.
... The genus Senecio L., which is part of the tribe Senecioneae, ranks as one of the largest and most intricate genera within the Asteraceae family, comprising over 1,500 species widely distributed across various regions (11). Various species within this genus have been analyzed for their secondary metabolites (12)(13)(14). ...
... The S. vulgaris extract, derived via a methanol extraction process, exhibited effectiveness in inhibiting the proliferation of the Gram-positive bacteria B. subtilis and S. aureus, whereas the extract from S. inaequidens did not display antimicrobial properties against these species. It is noteworthy that the extracts from both Senecio species had no discernible effect on Gram-negative bacteria (11). ...
Background and Objectives
Senecio vulgaris L., a member of the Asteraceae family, has been widely employed in traditional Iranian herbal practices for centuries. This research seeks to analyze and compare the essential oil compositions and antibacterial characteristics of two distinct populations of S. vulgaris.
Materials and Methods
Essential oils were obtained from the above-ground parts of these populations through hydrodistillation, and their chemical constituents were examined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antibacterial effectiveness of the essential oils against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria was evaluated employing the agar well diffusion technique.
Results
Monoterpene hydrocarbons were found to be dominated in both populations, with Humulene epoxide II being the primary constituent, constituting 17.87% in the first population and 21.55% in the second one. The agar-well diffusion method revealed significant antibacterial effects of the S. vulgaris essential oils. The findings indicated that the essential oil displayed heightened activity against Escherichia coli in both populations. Furthermore, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) tests indicated that Pseudomonas aeruginosa with concentrations of 400 μg/mL for both tests, was the most susceptible bacteria, while Streptococcus pyogenes with MIC = 800 and MBC>800 μg/mL was the most resistant in both populations of S. vulgaris.
Conclusion
This research highlights the significance of S. vulgaris as a valuable reservoir of monoterpene-rich oil exhibiting robust antibacterial characteristics, suggesting its potential use in the development of novel and naturally derived therapeutics for bacterial diseases.
... Our results are in agreement with data reported by Loizzo et al. [32]. They studied the antimicrobial activities of S. inaequidens and S. vulgaris and showed that methanol extracts and the fractions of both species were not effective against E. coli and C. albicans and the only ethyl acetate fractions had inhibitory effect against C. albicans (MIC = 0.125 mg·mL -1 ). ...
... Similarly our results, they reported antimicrobial effect of S. vulgaris against the B. subtilis (MIC= 0.5 mg·mL -1 ). In the contrast of our results, the both Senecio species were not effective against P. aeruginosa [32]. In our study, all studied Turanecio species except T. hypochionaeus var. ...
Objectives
In vitro biological activities of methanolic extracts of five Turanecio species have been studied.
Materials and Methods
The phenolic compositions of the extracts were evaluated by the Folin- Ciocalteu assay and by HPLC analysis. Antioxidant activities were determined with two in vitro assays namely, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) scavenging assay and phosphomolybdenum assay. The antimicrobial activities of the extracts were evaluated against 13 microorganisms.
Results
T. hypochionaeus var. hypochionaeus was showed the highest DPPH inhibition with 88.84% at 100 μg·mL-1. All of the extracts were exerted high total antioxidant activities 128.00- 243.13 mg AAE g-1) and seem to be a promising source of natural antioxidants. The phenolic contents in the extracts varied from 26.17 to 60.99 mg·g-1 as gallic acid equivalent. Chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid and p- coumaric acid were the predominant constituents. The methanolic extracts revealed promising antibacterial activities against most bacteria. No activity was recorded against yeasts tested.
Conclusion
The polyphenolic constituents appear to be responsible, at least in part, for the extract’s activities. The present study confirms that tested Turanecio species contains significant source of phenolics have antioxidant and antimicrobial activities and may have therapeutic potential.
... S. graveolens, an endemic specie of the Atacama Desert highlands (over 3000 m of altitude) and known by the popular name of "Chachacoma", is commercialized as folk medicine mainly for altitude sickness syndrome [12]. Previous studies demonstrated that extracts from Senecio species has antibacterial and antifungal activities [13][14][15][16]. Here we corroborate that S. graveolens extract exhibits antibacterial activity and in addition showed that this antibacterial activity is specific to Gram-positive bacterial species. ...
... In particular, S. graveolens is known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties that help to relive altitude sickness symptoms. Previously it has been determined that S. graveolens extract has antibacterial activity [13][14][15][16], but the specific antibacterial compound in the extract and the antibacterial mechanisms were unknown. We determined that the ethanolic extract of S. graveolens has a mild antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria ( Table 2). ...
Background: Resistance to antimicrobial drugs has become an increasingly global problem, and is the main reason for an extended search for new drugs to treat microbial infections. Senecioneae is one of the largest tribes of Asteraceae, comprised of about 150 genera and 3000 plant species. Senecio graveolens, commonly called Chachacoma, is highly used as a medicinal plant for altitude sickness by the natives of the Andes Mountains around the Atacama Desert. Previous studies have demonstrated that S. graveolens extracts possess antibacterial properties, but its active compound and molecular mechanisms are still unknown.
Methods: Form the ethanolic extract of S. graveolens the main compound 4-hydroxy-3-(3-methyl-2-butenyl)acetophenone (4-H-3-(MB)AP) was identify and purified by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Antibacterial activity of (4-H-3-(MB)AP) was assayed on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria by microbiological techniques. Possible mechanisms of action of (4-H-3-(MB)AP) were explored by microbiological, flow cytometry and electron microscopy techniques.
Results: Here we determined that S. graveolens extract has specific antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and Mycobacterium smegmatis. The most abundant compound from S. graveolens extract, 4-H-3-(MB)AP, showed broad antibacterial activity against Gram-positive but no activity against Gram-negative strains. We determined that 4-H-3-(MB)AP permeabilizes bacterial membranes and precludes cell division by disrupting Gram-positive bacteria divisome, suggesting that the synthesis of teichoic acid is inhibited.
Conclusions: We conclude that 4-H-3-(MB)AP is one of the active compounds of S. graveolens extract responsible for its antibacterial activity. 4-H-3-(MB)AP is a candidate for further chemical modification studies and practical approaches to design antimicrobial drugs.
... Sterile, 3 mm diameter stainless steel cylinders were placed on Fatima Ezzahra Janati Idrissi et al., / TEOP 18 (1) 2015 29 -35 plates of solid media, which had been surface spread with 0.2 ml of logarithmic phase bacteria at an optical density varied from 1 to 620 nm. Finally, to each of duplicated cylinders, (10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20) or 50 μl) of tested solutions were added. The plates were then incubated for one night at 37°C. ...
... All the observations and the deductions confirm that the Senecio leucanthemifolius essential oil has a considerable antimicrobial activity against all the bacterial strains tested. This conclusion is confirmed by the ethnobotanical studies cited in the literature which confirm that Senecio plants have almost an important antimicrobial activity 8,15,16 . This result is the same obtained in our antimicrobial study concerning the senecio leucanthemifolius essential oil which is tested for the first time by our research group. ...
The present investigation is a comparative study which evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the Senecio leucanthemifolius poiret essential oil from a side and the hexanic, dichlormethanic and methanolic extracts from the other side. The GC-MS analysis affirms that the plant contains α-hydroxy-p-cymen (27.3 %), carvacrol (12.2 %), nerol (10.9 %) carveol (9.2 %) and cis-α-bisabolene (7.0 %). Moreover, the analysis showed the presence of two pyrrolizindes alkaloids which are Senecionine, Integerrimine (7.2 %) and two quinonoides which are 1-amino-1-ortho- chlorophenyl-2-(2-quinoxalinyl) ethene (4.1 %) and 6-ethyl-5-hydroxy-2,3,7-trimethoxynaphthoquinone (3.3 %). The antimicrobial effect was evaluated using the diffusion technique on solid media by measuring in (mm) the zones of growth inhibition. The essential oil showed a considerable antimicrobial activity against two Escherichia coli (E.coli) genetically modified strains MG and TG1, Rhizobium RP8 and Bacillus subtilis. However, the hexanic, dichloromethanic and methanolic extracts showed an inhibitor effect only on Bacillus subtilis strain.
... S. graveolens, an endemic specie of the Atacama Desert highlands (over 3000 m of altitude) and known by the popular name of "Chachacoma", is commercialized as folk medicine mainly for altitude sickness syndrome [12]. Previous studies demonstrated that extracts from Senecio species has antibacterial and antifungal activities [13][14][15][16]. Here we corroborate that S. graveolens extract exhibits antibacterial activity and in addition showed that this antibacterial activity is specific to Gram-positive bacterial species. ...
... In particular, S. graveolens is known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties that help to relive altitude sickness symptoms. Previously it has been determined that S. graveolens extract has antibacterial activity [13][14][15][16], but the specific antibacterial compound in the extract and the antibacterial mechanisms were unknown. We determined that the ethanolic extract of S. graveolens has a mild antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria ( Table 2). ...
Background: Resistance to antimicrobial drugs has become an increasingly global problem, and is the main reason for an extended search for new drugs to treat microbial infections. Senecioneae is one of the largest tribes of Asteraceae, comprised of about 150 genera and 3000 plant species. Senecio graveolens, commonly called Chachacoma, is highly used as a medicinal plant for altitude sickness by the natives of the Andes Mountains around the Atacama Desert. Previous studies have demonstrated that S. graveolens extracts possess antibacterial properties, but its active compound and molecular mechanisms are still unknown.
Methods: Form the ethanolic extract of S. graveolens the main compound 4-hydroxy-3-(3-methyl-2-butenyl)acetophenone (4-H-3-(MB)AP) was identify and purified by nuclear magnetic resonance. Antibacterial activity of (4-H-3-(MB)AP) was assayed on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria by microbiological techniques. Possible mechanisms of action of (4-H-3-(MB)AP) were explored by microbiological, flowcytometry and electron microscopy techniques.
Results: Here we determined that S. graveolens extract has specific antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and Mycobacterium smegmatis. The most abundant compound from S. graveolens extract, 4-hydroxy-3-(3-methyl-2-butenyl)acetophenone (4-H-3-(MB)AP), showed broad antibacterial activity against Gram-positive but no activity against Gram-negative strains. We determined that 4-H-3-(MB)AP permeabilizes bacterial membranes and precludes cell division by disrupting Gram-positive bacteria divisome, suggesting that the synthesis of teichoic acid is inhibited.
Conclusions: We conclude that 4-H-3-(MB)AP is one of the active compounds of S. graveolens extract responsible for its antibacterial activity. In the light of the need of new drugs against multi-resistant bacteria, 4-H-3-(MB)AP is a candidate for further chemical modification studies and practical approaches.
... [ [285][286][287][288] ...
The Serra da Estrela Natural Park (NPSE) in Portugal stands out as a well-preserved region abundant in medicinal plants, particularly known for their pharmaceutical applications in diabetes prevention and treatment. This comprehensive review explores these plants’ botanical diversity, traditional uses, pharmacological applications, and chemical composition. The NPSE boast a rich diversity with 138 medicinal plants across 55 families identified as traditionally and pharmacologically used against diabetes globally. Notably, the Asteraceae and Lamiaceae families are prevalent in antidiabetic applications. In vitro studies have revealed their significant inhibition of carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes, and certain plant co-products regulate genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and insulin secretion. In vivo trials have demonstrated antidiabetic effects, including glycaemia regulation, insulin secretion, antioxidant activity, and lipid profile modulation. Medicinal plants in NPSE exhibit various activities beyond antidiabetic, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-cancer, and more. Chemical analyses have identified over fifty compounds like phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and polysaccharides responsible for their efficacy against diabetes. These findings underscore the potential of NPSE medicinal plants as antidiabetic candidates, urging further research to develop effective plant-based antidiabetic drugs, beverages, and supplements.
... Various cases of Senecio poisoning have been reported for about a hundred years (Basson, 1987;Gava and Barros, 1997;Giles, 1983;Selzer and Parker, 1951;Stillman et al., 1977;Van Schalkwyk et al., 2021;Willmot and Robertson, 1920). On the other hand, from a pharmacological perspective, Senecio species have shown effects in antimicrobial and anti-bacterial (Pérez et al., 1999), anti-fungal (Loizzo et al., 2004), anti-inflammatory (Pérez González et al., 2013;Zahoor et al., 2023), anti-tumor (Dou et al., 2017), anti-diabetic (Ayoola et al., 2019;Mahmoud et al., 2011), and anti-oxidant (Faraone et al., 2018;Lounis et al., 2018), suggesting their potential for future medicinal purposes. Therefore, under appropriate management, Senecio species can be considered suitable for use as ornamental succulents or medicinal crops. ...
Senecio haworthii is a succulent plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Optimal growth conditions for this species have not been well-established. In this study, we investigated the optimal day/night temperature range for enhancing the growth and ornamental quality of S. haworthii. Four day/night temperature treatments were designed as follows: 20/15, 24/19, 28/23, and 32/27°C. Based on the plant sizes and biomass analysis, the best growth performance was determined to be achieved under a relatively low-temperature treatment of 20/15°C. Conversely, the 32/27°C treatment resulted in the lowest growth rates, likely attributed to decreased leaf function caused by prolonged exposure to high-temperature conditions. Additionally, leaf color analysis using the CIELAB color space revealed that CIELAB L* , representing lightness, and CIELAB a* , indicating green-red opponent colors, proportionally increased with the rise in day/night temperature levels. Previous studies have reported an inverse relationship between L* and plant growth parameters. Consistent with previous research, the treatment at 32/27°C, which exhibited the lowest growth, showed higher L* values. Conversely, the CIELAB b* value, representing blue-yellow opponent colors, was highest under the 20/15°C treatment, suggesting leaf-yellowing tendencies in relatively lower temperature conditions. Based on the color difference analysis using CIE76 color difference (ΔE*ab), temperatures of 20/15 and 24/19°C were used as reference points; under these conditions, the temperatures of 28/23 and 32/27°C were evaluated as having a ‘small color difference’. Therefore, even with significant differences in day/night temperatures, no noticeable differences were concluded to be found in leaf color. Based on these findings, cultivating S. haworthii in relatively low-temperature conditions of around 20/15°C is concluded to be advantageous for enhancing both plant growth and ornamental quality compared to higher temperature conditions such as 32/27°C.
... The minimum concentration of isolated compounds (1-4) at which no growth of microorganisms occurred (MIC), was determined against both S. aureus and S. epidermidis strains by using the broth dilution method (Loizzo et al., 2004). Nutrient broth and Sabouraud Dextrose broth (100 μl) were distributed into 96-wells plates. ...
... So, the flavonoids are widely distributed in Senecio genus and contain benzopyrone that use as antioxidants or free radical scavengers. Also, phenol have good free radical scavenger activity while, the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in spite of their toxicity when used internally, but it has good antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activity which proved by many experimental work [22,23] . All these constituents will impart great benefit when a certain medicament obtained from this plant like cream or ointment which is used locally for skin microbial infection. ...
Objective: Senecio vulgaris Linn. Commonly known as common groundsel, and in Iraq it was called Sheikh Al-Rabee or AL-Kurresa is widely distributed in the middle and south areas of Iraq and there was no systemic study in the literature regarding the phytoconstituents present in the Iraqi Senecio vulgaris L. Hence, the present study was aimed to determine the presence of biologically important secondary metabolites and to study the structures of some isolated pyrrolizidine alkaloids and determine their percent in this plant. Method: The ethanolic extract obtained from the Senecio vulgaris L. was subjected to phytochemical analysis to determine the presence of secondary metabolites according to standard protocols. The alkaloid rich fraction was subjected to preparative thin layer chromatography in order to isolate certain pyrrolizidine alkaloids after authentication the presence of these alkaloids by comparison with their standards. Isolated pyrrolizidine alkaloids were subjected to high performance liquid chromatography analysis and their retention times were compared with the retention times of the standards. Also, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy was used to determine the structure of isolated pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Results: The qualitative analysis revealed the presence of biologically active secondary metabolites like flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, tannins, saponine, glycosides, and toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the ethanolic extract obtained from the whole plant. Senecionine and seneciphylline/or their geometrical isomer were isolated from alkaloids rich fraction. Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate the presence of many important secondary metabolites present in the ethanolic extract of Iraqi Senecio vulgaris L. which is not determined before in Iraq. Also, this study proved the presence of some pyrrolizidine alkaloids in this plant and their structure was authenticated depending on their standards.
... Furthermore, phenol has good free radical scavenger actions, whereas the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in spite of their toxicity when used internally, still possess good antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal activity which is proved by many experimental works 15,16 . β-sitosterol also seems to modulate the immune function, inflammation and the pain levels by modulating the production of inflammatory cytokines 17 . ...
Objective: Senecio vulgaris Linn. generally known as common groundsel, known in Iraq as Sheikh Al-Rabeeor Al-Kurresa, which is widely distributed in the south and middle parts of Iraq. There was no systemic study in the literature regarding the phytoconstituents that are present in Iraqi's Senecio vulgaris Linn. Thus, the present study was aimed to examine the presence of some biologically important secondary metabolites that are present in this plant as well as investigate the essential oil components and their percentage presenting it. Method: The steroid rich fraction was subjected to analytical thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis in order to identify the presence of steroidal compounds, after authentication and by comparison of these steroids with their standards. Also, the essential oil obtained from this plant by Clevenger apparatus was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to determine the types and quantities of the monoterpenoids, diterpenoids, and triterpenoids present. Results: The qualitative analysis performed by TLC and HPLC revealed the presence of biologically active secondary metabolites such as stigmasterol and β-sitosterol is a steroidal rich fraction. GC-MS revealed the presence of different types of terpenoids present in essential oil obtained from Senecio vulgaris plant. Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate the presence of many important secondary metabolites in the steroid rich fraction and the volatile oil obtained from Iraqi Senecio vulgaris L, which has not been examined before in Iraq. Also, this study provides researchers a good idea about the types and the percentage of the volatile oil present in this plant.
... The minimum concentration of isolated compounds (1-3) at which no growth of microorganisms occurred (MIC), were determined against S. aureus, E. coli, A. flavus, C. albicans, strains by using broth dilution method [68]. Nutrient broth and Sabouraud Dextrose broth (100 μl) were distributed into 96-wells plate. ...
... So, the flavonoids are widely distributed in Senecio genus and contain benzopyrone that use as antioxidants or free radical scavengers. Also, phenol have good free radical scavenger activity while, the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in spite of their toxicity when used internally, but it has good antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activity which proved by many experimental work [22,23] . All these constituents will impart great benefit when a certain medicament obtained from this plant like cream or ointment which is used locally for skin microbial infection. ...
Objective: Senecio vulgaris Linn. Commonly known as common groundsel, and in Iraq it was called Sheikh Al-Rabee or AL-Kurresa is widely distributed in the middle and south areas of Iraq and there was no systemic study in the literature regarding the phytoconstituents present in the Iraqi Senecio vulgaris L. Hence, the present study was aimed to determine the presence of biologically important secondary metabolites and to study the structures of some isolated pyrrolizidine alkaloids and determine their percent in this plant. Method: The ethanolic extract obtained from the Senecio vulgaris L. was subjected to phytochemical analysis to determine the presence of secondary metabolites according to standard protocols. The alkaloid rich fraction was subjected to preparative thin layer chromatography in order to isolate certain pyrrolizidine alkaloids after authentication the presence of these alkaloids by comparison with their standards. Isolated pyrrolizidine alkaloids were subjected to high performance liquid chromatography analysis and their retention times were compared with the retention times of the standards. Also, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy was used to determine the structure of isolated pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Results: The qualitative analysis revealed the presence of biologically active secondary metabolites like flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, tannins, saponine, glycosides, and toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the ethanolic extract obtained from the whole plant. Senecionine and seneciphylline/or their geometrical isomer were isolated from alkaloids rich fraction. Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate the presence of many important secondary metabolites present in the ethanolic extract of Iraqi Senecio vulgaris L. which is not determined before in Iraq. Also, this study proved the presence of some pyrrolizidine alkaloids in this plant and their structure was authenticated depending on their standards.
... Furthermore, phenol has good free radical scavenger actions, whereas the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in spite of their toxicity when used internally, still possess good antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal activity which is proved by many experimental works 15,16 . β-sitosterol also seems to modulate the immune function, inflammation and the pain levels by modulating the production of inflammatory cytokines 17 . ...
... A literature survey revealed that Senecio species were used in folk medicine in the Mediterranean area as anti-inflammatory, vasodilating agents and for treatment of wounds (Conforti et al. 2006a), asthma and also eczema (Hammond et al. 1998). Moreover, some studies have reported the cytotoxic activity of these species (Tundis et al. 2009), while others were focused on the biological activities and more attention has been paid not only to antioxidant activity or finding some natural cholinesterases (ChEs) inhibitors for the management of cognitive/mental and memory disorders (Odubanjo et al. 2018), but also to the antibacterial and antifungal properties of these species (Loizzo et al. 2004). Furthermore, a study has indicated that antimicrobial activity may vary according to the plant species, the composition of its components, as well as the ecological or the environmental factors and methods used in the study (Balpinar and Okmen 2019). ...
Senecio angulatus L.f. is a flowering plant from the Asteraceae family that is native to South Africa and which was observed recently in the north and the east of Algeria. This study was aimed for the first time, to evaluate concomitantly phytochemical profiles, using LC-ESI/MS analysis, following by testing and assessing in vitro antioxidant and antiacetylcholinesterase activities of these specific species. The results indicated that the hydromethanolic and the acetate extracts have shown remarkable potent inhibitory effects on AChE with IC50 of (6.04 ± 0.05; 6.72 ± 0.10 µg/mL) respectively along with antioxidant potential of acetate for FRAP and phenanthroline methods with A0.5 of (11.15 ± 0.72; 5.72 ± 0.13 µg/mL) successively. Moreover, a high amount of cynarin and trans-ferulic acid was found in this extract whilst butanolic extract has recorded the highest amount of chlorogenic acid. Indeed phenolic compounds usually have a hydroxyl in their structure which may contribute significantly to the antioxidant activity.
... Species of this genus are notable for the production of compounds, such as monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, flavonoids and alkaloids (de Vivar et al. 2007;Mendonça Soares et al. 2019). The essential oils of some Senecio species have been evaluated for possessing biological activities such as antimicrobial, insecticide, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities (Loizzo et al. 2004;Toma et al. 2004). ...
The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the acaricidal activity of Senecio cannabifolius essential oil, and two of its constituents, eucalyptol and camphor. Efficacy against females and larvae of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus was assessed by the adult immersion test (AIT) and the larval immersion test (LIT). The oil was analyzed by gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID) and GC-mass spectrometry (MS) and in total 68 components were identified representing 99.2% of the essential oil. AIT revealed that the oil, eucalyptol, and camphor at the highest concentration presented efficacy of 68.9, 57.1, and 71.9%, respectively. LIT revealed that the essential oil and camphor achieved 100% mortality at concentration of 1.6% wt/vol, whereas eucalyptol showed moderate inhibitory activity. Biochemical assays indicated that the essential oil and camphor can reduce significantly overall detoxification enzyme activities in engorged females and larvae at high concentration (≥ 0.4% wt/vol), whereas the inhibitory effect of eucalyptol is weaker than that of the oil and camphor. Taken together our results indicated that the S. cannabifolius essential oil and its isolated constituent had potential for the development of a new and safe acaricide for the control of R. microplus ticks.
... Although there are no formal reports on the traditional uses of ssp. Coronopifolius, Senecio sp. have found use in folk medicine as anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, vasodilatator 3 , hypoglycemic drug 4 and for treatment of coughs, fever, colds and hepatic disorders 5 , eczema, wounds, bronchitis and asthma 6 . Biological functions of Senecio sp. ...
Chemical profiles of essential oils hydrodistilled from whole plants of Senecio glaucus ssp. coronopifolius (Maire) Alexander and aerial parts of Ridolfia segetum (L.) Moris growing in Morocco were determined using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The analysis identified 84 compounds in the oil isolated from S. glaucus ssp. coronopifolius and 61 constituents in R. segetum oil. Both oils had a predominance of monoterpene hydrocarbons. α-Pinene (26.2 %) was the main compound of S. glaucus ssp. coronopifolius oil, followed by myrcene (11.4 %) and p-cymene (9.9 %). Novelly (Z)-β-ocimene (19.7 %) dominated R. segetum oil, followed by β-phellandrene (9.6 %) and β-pinene (8.6 %). This is the first report of (Z)-β-ocimene-rich essential oil from R. segetum and α-pinene-rich essential oil from S. glaucus ssp. coronopifolius, revealing new chemical profiles for both species. The oils have potential in agroecological and pharmaceutical formulations, serving both economic and medicinal applications.
... In addition, several classes of various natural compounds from the Senecio genera have been isolated and characterized [7][8][9][10]. Some of these classes of natural products have shown significant medicinal properties, such as antiviral [11], antioxidant [12], antifungal, antibacterial [13], antidiabetic [14], and cytotoxic properties [15][16][17]. ...
Current treatments for complex diseases have remarkable side effects that negatively impact patients' quality of life. Thus, natural compounds with fewer side effects represent a promising source for safe drugs. The genus Senecio is widely used in folk medicine due to its various pharmacological properties. In the present study, the total phenolic content of Senecio glaucus, which is grown in Saudi Arabia, was assessed using the Folin-Ciocalteau colorimetric method. Scavenging DPPH and ABTS assays were utilized to determine the antioxidant properties of S. glaucus fractions, and MTT assay was used to screen the cytotoxic activity of S. glaucus against various cancer cells. In addition, HPLC-UV was utilized to detect the presence of two phenolic acids, namely, vanillic acid (VA) and gallic acid (GA). Among all fractions tested, S. glaucus chloroform fraction (SGCF) yielded the highest value (125.3 mg·GA/g) in terms of total phenolic content. SGCF also exhibited the highest scavenging activities (76.7 and 74.1%) on both DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. Similarly, SGCF also possessed the most potent cytotoxic activity against the MCF-7 cell line, with an IC50 value of 41.8 μg/ml. The validated HPLC method confirmed the presence of VA (4.8 μg/mg DW) and GA (3.9 μg/mg DW) in SGCF. Overall, our data show that S. glaucus had antioxidant and cytotoxic properties. A developed validated HPLC method which could be helpful for quantifying phenolic compounds in S. glaucus was established.
... Several antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities of the extracts, fractions and compounds isolated from Senecio species had been reported (Barbetti et al. 1986;P erez et al. 1999;Kiprono et al. 2000;El-Shazly et al. 2002;Garcıa et al. 2003;Loizzo et al. 2004;Loizzo et al. 2006;Loizzo et al. 2007). For example; the ethyl acetate fractions of S. leucanthemifolius Poiret, S. aegyptius var. ...
The ethyl acetate fraction of the dried aerial parts of Senecio glaucus L. exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against some of selected bacteria and fungi. Also, it showed potent cytotoxicity against PANC-1 cancer cell lines under glucose deficient medium. The ethyl acetate fraction was subjected to different chromatographic techniques for isolation of the bioactive compounds. A new benzofuran glucoside; 2,3-dihydro-3β-hydroxyeuparin 3-O-glucopyranoside (1) was isolated. Additionally, two known flavonoid compounds isorhamentin 3-O-β-D-glucoside (2), and isorhamentin 3-O-β-D-rutinoside (3) were first identified in S. glaucus. Compound 1 exhibited potent antimicrobial activities against two Gram-positive bacteria, one Gram-negative bacteria, and two fungi. Also, it displayed potent cytotoxic activity against PANC-1 cancer cell lines under glucose deficient medium (IC50 7.5 μM). However, the isolated flavonoid glycosides (2 & 3) showed moderate antimicrobial activities against two Gram-positive bacteria, two Gram-negative bacteria, four fungi, and did not show any cytotoxic activity against PANC-1.
... Among them, 22 species are found in Morocco [16]. Senecio species have been used in folk medicine as anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, emmenagogue, vasodilatator, stomach pain reliever and for treatment of hepatic disorders, wounds, coughs, fever, colds, asthma, bronchitis, and eczema [17][18][19][20][21]. Essential oils isolated from Senecio species possess antibacterial [22][23][24][25], antifungal [26,27] and insectrepellent [17] activities. ...
Essential oils are widely investigated as an alternative or complementary approach to broad-spectrum synthetic pesticides. In the present study, essential oil of Senecio glaucus subsp. coronopifolius was screened for its antifungal, nematicidal, acaricidal and repellent activities against the phytopathogens Botrytis cinerea, Meloidogyne javanica and Tetranychus urticae Koch under laboratory conditions. The volatile phase method (VF) and poisoned food method (PF) were adopted to test the antifungal activity of the essential oil. The oil gave 83% inhibition at 16 μL/ml using the PF method. VF method showed 86% inhibition of mycelial growth of B. cinerea at 0.8 μL/ml air. To check the nematicidal activity of the essential oil, two bioassays targeted the mortality of second stage juvenile (J2) and hatch inhibition of M. javanica eggs. 95% immobility of J2 and 92% inhibition of egg hatch were recorded at 16,000 ppm. The effect exerted by the oil was nematostatic. In the case of mites, a leaf dip bioassay revealed 100% mortality of T. urticae adults, and repellency of 24% after exposure to the oil at 80% concentration. Chemical profile of S. glaucus essential oil was obtained using GC–MS. Terpenic compounds, such as indicated α-pinene (26.2%), myrcene (11.4%), p-cymene (9.9%), β-pinene (7.7%), γ-muurolene (4%), deoxynivalenol (3.1%) and α-phellandrene (2.7%) were identified as the major components. The findings indicated that S. glaucus essential oil has the potential for management of these pathogens.
... Drimia sanguinea and Senecio longiflorus exhibited moderate to weak (MIC of 1.56-12.5 mg/mL) fungistatic properties. The antifungal activity of other members of Senecio, especially Senecio vulgaris against pathogenic Candida albicans, Mycosporum gypseum and Trichophyton tonsurans has been reported [43]. The authors observed the resistance of Candida albicans to extracts from Senecio fluviatilis, Senecio nemorensis, Senecio pseudo-orientalis and Senecio racemosus. ...
Although orthodox medications are available for skin diseases, expensive dermatological services have necessitated the use of medicinal plants as a cheaper alternative. This study evaluated the pharmacological and phytochemical profiles of four medicinal plants (Drimia sanguinea, Elephantorrhiza elephantina, Helichrysum paronychioides, and Senecio longiflorus) used for treating skin diseases. Petroleum ether and 50% methanol extracts of the plants were screened for antimicrobial activity against six microbes: Bacillus cereus, Shigella flexneri, Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton tonsurans using the micro-dilution technique. Antioxidant activity was conducted using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging and β-carotene linoleic acid models. Cytotoxicity was determined against African green monkey Vero kidney cells based on the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetric assay. Spectrophotometric and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) methods were used to evaluate the phytochemical constituents. All the extracts demonstrated varying degrees of antimicrobial potencies. Shigella flexneri, Candida glabrata, Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton tonsurans were most susceptible at 0.10 mg/mL. In the DPPH test, EC50 values ranged from approximately 6–93 µg/mL and 65%–85% antioxidant activity in the β-carotene linoleic acid antioxidant activity model. The phenolic and flavonoid contents ranged from 3.5–64 mg GAE/g and 1.25–28 mg CE/g DW, respectively. The LC50 values of the cytotoxicity assay ranged from 0.015–5622 µg/mL. GC-MS analysis revealed a rich pool (94–198) of bioactive compounds including dotriacontane, benzothiazole, heptacosane, bumetrizole, phthalic acid, stigmasterol, hexanoic acid and eicosanoic acid, which were common to the four plants. The current findings provide some degree of scientific evidence supporting the use of these four plants in folk medicine. However, the plants with high cytotoxicity need to be used with caution.
... The above antimicrobial activity results for the flowers of S. abyssinicus extracts further confirms the effectiveness of its flower as a rich source of antimicrobial agent for the food and pharmaceutical industries. Uzun et al. 16 17 reported the results of the test for antibacterial and antifungal activities of Senecio inaequidens DC. and Senecio vulgaris L. The methanol extract of S. vulgaris showed antimicrobial activity against the Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus while that of S. inaequidens showed no antimicrobial activity against those organisms. Gram-negative bacteria were unaffected by the methanol extracts and any of the fractions of both Senecio species. ...
With the emergence of more resistant pathogenic microorganisms against synthetic antibiotic, it is pertinent to search for plant extracts with broad spectrum antimicrobial compounds from folklore medicine. The n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanolic extract of Senecio abyssinicus flower were investigated for their phytochemical composition, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Standard methods, disk diffusion method and 2, 2-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl free radical (DPPH .) were used to determine the phytochemical composition, the antimicrobial activity and the in-vitro antioxidant activity respectively. The flower was found to contain alkaloids, flavonoid, saponins, tannins, anthraquinones and steroids. The antibacteria linvestigation of the n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts of Senecio abyssinicus flower inhibited the growth of Staphyloccocus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at concentrations between 50 and 200mg/ml. The ethyl acetate extract exhibited higher intrinsic antifungal properties on Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus stolon, and Pneumonae notatum. Only the methanol extract acted as hydrogen/electrons donor or scavenger of radicals with IC 50 of 46.24 μg/mL while that of Ascobic acid (standard) was found to be 12.24 μg/mL.
... The genus Senecio (Asteraceae) comprises approximately 1500 species [10]. Plants belonging to this genus are known for the production of compounds such as alkaloids, sesquiterpenes, and flavonoids [11] and for their anti-inflammatory, vasodilator, antiemetic, antimicrobial, and parasiticide activities [12][13][14]. ...
Background
Haemonchosis affects sheep husbandry and its treatment is often compromised due to the development of anthelminthic resistance. Plant-derived bioactive compounds have been studied as alternative to control Haemonchus contortus. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Senecio brasiliensis extracts on H. contortus egg hatching and infective larvae migration.
Results
The aqueous extract from dried and fresh plant and alkaloid-enriched fraction of the previously dried leaves of S. brasiliensis inhibited H. contortus egg hatching. The main plant compound in alkaloid fraction was integerrimine, a pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA). However, the aqueous extract from dried plant displayed higher efficacy when compared to their alkaloid enriched or non-polar fractions, meaning that, although PAs contributed to the ovicidal effect, other compounds in the plant can also contribute to their effect. Furthermore, the aqueous extract from dried plant also had higher efficacy than aqueous extract from fresh plant in larvae migration inhibition. Finally, extract from dried plant presented low in vitro cytotoxic effect.
Conclusion
Taken together our results suggest a good anthelmintic effect of S. brasiliensis, especially when aqueous extract is prepared from dried plant. Further in vivo studies should be performed focused on forms of administration of this extract in rearing sheep.
... The above antimicrobial activity results for the flowers of S. abyssinicus extracts further confirms the effectiveness of its flower as a rich source of antimicrobial agent for the food and pharmaceutical industries. Uzun et al. 16 17 reported the results of the test for antibacterial and antifungal activities of Senecio inaequidens DC. and Senecio vulgaris L. The methanol extract of S. vulgaris showed antimicrobial activity against the Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus while that of S. inaequidens showed no antimicrobial activity against those organisms. Gram-negative bacteria were unaffected by the methanol extracts and any of the fractions of both Senecio species. ...
With the emergence of more resistant pathogenic microorganisms against synthetic antibiotic, it is petinent to search for plant extracts with broad spectrum antimicrobial compounds from folklore medicine. The n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanolic extract of Senecio abyssinicus flower were investigated for their phytochemical composition, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Standard methods, disk diffusion method and 2,2-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl free radical (DPPH .) were used to determine the phytochemical composition, the antimicrobial activity and the in-vitro antioxidant activity respectively. The flower was found to contain alkaloids, flavonoid, saponins, tannins, anthraquinones and steroids. The antibacteria investigation of the n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanolic extract of Senecio abyssinicus flower inhibited the growth of Staphyloccocus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at concentrations between 50 and 200mg/ml. The ethyl acetate extracts exhibited higher intrinsic antifungal properties on Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus stolon, and Pneumonae notatum. Only methanol the methanol extract acted as hydrogen/electrons donor or scavenger of radicals with IC 50 of 46.24 μg/mL while that of Ascobic acid (standard) was found to be 12.24 μg/mL.
... Loizzo et al. surveyed the antifungal activity of methanol, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, n-hexane, n-butanol and chloroform extracts of Senecio inaequidens D.C. and Senecio vulgaris L. (Asteraceae). The hexane extract of S. vulgaris showed significant activity against Trichophyton tonsurans (IC50 of 0.031 mg/ mL) [45]. Also, other researcher reported the extract of the ethyl acetate of Jengkol leaf contained triterpenic compounds were inhibited the growth of E. coli and S. aureus [22]. ...
Objective:
Among the fungi, dermatophytes are the major cause of spectrum of superficial mycoses medically known as dermatophytosis (tinea) in human and animal. Treatment of these infections has still remained difficult. The aim of this survey was to evaluate in vitro anti-dermatophytic activity of ethanolic extract (EtOH) from Satureja khuzestanica leaf (SKLE) against some clinically important dermatophyte species from the genera of Trichophyton, Microsporum and Epidermophyton. Minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) of SKLE was tested against 14 dermatophyte strains of 5 species by using agar dilution method. Phytochemical screening of SKLE was carried out by High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). The results of in vitro anti-dermatophytic activity of SKLE showed with MIC values between 1.250 and 10mg/mL. MIC90 and MIC50 values were as 0.625-1.250 and 0.156-0.312mg/mL, respectively. The MFC values of SKLE were in the range of 1.250-2.50mg/mL and possessed biological activity against dermatophytes. Morever, phytochemical analysis by HPTLC revealed that the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extracts of SKL contain triterpenes which are known to have biological activity and it seems that this compound be responsible for the anti-dermatophytic activity of this plant. In conclusion, the results of in vitro antifungal susceptibility testing and phytochemical screening revealed that SKLE had both fungistatic and fungicidal activities against dermatophytes and can potentially be helpful as a supplementary or alternative for treatment of dermatophytosis.
... These species are known to produce many insecticidal compounds such as alkaloids, sesquiterpenes, chalcones, and flavonoids (Romo de Vivar et al. 2007). This genus has also been associated with anti-inflammatory, vasodilator, antiemetic, and antimicrobial activities (Rodríguez & López 2001;Rosa et al. 2004). Studies of insecticidal activity have been conducted with Senecio umbrosus Waldst. ...
Plant extracts can be used as an alternative to synthetic insecticides for the control of insect pests. Based on this knowledge, juvenomimetic and insecticidal activities of n-hexane extracts of the aerial parts of Senecio salignus DC. (Asteraceae) and Salvia microphylla Kunth (Lamiaceae) collected in Mexico were evaluated against 1st instar larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda Smith & Abbot (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Senecio salignus extract showed insecticidal activity at 500 ppm, resulting in larval mortality of 52.5% and pupal mortality of 62.5%. Salvia microphylla extract at the same concentration caused larval mortality of 65.0% and pupal mortality of 82.5%. The LC50 was 440 ppm for S. salignus extract and 456 ppm for S. microphylla extract based on the total larval period. The juvenomimetic activity of S. salignus extract at 500 ppm increased the duration of the larval period to 17.3 d and of the pupal period to 1.4 d. It also reduced pupal weight by 34.7% with respect to the control (241 mg). For S. microphylla extract at 500 ppm, the duration of the larval and pupal periods were increased by 2.0 and 12.1 d, respectively, and the pupal weight was reduced by 14.1% with respect to the control (243 mg). The major compounds of S. salignus extract were γ-sitosterol, palmitic acid, lupeol, and β-amyrin, and those of S. microphylla extract were oleic acid, γ-sitosterol, (Z,Z,Z)-9,12,15-octadecatrien-1-ol, and palmitic acid. These results indicate that both extracts have potential to be used to control S. frugiperda due to their juvenomimetic and insecticidal activities.
... To the best of our knowledge, literature survey shows that there are no information on the biological activity of essential oil of S. pterophorus. However, there are reports on the biological activities of essential oils of some species of the genus Senecio [13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27]. ...
... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Allium cepa 0 0 0 0 0 0 anticoccidial, increase production of digestive enzymes and improve utilization of digestive products by enhancing liver functions (Hernandez et al., 2009). There have been some studies on the antifungal activity of plant extracts (Wilson et al., 1997), inhibitory effects of aqueous extracts of garlic and onion (Shams et al., 2003), antimicrobial effects of garlic, ginger and lime (Onyeagba et al., 2004), antibacterial and antifungal activity of Senecio (Loizze et al., 2004), antimicrobial activity of garlic and onion extracts (Elnima et al., 1983) and effects of aromatic plants essential oils, lime and garlic skin on birds intestinal bacteria (Davis et al., 1994). Plant extracts represent a rich potential source of alternative and environmentally acceptable control agents for infectious organisms due to their antimicrobial properties . ...
This study was done to determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the aqueous extracts of garlic (Allium sativum), mint (Menthe spp.) and onion (Allium cepa) in in vitro conditions against the Escherichia coli isolated from broiler chickens. E. coli was isolated from the infected tissues of the chickens which were suspected of Colibacillus infection. In this study, distilled water, phenol phenicol and floxacin antibiotics were used as control. E. coli was sensitive to antibiotics, but distilled water had no inhibitory effect on the activity of E. coli. In this experiment, each of the aqueous extracts was prepared by using distilled water in 6 concentrations: 0.5, 1, 2.5, 5, 10 and 20%, and was poured into the cavities in nutrient agar medium, and then the plates were kept in incubator at 37°C for 24 h. The results indicated that MIC of the garlic aqueous extract was 5%, but E. coli was resistant to the aqueous extracts of onion and mint.
... An antifungal and antibacterial active compound from S. lyratus methanol extract was isolated and identified by Kiprono et al. (2000). Loizzo et al., (2004) reported that MIC values of S. vulgaris methanol extract against the Gram (+) bacteria, B. subtilis and S. aureus were 0.5 and 0.125 mg/ml, respectively, while S. inaequidens showed no antimicrobial activity against those organisms (MIC > 1 mg/ml). In the same study, it has been reported that Gram (-) bacteria (E. coli and P. aeruginosa) were unaffected by the methanol extracts of both S. inaequidens and S. vulgaris. ...
The present study was conducted to investigate total phenolic contents, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of four Senecio L. (Asteraceae). The in vitro antioxidant activities of extracts were evaluated with different antioxidant testing systems. Their antioxidant activities were assessed by phosphomolybdenum reduction, DPPH and β-carotene bleaching assays. The extracts exhibited strong antioxidant activity and high scavenging activities against DPPH free radicals. The extracts exhibited weak to moderate β-carotene bleaching activity. The antimicrobial activity of Senecio extracts was tested against 15 microorganisms using agar diffusion and broth microdilution assays. The extracts were found to be weak to moderate effective against 8 out of the 15 microorganisms tested with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 1.5 to 12.5 mg/ml. In conclusion, it can be concluded that Senecio extracts may be considered as natural sources in many industry such as food and pharmacy.
... Senecio is the largest and most complex genus in the family of the Asteraceae having more than 1500 species distributed widely throughout the world (Loizzo et al. 2004). Many reports on the chemical composition of the essential oils of Senecio species have been reported (Vera et al. 1994;El-Shazly 1999;Balzaretti et al. 2000;Baser & Demirci 2004;Chalchat et al. 2004;Belaunde et al. 2007;Mirza & Baher 2008;Nori-Shargh et al. 2008). ...
The composition of essential oil isolated from Senecio nudicaulis Wall. ex DC. growing wild in Himachal Pradesh, India, was analysed, for the first time, by capillary gas chromatography (GC) and GC-mass spectrometry. A total of 30 components representing 95.3% of the total oil were identified. The essential oil was characterised by a high content of oxygenated sesquiterpenes (54.97%) with caryophyllene oxide (24.99%) as the major component. Other significant constituents were humulene epoxide-II (21.25%), α-humulene (18.75%), β-caryophyllene (9.67%), epi-α-cadinol (2.90%), epi-α-muurolol (2.03%), β-cedrene (1.76%), longiborneol (1.76%), 1-tridecene (1.16%) and citronellol (1.13%). The oil was screened for antioxidant activity using DPPH, ABTS and nitric oxide-scavenging assay. The oil was found to exhibit significant antioxidant activity by scavenging DPPH, ABTS and nitric oxide radicals with IC50 values of 10.61 ± 0.14 μg mL(- 1), 11.85 ± 0.28 μg mL(- 1) and 11.29 ± 0.42 μg mL(- 1), respectively.
... There are different reports about the use of onion and garlic aqueous extracts (Shams et al., 2003), the antifungal effects of essential oils and herbal extracts (Wilson et al., 1997), the effect of garlic extract on chickens (Hidajati, 2005), the antimicrobial effect of onion and garlic extracts (Elnima et al., 1983), the effect of garlic essential oil on the poultry intestinal bacteria (Zennere et al., 2003), the antifungal and antibacterial activity of Senecio plant (Loizze et al., 2004), the effect of the mixture of herbal extracts on the broiler chickens infected with Eimeria tenella (Christaki et al., 2004) and the effect of dietary herbal supplements on the quality of fresh and frozen meat (Gardzielewska et al., 2003). ...
This study was done to determine the effects of garlic, mint and onion in feeding of the broiler chickens as a growth natural factor (GNF) instead of antibiotics. First, the antibacterial effects and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.5, 1, 2.5, 5, 10 and 20% concentrations of aqueous extracts of garlic (Allium sativum), mint (Mentha spp.) and onion (Allium cepa) on E. coli were determined in in vitro conditions. Results show that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of garlic extract was 0.5%. Distilled water, phenol phenicol and Floxacin were used as solvent and control. In the next step, the effects of adding garlic to the diet of broiler chickens were analyzed at farm. 300 day-old broilers (Arbor Acres Plus) were divided into groups of 60 birds each and randomly assigned to the five treatment diets. Each treatment has three replicates. These chickens were kept up to the age of 56 days (8 weeks), all under study and fed with the standard ration. According to the corrections, adding 8% garlic to the diet was equal to the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in the lab. As a result, we used garlic itself instead of its aqueous extract in the diet. The different experimental groups did not receive any antibiotic and growth additives. The different experimental groups were as follows. The 1 st group which was considered as the control group received feed without garlic. The 2 nd group, one day in week, during breeding period received feed containing 8% garlic. The 3 rd group, 2 days in week, during breeding period received feed containing 8% garlic. The 4 th group, one day in week and in the 1 st , 4 th , 5 th , 6 th , 7 th and 8 th weeks, received feed containing 8% garlic. The 5 th group, 2 days in week and in the 1 st , 4 th , 6 th , 7 th , and 8 th weeks, received feed containing 8% garlic. During the conduct of the study, the performance of broiler chickens was recorded and then analyzed statistically. In the end, the results show that adding 8% of garlic to the feed of broiler chickens, in the probability level of 5% statistically did not have a significant effect on feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, the mean of chicken's weight, mortality percentage, dressing percentage, offal percentage, abdominal fat weight, weight of liver, spleen, pancreas, cecum, leg and breast and cecum and intestine size and taste (p>0.05), although, there was a little difference in the case of feed intake, weight gain, mortality percentage, intestine size and taste among different experimental groups. As a result, groups that consumed garlic showed a better performance.
Senecio plants (Asteraceae) have been used to treat a wide range of ailments in traditional medicine. Current work has unveiled the identification of EO metabolites of collected S. glaucus from Egypt's Nile delta using GC‐MS and GC‐FID. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity has been investigated. Then, radical scavenging activity was evaluated using DPPH, ABTS, and metal chelating techniques. Also, the molecular docking studies were performed for the main compounds. Fifty components were identified within 98.80% of the total mass. Sesquiterpenes and monoterpenes constitute the main components. Dehyrofukinone (27.15%), 4,5‐di‐epi‐aristolochene (10.27%), and p‐cymene (4.77%) represented the most predominant constituents. The oil has showed remarkable antifungal activity against C. glabrata and C. albicans within the MIC and MFC values of 3.13 and 1.5 µg/ml‐1 and 12.5 and 6.3 µg/ml‐1, respectively. Also, this oil inhibited the growth of the tested bacteria with MIC ranging from 12.50‐100 µg/ml‐1. In comparison to ascorbic acid and Trolox, the EO had substantial scavenging activity of DPPH and ABTS radicals with IC50 values of 313.17, 493.83, and 47. µg/mL. Phytol revealed the best binding affinities toward the active sites of Gyrase B, α‐sterol demethylase, and tyrosine kinase Hck with ΔG = ‐7.42, ‐7.78, and ‐7.44 kcal/mol, respectively.
The Serra da Estrela Natural Park (NPSEs) in Portugal stands out as a well-preserved region abundant in medicinal plants, particularly known for their pharmaceutical applications in diabetes prevention and treatment. This comprehensive review explores these plants' botanical diversity, traditional uses, pharmacological applications, and chemical composition. The NPSEs boast a rich diversity with 138 medicinal plants across 55 families identified as traditionally and pharmacologically used against diabetes globally. Notably, the Asteraceae and Lamiaceae families are prevalent in anti-diabetic applications. In vitro studies reveal their significant inhibition of carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes, and certain plant co-products regulate genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and insulin secretion. In vivo trials demonstrate anti-diabetic effects, including glycaemia regulation, insulin secretion, antioxidant activity, and lipid profile modulation. Medicinal plants in NPSE exhibit various activities beyond anti-diabetic, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer, and more. Chemical analysis identifies over fifty compounds like phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and polysaccharides responsible for their efficacy against diabetes. The findings underscore the potential of NPSE medicinal plants as anti-diabetic candidates, urging further research to develop effective plant-based anti-diabetic drugs, beverages, and supplements.
The terpenoid composition of essential oils from the leaves of five Senecio species, viz., S. chrysanthemoides DC., S. rufinervis DC., S. graciliflorus DC., S. kunthianus and S. alatus Wall.ex DC., collected from the Indian Himalayan Region, was examined by GC, GC/MS, and NMR analysis. Comparison of the results with previous reports revealed new chemotype of S. chrysanthemoides and S. graciliflorus, whereas, S. kunthianus have been explored first time for their terpenoid composition. The analysis was carried out in order to discern the similarities and differences within the essential oil composition at their subspecies/chemotype level. Based on the major constituents of the essential oils, seven chemical groups were obtained. The antibacterial activity tests were also performed against five pathogenic bacteria and two fungi.
Different Senecio species, especially S. inaequidens - a neophyte native to South Africa - have widely spread across Europe and now are found worldwide. The entire genus is known to contain toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which renders them a possible health hazard to humans and livestock. As they can enter the food chain or occur as contaminants in herbal crops and phytopharmaceutical formulations (e.g. teas), efficient and straightforward assays for their qualitative and quantitative analysis are in high demand. Different techniques have been used for this purpose, most commonly HPLC or GC. As the analysis of PAs is a challenging task, alternative methodologies like ultra-high performance SFC (UHPSFC) may offer an additional benefit in terms of their separation efficiency and orthogonal selectivity. In this study an UHPSFC approach for the simultaneous determination of six PAs (free bases as well as N-oxides) is presented, which achieved the baseline separation of all standard compounds in seven min. Optimal separation was carried out in gradient mode on a Torus™ DEA column with 0.05% ammonia in methanol as modifier. The column temperature was 25 °C, ABPR 1900 psi and flow rate 1.1 mL/min, with a detection wavelength of 215 nm. The assay was validated and fulfilled all ICH criteria exhibiting good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.9994), precision (inter-day variance ≤ 3.67%, intra-day variance ≤ 3.92%) and recovery rates (96.3-104.1%), with detection limits typical for SFC-PDA (≤ 4.24 µg/mL). Furthermore, it could conveniently be coupled to MS-detection, which increased the sensitivity significantly. To confirm practical suitability of the method, different Senecio samples were analyzed, indicating a high qualitative as well as quantitative difference in their PA profile (e.g. total amounts of PA between 0.09 and 4.63 mg/g).
1
A new eremophilane sesquiterpene, 1-β-hydroxy-8-oxoeremophila-7,9-dien-12-oic acid (), in addition to two known fl avonol glycosides, rutin (2) and quercetin-3-O-glucoside- 7-O-rutinoside (3), was isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction obtained from the aqueous alcoholic extract of the aerial parts of Senecio aegyptius var. discoideus Boiss. (family Asteraceae). The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were established by 1D and 2D NMR analysis (¹H, ¹³C, COSY, HMQC, HMBC), MS and UV data, and through comparison with the literature. The ethyl acetate fraction and the isolated rutin showed significant cytotoxic activity against colorectal carcinoma (HCT 116) and to less extent against brain (U 251) and breast carcinoma (MCF 7). The ethyl acetate fraction showed a significant level of activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae, while the total extract showed the best antifungal activity against Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. DPPH radical scavenging activity of the ethyl acetate fraction was significant (96.7%) when compared to ascorbic acid. It also showed anti-inflammatory activity but no diuretic effect
In the paper, the phenolic compounds and biological activity of Corydalis oppositifolia DC. and Senecio cilicius Boiss., the endemic plants growing in Turkey, were investigated for the first time. The ethanol extract of C. oppositifolia exhibited more potent antimicrobial activity while the ethanol extract of S. cilicius exhibited the highest radical scavenging activity on ABTS (81.4±1.1a mg TE g⁻¹ extract) and DPPH (23.4±0.2a mg TE g⁻¹ extract). In C. oppositifolia, the highest total flavonoid and phenolic acid contents were found to be in the ethanol (94.2±3.5a mg QE g⁻¹ extract) and methanol (320.5±3.3c mg GAE g⁻¹ extract) extracts, respectively. In S. cilicius, the highest total flavonoid and phenolic acid contents were found to be in the methanol (56.9±0.9c mg QE g⁻¹ extract) and ethanol (568.0±3.3a mg GAE g⁻¹ extract) extracts, respectively. The ethanol extract of C. oppositifolia has the most prominent activity against α-amylase, AChE and BChE whereas the methanol extract of this plant displayed the highest inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase. HPLC analysis of the ethanol extracts revealed that the major flavonoids were kaempferol and quercetin whereas the major phenolic acids were protocatechuic acid, gallic acid, gentistic acid and 2,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid. The findings suggested that the plants and their extracts have the potential to be used in the treatment of diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer's diseases.
Senecio graciliflorus DC root extract was studied for secondary metabolite composition following bioactivity guided isolation technique. The ethyl acetate extract of Senecio graciliflorus root yielded nine chemical constituents: 3,4-di-tert-butyl toluene, stigmasterol, β -sitosterol, 2 β -(angeloyloxy)furanoeremophilane, gallic acid, 2β-{[(Z)-2-hydroxymethylbut-2-enoyl]oxy}furanoeremophilane,1-Hydroxypentan-2-yl-4-methylbenzoate, sarcinnic acid, and sitosterol 3-O- β -D-glucopyranoside. The structures of the chemical constituents were elucidated on the basis of spectral data analysis in the light of literature. All the compounds are being reported for the first time from this plant. The isolated constituents were screened for in-vitro neuroprotective effects against corticostereone induced impairment. Among various isolated compounds, three natural products (sarcinnic acid, gallic acid and β -sitosterol) displayed robust neurotropic activity. These three compounds increased neuronal cell survival in differentiated neuroblastoma cells from high dose corticosterone (400µM) induced cell death. The studies are aimed to explore small molecules for treating neurodegeneration underlying various neurological disorders to restore neuronal cell plasticity.
With the emergence of allopathic medicine system and the industrial revolution, the era of synthetic chemicals came into being which included medicines also. It reduced the load of cultivating and processing herbal medicines to get a larger amount of medicines with moderate effects in longer durations. It was gradually paralleled and later superseded by the use of purified or synthetic chemicals as drugs for treating various diseases including infections. The use of such molecules was a great success, and a revolution during world wars as the discoveries of antibiotics and their synthetic analogs took place. The use of these molecules continued and at later times became humongous as compared to traditional and herbal formulations. However, as is true with any other material, the overuse of these drugs started showing its negative aspects like side-effects, development of resistance etc. The problem specifically became huge with respect to antimicrobial compounds as the microbes started developing resistance towards all such molecules, while the problem of toxic side effects continued. The problem of drug resistance has been also observed in case of some diseases such as cancer and type 2 diabetes. This made the drug development program rethink if we should reduce the use of the synthetic compounds and start exploring back if there are safer avenues available. Exploration and research on phytochemicals present in medicinal plants and functional foods, thus, came as a safer alternative. This chapter tries to explore the information about knowledge available about phytochemicals and recent developments in this area for finding newer and better antimicrobials, anticancerous and antidiabetics.
Objective To study the chemical constituents in Senecio vulgaris. Methods The column chromatography was used for the isolation of chemical constituents. Their structures were identified on the basis of spectroscopic evidence and physiochemical properties. Results Eleven compounds were isolated from S. uvlgaris and their structures were identified as: cycloart-23Z-ene-3β, 25-diol (1), 1β, 6α-rdihydroxyeudesm-4(15)-ene (2), loliolide (3), 1β, 5α-diangeloyloxy-eudesm-( 15)-ene (4), 1β, 7αdihydroxyeudesm-4(15)-ene (5), oplopanone (6), jacaranone (7), 1'-hydroxy-2'-methoxy-4'-oxocyclo-hexanacetate methyl (8), 4-carbomethoxymethyl- 4-hydroxycyclohexanone (9), 1-hydroxy-2, 6-dime-thoxy-4-oxocyclohexanacetate methyl (10), and 2-[2, 2-dimethyl-6-oxo-7-dihydro-1, 3-benzodioxol-3 (6H)-yl] aceate methyl (11). Conclusion All compounds are obtained from this plant for the first time.
Historically, natural products have been used since ancient times traditionally for treatment
of many diseases. Chemistry and bioactivity studies ongoing for ages enabled scientists
to discover thousands of active molecules from a diverse range of chemical structures
from plants, fungi, lichens, and microorganisms. Additionally, a huge number of natural
compounds have become a model for semisynthetic or synthetic compounds and are used
by the modern pharmaceutical industry. Hence, nature is a rich source for new drug candidates
to cure various diseases.
Over 300 million people suffer from many fungal diseases, including superficial,
systemic, cutaneous, subcutaneous, and systemic mycoses, every year (Hean et al., 2011;
Global action fund for fungal infections, 2014). Among all, superficial mycoses are the most
frequent fungal diseases throughout the world (Avelar Pires et al., 2014).
Currently, several synthetic antifungal drugs used in the treatment of superficial
mycoses exhibit toxic side effects, including headaches, skin hypersensitivity, hepatic toxicity,
and gastrointestinal disturbances (Bang et al., 2000). Therefore, many researchers
have been focusing on the discovery of safe and effective antidermatophytic drugs from
natural resources. For this purpose, the screening of the plants used in traditional medicine
is an approach to drug discovery.
With the purpose of valorizing the Asteraceae family and ethnopharmacological heritage of the Meknes Tafilalet area in Morocco, an ethnobotanical study has been carried. A total of 344 interviews were done with out into the herbalists, traditional healers and druggists in the region of this area. This study enabled to inventory 48 exploited species belonging to 31 genera used to treat a variety of human diseases ; so, herbal remedies are often used to treat digestive disorders (18.6%), followed by the treatment of cardiovascular disorders (13.1%) and metabolic ones (12.5%). The leaves constitute the most used part (31.8%) and the most frequently employed modes of preparation for the majority of the remedies are the decoction (63.4%). Also, the species frequently used are : Anacyclus pyrethrum (11.6%), Dittrichia viscosa (7.6%) and Atractylis gummifera, Echinops spinosus and Calendula officinalis with 5.2 % each one. RESUME: Dans le but de valoriser la flore et le patrimoine ethno‐pharmacologique marocains, une attention particulière fut donnée à la famille des Astéracées de la région Meknès‐Tafilalet. Ainsi, une étude ethnobotanique a été réalisée auprès des herboristes, des tradipraticiens et des droguistes de la région et un total 344 fiches d'enquêtes a été rempli. 48 espèces réparties en 31 genres ont été répertoriées ; aussi, l'étude a révélé que le traitement des affections du tube digestif est le plus fréquent (18.6% des utilisations totales) suivi par le traitement des troubles cardio‐vasculaires (13.1%) et métaboliques (12.5%). Par ailleurs, la feuille constitue l'organe le plus utilisé (31.8%) et la décoction (63.4%), le mode de préparation le plus fréquemment employé pour la majorité des remèdes. En fin, les espèces les plus citées sont : Anacyclus pyrethrum (11.6%), Dittrichia viscosa (7.6%) et Atractylis gummifera, Echinops spinosus et Calendula officinalis avec 5.2 % chacune.
Essential oil composition of the aerial parts of Senecio laetus Edgew. from cold alpines of Himachal Pradesh, India was analyzed by capillary gas chromatography (GC-FID) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). A total of 24 constituents were identified, representing 91.59% of the oil composition. The oil consisted mainly of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (56.86%), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (15.58%) and oxygenated monoterpenes (13.08%). Major constituents identified were (Z)-β-Farnesene (24.80%), dihydro citronellol (13.08%), Germacrene D (12.84%) and β-Caryophyllene (4.39%). The in vitro antibacterial activity of the oil was assessed using agar well diffusion method against five bacterial strains. The oil showed appreciable antibacterial behaviour against Streptococcus mutans, Proteus mirabilis and Escherichia coli with MIC values 200 µg/ml, 150 µg/ml and 300 µg/ml respectively. The in vitro antioxidant activity of the essential oil was evaluated using DPPH, nitric oxide, and reducing power assays. The oil showed moderate antioxidant activity with DPPH and reducing power assays while good activity with nitric oxide scavenging assay (IC 50 =3.484 µl/ml). Significantly, it can be demonstrated that essential oil of Senecio laetus Edgew. could be used as a resource of antibacterial and antioxidant compounds which may find applications in food and pesticide industries.
The present study assessed the safety/toxicity of Senecio scandens, a well-known Chinese herb that is used as an anti-inflammatory, antibiosis, and antipyretic drug. A 90-day subchronic oral toxicity study of S. scandens was performed in Wistar rats. The extract of S. scandens was administered orally to male and female rats at a single dose of 225, 450, and 900 mg/kg/day. There was no obvious toxicity. Certain changes in hematology and coagulation parameters (red cell distribution width, RDW; platelet count, PLT; monocyte percentage, Mo%; activated partial thromboplastin time, APTT; prothrombin time, PT) were observed in some administration groups. In regards to the blood biochemical parameters, the levels of creatinine (CRN), potassium, and chloride were increased in a number of the treated rats. There were no significant changes in other hematology, coagulation, or biochemical parameters in rats orally administered S. scandens. S. scandens has a slight effect on rat coagulation and metabolism systems. The herb was safe at all doses tested, but caution should be taken when administering S. scandens at higher doses.
Asteraceae and Euphorbiaceae have great medicinal importance. Keeping this in view, the present study was conducted to evaluate the enzyme inhibition and antioxidant potential of some members of both families. Bidens biternata (Family: Asteraceae), Senecio macrophylla (Family: Asteraceae) and Croton sparsiflorus (Family: Euphorbiaceae) were extracted in methanol and partitioned with n-hexane, chloroform and n-butanol successively. Acetylcholine esterase and antioxidant activities were carried using reported methods. It was concluded that butanolic extract of C. sparsiflorus exhibited maximum enzyme inhibition activity (95.0 ± 2.0% with IC 50 = 7 ± 1 µg/ml), while all other extracts showed significant activity except n-hexane extract of S. macrophylla which remained inactive. Total phenolic contents in the extracts ranged from 20 ± 1 to 720 ± 6 mg GAE/g of extract and highest phenols were present in the butanol extract of S. macrophylla . The butanolic extract of B. biternata showed highest antiradical activity (88.9 ± 2.2%, IC 50 = 55 ± 3 µg/ml) and FRAP activity 8.98 ± 0.11 µM/g of the extract. The n-hexane extract of B. biternata and S. macrophylla showed very low response in 2,2'-diphenyl-1picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) activity respectively.
Infectious diseases account for one third of all deaths worldwide. The spread of multidrug-resistant strains of microbes makes it necessary to discover new classes of antimicrobials and compounds that inhibit these resistance mechanisms. In the past few decades, the search for new anti-infective agents has occupied many research groups in the field of ethnopharmacology. Many focus on determining the antimicrobial activity of plant extracts found in folk medicine, essential oils or isolated compounds. The Anthemideae tribe of the Asteraceae comprises a large number of species that have been and are still used as medicinal plants, particularly in folk medicine. In the present review, we analyze the past, present and future of medicinal plants of the Anthemideae tribe, both as potential antimicrobial crude drugs as well as a source for natural compounds that act as new anti-infectious agents.
Agar diffusion techniques are used widely to assay plant extracts for antimicrobial activity, but there are problems associated with this technique. A micro-dilution technique was developed using 96-well microplates and tetrazolium salts to indicate bacterial growth. p-Iodonitrotetrazolium violet [0.2 mg/ml] gave better results than tetrazolium red or thiazolyl blue. The method is quick, worked well with Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli and with non-aqueous extracts from many different plants. The method gave reproducible results; required only 10-25 microliters of extract to determine minimal inhibitory concentrations, distinguished between microcidal and microstatic effects, and provided a permanent record of the results. Using S. aureus, and a Combretum molle extract, the technique was 32 times more sensitive than agar diffusion techniques and was not sensitive to culture age of the test organism up to 24 hours. The S. aureus culture could be stored up to 10 days in a cold room with little effect on the assay results. This method was useful in screening plants for antimicrobial activity and for the bioassay-guided isolation of antimicrobial compounds from plants. MIC values determined for sulfisoxazole, norfloxacin, gentamicin, and nitrofuratoin were similar to values indicated in the literature but values obtained with trimethroprim and ampicillin were higher with some bacteria.
From a methanol extract of dried-ground aerial parts of Senecio lyratus, an anti-fungal and anti-bacterial active compound was isolated and identified as beta-sitosterol by spectroscopic analysis.
The essential oil of Senecio aegyptius var. discoideus flowers, leaves, stems and roots were isolated by hydrodistillation. Analysis of the oils by capillary GLC and GLC-mass spectrometry were performed and 34 out of 37 compounds were identified. The main component was isolated and characterized as 1,10-epoxyfuranoeremophilane using a combination of GLC, GLC-MS, and NMR analyses. The oils of flowers, leaves and stems were rich in monoterpene hydrocarbons while the root oil mainly contains furanoeremophilanes. Flower and leaf volatile oils showed significant level of antifungal activity against C. albicans, moderate effect against Gram positive bacteria, however, it has weak activity against Gram negative bacteria. The isolated sesquiterpene (1,10-epoxyfuranoeremophilane) exhibited substantial inhibitory activity against Gram negative bacteria.
Four alkaloids, ligularizine, senkirkine and senecionine N-oxide, were isolated from S. gallicus. Apart from florosenine, a new alkaloid was isolated from S. adonidifolius and identified as 12,13,19-trihydroxy-15,20-epoxy-15,20-dihydro(12S,15R,20R senecionan-11,16-dione.Two dimensional spectroscopic correlation experiments (1H1H and 13C1H) were performed, permitting the unequivocal assignation of the 1H and 13C NMR spectra of the alkaloids and enabling us to correct some of the data appearing in the literature.
The chemical composition of the essential oil obtained from Senecio graveolens (Compositae) was analyzed by GLC-MS and the components identified were: isovaleraldehyde, alpha-pinene, alpha-phellandrene, alpha-terpinene, p-cymene, sabinene, gamma-terpinene, 1-methyl-4-isopropenylbenzene, terpinolene, terpinen-4-ol, piperitenone, alpha- and beta-eudesmol. The investigation by the agar-well diffusion method of the antimicrobial activity of the essential oil proved that it has antibacterial effects on Micrococcus luteus ATCC 9341, oxacillin-sensitive and oxacillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, as well as antifungal effects on clinically isolated Candida albicans. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for M. luteus, oxacillin-sensitive S. aureus and C. albicans were 8.73, 10.91 and 2.13 x 10(-2) mg/ml, respectively. The antimicrobial activity related to known antibiotics was calculated. These results would be compatible with a potential concentration-dependent selectivity of antifungal effect of S. graveolens essential oil. Minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) is above 87.3 mg/ml. Thus the MBC:MIC ratio would be clearly higher than 1 (above 8), indicating a bacteriostatic effect of the essential oil.