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23 pages, 1556 KiB

Open AccessReview

Improved Solubility and Activity of Natural Product in Nanohydrogel

by Uce Lestari, Muhaimin Muhaimin, Anis Yohana Chaerunisaa and Wawan Sujarwo

Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(12), 1701; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16121701 - 8 Dec 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1705

Abstract

With the development of technology, natural material components are widely used in various fields of science. Natural product components in phytochemical compounds are secondary metabolites produced by plants; they have been shown to have many pharmacological activities. Phytochemical compounds obtained from plants have [...] Read more.

With the development of technology, natural material components are widely used in various fields of science. Natural product components in phytochemical compounds are secondary metabolites produced by plants; they have been shown to have many pharmacological activities. Phytochemical compounds obtained from plants have an important role in herbal medicine. Herbal medicine is safer and cheaper than synthetic medicine. However, herbal medicines have weaknesses, such as low solubility, less stability, low bioavailability, and experiencing physical and chemical degradation, reducing their pharmacological activity. Recent herbal nano-delivery developments are mostly plant-based. A nanotechnology-based system was developed to deliver herbal therapies with better bioavailability, namely the nanohydrogel system. Nanohydrogel is a delivery system that can overcome the disadvantages of using herbal compounds because it can increase solubility, increase pharmacological activity and bioavailability, reduce toxicity, slow delivery, increase stability, improve biodistribution, and prevent physical or chemical degradation. This review article aimed to provide an overview of recent advances in developing nanohydrogel formulations derived from natural ingredients to increase solubility and pharmacological activity, as well as a summary of the challenges faced by delivery systems based on nanohydrogel derived from natural materials. A total of 25 phytochemicals derived from natural products that have been developed into nanohydrogel were proven to increase the activity and solubility of these chemical compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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36 pages, 13571 KiB

Open AccessReview

Spices as Sustainable Food Preservatives: A Comprehensive Review of Their Antimicrobial Potential

by Abdel Moneim E. Sulieman, Emad M. Abdallah, Naimah Asid Alanazi, Abdelaziz Ed-Dra, Arshad Jamal, Hajo Idriss, Abdullah Sulaiman Alshammari and Sohair A. M. Shommo

Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(10), 1451; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16101451 - 12 Oct 2023

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 9057

Abstract

Throughout history, spices have been employed for their pharmaceutical attributes and as a culinary enhancement. The food industry widely employs artificial preservatives to retard the deterioration induced by microbial proliferation, enzymatic processes, and oxidative reactions. Nevertheless, the utilization of these synthetic preservatives in [...] Read more.

Throughout history, spices have been employed for their pharmaceutical attributes and as a culinary enhancement. The food industry widely employs artificial preservatives to retard the deterioration induced by microbial proliferation, enzymatic processes, and oxidative reactions. Nevertheless, the utilization of these synthetic preservatives in food products has given rise to significant apprehension among consumers, primarily stemming from the potential health risks that they pose. These risks encompass a spectrum of adverse effects, including but not limited to gastrointestinal disorders, the disruption of gut microbiota, allergic reactions, respiratory complications, and concerns regarding their carcinogenic properties. Consequently, consumers are displaying an increasing reluctance to purchase preserved food items that contain such additives. Spices, known for their antimicrobial value, are investigated for their potential as food preservatives. The review assesses 25 spice types for their inherent antimicrobial properties and their applicability in inhibiting various foodborne microorganisms and suggests further future investigations regarding their use as possible natural food preservatives that could offer safer, more sustainable methods for extending shelf life. Future research should delve deeper into the use of natural antimicrobials, such as spices, to not only replace synthetic preservatives but also optimize their application in food safety and shelf-life extension. Moreover, there is a need for continuous innovation in encapsulation technologies for antimicrobial agents. Developing cost-effective and efficient methods, along with scaling up production processes, will be crucial to competing with traditional antimicrobial options in terms of both efficacy and affordability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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41 pages, 996 KiB

Open AccessReview

Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, and Anticancer Potentials of African Medicinal Fruits: A Comprehensive Review

by Nosipho Thembekile Fakudze, Paromita Sarbadhikary, Blassan P. George and Heidi Abrahamse

Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(8), 1117; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16081117 - 8 Aug 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3562

Abstract

Africa is home to diverse medicinal plants that have been used for generations for the treatment of several different cancers and, presently, they are gaining interest from researchers as promising approaches to cancer treatment. This review aims to provide a comprehensive review of [...] Read more.

Africa is home to diverse medicinal plants that have been used for generations for the treatment of several different cancers and, presently, they are gaining interest from researchers as promising approaches to cancer treatment. This review aims to provide a comprehensive review of dietary and medicinal African fruits including their traditional uses, botanical description, ethnobotanical uses, bioactive phytochemical compositions, and anticancer properties investigated to date in vitro, in vivo, and in clinical studies. Data on recent updates concerning the traditional uses and anticancer properties of these fruits were collected from a myriad of available publications in electronic databases, such as Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar. The results suggest that approximately 12 native or commercially grown African fruits belonging to different plant species, including Tribulus terrestris, Xanthium strumarium, Withania somnifera, Xylopia aethiopica, Abelmoschus esculentus, Carissa macrocarpa, Carpobrotus edulis, Syzygium cumini, Kigelia Africana, Annona muricata, Persea americana, and Punica granatum, have been reported for their potential as treatment options for the management of cancer. We further found that approximately eight different fruits from native plant species from Africa, namely, Sclerocarya birrea, Dovyalis caffra, Parinari curatellifolia, Mimusops caffra, Carpobrotus edulis, Vangueria infausta, Harpephyllum caffrum, and Carissa macrocarpa, have been widely used for the traditional treatment of different ailments but somehow failed to gain the interest of researchers for their use in anticancer research. In this review, we show the potential use of various fruits as anticancer agents, such as Tribulus terrestris, Xanthium strumarium, Withania somnifera, Xylopia aethiopica, Abelmoschus esculentus, Carissa macrocarpa, Carpobrotus edulis, Syzygium cumini, Kigelia Africana, Annona muricata, Persea americana, and Punica granatum; unfortunately, not enough reported research data have been published to gain thorough mechanistic insights and clinical applications. Additionally, we discuss the possibility of the utilization of potential phytochemicals from fruits like Persea americana and Punica granatum in anticancer research, as well as future directions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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35 pages, 1191 KiB

Open AccessReview

Overview of Caffeine Effects on Human Health and Emerging Delivery Strategies

by Sofia M. Saraiva, Telma A. Jacinto, Ana C. Gonçalves, Dário Gaspar and Luís R. Silva

Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(8), 1067; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16081067 - 27 Jul 2023

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 18310

Abstract

Caffeine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in various plants. It acts as a stimulant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and even an aid in pain management, and is found in several over-the-counter medications. This naturally derived bioactive compound is the best-known ingredient in coffee and [...] Read more.

Caffeine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in various plants. It acts as a stimulant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and even an aid in pain management, and is found in several over-the-counter medications. This naturally derived bioactive compound is the best-known ingredient in coffee and other beverages, such as tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks, and is widely consumed worldwide. Therefore, it is extremely important to research the effects of this substance on the human body. With this in mind, caffeine and its derivatives have been extensively studied to evaluate its ability to prevent diseases and exert anti-aging and neuroprotective effects. This review is intended to provide an overview of caffeine’s effects on cancer and cardiovascular, immunological, inflammatory, and neurological diseases, among others. The heavily researched area of caffeine in sports will also be discussed. Finally, recent advances in the development of novel nanocarrier-based formulations, to enhance the bioavailability of caffeine and its beneficial effects will be discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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25 pages, 3769 KiB

Open AccessReview

Application of Zebrafish as a Model for Anti-Cancer Activity Evaluation and Toxicity Testing of Natural Products

by Yifan Shen, Ruilong Sheng and Ruihua Guo

Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(6), 827; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16060827 - 1 Jun 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3670

Abstract

Developing natural product-based anti-cancer drugs/agents is a promising way to overcome the serious side effects and toxicity of traditional chemotherapeutics for cancer treatment. However, rapid assessment of the in vivo anti-cancer activities of natural products is a challenge. Alternatively, zebrafish are useful model [...] Read more.

Developing natural product-based anti-cancer drugs/agents is a promising way to overcome the serious side effects and toxicity of traditional chemotherapeutics for cancer treatment. However, rapid assessment of the in vivo anti-cancer activities of natural products is a challenge. Alternatively, zebrafish are useful model organisms and perform well in addressing this challenging issue. Nowadays, a growing number of studies have utilized zebrafish models to evaluate the in vivo activities of natural compounds. Herein, we reviewed the application of zebrafish models for evaluating the anti-cancer activity and toxicity of natural products over the past years, summarized its process and benefits, and provided future outlooks for the development of natural product-based anti-cancer drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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20 pages, 2018 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Genus Dacryodes Vahl.: Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Biological Activities

by Leseho Swana, Bienvenu Tsakem, Jacqueline V. Tembu, Rémy B. Teponno, Joy T. Folahan, Jarmo-Charles Kalinski, Alexandros Polyzois, Guy Kamatou, Louis P. Sandjo, Jean Christopher Chamcheu and Xavier Siwe-Noundou

Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(5), 775; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16050775 - 22 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2868

Abstract

Dacryodes Vahl. species, belonging to the Burseraceae family, are widely used in traditional medicine in tropical regions to treat a range of ailments including malaria, wounds, tonsillitis, and ringworms. This review discusses the distribution, ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry, and bioactivities of Dacryodes species. The [...] Read more.

Dacryodes Vahl. species, belonging to the Burseraceae family, are widely used in traditional medicine in tropical regions to treat a range of ailments including malaria, wounds, tonsillitis, and ringworms. This review discusses the distribution, ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry, and bioactivities of Dacryodes species. The intent is to spur future research into isolating and identifying key active principles, secondary metabolites, and crude extracts, and evaluating their pharmacological and toxicological effects, as well as the mechanism of actions to understand their medicinal benefits. A systematic review of scientific electronic databases from 1963 to 2022 including Scifinder, Scopus, Pubmed, Springer Link, ResearchGate, Ethnobotany Research and Applications, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect was conducted with a focus on Dacryodes edulis (G.Don) H.J. Lam and Dacryodes rostrata (Blume) H.J. Lam. Pharmacological data revealed that D. edulis isolates contain secondary metabolites and other phytochemical groups belonging to the terpenoids class with anti-microbial, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiinflammatory and hepatoprotective activities, highlighting its pharmacological potential in the therapy or management of diverse cancers, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases. Thus, phytochemicals and standardized extracts from D. edulis could offer safer and cost-effective chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic health benefits/regimen, or as alternative therapeutic remedy for several human diseases. Nevertheless, the therapeutic potential of most of the plants in the genus have not been exhaustively explored with regard to phytochemistry and pharmacology, but mostly complementary approaches lacking rigorous, scientific research-based knowledge. Therefore, the therapeutic potentials of the Dacryodes genus remain largely untapped, and comprehensive research is necessary to fully harness their medicinal properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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36 pages, 4143 KiB

Open AccessReview

Ethnobotanical, Phytochemical, Toxicological, and Pharmacological Properties of Ziziphus lotus (L.) Lam.: A Comprehensive Review

by Noureddine Bencheikh, Fatima Zahrae Radi, Jamila Fakchich, Amine Elbouzidi, Sabir Ouahhoud, Mohammed Ouasti, Mohamed Bouhrim, Imane Ouasti, Christophe Hano and Mostafa Elachouri

Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(4), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16040575 - 11 Apr 2023

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4768

Abstract

Ziziphus lotus (L.) Lam. (Rhamnaceae) is a plant species found across the Mediterranean area. This comprehensive overview aims to summarize the botanical description and ethnobotanical uses of Z. lotus and its phytochemical compounds derived with recent updates on its pharmacological and toxicological properties. [...] Read more.

Ziziphus lotus (L.) Lam. (Rhamnaceae) is a plant species found across the Mediterranean area. This comprehensive overview aims to summarize the botanical description and ethnobotanical uses of Z. lotus and its phytochemical compounds derived with recent updates on its pharmacological and toxicological properties. The data were collected from electronic databases including the Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, SpringerLink, and Google Scholars. It can be seen from the literature that Z. lotus is traditionally used to treat and prevent several diseases including diabetes, digestive problems, urinary tract problems, infectious diseases, cardiovascular disorders, neurological diseases, and dermal problems. The extracts of Z. lotus demonstrated several pharmacological properties in vitro and in vivo such as antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-oxidant, antimicrobials, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, analgesic, anti-proliferative, anti-spasmodic, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective effects. The phytochemical characterization of Z. lotus extracts revealed the presence of over 181 bioactive compounds including terpenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and fatty acids. Toxicity studies on Z. lotus showed that extracts from this plant are safe and free from toxicity. Thus, further research is needed to establish a possible relationship between traditional uses, plant chemistry, and pharmacological properties. Furthermore, Z. lotus is quite promising as a medicinal agent, so further clinical trials should be conducted to prove its efficacy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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22 pages, 1691 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Role and Mechanisms of Phytochemicals in Hair Growth and Health

by Periyanaina Kesika, Bhagavathi Sundaram Sivamaruthi, Subramanian Thangaleela, Muruganantham Bharathi and Chaiyavat Chaiyasut

Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(2), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16020206 - 30 Jan 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 24389

Abstract

Hair health is associated with personal distress and psychological well-being. Even though hair loss (alopecia) does not affect humans’ biological health, it affects an individual’s social well-being. So, treatment for hair problems and improving hair health are obligatory. Several pharmacological and cosmeceutical treatment [...] Read more.

Hair health is associated with personal distress and psychological well-being. Even though hair loss (alopecia) does not affect humans’ biological health, it affects an individual’s social well-being. So, treatment for hair problems and improving hair health are obligatory. Several pharmacological and cosmeceutical treatment procedures are available to manage hair loss and promote growth. Several factors associated with hair health include genetics, disease or disorder, drugs, lifestyle, chemical exposure, and unhealthy habits such as smoking, diet, and stress. Synthetic and chemical formulations have side effects, so people are moving towards natural compounds-based remedies for their hair problems. The history of using phytochemicals for hair health has been documented anciently. However, scientific studies on hair loss have accelerated in recent decades. The current review summarizes the type of alopecia, the factor affecting hair health, alopecia treatments, phytochemicals’ role in managing hair loss, and the mechanisms of hair growth-stimulating properties of phytochemicals. The literature survey suggested that phytochemicals are potent candidates for developing treatment procedures for different hair problems. Further detailed studies are needed to bring the scientific evidence to market. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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26 pages, 3713 KiB

Open AccessReview

Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, and Therapeutic Potentials of Litsea glutinosa (Lour.) C. B. Robinson: A Literature-Based Review

by Sarmin Jamaddar, António Raposo, Chandan Sarkar, Uttam Kumar Roy, Isaac Moura Araújo, Henrique Douglas Melo Coutinho, Ali Saleh Alkhoshaiban, Hmidan A. Alturki, Ariana Saraiva, Conrado Carrascosa and Muhammad Torequl Islam

Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16010003 - 20 Dec 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3691

Abstract

Litsea glutinosa (Lour.) C. B. Robinson, belonging to the family Lauraceae, is a multipurpose and fast-growing evergreen or deciduous tree that has been traditionally used for numerous purposes such as treatment for diarrhea, dysentery, abdominal pain, indigestion, gastroenteritis, edema, traumatic injuries, colds, arthritis, [...] Read more.

Litsea glutinosa (Lour.) C. B. Robinson, belonging to the family Lauraceae, is a multipurpose and fast-growing evergreen or deciduous tree that has been traditionally used for numerous purposes such as treatment for diarrhea, dysentery, abdominal pain, indigestion, gastroenteritis, edema, traumatic injuries, colds, arthritis, asthma, diabetes, pain relief, and poignant sexual power. This study aimed to summarize the chemical reports, folk values, and phytopharmacological activities of L. glutinosa, based on available information screened from diverse databases. An up-to-date electronic-based search was accomplished to obtain detailed information, with the help of several databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, SpringerLink, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, PubMed, ChemSpider, Elsevier, BioMed Central, and the USPTO, CIPO, INPI, Google Patents, and Espacenet, using relevant keywords. Outcomes advocate that, up to the present time, alkaloids, glycosides, and terpenoids are abundant in, and the most bioactive constituents of, this natural plant. Results demonstrated that L. glutinosa has various remarkable biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anticancer, antipyretic, anti-diabetic, analgesic, hepatoprotective, and wound-healing activity. One study revealed that L. glutinosa exhibited significant aphrodisiac and anti-infertility activity. Nevertheless, no clinical studies have been cited. Taken together, L. glutinosa may be one of the significant sources of bioactive constituents that could potentially lead to different effective pharmacological activities. On the other hand, future research should focus on clinical studies and several toxicity evaluations, such as sub-chronic toxicity, teratogenicity, and genotoxicity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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22 pages, 19913 KiB

Open AccessReview

Water as Green Solvent: Methods of Solubilisation and Extraction of Natural Products—Past, Present and Future Solutions

by Léo Lajoie, Anne-Sylvie Fabiano-Tixier and Farid Chemat

Pharmaceuticals 2022, 15(12), 1507; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15121507 - 3 Dec 2022

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 8803

Abstract

Water is considered the greenest solvent. Nonetheless, the water solubility of natural products is still an incredibly challenging issue. Indeed, it is nearly impossible to solubilize or to extract many natural products properly using solely water due to their low solubility in this [...] Read more.

Water is considered the greenest solvent. Nonetheless, the water solubility of natural products is still an incredibly challenging issue. Indeed, it is nearly impossible to solubilize or to extract many natural products properly using solely water due to their low solubility in this solvent. To address this issue, researchers have tried for decades to tune water properties to enhance its solvent potential in order to be able to solubilise or extract low-water solubility compounds. A few methods involving the use of solubilisers were described in the early 2000s. Since then, and particularly in recent years, additional methods have been described as useful to ensure the effective green extraction but also solubilisation of natural products using water as a solvent. Notably, combinations of these green methods unlock even higher extraction performances. This review aims to present, compare and analyse all promising methods and their relevant combinations to extract natural products from bioresources with water as solvent enhanced by green solubilisers and/or processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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14 pages, 324 KiB

Open AccessReview

Can Essential Oils Provide an Alternative Adjuvant Therapy for COVID-19 Infections and Pain Management at the Same Time?

by Roxana Damiescu, David Y. W. Lee and Thomas Efferth

Pharmaceuticals 2022, 15(11), 1387; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15111387 - 10 Nov 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3880

Abstract

The active compounds from essential oils have been an important asset in treating different diseases for many centuries. Nowadays, there are various available formulations used as food supplements to stimulate the immune system. In light of the current pandemic and the large amount [...] Read more.

The active compounds from essential oils have been an important asset in treating different diseases for many centuries. Nowadays, there are various available formulations used as food supplements to stimulate the immune system. In light of the current pandemic and the large amount of fake news circulating the internet, it is important to analyze which of the active compounds from essential oils can be successfully used in the treatment of COVID-19 infections. We analyzed the current literature on the effects of essential oils against the new SARS-CoV-2 virus to gain a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of these compounds and establish their possible antiviral efficacy. The available studies have highlighted the antiviral potential of active compounds from essential oils, indicating that they could be used as adjuvants in treating various viral infections, including COVID-19, leading to a milder course of the disease, and improving patients’ outcomes. At the same time, these compounds relieve pain and lift the mood in comorbid patients suffering from opioid addiction. Essential oils might be useful as adjuvant tools, not only against SARS-CoV-2 but also for a subset of especially vulnerable patients affected with both COVID-19 and opioid addiction. However, randomized clinical trials are needed to determine their efficacy and develop standardized high-quality preparations that can be safely administered to the general population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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8 pages, 487 KiB

Open AccessReview

Healing Potential of Propolis in Skin Wounds Evidenced by Clinical Studies

by Cristiano da Rosa, Ian Lucas Bueno, Ana Clara Martins Quaresma and Giovanna Barbarini Longato

Pharmaceuticals 2022, 15(9), 1143; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15091143 - 14 Sep 2022

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4672

Abstract

Propolis has been used since ancient times for the treatment of skin diseases and, currently, its pharmacological potential for healing and repairing various types of wounds is widely cited in the literature. The healing properties of propolis are mainly attributed to its composition [...] Read more.

Propolis has been used since ancient times for the treatment of skin diseases and, currently, its pharmacological potential for healing and repairing various types of wounds is widely cited in the literature. The healing properties of propolis are mainly attributed to its composition which is rich in phenolic compounds, and propolis has aroused the interest of the pharmaceutical industry as a low-cost product as compared with other treatments and medications; however, most of the published data refer to its effects in vitro and in vivo and, so far, few clinical studies have been carried out proving its therapeutic efficacy. In this article, we aimed to review clinical trail data published in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, in Scielo, PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline, and Lilacs between 1990 and 2021 on the clinical use of propolis for skin ulcers. The potential of propolis as an alternative healing treatment for skin wounds such as diabetic, venous, and surgical wounds, as well as wounds caused by burns, etc., is mainly due to its evidenced properties such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and angiogenesis promoter effects. However, there is a need to standardize the type of administration and the concentration of propolis for each type of wound. Furthermore, further clinical studies are essential to add information about propolis safety and for obtaining the best possible therapeutic benefits from its use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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43 pages, 3516 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Ethnomedicinal Usage, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Potential of Solanum surattense Burm. f.

by Kamrul Hasan, Shabnam Sabiha, Nurul Islam, João F. Pinto and Olga Silva

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(7), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17070948 - 15 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1344

Abstract

Solanum surattense Burm. f. is a significant member of the Solanaceae family, and the Solanum genus is renowned for its traditional medicinal uses and bioactive potential. This systematic review adheres to PRISMA methodology, analyzing scientific publications between 1753 and 2023 from B-on, Google [...] Read more.

Solanum surattense Burm. f. is a significant member of the Solanaceae family, and the Solanum genus is renowned for its traditional medicinal uses and bioactive potential. This systematic review adheres to PRISMA methodology, analyzing scientific publications between 1753 and 2023 from B-on, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, and Web of Science, aiming to provide comprehensive and updated information on the distribution, ethnomedicinal uses, chemical constituents, and pharmacological activities of S. surattense, highlighting its potential as a source of herbal drugs. Ethnomedicinally, this species is important to treat skin diseases, piles complications, and toothache. The fruit was found to be the most used part of this plant (25%), together with the whole plant (22%) used to treat different ailments, and its decoction was found to be the most preferable mode of herbal drug preparation. A total of 338 metabolites of various chemical classes were isolated from S. surattense, including 137 (40.53%) terpenoids, 56 (16.56%) phenol derivatives, and 52 (15.38%) lipids. Mixtures of different parts of this plant in water–ethanol have shown in vitro and/or in vivo antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-tumoral, hepatoprotective, and larvicidal activities. Among the metabolites, 51 were identified and biologically tested, presenting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumoral as the most reported activities. Clinical trials in humans made with the whole plant extract showed its efficacy as an anti-asthmatic agent. Mostly steroidal alkaloids and triterpenoids, such as solamargine, solanidine, solasodine, solasonine, tomatidine, xanthosaponin A–B, dioscin, lupeol, and stigmasterol are biologically the most active metabolites with high potency that reflects the new and high potential of this species as a novel source of herbal medicines. More experimental studies and a deeper understanding of this plant must be conducted to ensure its use as a source of raw materials for pharmaceutical use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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58 pages, 24475 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Cytotoxic Labdane Diterpenes, Norlabdane Diterpenes and Bis-Labdanic Diterpenes from the Zingiberaceae: A Systematic Review

by Kelvin Jianmin Voon, Yasodha Sivasothy, Usha Sundralingam, Aicha Lalmahomed and Asly Poh-Tze Goh

Pharmaceuticals 2022, 15(12), 1517; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15121517 - 5 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1818

Abstract

Over the years, labdane diterpenes, norlabdane diterpenes, and bis-labdanic diterpenes with cytotoxic activities have been identified across various families in the plant kingdom including the Zingiberaceae. The present review discusses the distribution of these labdane-type diterpenes within the Zingiberaceae; their extraction, isolation, and [...] Read more.

Over the years, labdane diterpenes, norlabdane diterpenes, and bis-labdanic diterpenes with cytotoxic activities have been identified across various families in the plant kingdom including the Zingiberaceae. The present review discusses the distribution of these labdane-type diterpenes within the Zingiberaceae; their extraction, isolation, and characterization from the respective Zingiberaceae species; the structural similarities and differences within each group and between the different groups of the labdane-type diterpenes; and their cytotoxic activities against breast, cervical, liver, colorectal, pancreatic, lung and prostate cancer cell lines. The review will also provide insight into how the cytotoxic activities of the labdane-type diterpenes are influenced by their structural features. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Natural Products)

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