Articles tagged with Medicinal Plants
Several medicinal plants, particularly those from the Asteraceae and Zingiberaceae families, have anti-Entamoeba histolytica activity due to their phytochemicals like terpenoids and flavonoids. Further research is needed to establish their efficacy and clinical potential.
Researchers decode the molecular mechanisms of toad venom's medicinal properties, revealing a link to serotonin receptor interactions. The study identifies key components and their selective agonist activities on depression-related receptors, shedding light on traditional Chinese medicine's modern interpretation.
Research identifies Luohan Guo's terpenoids, flavonoids, and amino acids as key compounds affecting health. The study's findings provide insights into the potential antioxidant mechanisms of monkfruit's active ingredients.
Researchers developed a powder based on morin, extracted from plants like guava leaves, apple peels, and figs, to combat periodontal disease. The study found that the substance can be slowly released through polymers, providing an alternative to antibiotics for controlling microorganisms.
Insomnia patients taking cannabis-based medical products reported significant improvements in sleep quality, anxiety, and pain over 18 months. The study found sustained benefits with minimal side effects, suggesting potential for medical cannabis as an option for conventional treatments.
MSU researchers have discovered a massive genome in the ground oak plant, containing nearly as many base pairs as the human genome. This discovery could lead to the development of natural pesticides and antimicrobial compounds to combat pests and microbes, with potential applications in large-scale agriculture.
An ethnobotanist from the Pataxó Hã-Hã-Hãi Indigenous Land in Brazil has revived ancestral healing knowledge to treat diseases like parasitic worms, diabetes, and hypertension. He discovered 43 medicinal plants used for these diseases, with 79% consistent with recent scientific literature.
This review highlights the promise of traditional South Asian medicinal plants in addressing memory loss and cognitive decline, particularly in Alzheimer's disease. The identified plants not only reflect cultural wisdom but are increasingly supported by modern scientific evidence.
Indigenous Nigerian food plants, such as Spondias mombin and Xanthosoma sagittifolium, contain flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenolic acids that exhibit anticancer properties. These plants induce apoptosis, inhibit cell proliferation, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate key cellular pathways.
A recent study reveals that tropical forests are home to an incredible diversity of chemical compounds, including terpenoids and alkaloids, which could have practical implications for human health. The researchers found that tree species in higher elevations tend to use similar chemicals to protect themselves from enemies.
A professor is conducting a study to increase forest farming in Appalachia, with the goal of creating a sustainable economy for the region. The project aims to develop the workforce and formalize businesses to ensure efficient supply chains.
Researchers have studied the mechanism of action of bioactive compounds from papaya, passion fruit, and medicinal plant extracts. Modified pectins extracted from these plants show potential as supplements or food ingredients to boost biological activity against colon cancer and gut microbiota.
Researchers isolated three potent anti-HIV compounds from Daphne pseudomezereum, with EC₅₀ values around 1 nM and IC50 > 5 μM. The findings suggest a promising approach to developing novel drugs with superior anti-HIV activity.
Researchers developed a numerical tool to quantify sunlight intensity and its influence on plant growth, enabling accurate predictions of sunlight patterns. The model can help farmers optimize greenhouse conditions and planting schedules, leading to improved crop yields.
A new species of manzanita has been discovered on the central coast of California, but its survival is already at risk due to urban development. The species, Arctostaphylos nipumu, lacks a protective burl that allows some other manzanitas to resprout after wildfires.
Researchers at UC Davis have successfully synthesized ibogaine and its related compounds using a new, efficient method. The study's findings suggest that these analogues may be useful in treating substance use disorders and other conditions, and highlight the potential for safer and more effective medicines.
A University of Houston study found that different genotypes of hemp have unique microbial communities that impact CBD production and fiber quality. The research, published in Nature, highlights the potential for microbiome diversity to inform more sustainable farming practices.
The journal Medicinal Plant Biology has been successfully indexed in Web of Science's ESCI, enhancing article visibility and positioning them for potential indexing in higher-level databases. This milestone reflects the journal's high quality and growth prospects, promoting open-access content to a broader academic community.
This review explores the anticancer mechanisms of selected medicinal plants, discussing their potential for therapeutic development. The plants exert effects through cell cycle arrest, apoptosis induction, and disruption of signaling cascades, offering promising alternatives to conventional therapies.
This review identifies 24 traditional medicinal plants used in Sri Lanka to treat mental disorders. These plants exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties through compounds such as trigonelline, bacosides, asiaticoside, and quercetin.
Four plants eaten by western lowland gorillas in Gabon, also used by local traditional healers, show antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Researchers identify four plant species with promising targets for treating multidrug-resistant infections.
The study investigates the toxicologic profile and anti-nociceptive effect of two semi-synthetic triterpene derivatives from Combretum leprosum in mice. The results indicate that these compounds exhibit low cytotoxicity, inhibit zymosan-induced writhing response, and modulate nitrite/nitrate levels and SOD activity.
MIT chemists have developed a new way to synthesize complex oligocyclotryptamines found in plants, which could hold potential as antibiotics, analgesics, or cancer drugs. The approach allows for precise assembly of the rings and control of the 3D orientation of each component.
A new study reveals that coca plants grown for cocaine production are difficult to distinguish from wild-growing varieties based on leaf shape and size. The researchers used genetic analysis to estimate when different coca species and varieties originated, suggesting a longer evolutionary history than previously thought.
Chimpanzees have been observed seeking out specific plants with medicinal properties to treat their ailments, and further pharmacological testing has confirmed the presence of anti-inflammatory and antibiotic compounds. These findings highlight the importance of studying animal behavior in discovering new medicines.
Coptis teeta Wall. has been traditionally used to treat malaria, stomach ache, diarrhea, skin conditions, eye disorders, and gastrointestinal issues. The plant's compounds have shown antibacterial activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and potential in treating chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer.
Recent research from the Medicinal Plant Research Center of South China Agricultural University reveals that rhizospheric and endophytic microorganisms significantly influence the accumulation of key SMs in medicinal plants. These microorganisms encode genes related to nitrogen fixation, phosphate metabolism, hormone synthesis, and roo...
A strong belief in the Protestant Work Ethic may underpin people's choices for 'natural' approaches to healthcare. The study found a link between PWE values and preferences for vaginal birth, natural cold remedies, and caesarean sections, even when chemical composition is identical.
Researchers review Silibinin's efficacy in managing inflammation, a key factor in tumour development and aging. The molecule may reduce drug-related toxicity and increase therapeutic potential in integrated cancer therapies.
A recent study published in Nature reveals a vast DNA tree of life for flowering plants, providing insights into their evolutionary history. The analysis of over 9,500 plant species reveals the rapid development of diversity in ancient times, with key findings supporting the plastid-based phylogenetic classification of angiosperms.
Researchers from Qingdao Agricultural University have discovered the PsmiR159b-PsMYB65 module regulating bud dormancy release in tree peony. The study found that PsmiR159b inhibits bud dormancy release by targeting PsMYB65, which activates cell cycle genes and promotes bud growth.
A study by Linköping University found that a daily intake of liquorice containing 100mg glycyrrhizic acid raised blood pressure by an average of 3.1mmHg in young healthy people. This effect was seen in all participants, but the most sensitive individuals showed increased fluid volume and heart workload.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science achieve first total synthesis of merrillianin, a complex sesquiterpene with potential anti-rheumatic activity. The breakthrough method involves 30 reaction steps and could lead to the development of new treatments for nervous system diseases.
A study by Brazilian researchers reveals that bixin, a carotenoid pigment extracted from annatto tree seeds, is also present in other organs. Genetic analysis and modifications found increased production of the pigment in the adult phase and linked to stress-related hormone abscisic acid.
Researchers at Scripps Research have found a way to modify picrotoxinin, a plant-derived toxin, with improved properties, making it easier to synthesize and modify. The modified version, 5Me-picrotoxinin, shows better chemical stability and is safer for humans.
A new study by Cornell University researchers found that higher cannabinoid concentrations in hemp leaves led to proportionately less damage from insect larvae. The study suggests the potential for developing pesticides from cannabinoid extracts, but such uses would be limited to non-edible plants.
A method for assessing sustainability of wild-harvested plants is demonstrated on Nardostachys jatamansi, a critically endangered Himalayan perennial herb. The proposed process integrates ecological and trade data to estimate sustainability levels, suggesting cultivating-while-harvesting as an effective approach.
Researchers used transcription factors to stimulate production of specialized steroids in petunia, which are likely involved in plant defense. The discovery has significant potential for bioproduction of bioactive natural products in various plant families.
A new yeast-based screening method has been developed to unravel how plants synthesize medicinal compounds, identifying key enzymes in a kratom tree. The method complements traditional approaches by capturing protein-protein interactions between plant enzymes.
A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that pre-Columbian Caribbean cultures consumed a wide variety of plants, including sweet potato, chili peppers, and domesticated tomatoes. The analysis also detected tobacco and cotton, challenging the traditional staple food narrative.
Scientists identified the candidate genes involved in cardenolide biosynthesis by comparative analysis of two plant species. They also discovered two enzymes that catalyze the conversion of cholesterol and phytosterols into pregnenolone, a crucial step in the production of these plant steroids.
A water-soluble tannin known as PGG blocks 90% of the growth in four different species of Candida fungi by grabbing up iron molecules, starving the fungi of an essential nutrient. This mechanism does not promote drug resistance, unlike existing antifungal medications, and shows minimal toxicity to human cells.
A study of 151 patients with functional dyspepsia found that turmeric's curcumin was as effective as omeprazole in reducing symptoms after 28 days. Patients who took the combination treatment showed stronger improvements after 56 days, suggesting curcumin may be a viable alternative to conventional drugs.
Researchers at UTSA are studying the bioactive properties of Sweet Annie, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. The study reveals that arteannuin B from the plant has anti-COVID and anti-glioblastoma properties, offering new avenues for targeted therapy.
A UCI-led study found that plant extracts can rescue function of ion channel proteins carrying mutations that cause human Episodic Ataxia. The plants contain compounds like tannic acid and gallic acid, which are able to correct function of the mutation-carrying proteins.
Researchers from the University of Queensland have successfully grown native wild tobacco plants as 'biofactories' to produce large quantities of drugs. The method uses modern molecular biology techniques to instruct plant cells to produce desired molecules, resulting in a more cost-effective and sustainable production process.
The native gromwell plant, a crucial element in traditional Japanese culture, is facing severe threats from disease and cross-breeding with non-native species. Researchers at Kyoto University are leading efforts to raise awareness of the plant's significance and promote conservation initiatives.
Researchers used single-cell multi-omics to study specialized cell types involved in producing medically relevant plant compounds. The analyses revealed that three distinct cell types are organized in a specific biosynthetic pathway for vinblastine, a key alkaloid compound with anti-cancer properties.
Researchers identified compounds in Labrador tea leaves that have antimalarial properties, particularly ascaridole, which has activity against drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum parasites. The study highlights the importance of investigating and protecting plants used in traditional medicines.
A recent study by Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at TUM found that a pungent ginger compound puts immune cells on heightened alert. The compound, [6]-gingerol, stimulates white blood cells via the TRPV1 receptor, which plays a role in the perception of painful heat stimuli and spiciness.
A study by Emory University researchers found that extracts from two wild plants, tall goldenrod and eagle fern, inhibited the ability of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to infect living cells. The active compounds are present in miniscule quantities, making it ineffective for self-treatment, but may hold promise as medicines against COVID-19.
Researchers found that certain glycoalkaloids in plants like potatoes and tomatoes can inhibit cancer cell growth and promote cancer cell death. These compounds have huge potential for future treatments and may be used to develop new cancer drugs.
Great bustards prefer to eat plants with chemical compounds that kill pathogens in vitro. Corn poppies and purple viper's bugloss contain antiprotozoal and nematicidal compounds, as well as antifungal agents.
Researchers elucidated the coca-derived tropane pathway, identifying a specific enzyme responsible for the carbomethoxy group, a key contributor to cocaine's euphoric properties. The study also reveals that tropane biosynthesis has independently evolved at least twice in flowering plants.
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology have developed a method to produce crocins, a key ingredient in saffron, using a common garden plant. This breakthrough could lead to sustainable and efficient production of these compounds for pharmaceuticals, food coloring, and flavor additives.
A study published in Frontiers in Immunology found that Japanese herbal medicine DKT reduces colitis severity by preventing gut bacteria loss and increasing immune cells. It restores Lactobacillus levels and promotes type 3 innate lymphoid cells, alleviating inflammatory responses.
A Dartmouth-led study found that urban gardens with rare plant species tend to attract rare bee and bird species. Women, older gardeners, and those living near the gardens are more likely to curate these rare plants, suggesting a cascading effect on biodiversity.
Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology elucidate the complete biosynthetic pathway of strychnine, a highly toxic alkaloid used as rat poison. The study reveals that the conversion of prestrychnine to strychnine occurs spontaneously, without an enzyme.
A study published in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis found that the quality of mistletoe, a traditional Chinese medicine, is affected by its host plant. The researchers used metabolomics to investigate the influence of host plants and environmental factors on mistletoe's medicinal qualities. The results show that both host plants an...
A new case report highlights the risks of herbal supplements containing CBD and berberine, which can cause cardiac arrhythmias. The study involves a patient who experienced dizziness and fainting after taking high doses of hemp oil and berberine supplements, leading to a life-threatening condition.