- 1. Development of a new Cr(VI)-biosorbent from agricultural biowaste.
Among useless but abundant agricultural biowastes such as banana skin, green tea waste, oak leaf, walnut shell, peanut shell and rice husk, in this study, banana skin was screened as the most efficient biomaterial to remove toxic Cr(VI) from aqueous solution. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) study revealed that the mechanism of Cr(VI) biosorption by banana skin was its complete reduction into Cr(III) in both aqueous and solid phases and partial binding of the reduced-Cr(III), in the range of pH 1.5-4 tested. One gram of banana skin could reduce 249.6 (+/-4.2)mg of Cr(VI) at initial pH 1.5. Namely, Cr(VI)-reducing capacity of banana skin was four times higher than that of a common chemical Cr(VI)-reductant, FeSO(4).7H(2)O. To diminish undesirable/serious organic leaching from the biomaterial and to enhance removal efficiency of total Cr, its powder was immobilized within Ca-alginate bead. The developed Cr(VI)-biosorbent could completely reduce toxic Cr(VI) to less toxic Cr(III) and could remove almost of the reduced-Cr(III) from aqueous phase. On the basis of removal mechanisms of Cr(VI) and total Cr by the Cr(VI)-biosorbent, a kinetic model was derived and could be successfully used to predict their removal behaviors in aqueous phase. In conclusion, our Cr(VI)-biosorbent must be a potent candidate to substitute for chemical reductants as well as adsorbents for treating Cr(VI)-bearing wastewaters....(more)
Park D, et al. Bioresour Technol 2008 Dec;99(18):8810-8.
Related Products: Peanut Shell Extract
- 2. Distribution of organophosphate insecticides in a Thai biomass-water system.
Sorption and leaching of the organophosphate (OP) pesticides chlorpyrifos, profenofos, methyl parathion and malathion were investigated with four different types of biomass: coconut husk, rice husk, peat moss and peanut shell. Organic carbon contents of the biomass were in the range of 35.4-45.4%. Sorption studies were carried out by the batch (equilibrium) method at 4 different OP spike concentrations and at pH 3-7. Sorption isotherms conformed to a linear Freundlich equation and the Freundlich constant or sorption coefficient (KD) confirmed that biomass organic carbon content was the principal sorbent factor affecting OP sorption. For a given sorbent, correlation of the extent of sorption with sorbate chemical properties was examined. Column leaching experiments involving different masses of coconut husk and peanut shell pre-spiked with OPs at the level equivalent to actual spraying concentrations in some Thai tangerine orchards were conducted. These experiments included repeated spikings and leaching. A water flow rate of 20 mL min(-1) was employed corresponding to the current average watering regime. Retardation and biodegradation with these sorbents were also examined....(more)
Romyen S, et al. J Environ Sci Health B 2007 Nov;42(8):869-75.
Related Products: Peanut Shell Extract
- 3. A case of beta-carboline alkaloid intoxication following ingestion of Peganum harmala seed extract.
Beta-carboline alkaloids harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine can stimulate the central nervous system by inhibiting the metabolism of amine neurotransmitters, or by direct interaction with specific receptors; they are found in numerous plants, including Peganum harmala, Passiflora incarnata and Banisteriopsis caapi, and in the entheogen preparation Ayahuasca, which is traditionally brewed using B. caapi to enhance the activity of amine hallucinogenic drugs. The ingestion of plant preparations containing beta-carboline alkaloids may result in toxic effects, namely visual and auditory hallucinations, locomotor ataxia, nausea, vomiting, confusion and agitation. We report a case of intoxication following intentional ingestion of P. harmala seed infusion; P. harmala seeds were bought over the Internet. The harmala alkaloids were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in the seed extract and the patient's urine. This is, to our knowledge, the first case of P. harmala intoxication corroborated by toxicological findings....(more)
Frison G, et al. Forensic Sci Int 2008 Aug 6;179(2-3):e37-43.
Related Products: Peganum Harmala Seed Extract
- 4. Peganum harmala can minimize Escherichia coli infection in poultry, but long-term feeding may induce side effects.
Peganum harmala seed extracts have been frequently reported to possess antibacterial potential through in vitro studies, but in vivo studies have acquired less attention. The present study was therefore designed to investigate its efficacy on the course of colibacillosis and effects of long-term feeding on selected parameters of general health in chickens. Two experiments were conducted in this regard. Experiment 1 (a pilot study) was performed to determine the dose of a field strain of Escherichia coli (O1:K1) required to induce clinical symptoms in 4- and 15-d-old specific-pathogen-free chickens. A successful induction of colibacillosis, in terms of clinical signs, mortality, and pathological lesions in addition to reisolation of the pathogen was observed by inoculating 4- and 15-d-old chicks with 4.3 log(10) and 6.4 log(10) cfu of E. coli, respectively, by intraperitoneal injection. Using these doses experiment 2 (main study) consisting of a single experiment with 3 parts was performed. Parts A and B generated the information regarding efficacy of the extract against infection in 4- and 15-d-old chickens applying different treatment schemes, whereas the effects of continuous feeding of the extract were assessed in part C. Whereas no protective effect of the extract could be recorded in young chickens, significant differences (P < 0.05) with regard to BW, clinical score, gross lesion score, and total granulocyte counts were observed in 15-d-old birds. Bacterial recovery per gram of tissue and reisolation frequency were lower in treated birds. The continuous feeding of the extract for 6 wk resulted in an augmentation in relative liver weight and depletion in alkaline phosphatase, protein, albumin, and globulin. It can be concluded that the crude extract of Peganum harmala possesses limited antimicrobial activity against E. coli in vivo and long-term continuous feeding may induce undesired effects. Furthermore, the study underlines the value of in vivo experiments and the diverse picture that herbal products, in this case Peganum harmala, may deliver by testing them against specific pathogens....(more)
Arshad N, et al. Poult Sci 2008 Feb;87(2):240-9.
Related Products: Peganum Harmala Seed Extract
- 5. Perilla leaf extract ameliorates obesity and dyslipidemia induced by high-fat diet.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the antiobesity effect of perilla leaf extract (PLE) in animal models of high fat diet-induced obesity. C57BL/6J mice were fed a standard diet (STD) or high fat diet (HFD) for 5 weeks to induce obesity. The experimental groups were four groups with 10 mice per group and fed for 4 weeks: a STD group, a HFD group, a HFD containing 1% PLE (HFD+PLE 1%) group and a HFD containing 3% PLE (HFD+PLE 3%) group. The PLE supplementation significantly decreased body weight gain, food efficiency ratio, and relative liver and epididymal fat mass compared with those of the HFD group. Also, triglyceride, total cholesterol and LDL levels in the plasma were significantly reduced by PLE supplementation compared with the HFD group. Histological changes in the liver of the PLE supplemented group showed an inhibition of steatosis induced by HFD. Furthermore, PLE reversed the HFD induced changes in the expression patterns of epididymal adipose tissue genes: acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACC), glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma). These results suggest that the PLE supplement suppressed body weight gain and improved the blood lipid profiling, in part by down-regulating adipogenic transcription factor and other specific target genes....(more)
Kim MJ, et al. Phytother Res 2009 Dec;23(12):1685-90.
Related Products: Perilla Leaf Extract
- 6. Protective effect of aqueous extract of Perilla frutescens on tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced oxidative hepatotoxicity in rats.
The leaves of perilla [Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. var. japonica (Hassk.) Hara] are often used in Asian gourmet food. The object of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of an aqueous extract of perilla leaves on the tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP)-induced oxidative injury observed in rat livers. The treatment of the hepatocytes with the perilla leaf extract (PLE) significantly reversed the t-BHP-induced cell cytotoxicity and lipid peroxidation. In addition, PLE exhibited ferric-reducing antioxidant power and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging activities. The in vivo study showed that the pretreatment with PLE (1000 or 3000 mg/kg) for 5 days before a single dose of t-BHP (i.p.; 0.2 mmol/kg) significantly lowered the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, reduced the indicators of oxidative stress in the liver, such as the glutathione disulfide content and lipid peroxidation level in a dose-dependent manner, and remarkably increased the activity of hepatic gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase. Histopathological examination of the rat livers showed that PLE reduced the incidence of liver lesions induced by t-BHP. Based on the results described above, it is suggested that PLE has the potential to protect liver against t-BHP-induced hepatic damage in rats....(more)
Kim MK, et al. Food Chem Toxicol 2007 Sep;45(9):1738-44.
Related Products: Perilla Leaf Extract
- 7. Persimmon leaf extract inhibits the ATM activity during DNA damage response induced by Doxorubicin in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells.
Persimmon leaf (PL) has been commonly recognized for its wide variety of health benefits. A previous study has reported that persimmon leaf extract (PLE) contained flavonols with the 2″-galloly moiety (PLEg). Galloylated homologues generically show stronger activity in their biological function, so enhanced functions can be expected for PLEg. We investigated in this present study the effect of PLEg on the cellular DNA damage checkpoint signaling to sensitize cancer chemotherapy. Treatment with PLE and PLEg significantly increased the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin (DOX) in A549 adenocarcinoma cells. PLE and PLEg reduced the phosphorylation of checkpoint proteins such as structural maintenance of chromosomes 1 (SMC1), checkpoint kinase 1 (Chk1), and p53 in DOX-treated cells. Moreover, PLE decreased the phosphorylation of ATM (ataxia telangiectasia mutated) in a dose-dependent manner. PLE, and especially PLEg, abrogated the G2/M checkpoint during DOX-induced DNA damage. These results suggest that PLEg specifically inhibited ATM-dependent checkpoint activation by DOX, and that PLEg might be a useful sensitizer in cancer chemotherapy....(more)
Kawakami K, et al. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2011;75(4):650-5.
Related Products: Persimmon Leaf Extract
- 8. Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system of persimmon leaf extract: Optimization and bioavailability studies.
In current study, a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) of persimmon (Diospyros kaki) leaf extract (PLE) was developed and characterized to compare its in vitro dissolution and relative bioavailability with commercially available tablets (Naoxinqing tablets). Pseudo-ternary phase diagrams were constructed by phase diagram by micro plate dilution (PDMPD) method, of which the evaluation method was improved to use Multiskan Ascent for identifying turbidity. The formulation of PLE-loaded SNEDDS was optimized by an extreme vertices experimental design. The optimized nanoemulsion formulation, loading with 44.48 mg/g PLE total flavonoids, consisted of Cremophor EL, Transcutol P, Labrafil M 1944 CS (56:34:10, w/w), and it remained stable after storing at 40°C, 25°C, 4°C for at least 6 months. When diluted with water, the SNEDDS droplet size was 34.85 nm and the zeta potential was -6.18 mV. Compared with the commercial tablets, the AUC of both quercetin and kaempferol, which are representative active flavonoids of PLE, was increased by 1.5-fold and 1.6-fold respectively following oral administration of PLE-loaded SNEDDS in fasting beagle dogs. These results indicate that SNEDDS is a promising drug delivery system for increasing the oral bioavailability of PLE....(more)
Li W, et al. Int J Pharm 2011 Nov 25;420(1):161-71.
Related Products: Persimmon Leaf Extract
- 9. Effects of various plant protein sources in high-quality feed block on feed intake, rumen fermentation, and microbial population in swamp buffalo.
This study was designed to determine effect of various plant protein sources in high-quality feed block (HQFB) on feed intake, rumen fermentation, and microbial population in swamp buffalo. Four rumen-fistulated swamp buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) were randomly assigned according to a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Four kinds of plant protein sources (coarse rice bran (CRB), cassava hay (CH), Phaseolus calcaratus hay, and mulberry hay (MH)) were mixed in the HQFB. HQFBs were allowed to be licked at free choice, and urea-lime-treated rice straw (ULRS) were fed ad libitum. It was found that bacterial population and fungal zoospores in CH-fed group tended to be higher than those in other groups. Moreover, protozoal population in CH, P. calcaratus hay, and MH were lower than those in CRB supplemented group (P < 0.05). Cellulolytic bacterial population was highest in CH-fed group while proteolytic bacteria population was highest in P. calcaratus hay-fed group (P < 0.05). CH-fed group had higher ULRS intake than those in other groups (P < 0.05). Nutrient digestibility of CP, NDF, and ADF in CH-fed group was significantly higher than those in other groups (P < 0.05). Total VFA was highest in CH-fed group (P < 0.05). N absorption was highest in CH-fed group (P < 0.05). Based on this study, it could be concluded that cassava hay, P. calcaratus hay, and mulberry hay are potential to be used as protein sources in the HQFBs especially cassava hay....(more)
Foiklang S, et al. Trop Anim Health Prod 2011 Dec;43(8):1517-24.
Related Products: Phaseolus Calcaratus Bean Extract
- 10. Anti-inflammatory potential of Phaseolus calcaratus Roxburgh, a oriental medicine, on LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages.
OBJECTIVES:
The seed of Phaseolus calcaratus Roxburgh (PHCR) has traditionally been used as a herbal medicine, considered to have anti-inflammatory potential. Here we examined the ability of PHCR seed extract to inhibit inflammatory responses of macrophages to bacterial toxin and the mechanism involved.
METHODS:
In the present study, we prepared four fractions from an ethanol extract of PHCR seed and investigated their effects on the production of nitric oxide and cytokines, and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells.
KEY FINDINGS:
The fractions inhibited LPS-induced nitric oxide production and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in the cells. The ethyl acetate fraction at 100 µg/ml almost completely suppressed NO production, iNOS and COX-2 expression, and TNF-α and IL-6 secretion in cells stimulated with LPS. The fraction also inhibited phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 in LPS-stimulated cells with the attendant suppression of IκBα nuclear translocation and nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation. Furthermore, PHCR seed extracts contained a large number of phenolic compounds having antioxidant potentials against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and hydroxyl radicals. We identified catechin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside as one of the active compounds responsible for the biological activity of PHCR seed extract.
CONCLUSIONS:
These results suggest for the first time that ethanol extracts from PHCR seed have anti-inflammatory potential on LPS-stimulated macrophages through the down-regulation of ERK/p38- and NF-κB-mediated signalling pathways.
© 2010 The Authors. JPP © 2010 Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain....(more)
Fang M, et al. J Pharm Pharmacol 2011 Jan;63(1):120-8.
Related Products: Phaseolus Calcaratus Bean Extract
- 11. Time of methyl jasmonate application influences the development of 'Cripps Pink' apple fruit colour.
BACKGROUND:
The effects of time and numbers of pre-harvest sprays of methyl jasmonate (MJ) on the development of red blush, export-grade fruit, accumulation of flavonoids in fruit skin and quality of 'Cripps Pink' apple were investigated in 2005 and 2006. In the first experiment during 2005, whole trees were sprayed once with 10 mmol L(-1) MJ at weekly intervals from 155 to 183 days after full bloom (DAFB). In second experiment during 2006, different numbers of sprays (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6) of 5 mmol L(-1) MJ were applied from 151 to 179 DAFB.
RESULTS:
A single spray of MJ (10 mmol L(-1)) at 169 DAFB resulted in the highest increase in the red blush, export-grade fruit, accumulation of anthocyanins, cyanidin 3-galactosides, chlorogenic acid, phloridzin, flavanols and flavonols in fruit skin as compared to all other treatments without affecting fruit quality. A single spray of 5 mmol L(-1) MJ at 186 DAFB was more effective in improving red blush, export-grade fruit and accumulation of anthocyanins in fruit skin as compared to its multiple applications. The exposed sides of fruit developed better colour than the shaded sides, regardless of time and numbers of MJ sprays. Time of a single spray of MJ is more effective than its multiple applications.
CONCLUSIONS:
A single pre-harvest spray of MJ (10 mmol L(-1)) at 169 DAFB or MJ (5 mmol L(-1)) at 186 DAFB was effective in improving the red blush and export grade fruit through accumulation of flavonoids in fruit skin without adversely affecting quality at harvest.
Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry....(more)
Shafiq M, et al. J Sci Food Agric 2013 Feb;93(3):611-8.
Related Products: Phloridzin
- 12. Major active components in grapefruit, orange, and apple juices responsible for OATP2B1-mediated drug interactions.
We aimed to explore the major active components in grapefruit juice (GFJ), orange juice (OJ), and apple juice (AJ) that are responsible for OATP2B1-mediated drug interactions, by means of in vitro studies using Xenopus oocytes expressing OATP2B1 with a typical OATP2B1 substrate, estrone-3-sulfate. All three juices inhibited OATP2B1-mediated estrone-3-sulfate uptake with half-maximum inhibition (IC(50) ) values of 0.222% (GFJ), 0.807% (OJ), and 2.27% (AJ). Eight major flavonoids (naringin, naringenin, hesperidin, hesperetin, phloridzin, phloretin, quercetin, and kaempferol) contained in the juices inhibited OATP2B1-mediated estrone-3-sulfate uptake with IC(50) values of 4.63, 49.2, 1.92, 67.6, 23.2, 1.31, 9.47, and 21.3 µM, respectively. When the concentration-IC(50) ratios ([C]/IC(50) ) of these flavonoids in GFJ, OJ, and AJ were calculated, values of [C]/IC(50) ≥ 100 were obtained for naringin in GFJ and hesperidin in OJ. No flavonoid in AJ showed a ratio higher than unity. However, significant inhibition of OATP2B1 was observed with a mixture of phloridzin, phloretin, hesperidin, and quercetin at the concentrations present in AJ. In conclusion, our results indicate that naringin and hesperidin are the major OATP2B1 inhibitors in GFJ and OJ, respectively, whereas a combination of multiple components appears to be responsible for OATP2B1 inhibition by AJ....(more)
Shirasaka Y, et al. J Pharm Sci 2013 Jan;102(1):280-8.
Related Products: Phloridzin
- 13. Recovery and characterisation of coloured phenolic preparations from apple seeds.
The aim of this study was to investigate whether complexly constituted phenolic extracts from apple seeds may be utilised for the recovery of natural coloured antioxidant preparations, which might serve as potential food or cosmetic ingredients. In a first step, the recovery of phenolic compounds was optimised by varying crucial extraction parameters. A single extraction step at 25°C using an acetone-water mixture (60:40, v/v) and a solid-to-solvent ratio of 1:8 (w/v) for 1 h was found to be appropriate to achieve both high phenolic yields and antioxidant activities. In a second step, differently produced apple seed extracts and a phloridzin model solution were enzymatically treated by mushroom polyphenol oxidase to investigate the rate of pigment synthesis. Depending on the extraction procedure applied, synthesis rates, pigment yields and colour properties significantly differed. Compared to the phloridzin model solution, extracts recovered from the seeds showed comparable and even better results, thus indicating such preparations to be a promising alternative to synthetic yellow dyes....(more)
Fromm M, et al. Food Chem 2013 Feb 15;136(3-4):1277-87.
Related Products: Phloridzin
- 14. Apple peel bioactive rich extracts effectively inhibit in vitro human LDL cholesterol oxidation.
Apple peels are rich in antioxidant bioactives and hence can possess the ability to inhibit human low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) oxidation. LDL-C oxidation is known to initiate atherosclerotic plaque formation. Unique quercetin-rich (QAE) and triterpene-rich (TAE) apple peel extracts, their constituent compounds and three in vivo quercetin metabolites were investigated for in vitro LDL-C oxidation inhibition. Both extracts effectively inhibited Cu(2+)-induced LDL-C oxidation. IC(50) of QAE and TAE for LDL-C oxidation products were 0.06-8.29 mg/L and 29.58-95.49 mg/L, respectively. Quercetin compounds, chlorogenic acid and phloridzin could contribute more to the effectiveness of QAE at physiological concentrations. The three in vivo quercetin metabolites; quercetin-3'-sulfate, quercetin-3-glucuronic acid and isorhamnetin-3-glucuronic acid were effective at physiological concentrations and therefore, QAE can be effective in LDL-C oxidation inhibition under physiological conditions. Constituent TAE compounds did not perform well under Cu(2+)-induction. Overall, both extracts effectively inhibited LDL-C oxidation in vitro....(more)
Thilakarathna SH, et al. Food Chem 2013 May 1;138(1):463-70.
Related Products: Phloridzin
- 15. Biocatalytic synthesis, structural elucidation, antioxidant capacity and tyrosinase inhibition activity of long chain fatty acid acylated derivatives of phloridzin and isoquercitrin.
Our present investigation describes the regioselective enzymatic acylation of two series of acylated derivatives of phloridzin and isoquercitrin with six different long chain saturated, mono- and poly-unsaturated fatty acids. The biocatalytic synthesis was optimized to achieve 81-98% yields, using immobilized lipase B, from Candida antarctica (Novozym 435), in acetone at 45°C. The synthesized esters have been analyzed by (1)H NMR, (13)C NMR spectroscopy and evaluated for their antioxidant capacity and tyrosinase inhibition, using in vitro assays. Among all the phloridzin and isoquercitrin derivatives, the greatest potential for inhibition of tyrosinase activity (p ≤ 0.05) was exhibited by the α-linolenic acid ester of isoquercitrin....(more)
Ziaullah, et al. Bioorg Med Chem 2013 Feb 1;21(3):684-92.
Related Products: Phloridzin
- 16. Phenolic profile and antioxidant capacity of the principal apples produced in Brazil.
This study evaluated the phenols of the Gala, Fuji and Golden Delicious varieties, which make up 95% of Brazilian production. The phenolic profiles (whole fruit) were determined by high pressure liquid chromatography, total phenols were determined using the Folin-Ciocalteau method and antioxidant capacity by the FRAP method (whole fruit, skin, pulp and centre). The Golden Delicious had the highest phenol content (408 mg/fruit) compared to Fuji (194 mg/fruit) and Gala (162 mg/fruit), and the antioxidant capacity of the Golden Delicious was 2.5 and 3.6 times higher than that found in the Fuji and Gala, respectively. The phenolic profile for the three varieties showed 5-caffeoylquinic acid, ( - )-epicatechin, procyanidin B2 and phloridzin as major components with procyanidins as the predominant class and quercetin as the minority. The consumption of apple pulp may provide 48-78% of the antioxidant capacity; however, if the peel is ingested, it may increase to 79-89%. The type of apple variety and the parts ingested are factors that must be taken into consideration in consumption....(more)
Zardo DM, et al. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2013 Jan 29.
Related Products: Phloridzin
- 17. Anti-hyperglycemic effect of the aqueous extract of banana infructescence stalks in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.
Water extract of banana (Musa sapientum) infructescence stalks has been used in folk medicine in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. This work aims at verifying the claimed effect and elucidating its possible mode of action. The extract was given in replacement of drinking water to diabetic rats, and its mechanism of action was studied by investigating its involvement in glucose transport in Caco-2 monolayers, and in rat jejuna using an in situ perfusion technique. Its effect on the Na(+)/K(+) ATPase was studied by measuring the amount of inorganic phosphate liberated. The extract reduced significantly blood glucose levels in diabetic rats and glucose transport across rat jejuna and Caco-2 monolayers, and induced a 50 % decrease in their Na(+)/K(+) ATPase activity. The extract did not induce any further decrease in jejunal glucose uptake in the simultaneous presence of phloridzin and phloretin, respective inhibitors of SGLT1 and GLUT2 transporters nor did it induce a change in the protein expression of SGLT1 and GLUT2. It was concluded that the extract acts by reducing the Na(+)/K(+) ATPase activity of enterocytes and consequently the sodium gradient required for sugar transport by SGLT1, which leads to down-regulation of GLUT2 and contributes to the observed anti-hyperglycemic effect....(more)
Jaber H, et al. Plant Foods Hum Nutr 2013 Mar;68(1):83-9.
Related Products: Phloridzin
- 18. Optimization of ultrasonic-assisted extraction of phenolic antioxidants from Malus baccata (Linn.) Borkh. using response surface methodology.
In this study, the optimum extraction conditions for maximum recovery of the content of total phenolics (TPC) and total antioxidant abilities were analyzed for Malus baccata (Linn.) Borkh. using response surface methodology. The effects of ethanol percentage (X1 ,%), ultrasonic power (X2 , W) and extraction temperature (X3 , °C) on the total phenolic content (Y1 ) and antioxidant ability (Y2 ) were evaluated. A second-order polynomial model produced a satisfactory fitting of the experimental data with regard to total phenolic content (R<sup>2</sup> = 0.9942, P < 0.0001) and antioxidant ability (R<sup>2</sup> = 0.9966, P < 0.0001). The optimized conditions were ethanol concentration of 61.0%, ultrasonic power of 308.6 W, extraction temperature of 51.1°C for TPC and 60.5%, 311.4 W, 51.6°C for antioxidant ability, the predicted values agreed well with the experimental values. Results implied that the major phenolic compounds in obtained extracts as chlorogenic acid, quercetin-3-gal/glu, quercetin-3-xyl/ara, phloretin-2-xyloside, quercetin-3- rhamnoside, and phloridzin....(more)
Wang L, et al. J Sep Sci 2013 Feb 25.
Related Products: Phloridzin
- 19. The role of enoyl reductase genes in phloridzin biosynthesis in apple.
Phloridzin is the predominant polyphenol in apple (Malus ×domestica Borkh.) where it accumulates to high concentrations in many tissues including the leaves, bark, roots and fruit. Despite its relative abundance in apple the biosynthesis of phloridzin and other related dihydrochalcones remains only partially understood. The key unidentified enzyme in phloridzin biosynthesis is a putative carbon double bond reductase which is thought to act on p-coumaroyl-CoA to produce the dihydro-p-coumaroyl-CoA precursor. A functional screen of six apple enoyl reductase-like (ENRL) genes was carried out using transient infiltration into tobacco and gene silencing by RNA interference (RNAi) in order to determine carbon double bond reductase activity and contribution to foliar phloridzin concentrations. The ENRL-3 gene caused a significant increase in phloridzin concentration when infiltrated into tobacco leaves whilst a second protein ENRL-5, with over 98% amino acid sequence similarity to ENRL-3, showed p-coumaroyl-CoA reductase activity in enzyme assays. Finally, an RNAi study showed that reducing the transcript levels of ENRL-3 in transgenic 'Royal Gala' led to a 66% decrease in the concentration of dihydrochalcones in the leaves in the one available silenced line. Overall these results suggest that ENRL-3, and its close homolog ENRL-5, may contribute to the biosynthesis of phloridzin in apple....(more)
Dare AP, et al. Plant Physiol Biochem 2013 Mar 5.
Related Products: Phloridzin
- 20. Correlation between Changes in Polyphenol Composition of Peels and Incidence of CO2 Skin Burning of 'Cameo' Apples As Influenced by Controlled Atmosphere Storage.
Cameo' apples stored under high CO2 levels suffer from "skin burning". Accordingly, this study is aimed to correlate the incidence of skin burning with different polyphenols. After harvest, apples were sorted into bad- and good-colored fruit and further stored under either high (3%) or low (0.7%) CO2 level. At frequent intervals, fruit were assessed for incidence of skin burning and relative concentrations of various polyphenols. Results clearly show that bad-colored apples stored under high CO2 level had the highest incidence percentage. Concerning the polyphenol profile, good-colored and healthy apples had significantly higher concentrations of certain polyphenols, including cyanidin-3-galactoside and rutin. However, bad-colored and injured apples had significantly higher concentrations of another set of polyphenols, including phloridzin, epicatechin, and (epi)catechin→(epi)catechin isomers. Taking into account that quercetins and cyanidins account for more than 80% of antioxidants, it is logical to assume that these polyphenols might give protection to good-colored apples against skin burning....(more)
Harb J, et al. J Agric Food Chem 2013 Apr 17;61(15):3624-30.
Related Products: Phloridzin
- 21. Phyllanthus emblica L. Enhances Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Wound Healing and Sprouting.
Endothelial dysfunction is the hallmark of impaired wound healing and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Antioxidants from natural sources decrease oxidative stress and protect against cellular damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, we examined the antioxidant constituents and capacity of Phyllanthus emblica L. (PE) fruit in freeze-dried power form. The pharmacological properties of PE were investigated using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in the aspects of endothelial cell proliferation, nitric oxide (NO) production, wound healing, cell migration, in vitro angiogenesis, and VEGF gene expression. The ASC content of PE was 1.574% + 0.046% (w/w) as determined by HPLC and the total phenolic content was 36.1% ± 0.7% gallic acid equivalent when measured by Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The FRAP assay revealed a relatively high antioxidant capacity at 3,643 + 192.5 µmole/mg. PE at 0.1 to 10 µg/mL did not significantly influence endothelial cell proliferation, but at higher concentrations PE decreased cell survival to 62%. PE significantly promoted NO production, endothelial wound closure, endothelial sprouting, and VEGF mRNA expression. Therefore, PE is a candidate for antioxidant supplement that promotes endothelial function and restores wound healing competency....(more)
Chularojmontri L, et al. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2013;2013:720728.
Related Products: Phyllanthus Emblica Extract
- 22. Nutrients and bioactive compounds of Thai indigenous fruits.
This study determined the nutritional potential of Thai indigenous fruits in terms of nutrients, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activities. Three indigenous fruits were collected at two conservation areas in Kanchanaburi province, Thailand. The results showed that Phyllanthus emblica L. exhibited the highest levels of vitamin C (575±452mg/100g), total phenolics (TP) (3703±1244mGAE/100g), and antioxidant activities, as measured by DPPH, FRAP and ORAC assays. Compared to the other two fruits, Antidesma velutinosum Blume contained higher levels of most nutrients and dietary fibre (15.6±5.9g/100g), as well as carotenoids (335±98μg/100g) and phytosterols (22.1±3.9mg/100g). Spondias pinnata (L.f.) Kurz was high in total phenolics (3178±887mGAE/100g) and antioxidant activity. Moreover, high correlations were found between TP and antioxidant activities (r>0.9). These Thai indigenous fruits are potentially good sources of nutrients, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activities. Conservation and utilisation should be promoted for food security and consumption as part of a healthy diet.
Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved....(more)
Judprasong K, et al. Food Chem 2013 Oct 1;140(3):507-12.
Related Products: Phyllanthus Emblica Extract
- 23. Insulin sensitizing effect of 3 Indian medicinal plants: An in vitro study.
OBJECTIVE:
Measurement of glucose uptake into peripheral tissue is an important mechanism to assess Insulin sensitivity. The present in vitro study was conducted to evaluate the Insulin sensitizing activity of Phyllanthus emblica (Pe), Tinospora cordifolia (Tc) and Curcuma longa (Cl) by assessing glucose uptake activity in a 3T3L1 adipocyte model.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The 3T3 L1 fibroblast cells were differentiated to adipocytes, using a cocktail of insulin, isobutyl-1-methylxanthine and dexamethazone. These adipocytes were initially treated with different concentrations of the selected plants following which 2-deoxy glucose uptake was estimated using a radioactive assay. The effects of plants on glucose uptake both in the presence and absence of insulin was evaluated and compared with pioglitazone, a known insulin sensitizer.
RESULTS:
Pe and Tc per se significantly stimulated glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes in a dose dependent manner with maximal effect at higher concentrations (200μg/ml). The effect of both Pe and Tc at 200μg/ml was comparable to insulin and greater than pioglitazone. Cl per se stimulated glucose uptake with maximal effect at 50μg/ml. However, this effect was lesser as compared to insulin with higher concentrations inhibiting glucose uptake. When combined with insulin, an antagonist effect was observed between Pe, Tc and insulin indicating a possible plant-drug interaction while Cl in combination with insulin showed an increase in the glucose uptake as compared to Cl alone.
CONCLUSION:
The results suggest that one of the mechanisms for the anti-diabetic effect of Pe, Cl and Tc may be through an insulin sensitizing effect (stimulation of glucose uptake into adipocytes). Further studies using other target sites viz. skeletal muscle and hepatocytes models and in an insulin resistant state would help substantiate this conclusion....(more)
Kalekar SA, et al. Indian J Pharmacol 2013 Jan;45(1):30-3.
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- 24. Antiproliferative effect of silver nanoparticles synthesized using amla on Hep2 cell line.
OBJECTIVE:
To synthesize silver nanoparticles by amla extract, screen the cytotoxic, oxidative stress and apoptotic effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on Hep2 cell line (laryngeal carcinoma cells) in vitro, and to compare the effect of Phyllanthus emblica (P. emblica) (amla) with AgNPs synthesized by amla and 5-FU.
METHODS:
AgNPs was synthesized by P. emblica (aqueous extract) and nanoparticles were characterized UV-Vis spec, the presence of biomoloecules of amla capped in AgNPs was found by FT-IR analysis, shape and size were examined by SEM and DLS. Cytotoxicity of experimental drugs was tested to find IC(50) value. ROS generation in cells have been measured by DCFH-DA staining, AO-EtBr, Rhodamine-123 staining and DNA fragmentation were performed to assess apoptotic cell death, mitochondrial membrane potential and apoptotic DNA damage, respectively. Oxidative stress was analyzed by measuring lipid peroxides and antioxidants level to understand the cancer cell death by pro-oxidant mechanism.
RESULTS:
PE-AgNPs was synthesized and confirmed through kinetic behavior of NPs. The shape of PE-AgNPs was spherical and cubic since it was agglomerated, and the nanoparticle surface was complicated. Average particle size distribution of PE-AgNPs was found to be 188 nm. Potent biomolecules of P. emblica such as polyphenols were capped with AgNPs and reduced its toxicity. In cytotoxicity assay the concentration in which the maximum number of cell death was 60 μg/mL and 50 μg/mL for P. emblica (alone) and AgNPs, respectively and IC(50) values were fixed as 30 μg/mL and 20 μg/mL. ROS generation, apoptotic morphological changes, mitochondrial depolarization, DNA damage and oxidative stress was observed as more in AgNPs treated cells than in P. emblica (30 μg/mL) (alone) treated cells and 5-FU treated cells gave similar result.
CONCLUSIONS:
The results suggest that the AgNPs are capped with biomolecules of amla enhanced cytotoxicity in laryngeal cancer cells through oxidative stress and apoptotic function on Hep2 cancer cells.
Copyright © 2013 Hainan Medical College. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved....(more)
Rosarin FS, et al. Asian Pac J Trop Med 2013 Jan;6(1):1-10.
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- 25. Cytotoxicity and structure activity relationships of phytosterol from Phyllanthus emblica.
Fourteen sterols (1-14), including two new sterols, trihydroxysitosterol (2) and 5α,6β,7α-7α-acetoxysitosterol (3), were isolated from the branches and leaves of Phyllanthus emblica L. The isolated compounds and a structurally related sterol 15 from Aphanamixis grandifolia were screened for cytotoxicity in two tumor cell lines (HL-60 and SMMC-7721) and a non-tumor cell line (HL-7702) using RSB assay. Within the series of phytosterol derivatives tested, compound 15 was the most active, displaying potent cytotoxicity against HL-60 with IC(50) of 5.10μmol/L, and most of the active compounds showed selective cytotoxicity against tumor and non-tumor cell lines, especially compound 10 with a safety index of 4.42.
Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved....(more)
Qi WY, et al. Fitoterapia 2013 Jan;84:252-6.
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- 26. Scientific validation of the ethnomedicinal properties of the Ayurvedic drug Triphala: a review.
Triphala, a herbal formula composed of the three fruits of Terminalia chebula Retz. (Haritaki, Family: Combretaceae), Terminalia bellirica Roxb. (Bibhitaki, Family: Combretaceae) and Phyllanthus emblica Linn. or Emblica officinalis Gaertn. (Amalaki or the Indian gooseberry, Family: Euphorbiaceae) is considered to be a universal panacea in the traditional Indian system of medicine the Ayurveda. It has been described in the Ayurveda text as a "Rasayana' and to rejuvenat the debilitated organs. Ayurvedic physicians use Triphala for many ailments but most importantly to treat various gastrointestinal disorders. Scientific studies carried out in the past two decades have validated many of the ethnomedicinal claims and researches have shown Triphala to possess free radical scavenging, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, antibacterial, antimutagenic, wound healing, anticariogenic, antistress, adaptogenic, hypoglycaemic, anticancer, chemoprotective, radioprotective and chemopreventive effects. Clinical studies have also shown that Triphala was found to have good laxative property, to improve appetite and reduce gastric hyperacidity. Studies have also shown that Triphala was effective in preventing dental caries and that this effect was equal to that of chlorhexidine. The current review addresses the validated pharmacological properties of Triphala and also emphasizes on aspects that need further investigation for its future clinic application....(more)
Baliga MS, et al. Chin J Integr Med 2012 Dec;18(12):946-54.
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- 27. Isolation and characterization of microsatellites in a medicinal plant, Phyllanthus emblica (Euphorbiaceae).
• PREMISE OF THE STUDY: Microsatellite markers were isolated and characterized in a medicinal plant, Phyllanthus emblica, to study population genetics for designing an effective in situ and ex situ conservation of genetic resources of the species. • METHODS AND RESULTS: Six microsatellite markers were developed using an enrichment and magnetic separation protocol. They were characterized in two natural populations of P. emblica. Out of the six microsatellites, five showed polymorphism, with the number of alleles ranging from four to seven. Observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.360 to 0.760 and 0.499 to 0.806, respectively. • CONCLUSIONS: The five polymorphic microsatellite markers will be useful for studying the genetic structure, reproductive biology, and for identification of clones and provenances of this important medicinal plant....(more)
Pandey M, et al. Am J Bot 2012 Dec;99(12):e468-9.
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- 28. Chemopreventive efficacy of Phyllanthus emblica L. (amla) fruit extract on 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene induced oral carcinogenesis--a dose-response study.
Phyllanthus emblica L. (Euphorbiaceae), a novel natural fruit has long been used as a home remedy by the medical practitioners. In this report, we investigated the chemopreventive effect of P. emblica fruit methanolic extract (PFMet) on oxidant-antioxidant status in hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis. Buccal pouch carcinoma was induced in hamsters by painting with DMBA (0.5% in mineral oil) on the left buccal pouch three times a week for 14 weeks. By means of HPLC analysis, ascorbic acid (24.13%), gallic acid (10.45%), ellagic acid (1.74%) and quercetin (0.009%) were identified and quantified in the PFMet. The results showed that depleted activities of SOD, CAT and TBARS level and significant elevation were observed in the levels of GSH, vitamin E and activity of GPx in DMBA group of buccal pouch. The level of TBARS was significantly enhanced and the activities of enzymatic (SOD, CAT and GPx) and non-enzymatic (vitamin E, vitamin C and GSH) antioxidants were diminished significantly in plasma of tumor bearing animals. The effects were dose dependent and the above noted parameters were renovated to near normal after supplementation with different doses of PFMet (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg BW). The data obtained in this study clearly indicate that PFMet at a dose of 200mg/kg BW possesses optimum chemopreventive effect against DMBA-induced buccal pouch carcinogenesis.
Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved....(more)
Krishnaveni M, et al. Environ Toxicol Pharmacol 2012 Nov;34(3):801-10.
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- 29. Assessment of air pollution tolerance levels of selected plants around cement industry, Coimbatore, India.
Being the second largest manufacturing industry in India, cement industry is one of the major contributors of suspended particulate matter (SPM). Since plants are sensitive to air pollution, introducing suitable plant species as part of the greenbelt around cement industry was the objective of the present study. Suitable plant species were selected based on the Air pollution tolerance index (APTI) calculated by analyzing ascorbic acid (AA), pH, relative water content (RWC) and total chlorophyll (TChl) of the plants occuring in the locality. Plants were selected within a 6 km radius from the industry and were graded as per their tolerance levels by analyzing the biochemical parameters. From the statistical analysis at 0.05 level of significance a difference in the APTI values among the 27 plant species was observed, but they showed homogenous results when analysed zone wise using one-way analyses of variance. Analyses of individual parameters showed variation in the different zones surrounding the cement industry, whereas the APTI value (which is a combination of the parameter viz. AA, RWC, TChl, pH) showed more or less same gradation. Significant variation in individual parameters and APTI was seen with in the species. All the plants surrounding the cement industry are indicative of high pollution exposure comparable to the results obtain for control plants. Based on the APTI value, it was observed that about 37% of the plant species were tolerant. Among them Mangifera indica, Bougainvillea species, Psidum quajava showed high APTI values. 33% of the species were highly susceptible to the adverse effects of SPM, among which Thevetia neriifolia, Saraca indica, Phyllanthus emblica and Cercocarpus ledifolius showed low APTI values. 15% each of the species were at the intermediary and moderate tolerance levels....(more)
Radhapriya P, et al. J Environ Biol 2012 May;33(3):635-41.
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- 30. Studies on Prokinetic, Laxative and Spasmodic Activities of Phyllanthus emblica in Experimental Animals.
This study was aimed to provide pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of Phyllanthus emblica fruit in indigestion and constipation using the in-vivo and in-vitro assays. The crude extract of the dried fruits of Phyllanthus emblica (Pe.Cr) and its fractions were tested positive for alkaloids, saponins, tannins, terpenes, flavonoids, sterols and coumarins. Pe.Cr at the doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg exhibited the prokinetic and laxative activities in mice, which were found partially sensitive to atropine. In isolated guinea-pig ileum and rabbit jejunum, the crude extract and its aqueous fraction (Pe.Aq) caused concentration-dependent and partially atropine-sensitive stimulatory effects followed by relaxation at higher tested concentrations, being more efficacious in guinea pig, while more potent in rabbit tissues. The petroleum fraction (0.003-0.1 mg/mL) exhibited fully atropine-sensitive contractions in both guinea-pig and rabbit tissues. However, the ethyl acetate and chloroform fractions (0.003-1.0 mg/mL) showed only spasmolytic activity when studied in spontaneously contracting rabbit jejunum. This study showed that the Phyllanthus emblica possesses prokinetic and laxative activities in mice along with spasmodic effect in the isolated tissues of guinea pig and rabbit, mediated partially through activation of muscarinic receptors; thus, this study provides a rationale for the medicinal use of Phyllanthus emblica fruits in indigestion and constipation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd....(more)
Mehmood MH, et al. Phytother Res 2012 Sep 12.
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- 31. Anti-inflammatory properties of fruit juices enriched with pine bark extract in an in vitro model of inflamed human intestinal epithelium: the effect of gastrointestinal digestion.
Enrichment of fruit juices with pine bark extract (PBE) could be a strategy to compensate for phenolic losses during the gastrointestinal digestion. A coculture system with Caco-2 cells and RAW 264.7 macrophages was established as an in vitro model of inflamed human intestinal epithelium for evaluating the anti-inflammatory capacity of fruit juices enriched with PBE (0.5 g L(-1)) before and after in vitro digestion. The digestion of both PBE-enriched pineapple and red fruit juice led to significant changes in most of the analysed phenolic compounds. The in vitro inflammatory state showed cell barrier dysfunction and overproduction of IL-8, nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). In the inflamed cells, incubation with nondigested samples reduced (P<0.05) the production of IL-8 and NO compared with digested samples. ROS production increased in the inflamed cells exposed to digested commercial red fruit juice (86.8±1.3%) compared with fresh juice (77.4±0.8%) and increased in the inflamed cells exposed to digested enriched red fruit juice (82.6±1.6%) compared with the fresh enriched juice (55.8±6%). The anti-inflammatory properties of PBE-enriched fruit juices decreased after digestion; further research on the bioavailability of the assayed compounds is needed to properly assess their usefulness for the treatment of gut inflammation....(more)
Frontela-Saseta C, et al. Food Chem Toxicol 2013 Mar;53:94-9.
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- 32. Pycnogenol® Supplementation Improves Health Risk Factors in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome.
This open, controlled study evaluated the effects of 6 month supplementation with Pycnogenol® maritime pine bark extract on health risk factors in subjects with metabolic syndrome. Pycnogenol® was used with the aim of improving risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome, central obesity, elevated triglycerides (TG), low HDL cholesterol, high blood pressure and fasting blood glucose. Sixty-four subjects (range 45-55 years) presenting with all five risk factors of metabolic syndrome were included, and Pycnogenol® was administered for 6 months. A group of 66 equivalent subjects were followed up as controls. In the 6-month study Pycnogenol® supplementation 150 mg/day decreased waist circumference, TG levels, blood pressure and increased the HDL cholesterol levels in subjects. Pycnogenol lowered fasting glucose from baseline 123 ± 8.6 mg/dl to 106.4 ± 5.3 after 3 months and to 105.3 ± 2.5 at the end of the study (p < 0.05 vs controls). Men's waist circumference decreased with Pycnogenol from 106.2 ± 2.2 cm to 98.8 ± 2.3 cm and to 98.3 ± 2.1 after 3 and 6 months. Women's waist decreased from 90.9 ± 1.6 cm to 84.6 ± 2.1 cm and to 83.6 ± 2.2 cm after 3 and 6 months. Both genders waist circumference reduction was significant as compared to controls at both time points. In addition, plasma free radicals decrease in the Pycnogenol group was more effective than in the control group (-34.6%; p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study indicates a role for Pycnogenol® for improving health risk factors in subjects with metabolic syndrome. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd....(more)
Belcaro G, et al. Phytother Res 2013 Jan 28.
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- 33. Incision wound healing activity of pine bark extract containing topical formulations: a study with histopathological and biochemical analyses in albino rats.
The present study was designed to identify and compare the in vivo wound healing capacity of a bark extract from Pinus brutia and Pycnogenol in an incision wound model in rats. O/W cream formulations were prepared incorporating 2% Pycnogenol and P. brutia bark extract. The rats were divided into three groups (n = 8). Subsequently placebo and test formulations were applied to animals once a day from day "0" until the 9th day. Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were studied in addition to histopathological examinations. Treatment with F. brutia extract containing cream inhibited lipid peroxidation by a 35% decrease in MDA and 46.8% increase in SOD activity, whereas 19.3% decrease in MDA and 34.7% increase in SOD activity were attained with Pynogenol compared to control. The histological data revealed a better performance of P. brutia extract enriched formulation in terms of degeneration of hair roots, increased vascularization and a decrease in necrotic area. Consequently, a high wound healing activity was observed in animals treated with P. brutia extract significantly accelerating the wound healing process....(more)
Cetin EO, et al. Pharmazie 2013 Jan;68(1):75-80.
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- 34. Effect of low-dose French maritime pine bark extract on climacteric syndrome in 170 perimenopausal women: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE:
To evaluate the efficacy of a relatively low daily dosage of Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract for improvement of climacteric symptoms.
STUDY DESIGN:
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study 170 perimenopausal women were enrolled and treated with 30 mg Pycnogenol or placebo twice daily over a period of 3 months. Climacteric symptoms were evaluated by the Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ) and by the Kupperman index, accompanied by an investigation of sex hormones and routine blood chemistry.
RESULTS:
Seven women dropped out of each group due to noncompliance or personal reasons, but not as a result of treatment. A significant placebo effect was apparent in this study, suggesting an improvement of a majority of the WHQ categories. Compared to baseline, Pycnogenol significantly (p < 0.05) improved all symptoms with the exception of formication sensation and abnormal perceptions. Pycnogenol was found to be especially effective for improving vasomotor and insomnia/sleep problem symptoms, which were significantly better after 4 and 12 weeks than with placebo (p < 0.05). Total Kupperman's index for perimenopausal symptom severity score decreased significantly by 56% as compared to placebo (-39%) after 12 weeks of treatment (p < 0.05). Symptom score was also significantly better already after 4 weeks of treatment with Pycnogenol as compared to placebo.
CONCLUSION:
This study, applying a relatively low daily dose, allows identification of those climacteric symptoms which respond particularly well to supplementation with Pycnogenol....(more)
Kohama T, et al. J Reprod Med 2013 Jan-Feb;58(1-2):39-46.
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- 35. Natural antioxidants in meat and poultry products.
In response to recent claims that synthetic antioxidants have the potential to cause toxicological effects and consumers' increased interest in purchasing natural products, the meat and poultry industry has been seeking sources of natural antioxidants. Due to their high phenolic compound content, fruits and other plant materials provide a good alternative to conventional antioxidants. Plum, grape seed extract, cranberry, pomegranate, bearberry, pine bark extract, rosemary, oregano, and other spices functions as antioxidants in meat and poultry products. Pomegranate, pine bark extract, cinnamon, and cloves have exhibited stronger antioxidant properties than some synthetic options. Plum products, grape seed extract, pine bark extract, rosemary, and some spices all have been shown to affect the color of finished meat or poultry products; however, in some products such as pork sausage or uncured meats, an increase in red color may be desired. When selecting a natural antioxidant, sensory and quality impact on the product should be considered to achieve desired traits....(more)
Karre L, et al. Meat Sci 2013 Jun;94(2):220-7.
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