Kigelia africana (Lam.) Benth leaf extract inhibits rat brain and liver mitochondrial membrane permeability transition pore opening.
- Falode JA et al (2022).
- Drug Chem Toxicol.
- PubMed:
- 33280443
A study investigated the sedative and hypnotic effects of Perilla frutescens essential oil (PFEO) through inhalation administration for insomnia treatment, as traditional Chinese medicine suggests depression syndrome is a core pathogenesis of insomnia. Results showed that PFEO exhibited sedative and hypnotic effects, increased total sleep time, and decreased wake time, which suggest it may have therapeutic potential for insomnia treatment. These findings provide insight into the pharmacology and mechanism of PFEO and support the use of traditional Chinese medicine for treating insomnia.
This study focused on identifying and distinguishing between different species within the genus Taraxacum, which contains over 2800 species. The researchers examined the morphology and micromorphology of achenes (seeds) from 28 species in one section and compared them to a species from each of four other sections. They found that the physical characteristics of the achenes can be used to differentiate between sections and species within sect. Palustria. Their findings resulted in the creation of a system for identifying the studied species using a dichotomous key. This research is important for accurately identifying and understanding the properties of these valuable medicinal and nutritional plants.
This review explores the therapeutic potential of Mucuna pruriens (Mp), a legume known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties. Mp has been widely used as an aphrodisiac and has been shown to have neuroprotective effects in Parkinson's disease (PD) models. The important constituents responsible for the anti-Parkinsonian activity of Mp are levodopa (L-DOPA), ursolic acid, and betulinic acid. The seeds of Mp are rich in L-DOPA and have been found to exhibit potent neuroprotective attributes in toxin-induced PD models. Clinical trials on anti-PD activity of Mp have shown convincing results. Mp also shows therapeutic activity in diseases such as cancer, diabetes, skin infection, and anemia. However, further studies are needed to validate its efficacy in other neurodegenerative diseases.
The study investigated the genetic diversity and structure of wild European apple populations to assess the risks of cross-hybridization with domesticated apple varieties. Using genetic analysis, researchers found that 87% of wild apple accessions were pure. The genetic diversity within pure populations was high with a weak structure between populations indicating unrestricted genetic exchange. The study confirms the existence of pure wild apple accessions in the area and highlights the need for preservation measures to protect wild apple populations in Saxony.
A study on the effects of Corylus avellana L. in mice with metabolic syndrome found that it improved weight gain, behavioral parameters, and reduced anxiety indices. It also lowered blood glucose levels and lipid peroxidation while improving lipid profile and antioxidant status. Brain acetylcholinesterase activity was reduced, dopamine levels increased, and caspase-3 levels were reduced. These cultivars improve metabolic, behavioral, and neurochemical homeostasis in a high-fat diet.
The study examined how extracts from the plant CH can protect human neuroblastoma cells from the effects of high glucose. The extracts were tested for their chemical contents and antioxidant activity. Results showed that the extracts prevented neuronal senescence by inhibiting the production of reactive oxygen species and inducing cell cycle progression. This was achieved through the downregulation of certain proteins and the up-regulation of SIRT1, which improved neuronal cell functions. The study suggests that CH extracts have potential therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative diseases and could be used to relieve various health ailments as a natural remedy.