Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during aerobic metabolism cause oxidative damage leading to several disorders, ageing or cell death. Plants synthesize an array of phytochemicals having strong antioxidative properties that can delay or prevent oxidative damage. Here, we monitored the antioxidative properties of different plant parts of two high-valued, endangered medicinal plant species: Angelica glauca Edgew. (Apiaceae) and Dioscorea deltoidea Wall. (Dioscoreaceae) from Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, India, using DPPH (1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and pyrogallol autoxidation assays. The underground parts (roots/rhizomes) of both the species exhibited substantially greater antioxidative activity as compared to the other plant parts. Further, of the two tested extraction solvents, methanolic extracts exhibited higher activity as compared to the aqueous extracts across all considered plant parts in both the species implying the variability in phytochemical composition of the extracts. We compared the observations with those reported earlier and discussed the potential of A. glauca and D. deltoidea as a source of natural antioxidants.
Bauhinia racemosa Lam. is a tall tree that grows in Sri Lanka, China, India, and Pakistan.Various plant parts have a high therapeutic value in folklore medicine and are used to treat diarrhoea, fever, skin diseases, cough, malaria, and other conditions. Bauhinia racemosa has been shown to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antispasmodic, ulcer-preventing, cytotoxic, and hypotensive properties.The infrared spectra of a hydroalcoholic extract of Bauhinia racemosa Lam. were recorded in the present study. Absorption spectra were used to determine the vibrational assignments, intensities, and wave numbers (cm-1) of the main peak. Probable band distributions have been determined based on the components found in the sample. Functional groups found in hydroalcoholic extract includes alcohol, amines, halo compounds, alkane, and fluoro compound, etc. The identification of functional groups by FTIR helps in identifying the possible bioactive elements of Bauhinia racemosa Lam. leaves.The study found that plant hydroalcoholic extract offer great therapeutic potential due to their chemical makeup, which includes biologically significant functional groups. In the future, it will be utilised to treat a variety of ailments.
Aluminium (Al) toxicity constitutes the major factor restricting plant productivity on acidic soils posing a threat to food security worldwide. Here, we have monitored the impact of Al on pigment (chlorophyll and carotenoid) contents of certain rice (Oryza sativa L.) landraces from Sikkim Himalaya with contrasting Al tolerance namely, Kalo tukmar (KT), Champasari (CP), Krishna bhog (KB) and Dhansey (DH). Seedlings were grown hydroponically with half strength Hoagland solution containing Al (0-1500 µM, pH 4.5) for14-d and chlorophyll (a, b and total) and carotenoid contents were measured. In response to the exposure to Al, pigment levels declined in a concentration dependent manner in all the tested landraces with strong landrace-specific differences. Thus, the extent of Al-induced decline in chlorophyll and carotenoid contents was much lower in KT and CP than that in KB and DH. A decline of 42, 50, 69 and 70% in total chlorophyll content at 1500 µM Al was evident in KT, CP, KB and DH, respectively. The observations are consistent with greater Al tolerance of KT and CP as compared to KB and DH. Chl a : b ratio tended to increase particularly in KB and KT suggesting a higher decline in Chl b content than that in Chl a due to Al treatment. The carotenoid contents were suppressed by 55 and 38% in KB and KT, respectivelydue to 1500 µM Al treatment. Differential response of the tested landraces to Al could be ascribed to more efficient Al resistance mechanisms. The findings have implications for selection of suitable landrace(s) for acidic soil conditions.
The widespread utilization of agrochemicals and chemical fertilizers in agriculture that were initially embraced to address agricultural expansion to feed growing world population, have led to significant environmental and health challenges including agrochemical poisoning, unintentional acute pesticide poisoning (UAPP), air and soil pollution, that damage ecosystems and human health. It causes disruption of the soil microbiome and also that of aquatic ecosystems through eutrophication, and human health via complex food webs. Hence, these problems underscore the urgent need for more sustainable agricultural practices. Biofertilizers or microbial inoculants are presented as promising substitutes to chemical fertilizers. Formulations of biofertilizers exploit the beneficial physiological attributes of microbes dwelling in the rhizosphere that may sometimes also invade the interior of plants, like Rauvolfia serpentina (Sarpagandha). The beneficial attributes of these microbes include production of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), solubilization of phosphate, ACC deaminase activity, siderophore release, and antagonistic activity against pathogens. These qualities make them effective in enhancing plant growth, phytopathogen control, and they also have efficient colonizing ability. Promoting the use of biofertilizers is advocated as a dual solution: addressing the global challenge of feeding a growing population while safeguarding environmental health in a sustainable manner. This shift away from agrochemicals is seen crucial for achieving food security and safety, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.
Cajanus cajan, commonly known as pigeon pea, is a legume with multiple applications in agriculture and nutrition. The present study highlights the crucial significance of utilizing Cajanus cajan pod protein concentrates (PPC) as an eco-friendly, renewable, and cost-effective solution for supplementing protein-deficient conditions in rural areas. Specifically, in regions facing challenges like Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM), including Marasmus and Kwashiorkor, these PPCs can offer a promising alternative to address nutritional deficiencies and promote sustainable dietary practices. The study also emphasizes the crucial role of Cajanus cajan in vegetable waste management, showcasing its potential to reduce waste and promote sustainability in the food industry. In-depth acute toxicity studies using Wistar rat as animal model have been conducted to ensure the safety of these protein concentrates as an alternative supplement. Biochemical parameter assessments provide valuable insights and potential health benefits of these pod protein concentrates. Moreover, the research investigates the protein efficiency ratio (PER) of Cajanus cajan pod protein concentrates, which provides information in their effectiveness in supporting growth and development in animal subjects. The PER results shed light on the efficiency and quality of protein utilization, making it an essential factor for evaluating their suitability as a supplement alternative.Overall, this comprehensive exploration establishes Cajanus cajan pod protein concentrates as a promising solution for sustainable supplement sourcing, vegetable waste management, and advancing eco-conscious practices in the food industry.”
Corn silks are the yellowish-golden, long, hair-like extensions of the female inflorescence of the maize plant. Even though treated as agricultural waste, corn silks have medicinal uses in certain parts of the world. Acknowledged as a beneficial antioxidant, corn silk has been utilized in combating kidney stones. To reveal the mineral content, a recent work was executed analysing its physicochemical properties. Additionally, phytochemical testing identified the phytoconstituents contributing to its therapeutic benefits and nutritional value. The study found that corn silk had low amount of loss on drying, indicating a good shelf life. Additionally, the phytochemical analysis revealed high amounts of beneficial compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins, suggesting its potential as a rich source of antioxidants. The flavonoids present, responsible for antioxidant properties were quantified and evaluated, further supporting its prospective health benefits. These findings highlight the promising antioxidant potential of corn silk, paving the way for further research and potential applications in the domain of natural antioxidants.
Bryophytes, which include mosses, hornworts and liverworts, are early land plants that lack vascular tissues. Due to their small size and difficulties in identification, they have been neglected as a study material for a significant period of time. However, recent phytochemical studies focusing on mosses have revealed the presence of unique and biologically active substances. The objective of this research was to examine the volatile bioactive phytochemicals present in the ethanol extract of Hyophila involuta (Hook.) A. Jaeger using GC-MS and docking of a potential compound against the target proteins of Staphylococcus aureus. Through GC-MS analysis, a total of thirty-seven phytochemicals were identified, including beneficial substances like Neophytadiene, Squalene, Phytol, Lupan-3-ol acetate, Campesterol, Stigmasterol, Gamma-sitosterol, dl-alpha-tocopherol and more. Upon undergoing ADMET analysis with SwissADME, Squalene, a triterpenoid, has been identified as an orally active compound that adheres to the Lipinski rule and displays drug-like characteristics, with biological activities suited best as a ligand molecule. The docking results of Squalene against the target proteins of S. aureus revealed the highest docking score when interacting with the active site of Undecaprenyl diphosphate synthase (4H8E), followed by Dihydrofolate reductase (3FYV), Sortase A (1T2P) and Dehydrosqualene synthase (2ZCO) with binding energies (Kcal/mole) of -9.99, -9.04, -7.68 and -7.35 respectively. Integrating high-throughput screening methods with the docking results can expedite the validation of potential antibacterial compounds, enabling researchers to identify novel treatments more efficiently.
The genus Securidaca L., is reported here as a new record for the flora of Andhra Pradesh. Detailed description, location map, ecological information and photographs are provided for its easy identification.
Phytoplankton studies at two lakes reports highest diversity in antrolli lake. Phytoplanktons were recorded highest during summer season and less during rainy season. Guttigere lake records 9 species and antrolli lake records 52 species, 1 species is common for both the lakes. Total 32 families recorded, in that Phacaceae is dominant. As Chlorophyta records highest number of species, Dinoflagellate and Zygonematophyceae records lowest number of species. Hydrobilogical studies in two lakes with various physiochemical parameters like Temeprature, PH, TDS, Electrochemical conductivity, Total alkalinity, Carbonates. Hydro carbonates, Dissolved oxygen, Chlorides, Chemical Oxygen Demand were conducted monthly from March to August which includes summer and rainy seasons of two lakes. Some major tests were conducted one in three months i.e during summer and rainy season and recorded highest in summer season only. Antrolli lake is less chemical constituents than guttigere. So antrolli lake has good water which is fit for drinking as per the above results from our study.
Soil salinity is a critical issue that affects plants and leads to decreased productivity worldwide. When soil salinity occurs, it causes the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), oxidative burst, and ionic imbalance in plant cells. These factors can result in plant death, reduced growth, and low crop yields. To overcome this problem, polyamines such as putrescine, spermine, and spermidine play a crucial role in plant defense against abiotic stress conditions. Polyamines are organic compounds that are naturally present in plants and are involved in various physiological processes such as growth, development, and stress response. Studies have shown that the exogenous application of polyamines can help plants withstand abiotic stress caused by soil salinity. This is because polyamines can regulate the expression of stress-responsive genes and activate various antioxidant enzymes that help scavenge ROS and reduce oxidative stress. Moreover, polyamines also help to maintain ion homeostasis in plant cells and prevent toxic ion accumulation, essential for plant survival under salt stress conditions. This review presents the most illustrious research on strengthening plants against abiotic stress by externally applying polyamines. It also provides some clues about the functions of polyamines and their interaction with other molecules. Overall, the use of exogenous polyamines to improve plant stress tolerance is a promising strategy for sustainable agriculture and food security.
The purpose of this study is to describe the different types of trichomes found in Oligochaeta ramosa (Roxb.) Wagenitz, a member of the Asteraceae family. Trichomes are one of the micromorphological traits that can be examined to help in the identification of Asteraceae species. After being examined under a light microscope, the trichomes were categorised into 13 categories for this study. The distinguishing feature of Oligochaeta ramosa (Roxb.) Wagenitz is consists of glandular and non-glandular trichomes. Non glandular trichomes are simple multicellular with long and pointed tip. Sessile and Peltate types of glandular trichome were also reported in Oligochaeta ramosa (Roxb.) Wagenitz. Different glandular and non-glandular trichomes were identified, differing in size and shape. It was found that there were several different-shaped multicellular non-glandular and glandular trichomes. This study revealed the significance of plant anatomy data to assist Asteraceae plant identification.
Flacourtia jangomas (Lour.) Raeusch., commonly known as paniala, is an important underutilized fruit tree of Terai region. Due to the wide spectrum of pharmacological, cytotoxic and nutraceutical properties, the fruits of F. jangomas has been in high demand. In the present study, an extensive survey has been conducted to observe the distribution pattern of male and female tree populations of F. jangomas from 2020 to 2024 in Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh. A decline in male and female population have been also reported during the study. During a population survey (2020-2022) 68 places were marked in Gorakhpur district and adjoining regions with 1,340 trees (161 male and 1,179 female) of F. jangomas. In a recent survey (2023-2024), the same locations gave the decreased number of tree population which is 1,051 trees (144 male and 907 female). The decrease in population is due to over exploitation, increased urbanization, change in environment and infection caused by insects in the leaves, flowers, and fruits which is alarming. Therefore, the present study was carried out to predict the current suitable habitat of F. jangomas in India using MaxEnt species distribution model. Output of MaxEnt model reveal that the suitable habitat for distribution is Uttar Pradesh and Kerala with an area of 50,734 km2 of highest suitability. Future prediction model for 2050 showed loss of habitat area with an optimal geographic distribution of 25,050 km2 for this important plant which is alarming and measures should be taken timely.
Abstract: Thunbergia, a genus under the family Acanthaceae, is known for important medicinal plants that, in general, exhibit antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities. The present study aims to investigate antioxidant activities in alcoholic and aqueous plant extracts using ABTS (2,2 -Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt), DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and FRAP (ferric ion reducing antioxidant power) for free radical scavenging activity and evaluation of total content of phenolics, flavonoids and ascorbate. The current study is performed in the leaves and stems of Thunbergia alata, Thunbergia erecta, and Thunbergia mysorensis. The highest amount of phenolics and flavonoids was recorded in the leaves and stem of T. alata. In contrast, the highest ascorbate was recorded in T. erecta leaves and T. mysorensis stem. Interestingly, in aqueous extracts, T. erecta performed the best in FRAP assay in both leaves and stem segments; T. alata stem and T. mysorensis leaves performed well in ethanolic extract. Ethanolic extracts of T. alata and T. mysorensis leaves performed better for DPPH assay, while T. erecta stems performed better in aqueous extract. ABTS assay was exceedingly high in the ethanolic extract of T. alata stem and contrastingly low in T. erecta aqueous and ethanolic extract. Looking at the values, FRAP appears sensitive in depicting stark differences in leaves and stem parts in aqueous or ethanolic extracts. Thus, the present investigation suggests that the studied plant has an accessible source of antioxidants for medicinal and commercial purposes. Keywords: ABTS, DPPH, FRAP, Ascorbate, Flavonoids and Phenolics
Plants and other natural sources are the only remedial agents to cure the health illness and health maintenance up to the development of modern technology. Later, the Technological advancement creates a lot to protect ourselves using synthetic drugs from the various human health complications with some side effects. In addition, the evolution of new pathogenic bacterial strains has developed a resistance against regularly used antibiotics is a prime anxiety for global health community. Such side effects are needed to be nullified, hence, it is necessary to discover new biologically active drugs to treat and inhibit the pathogenic organisms. Therefore, the usage of medicinal plants is the better remedial source to overcome these problems. With this concern, We have used the medicinal plant Tragia plukenetii Radcl.Sandm in this study and this plant extract was collected using Water, Petroleum ether, Ethanol and Methanol. As a result, Carbohydrates, Proteins, Amino acids, Flavonoids were found more while; Terpenoids were absent in all the extract except Water. Moreover, Alkaloids and Tannins were present in all the solvent extract. In vitro antibacterial potential against different human bacterial pathogens, haemolysis and anti-inflammatory properties were tested for all the solvent extracts. The highest antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity were found in the Water extracts against all the tested organisms when compared to other solvents such as Methanol, Ethanol, and Petroleum Ether extracts. This finding supports the plant T. plukenetii could be potentially used as a nutraceutical for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Calophyllum apetalum Willd., commonly called Poonspar of Travancore, is a multipurpose evergreen tree endemic to the Western Ghats of India. For phenology studies, individual trees were tagged and their vegetative and reproductive phases have been monitored from 2021 to 2023. The leafing phenophase - simultaneous flushing and leaf fall before the onset of rain - makes C. apetalum trees appear to be always leafy. Leafing, flowering and fruiting phenophases were significantly seasonal. Leaf flushing to flowering takes time and also from flowering to fruiting. Peak flowering is visible from September to October, fruiting maturity occurs in January. Phenological events may vary according to region as well. As with flowering the phenology of fruiting is governed by its own set of constraints. Phenological studies are essential for developing appropriate conservation strategies and to assist adequate germplasm collections since it is necessary to know the baseline data on their flowering and fruiting behavior.
This study deals with the reproductive biology of the plant Costus pictus D. Don, commonly known as the “Insulin plant” with potential medicinal properties. It provides information regarding all whorls of flower. Pollen and stigma morphology is studied through SEM analysis. The present studies were conducted in the field and laboratory, department of Botany, RG PG College, Meerut on 50 inflorescence spikes. The inflorescence cone bear bracts which have dark green colour extra-floral nectaries. Flowers of C.pictus D. Don are zygomorphic, hermaphrodite with a labellum of five fused sterile stamens. A single fertile petaloid stamen is present on petaloid structure. Bilobed stigma appendage is attached to the wet bilamellate stigma. Flower shows co-occurrence of stamen and stigma. Pollen grains are some what asymmetrical in shape due to large size. Pollen are pantoporate as examined in SEM analysis. Pollen surface is found to be psilate during SEM examination but pores are ornamented. Floral nectary is present inside, above the ovary in prolongation region. Stigma receptivity was high in mature flowers while bud stage showed very few bubbles. The present study will help scientists, taxonomists, and students to study the floral biology of flowers and inflorescence for identification, conservation, and breeding purposes.
Novel chemicals and bioactive compounds found in medicinal plants can be used in the discovery and development of new drugs. Careya arborea Roxb. (Family: Lecythidaceae) is known to be one of the important Ayurvedic medicinal plants which has an illustrious history of use in traditional medicine. This study aims to establish the phytochemical profile of Hydroalcoholic stem bark and leaf extracts of C. arborea Roxb. using High Resolution Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HR-LCMS). The results showed the detection of 9 major phytochemical compounds in bark and 28 major phytochemical compounds in leaves. This HR-LCMS study manifested the presence of several compounds of pharmaceutical importance in the bark and leaf extracts. Furthermore, this study confirmed that C. arborea Roxb. is a rich source of biologically active phytochemical constituents which can be the reason for its bioactive potential.
Abelmoschus moschatus Medik occurs worldwide including India. North Eastern Terai Region of UP., India situated at foothills of himalayas harbours many lush green vegetation with A. moschatus. Traditionally roots, stems, leaves, fruits and seeds of musk mallow used in medicine. The capsules and leaves are used as vegetables. The present paper deals with the occurrence, phenology, traditional uses, general healthcare, phytochemicals and pharmacological properties of A. moschatus in India. In addition, the holistic approach of the plant in general health care benefits, nutraceuticals and industrial uses were also discussed.
Water resources are vital to life as we know it. There aren't many freshwater resources in Nelamangala Taluk, Bengaluru Rural. Thus, it is imperative to use water resources—especially lakes—in a sustainable manner. To determine the quality of the water, physicochemical analysis is required. By evaluating the physicochemical characteristics of lakes in the Anchepalya Lake in Nelamangala Taluk Bengaluru Rural, this study aims to monitor the quality of water for its sustainable use. Water samples for the current study were gathered from the study spots at four separate locations during varying seasons. Using accepted techniques, the physicochemical parameters—temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, dissolved carbon dioxide, alkalinity, hardness, and T.D.S.—were measured. It was discovered that the dissolved oxygen ranged from 5.2 mg/L to 7.9 mg/L. The range of the dissolved carbon dioxide was 32–50 mg/L. between 120 and 330 mg/L was the range of alkalinity. The temperature varied from 21 to 32 degrees Celsius. Between 58 and 120 mg/L was the range of hardness. At several locations, seasonal changes in the physicochemical characteristics were noted. The current study's observations have highlighted the necessity of increasing public knowledge of water conservation and management.
The genus Curcuma (Zingiberaceae) is known for its medicinal and economic importance. The present study was to examine and establish some interspecific variations among Curcuma longa L., Curcuma aeruginosa Roxb., Curcuma amada Roxb., Curcuma aromatica Salisb., Curcuma caesia Roxb., Curcuma ecalcarata Sivar. & Balach., Curcuma haritha Mangaly & M. Sabu, and Curcuma zedoaria Roxb. by characterizing the leaf epidermal features by light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) which can be used as a diagnostic tool for species identification. The leaves were amphistomatic with tetracytic stomata more frequently on the abaxial surface. Trichomes were unicellular, non-glandular, conical and densely distributed on the abaxial surface of C. aromatica and C. haritha, very few in C. longa and C. aeruginosa. Stomatal index, stomatal density and epidermal cell size was maximum in C. aromatic and minimum in C. longa in the abaxial leaf surfaces statistically significant at P≤ 0.001. Correlation analysis showed high positive correlation between stomatal index and density of leaf abaxial surface (r = 0.99), stomatal and epidermal cell density of adaxial and abaxial epidermal surface (r = 0.99, r = 0.95), guard cell length and epidermal cell frequency of adaxial and abaxial epidermal surface (r = 0.92, r = 0.85) among the selected species.
