Bioactive Compounds and Phytochemicals in Foos Research Papers (original) (raw)

Five (5) essential macro, three (3) micro and two (2) trace mineral elements were determined in fresh fruits of twenty-two (22) accessions of okra using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA). These were correlated to assess the level of associations existing between these elements. Concentrations of these elements were juxtaposed with their recommended daily dietary intake (RDI) in the individual accessions of okra and their variability with other traits examined for future improvement works towards breeding for high or low micro nutrient containing variety (ies).

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- Nutrition, Bioactive Compounds and Phytochemicals in Foos, Neem Accessions, Profile
- by Mansi Patil
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- Pharmacology, Pharmacy, Toxicology, Biology

Lycopene is a phytochemical that is present at high concentration in fruits and vegetables such as tomato, guava, watermelon, spinach, carrot, beetroot, and red grapefruit. Lycopene, just like some members of the carotenoids family, has proven to be of high medicinal, scientific, pharmaceutical, and commercial value. These features of lycopene can be attributed to its chemical structure that has been proved to be responsible for its antioxidant properties. The conjugated polyene chains are responsible for its unstable and electrophilic attacks against free radicals because this double π electron system reduces the energy requirement for the oxidation of electrons in each double bond. This reactivity contributes to the efficacy of lycopene as the basis of its antioxidant activity in biological systems and its efficacy as a chemopreventive. This chapter presents this in details while emphasizing more on the therapeutic importance of lycopene.

- by Angelo Mark P Walag and +3
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- Natural Products Chemistry, Phytochemistry, Pharmacognosy, Bioactive Compounds and Phytochemicals in Foos

Colour and the composition of folate, ascorbic acid and anthocyanin of strawberry cv. Camarosa was monitored during refrigerated storage at 4 C each day for 6 days. Folate, anthocyanin and ascorbic acid compositions were determined using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with UV-Vis detector. Five forms of folate: 5 methyl-tetrahydrofolate (THF) [65%], 10 formyl-folic acid (28%), 5 methylene-THF (4%), 5 formyl-THF (2%), and THF (<1%) and two forms of anthocyanins: pelargonidin 3-O-glucoside (97%) and cyanidin 3-O-rutinoside (3%) were identified in the fresh strawberries. The total folate content of the fresh strawberries determined using HPLC method was lower than that using microbiological assay. The ascorbic acid content in fresh strawberry was 57 ± 11 mg/100 g of fruit. The colour of the external skin of strawberries was measured using a Hunter colorimeter and showed fluctuation only for L* values (lightness), but a* (redness) and b* (yellowness) values remained constant during the refrigerated storage. There was no positive correlation between a* values and anthocyanin content. Strawberries should be consumed within a day or two after harvest since the reduction of these three bioactive compounds occurred even after a day of refrigerated storage.

- by Wee Sim Choo
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- Refrigeration, Bioactive Compounds and Phytochemicals in Foos, Pigments, FOLATE

This research evaluated the nutritional quality of meals that were served to school children under the Ghana School Feeding Programme in Wa and Cape Coast. A cross-sectional and descriptive survey research designs were employed from which purposive and simple random sampling technique was adopted. In all, a total of 720 respondents were selected and that comprised 600 pupils, 60 teachers and 60 kitchen staff. Data were also obtained using questionnaire, observation and unstructured interview instruments. The data were then analysed with database and statistical software such as SPSS, ESHA, FNPD and USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference. Qualitatively, the findings revealed that meals served in the schools had most of the needed food nutrients. However, the mean daily nutritional values intake of the pupils in the schools in both studied areas did not meet the recommended nutrient intake value. It is therefore recommended that the government should enhance the nutritional quality of the meals served to the pupils by supplying vitamin supplements. Again, the government should consult experts in food and nutrition in each region to redraw menu which has nutritional benefits from locally grown foods.

The present investigation was carried out to determine the possible bioactive components of tuber of Ruellia tuberosa L. (Acanthaceae) using GC-MS analysis. Twenty five compounds were identified. The prevailing compounds in the ethanol extract of tuber of R. tuberosa were Lupeol (68.14%), Stigmasterol (8.89%), á-Sitosterol (3.99%), Sucrose (2.24%), Cholest-5-ene, 3-bromo-, (3á- (2.24%), Octadecane, 2-methyl- (2.10%), Nonadecane, 2-methyl- (1.93%), Eicosane, 2-methyl- (1.79%) Heptacosane (1.43%) and Heptacosane (1.29%).

Present study aims to evaluate antibacterial efficacy of Bakuchi (Psoralea corylifolia) seed extracts prepared in two different solvents. Antibacterial assay was performed by agar well diffusion method against Gram positive skin pathogens, like Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Gram negative skin pathogens, which included Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris and Escherichia coli. Bakuchi seed extract in methanol and diethyl ether exhibited broad spectrum antibacterial activity against skin pathogens, however comparatively bakuchi seed extract in methanol was found to be more promising with maximum zone of inhibition against K. pneumoniae with zone of inhibition 21mm in diameter and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 2.5mg/ml. These results confirmed the potential of the Bakuchi seed extract in the development of ayurvedic topical skin formulations.

The Nigerian hog plum (Spondias mombin) seed kernel was studied for its possible antioxidative potential and its proximate and nutrient compositions measured. The fruits were submitted to washing, pulp removal and drying to facilitate fibre separation from the seed kernel. Seeds were Milled to obtain samples, while analysis was carried out using standard Association of Analytical Communities (AOAC) methods and phytochemical assays. The seed kernel contains carbohydrate (40.56%), ash (8.09%), crude fibre (31.86%), moisture content (8.48%), crude protein (7.73%), crude fat (3.28%), calcium (1317 mg/kg), iron (839.08 mg/kg), magnesium (494.71 mg/kg), manganese (17.93 mg/kg), zinc (15.27 mg/kg), and copper (7.68 mg/kg). Phytochemical analyses indicated the presence of tannins (0.06%) and phytate
(0.0022%), but did not indicate the presence of flavonoids, oxalate and saponins. The free radical scavenging activity against the 2, 2–diphenyl–1–picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical was at the level of 15.09%, while total antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content were 856.7±5.84 mgAAE/100g and 573.32±11.5 mgGAE/100g respectively. The seed kernel of Spondias mombin is a potential source of nutritious food, good anti-anaemic and anti-diabetic agent as a result of iron and zinc content, and potential chemo-protective agent with the ability to offer possible protection against the activities of the toxic Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) from the results of total phenolic content, antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities.

Different extraction methods (organic solvent and water extraction with the assistance of heat or ultrasound) were investigated for their effects on the phytochemical profile and antioxidant activity of Clitoria ternatea flowers. For solvent extraction (30%, 50%, 80%, or 100% methanol, ethanol, or acetone), 50% ethanol was considered to be the best solvent for the extraction with an extract yield of 57.3%, a total anthocyanin content of 5.1 mg of cyanidin 3-glucoside equivalent/g of dry weight of extract, and a total phenolic content of 59.4 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g of dry weight of extract. Similar results were obtained for the best water extract at 50°C for 1 h. A larger number of phytochemicals were identified using LC-MS analysis in the solvent extract (28 compounds). Kaempferol hexosyl-rhamnosyl-rhamnoside was the major compound detected in both the solvent and the water extract. Both extracts showed equally potent antioxidant activity in chemical [IC 50 = 1.24 ± 0.05 (solvent extract) and 1.18 ± 0.07 (water extract) mg/mL in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate assay] and cellular (75−80% inhibition) antioxidant assays.

The present study was aimed to isolate and characterize flavonoid compounds from berries of Hippophae rhamnoides L. collected from Gangotri valley in Uttarakhand state of India and to examine its total polyphenol and antioxidant efficacy. Systematic phytochemical analysis and chromatographic separation of methanolic extract of H. rhamnoides berries led to isolation of altogether three known individual flavonoids and their characterization as quercetin, kaempferol and myricetin by classical chemical degradation as well as spectroscopic methods. The content of total phenolic compounds in the extracts was determined according to the Folin-Ciocalteu method and calculated as gallic acid equivalents (GAE). The antioxidative efficacy of the extract was determined as free radical scavenging activity using DPPH radical scavenging protocol. Overall results showed high concentrations of total phenolics and strong antioxidant activity in the fruits of H. rhamnoides. A linear correlation between total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity suggested that berries of the species can be a potent source of natural antioxidant.

Fungal diseases represent an increasing threat to human health worldwide which in some cases might be associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. However, only few antifungal drugs are currently available for the treatment of life-threatening fungal infections. Furthermore, plant diseases caused by fungal pathogens represent a worldwide economic problem for the agriculture industry. The marine environment continues to provide structurally diverse and biologically active secondary metabolites, several of which have inspired the development of new classes of therapeutic agents. Among these secondary metabolites, several compounds with noteworthy antifungal activities have been isolated from marine microorganisms, invertebrates, and algae. During the last fifteen years, around 65% of marine natural products possessing antifungal activities have been isolated from sponges and bacteria. This review gives an overview of natural products from diverse marine organisms that have shown in vitro and/or in vivo potential as antifungal agents, with their mechanism of action whenever applicable. The natural products literature is covered from January 2000 until June 2015, and we are reporting the chemical structures together with their biological activities, as well as the isolation source.

Clitoria ternatea or commonly known as 'But-terfly pea' has been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine in which various parts of the plants are used to treat health issues such as indigestion, constipation, arthritis, skin diseases, liver and intestinal problems. The flowers of C. ternatea are used worldwide as ornamental flowers and traditionally used as a food colorant. This paper reviews the recent advances in the extraction and biological activities of phytochemicals from C. ternatea flowers. The application of maceration or ultrasound assisted extraction greatly increased the yield (16-247% of increase) of phy-tochemicals from C. ternatea flowers. Various phyto-chemicals such as kaempferol, quercetin and myricetin glycosides as well as anthocyanins have been isolated from C. ternatea flowers. Clitoria ternatea flower extracts were found to possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflam-matory, cytotoxic and antidiabetic activities which are beneficial to human health. Clitoria ternatea flower is a promising candidate for functional food applications owing to its wide range of pharmacotherapeutic properties as well as its safety and effectiveness.

The study investigated proximate and anti-nutrient composition of the stem Bark of ogirisi (newbouldia leavis) plant. Experimental laboratory design was used to analyse the palnt for the present of proximate and anti-nutrient component of the plant (newbouldia leavis). Result of the study showed that ogirisi (newbouldia leavis) contains saponin, ash, moisture, crude fiber, crude protein, cardic glycoside, oxalate and trypsin inhibitor in the concentration of 1.59, 85.3%,8.56%,5%,49.15%,4%,4.310mg and 1.162mg respectively. Hence the study recommend that Newbouldia leavis(Ogirisi) medicinal properties should be harnessed and used for medical treatment of diseases.

Capsicum spp. fruit is one of the most produced vegetables around the world, and it is consumed both as fresh vegetable and as a spice like a food additive for their characteristic red color and, in many cases, its pungency. In addition to its economic importance, the bioactivity of some important compounds such as capsaicinoids and carotenoids has promoted its research. The use of Capsicum oleoresins has been increased due to its advantages comparing with the traditional dry spice. These include obtaining higher quality products with the desired content of bioactive and flavored substances. The wide diversity of extraction methods including water extraction, organic solvent extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, and ultrasound assisted extraction as well as supercritical fluid extraction among others are discussed in the present review. Moreover, pretreatments such as chemical treatments, osmotic dehydration, sun and oven drying, and freeze-drying commonly used before the extraction are also presented. Due to its importance, Capsicum oleoresins produced with Bgreen^ solvents and the improvement of fractional extraction techniques that allow to obtain separately the various bioactive fractions will continue under research for further development.

Betalains are plant derived natural pigments that are presently gaining popularity for use as natural colorants in the food industry. The growing interest of consumers in the aesthetic, nutritional and safety aspects of food has increased the demand for natural pigments such as betalains to be used as alternative colorants in food products. Although betalains from red beetroot are one of the most widely used food colorant, betalains are not as well studied as compared to other natural pigments such as anthocyanins, carotenoids or chlorophylls. This paper reviews the pharmacological properties, such as antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-lipidemic and antimicrobial activity of betalains derived from sources such as red beetroot, amaranth, prickly pear and red pitahaya, for potential application as functional foods.

Black goji berry (Lycium ruthenicum) or black wolfberry is a nutritious fruit that contains a higher anthocyanin content compared to other berries such as blackberry and blueberry. The special quality of black goji berry anthocyanins is that they are acylated anthocyanins that are known to be more stable than nonacylated anthocyanins. Petunidin-derived monoacylated anthocyanins are the most abundant in black goji berry. Black goji berry anthocyanins show a variety of colors in a range of pH values, and their stability depends on the pH. Acidified solvent or water is commonly used to extract anthocyanins from black goji berries. Black goji berry anthocyanins deliver many health benefits such as antioxidant, antilipidemic, and anti-inflammatory activities. Black goji berry anthocyanins, therefore, have good potential application in functional foods. This paper reviews the composition, stability, extraction techniques, health benefits, and current and potential applications of black goji berry anthocyanins in the food industry.

- by Gabriela Diaz
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- Chemistry, Food Science, Anthropology of Food, Food Engineering

The aim of the is to examine the Quantitative and Qualitative analysis of the seeds of Cola nitida and cola accuminata were dried under room temperature. The study used analytical method of analysis to test for the presence of phytochemical in the seed of Cola acuminata and Cola nitida. 70g of the samples were weighed and grinded. The sample was extracted using soxhlet extractor in the presence of n-hexane. The extracted phytochemical were tested using different reagents. From the analytical result, Phenol, Alkaloid, Cardiac glycoside, flavonoid, tannin, saponin were present in Cola acuminata while Steroid and terpene were absent in Cola acuminata. On the other hand, anthraquinon glycoside is present in Cola acuminata but absent in Cola nitida. Quantitative result showed that C. accuminata contain 23±0.8 for phenol, 8.0±0.3 for alkaloid, 9.0±0.4 for cardiac glycoside,2.3±0.3 for anthraquinon glycoside, 5.1±0.5 for flavonoid,1.8±0.2 for and 7.1±0.8. while C .nitida contain 19.8±0.5, phenol, 10.0±0.6 for alkaloid, 4.1±0.2 for flavonoid,2.1±0.3 for tannin and 10.1±0.6 for saponin. Hence, the study concluded the two species; C. accuminata and C. nitida are very similar in their properties just slight difference which is attributed to the genetic makeup.

- by Omaka Onyekachi
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- Medical Sciences, Plant Biology, Plant Tissue Culture, Medicinal Plants

Citrus is one of the largest and most popular fruit crops commercially grown across the globe. It is not only important in terms of economy but is also popular for its nutritional benefits to human and farm animals. Citrus is available in several varieties, all with attractive colors. It is consumed either fresh or in processed form. After processing, approximately 50% of the fruit remains unconsumed and discarded as waste. The latter includes fruit pith residue, peels and seeds. Direct disposal of these wastes to the environment causes serious problems as these contain bioactive compounds. Release of these bioactive compounds to the open landfills cause bad odor and spread of diseases, and disposal to water bodies or seepage to the underground water table deteriorates water quality and harms aquatic life. In this regard, a number of research are being focused on the development of better reuse methods to obtain value-added phytochemicals as well as for safe disposal. The important phytochemicals obtained from citrus include essential oils, flavonoids, citric acid, pectin, etc., which have now become popular topics in industrial research, food and synthetic chemistry. The present article reviews recent advances in exploring the effects of flavonoids obtained from citrus wastes, the extraction procedure and their usage in view of various health benefits.

The main aim of the present study was to find out antibacterial property of Tinospora cordifolia belonging to the family Menispermaceae. Tinospora cordifolia is an important herb of tropical India in Ayurvedic system of medicines. It has been traditionally used for treatment of diabetes, jaundice, chronic diarrhOea, cancer, dermatological diseases, general debility, and asthma. Tinospora cordifolia was collected from the garden during winter and was identified by the botanical department of Maharaja Sayajirao University, Vadodara. The work was performed using ethanolic and hydromethanolic extracts of the stem. A preliminary phytochemical screening was also performed for qualitative determination of the phytoconstituents. Antibacterial assay was carried out using different strains of bacteria like Escherichia coli (MTCC No.40), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC No.87), Proteus vulgaris (MTCC No.742), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC No.424), Bacillus subtilis (MTCC No.441), Staphylococcus epid...

The functional food development is one of the most interesting fields of the food industry. The knowledge of the effects of processing is essential in order to optimize the conditions and to obtain functional foods rich in bioactive compounds. Many functional buckwheat derived bakery and non-bakery products have been put into production including buckwheat enhanced breads, biscuits, snacks, noodles, tea, tarhana, sprouts, and finally buckwheat honey. This article reviews the studies carried out in the past few years in relation to the effects of processing on bioactive compounds in buckwheat derived bakery and non-bakery products, and on their overall nutritional value and consumer acceptance. Finally, the future trends in buckwheat processing are addressed.

The aim of the present work was to investigate the phytochemical components of an antidiabetic polyherbal formulation. The formulation was prepared using ingredients of Azadirachta indica A. Juss, Commiphora mukul, Curcuma longa L, Emblica officinalis Gaertn, Garcinia cambogia Gaertn, Gymnema sylvestre Retz, Momordica charantia L, Ocimum sanctum L and Trigonella foenum-graecum L. The formulation was evaluated for phytochemical properties by following standard protocols. The colour intensity or the precipitate formation was used as analytical responses to these tests. The formulation revealed the presence of active phytoconstituents such as carbohydrates, amino acid, proteins, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, steroids and insulin. The HPTLC fingerprint analysis revealed sixteen bioactive compounds when scanned at 520 nm and thirteen bioactive compounds at 254 nm. The study confirms that the formulation contains many phytoconstituents making it a prospective candidate for further development

The phytochemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the leaves of Alchornea cordifolia, Sanseviera liberica and Uvaria chamae were investigated. The ethanolic extracts of the leaves of the plants were tested against human pathogens (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Shigella flexineri, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia and Candida albicans). The antimicrobial activity of the plants extracts was carried out using the Agar well diffusion method. The phytochemical screening showed that the leaves of the all plant species had flavonoid, tannins and steroids.
Alkaloid and phenol were found in A. cordifola and U. chamae, while saponins were observed in S. liberica and U. chamae. Averagely, the percentage phytochemical constituent of the leaves of the plants are as follows; Alkaloid (8.77-10.15), flavonoid (5.33-6.67), phenols (0.75-1.12), saponin 1.41-5.96), steroid (0.6 -3.33) and tannin (0.001-0.067). The result obtained indicated that the ethanolic extracts of the samples, showed moderate to high activity against all the tested pathogens. The inhibition zone ranged from 7.04
mm to 25.57 mm. The extracts of A. cordifolia had the highest activity on E. coli and least activity on S. aureus, while S. liberica had the highest activity on S. aureus and least on S. typhi. On the other hand, the leaves of U. chamae had the highest activity on E. coli and least on C. albicans. The concentrations of extracts were found to affect the ability of the extracts to inhibit the growth of the pathogens. The higher the concentration of the extracts, the higher
the concentration of the extracts, the higher the rate of inhibition f the pathogens. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranged from 3.11 to 18.04mg/ml). The results obtained indicate that the leaves of these plants are good sources of phytochemicals and have antimicrobial activity against the pathogens tested, thus could be exploited as alternative antimicrobial drugs fr treatment of diseases caused by these pathogens.

Functional components of food are the standardized and characterized fractions or extracts containing bioactive ingredients or non-conventional nutrients of varying purity. ß-glucans are part of these functional components. They are naturally occurring constituents of the cell wall s of cereals and certain bacteria and fungi where they exist as soluble dietary fibre. Chemically, they are non-starchy polysaccharides. Structurally, they are heterogeneous group of glucose polymers, consisting of a back bone of ß( 1,3) -linked D-glucopyranosyl units to which either ß( 1,6) or ß( 1,4) side chains of varying distributions and lengths are link ed. Cereal and bacterial ß-glucans are primarily linear with large regions of ß( 1,4) link ages separating shorter stretches of ß( 1,3) structures. Fungi ß-glucans have short ß(1,6) –linked branches coming off the ß( 1,3) backbone while those of yea st have ß( 1,6) branches that are further elaborated with additional ß(1,3) regions. These structural differences do have large implications and impact on their activity. ßglucans have plenty of health benefits including the control of blood cholesterol, low glycaemic response, prebiotic, and immunomodulatory effects. In addition, t he multidimensional and functional characteristics of ß-glucans are of great commercial and nutritional importance with great potentials of application in the food and pharmaceut ical industries as stabilizers, viscosity enhancers, fat substitutes, gelling and plasticizing agents. Based on supporting scientific evidences, various health claims in respect of ß-glucans have been verified and approved in the U.S., U.K., Sweden ant the EU. This paper, therefore, reviews current developments on ß-glucans as functional components of food with regards to their physiological benefits, health claims and applications.

- by Christian Abuajah and +1
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- Bioactive Compounds and Phytochemicals in Foos

Betacyanins are reddish to violet pigments that can be found in red pitahaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) and red spinach (Amaranthus dubius). This study investigated the impact of sub-fractionation (solvent partitioning) on betacyanin content in both plants. Characterization of betacyanins and evaluation of their antimicrobial activities were also carried out. Betanin was found in both plants. In addition, isobetanin, phyllocactin and hylocerenin were found in red pitahaya whereas amaranthine and decarboxy-amaranthine were found in red spinach. Sub-fractionated red pitahaya and red spinach had 23.5 and 121.5 % more betacyanin content, respectively, than those without sub-fractionation. Sub-fractionation increased the betanin and decarboxy-amaranthine content in red pitahaya and red spinach, respectively. The betacyanin fraction from red spinach (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] values: 0.78–3.13 mg/mL) demonstrated a better anti-microbial activity profile than that of red pitahaya (MIC values: 3.13–6.25 mg/mL) against nine Gram-positive bacterial strains. Similarly, the red spinach fraction (MIC values: 1.56–3.13 mg/mL) was more active than the red pitahaya fraction (MIC values: 3.13–6.25 mg/mL) against five Gram-negative bacterial strains. This could be because of a higher amount of betacyanin, particularly amaranthine in the red spinach.

- by Wee Sim Choo
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- Antimicrobials, Tropical Fruits, Functional Foods, Solvent Extraction

To date, no specific drug has been proven to treat COVID-19. It encourages people to use medicinal plants to treat or protect themselves against these diseases. Artemisia annua is one of the promising plants that have already been used in coronary disease. However, the antiviral compounds present in this plant remain poorly known. In this study, we aimed to identify some of these molecules by in silico approach. During the screening, 102 secondary metabolites of Artemisia annua were selected and the two viral proteins 3CLpro and PLpro of SARS-CoV2 were selected as targets. Then, a preliminary analysis was performed to determine the inhibition capacity of these phytoligands for the two viral proteins. Then, the phytoligands with stronger interaction energy with these target proteins were selected and their physicochemical properties and ADMET profile were analyzed. Consequently, 13 molecules of

- by Olivier Fridolin Maminiaina and +1
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- Bioinformatics, Veterinary Virology, Bioactive Compounds and Phytochemicals in Foos

Objective: The purpose of the study is to optimize supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) conditions for the flavonoids from the seeds of Buchanania lanzan Spreng. followed by quantitative determination of the antioxidant ability of the supercritical fluid (SCF) extract. Methods: The conditions optimized for supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) were temperature, pressure, carbon dioxide (CO2 Results: The optimum supercritical fluid extraction conditions were temperature 35 °C, pressure 19.61 MPa, carbon dioxide flow rate 3 ml/min and co-solvent 5.66 %. The extraction yield obtained was 20.50±0.47 %. The polyphenolic content was 52.14±0.7 mg Gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g extract. EC) flow rate and co-solvent percentage. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was used to determine the flavonoid content at each condition for optimization. Chromatographic conditions were mobile phase–Methanol: Acetonitrile: Orthophosphoric acid: Acetic acid: Water (200💯10:10:200 v/v), flow rate–1 ml/min, column–Kromasil C18, 250 x 4.6 mm and detection was done in PDA range. Quantitative estimation of polyphenols was done spectrophotometrically. In vitro antioxidant ability of the extract was checked using free radical scavenging activity by 1, 1–Diphenyl–2–picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and ferric reducing power (FRAP) assay. 50 Conclusion: Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) technique could be used as an alternative technique for obtaining the maximum yield of flavonoids from the seeds of Buchanania lanzan. The results showed that the supercritical fluid (SCF) extracts exhibited good antioxidant activity which could be due to the presence of polyphenols and flavonoids value for free radical scavenging activity was 124.58±1.6 µg/ml, and ferric reducing capacity was 456.06±5.61 µg/ml.

Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng. is a perennial herb belonging to the family Lamiaceae which occurs naturally throughout the tropics and warm regions of Africa, Asia and Australia. This herb has therapeutic and nutritional properties attributed to its natural phytochemical compounds which are highly valued in the pharmaceutical industry. Besides, it has horticultural properties due to its aromatic nature and essential oil producing capability. It is widely used in folk medicine to treat conditions like cold, asthma, constipation, headache, cough, fever and skin diseases. The leaves of the plant are often eaten raw or used as flavoring agents, or incorporated as ingredients in the preparation of traditional food. The literature survey revealed the occurrence 76 volatiles and 30 non-volatile compounds belonging to different classes of phytochemicals such as monoterpenoids, diterpenoids, triterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, phenolics, flavonoids, esters, alcohols and aldehydes. Studies have cited numerous pharmacological properties including antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, antitumor, wound healing, anti-epileptic, larvicidal, antioxidant and analgesic activities. Also, it has been found to be effective against respiratory, cardiovascular, oral, skin, digestive and urinary diseases. Yet, scientific validation of many other traditional uses would be appreciated, mainly to discover and authenticate novel bioactive compounds from this herb. This review article provides comprehensive information on the botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and nutritional importance of P. amboinicus essential oil and its various solvent extracts. This article allows researchers to further explore the further potential of this multi-utility herb for various biomedical applications.

The antibacterial activities of the methanolic leaf and bark extract of Persea
americana was tested in vitro on bacterial isolates namely: Streptococcus
pyogenes, Proteus mirabilis, Salmonella typhi, Klebsiella pneumoniae,
Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis (NCIB 3610), Staphylococcus aureus (NCIB
8588), Escherichia coli (NCIB 86), Klebsiella pneumoniae (NCIB 418) and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa (NCIB 950), using the agar well diffusion method. The
leaf extract was able to inhibit the growth of the test organisms at a concentration
of 50.0mg/ml except Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Proteus mirabilis and
Escherichia coli (NCIB 86), while the bark extract at the same concentration
inhibited the test organisms except Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Bacillus
subtilis (NCIB 3610) and Escherichia coli (NCIB 86). The highest zone of
inhibition of 6.0 mm and 12.0 mm was observed on Staphylococcus aureus
(NCIB 8588) for the leaf and bark extract respectively, while the least zone of
inhibition was observed on Klebsiella pneumoniae (2.0 mm) for leaf extract and
Proteus mirabilis (3.0 mm) for bark extract. The Minimum Inhibitory
Concentration (MIC) of the leaf extract ranged from 10.0 to 30.0 mg/ml and 5.0
to 30.0 mg/ml for the bark extract. The antibacterial activity of the methanolic
plant extract inhibited the growth of the test isolates as much as that of the
commercial antibiotics. There was a decrease in the bacterial count as the
exposure time to the extract increased in the rate of killing of the plant extracts on
the isolates. Phytochemicals such as saponins, tannins, flavonoids and terpenoids
were observed to be common to both extracts. The bark extract exhibited a higher
antibacterial activity as compared to the leaf extract.

Snake envenomation is one of the neglected tropical diseases which has left an intolerable death toll and severe socioeconomic losses in Kenya. In a continued effort to identify some antiophidic East African botanical species, this study generated ethnobotanical information on antivenom plants reported in Kenya, with a view to identify potential species which could be subjected to in vitro and clinical studies for possible development into antivenoms. Data retrieved through searches done in multidisciplinary databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Scientific Electronic Library Online) indicated that 54 plant species belonging to 45 genera, distributed among 27 families, are used for the management of snakebites in Kenya. Most species belonged to the family Asteraceae (11%), Malvaceae (11%), Fabaceae (9%), Annonaceae (6%), Combretaceae (6%), and Lamiaceae (6%). The main growth habit of the species is as herbs (35%), shrubs (33%), and trees (28%). Ethnomedicinal preparations used in treating snake poisons are usually from leaves (48%), roots (26%), and stem bark (8%) through decoctions, infusions, powders, and juices which are applied topically or administered orally. The most frequently encountered species were Combretum collinum, Euclea divinorum, Fuerstia africana, Grewia fallax, Microglossa pyrifolia, Solanecio mannii, and Solanum incanum. Indigenous knowledge on medicinal antivenom therapy in Kenya is humongous, and therefore studies to isolate and evaluate the antivenom compounds in the claimed plants are required to enable their confident use in antivenom therapy alongside commercial antivenin sera.

Twenty-five (25) accessions of Okra (Abelmoschus spp L.) were collected from eight geographic regions of Ghana and were evaluated for their phytochemical constituents. The objective of the study was to assess total flavonoid, phenolic and antioxidant activity in the accessions. Results indicate that, there are statistically significant differences (p≤0.05) in Total Flavonoid Contents (TFCs), Total Phenolic Contents (TPCs) and Total Antioxidant Contents (TAAs) recorded for both the ethanolic and aqueous extracts of the accessions, indicating genetic variability among them.The high variability observed in the amounts of TFCs, TPCs and TAAs in the fresh fruits of okra, makes okra a good source of natural antioxidants.

- by Kojo Ahiakpa and +1
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- Free Radicals, Health, Medicinal Plants, Flavonoids

The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical activity
of ethanolic extract of aerial parts of Albizia procera Roxb.
(Benth.) belonging to the family Mimosaceae. The aerial parts
were collected and extract prepared from ethanol by hot
continuous percolation method in Soxhlet apparatus for 24 hrs and
found triterpenoids, carbohydrates, glycosides, phytosterols,
phenolic compounds, saponins, tannins and flavonoids. Each
active compound shows different activities against different type
of diseases like cancer, liver disorders, diabetes, atherosclerosis
and inflammatory diseases etc. It also possesses antioxidant
properties. According to their characteristics, they can be involved
into medicinal plant category.

Anthocyanins are considered as the largest group of water-soluble pigments found in the vacuole of plant cells, displaying range of colors from pink, orange, red, purple and blue. They belong to flavonoids, a polyphenolic subgroup. Application of anthocyanins in food systems as natural food colourants is limited due to the lack of stability under different environmental conditions such as light, pH, heat etc. Anthocyanins esterified with one or more acid groups are referred as acylated anthocyanins. Based on the presence or absence of acyl group, antho-cyanins are categorized as acylated and nonacylated anthocyanins. Acylated anthocyanins are further classified as mono, di, tri, tetra acylated anthocyanins according to the number of acyl groups present in the anthocyanin. This review classifies common anthocyanin sources into non-acylated, mono-, di-, tri-and tetra-acylated anthocyanins based on the major anthocyanins present in these sources. The relative stabilities of these anthocyanins with respect to thermal, pH and photo stress in beverage systems are specifically discussed. Common anthocyanin sources such as elderberry, blackberry, and blackcurrant mainly contain nonacylated anthocyanins. Red radish, purple corn, black carrot also mainly contain mono acylated anthocyanins. Red cabbage and purple sweet potato have both mono and diacylated anthocyanins. Poly acylated anthocyanins show relatively higher stability compared with nonacylated and monoacylated anthocyanins. Several techniques such as addition of sweeteners, co-pigmentation and acylation techniques could enhance the stability of nonacylated anthocyanins. Flowers are main sources of polyacylated anthocyanins having higher stability, yet they have not been commercially exploited for their anthocyanins.

- by Wee Sim Choo
- •
- Food Science, Phytochemistry, Pigments (Chemistry), Food Science and Technology

Flaxseed oils currently sold on the worldwide market are not governed by specific standards or specifications. In this study, the physicochemical and quality characteristics of seven cold-pressed flaxseed oils sold in New Zealand have been analyzed. General regulations and specification for edible vegetable oils and cold-pressed oils were used as a guide. Fatty acid composition, tocopherol composition, moisture and volatile matter content, free fatty acids, chlorophyll pigments, total phenolic acids, total flavanoids, acid value, unsaponifiable matter, peroxide value, conjugated dienoic acids, p-anisidine value and specific extinction in the ultraviolet spectrum of the flaxseed oils were measured. Color and dielectric measurement of the flaxseed oils were also estimated using a spectrocolorimeter and a food oil sensor, respectively. The physicochemical characteristics of the flaxseed oils were found to be quite similar with only a few significant variations. Four out of the seven flaxseed oils passed all the quality tests conducted in this study.

- by Wee Sim Choo and +1
- •
- Bioactive Compounds and Phytochemicals in Foos, Omega-3 fatty acids, Omega Fatty Acids, tocopherol/vitamin E

A pilot study was conducted to study the phytochemical and antiinflammatory activities of methanol extract of leaves of Basella
rubra. Phytochemical studies were carried out to determine the bio
active constituents present in the methanol extract of B. rubra.
Oxazolone induced inflammation model was used to evaluate the
methanolic extract of B. rubra for its anti-inflammatory activity.
Treatment of animals with methanol extract of leaves of B. rubraat
dose level of 500mg/kg b.w. was performed and found to possess
marked activity of cure of inflammation induced by Oxazolone. The
changes in body weight, colon structure, histopathological changes
and inflammation score were examined between control and treated
groups. Rats treated with only Oxazolone showed changes in
hematoxylin and eosin sections with wide areas of mucosal necrosis
with elongated irregularly branched glands including loss of
differentiation (goblet cells). Treatment with methanol extract of
leaves of B. rubrasignificantly recovered in the colon inflammation.
The results of our study suggest that methanolic extract of leaves of
B. rubra has beneficial effects on the experimental induced
inflammation. This reveals that Basella rubra could be serves as a
potential anti -inflammatory and chemotherapeutic drug.

Objectives: To investigate the phytoconstituents of D. scandens and
evaluate its activity against potential wound pathogens to validate its
uses.
Materials and methods: Antibacterial and antifungal activity of the
root extracts against bacterial strains and one clinically important
yeast strain was assessed using the agar diffusion assay, minimum
inhibitory concentration studies and their effect was compared with
some standard antibiotics. The presence of major phytoconstituents
was detected qualitatively and quantitatively.
Results: Aqueous ethanol and crude alkaloid extracts showed
maximum inhibition of 37.5% and 33.13% and a minimum inhibitory
concentration of 100 µg/ml and < 10 µg/ml against Streptococcus
mutans and Proteus mirabilis, respectively. Most of the test
pathogens, except P. mirabilis, were found to be susceptible to the
two standard antibacterial and two standard antifungal drugs assayed.
The phytochemicals detected included alkaloids, cardiac glycosides,
tannins and terpenoids. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence
of ~ 5% alkaloids.
Conclusion: The results indicated that the D. scandens possesses
potential broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and the
phytochemicals detected correlate well with the ethnomedicinal uses
and hence require detailed phytochemical investigation for potential
pharmaceutical applications.

Recently, researches and scientists are showing a lot of interests in bioactive compounds of plants and its products as these constituents are of high valued. Polyphenols are phytochemical constituents which are the integral components in plants and their products that are associated with defensive mechanism against infections and various oxidative stress by free radicals. Green tea, fruits, vegetables, cereals and red wines are rich sources of polyphenolic constituents which attributes prevention from infections and diseases because of its antioxidant properties, anti-diabetic properties, and radical scavenging properties. Oxidative stress which is the primary reason for different ailments in humans is due to the free radicals that are present even during the normal health condition. Polyphenolic acids like cinnamic acid, romarinic acid, stilbenes like resveratrol, flavonoids like catechin, taxifolin, quercetin, and lignans like sesamin, pinoresinol, podophyllotoxin etc. are found to be effective against wide range of human diseases like oxidative stress, cardiovascular disorder, neurodegenerative diseases, aging, and cancer. These phytoconstituents prevent the diseases and provide relieving sensation via different mechanisms.Here, the study shows the importance of polyphenols with respect to the relevance of human health. As there are the promising applications of various bioactive constituents in a wide range of disease, further research should be encouraged on the mechanism of action and bioavailability of polyphenols.

- by rupak thapa
- •
- Polyphenols, Bioactive Compounds and Phytochemicals in Foos

The economic evaluation for the production of fruit juice from the Africa star apple otherwise known as 'Agbalumo' in the south western part of Nigeria was evaluated using the NPV (Net Present value) and IRR (Internal Rate of Return) methods assuming a uniform cash flow over a 10-year plant life. Sensitivity analysis was conducted by varying the number of production days (330, 300 and 250 days) at 100% plant capacity and varying the plant capacity (100, 85 and 70%) for a 330-day production schedule. Some components of the operating cost reduced with number of days and plant capacities. The production cost and product cost per unit increased with either plant capacity utilization or the number of days. It was observed that product cost/ 500ml Tetra Pak of Agbalumo juice at 85% and 70% stood at ₦37.48 while payback time/profitability percent had better index at 300 and 250 days compared to 330 days of plant operation. The results further indicated that the plant should not be operated for less than 250 days and plant capacity utilization of 70% in the year. Flexibility in the plant capacity utilization in the range of 70%-85% for 330 days shows a good economic performance as well as result of the NPV and IRR for this operating condition.

Present study reveals the comparative bioefficacy assessment of leaf and fruit extracts of breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) using different solvents (petroleum ether, methanol and ethyl acetate) against various pathogenic organisms like Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis by disc diffusion assay through determination of MIC (minimal inhibitory concentrations). Steroids, phenols, phytosterols, gums & resins and terpenoids were found in the ethyl acetate and methanolic leaf extracts. Flavonoids were present in the petroleum ether and ethyl acetate leaf extracts whereas tannins were detected only in the methanolic leaf extract of Artocarpus altilis. Methanolic and ethyl acetate fruit extracts exhibits the presence of steroids, phenols and flavonoids. Zone of inhibition for Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were noted maximum with 50 µl of leaf extracts in ethyl acetate and methanol, 20 µl of petroleum ether leaf extract, 25 µl of petroleum ether leaf extract and 50µl of methanolic leaf extract respectively. The above observation for fruit extracts varies. The MIC values ranges from 0.3 mg/ml to 0.6 mg/ml which correspond to variations in different solvent media used for leaf extracts against four different pathogenic microbes. Maximum growth inhibition of Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis was noticed with 25 µl of methanolic fruit extracts with a MIC value of 0.45 and 0.3 mg/ml respectively. Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed maximum zone of inhibition by 25 µl of ethyl acetate fruit extract with a MIC value of 0.45 mg/ml for both.

Thesis Title: Bioactive substances from seaweeds "Studies on biological activities of α-L-rhamnose from Grateloupia lithophila (Borgesen-C.A. Agardh, 1822)"

The MeOH extract of defatted shea (Vitellaria paradoxa; Sapotaceae) kernels was investigated for its
constituents, and fifteen oleanane-type triterpene acids and glycosides, two steroid glucosides, two
pentane-2,4-diol glucosides, seven phenolic compounds, and three sugars, were isolated. The structures
of five triterpene glycosides were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic and chemical methods. Upon
evaluation of the bioactivity of the isolated compounds, it was found that some or most of the compounds
have potent or moderate inhibitory activities against the following: melanogenesis in B16 melanoma
cells induced by a-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (a-MSH); generation of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl
(DPPH) radicals, against Epstein–Barr virus early antigen (EBV-EA) activation induced by
12-O-teradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) in Raji cells; t TPA-induced inflammation in mice, and
proliferation of one or more of HL-60, A549, AZ521, and SK-BR-3 human cancer cell lines, respectively.
Western blot analysis established that paradoxoside E inhibits melanogenesis by regulation of expression
of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase, and tyrosinase-related protein-1
(TRP-1) and TRP-2. In addition, tieghemelin A was demonstrated to exhibit cytotoxic activity against
A549 cells (IC50 13.5 lM) mainly due to induction of apoptosis by flow cytometry. The extract of defatted
shea kernels and its constituents may be, therefore, valuable as potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory,
skin-whitening, chemopreventive, and anticancer agents.

According to a recent report nearly 42 per cent Indian kids are
malnourished and stunted. The aim of our project was to develop
nutraceutical products using alfalfa as one of the components to
overcome undernourishment particularly among women and
children. The seeds of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) contain more
nutritional property when compared with other leguminous seeds. It
contains 18.9% of protein when compared with egg (13.1%), milk
(3.3%) and beef (16.5%). This paper reports the investigation results
of phytochemical analysis of alfalfa seed extracts using the procedure
of Sadasivam and Manickam (2009). The presence of proteins,
carbohydrates, saponins, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, flavonoids
etc. was observed in sprouted alfalfa seeds extracted by solvents such
as ethanol, petroleum and chloroform. The presences of proteins,
carbohydrates, saponins, alkaloids etc were confirmed by the present
investigation. Thus the cost effective nutraceutical product containing
alfalfa along with other cereals and pulses would serve the humanity
to fight undernourishment in an easy and economical way.

Plant Based Natural Products (PBNPs) have contributed to the
development of many drugs for diverse indications. Worldwide
interest in use of plants based natural products (PBNPs) has
been growing, and its beneficial effects being rediscovered for
the development of new drugs. Literature survey on indigenous
traditional knowledge bestows ethnopharmacological potentials
of PBNPs, which has inspired current research in drug
discovery; PBNPs provide baseline for the development of
novel drug leads against various pharmacological targets.
Studies report that rosemary essential oil (REO) extracts in
particular show biological bioactivities such as
hepatoprotective, antifungal, insecticide, antioxidant and
antibacterial. It is well known that the biological properties in
rosemary are mainly due to phenolic compounds. However,
their application is limited because of their odor, color and
taste. Owing to the widespread applications of phytocompounds in REO - GCMS was performed. GCMS analysis
detected 22 compounds of which 6 compounds were in
abundant. Their ADMET properties were evaluated to ponder
its application

Red pitahaya fruit is rich in purplish-red color water-soluble betacyanins. The effect of refrigerated storage at 4 °C on the betacyanin composition of red pitahaya was monitored each day, for one week, using HPLC. The betacyanin content of red pitahaya had increased by 57.2% after storage for six days at 4 °C. From day 2 to day 7, the phyllocactin content decreased from 45.4 ± 1.5% to 38.3 ± 3.1%, whereas the betanin content increased from 37.9 ± 1.6% to 42.7 ± 1.5%. Antimicrobial activity was determined using the broth microdilution assay and expressed as minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). As compared to the freshly harvested fruits (MIC values: 50,000– > 50,000 μg mL −1), fruits that were stored for six days at 4 °C demonstrated better anti-microbial activity (MIC values: 3130–6250 μg mL −1) against 10 pathogenic Gram-positive and 6 Gram-negative bacteria. Betacyanin rich extract was also examined against normal human cell lines (HEK-293 and THP-1) and found to be not cytotoxic at the levels of 0.39–3.13 mg mL −1. In summary, refrigerated storage for 6 days increased the betacyanin content, changed the betacyanin composition in red pitahaya and contributed to higher antimicrobial activity.

- by Wee Sim Choo
- •
- Natural Products Chemistry, Cytotoxicity, Tropical Fruits, Post Harvest Technology

Advances in Heat Transfer Unit Operations: Baking and Freezing in Bread Making explains the latest understanding of heat transfer phenomena involved in the baking and freezing of bread and describes the most recent advanced techniques used to produce higher quality bread with a longer shelf life. Heat transfer phenomena occur during key bread-making stages (cold storage, resting, and fermentation) in which temperature and amount of heat transfer must be carefully controlled. This book combines the engineering and technological aspects of heat transfer operations and discusses how these operations interact with the bread making process; the book also discusses how baking and freezing influence the product quality.
Divided into fourteen chapters, the book covers the basics of heat and mass transfer, fluid dynamics, and surface phenomena in bread-making industrial operations, mathematical modelling in porous systems, the estimation of thermo-physical properties related to bread making, design of equipment, and industrial applications.