Research Topic: phytochemistry

Exploring the Nutritional Value and Bioactive Potential of Craterellus cornucopioides (L.) Pers. as a Functional Food Source

Black trumpet mushrooms from Romania have been found to contain high levels of beneficial compounds that protect cells from damage and fight harmful bacteria. The mushrooms showed strong antioxidant properties in laboratory tests and were effective against several disease-causing bacteria, though not against all types tested. These results suggest that black trumpets could be used as a natural supplement or food ingredient to support health and potentially help treat infections.

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From Mushrooms to Molecules: Exploring Depsidones in Ganoderma lucidum for Antioxidant and Anticancer Applications

Researchers studied a medicinal mushroom called Ganoderma lucidum to identify compounds that could fight cancer. They found nine rare compounds called depsidones that showed promise against different types of cancer cells, including liver, colon, breast, and lung cancer. The compounds were shown to work by binding to cancer-related proteins, suggesting they could be developed into new cancer treatments.

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Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) in the Screening of Botanicals–Its Versatile Potential and Selected Applications

This review shows how thin-layer chromatography (TLC), a simple laboratory technique, is invaluable for analyzing plant materials. TLC helps scientists identify which plants are related to each other, find beneficial compounds in herbs, ensure herbal medicines are pure and safe, and track illegal psychoactive plants. Despite being less glamorous than modern equipment, TLC remains practical, affordable, and effective for everyday botanical analysis.

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A brief overview of the medicinal and nutraceutical importance of Inonotus obliquus (chaga) mushrooms

Chaga mushrooms are a traditional medicine used for centuries in Eastern Europe and Asia that contains powerful compounds beneficial for health. These mushrooms have been shown to help fight cancer, reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and protect cells from damage through their natural antioxidants. Modern scientific research is confirming what traditional healers have known for centuries about this remarkable fungus, making it an increasingly popular natural supplement for health and wellness.

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Emerging paradigms for target discovery of traditional medicines: A genome-wide pan-GPCR perspective

Traditional medicines from plants, animals, and fungi contain chemical compounds that can interact with specific proteins in our cells called G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). These receptors control many important body functions and are targeted by about one-third of all FDA-approved medications. This review explains how scientists are discovering new therapeutic compounds from traditional medicines by systematically screening them against the complete library of human GPCRs, using advanced techniques to identify which compounds bind to which receptors. Famous examples include morphine from poppies for pain relief and compounds from ginseng that help regulate blood sugar.

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Phytochemical Analysis and Anti-Ulcer Potential of Phenolic Compounds of Inonotus nidus-pici Pilát

Researchers studied a wood mushroom called Inonotus nidus-pici to understand its healing potential. They found it contains beneficial compounds like quercetin and rosmarinic acid that act as antioxidants. When tested on rats with chemically-induced stomach ulcers, the mushroom extract provided protection similar to common ulcer medications, suggesting it could help prevent stomach damage from pain relievers.

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Unveiling the full spectrum of maitake mushrooms: A comprehensive review of their medicinal, therapeutic, nutraceutical, and cosmetic potential

Maitake mushrooms, long used in Asian traditional medicine, contain powerful compounds that may help fight cancer, support immune function, manage blood sugar, and protect skin health. Research shows they can inhibit bacterial and viral infections, reduce tumor growth in various cancer types, and improve overall metabolic health. These mushrooms can be incorporated into food-based supplements and skincare products. While promising results have been seen in laboratory and animal studies, more human clinical trials are needed to fully understand their benefits and safety.

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Valorization and Environmental Impacts of Pecan Waste: A Critical Review

Pecan shells, which make up about half of the pecan nut and are usually discarded, contain valuable compounds with health-promoting properties like antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. These shells can be transformed into useful products including ingredients for food supplements and medicines, activated carbon for cleaning water, materials for making eco-friendly plastics, and energy sources. By converting pecan waste into valuable products instead of throwing it away, communities can reduce environmental pollution, improve public health, and create economic opportunities while supporting sustainable farming practices.

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Chemical Content and Cytotoxic Activity on Various Cancer Cell Lines of Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) Growing on Betula pendula and Betula pubescens

This study examined chaga mushroom, a traditional medicine used against cancer, grown on two types of birch trees. Researchers tested chaga extracts on 31 different cancer cell types and found they were moderately effective at inhibiting cancer cell growth, particularly against liver and thyroid cancers. The chaga from silver birch (B. pendula) worked slightly better than that from downy birch (B. pubescens) due to higher levels of a compound called inotodiol.

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Microminutinin, a Fused Bis-Furan Coumarin from Murraya euchrestifolia, Exhibits Strong Broad-Spectrum Antifungal Activity by Disrupting Cell Membranes and Walls

Researchers discovered a natural compound called microminutinin from a plant used in traditional medicine. This compound shows strong ability to kill various fungal pathogens that damage crops, particularly tea plants. The compound works by breaking down the protective structures of fungal cells, making it a promising candidate for developing safer, plant-based fungicides for agriculture.

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