Studies on some umbelliferous herbs
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Studies on some umbelliferous herbs
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
M.A. Iyengar, Susan Soans, Girija Rao, S.G.K. Nayak
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Studies on some umbelliferous herbs
Year: 1997
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The family Umbelliferae, also known as Apiaceae, is extensive and recognized for its unique inflorescence and fruits. It encompasses approximately 240 to 300 genera and over 3,000 species, classified into three subfamilies: Hydrocotyloideae, Saniculoidae, and Apioidae. The ethnobotanical significance of this family cannot be overstated, with its members utilized for a variety of purposes, including culinary uses, medicinal applications, and flavoring. Notably, the essential oils found in these plants' fruits, primarily monoterpenes formed via the mevalonic acid pathway, contribute to their flavor profiles. These herbs traditionally serve as remedies for various ailments, with a particular emphasis on gastrointestinal issues, thus maintaining their status as household remedies.
Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils
The antimicrobial properties of essential oils derived from several umbelliferous herbs鈥攊ncluding Anethum sowa (dill), Carum carvi (caraway), Coriandrum sativum (coriander), Cuminum cyminum (cumin), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel), and Trachyspermum ammi (ajowan)鈥攚ere investigated in this study. Various laboratory methods, including the filter paper disc method for both aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms, were employed to assess the antibacterial and antifungal activities of these oils. The results indicated that Ajowan and Cumin oils exhibited significant antibacterial activity comparable to the standard antibiotic, ciprofloxacin, particularly against anaerobic microorganisms. Additionally, these oils displayed sensitivity against the fungus Candida albicans. These findings underscore the potential therapeutic applications of umbelliferous herbs, supporting their traditional use in folk medicine.
Conclusion
The study reinforced the ethnobotanical significance of the Umbelliferae family, especially concerning their essential oils' medicinal properties. Morphological assessments and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) confirmed the purity of the examined samples, with no adulterations detected, likely due to increased consumer awareness regarding product authenticity. The observed antimicrobial activity of the essential oils, particularly that of Ajowan, highlights their potential as natural remedies for various infections. Overall, the findings advocate for further exploration of these herbs in pharmaceutical applications, aligning with the growing interest in herbal medicine and natural health products.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of the Umbelliferae family in herbal medicine?
The Umbelliferae family, consisting of 240-300 genera, is ethnobotanically important. Its members are used for food, beverages, and medicinal remedies, particularly for gastrointestinal issues, and are often regarded as household remedies.
How were the essential oils extracted for microbiological studies?
Essential oils were extracted using steam distillation with a Neoclevenger apparatus. The samples included oils from various umbelliferous herbs, which were then subjected to microbiological assays to test their antibacterial and antifungal activities.
Which method was used to test antibacterial activity of essential oils?
The filter paper disc diffusion method was used for testing antibacterial activity. Inoculated cultures were spread on agar plates, and filter paper discs containing the essential oils were placed to measure inhibition zones.
What were the results of the essential oils' microbiological screening?
The microbiological screening indicated that Ajowan and Cumin essential oils exhibited significant antibacterial activity, comparable to the standard drug Ciprofloxacin. Ajowan oil showed the highest effectiveness against anaerobic microorganisms and Candida albicans.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淪tudies on some umbelliferous herbs鈥�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Activity:
Activity refers to the biological effect of essential oils from umbelliferous herbs against microorganisms. In this study, the term highlights the ability of oils like Ajowan and Cumin to inhibit both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria as well as fungi, illustrating their potential medicinal properties.
2) Water:
Water plays a crucial role in the experiment, serving as a solvent for preparing culture media and diluting plant extracts. Its importance extends to the steam distillation process used to extract essential oils, ensuring that the oils maintain their volatile chemical components vital for their biological activity.
3) Drug:
Drug in this context indicates medicinal substances derived from umbelliferous herbs. These drugs possess therapeutic properties, often used as household remedies. The study evaluates their efficacy against gastrointestinal issues and microbial infections, reinforcing their traditional use in folk medicine and their potential in modern pharmacology.
4) Brahmi (Br膩hm墨):
Brahmi, scientifically known as Centella asiatica, is among the umbelliferous herbs studied for its medicinal properties. Traditionally valued for enhancing cognitive function, its inclusion signifies the emphasis on ethnobotanical significance and highlights the importance of examining various herbs in pharmacognosy for therapeutic potential.
5) Blood:
Blood refers to its use as a component in the anaerobic culture medium for bacterial testing. The mentioned procedure underscores the critical conditions necessary for culturing certain microorganisms, revealing the complexities involved in accurately assessing the antibacterial properties of essential oils derived from herbs in the study.
6) Cuminum cyminum:
Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is highlighted as one of the essential herbs studied for their oils and medicinal applications. Its inclusion underscores its significance as both a culinary spice and a potential antibacterial agent, representing the dual utility of this umbelliferous herb.
7) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial pertains to the ability of essential oils to inhibit the growth of bacteria. This study specifically examines the oils' effectiveness against various bacterial strains, showcasing their relevance in developing natural remedies and alternatives to synthetic antibiotics, reflecting a growing interest in herbal medicine.
8) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the study's broader implications for healthcare, emphasizing the importance of exploring herbal sources for therapeutic agents. The article presents experimental evidence supporting the medicinal use of umbelliferous herbs, demonstrating their historical and potential future roles in pharmacotherapy and improving health outcomes.
9) Science (Scientific):
Science signifies the systematic investigation conducted in this study to explore the properties and effects of umbelliferous herbs. Through rigorous methodologies including microbiological and chemical analyses, the research exemplifies the intersection of traditional knowledge and scientific inquiry in validating herbal remedies.
10) Fragrance:
Fragrance relates to the aromatic compounds found in essential oils from umbelliferous herbs. The study notes that these fragrances, primarily derived from terpenes, contribute not only to sensory appeal but also to the therapeutic properties of the oils, enhancing their desirability and multi-faceted applications in medicine and cuisine.
11) Girija (Giri-ja):
Girija, presumably referring to one of the researchers, represents the collaborative effort in scientific inquiry. The research contributions of individuals like Girija underscore the significance of teamwork and multiple expertise areas in successfully conducting studies on traditional herbs and uncovering their health benefits.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Studies on some umbelliferous herbs鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Essential oil, Gastro-intestinal tract, Zone of inhibition, Ancient Science of life, Sensitivity pattern, Muller Hinton Agar medium, Ethnobotanical importance, Filter paper disc method, Microbiological screening.