Li Li

Hylomecon japonica (Thunb.) Prantl et Kundig (Hylomecon japonica) is a perennial medicinal herb of the family Papaveraceae whose rhizomes are widely used in traditional medicine. Fresh rhizomes are prone to rapid browning after harvest, which affects their appearance and may compromise the stability of their bioactive components; however, the enzymatic basis of this browning and the effects of drying methods on quality-related components remain largely unclear. In this study, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) activities were determined under different low-temperature treatments to investigate their potential roles in the enzymatic basis of browning, and the effects of eight drying methods—shade drying (SD), oven drying at 60 °C (OD-60), vacuum drying at 40 °C (VD-40), boiling followed by freezing and freeze-drying (BF-FD), direct freeze-drying (DFD), freezing at −20 °C followed by freeze-drying (F20-FD), freezing at −80 °C followed by freeze-drying (F80-FD), and soaking in 5% vitamin C solution followed by freezing at −80 °C and freeze-drying (VC-F80-FD)—on total phenolic content (TPC) and total alkaloid content (TAC) were compared. PPO activity was highest in freshly collected samples (279.28 ± 12.61 U/g) and decreased significantly with decreasing freezing temperature and prolonged freezing time, whereas POD activity was markedly activated by prolonged freezing at −20 °C. Pre-freezing at −80 °C for 24 h followed by storage at −20 °C for 72 h gave the lowest PPO activity (117.28 ± 9.04 U/g), whereas short-term freezing at −80 °C better preserved native POD activity while significantly inhibiting PPO. Among the eight drying methods, freeze-drying generally gave a higher TPC and TAC than SD, OD-60, VD-40, and BF-FD when expressed per gram of extract. DFD was the most operationally simplified freeze-drying protocol among those tested, with a high total phenolic content per gram of extract and a relatively high phenolic content per gram of dry rhizome compared with the non-freeze-drying methods; however, its alkaloid content, like that of the freeze-dried samples in general, was not higher than that of SD on a dry-weight basis. Because fresh rhizomes could not be homogenized for parallel extraction, the TPC and TAC values represent relative differences among the drying methods tested rather than absolute contents or retention rates relative to the fresh material. UHPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS analysis detected 75 chromatographic features, for which 84 annotations were proposed (MSI Level 2–4), including phenolics, triterpenoid saponins, alkaloids, fatty acids, and their derivatives. Comparative analysis further revealed that eight components, including hydroxytyrosol 1-O-glucoside, were absent in the shade-dried sample, consistent with visible browning during SD and with the loss of specific phenolic components and a decline in TPC. These findings clarify the enzymatic basis of browning in Hylomecon japonica rhizomes and provide a scientific basis and new ideas for the harvesting, handling, and processing of this medicinal plant resource.

Introduction: Alcohol-induced gastric injury is a common clinical problem with few good preventive options. In this study, we examined whether Xiangsha Yangwei Pills (XS), a traditional herbal formula used for digestive issues, could protect against ethanol-induced gastric damage and sought to elucidate how it might work. Methods: We combined network toxicology and network pharmacology to identify the main active compounds in XS and their potential biological targets. Two key components that emerged from this analysis, quercetin and borneol, were then examined using computational methods to predict their antioxidant activity—specifically their electron-acquisition ability and frontier orbital energy gaps. We also conducted in vitro experiments to directly test how well XS scavenges free radicals and chelates metal ions. For in vivo testing, we used a mouse model of alcohol-induced gastric injury and measured parameters such as gastric mucosal lesion severity, ulcer index scores, and total ulcer area to assess whether XS had a protective effect. Results: The network analysis identified nineteen central targets, many of which were antioxidantrelated enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and myeloperoxidase. Our computational results suggested that the main active compounds have strong antioxidant potential, which was supported by the in vitro findings, showing that XS effectively scavenges free radicals and chelates metal ions. In the animal model, administering XS beforehand significantly reduced gastric mucosal damage, reducing both ulcer scores and the affected area by more than 80%. At the molecular level, XS treatment increased the activity of the body's own antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase) and reduced tissue levels of oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase. Discussion: The integration of network toxicology and pharmacology revealed 19 overlapping targets, predominantly antioxidant enzymes, suggesting that the gastroprotective effect of XS is mechanistically mediated by mitigating oxidative stress. This computational prediction was empirically validated by the observed increase in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and the reduction in malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase levels in vivo. Notably, the high binding affinities of core components such as quercetin and borneol to key targets (e.g., AKT1, TNF, TP53) suggest that XS may exert synergistic, multi-target modulation beyond direct radical scavenging, potentially influencing cell survival and inflammatory pathways. These findings position XS as a promising multi-component strategy for managing alcohol-induced gastric injury, bridging traditional use with modern mechanistic evidence. Conclusion: Overall, our findings show that XS offers strong protection against alcohol-induced gastric injury. The main mechanism appears to be strengthening the antioxidant defense system in the gastric mucosa. These results provide scientific support for using XS as a potential approach to help reduce alcohol- related gastric damage.

Hylomecon japonica (Thunb.) Prantl et Kundig is a plant whose root and rhizome belong to the genus Hylomecon within the Papaveraceae family. It has a long medicinal history and has been traditionally used to treat various conditions, including wind–cold–dampness obstruction syndrome, rheumatic joint pain, traumatic injuries, excessive fatigue, weakness of the limbs, epigastric pain, and dysentery. Modern pharmacological research confirms that Hylomecon japonica exhibits effects such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities. To gain a comprehensive understanding of this plant, a thorough literature review was conducted using databases like Scifinder, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and CNKI. This review provides an overview of the traditional applications, geographical distribution, botanical description, chemical composition, and pharmacological effects of Hylomecon japonica. Researchers have isolated and identified a total of one hundred and thirty-five components from Hylomecon japonica, including alkaloids, saponins, phenolics, flavonoids, other compounds, and trace elements. Notably, alkaloids and saponins have shown significant anti-tumor and antibacterial effects. Additionally, extracts of Hylomecon japonica have demonstrated promising activity in anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and varicose vein treatment applications. Despite the existing foundational research, further studies are necessary to enhance our understanding of its mechanisms and pathways of action. This research will provide valuable references for active ingredient research and the development and utilization of Hylomecon japonica’s medicinal value. By continuing to explore this plant’s potential, we can pave the way for new therapeutic advancements and improve health outcomes for patients worldwide.

Reynoutria ciliinervis (Nakai) Moldenke (R. ciliinervis) root, a traditional Chinese medicine, was found to exhibit remarkable pharmacological properties through a series of comprehensive investigations. Our study commenced with a qualitative phytochemical analysis that identified 12 bioactive compounds within the plant. Subsequently, utilizing ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, the methanol extract emerged as the optimal solvent extract, which was abundant in diverse classes of compounds such as carbohydrates, phenolics, steroids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and tannins. In vitro antioxidant assays underscored the exceptional free radical scavenging, metal ion chelation, hydrogen peroxide scavenging, singlet oxygen quenching, and β-carotene bleaching capabilities of the methanol extract, significantly outperforming other solvent extracts. Further ultra high-performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–quadrupole time of flight–mass spectrometry analysis revealed the presence of 45 compounds, predominantly anthraquinones and phenolics, in the methanol extract. The extract demonstrated robust stability under various conditions, including high temperatures, varying pH levels, and simulated gastrointestinal digestion as well as efficacy in inhibiting the oxidation in edible oils. Acute toxicity tests in mice confirmed the safety of the methanol extract and provided a valuable dosage reference for future studies. Importantly, high-dose methanol extract exhibited a significant pre-protective effect against D-galactosamine-induced liver injury in rats, as evidenced by reduced alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, malondialdehyde levels, and elevated catalase and albumin levels. These findings suggest a potential role for the methanol extract of R. ciliinervis root in treating oxidative stress-related disorders, highlighting the plant’s immense medicinal potential. Our research offers a thorough evaluation of the bioactive components, antioxidant properties, stability, and liver-protecting effects of the methanol extract, setting the stage for deeper investigation and potential clinical applications.

Anemone baicalensis Turcz., a botanical species with a rich historical background in traditional medicine for detoxification and insecticidal applications, possesses a vast, yet largely unexplored, therapeutic potential. This study primarily focused on conducting a qualitative phytochemical analysis of the plant, determining the active ingredient content and antioxidant activity of various solvent extracts. The qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of 12 different types of phytochemicals within the plant. Utilizing ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, we identified 11 active ingredients in 4 solvent extracts. Notably, the methanol extract was found to contain high concentrations of total carbohydrate, total monoterpenoid, total phenolic, total tannin, and total triterpenoid. In the antioxidant experiment, the methanol extract demonstrated superior scavenging abilities against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonicacid) diammonium salt, superoxide anion radical, and hydrogen peroxide, outperforming other extracts in chelation experiments aimed at reducing iron and metal ions. Consequently, the methanol extract was selected for further investigation. Subsequent ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the methanol extract contained 39 compounds, primarily phenolic compounds and triterpenoid saponins. Three stability assessments confirmed the extract’s stability under high temperatures, varying pH levels, and simulated gastrointestinal processes. Additionally, oil stability testing demonstrated its antioxidant capacity in extra virgin olive oil and cold-pressed sunflower seed oil media. An oral acute toxicity experiment conducted on mice not only confirmed the absence of acute toxicity in the methanol extract but also provided a dose reference for subsequent gastric protection experiments. Notably, the methanol extract exhibited significant gastroprotective effects against ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats, as evidenced by histopathological and biochemical analyses. Specifically, the extract reduced levels of malondialdehyde, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase while increasing glutathione, nitric oxide, and catalase, indicating its gastroprotective mechanism. These findings suggest that the methanol extract from the aerial part of Anemone baicalensis could be a promising therapeutic agent for conditions associated with oxidative imbalances. They underscore the plant’s potential therapeutic benefits and offer valuable insights into its antioxidant properties, thereby broadening our understanding of its medicinal potential.

Laportea bulbifera (Sieb. et Zucc.) Wedd. (L. bulbifera) is a significant plant in the Laportea genus. Traditionally, it has been used in ethnomedicine for treating various conditions such as rheumatic arthralgia, fractures, falling injuries, nephritis dropsy, limb numbness, pruritus, fatigue-induced internal imbalances, and irregular menstruation. Modern pharmacological studies have confirmed its therapeutic potential, including anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, analgesic, and anti-rheumatoid arthritis properties. To gather comprehensive information on L. bulbifera, a thorough literature search was conducted using databases like Web of Science, PubMed, ProQuest, and CNKI. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of L. bulbifera, covering various aspects such as ethnomedicinal uses, geographical distribution, botanical description, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and quality control. The goal is to establish a solid foundation and propose new research avenues for exploring and developing potential applications of L. bulbifera. So far, a total of one hundred and eighty-nine compounds have been isolated and identified from L. bulbifera, including flavonoids, phenolics, nitrogen compounds, steroids, terpenoids, coumarins, phenylpropanoids, fatty acids and their derivatives, and other compounds. Notably, flavonoids and fatty acids have demonstrated remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, these compounds show promising potential in activities such as analgesia, hypoglycemia, and hypolipidemia, as well as toxicity. Despite extensive fundamental studies on L. bulbifera, further research is still needed to enhance our understanding of its mechanism of action and improve quality control. This requires more comprehensive investigations to explore the specific material basis, uncover new mechanisms of action, and refine quality control methods related to L. bulbifera. By doing so, we could contribute to the further development and utilization of this plant.

Laportea bulbifera (Sieb. et Zucc.) Wedd. (L. bulbifera) is a significant plant belonging to the Laportea genus. It has been traditionally used in ethnomedicine to treat various conditions such as rheumatic arthralgia, fractures, falling injuries, nephritis dropsy, limb numbness, pruritus, fatigue-induced internal imbalances, and irregular menstruation. Modern pharmacological studies have confirmed its therapeutic potential, as it exhibits anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, analgesic, and anti-rheumatoid arthritis properties. In order to gather in-depth information on L. bulbifera, a comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, ProQuest, and CNKI. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of L. bulbifera by covering various aspects, including ethnomedicinal uses, geographical distribution, botanical description, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and quality control. By doing so, this review intends to lay a strong foundation and propose new research avenues for the exploration and development of potential applications of L. bulbifera. Thus far, a total of 189 compounds have been isolated and identified from L. bulbifera. These compounds include flavonoids, phenolics, nitrogen compounds, steroids, terpenoids, coumarins, phenylpropanoids, fatty acids and their derivatives, and other compounds. Notably, flavonoids and fatty acids in L. bulbifera have demonstrated remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, these compounds show promising potential in activities such as analgesia, hypoglycemia, and hypolipidemia, as well as toxicity. Despite the extensive fundamental studies conducted on L. bulbifera, further research is still needed to enhance our understanding of its credible mechanism of action and improve its quality control. This necessitates more comprehensive investigations to explore the specific material basis, uncover new mechanisms of action, and refine the quality control methods related to L. bulbifera. By doing so, we could contribute to the further development and utilization of this plant.

Eleutherococcus sessiliflorus (Rupr. & Maxim.) S.Y.Hu (E. sessiliflorus), a member of the Araliaceae family, is a valuable plant widely used for medicinal and dietary purposes. The tender shoots of E. sessiliflorus are commonly consumed as a staple wild vegetable. The fruits of E. sessiliflorus, known for their rich flavor, play a crucial role in the production of beverages and fruit wines. The root barks of E. sessiliflorus are renowned for their therapeutic effects, including dispelling wind and dampness, strengthening tendons and bones, promoting blood circulation, and removing stasis. To compile a comprehensive collection of information on E. sessiliflorus, extensive searches were conducted in databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, ProQuest, and CNKI. This review aims to provide a detailed exposition of E. sessiliflorus from various perspectives, including phytochemistry and pharmacological effects, to lay a solid foundation for further investigations into its potential uses. Moreover, this review aims to introduce innovative ideas for the rational utilization of E. sessiliflorus resources and the efficient development of related products. To date, a total of 314 compounds have been isolated and identified from E. sessiliflorus, encompassing terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, volatile oils, organic acids and their esters, nitrogenous compounds, quinones, phenolics, and carbohydrates. Among these, triterpenoids and phenylpropanoids are the primary bioactive components, with E. sessiliflorus containing unique 3,4-seco-lupane triterpenoids. These compounds have demonstrated promising properties such as anti-oxidative stress, anti-aging, antiplatelet aggregation, and antitumor effects. Additionally, they show potential in improving glucose metabolism, cardiovascular systems, and immune systems. Despite some existing basic research on E. sessiliflorus, further investigations are required to enhance our understanding of its mechanisms of action, quality assessment, and formulation studies. A more comprehensive investigation into E. sessiliflorus is warranted to delve deeper into its mechanisms of action and potentially expand its pharmaceutical resources, thus facilitating its development and utilization.