Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry
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Antioxidant Activity Test of Bride's Tears (Antigonon leptopus) Leaves Using the DPPH Method
Bridal tear leaves can be used to treat various health and beauty problems because they contain various active compounds, such as flavonoids, saponins, and tannins. These compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. This flower contains antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. This research aims to see the effectiveness of antioxidants from bridal tear leaves. The research method involves leaf extraction using 96% ethanol and testing antioxidant activity using the DPPH method. The research results showed that the extract sample from bride's tear leaves was (IC50 – 69.7146 ug/mL). This shows that the bride's tear leaf extract is quite strong in inhibiting free radical reactions
Identification of Gamma-Aminobutyricacid (GABA) of Tempeh Made from Koro Kratok (Phaseolus lunatus) Bean and Beluntas (Plunchea indica) Leaves as Glucose Stabilizer
The tempeh available on the market is predominantly made from imported soybeans, but alternative formulations using locally sourced legumes, such as koro kratok (Phaseolus lunatus), have been explored. This study investigates the potential of koro kratok tempeh enriched with Plunchea indica (beluntas) leaves to improve its functionality. The study will evaluate gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels and physicochemical changes during fermentation. Tempeh was produced using different koro kratok-to-P. indica leaf ratios (100:0, 75:25, and 50:50). Key parameters observed included mycelium development and the content of fat, moisture, ash, protein, carbohydrates, and pH. Adding P. indica increased the fat content by 0.66–2.28%, the moisture content by 68.81–78.42%, and the ash content by 0.36–1.09%. Meanwhile, the protein content ranged from 6.62–8.87%, the carbohydrate content from 12.07–21.31%, and the pH between 4.21–4.25. The inclusion of P. indica also altered the profile of dominant volatile compounds. GABA was detected in all samples, and in vivo studies showed improved blood glucose levels and glucose tolerance in prediabetic rats. These results suggest that koro kratok tempeh enriched with P. indica leaves could be a promising functional food for regulating blood glucose
Chemical Analysis, Physical Stability, and Antibacterial Activity of Nanoemulgel Hand Sanitizer Formulated with Citrus aurantifolia Essential Oil and Herbal Emollients
One of the most purchased hand sanitizer products by the public since the COVID-19 pandemic is hand sanitizer. However, alcohol-based hand sanitizer products often cause toxic effects and bacterial resistance. Therefore, alternative efforts are needed to replace antibacterial raw materials instead of alcohol, namely lime peel essential oils (Citrus aurantifolia) with Aloe vera and Calendula officinalis emollients. This study aims to evaluate the physicochemistry, physical stability, and antibacterial affectiveness of the a nanoemulgel handsanitizer formula composed of active lime peel essential oils supplemented with Aloe vera and Calendula officinalis emollients. The design of this research is an experiment. Research treatment: formula (F) hand sanitizer nanoemulgel F1 2%, F2 4%, and F6 6%. Essential oil component test using GC-MS method, SNEEDS physical stability includes centrifugation test, freeze-thawing, transmittance, particle size, polydispersity index (PI), potential zeta, physical stability of nanoemulgel hand sanitizer, including organoleptic, homogeneity, pH, and viscosity test, antibacterial efficacy test using hand swabbing method. The results: GC-MS analysis of the components of lime peel essential oils: alpha-pinene (8.87%), linalool (0.58%), and L-alpha-terpineol (8.98%). All SNEEDS formulas and nanoemulgels were stable during 6 weeks of storage. Formulas F2 4% and F3 6% reduced the percentage (%) of hand bacterial colonies to 74% and 75%. The results of the one-way ANOVA showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the number of bacterial colonies after using nanoemulgel hand sanitizer, especially in the F2 and F3 formulas. The conclusion is that Formula 3 (F3 6%) hand sanitizer is recommended as the best candidate for the development of a nanoemulgel hand sanitizer based on lime essential oil, as it offers the most optimal combination of physical stability, chemical stability, and biological effectiveness
Synthesis, Characterization, and Micellar Behavior of Amphiphilic Chitosan Bearing Sulfate and Anisaldehyde Imine Groups
Amphiphilic chitosan derivatives bearing sulfate and anisaldehyde imine (anisimine) groups were successfully synthesized and characterized for potential applications as functional biomaterials. The synthesis involved two key steps: (1) sulfation of chitosan using chlorosulfonic acid to introduce O-sulfate groups, and (2) Schiff base formation via reaction with p-anisaldehyde to generate N-anisimine functionalities. Structural modifications were confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, which showed characteristic absorption bands at ~1250 cm-¹ and ~820 cm-¹ corresponding to O=S=O stretching of sulfate, and a C=N stretch at ~1640 cm-¹ indicating imine formation. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectra further verified the successful attachment of aromatic protons from p-anisaldehyde and the disappearance of primary amine peaks, confirming imination. The amphiphilic behavior and micelle-forming ability of the N-anisimine-O-sulfated (NAOS) chitosan were evaluated using pyrene as a hydrophobic fluorescent probe for determining the critical micelle concentration (CMC), which was found to be 0.012 mg/mL. The observed low CMC value indicates strong self-assembly capability in aqueous media. These results suggest that NAOS chitosan possesses promising structural and surface-active properties suitable for advanced applications in drug delivery and cosmetic formulations
Free Radical Scavenging and Total Antioxidant Capacity of Combined Methanol Leaf Extract of Solanum americanum and Polyalthia longifolia
The present investigation highlights the phytochemical composition and free radical scavenging activity of methanol leaf extract of Solanum americanum and Polyalthia longifolia. The fresh leaves of S. americanum and P. longifolia were air-dried, milled into powder and macerated into absolute methanol. The extract was subjected to phytochemical screening and in-vitro antioxidant activity which was compared with that of standard Ascorbic acid. The qualitative quantitative phytochemical screening results constitutes flavonoids (43.05 mg/g), phenols (71.93 mg/g), alkaloids (34.11 mg/g), terpenoids (18.09mg/g), saponin (5.47 mg/g) and tannins (26.17 mg/g) all of which are known for their therapeutic properties. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) assays, which showed significant percentage inhibition in dose dependent manner. The combined extract exhibited significant DPPH radical scavenging activity with an Ec50 value of 0.993µg/ml, highlighting their potent radical scavenging ability. Furthermore, the FRAP assay revealed a high reducing power in the highest concentration (800ug/ml) having 79.1 µMFe2+/g, suggesting effective electron donation capabilities. The total antioxidant capacity results obtained showed that the TAC for the extract was in the range of 0. 650 to 2.123 AAE (ascorbic acid equivalent) for the different concentrations used
Potential of Red Seaweed Juice in Reducing Blood Pressure and Lead Levels in Urine in Workers at Public Fuel Filling Stations
Lead (Pb) pollution, primarily from fuel combustion, poses severe health risks, including hypertension and systemic poisoning. Gas station attendants are particularly vulnerable to Pb exposure due to occupational hazards. This study investigates the efficacy of red seaweed (Eucheuma spinosum) juice, rich in antioxidants and bioactive components, in reducing Pb levels in urine and lowering blood pressure among gas station workers in Kendari City, Indonesia. A quasi-experimental pre-post-test control group design was employed. Thirty gas station attendants were divided into three groups: control (P0), treatment with seaweed juice once daily (P1), and treatment with seaweed juice twice daily (P2), each receiving 200 mL for two weeks. Urinary Pb levels and blood pressure were measured pre-and post-intervention. Phytochemical analysis of the seaweed juice confirmed the presence of antioxidants, phenolics, saponins, flavonoids, and triterpenoids. Data were analyzed using One-Way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests. The P1 and P2 groups exhibited a reduction in urinary Pb levels, whereas the P0 group showed an increase. However, statistical analysis indicated no significant differences in mean urinary Pb levels among groups. Blood pressure decreased in all groups, with the P2 group showing the most significant reduction in systolic pressure. Despite these trends, no statistically significant differences in blood pressure across the groups were observed. Red seaweed juice demonstrated potential in reducing Pb levels and improving blood pressure among gas station attendants. While statistical significance was not achieved, the findings suggest further research with larger sample sizes and longer intervention durations to confirm the therapeutic benefits of seaweed-based functional foods in mitigating Pb-related health risks
Antihypercholesterolemic Activity of Tahongai Leaf infusion (Kleinsovia hospita L.) In Mice (Mus musculus L.)
Tahongai (Kleinhovia hospita L.) is an indigenous plant of East Kalimantan known for its health benefits, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. This study evaluates the antihypercholesterolemic activity of Tahongai leaf infusion in hypercholesterolemic mice (Mus musculus L.), induced by egg yolk. The test groups included a positive control (simvastatin), a negative control (distilled water), and three treatment groups with Tahongai leaf infusion at concentrations of 15%, 30%, and 60%. The results indicated that the highest reduction in cholesterol levels was observed in the P1 group (15% infusion) with an average decrease of 30.84%, followed by P2 (30% infusion) at 24.79%, and P3 (60% infusion) at 9.31%. The positive control group showed an average reduction of 8.64%. Statistical analysis using One-Way ANOVA revealed a significant difference (p<0.05) in cholesterol level reduction among the treatment groups
Formulation and Testing of Antioxidant Activity of Papaya Fruit (Carica papaya L.) Extract Spray Gel Using the DPPH Method
Methanol extract of papaya fruit possesses natural antioxidant activity that can be utilized to counteract free radicals. Spray gel is a formulation with low viscosity that can remain in contact for an extended period when sprayed on the skin. This study aims to formulate a spray gel made from papaya fruit extract and evaluate its antioxidant activity using the DPPH method. The papaya fruit extract was prepared using the maceration method with methanol as the solvent. Three spray gel formulas with papaya fruit extract concentrations of 1%, 2%, and 3% were tested for their physical properties. The testing revealed that Formula III (with a 3% extract concentration) met the appropriate pH criteria (5.67 ± 0.058), the desired viscosity (41.1 ± 2.84 cps), and the fastest drying time (< 5 minutes). The antioxidant activity test yielded the lowest IC50 value for Formula III at 330.307 ppm, followed by Formula II (IC50 = 374.08 ppm) and Formula I (IC50 = 455.21 ppm). All three formulas exhibited good sprayability and spreadability, but their antioxidant activity was relatively weak. Formula III with a 3% extract concentration is considered the best option based on physical criteria and antioxidant activity, contributing to developing a product that can protect the skin from UV damage
Physicochemical Characterization and Dissolution Enhancement of Mefenamic Acid–Isonicotinamide Crystalline Solid Dispersion
Poor aqueous solubility limits the bioavailability of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like mefenamic acid. This study aims to improve the solubility and dissolution of mefenamic acid through crystalline solid dispersions using solvent evaporation and co-grinding techniques with selected co-formers. Solid dispersions were formulated at different drug-to-co-former ratios (1:1, 1:2, and 2:1) and characterized using differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and powder X-ray diffraction. DSC results revealed reduced crystallinity, indicated by the disappearance of melting peaks and the appearance of a single glass transition temperature. FTIR analysis confirmed hydrogen bonding between the drug and co-former, while PXRD patterns showed a loss of long-range order, supporting the formation of amorphous phases. Dissolution testing demonstrated a significant increase in drug release, particularly in the 1:2 formulation, which outperformed the pure drug and other ratios. These results confirm that the choice of preparation method and co-former ratio critically influence the performance of solid dispersions. This study provides valuable insights into the design of improved oral formulations for poorly soluble drugs, contributing to the advancement of pharmaceutical technolog
Antioxidant and Antibacterial Potential of Water Extracts of Selected Plant Species from Tuzla Region (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
This study aims to determine the antioxidant and antibacterial potential of aqueous extracts of six different plant species, which are widely used in traditional medicine: Salvia officinalis L., Mentha longifolia (L.) Huds., Urtica dioica L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., Rubus fruticosus L. and Achillea millefolium L. The samples were collected in the Tuzla region between March and July 2025. All of the mentioned plants are important in traditional medicine and have been previously reported to have biological activity. The antioxidant activity was tested by the DPPH and FRAP methods, while the antibacterial potential was tested by the diffusion technique on reference bacterial strains from the WDCM collection. The extracts showed high antioxidant activity, with nettle and sage extracts showing the most potent in neutralizing DPPH radicals. Weak to moderate antibacterial activity was recorded in the case of nettle, sage, mint and rosemary extracts, and a complete absence of activity in the case of yarrow and blackberry leaf extracts