Bioactive Compounds and Phytochemicals in Foos

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 (200:100:10:10:200 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.