Comparação entre métodos de pré-tratamento para determinação de sujidades leves em amostras de cúrcuma (Curcuma longa L) e páprica (Capsicum annuum L) / Comparing pretreatment methods for determination of light filth in turmeric (Curcuma longa L) and paprika (Capsicum annuum L) samples

O estudo teve como objetivo modificar, otimizar e avaliar através de estudo comparativo um método para a extração de sujidades leves em amostras de cúrcuma (Curcuma longa L.) e páprica (Capsicum annuum L.). Foram analisadas dez amostras de cúrcuma e vinte de páprica. As etapas de pré-tratamento dos métodos da AOAC, 975.49 (16.14.05) para cúrcuma e 977.25b (16.14.22) para páprica, foram modificadas, com adição do extrator Soxhlet. A avaliação do desempenho analítico foi realizada pela comparação entre os resultados das recuperações dos métodos. A recuperação média para cúrcuma utilizando o método AOAC foi 91,9% para fragmentos de insetos e 97,0% para pelos de roedor, enquanto que para o método modificado foi de 89,6% e 97,4%, respectivamente. Para páprica, usando método original a recuperação foi de 93,1% para os fragmentos de insetos e 96,5% para pelos de roedor, e para o método modificado, 92,2% e 93,1%, respectivamente. A análise estatística mostrou que não houve diferença significante entre os métodos. Apesar do maior tempo de análise, o método modificado apresenta vantagens tais como: permitir realização de análises simultâneas, baixa complexidade, economia de 57% de solvente e desempenho satisfatório, sendo uma alternativa para pesquisa de sujidades leves nas especiarias estudadas. (AU)

The study aimed to modify, optimize and evaluate through a comparative study a method for extraction of light filth from turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) and paprika (Capsicum annuum L.) samples. Ten samples of turmeric and twenty samples of paprika were analyzed.The pretreatment steps of the AOAC methods, 975.49 (16.14.05) for turmeric and 977.25b (16.14.22) for paprika, were modified by adding the Soxhlet extractor. The evaluation of the analytical performance was carried out by comparing the results of the method recoveries. The average recovery for turmeric using the AOAC method was 91.9% for insect fragments and 97.0% for rodent hair. While using modified method, it was 89.6% and 97.4%, respectively. For paprika, using the original method, the average recovery was 93.1% for fragments and 96.5% for hair; and after the modifications, the average was, 92.2% and 93.1%, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that there was no significant difference between the methods. Despite the longer analysis time, the modified method has advantages such as: allowing simultaneous analysis, low complexity, 57% solvent economy and satisfactory performance; proving to be an alternative for light filth research in the studied spices. (AU)

Survey of Aflatoxins and Ochratoxin A in Spices from Brazilian Market

Abstract The incidence of aflatoxins and ochratoxin A in spices purchased from São Paulo State, Brazil was investigated. A total of 180 black pepper (Piper nigrum L.), colorífico (mixture of cornmeal or cassava flour with powdered annatto, Bixa orellana) ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), paprika (Capsicum annuum L.), and turmeric (Curcuma longa) were analyzed with a modified methods by using immunoaffinity column for clean-up and liquid chromatography/fluorescence detector for separation and quantification. Analytical methods were optimized for each spice, focusing mainly on the extraction step. OTA recoveries ranged from 65-102%. AFs recoveries were >70% except for AFG2. The average levels of AFs and OTA in black pepper, colorífico and turmeric samples were less than 2 ng/g. Twenty-five ginger samples (100%) contained OTA 0.10 - 7.10 ng/g and 21 samples (84%) contained AFs 0.10 - 9.55 ng/g. Twenty-nine nutmeg samples (100%) contained OTA 0.92 - 65.49 ng/g and AFs 2.71 - 48.67 ng/g. Thirty paprika samples (100%) contained OTA, 0.75 - 147.18 ng/g and twenty-two samples (73%) contained AFs, 0.11 - 14.92 ng/g. AFs and OTA in nutmeg and paprika could represent a food safety issue in Brazil.

Contaminação microscópica por matérias estranhas em noz-moscada, cúrcuma, gengibre, colorífico, pimenta-do-reino e páprica comercializados no estado de São Paulo, Brasil. (Parte I) / Microscopic contamination by foreign matter in nutmeg, turmeric, ginger, colorific, black pepper and paprika marketed in the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Part I)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a presença de matérias estranhas em noz-moscada, (Myristica fragrans Houttuyn), cúrcuma (Curcuma longa Linnaeus), gengibre (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), colorífico (mistura de urucum [Bixa orellana Linnaeus] com fubá), pimenta-do-reino (Piper nigrum Linnaeus) e páprica (Capsicum annuum Linnaeus) conforme a legislação sanitária. Foram analisadas 180 amostras empregando os métodos preconizados pela AOAC International, de maio de 2018 a maio de 2020. A presença de ao menos uma matéria estranha foi observada em 80% das amostras. Pelos animais foram observados em todos os produtos e fragmentos de insetos foram encontrados na maioria das amostras. Ácaro, inseto inteiro, larva de inseto, bárbula e exúvia também foram encontrados, além de fibras sintéticas e fragmentos de microplásticos. Quanto à legislação, 47,8% das amostras estavam acima dos limites de tolerância, destas, 90,7% por conterem matérias estranhas indicativas de falhas na aplicação das boas práticas e 9,3% por matérias estranhas indicativas de risco à saúde. Os resultados obtidos denotam ineficiência da aplicação das medidas de boas práticas na cadeia produtiva e alertam para a intensificação da fiscalização direcionada ao cumprimento das normas sanitárias, além de provocarem a reflexão sobre a necessidade de alterações na legislação referente às matérias estranhas. (AU)

The aim of this work was to evaluate the presence of foreign matter in nutmeg, (Myristica fragrans Houttuyn), turmeric (Curcuma longa Linnaeus), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), colorific (mixture of annatto [Bixa orellana Linnaeus] with cornmeal), black pepper (Piper nigrum Linnaeus) and paprika (Capsicum annuum Linnaeus) according to the health legislation. A total of 180 samples were analyzed using the methods recommended by AOAC International, from May 2018 to May 2020. The presence of at least one foreign matter was observed in 80% of the samples. Animal's hairs were observed in all the evaluated products and insect's fragments were found in the most of the samples. Mites, whole insects, insect larvae, barbules and exuvia were also found, as wellas synthetic fibers and microplastic fragments. About legislation, 47.8% of the samples were above the tolerance limits, of these, 90.7% for containing foreign matters indicating failure of good practices and 9.3% for foreign matters indicating health risk. The results obtained show inefficiency in the application of good practice measures in production chain and advertise for the intensification of inspection directed to fulfillment of sanitary norms, besides provoking the reflection on the necessity of alterations in the legislation about foreign matter in foods. (AU)

Verificação de adulterações em cúrcuma, gengibre, noz-moscada, páprica, pimenta-do-reino e colorífico, comercializados no estado de São Paulo, Brasil. (Parte II) / Verification of adulterations in turmeric, ginger, nutmeg, paprika, black pepper and colorífico marketed in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. (Part II)

Especiarias são produtos constituídos de partes de espécies vegetais com importante valor alimentício e diversos benefícios para a saúde. O objetivo deste trabalho foi pesquisar adulterações na composição de cúrcuma (Curcuma longa Linnaeus), gengibre (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), noz-moscada (Myristica fragrans Houttuyn), páprica (Capsicum annuum Linnaeus), pimenta-do-reino (Piper nigrum Linnaeus) e colorífico (mistura de urucum, Bixa orellana Linnaeus, com fubá). Foram analisadas 180 amostras adquiridas em municípios do estado de São Paulo. A investigação dos elementos histológicos foi feita por microscopia óptica, a análise dos corantes por cromatografia em papel e a quantificação da bixina por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência. Das amostras analisadas, 16,1% apresentaram elementos histológicos estranhos ao produto, sendo que nenhuma amostra apresentou corante orgânico artificial. A concentração de bixina nas amostras de colorífico variou entre 0,6 e 105,3 mg/100g, com média de 18,9 mg/100g e desvio padrão de 17,7 mg/100g. A avaliação microscópica revelou que a maioria das adulterações ocorre pela adição de amido de Zea mays. O colorífico não apresentou adulterações, porém foi constatada a necessidade de uma padronização da concentração de bixina. Este estudo demonstrou a necessidade da intensificação do monitoramento de adulterações em especiarias para que a comercialização de alimentos fidedignos seja garantida. (AU)

Spices are products made up of parts of plant species, with important nutritional value and many health benefits. The aim of this work was to evaluate adulterations in turmeric (Curcuma longa Linnaeus), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houttuyn), paprika (Capsicum annuum Linnaeus), black pepper (Piper nigrumLinnaeus) and colorific (mixture containing Bixa orellana with cornmeal). A total of 180 samples purchased in the municipalities of the state of São Paulo were analyzed. The investigation of the histological elements was performed by optical microscopy, the analysis of the dyes was carried out using paper chromatography and the quantification of the bixin was performance by high performance liquid chromatography. Of the 180 samples analyzed, 16.1% presented strange histological elements, classified as adulterations. Among the adulterated samples, none showed organic dye. Bixin analysis was carried out on colorific samples, ranging from 0.6 ­ 105.3 mg/100g, with an average of 18.9 mg/100g and standard deviation of 17.7 mg/100g, demonstrating the need to regulate the annatto extract concentration range added into the condiment. The evaluation demonstrated the necessity to monitor adulteration in spices, so that producers and merchants provide food with quality to the consumer. (AU)

Indian Spices Enhance the Activities of Antibiotics against Human Pathogens Synergistically.

Background: Bacterial pathogens are considered aspredominant cause of human diseases throughout theworld. Until recently, antibiotics were considered aspromising agents against most bacterial pathogens butrecent reports suggest that there is growing resistance tocommonly used antibiotics creating a global healthcareproblem. Aim and Objectives: To investigate thesynergistic antibacterial potential of three differentantibiotics including Vancomycin, Clindamycin andCefotaxime with three popular Indian spices namelyCinnamomum zeylanicum (Dalchini), Trachysparmumammi (Ova) and Syzygium aromaticum (Clove) againsthuman pathogens Staphylococcus aureus,Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli and Klebsiellapneumoniae. Material and Methods: Fourier-transformInfrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis was performedto detect molecular changes occurring while synergisticexposure of antibiotics and spices on pathogenicmicrobes. The addition of spices extracts showedenhanced activity of antibiotics against the pathogenshowever degree of antibiosis was varied according tobacterial species. Inhibition Zones (IZ) ranged from 0.0-34 mm. The highest IZ of 34.33 mm was found againstS. aureus where a combination of Cefotaxime and C.zeylanicum were applied. The synergy of spice extractswith antibiotics revealed an increase in the bactericidalactivity of standard antibiotics against pathogens. FTIRspectral analysis showed that, microorganisms showingresistance to antibiotics (Vancomycin and Clindamycin), alters important functional groups of antibioticsmight be resulting in decreased antimicrobialperformance. FTIR spectra's revealed common bands inantibiotics and spices such as nitroamines, aromaticphosphorus, benzene, bromide, carboxylic group,aliphatic esters, sulphonamides, primary alcohols,aliphatic ether, acid anhydride conjugate ring withketone and azo compounds, aromatic ethers, sulphonilchloride, sulphoamide etc. Interestingly, there wasincreased antimicrobial response for synergism whendecreased concentration of antibiotics and increasedconcentration of spice extracts were used. Conclusion:This investigation suggests that, spice extract could beused independently and in combination to elevate theperformance of antibiotics which addresses the issue ofdrug resistance in human pathogens.

In vitro anti-amylase activity of some Indian dietary spices

Pancreatic alpha amylase (PAA) inhibitory activity of cinnamon, cumin was evaluated in vitro to search newanti-diabetic agents as alternatives to synthetic medicines. Bark of cinnamon, seeds of cumin, fenugreek,nutmeg, fennel, and buds of clove were extracted with hot water, methanol, chloroform, benzene, and ethylacetate and 30 extracts were tested for the presence of PAA inhibitory activity using qualitative and quantitativemethods and their modes of inhibition were determined. Presence of alpha amylase inhibitors was identified in18 extracts in quantitative assay. Benzene extracts of cinnamon, clove, fenugreek, and nutmeg and chloroformextract of cumin showed highest anti-amylase potential. The IC50 values of these potential extracts rangedbetween 2.09 ± 0.12 mg/ml and 2.89 ± 0.079 mg/ml with lowest IC50 value noted for benzene extract ofcinnamon and highest IC50 value was noted for benzene extract of fenugreek. Based on the values of Vmaxand Km compared to control, it was found that all these extracts display non-competitive mode of inhibition onamylase activity. In conclusion, active constituents of these five extracts possess anti-amylase properties andcan be used in management of diabetes mediated complications.

Evaluation of Nutritional and Sensory Quality of Complementary Food from Selected Spices, Soy and Maize Blends

Aims: This study examined the nutritional composition and consumer acceptability of complementary food produced using selected spices and soy-maize blends. Study Design: The produce formulated complementary food using different proportions of maize, soybeans, turmeric and ginger powders and to evaluate the blends for their nutritive and Sensory qualities. Place and Duration: The Processing and preparations were done in the Department of Family Nutrition and Consumer Sciences kitchen. All analyses were done at the Central Laboratory, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. The experiment was conducted between March and July 2018. Methodology: The blends were formulated by mixing maize flour, soybeans flour and ginger powder in the ratio of 85:10:5 and 70:20:10 respectively, and with turmeric powder in the same ratio. These blends were evaluated for their nutritive value using standard methods. Sensory evaluation was also carried out to assess the acceptability of the blends. Results obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Results: The proximate analysis showed that samples 85:10:5 and 70:20:10 (Maize-soybeans-ginger) contained protein (18.9 and 34.7)%, fat (4.7 and 10.6)%, crude fibre (1.6 and 1.49)%, ash (2.9 and 3.5)% while sample 85:10:5 and 70:20:10 (Maize- soybeans- turmeric) contained protein (21.5 and 29.0)%, fat (8.6 and 19.7)%, crude fibre (1.3 and 2.8)% and ash (3.9 and 5.6)% respectively. Sensory evaluation showed that blend 85:10:5 (Maize-soybeans-ginger) was more preferred in terms of taste, flavour, and general acceptability while sample 70:20:10 (Maize- soybeans- turmeric) was generally more acceptable in terms of colour and texture. Conclusion: The study has shown that nutrient dense complementary food can be produced from blends of turmeric, ginger, soybeans and maize, which are locally available and will help reduce the cost of the products and also minimise the outlay of foreign currency, which is an important economic consideration for developing countries like Nigeria.

A comparative evaluation of the staining capacity of microhybrid and nanohybrid resin-based composite to indian spices and food colorants: An In vitro study

Resin composite restorative materials can mimic the natural color and shade of the tooth. However, exogenous colorants from food and drinks can stain them due to adsorption. The influence of Indian food colorants and spices on resin composite restorations has not been evaluated extensively. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the staining capacity of microhybrid and nanohybrid resin-based composites, to saffron extract, tandoori powder, and turmeric powder. Subjects and Methods: Forty samples of microhybrid (Kulzer Charisma) and nanohybrid (3M Filtek Z350) resin composites were prepared using an acrylic template of dimension 5 mm × 3 mm. They were randomly divided into four groups and immersed into solutions of saffron extract, tandoori powder, and turmeric powder. Distilled water was used as the control group. Color values (L*, a*, b*) were measured by colorimeter using the CIE L*a*b* system before and after 72 h of immersion. Color differences ΔE*ab were statistically analyzed. Statistical Analysis Used: Two-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey (honest significant difference) test were done using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 19.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. Results and Discussion: All the immersion media changed the color of the resin composites to varying degrees. However, turmeric solution showed the maximum mean color variation ΔE*ab of 14.8 ± 2.57 in microhybrid resin composites and 16.8 ± 3.50 in nanohybrid resin composites. Conclusion: Microhybrid and nanohybrid resin composites tend to stain to Indian food colorants, especially to turmeric powder.

Análise microbiológica de especiarias desidratadas comercializadas em feiras livres de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso / Microbiological quality of dehydrated spices commercialized in street markets of Cuiaba, Mato Grosso / Análisis microbiológico de especialidades deshidratadas comercializadas en ferias libres de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso

Objetivo: avaliar coliformes fecais e presença de fungos filamentosos em pimenta do reino (Piper nigrum L.), açafrão (Curcuma longa L.), canela em pó (Cinnamomum cassia L.) e cominho (Cuminum cyminum L.) desidratados comercializados em feiras livres de Cuiabá e identificar se tais produtos apresentam-se dentro dos padrões microbiológicos. Método: as especiarias foram adquiridas em três feiras livres. Nas 12 amostras, as enterobactérias foram selecionadas mediante placas de Petri de ágar MacConkey. O isolamento dos coliformes fecais realizou-se em ágar Eosina e Azul de Metileno (EMB), sendo posteriormente as colônias termotolerantes submetidas ao teste de indol. As espécies fúngicas foram inoculadas em Ágar Sabouraud acrescido de cloranfenicol, com posterior contagem fúngica e micromorfologia dos gêneros fúngicos. Resultados: não obteve crescimento de coliformes fecais e para fungos filamentosos houve o aparecimento de seis gêneros, dentre eles, três de importância clínica Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp. e Fusarium sp. Conclusão: no que tange a análise bacteriológica realizada, observou-se que os condimentos avaliados estão dentro dos valores estabelecidos pela ANVISA, porém a análise fúngica demonstrou que tais produtos apresentam uma grande quantidade de UFC/g, dentre os quais espécies reportadas na literatura como toxigênicas.

Objective: to evaluate for fecal coliforms and the presence of filamentous fungi in Piper nigrum L., saffron (Curcuma longa L.), cinnamon powder (Cinnamomum cassia L.) and cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) dehydrated marketed in free trade fairs in Cuiabá and identify if such products are within the microbiological standards. Method: the spices were acquired in three free fairs. In the 12 samples, the enterobacteria were selected using MacConkey agar petri dishes. Isolation of fecal coliforms was performed in Eosin and Methylene Blue (EMB) agar, and the thermotolerant colonies were submitted to the indole test. The fungal species were inoculated with Sabouraud Agar plus chloramphenicol, with subsequent fungal counting and micromorphology of fungal genera. Results: there was no growth of fecal coliforms and for filamentous fungi there were six genera, among them three of clinical importance Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp. and Fusarium sp. Conclusion: regarding the bacteriological analysis performed, it was observed that the condiments evaluated are within the values established by ANVISA, but the fungal analysis showed that these products present a large amount of CFU / g, among which species reported in the literature as toxigenic.

Objetivo: evaluar coliformes fecales y presencia de hongos filamentosos en pimienta del reino (Piper nigrum L.), azafrán (Curcuma larga L.), canela en polvo (Cinnamomum cassia L.) y comino (Cuminum cyminum L.) deshidratados comercializados en Cuiabá e identificar si tales productos se presentan dentro de los patrones microbiológicos. Metodo: Las especias se adquirieron en tres ferias libres. En las 12 muestras, las enterobacterias fueron seleccionadas mediante placas de Petri de agar MacConkey. El aislamiento de los coliformes fecales se realizó en agar Eosina y Azul de Metileno (EMB), siendo posteriormente las colonias termotolerantes sometidas a la prueba de indol. Las especies fúngicas fueron inoculadas en Ágar Sabouraud más cloranfenicol, con posterior conteo fúngico y micromorfología de los géneros fúngicos. Resultados: no hubo crecimiento de coliformes fecales y para hongos filamentosos hubo la aparición de seis géneros, entre ellos, tres de importancia clínica Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp. y Fusarium sp. Conclusión: en lo que se refiere al análisis bacteriológico realizado, se observó que los condimentos evaluados están dentro de los valores establecidos por la ANVISA, pero el análisis fúngico demostró que tales productos presentan una gran cantidad de UFC/g, entre los cuales especies reportadas en la literatura como toxigénicas.

Crescimento de Ruta graveolens l. Inoculada com micorrizas sob doses de fósforo / Growth of Ruta graveolens l. Inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi under levels of phosphorus / Crecimiento del Ruta graveolens l. Inoculada con micorrizas bajo dosis de fósforo

Os fungos micorrízicos arbusculares (FMAs) são micro-organismos que fazem simbiose com raízes da maioria das plantas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência dos FMAs Rhizophagus clarus e Claroideoglomus etunicatum em substrato sob baixa e ou alta dose de fósforo (P), na produção de biomassa e na acumulação de P na arruda (Ruta graveolens L.). O experimento foi conduzido no laboratório de botânica da Universidade Paranaense - UNIPAR, município de Umuarama - PR. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente ao acaso, em fatorial 3x2, sendo os fatores: FMAs (sem FMA, com R. clarus e ou com C. etunicatum); duas doses de P (20 e 200 mg kg-1) com 8 repetições por tratamento, num total de 48 unidades experimentais (vasos de 3 L). Avaliou-se a produção de massa seca das raízes (MSR), massa seca da parte aérea (MSPA), massa seca total (MST) e o acúmulo de P na parte aérea da planta (PPA). A produção de MSR, MSPA e MST pela planta não foram significativamente afetadas apenas pela adição de P ao substrato, porém sim, pela inoculação com o FMA C. etunicatum, sob baixo e ou alto P. O acúmulo de P na parte aérea da planta foi aumentado significativamente no tratamento sem a inoculação com FMAs. Conclui-se que a inoculação com C. etunicatum é indicada para aumentar a produtividade da arruda.(AU)

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are microorganisms that present symbiosis with the roots of most plants. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the influence of AMF Rhizophagus clarus and Claroideoglomus etunicatum on low and high doses of phosphorus (P) on plant biomass and P accumulation in rue (Ruta graveolens L.). The experiment was performed in the botanical laboratory at Universidade Paranaense ­ UNIPAR in the city of Umuarama, in the state of Paraná, Brazil. It used a completely randomized 3x2 experimental design, being: AMFs (without AMF, with R. clarus and/or with C. etunicatum); two levels of P (20 and 200 mg kg-1) with 8 repetitions per treatment, totaling 48 experimental units (3 L pots). Root dry matter (RDM), shoot dry matter (SDM), total dry matter (TDM) and P accumulation in the aerial part of the plant were evaluated. The production of RDM, SDM and TDM by the plant was not significantly affected by the addition of P to the substrate, but by the inoculation with AMF C. etunicatum under low and/or high P. The accumulation of P in the aerial part of the plant significantly increased in the treatment without AMF inoculation. It was concluded that inoculation with C. etunicatum is indicated to increase the productivity of rue.(AU)

Los hongos micorrícicos arbusculares (HMA) son microorganismos que forman simbiosis con las raíces de la mayoría de las plantas. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la influencia del HMA Rhizophagus clarus y Claroideoglomus etunicatum en substrato so baja y/o alta dosis de fósforo (P), en la producción de biomasa y en la acumulación de P en la ruda (Ruta graveolens L.). El experimento se llevó a cabo en el laboratorio de botánica de la Universidad Paranaense - Unipar, municipio de Umuarama - PR. El diseño experimental fue completamente al azar, en un 3x2 factorial, con los factores: HMA (Sin HMA, con R. clarus y C. etunicatum); dos dosis de P (20 y 200 mg kg-1) con 8 repeticiones por tratamiento de un total de 48 unidades experimentales (vasos de 3 L). Se evaluó la producción de materia seca de las raíces (MSR), materia seca de la parte aérea (MSPA), materia seca total (MST) y la acumulación de P en la parte aérea de la planta (PPA). La producción de MSR, MSPA y MST por la planta no se vieron afectados significativamente sólo mediante la adición de P al sustrato, sino por inoculación con HMA C. etunicatum so bajo y/o alto P. El acúmulo de P en parte aérea de la planta se incrementó significativamente en el tratamiento sin inoculación con HMA. Se concluye que la inoculación con C. etunicatum está indicada para aumentar la productividad de la ruda.(AU)

Atividade antibacteriana de extratos aquosos de açafrão, cominho, estragão, endro e tomilho / Antibacterial activity of aqueous extracts of saffron, cumin and tarragon

Os registros das eficientes propriedades de conservação das especiarias constam desde a Antiguidade, porém acredita-se que o uso dessas ervas tenha ocorrido antes mesmo do domínio da cocção com fogo. No cenário atual, o crescente interesse do consumidor pela qualidade e composição dos produtos disponíveis no mercado junto com os questionamentos sobre a segurança do uso de aditivos químicos e a preocupação com suas implicações na saúde pública, motivam a busca e valorização de compostos antimicrobianos naturais. Diante disso, o presente trabalho objetivou verificar a ação antimicrobiana dos extratos aquosos de açafrão (Curcuma longa), cominho (Cuminum cyminum), estragão (Artemisia dracunculus), endro (Anethum graveolens) e tomilho (Thymus vulgaris) de forma individual e combinada sobre Samonella Tiphymurium, Samonella Enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus e Bacillus subtilis utilizando semeadura em superfície com Ágar Nutriente, após incubação a 35ºC de 24 e 48 horas. Por meio dos resultados obtidos, foi possível observar os fenômenos de sinergismo e antagonismo entre os extratos, destacando-se a combinação sinérgica entre cominho e tomilho, capaz de inibir três das cinco bactérias empregadas. Salmonella Enteritidis apresentou maior sensibilidade entre os micro-organismos testados e o maior halo de inibição registrado resultou da ação do extrato de endro adicionado ao extrato de tomilho sobre Salmonella Typhimurium.

Determinação do potencial antibacteriano das especiarias hibiscus sabdariffa, carum carvi, sesamum indicum, foeniculum vulgare e trigonella foenum-graecum / Determination of the antibacterial potential of spices hibiscus sabdariffa, carum carvi, sesamum indicum, foeniculum vulgare e trigonella foenum-graecum

Conhecidas pelo seu uso na culinária, na medicina, festividades, óleos e ceras aromáticas, perfumes e atualmente como antissépticos, as especiarias são produtos naturais. Produtos aromáticos, poderosos, prazerosos e sensuais. Esses produtos estão marcados na história, como um dos primeiros que percorreram o globo terrestre de um lado ao outro como moeda comercial. Considerando o mencionado, esta pesquisa teve como objetivo verificar a possível ação antibacteriana das especiarias: hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa), kummel (alcaravia)(Carum carvi), gergelim preto (Sesamum indicum), funcho (Foeniculum vulgare) e feno grego (Trigonella foenum-graecum). Os testes foram realizados com as especiarias individualmente e também combinadas. Extratos aquosos das especiarias foram impregnados em discos de papel filtro de 6 mm de diâmetro, próprios para antibiograma, colocados em placas de Petri com meio de cultura apropriado, semeado previamente com os seguintes micro-organismos: Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella Typhimurium, Salmonella Enteritidis e Staphylococcus aureus, posteriormente incubadas a 35°C/24 ­ 48 horas. Após este período, foram considerados de ação antimicrobiana significativa aqueles que apresentaram halos iguais ou superiores a 10mm. Com relação ao micro-organismo B. cereus, foi constatada a ação significativa do extrato de gergelim preto combinado com funcho (halo de 10mm). No que se refere a B. subtilis, os resultados mais significativos foram verificados para o extrato de hibiscus individualmente (halo de 17mm) e também para a combinação entre gergelim preto e feno grego (halo de 10mm). Para a ação sobre S. aureus, destacou-se a combinação entre gergelim preto e feno grego (halo de 13mm). S. Typhimurium foi inibida significativamente pelo extrato de hibiscus individual (halo de 14mm) e pela combinação de hibiscus e feno grego (halo de 12mm). A bactéria inibida significativamente pelo maior número de extratos (6) foi S. Enteritidis, destacando-se a ação do extrato combinado de hibiscus e gergelim preto (halo de 21mm), hibiscus individual (halo de 18mm) e do extrato combinado de hibiscus e feno grego (halo de 14mm). Os melhores resultados foram observados para o extrato de hibiscus individualmente e as suas combinações.

Ação antimicrobiana de especiarias sobre o desenvolvimento bacteriano / Antimicrobial action of spices on bacterial development

As especiarias são conhecidas por exercerem uma estabilidade frente à ação de micro-organismos, estando inseridas no grupo dos alimentos estáveis. Considerando os aspectos mencionados, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana de anis estrelado (Illicium verum Hook.), canela-em-pau (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), cardamono (Elettaria cardamomum L.), cravo-da-índia (Syzygium aromaticum), erva-doce (Pimpinella anisum L), mostarda amarela (Brassica hirta Moench.), noz-moscada (Myristica fragrans Houtt), pimenta-da-jamaica (Pimenta officinalis Lindl.) e pimenta rosa (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi). Para tanto foram utilizados extratos aquosos das diferentes especiarias, impregnados em discos de papel filtro de 6 mm de diâmetro, próprios para antibiograma, colocados em placas de Petri com meio de cultura apropriado, semeado previamente com os seguintes micro-organismos: Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 6633), Salmonella Typhimurium (ATCC 14028), Salmonella Enteritidis e Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 22923), posteriormente incubados a 35°C por 24 - 48 horas. Os extratos aquosos do anis estrelado (halo de 10 mm), canela em pau (15 mm), cardamono (12 mm), cravo-da-índia (10 mm) e pimenta rosa (10 mm) apresentaram atividade antimicrobiana significativa sobre S. Enteritidis. Sobre S. Typhimurium a inibição significativa ocorreu pela ação dos extratos de cardamono (halo de 10 mm), cravo-da-índia (15 mm) e erva-doce (10 mm). O extrato aquoso de cravo-da-índia forneceu o melhor resultado, uma vez que inibiu significativamente três das cinco bactérias testadas (S. aureus, Salmonella Enteritidis e S. Typhimurium).

Spices are known to fulfill a stability to the action of micro-organisms, being inserted in the group of stable foods. Considering the aspects mentioned, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of star anise (Illicium verum Hook.), cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum L.), clove (Syzygium aromaticum), anise (Pimpinella anisum L.), yellow mustard (Brassica hirta Moench.), nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt), allspice (Pimenta officinalis Lindl.) and pink pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi). For this purpose the various spices aqueous extracts impregnated in filter paper discs of 6 mm diameter, suitable for antibiogram placed in Petri dishes with the appropriate culture medium previously seeded with the following micro-organisms Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 6633), Salmonella Typhimurium (ATCC 14028), Salmonella Enteritidis and Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 22923), then incubated at 35° C for 24 - 48 hours. The aqueous extracts of star anise (inhibition zone 10 mm), cinnamon sticks (15 mm), cardamom (12 mm), clove India (10 mm) and pink pepper (10 mm) showed significant antimicrobial activity against S. Enteritidis. About S. Typhimurium significant inhibition occurred by the action of cardamom (inhibition zone 10 mm), clove India (15 mm) and fennel (10 mm). India clove aqueous extract provided the best outcome, since it significantly inhibited three of the five bacteria tested (S. aureus, Salmonella Enteritidis e S. Typhimurium).

Atividade antibacteriana de diferentes especiarias / Antibacterial activity of different spices

Micro-organismos patogênicos são responsáveis por inúmeras doenças veiculadas por alimentos, causando constante preocupação à indústria alimentícia e consumidores. Além disso, há também a preocupação com os possíveis efeitos adversos causados pelos aditivos químicos usados na conservação dos alimentos. Outro problema relacionado aos micro-organismos patogênicos é sua resistência adquirida frente aos antibióticos comuns. A procura por antimicrobianos naturais, presentes em extratos vegetais, tende a ser uma alternativa bastante interessante para todas estas questões. Dessa forma, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana de especiarias, de forma individual e combinada, sobre algumas bactérias. Foram utilizados extratos aquosos de cinco diferentes especiarias, empregados em disco de papel filtro de 6 mm de diâmetro próprios para antibiograma, colocado em placas de Petri com meios de cultura apropriados, semeados previamente com os seguintes micro-organismos: Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella Typhimurium, Samonella Enteritidis e Staphylococcus aureus, posteriormente incubadas à 35ºC/ 24 ­ 48 horas. Através dos resultados obtidos, concluiu-se que o extrato aquoso de sálvia apresentou atividade antimicrobiana significativa sobre S. Typhimurium (halo de 12 mm), o extrato combinado de sálvia e alho apresentou resultado significativo sobre B. cereus e S. aureus (halos de 10mm), este ainda foi inibido significativamente pelos extratos combinados de sálvia e urucum, sálvia e louro, sálvia e gengibre (halos de 10mm).

Pathogenic micro-organisms are responsible for numerous diseases transmitted by foods, causing constant concern to the provision industry and consumers. Besides, there is also the concern with the possible adverse effects caused by the chemical addictive used in the conservation of foods. Another problem related to the pathogenic micro-organisms is about their resistance acquired to the common antibiotics. The search for natural antimicrobials, presents in vegetable extracts, tends to be a quite interesting alternative for all these subjects. In that way, the objective of the present work was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of spices, in an individual and combined way, on some bacteria. Were used aqueous extracts of five different spices, inserted in paper filter disks of 6 mm diameter own for antibiogram, placed in Petri dishes with appropriate culture means, previously seeded with the following personal micro-organisms: Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella Typhimurium, Samonella Enteritidis and Staphylococcus aureus, subsequently incubated at 35º C/ 24-48 hours. Through the results obtained, it was concluded that the aqueous extract of sage presented significant antimicrobial activity on S. Typhimurium (inhibition zone 12 mm), the combined extract of sage and garlic presented significant result on B. cereus and S. aureus (inhibition zones 10 mm), this still was inhibited significantly by combined extracts of sage and urucum, sage and blond, sage and ginger (inhibition zones 10 mm).

Antimicrobial activities of six essential oils commonly used as condiments in Brazil against Clostridium perfringens

Abstract Despite recent advances in food production technology, food-borne diseases (FBD) remain a challenging public health concern. In several countries, including Brazil, Clostridium perfringens is among the five main causative agents of food-borne diseases. The present study determines antimicrobial activities of essential oils of six condiments commonly used in Brazil, viz., Ocimum basilicum L. (basil), Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary), Origanum majorana L. (marjoram), Mentha × piperita L. var. Piperita (peppermint), Thymus vulgaris L. (thyme) and Pimpinella anisum L. (anise) against C. perfringens strain A. Chemical compositions of the oils were determined by GC–MS (gas chromatography–mass spectrometry). The identities of the isolated compounds were established from the respective Kováts indices, and a comparison of mass spectral data was made with those reported earlier. The antibacterial activity was assessed from minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) using the microdilution method. Minimum inhibitory concentration values were 1.25 mg mL-1 for thyme, 5.0 mg mL-1 for basil and marjoram, and 10 mg mL-1 for rosemary, peppermint and anise. All oils showed bactericidal activity at their minimum inhibitory concentration, except anise oil, which was only bacteriostatic. The use of essential oils from these common spices might serve as an alternative to the use of chemical preservatives in the control and inactivation of pathogens in commercially produced food systems.

Potencial antioxidante e antimicrobiano de óleos essenciais de especiarias: uma revisão / Antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of essential oils of spices: a review

O potencial antioxidante e antimicrobiano dos óleos essenciais de especiarias tem sido estudado com grande interesse como alternativas naturais na conservação de alimentos. Sua aplicação na indústria alimentícia permite a produção de alimentos seguros, livres ou com baixos teores de aditivos químicos e de longa vida útil, atendendo à nova exigência dos consumidores. Seu poder de conservação está relacionado, principalmente, a compostos majoritários presentes em sua composição química, que se diversifica conforme o tipo de especiaria, espécie, técnica de extração e fatores ambientais. Os estudos que avaliaram a atividade antioxidante de vários óleos essenciais revelaram resultados animadores na manutenção da estabilidade oxidativa de alimentos e no sequestro de radicais livres em testes in vitro. A comprovada eficácia dos óleos essenciais em inibir o crescimento microbiano in vitro e a deterioração oxidativa carece de novas pesquisas que envolvam os mesmos na formulação de produtos, a fim de avaliar a sua aplicabilidade como conservantes naturais de alimentos. O presente trabalho trata-se de uma revisão bibliográfica reunindo os mais diversos estudos quanto ao potencial antioxidante e antimicrobiano dos óleos essenciais de especiarias e sua importância na conservação de alimentos.

Inhibition of glucose- and fructose-mediated protein glycation by infusions and ethanolic extracts of ten culinary herbs and spices

Objective: To investigate the inhibitory activity of ten culinary herbs and spices namely on glucose-mediated glycation (GMG) and fructose-mediated glycation (FMG) of bovine serum albumin. Methods: Fluorescence was used as an index of albumin glycation using glucose and fructose as substrates in the presence of infusions and ethanolic extracts of ten culinary herbs and spices. Antioxidant activity of the extracts was evaluated using reducing power, metal ion chelating and superoxide radical scavenging assays. Phytochemicals profile was analysed using 13 standard methods. Results: FMG was found to be significantly higher than GMG (95 and 84 AU, respectively; P 0.05) was found in the percentage glycation inhibitory activity of infusions compared to ethanolic extracts. The mean percentage inhibitory activity of the extracts for GMG (45.9%) and for FMG (45.1%) was not significantly different (P > 0.05). Qualitative phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, anthraquinones, steroids, reducing sugars, proteins, phenols, saponins, phlobatannins, and cardiac glycosides. Conclusions: The higher rate of fluorescence generation by fructation suggests that glycation by fructose deserves much attention as a glycating agent. Data herein showed that the extracts inhibited GMG and FMG. Thus, these edible plants could be a natural source of antioxidants and anti-glycation agent for preventing advanced glycation end-products-mediated complications.

Inhibition of glucose- and fructose-mediated protein glycation by infusions and ethanolic extracts of ten culinary herbs and spices

Objective: To investigate the inhibitory activity of ten culinary herbs and spices namely on glucose-mediated glycation (GMG) and fructose-mediated glycation (FMG) of bovine serum albumin. Methods: Fluorescence was used as an index of albumin glycation using glucose and fructose as substrates in the presence of infusions and ethanolic extracts of ten culinary herbs and spices. Antioxidant activity of the extracts was evaluated using reducing power, metal ion chelating and superoxide radical scavenging assays. Phytochemicals profile was analysed using 13 standard methods. Results: FMG was found to be significantly higher than GMG (95 and 84 AU, respectively; P 0.05) was found in the percentage glycation inhibitory activity of infusions compared to ethanolic extracts. The mean percentage inhibitory activity of the extracts for GMG (45.9%) and for FMG (45.1%) was not significantly different (P > 0.05). Qualitative phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, fla-vonoids, tannins, terpenoids, anthraquinones, steroids, reducing sugars, proteins, phenols, saponins, phlobatannins, and cardiac glycosides. Conclusions: The higher rate of fluorescence generation by fructation suggests that glycation by fructose deserves much attention as a glycating agent. Data herein showed that the extracts inhibited GMG and FMG. Thus, these edible plants could be a natural source of antioxidants and anti-glycation agent for preventing advanced glycation end-products-mediated complications.

Transmission and development of foreign medicinal materials in the Tang and Song Dynasties / 中国中药杂志

Many foreign medicinal materials that were imported to China via the Silk Road and maritime trade have enriched Chinese medicine. Imported foreign medicines reached a high point by the Tang and Song Dynasties, particularly in the case of aromatic medicines, which supplemented domestic Chinese aromatics and were widely employed in official dispensaries in the Song Dynasty. This study investigated historical records related to imported Chinese medicines in the Tang and Song periods, focusing on their varieties, quantity, use, and localization trends. Foreign medicines were assimilated as Chinese medical theory was applied to interpret their effects, and aromatics such as frankincense that were extremely expensive in the Tang Dynasty became accessible to common people by the Song Dynasty. By the Song Dynasty, some foreign medicines began to be domestically cultivated and the boundary between foreign and traditional Chinese medicines became blurred; foreign medicines gradually transformed into Chinese medicines. The importation of foreign medicines during the Tang and Song Dynasties was a historical turning point that contributed greatly to the development of traditional Chinese medicine.

Spices and condiments: safer option for treatment of hyperlipidemia.

Hyperlipidemia is a lipoprotein metabolic disorder characterized by high serum Low density Lipoprotein and blood cholesterol. It is a major risk factors in the development and progression of atherosclerosis that eventually lead to cardiovascular diseases. This poses a major problem to majority of society because of the close correlation between cardiovascular diseases and lipid abnormalities. There are various features which are associated directly or indirectly as etiological factors viz. heredity, age, obesity, sex, diet, physical inactivity, hypertension, lifestyle disorders and various stress factors. For alleviation and treatment there are many ways such as allopathic medications, alternative systems like Ayurvedic, Diet control, lifestyle discipline etc. Recently Spice therapies are seen useful and effective. In India, Ayurveda and other Indian literature mentions the use of various plants and spices. Spices in diet are useful as they play effective role in the functioning of various body systems such as gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and nervous system. Along with proper food habits, diet which contains variety of spices which have been proved as hypolipidemic, can be effective in controlling hyperlipidemia. Spices used in day-to-day life as food, can also be used in the treatment of various human ailments. Along with the taste, flavor, colour and preservative property, spices also possess hypolipidemic effects. This review is focused mainly on the beneficial hypolipidemic effect of five spices (Dill, Garlic, Fenugreek, Ginger, Coriander) in the management of hyperlipidemia. This article is based on the traditional knowledge, mechanism of action for hypolipidemic activity and some experimental scientific studies done to support the use of these spices in the management of hyperlipidemia