Hibiscus, Rooibos, and Yerba Mate for Healthy Aging: A Review on the Attenuation of In Vitro and In Vivo Markers Related to Oxidative Stress, Glycoxidation, and Neurodegeneration.

The world is currently undergoing a demographic change towards an increasing number of elderly citizens. Aging is characterized by a temporal decline in physiological capacity, and oxidative stress is a hallmark of aging and age-related disorders. Such an oxidative state is linked to a decrease in the effective mechanisms of cellular repair, the incidence of post-translational protein glycation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neurodegeneration, just to name some of the markers contributing to the establishment of age-related reduction-oxidation, or redox, imbalance. Currently, there are no prescribed therapies to control oxidative stress; however, there are strategies to elevate antioxidant defenses and overcome related health challenges based on the adoption of nutritional therapies. It is well known that herbal teas such, as hibiscus, rooibos, and yerba mate, are important sources of antioxidants, able to prevent some oxidation-related stresses. These plants produce several bioactive metabolites, have a pleasant taste, and a long-lasting history as safe foods. This paper reviews the literature on hibiscus, rooibos, and yerba mate teas in the context of nutritional strategies for the attenuation of oxidative stress-related glycoxidation and neurodegeneration, and, here, Alzheimer's Disease is approached as an example. The focus is given to mechanisms of glycation inhibition, as well as neuroprotective in vitro effects, and, in animal studies, to frame interest in these plants as nutraceutical agents related to current health concerns.

Determination of the Antioxidant Activity of Samples of Tea and Commercial Sources of Vitamin C, Using an Enzymatic Biosensor.

Antioxidants are synthetic or natural compounds capable of preventing or delaying oxidative damage caused by chemical species that can oxidize cell biomolecules, such as proteins, membranes, and DNA, leading to the development of various pathologies, such as cancer, atherosclerosis, Parkinson, Alzheimer, and other diseases serious. In this study, an amperometric biosensor was used to determine the antioxidant activity of teas and effervescent products based on vitamin C, available on the market. A sensor composed of three electrodes was used. The performance of the following electrochemical mediators was evaluated: meldola blue combined with Reineck salt (MBRS), Prussian blue (PB), and cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPC), as well as the time of polymerization in the enzymatic immobilization process and the agitation process during chronoamperometric measurements. Prussian blue proved to be more efficient as a mediator for the desired purposes. After optimizing the construction stages of the biosensor, as well as the operational parameters, it presented stability for a period of 7 months. The results clearly indicate that the biosensor can be successfully used to detect fraud in products called "antioxidants" or even in drugs containing less ascorbic acid than indicated on the labels. The detection limit was set at 4.93 µmol·L-1.

Análise macroscópica e microscópica de chás comercializados em Fortaleza ­ CE / Macroscopic and microscopic analysis of tea commercialized in Fortaleza ­ CE

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi realizar análise macroscópica e microscópica de duas marcas de chás artesanais comercializadas nos supermercados da cidade de Fortaleza/CE. Foram avaliadas amostras, de marcas diferentes denominadas de amostra "A" amostra "B" de chás contendo oito ervas diferente. As metodologias que foram empregadas na avaliação da qualidade das amostras do estudo foram: pesquisa macroscópica de material estranho e pesquisa microscópica de contaminantes biológicos. A determinação de material estranho foi realizada através das inspeções das amostras. Portanto, as amostras com 20g serão triadas sob uma superfície plana e os materiais estranhos serão visualizados com o auxílio de uma lupa (Vuemax-Pro), em objetiva de maior aumento. A contaminação biológica foi avaliada através do método de sedimentação espontânea, onde aproximadamente 10 g de cada amostra foi homogeneizadas e submetida a uma tamisação em peneiras de malha fina. O estudo evidenciou presença de insetos inteiro, fragmentos de insetos, assim como as larvas, helmintos, cistos de protozoário, pelos de roedores dentre outros contaminantes que são considerados contaminantes físicos e biológicos, na medida em que podem veicular agentes infecciosos para os alimentos, causando agravos à saúde humana.(AU)

The objective of this research was to carry out a macroscopic and microscopic analysis of two brands of artisanal teas sold in supermarkets in the city of Fortaleza / CE. Samples of different brands called "A" sample "B" sample of teas containing eight different herbs were evaluated. The methodologies that were used in the evaluation of the quality of the samples of the study were macroscopic research of foreign material and microscopic research of biological contaminants. The determination of foreign material was carried out through the inspections of the samples. Therefore, samples with 20g will be screened under a flat surface and foreign materials will be visualized with the aid of a magnifying glass (Vuemax-Pro), in a higher magnification objective. Biological contamination was evaluated using the spontaneous sedimentation method, where approximately 10 g of each sample was homogenized and subjected to a sieve in fine mesh sieves. The study showed the presence of whole insects, fragments of insects, as well as larvae, helminths, protozoan cysts, rodent hair and other contaminants that are considered physical and biological contaminants, as they can transmit infectious agents to food, causing harm to human health.(AU)

Taming the pandemic? The importance of homemade plant-based foods and beverages as community responses to COVID-19.

Household responses to COVID-19 in different corners of the world represent the primary health care that communities have relied on for preventing and mitigating symptoms. During a very complex and confusing time, in which public health services in multiple countries have been completely overwhelmed, and in some cases even collapsed, these first-line household responses have been quintessential for building physical, mental, and social resilience, and for improving individual and community health. This editorial discusses the outcomes of a rapid-response preliminary survey during the first phase of the pandemic among social and community contacts in five metropolises heavily affected by the COVID-19 health crisis (Wuhan, Milan, Madrid, New York, and Rio de Janeiro), and in twelve rural areas or countries initially less affected by the pandemic (Appalachia, Jamaica, Bolivia, Romania, Belarus, Lithuania, Poland, Georgia, Turkey, Pakistan, Cambodia, and South Africa). We summarized our perspectives as 17 case studies, observing that people have relied primarily on teas and spices ("food-medicines") and that there exist clear international plant favorites, popularized by various new media. Urban diasporas and rural households seem to have repurposed homemade plant-based remedies that they use in normal times for treating the flu and other respiratory symptoms or that they simply consider healthy foods. The most remarkable shift in many areas has been the increased consumption of ginger and garlic, followed by onion, turmeric, and lemon. Our preliminary inventory of food medicines serves as a baseline for future systematic ethnobotanical studies and aims to inspire in-depth research on how use patterns of plant-based foods and beverages, both "traditional" and "new", are changing during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our reflections in this editorial call attention to the importance of ethnobiology, ethnomedicine, and ethnogastronomy research into domestic health care strategies for improving community health.

Evaluation of the volatile composition, toxicological and antioxidant potentials of the essential oils and teas of commercial Chilean boldo samples.

Chilean boldo (Peumus boldus Molina) is the boldo species most consumed around the world. Digestive and hepatobiliary disorders represent the main targets of its action. This work aims to characterize the volatile chemical composition, toxicological, and antioxidant potentials of the essential oils and teas of commercial samples of Chilean boldo packed on sachets [Group 1 (G1): five samples] or in plastic bags [Group 2 (G2): five samples]. Fifty-three compounds have been identified in the essential oils of commercial samples of Chilean boldo from Brazil, while only twelve compounds have been found in the volatile fraction of their infusions. Terpineol, 1,8-cineole, and p-cymene are the major compounds of essential oils. Terpineol is also the major compound of the volatile fraction of teas, followed by limonene dioxide. The presence in all samples of the chemical markers p-cymene, 1,8-cineole, ascaridole, and boldine suggests that they are genuine. The teas offer a better antioxidant capacity than essential oils, thereby indicating that antioxidant activity is concentrated in the non-volatile fraction of these herbs. All LD50 values estimated for the essential oils are below 200 ppm, thus indicating that the oils are highly cytotoxic. G1 and G2 appear to be very similar with respect to all the parameters analyzed. This similarity may indicate a single source for these products.

Metal content in medicinal teas used in the Urubueua de Fátima river community, Abaetetuba-Pará State, Brazil / Contenido de metal en tés terapéuticos utilizados en la comunidad del Río Urubueua de Fátima, estado de Abaetetuba-Pará, Brasil

The content of certain metals in 13 medicinal teas made from 16 plant species was measured by flame photometer and atomic absorption spectrometer with flame methods. The measurements were evaluated against metal intake levels recommended by health authorities. The results indicate that the medicinal teas tested, regularly consumed by inhabitants of the Urubueua de Fátima River Community, Abaetetuba-Para, Brazil, present no risk of poisoning people older than six months. However, decoctions of Mentha sp., Eleutherine bulbosa, Euterpe oleracea, Piper callosum and Hyptis mutabilis, mostly given to children, had Mn values potentially exceeding the recommended maximum intake for infants in the 0-6 months age group, in the quantities customarily administered. Consequently, studies are needed to assess bioavailability for safe human consumption. Results also showed the consumption of medicinal tea alone is not enough to supply an adult's daily metal requirements or treat deficiencies. Additionally, cures emphasized by interviewed Community members might be associated with the bioactivity of organic substances that the medicinal teas contain.

El contenido de algunos metales en 13 tés medicinales de las 16 especies consumidas por los habitantes de la comunidad del Río Urubueua de Fátima, Abaetetuba-Para, Brasil, se evaluó mediante un fotómetro de llama y un espectrómetro de absorción atómica con métodos de llama, y se comparó con los niveles recomendados por las agencias de la salud. Los tés medicinales evaluados no mostraron riesgo de intoxicación para las personas mayores de seis meses de edad, sino las decocciones de Mentha sp., Eleutherine bulbosa, Euterpe oleracea, Piper callosum y Hyptis mutabilis, en su mayoría dirigidos a la ingesta de niños, informaron valores de Mn superiores a la ingesta máxima recomendada para el grupo de infantes (0-6 meses), debido a que estos estudios son necesarios para evaluar la biodisponibilidad para un consumo humano seguro. Los resultados también mostraron que solo el consumo de té medicinal no es suficiente para satisfacer las necesidades diarias recomendadas de ingesta de minerales o para tratar las deficiencias. Además, los informes de curación, enfatizados por los habitantes, indican que la bioactividad observada podría estar asociada a sustancias orgánicas presentes en el té.

Acupuncture for the Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review.

Acupuncture, for the westerns countries, is an innovative and low-cost therapy for treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, most of its effects and mechanisms are poorly understood. Thus, the objective of this work was to systematically review the literature regarding the clinical effects of acupuncture for the treatment and prevention of CVDs. A search for papers published in English or Portuguese in the past 20 years was conducted at PubMed, SciELO, and PEDro databases. Clinical trials conducted on the effects of acupuncture were included in this review. Two reviewers extracted the data independently from the remaining 17 articles after screening. The most used acupoint was PC6 (10 studies, 64.7%), followed by ST36 (6 studies, 35.3%) and auricular acupoints (4 studies, 23.5%). Among the clinical applications, hypertension was the most studied CVD, with acupuncture being the most reported method among the studies (70.6%). Only three articles reported no benefit in the treatment of CVDs for the methodology used. We conclude that although several studies indicated an improvement in the response of the cardiovascular system in CVDs by acupuncture, electroacupuncture, or electrostimulation treatment, the heterogeneity of the studies does not allow a standardization of its application for each specific disease, making further studies necessary for its use to become a reality.

Application of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry fingerprinting associated with macroscopic and histological analysis for Plantago major herbal infusions quality control.

The present study demonstrates the need to conduct an integrative quality control of teas marketed as Plantago major. In the present study, quality control checks were performed through macroscopic, microscopic and chemical analyses of commercial brands. Leaves with parts not allowed for consumption were found in all brands. Six brands showed histological similarity <50% with the authentic P. major. Eight brands demonstrated low chemical similarity (40 to 60%), indicating that they do not have the same compounds from the authentic P. major. All commercial samples are contaminated with aflatoxins, indicative of fungicide contamination and consequent degradation of phenolic compounds and reduction of antioxidant activity from the commercial samples. The difference in the present study is the integrative application of methods for success in the quality control of P. major, which can be applied to other species. Thus, more rigorous inspection actions in the production of teas to guarantee the therapeutic benefit of these products.

Assessment of the Bioaccessibility of Trace Elements in Cat's Claw Teas by In Vitro Simulated Gastrointestinal Digestion Using FAAS.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the bioaccessibility of Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn, and Zn in cat's claw plant teas through in vitro gastrointestinal digestion with gastric and intestinal juice solutions. The total concentrations and bioaccessible fractions of Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn, and Zn were measured by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The results obtained showed that Zn was the most bioaccessible element in the teas, contributing a mean of 57.9% by infusion and 62.5% by decoction. Among macroelements, the Ca was less bioaccessible with 17.4% recovery. The bioavailability assessment revealed that daily intake of 200 ml of cat's claw teas cover about 1.0% of manganese RDA.

Potencial inibitório in vitro de chás comerciais e da quercetina sobre a atividade de acetilcolinesterase cerebral em cães / The inhibitory potential in vitro of commercial teas and quercetin on cerebral acetylcholinesterase activity in dogs

Com o aumento na expectativa de vida dos animais de companhia há um maior aparecimento de doenças neurodegenerativas, como a Disfunção Cognitiva Canina (DCC). A DCC apresenta diversas semelhanças à Doença de Alzheimer (DA) presente em seres humanos. Entre estas semelhanças é possível citar o nível reduzido de acetilcolina, o que justifica a busca por tratamentos que tenham como foco, a inibição da acetilcolinesterase (AChE), enzima responsável pela degradação deste neurotransmissor. Neste trabalho foi avaliado o potencial inibitório dos chás de maçã, de hortelã e de chá verde sobre a atividade de AChE presente em cérebro de cães. O chá verde foi o chá mais eficaz na inibição desta enzima, apresentando uma IC50 de aproximadamente 1.7 mg/mL. A quercetina, flavonol que segundo a literatura está presente no chá verde e ausente nos chás de maçã e hortelã, pode ser um dos constituintes responsáveis por esta inibição. Desta forma, também foi avaliado o potencial anticolinesterásico da quercetina em cérebro canino, obtendo-se uma IC50 de 0,41 mM. Uma vez que a quercetina já tem sido utilizada na medicina veterinária para outros fins, o potencial anticolinesterásico deste flavonol em cérebro canino mostra-se de grande relevância para os estudos da DCC.

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is a neuodegenerative disease with very similar characteristics to humans Alzhemer’s disease. Currently, the increase of pets life expectancy leads to the more frequent appearance of neurodegenerative diseases in these species. Among the main hypotheses for the appearance of CCD has the reduction of acetylcholine levels in the synaptic cleft. This hypothesis justifies many researches that search CCD treatment based on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition, an acetylcholine degrading enzyme. In this work, inhibitory potential of some commecial teas (apple tea, peppermint tea and green tea) toward brain AChE activity of dogs was evaluated. Green tea is tea more effective to inhibit this enzyme, getting a IC 50 of approximately 1.7 mg / mL. Quercetin, flavonol which according to the literature is present in green tea and absent in apple and peppermint teas, may be one of the molecules that contribute to AChE inhibition. In this way, quercetn anticholinesterase potential in canine brain was also evaluated, obtaining an IC 50 of 0.41 mM. Since quercetin has already been used in veterinary medicine for other fins, the anticholinesterase potential of this flavonol toward canine brain is of great relevance for CCD studies.

Potencial inibitório in vitro de chás comerciais e da quercetina sobre a atividade de acetilcolinesterase cerebral em cães / The inhibitory potential in vitro of commercial teas and quercetin on cerebral acetylcholinesterase activity in dogs

Com o aumento na expectativa de vida dos animais de companhia há um maior aparecimento de doenças neurodegenerativas, como a Disfunção Cognitiva Canina (DCC). A DCC apresenta diversas semelhanças à Doença de Alzheimer (DA) presente em seres humanos. Entre estas semelhanças é possível citar o nível reduzido de acetilcolina, o que justifica a busca por tratamentos que tenham como foco, a inibição da acetilcolinesterase (AChE), enzima responsável pela degradação deste neurotransmissor. Neste trabalho foi avaliado o potencial inibitório dos chás de maçã, de hortelã e de chá verde sobre a atividade de AChE presente em cérebro de cães. O chá verde foi o chá mais eficaz na inibição desta enzima, apresentando uma IC50 de aproximadamente 1.7 mg/mL. A quercetina, flavonol que segundo a literatura está presente no chá verde e ausente nos chás de maçã e hortelã, pode ser um dos constituintes responsáveis por esta inibição. Desta forma, também foi avaliado o potencial anticolinesterásico da quercetina em cérebro canino, obtendo-se uma IC50 de 0,41 mM. Uma vez que a quercetina já tem sido utilizada na medicina veterinária para outros fins, o potencial anticolinesterásico deste flavonol em cérebro canino mostra-se de grande relevância para os estudos da DCC.(AU)

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is a neuodegenerative disease with very similar characteristics to humans Alzhemers disease. Currently, the increase of pets life expectancy leads to the more frequent appearance of neurodegenerative diseases in these species. Among the main hypotheses for the appearance of CCD has the reduction of acetylcholine levels in the synaptic cleft. This hypothesis justifies many researches that search CCD treatment based on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition, an acetylcholine degrading enzyme. In this work, inhibitory potential of some commecial teas (apple tea, peppermint tea and green tea) toward brain AChE activity of dogs was evaluated. Green tea is tea more effective to inhibit this enzyme, getting a IC 50 of approximately 1.7 mg / mL. Quercetin, flavonol which according to the literature is present in green tea and absent in apple and peppermint teas, may be one of the molecules that contribute to AChE inhibition. In this way, quercetn anticholinesterase potential in canine brain was also evaluated, obtaining an IC 50 of 0.41 mM. Since quercetin has already been used in veterinary medicine for other fins, the anticholinesterase potential of this flavonol toward canine brain is of great relevance for CCD studies.(AU)

Antioxidant and antifungal activities of Camellia sinensis (L. ) Kuntze leaves obtained by different forms of production / Atividade antioxidante e antifúngica das folhas de Camellia sinensis (L. ) Kuntze, obtidas por diferentes formas de produção

Abstract The antioxidant and anticandidal activities of leaves obtained from Camellia sinensis by non-fermentation (green and white teas), semi-fermentation (red tea) and fermentation method (black tea) were investigated. It was evaluated the total phenolic content by Folin-Ciocalteau assay; antioxidant capacities were evaluated in vitro using DPPH and ABTS radicals, hypochlorous acid and superoxide anion scavenger assays, induced hemolysis, lipid peroxidation by conjugated diene formation and myeloperoxidase activity. Anticandidal activity was performed on three strains of Candida spp. The results showed that non-fermented teas have a higher concentration of phenolic compounds, and then presented the best inhibitory activity of AAPH-induced hemolysis, the best inhibition of conjugated diene formation and more pronounced antioxidant activity in all tests. The highest anticandidal activity was obtained from fermented tea, followed by non-fermented tea. These results indicate that the antioxidant activity demonstrated has no direct relation with the anticandidal activity.(AU)

Resumo A atividade antioxidante e antifúngica das folhas obtidas da Camellia sinensis pelos métodos de não-fermentação (chás verde e branco), semi-fermentação (chá vermelho) e fermentação (chá preto) foram investigadas. Foi avaliado o conteúdo total de compostos fenólicos pelo método de Folin-Ciocalteau; a capacidade antioxidante foi avaliada in vitro usando os radicais artificiais DPPH e ABTS, o ácido hipocloroso, ensaios do ânion superóxido, hemólise induzida, peroxidação lipídica por formação de dienos conjugados e atividade da Mieloperoxidase. A atividade antifúngica foi obtida sobre três cepas de Candida spp. Os resultados obtidos mostram que os chás não fermentados apresentam a maior concentração de compostos fenólicos e também, apresentam a melhor atividade inibitória, sobre hemólise induzida por APPH, sobre a formação de dienos conjugados e a mais pronunciada atividade antioxidante sobre todos os testes. A maior atividade antifúngica foi obtida pelo chá fermentado, seguido pelo semi-fermentado e não-fermentados. Os resultados obtidos demonstram que a atividade antioxidante observada não apresenta relação com a atividade antifúngica.(AU)

Antioxidant and antifungal activities of Camellia sinensis (L) Kuntze leaves obtained by different forms of production / Atividade antioxidante e antifúngica das folhas de Camellia sinensis (L) Kuntze, obtidas por diferentes formas de produção

Abstract The antioxidant and anticandidal activities of leaves obtained from Camellia sinensis by non-fermentation (green and white teas), semi-fermentation (red tea) and fermentation method (black tea) were investigated. It was evaluated the total phenolic content by Folin-Ciocalteau assay; antioxidant capacities were evaluated in vitro using DPPH and ABTS radicals, hypochlorous acid and superoxide anion scavenger assays, induced hemolysis, lipid peroxidation by conjugated diene formation and myeloperoxidase activity. Anticandidal activity was performed on three strains of Candida spp. The results showed that non-fermented teas have a higher concentration of phenolic compounds, and then presented the best inhibitory activity of AAPH-induced hemolysis, the best inhibition of conjugated diene formation and more pronounced antioxidant activity in all tests. The highest anticandidal activity was obtained from fermented tea, followed by non-fermented tea. These results indicate that the antioxidant activity demonstrated has no direct relation with the anticandidal activity.

Resumo A atividade antioxidante e antifúngica das folhas obtidas da Camellia sinensis pelos métodos de não-fermentação (chás verde e branco), semi-fermentação (chá vermelho) e fermentação (chá preto) foram investigadas. Foi avaliado o conteúdo total de compostos fenólicos pelo método de Folin-Ciocalteau; a capacidade antioxidante foi avaliada in vitro usando os radicais artificiais DPPH e ABTS, o ácido hipocloroso, ensaios do ânion superóxido, hemólise induzida, peroxidação lipídica por formação de dienos conjugados e atividade da Mieloperoxidase. A atividade antifúngica foi obtida sobre três cepas de Candida spp. Os resultados obtidos mostram que os chás não fermentados apresentam a maior concentração de compostos fenólicos e também, apresentam a melhor atividade inibitória, sobre hemólise induzida por APPH, sobre a formação de dienos conjugados e a mais pronunciada atividade antioxidante sobre todos os testes. A maior atividade antifúngica foi obtida pelo chá fermentado, seguido pelo semi-fermentado e não-fermentados. Os resultados obtidos demonstram que a atividade antioxidante observada não apresenta relação com a atividade antifúngica.

ICP-OES and Micronucleus Test to Evaluate Heavy Metal Contamination in Commercially Available Brazilian Herbal Teas.

Increased tea consumption in combination with intensive pesticide use is generating heavy metal contaminations amongst Brazilian tea consumers, causing health concerns. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) was applied to quantify minerals and heavy metals such as aluminum, barium, cadmium, lead, cobalt, copper, chromium, tin, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, silver, thallium, vanadium and zinc in Brazilian chamomile, lemongrass, fennel and yerba mate teas. Teas, purchased in local supermarkets, were prepared using infusion and acid digestion. Higher concentrations of Al were present in all samples. In the digested samples, the Al mean concentration was 2.41 µg g(-1) (sd = 0.72) for fennel and 33.42 µg g(-1) (sd = 17.18) for chamomile, whilst the sample C for chamomile tea presented the highest concentration with 51.62 µg g(-1) (sd = 9.17). The safety relation in decreasing order is fennel, lemongrass, chamomile and yerba mate. Chemometric analyses demonstrated a strong correlation between the elements Cd and Pb in the samples. Yerba mate had the highest amount of metal (100 mg kg(-1)), being the subject of a micronucleus test assay for cytotoxicity. The metals found in Yerba mate did not present cytotoxicity/mutagenicity using the micronucleus test. The inorganic contaminants in teas should have their impact carefully monitored.

Antioxidant and antifungal activities of Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze leaves obtained by different forms of production

Abstract The antioxidant and anticandidal activities of leaves obtained from Camellia sinensis by non-fermentation (green and white teas), semi-fermentation (red tea) and fermentation method (black tea) were investigated. It was evaluated the total phenolic content by Folin-Ciocalteau assay; antioxidant capacities were evaluated in vitro using DPPH and ABTS radicals, hypochlorous acid and superoxide anion scavenger assays, induced hemolysis, lipid peroxidation by conjugated diene formation and myeloperoxidase activity. Anticandidal activity was performed on three strains of Candida spp. The results showed that non-fermented teas have a higher concentration of phenolic compounds, and then presented the best inhibitory activity of AAPH-induced hemolysis, the best inhibition of conjugated diene formation and more pronounced antioxidant activity in all tests. The highest anticandidal activity was obtained from fermented tea, followed by non-fermented tea. These results indicate that the antioxidant activity demonstrated has no direct relation with the anticandidal activity.

Resumo A atividade antioxidante e antifúngica das folhas obtidas da Camellia sinensis pelos métodos de não-fermentação (chás verde e branco), semi-fermentação (chá vermelho) e fermentação (chá preto) foram investigadas. Foi avaliado o conteúdo total de compostos fenólicos pelo método de Folin-Ciocalteau; a capacidade antioxidante foi avaliada in vitro usando os radicais artificiais DPPH e ABTS, o ácido hipocloroso, ensaios do ânion superóxido, hemólise induzida, peroxidação lipídica por formação de dienos conjugados e atividade da Mieloperoxidase. A atividade antifúngica foi obtida sobre três cepas de Candida spp. Os resultados obtidos mostram que os chás não fermentados apresentam a maior concentração de compostos fenólicos e também, apresentam a melhor atividade inibitória, sobre hemólise induzida por APPH, sobre a formação de dienos conjugados e a mais pronunciada atividade antioxidante sobre todos os testes. A maior atividade antifúngica foi obtida pelo chá fermentado, seguido pelo semi-fermentado e não-fermentados. Os resultados obtidos demonstram que a atividade antioxidante observada não apresenta relação com a atividade antifúngica.

A validated HPLC method for the analysis of herbal teas from three chemotypes of Brazilian Lippia alba.

Infusions and decoctions of three chemotypes of Lippia alba (Mill.) N. E. Brown (Verbenaceae) were investigated for their quantitative profiles by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS analyses. An RP-HPLC method was developed which permitted the quality control of the preparations. The correct choice of the column allowed the detailed characterization of the constituents in a total analysis time of 35 min. The HPLC method was accordingly validated for linearity range, LOD, LOQ, accuracy and precision. For the quantitative analysis the three major phytochemical groups were taken into consideration, namely iridoids, phenylpropanoids and flavonoids. Comparative quantitative analyses revealed significant differences among the chemotypes that should be taken into account in the uses of the herbal teas. The developed HPLC-UV assay proved to be an efficient and alternative method for the discrimination of the three chemotypes. This is the first report of detailed analysis of the chemical composition of the constituents of L. alba chemotypes' teas.

Possible adverse reactions to herbal products: a study with individuals who resort to popular medicine in the city of Diadema, SP, Brazil.

The present study aimed to investigate the occurrence of adverse reactions (ADRs) related to herbal products (HPs), which are purchased over-the-counter for self-treatment, reported by 100 users. Samples of the HPs related to those ADRs were purchased for their pharmacobotanical identification. The ADRs reported were evaluated based on specialized literature and were analyzed according to causality into probable (PR), possible (PO), unrelated (UR) or unclassifiable (UC); according to expectance into unexpected adverse reaction (UNEX) and expected adverse reaction (EX); seriousness into serious adverse event or reaction (S) and non-serious (NS); and severity into mild (MI), moderate (MO) and severe (SE). Among 100 interviews, five complaints of ADRs were reported in relation to HPs: Senna alexandrina, with a report of cramps (PR; MI; EX; NS); Camellia sinensis, associated with tachycardia (PO; MI; EX; NS); Bauhinia sp., a strong allergic reaction that led to hospitalization (UC; MO; UNEX; S); Picrasma crenata, with several symptoms and hospitalization (UR; MO; UNEX; S); and 21-herb tea, related to an allergic reaction (UC; MI; EX; NS). The strategies used in this study allowed us to carry out an analysis of ADRs attributed to HPs. This analysis could serve as a model in the study of similar cases.

The impact of the healthcare system in Barbados (Provision of health insurance and the Benefit Service Scheme) on the use of herbal remedies by Christian churchgoers / El Impacto del sistema de salud en Barbados (Provisión de seguro de salud y Plan de Servicios y Beneficios) sobre el uso de remedios herbarios por parte de los feligreses Cristianos

AIM: To determine the impact of health insurance and the government's Benefit Service Scheme, a system that provides free drugs to treat mostly chronic illnesses to persons aged 16 to 65 years, on the use of herbal remedies by Christian churchgoers in Barbados. METHODS: The eleven parishes of Barbados were sampled over a six-week period using a survey instrument developed and tested over a four-week period prior to administration. Persons were asked to participate and after written informed consent, they were interviewed by the research team. The data were analysed by the use of IBM SPSS version 19. The data were all nominal, so descriptive statistics including counts, the frequencies, odds ratios and percentages were calculated. RESULTS: More than half of the participants (59.2%) were female, a little less than a third (29.9%) were male, and one tenth of the participants (10.9%) did not indicate their gender. The majority of the participants were between the ages of 41 and 70 years, with the age range of 51-60 years comprising 26.1% of the sample interviewed. Almost all of the participants were born in Barbados (92.5%). Approximately 33% of the respondents indicated that they used herbal remedies to treat various ailments including chronic conditions. The odds ratio of persons using herbal remedies and having health insurance to persons not using herbal remedies and having health insurance is 1.01 (95% CI 0.621, 1.632). There was an increase in the numbers of respondents using herbal remedies as age increased. This trend continued until the age group 71-80 years which showed a reduction in the use of herbal remedies, 32.6% of respondents compared with 38.3% of respondents in the 61-70-year category. CONCLUSIONS: The data demonstrated that only a third of the study population is using herbal remedies for ailments. Health insurance was not an indicator neither did it influence the use of herbal remedies by respondents. The use of herbal remedies may not be associated with affluence. The reduction in the use of herbal remedies in the age group 71-80 years could be due to primarily a lower response rate from this age group, and secondarily due to the Benefit Service Scheme offering free medication to persons who have passed the age of 65 years.

OBJETIVO: Investigar si el Seguro de Saludy el Plan de Servicios y Beneficios del Gobierno - un sistema que proporciona medicina libremente para tratar principalmente enfermedades crónicas en personas de 16 a 65 anos de edad - influyen en el uso de remedios herbarios por los feligreses cristianos en Barbados. MÉTODOS: Se realizó un muestreo en once provincias de Barbados por un período de seis semanas, usando como instrumento una encuesta desarrollada y probada durante un período de cuatro semanas antes de ser aplicada. Se le pidió participación a distintas personas y luego de obtener el consen-timiento informado por escrito, las mismas fueron entrevistadas por el equipo de investigación. Los datos fueron analizados mediante la versión 19 de IBM SPSS. Todos los datos eran nominales, de modo que se calcularon las estadísticas descriptivas, incluyendo conteos, frecuencia, cociente de probabilidades (odds ratio), y porcentajes. RESULTADOS: Más de la mitad de los participantes (59.2%) eran mujeres; poco menos de un tercio (29.9%) eran hombres; y una décima parte de los participantes (10.9%) no indicó su sexo. La mayoría de los participantes se encontraban entre las edades de 41 y 70 anos, para un rango de edad de 51-60 anos que comprendía el 26.1% de la muestra entrevistada. Casi todos los participantes nacieron en Barbados (92.5%). Aproximadamente 33% de los entrevistados indicaron que usaban remedios herbarios para tratar varias dolencias, incluyendo condiciones crónicas. El odds ratio de las personas que usan remedios herbarios y poseen seguro de salud es 1.01 (95% CI 0.621, 1.632). Seprodujo un aumento en el número de entrevistados que usaban remedios herbarios, según aumentaba su edad. Esta tendencia continuó hasta el grupo etario de 71-80 anos, el cual mostró una reducción en el uso de remedios herbarios, 32.6% de los entrevistados en comparación con el 38.3% de los entrevistados en la categoría de los 61-70 anos. CONCLUSIONS: Los datos mostraron que sólo una tercera parte de la población está usando remedios herbarios para sus dolencias. El seguro de salud no fue un indicador ni influyó sobre el uso de remedios herbarios por los entrevistados. El uso de remedios herbarios no puede asociarse con la afluencia. La reducción en el uso de remedios herbarios en el grupo etario 71-80 anos podrían deberse principalmente a una tasa de respuesta más baja de este grupo etario, y secundariamente al Plan de Servicios y Beneficios que ofrece medicamentos gratuitamente a personas que han pasado la edad de 65 anos.

Presence of p-synephrine in teas commercialized in Porto Alegre (RS/Brazil) / Presença de p-sinefrina em chás comercializados em Porto Alegre (RS / Brasil)

Citrus aurantium (bitter orange) is characterized by the presence of p-synephrine, an amine structurally and pharmacologically related to ephedrine. Besides the same adverse effects as ephedrine, nowadays it is believed that altered levels of p-synephrine can be associated to the occurrence of migraine and cluster headaches. Leaves and fruits of this species are highly commercialized in form of teas and herbal preparations, but without taking into account the risks associated with its use. This work describes a survey of teas and herbal preparations containing C. aurantium, commercialized in Porto Alegre (RS/Brazil), in order to verify the presence of p-synephrine. Comparing with the mean amount available in the supermarkets, around 20 percent of the teas and 10 percent of the herbal preparations declared the presence of C. aurantium in their labels. In a sampling of 15 teas and 2 herbal preparations selected for the analysis, the presence of p-synephrine was characterized in all samples, with levels between 0.0040 to 0.2308 percent, leading to a caution that even being natural products, they are not free of adverse effects.

Citrus aurantium (laranjeira-azeda) é caracterizada pela presença de p-sinefrina, amina estrutural e farmacologicamente similar à efedrina. Além de poder causar efeitos adversos similares aos da efedrina, atualmente acredita-se que níveis endógenos alterados de p-sinefrina possam estar associados à causa da enxaqueca. Folhas e frutos desta espécie são largamente comercializados na forma de chá e em preparados de erva-mate, sem que sejam considerados os riscos associados ao seu uso. Neste sentido, este trabalho descreve uma pesquisa em chás e preparados de erva-mate comercializados em Porto Alegre, para verificar a presença de C. aurantium e p-sinefrina. Comparando com a quantidade média disponível nas prateleiras dos supermercados, cerca de 20 por cento dos chás e 10 por cento dos preparados de erva-mate declaravam nos rótulos conter C. aurantium. De uma amostragem de 15 chás e 2 preparados de erva-mate selecionados para análise, em todos foi caracterizada a presença de p-sinefrina com níveis variando de 0,0040 a 0,2308 por cento, levando ao alerta de que mesmo sendo naturais, estes produtos podem não ser destituídos de reações adversas.