Essential oil Ageratum conyzoides chemotypes and anti-tick activities.

Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus represents a significant obstacle to animal productivity in tropical and subtropical areas, leading to considerable economic losses for the dairy and meat production industries. Essential oils (EO) extracted from Ageratum conyzoides are known to cause death and induce morphogenetic abnormalities in several insect species. This plant, however, presents morphological flower variations, which range from white to purple, associated to different chemotypes. In this context, this study aimed to conduct a novel assessment on the effects of EO extracted from two A. conyzoides chemotypes in the control of the bovine tick R. microplus. The primary constituents of the oil obtained from white flower samples (WFs) were precocene I (80.4 %) and (E)-caryophyllene (14.8 %), while purple flower oil samples (PFs) contained predominantly ß-acoradiene (12.9 %), γ-amorphene (12.3 %), α-pinene (9.9 %), bicyclogermacrene (8.9 %), α-santalene (8.7 %), and andro encecalinol (5.6 %). Interestingly, only the EO chemotype from A. conyzoides PFs displayed acaricidal activity towards R. microplus larvae, with an LC50 of 1.49 mg/mL.

Preclinical Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Investigation of 5'-Methoxynobiletin from Ageratum conyzoides: In vivo and In silico Approaches.

PURPOSE: 5'-methoxynobiletin (5'-MeONB), a polymethoxyflavone isolated from A. conyzoides, has shown anti-inflammatory property. Nevertheless, the antinociceptive activity and pre-clinical pharmacokinetics (PK) characteristics of 5'-MeONB remain unknown. Considering the anti-inflammatory potential of the 5'-MeONB, this study aimed to investigate the pre-clinical PK behavior of 5'-MeONB, as well as its time course antinociceptive activity. METHODS: 5'-MeONB plasma concentrations were determined in Wistar rats after intravenous (i.v.) (10 mg/kg) and oral (50 mg/kg) administration, and in Swiss mice after oral administration (100 mg/kg). Plasma samples were deproteinization and 5'-MeONB quantified by a validated UPLC-MS method. Additionally, the antinociceptive activity of 5'-MeONB was evaluated after 15, 30, 60, 180 and 360 min following oral administration on the acute nocifensive behavior of mice induced by formalin. RESULTS: 5'-MeONB rats and mice plasma concentration-time profiles were best one-compartment model. After i.v. administration to rats, a short half-life, a high clearance and moderate volume of distribution at steady state were observed. Similar results were obtained after oral administration. The oral bioavailability ranged from 8 to 11%. Additionally, 5'-MeONB exhibited antinociceptive activity in both formalin phases, especially in the inflammatory phase of the model, inhibiting 68% and 91% of neurogenic and inflammatory responses, respectively, after 30 min of oral administration. CONCLUSIONS: The results described here provide novel insights on 5'-MeONB pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic effect, serving as support for future studies to confirm this compound as anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effective agent.

Biological Activities of Extracts from Ageratum fastigiatum: Phytochemical Study and In Silico Target Fishing Approach.

In the present study, the ethanolic extract from aerial parts of Ageratum fastigiatum was evaluated in vitro against epimastigote forms of Trypanosoma cruzi (Y strain), promastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis (PH8 strain), and L. chagasi (BH400 strain). The extract was also evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25 923), Escherichia coli (ATCC 11 775), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 10 145), and Candida albicans (ATCC 36 802). The phytochemical screening was performed by thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. The extract was fractionated using flash preparative chromatography. The ethanolic extract showed activity against T. cruzi, L. chagasi, and L. amazonensis and antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans. The phytochemical screening revealed coumarins, terpenes/sterols, and flavonoids in the ethanolic extract. In addition, the coumarin identified as ayapin was isolated from this extract. We also performed in silico prediction of potential biological activities and targets for compounds previously found in A. fastigiatum. Several predictions were confirmed both retrospectively and prospectively by experimental results described here or elsewhere. Some activities described in the in silico target fishing approach were validated by the ethnopharmacological use and known biological properties. Some new activities and/or targets were predicted and could guide future studies. These results suggest that A. fastigiatum can be an interesting source of substances with antiparasitic and antimicrobial activities.

Effectiveness of different methods for the extraction of principle actives and phytochemicals content in medicinal herbals / Efectividad de diferentes métodos para la extracción de principios activos y contenido de fitoquímicos en hierbas medicinales

In this present study, we investigated the influence of various extraction methods including maceration, sonication, infusion, decoction, and microwave extraction, on the chemical and biological potential of phytochemicals extracted from three medicinal plants (Ageratum conyzoides, Plantago majorand Arctium lappa L). The results were subsequently analyzed by variance analysis. Our results suggested that sonication is the most effective extraction method among the five methods tested herein, for the extraction of phytochemicals that have a high antioxidant potential and high phenolic content. The three plants employed for this study had a high concentration of flavonoids and phenolics which was compatible with the chemosystematics of the species. All the samples possessed a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of less than 6. Interestingly, a maximum reaction time of approximately 20 min was noted for the complexation of AlCl3 with the flavonoids present in the phytochemical extract during analyses of the kinetic parameters. We finally identified that the Ageratum conyzoides extract, prepared by sonication, possessed a significant pharmacological potential against hepatocarcinoma tumour cells, whose result can guide further studies for its therapeutic efficacy.

En el presente estudio, investigamos la influencia de varios métodos de extracción, incluyendo maceración, sonicación, infusión, decocción y extracción por microondas, sobre el potencial químico y biológico de los fitoquímicos extraídos de tres plantas medicinales (Ageratum conyzoides, Plantago majory Arctium lappa L). Los resultados se analizaron posteriormente mediante análisis de varianza. Nuestros resultados sugieren que la sonicación es el método de extracción más eficaz entre los cinco métodos aquí probados, para la extracción de fitoquímicos que tienen un alto potencial antioxidante y un alto contenido fenólico. Las tres plantas empleadas para este estudio tenían una alta concentración de flavonoides y fenólicos que era compatible con la quimiosistemática de las especies. Todas las muestras poseían un factor de protección solar (SPF) menor a 6. Curiosamente, se observó un tiempo máximo de reacción de aproximadamente 20 min para la complejación de AlCl3con los flavonoides presentes en el extracto fitoquímico durante los análisis de los parámetros cinéticos. Finalmente, identificamos que el extracto de Ageratum conyzoides, elaborado por sonicación, posee un importante potencial farmacológico frente a las células tumorales del hepatocarcinoma, cuyo resultado puede orientar nuevos estudios sobre su eficacia terapéutica.

Anti-Ehrlichia properties of the dichloromethane fraction of Ageratum conyzoides associated with doxycycline: In vitro study / Propriedades anti-Ehrlichia da fração diclorometânica de Ageratum conyzoides associada com doxiciclina: estudo in vitro

The increasing number of cases of canine ehrlichiosis caused by Ehrlichia canis in hospitals and veterinary clinics has demonstrated the need for a new drug protocol for this disease. Doxycycline is used to treat ehrlichiosis, but the resistance of the microorganism to this treatment protocol, as well as the various side effects to the animals, has become a concern. Several studies have shown a positive interaction with extracts of plants and drugs, which allow for the reduction of the concentration necessary to produce the desired effect, minimizing adverse effects. This study determined the efficiency of the combination of the dichloromethane (DCM) fraction of Ageratum conyzoides L. with anti-Ehrlichia activity and doxycycline by using the checkerboard assay. Plant material was collected in São Luís, northeastern Brazil, followed by extraction in MeOH: H2O (8:2) and partitioning of the DCM fraction. After determining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the fraction under study against DH82 cells infected with Ehrlichia canis, it was combined with doxycycline to derive the Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index (CIF Index). A reduction of 5.83 times the doxycycline minimum inhibitory concentration was observed, showing that this fraction of A. conyzoides composed predominantly by the class of lignans, identified by mass spectrometry notably intensified the activity of doxycycline against E. canis, resulting in a synergistic effect.(AU)

O crescente número de casos de erliquiose canina por Ehrlichia canis em hospitais e clínicas veterinárias tem demonstrado a necessidade de um novo protocolo de medicamentos para essa doença. A doxiciclina é usada para tratar a erliquiose, mas a resistência do microrganismo a esse protocolo de tratamento, bem como os diversos efeitos colaterais para os animais, tornou-se uma preocupação. Vários estudos têm demonstrado interação positiva com extratos de plantas e fármacos, que permitem a redução da concentração necessária para produzir o efeito desejado, minimizando os efeitos adversos. Este estudo determinou a eficiência da combinação da fração diclorometânica (DCM) de Ageratum conyzoides L. com atividade anti-Ehrlichia canis associada com doxiciclina por meio do ensaio de Checkerboard. O material vegetal foi coletado em São Luís, Maranhão, nordeste do Brasil, seguido pela extração em MeOH:H2O (8:2) e partição da fração diclorometânica. Após a determinação da Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) da fração em estudo frente às células DH82 infectadas com Ehrlichia canis, a mesma foi combinada com a doxiciclina para derivação do Índice de Concentração Inibitória da Fração (Índice CIF). Observou-se uma redução de 5,83 vezes a concentração inibitória mínima da doxiciclina mostrando que esta fração de A. conyzoides, composta predominantemente por lignanas identificadas por espectrometria de massas, notavelmente intensificou a atividade desse fármaco contra E. canis, resultando em um efeito sinérgico.(AU)

Anti-Ehrlichia properties of the dichloromethane fraction of Ageratum conyzoides associated with doxycycline: In vitro study / Propriedades anti-Ehrlichia da fração diclorometânica de Ageratum conyzoides associada com doxiciclina: estudo in vitro

The increasing number of cases of canine ehrlichiosis caused by Ehrlichia canis in hospitals and veterinary clinics has demonstrated the need for a new drug protocol for this disease. Doxycycline is used to treat ehrlichiosis, but the resistance of the microorganism to this treatment protocol, as well as the various side effects to the animals, has become a concern. Several studies have shown a positive interaction with extracts of plants and drugs, which allow for the reduction of the concentration necessary to produce the desired effect, minimizing adverse effects. This study determined the efficiency of the combination of the dichloromethane (DCM) fraction of Ageratum conyzoides L. with anti-Ehrlichia activity and doxycycline by using the checkerboard assay. Plant material was collected in São Luís, northeastern Brazil, followed by extraction in MeOH: H2O (8:2) and partitioning of the DCM fraction. After determining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the fraction under study against DH82 cells infected with Ehrlichia canis, it was combined with doxycycline to derive the Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index (CIF Index). A reduction of 5.83 times the doxycycline minimum inhibitory concentration was observed, showing that this fraction of A. conyzoides composed predominantly by the class of lignans, identified by mass spectrometry notably intensified the activity of doxycycline against E. canis, resulting in a synergistic effect.

O crescente número de casos de erliquiose canina por Ehrlichia canis em hospitais e clínicas veterinárias tem demonstrado a necessidade de um novo protocolo de medicamentos para essa doença. A doxiciclina é usada para tratar a erliquiose, mas a resistência do microrganismo a esse protocolo de tratamento, bem como os diversos efeitos colaterais para os animais, tornou-se uma preocupação. Vários estudos têm demonstrado interação positiva com extratos de plantas e fármacos, que permitem a redução da concentração necessária para produzir o efeito desejado, minimizando os efeitos adversos. Este estudo determinou a eficiência da combinação da fração diclorometânica (DCM) de Ageratum conyzoides L. com atividade anti-Ehrlichia canis associada com doxiciclina por meio do ensaio de Checkerboard. O material vegetal foi coletado em São Luís, Maranhão, nordeste do Brasil, seguido pela extração em MeOH:H2O (8:2) e partição da fração diclorometânica. Após a determinação da Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) da fração em estudo frente às células DH82 infectadas com Ehrlichia canis, a mesma foi combinada com a doxiciclina para derivação do Índice de Concentração Inibitória da Fração (Índice CIF). Observou-se uma redução de 5,83 vezes a concentração inibitória mínima da doxiciclina mostrando que esta fração de A. conyzoides, composta predominantemente por lignanas identificadas por espectrometria de massas, notavelmente intensificou a atividade desse fármaco contra E. canis, resultando em um efeito sinérgico.

Nematicidal potential of essential oils of Ageratum fastigiatum, Callistemon viminalis and Schinus terebinthifolius / Potencial nematicida de óleos essenciais de Ageratum fastigiatum, Callistemon viminalis e Schinus terebinthifolius

Some essential oils are rich in nematicidal compounds and can be used for the management of plant-parasitic nematodes. Laboratory and field studies aiming to evaluate the efficiency of this compounds are necessary. The objective of this research was to assess the nematicidal potential of essential oils from leaves of Ageratum fastigiatum and Callistemon viminalis, and green and mature fruits of Schinus terebinthifolius on the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica. In laboratory, the essential oil of S. terebinthifolius green fruits reduced hatching by more than 80% and increased juvenile mortality by 300% when compared to Tween 20 + water. In the field, none of the essential oils controlled M. javanica in lettuce. In conclusion, the essential oil of S. terebinthifolius green fruits reduces the egg hatching and kills J2 of M. javanica in laboratory. In an infested field with an average of 555 J2/100 cm3 of soil, the application of the essential oils of S. terebinthifolius, C. viminalis and A. fastigiatum does not control M. javanica in lettuce.

Alguns óleos essenciais são ricos em compostos nematicidas e poderiam ser usados no manejo de fitonematoides. Estudos laboratoriais e de campo que visam avaliar a eficiência desses compostos são necessários. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar o potencial nematicida de óleos essenciais de folhas de Ageratum fastigiatum e Callistemon viminalis e frutos verdes e maduros de Schinus terebinthifolius sobre o nematoide de galhas Meloidogyne javanica. Em laboratório, o óleo essencial de frutos verdes de S. terebinthifolius reduziu mais de 80% a eclosão e aumentou em 300% a mortalidade de juvenis em comparação com Tween 20 + água. No campo, nenhum óleo essencial controlou M. javanica em alface. Em conclusão, o óleo de frutos verdes de S. terebinthifolius reduz a eclosão e mata J2 de M. javanica em laboratório. Em campo com infestação média de 555 J2/100 cm3 de solo, a aplicação dos óleos essenciais de S. terebinthifolius, C. viminalis e A. fastigiatum não controla M. javanica em alface.

Simultaneous identification and quantification of polymethoxyflavones, coumarin and phenolic acids in Ageratum conyzoides by UPLC-ESI-QToF-MS and UPLC-PDA.

Ageratum conyzoides L. is a plant widely used in traditional medicine of tropical and subtropical regions for its anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties. Nevertheless, the chemical composition of its medicinal preparation has not been yet accurately established. In this study, chromatographic methods were developed for the simultaneous identification and quantification of the main compounds in A. conyzoides aqueous extract, using UPLC-PDA-ESI-QToF-MS. The qualitative analyses defined by MS/MS analysis allowed the identification of 27 compounds in the aqueous extract, including the toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids, phenolic acids, coumarin and polymethoxyflavones. Among the metabolites, twelve were detected for the first time in the species. The quantitative method was validated according to the official guidelines, demonstrating to be specific, linear, precise, accurate and sensitive for the quantification of chlorogenic acid, coumaric acid, coumarin (1,2-benzopyranone), 5,6,7,3',4',5'-hexamethoxyflavone, nobiletin, 5'-methoxynobiletin and eupalestin.

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of standardized extract of polymethoxyflavones from Ageratum conyzoides.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ageratum conyzoides L. is a plant widely used in traditional medicine in tropical and subtropical regions of the world due to its anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive and antibacterial properties. AIM OF THE STUDY: To characterize the standardized extract of polymethoxyflavones (SEPAc) from the plant and evaluate its antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The SEPAc purified from the ethanol extract of the plant leaves was characterized by high resolution mass spectrometry and the methoxyflavones were quantified by a validated UPLC-PDA method. The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the SEPAc were evaluated after oral administration on the acute nocifensive behavior of mice induced by formalin, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1beta (IL-1ß)) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in mice. RESULTS: Qualitative analyses revealed the presence of seven methoxyflavones in the SEPAc, also a simple UPLC-PDA method was developed and validated for the quantification of 5,6,7,3',4',5'-hexametoxyflavone; nobiletin; 5'-methoxynobiletin and eupalestin, major compounds in the extract. The SEPAc exhibited antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in both formalin phases, with significant inhibition of the paw edema formation and significant reduction of the nocifensive response induced by an intraplantar injection of PGE2 and intrathecal injection of interleukin-1ß. CONCLUSIONS: The SEPAc exhibited significant antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects. These results provided scientific suggestion of its potential as a source of new medicines to treat inflammatory diseases, such rheumatoid arthritis.

Beneficial effect of Ageratum conyzoides Linn (Asteraceae) upon inflammatory response induced by carrageenan into the mice pleural cavity.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ageratum conyzoides Linn (Asteraceae), a tropical plant that is very common in West Africa and some parts of Asia and South America, has been used to treat inflammatory disorders. In Brazil, teas made from A. conyzoides L. are used as anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-diarrheic agents. Therefore, it is necessary to study the mechanism of anti-inflammatory action of A. conyzoides L. to support its medicinal use for treating inflammatory conditions. These studies will also support the development of effective pharmacological agents with potent anti-inflammatory properties. AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of the crude extract (CE), its derived fractions: ethanol (EtOH-F), hexane (HEX-F), ethyl acetate (EtOAc-F) and dichloromethane (DCM-F) and isolated compounds, such as 5'-methoxy nobiletin (MeONOB), 1,2-benzopyrone and eupalestin, which are obtained from the aerial parts of A. conyzoides L. MATERIALS AND METHODS: These evaluations were performed using an animal model of inflammation induced by carrageenan. The following inflammatory parameters were analysed: leukocyte influx, protein concentration of the exudate, myeloperoxidase (MPO), adenosine deaminase (ADA) and nitric oxide metabolites (NOx) concentrations, interleukin 10 (IL-10), interleukin 17A (IL-17A), interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and phosphorylation of p65 subunit of NF-κB (p-p65 NF-κB), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p-p38 MAPK) were also analysed. RESULTS: CE, its EtOH-F, HEX-F, EtOAc-F and DCM-F and the isolated compounds, including MeONOB, 1,2-benzopyrone and eupalestin, significantly reduced leukocyte influx, protein concentration of the exudate, MPO, ADA, and NOx concentrations (p<0.05). CE, EtOH-F and isolated compounds significantly reduced IL-17A, IL-6, TNF and IFN-γ levels (p<0.05). CE, EtOH-F and isolated compound 1,2-benzopyrone also increased IL-10 levels (p<0.05). Isolated compounds, MeONOB, 1,2-benzopyrone and eupalestin, reduced p-p65 NF-κB and p-p38 MAPK (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that A. conyzoides L. exerts its important anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting leukocyte influx and protein concentration of the exudate, as well as reducing the levels of several pro-inflammatory mediators. The anti-inflammatory action of A. conyzoides L. may be because of the inhibition of p65 NF-κB and MAPK activation by the isolated compounds.

Clinodiplosis agerati (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae), a new galling species associated with Ageratum conyzoides (Asteraceae) from Brazil / Clinodiplosis agerati (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae), uma nova espécie galhadora associada a Ageratum conyzoides (Asteraceae) do Brazil

Abstract Clinodiplosis agerati, a new galling species that induces stem galls on Ageratum conyzoides (Asteraceae) is described and illustrated (larva, pupa, male, female and gall) based on material collected in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The new species is compared with the other Neotropical species. This is the first record of the Clinodiplosis in Ageratum.

Resumo Clinodiplosis agerati, uma nova espécie cecidógena que induz galhas caulinares em Ageratum conyzoides (Asteraceae) é descrita e ilustrada (larva, pupa, macho, fêmea e galha) com base em material coletado em Minas Gerais, Brasil. A nova espécie é comparada com as outras espécies neotropicais. Este é o primeiro registro de Clinodiplosis em Ageratum.

Clinodiplosis agerati (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae), a new galling species associated with Ageratum conyzoides (Asteraceae) from Brazil.

Clinodiplosis agerati, a new galling species that induces stem galls on Ageratum conyzoides (Asteraceae) is described and illustrated (larva, pupa, male, female and gall) based on material collected in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The new species is compared with the other Neotropical species. This is the first record of the Clinodiplosis in Ageratum.

Actividad antioxidante de extractos de diferente polaridad de Ageratum conyzoides L / Antioxidant activity of different polarity extracts from Ageratum conyzoides L

The present study aimed to investigate the antioxidant activity of extracts of different polarity of the species Ageratum conyzoides L., evaluating by different spectrophotometric methods: ABTS•+, DPPH•, FRAP and ORAC. Extracts of A. conyzoides L., showed good antioxidant activity in the methodologies evaluated. The extract was the most active of ethyl acetate (ACExtA) which showed the best evaluated values techniques with higher power as determined by the assay values of TEAC ORAC = 494048.95 +/- 29695.80 uMol Trolox/100g sample. Measurements of antioxidant activity by different techniques offer advantages in terms of predicting the in vitro antioxidant capacity of this plant, it is also recommended to explore the structural characteristics of the compounds present in the ethyl acetate extract of the plant with to explore the potential benefits and possible mechanisms of action of new antioxidants...

El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo investigar la actividad antioxidante de extractos de diferente polaridad de la especie Ageratum conyzoides L., mediante la evaluación por diferentes métodos espectrofotométricos: ABTS•+, DPPH•, FRAP y ORAC. Los extractos de A. conyzoides L., presentaron una buena actividad antioxidante en las metodologías evaluadas. El extracto más activo fue el de acetato de etilo (ACExtA), que presentó los mejores valores por las técnicas evaluadas con la mayor potencia determinada por el ensayo ORAC con valores de TEAC = 494048,95 +/- 29695,80 uMol Trolox/100g muestra. Las mediciones de la actividad antioxidante por diferentes técnicas, ofrecen ventajas en términos de la predicción de la capacidad antioxidante in vitro de esta planta, además se recomienda explorar las características estructurales de los compuestos presentes en el extracto de acetato de etilo de esta planta con el fin de investigar los beneficios potenciales y los mecanismos de acción de posibles nuevos antioxidantes...

Fungicidal activity and constituents of Ageratum conyzoides essential oil from three regions in São Paulo state, Brazil / Atividade fungicida e constituintes químicos do óleo essencial de Ageratum conyzoides de três regiões do estado de São Paulo, Brasil

The chemical composition and antifungal activity of the Ageratum conyzoides essential oils, obtained from the leaves collected in Ibiúna (1), Ribeirão Pires (2) and Campinas (3) in the São Paulo state, Brazil, were investigated. The essential oils were obtained from A. conyzoides leaves by hydrodestilation and analyzed by GC/MS. The chemical composition of the A. conyzoides oil collected in Ribeirão Pires and Ibiúna consisted mainly of precocene I and II. The essential oil from leaves collected in Campinas had only traces of precocene II and a highest proportion of precocene I, -humulene and (E)-caryophyllene than the oils (1) and (2). The Aspergillus flavus growth was inhibited by essential oils (1) and (2) at 60 and 64%, respectively, and the oil (3) was inactive. On the other hand, the three essential oils inhibited the sporulation of the fungus for more than 120 days. The essential oils of leaves collected in sites that show similarities in the latitude, altitude and average temperatures, as Ribeirão Pires and Ibiúna, showed chemical composition and antifungal activity similar, either, which showed the importance of geo-ecological factors in production of metabolites of the plant.(AU)

A composição química e a atividade antifúngica do óleo essencial de folhas de Ageratum conyzoides, coletadas em Ibiúna (1), Ribeirão Pires (2) e Campinas (3) no estado de São Paulo, foram investigadas. Os óleos essenciais foram obtidos a partir de folhas de A. conyzoides por hidrodestilação e analisados por CG/EM. A composição química do óleo essencial de A. conyzoides coletadas em Ribeirão Pires e Ibiúna consiste principalmente de precoceno I e II. O óleo essencial das folhas coletadas em Campinas possui apenas traços de precoceno II e uma maior proporção de precoceno I, -humuleno e (E)-cariofileno quando comparado com os óleos (1) e (2). O crescimento de Aspergillus flavus foi inibido pelos óleos essenciais (1) e (2) em 60 e 64%, respectivamente, enquanto que o óleo (3) foi inativo. Por outro lado, os três óleos essenciais inibiram a esporulação do fungo por mais de 120 dias. Os óleos essenciais de folhas coletadas em locais que mostram semelhanças na latitude, altitude e temperatura média, como Ribeirão Pires e Ibiúna, mostraram composição química e atividade antifúngica semelhante. Isso mostrou a importância dos fatores geo-ecológicos na produ- ção de metabólitos da planta.(AU)

Fungicidal activity and constituents of Ageratum conyzoides essential oil from three regions in São Paulo state, Brazil / Atividade fungicida e constituintes químicos do óleo essencial de Ageratum conyzoides de três regiões do estado de São Paulo, Brasil

The chemical composition and antifungal activity of the Ageratum conyzoides essential oils, obtained from the leaves collected in Ibiúna (1), Ribeirão Pires (2) and Campinas (3) in the São Paulo state, Brazil, were investigated. The essential oils were obtained from A. conyzoides leaves by hydrodestilation and analyzed by GC/MS. The chemical composition of the A. conyzoides oil collected in Ribeirão Pires and Ibiúna consisted mainly of precocene I and II. The essential oil from leaves collected in Campinas had only traces of precocene II and a highest proportion of precocene I, α-humulene and (E)-caryophyllene than the oils (1) and (2). The Aspergillus flavus growth was inhibited by essential oils (1) and (2) at 60 and 64%, respectively, and the oil (3) was inactive. On the other hand, the three essential oils inhibited the sporulation of the fungus for more than 120 days. The essential oils of leaves collected in sites that show similarities in the latitude, altitude and average temperatures, as Ribeirão Pires and Ibiúna, showed chemical composition and antifungal activity similar, either, which showed the importance of geo-ecological factors in production of metabolites of the plant.(AU)

A composição química e a atividade antifúngica do óleo essencial de folhas de Ageratum conyzoides, coletadas em Ibiúna (1), Ribeirão Pires (2) e Campinas (3) no estado de São Paulo, foram investigadas. Os óleos essenciais foram obtidos a partir de folhas de A. conyzoides por hidrodestilação e analisados ​​por CG/EM. A composição química do óleo essencial de A. conyzoides coletadas em Ribeirão Pires e Ibiúna consiste principalmente de precoceno I e II. O óleo essencial das folhas coletadas em Campinas possui apenas traços de precoceno II e uma maior proporção de precoceno I, α-humuleno e (E)-cariofileno quando comparado com os óleos (1) e (2). O crescimento de Aspergillus flavus foi inibido pelos óleos essenciais (1) e (2) em 60 e 64%, respectivamente, enquanto que o óleo (3) foi inativo. Por outro lado, os três óleos essenciais inibiram a esporulação do fungo por mais de 120 dias. Os óleos essenciais de folhas coletadas em locais que mostram semelhanças na latitude, altitude e temperatura média, como Ribeirão Pires e Ibiúna, mostraram composição química e atividade antifúngica semelhante. Isso mostrou a importância dos fatores geo-ecológicos na produção de metabólitos da planta.(AU)

Fungicidal activity and constituents of Ageratum conyzoides essential oil from three regions in São Paulo state, Brazil / Atividade fungicida e constituintes químicos do óleo essencial de Ageratum conyzoides de três regiões do estado de São Paulo, Brasil

The chemical composition and antifungal activity of the Ageratum conyzoides essential oils, obtained from the leaves collected in Ibiúna (1), Ribeirão Pires (2) and Campinas (3) in the São Paulo state, Brazil, were investigated. The essential oils were obtained from A. conyzoides leaves by hydrodestilation and analyzed by GC/MS. The chemical composition of the A. conyzoides oil collected in Ribeirão Pires and Ibiúna consisted mainly of precocene I and II. The essential oil from leaves collected in Campinas had only traces of precocene II and a highest proportion of precocene I, -humulene and (E)-caryophyllene than the oils (1) and (2). The Aspergillus flavus growth was inhibited by essential oils (1) and (2) at 60 and 64%, respectively, and the oil (3) was inactive. On the other hand, the three essential oils inhibited the sporulation of the fungus for more than 120 days. The essential oils of leaves collected in sites that show similarities in the latitude, altitude and average temperatures, as Ribeirão Pires and Ibiúna, showed chemical composition and antifungal activity similar, either, which showed the importance of geo-ecological factors in production of metabolites of the plant.

A composição química e a atividade antifúngica do óleo essencial de folhas de Ageratum conyzoides, coletadas em Ibiúna (1), Ribeirão Pires (2) e Campinas (3) no estado de São Paulo, foram investigadas. Os óleos essenciais foram obtidos a partir de folhas de A. conyzoides por hidrodestilação e analisados por CG/EM. A composição química do óleo essencial de A. conyzoides coletadas em Ribeirão Pires e Ibiúna consiste principalmente de precoceno I e II. O óleo essencial das folhas coletadas em Campinas possui apenas traços de precoceno II e uma maior proporção de precoceno I, -humuleno e (E)-cariofileno quando comparado com os óleos (1) e (2). O crescimento de Aspergillus flavus foi inibido pelos óleos essenciais (1) e (2) em 60 e 64%, respectivamente, enquanto que o óleo (3) foi inativo. Por outro lado, os três óleos essenciais inibiram a esporulação do fungo por mais de 120 dias. Os óleos essenciais de folhas coletadas em locais que mostram semelhanças na latitude, altitude e temperatura média, como Ribeirão Pires e Ibiúna, mostraram composição química e atividade antifúngica semelhante. Isso mostrou a importância dos fatores geo-ecológicos na produ- ção de metabólitos da planta.

Composição química e toxicidade de óleos essenciais para o pulgão-verde Schizaphis graminum (Rondani, 1852) / Chemical composition and toxicity of essential oils to the green-aphid Schizaphis graminum (Rondani, 1852)

Este trabalho teve como objetivo identificar e quantificar os constituintes dos óleos essenciais de Illicum verum, Ageratum conyzoides, Piper hispidinervum e Ocotea odorifera, bem como avaliar a toxicidade para o pulgão-verde Schizaphis graminum. A qualificação dos constituintes foi realizada por meio de um cromatógrafo gasoso + espectrômetro de massas, e a quantificação, por um cromatógrafo gasoso + detector de ionização de chama, ambos com uma coluna DB5. O método de hidrodestilação promoveu um rendimento (p/p) de 3,81% para I. verum, 0,46% para A. conyzoides, 2,85% para P. hispidinervum e 0,68% para O. odorífera. Já os componentes majoritários foram: precoceno (87,0%) e (E)-cariofileno (7,1%) para A. conyzoides; (E)-anetol (90,4%), limoneno (2,6%) e metil-chavicol (1,3%) para I. verum; metil-eugenol (81,2%) e safrol (10,6%) para Ocotea odorífera; e safrol (82,5%) e α-terpinoleno (13,4%) para P. hispidinervum. Pelos testes de toxicidade aguda (24 horas) com folhas de sorgo ou papel-filtro contaminados, verificou-se que o óleo de A. conyzoides foi o mais tóxico para o pulgão, com CL50 de 7,13 e 7,08 µL óleo/cm2 respectivamente, seguido por O. odorifera com CL50 de 11,80 e 103,00 µL óleo/cm2 respectivamente; I. verum de 51,80 µL óleo/cm2 em ambos os substratos; e o menos tóxico foi o óleo essencial de P. hispidinervum, com CL50 de 62,50 e 143,00 µL óleo/cm2, respectivamente. Dessa maneira, sugere-se que o uso dos óleos essenciais pode representar uma nova ferramenta em programas de manejo integrado de pragas.(AU)

The aim of this study was to assess the chemical composition of essential oils of Illicum verum, Ageratum conyzoides, Piper hispidinervum and Ocotea odorífera, as well as their toxicity to the green-aphid Schizaphis graminum. Compound identification was carried out with gas chromatography + mass spectrometry, and quantification with gas chromatography + flame ionization detector, both with DB5 column. The hydrodistillation process promoted oil yield of 3.81% for I. verum; 0.46% for A. conyzoides; 2.85 % for P. hispidinervum; and 0.68 % for O. odorífera. The major components from the oils of A. conyzoides was precocene (87.0%) and (E)-caryophyllene (7.1%); (E)-anethol (90.4%), limonene (2.6%) and methyl-chavicol (1.3%) for I. verum; methyleugenol (81.2%) and safrole (10.6%) for O. odorifera; and safrole (82.5%) and α-terpinolene (13.4%) for P. hispidinervum. The acute toxicity test (24 hours) performed by contact in sorghum leaves or contaminated filter-paper showed that the higher toxicity occur with essential oils of A. conyzoides, with LC50 of 7.01 and 7.01 µg oil/cm2, respectively; followed by O. odorifera, with LC50 of 17.10 and 66.70 µg oil/cm2, respectively; I. verum, with LC50of 66.40 and 65.40 µg oil/cm2, respectively; and low toxicity was observed for the P. hispidinervum essential oil, with LC50 of 64.00 and 143.00 oil/cm2, respectively. With the results obtained in this research, we can state that the use of these essential oils can be a new tool in integrated pest management.(AU)

Composição química e toxicidade de óleos essenciais para o pulgão-verde Schizaphis graminum (Rondani, 1852) / Chemical composition and toxicity of essential oils to the green-aphid Schizaphis graminum (Rondani, 1852)

Este trabalho teve como objetivo identificar e quantificar os constituintes dos óleos essenciais de Illicum verum, Ageratum conyzoides, Piper hispidinervum e Ocotea odorifera, bem como avaliar a toxicidade para o pulgão-verde Schizaphis graminum. A qualificação dos constituintes foi realizada por meio de um cromatógrafo gasoso + espectrômetro de massas, e a quantificação, por um cromatógrafo gasoso + detector de ionização de chama, ambos com uma coluna DB5. O método de hidrodestilação promoveu um rendimento (p/p) de 3,81% para I. verum, 0,46% para A. conyzoides, 2,85% para P. hispidinervum e 0,68% para O. odorífera. Já os componentes majoritários foram: precoceno (87,0%) e (E)-cariofileno (7,1%) para A. conyzoides; (E)-anetol (90,4%), limoneno (2,6%) e metil-chavicol (1,3%) para I. verum; metil-eugenol (81,2%) e safrol (10,6%) para Ocotea odorífera; e safrol (82,5%) e α-terpinoleno (13,4%) para P. hispidinervum. Pelos testes de toxicidade aguda (24 horas) com folhas de sorgo ou papel-filtro contaminados, verificou-se que o óleo de A. conyzoides foi o mais tóxico para o pulgão, com CL50 de 7,13 e 7,08 µL óleo/cm2 respectivamente, seguido por O. odorifera com CL50 de 11,80 e 103,00 µL óleo/cm2 respectivamente; I. verum de 51,80 µL óleo/cm2 em ambos os substratos; e o menos tóxico foi o óleo essencial de P. hispidinervum, com CL50 de 62,50 e 143,00 µL óleo/cm2, respectivamente. Dessa maneira, sugere-se que o uso dos óleos essenciais pode representar uma nova ferramenta em programas de manejo integrado de pragas.(AU)

The aim of this study was to assess the chemical composition of essential oils of Illicum verum, Ageratum conyzoides, Piper hispidinervum and Ocotea odorífera, as well as their toxicity to the green-aphid Schizaphis graminum. Compound identification was carried out with gas chromatography + mass spectrometry, and quantification with gas chromatography + flame ionization detector, both with DB5 column. The hydrodistillation process promoted oil yield of 3.81% for I. verum; 0.46% for A. conyzoides; 2.85 % for P. hispidinervum; and 0.68 % for O. odorífera. The major components from the oils of A. conyzoides was precocene (87.0%) and (E)-caryophyllene (7.1%); (E)-anethol (90.4%), limonene (2.6%) and methyl-chavicol (1.3%) for I. verum; methyleugenol (81.2%) and safrole (10.6%) for O. odorifera; and safrole (82.5%) and α-terpinolene (13.4%) for P. hispidinervum. The acute toxicity test (24 hours) performed by contact in sorghum leaves or contaminated filter-paper showed that the higher toxicity occur with essential oils of A. conyzoides, with LC50 of 7.01 and 7.01 µg oil/cm2, respectively; followed by O. odorifera, with LC50 of 17.10 and 66.70 µg oil/cm2, respectively; I. verum, with LC50of 66.40 and 65.40 µg oil/cm2, respectively; and low toxicity was observed for the P. hispidinervum essential oil, with LC50 of 64.00 and 143.00 oil/cm2, respectively. With the results obtained in this research, we can state that the use of these essential oils can be a new tool in integrated pest management.(AU)

Atividade antibacteriana in vitro de quatro espécies vegetais em diferentes graduações alcoólicas / In vitro antibacterial activity of four plant species at different alcoholic contents

Neste trabalho foi realizada a caracterização fitoquímica e avaliada a atividade antibacteriana in vitro dos extratos de Ageratum conyzoides L. (mentrasto), Gossypium hirsutum (algodão), Phyllanthus tenellus (quebra pedra), e Polygonum hydropiperoides (erva de bicho) frente à Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli. Para a avaliação da atividade antibacteriana foi utilizado o método de difusão em ágar. Os testes foram realizados com o extrato nas graduações alcoólicas de 0 a 100% (v/v), na proporção de 20% (m/v - massa/extrator). Os testes fitoquímicos constataram a presença de açucares redutores, compostos fenólicos, flavonoides, taninos, triterpenos, e esteróides nas quatro espécies. O crescimento das culturas de S. aureus foi inibido por todos os extratos, com exceção do extrato de Mentrasto. A maior atividade de inibição foi observada pelo extrato de quebra pedra. Entretanto, nenhum dos extratos foi capaz de inibir o crescimento das cepas de E. coli. Os resultados são promissores, visto que três das quatro plantas selecionadas demonstraram possuir substâncias antibacterianas, o que motiva estudos subsequentes para o isolamento e identificação dos princípios ativos responsáveis por essa atividade, com potencial de uso na indústria farmacêutica.

In this study, phytochemical characterization was conducted and the in vitro antibacterial activity of extracts of Ageratum conyzoides L. (whiteweed), Gossypium hirsutum (cotton), Phyllanthus tenellus (shatterstone) and Polygonum hydropiperoides (swamp smartweed) was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. To assess the antibacterial activity, the agar diffusion method was used. Tests were performed with the extract at alcoholic contents from 0 to 100% (v/v), at 20% proportion (m/v - mass/extractor). Phytochemical tests indicated the presence of reducing sugars, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, triterpenes and steroids in all four species. The growth of S. aureus cultures was inhibited by all extracts, except for whiteweed extract. The highest inhibitory activity was observed for shatterstone. However, none of the extracts was capable of inhibiting the growth of E. coli strains. Results are promising since three of the four selected plants showed to have antibacterial substances, which stimulates further studies for the isolation and the identification of active principles responsible for this activity, with potential to be used in the pharmaceutical industry.

Schistosomicidal activity of the essential oil of Ageratum conyzoides L. (Asteraceae) against adult Schistosoma mansoni worms.

The in vitro schistosomicidal effects of the essential oil of Ageratum conyzoides L. (Ac-EO) against adult worms of Schistosoma mansoni is reported in this paper. Concerning this activity, Ac-EO was considered to be active, but less effective than the positive control (praziquantel, PZQ) in terms of separation of coupled pairs, mortality, decrease in motor activity, and tegumental alterations. However, Ac-EO caused an interesting dose-dependent reduction in the number of eggs of S. mansoni. Precocene I (74.30%) and (E)-caryophyllene (14.23%) were identified as the two major constituents of Ac-EO. These compounds were tested individually and were found to be much less effective than Ac-EO and PZQ. A mixture of the two major compounds in a ratio similar to that found in the Ac-EO was also less effective than Ac-EO, thus revealing that there are no synergistic effects between these components. These results suggest that the essential oil of A. conyzoides is very promising for the development of new schistosomicidal agents.