Medicinal and Aromatic Plants - Industrial Profiles – serie

A comprehensive overview of this genus, Artemisia examines all aspects of the herbs uses and applications, its mode of action and clinical importance. Following a comprehensive introduction to the genus, the book discusses the botanical, phytochemical and biological aspects of a number of important species of Artemisis. Considering that the discovery of artemisinin, a highly active antimalarial agent from the Chinese herb A. annua is of considerable importance, this volume devotes several chapters to the traditional uses, cultivation and phytochemistry of this species and to the development of artemisinin-derived antimalarial agents, their mode of action and clinical use.

While one may not find ancient studies that substantiate the pomegranate's curative and preventive qualities, the exalted status of this fruit goes back as far as the history of agriculture itself. Allusions to the pomegranate are readily found in the oldest cultures of the Indus Valley, ancient China, and classical Greece, as well as in the Old Testament.To modern scientists, the biochemistry of the pomegranate is as equally fascinating as its storied place in literature and religion. Providing an unprecedented compilation of scientific information, Pomegranates: Ancient Roots to Modern Medicine offers an exploration of the biochemistry, health effects, and cultivation of the pomegranate that is as authoritative as it is unparalleled. Featuring the contributions of a multidisciplinary and international team of prominent researchers, it presents the latest findings on the potential human health benefits of this exceptionally polyphenol-rich fruit.As the research indicates, the physiological effects of pomegranate juice constituents are remarkable in their preventive potential against two of the major chronic diseases of aging - heart disease and cancer.Many of the pioneering researchers responsible for initiating our newfound fascination with pomegranates discuss its biochemistry, detailing the location and action of the phytochemicals found in the fruit's flesh, peels and seeds. They present evidence of the pomegranate's impact on heart disease, including its ability to enhance nitric oxide production in endothelial cells. They also reveal the significant antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects attributed to the pomegranate in battling several different types of cancer cells, as well as its ability to retard tumor growth in animals.Recognizing that the pomegranate is only as valuable as it is available, the editors include a substantial section on commercialization and another on plant growth and improvement. These additions mak

A comprehensive overview of this genus, Artemisia examines all aspects of the herbs uses and applications, its mode of action and clinical importance. Following a comprehensive introduction to the genus, the book discusses the botanical, phytochemical and biological aspects of a number of important species of Artemisis. Considering that the discovery of artemisinin, a highly active antimalarial agent from the Chinese herb A. annua is of considerable importance, this volume devotes several chapters to the traditional uses, cultivation and phytochemistry of this species and to the development of artemisinin-derived antimalarial agents, their mode of action and clinical use.

Narcissus and Daffodil is the first book to provide a complete overview of the genus Narcissus. Prized for centuries in western Europe as an ornamental plant, it has recently attracted attention as a source of potentially valuable pharmaceuticals. In eastern European countries, however, Narcissus and other Amaryllidaceae have been valued as a source of galanthamine for several decades.Presenting original research material and information not accessible outside eastern Europe, Narcissus and Daffodil contains over 1,700 references, making it an invaluable text for graduates and researchers both in academia and industry. It will be of particular importance for people working in the fields of horticulture, agriculture, medicine, pharmacology and perfume chemistry and drug manufacture.

Lavandula species are mainly grown for their essential oils, which are used in perfumery, cosmetics, food processing and aromatherapy products, and for their use as ornamental plants and ingredients in numerous cottage industry products. Certain types of lavender oil have also been shown to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties. The dried flowers have been used for centuries in pillows and sachets to promote sleep and relaxation, and oil of spike lavender is used as an insect repellent. Lavender: The Genus Lavandula is a comprehensive volume covering all aspects of our current knowledge of lavender, including:* taxonomy, and history of usage and nomenclature* lavender cultivation for essential oil production and retail purposes in different countries* phytochemistry of the genus* chemistry of Lavandula oils* theory and practice of distillation and standardization of lavender essential oils* pharmacology and therapeutic properties of lavender oil and Lavandula extracts* use of lavender oil in aromatherapy, perfumery, cosmetics, food processing and medicine* new research into Lavandula species and their oilsWith contributions from lavender researchers worldwide, this book will be of interest both to graduate students and scientists in academia and industry who are involved with lavender, to professionals in the lavender growing and retail industry, the perfumery, food and cosmetics industries, and to those interested in lavender for alternative and conventional medical use.

The world production of citrus fruit has risen enormously, leaping from forty-five million tons a year to eighty-five million in the last 30 years. Today, the potential applications of their essential oils are growing wider, with nearly 40% of fresh produce processed for industrial purposes.Citrus: The Genus Citrus offers comprehensive coverage on all aspects of the botany, cultivation, processing industry, chemistry and uses of Citrus and its oils. It describes the different citrus species; their environmental, geographical, and historical context; and their chemical composition and properties in detail. Following a chapter on citrus juice technology, the international panel of contributors describe the stages of preparation and processing methods of the juice, from cold extraction and distillation to the use of supercritical fluids, and the chemical reactions involved. The authors also discuss by-products, quality control, world markets, and regulations in the industry, and how analytical methods, such as mass spectrometry and HPLC, are used to characterize the Citrus essential oils.Citrus: The Genus Citrus explores the current and future applications of Citrus oils, which include flavorings for alcohol, soft drinks, food, as well as fragrances for cosmetics and beauty products. Authors also discuss the therapeutic properties of these oils in traditional medicine and modern pharmaceuticals. Anyone involved in food sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, cosmetics, and plant sciences will no doubt find this volume to be of great value and interest.

Echinacea has emerged from the realm of folklore medicine and into the territory of valued and potentially fundamental therapy. While an understanding of the promising medicinal applications of Echinacea is important, knowledge of the herb's chemistry, cultivation, and analytical profiles is equally as significant.Echinacea: The genus Echinacea examines every element of the popular herb. Several chapters in this volume deal with the taxonomy, genetics, international culture methods, and chemistry of Echinacea, while other sections focus on the analytical evaluation of the various plant parts, such as the roots, stems, leaves, and flowers. The text explains how the plant is cultivated and describes the locations where it is most abundant. It presents different species of Echinacea that are medically important, and then identifies the chemically active ingredients that give Echinacea its strong pharmaceutical and therapeutic value. The book also includes a discussion of proper medicinal and veterinary uses, as well as guidance on when this remedy should not be used.With comprehensive analysis of this popular herb, this timely book bridges the gap between the abundant molecular cataloguings of the phytochemicals present in genus Echinacea, and the functional potential of this plant. It will be a valuable resource for anyone involved in the fields of plant science, natural products chemistry, medicine, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, and naturopathy.

Capsicum has been used since ancient times not only as a traditional medicine but also as a natural colorant. The medicinal properties of capsicum make it popular in both ayurvedic and homeopathic treatments. In Capsicum: The Genus Capsicum, experts provide information on all aspects of this plant, including its ethnobotany, chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, cultivation, tissue culture and commercial uses. Capsaicin, the pungent, principle component of capsicum, was used in the recent discovery of a "hot receptor," or pain sensor, in the human heart. This and a variety of other therapeutic properties have earned capsicum much industrial importance. This book details the therapeutic applications of capsaicin together with its action on different biological systems.

Aloes are a large genus of plants, about 450 species, from sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, and parts of Arabia. Many species are widespread in warm or tropical semi-arid regions, yet the distribution of others is limited to a few living in desert or wet mountainous regions. While some species have been adopted as medicinal plants since ancient times and others are used locally in folk medicine, scientists have yet to discover the full biological activity of the many aloe compounds. In order to realize the vast potential of the genus, it is essential to gather the knowledge acquired over the last fifty years into one comprehensive compilation.A landmark publication, Aloes: The genus Aloes reviews all botanical, chemical, biochemical, and medical information as well as commercial applications of aloes. The first part of the book features information on the habitat and taxonomy of aloes, followed by a section on aloe constituents. Part 3 focuses on therapeutic activity and includes chapters on aloe's role in wound healing, skin cancer, and the immune system. The final section is devoted to aloe biology. Chapters are written by accomplished contributors who share their expertise and insight from all areas of academia and industry.Providing a solid foundation for future research, this volume brings together a wealth of information on aloes from a variety of sources, including seldom-recorded folk customs. It is a valuable guide for researchers and professionals in the areas of botany, natural product chemistry, pharmacology, dermatology, and immunology.

Plants from the genera Urtica, often better known as the stinging nettle, can be distinguished by their stinging hairs, and in some species, their serrated leaf edges. Historical records of the various uses of Urtica date back to at least the Bronze Age (3000-2000 BC). Nettles have traditionally been used as a nutritious food source particularly in rural areas of the United Kingdom and Canada. Since ancient times Urtica species have also been used in herbal remedies as an expectorant or diuretic, or for the treatment of eczema, rheumatism, haemorrhoids and ulcers, and the nettle continues to be an important medicinal plant up to the present day.This volume explores the historical and modern uses of the Urtica genus. An account of the botanical aspects of the genus is followed by a comprehensive review of the recent research into its biologically active constituents. With further coverage of the therapeutic uses and its nutritional value, this book presents an absorbing and all-encompassing account of the medicinal potential of Urtica which will be of considerable interest to herbalists, health scientists and botanists as well as researchers in the pharmaceutical industry.

The book includes current knowledge on Illicium verum (star anise) and Pimpinella anisum (aniseed), main commercial species rich in anetol. It also analyzes Foeniculum vulgare (fennel) and other species of Pimpinella (P. major, P. peregrina and P. saxifraga). This volume includes a botanical, chemical, pharmacological, and therapeutic survey of these species, and a review of traditional uses. It covers cultivation, harvesting, drying, storage, and yield, along with economic importance and market trends. The book is valuable for university professors and students, sanitary professionals, investigators, and researchers working with aromatic and medicinal plants.

Ginger: The Genus Zingiber is the first comprehensive volume on ginger. Valued as a spice and medicinal plant from ancient times both in India and China, ginger is now used universally as a versatile spice and in traditional medicine as well as in modern medicine. This book covers all aspects of ginger, including botany, crop improvement, chemistry, biotechnology, production technology in the major producing countries, diseases, pests, and harvesting. It also explores processing, products, economics and marketing, pharmacology, medicinal applications, and uses as a spice and flavoring. Experts in the areas of genetic resources, botany, crop improvement, and biotechnology of ginger give an in-depth analysis of these key aspects, and each chapter concludes with an extensive bibliography.

Oregano: The Genera Origanum and Lippia is an updated analysis of the technical knowledge and market information on the world's most commercially valuable spice. The book treats various aspects of practical significance for the crop's industrialization, such as optimizing germplasm selection and utilization, novel cultivation methods and product processing, blending and uses in different countries, along with other issues not included in previous reviews. Written by leading experts, every aspect of this plant genera is examined in detail. Information is provided on the structural dynamics of Origanum as well as analytical information on extraction, isolation and characterization. This helps the reader form a clear picture of the construction and operation of this specific genus. Extensively referenced, with a special guide to electronic data retrieval strategies, this volume is the definitive source of information for anyone interested in the research and application of Oregano across both academia and industry.

For thousands of years mint has enjoyed an honored place in pharmacopoeias and kitchen cupboards in India, China, Europe, North America, and elsewhere. Today the amount of essential oils produced from the four major mint species (cornmint, peppermint, Native spearmint, and Scotch spearmint) exceeds 23,000 metric tonnes annually with a market value of more than $400 million. This makes mint the most economically important essential oil.Continuing in the esteemed tradition of the previous volumes in the Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Series, Mint: The Genus Mentha presents an in-depth look at the genus, providing information on its history, production, chemical constituents, market trends, and medicinal and nutritional uses. Beginning with a review of the correct taxonomy and proper distillation and extraction methods, the text then expands on many detailed and complex aspects of the cultivation, processing, and quality assessment of the different types of mint.Outlining recent studies on the biosynthesis and biotechnology of improved potential for oil production, the text also includes theoretical aspects of distillation used to achieve efficient and cost effective oil isolation. Variations in chemical components in oils, even within a given species, by regional or environmental circumstance is the focus of a large portion of this book. The influence of these quantitative differences is explored in chapters on characterization, selection, and quality control methods including gas chromatographic profiles. The practice of ameliorating these variations with diluted or adulterated blends to produce a consistent product characteristic is also evaluated. The final portion of the book examines the role mint plays in the pharmaceutical, personal and oral care, aromatherapy, and flavor industries including confections, tobacco, and alcohol.With extensive information from internationally known experts in their field, Mint: The Genus Mentha is an invaluable companion for all those actively engaged in the research, cultivation, marketing, or product development of mint.

The first comprehensive review of sesame and its close relative, Sesame: the genus Sesamum covers ethnographic data, modern use, linguistic analysis of sesame names from around the world, market size, export and import data, geographical sources, use in the food and cosmetic industries, and much more. The book includes a historical review of the genus Sesamum that reveals its place in present-day traditions and cultivation in Africa and Asia. Expanding coverage from archaeological and anthropological literature from India, Mesopotamia, and Egypt, this ethnobotanical monograph draws on folk sources, reviews the phytochemistry of Sesamum, and presents extensive references.

For the last 6000 years turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to alleviate pain, balance digestion, purify body and mind, clear skin diseases, expel phlegm, and invigorate the blood. Nowadays, this plant has acquired great importance with its anti-aging, anti-cancer, anti-Altzheimer, antioxidant, and a variety of other medicinal properties. The need of the hour is to verify and validate the traditional uses by subjecting them to proper experimental studies. To do this effectively there needs to be a single comprehensive source of the knowledge to date.Turmeric: the genus Curcuma is the first comprehensive monographic treatment on turmeric. It covers all aspects of turmeric including botany, genetic resources, crop improvement, processing, biotechnology, pharmacology, medicinal and traditional uses, and its use as a spice and flavoring. Bringing together the premier experts in the field from India, Japan, UK, and USA, this book offers the most thorough examination of the cultivation, market trends, processing, and products as well as pharmacokinetic and medicinal properties of this highly regarded spice. While Ayurveda has known for millennia that turmeric cleanses the body, modern science has now discovered that it produces glutathione-s-transferase that detoxifies the body and therefore strengthens the liver, heart, and immune system. By comparing traditional uses with modern scientific discoveries, the text provides a complete view of the medicinal value and health benefits of turmeric. Heavily referenced with an exhaustive bibliography at the end of each chapter, the book collects and collates the currently available data on turmeric. Covering everything from cultivation to medicine, Turmeric: the Genus Curcuma serves as an invaluable reference for those involved with agriculture, marketing, processing or product development, and may function as a catalyst for future research into the health benefits and applications of turmeric.

While one may not find ancient studies that substantiate the pomegranate's curative and preventive qualities, the exalted status of this fruit goes back as far as the history of agriculture itself. Allusions to the pomegranate are readily found in the oldest cultures of the Indus Valley, ancient China, and classical Greece, as well as in the Old Testament.To modern scientists, the biochemistry of the pomegranate is as equally fascinating as its storied place in literature and religion. Providing an unprecedented compilation of scientific information, Pomegranates: Ancient Roots to Modern Medicine offers an exploration of the biochemistry, health effects, and cultivation of the pomegranate that is as authoritative as it is unparalleled. Featuring the contributions of a multidisciplinary and international team of prominent researchers, it presents the latest findings on the potential human health benefits of this exceptionally polyphenol-rich fruit.As the research indicates, the physiological effects of pomegranate juice constituents are remarkable in their preventive potential against two of the major chronic diseases of aging - heart disease and cancer.Many of the pioneering researchers responsible for initiating our newfound fascination with pomegranates discuss its biochemistry, detailing the location and action of the phytochemicals found in the fruit's flesh, peels and seeds. They present evidence of the pomegranate's impact on heart disease, including its ability to enhance nitric oxide production in endothelial cells. They also reveal the significant antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects attributed to the pomegranate in battling several different types of cancer cells, as well as its ability to retard tumor growth in animals.Recognizing that the pomegranate is only as valuable as it is available, the editors include a substantial section on commercialization and another on plant growth and improvement. These additions mak

Acacias: The Genus Acacia (sensu lato) is an evidence-based treatment of this supergenus, through the eyes of a clinical pharmacognosist and integrative medicine specialist. The book begins with antiviral activity, revealing within the five genera of Acacia s.l., pharmacological properties and pharmacologically active compounds. Profiles of prominent species within these genera, including photographs, accompany the narrative of current research and traditional usage into antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, antidiabetic, metabolic syndrome ameliorative, and psychotherapeutic potential.Features Comprehensive treatment of the entire Acacia sensu lato genus Aids ethnopharmacological prospectors of new sources of novel botanically based medicines for modern metabolic and psychiatric diseases Illuminates the presence of psychedelic simple substituted tryptamines in trees and their medical and psychotherapeutic potentialContinuing in the tradition of the previous volumes of the esteemed Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Industrial Profiles series, Acacias: The Genus Acacia (sensu lato) provides a unique and comprehensive coverage of one of the most interesting and diverse genera of trees, firmly entrenched in the Levant, Africa, Australia, the Far East, and the New World. The influence of these genera on pharmacy and industry (especially through gum arabic, wildcrafted in Africa from Senegalia senegal), human consciousness, the advent and development of religions, planetary ecology, botanical therapeutics, and the emergence of psychedelic medicine reflect both the history of our species and the transformative promise of tomorrow.

Vanilla is a legacy of Mexico and, like chocolate, it is a major global delicacy representing almost a half-billion Euros in profits each year. Written under the editorial guidance of renowned field authorities Drs. Eric Odoux and Michel Grisoni, Vanilla presents up-to-date reviews on the cultivation, curing, and uses of vanilla. It provides unique and comprehensive coverage of the biology of the vanilla vine, the properties of its aromatic beans, and production processes worldwide. Written by 45 International Experts with Vast Experience in their Respective FieldsThis globally relevant resource discusses biotechnology aimed at finding novel production methods of vanilla and horticultural studies for improving yields and increasing plant resistance. It analyzes entomological issues related to pollination, studies on the chemistry and biochemistry of the curing process, and the advanced analytical chemistry needed to identify adulterations such as vanillin-spiked pods and synthetic vanillin. It also explores the relationship between fruit development anatomy and flavor quality.Vanilla is a universally appreciated flavor that is consumed worldwide. This book will no doubt serve for many years to come as the definitive resource on the topic and the standard reference for those interested in this delicate crop, including producers, flavorists, researchers, and consumers.

World production of citrus fruits is still growing. At present, about 30 percent of that yield is devoted to industrial production, mostly on those essential oils and juices used in foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Covering research reported in the literature over the past ten years, this book presents the most current research available on the analysis, composition, and biological activity of citrus products, as well as concerns with adulteration and contaminants. The research group currently coordinated by the editors at the University of Messina has been investigating citrus essential oils since the 80s and is known worldwide for its development of chromatographic investigation methods.

Of the many varieties of date palms, the species Phoenix dactylifera Linn. is cultivated extensively and traded and consumed worldwide. Dates: Production, Processing, Food, and Medicinal Values draws from a broad spectrum of contributors to present a comprehensive survey of this particular species. The book explores a range of essential facets of what many consider to be a wonder plant—from its cultivation to its potential for medicinal purposes.Divided into four parts, the book begins by examining cultural practices and their implications for date quality. The contributors discuss tissue culture studies, farm water management, mechanization approaches in pollination and harvesting operations, and marketing aspects. The second section focuses on postharvest operations such as drying and explores alternatives for methyl bromide fumigation and value-added products. It also reviews biofuel production from by-products and discusses the issue of waste generated from industry.The third part of the book highlights the physical, chemical, and structural characteristics of dates. It reviews fermentative products that use dates as substrate, discusses the fruits as a substitute for added sugar in food, and explores date palm feeding to livestock. The final section discusses the possibilities for nutritional and medicinal use and reviews the use of dates in indigenous medicine.Exploring essential properties and agricultural implications, this volume is a reliable resource for understanding the many aspects of the Phoenix dactylifera Linn.