Synecology of Lagoecia cuminoides L. in Italy and evaluation of functional compounds presence in its water or hydroalcoholic extracts

Abstract

Lagoecia cuminoides L. is a very rare and threatened taxon in Italy, never studied before for its ecology and potential use for human consumption. Furthermore, few data are available on the biological activities of its metabolites. A phytosociological study was carried out in the only two Italian sites, and its state of conservation was also evaluated according to the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) protocol. The collected plant material was used to make two types of extracts: hot water infusion to evaluate the use of this plant as tea and hydroalcoholic extraction to evaluate the use of it in herbal liqueur preparation. The presence of functional compounds in the extracts were investigated by gas and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry techniques. Ten non volatiles compounds were identified in the extracts, most of which derivatives of quercetin. Thirty-five volatiles compounds were also identified in the plant aerial part and extracts belonging to the chemical class of terpenoids, and among them β-farnesene, thymol, γ-terpinene and p-cymene were the most abundant. The species is characterized by compounds known for their health effects and for its potential applications for human consumption, being this species already used as decoction in some countries of Middle East. Thanks to its characteristic behaviour to grow in limiting pedoclimatic conditions this species can be potentially used in organic farms situated in rural marginal areas.

Distribution Pattern of Suitable Areas and Corridor Identification of Endangered Ephedra Species in China

“…A single corridor restoration can no longer satisfy the protection and management needs of the Ephedra species. On this basis, as suggested for other threatened rare plant species with a very restricted range or very small populations [ 77 ], protection is fundamental. In our case, this can be carried out by taking measures such as establishing nature reserves for special protection and management, maintaining the integrity of the habitat, and avoiding further fragmentation of the habitat caused by human factors [ 35 , 36 ].…”

Genetic variation and structure of endemic and endangered wild celery (Kelussia odoratissima Mozaff.) quantified using novel microsatellite markers developed by next-generation sequencing

“…Developing and strengthening conservation genetic studies to assess or protect genetic diversity has been wildly suggested as a good strategy to assure the sustainable use of wild resources, especially endangered plants ( Liu et al., 2020 ; Garcia-Jacas et al., 2021 ; Accogli et al., 2023 ; Perrino et al., 2023 ). The precise evaluations of genetic diversity and population genetic structure could assist to compile knowledge-based and efficient protection programs ( Liu et al., 2020 ).…”

Population genetic variation and geographic distribution of suitable areas of Coptis species in China

“…The complex interplay between genes and environments shapes the population structures and phenotypes of plant species ( Li et al., 2021 ). Changes in the environment can significantly impact the quality of medicinal herbs ( Yang et al., 2018 ; Perrino et al., 2023 ). For instance, environmental change can influence the medicinal properties of medicinal herbs by affecting gene expression and consequently altering the abundances of secondary metabolites ( Blanquart et al., 2013 ).…”