Phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity and in vitro inhibitory potential against key enzymes relevant for hyperglycemia and hypertension of commonly used medicinal plants, herbs and spices in Latin America
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Abstract
Traditionally used medicinal plants, herbs and spices in Latin America were investigated
to determine their phenolic profiles, antioxidant activity and in vitro inhibitory
potential against key enzymes relevant for hyperglycemia and hypertension. High phenolic
and antioxidant activity-containing medicinal plants and spices such as Chancapiedra
(Phyllantus niruri L.), Zarzaparrilla (Smilax officinalis), Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguayensis
St-Hil), and Huacatay (Tagetes minuta) had the highest anti-hyperglycemia relevant
in vitro alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activities with no effect on alpha-amylase.
Molle (Schinus molle), Maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp), Caigua (Cyclanthera pedata) and
ginger (Zingiber officinale) inhibited significantly the hypertension relevant angiotensin
I-converting enzyme (ACE). All evaluated pepper (Capsicum) genus exhibited both anti-hyperglycemia
and anti-hypertension potential. Major phenolic compounds in Matico (Piper angustifolium
R.), Guascas (Galinsoga parviflora) and Huacatay were chlorogenic acid and hydroxycinnamic
acid derivatives. Therefore, specific medicinal plants, herbs and spices from Latin
America have potential for hyperglycemia and hypertension prevention associated with
Type 2 diabetes.
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