Olive leaf is a by-product rich in bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and triterpenic acids, with numerous biological activities for human health. Nowadays, the existence of dry olive leaves marketed for infusion elaboration is lacking. During the elaboration process, the drying and grinding stages are critical for the conservation of bioactive compounds, and, precisely, the…
Four plants eaten by gorillas, also used in Gabonese traditional medicine, have antibacterial effects. Four plants consumed by wild gorillas in Gabon and used by local communities in traditional medicine show antibacterial and antioxidant properties, find Leresche Even Doneilly Oyaba Yinda from the Interdisciplinary Medical Research Center of Franceville in Gabon and colleagues in a…
Flavouring and fortifying virgin olive oils is an increasing commercial trend, aiming to meet new consumers’ preferences and provide new differentiated products. These practices usually positively impact the oils’ sensory profile and chemical composition, increasing their natural richness on bioactive compounds. However, some negative effects have also been reported. This review provides a summary of…
Spices, condiments and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) are crucial components of human history and nutrition. They are substances added to foods to improve flavor and taste. Many of them are used not only to flavor foods, but also in traditional medicine and cosmetics. They have antioxidant, antiviral, antibiotic, anticoagulant and antiinflammatory properties and exciting…
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is an annual edible succulent and, like many plants associated with traditional medicine, is often classified as a weed. It grows naturally in Europe, the Middle East and elsewhere. It was recorded by Theophrastus and its healing properties were mentioned by Pliny the Elder in his Natural History. All parts of purslane…
White horehound (Marrubium vulgare) is an annual or perennial flowering plant in the mint family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and Asia Europe but now has a global distribution. It has a woody, branched taproot and numerous stems from 20 to 100 cm high. The use of white horehound as a folk medicine…
The use of essential oils dates back thousands of years. Queen Cleopatra was reputed to have a vast knowledge of essential oils and their power and to have used rose essential oil to enchant Mark Antony with her beauty. The Greek physician Hippocrates — considered the father of modern medicine — often recommended massage treatments…
There is much empirical evidence that certain foods have significant health benefits and, in certain cases, this evidence is backed up by detailed studies. Many of these studies have been carried out over extended time periods with proper adherence to the required protocols. The Mediterranean diet, for example, has been the subject of many such…
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is flowering plant which can be found all over the world. It grows to a height of about 1 metre and is used both as an ornamental garden plant as well as for its medicinal properties In classical times it was known as herba militaris for its ability to stop the blood…
The caper, or caper bush, (Capparis spinosa) is best known as a source of food. The buds of the flowers are pickled and used in salads and some typical dishes of the Mediterranean region where it is found. The plant itself is somewhat remarkable. The flowers are rather impressive and the plant itself seems to…