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A JCB 1822341698870600
A JCB 1822341698870600
Review Article
Citation: Bulus Bako. Applications of Justicia secunda Extracts in Functional Foods and
Natural Products: A Review, Adv. J. Chem. B, 6 (2024)1-10
https://doi.org/10.48309/ajcb.2024.412568.1192
https://www.ajchem-b.com/article_182234.html
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
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Bulus Bako. /Adv. J. Chem. B, 2024 6(1), 1-10
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Bulus Bako. /Adv. J. Chem. B, 2024 6(1), 1-10
compounds found in Justicia secunda have the There are many reasons why natural
ability to inhibit the growth of pathogenic antimicrobials are important. First, they are
microorganisms. generally considered to be safer than synthetic
In their research, [16] explored the antimicrobial antimicrobials. Synthetic antimicrobials can have
potential of compounds within Justicia secunda, side effects, and some have been linked to health
revealing significant inhibitory effects against problems, such as antibiotic resistance. Second,
pathogenic microorganisms. Their finding natural antimicrobials are more sustainable than
underscores the importance of natural sources in synthetic antimicrobials. Synthetic
drug discovery and suggests a promising avenue antimicrobials are often produced using
for developing novel antimicrobial agents. This petroleum-based chemicals, which can have a
antimicrobial activity is of particular interest in negative impact on the environment [20]. Third,
the context of natural products and functional natural antimicrobials can be more effective than
foods, as it may contribute to food preservation synthetic antimicrobials in some cases. For
and offer alternative strategies for combating example, natural antimicrobials have been
microbial infections [17]. Understanding the shown to be effective against some strains of
antimicrobial effects of these compounds can bacteria that are resistant to the synthetic
provide valuable insights into their potential antibiotics [21].
applications in various products.
4- The Use of Natural Antimicrobials in Food
3- Importance of Natural Antimicrobials in Preservation
Food Preservation and Health Products Natural antimicrobials are used in food
Natural antimicrobials are substances that can preservation to prevent the growth of
inhibit the growth or kill microorganisms, such as microorganisms that can cause food spoilage or
bacteria, fungi, and parasites. They are used in a foodborne illness [22].
variety of applications, including food They can be used in a variety of ways, such as:
preservation, health products, and cosmetics (1) Adding natural antimicrobials to food
[18]. directly, such as adding essential oils to fruits
The utilization of natural antimicrobials in food and vegetables,
preservation and health products is of (2) Using natural antimicrobials as a coating on
paramount importance. Synthetic preservatives food, such as using plant extracts to coat meat
and antimicrobial agents have raised concerns or cheese, and
due to potential health risks and environmental (3) Using natural antimicrobials in food
impacts [19]. packaging, such as using essential oils in food
Natural antimicrobials, derived from sources wraps [23].
such as plants like Justicia secunda, offer a safer
and more sustainable alternative. These natural 5- The Use of Natural Antimicrobials in Health
compounds can help extend the shelf-life of food Products
products while maintaining their safety and (1) Natural antimicrobials are also used in health
quality. Furthermore, in health and personal care products, such as cosmetics and personal care
products, natural antimicrobial agents can products.
provide effective protection without the (2) They can be used to kill microorganisms that
drawbacks associated with the synthetic can cause skin infections, such as acne and
chemicals [19]. athlete's foot.
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Bulus Bako. /Adv. J. Chem. B, 2024 6(1), 1-10
(3) Natural antimicrobials can also be used to preservation. With their antimicrobial
prevent the growth of microorganisms in properties, these extracts could emerge as crucial
wound dressings and other medical devices components in formulating natural preservatives
[24]. for food products. By employing Justicia secunda
compounds, it becomes possible to prevent
6- The Antimicrobial Effects of Justicia spoilage, prolong shelf life, and ensure the safety
secunda of perishable food items [17]. Adopting a
Justicia secunda is a plant that is native to sustainable and health-conscious approach, this
Africa and Asia. It has been used for centuries in utilization of Justicia secunda compounds can be
traditional medicine to treat a variety of achieved by incorporating them into food
conditions, including infections [25]. packaging materials or directly into food
Numerous studies have investigated the formulations. This innovative approach offers a
antimicrobial effects of compounds found in viable means of enhancing food preservation
Justicia secunda extracts. Research has while reducing reliance on synthetic
highlighted the ability of these compounds to preservatives.
inhibit the growth of various pathogenic Development of Natural Antimicrobial Agents for
microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and Personal Care Products
potentially harmful parasites [4, 16]. The use of natural antimicrobial agents in
The presence of bioactive compounds in Justicia personal care products is a growing trend, as
secunda, such as alkaloids and phenolic consumers become more aware of the potential
compounds, has been associated with these risks of synthetic chemicals. Natural
antimicrobial properties [7]. antimicrobials are derived from plants, minerals,
Understanding the specific mechanisms of action or other natural sources and are generally
and the range of microorganisms affected by considered to be safer and more sustainable than
these compounds is crucial in harnessing their synthetic alternatives. One plant that has shown
potential for natural antimicrobial applications. promise as a natural antimicrobial agent is
The antimicrobial properties of Justicia secunda Justicia secunda. Justicia secunda is a shrub that is
are thought to be due to the presence of various native to Africa and Asia. It has been used for
bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids and centuries in traditional medicine to treat various
phenolic compounds. conditions, including infections. Recent studies
These compounds have been shown to have have shown that Justicia secunda extracts have
various antimicrobial mechanisms of action, strong antimicrobial activity [16].
including disrupting the cell membrane, They have been shown to inhibit the growth of a
inhibiting protein synthesis, and interfering with variety of microorganisms, including bacteria,
DNA replication [26]. fungi, and parasites. The antimicrobial properties
of Justicia secunda are thought to be due to the
7- Potential Applications of Justicia secunda presence of various bioactive compounds, such as
Extracts in the Development of Natural alkaloids and phenolic compounds [16]. These
Antimicrobial Products compounds have been shown to have various
antimicrobial mechanisms of action, including
Formulating Natural Preservatives for Food disrupting the cell membrane, inhibiting protein
Products synthesis, and interfering with DNA replication.
Justicia secunda extracts hold significant In addition to their applicability in food
potential in the realm of natural food preservation, Justicia secunda compounds show
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Bulus Bako. /Adv. J. Chem. B, 2024 6(1), 1-10
promise as natural antimicrobial agents for these compounds is crucial for maximizing the
personal care products. Given their inherent health benefits they can offer.
antimicrobial properties, these compounds
The synergistic effects observed in Justicia
possess the potential for integration into various
secunda compounds have significant implications
personal care items, including soaps, shampoos,
for the development of functional foods and
creams, and more. Incorporating natural
natural products [4]. By carefully formulating
antimicrobial agents derived from plants, such as
products to leverage these synergies,
Justicia secunda, into these formulations enables
manufacturers can create items with enhanced
the maintenance of proper hygiene and microbial
health-promoting properties. For instance,
balance without exposing the skin and body to
combining Justicia secunda extracts with other
potentially harmful synthetic chemicals [27]. This
bioactive-rich ingredients may result in products
development emphasizes the importance of
with amplified antioxidant capacities or
exploring natural alternatives in personal care,
improved antimicrobial action. This approach
aligning with the growing consumer demand for
aligns with the growing consumer demand for
safer, more sustainable options.
natural, additive-free products with higher
The development of natural antimicrobial agents
efficacy and safety profiles.
for personal care products is a promising area of
research. These agents offer a safer and more There are emerging examples of successful
sustainable alternative to synthetic chemicals. combinations involving Justicia secunda
They can also help to reduce the risk of exposure compounds and other natural ingredients. For
to harmful chemicals and protect the instance, the incorporation of Justicia secunda
environment. Through their antimicrobial extracts alongside certain herbal extracts known
qualities, Justicia secunda extracts prove to be for their health benefits, such as green tea or
valuable across multiple domains, including food turmeric, may create synergistic effects that
preservation and personal care. Harnessing the amplify the overall therapeutic potential of a
potential of these natural compounds opens up functional food or supplement [8]. In addition,
avenues for formulating safer, more sustainable pairing Justicia secunda compounds with specific
products in both industries, contributing to the carrier agents or natural stabilizers can improve
overall well-being of consumers. the bioavailability and stability of these
compounds, enhancing their usefulness in
8- Synergistic Effects and Combinations various product formulations [28].
Literature reveals that Justicia secunda extracts
9- Challenges and Considerations
comprise a diverse array of bioactive compounds,
each possessing distinct properties. Recent Incorporating Justicia secunda extracts into
investigations suggest the existence of potential products may pose certain challenges. Ensuring
synergistic interactions among these compounds, consistent quality and potency of the extracts is
amplifying their individual effects and yielding a vital to maintain the desired health benefits.
more robust collective impact. Notably, the Variability in growing conditions, harvesting
interplay between flavonoids and phenolic methods, and extraction processes can impact
compounds within Justicia secunda has been the composition of bioactive compounds.
highlighted, indicating the likelihood of additive Moreover, the characteristic taste, aroma, or
or synergistic outcomes, particularly in terms of color of these extracts could influence consumer
antioxidant and antimicrobial activities [13]. acceptance, necessitating careful formulation to
Understanding the potential synergies between balance health benefits with sensory attributes
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Bulus Bako. /Adv. J. Chem. B, 2024 6(1), 1-10
[29]. The safety of functional foods and natural various products and to provide consumers with
products containing Justicia secunda extracts reliable health-enhancing options.
must be rigorously evaluated. Regulatory
agencies require comprehensive safety CONCLUSION
assessments, including toxicological studies, to
To sum up, this review has highlighted the
ensure that the products are safe for human
significant potential of Justicia secunda extracts
consumption. Furthermore, proper labeling is
as a source of bioactive compounds with
essential to inform consumers about the
antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The
presence of Justicia secunda extracts, their
identification of key bioactive compounds, their
intended effects, and potential allergens.
synergistic effects, and their applications in
Adhering to regulatory guidelines and
functional foods and natural products showcase
transparently communicating the benefits and
the versatility and promising nature of Justicia
risks are crucial aspects of responsible product
secunda. The evidence presented underscores the
development [29]. While promising, the
potential benefits that Justicia secunda extracts
applications of Justicia secunda extracts in
can bring to the development of functional foods
functional foods and natural products require
and natural products. Their antioxidant and
further validation through rigorous research and
antimicrobial properties offer an avenue for
clinical studies. Robust scientific evidence is
creating safer, more sustainable, and health-
necessary to substantiate the claimed health
enhancing products that align with the growing
benefits, establish optimal dosages, and ensure
demand for natural alternatives. Leveraging the
the safety of prolonged consumption. Clinical
unique qualities of Justicia secunda compounds
trials can provide insights into the compounds'
can lead to innovative solutions in the realms of
efficacy in real-world settings, potential
food preservation and personal care, improving
interactions, and any adverse effects. This
both health and environmental outcomes.
research is vital to build a solid foundation for the
integration of Justicia secunda extracts into
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Bulus Bako. /Adv. J. Chem. B, 2024 6(1), 1-10
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