Steva (Stevia rebaudiana) Phytochemistry, Cultivation and Applications as a Natural Sweetener | Chapter 9 | Agricultural Sciences: Techniques and Innovations Vol. 5

 

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a perennial herb known for its natural sweetness and medicinal properties. Its sweet taste comes from steviol glycosides, mainly stevioside and rebaudioside A, which are much sweeter than sugar but contain minimal calories. In addition to these compounds, stevia also possesses flavonoids, phenolic acids and essential oils that contribute to its therapeutic value. These bioactive components exhibit antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and antimicrobial effects, making the plant beneficial for managing conditions like diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. Agriculturally, stevia thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with loamy, well-drained soils and abundant sunlight. Although it can be propagated from seeds, using stem cuttings is more effective for preserving genetic traits and ensuring high sweetener content. Owing to its low-calorie nature and natural composition, stevia has become increasingly important as a healthy alternative to sugar in both the food and pharmaceutical industries.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Bhoomika, H. R.
ICAR- Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bramhavara, Udupi-576213, Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga, Karnataka, India.

 

Varshini, N. V.
Department of PSMAC, College of Horticulture Mudigere-577132, Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga, Karnataka, India.

 

Vaishnavi B. A.
Department of PSMAC, College of Horticulture Mudigere-577132, Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga, Karnataka, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/asti/v5/6550

Synthesis and Structural Features of Curcumin: A Multitargeted Bioactive Component of Turmeric | Chapter 11 | Chemistry and Biochemistry: Research Progress Vol. 6

Curcumin can act as an antioxidant agent by reducing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The important role of turmeric has been investigated as an antispasmodic to reduce menstrual cramping. The multiparametric features of curcumin lead to its various biological importance and are becoming a site of attraction for many researchers. The presence of labile hydrogens, 1,3-diketo groups, and their tautomeric forms, α, β -unsaturated linker portions, and aromatic systems is important in various reactions during biological pathways. Curcumin, which has multiple properties, prompted us to investigate the chemistry behind its actions. The literature has provided a limited collection of data that clarifies the importance of each substituent for various biological activities. Extensive research is still needed to fully explore and understand the underlying chemistry and therapeutic potential of these medicinally important entities. the step has been taken to critically analyse the synthetic methodology of curcumin and to understand the chemistry behind the structural interactions of different moieties towards different biological activities.

Author(s) Details

Gurmeet Kaur
Department of Chemistry, Punjabi University, Patiala, India.

 

Amandeep Kaur
Department of Chemistry, Punjabi University, Patiala, India

Manisha Bansal
Department of Chemistry, Punjabi University, Patiala, India

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/cbrp/v6/5732