Letters in Functional Foods - Current Issue

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterised by an overactive immune response, which leads to rapid skin cell turnover. It is influenced by a combination of genetic, immunological, and environmental factors, manifesting in various forms such as plaque, guttate, pustular, and erythrodermic psoriasis, each with distinct clinical features. Recent studies highlight the role of gut dysbiosis, an imbalance in gut microbiota, as a contributing factor to psoriasis exacerbation. Disruptions in the gut microbiome can influence immune responses and inflammatory pathways, potentially worsening the condition. Bifidobacterium infantis (B. infantis), a probiotic strain, has emerged as a potential therapeutic agent among the promising interventions. Research indicates that B. infantis may help restore microbiome balance, reduce systemic inflammation, and modulate immune responses in psoriasis patients. Specifically, B. infantis has been shown to decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-17 and TNF-alpha, both of which are crucial drivers of psoriasis. Moreover,

B. infantis enhances gut barrier function, which may reduce systemic inflammation and improve skin lesions. Clinical studies have demonstrated improvements in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores, as well as enhancements in the quality of life for patients receiving B. infantis supplementation. These findings underscore the potential of probiotics as a novel adjunctive therapy for psoriasis management, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with conventional therapies. Further studies are needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which B. infantis modulates immune responses, determine optimal dosing regimens, and assess the potential benefits of combining probiotics with traditional psoriasis treatments. Such research could pave the way for more personalised, microbiome-based therapeutic approaches in psoriasis care.

This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the Musa genus, focusing on its significance, diversity, cultivation practices, commercial applications, and impact on health and well-being. The introduction highlights the economic importance of the Musa genus, particularly bananas, and plantains, as globally consumed fruit crops. It emphasizes their role in food security, poverty alleviation, and rural development. The classification and diversity of Musa species are discussed, with a focus on recent advancements in understanding their genetic diversity and evolutionary history. The geographical distribution and cultivation practices of Musa varieties are explored, including major production regions in India and worldwide. The article also delves into the various bioactive compounds found in Musa varieties, their potential therapeutic uses, and their significance in wound healing, anti-cancer activity, and diabetes management. The commercial applications of Musa varieties in the food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries are highlighted. Furthermore, the safety and adverse effects of Musa varieties are addressed, drawing from toxicological studies. The importance of Musa varieties in promoting health and well-being is emphasized, considering their medicinal properties, nutritional composition, cultural significance, and potential for commercial applications. The article concludes by highlighting the need for further research and utilization of Musa varieties to maximize their benefits and contribute to human health and well-being.

Indian spices, which provide food taste, color, and scent, also have several medicinal benefits. The therapeutic uses of these plants were described in ancient Indian writings of Ayurveda, an Indian medical system. Numerous active chemicals with pharmacological effects have been shown to exist in these spices, according to recent scientific studies. Experimental and clinical research has also confirmed the medicinal effectiveness of these distinct spices for certain pharmacological activities. Modern pharmacological and experimental approaches corroborate the therapeutic benefits long attributed to Indian spices, giving their traditional therapeutic use a scientific basis. Various parts of plants are used as spices to prepare food recipes. Still, this review considered that these particular plants have some important roles and also mentioned their chemistry, pharmacological activity, and traditional use as folk medicine.