Asian Journal of Research in Biology

Bonsai as a Tool for Biophilic Urbanism: A Review of Ecological, Aesthetic and Psychological Benefits in Indoor Environments

R. Arunkumar, H. Abdul Kaffoor — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Rapid urbanization has intensified the demand for efficient indoor greening approaches that enhance ecological quality, spatial aesthetics, and human well-being. This review synthesizes the empirical evidence and relevant theoretical perspectives on indoor plants, with a special focus on bonsai, as beneficial resources for urban greening. The literature was examined thematically, focusing on aesthetic, ecological, and psychological aspects, as well as cultivation limitations and potential avenues for future research. Indoor bonsai positively impact the indoor environment by improving air filtration, moderating interior microclimates, and subtly sequestering carbon. Within this context, bonsai offer distinct advantages over conventional indoor plants due to their compact growth form, endurance, sculptural architecture, and ability to replicate mature tree characteristiAesthetic valuescs within confined areas. These traits support biophilic design concepts while requiring minimal spatial footprint. Empirical studies demonstrate that exposure to indoor plants, including bonsai, is associated with substantial psychological restorative effects, reduced stress, enhanced cognitive function, and support for rehabilitation, particularly among elderly individuals and those with limited mobility. The review also discusses species selection, essential maintenance requirements, and the practical challenges of indoor bonsai cultivation, including limited light availability, reduced humidity, and the need for specialized horticultural care. Emerging research trajectories and technological innovations, such as smart horticulture technology, are also discussed. Overall, this review highlights the transformative potential of bonsai as a functionally distinct category of indoor plants, reconnecting modern society with nature and human well-being.

Ecotoxicological Assessment of Thiamethoxam on the Behavior and Population Dynamics of Eisenia fetida

Sneha Suma Hegde, Ashwini K. Jadhav, Roja T, Somanath — Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Neonicotinoid insecticides, such as thiamethoxam, imidacloprid, acetamiprid and others are widely used in agriculture, but their impact on non-target organisms, particularly soil invertebrates like earthworms, is a growing concern. This study investigated the ecotoxicological effects of thiamethoxam on Eisenia fetida, a key soil organism, focusing on behavioral alterations and population dynamics. Earthworms were exposed to varying concentrations of thiamethoxam (control (0mg/kg), low-dose(6mg/kg), and high-dose(26mg/kg)) for 28 days. The results demonstrated dose-dependent detrimental effects. The high-dose group exhibited significant mortality, reduced biomass, aberrant behavior, and cyst formation. Hydro taxis, photo taxis, chemotaxis, and geotaxis tests revealed significant impairments in the high-dose group. These findings underscore the need for rigorous regulation of thiamethoxam and the promotion of sustainable pest management strategies to protect soil biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Anti-diabetic Property of the Crude Ethanol Extract of a Combination of V. amygdalina and Z. officinale in Wistar Albino Rats

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Hyperglycemia, which is linked to decreased insulin production, peripheral sensitivity, and b-cell dysfunction, is a hallmark of diabetes mellitus (DM), a metabolic disease. This research aimed at investigating the antidiabetic potentials of a combination of Vernonia amygdalina and Zingiber officinale in diabetic Wistar rats. Extraction was done using maceration method. A total of thirty-five male Wistar rats weighing between 160g ± 10g were randomized into 5 groups of 7 rats each and used for the study. Group A was used as a normal control. Diabetes was induced by an intraperitoneal injection of alloxan (130mg/kg) in groups B-E. Group B was left untreated, group C was treated with 100mg/kg gluformin while groups D and E were treated with 100 and 200 mg/kg bodyweight respectively of the combination of ethanol extract of V. amygdalina and Z. officinale. Ethanol extraction was done using maceration method. Fasting blood glucose concentrations were measured at three-day intervals for a period of two weeks using a One-Touch glucometer and test strips. Lipid profile and liver function parameters were determined using standard diagnostic methods. Ethanol extract of a combination of V. amygdalina and Z. officinale caused a significant (p<0.05) weight gain and significantly (p<0.05) reduced the alloxan-induced increases in fasting blood glucose. There was a significant (p<0.05) decrease in total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein concentration, aspartate transaminase activity, alanine transaminase activity and alkaline phosphatase activity compared to the diabetic untreated. The results obtained suggest that the ethanol extract of a combination of V. amygdalina and Z. officinale can be considered as an alternative remedy for diabetes and a substitute for drugs in the treatment of diabetic conditions due to its pharmacological activity.

Extraction and Characterization of Hedyotis purpurascens Hook.f. Ethanolic Leaf Extract by Using HPLC and FTIR Techniques

T. Betty, V. Vasini, R. Arunkumar, R. P. Malini, P. Sumathi — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Medicinal plants remain a vital reservoir of structurally diverse bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic potential. In this context, the present study aimed to explore and analyze the phytochemical profile of Hedyotis purpurascens Hook.f. through advanced analytical techniques. The ethanolic leaf extract was subjected to High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to establish a reliable chemical fingerprint. HPLC analysis, performed using Ampelopsin, quercetin, and myricetin as reference standards, revealed twelve distinct chromatographic peaks. A prominent peak at a retention time of 4.919 min closely matched that of Ampelopsin (4.992 min), strongly indicating its presence in the extract. This comparative chromatographic evaluation enhances the precision of compound identification and ensures reproducibility, which is crucial for quality control. Complementary FTIR analysis further confirmed the existence of key functional groups, including phenolic, aromatic, carbonyl, amine, and alkane moieties, reflecting the extract’s rich phytochemical complexity. The integration of HPLC and FTIR methodologies provides a robust, reproducible, and scientifically validated chemical signature for H. purpurascens. These findings not only substantiate its phytochemical diversity but also lay a strong analytical foundation for future pharmacological validation, standardization, and the development of evidence-based herbal formulations.

Protective Effects of the Ethanolic Pulp Extract of Lycium barbarum (Goji Berry) on Carbon Tetrachloride–Induced Nephrotoxicity, Cardiac Dysfunction, and Oxidative Stress in Wistar Rats

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aim: The study on the Protective Effects of the Ethanolic Pulp Extract of Lycium barbarum (Goji Berry) on Carbon Tetrachloride–Induced Nephrotoxicity, Cardiac Dysfunction, and Oxidative Stress in Wistar Rats has been investigated. This study examined the reno- and cardioprotective capacity of LBEP against CCl₄-induced toxicity in Wistar rats.

Methods: The study sample comprised of thirty rats assigned to five groups: Group 1 (normal control), Group 2 (CCl₄), Group 3 (CCl₄ + LBEP 100 mg/kg), Group 4 (CCl₄ + LBEP 300 mg/kg), and Group 5 (CCl₄ + Vitamin E 100 mg/kg). Renal function indices (urea and creatinine), cardiac biomarkers (CK-MB and LDH), and oxidative stress parameters (MDA, SOD, CAT, and GSH) were assessed using standard methods, supported by histopathological evaluation of kidney and heart tissues.

Results: The results indicated that CCl₄ significantly elevated urea, creatinine, CK-MB, LDH, and MDA levels while suppressing antioxidant enzymes relative to Group 1. Co-administration of LBEP at 100 + 300 mg/kg produced dose-dependent reductions in biochemical markers of toxicity and significantly restored antioxidant defences. Histological observations confirmed progressive tissue recovery, with Group 4 showing near-normal architecture comparable to Group 5.

Conclusion: The findings validate that LBEP provides significant protection against CCl₄-induced renal and cardiac damage through antioxidant-mediated mechanisms.