Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 196-209 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 201 to cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation in blood vessels (de Almeida Lopes et al., 2018; Dhiman et al., 2021). These mechanisms collectively help in maintaining heart health and preventing cardiovascular diseases. 4.2 Metabolic disorders Loquat has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for managing diabetes and obesity. The fruit and leaves of loquat contain bioactive compounds such as sesquiterpene glycosides, triterpenoids, and flavonoids, which have shown potential in regulating blood glucose levels and reducing body weight (Jian et al., 2018; de Almeida Lopes et al., 2018; Ibrahim, 2021). Studies have found that the total sesquiterpene glycosides (TSG) in loquat leaves significantly improve insulin resistance and metabolic disorders induced by a high-fat diet through the regulation of the IRS-1/GLUT4, TRPV1, and SIRT6/Nrf2 signaling pathways. Additionally, these compounds help reduce body weight, lower blood glucose levels, and improve liver damage (Wu et al., 2021). Research indicates that loquat extracts can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels by enhancing the activity of insulin receptors and glucose transporters (Jian et al., 2018; Ibrahim, 2021). Additionally, the anti-obesity effects are attributed to the inhibition of lipid accumulation and the promotion of lipid metabolism, as demonstrated in studies involving loquat leaf extracts (de Almeida Lopes et al., 2018). These effects are mediated through the downregulation of enzymes involved in lipid synthesis and the upregulation of those involved in lipid breakdown. 4.3 Neuroprotective effects Loquat contains several bioactive compounds, including ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, and various flavonoids, which have been shown to possess neuroprotective properties (Silva et al., 2020; Dhiman et al., 2021; Castillo-Chuquizuta et al., 2023). These compounds help in protecting the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation, which are common in neurodegenerative diseases. The neuroprotective effects of loquat are primarily due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that loquat extracts can reduce the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibit the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the brain (Silva et al., 2020; Dhiman et al., 2021; Castillo-Chuquizuta et al., 2023). Additionally, the presence of compounds like quercetin and kaempferol helps in enhancing cognitive functions and protecting against neuronal damage (de Almeida Lopes et al., 2018; Dhiman et al., 2021). These mechanisms make loquat a potential therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. 5 Traditional and Modern Uses of Loquat 5.1 Historical usage in traditional medicine Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) has been utilized in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in China and other parts of Asia. The leaves, fruits, and flowers of the loquat tree have been employed in various formulations to treat a range of ailments. Traditional Chinese medicine has extensively used loquat leaves to alleviate coughs and respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis and asthma (Su et al., 2021). Additionally, loquat leaves have been used in Moroccan traditional medicine to manage diabetes and its complications (Khouya et al., 2022). The historical use of loquat in these traditional systems underscores its significance in ethnomedicine. Ethnobotanical studies reveal that loquat has been a staple in folk medicine across different cultures. In African traditional medicine, loquat extracts have been noted for their beneficial health effects, including antifungal properties against Cryptococcus neoformans (Bisso et al., 2022). The plant's widespread use in various traditional medical systems highlights its versatility and the rich ethnobotanical knowledge surrounding its applications. The bioactive compounds in loquat, such as sesquiterpene glycosides, have been identified as key contributors to its medicinal properties, particularly in managing hyperglycemia and inflammation (Wu et al., 2022). 5.2 Modern pharmaceutical applications In modern times, the pharmacological potential of loquat has been harnessed in the development of nutraceuticals and functional foods. The leaves of loquat are rich in polyphenols and other bioactive compounds, which have been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties (Silva et al., 2020). These
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