Isolation and biological activities of compounds from Rumex vesicarius L. and their use as a component of a synbiotic preparation

The study evaluated prebiotic potential and the enzyme inhibition of extracts and isolated compounds of Rumex vesicarius (ruby dock), family Polygonaceae. Eight known compounds were identified in the roots of R. vesicarius. Extracts and compounds (1–8) increased the growth rate of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 differentially compared to controls. The highest prebiotic index (PI) and activity score was recorded for EcN in the presence of compound 4, followed by, in descending order, petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and total methanol extracts. The compounds and extracts reduced protease, α-amylase, and angiotensin-converting enzyme activities. This inhibitory activity was positively correlated with PI, P(score), µ(u), and Y(max). These findings suggest that R. vesicarius is a good source of potential prebiotic and can boost beneficial bacteria. It may also be considered promising for treatment of diabetes mellitus, controlling weight, and regulating blood pressure.