Humulone is a chemical compound found in hops (Humulus lupulus). It is an α acid that, together with structurally related compounds, plays a significant role in the brewing process and contributes to the bitterness, flavour, and aroma of beer. This compound, together with many others, constitutes hop resins [1]. Isohumulones are constitutional isomers of humuloneContinue reading “From vine to stein: humulone and isohumulones”
Tag Archives: natural products
Watermelon: is there more than water and sugars?
In this hot summertime, what’s more refreshing than a slice of watermelon…and wondering about the chemicals present in this fruit? A common misconception is that watermelon is only made of water. Well, first of all, besides water, there are sugars and then chemicals that are responsible for the colour and aroma. The colour is dueContinue reading “Watermelon: is there more than water and sugars?”
The unbearable lightness of flying
Flying has always fascinated mankind, so much that it has inspired the invention of several devices and machines. Now, however, we are going to talk about a special kind of flight related to witchcraft. While legends about witches are numerous and diversified, being strongly influenced by local traditions, maybe one common trait is that theyContinue reading “The unbearable lightness of flying”
Crimson bottlebrush plant and a story about herbicides
Let’s talk about a plant that is very commonly found in gardens in many areas of the world, but that is originally from Australia: the bottlebrush plant (looking at its picture, it is easy to understand why it is called like this). There are actually several bottlebrush species, all belonging to the myrtle family (Myrtaceae).Continue reading “Crimson bottlebrush plant and a story about herbicides”
Do you think that natural equals safe? Well, think again!
There is a growing trend to use “natural” products in several fields e.g., natural cosmetics, natural home and personal care products, natural supplements, etc. Well, there might be many reasons for the success of these kind of products and some of them might be good, but there is a thing that always puzzles and, toContinue reading “Do you think that natural equals safe? Well, think again!”
What fascinates you about plant natural product chemistry?
Plants are excellent chemists and fascinating organisms. I realized this early during my studies. However, if I were to recall when exaclty I became interested in the topic, I cannot really say it. I think that my first “experiments” in phytochemistry date back to when I was a kid. I used to wander in myContinue reading “What fascinates you about plant natural product chemistry?”
Why do plants produce painkillers?
Plants do not feel pain. They do not have a nervous system and even more important they do not have a brain to integrate external stimuli. Then, why do they synthesize painkillers? Ok, maybe we need to make a step back. Aspirin, morphine, codeine, and cannabinoids are all drugs with a significant analgesic effect, andContinue reading “Why do plants produce painkillers?”
I hate to break it to you, but you have been drinking an insecticide all along…
Early morning. You just woke up and you are trying to get in touch with reality. Somebody is talking to you, but you just hear a distant undefined noise and refuse to listen until you have your first cup of coffee. If you could see yourself in this description, you are in good company! AContinue reading “I hate to break it to you, but you have been drinking an insecticide all along…”
Plant derived natural products and COVID-19
Plant derived natural products are an invaluable help in drug discovery. Many compounds that we use as medicines were first isolated from plants or at least are inspired by plant chemicals. In some cases, indeed, these compounds work just fine as they are, while in others it is possible to change or improve their activityContinue reading “Plant derived natural products and COVID-19”
Debunking fake news about the use of plants or plant derived compounds in the treatment or prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection
We are living in challenging times. In times like these, everyone is under pressure, feeling lost and confused. Nevertheless, we crave good news. We want to hear that the death toll is decreasing and that we managed to flatten the curve, dreaming about going back to “normality” (for whatever that means). Many of us areContinue reading “Debunking fake news about the use of plants or plant derived compounds in the treatment or prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection”
PhytoChem 