Extended longevity of Drosophila melanogaster by water and ethanol extracts of Stachys lavandulifolia

Context:Stachyss species have been used as a medicine for centuries throughout the world. Stachys lavandulifolia Vahl. var. lavandulifolia (Lamiaceae) is of interest to researchers because the constituents such as betulinic acid, oleanolic acid, rosmarinic acid, and ursolic acid are similar to other Stachys species commonly used as an alterative in medicinal preparations. Objective:The present study investigated the effects of water extract (SLE w) and ethanol extract (SLEe) obtained from S. lavandulifolia (SLE) on the longevity of Drosophila melanogaster Meigen. Materials and methods:The effects of different concentrations of SLE (ControlDMSO; 4.0; 12.0 and 20.0 μL/100mL medium) were administered separately to female and male populations of D. melanogaster for control and SLE groups. Results:In all application groups, each population's longevity increased, depending on the concentration of SLE. The mean life-span of the extract groups which are applied with SLE(w) was determined to be shorter than the extract groups which are applied with SLE(e). For example, the maximum mean life-span applied with SLE(w) increased from 31.86±0.92 days to 43.21±1.33 days and the maximum mean life-span applied with SLE(e) increased from 31.86±0.92 days to 49.62±1.62 days in females. Conclusion:These findings demonstrate that the constituents of S. lavandulifolia have great potential as a source for natural health products for D. melanogaster management. © 2010 Informa Healthcare USA, Inc.