Uzbek Scientists Developing a Phytocomplex with Antioxidant and Anti-Hypoxic Properties
2026-09-07 10:10:00 / News
Most of us know basil for its distinctive aroma and flavor. However, this plant, along with several related medicinal plants, contains a wide range of biologically active compounds that may be beneficial to the human body.
Scientists at the Institute of the Chemistry of Plant Substances of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan are currently using this potential to develop a new phytocomplex based on locally sourced plant materials.
The research is being carried out as part of the applied project “Development of Phytocomplexes Based on Extracts of Basil, Astragalus and Related Plants”, funded by the Agency for Innovative Development. The project has a total value of UZS 1.409 billion and is designed for implementation in 2025–2027. The project is led by Daniya Asilbekova, Doctor of Biological Sciences and Leading Researcher at the Laboratory of Physical Research Methods of the Institute.
The scientists are conducting an in-depth study of different varieties of basil, mountain basil, kiyiko‘t, arslonquloq and various species of astragalus cultivated in Uzbekistan. The essential oils and other biologically active compounds contained in these plants are being analyzed using advanced laboratory methods.
Based on the preliminary findings, the most promising locally available plant raw materials for developing the phytocomplex have been selected. In addition, technological samples of extracts demonstrating antioxidant and anti-hypoxic activity have been prepared.
Why are antioxidant properties important? Free radicals formed in the body can damage cells, while antioxidants are compounds that help protect cells from the effects of oxidative processes. Anti-hypoxic activity, in turn, refers to the potential of a substance to support cells under conditions of insufficient oxygen supply to body tissues.
The researchers are currently continuing studies aimed at developing complexes from the active extracts, determining their composition and further confirming their antioxidant properties. By the end of the project, the team plans to create a new phytocomplex containing a combination of biologically active compounds.
Importantly, the project focuses on the use of plants grown and cultivated in Uzbekistan. In the future, the phytocomplex is expected to provide a scientific and technological basis for developing locally produced products that can be used in the food and cosmetics industries.
To date, the project has resulted in one article published in an international scientific journal and one in a national scientific journal, two articles published in international conference proceedings, one article presented at a national conference, and three abstracts.