Herbs from the Gentianaceae family are widely known for their medicinal and pharmacological properties. They were used centuries ago as a part of traditional medicine in China and Tibet. This review aims to draw attention to the potential uses of gentian herbs in treating various diseases, including skin conditions, gastrointestinal and liver disorders, wound healing, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes. The aim of our study was to systematically summarize current knowledge about key bioactive compounds present in both roots and aerial parts—such as xanthones, iridoids, and flavonoids—and highlight their pharmacological significance. We also focused on the Gentianaceae family’s usage in complementary and alternative medicine, as well as their anti-inflammatory, anti-melanogenic, anti-ischemic, anti-fibrotic, and antioxidant properties, which can be utilized in the treatment and prevention of dermatological diseases, such as skin cancers. Here, we involve ethnomedicinal knowledge with modern pharmacological data; we also highlight the scientific relevance of gentian-derived compounds in drug development. This review concludes that these species represent a promising source of natural agents, while also underlining the need for further research and conservation strategies to preserve threatened species.

Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTb) antigens is a crucial component of the cellular immune response presented during tuberculosis infection. This reaction is driven primarily by T lymphocytes, which recognize mycobacterial antigens and trigger a focused inflammatory cascade. Cytokines produced by T lymphocytes stimulate the formation of granulomas, organized structures that help contain the bacteria and prevent their spread. DTH is essential for controlling the infection and forms the basis of diagnostic tools, including the still widely practiced tuberculin skin test despite its limitations. This immunological mechanism is also used as an important therapeutic target in the treatment of tuberculosis by modulating the cellular response. These approaches include immunomodulatory agents, therapeutic vaccines and host-directed treatment. Ongoing research offers promising opportunities for future interventions aimed at decreasing the global mortality associated with tuberculosis.

Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by the loss of melanocytes, resulting in the appearance of depigmented patches on the skin. The aim of the present review is to discuss current therapeutic methods and to outline promising directions for the treatment of this dermatosis. The review describes pathogenetic mechanisms, including the role of oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, and the JAK/STAT pathways, which constitute the foundation of contemporary therapeutic interventions. The efficacy and safety of topical treatments (corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, JAK inhibitors), phototherapy (NB-UVB, PUVA, excimer laser), combination therapies, and surgical methods such as cellular and tissue grafts are discussed. Data indicate that the combination of phototherapy with topical agents enhances repigmentation efficacy, and JAK inhibitors represent promising drugs in targeted therapy. Particular value is attributed to preparations modulating the immune response and to melanocyte transplantation techniques, which emerge as highly effective and forward-looking treatment options for vitiligo. Nevertheless, effective management of vitiligo requires a multidirectional approach combining pharmacological, immunomodulatory, and regenerative interventions.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are highly effective in obesity treatment; however, the accompanying loss of lean body mass raises concerns regarding skeletal muscle preservation and long-term metabolic health. Combining pharmacological treatment with physical activity may help address these concerns. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize current evidence regarding the individual and combined effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists and structured physical activity on body weight, body composition, and metabolic health in individuals with overweight and obesity. A literature search was conducted in PubMed for publications available up to 13 June, 2026, supplemented by searches in Google Scholar and PubMed Central (PMC) and screening of relevant reference lists. Current evidence suggests that while GLP-1 receptor agonists effectively reduce body weight and fat mass, structured physical activity, particularly resistance exercise, plays a critical role in preserving lean body mass, improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing lipid metabolism, and promoting mitochondrial adaptations. The available literature indicates that combining pharmacological therapy with regular physical activity may optimize body composition and improve long-term metabolic health beyond the benefits achieved with either intervention alone. This narrative review highlights the complementary roles of GLP-1 receptor agonists and physical activity and supports the integration of pharmacological and lifestyle-based strategies as a comprehensive approach to obesity management.

Brain tumors represent a major clinical challenge due to their complex biology, inherent resistance to conventional therapies and the limited delivery of anticancer agents across the blood–brain barrier. Natural phytochemicals such as curcumin, resveratrol and berberine have gained increasing attention for their multi-targeted anticancer properties, including induction of apoptosis, inhibition of proliferation, suppression of mitochondrial and BCL-2-family signaling and modulation of the tumor microenvironment. This comprehensive review critically examines current evidence on the use of curcumin, resveratrol and berberine in the context of brain tumor treatment, with an emphasis on gliomas’ mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetic limitations, and potential for integration into novel delivery platforms. We discuss how these compounds interact with key pathways in brain tumors—including BCL-2 inhibition, PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling and epigenetic regulation—and the emerging strategies to overcome glioma-specific obstacles such as blood–brain barrier permeability and microenvironmental hypoxia. Furthermore, the review explores innovative formulations and carrier systems that enhance brain uptake and bioavailability of these agents, bridging the gap between preclinical promise and clinical translation. By identifying current gaps and proposing future research directions, this article aims to provide a roadmap for harnessing curcumin, resveratrol and berberine as adjuvant or combinatorial treatments in brain tumor therapy, focusing particularly on glioma treatment. The adoption of such phytochemicals may open new avenues for improved outcomes in patients with highly refractory brain malignancies.