Showing papers in "International Journal of PharmTech Research in 2009"

Hepatoprotective activity of some indigenous plants.

Abstract: Herbal plants or botanical medicines have been used traditionally by herbalist worldwide for the prevention and treatment of liver disease. The plant kingdom plays a major role in the life of human beings and animals. The plant, as one of the important sources, still maintains its original place in the treatment of various diseases, including liver disorders, with no ill effects. Considerable studies have been carried out on ethno medicinal plants; however, only few medicinal plants have attracted the interest of scientists, to investigate them for a remedy for hepatoprotective. Clinical research in this century has confirmed the efficacy of several plants in the treatment of liver disease. Hence, this review article contributes to the knowledge of reported indigenous plants, which are prevalent for prevention and treatment of liver disorders.

Evaluation of Abelmoschus esculentus mucilage as suspending agent in paracetamol suspension.

Abstract: Some excipients are currently available for the formulation of Pharmaceutical suspensions. The purpose of this study is to search for a cheap and effective natural excipient that can be used as an effective alternative for the formulation of pharmaceutical suspensions. The mucilage from the pods of Abelmoschus esculentus was subjected to preformulation study for evaluation of its safety and suitability for use as suspending agent. The mucilage extracted is devoid of toxicity. Suspensions of paracetamol were prepared and compared with different concentrations (1%, 2%, 3% and 4% w/v) of Abelmoschus esculentus mucilage, sodium CMC and tragacanth gum. Their sedimentation profile, redispersibility, degree of flocculation and rheolgical behavior were compared. The mucilage was found to be a superior suspending agent than tragacanth and is comparable to sodium CMC. Studies indicate that the mucilage of Abelmoschus esculentus may be used as a pharmaceutical adjuvant and as a suspending agent at 4%w/v, depending on its suspending ability and the stability of the resulting suspension.

Determination of available nitrate, phosphate and sulfate in soil samples.

Abstract: A study of soil samples was done to determine the concentration of the available phosphate, nitrate and sulfate. Samples were collected from different places at different depths. Before estimation of the anions, the samples were airdried and sieved mechanically through a sieve with a 2 mm mesh. Sulfate and nitrate were extracted in water with ratio of (1:1), while phosphate was extracted with sodium bicarbonate solution at pH of 8.5. Phosphate was determined as available phosphorus by Spectrophotometric method in which the ammonium phosphomolybdate complex, which was formed first, was reduced by ascorbic acid in presence of antimony to give a distinct blue color which was measured at 880nm. The available nitrate was determined by phenoldisulphonic acid to give a yellow color which was measured spectrophotometrically at 410nm. Sulfate was analyzed by adding excess barium chloride to precipitate barium sulfate which be then determined by turbidimetry method and was measured at 420nm. Our results obtained were compared with previous studies for the same region by central lab for soil and water at 1982 and comparing the results with Libyan standard specification for soil for nutrients which was given by Phozyn international limited results. Key word: Soil, PO4 , SO4, NO3 ammonium phosphomolybdate, phenoldisulphonic acid, turbidimetry INTRODUCTION Soil may be defined as the weathered superficial layer of the earth's curst that typically is made up of decomposed and partly decomposed parent rock material with associated organic matter in various stages of decomposition. Soil is the natural medium in which the roots of most plants grow. From soil the plant absorbs water and solutes necessary for its continued wellbeing. If soil is fertile, it contains in a readily available form all the chemical elements essential for plant growth. Soil is a complex system which includes mineral (inorganic) matter, organic matter, water, air and organisms. The chemical composition is determined by the nature of the starting materials from which the soil was formed and by the processes that it has undergone over time. Soils in the field are not a monolithic mass of unchanging composition. Rather, they are characterized by large spatial variability in both the horizontal and vertical dimensions. The chemical nature of soils is determined by the combination of mineral and organic matter that makes up the soil. There are three important nutrients required by plants. Nitrogen and phosphorus are required in appreciable quantities, while needs for sulfur are less. Deficiencies of S are much less pronounced than those of micronutrients such as N and P, and S fertilization needs are also much lower. Sulfur and P are taken up by plant roots from soil solution as SO4 and H2PO4, respectively. Sulfate deposition from the atmosphere and mineralization of organic sulfur usually provide adequate supplies of S to meet requirements. Nutrients for healthy plant growth are divided into three categories: primary, secondary and micronutrients. (N), (P) and (K) are primary nutrients, which are needed in fairly large quantities compared to the other nutrients. (Ca), (Mg) and (S) are secondary nutrients which are required by the plant in lesser quantities but are no less essential for good plant growth than the primary nutrients. (Zn) and (Mn) are micronutrients which are required by plants in very small amounts. Most secondary and micronutrient deficiencies are easily corrected by keeping the soil at the optimum pH value. The capacity for holding anions increases with the decrease in pH. All anions are not adsorbed equally readily. The affinity for adsorption of some of anions commonly present in soil is of the order: NO3 0.075 mm) after rolling the samples to break down the large masses of the soil particles. 6.The sieved samples (> 2.0 mm) were preserved in labeled plastic bags . II.Extraction of the samples 1. 50 g of each of the soil samples were weighed, transferred to 250 ml stopper conical flask and was shaken with exactly 50 ml of distilled water (1:1 ratio). The shaking was done by using mechanical shaker for 10 minutes. 2. After shaking, the equilibration was taken place by leaving the samples for 30 minutes. 3. The samples were filtered into Buchner funnels by using filter papers Whatman no. 42. 4. In the case of turbid filtrates, they were centrifuged by using 3000 cycle/min centrifuge for 5 min. Note: The extraction for phosphate determination was done by 50 ml of NaHCO3 at pH 8.5 because it has been known for a long time that phosphate do not leach from soils but are retained in forms that may be removed only by extraction with various salts, acid, alkaline solutions . III. Materials and Reagents All reagents were of analytical grade. a. Analysis of phosphate Extraction solution for phosphate: 42.00 g of sodium bicarbonate was dissolved and was adjusted to pH of 8.5 with 50% NaOH and acetic acid.

Antidiabetic activity of Thespesia populnea bark and leaf extract against streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

Abstract: Thespesia Populnea is a reputed ever green tree belonging to the family malvaceae; commonly known as Indian tulip tree. The plant is distributed in tropical regions and coastal forest in India. It is well known and all the parts are used in Indian system of medicine. The plant has been used as astringent, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, haemostatic, anti-diarroheal and anti-inflammatory. The ethanolic extract of the plant bark (TPBE) and leaf (TPLE) were evaluated for its effect on blood sugar, against the streptozotocin (STZ)–induced diabetic rats and compared it with standard drug glibenclamide. The result of this experimental study indicates that both the ethanolic extract posses’ anti-diabetic effect against STZ induced diabetic rats and also showed the possible mechanism due to inhibition of generation of free radical.

Wound healing activity of Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit (Lamiaceae).

Abstract: Hyptis Suaveolens (L.)Poit is a traditional pubescent annual herb found throughout India. On the basis of its traditional use and literature references, this plant was selected for the screening of wound healing property. The leaves of Hyptis Suaveolens were exhaustively extracted by soxhlet apparatus with different solvents like petroleum ether, solvent ether, chloroform, alcohol and chloroform water in ascending order of the polarity. All the five extracts were subjected to antibacterial screening by using the cup plate method. The petroleum ether, alcoholic and chloroform water extract showed maximum zone of inhibition. So these extracts were taken for wound healing activity. The effect of petroleum ether, alcohol, and aqueous extract of leaves was evaluated in excision, incision and dead space wound healing models using Albino wistar rats. Among the extracts, petroleum ether extracts showed significant wound healing activity on all three wound models compared to other extracts by calculating the parameters, percentage closure of excision wound, period of epithelization, tensile strength, dry weight granulation tissue, breaking strength of granulation tissue and hydroxyproline content. Histopathological study of the granulation tissue of the petroleum ether extract treated group evidenced increased collagenation when compared to control group of animals. Presence of sterols, flavonoids, tannins in various extracts was also confirmed by preliminary phytochemical investigation, TLC and HPTLC methods.

Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Schiff base of Dapsone and their derivative as Antimicrobial agents

Abstract: A series of Schiff base and 2-azetidinones of 4,4’-diaminodiphenylsulphone have been synthesized. 4,4’-diaminodiphenylsulphone was condensed with various aromatic or heterocyclic aldehyde in ethanol in the presence of concentrated sulphuric acid as a catalyst to yield the Schiff base (Ia-e) . These Schiff’s bases on treatment with chloroacetylchloride in the presence of triethylamine gave substituted 2-azetidinone (IIae). The structure of synthesized compounds has been established on the basis of their spectral (IR, 1 H NMR and Mass) data. The purity of the compounds was confirmed by TLC. A number of molecular docking experiments were carried out to identify potential inhibitor of AmpC enzyme of E. Coli HKY28. All these compounds were evaluated for their in vitro activity against several microbes. Compound Ic , Ie , IIb and IIc exhibited potent antibacterial activity with the reference standard ciprofloxacin and fluconazol.

Isolation and evaluation of disintegrant properties of fenugreek seed mucilage.

Abstract: In the present study, Polysaccharide mucilage derived from the seeds of fenugreek, Trigonella foenum-graceum L (family Leguminosae) was investigated as disintegrant for use in mouth dissolving tablet formulations containing metformin hydrochloride. Mucilage extracted from fenugreek seeds were subjected to toxicity studies, it showed that extracted mucilage is devoid of toxicity. Fast disintegrating tablet (FDT) of metformin HCl was formulated using different concentration (2, 4, 6 8 and 10% w/w) of natural disintegrant viz; isolated mucilage of fenugreek seed and synthetic superdisintegrants like croscarmellose sodium and were compared. Disintegration time and drug release were taken as the basis to optimize the rapidly disintegrating tablet. Prepared tablets were evaluated for thickness, hardness, friability, uniformity of weight, disintegration time, wetting time and dissolution study. The formulated tablets had good appearance and better drug release properties as compared to the marketed conventional tablets. Fenugreek mucilage in the concentration of 4 % gives shorter disintegration in 15 sec. and shows 100% drug release within 18 min. is selected as the optimized formulation (F2).Hence, the present study revealed that this natural disintegrant (fenugreek mucilage) showed better disintegrating property than the most widely used synthetic superdisintegrants like Ac-di-sol in the formulations of FDTs. Studies indicated that the extracted mucilage is a good pharmaceutical adjuvant, specifically a disintegrating agent. Optimized formulation was subjected to stability studies as per ICH guidelines at 25 and 65% RH, 40° and 75% RH showed insignificant change in hardness, disintegration time and in vitro drug release at the end of three months.

Evaluation of Anacardium occidentale gum as gelling agent in Aceclofenac gel.

Abstract: Mucilage extracted from Anacardium occidentale were subjected to toxicity studies for its safety and preformulation studies for its suitability as a gelling agent. The present study was undertaken with an objective to find out the gelling potentials of a natural gum obtained from plant Anacardium occidentale. The gum was extracted by using water as solvent and precipitated using acetone as non-solvent. Physico-chemical characteristics such as solubility, ash values, Precompression parameters, swelling index, loss on drying and pH were studied. In the present study eight batches of Aceclofenac gels were prepared with different concentration of mucilage (viz; 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0 and 5.5). The gels were evaluated for drug content, viscosity determination, in vitro permeation (across dialysis membrane), skin irritation and stability tests. The gels prepared with 5.0% of mucilage were found to be ideal and comparable with a commercial preparation. The prepared gels did not produce any dermatological reactions and were well tolerated by the guinea pig. The gels were found to be stable with respect to viscosity, drug content and physical appearance at all temperature conditions for 3 months. Studies indicate that the extracted mucilage may be a good source as a pharmaceutical adjuvant specifically as a gelling agent.

Wound healing potential of leaf extracts of Ficus religiosa on wistar albino strain rats.

Abstract: s: Ficus religiosa (FamilyMoraceae) which is commonly known as Pepal tree, is abundantly distribute through out in India. Ficus religiosa leaf are reported to have wound healing, inflammatory, analgesic, anti lipidperoxidation activity .Hence the present study was aimed to investigate the wound healing activity by excision and incision wound models to evaluate the wound-healing activity of Ficus religiosa extracts, prepared as ointment form (5 and 10%) and applied on Wistar albino strain rats of either sex. Povidine iodine 5% was used as Standard drug. The healing of the wound was assessed by the rate of wound contraction, period of epithelialisation, skin breaking strength. Both the extracts as ointments (5% and 10%) of Ficus religiosa leaf extract promoted the wound-healing activity significantly in all the wound models studied. High rate of wound contraction, decrease in the period for epithelialisation, high skin breaking strength were observed in animals treated with 10% leaf extract ointment when compared to the control group of animals. So leaf extracts of Ficus religiosa in the form of 10% ointment promote wound-healing activity better than the former concentration, 5%.

Therapeutic efficacy of Pimpinella tirupatiensis (Apiaceae) on acetaminophen induced nephrotoxicity and oxidative stress in male albino rats.

Abstract: Summary Pimpinella tirupatiensis (Apiaceae) is a traditional medicinal plant that is commonly used for anti-tumorogenic, anti-microbial, purgative, hypoglycemic, abortificient, analgesic, anti-septic, anti-pyretic and antiinflammatory and improve liver conditions in India and other Asian countries. The development of hepatotoxicity induced by acetaminophen is promoted by oxidative stress. The aim of the present study was to investigate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of the ethanol extract of Pimpinella tirupatiensis (EEPT) at two doses level of 250mg/kg & 500 mg/kg B/W on acetaminophen- induced hepatotoxicity in rats. It observed that the ethanol extract of EEPT conferred hepatoprotectivity. Biochemical and Histopathological observations confirmed the beneficial roles of ethanol extract of Pimpinella tirupatiensis against acetaminophen induced liver injury in rats. The activity of ethanol extract of EEPT (500 mg/kg B/W) was comparable to the standard drug silymarin (25mg/kg B/W).

Pharmacognostical evaluation of Zanthoxylum nitidum Bark.

Abstract: Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC (Rutaceae), called Tez-mui in Assamese, is a large prickly shrub, and its stem bark is ethnomedicinally prescribed in North-East India for treatment of various disease conditions like toothache, gingivitis, fever, colic vomiting, diarrhoea and cholera. Scientific parameters are not yet available to identify the exact plant material and to ascertain its quality and purity. The present investigation was therefore undertaken to determine the requisite pharmacognostical standards for evaluating the plant material. Various investigations like organoleptic or morphological characters, microscopic or anatomical studies, physico-chemical evaluations (loss on drying, ash values, extractive values), phytochemical screening, TLC finger print profiling and fluorescence analysis of powdered crude drug were carried out and the salient qualitative and quantitative parameters were reported. These studies provided referential information for correct identification and standardization of this plant material. These information will also be helpful to differentiate Z. nitidum from the closely related other species of Zanthoxylum.

Evaluation of tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP) as a mucoadhesive and sustained release component of nifedipine buccoadhesive tablet & comparison with HPMC and Na CMC.

Abstract: The buccal mucoadhesive tablets of nifedipine were fabricated with objective of avoiding first pass metabolism and prolonging duration of action. The mucoadhesive polymers used in formulations were carbopol (cp934), hydroxyl propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC K4M), carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC), and tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP) .These formulations were characterized for physiochemical parameters, in vitro retention time, in vitro bioadhesive strength, percent hydration and drug release. The modified in vitro assembly was used to measure the bioadhesive strength of tablets with fresh goat buccal mucosa as a model tissue. The best mucoadhesive performance and in vitro drug release profile were exhibited by the tablet containg carbopol and TSP in the ratio of 1:1. This formulation was more comfortable to the user due to less erosion, faster hydration rate, and optimum pH of surrounding medium.

In vitro antioxidant activity of methanolic extract of stem bark of Gmelina arborea Roxb. (Verbenaceae).

Abstract: In this study, the antioxidant activity of methanolic extracts of stem bark of Gmelina arborea Roxb. (Verbenaceae) (MEGA) was studied using various in vitro assays. The antioxidant activity of MEGA was evaluated by using the free radical scavenging activity assay (DPPH method), reducing power assay, nitric oxide scavenging activity, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and H2O2 scavenging activity. Total phenolic content was determined by using gallic acid as a standard. The results of the study show that MEGA possesses significant free radical scavenging properties and a clear correlation exists between the antioxidant activity and phenolic content.

Carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats - protective role of aqueous leaf extracts of Coccinia grandis.

Abstract: The present study was conducted to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of an aqueous leaf extract of Coccinia grandis on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced liver damage in albino rats. Wistar albino rats weighing around 180-200g were used. Toxicity was induced by using 30% CCl4 suspended in olive oil (1.0 ml/kg body wt intraperitoneal) after every 72 hrs for 3doses. The aqueous leaf extract at a dose of 250mg/kg was administered orally by intragastric tube for 10 days. Blood and liver tissue were collected for the assessment of serum marker enzymes such as ALT, AST and ALP. The liver tissue was used for histopathological assessment.

Antihyperglycemic effect of Diospyros melanoxylon (Roxb.) bark against alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Abstract: The antihyperglycemic activity of Diospyros melanoxylon (Roxb.) bark was evaluated with scientific approach including biochemical parameters and histopathological studies of pancreas. The ethanolic extracts of the powdered bark was tested for its efficacy in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The extracts were also evaluated for acute oral toxicity studies and its effect on different biochemical parameters. An effect of extracts was compared to that of standard glibenclamide. It was revealed that ethanolic extracts has significantly (p<0.01) reversed the diabetes-induced hyperlipidemia compared to standard drug. Histopathological studies of pancreas revealed its significant effects on [3-cells count. The extracts showed significant antihyperglycemic activity as compared to standard drug. Ethanolic extract (200mg/kg) showed beneficial effects on blood glucose and hyperlipidemia associated with diabetes, which might be due to presence of steroids, tannins, alkaloids and triterpenoids present in that extract. Thus ethanolic extract could serve as good adjuvant to other oral hypoglycemic agents and seems to be promising for the development of phytomedicines for diabetes mellitus.

Antihypertensive effect of aqueous extract of Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb. seeds in renal artery occluded hypertensive rats.

Abstract: Aqueous extract of Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb seeds powder (Family: Elaeocarpaceae) was evaluated for its antihypertensive activity in renal artery occluded hypertensive rats Male Wistar rats (180-200g) were pretreated with aqueous extract of E ganitrus for 6 weeks Hypertension was induced in animals by clamping the renal artery with renal bulldog clamp for 4 h Ischemia of the kidneys causes elevation of blood pressure by activation of the renin-angiotensin system Elevated blood pressure of the animals was significantly (p<005) decreased by the aqueous extract of E ganitrus at the dose levels of 25, 50 and 100mg/kg, iv Captopril, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE-I) at the dose of 1 mg/kg, iv showed significantly (p<005) reduced in the elevated blood pressure The antihypertensive activity of aqueous extract of E ganitrus may be due to the action on rennin-angiotensin system

Antihelmintic activity of aqueous and methanolic extracts of Euphorbia thymifolia Linn.

Abstract: Helminthes are recognized as a major problem to livestock production throughout the tropics. Parasitic helminthes affect human being and animals by causing considerable hardship and stunted growth. Most diseases caused by helminthes are of a chronic and debilitating in nature. The parasitic gastroenteritis is caused by mixed infection with several species of stomach and intestinal worms, which results weaknesses, loss of appetite, decreased feed efficiency, reduced weight gain and decreased productivity. Although some synthetic drugs are available to control such kind of infections but due to their high cost and untoward effects, the development of more effective and safe drugs from reasonably less expensive natural sources is our main consideration. This can rationally be approached through the study of indigenous traditional plant remedies. We here in explore scientifically the anthelmintic potential of three traditionally used medicinal plants of India and substantiate the folklore claims.In present communication methanolic and aqueous extracts of plant of Euphorbia thymifolia Linn. were investigated for their anthelmintic activity against Pheretima posthuma and Ascardia galli. Various concentrations were used in the bioassay, which involved paralysis and death time of the worms. Both the extracts showed significant anthelmintic activity.

Antifertility Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Allium cepa Linn in Rats

Abstract: In the present study, antifertility activity of ethanolic extract of Allium cepa Linn was evaluated. The ethanolic extract of Allium cepa showed significant antifertility activity Pretreatment with ethanolic extract showed significant inhibition of number of implant site at a dose of 300 mg/kg. There was no change in ovulation, hence the antifertility activity observed in the present study with Allium cepa can be attributed largely to its antiimplantation activity.

Preparation and in vitro characterization of Valsartan solid dispersions using skimmed milk powder as carrier.

Abstract: Solubility is an important physicochemical factor affecting absorption of drug and its therapeutic effectiveness. Consequences of poor aqueous solubility would lead to failure in formulation development. The poor solubility of drug substances in water and their low dissolution rate in aqueous G.I.T fluid often leads to insufficient bioavailability. In the present investigation, an attempt was made to improve the solubility and dissolution rate of a poorly soluble drug, Valsartan by solid dispersion method using skimmed milk powder as carrier. Four different formulations were prepared with varying drug: carrier ratios viz.1:1, 1:3, 1:5 and 1:9 and the corresponding physical mixtures were also prepared. The formulations were characterized for solubility parameters, drug release studies and drug-polymer interactions by using phase solubility studies, dissolution studies; XRD analysis, FTIR spectrum, TLC analysis and UV overlay spectra. All the formulations showed marked improvement in the solubility behavior and improved drug release. Formulation containing drug:polymer ratio of 1:9 showed the best release with a cumulative release of 81.60% as compared to 34.91 % for the pure drug. The interaction studies showed no interaction between the drug and the carrier. It was concluded that skimmed milk powder as a carrier can be very well utilized to improve the solubility of poorly soluble drugs. Key-words: Solid Dispersion, Skimmed milk powder, solubility, Valsartan, Dissolution INTRODUCTION The formulation of poorly soluble drugs for oral delivery now presents one of the major challenges to formulation scientists in the industry. Various formulation parameters that play a crucial role for successful formulation are aqueous solubility, stability at ambient temperature and humidity, photo stability, compatibility with solvents and excipients etc. Of these, solubility is the most important property for developing formulations. Compounds exhibiting dissolution rate limited bioavailability are considered class II according to BCS classification. As per recent report, 46% of the total NDAs filed between 1995 to 2002 were BCS class IV, while only 9% were BCS class I drugs, revealing that a majority of approved new drugs were water insoluble. There are drug candidates that have poor solubility in water but can be dissolved by suitable conventional formulation strategies which include, Co-solvents, Milling techniques, super critical processing, Solid dispersions including complexation, and precipitation techniques. Solid dispersion technique has often proved to be the most commonly used in improving dissolution and bioavailability of poorly soluble active pharmaceutical ingredients because it is simple, economic and advantageous. In solid dispersion technique, water soluble carriers are used to improve dissolution characteristics of poorly water soluble drugs. Valsartan is 3-methyl-2-[pentanoyl-[[4-[2-(2H-tetrazol-5yl) Phenyl] methyl] amino]butanoic acid. It is white fine powder having poor aqueous solubility. The present study is an attempt to overcome the poor aqueous solubility of VALSARTAN by solid dispersion technique using skimmed milk powder (SMP) as carrier. MATERIALS & METHODS Valsartan was obtained as gift sample from Rubicon Reseacrh limited, Mumbai, Skimmed milk powder K.Venkates Kumar et al /Int.J. PharmTech Res.2009,1(3) 432 (SMP) was obtained from Himedia Laboratories, Mumbai. All other solvents and reagents used were of

Wound healing activity of Terminalia Chebula in experimentally induced diabetic rats.

Abstract: The hydroalcoholic extract of T.Chebula fruit was evaluated for its wound healing activity in alloxan induced diabetic rats using excision and dead space wound models. Extract treated animals exhibited 82% reduction in the wound area when compared to controls which was 40%. The extract treated wounds were found to epithelize faster as compare to controls. The wet and dry granulation tissue weight content was increased significantly when compared to controls. T.Chebula promotes significant wound healing in diabetic rats and further evaluation of this activity in humans is suggested.

Hypoglycemic effects of fruit juice of Murraya koenigii (L) in alloxan induced diabetic mice.

Abstract: Oxidative stress has been defined as a disturbance in the balance the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defence system, which can lead to tissue injury. Antioxidant level in the tissue is an important factor for sensitivity of individual tissue to oxidative stress. It has been suggested that oxidative stress can play an important role in tissue damage associated with diabeties and complications. Oxidative stress in diabeties and increased of free radicals are generated which cause injury or destruction of pancreatic beta cells which can repaired or regenerated by using potent antioxidant. Thus based on reported antioxidant phytochemical constituents in fruit of Murraya koenigii the present study was aim at to investigate hypoglycemic effect of fruit juice of Murraya koenigii in mice. Based on the results of normoglycemic and OGTT model the hypoglycemic effect in alloxan induced diabetic mice was evaluated at dose level of 2.5 and 5.0 ml/kg. The results of antidiabetic study reveled that FJMK decreases blood glucose level significantly at 10 and 15 day of administration (fasted serum glucose). From results it concludes that FJMK has hypoglycemic effect. The FJMK may act as cytoprotective in alloxan induced diabetic mice because of presence of antioxidant phytochemical so it can be attributed to the intended use of fruit juice for antidiabetic dietary supplement or as a herbal drink for diabetic and in diabetic complications.

Traditional uses of plants for wound healing in the Sangli district, Maharashtra.

Abstract: This article represent wound healing activity of various fresh plants which is found as well as used traditionally in Sangli district. Various plants species mostly used in various diseases were found to use by ‘Vaidu’ to heal the wound. It was found that all the plant parts or extracts used in wound healing were applied locally and was found to possess good healing property. The detailed study to explore the ethno-botany of medicinal plants of Sangli was undertaken during the survey of sacred groves of Sangli.

Evaluation of aqueous extract of leaves of Ocimum kilimandscharicum on wound healing activity in albino wistar rats.

Abstract: The present study was aimed to evaluate the wound healing potential of aqueous extract of leaves of Ocimum kilimandscharicum It is a well-known plant in Indian traditional medicine On the basis of traditional use and literature references, this plant was selected for evaluation of wound healing potential An aqueous extract of leaves was examined for wound healing activity at two different doses (200 and 400 mg/kg) in three types of wound models on rats: the excision, the incision and dead space wound model Significant increase in skin breaking strength, granuloma breaking strength, wound contraction, dry granuloma weight and decreased in epithelization period was observed in animals of both the treatment groups compared to control Granuloma tissue was subjected to histological examination to determine the pattern of lay-down for collagen using Van Gieson and Masson Trichome strains Biochemical parameters viz; L-Hydroxyproline, Hexose amine, Ascorbic acid and Malondialdehyde also confirmed its potential wound healing activity at either dose Thus, the enhanced wound healing may be due to free radical scavenging action and the antibacterial property of the phytoconstituents present in it which either due to their individual or additive effect fastens the process of wound healing

Development and evaluation of polyherbal formulations for hair growth-promoting activity.

Abstract: Alopecia is a dermatological disorder with psychosocial implications on patients with hair loss Eclipta alba Hassk [ Asteraceae], Hibiscus rosa sinensis Linn [Malvaceae], Nardostachys Jatamansi [ Valerianaceae] is a well known Ayurvedic herb with purported claims of hair growth promotion Hair formulation of Eclipta alba Hassk [ Asteraceae ] 10% w/v, Hibiscus rosa sinensis Linn [ Malvaceae ] 10 % w/v, Nardostachys jatamansi [ Valerianceae ] 5 % w/v concentration in the form of herbal oil were studied and showed excellent hair growth activity with standard [ 2 % minoxidil ethanolic solution] in wister albino rats Hair growth initiation time was significantly reduced to half on treatment with the oil, as compared to control animals The time required for complete hair growth was also significantly reduced Quantitative analysis of hair growth after treatment with oil exhibited greater number of hair follicles in anagenic phase [ 82 ] which were higher as compared to control [ 52 ] The result of treatment with oil were better than the positive control minoxidil 2 % treatment It holds the promise of potent herbal alternative for minoxidil Key-words : Herbal hair formulation, Asteraceae, Malvaceae, Valerianaceae Introduction Hair is one of the vital parts of the body derived from ectoderm of skin, is protective appendages on the body and considered accessory structure of the integument along with sebaceous glands, sweat glands and nailsThey are known as epidermal derivatives as they originate from the epidermis during embryological development Hair is an important of the overall appeal of the human bodyAlopecia, is dermatological disorder that has been recognized for more than 2000 years is a common problem in cosmetics as well as Primary Health Care Practice It is common throughout the world and has been estimated to affect between 02 % and 2% of the world population Synthetic drug, minoxidil is a potent vasodilator was scientifically proved for the treatment of alopecia 6-7 Though the use of drugs for its side effect is not advisable, the drug of plant origin is necessary to replace the synthetic one Hence the present study was aimed to evaluate the hair growth activity of herbal formulation which includes Eclipta alba Hassk [ 10 % w/v], Hibiscus rosa sinensis Linn [ 10 % w/v], Nardostachys jatamansi [ 5 % w/v] concentration in oil Bhavaprakash, an Ayurvedic treatise mentions the use of drug for the treatment of “Indralupta” ie drug used in the treatment of hair loss Eclipta alba Hassk [Asteraceae], Hibiscus rosa sinensis [ Malvaceae ], Nardostachys jatamansi [ Valerianaceae] is such herb with traditional claims of hair growth promotion Eclipta alba is small much branched annual herb with white flower heads found in moist situation throughout India ascending up to 600 feet, grows just after the first showers of rainy season It is used for hair growth promoter, improving the luster of the hair, treatment of variety of human ailments, particularly liver disorders, wound healing The herb Hibiscus rosa sinensis Linn [ Malvaceae ] is a glabrous shrub widely cultivated in the tropics as an ornamental plant and has several forms with varying clour of flowers The leaves and flowers are observed to be promoters of hair growth and aid in healing of ulcers Flowers have been found to be effective in the treatment of arterial hypertension and have significant antifertility effect Dried rhizome of Nardostachys jatamansi DC [ Valerianaceae ] is a small herbaceous Himalayan genus, common in Garhwal, Kumaun and Sikkim Himalaya between 3000m and 5000m It is used for hair growth , convulsions, sedative, treatment of hypertension, dysuria, cystitis and uterine inflammation V M Jadhav et al /IntJ PharmTech Res2009,1(4) 1252 Materials and Methods Collection and authentication of plant The leaves of Eclipta alba, flowers of Hibiscus rosa sinensis, rhizomes of Nardostachys jatamansi were purchased from local market and authenticated by Agharkar Research Institute, Pune The various parts of plant drugs are crushed in mixed and passed through the sieve number 80 The various powder drugs were subjected to pharmacognostic studies for confirmation Preparation of Combined drug herbal hair formulation of different concentration : After confirming the literature survey , Eclipta alba, Hibiscus rosa sinensis, Nardostachys jatamansi were selected and mixed in 3 different concentration for maximum activity [ Table 1 ] The formula of base contain coconut oil Table 1 : Selection of concentration of oil for hair growth activity Amount of drugs / 100 ml of Oil g Formulations Eclipta alba % Hibiscus rosa sinensis % Nardostachys jatamansi % Eclipta albaJuice ml

Weeds in agroecosystems: a source of medicines for human healthcare.

Abstract: A list of 88 medicinally important plants distribut ed in 81 genera belonging to 43 families, eradicate d due to intensive agricultural practices and considered as problem plants or declared weeds, that are occurred in the agroecosystem of north eastern coastal Tamil Nadu is presented. Its p rotection and sharing of benefits in human health c are has been under debate at both the global and domestic level for de ca s. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the subject of weeds as a source of medicine, to create awareness about the protection and conservation of biological resources, sustainable use and to promote the social and economic welfare of the farming community.

Cassia roxburghii seeds protect liver against toxic effects of ethanol and carbontetrachloride in rats.

Abstract: Hepatitis is a major health problem in human due to various chemicals including therapeutic agents and other environmental toxins and this can produce illnesses like jaundice which sometimes may lead to even death. Natural products are the best source of remedies for the treatment of diseases including hepatoprotectives. Thus identification of a potential therapeutic agent for the protection of liver from the hepatotoxins will provide a useful way for the prevention of these liver related illnesses. In our present study we selected seeds of Cassia roxburghii DC., which is used in the ethnomedicine for various liver disorders for the screening of its hepatoprotective activity using alcohol and carbon tetra chloride induced liver injury in rats. Hepatotoxicity was induced in male Wistar rats by ethanol and carbon tetrachloride, i.p. The methanolic extract of Cassia roxburghii was administered at the doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg. The Hepatoprotective effect of these extracts was evaluated by liver function biochemical parameters and histopathological studies of liver, compared with silymarin. The methanolic extract of Cassia roxburghii reversed the toxicity produced by ethanol CCl4 in dose dependent manner. The extract at the doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg are comparable to the effect produced by Liv 52, a standard hepatoprotective against hepatotoxins. Liver sections from Cassia roxburghii seed and Liv 52 treated groups clearly showed a histological picture that closely approximates that of the control group. The study identified a plant with potential hepatoprotective constituents which will to be isolated and characterized in future.

Evaluation of immunomodulatory activity of Aesculus indica.

Abstract: To investigate the immunomodulatory effect of Aesculus indica in rats. Aesculus indica was administered orally at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg to healthy rats divided into five groups consisting of six animals each. The assessment of immunomodulatory activity was carried out by testing the humoral (antibody titre) and cellular (foot pad swelling) immune responses to the antigenic challenge by sheep RBCs and by neutrophil adhesion test. On oral administration of the extract, a significant increase in neutrophil adhesion and delayed type hypersensitivity response whereas the humoral response to sheep RBCs was unaffected. Thus Aesculus indica significantly potentiated the cellular immunity by facilitating the foot pad thickness responses to the sheep RBCs in sensitized rats. With a dose of 50 and 100 mg/kg the DTH response (mean + S.D. % increase in paw volume). The responses were statistically significant when they were compared with the control. The study stated that Aesculus indica shows a significant stimulation of the cell mediated immunity and no effects on the humoral immunity.

Siderophore-mediated antibiosis of rhizobacterial fluorescent Pseudomonads against rice fungal pathogens.

Abstract: Fifteen rhizobacterial fluorescent pseudomonas isolates obtained from rice in the region of Andhra Pradesh, India In all 10 strains of Pseudomonas fluorescens were selected based on preliminary screening of all these isolates for antifungal activity against rice fungal pathogens (P.oryzae and R.solani)., inhibited the growth of rice fungal pathogens in Fe deficient King’s B medium that varied from (3 to 58 % inhibition). Among these Pf 003 strain completely inhibited the mycelial growth of two rice pathogens (P.oryzae and R.solani) both in presence and absence of FeCl3 which indicated the siderophore mediation along with antifungal metabolites.

Preliminary evaluation of Sesbania seed gum mucilage as gelling agent.

Abstract: The mucilage from the endosperm of Sesbania grandiflora seeds (Family Leguminosae) was extracted by multiple maceration technique using water as solvent that, yield a high proportions of (33%) of mucilage. Such mucilage when mixed with water, a protective and soothing preparation results. The objective of the present work is to study the Sesbania gum mucilage as gelling agent. To study the gelling properties, gels were prepared using Diclofenac diethyl ammonium (DD) as model drug. Six batches of drug loaded gels with concentration of mucilage corresponding to 2.0,2.25,2.5,2.75,3.0 and 3.5%w/w were formulated by using glycerin as wetting agent and thiomersol as preservative. The prepared gels were evaluated for DD content, pH, rheological studies such as viscosity and extrudability, in vitro diffusion profile and stability studies. The gel prepared with 2.5% of Sesbania gum mucilage showed desired gel characteristics with better drug release profile when compared with marketed formulation. Stability study revealed that the gel formulations were physically stable and has no syneresis.