Showing papers in "Oriental Pharmacy and Experimental Medicine in 2014"
TL;DR: Present review compiles and discusses in details the literature on β-sitosterol focusing on its biosynthesis, pharmacology, neutraceutical aspects, toxicology, formulations and analytical methods, which opens new perspective for the investigations of biological properties of β-Sitosterol and development of new formulations for treatment of various diseases.
Abstract: Sterols are an essential component of cell membrane of both the animal and plant cell. Cholesterol and β-sitosterol are prevalent in animals and plants respectively. β-sitosterol is biosynthesized in plants via mevalonic acid pathway. Consumption of β-sitosterol in vegetarian diet is high however it is very less absorbed. β-sitosterol competes with cholesterol for absorption due to similarity in their structure therefore is used as antihyperlipidemic agent. Pharmacological screening of β-sitosterol revealed various activities like antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antifertility, angiogenic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, antinociceptive without major toxicity. Pharmacokinetics of β-sitosterol is also studied well. Many formulations have been prepared by various authors. However, there is paucity of scientific review of the pharmacology, phytochemistry and analytical methods for β-sitosterol. β-sitosterol is very common ingredient of most of the plant materials, humans are using it for different purposes and many β-sitosterol-containing products have been marketed, therefore, knowledge of its properties with scientific basis is not only of academic interest but also of those who use β-sitosterol as well. Present review compiles and discusses in details the literature on β-sitosterol focusing on its biosynthesis, pharmacology, neutraceutical aspects, toxicology, formulations and analytical methods. This review opens new perspective for the investigations of biological properties of β-sitosterol and development of new formulations for treatment of various diseases.
35 citations
TL;DR: The results obtained in the present study suggest the preventive influence of moralbosteroid on liver toxicity in rats induced by CCl4 comparable with those of Silymarin.
Abstract: This study evaluates the hepatoprotective activity of moralbosteroid, isolated from Morus alba, against the hepatotoxicity induced by CCl4 in wistar albino rats. The level of hepatoprotection was estimated by measuring the following biochemical markers: aspartate amino-transferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum alanine amino-transferase (ALT), total bilirubin (TB), and total protein (TP), including the enzymes involved in antioxidant activities like glutathione transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), lipid peroxidation (LPO) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The oral administration of CCl4 significantly caused elevation in LPO level (13.22 ± 1.59 μM/mg protein) as compared to control. The activities of antioxidant enzymes including CAT, SOD, GPx and GST were decreased significantly (0.38 ± 0.6 nmol/min/ml, 0.89 ± 0.83 U/ml, 3.90 ± 0.91 μmol and 0.05 ± 0.16 U/min/mg protein) in testicular tissue as compared to control animals. Moralbosteroid significantly prevents the marked escalation of serum markers and inhibited the free radical processes by the scavenging of hydroxyl radicals. It also modulates the levels of LPO and prominently increases the endogenous antioxidant enzyme levels in hepatocellular toxicity induced by CCl4. The results obtained in the present study suggest the preventive influence of moralbosteroid on liver toxicity in rats induced by CCl4 comparable with those of Silymarin.
31 citations
TL;DR: Extended daily oral intake of Andrographis paniculata extract gradually suppresses central sensitivity to acute stressful stimuli, and eventually down regulates central dopaminergic receptors.
Abstract: Andrographis paniculata (Burm. F.) Wall. Ex Nees (Acanthaceae) also called as Kalmegh, or “King of Bitters”. In Ayurveda, Andrographis paniculata is classified as a Rasayana herb. More than 50 % of the poly-herbal formulations commercialized in India for treatment of liver function disorders contain Andrographis paniculata. Pilot study and general neuropharmacological screening were conducted with analytically standardized Andrographis paniculata extract (AP), to evaluate its therapeutic potential for mental health problems. A battery of rodent behavioral models developed in our laboratory was used for characterizing brain function modulating activities. Daily oral administrations of even very high doses (800 mg/kg) of the extract were well tolerated by laboratory rodents without any apparent behavioral alterations. A single oral dose of the extract (AP 25 to 800 mg/kg) was inactive in mice stress-induced hyperthermia, and apomorphine induced cage-climbing tests in rats. However, dose and duration of treatment dependent efficacy of the extract after its daily doses up to 200 mg/kg/day for 10 days was observed in both the tests. Moreover, dose dependent effects of the extract in suppressing locomotion, potentiating pentobarbital sleep, and antagonizing pentylenetetrazole or maximal electroshock triggered seizures were also apparent after its 10 daily doses up to 200 mg/kg/day. Anxiolytics and antidepressants-like activity of AP treatment was also apparent in rats after 10 daily doses. Therefore, prolonged daily oral intake of Andrographis paniculata extract gradually suppresses central sensitivity to acute stressful stimuli, and eventually down regulates central dopaminergic receptors. Benzodiazepines like anxiolytic and seizure suppressing activities of the extract can be expected after its daily intake.
16 citations
TL;DR: Clinical evidence indicates its safety assessment and can be taken without any toxic effect, and up to date ethnopharmacological, phytochemical and phytomedical information of C. forskohlii approaching towards its safety and therapeutic perspective.
Abstract: Coleus forskohlii Briq. (Family: Lamiaceae) is a fleshy perennial aromatic herb with fibrous roots that grows under tropical to temperate areas in India, Burma, Thailand, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, East Africa and Brazil. The rootstock of the plant is used in Ayurveda and other systems of medicine for several ailments such as heart and lung conditions, asthma, digestive disorder, insomnia, muscle spasm, convulsion and skin diseases. Extensive literature survey was performed based on distribution, morphology, phytochemistry and pharmacological aspects of C. forskohlii through pubmed, scopus, SciFinder, google scholar, sciencedirect and ethnobotanical books. Phytopharmacological knowledge and cosmeceutical use of C. forskohlii and its bioactive constituents have been documented. Coleus roots are exclusive source of forskolin, commonly known as fat burning molecule. It’s unique property is activating of almost all hormone sensitive adenylate cyclase enzymes by cyclic 3′,5′-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Other potent compounds are 9-deoxyforskolin (1), 1,9-dideoxyforskolin (2), forskolin I (7), forskolin J (8), forskolin L (9), isoforskolin (16), 1-acetylforskolin (17), forskoditerpenoside A (19), forskoditerpenoside B (20), coleol (21), coleosol (22), 3-hydroxyforskolin (25) etc. Besides well established food and traditional use, clinical evidence indicates its safety assessment and can be taken without any toxic effect. This review covers up to date ethnopharmacological, phytochemical and phytomedical information of C. forskohlii approaching towards its safety and therapeutic perspective.
12 citations
TL;DR: The methanol extract of leaves of traditionally used medicinal plant Murraya exotica Linn. (Family: Rutaceae) was evaluated for possible cytotoxic, thrombolytic and antioxidant activities in this paper.
Abstract: The methanol extract of leaves of traditionally used medicinal plant Murraya exotica Linn. (Family: Rutaceae) was evaluated for possible cytotoxic, thrombolytic and antioxidant activities in this study. The extract was tested for phytochemical group test by standard method using chromogenic reagents, in vivo brine shrimp lethality assay using Artemia salina, thrombolytic effect by using the standard streptokinase and antioxidant activity by using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH). The study revealed the presence of reducing sugars, tannins, saponins and alkaloids. The extract showed statistically significant (p < 0.01) potent cytotoxic effect in brine shrimp lethality bioassay where the value of LC50 and LC90 were 1.27 μg/ml and 5.09 μg/ml respectively compared with the standard vincristine sulphate with the value of LC50 and LC90 0.09 μg/ml and 4.83 μg/ml respectively after 24 h. The study gave a significant indication to the use of the plant extract as a potential source for cytotoxic compounds. The extract showed mild thrombolytic effect of 15.78 % thrombolytic activity whereas the standard streptokinase showed 76.50 ± 0.82 %. In the antioxidant activity study, the extract showed free radical scavenging activity where IC50 = 1.25 μg/ml and IC90 = 4.4 μg/ml, compared with the standard ascorbic acid showing IC50 = 0.01 μg/ml and IC90 = 3.58 μg/ml. Based on the findings of phytochemical, toxicological and anti-oxidative activity, it is evident that the plant may contain some novel compounds that possess potent anti-mutagenic and anti-oxidative activities. The obtained results support the use of this plant in traditional medicine.
12 citations
TL;DR: The results suggest that, the antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of Smilax zeylanica leaf extract might be due to stabilization and increase in all the components of antioxidant system attributed to antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity.
Abstract: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antidiabetic and antioxidant effect of methanol extract of Smilax zeylanica leaves on streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. Experimental diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of STZ (60 mg/kg body weight) dissolved in 0.1 M cold citrate buffer (pH 4.5). Diabetic rats exhibited increased plasma glucose levels with significant decrease in serum insulin levels. There was an apparent reduction in body weight and significant increase in aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin levels with concomitant decrease in serum protein levels. In addition, there was significant elevation in serum urea and creatinine levels in diabetic control animals compared to the control animals. Moreover, with reference to lipid peroxidation and antioxidant systems, there was significant increase in levels of lipid peroxidation in liver and kidney tissues of diabetic animals with concomitant decrease in activities of antioxidant enzymes viz., superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and non-enzymatic antioxidants glutathione (GSH), vitamin- C and vitamin-E in liver and kidney tissues. Treatment with Smilax zeylanica leaf extract at dose levels of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg for a period of 28 days showed a significant ameliorative effect on all biochemical parameters studied. The extract treatment also increased the body weight of diabetic rats significantly compared to diabetic control rats. On other hand, the extract treatment decreased the extent of lipid peroxidation and was able to normalize the activities of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in liver and kidney tissues. Histological examination of pancreas, liver and kidney too correlated with biochemical observations. Furthermore, the extract did not produce any deleterious effects in extract alone treated groups. The phytochemical and quantitative analysis revealed that the extract was rich in total phenolics and flavonoids. These results suggest that, the antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of Smilax zeylanica leaf extract might be due to stabilization and increase in all the components of antioxidant system attributed to antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity.
11 citations
TL;DR: The result obtained in current study indicates that BEPI posses antiparkinsonian as well as antioxidant activity which may be useful in symptomatic relief of PD and to prevent progression of PD.
Abstract: Herbal remedies for human brain disorders are much preferred over synthetic drugs because of various side effects of synthetic drugs ranging from sleep disorders to withdrawal syndromes. Passiflora incarnata Linn (Passifloraceae) has been widely used in traditional medicine in West India, Mexico, the Netherlands, and South America. It has been used as an anxiolytic and sedative-hypnotic since ancient times. The main constituents of leaves of P. incarnata are flavonoid and indole alkaloids based on β -carboline ring system viz., harman, harmine, harmalol and harmaline. Harmine and harmaline alkaloids are reported to be effective antiparkinsonian compounds. The objective of present investigation was to evaluate antiparkinsonian activity and antioxidant activity of butanol extract of P. incarnata leaves (BEPI). Antiparkinsonian activity of BEPI was studied using haloperidol induced catalepsy and tacrine induced jaw movements. The antioxidant activity of BEPI was studied using DPPH scavenging assay and H2O2 scavenging assay. The results of present study has shown that butanol extract of P. incarnata leaves (BEPI) (150 mg kg−1 and 300 mg kg−1, i.p.) significantly (p ≤ 0.001) reduced the duration of haloperidol induced catalepsy as well as tacrine induced jaw movements. BEPI has also shown significant antioxidant effect. The result obtained in current study indicates that BEPI posses antiparkinsonian as well as antioxidant activity which may be useful in symptomatic relief of PD and to prevent progression of PD.
10 citations
TL;DR: The review discusses the antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxicity and hepatoprotective activity of P. santalinus.
Abstract: Pterocarpus santalinus (Linn. f.) is a small to medium sized deciduous tree, which belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is widely distributed in the tropical regions of the world. The plant has significant importance in traditional medicine for its ethnomedicinal value. The plant is mainly used to cure the skin ailments, oral diseases, cough, pyrexia, diarrhoea, dysentery, hyper nervous activity and also used as a potent anti-hemorrhagic, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer and hepatoprotective agent. Phytochemical investigations have revealed that P. santalinus contains triterpenes, flavones, coumarins, tannins, phenolic acids, polysterols and essential oils. The active constituents of P. santalinus include alpha and beta santalol, Cedrol, pterocarpol, isopterocarpol, santalin A, B, pterocarpin, cryptomeridiol and santalin. The plant can be investigated for pharmacological activities as it has high medicinal value. The review discusses the antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxicity and hepatoprotective activity of P. santalinus.
10 citations
TL;DR: It may be concluded that BTE possess significant immunomodulatory activity through cellular and humoral immune response in immunocompetent and immunodeficient animal models.
Abstract: Aim of the study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory activity of black tea extract (BTE) through immunocompetent and immunodeficient rodents. Black tea (Camellia sinensis) leaves (Assam, CTC, India) were collected commercially from authenticated tea supplier. Black tea extract (BTE) was prepared freshly with MilliQ water and expressed in terms of dry weight. BTE (250 & 500 mg/kg, p.o) was treated in male albino mice for 7, 15, 45 days. BTE induced changes were observed through hematological profile, immunopotentiating cells (peritoneal macrophage, spleenic and thymus lymphocyte, lung macrophage count), carbon clearance assay, chemotaxis of leucocyte, cellular response in spleenectomised mice, adjuvant effects, humoral and cellular response in immunodeficient mice (UV, cyclosporine, cyclophosphamide), immunoprophylactic effects (in E.coli induced peritonitis and S. aureus induced sepsis in male albino mice). BTE significantly increased blood leucocyte, lymphocyte count at day 15. BTE significantly increased peritoneal macrophages, spleen and thymic lymphocytes count and lung macrophages count. BTE induced high phagocytic activity (>1.5) observed through carbon clearance assay. In in vitro studies, BTE did not altered leucocyte chemotaxis. In spleenectomised mice, BTE significantly increased the blood lymphocyte, peritoneal macrophage, spleenic and thymic lymphocyte and lung macrophage count. The anti-SRBC hemagglutination titre was increased by BTE. BTE significantly increased the anti-SRBC hemagglutination titre, blood leucocytes and lymphocytes, peritoneal macrophage, thymic and spleenic lymphocycte count in UV, cyclosporine, cyclophosphamide induced immunodeficient mice. BTE showed significant protection against E. coli induced peritonitis and S. aureus induced sepsis in mice. It may be concluded that BTE possess significant immunomodulatory activity through cellular and humoral immune response in immunocompetent and immunodeficient animal models.
10 citations
TL;DR: The findings showed that TF possess distinct anti-arthritic activity in animal model and further studies are warranted on the mechanism of action.
Abstract: Rheumatoid arthritis is nowadays major problem among the aged old people in the society. During the past few decades there has been a dramatic increase in the use of natural herbal products for the treatment of this disease. Theaflavin (TF) is the chief flavonoid of black tea and possess anti oxidant, anti inflammatory property. The aim of the study was to evaluate the anti-arthritic activity of TF, chief flavonoid of Black tea on experimental arthritic animal model. Rheumatoid arthritis was induced in animal models by Freund’s complete adjuvant (FCA). Male albino Wister rats (120 ± 10 g) were used and they were divided into 5 groups: Group 1: Sham control; Group 2: Arthritis control, Group 3: Standard (Indomethacin), Group 4: TF treated (low dose), Group 5: TF treated (high dose). Anti-arthritic activity of TF was examined through urinary, serum, synovial fluid parameters, bone ash parameters, histological, radiological studies of joints, SEM studies of joint architecture and cell cycle analysis. It has been observed that urinary parameters changed significantly in arthritic group as compared with sham control and the change was significantly restored in TF treated and standard drug treated groups. Serum enzymes, serum cytokines, synovial cytokines, bone ash minerals levels were restored significantly in TF treated groups as compared with arthritic groups. Histological, radiological and SEM studies of the joint/bone architecture showed restoration of the structural architecture of the arthritic joint/bone after TF treatment. TF treatment significantly arrested the cell cycle of white blood cells at Go/G1 phase. The findings showed that TF possess distinct anti-arthritic activity in animal model and further studies are warranted on the mechanism of action.
9 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the root of Rourea minor (Gaertn.) was extracted using ethanol and water and tested for acute toxicity by up and down staircase method, the results of acute toxicity showed that the animals had good tolerance to single doses of RME/RMW and were non-lethal.
Abstract: The present investigation aims to examine the antihyperglycemic potential of Rourea minor (Gaertn.) root in normal and streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. The root of Rourea minor (Gaertn.) was extracted using ethanol and water and tested for acute toxicity by up and down staircase method. The aqueous Rourea minor (Gaertn.) water (RMW) extract and ethanolic Rourea minor (Gaertn.) extract (RME) at 200 and 400 mg/kg bodyweight doses were screened for blood glucose lowering capacity in normal and STZ induced diabetic animals; the blood samples were collected from the retro orbital plexus and analyzed for serum glucose (SG) level. Glibenclamide (GLB) was used as a standard. The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was carried out in normal as well as STZ induced diabetic rats whereas, insulin tolerance test was carried out in diabetic rats. At the end of 15 days treatment, serum triglyceride (STG), total cholesterol (STC) and HDL-cholesterol (HDL-c) were assayed by auto analyzer. The results of acute toxicity showed that the animals had good tolerance to single doses of RME/RMW (as high as 3 g/kg) and were non-lethal. The glucose tolerance test in normal rats showed that treatment of RME, RMW (both 400 mg/kg), RME (200 mg/kg) and GLB (0.5 mg/kg) exhibited significant reduction (p < 0.001) in SG level over a period of 120 min of oral administration of root extract. After 15 days of daily oral administration of the extracts to STZ induced diabetic rats, higher dose of RME could reduce hyperglycemia to an extent of maximum 43.14 %. Also the ethanolic extract was more effective in reducing the SG level (OGTT in STZ induced diabetic rats) with improved glucose tolerance compared to an aqueous extract. Both the doses of RME and RMW exhibited significant reduction (P < 0.001) in all tested lipid parameters as compared to diabetic control rats and restored them to nearly-normal values.
TL;DR: Treatment with oryzanol significantly improved the glycemic status and renal function in diabetic rats with respect to marked normalization on the levels of creatinine, uric acid, blood urea nitrogen, albumin, urinary albumin:creatinine ratio, kidney tissue enzyme, total protein, serum lipid profile and electrolyte concentrations in a dose-dependent manner.
Abstract: Hyperglycemia-mediated oxidative stress is an important causal factor for the development and progression of diabetic nephropathy. Hence, the present study was hypothesized to explore the renoprotective potential of oryzanol, a commercially-important antioxidant component isolated from crude rice bran oil, in diabetes-induced experimental nephropathy. Wistar rats were administered streptozotocin (45 mg/kg i.v., once) to induce experimental diabetes mellitus. Animals were then divided into the following groups; normal control rats, diabetic rats, diabetic rats administered with oryzanol (50 and 100 mg/kg) and diabetic rats administered with standard glibenclamide (10 mg/kg) orally. Following 8 weeks of streptozotocin injection and respective treatments, fasting blood glucose, biochemical markers of renal function and renal oxidative stress were evaluated in serum, urine and kidney tissue, together with histopathological assessment. The results revealed that treatment with oryzanol significantly improved the glycemic status and renal function in diabetic rats with respect to marked normalization on the levels of creatinine, uric acid, blood urea nitrogen, albumin, urinary albumin:creatinine ratio, kidney tissue enzyme, total protein, serum lipid profile and electrolyte concentrations in a dose-dependent manner. Further, oryzanol supplementation revealed a considerable dose-dependent improvement in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and reduced glutathione levels, with a significant decline in the extent of lipid peroxidation in diabetic kidneys. Histopathological observations also evidenced regression in renal pathological alterations with oryzanol. Therefore, oryzanol confers marked protection against functional and morphologic injuries in the kidneys of diabetic rats by modulating renal alterations, improving serum lipid profile and attenuating the markers of oxidative and/or nitrosative stress in renal tissues.
TL;DR: Increase in rate of wound contraction, hydroxyproline content and COL 3A, decrease in epithelisation period and CFUs count shows the wound healing activity of M.jalapa and validate its traditional use in wound and inflammation.
Abstract: The present study was to evaluate in vivo cutaneous wound healing activity of hydromethanolic extract of M. jalapa radix and to validate its traditional use as medicine for wound healing. In excision wound model, the wound area was measured on the day of infliction (zero day) and subsequently at 4 days interval until the completion of wound healing. In dead space wound model, on 10th post wounding day, the granulation tissues were harvested for estimation of blotting of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF 2) and collagen type III (COL 3A), hydroxyproline content and histological studies. A significant increase (p < 0.05) in rate of wound contraction, decrease in Colony Forming Unit (CFU) count and decrease in epithelisation period was observed in 5 and 10 % treated groups as compared to control. A significant increase (p < 0.05) in hydroxyproline content, up- regulated expression of COL 3A was observed in treated groups as compared to control which was supported by histological evidences. Increase in rate of wound contraction, hydroxyproline content and COL 3A, decrease in epithelisation period and CFUs count shows the wound healing activity of M.jalapa and validate its traditional use in wound and inflammation.
TL;DR: The findings suggest that SSRE can able to stimulate the innate defence mechanisms of an individual and it can be considered as an alternative therapy to boost the innate immune functions during the impaired immunological conditions.
Abstract: Stereospermum suaveolens (Roxb.) DC. is used in various Ayurvedic formulations to treat variety of disorders including inflammations, asthma, blood disorders, fevers, liver disorders etc. Quantification of the bioactive compound in S. suaveolens root extract (SSRE) was determined through RP-HPLC, in order to standardize the plant material with optimal concentration of known active constituents present there in. The immunomodulatory potential of SSRE was determined for its effects on non-specific immune functions against sheep red blood cells antigenic challenge using in- vivo models. The assay included total and differential leu- kocyte counts, nitroblue-tetrazolium reduction test, neutro- phil adhesion test, phagocytic activity and delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction. In RP-HPLC analysis, the contents of dehydro-α-lapachone and lapachol in SSRE was found to be 0.043±0.003 and 0.16±0.002 % (w/w), respec- tively. Standardized SSRE (100-300 mg/kg) increased the total leukocyte count and the population of monocyte and neutrophil in rats. Further, treatment with SSRE increased the neutrophil adhesion to nylon fibres, DTH response, phagocytic activity and intracellular killing potential of phagocytesinadosedependentmanner.Theimmunostimulatory potential of SSRE at 300 mg/kg was found to be very significant (p<0.001) in compared to the control. These findings suggest that SSRE can able to stimulate the innate defence mechanisms of an individual and it can be considered as an alternative therapy to boost the innate immune functions during the impaired im- munological conditions.
TL;DR: Results suggest that pretreatment of betaine ameliorates ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury, possibly through the inhibition of oxidative stress.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether betaine ameliorates ethanol-induced gastric injury in rats. The morphological, histological and biochemical characteristics of gastric hemorrhagic lesions in ethanol-injured rats (n = 5/group) pretreated with betaine were analyzed and compared to non-treated controls. We compared the hemorrhagic dimensions using the Image J software, lipid peroxidation by malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) immunoreactivity in the gastric mucosa among treatment groups. Oral administration of 250 mg/kg betaine significantly reduced gastric hemorrhage dimensions compared with the vehicle-treated control (p <0.05). Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the expression of iNOS and its byproduct nitrotyrosine were significantly reduced in betaine-pretreated rats compared to vehicle-treated rats with ethanol injury (p < 0.05). Lipid peroxidation was also significantly reduced in the ethanol-injured rats pretreated with betaine compared with the vehicle-treated ethanol-injured group (p <0.05). Collectively, these results suggest that pretreatment of betaine ameliorates ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury, possibly through the inhibition of oxidative stress.
TL;DR: It is demonstrated that methanolic extract of Allium humile leaves significantly prevented myocardial infarct size and markedly reduced LDH and CK-MB release in coronary effluent at dose level of 100 mg/kg body weight as compared with that of standard ramipril.
Abstract: The present study has been designed to investigate the efficacy of various extracts of Allium humile leaves to limit ischaemia and reperfusion-induced myocardial injury in wister albino rats. Various extracts of Allium humile leaves were prepared viz. Pet.ether, chloroform, acetone and methanol. These extracts evaluated for cardioprotective effect. Isolated perfused rat heart was subjected to global ischaemia for 30 min. followed by reperfusion for 120 min. Coronary effluent was analysed for LDH and CK-MB release to assess the degree of cardiac injury. Myocardial infarct size was estimated macroscopically using TTC staining by volume method. The present study demonstrates that methanolic extract of Allium humile leaves significantly prevented myocardial infarct size and markedly reduced LDH and CK-MB release in coronary effluent at dose level of 100 mg/kg body weight as compared with that of standard ramipril (1 mg/kg body weight). These results suggest that cardioprotective effect of methanolic extract of Allium humile was found significant (p < 0.05) as compared to vehicle control group.
TL;DR: This paper was aimed to review experimental and clinical studies on Yanggyeoksanhwa-tang (YGSH), figuring out the recent tendency and suggesting the future prospects of YGSH-related studies, and structured designs, methods and results of the included studies into each table for the experimental studies or the clinical studies.
Abstract: This paper was aimed to review experimental and clinical studies on Yanggyeoksanhwa-tang (YGSH; 凉膈散火湯), figuring out the recent tendency and suggesting the future prospects of YGSH-related studies. The articles published in 19 journals of Korean Medicine since 2000 were searched, screened, and classified into experimental or clinical studies. And we structured designs, methods and results of the included studies into each table for the experimental studies or the clinical studies. Especially tools to diagnose constitutions and patterns identified in clinical researches were also summarized in the tables. Thirty-five articles were finally included. Sixteen experimental studies were mostly in vivo designs to show the efficacy of YGSH in stroke patients. There were only two studies for the safety. The efficacy was measured physically and chemically depending on the target diseases. Seventeen case studies mostly targeted stroke, too. The pattern identified in the reports varied from Chest-Heat congested (Hyunggyeok-yeol) Symptomatology (胸膈熱病) to Stomach Heat-based Interior Heat (Wesuyeol-liyeol) Disease (胃受熱裏熱病) or Upper Wasting-Thirst (Sangso) Pattern (上消證) of Soyangin (少陽人). The evaluations of outcomes were carried out mostly with symptomatic change except for a few studies. A controlled clinical trial reported the effectiveness of YGSH in the patients with cerebral infarction, while a before & after study with diabetes. Well-designed randomized controlled trials should be performed in the future in order to obtain higher level of evidences for using YGSH.
TL;DR: Findings imply that special attention should be paid to the use of puerarin when used concomitantly with drugs that are metabolized primarily by CYP2C19, CYD2D6, and CYP1A2, and further in vivo or clinical studies should be explored.
Abstract: Puerarin [4H-1-benzopyran-4-one,8-b-D-glucopyranosyl-7-hydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)] is the major bioactive constituent in galgeun, which is the dried root of Puerariae Radix. For more than 2,000 years, galgeun has been widely used as an herbal medicine for its potential benefits on the treatment of common cold, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in Northeastern Asia including Korea. To investigate whether puerarin participates in drug-herb interactions, this study examined the in vitro inhibitory effects of puerarin on the metabolic activities of cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4), using specific Vivid®Substrates and recombinant CYP450 isozymes. The inhibitory effects of puerarin were observed in CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 with the % inhibitions of 37.9 (CYP2C19/miconazole) for 400 μg/mL and 27.6 (CYP2D6/quinidine) for 100 μg/mL, respectively. Slightly lower % inhibitions were seen in CYP1A2; 24.3 (CYP1A2/α-naphthoflavone) for 400 μg/mL. A significant dose–response effect was found in CYP2C19. (Pearson’s r = 0.999, P = 0.023). Little or no inhibitory activity was observed in CYP2C9 and CYP3A4. These findings imply that special attention should be paid to the use of puerarin when used concomitantly with drugs that are metabolized primarily by CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP1A2. To identify the existence of potential interaction effects of puerarin on CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP1A2, and to evaluate possible clinical significances of the effects, further in vivo or clinical studies should be explored.
TL;DR: In this article, a thin layer chromatography and UV spectrophotometric method was established as a sensitive, economical and accurate method of detection and estimation of Camptothecin.
Abstract: High-performance liquid chromatography is the prevalent method used to estimate Camptothecin quantitatively. In the present study thin layer chromatography and UV spectrophotometric method was established as a sensitive, economical and accurate method of detection and estimation of Camptothecin. The method was developed on TLC aluminum plates (60F254 from E-Merck Ltd.) precoated with silica gel using solvent system ethyl acetate: methanol (7.5:2.5, v/v) which gives a dark blue spot of Camptothecin at 254 nm (Rf value 0.46 cm). Spectrometric analysis of Camptothecin was carried out at the absorbance of 254 nm. Leaves and stems of Nothapodytes foetida and Ophiorrhiza mungos were extracted, subjected to TLC and UV spectrophotometric analysis and maximum absorption of CPT in ethyl acetate was observed at 254 nm. The quantification by this method was comparable to data obtained by HPLC. The optimized method was simple, repeatable, precise and cost effective, useful when there is large number of crude samples. In the present study this method was used to screen high yielding lines of CPT producing plants.
TL;DR: In this article, Wattakaka volubilis was used to protect against streptozotocin induced diabetes in male Wistar albino rats, where the antioxidant potential of aqueous fraction was exhibited with 50-250μg/mL concentration.
Abstract: To evaluate DPPH, nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide, reducing power assay and in vivo antihyperglycemic activity of aqueous fraction of Wattakaka volubilis against streptozotocin induced diabetes in male Wistar albino rats. The antioxidant potential of aqueous fraction was exhibited with 50–250 μg/mL concentration. Hyperglycemia was induced in rats by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg, bw). 48 h after STZ induction, the hyperglycemic rats were treated with aqueous fraction of Wattakaka volubilis orally at the single dose of 200 mg/kg, bw daily for 21 days. Metformin (500 mg/kg bw, orally) was used as standard drug. The fasting blood-glucose levels were measured on 0th, 7th, 14th and 21st days during the treatment regimen. Serum biochemical parameters such as glucose, sodium, potassium, creatinine, urea, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was studied on untreated and treated groups. Oral glucose tolerance test and glycogen content of liver, skeletal muscle was estimated. Histological examinations on liver, pancreas and kidney section were analyzed to assess the impact of the aqueous fraction. Treatment of aqueous fraction in experimental rats by oral injections for 21 days showed reductions in the levels of serum biochemical markers. Histopathological studies of tissue samples further ascertained the protective effects of aqueous fraction in diabetic rats. The present study indicates that active principle(s) in the aqueous fraction responsible for normalizing the biochemical changes in diabetic rats.
TL;DR: It was observed that pretreatment of cultured cells with methanol extract of Smilax zeylanica leaves exhibited a significant cytoprotection by increasing the cell viability, decreasing lipid peroxidation, LDH leakage and increasing the catalase and reduced glutathione content in the cells.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the cytoprotective effect of different solvent extracts of Smilax zeylanica leaves against hydrogen peroxide induced oxidative stress in L132 pulmonary cells and BRL 3A liver cells. Powdered leaves of Smilax zeylanica were defatted with petroleum ether and subjected to successive extraction in soxhlet extractor using solvents of increasing polarity (benzene, chloroform and methanol). Initially, the solvent extracts were subjected to qualitative and quantitative analysis and assessed for its potential protective effect against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) induced oxidative stress in L132 and BRL 3A cell lines. Some biochemical assays were carried out to determine the cytoprotective activity, including cell viability, lipid peroxidation by determining the formation of malondialdehyde, lactate dehydrogenase leakage into culture medium, the catalase activity and the content of reduced glutathione (GSH) in the cells. Exposure of L 132 and BRL 3A to 2 mM H2O2, reduced the cell viability, increased the malondialdehyde (MDA) level, increased the leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and caused reduction in antioxidant activities. It was observed that pretreatment of cultured cells with methanol extract of Smilax zeylanica leaves exhibited a significant cytoprotection by increasing the cell viability, decreasing lipid peroxidation, LDH leakage and increasing the catalase and reduced glutathione content in the cells. These findings suggest that methanol extract of Smilax zeylanica leaves has a strong cytoprotective activity against oxidative injury caused by reactive oxygen species. GC-MS analysis was carried out to determine the possible chemical components from methanol extract of Smilax zeylanica leaves. The analysis revealed the presence of phytoconstituents hydroxytyrosol, trans-iso-eugenol and squalene. Hydroxytyrosol is believed to be one of the most powerful antioxidants. Trans-iso-eugenol is reported to have potent antioxidant activity. In addition, squalene compound is reported as an antioxidant, antitumor, cancer-preventive.
TL;DR: Investigation exhibited that P. betel can be a good lead as anti-cholinesterase agent and could be explored further for its therapeutic potential for the management of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
Abstract: Piper betel L. (Piperaceae) is popularly known as betel leaves. In Indian culture betel leaves play an important role for the management of numerous diseases. The present study was an attempt to evaluate the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activity of the standardized extract of P. betel leaf. After extraction the P. betel leaf extract was standardized with the help of hydroxychavicol and chlorogenic acid as bio- markers, through HPLC. Further the anticholinesterase inhibitory activities of the standardized extract were evaluated by using 96-well micro plate assay and thin layer chromatography bioassay detection methods. Results of the present study showed that hydroxychavicol isolated from P. betel showed potential enzyme inhibition activity than chlorogenic acid. Moreover, the mixture of hydroxychavicol (HCH) and chlorogenic acid (CGA) in 1:1 ratio have showed more potent cholinergic activity than tested fraction and used bio marker compounds. AChE and BChE inhibition (IC50) of HCH and CGA (1:1) was found to be 21.23 ± 0.33 μg/mL and 45.55 ± 1.89 μg/mL respectively. Outcome of the investigation exhibited that P. betel can be a good lead as anti-cholinesterase agent and could be explored further for its therapeutic potential for the management of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
TL;DR: It is demonstrated that CTE has inhibitory effect on inflammatory markers in LPS-activated Raw264.7 cells and on paw edema in carrageenan-stimulated rats, showing the possibility of anti-inflammatory use of Corydalis Tuber.
Abstract: The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of methanol extract of Corydalis Tuber (CTE) on the levels of inflammatory mediators in Raw264.7 cells activated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and on paw edema in rats. CTE dose-dependently decreased release of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), which elevated by LPS. The inhibitions of NO and PGE2 by CTE were due to the suppression of iNOS expression and of COX-2 activity, respectively. CTE also inhibited the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and the phosphorylation of inhibitory kappa B (IκB), determined by western blot analysis. In addition, CTE inhibited the production of TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Furthermore, administration of CTE significantly inhibited the formation of paw edema by carrageenan in rats. Histopathologically, CTE effectively inhibited increases of hind paw skin thickness and inflammatory cell infiltrations. These findings demonstrate that CTE has inhibitory effect on inflammatory markers in LPS-activated Raw264.7 cells and on paw edema in carrageenan-stimulated rats, showing the possibility of anti-inflammatory use of Corydalis Tuber.
TL;DR: It was found that RVS significantly inhibits melanin biosynthesis in a dose-dependent manner and α-MSH-induced increases of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor and tyrosinase were significantly inhibited in B16F1 melanoma cells treated with RVS.
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of new materials from the traditional herbal medicines which induce anti-aging and anti-melanogenesis process of skin in vitro. Among 22 traditional herbal medicines which were tested in this study, Rhus vernciflua stokes (RVS) showed prominent effects for anti-aging and whitening of skin compared to other herbal extracts. In our study, RVS showed the highest elastase inhibitory effect and a higher anti-tyrosinase activity. Pretreatment with RVS significantly inhibited the expressions of UVB-induced MMP-1 protein and mRNA in a dose-dependent manner, and also inhibited the UV-induced activation of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK). In whitening, it was found that RVS significantly inhibits melanin biosynthesis in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, α-MSH-induced increases of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) and tyrosinase were significantly inhibited in B16F1 melanoma cells treated with RVS. Therefore, these data suggest that RVS extracts could be a potential agent for the prevention and treatment of skin photoaging and hyperpigmentation.
TL;DR: The findings suggest that, the potential chemoprevention of methanol extract of Smilax zeylanica leaves might be due to stabilization and increase in all the components of antioxidant system attributed to antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity.
Abstract: The chemopreventive potential of methanol extract of Smilax zeylanica leaves against N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) induced hepatocarcinogenesis was investigated in wistar albino male rats. The animals were divided into six groups. Group I served as normal control group, group II and group III served as extract control received Smilax zeylanica leaf extract 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg respectively once daily orally. A single intraperitoneal injection of NDEA (200 mg/kg) to group IV, group V and group VI animals followed by a single dose of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4, 2 ml/kg) 2 weeks later induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats at the end of experimental period (16 weeks). Starting 1 week prior to NDEA administration, group V and group VI animals received methanol extract of Smilax zeylanica 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg respectively once daily orally for 16 weeks. At the end of the experimental period, the body weight, morphology of liver, relative liver weight, the levels of liver injury and liver cancer markers, the levels of lipid peroxidation and the activities of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in liver tissue were assessed. Group IV NDEA induced hepatocarcinoma animals showed body weight loss with a significant increase in relative liver weight. The levels of liver injury and liver cancer markers such as alanine transaminase (AST), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), α-feto protein (AFT) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) were substantially increased in group IV untreated animals. Moreover, with reference to lipid peroxidation and antioxidant system, group IV animals showed elevated levels of lipid peroxidation with a subsequent decrease in activities of antioxidant enzymes viz., superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione (GSH), vitamin- C and vitamin-E in liver tissue. In contrast, the NDEA induced animals in group V and group VI treated with Smilax zeylanica leaf extract showed a significant improvement in body weight gain at the end of experimental period (16 weeks). A significant decrease in relative liver weight with reduced levels of liver injury and liver cancer markers in serum were observed in treatment groups. Moreover, treatment with Smilax zeylanica leaf extract decreased the extent of lipid peroxidation with concomitant increase in activities of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants when compared with NDEA induced untreated group IV animals. The histological observations of liver tissue too correlated the biochemical observations. Furthermore, the extract did not produce any deleterious effects in extract alone treated groups. These findings suggest that, the potential chemoprevention of methanol extract of Smilax zeylanica leaves might be due to stabilization and increase in all the components of antioxidant system attributed to antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity.
TL;DR: This herb is efficacious, safe and cost effective in augmenting lactation in PIM supply, and the secondary outcome measures of the test group were significant statistically.
Abstract: To evaluate the efficacy of Gossypium herbaceum L. in perceived insufficient milk (PIM) supply. In this single-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial, test group (n = 30), received kernel of Gossypium herbaceum, 10 g (powder filled in the capsules) orally in three divided doses for 1 month, whereas the placebo group (n = 15), received wheat flour. The primary outcome measures were reduction in volume of supplementary feeds, and weight gain of the baby. The secondary outcome measures were improvement in subjective satisfaction of the mothers regarding the well being and happiness of babies, feeling fullness in the breast, contra lateral ejection of the milk, and mother’s observation in increase of breast milk. These parameters were rated on a graded scale ranging from 1 to 5 (1 denoting unsatisfactory and 5 representing highly satisfactory). The data was analyzed by using Student’s t test, Chi-square or Fisher exact test to find the significance (P < 0.05) of the study parameters. In the test group, 21(70 %), 7(23.33 %) and 2(6.67 %) mothers had complete relactation, partial relactation and no response correspondingly, whereas in the control group 4(26.67 %) mothers had complete relactation, and 11(73.33 %) mothers had no response. The volume of supplementary feeds to the infant in the test group was significantly reduced to 40 ± 75.88 ml after treatment from the baseline of the test group (291.66 ± 70.50 ml; P < 0.001) and placebo (226.66 ± 149.84 ml; P < 0.008). The secondary outcome measures of the test group were significant statistically. This herb is efficacious, safe and cost effective in augmenting lactation in PIM supply.
TL;DR: The lyophilized extract of Tridax procumbens was found to be effective in neuropathic and inflammatory pain, suggesting its possible action via peripheral mechanisms.
Abstract: The aim of present study was to evaluate effect of lyophilized extract of Tridax procumbens Linn. in rodent models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. The antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic activity of Tridax procumbens was assessed in Chronic Constriction Injury of Sciatic Nerve in rats (CCI) and Scald pain model in rats (burning pain) respectively at 100,200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o. In CCI model, the extract shows the dose dependent antiallodynic activity 60 min. post dose. In Scald pain model, extract shows the significant antihyperalgesic activity at 200 and 400 mg/kg at 60 and 90 min. post dose. The lyophilized extract of Tridax procumbens was found to be effective in neuropathic and inflammatory pain, suggesting its possible action via peripheral mechanisms. The activity may be attributed to the presence of flavonoids such as Quercetin.
TL;DR: The results suggested that NS has potential antiulcer activity against pylorus ligation and diclofenac-induced ulcer model, and might be due to its antisecretory, cytoprotective and antioxidant mechanism.
Abstract: The aim of this work was to study the antioxidant and antiulcer activities of Normacid syrup® (NS) in mice. Effects of NS (250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o., for 14 days) were studied on pylorus ligation and diclofenac-induced ulcers. Antiulcer activity of NS was assessed from gastric secretion parameters, mucosal nitrite level and mucin content in gastric mucosa. The activity of antioxidant enzymes like super oxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) in the stomach tissue were quantified. Histopathological studies were done on stomach tissues. Pre-treatment with NS significantly (p < 0.05) reduced ulcer score and ulcer index in pylorus ligated (62.20–67.50 % protection) and diclofenac (64.19–70.85 % protection)-induced gastric ulcers. NS decreased the gastric volume, free acidity and total acidity and increased the pH of gastric fluid. Simultaneously, the level mucosal nitrite and mucin content were increased significantly (p < 0.001). In addition, pre-treatment with NS significantly increased activities of SOD (p < 0.001), CAT (p < 0.001), GSH (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001), and reduced the MDA level (p < 0.001), in both models. The antiulcer activity of NS is further supported by attenuation of histopathological changes caused by pylorus ligation and diclofenac. The results suggested that NS has potential antiulcer activity against pylorus ligation and diclofenac-induced ulcer model. The antiulcer activity might be due to its antisecretory, cytoprotective and antioxidant mechanism.
TL;DR: GABA level in mice brain was not changed after treatment with 60 and 200 mg/kg of extract indicating drug may act through other mechanism like serotonergic or adrenergic system, justifying the use of Chlorophytum borivilianum Sant.
Abstract: The present study was performed to investigate anxiolytic activity of aqueous extract of roots of Chlorophytum borivilianum Sant. & Fern. and effect on brain GABA level. The anxiolytic activity of the aqueous extract (20, 60 and 200 mg/kg) was evaluated in mice. Extract was administered intra-peritoneally (Acute treatment) or orally (14 days repeated dose study). The elevated plus maze test (EPM), open field test (OFT), light and dark test (L/D), actophotometer and rotarod were used to evaluate exploratory, sedative and muscle relaxant activities in mice respectively and level of GABA was determined in mice brain. Acute treatment with aqueous extract of roots of C. borivilianum 60 and 200 mg/kg i.p increased time spent and entries in open arm of EPM, increased number of square travelled at center in OFT, increased time spent and entries in light area in L/D model. In chronic study 60 and 200 mg/kg p.o showed anxiolytic activity whereas 60 mg/kg p.o is more persistent and prominent. Chronic administration did not produced tolerance to the anxiolytic activity. GABA level in mice brain was not changed after treatment with 60 and 200 mg/kg of extract indicating drug may act through other mechanism like serotonergic or adrenergic system. Result of present study justifies the use of Chlorophytum borivilianum Sant. & Fern. in traditional medicine for the management of anxiety. Aqueous extract showed significant anxiolytic activity at 60 mg/kg and 200 after acute and chronic treatment without sedative effect.
TL;DR: The results indicate that the extracts of Balanites aegyptiaca possess biologically active compound(s) that have anticonvulsant properties, which support the ethnomedicinal use of the plant as antiepileptic agents.
Abstract: Balanites aegyptiaca is used traditionally in India to treat psychoses, epilepsy, and rheumatism. The present study is aimed at investigating the anticonvulsant activity of chloroform and hydromethanolic extract of the stem bark of B. aegyptiaca which is commonly used in the Indian traditional medicine. The anticonvulsant activity of the extract was evaluated using Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) - induced convulsions in mice and maximum electro shock (MES) -induced convulsions and lithium- pilocarpine induced status epilepticus in rats. In MES Model, both the extracts (200 and 400 mg/kg p.o.) significantly reduced the duration of hind limb extension. In the PTZ model, both extracts (200 and 400 mg/kg p.o.) delayed the latency to myoclonic spasm and clonic convulsions significantly. In Lithium-pilocarpine model, chloroform extract (100 mg) and hydromethanolic extract (100 & 200 mg) delayed the latency to rearing with forelimb clonus significantly. The results indicate that the extracts of Balanites aegyptiaca possess biologically active compound(s) that have anticonvulsant properties, which support the ethnomedicinal use of the plant as antiepileptic agents.