Showing papers in "Oriental Pharmacy and Experimental Medicine in 2016"
TL;DR: The antioxidant properties of P. armeniaca L. and its potential use as natural dietary supplement has been discussed and light is thrown light on the phytochemistry and biological activity reports published on the species worldwide.
Abstract: Wild apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) is an important fruit tree species found in temperate regions of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand states of India at an altitude up to 2500–3000 msl. From time immemorial P. armeniaca L. has been used in folk medicine as a remedy for various diseases. Apricot seed oil has been used as biodiesel and oil cake as organic manure. The plant is rich in sugars, mono and polysaccharides, polyphenols, fatty acids, sterol derivatives, carotenoids, cynogenic glucosides and volatile compounds. Polyphenols are abundant micronutrients in the human diet, and evidence for their role in the prevention of degenerative diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases is emerging. Cyanogenic glycosides responsible for a bitter taste of apricot seeds and these seeds cause some degree of intoxication primarily on nervous system and thyroid. P. armeniaca L. has also been investigated for various biological activities such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antinociceptive, antiinflammatory, antimutagenic, inhibitory activity against several enzymes. Among them the antimicrobial and antioxidant potential has been of much exploration and were proved to be highly efficacious under in vitro conditions. In the present review, the antioxidant properties of P. armeniaca L. and its potential use as natural dietary supplement has been discussed. We have also thrown light on the phytochemistry and biological activity reports published on the species worldwide.
28 citations
TL;DR: The observed neuropharmacological and analgesic activity could be partly due to the presence of (+)-catechin, (−)-epicatechin and trans-ferulic acid, three important plant polyphenols well known for their neuroprotective activity and their ability to exert antioxidant activity on brain cells.
Abstract: In addition to the rich nutritional value, date palm is also used in various ethnobotanical practices for the treatment of various disease conditions. Present investigation was undertaken to examine the neuropharmacological and antinociceptive effect of the ethanol extract of three date cultivars growing in Saudi Arabia, namely Ajwah, Safawy and Sukkari. Neuropharmacological effect was observed by pentobarbitone induced sleeping time, open field, and hole board test. Antinociceptive activity was tested by acetic acid induced writhing and hot plate test. The date extracts were also subjected to HPLC analysis to detect the presence of common bioactive polyphenols. All the three date extracts extended the pentobarbitone induced sleeping time, reduced locomotor activity in open field test and reduced exploratory behaviour in hole board test in mice. The extracts also reduced acetic acid induced writhing and delayed response time in hot plate test. The activities were stronger for Ajwah than the other two date cultivars. HPLC analysis indicated the presence of trans-ferulic acid in all three cultivars, while (+)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin only in Ajwah and Safawy. The observed neuropharmacological and analgesic activity could be partly due to the presence of (+)-catechin, (-)-epicatechin and trans-ferulic acid, three important plant polyphenols well known for their neuroprotective activity and their ability to exert antioxidant activity on brain cells. Present investigation also supports the ethnobotanical use of date palm to provide ameliorating effects in pain and CNS disorders.
24 citations
TL;DR: The results showed that AETL significantly decreased FBG levels, urine volume, UTP, BUN and plasma Cr in diabetic rats, which indicates that turnip leaf may be considered as an easily accessible dietary source for diabetic nephropathy patients.
Abstract: Today, global interest in the use of herbal medicine is increasing and evaluation of their efficacy have become more important .There are several evidence that suggest some herbal extracts have beneficial effects on diabetic nephropathy. The present study has been designed to examine protective role of edible parts of turnip (leave and root) on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Diabetic rats were intragastrically treated either with aqueous extract of turnip leave or root (AETL or AETR) at concentrations of 200, 400 mg/kg/d for consecutives 8 weeks. The effects of AETL and AETR on fasting blood glucose (FBG) and kidney functional markers including: urine volume, 24-hour urine total protein (UTP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), plasma creatinine (Cr) and quantitative morphometric analysis of glomeruli including; mesangial matrix expansion (MME), urinary space, tuft-to capsule adhesion, Bowman’s capsule (BC) thickening, glomerulosclerosis, capillary dilatation, and hyalinosis were monitored by routine measurements, biochemically and pathologically. Our results showed that AETL significantly decreased FBG levels, urine volume, UTP, BUN and plasma Cr in diabetic rats. Moreover, AETL with a dose dependent manner remarkably decrease glomerular lesions such as MME, tuft-to-capsule adhesion and BC thickening. However, treatment of AETR had undistinguishable effects on these parameters in diabetic rats. In conclusion, the biochemical and pathological assessed indicators showed varying degrees of improvement in AETL treated diabetic nephropathy rats. The results obtained in this work indicate that turnip leaf may be considered as an easily accessible dietary source for diabetic nephropathy patients.
20 citations
TL;DR: It is proved that Ficus religiosa treatment protects the brain from oxidative stress and might be incorporated of this plant as prophylactic therapy for treatment of Huntington’s disease.
Abstract: Huntington’s disease is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by cognitive and motor dysfunction, abnormal energy metabolism, and mitochondrial dysfunction. 3 nitropropionic acid (3 NP) is a gold model used to induce Huntington’s disease in animals. Ficus religiosa is supposed to have effective neuroprotective role on oxidative stress and cognitive functions. The present study has been designed to demonstrate the neuroprotective role of ethyl acetate and ethanolic extract of Ficus religiosa leaves against 3 NP induced nerotoxicity in rats. Ethyl acetate and ethanolic extracts of Ficus religiosa were prepared by soxhaltion method and were administered (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o) for 14 days in 3 NP treated animals. 3 NP (30 mg/kg, i.p) was administered for 14 days systemically. Behavioral assessments were performed on 1st, 3rd, 7th, 10th and 14th day. Animals were sacrificed on 14th day for biochemical and histpathological estimation. This study indicated significant alteration in behavioral parameters (hypolocomotion, muscle incoordination and memory deficit), biochemical (increased lipid peroxidation, decreased catalase, superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione), and increased neurochemical (increased acetylcholinesterase enzyme) in 3 NP treated animals. Higher dose of ethyl acetate and ethanolic extracts (400 mg/kg) of Ficus religiosa prevented behavioral, biochemical and neurochemical alterations compared to 3 NP treated rats. Lower doses (100 and 200 mg/kg) of both extracts per se did not show significant activity. The study thus proved that Ficus religiosa treatment protects the brain from oxidative stress and might be incorporated of this plant as prophylactic therapy for treatment of Huntington’s disease.
19 citations
TL;DR: The understanding of ginseng efficacy from Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can provide insights for modern chemical and pharmacological research and help clarify the pharmacodynamics and mechanisms of action of gINSeng.
Abstract: This review paper was considered to find out the relationship, how to bring together traditional uses and modern pharmacological uses and provide a foundation for a more rigorous systemic investigation of ginseng. Ginseng is well-known worldwide as a medicinal plant. Its traditional and modern medicinal applications have been well documented. This medicinal plant is of great value to the people of Korea, China, and Japan and has been used for many purposes. Though all the parts of these plants have medicinal value, the roots are used most extensively in traditional medicine, especially for its curative and restorative properties. Ginseng is used to treat a variety of illnesses in traditional medicine. It is most effective for impotence, insomnia, anorexia, hypodynamia, diabetes, palpitation, shortness of breath, and hemorrhage. From a modern medical point of view, ginseng possesses a variety of constituents, including ginsenosides, polysaccharides, peptides, and polyacetylenic alcohols that have been used effectively for the central nervous system,neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, and anticancer effects. In particular, ginsenosides as an active ingredient have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and immunostimulant properties. The understanding of ginseng efficacy from Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can provide insights for modern chemical and pharmacological research. Such research will help clarify the pharmacodynamics and mechanisms of action of ginseng.
17 citations
TL;DR: In this article, colloidal silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized in a single step process by green biosynthetic method using aqueous leaf extracts of an abundantly available medicinal plant Hydrocotyle rotundifolia.
Abstract: In the present work, colloidal silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized in a single step process by green biosynthetic method using aqueous leaf extracts of an abundantly available medicinal plant Hydrocotyle rotundifolia. The AgNPs synthesized were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX), Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The UV-Vis absorption spectra of colloidal silver nanoparticles showed characteristic surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak centred at 410 nm. The high resolution TEM images showed the as-synthesized nanoparticles are mostly spherical with and some elliptical in shape having average diameter of about 7.39 nm. FTIR analysis clearly revealed that the biomolecules present in the leaf extract of H. rotundifolia could be responsible for reduction of silver ion as well as prolonged stability of nanoparticles. The as-synthesized nanocolloids were stable and no precipitation was observed up to 3-months incubation at room temperature. The synthesized AgNPs were tested for its antimicrobial property against E. coli (DH5α). The MIC value was recorded as 5 μg/mL and demonstrated significant growth inhibition on agar plate. This eco-friendly and economical method may be a good option for the large scale preparation of silver nanoparticles for application in pharmaceutical, food, textiles and cosmetic industries.
17 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluated the phytochemicals and in vitro antioxidant activities of the aerial parts of C. comosum and found that the plant revealed promising antioxidant activity, and require further studies to reveal their chemical composition.
Abstract: Calligonum comosum L’Her (Family: Polygonaceae) are perennial shrub plants growing in the United Arab Emirates, and are being used in traditional medicinal system of UAE. The aim of the proposed study was to evaluate the phytochemicals and in vitro antioxidant activities of the aerial parts of C. comosum. Further, the plant extract was tested for the free radical scavenging activity such as 2, 2′-azinobis- (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS●+) radical decolorization, DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl, 2-picryl hydrazyl), hydroxyl and nitric oxide radical. The obtained results from phytochemical screening of the plant extracts showed the presence of flavonoid, tannin, carbohydrates, alkaloid, protein, steroids, terpenoids, saponin, phenols and phlobatannin. The plant leaves did not contain cardiacglycoside, anthraquinines and volatile oils. Furthermore, total phenolics content of C. comosum methanolic extract (CCME) and C. comosum Ethyl acetate extract (CCEAE) was 8.15, 4.53 mg/g of extract calculated as quercetin equivalent and the flavonoid was 2.13, 1.67 mg/g of extract calculated as gallic acid equivalent, respectively. The results exhibited a positive linear correlation between these phytochemicals and the free radical scavenging activities. Our findings provide evidence that the CCME and CCEAE posses a potential antioxidants and this justifies its use in folkloric medicines. Thus, a scientific validation of traditional knowledge been achieved in a preliminary level. The plant revealed promising antioxidant activity, and require further studies to throw light on their chemical composition.
15 citations
TL;DR: Understanding the different type of determinants, risk factors to developing breast cancer and the distribution of patients in different area which will help to build up the national awareness is explored.
Abstract: Breast cancer was the commonest cancer among the female patients who attended Institute of Cancer Research & Hospital (NICRH), Dhaka, Bangladesh, which formed the second most common cancer worldwide. An expressive cross-sectional study was conceded out in NICRH. By convenience sampling, 322 female patients were selected. A design and well formatted pre-tested questionnaire was used to ask questions among the breast cancer patients. The objectives of the study was to investigate the distribution and determinants of breast cancer among the female patients admitted in NICRH. The period of the study was during July 2010 to June 2011. Majority (71 %) of the patients was in the age between 34 to 53 years and they were coming from rural areas. About 77 % respondents had experienced first menstruation in the age between 12 to 13 years. It was found that 42 % respondents gave their first child birth in between 21 to 25 years age and among all the respondent 64 % became pregnant up to 3 times. It also noted that 89 % respondents had practice to use oral contraceptives. While trying to get their history of contraceptive use; it was found that 42 % used contraception in between 4 to 6 years. In this study we found that 90 % of the respondent’s had the practice to breast fed their baby. But 24 % of the respondent’s have used HRT and among them 69 % had used it by ≤3 years. Around 56 % respondents had the parenchymal pattern of breast in mammography. Forty two percent respondent’s had the history of disease on breast cancer and 25 % had the history of benign breast cancer and also 2 % had the experiences to use radiation. This study explored the overall scenario of breast cancer among the patients admitted to NICRH in Bangladesh context; understanding the different type of determinants, risk factors to developing breast cancer and the distribution of patients in different area which will help to build up the national awareness. Measure should be taken immediately to detect the factors that were associated with breast cancer. This study was a very little one in respect of the national situation in our country and the result reflected only a fraction of the original condition. Broad based study in large population with sound methodology is required to find out real situation about this matter in Bangladesh.
13 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the results of phytochemical screening of A. setifera and S. tomentosa dry aerial parts revealed the presence of phenolic components (tannins, flavonoids and total phenols), and saponins.
Abstract: In this study, the tests of phytochemical screening included phenols, tannins, flavonoids and saponins. Total phenolic was estimated by the Foline–Ciocalteu method, total flavonoid content was determined by a colorimetric method. Extracts were also monitored on their antioxidant ability by DPPH and β-carotene bleaching methods. The phytochemical screening of A. setifera and S. tomentosa dry aerial parts revealed the presence of phenolic components (tannins, flavonoids and total phenols), and saponins. Total phenolic and flavonoid were high with methanol extraction whereas acetone showed poor flavonoid and polyphenol continent in both soxhlet apparatus and maceration methods. Furthermore all the extracts have good antioxidant activities. This work will be helpful to explore the biochemical profile and active compound identification in the field of pharmaceutical research.
12 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, an ethanol extract of tuber part of Colocasia fallax Schott (Araceae) was tested for its potential analgesic and antioxidant activities, which showed significant (P < 0.005) analgesic activity with 32.14 and 53.57% writhing inhibition at the concentrations of 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight, respectively that was comparable to standard diclofenac sodium.
Abstract: The ethanol extract of tuber part of Colocasia fallax Schott (Araceae) was tested for its potential analgesic and antioxidant activities. Acetic acid induced writhing method was used to evaluate the analgesic activity at the concentration of 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight. In order to investigate the antioxidant activity, four complementary test systems, namely, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazil (DPPH) free radical scavenging, ferric reducing power assay, total phenolic and flavonoid contents were used. Polyphenolic compounds were also detected by HPLC analysis. The extract showed significant (P < 0.005) analgesic activity with 32.14 and 53.57 % writhing inhibition at the concentrations of 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight, respectively that was comparable to standard diclofenac sodium (78.57 % at 25 mg/kg). In DPPH radical scavenging assay, the extract showed the IC50 value of 78.94 μg/ml. Reducing power of the extract was comparable to that of butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT). In HPLC analysis of polyphenols, epicatechin, myricetin, trans-cinnamic, syringic acid, vanillin, p-coumaric acid, trans-ferulic acid and rosmarinic acid were detected in the extract (95.95, 52.14, 20.39, 8.32, 8.43, 6.36, 4.18 and 6.73 mg/100 g of dry extract, respectively). Presence of polyphenols in the extract might have attributed towards the observed bio-activity. Present finding also suggests the traditional use of this plant in the management of pain.
12 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigated the cholinesterase inhibitory activities, and antioxidant properties of the plant extracts in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in the elderly.
Abstract: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, and the most predominant cause of dementia in the elderly. Traditionally Anisomeles indica (L.) Kuntze has widely been used as tonic to brain. Our aim is to investigate the cholinesterase inhibitory activities, and antioxidant properties of the plant extracts in the treatment of AD. The crude methanol extract was prepared by cold extraction method and four fractions namely petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and water fraction were assessed for acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory activity by the Ellman method, and their antioxidant properties were assessed by several assays including reducing power, scavenging of DPPH and hydroxyl radicals together with quantitative analyses of endogenous substances. Among the tested samples, ethyl acetate extract was found to demonstrate the highest inhibitory activity significantly against both acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes with IC50 values of 176.02 and 143.78 mg/ml, respectively. Similarly, ethyl acetate extract exhibited the highest radical scavenging ability appeared to be comparable to the reference standard catechin used in this study. The IC50 values of the extract against DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity were 12.67 and 18.61 mg/ml respectively. Quantitative analyses displayed higher contents of phenolics and flavonoids (79.55 and 347.19 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dried extract respectively) in the ethyl acetate fraction. The results revealed that the ethyl acetate extract, possibly due to its phenolic compounds, exerts potential antioxidant and cholinesterase inhibitory activities which may be useful in the treatment of AD.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors provide quality control standardization of Schizophyllum commune based on organoleptic, microscopic, physico-chemical, chromatographic, molecular features and partially screen its antioxidant activity.
Abstract: Schizophyllum commune Fr. is valued for its high nutritional composition and medicinal importance. However, quality standards of this species have not been reported till date. The aim of the present study was to provide quality control standardization of S. commune based on organoleptic, microscopic, physico-chemical, chromatographic, molecular features and to partially screen its antioxidant activity. Physico-chemical parameters such as percentage of loss on drying, total ash, swelling capacity, water holding capacity, water solubility index and methanol extractive value were documented. In addition, fluorescence analysis of the powder using 16 different chemical reagents were carried out which exhibit a remarkable variation of colour against treating agents. Quantification of the major bioactive compounds present in the extract showed the following order phenol > flavonoid > ascorbic acid > β-carotene > lycopene. The antioxidant potentials of the extract were determined using experiments of DPPH radical scavenging activity (EC50 value 1.07 mg/ml) and total antioxidant capacity (19 μg AAE/mg of extract). Phytochemical screening of the methanolic extract revealed high contents of phenolics which was confirmed by HPLC and HPTLC studies. Rf values and their corresponding peaks serve as a signature marker for identification of this mushroom. On the other hand, molecular studies including DNA extraction and sequencing of the Internal Transcribed Spacer region of the genomic DNA serve as a molecular standard. The above distinctive parameters would significantly serve towards establishing the pharmacognostic as well as molecular standards for identification, authentication and quality control of the genuine mushroom.
TL;DR: Both NAC and Z. multiflora at the dose of 200 mg/kg significantly reduced MT-induced oxidative stress by inhibiting lipid peroxidation, increasing the content of glutathion, and restoring the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase.
Abstract: This study was aimed to evaluate the protective effects of methanolic extract of Zataria Multiflora Boiss (Z multiflora) against oxidative stress induced by malathion (MT) in male Wistar rats in comparison to N-acetylcysteine (NAC) Rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (n: 8) and treated daily for 28 days They received MT (150 mg/kg), Z multiflora methanolic extract (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg), and NAC (200 mg/kg) alone or in combination This study included a histopathological examination of liver tissue in parallel with measurement of serum aminotransferases Activities of antioxidant enzymes, total glutathione (GSH), and lipid peroxidation end products in plasma and tissue were also measured Subacute exposure of rats to MT resulted in a significant morphological change in tissue, an increase in plasma aminotransferases, and oxidative damage Both NAC and Z multiflora at the dose of 200 mg/kg significantly reduced MT-induced oxidative stress by inhibiting lipid peroxidation, increasing the content of glutathion, and restoring the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase Biochemical and histological observations also showed a dose dependent hepatoprotective effect of Z multiflora extract against subacute exposure to MT
TL;DR: The hepatoprotective nature of Momordica charantia in diabetic rats probably by attenuating oxidative stress and improving the antioxidant competence in hepatic tissues is suggested.
Abstract: The present study was undertaken to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of Momordica charantia in alloxan induced diabetic rats. The experimental rats were randomly divided into four groups. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and biochemical analysis for oxidative stress parameters and liver function marker enzymes were analyzed for each group of rats. Moreover, histological staining was also performed on liver sections. Momordica charantia supplementation prevented the rise of blood glucose level and improved oral glucose tolerance test in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Liver marker enzymes such as aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities were increased in alloxan induced rats which were normalized in Momordica charantia supplemented group. In addition, elevated level of oxidative stress markers were also observed in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Momordica charantia supplementation significantly restored the superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) enzymes activities and increased reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration in diabetic rats. Histological assessments confirm the mononuclear cell infiltration and fibrosis in liver of alloxan induced diabetic rats which were ameliorated by Momordica charantia supplementation. The present investigation suggests the hepatoprotective nature of Momordica charantia in diabetic rats probably by attenuating oxidative stress and improving the antioxidant competence in hepatic tissues.
TL;DR: In this article, the optimization of marigold leaf coagulating activity at different concentration of leaf extract and blood was done with Response surface method (RSM), which showed that there was decrease in coagulation time with increase in extract concentration, and phenolic compounds (like gallic acid, scopoletin, ferulic acid, quercecetin) were identified and quantified.
Abstract: Marigold (Tagets erecta L.), being an ornamental plant, posses medicinal properties like antimicrobial, insecticidal, wound healing and blood coagulation properties. Our recent works mainly focus on blood clotting activity of marigold leaf extracts. Blood clotting activity of leaf extract was examined using prothrombin time (PT) test by Owren method. The optimization of marigold leaf coagulating activity at different concentration of leaf extract and blood was done with Response surface method (RSM). Experiments showed that there was decrease in coagulation time with increase in extract concentration. Marigold leaves extract has shown very good blood coagulation property in lesser quantity i.e., in the range of μl. Also, phenolic compounds (like gallic acid, scopoletin, ferulic acid, quercecetin) were identified and quantified, which shows that because of presence of them, marigold leaf extract shows coagulation property. Antifungal, antibacterial and antioxidant activity are also analyzed. From the above findings, it can be concluded that along with antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties, marigold leave extracts are also having very good coagulation property; so, in further research it can be developed as an antiseptic with coagulation property and can be developed as a potent product in the field of medicine and ointment.
TL;DR: The results suggest that BMET has antioxidant, analgesic, cytotoxic and antibacterial activities.
Abstract: Boehmeria macrophylla is a perennial herb used as folk medicine in Bangladesh for the healing of pathologic conditions like fever, trauma, dermatitis, boils etc. After phytochemical screening of ethanolic extract of B. macrophylla (Urticaceae) leaf (BMET), in vitro antioxidant activity was investigated by free radical (DPPH) scavenging assay. Total tannin, phenolic and flavonoid contents were also estimated. Analgesic, cytotoxic and antibacterial activities were evaluated by ‘acetic acid induced writhing inhibition in mice’, ‘brine shrimp lethality bioassay’ and ‘disk diffusion assay’, respectively. Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, steroids and terpenoids. The extract showed scavenging activity with IC50 value of 39.76 μg/mL whereas IC50 was 6.86 μg/mL for ascorbic acid. The extract also showed the total phenolic, flavonoid and tannin content as 439.48, 356.84 and 395.42 mg QE/100 g of dried plant extract. BMET showed 32.91 % and 54.2 % writhing inhibition in mice at doses 250 and 500 mg/kg, respectively. BMET showed LC50 against brine shrimp nauplii at 33.16 μg/mL. The extract also showed antibacterial activity against Vibrio cholerae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Streptococcus ferus. The results suggest that BMET has antioxidant, analgesic, cytotoxic and antibacterial activities.
TL;DR: Results demonstrate that E. ulmoides has promoting effects on bone formation as well as inhibitory effects onBone resorption with no toxicity in Saos-2 cells, therefore, E. Ulmoides may be used as an alternative treatment for osteoporosis.
Abstract: Bone metabolism characterized by bone resorption by osteoclasts and bone formation by osteoblasts. Imbalances of osteoclast and osteoblast occurred bone diseases, such as osteoporosis. Eucommia ulmoide, which is a medicinal herb, has been used to treat various diseases. Recent studies showed that E. ulmoides has been studied to treat osteoporosis.The osteoblast-like Saos-2 cells were treated with E. ulmoides extract (0.1, 1 and 10 μg/mL) for 24 h. Bone remodeling-related protein expressions and cell toxicity were examined to confirm the effects of E. ulmoides on regulation of osteoclastic and osteoblastic differentiation.The expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL) was significantly decreased, while that of osteoprotegerin (OPG) was significantly increased by E. ulmoides treatment. In addition, runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and Osterix expressions were significantly increased by treatment with E. ulmoides. The cell viability was not changed in E. ulmoides–treated cells.These results demonstrate that E. ulmoides has promoting effects on bone formation as well as inhibitory effects on bone resorption with no toxicity in Saos-2 cells. Therefore, E. ulmoides may be used as an alternative treatment for osteoporosis.
TL;DR: In this paper, the standardized fractions with kaempferol from ethyl acetate extract of Basella alba leaves were evaluated for the treatment of acute ulcer induced by ethanol, aspirin, cold restraint stress and pylorus ligation.
Abstract: Basella alba L. (Basellaceae) is an Indian spinach (English) which have extensively used in constipation, urticaria, diuretic, demulcent and antiulcers. This study was aimed to evaluate the standardized fractions with kaempferol from ethyl acetate extract of Basella alba leaves as gastroprotective, in vivo antioxidant and antisecretory activities in ulcerated rats. In this work the standardized fractions with kaempferol from ethyl acetate extract i.e. bioactive fraction of Basella alba leaves (BFBA) at a doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg/b.w was administered orally bis in die for the treatment of acute ulcer induced by ethanol, aspirin, cold restraint stress and pylorus ligation. The in vivo antioxidant enzymes estimation were carried out in cold restraint stress induced ulcer whereas, gastric secretion and mucosal parameters were estimated in pylorus ligation induced ulcer models. BFBA produced significant inhibition of the gastric lesions induced by ethanol (22.82–66.30 %), aspirin (33.16–64.79 %), cold restraint stress (14.55–70.89 %) and pylorus ligation (32.89–69.73 %) respectively as compared to ulcerated control groups. The levels of antioxidant enzymes such as lipid peroxidase and superoxide dismutase were decreases, whereas increases in catalase and glutathione peroxidase values were observed. The results of our studied shown that BFBA possess a significant antiulcer and antisecretory activities probably by reducing the secretion of acids and offering antioxidant protection against oxidative stress-induced gastric damage and by enhancing glycoprotein secretion.
TL;DR: Oral administration of MELG offered a significant dose dependent protection against paracetamol and CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity and restored the levels of the biochemical parameters to control levels.
Abstract: Hepatoprotective activity of the methanol extract of Litsea glutinosa (MELG) was investigated by inducing hepatotoxicity with CCl4 and paracetamol in rats. Increased levels of biochemical parameters like aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, bilirubin and alkaline phophatase in serum, along with reduced activity of catalase and super oxide dismutase in liver were induced by paracetamol and CCl4. Hepatic tissue architecture was also distorted by the hepatotoxins. Oral administration of MELG (100-200 mg/kg) offered a significant dose dependent protection against paracetamol and CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity and restored the levels of the biochemical parameters to control levels. The hepatoprotective activity of MELG against paracetamol and CCl4 was comparable with silymarin, which was used as reference standard. The results of this study indicate that MELG has potent hepatoprotective action against paracetamol and CCl4 induced hepatic damage in rats.
TL;DR: Plants traditionally used in thrombus ailments may be an interesting source for further drug development.
Abstract: Traditional medicinal practitioners or Kavirajes use a variety of medicinal plants for treatment of thrombus ailments-cardiovascular problems. In this study, thrombolytic activity of 36 extracts of different solvents of eight Bangladeshi medicinal plants traditionally used in cardiovascular problems were evaluated to justify their use in folklore medicinal practitice. Extraction was conceded using methanol. Five grams of the concentrated methanol extract of each crude extract were then fractionated to provide n-hexane and carbon tetrachloride fractions. Phytochemically important groups like reducing sugars, tannins, saponins, steroids, gums, flavonoids and alkaloids were tested using standard chromogenic reagents. In vitro thrombolytic potential of extracts was assayed for analyzing the clot lyses by adding the extracts to the pre-clotted blood. The results were compared with the results obtained from streptokinase as standard and water as a negative control. Thrombolytic effect of the extracts ranged from 0.73 ± 2.44 % to 45.81 ± 0.34 % clot lysis whereas the standard streptokinase showed 65.13 ± 0.96 % and the negative control water showed 2.50 ± 0.67 % clot lysis. The highest thrombolytic effect was shown by the crude extract of Melastoma malabathricum leaves and the lowest by the CCl4 fractionate of Litsea glutinosa leaves. Most of the results were found relevant to the traditional use of the plants. Plants traditionally used in thrombus ailments may be an interesting source for further drug development.
TL;DR: The results of the present study indicate that VNE may be a source of antioxidant, genoprotective with immunomodulatory activity, which may be attributed to its antioxidant phytoconstituents.
Abstract: Vitex negundo is a medicinal plant used in Indian and folklore medicines to cure various ailments including arthritis. In the present study, the hydroethanolic extract of V. negundo leaves (VNE) were evaluated for antioxidant, genoprotective and immunomodulatory activity in Freund’s complete adjuvant (FCA) induced arthritis. VNE was evaluated for in vitro antioxidant activity using various parameters including plasmid nicking assay. VNE (200 mg/kg body weight) was orally administered to FCA induced arthritic rats to evaluate its genoprotective effects on peripheral blood leukocytes using the alkaline comet assay. Furthermore, the effects of VNE treatment on serum proinflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin -1α (IL-1α) and the hematological parameters such as total RBC count, hematocrit and hemoglobin were measured in arthritic rats. The results showed that VNE exhibited potential in vitro antioxidant and DNA protecting activities in a concentration dependent manner. The phytoconstituents of VNE showed a strong and positive correlation with the antioxidant properties. DNA damage in the peripheral blood leukocytes of arthritic animals was significantly decreased after VNE treatment. VNE showed inhibition of serum proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1α) however, the inhibition was statistically not-significant. The arthritic animals showed significant increase in hemolysis, which was restored by VNE treatment. The results of the present study indicate that VNE may be a source of antioxidant, genoprotective with immunomodulatory activity, which may be attributed to its antioxidant phytoconstituents.
TL;DR: The extract of C. coriaria produced an important antioxidant activity and moderate hepatoprotective effect against CCl4-induced toxicity and in vivo in Wistar rats using carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) as toxic orally.
Abstract: Free radical oxygen species cause protein carbonylation, an irreversible oxidative damage associated with diseases such as liver injury, diabetes mellitus, arthritis, cancer and Alzheimer. To determine the inhibitory activity of the protein carbonylation and the hepatoprotective effect of ethanol extract of the fruits of Caesalpinia coriaria Jacq (Fabaceae). Scavenging activity of 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•) and the radical cation 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•+) of the extract of C. coriaria at 500 mg / L, was evaluated in a preliminary test. Inhibitory activity of the protein carbonylation isolated from mouse liver using Western methodology with dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) probes was evaluated. The hepatoprotective activity of the extract was evaluated in vivo in Wistar rats using carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) as toxic orally. The degree of hepatoprotection was determined by measuring the serum liver enzymes, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and by histopathological analysis of rat liver. The rate of capture of the radicals DPPH• and ABTS•+ by the extract of C. coriaria was higher than 90 % in both cases. The extract also showed a better inhibitory effect on the carbonylation of the proteins than butyl hydroxytoluene (BHT) used as positive control. The extract of C. coriaria produced a significant reduction of AST concentration (from 1667,67 ± 394,27 to 718,00 ± 24,85 U/L ) and ALT (from 967,67 ± 118,30 to 625.67 ± 60,98 U/L), indicating liver cell damage attenuation. The extract of C. coriaria produced an important antioxidant activity and moderate hepatoprotective effect against CCl4-induced toxicity.
TL;DR: In this paper, triterpenoidal glycoside was isolated from ethanolic extract of aerial part of the plant Nepeta hindostana and was subjected to Si-gel CC and compound was isolated.
Abstract: In the present study, triterpenoidal glycoside was isolated from ethanolic extract of aerial part of the plant Nepeta hindostana. The ethanolic extract was subjected to Si-gel CC and compound was isolated. The isolated compound Napedinolside has been characterized as 1β,11α,30-trihydroxy-lup-20(29)ene-(3 → 1′)-β-D-pyranoside on the basis of spectroscopic (UV, IR, 1
H, 13
C NMR and MS) methods. The ethanolic and aqueous extract at different concentrations were screened for antiplatelet activity using platelet rich plasma (PRP) prepared by centrifugation of rabbit whole blood (containing 0.9 % sodium citrate as anticoagulant) at 1500 rpm for 15 mins. The Np-01 was identified as triterpenoidal glycoside which was amorphous brownish white powder; yield 0.64 % (w/w); mp 125–127. N. hindostana showed very excellent antiplatelet activity in both aqueous and alcoholic extracts. The minimum concentration showed antiplatelet activity was 0.5 μg/ml. These findings demonstrate that ethanolic and aqueous extract of the selected plant material at different concentrations showed significant antiplatelet activity. The triterpenoidal glycoside from aerial parts of N. hindostana could hold promise for future application in the treatment of blood clot and pulmonary embolism related diseases.
TL;DR: This study reviews various research papers and summarizes key issues in the spread of East Asian medicine in the United States through the key words of who, when, why, and how.
Abstract: The study and transmission of East Asian medicine had gathered the attention of researchers in various fields in the Western world, especially in the United States. This study reviews various research papers and summarizes key issues in the spread of East Asian medicine in the United States. The propagation of East Asian medicine in the United States is summarized through the key words of who, when, why, and how. In terms of ‘Who’, Chinese researchers emphasize the role of Chinese parties, while non-Chinese researchers stress the process of internalization. The question of ‘When’ is also controversial. The oldest origin disputed goes back to the 13th century but Bach Franklin’s year 1825 and William Osler’s year 1892 seem more meaningful to Americans. This is because acupuncture was first introduced to the American medical community in 1825. Also, Osler is a relatively interesting figure, as he is the founder of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Reasons for the question of ‘Why’ are mostly practical as the desire for better treatment techniques propelled East Asian medicine’s inclusion. Yet historically, the yearning for Chinese culture was partially involved as well as academic reasons. As far as ‘How’, Sometimes East Asian medicine was spread through books and records, and direct experience of actual practice. Also, institutionalization of the acupuncturist system and the establishment of educational institutions in America show that East Asian medicine has surpassed the point of mere curiosity, and has grown into a substantial part of American society.
TL;DR: Both in vitro and in vivo studies of Gyp showed that it could inhibit cancer cell growth and development and showed that Gyp has a great potential to be used as herbal remedy and an alternative treatment for cancer.
Abstract: Gynostemma pentaphyllum is consumed as herbal tea by the Chinese. It has been extensively studied in the past 20 years and the major secondary metabolites, gypenosides (Gyp) are known to exhibit many medicinal properties such as anti-cancers, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, anti-hyperlipidemic, and anti-diabetic. This review summarizes the effect of Gyp towards various cancer cells, and reports the five apoptotic pathways taken by Gyp in inhibiting the cancer cell growth and development, namely (1) blocking of cancer cell initiation, (2) apoptosis via Ca2+ overload, (3) causing mitochondrial membrane depolarization via caspase dependent and independent pathways, (4) inhibition of DNA repair genes by downregulation and (5) anti-metastatic effect by downregulating the synthesis of numerous tumor-associated metastatic-related proteins. Both in vitro and in vivo studies of Gyp showed that it could inhibit cancer cell growth and development. These results showed that Gyp has a great potential to be used as herbal remedy and an alternative treatment for cancer.
TL;DR: Repeated daily low oral doses of the Withania somnifera extract is effective in suppressing diverse stress responses, and its centrally acting analgesics and anxiolytics or antidepressants like efficacies increase with increasing numbers of treatment days.
Abstract: Withania somnifera is an important Ayurvedic Rasayana herb, the roots of which are often used in traditionally known systems of medicine as tonic or for rejuvenation purposes Effects of a single and ten daily oral doses (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) of an analytically well standardized Withania somnifera root extract against foot shock stress triggered transient hyperthermia and hotplate test for analgesics in male mice were quantified Body weights and basal rectal temperatures of animals were recorded on all observational days and on the 11th and 12th day of the experiment, all animals were subjected to tail suspension and pentobarbital hypnosis tests respectively Daily dose dependent efficacy of the tested extract in stress induced hyperthermia test and in hot plate test increased with increasing number of treatment days, and its dose dependent inhibitory effect on immobility time in tail suspension were observed after its 11 daily oral doses Daily handling and intermittent foot shock stress triggered body weight losses and elevations in basal core temperatures were almost completely prevented even by its lowest daily dose (10 mg/kg/day) tested Repeated daily low oral doses of the Withania somnifera extract is effective in suppressing diverse stress responses, and its centrally acting analgesics and anxiolytics or antidepressants like efficacies increase with increasing numbers of treatment days These observations reaffirm that Withania somnifera is an adaptogenic herb, and suggest that its effective therapeutic doses has to be adjusted according to the pre-existing allostatic load of patients
TL;DR: Results corroborate the traditional uses of S. violaceum in analgesia and helminthiasis and explain it on scientific grounds.
Abstract: The methanolic extract of Solanum violaceum L. (Solanaceae), commonly known as Indian Nightshade, has been subjected to analgesic, anthelmintic and acute toxicity studies. Acute toxicity was examined for a period of seven days at doses of 2.0 g/kg (i.p.) and 5.0 g/kg (p.o.) in mice. Analgesic activity (250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) was assessed following acetic acid- and hot plate-induced pain on mice model. Live parasites Paramphistomum cervi Z. (Paramphistomatidae) and Haemonchus contortus R. (Trichostrongylidae) were used to evaluate anthelmintic activity at concentrations of 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg/mL. The extract showed no toxicity sign at both of the doses. In analgesic tests, extract inhibited 26 % and 58 % abdominal constriction at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg, respectively, and significantly (P < 0.01) raised pain threshold at both doses. Fastest paralysis occurred in both species of helminths at higher concentrations (100 and 200 mg/mL). The relative index values for paralysis in H. contortus were 1.69, 1.04, 0.57 and 0.31 at the used concentrations mention above. The relative index of death in H. contortus suggested that S. violaceum is parasiticidal at high concentration. Likewise, relative indexes for paralysis and death in P. cervi proposed that S. violaceum is strong parasiticidal agent and comparable with albendazole. These results corroborate the traditional uses of S. violaceum in analgesia and helminthiasis and explain it on scientific grounds.
TL;DR: It is suggested that pretreatment with CH radish extract reduces ethanol-induced damage in the gastric mucosa, mediated partly by a decrease in lipid peroxidation and an increase in the cytoprotective radical-scavenging enzymes SOD and CAT.
Abstract: We evaluated whether crude juice extract of chungpihongsim radish (Raphanus sativus L. cv. Chungpihongsim) (CH radish), with its characteristic red flesh and white skin, ameliorated ethanol-induced gastric injury in rats. Animals were divided into five groups: normal control, a group given CH radish extract (1000 mg/kg) only, two groups orally administered CH radish extract (500 and 1000 mg/kg, respectively, daily for 2 weeks) with ethanol treatment (5 mL/kg) 24 h after final administration of CH radish extract, and a group treated with ethanol alone. Tissues of stomach were collected after sacrifice, and the gastric mucosal injury index using hemorrhagic lesions were measured. Lipid peroxidation was evaluated based on malondialdehyde concentration. The radical-scavenging enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were also measured. Rats treated with CH radish extract (500 or 1000 mg/kg) for 2 weeks experienced no change in body weight. Pretreatment with the extract at both doses significantly ameliorated ethanol-induced hemorrhagic lesions in the gastric mucosa (p < 0.05), decreased malondialdehyde concentration (p < 0.05), and increased the levels of SOD (p < 0.05) and CAT (p < 0.05), compared to ethanol-alone treatment. These findings suggest that pretreatment with CH radish extract reduces ethanol-induced damage in the gastric mucosa, mediated partly by a decrease in lipid peroxidation and an increase in the cytoprotective radical-scavenging enzymes SOD and CAT.
TL;DR: The results suggest that Korean medicine is efficacious for Hwa-byung patients in some specific scale and more research and well-designed, rigorous, and large clinical trials are necessary to address these issues.
Abstract: To assess the effectiveness of Korean medicine as complementary therapy for Hwa-byung from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Five electronic databases, including English and Korean, were systematically searched up until August 2015. All RCTs involving Korean medicine in combination with conventional therapy for Hwa-byung were included. Five RCTs involving 323 Hwa-byung patients were systematically reviewed. Among them three studies of 139 patients reported a significant improvement in STAXI-E-in and BDI than control group in the treatment group while no significant improvement in STAXI-S, STAXI-T, STAXI-E-con and STAXI-E-out. The four studies of 189 patients reported a significant improvement in STAI in the treatment group. The results of the included studies suggest that Korean medicine is efficacious for Hwa-byung patients in some specific scale. More research and well-designed, rigorous, and large clinical trials are necessary to address these issues.
TL;DR: Water hyacinth could be one of the promising sources of normalizing the Pb-poisoning and enhancing the thrombolysis in an animal model and histopathological screening showed that ethyl acetate extract recovered the highest of the cellular damage caused by Lead acetate.
Abstract: Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) has been used in phytoextraction to uptake heavy metals and trace elements in various experiments. This research investigated the protective effects of Water hyacinth extracts on Lead (Pb)-induced toxicity in the albino rat. Forty-eight six-weeks-old Wistar albino male rats (average weight, 180 ± 6.45 g) were divided into six groups: normal control (NC), Pb control (PbC), Chloroform extract (ChEx), Ethyl acetate extract (EAEx), Methanol extract (MeEx) and Ascorbic acid treated groups (AA, positive control). All animals except NC group have been administered with Lead acetate (Pb(CH3COOH)2) before the therapeutic dose. Thrombolytic and cytotoxic effects were evaluated by modified clot lysis and Brine shrimp lethality tests respectively. Biochemical analyses reports revealed that ChEx significantly (P ≤ 0.05) reduced the elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate amino transferase (AST) whereas MeEx did the alanine amino transferase (ALT) in comparison to positive control. ChEx significantly inhibited the Pb deposition in kidney and liver than two other extracts. ChEx significantly increased the liver protein compared to PbC group. In the thrombolytic assay, EAEx showed the pronounced clot lysis (49.24 %) while ChEx and MeEx showed 45.18 % and 29.13 % of clot lysis respectively. In Brine shrimp lethality bioassay, the LC50 value of the ChEx, EAEx and MeEx were 4.16, 4.47 and 9.27 μg/mg respectively and values were statistically significant (p < 0.05) compared to that of reference cytotoxic agent, Vincristine sulfate (LC50’ 0.55). Histopathological screening of kidney, liver and spleen showed that ethyl acetate extract recovered the highest of the cellular damage caused by Lead acetate. Biochemical and histopathological screening, therefore, demonstrate that Water hyacinth could be one of the promising sources of normalizing the Pb-poisoning and enhancing the thrombolysis in an animal model. Therapeutic prospects of Water hyacinth could be further studied through highlighting a dose-response study.