The anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activity of Nigella sativa

The effect of nigella sativa oil on the prevention of phlebitis induced by chemotherapy: a clinical trial

Introduction: Phlebitis, that disrupts chemotherapy, is the inflammation of the vein and the most common complication of intravenous injection of chemotherapy drugs.

Aim: the aim was determine the effect of topical application of N. sativa oil on the prevention of phlebitis caused by chemotherapy.

Methods: This single-blind clinical trial was conducted on 60 cancer patients. In the intervention group, five drops of N. sativa oil was applied on the distal area of the catheter, two times per day and every 12 hours from the first day of chemotherapy to the third day; no intervention was conducted for the subjects in the control group.

Results: Results showed that there was a significant difference between the two groups at 60 and 72 hours in regard with incidence of phlebitis. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups at 12 and 72 hours in terms of severity (degree) of phlebitis.

Conclusion: topical application of N. sativa oil is effective in the prevention of chemotherapy-induced phlebitis.

Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Arthritic and Anti-Nociceptive Activities of Nigella sativa Oil in a Rat Model of Arthritis

This study investigated the preventive efficacy of the crude oil extracted from Nigella sativa seeds in a rat model of arthritis induced by using complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA). Nigella sativa oil at 1.82 mL/kg or 0.91 mL/kg (corresponding to 1596 and 798 mg/kg, respectively) was orally administered for 25 days from the day of immunization. One immunized group was treated orally with indomethacin (3 mg/kg) as a reference drug. Body weight growth rate, paw swelling, arthritis score, mechanical allodynia, locomotor activity and anxiety-like behavior were observed, and the levels of Interleukin 6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein, albumin and total cholesterol in plasma were measured on days 15 and 25. Nigella sativa oil showed anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic and anti-nociceptive activities that were significant as compared to untreated arthritic rats but less than indomethacin. These results indicated that Nigella sativa oil significantly attenuated adjuvant-arthritis in rats and the higher dose (1.82 mL/kg) prevented the development of arthritis with an inhibition of 56%.

Development of Novel Topical Cosmeceutical Formulations from Nigella sativa L. with Antimicrobial Activity against Acne-Causing Microorganisms

Acne vulgaris occurs due to the inflammation of sebaceous follicles in the skin. It is triggered by the activity of some bacterial species like Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Acquisition of antibiotic resistance by these microorganisms and adverse effects associated with the current treatment regimens necessitate the introduction of novel therapeutic agents for acne vulgaris. Thus, this study was undertaken to develop novel gel formulations from seeds of Nigella sativa L. and to evaluate the antibacterial potential against some acne-causing bacterial species. The antibacterial activity of seed extracts was initially screened against S. aureus and P. acnes by the agar well diffusion method. Thereafter, topical gels were formulated incorporating the ethyl acetate extract of seeds of N. sativa at three different concentrations. These topical formulations were subjected to antimicrobial activity studies while the stability was evaluated over a period of 30 days. All three formulations were capable of inhibiting the growth of S. aureus and P. acnes, with the highest antibacterial activity in the formulation comprising 15% of the seed extract. Interestingly, the antibacterial potency of this formulation against S. aureus surpassed the commercial synthetic product used as the positive control. Moreover, any alteration in color, odor, homogeneity, washability, consistency, and pH was not observed while the antibacterial potency was also retained during the storage period. The potent antibacterial activity in topical gel formulations developed from the ethyl acetate extract of N. sativa signposts their suitability as alternatives to existing antiacne agents in the management of acne vulgaris.

Nigella sativa L. (Black Cumin): A Promising Natural Remedy for Wide Range of Illnesses

The seed of Nigella sativa (N. sativa) has been used in different civilization around the world for centuries to treat various animal and human ailments. So far, numerous studies demonstrated the seed of Nigella sativa and its main active constituent, thymoquinone, to be medicinally very effective against various illnesses including different chronic illness: neurological and mental illness, cardiovascular disorders, cancer, diabetes, inflammatory conditions, and infertility as well as various infectious diseases due to bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and viral infections. In spite of limited studies conducted so far, the promising efficacy of N. sativa against HIV/AIDS can be explored as an alternative option for the treatment of this pandemic disease after substantiating its full therapeutic efficacy. Moreover, the strong antioxidant property of this valued seed has recently gained increasing attention with regard to its potential role as dietary supplement with minimal side effects. Besides, when combined with different conventional chemotherapeutic agents, it synergizes their effects resulting in reducing the dosage of concomitantly used drugs with optimized efficacy and least and/or no toxicity. A number of pharmaceutical and biological properties have been ascribed to seeds of N. sativa. The present review focuses on the profile of high-value components along with traditional medicinal and biological principles of N. sativa seed and its oil so as to explore functional food and nutraceutical potential of this valued herb.

Neuroprotective Effects of Thymoquinone in Acrylamide-Induced Peripheral Nervous System Toxicity Through MAPKinase and Apoptosis Pathways in Rat

Acrylamide (ACR) is extensively used in industrial areas and has been demonstrated to induce neurotoxicity via oxidative stress and apoptosis. In this study, we assessed the probable protective effects of thymoquinone (TQ), an active constituent of Nigella sativa, against ACR-induced neurotoxicity. ACR (50 mg/kg, i.p., for 11 days) and TQ (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg, i.p., for 11 days) were administered to rats. On 12th day, gait score was examined and rats were sacrificed. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) contents were determined in sciatic nerve. Furthermore, western blotting was conducted. The exposure of rats to ACR caused severe gait disabilities. The MDA and GSH contents were increased and decreased, respectively. ACR decreased P-ERK/ERK ratio and myelin basic protein (MBP) content, but significantly increased P-JNK/JNK, P-P38/P38, Bax/Bcl-2 ratios and caspase 3 and 9 levels. Concurrently administration of TQ (5 and 10 mg/kg) with ACR, prevented gait abnormalities and meaningfully reduced MDA and elevated the GSH contents. Furthermore, TQ (5 mg/kg) elevated the P-ERK/ERK ratio and MBP content while reduced the P-JNK/JNK, P-P38/P38 ratios and apoptotic markers. MAP kinase and apoptosis signaling pathways were involved in ACR-induced neurotoxicity in rat sciatic nerve and TQ significantly reduced ACR neurotoxicity. TQ afforded neuroprotection, in part, due to its anti-oxidative stress and anti-apoptotic mechanisms.

Nigella sativaand its Derivatives as Food Toxicity Protectant Agents

Exposure to food toxins generate multiple adverse health effects. Heavy metals, antibiotics residue, mycotoxins, pesticides and some food additives are examples of the most important food toxins. The common mechanism of toxicity and carcinogenicity effects of food toxins is the generation of oxidative stress that leads to DNA damages. Moreover, based on epidemiologic evidence unhealthy eating habits and food toxicities are associated with cancers occurrence. Therefore, application of bioactive food additives as harmless or safe components in food industry is expensive. Nigella sativa L. is a broadly used herb-drug for various diseases all over the world and has been used as preservative and food additive. Based on various studies N. sativa has shown various pharmacological activities including therapeutic efficacy against different human diseases and antioxidant anti-inflammatory effects against environmental toxins. N. sativa decreases the adverse health effects induced by mentioned food toxins via modulating the action of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase catalase and act as reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavengers in different organs. Besides, N. sativa and thymoquinone (TQ) have protective effects on food products through removal and inhibition of various toxic compounds. Therefore, in the present review we will describe all protective effects of N. sativa and its main constituents, TQ, against food induced toxicities.

Evaluation of the in vitro and in vivo inhibitory effect of thymoquinone on piroplasm parasites

BACKGROUND

Developing new antibabesial drugs with a low toxic effect to the animal and with no resistance from Babesia parasites is in urgent demand. In this concern, the antimalarial, anticancer and antioxidant effect of thymoquinone (TQ), a phytochemical compound found in the plant Nigella sativa, has been reported. Therefore, in the present study, the antibabesial effect of this compound was evaluated on the growth of piroplasm parasites.

RESULTS

Significant inhibition (P < 0.05) of the in vitro growth of piroplasm parasites were observed after treatment by TQ with IC₅₀ values of 35.41 ± 3.60, 7.35 ± 0.17, 0.28 ± 0.016, 74.05 ± 4.55 and 67.33 ± 0.94 μM for Babesia bovis, Babesia bigemina, Babesia divergens, Theileria equi and Babesia caballi, respectively. The in vitro inhibitory effect of TQ was significantly enhanced (P < 0.05) when used in combination with either diminazene aceturate on bovine Babesia and equine Babesia and Theileria cultures. In B. microti-infected mice, oral and intraperitoneal administrations of TQ showed significant (P < 0.05) inhibition of parasite growth at a dose of 70 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg, respectively, compared to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The obtained results indicate that thymoquinone might be a promising medicinal compound for use in the treatment of animal piroplasmosis.

Effects of Topical Thymoquinone in an Experimental Dry Eye Model

Objectives

To comparatively evaluate the effects of thymoquinone (TQ), the biologically active main component of volatile oil derived from Nigella sativa seeds, in an experimental dry eye model.

Materials and Methods

A total of 36 BALB/c mice 10 weeks of age were used in the study. The mice were divided into 6 groups of 6 mice. Two groups were negative and positive controls, and the other 4 groups were treated with balanced salt solution, fluorometholone (FML), TQ, or vehicle (Tween80). After 1 week of treatment, the mice were killed and the eyes removed for histopathologic examination and cytokine analysis. Interleukin (IL)-1α tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, and lactoferrin levels in the conjunctival tissue were measured by multiplex immunobead assay. The presence of inflammatory cells in ocular tissue samples were investigated by hematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid-Schiff staining. Inflammatory T cells containing CXT receptor in the conjunctiva were determined by flow cytometry.

Results

FLML and TQ groups had less inflammatory cell density and more goblet cells compared to the other groups. High levels of IL-1α and IL-2 were found in the TQ group.

Conclusion

TQ treatment was associated with reduced inflammation in pathological examination, but did not significant lower cytokine levels.

A Comparative Study of the Effects of Nigella sativa Oil Gel and Aloe Vera Gel on Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats

Clinicians and wound care nurses in Indonesia usually use Nigella sativa oil (NSO) gel and aloe vera (AV) gel to treat diabetic ulcers. However, there are no studies directly comparing the effects of NSO and AV gels on wound healing, so it is unknown which of these 2 plants is better at promoting wound healing in diabetic ulcers. If the comparative efficacy between these 2 gels was known, it would be important evidence favoring the clinical use of one or the other product in Indonesia. The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the effectiveness of NSO and AV gels on wound healing in a rat model of diabetic ulcers. This experimental study involved 3 groups: NSO gel, AV gel, and controls. Our study showed that from day 5 onward, necrotic tissue and inflammation decreased in the AV gel group compared with the other groups. The wound areas on days 6 (P = .020) and 7 (P = .021) were significantly smaller in the AV gel group than in the NSO gel group. Reepithelialization was also better in the AV gel group than in the other groups. This is the first study to compare the effects of AV and NSO gels on wound healing in diabetic ulcers. Our study indicates that the AV gel is better than the NSO gel. Therefore, it is recommended that clinicians and wound care nurses use AV gel instead of NSO gel for the topical treatment of diabetic ulcers.

The value of Nigella sativa in the treatment of experimentally induced rhinosinusitis

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Nigella sativa and cephalexin in the therapy of experimental bacterial rhinosinusitis. Bacterial rhinosinusitis was induced with Staphylococcus aureus. Rabbits were divided into five groups; control (n = 6), N. sativa 50 mg/ kg/d (n = 6), N. sativa 100 mg/kg/d (n = 6), N. sativa 200 mg/kg/d (n = 6), and cephalexin 20 mg/kg/d (n = 6) groups. N. sativa was given orally for 7 days. The same volume of normal saline (0.9% NaCl) was given as a vehicle to the control group for the same period. After treatment period, sinus mucosa samples were evaluated using stereological and histopathological methods. Half of the maxillary sinus mucosa samples were frozen at -800C for further analysis of NO levels. Pathology revealed a severe acute inflammatory process in rabbits treated with saline. Only mild inflammation was determined in cephalexin group, N. sativa 100 mg/kg/d and N. sativa 200 mg/kg/d groups. The level of NO increased in the saline group was significantly reduced in all treatment groups. N. sativa may prevent histopathological changes of rhinosinusitis via decreased NO levels in a dose dependent manner and can be used in the treatment of rhinosinusitis diseases.

An Overview on Renoprotective Effects of Thymoquinone

Background

Kidneys as vital organs remove waste material from blood. Additionally, they may also have a role in the electrolyte balance, regulation of blood pressure, and red blood cell genesis. Kidney diseases may be caused by several factors such as ischemia/reperfusion injury, diabetes, and nephrotoxic agents. Oxidative stress and inflammation are involved in the pathogenesis and progression of kidney diseases. Traditionally, natural antioxidants are used for treatment of renal failure in various countries.

Summary

People usually select natural antioxidants since they have an opinion that herbal medicine has not any important side effects. Nigella sativa is a flavoring herb that is widely used as a condiment and as a remedy for many disorders. Thymoquinone (TQ), the most important component of black seeds, mainly oil, is considered as an active agent responsible for a lot of the seed's useful effects. This review describes the protective roles and related mechanisms of TQ against renal disorders. The search terms, including TQ, antioxidant, renal ischemia-reperfusion, diabetic nephropathy, and nephrotoxic agent were searched in scientific databases. TQ showed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in animal and in vitro models of several renal diseases caused by inflammation and oxidative stress.

Key Messages

Experimental studies have shown beneficial effects of TQ against renal diseases; however, well-designed clinical trials in humans are required to confirm these effects.

Thymoquinone Can Improve Neuronal Survival and Promote Neurogenesis in Rat Hippocampal Neurons

SCOPE

Thymoquinone (TQ) has been used as a potential therapeutic for diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Herein, we aim to investigate the effect of TQ on behavioral and molecular parameters in healthy rat hippocampus.

METHODS

TQ (20 mg kg^-1  d^-1 ) is administered intragastrically for 15 days to adult rats. After behavioral tests, the hippocampal tissues are investigated at the histological and molecular levels.

RESULTS

In both dentate gyrus and cornu ammonis 1, TQ significantly increases the number of hippocampal neurons. This increase is supported by a significant increase in the doublecortin expression on both gene and protein levels. In addition, TQ significantly decreases the amount of Caspase-3 expression and the cleavage of poly ADP ribose polymerase, indicating a decrease in apoptosis. Further, ERK, GSK-3, JNK, CREB, and iNOS proteins are found to be positively regulated by TQ. However, the gene expression of synapsin, synaptophysin, NGF, AKT, Bax, NFkB, and p53 and the protein expression of BDNF and nNOS are not affected by TQ.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that TQ has an enhancing effect on cell survival and neurogenesis in healthy hippocampus, rather inducing apoptosis in damaged neurons. This may proceed via ERK/JNK and CREB signaling pathways as a candidate acting mechanism for TQ.

Anti-cancer properties and mechanisms of action of thymoquinone, the major active ingredient of Nigella sativa

Over the past two decades, studies have documented the wide-range anti-cancer effects of Nigella sativa, known as black seed or black cumin. Thymoquinone (TQ), its major active ingredient, has also been extensively studied and reported to possess potent anti-cancer properties. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the findings related to the anti-cancer activity of TQ. The review focuses on analyzing experimental studies performed using different in vitro and in vivo models to identify the anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-oxidant, cytotoxic, anti-metastatic, and NK-dependent cytotoxic effects exerted by TQ. In addition, we pinpoint the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects and the signal transduction pathways implicated by TQ. Our analysis show that p53, NF-κB, PPARγ, STAT3, MAPK, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways are among the most significant pathways through which TQ mediates its anti-cancer activity. Experimental findings and recent advances in the field highlight TQ as an effective therapeutic agent for the suppression of tumor development, growth and metastasis for a wide range of tumors.

Methanol extract of Nigella sativa seed induces changes in the levels of neurotransmitter amino acids in male rat brain regions

CONTEXT

Nigella sativa L. (Ranunculaceae) (NS) has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Different parts of the plant are used to treat many disorders.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the effects of NS methanol extract on brain neurotransmitter amino acid levels.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We measured the changes in aspartate, glutamate, glycine and γ-aminobutyric acid in five brain regions of male Wistar rats after methanol extract treatment. Animals were injected intraperitoneally with saline solution (controls) or NS methanol extract (equivalent of 2.5 g/kg body weight) and sacrificed 1 h later or after administering 1 daily dose for 8 days. The neurotransmitters were measured in the hypothalamus, cortex, striatum, hippocampus and thalamus by HPLC.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Results showed significant changes in amino acids compared to basal values. Glutamate increased significantly (16-36%) in the regions analyzed except the striatum. Aspartate in the hypothalamus (50 and 76%) and glycine in hippocampus (32 and 25%), thalamus (66 and 29%) and striatum (75 and 48%) also increased with the two treatment intervals. γ-Aminobutyric acid significantly increased in the hippocampus (38 and 32%) and thalamus (22 and 40%) but decreased in the cortex and hypothalamus although in striatum only after eight days of treatment (24%).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that injected methanol extract modifies amino acid levels in the rat brain regions. These results could be of interest since some neurodegenerative diseases are related to amino acid level imbalances in the central nervous system, suggesting the prospect for therapeutic use of NS against these disorders.

Effects of separate and concurrent supplementation of Nano-sized clinoptilolite and Nigella sativa on oxidative stress, anti-oxidative parameters and body weight in rats with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of separate and concurrent supplementation of natural nano-sized clinoptilolite (NCLN) and Nigella sativa (NS) on oxidative stress (OS), anti-oxidative parameters and body weight (BW) in high-fat-diet (HFD)/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

METHODS

In this experimental study, 42 male Wistar rats were divided into diabetic (n=36) and non-diabetic (n=6) groups. The diabetic group (DG) was fed with a HFD for one month, then injected with intra-peritoneal single dose STZ (35 mg/kg BW). The DG was divided into 4 subgroups: [1] control (DC), [2] NS 1%/food, [3] NCLN 2%/food, [4] NS 1%/food + NCLN 2%/food. At the end of the 7th week, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) levels and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured.

RESULTS

The MDA level was decreased in the NCLN (p = 0.011) and NCLN+NS (p = 0.007) groups compared to the DC group. The GPX level increased in the NS and NCLN groups compared to the DC group (p = 0.014 and p = 0.034). In addition, the level of TAC demonstrated increase in the untreated DG and NS groups, as compared to the normal control (NC) group (p_DC = 0.031 and p_NS = 0.024). Moreover, in the NS+NCLN group, the level of SOD decreased in comparison to the NS and NCLN groups (p < 0.01). At the end of the 7th week, BW decreased in the diabetic subgroups in comparison to the NC group. Treatment with NS and/or NS+NCLN insignificantly prevented severe weight loss in the fifth week of the treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

According to results, separate supplementation of NS and NCLN was more beneficent on anti-oxidative parameters than concurrent supplementation of NS and NCLN.

Bioassay-guided Isolation of Neuroprotective Fatty Acids from Nigella sativa against 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium-induced Neurotoxicity

Objective

Parkinson's disease, a slowly progressive neurological disease, is associated with degeneration of the basal ganglia of the brain and a deficiency of the neurotransmitter dopamine. The main aspects of researches are the protection of normal neurons against degeneration. Fatty acids (FAs), the key structural elements of dietary lipids, are carboxylic straight chains and notable parameters in nutritional and industrial usefulness of a plant.

Materials and Methods

Black cumin, a popular anti-inflammatory and antioxidant food seasoning, contains nonpolar constituents such as FAs which were extracted using hexane. Different fractions and subfractions were apt to cytoprotection against apoptosis and inflammation induced by 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP⁺) in rat pheochromocytoma cell line (PC12) as a neural cell death model. The experiment consisted of examination of cell viability assessment, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), caspase-3 and -9 activity, and measurement of cyclooxygenase (COX) activity.

Results

MPP⁺ induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells. Pretreatment with subfractions containing FA mixtures attenuated MPP⁺-mediated apoptosis partially dependent on the inhibition of caspase-3 and -9 activity and increasing the MMP. A mixture of linoleic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid also decreased the COX activity induced by MPP⁺ in PC12 cells.

Conclusion

Our observation indicated that subtoxic concentration of FA from Nigella sativa may exert cytoprotective effects through their anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammation actions and could be regarded as a dietary supplement.

SUMMARY

MPP⁺ induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cellsNigella sativa contains bioactive fatty acidsPretreatment with fatty acids attenuated MPP+ mediated apoptosis through inhibition of caspase 3 and 9 activityA mixture of linoleic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid decreased the COX activity induced by MPP⁺ in PC12 cellsDue to cytoprotective, anti apoptotic and anti inflammation actions of N. sativa, it could be regarded as a dietary supplement. Abbreviations used: ANOVA: Analysis of variance; Ca: Calcium; CDCl3: Chloroform; COX: Cyclooxygenase; DMSO: Dimethyl sulfoxide; EA: Elidic acid; EDTA: Ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid; ELISA: Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay; ESI-MS: Electron spray mass spectroscopy; FAs: Fatty acids; FBS: Fetal bovine serum; GC: Gas chromatography; 1HNMR: Hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance; LA: Linoleic acid; MPP+: 1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridinium; MPTP: 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine; MTT: 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide; N. sativa: Nigella sativa; OA: Oleic acid; PA: Palmitic acid; PBS: Phosphate buffer saline; PC12: Rat pheochromocytoma cell line; PD: Parkinson's disease; PDA: Photo diode array detector; PGE2: Prostaglandin E2; TLC: Thin layer chromatography; TMPD: N,N,N',N'-tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine; USA: United states of America.

Phytochemicals as potential antidotes for targeting NF-κB in rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune destructive arthropathy prevalent among people in the age group of 40-70 years. RA induces severe pain, swelling and stiffness of joints resulting in bone damage. RA leads to reduced life expectancy when left untreated. RA is characterized by synovial hyperplasia, infiltration of inflammatory cells resulting in formation of pannus. Synovial hyperplasia is mediated by proinflammatory cytokines, notably IL-1 and TNF-α. NF-κB is a predominant transcription factor in amplifying the inflammatory response. The translocation of activated NF-κB into the nucleus triggers the transcription of several genes that induce proinflammatory cytokine production. The inhibition of NF-κB translocation aids blocking the activation of proinflammatory cascades. The quest for more effective and side-effect free treatment for RA unveiled phytochemicals as efficacious and promising. Phytochemicals have been a source of therapeutic substances for many ailments from ancient times. Their therapeutic ability helps in developing potent and safe drugs targeting immune inflammatory diseases driven by NF-κB including RA. This review highlights the importance of NF-κB inflammatory cascade in RA so as to elucidate the crucial role of phytochemicals that inhibit the activity of NF-κB.

Effects of Nigella sativa seeds and certain species of fungi extracts on number and activation of dural mast cells in rats

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of Nigella sativa seeds and certain species of fungi extracts on the number and degranulation states of dural mast cells in rats. Rats were fed ad libitum with normal tap water or tap water with extract of N. sativa seed, Ramaria condensata, Lactarius salmonicolor, Lactarius piperatus, and Tricholoma terreum for 3 days. Mast cells in dura mater were counted and evaluated in terms of granulation and degranulation states. Compound 48/80, a mast cell degranulating agent, and T. terreum significantly increased the percent of degranulated mast cells in dura mater, respectively (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05). Moreover, T. terreum causes a significant increase in the total number of mast cells (p < 0.05). N. sativa significantly inhibited mast cell degranulation induced by both the compound 48/80 and T. terreum (p < 0.05), and significantly decreased the mast cell numbers increased by T. terreum (p < 0.05). Our results suggested that T. terreum following ingestion can contribute to headaches like migraine via dural mast cell degranulation and N. sativa may be able to exert analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects by stabilizing dural mast cells. However, investigation is needed to determine the ingredients of N. sativa that may be responsible for these beneficial effects.

The Hypnotic, Anxiolytic, and Antinociceptive Profile of a Novel µ-Opioid Agonist

5'-4-Alkyl/aryl-1H-1,2,3-triazole derivatives PILAB 1-12 were synthesized and a pharmacological screening of these derivatives was performed to identify a possible effect on the Central Nervous System (CNS) and to explore the associated mechanisms of action. The mice received a peritoneal injection (100 µmol/kg) of each of the 12 PILAB derivatives 10 min prior to the injection of pentobarbital and the mean hypnosis times were recorded. The mean hypnosis time increased for the mice treated with PILAB 8, which was prevented when mice were administered CTOP, a µ-opioid antagonist. Locomotor and motor activities were not affected by PILAB 8. The anxiolytic effect of PILAB 8 was evaluated next in an elevated-plus maze apparatus. PILAB 8 and midazolam increased a percentage of entries and spent time in the open arms of the apparatus compared with the control group. Conversely, a decrease in the percentages of entries and time spent in the closed arms were observed. Pretreatment with naloxone, a non-specific opioid antagonist, prior to administration of PILAB 8 exhibited a reverted anxiolytic effect. PILAB 8 exhibited antinociceptive activity in the hot plate test, and reduced reactivity to formalin in the neurogenic and the inflammatory phases. These data suggest that PILAB 8 can activate µ-opioid receptors to provoke antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects in mice.

Changes in N, K, and Fatty Acid Composition of Black Cumin Seeds Affected by Nitrogen Doses under Supplemental Potassium Application

This study was carried out to determine the efficiency of nitrogen (N) doses (0, 30, 60, and 90 kg N ha−1) under supplemental potassium (K) application (50 kg K2O ha−1) on black cumin in 2011 and 2012. The results showed that increased N levels resulted in increasing seed yield and N and K contents in seed, while oil content decreased. The seed yield and oil yield were peaked at the doses of 60 kg N ha−1and 50 kg K ha−1. An increase in N doses caused a reduction in oil content regardless of K supply. Saturated fatty acids and oleic acid were slightly increased by K application, while minor changes in linoleic acid were detected. It was concluded that 60 kg N ha−1with supplemental K application should be advised for enhancement in seed yield, oil yield, and N and K contents in seeds of black cumin without significant changes in fatty acid composition.

Plant materials for gastrointestinal diseases used in Chawang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Thailand, gastrointestinal diseases have occurred since the past, consequently healers know well how to use herbs for treatment. Currently, some groups of Thai people continue to be interested in treating diseases by herbs. Therefore, the aims of this study were to (1) compile a list of species of medicinal plants and their source, (2) document the diseases treated and their frequency of citation, (3) record the parts used, methods of preparation and route of administration of traditional medicines, and (4) compare the folk knowledge to that in other relevant reports.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten folk healers were included in the study. Semi-structured interviews were used to compile data, namely plant parts used, preparation, route of administration and properties. The data were analyzed by interpretation and descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

Sixty-two species in 28 families were identified. The most used plants (11 species) were grouped in Zingiberaceae. The highest level of relative frequency of citation (RFC) was found in Zingiber officinale Roscoe (1.0). Most plants were applied for treating constipation. Powder was the most common preparation form of folk drug. A total of 174 use lists were recorded, however, more than two thirds were reported as new uses in this study.

CONCLUSION

A literature review revealed that the remaining 37 species for pharmacological activities and 42 species for toxicity should be further studied to validate the folk use of these medicinal resource.

Mitigation of cadmium-induced lung injury by Nigella sativa oil

Induction of oxidative stress and inflammation are considered the primary mechanism of cadmium (Cd) toxicity. Nigella sativa (NS) seeds and their oil (NSO) have been reported to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. This study was conducted to assess the protective effect of NSO on Cd-induced lung damage in rat. Forty adult male Wistar rats were divided equally into 4 groups. Animals in groups I, II, and III received 1 ml of isotonic saline intraperitoneally (IP), 2 mg/kg of cadmium chloride (CdCl₂) dissolved in isotonic saline IP, and 1 ml/kg of NSO by gastric gavage, respectively. Group IV rats received NSO an hour prior to CdCl₂ administration via the same routes and doses as previously described. All animals were treated for 28 days. At the end of the study, animals were sacrificed; lungs were harvested for histopathological studies using light and electron microscopy. Saline-treated and NSO-treated rats showed normal lung parenchyma. However, CdCl₂-treated rats showed massive degenerative changes in alveolar epithelial lining, disrupted interalveolar septa, and hemolytic debris in alveoli. Rats treated with both NSO and CdCl₂ (group IV) showed amelioration of most Cd-induced lung damage with minimal histopathological changes in lung architecture. This study elucidates the protective effects of NSO on Cd-induced lung injury in rats and highlights the possibility of using NSO as a protective agent in individuals at high risk of Cd-induced lung toxicity.

Phytochemistry, pharmacology, and therapeutic uses of black seed (Nigella sativa)

Black seed (Nigella sativa) is an annual flowering plant from Ranunculaceae family, native to southwest Asia. This plant has many food and medicinal uses. The use of its seeds and oil is common for treatment of many diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, inflammatory diseases, diabetes and digestive diseases. The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive review on the scientific reports that have been published about N. sativa. The facts and statistics presented in this review article were gathered from the journals accessible in creditable databases such as Science Direct, Medline, PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, EMBASE, SID and IranMedex. The keywords searched in Persian and English books on medicinal plants and traditional medicine, as well as the above reputable databases were "Black seed", "Nigella sativa", "therapeutic effect", and "medicinal plant". The results showed that N. sativa has many biological effects such as anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, and wound healing activities. It also has effects on reproductive, digestive, immune and central nervous systems, such as anticonvulsant and analgesic activities. In summary, it can be used as a valuable plant for production of new drugs for treatment of many diseases.

The impact of formulation attributes and process parameters on black seed oil loaded liposomes and their performance in animal models of analgesia

This study aimed to formulate black seed oil (Nigella sativa) loaded liposomes using the ethanol injection method to enhance oral bioavailability and improve therapeutic activity in small animal studies of analgesia. The impact of formulation attributes and process parameters on the liposomal system was evaluated with key quality attributes being particle size, morphology, and entrapment efficiency. The particle size and entrapment efficiency of the liposome preparation were found to be between the range of 50-900 nm and 34-87% respectively. Particle size distribution data suggested that increasing the percentage of oil, up to a certain concentration, reduced the size of the liposomes significantly from 520 ± 81.2 nm to 51.48 ± 1.31 nm. Stirring and injection rate were shown to have marked impact on the average particle size of liposome. It was observed that entrapment efficiency of liposomes was greatly influenced by the amount of cholesterol and type of cryoprotectant used during formulation. The stability study indicated that the liposomal preparation was stable at ambient conditions for one month. In vivo studies showed that the liposomal preparation demonstrated significant analgesic activity in mice.

Recent advances on the anti-cancer properties of Nigella sativa, a widely used food additive

The use of naturally-occurring agents to regulate tumorigenesis is on the rise. Several herbal extracts, pure plant-derived active constituents, and food additives have been reported to possess potent anti-cancer properties and cancer-ameliorating effects. The wide-range anti-cancer effects of Nigella sativa, also known as black seed or black cumin, have been extensively studied using different in vitro and in vivo models. Here, we provide a comprehensive, analytical review of the reported anti-cancer properties of N. sativa seed extracts. This review focuses on analyzing experimental findings related to the ability of N. sativa to exert anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-oxidant, cytotoxic, anti-mutagenic, anti-metastatic, and NK cytotoxic activity enhancing effects against various primary cancer cells and cancer cell lines. Moreover, we underline the molecular mechanisms of action and the signal transduction pathways implicated in the suppression of tumorigenesis by N. sativa. The major signaling pathway utilized by N. sativa to manifest its anti-cancer activity is the iNOS signaling pathway. This review underscores the recent developments that highlight an effective therapeutic potential of N. sativa to suppress tumor development, reduce tumor incidence, and ameliorate carcinogenesis. In sum, experimental findings reported in the last two decades strongly suggest that N. sativa fractions could serve, alone or in combination with known chemotherapeutic drugs, as effective agents to control tumor initiation, growth, and metastasis, and hence, treatment of a wide range of cancers.

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N. sativa exerts cytotoxic, pro-apoptotic, anti-proliferative, anti-oxidant, anti-mutagenic, and anti-metastatic effects.

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Augmentation of NK cytotoxic activity is a one molecular mechanism by which N. sativa manifests its anti-cancer activity.

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The anti-cancer effects of N. sativa are primarily mediated via iNOS, p53, and caspase signaling pathways.

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N. sativa extracts can potentially be employed in the development of effective anti-cancer therapeutic agents.

The effect of Nigella sativa oil on prevention of myringosclerosis in a Guinea pig model

OBJECTIVES

In this study, our aim was to identify the possible effects of Nigella sativa L. (NS) [blackcumin] seed oil on the prevention of experimentally induced myringosclerosis (MS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fourteen Guinea pigs were used and they were divided into three groups. Tympanic membranes (TM) of all animals were perforated and then group I was treated with saline soaked gel foams as a control group, group II was treated with 0.5 ml NS oil soaked gel foams at 0, 24 and 48 h and group III was treated with 5 ml NS oil orally at 0, 24, 48, 72 and 120 h. After 15 days, all animals were euthanized. Tympanic membranes were evaluated macroscopically and histopathologically.

RESULTS

Groups I showed extensive myringosclerosis in contrast to those of Groups II and III which had significantly less changes (p < 0.05). The fibrosis and inflammation in the lamina propria of the tympanic membranes of Groups I was found to be significantly more pronounced (p < 0.05). The tympanic membranes were found to be significantly thinner in Groups II and III when compared with Groups I (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggested that topical or oral administration of NS oil supressed the inflammation and fibroblastic activity in the lamina propria of the myringotomized TMs of the Guinea pigs. For providing further evidence to use plant extracts as antioxidant and antiinflammatory therapy after myringotomy or ventilation tube insertion, further clinical studies with larger population will be essential.

Anticancer activity of an ultrasonic nanoemulsion formulation of Nigella sativa L. essential oil on human breast cancer cells

Nigella sativa L. (NS) is a plant renowned in traditional holistic medicine systems for almost 1400 years because of its remarkable antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. The essential oil of N. sativa, in particular, possesses these significant biological properties. However, N. sativa essential oil has many insoluble constituents with properties that have not been fully explored. Nanoemulsion-based insoluble formulations are a widely used carrier system for lipophilic materials. In the present study, we used ultrasonic emulsification, polysorbate 80 and water to formulate a highly stable N. sativa essential oil nanoemulsion (NSEO-NE). To optimize the NSEO-NE preparation, we changed the surfactant concentration, the oil-surfactant mixing ratio and the emulsification time. The droplet size distribution and morphology of the prepared NE was analyzed using dynamic light scattering and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The droplet size of the NSEO-NE was approximately 20-50 nm in diameter. The anticancer properties of the NE preparation were studied using a modified methyl-thiazolyl-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay as well as cellular uptake and nuclear morphological analyses. The NSEO-NE significantly reduced the viability of Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) breast cancer cells. The nucleo-cytoplasmic morphological features of NSEO-NE-treated cells included cell membrane blebbing, cytoplasmic vacuolation, marginalization of chromatin, and fragmentation of the nucleus. The results clearly indicate that NSEO-NE induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. These findings support the potential application of NSEO-NE in breast cancer therapy, and also merit future translational research.

Neuroprotective effects of thymoquinone against spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury by attenuation of inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis

OBJECTIVE

Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury of the spinal cord following thoracoabdominal aortic surgery remains the most devastating complication, with a life-changing impact on the patient. Thymoquinone (TQ), the main constituent of the volatile oil from Nigella sativa seeds, is reported to possess strong antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties. This study investigated the effects of TQ administration following I/R injury to the spinal cord.

METHODS

Thirty-two rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups. Group 1 underwent only laparotomy. For Group 2, aortic clip occlusion was introduced to produce I/R injury. Group 3 was given 30 mg/kg of methylprednisolone intraperitoneally immediately after the I/R injury. Group 4 was given 10 mg/kg of TQ intraperitoneally for 7 days before induction of spinal cord I/R injury, and administration was continued until the animal was euthanized. Locomotor function (Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan scale and inclined plane test) was assessed at 24 hours postischemia. Spinal cord tissue samples were harvested to analyze tissue concentrations of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor–α, interleukin-1, superoxide dismutase, glutathione-peroxidase, catalase, and caspase-3. In addition, histological and ultrastructural evaluations were performed.

RESULTS

Thymoquinone treatment improved neurological outcome, which was supported by decreased levels of oxidative products (malondialdehyde and nitric oxide) and proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor–α and interleukin-1), increased activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione-peroxidase, and catalase), as well as reduction of motor neuron apoptosis. Light microscopy and electron microscopy results also showed preservation of tissue structure in the treatment group.

CONCLUSIONS

As shown by functional, biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural analysis, TQ exhibits an important protective effect against I/R injury of the spinal cord.

Chemical composition of Nigella sativa Linn: Part 2 Recent advances

The black cumin or Nigella sativa L. seeds have many acclaimed medicinal properties such as bronchodilatory, hypotensive, antibacterial, antifungal, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and immunopotentiating. This review article is an update on the previous article published on Nigella sativa L. in this journal in 1999. It covers the medicinal properties and chemical syntheses of the alkaloids isolated from the seeds of the herb.

A novel therapeutic application of solid lipid nanoparticles encapsulated thymoquinone (TQ-SLNs) on 3-nitroproponic acid induced Huntington's disease-like symptoms in wistar rats

Huntington's disease (HD), a devastating neurodegenerative disease causing a remarkable pathogenesis involves mitochondrial dysfunction and bioenergetics failure. 3-Nitropropionic acid (3-NP) is a unique toxin model of HD that are mainly confined to mitochondrial complex-II inhibition and free radical generation. Recently, several nanoparticle formulations were developed to treat against various neurodegenerative diseases including HD. One among them is solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), a colloidal carrier designed to enhance the brain drug delivery and to prolong the bio-availability of drugs in the system. Hence, the present study was framed to evaluate solid lipid nanoparticles encapsulated thymoquinone (TQ-SLNs) in comparison with thymoquinone suspension (TQ-S) against 3-NP induced behavioral despair, oxidative injury and striatal pathology. This study reports that theTQ-SLNs (10 and 20 mg/kg) and TQ-S (80 mg/kg) treated animals showed a significant (P < 0.01) improvement in the muscle strength, rigidity, movement and memory performances on 7th and 14th day behavioral analysis than TQ-S (40 mg/kg) treated group. Similarly, TQ-SLNs highly attenuated the levels of oxidative stress markers such as LPO, NO and protein carbonylsin 3-NP induced animals. Further, TQ-SLNs significantly restored the antioxidant defense system, controls the mitochondrial SDH inhibition and alleviates anti-cholinergic effect upon 3-NP induction. In addition, TQ-SLNs efficiently protected the striatal structural microelements against 3-NP toxicity, which was confirmed by light microscopic studies. Thus, the present investigation, collectively suggests that the low dose of TQ-SLNs supplementation is highly sufficient to attain the effect of TQ-S (80 mg/kg) to attenuate behavioral, biochemical and histological modifications in 3-NP exposed HD model.

A review of Neuropharmacology Effects of Nigella sativa and Its Main Component, Thymoquinone

Neuropharmacology is the scientific study of drug effect on nervous system. In the last few years, different natural plants and their active constituents have been used in neurological therapy. The availability, lower price, and less toxic effects of herbal medicines compared with synthetic agents make them as simple and excellent choice in the treatment of nervous diseases. Nigella sativa, which belongs to the botanical family of Ranunculaceae, is a widely used medicinal plant all over the world. In traditional and modern medicines several beneficial properties have been attributed to N. sativa and its main component, thymoquinone (TQ). In this review, various studies in scientific databases regarding the neuropharmacological aspects of N. sativa and TQ have been introduced. Results of these studies showed that N. sativa and TQ have several properties including anticonvulsant, antidepressant, anxiolytic, anti-ischemic, analgesic, antipsychotic, and memory enhancer. Furthermore, its protective effects against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer, Parkinson and multiple sclerosis have been discussed. Although there are many studies indicating the beneficial actions of this plant in nervous system, the number of research projects relating to the human reports is rare. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Minimization of the Risk of Diabetic Microangiopathy in Rats by Nigella sativa

BACKGROUND

Microangiopathy is a chronic diabetic complication resulting from metabolic derangements, oxidative stress, and increased pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Nigella sativa Linn. is used as an herbal medicine that exerts hypoglycemic, antilipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effects of N. sativa extract on cutaneous microvascular changes in diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned into the following four groups: Untreated and N. sativa-treated normal controls and untreated and N. sativa-treated rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. A cold-pressed N. sativa extract was then orally administered (1000 mg/kg/day). After 8 weeks of treatment, the glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), insulin levels, and lipid profile were determined in cardiac blood. Dermal capillary wall thickness was measured in tail skin sections stained with periodic acid-Schiff. Endothelial apoptosis was morphologically evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining.

RESULTS

Diabetes significantly reduced the circulating insulin and low-density lipoprotein levels and caused elevations in the glucose, HbA1c, and triglyceride levels, accompanied by a slight increase in total cholesterol levels and no change in the high-density lipoprotein and TNF-α levels. Capillary basement membrane thickening and a decreased capillary luminal diameter despite no evidence of endothelial cell apoptosis were also observed. N. sativa treatment of diabetic rats reduced the mean HbA1c concentration by 1.4%, enlarged the capillary lumens, and tended to attenuate dermal capillary basement membrane thickening without affecting the lipid profile or TNF-α level.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that N. sativa may be used to minimize the risk of diabetic microangiopathy, potentially due in part to its glycemic control activity.

SUMMARY

Diabetes causes dermal capillary basement membrane thickening and a decreased capillary luminal diameterNigella sativa treatment of diabetic rats enlarged the capillary lumens and tended to attenuate dermal capillary basement membrane thickeningN. sativa treatment of diabetic rats reduced the mean glycosylated hemoglobin concentration by 1.4%, which exceeds the necessary reduction previously described to decrease the risk of diabetic microangiopathy, without affecting the lipid profile or tumor necrosis factor-alpha levelN. sativa improves rat diabetic microangiopathy, potentially due in part to its glycemic control activity. Abbreviations used: H and E: Hematoxylin and eosin, HbA1c: Glycosylated hemoglobin, HDL-C: High-density lipoprotein cholesterol, LDL-C: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, PAS: Periodic acid-Schiff, STZ: Streptozotocin.

Effects of Nigella sativa supplementation on blood parameters and anthropometric indices in adults: A systematic review on clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) has been used in traditional medicine and several studies have been performed in the last decades to reveal the effects of it on different medical disorders such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and obesity. We evaluated the effects of N. sativa supplementation on lipid profiles, glycemic control, blood pressure (BP), and some anthropometric indices in humans.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A search on published studies was done by using databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Thomas Reuters Web of Science, and Cochrane. Medical subject headings (MeSH) terms searched included "N. sativa," "Black seed," "Black cumin," "kalonji," and "Triglycerides," "Cholesterol," "Lipoproteins," "LDL," "Lipoproteins," "HDL," "Blood glucose," "Hemoglobin A," "Glycosylated," "Blood pressure," "Body mass index," "Waist circumference". Initially 515 articles were extracted. Four hundred ninety-two papers that were unrelated, reviews, animal studies, and combined and duplicated studies were excluded, 23 articles were eligible for this review.

RESULTS

After analyzing 23 articles including 1531 participants, these results were achieved: In 4 trials, N. sativa reduced BP, but in 5 trials it could not. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) was reduced significantly in 13 studies. In addition, N. sativa reduced levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Although weight and waist circumference (WC) in 2 articles were reduced significantly, in 6 articles they were not. Fluctuation in lipid profile in the articles was very controversial, being significant in many of them but not in others.

CONCLUSION

Our systematic review revealed that N. sativa supplementation might be effective in glycemic control in humans.

Study on the effect of black cumin (Nigella sativa Linn.) on experimental renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of Black cumin (Nigella sativa Linn.) pre-treatment on renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) induced injury in the rats.

METHODS

A total of 40 male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into five equal groups including Sham, I/R model and three I/R+ Black cumin (0.5, 1 and 2%)-treated groups. I/R groups' kidneys were subjected to 60 min of global ischemia at 37°C followed by 24 h of reperfusion. At the end of reperfusion period, the rats were euthanized. Superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities as well as reduced glutathione and renal malondialdehyde contents were determined in renal tissues. Kidney function tests and histopathological examination were also performed.

RESULTS

High serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and uric acid as well as malondialhehyde (MDA) levels, and low antioxidant enzyme activities were observed in I/R rats compared to the sham rats. Pre-treatment with Black cumin for three weeks prior to IR operation improved renal function and reduced I/R induced renal inflammation and oxidative injury. These biochemical observations were supported by histopathological test of kidney sections.

CONCLUSION

Black cumin significantly prevented renal ischemia/reperfusion induced functional and histological injuries.

Traditionally used herbal medicines with antibacterial effect on Aggegatibacter actinomycetemcomitans: Boswellia serrata and Nigella sativa

Background:

Since bacterial strains developed resistance against commonly used antibiotics and side effects became more serious, other alternatives have been postulated. There is an answer for this issue in ancient medicine. Many plants have been proved to provide antibacterial effect. In this study, Boswellia serrata (BS) and Nigella sativa (NS) were assessed to evaluate the antibacterial effect on Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A.a) known as main pathogen of aggressive periodontitis.

Materials and Methods:

Broth microdilution method was used to obtain minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of crude extract of BS and NS. Furthermore, the logarithm of colony forming units grown in fresh brain heart infusion bacterial culture was assessed. Three groups including BS+ (containing only BS), NS+ (containing only NS), and BS-NS− (control group) were defined. For each group, the experiment was repeated 12 times.

Results:

MIC of BS and NS were 512 μg/mL and 128 μg/mL, respectively. No growth was observed in our negative control group. The mean ± standard deviation of logarithm of CFU/mL for BS, NS, and control group was 4.32 ± 0.36, 3.61 ± 0.3, and 5.57 ± 0.19, respectively. ANOVA test revealed significant difference (P values < 0.0001) of these groups which was later confirmed using the post hoc test of Tukey's honest significant difference (all P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

Both BS and NS are effective against A.a which should be taken into account as appropriate ingredient for oral hygiene products.

Antipyretic and antimalarial activities of Solenostemon monostachyus

CONTEXT

Solenostemon monostachyus P. Beauv (Lamiaceae) is an important herb used traditionally in the treatment of malaria, fever, and other diseases.

OBJECTIVES

Antiplasmodial and antipyretic activities of S. monostachyus aerial extract were evaluated to ascertain the folkloric claim of its antimalarial and antipyretic activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The extract (75-225 mg/kg) and fractions (chloroform and aqueous; 150 mg/kg) of S. monostachyus were investigated for suppressive, prophylactic, and curative antiplasmodial activities against chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium berghei infections in Swiss albino mice and for antipyretic activity against 2,4-dinitrophenol and yeast-induced pyrexia. Artesunate (5 mg/kg) and pyrimethamine (1.2 mg/kg) were used as positive controls for antiplasmodial models. Thin films made from tail blood of each mouse were used to assess the level of parasitaemia of the mice.

RESULTS

The extract/fractions progressively reduced parasitaemia induced by chloroquine sensitive P. berghei infection in prophylactic (28.48-71.72%), suppressive (12.52-72.47%), and curative (22.4-82.34%) models in mice. These reductions were statistically significant (p < 0.01-0.001). They also improved significantly (p < 0.01-0.001) the mean survival time (MST) from 12.26 to 25.63 d relative to control (11.36 d). The activities of extract/fractions were incomparable with that of the standard drugs used (artesunate and pyrimethamine). The extract exerted prominent inhibition of pyrexia on dinitrophenol (87.33-90.11%, 5 h) and yeast (56.22-65.33, 5 h) induced pyrexia. Inhibition was significant (p < 0.05-0.001) from 3 to 5 h post-administration of extract and in a dose-dependent fashion.

CONCLUSION

The plant may possess antiplasmodial and antipyretic effects which may in part be mediated through the chemical constituents of the plant.