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

Antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects of topotecan in combination with thymoquinone on acute myelogenous leukemia

BACKGROUND

Topotecan has shown promising antineoplastic activity in solid tumors and acute leukemia. Because of the primary dose-limiting toxicity of topotecan, it is necessary to identify other agents that can work synergistically with topotecan, potentially increasing its efficacy while limiting its toxicity. Many studies showed synergism in combination of topotecan with gemcitabine and bortezomib. Other studies report the increase in growth inhibition of gemcitabine or oxaliplatin when cells were preexposed to naturally occurring drugs such as thymoquinone. The aim of this project was to study the mode of action of topotecan along with thymoquinone, on survival and apoptosis pathways in acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) cell lines, and to investigate the potential synergistic effect of thymoquinone on topotecan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

U937 cells were incubated with different topotecan and thymoquinone concentrations for 24 and 48 hours, separately and in combination. Cell proliferation was determined using WST-1 (Roche) reagent. The effect of the compounds on protein expression of Bax, Bcl2, p53, caspase-9, -8, and -3 was determined using Western blot analysis. Cell cycle analysis was performed in addition to annexin/propidium iodide staining.

RESULTS

Thymoquinone and topotecan exhibited antiproliferative effects on U937 cells when applied separately. In combination, the reduction in proliferation was extremely significant with a major increase in the expression levels of Bax/Bcl2, p53, and caspase-3 and -9. Preexposure with thymoquinone resulted in an increase in cell growth inhibition compared with topotecan treatment.

CONCLUSION

Thymoquinone, when combined with topotecan in noncytotoxic doses, produced synergistic antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects in AML cells. Preexposure to thymoquinone seems to be more effective than simultaneous application with topotecan.

Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory action of Nigella sativa and thymoquinone: A comprehensive review

Many herbal products are now used as remedies to treat various infectious and non-infectious conditions. Even though the use of herbs and natural products is much more evident in the Eastern world, their use in Western cultures is continuously increasing. Although the immunomodulatory effects of some herbs have been extensively studied, research related to possible immunomodulatory effects of many herbs and various spices is relatively scarce. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of Nigella sativa, also known as black seed or black cumin, and its major active ingredient, thymoquinone (TQ). This review article focuses on analyzing in vitro and in vivo experimental findings that were reported with regard to the ability of N. sativa and TQ to modulate inflammation, cellular and humoral adaptive immune responses, and Th1/Th2 paradigm. The reported capability of N. sativa to augment the cytotoxic activity of natural killer (NK) cells against cancer cells is also emphasized. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying such immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of N. sativa and TQ are highlighted. Moreover, the signal transduction pathways implicated in the immunoregulatory functions of N. sativa and TQ are underscored. Experimental evidence suggests that N. sativa extracts and TQ can potentially be employed in the development of effective therapeutic agents towards the regulation of immune reactions implicated in various infectious and non-infectious conditions including different types of allergy, autoimmunity, and cancer.

Pharmacological evidence for the folk use of Nefang: antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of its constituent plants

Background

Nefang is a polyherbal anti-malarial composed of Mangifera indica (MiB and MiL; bark and leaf), Psidium guajava (Pg), Carica papaya (Cp), Cymbopogon citratus (Cc), Citrus sinensis (Cs) and Ocimum gratissimum (Og) (leaves). Previous studies have demonstrated its in vitro and in vivo antiplasmodial activities, antioxidant properties and safety profile. This study aimed at evaluating the antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of the constituent plants of Nefang which are relevant to the symptomatic treatment of malaria fever.

Methods

Antipyretic activities were determined by the D-Amphetamine induced pyrexia and Brewer’s Yeast induced hyperpyrexia methods. Anti-inflammatory activities were investigated using the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema method. Antinociceptive activities were determined by mechanical nociception in the tail pressure and thermal nociception in the radiant heat tail flick and hot plate methods. Data was analysed using the one way ANOVA followed by Neuman-Keuls multiple comparison test.

Results

Best percentage inhibition of induced pyrexia (amphetamine/brewer’s yeast; p < 0.05) was exhibited by Cc (95/97) followed by Og (85/94), MiL (90/89), MiB (88/84) and Cs (82/89). Cc and Og exhibited comparable activities to paracetamol (100/95).

Anti-inflammatory studies revealed paw edema inhibition (%) as follows (p < 0.05): Indomethacin (47), MiL (40), Cp (30), MiB (28) and Og (22), suggesting best activity by MiL.

Antinociceptive studies revealed significant (p < 0.01) pain inhibition (%) as follows: Paracetamol (97), Og (113), MiL (108), Pg (84) and MiB (88). Og and MiL exhibited the best activities.

Conclusion

The results obtained suggest that the constituent plants possess biologically active compounds with antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities. These activities are essential in the symptomatic treatment of malaria fever, thereby justifying the folk use of Nefang. This would be useful in its subsequent development for clinical application.

Comparative Studies on Polyphenolic Composition, Antioxidant and Diuretic Effects of Nigella sativa L. (Black Cumin) and Nigella damascena L. (Lady-in-a-Mist) Seeds

This study was performed to evaluate the phenolic profile, antioxidant and diuretic effects of black cumin and lady-in-a-mist seeds. In the phenolic profile, differences between the two species are significant. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of the phenolic compounds were performed using a HPLC-UV/MS method. Hyperoside was the only identified flavonoid glycoside (1.08 ± 0.01 μg∙g⁻¹ dw plant material), in the N. damascena extract. Regarding the flavonol profile, kaempferol was identified before the hydrolysis, only in the N. sativa extract (6.06 ± 0.02 μg∙g⁻¹ dw plant material) and quercetin only in N. damascena seeds (14.35 ± 0.02 μg∙g⁻¹ dw plant material). The antioxidant potential of the two species was tested through several electron transfer assays, which indicated, excepting for the FRAP assay, N. damascena as exhibiting a higher free radical scavenging activity. The diuretic activity of the two extracts was tested using a rat-experimental model on acute diuresis. Administration of the ethanolic extract of N. sativa (100 mg∙kg⁻¹) resulted in a significant increase in urine volume, although less than found with the reference drug; in addition N. damascena extract did not present a diuretic effect. In reference to the elimination of Na⁺, K⁺ and uric acid, the black cumin extract exhibited a higher natriuretic than kaluretic effect and a similar uricosuric effect with control and N. damascena. For N. damascena, the Na⁺/K⁺ ratio was sub unitary, but not due to an increasing of the kaluretic effect, but mostly to a decrease of Na⁺ excretion.

Antinociceptive effect of hydantoin 3-phenyl-5-(4-ethylphenyl)-imidazolidine-2,4-dione in mice

Imidazolidine derivatives, or hydantoins, are synthetic compounds with different therapeutic applications. Many imidazolidine derivatives have psychopharmacological properties, such as phenytoin, famous for its anticonvulsant efficacy, but also effective in the treatment of neuropathic pain. The hydantoin, 3-phenyl-5-(4-ethylphenyl)-imidazolidine-2,4-dione (IM-3), synthesized from the amino acid, glycine, was selected for psychopharmacological studies in mice on the basis of its chemical and structural similarity with phenytoin. The first step of this study was to define the LD₅₀, which determined the doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg for subsequent tests. The results obtained from the behavioral screening indicated that IM-3 produces decreased ambulation and analgesia in mice. Motor coordination and anxiety behavior were not affected by treatment with IM-3, as observed in the rotarod and elevated plus-maze tests, respectively. Regarding its antinociceptive properties, IM-3 showed efficacy in the acetic acid-induced writhing test by increasing the latency of the first writhe and reducing the number of writhes, as well as reducing the paw licking time in the second phase of the formalin test. The behavior of treated animals exposed to the hot plate test, however, did not differ from that of the control group. These data suggest that IM-3 has antinociceptive effects in mice, which is probably mediated by anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

A review of hepatoprotective plants used in saudi traditional medicine

Liver disease is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality across the world. According to WHO estimates, about 500 million people are living with chronic hepatitis infections resulting in the death of over one million people annually. Medicinal plants serve as a vital source of potentially useful new compounds for the development of effective therapy to combat liver problems. Moreover herbal products have the advantage of better affordability and acceptability, better compatibility with the human body, and minimal side effects and is easier to store. In this review attempt has been made to summarize the scientific data published on hepatoprotective plants used in Saudi Arabian traditional medicine. The information includes medicinal uses of the plants, distribution in Saudi Arabia, ethnopharmacological profile, possible mechanism of action, chemical constituents, and toxicity data. Comprehensive scientific studies on safety and efficacy of these plants can revitalise the treatment of liver diseases.

Bio-active nanoemulsions enriched with gold nanoparticle, marigold extracts and lipoic acid: In vitro investigations

A novel and efficient approach for the preparation of enriched herbal formulations was described and their potential applications including wound healing and antioxidant activity (cell based and cell free) were investigated via in vitro cell culture studies. Nigella sativa oil was enriched with Calendula officinalis extract and lipoic acid capped gold nanoparticles (AuNP-LA) using nanoemulsion systems. The combination of these bio-active compounds was used to design oil in water (O/W) and water in oil (W/O) emulsions. The resulted emulsions were characterized by particle size measurements. The phenolic content of each nanoemulsion was examined by using both colorimetric assay and chromatographic analyses. Two different methods containing cell free chemical assay (1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl method) and cell based antioxidant activity test were used to evaluate the antioxidant capacities. In order to investigate the bio-activities of the herbal formulations, in vitro cell culture experiments, including cytotoxicity, scratch assay, antioxidant activity and cell proliferation were carried out using Vero cell line as a model cell line. Furthermore, to monitor localization of the nanoemulsions after application of the cell culture, the cell images were monitored via fluorescence microscope after FITC labeling. All data confirmed that the enriched N. sativa formulations exhibited better antioxidant and wound healing activity than N. sativa emulsion without any enrichment. In conclusion, the incorporation of AuNP-LA and C. officinalis extract into the N. sativa emulsions significantly increased the bio-activities. The present work may support further studies about using the other bio-active agents for the enrichment of herbal preparations to strengthen their activities.

Pharmacokinetic plasma behaviors of intravenous and oral bioavailability of thymoquinone in a rabbit model

Thymoquinone (THQ), the active constituent of Nigella sativa seeds, has demonstrated some potential pharmacological activities. The present study was designed to investigate the pharmacokinetic behavior of THQ following intravenous (IV) and oral (PO) administration using an animal model. THQ was given vascularly (5 mg/kg IV) and extravascularly (20 mg/kg PO) to Vole rabbits, and blood samples were collected at predetermined time points. The concentrations of THQ in plasma were measured by a high-performance liquid chromatography, and the pharmacokinetic parameters were determined using both compartmental and non-compartmental analyses. The calculated clearance (CL) following IV administration was 7.19 ± 0.83 ml/kg/min, and the estimated volume of distribution at steady state (V ss) was 700.90 ± 55.01 ml/kg. Whereas with PO dosing, apparent CL/F value was 12.30 ± 0.30 ml/min/kg and V ss/F was 5,109.46 ± 196.08 ml/kg. These parameters were associated with an elimination half-life (T 1/2) of 63.43 ± 10.69 and 274.61 ± 8.48 min with IV and PO dosing, respectively. The calculated absorption T 1/2 was about 217 min. Compartmental analysis revealed T 1/2α of ~8.9 min and T 1/2β of ~86.6 min. The calculated absolute bioavailability of THQ was ~58 % with a lag time of ~23 min. The estimated THQ protein binding was >99 %. Therefore, THQ represents a compound with rapid elimination and relatively slower absorption following PO administration.

Hormetic/cytotoxic effects of Nigella sativa seed alcoholic and aqueous extracts on MCF-7 breast cancer cells alone or in combination with doxorubicin

In this study, we investigate the possible cytotoxic effects of different Nigella sativa seed extracts on human MCF-7 breast cancer cells and screening the effects of a wide range of extracts concentrations and their application as an adjuvant therapy to doxorubicin. The results obtained showed that the cytotoxic solvent dimethyl sulfoxide can be used for permeation assay in concentration range 697.5-0.341 mmol/ml without affecting the viability of MCF-7 cells. N. sativa lipid extract is cytotoxic to MCF-7 cells with LC50 of 2.72 ± 0.232 mg/ml, while its aqueous extract cytotoxicity exhibited when the applied concentration is high as ≈ 50 mg/ml. The results of this study reveal for the first time that low concentrations of aqueous extract of the seed has a hormetic rather than cytotoxic effect. It is also possible to use cell culture medium or bovine serum to dilute the oil extract for the permeation assay. In conclusion, N. sativa aqueous extract should not be used as antitumor compound by its own. The oil is a promising antitumor compound and its cytotoxicity was greatly enhanced with its nanoemulsion formulation. Antitumor activity of doxorubicin was enhanced, as a function of time, when N. sativa extracts were involved as adjunct therapeutic compounds. Adding doxorubicin to the prepared lipid nanoemulsion has a beneficial impact to their bioactivity. These doxorubicin-N. sativa lipid nanoemulsion are promising and potential therapeutic modality.

Antinociceptive effect of the essential oil of tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)

CONTEXT

Tarragon [Artemisia dracunculus L. (Asteraceae)] is used as a commercial flavoring and in perfumery. In traditional folk medicine, tarragon has been used for treatment of pain and gastrointestinal disturbances.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the antinociceptive effect of the essential oil of A. dracunculus (EOAD) in various experimental models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The median lethal dose (LD50) of EOAD was estimated using the method of Lorke. The antinociceptive effect was assessed using chemical (formalin and acetic acid) and thermal (hot-plate) nociceptive tests in rats and mice. In all experiments, EOAD was administered intraperitoneally at the doses of 10, 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg.

RESULTS

In the acute toxicity test, the value of estimated LD50 for EOAD was 1250 mg/kg. EOAD (100 and 300 mg/kg) significantly reduced (p < 0.001) the pain response in the first (59.5 and 91.4%) and second (52.5 and 86.3%) phases of the formalin test, respectively. Central involvement in analgesic profile was confirmed by the hot-plate test, in which the EOAD showed a significant analgesic activity by increasing latency time. EOAD (10, 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.001) inhibited (89, 95, 97 and 97%) the nociception produced by acetic acid. Naloxone failed to antagonize the antinociceptive effect of the essential oil in the acetic acid-induced writhing test. It seems that mechanism(s) other than opioid receptors is (are) involved in the analgesic effect of EOAD.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reported the peripheral and central antinociceptive activity of the EOAD and rationalized the traditional use of the plant in the treatment of different painful conditions.

Increased 5-HT Levels Following Repeated Administration of Nigella sativa L. (Black Seed) Oil Produce Antidepressant Effects in Rats

The seeds of Nigella sativa L., commonly known as black seed or black cumin, and its extracts are used in folk medicine in the Middle East and in Asian countries for the promotion of good health and as a remedy for many ailments. These seeds have many acclaimed medicinal properties such as broncho-dilatory, immunopotentiating, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and hypotensive. In the present study, the antidepressant activity following the repeated administration of Nigella sativa L. oil has been monitored using the forced swim test. Rats treated with Nigella sativa L. oil exhibited a significant increase in struggling time after oral administration of Nigella sativa L. oil (0.1 ml/kg/day) for four weeks. Nigella sativa L. oil increased brain 5-HT levels and decreased 5-HT turnover (5-HT/5-HIAA ratio). Levels of tryptophan increased significantly in the brain and plasma following the repeated administration of Nigella sativa L. oil. Nigella sativa L. oil showed a potential antidepressant-like effect.

Cardiovascular benefits of black cumin (Nigella sativa)

Black Cumin (Nigella sativa), which belongs to the botanical family of Ranunculaceae, commonly grows in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Western Asia. Its ripe fruit contains tiny black seeds, known as "Al-Habba Al-Sauda" and "Al-Habba Al-Barakah" in Arabic and black seed or black cumin in English. Seeds of Nigella sativa are frequently used in folk medicine in the Middle East and some Asian countries for the promotion of good health and the treatment of many ailments. However, data for the cardiovascular benefits of black cumin are not well-established. We reviewed the literature from 1960 to March 2012 by using the following key words: "Nigella sativa," "black seeds," and "thymoquinone." Herein, we discussed the most relevant articles to find out the role of Nigella sativa in the cardiovascular diseases spectrum especially when there is a paucity of information and need of further studies in human to establish the utility of Nigella sativa in cardiovascular system protection.

The effect of Nigella sativa Linn. seed on memory, attention and cognition in healthy human volunteers

BACKGROUND

Experimental evidences have demonstrated that Nigella sativa Linn. seed (NS) has positive modulation effects on aged rats with memory impairments, prevents against hippocampal pyramidal cell loss and enhances consolidation of recall capability of stored information and spatial memory in rats. NS has neuroprotective, nephroprotective, lung protective, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective activities as established by previous studies on animals. Several clinical trials with NS on human have also demonstrated beneficial effect.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was designed to investigate the effects of NS on memory, attention and cognition in healthy elderly volunteers. Furthermore, safety profile of NS was assessed during the nine-week study period.

METHODS

Forty elderly volunteers were recruited and divided randomly into group A and group B--each consisting of 20 volunteers. The treatment procedure for group A was 500 mg NS capsule twice daily for nine weeks and Group B received placebo instead of NS in the similar manner. All the volunteers were assessed for neuropsychological state and safety profile twice before treatment and after nine weeks. The neuropsychological tests were logical memory test, digit span test, Rey-Osterrieth complex figure test, letter cancellation test, trail making test and stroop test. Safety profile was assessed by measuring biochemical markers of Cardiac (total cholesterol, triglycerides and high density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, creatine kinase-MB); Liver (aspartate aminotransferase, alanin aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, albumin, bilirubin) and Kidney (creatinine and blood urea nitrogen) through using commercial kits.

RESULTS

There was significant difference (p<0.05) in the score of logical memory test-I and II, total score of digit span, 30 min delayed-recall, percent score in Rey-Osterrieth complex figure test, time taken to complete letter cancellation test, time taken in trail making test-A and test-B, score in part C of stroop test due to ingestion of NS for nine weeks. There were not statistically significant changes (p>0.05) in any of the biochemical markers of cardiac, liver, kidney function during this nine-week study period.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study demonstrates the role of NS in enhancing memory, attention and cognition. Therefore, whether NS could be considered as potential food supplement for preventing or slow progressing of Alzheimer disease needs further investigations. However, study with Alzheimer's patients with large population size for longer period of time is recommended before using NS daily and extensive phytochemical investigations are recommended for novel drug discovery from NS for treating cognitive disorders.

Anxiolytic-like and antinociceptive effects of 2(S)-neoponcirin in mice

Study aims: 2(S)-neopincirin (NEO) is a constituent from of Clinopodium mexicanum, which is used in traditional Mexican herbal medicine for its tranquilizing and analgesic properties. This study investigated the anxiolytic-like, sedative and antinociceptive effects of NEO in several mice models. Material and methods: The anxiolytic-like effect was evaluated in the hole-board (HBT) and Open Field Tests (OFT); sedative effect was evaluated in sleeping time induced by sodium pentobarbital, and its antinociceptive actions were measured in the hot plate test. To evaluate if the GABA receptor could be involved in the anxiolytic-like effect produced by NEO, in independent experiments, the effects produced by co-administration of NEO plus muscimol (MUS) and NEO plus Pitrotoxin (PTX) were evaluated in the HBT. Results: NEO was isolated from Clinopodium mexicanum leaves. The NMR, MS and optic rotation data helped establish its identity as (2S)-5-hydroxy-4′-methoxyflavanone-7-O-{β-glucopyranosyl-(1→6)-β-rhamnoside}. NEO showed an anxiolytic-like effect and was able to counter the nociception induced by a thermal stimulus in a dose-dependent manner. PTX blocked the anxiolytic-like effect of NEO, while MUS was able to enhance it. Conclusions: The findings of present work demonstrated that NEO possesses anxiolytic-like and antinociceptive effects in mice. Such effects are not associated with changes in the locomotor activity. These results supported the notion that anxiolytic-like effect of NEO involves the participation of GABAergic system.

Bauhinia championii Extraction Treatment of Collagen-Induced Arthritis via Downregulation of the Expression of TLR4, MyD88 and NF-κB

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has emerged as an important worldwide public health problem. Due to the lack of efficacy and major side effects related to many Western medical treatments, traditional Chinese medicine or herbal medicine is very often used to treat this disease. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of Bauhinia championii (Benth.) Benth. extraction (BCBE) in a rat model of RA induced by type-II collagen. Wistar rats with type-II collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) were given either 125 or 500 mg/kg of BCBE for RA. Paw swelling and weight were measured, and pathological joint sections of CIA rats were observed using the hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining method. Protein and mRNA expression of toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) and nuclear transcription factor κB (NF-κB) were determined by western blot analysis and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis in synovial tissue. During therapeutic treatment, BCBE significantly suppressed paw swelling, increased weight loss and ameliorated pathological joint changes. The protein and mRNA expressions of TLR4, MyD88 and NF-κB were downregulated in the CIA model when treated with BCBE. In conclusion, these results suggest that the treatment of RA with BCBE confers anti-RA activity and has therapeutic potential in this CIA model.

Anti-inflammatory effect of seeds and callus of Nigella sativa L. extracts on mix glial cells with regard to their thymoquinone content

Anti-inflammatory effect of the alcoholic extracts of N. sativa seeds and its callus on mix glial cells of rat with regard to their thymoquinone (TQ) content was investigated. Callus induction was achieved for explants of young leaf, stem, petiole, and root of N. sativa on solid Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 2,4-D (1 mg/l) and kinetin (2.15 mg/l). TQ content of the alcoholic extracts was measured by HPLC. Total phenols were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu method and antioxidant power was estimated using FRAP tests. The mix glial cells, inflamed by lipopolysaccharide, were subjected to anti-inflammatory studies in the presence of various amounts of TQ and the alcoholic extracts. Viability of the cells and nitric oxide production were measured by MTT and Griess reagent, respectively. The leaf callus obtained the highest growth rate (115.4 mg/day) on MS medium containing 2,4-D (0.22 mg/l) and kinetin (2.15 mg/l). Analyses confirmed that TQ content of the callus of leaf was 12 times higher than that measured in the seeds extract. However, it decreased as the calli aged. Decrease in the TQ content of the callus was accompanied with an increase in its phenolic content and antioxidant ability. Studies on the inflamed rat mix glial cells revealed significant reduction in the nitric oxide production in the presence of 0.2 to 1.6 mg/ml of callus extract and 1.25 to 20 μl/ml of the seed extracts. However, the extent of the effects is modified assumingly due to the presence of the other existing substances in the extracts.

Evaluation of anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities of Artemisia scoparia hydromethanolic extract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Artemisia scoparia (redstem wormwood) locally known as jhahoo or jaukay, is traditionally used in pain, inflammation and febrile conditions. So far, little or no scientific work has been reported to validate its folk uses in the alleviation of pain, fever and inflammation. The present study was designed to explore the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects of the Artemisia scoparia hydromethanolic extract (ASHME), and to validate its traditional use in Asia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study made use of thermal (hot plate induced) and chemical (acetic acid induced) nociception models in mice. In addition, the mechanism of antinociception in hot plate test was further evaluated in the presence of caffeine (10mg/kg), naloxone (2mg/kg) and monosodium glutamate (1g/kg). While carrageenan induced rat paw edema and yeast induced mouse pyrexia models were used to test the anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities.

RESULTS

Administration of single intraperitoneal doses (400mg/kg and 800 mg/kg) of ASHME significantly reduced the carrageenan induced paw edema in rats (P<0.05, P<0.001) by 54% and 74%, increased the thermal nociception time in the hot plate test up to 2- and 2.5-fold (P<0.01, P<0.001), inhibited the acetic acid induced writhings in mice by 41.12% and 61.53% (P<0.001), and attenuated the yeast induced pyrexia in mice by nearly 74% and 90% respectively (P<0.01, P<0.001). Caffeine (10mg/kg), naloxone (2mg/kg) and monosodium glutamate (1g/kg) significantly (P<0.001) abolished the anti-nociceptive response of ASHME (400mg/kg).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that the Artemisia scoparia hydromethanolic extract of ASHME possesses anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic potentials, which support its use, for the said conditions, in traditional medicine and should be further exploited for its use in clinical medicine.

Preventive effects of curcumin against drug- and starvation-induced gastric erosions in rats

The present study was designed to investigate the gastroprotective, analgesic, and antipyretic effects of curcumin (Cur), the major constituent of turmeric. Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) was used in this study as a standard drug for comparison. The analgesic activity was measured using the Hot-Plate Test. The antipyretic and antiulcer effects were assessed using yeast-induced pyrexia and gastric ulceration, respectively. Curcumin (100 mg/kg) injected intra-peritoneally 1 hr prior to the Hot-Plate Test showed significant analgesic activity expressed by both parameters: an increase in latency time and a reduction in paw licking as compared to the controls. In the animal model of pyrexia, curcumin (100 mg/kg injected intra-peritoneally) exhibited a significant reduction in the rectal temperature after 1 hr, 2 hrs, 4 hrs, and 5 hrs of treatment, indicating the antipyretic effect of curcumin. Rats with orally administered curcumin (200 mg/kg) did not show any lesions on the inner lining of the stomach after a 16 hr fast, indicating the gastroprotective effects of curcumin as compared to saline- and acetylsalicylic acid-administered rats. The significantly low ulcer index in curcumin-treated rats following starvation highlights the gastroprotective characteristics of curcumin.

A Spotlight on Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Activities ofNigella glanduliferaFreyn et Sint Seeds

Plants belonging to the Ranunculaceae family, and particularly their seeds, have been a hot research topic in numerous pharmacognosy laboratories.Nigella glanduliferaFreyn et Sint (NG) is one of the promising, but relatively insufficiently studied, plants from this family. In this review, we summarize the recently isolated chemical constituents from the seeds of this plant including alkaloids, flavonol glycosides, isobenzofuranone derivatives, saponins, terpenes, terpenoids, and fatty acids. We put also a spotlight on the recently studied therapeutic potentials of such amazing herb seeds as antidiabetes, melanogenesis inhibition, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antithrombosis, and antiplatelet aggregation effects. Herein, we illustrate certain properties and potentials via selected examples, and thus we suggest more studies to confirm the therapeutic hypotheses, find out new compounds, and eventually to discover novel properties.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity Is a Possible Mechanism by Which the Polyherbal Formulation Comprised of Nigella sativa (Seeds), Hemidesmus indicus (Root), and Smilax glabra (Rhizome) Mediates Its Antihepatocarcinogenic Effects

The present study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of a polyherbal decoction comprised of Nigella sativa, Hemidesmus indicus, and Smilax glabra in order to justify its claimed antihepatocarcinogenic activity. Activation of hepatic nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), IκB kinase (IKK α/β) proteins, and TNFα and IL-6 expression was investigated in diethylnitrosamine- (DEN-) induced C3H mice-bearing early hepatocarcinogenic changes. Acute phase inflammatory response was evaluated by carrageenan-induced rat paw edema formation. Anti-inflammatory mechanisms were also assessed by determining effect on (a) membrane stabilization, (b) nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activity, and (c) inhibition of leukocyte migration. A significant inhibition of the paw edema formation was observed in healthy rats as well as in rats bearing early hepatocarcinogenic changes with oral administration of the decoction. As with the positive control, indomethacin (10 mg/kg b.w.) the inhibitory effect was pronounced at 3rd and 4th h after carrageenan injection. A notable IKK α/β mediated hepatic NF-κB inactivation was associated with a significant hepatic TNFα downregulation among mice-bearing hepatocarcinogenic changes subjected to decoction treatment. Inhibition of NO production, leukocyte migration, and membrane stabilization are possible mechanisms by which anti-inflammatory effect is mediated by the decoction. Overall findings imply that anti-inflammatory activity could be one of the mechanisms by which the decoction mediates its antihepatocarcinogenic effects.

Development and evaluation of thymoquinone-encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles for nose-to-brain targeting: a pharmacoscintigraphic study

Chitosan (CS) nanoparticles of thymoquinone (TQ) were prepared by the ionic gelation method and are characterized on the basis of surface morphology, in vitro or ex vivo release, dynamic light scattering, and X-ray diffractometry (XRD) studies. Dynamic laser light scattering and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the particle diameter was between 150 to 200 nm. The results showed that the particle size of the formulation was significantly affected by the drug:CS ratio, whereas it was least significantly affected by the tripolyphosphate:CS ratio. The entrapment efficiency and loading capacity of TQ was found to be 63.3% ± 3.5% and 31.23% ± 3.14%, respectively. The drug-entrapment efficiency and drug-loading capacity of the nanoparticles appears to be inversely proportional to the drug:CS ratio. An XRD study proves that TQ dispersed in the nanoparticles changes its form from crystalline to amorphous. This was further confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry thermography. The flat thermogram of the nanoparticle data indicated that TQ formed a molecular dispersion within the nanoparticles. Optimized nanoparticles were evaluated further with the help of scintigraphy imaging, which ascertains the uptake of drug into the brain. Based on maximum concentration, time-to-maximum concentration, area-under-curve over 24 hours, and elimination rate constant, intranasal TQ-loaded nanoparticles (TQ-NP1) proved more effective in brain targeting compared to intravenous and intranasal TQ solution. The high drug-targeting potential and efficiency demonstrates the significant role of the mucoadhesive properties of TQ-NP1.

The preventive effect of N-butanol fraction of Nigella sativa on ethylene glycol-induced kidney calculi in rats

Background:

The current study was carried out to determine whether the aqueous-ethanolic extract or the butanolic fraction of Nigella sativa (NS) seeds could prevent or reduce calculi aggregation in experimental calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis in Wistar rats.

Materials and Methods:

Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: group A received tap drinking water for 28 days. Groups B, C, D and E received 1% ethylene glycol for induction of calcium oxalate (CaOx) calculus formation for 28 days. Rats in groups C, D and E also received aqueous-ethanolic extract of NS, N-butanol fraction and N-butanol phase remnant of NS, respectively, in drinking water at a dose of 250 mg/kg for 28 days. Urine concentration of oxalate, citrate, and calcium on days 0, 14, and 28, and also serum concentration of magnesium and calcium on days 0 and 28, were measured. On day 29, kidneys were removed for histopathologic study and examined for counting the calcium oxalate deposits in 10 microscopic fields.

Result:

Treatment of rats with N-butanol fraction and N-butanol phase remnant of NS significantly reduced the number and size of kidney calcium oxalate deposits compared with ethylene glycol group. Urinary concentration of oxalate in all experimental groups increased compared with control group on days 14 and 28, whereas the urine citrate concentration was lower in all experimental groups compared with control group on days 14 and 28.

Conclusion:

N-butanol fraction and N-butanol phase remnant of NS showed a beneficial effect on calcium oxalate deposition in the rat kidney. Therefore, the butanolic fraction of NS may be suggested for prevention of calcium oxalate calculi in humans.

Nigella sativa: A Potential Antiosteoporotic Agent

Nigella sativa seeds (NS) has been used traditionally for various illnesses. The most abundant and active component of NS is thymoquinone (TQ). Animal studies have shown that NS and TQ may be used for the treatment of diabetes-induced osteoporosis and for the promotion of fracture healing. The mechanism involved is unclear, but it was postulated that the antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory activities may play some roles in the treatment of osteoporosis as this bone disease has been linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. This paper highlights studies on the antiosteoporotic effects of NS and TQ, the mechanisms behind these effects and their safety profiles. NS and TQ were shown to inhibit inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 and 6 and the transcription factor, nuclear factor κB. NS and TQ were found to be safe at the current dosage for supplementation in human with precautions in children and pregnant women. Both NS and TQ have shown potential as antiosteoporotic agent but more animal and clinical studies are required to further assess their antiosteoporotic efficacies.

Beneficial effects of Nigella sativa oil on intestinal damage in necrotizing enterocolitis

AIM

The aim of this study was to determine the beneficial effects of Nigella sativa oil (NSO) on rats with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty newborn Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups as NEC, NEC + NSO, and control. NEC was induced by enteral formula feeding, exposure to hypoxia-hyperoxia and cold stress. Pups in the NEC + NSO group were administered NOS at a dose of 2 ml/kg daily by intraperitoneal route from the first day until the end of the study. Proximal colon and ileum were excised for histopathologic, apoptosis (TUNEL) and biochemical evaluation, including xanthine oxidase (XO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), malonaldehyde (MDA), and myeloperoxdase (MPO) activities.

RESULTS

Pups in the NEC + NOS group had better clinical sickness scores and weight gain compared to the NEC group (p < 0.05). In the macroscopic assessment, histopathologic and apoptosis evaluation (TUNEL), severity of bowel damage was significantly lower in the NEC + NOS group compared to the NEC group (p < 0.05). Tissue GSH-Px and SOD levels were significantly preserved in the NEC + NSO group (p < 0.05), whereas, tissue MDA, MPO levels of the NEC + NSO group were significantly lower than those in the NEC group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

NSO significantly reduced the severity of intestinal damage in NEC.

Traditional arabic & islamic medicine: a conceptual model for clinicians and researchers

Eighty percent of the population in the developing world relies on traditional medicine, and 70-80% of the population in developed countries utilizes complementary therapies. Though a vibrant healing tradition pervades modern life in the Arab and Muslim world, no clear definition or model exists to organize it’s multiple and intertwined elements. We define Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM) as a system of healing practiced since antiquity in the Arab world within the context of religious influences of Islam and comprised of medicinal herbs, dietary practices, mind-body therapy, spiritual healing and applied therapy whereby many of these elements reflect an enduring interconnectivity between Islamic medical and prophetic influences as well as regional healing practices emerging from specific geographical and cultural origins. Our definition and conceptual model represents a novel addition to the literature on Arab and Muslim health practices, and presents an opportunity to address a global health concern.

[Establishment of a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis with kidney deficiency syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To establish a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with kidney deficiency syndrome.

METHODS

A total of 110 six-week-old specific pathogen-free male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into normal control group, sham-operated group, collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) control group, castration plus CIA group and hydroxyurea plus CIA group. Testiculus or ovary of rats in the castration plus CIA group was cut off, respectively. Rats in the hydroxyurea plus CIA group were given 375 mg/(kg·d) hydroxyurea by gavage administration for 17 d. Then rats in the CIA control group, castration plus CIA group and hydroxyurea plus CIA group were subcutaneously injected with mixture of type II collagen and incomplete Freund's adjuvant to induce rheumatoid arthritis. General state, arthritis index and joint swelling of the rats were observed to evaluate the onset of CIA. Contents of anti-type II collagen antibody, interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and corticosterone (CORT) in plasma were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and adrenal cyclic adenylic acid (cAMP) and cyclic guanylic acid (cGMP) levels were detected by radioimmunoassay.

RESULTS

Compared with the CIA control group, the degrees of joint swelling and joint damage were significantly increased in the kidney-deficiency CIA rats (castration plus CIA group and hydroxyurea plus CIA group), with kidney deficiency syndrome similar to human clinical symptoms, such as depressed, bowed back, dullness, reduced diet and perianal contamination; the rats in those two groups were noted with a significantly decreased ratio of cAMP/cGMP; the content of CORT was increased in male rats while decreased in female rats, with an obvious increase in the content of anti-type II collagen antibody; the contents of IFN-γ, IL-6 and IL-10 were obviously increased in the castration plus CIA group.

CONCLUSION

The rat model of RA with kidney deficiency syndrome has both obvious kidney deficiency syndrome and characteristics of RA and can reflect part of the patient's characteristics. However, castration is more suitable for inducing RA with kidney deficiency syndrome in rats.

Fatty acid profile of unconventional oilseeds

The continued increase in human population has resulted in the rise in the demand as well as the price of edible oils, leading to the search for alternative unconventional sources of oils, particularly in the developing countries. There are hundreds of un- or underexplored plant seeds rich in oil suitable for edible or industrial purposes. Many of them are rich in polyunsaturated essential fatty acids, which establish their utility as "healthy oils." Some agrowaste products such as rice bran have gained importance as a potential source of edible oil. Genetic modification has paved the way for increasing the oil yields and improving the fatty acid profiles of traditional as well as unconventional oilseeds. Single cell oils are also novel sources of edible oil. Some of these unconventional oils may have excellent potential for medicinal and therapeutic uses, even if their low oil contents do not promote commercial production as edible oils.

Herbal treatment of allergic rhinitis: the use of Nigella sativa

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Allergic rhinitis is the most common chronic and allergic disease, especially in children. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of Nigella sativa and its effects on inflammatory factors in patients with allergic rhinitis symptoms and the process their clinical study charges.

SETTING

The present study is a clinical trial that conducted as prospective and double blind with descriptive analytic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The sample included 66 patients (case and placebo) with allergic rhinitis exposed to N. sativa oil. Individual characteristics, including age and sex, and characteristics of the disease, including nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy nose, and sneezing attacks, were evaluated. From the start of the study, that is, day 0, up to the end of the study, that is, day 30, an observer completed the symptoms severity questionnaire.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Data were presented as means ± SEM. Comparisons between groups were performed by using paired Student t test. Differences were considered significant if P values are less than .05 and .01.

RESULTS

In the present study, 66 patients with allergic rhinitis, including 22 males (33.3%) and 44 females (66.7%) with a mean age of 47.19 years, were included. Immunoglobulin E total of more than 100 was reported in 38 patients before treatment. Immunoglobulin E in nasal wash from 7 patients was observed and was not measurable in 59 cases. Only 6.1% of the study population had nasal mucosal eosinophil.

CONCLUSION

The results show that N. sativa could reduce the presence of the nasal mucosal congestion, nasal itching, runny nose, sneezing attacks, turbinate hypertrophy, and mucosal pallor during the first 2 weeks (day 15). The present findings are consistent with evidence that the antiallergic effects of N. sativa components could be attributed to allergic rhinitis. Moreover, N. sativa should be considered for treating allergic rhinitis when the effects of other antiallergic drugs need to be avoided.