Evaluation of anti-inflammatory potential of fixed oil of Ocimum sanctum (Holybasil) and its possible mechanism of action

Exploring the therapeutic potential of Prinsepia utilis Royle seed oil: A comprehensive study on chemical composition, physicochemical properties, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activities

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Prinsepiautilis (PU) Royle, native to the Himalayan region, is a deciduous thorny shrub with numerous traditional uses of its roots, leaves and seeds for treatment of conditions such as rheumatic pain, joint pain, arthritis, and inflammation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Keeping in mind the growing demand of products of natural origin as alternate medicine, the present study was undertaken to scientifically validate for the first time the traditional claims of healing pain and inflammation by evaluating the fatty oil isolated from the seeds using established in vitro and in vivo models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PU Seeds were Soxhlet extracted using n-hexane and fatty oil was isolated. Chemical composition of the oil was established with the aid of Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detection (GC-FID) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The oil was then subjected to in vitro anti-inflammatory activity by following the established protocols of trypsin inhibitory and bovine serum albumin denaturation assays. The acute toxicity of the oil was also studied using OECD guidelines 423. The anti-inflammatory property of the oil was further evaluated using carrageenan-induced and formalin-induced edema in the rat paw. Moreover, hot plate latency and tail immersion assay were employed to evaluate analgesic activity of the oil. To establish the quality of the oil, various physicochemical properties were also studied.

RESULTS

GC-FID and GC-MS analysis of the oil revealed the presence of linoleic acid (59.06 ± 0.00%), oleic acid (28.11 ± 0.01%), palmitic acid (9.51 ± 0.01%) and stearic acid (3.32 ± 0.01%). In vitro trypsin inhibitory and bovine serum albumin denaturation assay revealed dose-dependent notable activity of the oil with IC50 value of 63.57 μg/mL and 518.14 μg/mL, respectively. The physico-chemical characterization demonstrated that the oil possesses a low acidity and a high oxidative stability index. The oil was found to be non-toxic and displayed effective anti-inflammatory activities with significant inhibition till 4 h in carrageenan-induced and formalin-induced rat paw edema at maximum tested dose of 200 mg/kg b.w. The oil also exhibited significant results in hot plate latency and tail immersion assay with positive effects showing up to 4 h after dose administration.

CONCLUSION

These findings, besides supporting the traditional claims, suggest that P. utilis seed oil has potential therapeutic applications as a natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent. Further studies are warranted to explore its mechanisms of action and potential use in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.

Metabolomic profile and computational analysis for the identification of the potential anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action of the traditional medicinal plants Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum tenuiflorum

Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum tenuiflorum are two basil species widely used medicinally as an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and cardioprotective agent. This study focuses on the chemical characterization of the majoritarian compounds of both species and their anti-inflammatory potential. Up to 22 compounds such as various types of salvianolic acids, derivatives of rosmaniric acid and flavones were identified in both plants. The identified compounds were very similar between both plants and are consistent with previous finding in other studies in Portugal and Italy. Based on the identified molecules a consensus target prediction was carried out. Among the main predicted target proteins, we found a high representation of the carbonic anhydrase family (CA2, CA7 and CA12) and several key proteins from the arachidonic pathway (LOX5, PLA2, COX1 and COX2). Both pathways are well related to inflammation. The interaction between the compounds and these targets were explored through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. Our results suggest that some molecules present in both plants can induce an anti-inflammatory response through a non-steroidal mechanism of action connected to the carbon dioxide metabolism.

The Effect of Ocimum basilicum L. and Its Main Ingredients on Respiratory Disorders: An Experimental, Preclinical, and Clinical Review

Ocimum basilicum L. (O. basilicum) and its constituents show anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant effects. The plant has been mainly utilized in traditional medicine for the treatment of respiratory disorders. In the present article, effects of O. basilicum and its main constituents on respiratory disorders, assessed by experimental and clinical studies, were reviewed. Relevant studies were searched in PubMed, Science Direct, Medline, and Embase databases using relevant keywords including “Ocimum basilicum,” “basilicums,” “linalool,” “respiratory disease,” “asthma,” “obstructive pulmonary disease,” “bronchodilatory,” “bronchitis,” “lung cancer,” and “pulmonary fibrosis,” and other related keywords.The reviewed articles showed both relieving and preventing effects of the plant and its ingredients on obstructive pulmonary diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and other respiratory disorders such as bronchitis, aspergillosis tuberculosis, and lung cancer. The results of the reviewed articles suggest the therapeutic potential of O. basilicum and its constituent, linalool, on respiratory disorders.

Natural Products with Activity against Lung Cancer: A Review Focusing on the Tumor Microenvironment

Lung cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide. Despite the undeniable progress in lung cancer research made over the past decade, it is still the leading cause of cancer-related deaths and continues to challenge scientists and researchers engaged in searching for therapeutics and drugs. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is recognized as one of the major hallmarks of epithelial cancers, including the majority of lung cancers, and is associated with tumorigenesis, progression, invasion, and metastasis. Targeting of the TME has received increasing attention in recent years. Natural products have historically made substantial contributions to pharmacotherapy, especially for cancer. In this review, we emphasize the role of the TME and summarize the experimental proof demonstrating the antitumor effects and underlying mechanisms of natural products that target the TME. We also review the effects of natural products used in combination with anticancer agents. Moreover, we highlight nanotechnology and other materials used to enhance the effects of natural products. Overall, our hope is that this review of these natural products will encourage more thoughts and ideas on therapeutic development to benefit lung cancer patients.

Pharmacological evaluation of the gabapentin salicylaldehyde derivative, gabapentsal, against tonic and phasic pain models, inflammation, and pyrexia

Gabapentinoids are effective drugs in most animal models of pain and inflammation with variable effects in humans. The current study evaluated the pharmacological activity of gabapentin (GBP) and its salicylaldehyde derivative (gabapentsal; [2-(1-(((2-hydroxybenzylidene) amino) methyl) cyclohexyl) acetic acid]; GPS) in well-established mouse models of nociceptive pain, inflammatory edema, and pyrexia at doses of 25-100 mg/kg. GPS allayed tonic visceral pain as reflected by acetic acid-induced nociception and it also diminished thermally induced nociception as a mimic of phasic thermal pain. Antagonism of GPS-induced antinociceptive activities by naloxone (NLX, 1.0 mg/kg, subcutaneously, s.c), beta-funaltrexamine (β-FNT, 5.0 mg/kg, s.c), naltrindole (NT, 1.0 mg/kg, s.c), and nor-binaltorphimine (NOR-BNI, 5.0 mg/kg, s.c), and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ-15 mg/kg, intraperitoneally, i.p) implicated an involvement of both opioidergic and GABAergic mechanisms. Tail immersion test was conducted in order to delineate the mechanistic insights of antinociceptive response. Inflammatory edema induced by carrageenan, histamine, or serotonin was also effectively reversed by GPS in a fashion analogous to aspirin (150 mg/kg, i.p), chlorpheniramine (1.0 mg/kg, i.p), and mianserin (1.0 mg/kg, i.p), respectively. Additionally, yeast-induced pyrexia was decreased by GPS in a comparable manner to acetaminophen (50 mg/kg, i.p). These observations suggest that GPS possesses ameliorative properties in tonic, phasic, and tail immersion tests of nociception via opioidergic and GABAergic mechanisms, curbs inflammatory edema, and is antipyretic in nature.

Anti-Inflammatory Potentials of the n-Hexane Fraction of Alstonia boonei Stem Bark in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in Wistar Rats

Background

Inflammation is a protective response of the host to infections and tissue damage and medicinal plants have been used to regulate inflammatory response. The phytochemical contents of the n-hexane fraction of Alstonia boonei and their anti-inflammatory potentials in lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation were investigated in rat liver.

Materials and Methods

A quantity of 5 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce inflammation in twenty-five male Wistar rats, grouped (n = 5) and treated as follows: negative control (10 mL/kg saline), positive control (1 mg/kg ibuprofen); 50, 100 and 20 mg/kg of the n-hexane fraction of Alstonia boonei were administered to test groups. In another experiment, twenty rats (n = 5, without LPS) were administered the same doses of the n-hexane fraction of A. boonei and ibuprofen for seven days. At the end of the experiment, animals were sacrificed, serum was obtained from blood and liver mitochondria isolated in a refrigerated centrifuge. Mitochondrial permeability transition (mPT) pore opening and mitochondrial F₀F₁ ATPase (mATPase) were determined spectrophotometrically. Serum interleukins 1β, 6 (IL-1β, IL-6), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP) and creatine kinase (CK), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), aspartate and alanine aminotransferases (AST and ALT,) of the animals in which inflammation was induced using LPS but treated with graded doses of n-hexane fraction of A. boonei were determined using the ELISA technique. The phytochemical contents of the n-hexane fraction of A. boonei were determined using ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer (UHPLC-MS).

Results

Calcium induced mPT in 8 fold and LPS induced mPT 14 fold in the negative control while the n-hexane fraction reversed mPT in the treated groups (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) to 2, 4, 4 folds, respectively. LPS treatment of the negative group enhanced F₀F₁ mATPase activity, increased CRP, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 levels as well as CK, AST, ALT and GGT activities. These values were significantly reduced by 100 and 200 mg/kg of the n-hexane fraction. UHPLC-MS analysis of the fraction revealed the presence of terpenoids, phenolics and sphingolipids.

Conclusion

These results showed that bioactive phytochemicals present in the n-hexane fraction of A. boonei were not toxic, have an anti-inflammatory effect and could be used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Stimulatory effect of Holy basil and Thai basil on mouse spleen cell proliferation

Study was conducted on mouse spleen cells, cultured and incubated in-vitro with Holy basil and Thai basil, to observe their effect on proliferation. Four dilutions, namely 1:1, 1:5, 1:25, and 1:125, for both Holy basil and Thai Basil were used separately, in presence and absence of mitogen, Concanavalin A (Con A) to stimulate the T cells. Cell proliferation was monitored by 3 H- thymidine radioisotope incorporation. Spleen cells (macrophages, B and T cells) showed significantly more proliferation at 1:1 dilution than control (cells with no factor), incubated with Holy basil (in assay without Con A). Spleen T cells, however, did not show any significance in proliferation at same dilution, 1:1, with Holy basil with Con A. All other dilutions (with or without Con A), for either Holy basil or Thai basil, did not show any significant changes in proliferation when compared to control.

Attenuation of nociceptive and paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain by targeting inflammatory, CGRP and substance P signaling using 3-Hydroxyflavone

Paclitaxel is an anti-microtubule agent, most widely used chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of malignant solid tumors. However, it is associated with some severe side effects including painful neurotoxicity with reporting of neuropathic pain and sensory abnormalities by patients during and after paclitaxel therapy. Peripheral neuropathy was induced by the administration of paclitaxel (4 mg/kg on days 1, 3, 5, and 7). In this study, the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory propensity of 3-Hydroxyflavone (3HF) in mice and the preventive effect of 3HF against paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were investigated. Moreover, tactile and cold allodynia, thermal and tail immersion hyperalgesia, and effects on motor-coordination were also evaluated. Furthermore, the expression of proinflammatory cytokines i.e. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), and Substance P from the spinal cord was examined through RT-PCR. Additionally, a computational structural biology approach was applied to search the potential therapeutic targets and to predict the binding mechanism of 3HF. Treatment of 3HF alleviated the nociceptive pain, paw edema, development of tactile and cold allodynia, and hyperalgesia. Similarly, treatment with 3HF suppressed the paclitaxel-induced increase in mRNA expression of several inflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor -α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), CGRP, and Substance P. However, the daily treatment of 3HF did not affect the motor behaviors of rats. The inhibitory mechanism of 3HF in neuropathic pain is predicted with extensive computational bioinformatics approach which indicates that the 3HF effectively interacts with the binding domains of Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), CGRP receptor and the receptor of Substance P to exert its inhibitory activities. However, the computationally predicted binding affinities revealed that the potential of binding of the compound with Substance P receptor (Neurokinin 1 receptor) is higher than the other receptors; there NK1R could be the most possible binding target of 3HF. These findings indicate that 3HF has anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and anti-neuropathic pain effects against paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain.

Botanicals Reduce Circulating Concentrations of Cholesterol and Triglycerides and Work Synergistically With Arachidonic Acid to Reduce Inflammatory Cytokines in Cats

Forty Eight cats were used to measure the effects of feeding a traditional adult cat food supplemented with either arachidonic acid (ARA), a botanical mix (botanicals) or both on circulating biochemical parameters and inflammatory cytokines. The cats were healthy adults (mean age, 3.0; range, 1.3-6.4 years). The adult cats were fed one of four foods (n = 12 per group) for 84 days (dietary changes reported as fed): a traditional adult cat food (control, 0.05% ARA no added botanicals), or control food supplemented with arachidonic acid from chicken liver (0.13% ARA when supplemented), control food supplemented with botanicals (green tea 0.5%, fenugreek 0.05%, and tulsi 0.003%), and control plus ARA (0.13% as fed) with botanicals (green tea 0.5%, fenugreek 0.05%, and tulsi 0.003%). Response variables were compared between treatments: initially, and at 84 days (end of study). The measurements were standard complete blood counts and chemistries as well as circulating cytokines. Botanical inclusion reduced (P < 0.05) circulating cholesterol and triglycerides while arachidonic acid increased (P < 0.05) their concentrations. The pro-inflammatory cytokines MCP-1, TNFα, SDF-1, Flt3L, IL-8, IL-12p40, IL-13, and IL-18 were all reduced (P < 0.05) in cats after consuming the ARA + botanicals food for 84 days with little change after consuming the other foods. Therefore, this combination of ARA and botanicals may be of value in reducing inflammation.

Euphorbia prostata Exerts Potent Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Arthritic Activity in Downregulating the Increased Expression of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines

Background: Euphorbia prostrata constitutes a herbal medication widely used to cure numerous inflammatory diseases occurring either alone or in conjunction with other herbal formulations. The research conducted was devised with the aim of determining the effect of Euphorbia prostrata hydroalcoholic leaf extract on paw swelling, joint destruction, and the formation of inflammation-producing cytokines in animal models of rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: Hydroalcoholic Euphorbia prostrata extract and a reference drug (indomethacin 3mg/kg), were both administered orally on a daily basis at varying doses; low (50 mg/kg), medium (100 mg/kg), and high (200 mg/kg) for a period of 21 days. Other parameters affecting the functional components of bone include joint diameter measurements and histopathological investigations. Immunohistochemical analysis of Interleukin (IL-1, IL-6) and Nuclear Factor(NF-κB)in ankle joint tissue was performed. Results: The research findings indicated that a significant (p<0.05) dose-dependent reduction in inflammation results from the administering of Euphorbia prostrata at varying doses. A 200mg/kg dose of Euphorbia prostrata with a significance of p<0.001 produced a marked reduction in both inflammation and joint dysfunction. It was concluded, therefore, that such a dose attenuates paw oedema and inflammation, while also reversing bone damage through the inhibition of activated pro-inflammatory mediators and, specifically, NF-κB-mediated production of cytokines. Conclusion: The research presented here concludes that Euphorbia prostrata hydroalcoholic extract can be potentially employed in the treatment and management of rheumatoid arthritis since it reduces symptoms of inflammation, inhibits macrophage activity and modulates IL-1, IL-6 and NF-κB.

Investigation of the Biological Activities and Characterization of Bioactive Constituents of Ophiorrhiza rugosa var. prostrata (D.Don) & Mondal Leaves through In Vivo, In Vitro, and In Silico Approaches

Ophiorrhiza rugosa var. prostrata is one of the most frequently used ethnomedicinal plants by the indigenous communities of Bangladesh. This study was designed to investigate the antidiarrheal, anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic and antibacterial activities of the ethanol extract of O. rugosa leaves (EEOR). The leaves were extracted with ethanol and subjected to in vivo antidiarrheal screening using the castor oil-induced diarrhea, enteropooling, and gastrointestinal transit models. Anti-inflammatory efficacy was evaluated using the histamine-induced paw edema test. In parallel, in vitro anthelmintic and antibacterial activities were evaluated using the aquatic worm and disc diffusion assays respectively. In all three diarrheal models, EEOR (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) showed obvious inhibition of diarrheal stool frequency, reduction of the volume and weight of the intestinal contents, and significant inhibition of intestinal motility. Also, EEOR manifested dose-dependent anti-inflammatory activity. Anthelmintic action was deemed significant (P < 0.001) with respect to the onset of paralysis and helminth death. EEOR also resulted in strong zones of inhibition when tested against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. GC-MS analysis identified 30 compounds within EEOR, and of these, 13 compounds documented as bioactive showed good binding affinities to M3 muscarinic acetylcholine, 5-HT3, tubulin and GlcN-6-P synthase protein targets in molecular docking experiments. Additionally, ADME/T and PASS analyses revealed their drug-likeness, likely safety upon consumption and possible pharmacological activities. In conclusion, our findings scientifically support the ethnomedicinal use and value of this plant, which may provide a potential source for future development of medicines.

Medicinal Plants of the Family Lamiaceae in Pain Therapy: A Review

Recently, numerous side effects of synthetic drugs have lead to using medicinal plants as a reliable source of new therapy. Pain is a global public health problem with a high impact on life quality and a huge economic implication, becoming one of the most important enemies in modern medicine. The medicinal use of plants as analgesic or antinociceptive drugs in traditional therapy is estimated to be about 80% of the world population. The Lamiaceae family, one of the most important herbal families, incorporates a wide variety of plants with biological and medical applications. In this study, the analgesic activity, possible active compounds of Lamiaceae genus, and also the possible mechanism of actions of these plants are presented. The data highlighted in this review paper provide valuable scientific information for the specific implications of Lamiaceae plants in pain modulation that might be used for isolation of potentially active compounds from some of these medicinal plants in future and formulation of commercial therapeutic agents.

Beneficial Effect of Ocimum sanctum (Linn) against Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension in Rats

Background: The study was designed to explore any beneficial effect of Ocimum sanctum (Linn) (OS) in experimental pulmonary hypertension (PH) in rats. OS is commonly known as “holy basil” and “Tulsi” and is used in the Indian System of Medicine as antidiabetic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, adaptogenic, and cardioprotective. Methods: Monocrotaline (MCT) administration caused development of PH in rats after 28 days and rats were observed for 42 days. Treatments (sildenafil; 175 µg/kg, OS; 200 mg/kg) were started from day 29 after the development of PH and continued for 14 days. Parameters to assess the disease development and effectiveness of interventions were echocardiography, right and left ventricular systolic pressures, and right ventricular end diastolic pressure, percentage medial wall thickness (%MWT) of pulmonary artery, oxidative stress markers in lung tissue, NADPH oxidase (Nox-1) protein expression in lung, and mRNA expression of Bcl2 and Bax in right ventricular tissue. Results: OS (200 mg/kg) treatment ameliorated increased lung weight to body weight ratio, right ventricular hypertrophy, increased RVSP, and RVoTD/AoD ratio. Moreover, OS treatment decreases Nox-1 expression and increases expression of Bcl2/Bax ratio caused by MCT. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that OS has therapeutic ability against MCT-induced PH in rat which are attributed to its antioxidant effect. The effect of OS was comparable with sildenafil.

Essential Oil Composition, Antioxidant, Anticholinesterase and Anti-tyrosinase Activities of Two Turkish Plant Species: Ferula elaeochytris and Sideritis stricta

The aim of the present study is to characterize chemical compositions and antioxidant, anticholinesterase and anti-tyrosinase activities of Ferula elaeochytris and Sideritis stricta essential oils. The hydrodistilled essential oils were analyzed by GC/FID and GC/MS. A total of thirty-three and twenty-seven compounds representing 99.6 % and 99.4 % were identified in F. elaeochytris and S. stricta, respectively. The main compounds of essential oil of F. elaeochytris were β-cubebene (21.3 %), caryophyllene oxide (17.5 %) and β-caryophyllene (14.9 %), while the major compounds of S. stricta essential oil were δ-cadinene (18.3 %), cubenol (17.6 %) and β-caryophyllene (14.4 %). The antioxidant activity was tested by β-carotene-linoleic acid, DPPH free radical scavenging, ABTS cation radical scavenging, CUPRAC and metal chelating assays. The essential oil of F. elaeochytris showed the highest antioxidant activity in all assays. Also, the anticholinesterase and anti-tyrosinase activities of essential oils were performed against acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and tyrosinase enzymes. F. elaeochytris essential oil indicated the highest anticholinesterase and anti-tyrosinase activities as well. This is the first report describing antioxidant, anticholinesterase and anti-tyrosinase activities of essential oils of F. elaeochytris and S. stricta.

Antinociceptive Activities of the Methanolic Extract of the Stem Bark of Boswellia dalzielii Hutch. (Burseraceae) in Rats Are NO/cGMP/ATP-Sensitive-K+ Channel Activation Dependent

Boswellia dalzielii (B. dalzielii) is traditionally used in the treatment of rheumatism, pain, and inflammation. The present investigation evaluates the property and possible mechanism of action of the methanolic extract of B. dalzielii (BDME) on inflammatory and neuropathic pain models. Effects of BDME (250 and 500 mg/kg), orally administered, were verified in mechanical hypernociception induced by LPS or PGE₂. Mechanical hyperalgesia, cold allodynia, and heat hyperalgesia were used in vincristine-induced neuropathic pain. NW-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase), glibenclamide (ATP-sensitive potassium channel blocker), methylene blue (cGMP blocker), or naloxone (opioid antagonist receptor) has been used to evaluate the therapeutic effects of BDME on PGE₂-induced hyperalgesia. Chemical profile of BDME was determined by using HPLC-XESI-PDA/MS. BDME showed significant antinociceptive effects in inflammatory pain caused by LPS and PGE₂. The extract also significantly inhibited neuropathic pain induced by vincristine. The antinociceptive property of BDME in PGE₂ model was significantly blocked by L-NAME, glibenclamide, methylene blue, or naloxone. The present work reveals the antinociceptive activities of BDME both in inflammatory and in neuropathic models of pain. This plant extract may be acting firstly by binding to opioid receptors and secondly by activating the NO/cGMP/ATP-sensitive-K⁺ channel pathway.

Effects of traditional oriental medicines as anti-cytotoxic agents in radiotherapy

The primary goal of radiotherapy in oncology is to enhance the efficacy of tumor cell death while decreasing damage to surrounding normal cells. Positive therapeutic outcomes may be accomplished by improved targeting, precisely targeting tumor cells or protecting normal cells against radiation-induced damage. The potential for antioxidants to decrease normal tissue damage induced by radiation has been investigated in animal models for a number of decades. In attempts for radioprotection, certain synthetic chemicals are suggested as antioxidants and normal tissue protectors against radiation-induced damage, but they have exhibited limitations in pharmacological application due to undesirable effects and high toxicities at clinical doses. The present review focuses on the radioprotective efficacy of traditional oriental medicines with the advantage of low toxicity at pharmacological doses and how such treatments may influence various harmful effects induced by radiation in vitro and in vivo. In addition, medicinal plants and their active constituents with biological activities that may be associated with alleviation of radiation-induced damage through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, wound healing and immunostimulatory properties are discussed.

Targeting the mercapturic acid pathway and vicenin-2 for prevention of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (CaP) is often androgen-sensitive malignancy and regresses upon inhibition of androgen signaling. However, CaP, nearly always develops androgen resistance and progresses to aggressive and lethal androgen-independent CaP, which lacks satisfactory therapy. For metastatic CaP, patients are often treated with Taxotere (docetaxel), a cytoskeleton-targeted chemotherapy drug, that provides transient palliative benefit but to which patients rapidly develop drug-resistance. Combination chemotherapy may be used instead, but is more toxic and adds little clinically relevant benefit over docetaxel. Therefore, novel strategies to enhance docetaxel efficacy are needed to effectively treat patients with metastatic CaP. The mercapturic acid pathway, which metabolizes genotoxic and pro-apoptotic toxins, is over-expressed in CaP and plays an important role in carcinogenesis, metastasis and therapy-resistance of CaP. Vicenin-2, a flavonoid derived from Tulsi (holy basil) as an active compound, inhibits the growth of CaP and increases the anti-tumor activity of docetaxel in-vitro and in-vivo. Taken together, the combination of vicenin-2 and docetaxel could be highly effective in the treatment of advanced and metastatic CaP due to their multi-targeting anti-tumor potential.

Indian folklore medicine in managing men's health and wellness

India is a home for a large variety of plants with remarkable medicinal and pharmacological value. Traditional medicine in the form of Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani has used many of these plants since ancient days for treating and curing various ailments of the body. When it comes to issues related to reproductive health, people still hesitate to discuss and/or accept it openly and hence look for alternate and natural remedies. The various tribal populations distributed across different parts of the country still use these plant extracts in various formulations for maintenance of good health. The medical utilities of several of these plants have been documented; however, there are many more, whose potential is yet to be explored. This review discusses the role of various plants grown in the Indian subcontinent that have been widely used in maintaining various aspects of reproductive health in men such as infertility, aphrodisiac, contraception, libido, sexually transmitted infections and reproductive tract cancers as well as in treating chronic disorders.

Essential Oils: Sources of Antimicrobials and Food Preservatives

Aromatic and medicinal plants produce essential oils in the form of secondary metabolites. These essential oils can be used in diverse applications in food, perfume, and cosmetic industries. The use of essential oils as antimicrobials and food preservative agents is of concern because of several reported side effects of synthetic oils. Essential oils have the potential to be used as a food preservative for cereals, grains, pulses, fruits, and vegetables. In this review, we briefly describe the results in relevant literature and summarize the uses of essential oils with special emphasis on their antibacterial, bactericidal, antifungal, fungicidal, and food preservative properties. Essential oils have pronounced antimicrobial and food preservative properties because they consist of a variety of active constituents (e.g., terpenes, terpenoids, carotenoids, coumarins, curcumins) that have great significance in the food industry. Thus, the various properties of essential oils offer the possibility of using natural, safe, eco-friendly, cost-effective, renewable, and easily biodegradable antimicrobials for food commodity preservation in the near future.

How efficacious are Neem, Tulsi, Guduchi extracts and chlorhexidine as intracanal disinfectants? A comparative ex vivo study

Introduction:

In endodontics, despite careful instrumentation and antimicrobial irrigation, root canals still harbor cultivable microorganisms. Such cases require intra canal medicament that eliminates the microbial inhabitants from the canals. Recent trend advocates the use of herbal extracts due to easy availability, cost-effectiveness, low toxicity, and lack of microbial resistance. Hence, in the present study, Neem, Tulsi, and Guduchi extracts were used as intracanal medicaments.

Aim:

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the antibacterial efficacy of Neem, Tulsi, Guduchi extracts, and chlorhexidine against Enterococcus faecalis, when used as intracanal medicaments.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred and twenty-five extracted human teeth, inoculated with E. faecalis, were divided into four experimental groups and a control group (n = 25 in each group). The experimental groups were treated with chlorhexidine, Neem, Tulsi, and Guduchi extracts and their antibacterial property was evaluated by estimating microbial counting (CFU/ml).

Results:

The reduction in bacterial count for chlorhexidine, Neem, Tulsi, and Guduchi groups was 60.76%, 51.98%, 37.73%, and 34.93%, respectively. Statistically significant difference in reduction of bacterial count was observed in all the groups, when compared with the control group.

Conclusion:

Among all the herbal extracts, Neem was found to be the most potent medicament followed by Tulsi and Guduchi. However, chlorhexidine was found to be at epic.

Anti-inflammatory and antiedematogenic activity of the Ocimum basilicum essential oil and its main compound estragole: In vivo mouse models

The genus Ocimum are used in cooking, however, their essential oils are utilized in traditional medicine as aromatherapy. The present study was carried out to investigate the chemical composition and systemic anti-inflammatory activity of the Ocimum basilicum essential oil (EOOB) and its major component estragole, as well as its possible mechanisms of action. The Ocimum basilicum essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC-MS. The anti-inflammatory action was verified using acute and chronic in vivo tests as paw edema, peritonitis, and vascular permeability and granulomatous inflammation model. The anti-inflammatory mechanism of action was analyzed by the participation of histamine and arachidonic acid pathways. The chemical profile analysis identified fourteen components present in the essential oil, within them: estragole (60.96%). The in vivo test results show that treatment with EOOB (100 and 50 mg/kg) and estragole (60 and 30 mg/kg) significantly reduced paw edema induced by carrageenan and dextran. The smallest doses of EOOB (50 mg/kg) and estragole (30 mg/kg) showed efficacy in the reduction of paw edema induced by histamine and arachidonic acid, vascular permeability inhibition and leukocyte emigration in the peritoneal fluid. Theses doses were capable of reducing the chronic inflammatory process. The results observed between the EOOB and estragole demonstrate efficacy in anti-inflammatory activity, however, the essential oil is more efficacious in the acute and chronic anti-inflammatory action. This study confirms the therapeutic potential of this plant and reinforces the validity of its use in popular medicine.

Ethnobotanical Study of Plants Used in the Management of HIV/AIDS-Related Diseases in Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia

Faced with critical shortages of staff, long queues, and stigma at public health facilities in Livingstone, Zambia, persons who suffer from HIV/AIDS-related diseases use medicinal plants to manage skin infections, diarrhoea, sexually transmitted infections, tuberculosis, cough, malaria, and oral infections. In all, 94 medicinal plant species were used to manage HIV/AIDS-related diseases. Most remedies are prepared from plants of various families such as Combretaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, and Lamiaceae. More than two-thirds of the plants (mostly leaves and roots) are utilized to treat two or more diseases related to HIV infection. Eighteen plants, namely, Achyranthes aspera L., Lannea discolor (Sond.) Engl., Hyphaene petersiana Klotzsch ex Mart., Asparagus racemosus Willd., Capparis tomentosa Lam., Cleome hirta Oliv., Garcinia livingstonei T. Anderson, Euclea divinorum Hiern, Bridelia cathartica G. Bertol., Acacia nilotica Delile, Piliostigma thonningii (Schumach.) Milne-Redh., Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight and Arn., Abrus precatorius L., Hoslundia opposita Vahl., Clerodendrum capitatum (Willd.) Schumach., Ficus sycomorus L., Ximenia americana L., and Ziziphus mucronata Willd., were used to treat four or more disease conditions. About 31% of the plants in this study were administered as monotherapies. Multiuse medicinal plants may contain broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents. However, since widely used plants easily succumb to the threats of overharvesting, they need special protocols and guidelines for their genetic conservation. There is still need to confirm the antimicrobial efficacies, pharmacological parameters, cytotoxicity, and active chemical ingredients of the discovered plants.

Phytochemicals, antioxidant, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory potential of the aqueous extract of Teucrium stocksianum bioss

Background

Despite availability of a substantial number of potent synthetic drugs, medicinal plants are still playing a key role in the discovery of novel and effective drug molecules. Numerous researchers are focusing on the plant based medicines due to its strong safety profiles. Teucrium species exhibit profound antidiabetic, analgesic and spasmolytic activities. The methanolic extract and essential oil of Teucrium stocksianum possess strong antinociceptive activity. The aim of the current research study was to determine the phytochemicals, antioxidant, analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential of the aqueous extract of Teucrium stocksianum Bioss (AETS).

Method

Phytochemical screening was carried out according to standard procedures. The antioxidant potential of the extract was ascertained with the stable organic free radical (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl). Three different pain models, including acetic acid induced writhing, formalin induced paw licking and tail immersion tests were carried out for the determination of antinociceptive potential, while the anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated through carrageenan induced paw edema test in mice. The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory potentials of AETS were assessed at 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight, while acute toxicity were observed at 1500 mg/kg body weight in various groups of mice.

Results

Phytochemical screening has shown the occurrence of flavonoids saponins, reducing sugars, terpenoids and tannins. AETS exhibited profound antioxidant activity and has shown maximum activity (60.06 ± 0.846) at 250 μg/ml. In the three pain models AETS displayed marked dose dependent antinociceptive potential. AETS exhibited 63.5, 67.61 and 64 % activity in acetic acid induced, formalin induced paw licking and tail immersion tests respectively. The antinociceptive effect of AETS and reference standard drug Tramadol^R was significantly reversed by Naloxone, endorsed the central analgesic potential of AETS. Similarly the extract also reversed the paw edema in dose dependent manner. AETS displayed significant (53.81 %) anti-inflammatory effects at a dose of 300 mg/kg that persisted till 5^th h. In acute toxicity test AETS was found safe at 1500 mg/kg body weight.

Conclusions

AETS exhibited profound antioxidant activity. The test sample displayed marked antinociceptive potential in all the test procedures, indicating the peripheral and central analgesic effects of AETS. The plant extract also displayed marked anti-inflammatory activity at all test doses.

Protective Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Grape Pomace against the Adverse Effects of Cypermethrin on Weanling Female Rats

The adverse effect of cypermethrin on the liver and kidney of weanling female rats and the protective effect of ethanolic extract of grape pomace were investigated in the present study. Weanling female rats were given cypermethrin oral at a dose of 25 mg kg⁻¹ body weight for 28 consecutive days. An additional two Cyp-trated groups received extract at a dose of 100 and 200 mg kg⁻¹ body weight, respectively, throughout the experimental duration. Three groups more served as extract and control groups. Administration of Cyp resulted in a significant increase in serum marker enzymes, for example, aminotransferases (AST and ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and increases the level of urea nitrogen and creatinine. In contrast, Cyp caused significant decrease in levels of total protein and albumin and caused histopathological alterations in liver and kidneys of female rats. Coadministration of the extract to Cyp-treated female rats restored most of these biochemical parameters to within normal levels especially at high dose of extract. However, extract administration to Cyp-treated rats resulted in overall improvement in liver and kidney damage. This study demonstrated the adverse biohistological effects of Cyp on the liver and kidney of weanling female rats. The grape pomace extract administration prevented the toxic effect of Cyp on the above serum parameters. The present study concludes that grape pomace extract has significant antioxidant and hepatorenal protective activity.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of Ocimum labiatum extract and isolated labdane diterpenoid

Background

Plants from the genus Ocimum are used as folk medicine for treating various diseases including inflammatory and immune-related diseases. Numerous reports have suggested plant extracts and their constituents as possible anti-inflammatory agents. Here, in vitro evidence of Ocimum labiatum’s immune-enhancing and antioxidant properties is presented for the first time.

Methods

The anti-inflammatory effect of O. labiatum ethanolic extract and an isolated diterpenoid was determined using a cytometric bead array (CBA) technique. The effect on phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was also assessed. A battery of antioxidant assays were used for detecting antioxidant activity while the anti-inflammatory mechanism was evaluated using an ELISA-based activator protein (AP-1) (c-Jun) assay. Cytotoxicity was determined on TZM-bl and PBMCs using a tetrazolium dye and confirmed by a novel label-free real-time assay.

Results

A 25 μg/mL non-cytotoxic concentration of O. labiatum extract significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines; IL-2, IL-4, IL-6 and IL-17A. Except for the dual acting pro- or anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-6, which was upregulated, a non-cytotoxic 50 μM concentration of the isolated labdane diterpenoid compound significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the production of all the pro-inflammatory cytokines. In the anti-inflammatory pathway studies, the compound also inhibited AP-1 significantly (p < 0.05) at 50 μM. The extract demonstrated strong, dose dependent antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ values ranging from 13 ± 0.8 to 54.86 ± 1.28 μg/mL while the terpene had no antioxidant property. The extract and diterpenoid decreased the production of the inflammatory mediator NO, at non-cytotoxic concentrations. The CC₅₀ of the extract in TZM-bl and PBMCs was 62.6 ± 0.6 and 30.1 ± 0.4 μg/mL while that of the compound was 112.6 ± 0.2 and 70 ± 0.4 μM respectively. The real time studies confirmed tetrazolium dye assessed viability and also detected a unique growth pattern for the plant materials compared to untreated cells.

Conclusions

O. labiatum extract demonstrated promising anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties while the terpenoid showed anti-inflammatory but no antioxidant activity. The anti-inflammatory mechanism of the terpene was a result of inhibition of AP-1. These data represents promising first steps towards the development of naturally derived anti-inflammation drugs.

Evaluation of the efficacy of 2% Ocimum sanctum gel in the treatment of experimental periodontitis

Introduction:

One of the options for the treatment of periodontitis is local drug delivery systems (LDD). Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), a traditional herb, has many uses in medicine. It could be a suitable agent as LDD for the treatment of periodontitis.

Aim:

The aim was to formulate, evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity; assess duration of the action and the efficacy of 2% tulsi (O. sanctum) gel in the treatment of experimental periodontitis in Wistar Albino rat model.

Settings and Design:

Thirty six Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to 3 groups. Periodontitis was induced using ligature model. Group 1-control; Group 2-Plain gel and Group 3-2% tulsi (O. sanctum) gel.

Materials and Methods:

2% tulsi (O. sanctum) gel were prepared. The anti-inflammatory activity and duration of action were assessed. Silk ligature 5-0 was used to induce periodontitis. Gingival index (GI) and probing pocket depth were measured. Treatment was done. The rats were sacrificed. Morphometric analysis was done using Stereomicroscope and ImageJ software.

Statistical Analysis Used:

ANOVA followed by Bonferroni's test, Wilcoxon's test for intergroup comparison, Mann-Whitney test for P value computation was used. The observations are mean ± standard deviation and standard error of the mean. P < 0.01 as compared to control was considered as statistically significant.

Results:

2% tulsi (O. sanctum) gel showed 33.66% inhibition of edema and peak activity was noted at 24 h. There was statistically significant change in the GI and probing pocket depth. Morphometric analysis did not show any significant difference between groups. No toxic effects were seen on oral administration of 2000 mg/kg of Tulsi extract.

Conclusions:

2% tulsi (O. sanctum) gel was effective in the treatment of experimental periodontitis.

Antinociceptive and cytotoxic activities of an epiphytic medicinal orchid: Vanda tessellata Roxb

BACKGROUND

Vanda tessellata (Orchidaceae) has been used in different sorts of ailments such as inflammations, rheumatism, dysentery, bronchitis, dyspepsia and fever in folk medicine. In this study we evaluated the antinociceptive and cytotoxic effect of methanol and aqueous extracts of V. tessellata leaf.

METHODS

Oral administration of V. tessellata aqueous (VTA) and methanol (VTM) leaf extracts at 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight (bw) doses were assessed for antinociceptive activity in acetic acid-induced writhing test, hot plate test, and tail immersion test in mice. In this study we also screened for cytotoxicity of the extracts by the brine shrimp (Artemia salina) lethality assay.

RESULTS

The extracts, at both doses, exhibited a significant (p < 0.05 - < 0.01) dose-dependent antinociceptive activity in hot plate and tail immersion test. The reaction time was increased to the thermal stimuli at 200 and 400 mg/kg doses up to 90 min. In acetic acid-induced writhing test, oral administration of VTA and VTM (200 and 400 mg/kg) also decreased the writhing significantly while compared to control. The dose 400 mg/kg showed maximum percentage of pain inhibition 42.37% and 45.08% for VTA and VTM respectively. Diclofenac sodium (10 mg/kg) and nalbuphine (10 mg/kg) were used as reference antinociceptive drugs. Very low cytotoxicity was observed on brine shrimps lethality assay.

CONCLUSIONS

The leaf extract has potential antinociceptive activity with minimum cytotoxicity. The present study supports the use of V. tessellata in different inflammatory disorders.

Inhibitory effect of ethanol extract of Ocimum sanctum on osteopontin mediated metastasis of NCI-H460 non-small cell lung cancer cells

Background

Osteopontin (OPN) is one of important molecular targets in cancer progression, metastasis as a calcium-binding, extracellular-matrix-associated protein of the small integrin-binding ligand and, N-linked glycoprotein. In the present study, anti-metastatic mechanism of ethanol extracts of Ocimum sanctum (EEOS) was elucidated on OPN enhanced metastasis in NCI-H460 non- small cell lung cancer cells.

Methods

Cell viability was measured by MTT assay. Adhesion and invasion assays were carried out to see that EEOS inhibited cell adhesion and invasion in OPN treated and non-treated NCI-H 460 cells. RT-PCR was used to determine the mRNA levels of uPA, uPAR, and EGFR.

Results

EEOS significantly inhibited cell adhesion and invasion in OPN treated and non treated NCI-H460 cells, though EEOS did not show any toxicity up to 200 μg/ml. EEOS effectively attenuated the expression of OPN and CD44 and also OPN activated the expression of CD44 in NCI-H460 cells. In addition, EEOS effectively suppressed the expression of phosphatidylinositide 3-kinases (PI3K) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and the phosphorylation of Akt at protein level in OPN treated NCI-H460 cells. Also, EEOS significantly attenuated the expression of urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), its receptor (uPAR) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) at mRNA level and reduced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production and MMP-9 activity in OPN treated NCI-H460 cells. Furthermore, PI3K/Akt inhibitor LY294002 enhanced anti-metastatic potential of EEOS to attenuate the expression of uPA and MMP-9 in OPN treated NCI-H 460 cells.

Conclusion

Overall, our findings suggest that anti-metastatic mechanism of EEOS is mediated by inhibition of PI3K/Akt in OPN treated NCI-H460 non-small cell lung cancer cells.

A comparative study of antiplaque and antigingivitis effects of herbal mouthrinse containing tea tree oil, clove, and basil with commercially available essential oil mouthrinse

Background:

The relatively safe nature and cost-effectiveness of herbal extracts have led to a resurgent interest in their utility as therapeutic agents. Therefore, this prospective, double-blind, randomly controlled clinical trial was designed to compare the antiplaque and antigingivitis effects of newly formulated mouthrinse containing tea tree oil (TTO), clove, and basil with those of commercially available essential oil (EO) mouthrinse.

Materials and Methods:

Forty patients were selected for a 21-day study period and randomly divided into two groups. The test group patients were given newly formulated herbal mouthrinse and the control group patients were given commercially available EO mouthrinse. The Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), and Papillary Marginal Attachment (PMA) Index were recorded at baseline, 14 days, and 21 days. The microbial colony forming units (CFU) were assessed at baseline and 21 days.

Results:

Test group patients using herbal mouthrinse showed significant improvement in GI (0.16), PI (0.57), and PMA (0.02) scores. These improvements were comparable to those achieved with commercially available EO mouthrinse. However, the aerobic and anaerobic CFU of microbiota were reduced with the herbal mouthrinse (P = 0.0000).

Conclusion:

The newly formulated herbal mouthrinse and commercially available mouthrinse were beneficial clinically as antiplaque and antigingivitis agents. Newly formulated mouthrinses showed significant reduction in microbial CFU at 21 days. So, our findings support the regular use of herbal mouthrinse as an antiplaque, antigingivitis, and antimicrobial rinse for better efficacy.

Antioxidant, total phenolic contents and antinociceptive potential of Teucrium stocksianum methanolic extract in different animal models

Background

Oxidative stress and analgesia are connected with different pathological conditions. The drug candidates from synthetic sources are associated with various side effects; therefore, researchers are giving priority to find novel, effective and safe phytomedicines. Teucrium species possesses antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activities. The essential oils of Teucrium stocksianum have shown strong antinociceptive potential. Our current study is designed to embark total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant and antinociceptive potential of the methanolic extract of Teucrium stocksianum (METS).

Method

Phytochemical composition was determined by using standard methods. Free radical scavenging potential and TPC of METS were assessed by using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and Folin-Ciocalteu Reagent (FCR) respectively. Antinociceptive potential was determined by acetic acid induced abdominal writhing, formalin induced paw licking and tail immersion tests. Different test dose 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg body weight of METS were administered intra peritonealy (i.p) to various groups of mice for the evaluation of analgesic potential.

Results

Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, saponins, anthraquinone, steroid, phlobatannin, terpenoid, glycoside and reducing sugars. METS was found safe at a dose of 1000 mg/kg body weight. A concentration dependent free radical scavenging effect was observed with methanolic aerial parts extract of Teucrium stocksianum (MAPETS) and methanolic roots extracts of Teucrium stocksianum (MRETS). MAPETS and MRETS have shown highest antioxidant activity 91.72% and 86.19% respectively at 100 μg/ml. MAPETS was found more rich (115.32 mg of GAE/g of dry material) in TPC as compared to MAPETS (105.41 mg of GAE/g). METS demonstrated a dose dependent antinociceptive potential in different pain models, like in acetic acid, formalin and tail immersion showing 83.103%, 80.872% and 67.58% at a dose of 150 mg/kg, similar to acetylsalicylic acid (74.79%, 82.87%, 100 mg/kg) and Tramadol^R (74%, 30 mg/kg) respectively.

Conclusion

Strong antioxidant potential and high TPCs are residing in the methanolic extract of T. stocksianum. METS showed analgesic potential in all models of nociception implying that both peripheral and central pathways of analgesia are involved. This might be due to the presence of various classes of phytochemicals in the plant extract.

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the sesame oil and sesamin

Sesame oil is widely consumed as nutritious food, cooking oil, and in pharmaceuticals and food. In this study, the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of the sesame oil and sesamin were investigated. The sesame oil and sesamin reduced the number of abdominal contortions at the doses 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg. The first and second phases of the time paw licking were inhibited by sesame oil and sesamin (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg). After 90 min of treatment, sesame oil and sesamin increased the reaction time on a hot plate (200 or 400 mg/kg). Considering the tail-immersion assay, the sesame oil and sesamin produced significant effect after 60 min at the doses of 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg. After 4 h of application of the carrageenan, the sesame oil and sesamin were effective against the paw edema. The exudate volume and leucocyte migration were also reduced by sesame oil and sesamin. These results suggest that sesamin is one of the active compounds found in sesame oil and justify the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of this product.

Evaluation of the mutagenic potential and acute oral toxicity of standardized extract of Ocimum sanctum (OciBest™)

Ocimum sanctum L. (Lamiaceae) is found throughout India and in many parts of world. O. sanctum is used for the treatment of various health indications. In this lieu, it is of prime importance to investigate the safety aspects of the plant. Hence, the present study was conducted to investigate the possible genotoxic potential and acute oral toxicity of the extract of O. sanctum (OciBest™). The standard battery of in vitro genotoxicity tests, namely bacterial reverse mutation, chromosome aberration and micronucleus (MN) tests were employed to assess the possible mutagenic activity. The results showed that OciBest™ (7.9-2500.0 µg/mL) did not increase the number of histidine revertant colonies in Salmonella typhimurium strains (TA98 and TAMix) with and without exogenous metabolic activation (S9). OciBest™ (10.0-100.0 µg/mL) did not show structural chromosomal aberrations or increase in MN induction, with and without S9, at the tested dose range in both 4-h and 18-h exposure cell cultures. Thus, OciBest™ is not genotoxic in bacterial reverse mutation, chromosomal aberration and MN tests. In an acute oral toxicity test, rats were treated with 5 g/kg of OciBest™ and observed for signs of toxicity for 14 days and the results did not show any treatment-related toxic effects to Wistar rats.

Evaluation of antioxidant and wound healing potentials of Sphaeranthus amaranthoides Burm.f

BACKGROUND

Sphaeranthus amaranthoides commonly known as sivakaranthai is used in folklore medicine for the treatment of skin diseases.

METHODS

The antioxidant activity of the extract and its fraction was evaluated by using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity, total antioxidant capacity, and total phenolic content. The tested plant extracts showed variable degrees of antioxidant activity. In the present study, methanolic extract of the whole plant of S. amaranthoides and a flavonoid fraction obtained from column chromatography were studied for wound healing activity by incorporating the sample in simple ointment base. Wound healing activity was studied in excision wound model in rats, following which, wound contraction, period of epithelization, hydroxyproline content, and collagen levels in the scab were studied.

RESULTS

Methanolic extract showed the highest antioxidant effect (72.05%) and diethyl ether extract has the least (29.34%) compared to the standard (74.53%). Treatment of wound with ointment containing 5% (w/w) methanolic extract and 5% (w/w) flavonoid fraction exhibited better wound healing activity than positive control (silver sulfadiazine). Finally, histopathology studies conformed wound healing activity in Sphaeranthus amaranthoides. The methanolic extract and flavonoid fraction exhibited good wound healing activity probably due to the presence of phenolic and flavonoid constituents. The methanolic extract and flavonoid fraction significantly enhanced the rate of wound contraction and the period of epithelialization comparable to silver sulfadiazine.

Antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of Viola betonicifolia whole plant

BACKGROUND

Pyrexia, algesia and inflammation are associated with several pathological conditions. Synthetic drugs available for the treatment of these conditions cause multiple unwanted effects. Several studies are ongoing worldwide to find natural healing agents with better safety profile. The current study was thus aimed at evaluating antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of the methanolic extract of whole plant of V. betonicifolia (VBME).

METHODS

VBME was employed to assess antipyretic activity in yeast induced hyperthermia. Analgesic profile was ascertained in acetic acid induced writhing, hot plat and tail immersion test. Nevertheless, the anti-inflammatory activity was tested in carrageenan induced paw edema and histamine induced inflammatory tests. BALB/c mice were used at test doses of 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight intra peritoneally (i.p).

RESULTS

In yeast induced pyrexia, VBME demonstrated dose dependently (78.23%) protection at 300 mg/kg, similar to standard drug, paracetamol (90%) at 150 mg/kg i.p. VBME showed a dose dependent analgesia in various pain models i.e. acetic acid, hot plat and tail immersion having 78.90%, 69.96% and 68.58% protection respectively at 300 mg/kg. However, the analgesic action of VBME was completely antagonized by the injection of naloxone like opiate antagonists. Similarly carrageenan and histamine induces inflammation was significantly antagonized by VBME, 66.30% and 60.80% respectively at 300 mg/kg.

CONCLUSIONS

It is concluded that VBME has marked antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities in various animal models and this strongly supports the ethnopharmacological uses of Viola betonicifolia as antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory plant.

Are there new therapeutic options for treating lung cancer based on herbal medicines and their metabolites?

ETHONOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Lung cancer is one of the most lethal cancers in terms of mortality and incidence worldwide. Despite intensive research and investigation, treatment of lung cancer is still unsatisfactory due to adverse effects and multidrug resistance. Recently, herbal drugs have been recognized as one of attractive approaches for lung cancer therapy with little side effects. Furthermore, there are evidences that various herbal medicines have proven to be useful and effective in sensitizing conventional agents, prolonging survival time, preventing side effects of chemotherapy, and improving quality of life (QoL) in lung cancer patients.

AIM AND METHODS OF THE STUDY

Nevertheless, the underlying molecular targets and efficacy of herbal medicines in lung cancer treatment still remain unclear. Thus, we reviewed traditionally used herbal medicines and their phytochemicals with antitumor activity against lung cancer from peer-reviewed papers through Scientific Database Medline, Scopus and Google scholar.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that herbal medicines and phytochemicals can be useful anti-cancer agents for lung cancer treatment by targeting molecular signaling involved in the regulation of angiogenesis, metastasis and severe side effects, only provided quality control and reproducibility issues were solved.

Anti-cancer effects of novel flavonoid vicenin-2 as a single agent and in synergistic combination with docetaxel in prostate cancer

The present study was conducted to determine the efficacy of novel flavonoid vicenin-2 (VCN-2), an active constituent of the medicinal herb Ocimum Sanctum Linn or Tulsi, as a single agent and in combination with docetaxel (DTL) in carcinoma of prostate (CaP). VCN-2 effectively induced anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic and pro-apoptotic effect in CaP cells (PC-3, DU-145 and LNCaP) irrespective of their androgen responsiveness or p53 status. VCN-2 inhibited EGFR/Akt/mTOR/p70S6K pathway along with decreasing c-Myc, cyclin D1, cyclin B1, CDK4, PCNA and hTERT in vitro. VCN-2 reached a level of 2.6±0.3μmol/l in serum after oral administration in mice which reflected that VCN-2 is orally absorbed. The i.v. administration of docetaxel (DTL), current drug of choice in androgen-independent CaP, is associated with dose-limiting toxicities like febrile neutropenia which has lead to characterization of alternate routes of administration and potential combinatorial regimens. In this regard, VCN-2 in combination with DTL synergistically inhibited the growth of prostate tumors in vivo with a greater decrease in the levels of AR, pIGF1R, pAkt, PCNA, cyclin D1, Ki67, CD31, and increase in E-cadherin. VCN-2 has been investigated for radioprotection and anti-inflammatory properties. This is the first study on the anti-cancer effects of VCN-2. In conclusion, our investigations collectively provide strong evidence that VCN-2 is effective against CaP progression along with indicating that VCN-2 and DTL co-administration is more effective than either of the single agents in androgen-independent prostate cancer.