Antidiarrhoeal activity of Cyperus rotundus

Effects of Dietary Tuber Ethanolic Extract of Nut Grass (Cyperus rotundus Linn.) on Growth, Immune Response, and Disease Resistance in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Nut grass (Cyperus rotundus Linn.) is a weed that grows in all tropical, subtropical and temperate regions of the world, including areas where it grows on saline soil. This research was conducted to evaluate the effect of C. rotundus tuber extract in the diet on the growth performance and disease resistance of Nile tilapia. Various components of phytochemical importance of nut grass, including sugars/carbohydrates, terpenoids, tannins, and flavonoids were found in C. rotundus. Tilapia (n = 25 fish/group in triplicate) were fed with different levels of nut grass extract including 0 (control; T1), 0.4 (T2), 0.8 (T3), and 1.6 (T4) g/kg for 60 days in a completely randomized design (CRD) experiment. After the feeding trial, the highest weight gain and average daily gain (ADG) were observed in the T4 group, but it was not significantly different from T3 (Nile tilapia fed with a 0.8 g/kg) (p > 0.05). The lowest feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed in the T3 group. Moreover, the fillet, crud lipid content, and blood chemical profiles (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), cholesterol, and malondialdehyde (MDA)) in fish fed with 1.6 g/kg were highest when compared in all groups. In addition, the T3 group presented with the immune response parameter found in red blood cells (RBC), lysozyme activity, and antioxidant (superoxide dismutase activity (SOD)) being higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05). The highest survival (93.33%) was observed in fish fed with 0.8 g/kg (T3) after a 14 day challenge with Streptococcus agalactiae. Thus, it was concluded that nut grass extract at 0.8 g/kg can be used to improve the growth performance and the tendency for resistance to S. agalactiae in Nile tilapia.

Phytochemistry, data mining, pharmacology, toxicology and the analytical methods of Cyperus rotundus L. (Cyperaceae): a comprehensive review

Cyperus rotundus L. has been widely used in the treatment and prevention of numerous diseases in traditional systems of medicine around the world, such as nervous, gastrointestinal systems diseases and inflammation. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), its rhizomes are frequently used to treat liver disease, stomach pain, breast tenderness, dysmenorrheal and menstrual irregularities. The review is conducted to summarize comprehensively the plant's vernacular names, distribution, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology and analytical methods, along with the data mining for TCM prescriptions containing C. rotundus. Herein, 552 compounds isolated or identified from C. rotundus were systematically collated and classified, concerning monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, phenolics and phenolic glycosides, triterpenoids and steroids, diterpenoids, quinonoids, alkaloids, saccharides and others. Their pharmacological effects on the digestive system, nervous system, gynecological diseases, and other bioactivities like antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, insect repellent, anti-microbial activity, etc. were summarized accordingly. Moreover, except for the data mining on the compatibility of C. rotundus in TCM, the separation, identification and analytical methods of C. rotundus compositions were also systematically summarized, and constituents of the essential oils from different regions were re-analyzed using multivariate statistical analysis. In addition, the toxicological study progresses on C. rotundus revealed the safety property of this herb. This review is designed to serve as a scientific basis and theoretical reference for further exploration into the clinical use and scientific research of C. rotundus.

Graphical Abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary materials available at 10.1007/s11101-023-09870-3.

In vitro and in vivo anthelmintic and chemical studies of Cyperus rotundus L. extracts

BACKGROUND

Trichinellosis, a zoonosis caused by the genus Trichinella, is a widespread foodborne disease. Albendazole, one of the benzimidazole derivatives, is used for treating human trichinellosis, but with limited efficacy in killing the encysted larvae and numerous adverse effects. Cyperus rotundus L. is a herbal plant with a wide range of medicinal uses, including antiparasitic, and is frequently used in traditional medicine to treat various illnesses.

METHODS

LC-ESI-MS was used to identify the active phytoconstituents in the methanol extract (MeOH ext.) of the aerial parts of C. rotundus and its derivate fractions ethyl acetate (EtOAc fr.), petroleum ether (pet-ether fr.), and normal butanol (n-BuOH fr.). The in vivo therapeutic effects of C. rotundus fractions of the extracts were evaluated using the fraction that showed the most promising effect after detecting their in vitro anti-Trichinella spiralis potential.

RESULTS

C. rotundus extracts are rich in different phytochemicals, and the LC-ESI-MS of the 90% methanol extract identified 26 phenolic compounds classified as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and organic acids. The in vitro studies showed that C. rotundus extracts had a lethal effect on T. spiralis adults, and the LC₅₀ were 156.12 µg/ml, 294.67 µg/ml, 82.09 µg/ml, and 73.16 µg/ml in 90% MeOH ext., EtOAc fr., pet-ether fr. and n-BuOH fr., respectively. The n-BuOH fr. was shown to have the most promising effects in the in vitro studies, which was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. The in vivo effects of n-BuOH fr. alone and in combination with albendazole using a mouse model were evaluated by counting adults in the small intestine and larvae in the muscles, in addition to the histopathological changes in the small intestine and the muscles. In the treated groups, there was a significant decrease in the number of adults and larvae compared to the control group. Histopathologically, treated groups showed a remarkable improvement in the small intestine and muscle changes. Remarkably, maximal therapeutic effects were detected in the combination therapy compared to each monotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Accordingly, C. rotundus extracts may have anti-T. spiralis potential, particularly when combined with albendazole, and they may be used as synergistic to anti-T. spiralis medication therapy.

In silico investigations of some Cyperus rotundus compounds as potential anti-inflammatory inhibitors of 5-LO and LTA4H enzymes

The present study aimed to experimentally identify the essential oil of Algerian Cyperus rotundus L. and to model the interaction of some known anti-inflammatory molecules with two key enzymes involved in inflammation, 5-Lypoxygenase (5-LO) and leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H). Gas chromatography/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/GC-MS) revealed that 92.7% of the essential oil contains 35 compounds, including oxygenated sesquiterpenes (44.2%), oxygenated monoterpenes (30.2%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (11.8%) and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (6.5%). The major identified oxygenated terpenes are humulene oxide II, caryophyllene oxide, khusinol, agarospirol, spathulinol and trans-pinocarveol Myrtenol and α-terpineol are known to exhibit anti-inflammatory activities. Several complexes obtained after docking the natural terpenes with 5-LO and LTA4H have shown strong hydrogen bonding interactions. The best docking energies were found with α-terpineol, Myrtenol and khusinol. The interaction between the natural products and amino-acid residues HIS367, ILE673 and GLN363 appears to be critical for 5-LO inhibition, while the interaction with residues GLU271, HIS295, TYR383, TYR378, GLU318, GLU296 and ASP375 is critical for LTA4H inhibition. Molecular dynamics (MD) trajectories of the selected docked complexes showed stable backbone root mean square deviation (RMSD), supporting the stability of the natural product-enzyme interaction.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

The association study of chemical compositions and their pharmacological effects of Cyperi Rhizoma (Xiangfu), a potential traditional Chinese medicine for treating depression

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cyperi Rhizoma (CR) derives from the rhizome or tuber of Cyperus rotundus L. of Cyperaceae. It is an herbal medicine which has been widely used in different healthcare systems like in China, India, Iran, and Japan. In Chinese medicine, CR could promote the flow of Qi in the Liver and Sanjiao channels, regulate menstruation and alleviate pain. Clinically, CR is used for depression, flatulence, hypochondriac pain, and dysmenorrhea. Thus, it has a long history and significant curative effect for the treatment of various Qi stagnation symptoms.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

This review focuses on explaining the major antidepressant mechanisms of CR, and assessing the shortcomings of existing work. Besides, clinical applications, pharmacological effects and their corresponding chemical compositions and quality control of CR have been researched.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The search terms "Cyperus rotundus L." was used to obtain the literatures from electronic databases such as Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). The information provided in this review to illustrate material basis of CR were only limited to papers which reported on the chemical compositions and pharmacological effects simultaneously.

RESULT

The study showed that CR has significant application in Qi stagnation, like depressed liver, stomach, and bowel disorders, etc. in different countries or districts. Aqueous extract, EtOH extract, essential oil, total oligomeric flavonoids and five other extracts were effective constituents displaying pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antioxidant, neuroprotective, antihemolytic, and anti-inflammatory effect. 41 kinds of specific components like α-cyperone, nootkatone exhibited corresponding pharmacological activities mentioned above. Different concentrations of ethanol extract, essential oil, decoction of CR and monomer composition like α-cyperone, rotunduside G had anti-depressant effects.

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, we have provided scientific information and research developments on traditional uses, phytochemical compositions and corresponding pharmacological activities, and quality control status on CR. The antidepression effect and its corresponding chemical compositions were generalized separately. The pharmacological activities studies should be more focused on the reflection of traditional clinical values. CR could be a significant potential herbal medicine to develop antidepressant drugs with lower side effects.

The Anti-Endometriotic Effect of Cyperi Rhizoma Extract, Inhibiting Cell Adhesion and the Expression of Pain-Related Factors through Akt and NF-kB Pathways

Rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus have been widely used as a traditional medicine in Asia for the treatment of gynecological diseases. However, there is no scientific evidence demonstrating the effect of C. rotundus rhizomes on endometriosis, which is characterized by the adhesion of endometrial tissues outside the uterus, resulting in chronic and severe pelvic pain. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Cyperi rhizoma extract (CRE) on cell adhesion and the expression of pain-related factors (neurotrophins) in endometriotic cells, and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. CRE inhibited the adhesion of human endometriotic 12Z cells to peritoneal mesothelial Met5A cells using by adhesion assays. The mRNA expression of adhesion molecules [P-cadherin and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2] was downregulated by CRE treatment. In addition, CRE significantly inhibited the mRNA expression of neurotrophins (BDNF, NGF, NT-3 and NT-4/5) in 12Z cells. Moreover, Akt overexpression markedly neutralized the inhibition of cell adhesion by CRE and expression of neurotrophins in 12Z cells. Furthermore, it was found that CRE suppressed NF-kB activation through the Akt pathway. These data suggest that CRE exerts anti-endometriotic activities by the inhibition of cell adhesion and neurotrophin expression, through the negative regulation of the Akt and NF-kB pathways in endometriotic cells.

Cyperus spp.: A Review on Phytochemical Composition, Biological Activity, and Health-Promoting Effects

Cyperaceae are a plant family of grass-like monocots, comprising 5600 species with a cosmopolitan distribution in temperate and tropical regions. Phytochemically, Cyperus is one of the most promising health supplementing genera of the Cyperaceae family, housing ≈950 species, with Cyperus rotundus L. being the most reported species in pharmacological studies. The traditional uses of Cyperus spp. have been reported against various diseases, viz., gastrointestinal and respiratory affections, blood disorders, menstrual irregularities, and inflammatory diseases. Cyperus spp. are known to contain a plethora of bioactive compounds such as α-cyperone, α-corymbolol, α-pinene, caryophyllene oxide, cyperotundone, germacrene D, mustakone, and zierone, which impart pharmacological properties to its extract. Therefore, Cyperus sp. extracts were preclinically studied and reported to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, neuroprotective, antidepressive, antiarthritic, antiobesity, vasodilator, spasmolytic, bronchodilator, and estrogenic biofunctionalities. Nonetheless, conclusive evidence is still sparse regarding its clinical applications on human diseases. Further studies focused on toxicity data and risk assessment are needed to elucidate its safe and effective application. Moreover, detailed structure-activity studies also need time to explore the candidature of Cyperus-derived phytochemicals as upcoming drugs in pharmaceuticals.

Two New Sesquiterpenoids Isolated From Cyperus rotundus L

Two new sesquiterpenoids, isocyperotundone (1) and 1,4-epoxy-4-hydroxy-4,5-seco-guain-11-en-5-one (2), together with 6 known sesquiterpenoids, cyperotundone (3), cyperenoic acid (4), sugetriol triacetate (5), cyperusol A3 (6), cyperusol A2 (7), and cyperusol A1 (8), were isolated from the methanol extract of the rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus L. High-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and 1-dimensional (1D) and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy were used to establish the structures of all the compounds. All the compounds were tested for activity on nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF- κB) signaling. Compounds 1-7 exhibited inhibitory activity on tumor necrosis factor- α-induced activation of the NF- κB pathway, with half-maximal inhibitory concentration values ranging from 34.5 to 73.7 μmol/L.

Natural products in Cyperus rotundus L. (Cyperaceae): an update of the chemistry and pharmacological activities

Cyperus rotundus L. (Nutgrass, family Cyperaceae) is a notorious weed which is widespread in temperate tropical and subtropical regions of the world.

α-Cyperone inhibits the proliferation of human cervical cancer HeLa cells via ROS-mediated PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway

Cervical cancer is the fourth leading killer of female cancer patients worldwide. Each year more than half a million women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and the disease results in over 300, 000 deaths. α-Cyperone is known as the principal active ingredient in the Cyperus rotundus (Family: Cyperaceae). However, the effects of α-Cyperone on cancers, especially on cervical cancer, are yet to be explored. In the present study, the underlying mechanism of the anti-tumor activity of α-Cyperone against HeLa cells was investigated. The results showed that α-Cyperone inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in HeLa cells. Mechanistically, α-Cyperone promoted HeLa cells apoptosis via a mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, which was proved by increased level of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and upregulated expression of cytochrome c, cleaved caspase-3, PARP, and Bax. Further RNA-sequencing revealed α-Cyperone inhibited the activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in HeLa cells, which confirmed by PI3K inhibitor and agonist. The PI3K inhibitor (LY294002) synergized with α-Cyperone in arresting the growth of HeLa cells, whereas the PI3K agonist (IGF-1) abrogated such an effect. Interestingly, the expression of PD-L1 was attenuated by both α-Cyperone and LY294002, while the supplement of IGF-1 rescued the low expression of PD-L1. In conclusion, our results reveal that the inhibitory effect of α-Cyperone on HeLa cell growth is triggered via the ROS-mediated PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and closely related to a decline in the PD-L1 expression.

Therapeutic effects of Cyperus rotundus rhizome extract on memory impairment, neurogenesis and mitochondria in beta-amyloid rat model of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disturbance leading to memory deficit, cognitive decline, and behavioral disturbance. Deposition of Amyloid beta plaques, neurofibrillary tangle and mitochondrial impairment are common neuropathological signs in AD. In this study, the effect of standardized Cyperus rotundus(C. rotundus) extract in three different doses of 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg on memory, neurogenesis and mitochondrial mass in the beta amyloid rat model was assessed. For this purpose, 42 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 7) to evaluate baseline training performance in Morris water maze test. Amyloid beta (Aβ) was injected in animal hippocampal CA1 bilaterally in four groups. After 21 days, a decrease was observed in spending time in target quadrant in the first probe trial in Aβ injected groups. Following that, 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg of C. rotundus extracts were administered to three out of four groups for a period of one month. BrdU (Bromodeoxyuridine) was intraperitoneally injected in all groups on the last 7 days of treatment. Then, 28 days after the last BrdU injection, the second probe trial was run, and rats were sacrificed. The neurogenesis and mitochondrial distribution were detected in hippocampus, by immunohistochemical staining. At last, it was observed that C. rotundus, almost recovered memory impairment, in addition to increasing in mitochondrial mass in CA1 and neurogenesis in dentate gyruse in the beta-amyloid rat model of Alzheimer's disease.

The in vitro and in vivo anti-hepatotoxic, anti-hepatitis B virus and hepatic CYP450 modulating potential of Cyperus rotundus

In the present study we investigated the hepatotoprotective, hepatitis B virus (HBV) inhibitory and hepatic CYP450 enzyme (CYP3A4) modulatory potential of Cyperus rotundus rhizome fractions. The crude ethanol-extract, including different organic and aqueous fractions were tested for in vitro cytoprotection on HepG2 cells (MTT assay), followed by in vivo evaluation in Wistar rats (serum biochemistry and lipid profile). The in vitro anti-HBV activity was tested on HepG2.2.15 cells (HBsAg and HBeAg Elisa). Of these, the n-butanol and aqueous fractions showed the most promising, dose-dependent hepatoprotection in DCFH-injured HepG2 cells. Further, in CCl₄-injured rats, oral administration of C. rotundus (100 and 200 mg/kg·bw/day) significantly normalized serum markers of healthy liver function (SGOT, SGPT, GGT, ALP and bilirubin) and lipid profile (cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL, TG and MDA), including tissue NP-SH and TP levels. Compared to other fractions, the ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous fractions exhibited the best inhibitory effects on viral HBsAg and HBeAg secretions in dose- and time-dependent manner. In addition, reporter gene assay (Dual-luciferase) of transfected HepG2 cells showed mild activation of nuclear PXR-mediated CYP3A4 gene by the three active fractions. Taken together, C. rotundus showed very promising hepatoprotective and anti-HBV potential in experimental settings. In addition, this is the first report on modulation of CYP3A4 by C. rotundus that suggests its safe consumption in relation to drug metabolism and efficacy. Our data could therefore, provide the basis for the ethnobotanical medicinal use of C. rotundus in metabolic liver disorder and hepatitis B patients.

Plants in traditional medicine with special reference to Cyperus rotundus L.: a review

The nutgrass, Cyperus rotundus L. (Family: Cyperaceae), is a colonial, perennial herb considered to have originated in India 2000 years ago and widely used in Ayurveda to treat several ailments. In addition to its prehistoric uses, it is used in several systems of medicine for treating variety of diseases. The synergistic actions of the Cyperus' compounds have added advantage over that of a single constituent. In the past decade, numerous studies proved analgesic, anti-allergic, anti-arthritic, anti-candida, anti-cariogenic, anti-convulsant, anti-diarrheal, anti-emetic, anti-helminthic, anti-histamine, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-malarial, anti-obesity, antioxidant, anti-platelet, anti-pyretic, anti-ulcer, anti-viral, cardioprotective, cytoprotective, cytotoxic, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, ovicidal, and larvicidal, wound healing and inhibition of brain Na+ K+ ATPase activities of C. rotundus and its chemical constituents. However, the exact the mechanism of action is not very clear and requires further evaluation. These properties strongly suggest an extensive use of C. rotundus for clinical applications. In this review, we attempted to provide information about the pharmacological effects of Cyperus and its proposed mechanisms of actions.

Anticandidal activity of the extract and compounds isolated from Cyperus conglomertus Rottb

The phytochemical screening of Cyperus conglomeratus showed that carbohydrates and/or glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, sterols and/or triterpenes, and proteins and/or amino acids are present. The fatty acid profile comprised major; palmitic, oleic, heptadecanoic, linoleic and minor; arachidonic, lignoceric, stearic, and myristic acid. Two compounds; namely, α-amyrin and β-sitosterol were isolated by the fractionation of unsaponifiable matter.

The acute toxicity study showed that the reported after oral administration of the alcohol extract (TAE) showed that the plant was highly safe as the LD₅₀ was more than 4000 mg/kg. These results were well supported by the sub-chronic toxicity, as the TAE administrated to rats for 15 consecutive days at dose 1000 mg/kg showed no alteration in the liver and kidney functions. Moreover, the extract of the plant exhibited anti-candidal activity against different Candida species. The most potent activity, (23.1 ± 2.1, 0.98 µg/ml) and (22.3 ± 0.53, 0.98 µg/ml), was obtained by the chloroform and total extract, respectively against Candida albicans.

Protective Effects of Cyperus Rotundus Extract on Amyloid β-Peptide (1-40)-Induced Memory Impairment in Male Rats: A Behavioral Study

INTRODUCTION

The Alzheimer Disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia that leads to memory impairment. As the oxidative stress plays an important role in AD pathogenesis, the current study aimed at examining the protective effects of Cyperus Rotundus as an antioxidant on amyloid β (Aβ)-induced memory impairment.

METHODS

Twenty-eight Wistar male rats received intrahippocampal (IHP) injection of the Aβ (1-40) and C. rotundus (400 mg/kg, intraperitoneally). Spatial memory was assessed by the Morris water-maze (MWM) task.

RESULTS

In the MWM, Aβ (1-40) significantly increased escape latency and traveled distance (P<0.001). The administration of C. rotundus attenuated the Aβ-induced memory impairment in the MWM task.

CONCLUSION

The current study findings showed that C. Rotundus could improve the learning impairment, following the Aβ treatment, and it may lead to an improvement of AD-induced cognitive dysfunction.

Therapeutic significance and pharmacological activities of antidiarrheal medicinal plants mention in Ayurveda: A review

Diarrhea is a serious problem affecting 3-5 billion people per year around the world, especially children of below 5 years. 70% of the world population uses traditional and indigenous medicine for their primary health care. The facts of these indigenous remedies are passed verbally and sometimes as documents. Since ancient time, Ayurveda is the main system of healing in South East Asian countries. Indian literature from ayurvedic texts and other books claim the potency of several plants in the treatment of diarrhea. As the global prospective of ayurvedic medicine is increasing, interest regarding the scientific basis of their action is parallely increasing. Researchers are doing experiments to establish the relation between the claimed action and observed pharmacological activities. In the present article, an attempt was made to compile the scientific basis of medicinal plants used to cure diarrhea in Ayurveda. Literature was collected via electronic search (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Medline, and Google Scholar) from published articles that reports antidiarrheal activity of plants that were mentioned in Ayurveda classics. A total of 109 plant species belonging to 58 families were reported for their antidiarrheal activity. Several Indian medicinal plants have demonstrated promising antidiarrheal effects, but the studies on the antidiarrheal potentials of these plants are not taken beyond proof of concept stage. It is hoped that the article would stimulate future clinical studies because of the paucity of knowledge in this area.

Free radical scavenging, α-glucosidase inhibitory and anti-inflammatory constituents from Indian sedges, Cyperus scariosus R.Br and Cyperus rotundus L

BACKGROUND

Cyperus scariosus R. Br and Cyperus rotundus L are widely used in ayurvedic preparation for the treatment of diabetes and other diseases. The early literature, so far, does not indicate the presence of any bioactive principle isolated from these plants.

OBJECTIVE

To identify free radical scavenging, anti-diabetic and anti- inflammatory principles from these two species.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The bioassay guided fractionation and isolation of active constituents was done by chromatographic techniques. They also evaluated their anti-oxidant activity by DPPH and ABTS. The anti-diabetic activity was screened by α- glucosidase and α- amylase assays. Also, the further evaluation of in vitro anti-inflammatory activity using THP-1 monocytic cells and in vivo anti- inflammatory activity, was confirmed by carrageenan induced rat paw edema as model.

RESULTS

The activity guided isolation led to isolation of twelve compounds Which are: Stigmasterol^[1], β- sitosterol^[2], Lupeol^[3], Gallic acid^[4], Quercetin^[5], β- amyrin^[6], Oleanolic acid^[7], β- amyrin acetate^[8], 4- hydroxyl butyl cinnamate^[9], 4- hydroxyl cinnamic acid^[10], Caffeic acid,^[11] and Kaempferol^[12] respectively. Among the isolates, the compounds 4 and 5 displayed potent radical scavenging activity with an IC₅₀ values of 0.43 and 0.067 ΅g/ml. The compounds 4, 5 and 10 showed significant anti-diabetic activities. while lupeol^[3] showed potent IL-1 β activity inhibition in THP-1 monocytic cells and also displayed significant (p<0.0025) in vivo anti-inflammatory activity.

CONCLUSION

Inbrief, we isolated twelve compounds from both the species. Collectively, our results suggested that aromatic compounds showed good anti-oxidant and anti-diabetic activities.

SUMMARY

The study investigates the free radical scavenging, α-glucosidase inhibitory and anti-inflammatory effects of constituents isolated from Indian sedges viz. C. scariosus and C. rotundus. The results indicated that phenolic compounds displayed potent fee radical scavenging activty and alpha-glucosidase inhibition activity. While terpene constituent, Lupeol[3] showed good IL-1^β activity inhibition in THP-1 monocytic cells and also displayed significant (p<0.0025) in vivo anti inflammatory activity in carrageenan induced rat paw edema. However, further studies are required to know the exact molecular mechanism. Abbreviations used: DPPH: 2,2- Diphenyl-1-1-picryl hydrazyl, ABTS: 2,2-Azinobis-3-ethylbenzo thiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, THP-1: Human leukaemia monocytic cell line, IL-1β: Interleukin-1β, IC₅₀-Inhibitory concentration 50%.

Bioactivity-guided isolation of anti-hepatitis B virus active sesquiterpenoids from the traditional Chinese medicine: Rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The rhizome of Cyperus rotundus (C. rotundus) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine to cure hepatitis in many formulae, but the active components responsible for hepatitis have not been elucidated. According to our bioassay on HepG2.2.15 cell line in vitro, the ethanol extract of C. rotundus demonstrated potent anti-HBV activity. This current study was designed to isolate and identify the anti-HBV active constituents from the rhizomes of C. rotundus.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Bioactivity and LC-MS guided fractionation on the extract of C. rotundus using various chromatographic techniques including open-column, Sephadex LH-20 and semi-preparative high performance liquid chromatography led to the isolation and identification of thirty-seven sesquiterpenoids. Structural elucidation of the isolates was carried out by extensive spectroscopic analyses (UV, IR, HRMS, 1D- and 2D -NMR). The anti-HBV activity and cytotoxicity were evaluated on the HBV-transfected HepG2.2.15 cell line in vitro. The cytotoxicity effects of the isolates were assessed by a MTT assay. The secretions of HBsAg and HBeAg in the culture medium were detected by ELISA method, and the load of HBV DNA was quantified by real-time fluorescent PCR technique.

RESULTS

Five new patchoulane-type sesquiterpenoids, namely cyperene-3, 8-dione (1), 14-hydroxy cyperotundone (2), 14-acetoxy cyperotundone (3), 3β-hydroxycyperenoic acid (4) and sugetriol-3, 9-diacetate (5), along with 32 known sesquiterpenoids were isolated from the active fractions of C. rotundus. Compounds 2 and 3 were the first cyperotundone-type sesquiterpenoids with a hydroxyl group at C-14 position. Nine eudesmane-type sesquiterpenoids (15-21 and 23-24) significantly inhibited the HBV DNA replication with IC50 values of 42.7±5.9, 22.5±1.9, 13.2±1.2, 10.1±0.7, 14.1±1.1, 15.3±2.7, 13.8±0.9, 19.7±2.1 and 11.9±0.6 μM, respectively, of which, compounds 17, 21, 23 and 24 possessed high SI values of 250.4, 125.5,>259.6 and 127.5, respectively. Two patchoulane-type sesquiterpenoids (4 and 7) effectively suppressed the secretion of HBsAg in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 values of 46.6±14.3 (SI=31.0) and 77.2±13.0 (SI=1.7) μM, respectively. Compounds 2, 8, 12, 15, 17 and 25 possessed moderate activities against HBeAg secretion with IC50 values of 162.5±18.9 (SI=13.3), 399.2±90.0 (SI=10.6), 274.7±70.8 (SI=5.2), 313.9±87.5 (SI=7.2), 334.0±70.4 (SI=9.9) and 285.3±20.9 (SI=15.5) μM, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to reveal the anti-HBV constituents of C. rotundus, demonstrating that the eudesmane-type sesquiterpenoids might contribute to the anti-HBV activity of the rhizomes of C. rotundus.

Pharmacology of Ativisha, Musta and their substitutes

The Ayurvedic literature during the medieval period suggests the use of Musta (Cyperus rotundus), a common weed, as a pratinidhi dravya (substitute) for Ativisha (Aconitum heterophyllum), an endangered species. Contemporary Ayurvedic practice also uses Cryptocoryne spiralis, (known as Naattu Atividayam in South India) and Nagaramusta (Cyperus scariosus) as substitutes for Ativisha and Musta, respectively. This article reviews published literature on the pharmacology of the above four species. Both A. heterophyllum and C. rotundus are reported to possess antiinflammatory, antipyretic, antibacterial and antidiarrhoeal properties, while antiinflammatory and antibacterial activities are attributed to C. scariosus. No reports exist on the bioactivity of Cryptocoryne spiralis. It is interesting to note that other than the veerya which is different, the biological properties of Ativisha and Musta are similar according to Ayurvedic classification of dravyaguna. This is also supported by modern pharmacological studies, which show that, both A. heterophyllum and C. rotundus have antidiarrheal, antipyretic, antiinflammatory, antihyperlipidemic and hypoglycemic activities. However, the similarities between the discussed species cannot be attributed to their phytochemical composition or taxonomical classification as these are quite distinct. The dravyaguna method of classifying materials, which we are calling as “pharmaco-taxonomy”, offers a unique way of classifying those plant materials which lack similarity at the botanical or chemical level, but are similar at the level of biological functions.

The Hexane Fraction of Cyperus rotundus Prevents Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Through the Inhibition of Liver X Receptor α-Mediated Activation of Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein-1c

The goals of this study were (1) to examine the effects of Cyperus rotundus (CR) rhizome on cellular lipogenesis and non-alcoholic/diet-induced fatty liver disease, and (2) to elucidate the molecular mechanism behind its actions. The present investigation showed that the hexane fraction of CR rhizome (CRHF) reduced the elevated transcription levels of sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) in primary hepatocytes following exposure to the liver X receptor α (LXRα) agonist. The SREBP-1c gene is a master regulator of lipogenesis and a key target of LXRα. CRHF inhibited not only the LXRα-dependent activation of the synthetic LXR response element (LXRE) promoter, but also the activation of the natural SREBP-1c promoter. Moreover, CRHF decreased (a) the recruitment of RNA polymerase II to the LXRE of the SREBP-1c gene; (b) the LXRα-dependent up-regulation of various lipogenic genes; and (c) the LXRα-mediated accumulation of triglycerides in primary hepatocytes. Furthermore, CRHF ameliorated fatty liver disease and reduced the expression levels of hepatic lipogenic genes in high sucrose diet (HSD)-fed mice. Interestingly, CRHF did not affect the expression of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1, another important LXR target gene that is required for reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) and protects against atherosclerosis. Taken together, these results suggest that CRHF might be a novel therapeutic remedy for fatty liver disease through the selective inhibition of the lipogenic pathway.

The protective effects of Cyperus rotundus on behavior and cognitive function in a rat model of hypoxia injury

CONTEXT

Hypoxia injury (HI) with its long-term neurological complications is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. Currently, the treatment regimens for hypoxia are aimed only at ameliorating the damage without complete cure. The need, therefore, for novel therapeutic drugs to treat HI continues.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the protective effects of the ethanol extract of Cyperus rotundus L. (Cyperaceae) (EECR), a medicinal plant used in Ayurvedic traditional medicine against sodium nitrite-induced hypoxia in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We have evaluated the protective effect of 200 and 400 mg/kg of EECR against sodium nitrite-induced hypoxia injury in rats by assessing the cognitive functions, motor, and behavioral effects of EECR treatment along with the histological changes in the brain. By comparing the protective effects of standard drugs galantamine, a reversible cholinesterase inhibitor and pyritinol, an antioxidant nootropic drug against sodium nitrite-induced hypoxia in rats, we have tested the protective ability of EECR.

RESULTS

EECR at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg was able to protect against the cognitive impairments, and the locomotor activity and muscular coordination defects, which are affected by sodium nitrite-induced hypoxia injury in rats.

CONCLUSION

Based on our results, we suggest that the medicinal herb C. rotundus possesses a protective effect against sodium nitrite-induced hypoxia in rats. Further studies on these protective effects of EECR may help in designing better therapeutic regimes for hypoxia injury.

Induction of apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 human breast carcinoma cells with an ethanol extract of Cyperus rotundus L. by activating caspases

Cyperus rotundus L. belongs to the Cyperaceae family and is a well documented traditional medicinal herb. Its rhizome has been reported to possess wide spectrum pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the anticancer activity have not been elucidated. In the present study, we investigated the pro-apoptotic effects of C. rotundu rhizomes in a human breast carcinoma MDA-MB-231 cell model. Treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells with an ethanol extract of C. rotundu rhizomes (EECR) and a methanol extract of C. rotundu rhizomes (MECR), but not a water extract of C. rotundu rhizomes, resulted in potent antiproliferative activity. The activity of the EECR was higher than that of the MECR and was associated with the induction of apoptosis. The induction of apoptosis by the EECR was associated with upregulation of death receptor 4 (DR4), DR5 and pro-apoptotic Bax, as well as downregulation of anti-apoptotic survivin and Bcl-2. EECR treatment also downregulated Bid expression and activated caspase-8 and -9, the respective initiator caspases of the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways. The increase in mitochondrial membrane depolarization was correlated with activation of effector caspase-3 and cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, a vital substrate of activated caspase-3. Blockage of caspase activation by pretreatment with a pan-caspase inhibitor consistently inhibited apoptosis and abrogated growth inhibition in EECR-treated MDA-MB-231 cells. Although reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased following treatment with the EECR, inhibiting ROS with a ROS scavenger did not attenuate EECR-induced apoptosis. Furthermore, inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways failed to reverse EECR-induced apoptosis and growth inhibition. These results suggest that the pro-apoptotic activity of the EECR may be regulated by a caspase-dependent cascade through activation of both intrinsic and extrinsic signaling pathways that is not associated with ROS generation or the PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways.

Dental calculus reveals unique insights into food items, cooking and plant processing in prehistoric central Sudan

Accessing information on plant consumption before the adoption of agriculture is challenging. However, there is growing evidence for use of locally available wild plants from an increasing number of pre-agrarian sites, suggesting broad ecological knowledge. The extraction of chemical compounds and microfossils from dental calculus removed from ancient teeth offers an entirely new perspective on dietary reconstruction, as it provides empirical results on material that is already in the mouth. Here we present a suite of results from the multi-period Central Sudanese site of Al Khiday. We demonstrate the ingestion in both pre-agricultural and agricultural periods of Cyperus rotundus tubers. This plant is a good source of carbohydrates and has many useful medicinal and aromatic qualities, though today it is considered to be the world's most costly weed. Its ability to inhibit Streptococcus mutans may have contributed to the unexpectedly low level of caries found in the agricultural population. Other evidence extracted from the dental calculus includes smoke inhalation, dry (roasting) and wet (heating in water) cooking, a second plant possibly from the Triticaceae tribe and plant fibres suggestive of raw material preparation through chewing.

Evaluation of antinociceptive activity of hydromethanol extract of Cyperus rotundus in mice

Background

Cyperus rotundus Linn. (Cyperaceae) is used to treat inflammation, pain, fever, wounds, boils and blisters in folk medicine. This study evaluated the antinociceptive effect of the hydromethanol extract of whole plant of C. rotundus (HMCR).

Methods

The antinociceptive activity of HMCR was investigated in thermal-induced (hot plate and tail immersion) and chemical-induced (formalin) nociception models in mice at three different doses (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg; p.o.). Morphine sulphate (5 mg/kg, i.p.) and diclofenac sodium (10 mg/kg, i.p.) were used as reference analgesic agents.

Results

In the hot-plate and tail-immersion tests HMCR significantly increased the latency period to the thermal stimuli at all the tested doses (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) (p < 0.05). The significant increase in latency is clear from the observations at 60 and 90 min. In formalin-induced paw licking test oral administration of HMCR at 100 and 200 mg/kg doses decreased the licking of paw in early phase. All the tested doses (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) significantly decreased the licking of paw in late phase of the test (p < 0.001). The dose 200 mg/kg was most effective showing maximum percentage of inhibition of licking in both early (61.60%) and late phase (87.41%).

Conclusion

These results indicate the antinociceptive effect of C. rotundus and suggest that this effect is mediated by both peripheral and central mechanisms. These results support the traditional use of this plant in different painful conditions.

Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome using a selected herbal combination of Iraqi folk medicines

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mentha longifolia, Cyperus rotundus and Zingiber officinale are widely used in Iraqi traditional medicine for the treatment of multiple gastrointestinal diseases. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a combination of three herbal agents that are widely used in folk medicine in Iraq for the treatment of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective randomised clinical study was carried out on 40 patients of both sexes between 25 and 60 years of age who had been diagnosed with IBS for 5-10 years. The patients were allocated to one of two groups, each consisting of 20 patients. Group A was treated with mebeverine, and Group B was treated with a capsule containing a combination of the following three herbs prepared as fine powders: Mentha longifolia, Cyperus rotundus and Zingiber officinale. IBS symptoms were assessed before and after 8 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

Treatment of IBS patients with the herbal combination resulted in improvements in all of their IBS symptoms after 8 weeks, as revealed by increase in their individual symptom scores and in their mean total improvement percentages. These results were comparable to those produced by the standard agent mebeverine.

CONCLUSION

Patients with IBS showed significant improvements in their IBS symptoms after 8-weeks of treatment with the herbal combination and did not report any adverse effects during their treatment. These results support the efficacy and safety of the herbal combination for the treatment of IBS.

Neuroprotective effects of Cyperus rotundus on SIN-1 induced nitric oxide generation and protein nitration: ameliorative effect against apoptosis mediated neuronal cell damage

Nitrosylation of tyrosine (3-nitro tyrosine, 3-NT) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of various disorders particularly neurodegenerative conditions and aging. Cyperus rotundus rhizome is being used as a traditional folk medicine to alleviate a variety of disorders including neuronal stress. The herb has recently found applications in food and confectionary industries also. In current study, we have explored the protective effects of C. rotundus rhizome extract (CRE) through its oxido-nitrosative and anti apoptotic mechanism to attenuate peroxynitrite (ONOO(-)) induced neurotoxicity using human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. Our results elucidate that pre-treatment of neurons with CRE ameliorates the mitochondrial and plasma membrane damage induced by 500 μM SIN-1 to 80% and 24% as evidenced by MTT and LDH assays. CRE inhibited NO generation by downregulating i-NOS expression. SIN-1 induced depletion of antioxidant enzyme status was also replenished by CRE which was confirmed by immunoblot analysis of SOD and CAT. The CRE pre-treatment efficiently potentiated the SIN-1 induced apoptotic biomarkers such as bcl-2 and caspase-3 which orchestrate the proteolytic damage of the cell. The ONOO(-) induced damage to cellular, nuclear and mitochondrial integrity was also restored by CRE. Furthermore, CRE pre-treatment also regulated the 3-NT formation which shows the potential of plant extract against tyrosine nitration. Taken together, our findings suggest that CRE might be developed as a preventive agent against ONOO(-) induced apoptosis.

Studies on the activity of Cyperus rotundus Linn. tubers against infectious diarrhea

To study the antidiarrheal activity of the decoction of Cyperus rotundus Linn. tubers using representative assays of diarrheal pathogenesis and understand its mechanism of action.Antibacterial, antigiardial and antirotaviral activities were studied. Effect on adherence of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and invasion of enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC) and Shigella flexneri to HEp-2 cells was evaluated as a measure of effect on colonization. Effect on enterotoxins such as enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) heat labile toxin (LT), heat stable toxin (ST) and cholera toxin (CT) was also assessed. The decoction showed antigiardial activity, reduced bacterial adherence to and invasion of HEp-2 cells and affected production of CT and action of LT. The decoction of C. rotundus does not have marked antimicrobial activity and exerts its antidiarrheal action by mechanisms other than direct killing of the pathogen.

Benzodihydrofurans from Cyperus teneriffae

Three new benzodihydrofurans (1-3) and seven known aromatic compounds (4-10) were isolated from the roots of Cyperus teneriffae. Vibrational circular dichroism spectroscopy was used to define the absolute configuration of 1.

Prescriptions of Chinese herbal medicine for constipation under the national health insurance in Taiwan

BACKGROUND

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal problem worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of use and prescriptive patterns of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) in treating constipation by analyzing the claims data of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) from the National Health Insurance (NHI) in Taiwan.

METHODS

The computerized claims dataset of the TCM office visits and the corresponding prescription files in 2004 compiled by the NHI Research Institute in Taiwan were linked and processed. Visit files with the single diagnostic coding of constipation (ICD-9-CM code 564.0) were extracted to analyze the frequency and pattern of corresponding CHM prescriptions. The association rule was applied to analyze the co-prescription of CHM in treating constipation.

RESULTS

There were 152,564 subjects who visited TCM clinics only for constipation in Taiwan during 2004 and received a total of 387,268 CHM prescriptions. Subjects between 20 and 29 years of age comprised the largest number of those treated (25.5%). Female subjects used CHM for constipation more frequently than male subjects (female:male = 3.31:1). There was an average of 4.6 items of single Chinese herbs or formula in a single prescription for constipation. Ma-zi-renwan was the most commonly prescribed herbal formula, while Da-huang (Rheum palmatum) was the most commonly used single Chinese herb. According to the association rule, the most common prescribed pattern of 2-drug combination of CHM for treating constipation was Ban-xia-xie-xin-tang plus Ma-zi-ren-wan, while the 3-drug combination of CHM was Fang-feng-tong-sheng-san, Rheum palmatum and Ma-zi-ren-wan.

CONCLUSION

This study showed the pattern of single Chinese herbs or herbal formulae used in treating constipation in Taiwan. Further clinical trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these CHMs in treating constipation.

Chemical composition of the essential oils of Cyperus rotundus L. from South Africa

The essential oils from the rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus L. collected from two different locations (Empangeni-A and KwaDlangezwa-B; both in the Kwa-Zulu Natal Province of South Africa) were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by capillary GC and GC/MS. Forty-one and 43 components were identified, representing 89.9% and 92.0% of sample A and sample B, respectively. α-Cyperone (11.0%), myrtenol (7.9%), caryophyllene oxide (5.4%) and β-pinene (5.3%) were major compounds in the oil of sample A. The main constituents of the oil of sample B were β-pinene (11.3%), α-pinene (10.8%), α- cyperone (7.9%), myrtenol (7.1%) and α-selinene (6.6%).

Complete assignments of (1)H and (13)C NMR data for two new sesquiterpenes from Cyperus rotundus L

Two new sesquiterpenes, epi-guaidiol A (1) and sugebiol (3), together with four known sesquiterpenes, guaidiol A(2), sugetriol triacetate (4), cyperenoic acid (5), and cyperotundone (6) were isolated from the rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus L. Their structures were identified by MS and NMR experiments, and the complete assignments of (1)H and (13)C NMR data for two new sesquiterpenes were obtained by the aid of two-dimensional (2D) NMR techniques, including HSQC, HMBC, (1)H-(1)HCOSY and nuclear overhauser enhancement spectroscopy(NOESY).

Fructose-amino acid conjugate and other constituents from Cyperus rotundus L

Further phytochemical study on the aerial parts of Cyperus rotundus L. led to the isolation of a fructose-amino acid conjugate, N-(1-deoxy-alpha-D-fructos-1-yl)-L-tryptophan (16) and its tautomers, in addition to n-butyl-beta-D-fructopyranoside (1), ethyl-alpha-D-glucopyranoside (2), adenosine (3), (-)-(E)-caffeoylmalic acid (4), vitexin (5), isovitexin (6), orientin (7), epiorientin (8), myricetin 3-O-beta-D-galactopyranoside (9), luteolin 7-O-beta-D-glucuronopyranoside-6''-methyl ester (10), chlorogenic acid (11), luteolin 4'-O-beta-D-glucuronopyranoside (12), luteolin 7-O-beta-D-glucuronopyranoside (13), uridine (14) and ellagic acid (15). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic methods. Additionally, antioxidant and alpha-amylase inhibitory activities of some of the isolated phenolic compounds were carried out.

In vitro evaluation of antibacterial, antioxidant, cytotoxic and apoptotic activities of the tubers infusion and extracts of Cyperus rotundus

The in vitro antibacterial, antioxidant, cytotoxic and apoptotic activities from tubers extracts of Cyperus rotundus (Cyperaceae) were investigated. Antibacterial activity of different extracts was evaluated against five bacterial reference strains. A marked inhibitory effect was observed against Salmonella enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis with total oligomers flavonoids (TOFs) and ethyl acetate extracts. In addition to their antibacterial activity, the same extracts showed a significant ability to inhibit nitroblue tetrazolium reduction by the superoxide radical in a non-enzymatic superoxide generating system. Apoptosis, a highly organized physiological mechanism to eliminate injured or abnormal cells, is also implicated in multistage carcinogenesis. It was observed that TOF and ethyl acetate extracts suppressed growth and proliferation of L1210 cells derived from murine lymphoblastic leukaemia. Morphological features of treated cells and characteristic DNA fragmentation revealed that the cytotoxicity was due to induction of apoptosis. This study confirms that TOF and ethyl acetate extracts of C.rotundus possess antibacterial and antioxidant properties and provoke DNA fragmentation, a sign of induction of apoptosis. These results were correlated with chemical composition of the tested extracts.

Norcyperone, a novel skeleton norsesquiterpene from Cyperus rotundus L

A novel norsesquiterpene, named norcyperone (1), and three known compounds: (-)-clovane-2,9-diol (2), rosenonolactone (3), and 5 alpha,8 alpha-epidioxy-(20S,22E,24R)-ergosta-6,22-dien-3beta-ol (4) were isolated from the rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus L. The structure of 1 was elucidated as 8,11,11-trimethylbicyclo[5.3.1]undecane-5 alpha, 8 alpha-epoxy-3-one on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses, including 1D- and 2D-NMR, MS experiments, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. This is the first report of a 8,11,11-trimethyl- bicyclo[5.3.1]undecane-3-one type norsesquiterpene with a tetrahydrofuran ring at C-5 and C-8.

In vitro antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity of Cyperus rotundus

Cyperus rotundus (Family Cyperaceae) is used both as a functional food and as a drug. In this study, the antioxidative potential of a hydroalcoholic extract of C. rotundus (CRE) was evaluated by various antioxidant assays, including antioxidant capacity by the phosphomolybdenum method, total antioxidant activity in linoleic acid emulsion systems, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, and nitric oxide (NO) scavenging. We further evaluated the reducing potential of the extract as well as Fe(2+)/ascorbate-induced lipid peroxidation in rat liver homogenate. These various antioxidant activities were compared to standard antioxidants such as butylated hydroxytoluene, tocopherol, L-ascorbic acid, and catechin. Total phenolic and flavonoid content of CRE was also determined by a colorimetric method. The extract exhibited high reduction capability and powerful free radical scavenging, especially against DPPH and superoxide anions as well as a moderate effect on NO. CRE also showed inhibited lipid peroxidation in rat liver homogenate induced by Fe(2+)/ascorbate and prevented deoxyribose degradation in both non-site-specific and site-specific assays showing the hydroxyl radical scavenging and metal chelating activity of the hydroalcoholic extract. Moreover, the peroxidation inhibiting activity of CRE was demonstrated in the linoleic acid emulsion system. These results clearly established the antioxidative potency of C. rotundus, which may account for some of the medical claims attributed to this plant.

Cyperus rotundus suppresses AGE formation and protein oxidation in a model of fructose-mediated protein glycoxidation

Non-enzymatic glycation, as the chain reaction between reducing sugars and the free amino groups of proteins, has been shown to correlate with severity of diabetes and its complications. Cyperus rotundus (Cyperaceae) is used both as a food to promote health and as a drug to treat certain diseases. In this study, considering the antioxidative effects of C. rotundus, we examined whether C. rotundus also protects against protein oxidation and glycoxidation. The protein glycation inhibitory activity of hydroalcoholic extract of C. rotundus was evaluated in vitro using a model of fructose-mediated protein glycoxidation. The C. rotundus extract with glycation inhibitory activity also demonstrated antioxidant activity when a ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assays as well as metal chelating activity were applied. Fructose (100mM) increased fluorescence intensity of glycated bovine serum albumin (BSA) in terms of total AGEs during 14 days of exposure. Moreover, fructose caused more protein carbonyl (PCO) formation and also oxidized thiol groups more in glycated than in native BSA. The extract of C. rotundus at different concentrations (25-250microg/ml) has significantly decreased the formation of AGEs in term of the fluorescence intensity of glycated BSA. Furthermore, we demonstrated the significant effect of C. rotundus extract on preventing oxidative protein damages including effect on PCO formation and thiol oxidation which are believed to form under the glycoxidation process. Our results highlight the protein glycation inhibitory and antioxidant activity of C. rotundus. These results might lead to the possibility of using the plant extract or its purified active components for targeting diabetic complications.

A new steroid glycoside and furochromones from Cyperus rotundus L

Further phytochemical investigation of the aerial parts of Cyperus rotundus L. afforded a new steroid glycoside named sitosteryl (6'-hentriacontanoyl)-beta-D-galactopyranoside (4) in addition to three furochromones, khellin (2), visnagin (3) and ammiol (9). Furthermore, benzo-alpha-pyrone (coumarin) (1), salicylic acid (5), caffeic acid (6), protocatechuic acid (7), p-coumaric acid (8), tricin (10) and isorhamnetin (11) were isolated. The structures of these compounds were established by spectroscopic methods. The isolated furochromones were tested for insect antifeedant activity against larvae Spodoptera littoralis when incorporated in artificial diet and offered to larvae in a chronic feeding bioassay. Also, visnagin, khellin and sitosteryl (6'-hentriacontanoyl)-beta-D-galactopyranoside showed strong cytotoxic activity against L5178y mouse lymphoma cells and were also active in the brine shrimp lethality test.

Administration of Cyperus rotundus tubers extract prevents weight gain in obese Zucker rats

Cyperus rotundus L. (Cyperaceae; C. rotundus) is an Indian medicinal plant demonstrated to exert multiple health benefits. The purpose of the present study was to test the biological efficacy of C. rotundus tubers extract on weight control in obese Zucker rats. It was demonstrated that administration of 45 or 220 mg/kg/day of C. rotundus tubers hexane extract for 60 days in Zucker rats induced a significant reduction in weight gain without affecting food consumption or inducing toxicity. In vitro, 250 microg/mL of this extract was able to stimulate lipolysis in 3T3-F442 adipocytes suggesting that this medicinal plant contains activators of beta-adrenoreceptors (AR). The binding assay performed on the rat beta3-AR isoform, known to induce thermogenesis, demonstrated that C. rotundus tubers extract can consistently and effectively bind to this receptor. These data suggest that the effect on weight gain exerted by C. rotundus tubers extract may be mediated, at least partially, through the activation of the beta3-AR. In conclusion, C. rotundus tubers extract prove to be a new herbal supplement for controlling body weight preferentially in beta3-AR sensitive species.

Assessment of antidiarrhoeal activity of the methanol extract of Xylocarpus granatum bark in mice model

The methanol extract of Xylocarpus granatum bark was studied for its antidiarrhoeal properties in experimental diarrhoea, induced by castor oil and magnesium sulphate in mice. At the doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg per oral, the methanol extract showed significant and dose-dependent antidiarrhoeal activity in both models. The extracts also significantly reduced the intestinal transit in charcoal meal test when compared to atropine sulphate (5 mg/kg; i.m.). The results showed that the extracts of Xylocarpus granatum bark have a significant antidiarrhoeal activity and supports its traditional uses in herbal medicine.