Analgesic-antiinflammatory properties of Proustia pyrifolia

Antinociceptive and antiinflammatory activities of crude leave extract and solvent fractions of Commelina latifolia Hochst. ex C.B.Clarke (Commelinaceae) leaves in murine model

Ethnopharmacological relevance: In the past, Ethiopian traditional medicine employed the leaves of the native Commelina latifolia Hochst. ex C.B. Clarke plant to treat wounds, pain, and malaria. Aim of the study: The crude extract and solvent fractions of C. latifolia Hochst. ex C.B. Clarke leaves were examined in the present investigation to determine their ability to have an antiinflammatory effect and provide an antinociceptive effect in animal models. Materials and methods: The leaves of C. latifolia were extracted with 80% methanol, and the CL crude extract was further fractionated with chloroform, pure methanol, and distilled water. The carrageenan-induced paw edema model was used to test the extracts' ability to reduce inflammation. The hotplate model and the acetic acid-induced writhing test on rodents were used to test the extracts' potential antinociceptive effect to reduce pain. Results: Inflammation was decreased by 64.59% with CL crude extract (400 mg/kg); 56.34% (400 mg/kg) of methanol fraction, 64.59% of aqueous fraction (400 mg/kg), and 38.27% of chloroform fraction in the carrageenan-induced inflammatory model. All extracts demonstrated a considerable lengthening of the nociception reaction time in the hot plate test, with a maximum antinociceptive effect of 78.98% (crude extract) and 71.65% (solvent fractions). At a dosage of 400 mg/kg, the natural C. latifolia crude extract and aqueous fraction demonstrated considerable antinociceptive effects against acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) during the writhing test (48.83% and 45.37than%, respectively). The current findings support Ethiopia's traditional user's assertions that the herb can alleviate inflammation and pain.

Molecular and structural characterization of a promiscuous chalcone synthase from the fern species Stenoloma chusanum

The key enzymes involved in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway have been extensively studied in seed plants, but relatively less in ferns. In this study, two 4-Coumarate: coenzyme A ligases (Sc4CL1 and Sc4CL2) and one novel chalcone synthase (ScCHS1) were functionally characterized by mining the Stenoloma chusanum transcriptome database. Recombinant Sc4CLs were able to esterify various hydroxycinnamic acids to corresponding acyl-coenzyme A (CoA). ScCHS1 could catalyze p-coumaroyl-CoA, cinnamoyl-CoA, caffeoyl-CoA, and feruloyl-CoA to form naringenin, pinocembrin, eriodictyol, and homoeriodictyol, respectively. Moreover, enzymatic kinetics studies revealed that the optimal substrates of ScCHS1 were feruloyl-CoA and caffeoyl-CoA, rather than p-coumaroyl-CoA, which was substantially different from the common CHSs. Crystallographic and site-directed mutagenesis experiments indicated that the amino acid residues, Leu87, Leu97, Met165, and Ile200, located in the substrate-binding pocket near the B-ring of products, could exert a significant impact on the unique catalytic activity of ScCHS1. Furthermore, overexpression of ScCHS1 in tt4 mutants could partially rescue the mutant phenotypes. Finally, ScCHS1 and Sc4CL1 were used to synthesize flavanones and flavones with multi-substituted hydroxyl and methoxyl B-ring in Escherichia coli, which can effectively eliminate the need for the cytochrome P450 hydroxylation/O-methyltransferase from simple phenylpropanoid acids. In summary, the identification of these important Stenoloma enzymes provides a springboard for the future production of various flavonoids in E. coli.

The Structural, Biological, and In-Silico Profiling of Novel Capryloyl Tetra-Glucoside and Aliphatic Ester Constituents from the Abutilon indicum Offers New Perspectives on the Treatment of Pain and Inflammation

Abutilon indicum L. (Malvaceae), more often referred to as Peeli booti, Kanghi, and Kakhi, is a perennial shrub found in many countries of Asia. Traditionally, this plant is used as a diuretic to treat inflammation, discomfort, urethral infections, and gout. Inflammation and pain are key topics of interest for researchers throughout the globe, since they are linked to almost every illness that could affect humans or animals. The present study was conducted to isolate the phytoconstituents from the methanolic extract of Abutilon indicum collected from the Bihar state Koshi river belt in India, and to evaluate the isolated phytoconstituents' ability to reduce nociception and inflammation. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed to investigate the molecular interaction profile, with possible therapeutic targets for anti-inflammatory medicines. A. indicum methanolic extract yielded two novel phytocompounds identified as 5'-hydroxyhexyl n-hexadecanoate (AB-01) and n-octanoyl-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(2'-1'')-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(2''-1''')-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(2'''-1'''')-β-D-glucopyranoside (AB-05), together with three previously recognized phytocompounds such as ester glucoside. All isolated molecules were tested for the efficacy of analgesic and anti-inflammatory characteristics at doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg body weight. The isolated compound's molecular interaction profile with anti-inflammatory drug targets cyclooxygenase-2 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha possessed high potential energy in molecular docking. These findings may aid in developing anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs from A. indicum.

<p>Anti-Nociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of <em>Hygrophila schulli</em> Leaves</p>

Purpose

The management of pain and inflammation with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioid analgesics are currently encountering severe adverse reactions. To overcome these problems, herbal remedies may offer new alternative medicines. Hygrophila schulli is a medicinal plant traditionally used for the treatment of pain and inflammation-related disorders; yet, these claims are not scientifically validated. Hence, this study was aimed to validate the traditional use of Hygrophila schulli leaves as anti-inflammatory and analgesic remedy.

Methods

In vitro anti-hyaluronidase assay and in vivo carrageenan-induced hind paw oedema model were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory property of ethanolic leaf extract of Hygrophila schulli. Tail immersion and acetic acid-induced writhing tests were performed to determine the central and peripheral analgesic activity of the leaf extract, respectively.

Results

The ethanolic leaf extract exhibited significant anti-hyaluronidase activity (P<0.001) and significant inhibition of carrageenan-induced paw oedema (P<0.05) compared to untreated controls. Similarly, the extract significantly prolonged the reaction time of mice (P<0.05) for the hot-water stimuli. Furthermore, an oral dose of the extract showed significant inhibition (P<0.01) of acetic acid-induced abdominal contractions of mice. Besides, the ethanolic leaf extract did not cause any obvious sign of acute toxicity at a single oral dose of 2 g/kg.

Conclusion

The findings of this study may partially support the acclaimed traditional use of Hygrophila schulli leaves for the treatment of pain and inflammatory conditions.

Engineering Escherichia coli towards de novo production of gatekeeper (2S)-flavanones: naringenin, pinocembrin, eriodictyol and homoeriodictyol

Natural plant-based flavonoids have drawn significant attention as dietary supplements due to their potential health benefits, including anti-cancer, anti-oxidant and anti-asthmatic activities. Naringenin, pinocembrin, eriodictyol and homoeriodictyol are classified as (2S)-flavanones, an important sub-group of naturally occurring flavonoids, with wide-reaching applications in human health and nutrition. These four compounds occupy a central position as branch point intermediates towards a broad spectrum of naturally occurring flavonoids. Here, we report the development of Escherichia coli production chassis for each of these key gatekeeper flavonoids. Selection of key enzymes, genetic construct design and the optimization of process conditions resulted in the highest reported titers for naringenin (484 mg/l), improved production of pinocembrin (198 mg/l) and eriodictyol (55 mg/l from caffeic acid), and provided the first example of in vivo production of homoeriodictyol directly from glycerol (17 mg/l). This work provides a springboard for future production of diverse downstream natural and non-natural flavonoid targets.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive property of Capparis tomentosa Lam. root extracts

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Capparis tomentosa Lam. root is one of the commonly used traditional medicines for the treatment of pain and inflammatory conditions by the Kunama ethnic group of Ethiopia. Yet, its ethnomedicinal claim has not been scientifically investigated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and anti-nociception activities of root extracts of Capparis tomentosa Lam.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anti-inflammatory activity of the 70% ethanolic extracts and solvent fractions was determined using invitro hyaluronidase inhibition assay and in vivo carrageenan-induced paw edema in Swiss albino mice model. The anti-nociception effect was determined using the acetic acid-induced writhing model and tail immersion model in Swiss albino mice.

RESULTS

The root extract of Capparis tomentosa has exhibited significant hyaluronidase inhibition activity which was comparable with the reference drug, indomethacin. Significant inhibition of carrageenan-induced paw edema was observed in all the test sample treated mice compared to the negative control with the highest activity observed from butanol fraction which was equivalent to the effect of acetylsalicylic acid. All the root extract and solvent fractions have possessed a significant and dose-dependent abdominal writhing inhibition with the highest effect observed in the aqueous fraction. Additionally, the crude extract was found better in increasing the reaction latency of the mice to the hot water stimulus than the solvent fractions which were significant after 60-120 min compared to the distilled water treated group. The root extract and solvent fractions were also found safe at a single oral dose of 2 mg/g in Swiss albino mice.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the present study may partially support the folkloric use of Capparis tomentosa root for the treatment of pain and inflammation.

Effect of Biofermentation with Taxifolin on Physicochemical and Microbiological Properties of Cold-Smoked Pork Sausages

The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of taxifolin on the physicochemical and microbiological properties of cold-smoked pork sausages produced using different commercial starter cultures with Leuconostoc carnosum and with a mixture of Pediococcus pentosaceus and Staphylococcus xylosus. Ultra performance liquid chromatography analysis demonstrated that after 181 days of storage total taxifolin content was the highest in samples with taxifolin and L. carnosum (60%), compared to the first day of storage. The sausages with taxifolin and the mixture of P. pentosaceus and S. xylosus (56%) followed next. Taxifolin improved the hygienic quality of sausages without significant effect on the growth of lactic acid bacteria. The accumulation of biogenic amines, including histamine and putrescine, was more effectively reduced in sausages inoculated with the taxifolin and P. pentosaceus and S. xylosus mixture. Using this mixture, the rate of lipolysis and lipid oxidation were effectively slowed down. Samples with taxifolin and L. carnosum showed the highest free radical scavenging activity on the first day of the study ((77.4±1.3) %) (p<0.05 in all samples). Mixtures containing taxifolin and starter cultures bound free radicals better than taxifolin alone. The colour parameters (L*, a* and b*) of preparations and final products were significantly influenced by taxifolin and starter cultures and storage time (p<0.05 in all samples).

Pleiotropic neuroprotective effects of taxifolin in cerebral amyloid angiopathy

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) results from amyloid-β deposition in the cerebrovasculature. It is frequently accompanied by Alzheimer's disease and causes dementia. We recently demonstrated that in a mouse model of CAA, taxifolin improved cerebral blood flow, promoted amyloid-β removal from the brain, and prevented cognitive dysfunction when administered orally. Here we showed that taxifolin inhibited the intracerebral production of amyloid-β through suppressing the ApoE-ERK1/2-amyloid-β precursor protein axis, despite the low permeability of the blood-brain barrier to taxifolin. Higher expression levels of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cell 2 (TREM2) were associated with the exacerbation of inflammation in the brain. Taxifolin suppressed inflammation, alleviating the accumulation of TREM2-expressing cells in the brain. It also mitigated glutamate levels and oxidative tissue damage and reduced brain levels of active caspases, indicative of apoptotic cell death. Thus, the oral administration of taxifolin had intracerebral pleiotropic neuroprotective effects on CAA through suppressing amyloid-β production and beneficially modulating proinflammatory microglial phenotypes.

The Indian Magical Herb 'Sanjeevni' (Selaginella bryopteris L.) - A Promising Anti-inflammatory Phytomedicine for the Treatment of Patients with Inflammatory Skin Diseases

Objectives

Selaginella bryopteris L. (family: Selaginaceae), is often used in traditional Indian systems of medicine for the prevention and cure of several disorders and for the treatment of patient with spermatorrhoea, venereal disease, constipation, colitis, urinary tract infections, fever, epilepsy, leucorrhoea, beri-beri and cancer. It is also used as a strength tonic. This study aimed to evaluate the mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of topically administered aqueous, polar and non-polar methanolic fractions (10 mg/20 μL) of Selaginella bryopteris.

Methods

An acute oral toxicity study of Selaginella bryopteris at doses from 250 to 2,000 mg/kg body weight (bw) was performed. Aqueous, polar and non-polar methanolic extracts (10 mg/20 μL) applied topically for 5 days were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory effects against 12-tetra-O-decanoyl phorbol acetate (TPA)-induced inflammation by using the redness in the ear, the ear’s weight (edema), oxidative stress parameters, such as lipid-peroxide (LPO) and nitric oxide (NO), and the pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in inflammation, such as tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6. Indomethacine (0.5 mg/20 μL) was used for the positive control.

Results

Selaginella bryopteris produced no mortalities when administered orally at doses from 250 to 2,000 mg/kg bw. Topical treatment with the non-polar methanolic fraction (10 mg/20 αL) significantly suppressed redness (2.4 ± 0.5) and edema (30.4 ± 1) and effectively reduced the LPO level (32.3 ± 3.3). The NO level was (8.07 ± 0.55), and the TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels were decreased to 69.6 ± 15.5, 7.7 ± 4.8 and 82.6 ± 5.9, respectively.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated for the first time the mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory effect of medicinal plants like Selaginella bryopteris and quantified the pharmacological interactions between them. The present study showed this herbal product to be a promising anti-inflammatory phytomedicine for the treatment of patients with inflammatory skin diseases.

Synthesis, characterization, solubilization, cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity of aminomethylated dihydroquercetin

A dihydroquercetin derivative (DHQA) was prepared through aminomethylation to overcome the low water solubility and bioavailability of dihydroquercetin (DHQ). DHQA was characterized through HPLC, nuclear magnetic resonance, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analyses. DHQA was converted into the amorphous form, but the major structure of DHQ remained unchanged. Solubilization and dissolution tests were also performed. Results showed that the solubility and dissolution rates of DHQA were approximately 16.28 and 6.31 times higher than those of DHQ, respectively. The MTT assay of DHQA showed a non-toxic effect against non-cancerous HEK-293T cells (EC₅₀ = 820.00 μM), and potent inhibitory activity against cancerous Hela cells (EC₅₀ = 138.17 μM). Finally, the antioxidant activity of DHQA was confirmed in vitro through DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activity assays. DHQA displayed high antioxidant activities with low IC₅₀ values (0.043 and 0.042 mM, respectively). Reducing Fe³⁺ power assay indicated that DHQA exhibited higher reducing power than DHQ and ascorbic acid.

Detection of 191 Taxifolin Metabolites and Their Distribution in Rats Using HPLC-ESI-IT-TOF-MS(n)

Taxifolin is a ubiquitous bioactive constituent of foods and herbs. To thoroughly explore its metabolism in vivo, an HPLC-ESI-IT-TOF-MSⁿ method combined with specific metabolite detection strategy was used to detect and identify the metabolites of taxifolin in rats. Of the 191 metabolites tentatively identified, 154 were new metabolites, 69 were new compounds and 32 were dimers. This is the first report of the in vivo biotransformation of a single compound into more than 100 metabolites. Furthermore, acetylamination and pyroglutamic acid conjugation were identified as new metabolic reactions. Seventeen metabolites were found to have various taxifolin-related bioactivities. The potential targets of taxifolin and 63 metabolites were predicted using PharmMapper, with results showing that more than 60 metabolites have the same five targets. Metabolites with the same fragment pattern may have the same pharmacophore. Thus these metabolites may exert the same pharmacological effects as taxifolin through an additive effect on the same drug targets. This observation indicates that taxifolin is bioactive not only in the parent form, but also through its metabolites. These findings enhance understanding of the metabolism and effective forms of taxifolin and may provide further insight of the beneficial effects of taxifolin and its derivatives.

Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of Flash-Assisted Extracted Dihydroquercetin from Wood Sawdust of Larix gmelinii Using a Response Surface Methodology

We investigate a flash-assisted extraction of dihydroquercetin (DHQ) from wood sawdust of Larix gmelinii by response surface methodology. Box–Behnken design optimized the extraction conditions, and the highest DHQ yield (6.15 %) was obtained under optimal extraction conditions: FAE time (3 min), extraction time (3 h), solid-to-liquid (g/mL) ratio (1:15), and ethanol concentration (75 %). After purification, the DHQ purity was 96 % as determined by HPLC and was further characterized by FTIR. Purified DHQ’s antioxidant activities were confirmed in vitro by determining DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities and reducing Fe3+ power. In the DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activity assays, DHQ displayed prominent antioxidant activities with low IC50 values (11.568 and 12.475 μg/mL, respectively). In reducing Fe3+ power assay, high DHQ absorbance values showed that DHQ had higher reducing power than butylated hydroxyl toluene and had nearly the same consistent power as ascorbic acid at the same doses.

Anti-inflammatory, Anti-estrogenic, and Anti-implantation Activity of Bergia suffruticosa (Delile) Fenzl

BACKGROUND

Bergia suffruticosa (Delile) Fenzl (Syn. Bergia odorata Edgew) (Elatinaceae family) is used traditionally to repair bones and is applied as a poultice on sores. It is also used for stomach troubles and as an antidote to scorpion stings. So far, very little scientific work has been reported to validate its ethnomedical uses in the alleviation of pain, bone repair, etc.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to explore the anti-inflammatory and anti-implantation potential of n-hexane extract of B. suffruticosa whole plant in mice along with identification of its chemical constituents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

n-Hexane extract of B. suffruticosa whole plant was screened for acute and chronic anti-inflammatory activity followed by an anti-estrogenic activity. Eventually, n-hexane extract was tested for anti-implantation activity by exploiting markers of uterine receptivity, lipid peroxidation, and superoxide enzyme activity. The extract was administered orally at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight in each study.

RESULTS

Thin layer chromatography fingerprint profile of n-hexane extract revealed the presence of lupeol and β-sitosterol. The n-hexane extract reduced the edema by 80% in acute inflammation, whereas it reduced edema to 75% on the 5(th) day in chronic inflammation. The n-hexane extract reduced elevated malonaldehyde level from 6 to 2.5 nmol/g × 10(-5) and increased superoxide dismutase enzyme activity from 0 to 350 units/g in treated animals on the 5(th) day of pregnancy. Moreover, extract decreased uterine weight from 0.33 to 0.2 g in estradiol treated animals.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that n-hexane extract of B. suffruticosa is having potent anti-inflammatory, anti-estrogenic, and anti-implantation activity. This is the first report of all the pharmacological activities of B. suffruticosa mentioned above.

SUMMARY

TLC fingerprint profile of n-hexane extract of Bergia suffruticosa whole plant revealed the presence of lupeol and β-sitosteroln-Hexane extract showed in vivo anti-inflammatory activity in both acute and chronic model of inflammation in ratsn-Hexane extract possess significant anti-estrogenic activityn-Hexane extract altered the levels superoxide anion radical and superoxide dismutase enzyme activity during the blastocyst implantationAnti-implantation activity of n-hexane extract is attributed to its anti-inflammatory and anti-estrogenic potential. Abbreviations used: TLC: Thin layer chromatography; LPO: Lipid peroxidation; SOD: Superoxide dismutase; B. suffruticosa: Bergia suffruticosa; TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor-α; NO: Nitric oxide; IL-1: Interleukin-1; LIF: Leukemia inhibitory factor; CSF-1: Colony-stimulating factor; COX: Cyclooxygenase; SDS: Sodium dodecyl sulfate; IAEC: Animal House Ethics Committee; CPCSEA: Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals; HBSS: Hank's balanced salt solution; MDA: Malonaldehyde; and TBA: Thiobarbituric acid.

Traditional Uighur Medicine Karapxa decoction, inhibits liver xanthine oxidase and reduces serum uric acid concentrations in hyperuricemic mice and scavenges free radicals in vitro

Background

Karapxa decoction (KD) is a Traditional Uighur Medicine used for hepatitis, cholecystitis, gastralgia, oedema, gout and arthralgia. Because of its purported effect in gout, its effects were tested in hyperuricemic mice models induced by yeast extract paste or potassium oxonate, as well as its capacity to scavenge free radicals in vitro.

Methods

Hyperuricemia was induced in mice by yeast extract paste or potassium oxonate. KD was given orally for 14 days at 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg/day, with Allopurinol 10 mg/kg/day as positive control. Serum uric acid (UA), and liver xanthine oxidase activity (XO) were measured. Scavenging activity of KD on 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radicals (DPP•), nitric oxide (•NO), superoxide (O₂•-), efficiency against lipid peroxidation, and XO inhibition were determined in vitro.

Results

KD inhibited liver XO activity and reduced serum uric acid in hyperuricemic mice. KD also showed noticeable antioxidant activity, scavenging free radicals (DPP•, •NO and O₂•-). It was effective against lipid peroxidation and inhibited XO in vitro.

Conclusions

This study supports the traditional use of Karapxa decoction to treat hyperuricemia and gout.

Formulation in vitro and in vivo evaluation of SRMS-based heterolipid-templated homolipid delivery system for diclofenac sodium

The sole objective of this work was to design successful dosage oral forms of diclofenac sodium (DiNa)-loaded solid lipid microparticles (SLM) based on solidified reverse micellar solution (SRMS). Hot homogenization technique was employed to prepare DicNa SLM using a mixture goat fat and Phospholipon® 90 G as lipid matrix and Tween®-80 as mobile surfactant. Characterization based on percentage yield, morphology, particle size, zeta potential, percentage encapsulation, pH and stability of SLMs were investigated. Anti-inflammatory, gastrointestinal tract (GIT) sparing effect and pharmacokinetics were carried out in rat model after oral administration. Results showed that the SLMs were spherical and smooth. The optimized formulation (SLM-4) had particle size of 79.40 ± 0.31 µm, polydispersity index of 0.633 ± 0.190, zeta potential of -63.20 ± 0.12 mV and encapsulation efficiency of 91.2 ± 0.1% with good stability after 8 months of storage. The DicNa SLM had sustained release effect with good anti-inflammatory activity. Higher and prolonged plasma DicNa concentration was shown by the SLM-4 compared to pure drug and a conventional sample. These studies demonstrate that DicNa-loaded SLM based on SRMS could be a promising oral formulation for enhanced bioavailability, pharmacologic activity and gastrointestinal sparing effect of the NSAID, DicNa.

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of extract and two isolated flavonoids of Carthamus tinctorius L

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) has been long used both in the traditional system and folk medicine as an analgesic anti-inflammatory agent in China. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of hydroalcoholic extract (HE) and two isolated kaempferol glycosides of Carthamus tinctorius L. to provide experimental evidence for its traditional use.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Antinociceptive effects of HE, kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside (K-3-R) and kaempferol 3-O-glucoside (K-3-G) were assessed in mice using the acetic acid-induced writhing test, formalin test and cinnamaldehyde test. The anti-inflammatory effects of HE, K-3-R and K-3-G were determined in two animal models: carrageenan-induced paw edema and xylene-induced ear edema.

RESULTS

The HPLC analysis showed the presence of K-3-R and K-3-G in Carthamus tinctorius L. HE (500 and 1000mg/kg) as well as K-3-R and K-3-G (150, 300 and 600mg/kg) produced significant inhibition on nociception induced by acetic acid and formalin. Oral treatment of HE, K-3-R and K-3-G at all doses significantly reduced both the nociceptive response and cinnamaldehyde-induced paw edema, effect that was superior to aspirin. In anti-inflammatory tests, HE and K-3-G significantly inhibited the paw edema during the both phases of carrageenan-induced inflammation while K-3-G suppressed the late phase inflammation only. HE (400 and 800mg/kg) and K-3-G (200, 400, 800mg/kg) produced significant dose-dependent inhibition of xylene-induced ear edema development. K-3-R only suppressed ear edema formation at a high dose (800mg/kg).

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that Carthamus tinctorius L. extract possess remarkable antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities which may be due to K-3-R and K-3-G at least in part, supporting the folkloric usage of the plant to treat various inflammatory and pain diseases.

Anti-inflammatory effects of 4-methylcyclopentadecanone on edema models in mice

The present study evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of 4-methylcyclopentadecanone (4-MCPC) on edema models in mice and aimed to determine the safety of 4-MCPC after acute exposure. The acute toxicity of 4-MCPC was evaluated by oral administration to rats of single doses of 0, 5, 50, 500 and 5000 mg/kg. Toxic symptoms were observed for 14 days. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated in xylene-induced mouse ear edema and carrageenan-induced mouse paw edema. The animals were treated with 4-MCPC once every day for seven consecutive days. Edema index, % inhibition, IL-1β, TNF-α, PGE2 and MPO levels in paws were detected after the treatment with xylene or carrageenan. Our results indicated that the LD50 value of 4-MCPC in rats is greater than 5000 mg/kg. The ED50 of 4-MCPC in xylene-induced mouse ear edema model was 7.5 mg/kg. 4-MCPC (8 or 16 mg/kg) remarkably inhibited carrageenan-induced mouse paw edema. Further study revealed that 4-MCPC treatment also decreased IL-1β, TNF-α, PGE2 and MPO levels in mice paws. Intragastric administration of 4-MCPC exhibited more significant anti-inflammatory activity than muscone at a dose of 16 mg/kg. Taken together, our results suggest that 4-MCPC has potent anti-inflammatory activity and the mechanisms might be related to the decreases of the levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, PGE2 and MPO in inflamed paws.

Effects of the serjania erecta and zeyheria montana ethanol extracts in experimental pulpitis in rats: a histological study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate, by the semi-quantitative histological analysis, the anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanolic extracts of Serjania erecta e Zeyheria Montana, in experimental pulpits in rats.

STUDY DESIGN

In order to induce pulp inflammation, cavities were performed on the occlusal surface of the mandibular first molars of 45 male rats, without pulp exposure. The animals were distributed into 4 groups: GI, teeth without cavities; GII, single dose of saline solution via intraperitoneal (IP); GIII, single dose (IP) of 300 mg/Kg of ethanolic extract of Zeyheria montana; GIV, single dose (IP) of 300 mg/Kg of ethanolic extract of Serjania erecta. After 6, 12 and 24 hours, 5 animals of each group were killed by anesthetic overdose. The histological analyses of the pulp tissue were performed and the data analyzed by Dunn's multiple test, at significance of 5%.

RESULTS

After 12 h, the GIII presented score statistically lower (p<0.05) than positive control group. After 24 h, GIII presented inflammatory index statistically lower than the positive control (p<0.01) and Serjania erecta (p<0.05) groups.

CONCLUSION

The Zeyheria montana extract presented better anti-inflammatory activity than positive control group and Serjania erecta extract, which did not show anti-inflammatory effect in the analyzed periods.

In vivo anti-inflammatory activities of Ocimum suave in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ocimum suave has been used in the Ethiopian traditional medicine to relieve pain, fever, inflammation and other disease conditions.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory activities of the aqueous and ethanol leaf extracts and some fractions of Ocimum suave in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The crude extracts were screened for their anti-inflammatory activities on carrageenan-induced mouse paw edema at three dose levels. The butanol and aqueous fractions of the aqueous extract were also evaluated for their anti-inflammatory activities using carrageenan, histamine and serotonin-induced mouse paw edema at three dose levels. Normal saline and aspirin were employed as negative and positive control groups, respectively.

RESULTS

Both ethanol and aqueous extracts significantly decreased carrageenan-induced inflammation at all the three doses used. However, greater paw edema inhibition was observed with the aqueous extract. The two fractions also showed significant reduction of inflammation against inflammatory models in which the aqueous residue exhibited the highest inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

From the present findings, it can be concluded that the ethanol and aqueous leaf extracts as well as butanol and aqueous fractions of Ocimum suave have shown anti-inflammatory properties.

Antiplasmodial, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activities of various plant extracts from the Mascarene Archipelago

AIM OF THE STUDY

Antiplasmodial activity, inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) overproduction, and anti-proliferative activity were investigated in vitro to evaluate the bioactive potential of the traditional pharmacopoeia of the Mascarene Archipelago, which is known for its biodiversity and for the richness of its endemic flora.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 45 methanol (MeOH) and dichloromethane (DCM) extracts were prepared from 19 plant species collected on Réunion and Mauritius Islands. Ninety-six-well microplate assays were performed on chloroquine sensitive Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 strain, on LPS-stimulated Raw 264.7 murine macrophages and on A-549, DLD-1 and WS1 human cells. Activity was evaluated through spectrophotometric methods.

RESULTS

Activity was attributed to plant extracts expressing IC(50)<50μg/ml for antiplasmodial response, IC(50)<100μg/ml for cytotoxicity, and IC(50)<130μg/ml for anti-inflammatory reaction. The majority of the extracts tested (69%) exhibited potency in at least one of these three types of activity. This is the first report describing promising antiplasmodial activity (IC(50)<15μg/ml) for Psiadia dentata DCM extract and Terminalia bentzoe MeOH bark extract. NO inhibition assay revealed seven interesting plants, described for the first time as anti-inflammatory: Aphloia theiformis, Buddleja salviifolia, Eupatorium riparium, Hiptage benghalensis, Psiadia arguta, Psiadia dentata, and Scutia commersonii. Finally, anti-proliferative activity was observed for two endemic species, Geniostoma borbonicum and Nuxia verticillata.

CONCLUSION

Using the criterion of endemism as part of the criteria for traditional medicinal use raises the chances of finding original active principles. In our case, 86% of the endemic plants tested displayed pharmacological interest.

A review on herbal antiasthmatics

In traditional systems of medicine, many plants have been documented to be useful for the treatment of various respiratory disorders including asthma. In the last two decades the use of medicinal plants and natural products has been increased dramatically all over the world. Current synthetic drugs used in pharmacotherapy of asthma are unable to act at all the stages and targets of asthma. However some herbal alternatives employed in asthma are proven to provide symptomatic relief and assist in the inhibition of disease progression also. The herbs have shown interesting results in various target specific biological activities such as bronchodilation, mast cell stabilization, anti-anaphylactic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, anti-allergic, immunomodulatory and inhibition of mediators such as leukotrienes, lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase, platelet activating, phosphodiesterase and cytokine, in the treatment of asthma. This paper is an attempt to classify these pharmacological and clinical findings based on their possible mechanism of action reported. It also signifies the need for development of polyherbal formulations containing various herbs acting at particular sites of the pathophysiological cascade of asthma for prophylaxis as well as for the treatment of asthma.

Database survey of anti-inflammatory plants in South America: a review

Inflammation is a complex event linked to tissue damage whether by bacteria, physical trauma, chemical, heat or any other phenomenon. This physiological response is coordinated largely by a variety of chemical mediators that are released from the epithelium, the immunocytes and nerves of the lamina propria. However, if the factor that triggers the inflammation persists, the inflammation can become relentless, leading to an intensification of the lesion. The present work is a literature survey of plant extracts from the South American continent that have been reported to show anti-inflammatory activity. This review refers to 63 bacterial families of which the following stood out: Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Apocynaceae and Celastraceae, with their countries, parts used, types of extract used, model bioassays, organisms tested and their activity.

[Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory activity and phytochemical screening of Annona senegalensis leaves]

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to highlight the anti-inflammatory activity of ethanol extract of Annona senegalensis and do its phytochemical screening.

METHODS

Rats were divided into three groups. The first group received only saline injection and instillation by intraperitoneal injection on days D0 and D7. This phase was the sensitization of that group. Then, on days D21, D22 and D23, the rats of the same group (Group 1) were injected with saline under anesthesia. The second group (Group 2) was composed of rats had not undergone treatment with the extract of Annona senegalensis. The rats in this batch have been sensitized by intraperitoneal injection (50 μL) of a solution of albumin (50 mg/rat) dissolved in aluminum hydroxide on days 0 and 7. Then during the challenge phase, saline containing 0.9% sodium chloride were injected intraperitoneally on days D21, D22 and D23. The sacrifice took place at D24 or 24 hours after the last challenge to ovalbumin. Similarly, rats of the third group (Group 3) have been sensitized by ovalbumin combined with aluminum hydroxide on days D0 and day D7. Then during the stage of provocation, rats in this batch received at days D21, D22 and D23, conjugated injection of albumin and ethanol extract of Annona senegalensis (injection of 0.4 mL of 7.10(-2) mg/kg body weight). The aqueous extract of Annona senegalensis has been previously prepared in saline. Twenty four hours after the last injection corresponding to D23, the rats were sacrificed under anesthesia. Secondary metabolites have been characterized by physico-chemical properties.

RESULTS

Rats in the control (Group 1) gave an average of 24 ± 0.02 mast cells, 7 ± 0.1 macrophages, 9 ± 0.05 eosinophils. In the control group was not revealed the presence of neutrophils. Following the steps of provocation and awareness albumin (Group 2), we observed a significant increase in the number of inflammatory cells compared to control group (p < 0.001). Indeed, mast cells and macrophages have suffered increased respectively to 164 ± 0.01 and 253 ± 0.04. While eosinophils have increased from 9 ± 0.05 to 81 ± 0.01. There were 31 ± 0.02 neutrophils in Group 2. Group 3 treated with Annona senegalensis (7.10(-2) mg/kg) induced a significant decrease in the number of inflammatory cells compared to control group (p < 0.001). Indeed, mast cells decreased from 164 ± 0.01 to 89 ± 0.03. Similarly, the number of macrophages decreased from 253 ± 0.04 to 175 ± 0.06 and neutrophils decreased from 31 ± 0.02 to 10 ± 0.05. Finally, the eosinophils have suffered a decrease (from 81 ± 0.01 to 61 ± 0.08). However, after treatment with the extract, the values of different cell types have always been significantly higher (p < 0.001) compared to those in the control group (except neutrophils). This result indicates that the extract of Annona senegalensis did not completely inhibit the inflammatory effect induced by albumin. The major classes of secondary metabolites, terpenoids, coumarins, flavonoids and tannins were detected in the leaves of the plant. However, they are low in alkaloids and substances quinone.

CONCLUSION

The extract induced a significant decrease in the number of inflammatory cells. This effect is likely due to higher concentrations of tannins and phenolic compounds in the extract of plant. Thus this study provides a scientific validation of the use of this plant against asthma and cough in the Ivorian pharmacopoeia. However, its mechanism of action remains to be elucidated.

Topical anti-inflammatory activity of quillaic acid from Quillaja saponaria Mol. and some derivatives

Objectives

Quillaic acid is the major aglycone of the widely studied saponins of the Chilean indigenous tree Quillaja saponaria Mol. The industrial availability of quillaja saponins and the extensive functionalisation of this triterpenoid provide unique opportunities for structural modification and pose a challenge from the standpoint of selectivity in regard to one or the other secondary alcohol group, the aldehyde, and the carboxylic acid functions. The anti-inflammatory activity of this sapogenin has not been studied previously and it has never been used to obtain potential anti-inflammatory derivatives.

Methods

A series of quillaic acid derivatives were prepared and subjected to topical assays for the inhibition of inflammation induced by arachidonic acid or phorbol ester.

Key findings

Quillaic acid exhibited strong topical anti-inflammatory activity in both models. Most of its derivatives were less potent, but the hydrazone 8 showed similar potency to quillaic acid in the TPA assay.

Conclusions

The structural modifications performed and the biological results suggest that the aldehyde and carboxyl groups are relevant to the anti-inflammatory activity in these models.

In vivo anti-inflammatory activities of leaf extracts of Ocimum lamiifolium in mice model

AIM OF THE STUDY

Ocimum lamiifolium Hochst. ex Benth. (Lamiaceae) has been used in Ethiopian traditional medicine for the treatment of different inflammatory disorders such as oropharyngitis, wound, pain, fever, and others. However, its use has mainly been based on empirical findings. Thus the objective of this study was therefore to evaluate the antiinflammatory effects and acute oral toxicities of the leaf extracts of Ocimum lamiifolium in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Aqueous and ethanol crude extracts were screened for their antiinflammatory activities in mice using carrageenin induced paw edema. And then the aqueous extract, the most active extract, was further fractionated and the fractions were tested for their anti-inflammatory activities using carrageenin, histamine and serotonin induced mice paw edema. Distilled water and aspirin were employed as negative and positive controls, respectively. Acute oral toxicity of both extracts and fractions were also determined after giving graded doses.

RESULTS

The aqueous and ethanol extracts were able to reduce inflammation significantly, but greater anti-inflammatory activity was observed for the aqueous extract at all dose levels. Of all fractions the water residue showed highly significant anti-inflammatory activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Ocimum lamiifolium leaf extracts exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activities with less acute toxicity.

Stereospecific pharmacokinetics of racemic homoeriodictyol, isosakuranetin, and taxifolin in rats and their disposition in fruit

The chirality of flavonoids has been overlooked in the majority of pharmacokinetic studies of homoeriodictyol, isosakuranetin, and taxifolin. The stereospecific pharmacokinetic disposition of these xenobiotics in male Sprague-Dawley rats is described for the first time. Validated HPLC methods were used to analyze serum and urine samples of rats following intravenous administration of each flavonoid via jugular vein cannulation and to determine their content in selected fruits. The characterization and interpretation of the pharmacokinetic disposition profiles of homoeriodictyol, isosakuranetin, and taxifolin are described. A discrepancy exists between half-lives in serum and urine which may be attributed to low assay sensitivity in serum for the three compounds; thus, a more accurate estimation of the pharmacokinetic parameters was obtained from urine. The pharmacokinetics of homoeriodictyol, isosakuranetin, and taxifolin revealed distribution, metabolism, and elimination that were dependent on the stereochemistry of the stereoisomers. The (-)-(S)-enantiomers of homoeriodictyol and isosakuranetin and the (+)-(2S; 3R)-stereoisomer of taxifolin were predominant in lemon, grapefruit, and tomato. These findings were achieved using chiral methods of analysis; the utility and necessity of developing chiral methods of analysis for chiral xenobiotics are discussed.

Antinociceptive activity of Premna corymbosa (Burm.f.)Rottl. & Willd

The aim of this work was to evaluate the acute toxicity and antinociceptive activity of an ethanolic extract of Premna corymbosa in animal models. In the acute toxicity study, the ethanolic extract showed no clinical signs and mortality of the animals and was found to be safe. In the acetic acid-induced writhing model, the ethanolic extract at a dose of 200 or 400 mg kg(-1) body weight significantly (p < .01) inhibited the writhing response by 42.57% and 54.67%, respectively. In the hot plate test, the extract produced a significant (p < .01) increase in latency with 34.50% and 51.08% of protection in a dose-related manner. This study has established the analgesic properties of P. corymbosa (Burm.f.) Rottl. and Willd. The beta-sitosterol or luteolin present in the ethanolic extract may contribute the antinociceptive activity of P. corymbosa.

Evaluation of the immunoexpression of COX-1, COX-2 and p53 in Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND: Crohn's disease accompanied by nonspecific or idiopathic ulcerative proctocolitis corresponds to a condition called intestinal inflammatory disease. The immunoexpression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) in Crohn's disease becomes more marked with progression of the disease and the presence of wild-type p53 suppresses the transcription of COX-2. AIMS: To investigate the immunoexpression of cyclooxygenase 1 (COX-1), COX-2 and p53 in Crohn's ileocolitis and to correlated this expression with clinical and histopathological parameters. METHODS: Forty-five cases of Crohn's disease, 16 cases of actinic colitis (diseased-control group) and 11 cases without a history of intestinal disease (normal control group) were studied. Hematoxylin-eosin-stained sections were submitted to histopathological analysis and the immunohistochemical expression of COX-1, COX-2 and p53 was evaluated by the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase method. RESULTS: Sixty percent of the Crohn's disease patients were women and 40% were men, with 75.5% whites and 25.5% non-whites. The disease involved the terminal ileum in 44.5% of cases, ileum in 33.3%, colon in 20% and duodenum-ileum in 2.2%. A significant association was observed between COX-2 immunoreactivity and age <40 years. Histopathological analysis of Crohn's disease samples showed mild or moderate crypt distortion (57.8% and 35.6% of cases), atrophy (6.6%), mild, moderate and marked chronic inflammation (46.7%, 26.7% and 20%), acute inflammatory activity (93.3%), ulceration (24.4%), mucin depletion (37.8%), Paneth's cells (24.4%), intraepithelial lymphocytes (93.3%), and subepithelial collagen (6.7%). In the CD group, COX-1 immunoreactivity in epithelial and inflammatory cells was observed in 26.7% and 22.2% of cases, respectively. COX-2 immunoreactivity was detected in epithelial cells in 68.9% of cases and in inflammatory cells in 46.7%. A marginal difference in COX-2 reactivity was observed between epithelial and inflammatory cells in association with acute inflammatory activity and increase in intraepithelial lymphocytes. Comparison of the date among the threes groups (Crohn's disease, actinic colitis and normal controls) showed a higher proportion of cases presenting COX-2 immunoreactivity in inflammatory cells in the Crohn's disease group. No p53 reactivity was observed in all cases. CONCLUSIONS: COX-2 immunoexpression is high in Crohn's disease, which suggest a possible role of the protein in the pathogenesis of the inflammation. The absence of epithelial dysplasia in all Crohn's disease samples was correlated with the lack of expression of p53.

Anti-diarrhoea and analgesic activities of the methanol extract and its fractions of Jasminum amplexicaule Buch.-Ham. (Oleaceae)

Jasminum amplexicaule Buch.-Ham. (Oleaceae) has been commonly used in the traditional medicine in dysentery, diarrhoea and bellyache in China. In the present work, the methanol extract of Jasminum amplexicaule and different fractions of this extract were studied for anti-diarrhoea and analgesic activities. The anti-diarrhoea activities were investigated using castor oil-induced, magnesium sulphate-induced diarrhoea models, antienteropooling assay and gastrointestinal motility models in mice. The analgesic activities were studied using hot-plate, writhing and formalin models in mice. At the doses of 100, 200 and 400mg/kg, the methanol extract (ME) showed significant and dose-dependent anti-diarrhoea and analgesic activity in these models. The chloroform fraction (CHF), ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) and the residual methanol fraction (RMF) exhibited similar activity using a dose of 200mg/kg in these models. The pharmacological activities of the n-butanol fraction (BUF) were lesser than the ME extract and other fractions. These results may support the fact that this plant is traditionally used to cure diarrhoea and pain.

Effects of radix adenophorae and cyclosporine A on an OVA-induced murine model of asthma by suppressing to T cells activity, eosinophilia, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness

The present study is performed to investigate the inhibitory effects of Radix Adenophorae extract (RAE) on ovalbumin-induced asthma murine model. To study the anti-inflammatory and antiasthmatic effects of RAE, we examined the development of pulmonary eosinophilic inflammation and inhibitory effects of T cells in murine by RAE and cyclosporine A (CsA). We examined determination of airway hyperresponsiveness, flow cytometric analysis (FACS), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), quantitative real time (PCR), hematoxylin-eosin staining, and Masson trichrome staining in lung tissue, lung weight, total cells, and eosinophil numbers in lung tissue. We demonstrated how RAE suppressed development on inflammation and decreased airway damage.

Analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Buddleja globosa, Buddlejaceae

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Buddleja globosa, known as "matico", is employed in Chile for wound healing.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To validate the traditional use of the crude drug through in vivo and in vitro evaluation of the anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant properties of its extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sequential hexane, dichloromethane, methanol and total methanol extracts were studied using bioguided fractionation. The following activities were investigated: analgesic (writhing test), oral and topic anti-inflammatory (paw- and ear-induced edema), free radical scavenging and antioxidant activities (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, DPPH, superoxide anion, lipid peroxidation and xanthine oxidase inhibition). Sodium naproxen, nimesulide, indomethacin were used as reference drugs for in vivo, quercetin and allopurinol for in vitro assays.

RESULTS

A mixture of alpha- and beta-amyrins was isolated from the hexane extract that showed 41.2% of analgesic effect at 600 mg/kg, inhibited by 47.7 and 79.0% the arachidonic acid (AA) and 12-deoxyphorbol-13-decanoate (TPA)-induced inflammation at 3mg/20 microL/ear, respectively. A mixture of beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol, stigmastenol, stigmastanol and campesterol was isolated from the fraction CD4-N and beta-sitosterol-glycoside from the fraction CD5-N, reducing TPA-induced inflammation by 78.2 and 83.7% at 1mg/20 microL/ear, respectively. The fraction CD4-N at 300 mg/kg also showed analgesic activity (38.7%). The methanol extract at 600mg/kg per os showed anti-inflammatory effect (61.4%), topic anti-inflammatory (56.7% on TPA) and analgesic activity (38.5%). Verbascoside and luteolin-7-O-glucoside were the major components of the methanol extract; apigenin 7-O-glucoside was also detected. Inhibition of superoxide anion, lipoperoxidation, and DPPH bleaching effect was found in the methanol serial and global extracts.

CONCLUSIONS

The present report demonstrate the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of Buddleja globosa and validate its use in Chilean traditional medicine.

The aerial parts of Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. protect against NSAID-induced gastric lesions

Guazuma ulmifolia Lam., a member of the Sterculiaceae family, is used in folk medicine because of its antioxidant, antimicrobial and antihypertensive properties. Most of the research work carried out on this plant has focused on the bark because of its high concentration of antioxidant proanthocyanidins. The flowers and leaves of Guazuma ulmifolia, though less studied, are also used as a remedy for different conditions, such as kidney and gastrointestinal diseases, fever and diabetes. The aim of this study was to assess the gastroprotective effects of an aqueous suspension of the ethanolic extract from leaves and flowers of Guazuma ulmifolia in a model of acute gastric ulcer induced by diclofenac as ulcerogenic agent, using the proton pump inhibitor omeprazole as a protection reference. Therefore, the extract was administered two times orally to three groups of Wistar rats at doses of 500, 250 and 125mg/kg, with a 24-h interval between doses. Diclofenac (100mg/kg) was given 1h after the last administration of the extract. Pretreatment with Guazuma ulmifolia or omeprazole decreased the ulcerated area in a dose-dependent way. Myeloperoxidase activity as a marker of neutrophil infiltration was slightly reduced in vivo, whereas in vitro, anti-inflammatory activity was clearly inhibited in a dose-dependent way. The lowest doses of the extract significantly decreased the levels of lipoperoxides, and superoxide dismuthase activity increased to a similar extent as with omeprazole (P<0.001). Examination of glutathione metabolism reflected a significant rise in glutathione peroxidase activity at the highest dose of Guazuma ulmifolia. Finally, there was a faint elevation in prostaglandin E(2) levels with all doses, though the depletion induced by diclofenac could not be reverted. We conclude that the aerial parts of Guazuma ulmifolia protect gastric mucosa against the injurious effect of NSAIDs mainly by anti-inflammatory and radical-scavenging mechanisms.

Antiinflammatory and analgesic activities of Thesium chinense Turcz extracts and its major flavonoids, kaempferol and kaempferol-3-O-glucoside

The ethyl acetate, chloroform extracts, and the two flavonoids kaempferol 1 and kaempferol-3-O-glucoside 2 isolated from whole plants of Thesium chinense Turcz were investigated for their antiinflammatory and analgesic activities. For the antiinflammatory activity, carrageenan-induced hind paw edema and xylene-induced mouse ear edema models, and for the analgesic activity, the acetic acid-induced abdominal constriction test was used. The ethyl acetate extract and two flavonoids showed significant (p<0.05 and p<0.01) and dose-dependent antiinflammatory and analgesic activity. The chloroform extract was inactive in the assay.

Effect of a Psidii guajavae folium extract in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of two different doses of a Psidii guajavae folium extract in the management of primary dysmenorrhea.

METHODOLOGY

A double-blinded randomized clinical trial was conducted in 197 women with primary dysmenorrhea. Four intervention groups were defined: two extract doses (3 and 6 mg/day); ibuprofen (1200 mg/day); placebo (3mg/day). Participants were followed-up individually for 4 months. The main outcome variable was abdominal pain intensity measured according to a visual analogue scale (VAS).

RESULTS

The average age of participants was 19 years; menarche occurred around age 12 years. Participants had menstrual cycles of 28 or 29 days, with menstruation lasting 5 days and mean of pain intensity of 8.2 on the VAS. During each successive treatment cycle, participants experienced a lower pain intensity score. Multiple regression analysis, after adjusting each cycle for baseline pain, treatment compliance and other variables, showed that the group receiving 6 mg/day extract had significantly reduced pain intensity (p<0.001). This effect was maintained in cycles 2 and 3, although the reduction in the mean of pain intensity was lower. The group receiving the 3mg/day extract did not show a consistent effect throughout the three cycles.

CONCLUSION

At a dose of 6 mg/day, the standardized phyto-drug (Psidii guajavae folium extract) reduced menstrual pain significantly compared with conventional treatment and placebo.