Effect of Salvia officinalis L. leaves on serum glucose and insulin in healthy and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

The antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antihyperlipidemic effects of the polyphenolic extract from Salvia blancoana subsp. mesatlantica on induced diabetes in rats

Currently, several studies have demonstrated the benefits of medicinal plants in managing type 2 diabetes. In this work, we evaluated the beneficial effects of the polyphenolic extract (PESB) from Salvia blancoana subsp. mesatlantica in the management of hypercaloric-feeding and small-dose alloxan-brought type 2 diabetes in rats. We analyzed the chemical constituents of the extract, including flavones and flavonols content, to understand its biological action. The antioxidant activities were evaluated by total antioxidant action, scavenging effect of the free radical DPPH, and reducing power. The obtained results showed that the value of TFC was estimated at 31.90 ± 0.34 mgEQ/g in the PESB extract. The total antioxidant capacity was estimated at 593.51 ± 4.09 mg (EAA)/g, the value of DPPH IC50 was 7.3 ± 0.00 μg/mL, and the value of EC50 of reducing power was estimated at 6.43 ± 0.01 μg/mL. In total, 14 phenolic compounds were identified and the naringin was the most dominant (63.19%) while the vanillin was the less recorded (0.10%). Serum glucose decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in rats given PESB (100 mg/kg) after four weeks. Glibenclamide (GLB) and PESB reduced HbA1c and increased plasma insulin in diabetic rats, restoring HOMA-β and HOMA-IR levels to near-normal. Additionally, diabetic rats treated with GLB or PESB showed statistically equivalent results to those of non-diabetic rats regarding hepatic enzymes, renal and lipid markers, as well as cardiovascular indices. The weight loss was significantly lower in diabetic rats receiving a dose of PESB (100 mg/kg), and GLB compared to corresponding untreated diabetic rats (p < 0.01). PESB and GLB showed a prominent protective function in the pancreas, liver, and kidney tissues. This investigation demonstrates the capacity of extracts from leaves of S. blancoana subsp. mesatlantica to manage diabetes mellitus due to their richness in a wide range of bioactive compounds. Therefore, more investigations are required to estimate the safety of the plant use.

Effects of Salvia mirzayanii extract administration on hyperglycemia improvement in diabetic rats: The role of GLUT4, PEPCK and G6Pase genes

Diabetes is a dangerous metabolic disorder by increasing incidence in human societies worldwide. Recently, much attention has been focused on the development of hypoglycemic agents, particularly the derivatives of herbal drugs, in the treatment of diabetes. This research aimed to study the anti-diabetic effect of Salvia mirzayanii in the diabetic rat models. First, the plant material was extracted from the leaves, and orally administered to the rats. After treating the animals with the aqueous extract of S. mirzayanii at a dose of 600 mg/kg, animal body weight for 12 weeks, fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and body weight changes were examined. To analyze the anti-diabetic function of S. mirzayanii, we measured the expression of glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), and glucose 6-phosphatase (G6Pase) genes in healthy and streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats. The expression levels of the genes of interest in muscle and liver tissues were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). There were no significant differences in fasting blood glucose and OGTT between normal control (NC) group and the diabetic control (DC) group treated with S. mirzayanii. In contrast, there was a significant difference with the untreated DC (P < 0.05). The treatment of diabetic rats with S. mirzayanii significantly increased the expression of GLUT4 in the muscle and decreased the expression levels of PEPCK and G6Pase in the liver compared to the DC group (P < 0.05). These findings clearly show that S. mirzayanii can improve hyperglycemia by increasing the GLUT4 expression, and inhibiting the gluconeogenesis pathway in the liver. In general, the obtained results provided a new insight into the efficacy of S. mirzayanii aqueous extract as an anti-diabetic herbal medicine.

Can Polyherbal Medicine be used for the Treatment of Diabetes? - A Review of Historical Classics, Research Evidence and Current Prevention Programs

Diabetes mellitus (DM), a chronic medical condition, has attained a global pandemic status over the last few decades affecting millions of people. Despite a variety of synthetic drugs available in the market, the use of herbal medicines for managing diabetes is gaining importance because of being comparatively safer. This article reviews the result of a substantial literature search on polyherbal formulations (PHFs) developed and evaluated with potential for DM. The accumulated data in the literature allowed us to enlist 76PHFs consisting of different parts of 147 plant species belonging to 58 botanical families. The documented plant species are laden with bioactive components with anti-diabetic properties and thus draw attention. The most favoured ingredient for PHFs was leaves of Gymnema sylvestre and seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum used in 27 and 22 formulations, respectively. Apart from herbs, shilajit (exudates from high mountain rocks) formed an important component of 9 PHFs, whereas calcined Mytilus margaritiferus and goat pancreas were used in Dolabi, the most commonly used tablet form of PHF in Indian markets. The healing properties of PHFs against diabetes have been examined in both pre-clinical studies and clinical trials. However, the mechanism(s) of action of PHFs are still unclear and considered the pitfalls inherent in understanding the benefits of PHFs. From the information available based on experimental systems, it could be concluded that plant-derived medicines will have a considerable role to play in the control of diabetes provided the challenges related to their bioavailability, bioefficacy, optimal dose, lack of characterization, ambiguous mechanism of action, and clinical efficiency are addressed.

Antioxidant and Hypoglycemic Potential of Essential Oils in Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications

Since the earliest times, essential oils (EOs) have been utilized for medicinal and traditional purposes. However, in recent decades, an increasing interest has developed due to the need to rediscover herbal remedies and adjuvant therapies for the management of various diseases, particularly chronic ones. The present narrative review examines the potential for EOs to exert hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects in diabetes mellitus, analyzing the main publications having evaluated plant species with potentially beneficial effects through their phytocompounds in diabetes mellitus and its complications. Numerous species have shown promising characteristics that can be used in diabetes management. The hypoglycemic effects of these EOs are attributed to their capacity to stimulate glucose uptake, suppress glucose production, and increase insulin sensitivity. Moreover, EOs can alleviate the oxidative stress by manifesting their antioxidant effects via a variety of mechanisms, including the scavenging of free radicals, the regulation of antioxidant enzymes, and the decreasing of lipid peroxidation, due to their diverse chemical composition. These findings demonstrate the possible benefits of EOs as adjuvant therapeutic agents in the management of diabetes and its complications. The use of EOs in the treatment of diabetes shows good potential for the development of natural and effective strategies to enhance the health outcomes of people with this chronic condition, but additional experimental endorsements are required.

Use of Monoterpenes as Potential Therapeutics in Diabetes Mellitus: A Prospective Review

Monoterpenes are secondary metabolites of plants belonging to the terpenoid class of natural products. They are the most abundant components of essential oils that are generally considered to have various pharmacological properties. These compounds are reported to have antidiabetic effects in recent years. Due to nature's complex biosynthetic machinery, they also exhibit a reasonable degree of structural complexity/diversity for further analysis in structure-activity studies. Therefore, monoterpenes as antidiabetic agents have been investigated by recent in vitro and in vivo studies extensively reported in the scientific literature and claimed by patent documents. The purpose of this survey is to provide a comprehensive and prospective review concerning the potential applications of monoterpenes in the treatment of diabetes. The data for this research were collected through the specialized databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect between the years 2014 and 2022, as well as the patent databases EPO, WIPO, and USPTO. The research used 76 articles published in the leading journals in the field. The main effect observed was the antidiabetic activity of monoterpenes. This review showed that monoterpenes can be considered promising agents for prevention and/or treatment of diabetes as well as have a marked pharmaceutical potential for the development of bioproducts for therapeutics applications.

The effect of Salvia officinalis on blood glycemic indexes and blood lipid profile in diabetic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Diabetes is one of the most common endocrine disorders that increases the economic burden on the public health system. In this regard, understanding the effect of available herbs on diabetes can be useful. This systematic review was performed to determine the effect of Salvia officinalis on blood glycemic indexes and blood lipid profile (primary outcomes) and 2 h postprandial blood glucose (2HPPG), alanine transaminase (ALT) (U/L) and aspartate transaminase (AST) (U/L) and its side effects (secondary outcomes) in diabetic patients. A systematic search was conducted in the English (Cochrane Library, Medline (PubMed), Scopus, CINAHL, ProQuest and Persian databases since inception to March 2021, without publication time restriction. Two authors separately evaluated the quality of the articles using Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias in randomized trials and extracted the data. Heterogeneity of data was evaluated by squared I (I 2). Three studies included in the review and all of them included in meta-analysis. The results of meta-analysis showed that S. officinalis reduced fasting blood sugar (FBS) (mg/dL) (MD: -31.15; 95% CI: -37.56 to -24.73; p<0.00001). It also reduced HbA1c (%) (MD: -0.94; 95% CI: -1.25 to -0.63; p<0.00001) and total cholesterol (mg/dL) (MD: -43.64; 95% CI: -83.26 to -4.02; p=0.03) and reduction of low-density protein (LDL) (mg/dL) (MD: -19.23; 95% CI: -35.81 to -2.65; p=0.02) but it did not have a significant effect on triglyceride (mg/dL) (p=0.09), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (mg/dL) (p=0.18). Regarding the secondary outcomes, S. officinalis also had significant effect on 2HPPG, but it did not have a significant effect on ALT (U/L) and AST (U/L). No specific side effects for this plant were reported in these three studies. The results showed that S. officinalis has a positive effect on blood glycemic status and blood lipid profile in diabetes except for triglyceride and HDL. However, due to the small number of included articles, it is recommended that stronger clinical trials be conducted in this field.

Fortification of Fermented Camel Milk with Salvia officinalis L. or Mentha piperita Leaves Powder and Its Biological Effects on Diabetic Rats

The incorporation of fermented camel milk with natural additives possesses numerous benefits for the treatment of various pathological and metabolic conditions. The present study investigated the impact of fortification of fermented camel milk with sage or mint leaves powder (1 and 1.5%, respectively) on glucose and insulin levels, lipid profile, and liver and kidney functions in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The gross chemical composition of sage and peppermint leaves powder was studied. The chemical composition of sage and mint extracts was performed using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS) of sage and mint extracts. Furthermore, a total of forty-two adult normal male albino rats were included in this study, whereas one group was kept as the healthy control group (n = 6 rats) and diabetes was induced in the remaining animals (n = 36 rats) using alloxan injection (150 mg/kg of body weight). Among diabetic rats groups, a control group (n = 6 rats) was kept as the diabetic control group whereas the other 5 groups (6 rats per group) of diabetic rats were fed fermented camel milk (FCM) or fermented camel milk fortified with 1 and 1.5% of sage or mint leaves powder. Interestingly, the oral administration of fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder, at both concentrations, caused a significant decrease in blood glucose level and lipid profile, and an increase in insulin level compared to the diabetic control and FCM groups. Among others, the best results were observed in the group of animals that received fermented camel milk fortified with 1.5% sage powder. In addition, the results revealed that the fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder improved the liver and kidney functions of diabetic rats. Our study concluded that the use of sage and mint leaves powder (at a ratio of 1.5%) with fermented camel milk produces functional food products with anti-diabetic activity.

Comparative study of three herbal formulations against dengue vectors Aedes aegypti

The efficacy of three formulations (i.e., natural lavender crude, essential oil, and gel) extracted from Lavender angustifolia was tested against vectors of the epidemic dengue virus, Aedesaegypti, to evaluate their larvicidal activity effect. The ethanolic extract of the lavender crude was prepared using a rotary evaporator, while the other extracts, such as essential oil and gel, were obtained from iHerb, a supplier of medicinal herbs in the US. The mortality rate of larvae was evaluated 24 h after exposure. Larvicidal activity of the lavender crude was 91% mortality at 150 ppm, 94% for essential oil at a concentration of 3000 ppm, and 97% for lavender gel at a 1000 ppm. Natural lavender crude was one of the most promising extracts tested against Ae.aegypti larvae, with lethal concentrations at LC₅₀ and LC₉₀ of 76.4 and 174.5 ppm post-treatment. The essential oil had the least effect on mosquito larvae, with LC₅₀ and LC₉₀ reaching 1814.8 and 3381.9 ppm, respectively. The lavender gel was moderately effective against Ae. aegypti larvae, with LC₅₀ and LC₉₀ values reaching 416.3 and 987.7 ppm after exposure. The occurrence of morphological abnormalities in the larvae treated with the three compounds, in turn, resulted in an incomplete life cycle. Therefore, our results indicated that natural lavender crude displayed the highest larvicidal activity against larvae, followed by gel and essential oil. Thus, this study concluded that lavender crude is an effective, eco-friendly compound that can be used as an alternative to chemical products to control vector-borne epidemic diseases.

Wound healing activity of Salvia huberi ethanolic extract in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the in vivo wound healing potential of Salvia huberi Hedge (endemic to Turkey) on excision and incision wound models in diabetic rats. Method: Male Wistar albino rats, 3-4 months old and weighing 180-240g were used. The animals were randomly divided into five groups including Control, Vehicle and Fito reference, and two different concentrations (0.5% and 1% weight/weight (w/w)) of ethanol extract of Salvia huberi were investigated in both wound models on streptozocin-induced diabetic rats using macroscopic, biomechanical, biochemical, histopathological, genotoxic and gene expression methods over both seven and 14 days. Fito cream (Tripharma Drug Industry and Trade Inc., Turkey) was used as the reference drug. Results: A total of 60 rats were used in this study. Salvia huberi ointments at 0.5% and 1% (w/w) concentrations and Fito cream showed 99.3%, 99.4% and 99.1% contraction for excision wounds, and 99.9%, 97.0% and 99% contraction for incision wounds, respectively. In Salvia huberi ointments and Fito cream groups, re-epithelialisation increased dramatically by both day 7 and day 14 (p<0.05). By day 14, low hydroxyproline and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and high glutathione (GSH) levels were observed in the Salvia huberi ointment groups. After two application periods, damaged cell percent and genetic damage index values and micronucleus frequency of Salvia huberi ointment treatment groups were lower than Control and Vehicle groups (p<0.001). A growth factor expression reached a high level by day 7 in the Control group; in Salvia huberi-treated groups it was decreased. Conclusion: The study showed that application of Salvia huberi ointments ameliorated the healing process in diabetic rats with excisional and incisional wounds and may serve as a potent healing agent.

Wound healing activity of Salvia huberi ethanolic extract in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the in vivo wound healing potential of Salvia huberi Hedge (endemic to Turkey) on excision and incision wound models in diabetic rats. Method: Male Wistar albino rats, 3-4 months old and weighing 180-240g were used. The animals were randomly divided into five groups including Control, Vehicle and Fito reference, and two different concentrations (0.5% and 1% weight/weight (w/w)) of ethanol extract of Salvia huberi were investigated in both wound models on streptozocin-induced diabetic rats using macroscopic, biomechanical, biochemical, histopathological, genotoxic and gene expression methods over both seven and 14 days. Fito cream (Tripharma Drug Industry and Trade Inc., Turkey) was used as the reference drug. Results: A total of 60 rats were used in this study. Salvia huberi ointments at 0.5% and 1% (w/w) concentrations and Fito cream showed 99.3%, 99.4% and 99.1% contraction for excision wounds, and 99.9%, 97.0% and 99% contraction for incision wounds, respectively. In Salvia huberi ointments and Fito cream groups, re-epithelialisation increased dramatically by both day 7 and day 14 (p<0.05). By day 14, low hydroxyproline and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and high glutathione (GSH) levels were observed in the Salvia huberi ointment groups. After two application periods, damaged cell percent and genetic damage index values and micronucleus frequency of Salvia huberi ointment treatment groups were lower than Control and Vehicle groups (p<0.001). A growth factor expression reached a high level by day 7 in the Control group; in Salvia huberi-treated groups it was decreased. Conclusion: The study showed that application of Salvia huberi ointments ameliorated the healing process in diabetic rats with excisional and incisional wounds and may serve as a potent healing agent.

Anti-Inflammatory Therapeutic Mechanisms of Natural Products: Insight from Rosemary Diterpenes, Carnosic Acid and Carnosol

Carnosic acid (CA) and carnosol (CAR) are two major diterpenes of the rosemary plant (Rosmarinus officinalis). They possess a phenolic structural moiety and are endowed with the power to remove cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) either through direct scavenging reaction or indirectly through upregulation of antioxidant defences. Hand in hand with these activities are their multiple biological effects and therapeutic potential orchestrated through modulating various signalling pathways of inflammation, including the NF-κB, MAPK, Nrf2, SIRT1, STAT3 and NLRP3 inflammasomes, among others. Consequently, they ameliorate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1 and IL-6), adhesion molecules, chemokines and prostaglandins. These anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action as a therapeutic link to various effects of these compounds, as in many other natural products, are scrutinised.

Antioxidative, Antidiabetic, and Hypolipidemic Properties of Probiotic-Enriched Fermented Camel Milk Combined with Salvia officinalis Leaves Hydroalcoholic Extract in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes in Rats

Antioxidative, antidiabetic, and hypolipidemic properties of probiotic-enriched fermented camel milk (FCM) combined with Salvia officinalis L. leaves hydroalcoholic extract (SOHE) in streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats were investigated. Phytochemicals analysis and antioxidant capacity indicated that S. officinalis contained high phenolics with super antioxidant activity. Subsequently, HPLC analysis demonstrated 13 phenolic acids and 14 flavonoids in considerable amounts with ferulic acid and resveratrol as predominant, respectively. The antidiabetic and hypolipidemic properties of FCM and SOHE were examined in a designed animal model consisting of seven treated groups for four weeks. There was a negative group (G1); the positive group (G2) received a single dose (50 mg kg^-1) of streptozotocin (STZ) by intraperitoneal injection (i.p.); in G3, diabetic rats (DRs) orally received 5 mL FCM kg^-1 daily; in G4, DRs orally received 50 mg GAE SOHE kg^-1 daily; in G5, DRs orally received 5 mL FCM contains 25 mg GAE SOHE kg^-1 daily; in G6, DRs orally received 5 mL FCM contains 50 mg GAE SOHE kg^-1 daily; in G7, DRs orally received 50 mg metformin kg^-1 daily. Combining FCM with SOHE at 25 or 50 mg kg^-1 exhibited a synergistic effect in significantly lowering random blood glucose (RBG), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and improved weight gain recovery %. The hypolipidemic effect of FCM + 50 mg GAE SOHE kg^-1 was significantly higher than using FCM or SOHE individually, and attenuation in triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (CHO), and high- and low-density lipoproteins (HDL and LDL), and very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) was remarked. Combining FCM with SOHE at 25 or 50 mg kg^-1 ameliorated liver and kidney functions better than individual uses of FCM, SOHE, or metformin. Interestingly, FCM with 50 mg SOHE kg^-1 presented significant improvement in the activity of antioxidant enzymes, reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and a substantial reduction in malonaldehyde (MDA) levels with 53.75%, 89.93%, 63.06%, and 58.69% when compared to the STZ group (G2), respectively. Histopathologically, administrating FCM + 25, 50 mg SOHE kg^-1 or 50 mg kg^-1 metformin showed a normal histological structure of both islets of Langerhans cells and acini. In conclusion, combining FCM with SOHE presented synergistic and therapeutical efficacy. It could be beneficial and profitable for controlling diabetes mellitus complications and protecting against oxidative stress.

Insights on the neuroprotective effects of Salvia officinalis L. and Salvia microphylla Kunth in memory impairment rat model

Salvia species have a traditional longstanding culinary use mostly consumed in the Mediterranean diet as a common spice added to food. Salvia is commonly consumed as an herbal tea for...

Sage, Salvia officinalis L., Constituents, Hepatoprotective Activity, and Cytotoxicity Evaluations of the Essential Oils Obtained from Fresh and Differently Timed Dried Herbs: A Comparative Analysis

Sage, Salvia officinalis L., is used worldwide as an aromatic herb for culinary purposes as well as a traditional medicinal agent for various ailments. Current investigations exhibited the effects of extended dryings of the herb on the yields, composition, oil quality, and hepatoprotective as well as anti-cancer biological activities of the hydrodistillation-obtained essential oils from the aerial parts of the plant. The essential oils’ yields, compositions, and biological activities levels of the fresh and differently timed and room-temperature dried herbs differed significantly. The lowest yields of the essential oil were obtained from the fresh herbs (FH, 631 mg, 0.16%), while the highest yield was obtained from the two-week dried herbs (2WDH, 1102 mg, 0.28%). A notable decrease in monoterpenes, with increment in the sesquiterpene constituents, was observed for the FH-based essential oil as compared to all the other batches of the essential oils obtained from the different-timed dried herbs. Additionally, characteristic chemotypic constituents of sage, i.e., α-pinene, camphene, β-pinene, myrcene, 1, 8-cineole, α-thujone, and camphor, were present in significantly higher proportions in all the dried herbs’ essential oils as compared to the FH-based essential oil. The in vivo hepatoprotective activity demonstrated significant reductions in the levels of AST, ALT, and ALP, as well as a significant increase in the total protein (p < 0.05) contents level, as compared to the acetaminophen (AAP) administered experimental group of rats. A significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the ALT level was demonstrated by the 4WDH-based essential oil in comparison to the FH-based essential oil. The levels of creatinine, cholesterol, and triglycerides were reduced (p < 0.05) in the pre-treated rats by the essential oil batches, with non-significant differences found among them as a result of the herbs dryings based oils. A notable increase in the viability of the cells, and total antioxidant capacity (TAOxC) levels, together with the reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were observed by the essential oils obtained from all the batches as compared with the AAP-treated cell-lines, HepG-2, HeLa, and MCF-7, that indicated the in vitro hepatoprotective effects of the sage essential oils. However, significant improvements in the in vivo and in vitro hepatoprotective activities with the 4WDH-based oil, as compared to all other essential oil-batches and silymarin standard demonstrated the beneficial effects of the drying protocol for the herb for its medicinal purposes.

Salvia Officinalis Protects Pancreatic Beta-cells Against Streptozotocin-Induced Damage; A Stereological Study

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease, progressing due to inadequate secretion of insulin by pancreas. Salvia officinalis (SVO) has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative potentials, which may be beneficial in regulating underlying causes of DM. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to estimate the protective effects of SVO against Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced pancreatic injury in rat models of DM. Methods: Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 12); C1: normal group with no treatment, C2: diabetic group with no treatment, E1: diabetic group treated with 200 mg/kg of the SVO extract, and E2: diabetic group treated with 400 mg/kg of the SVO extract. All groups received a single dose of STZ on day 7 except C1. Pancreas volume, shrinkage, volume densities of the islets, numerical densities, and volume of the beta cells were measured using stereological methods. Results: Blood sugar (BS) levels were significantly lower in SVO-treated groups comparing to C2 group. Also, volume densities and total number of islets and beta cells in E1 and E2 groups were higher than C2 (P < 0.05), but lower than C1 (P < 0.05). Volume densities of the islets and beta cells, and total number of beta cells in E1, and volume densities of the islets and beta cells in E2 groups were considerably higher than C2 group (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Our result showed the beneficial effects of SVO extract regarding pancreatic damage. We concluded that SVO might be prescribed as a therapeutic food supplement for patients with diabetes.

Salvia officinalis Extract and 17β-Estradiol Suppresses Ovariectomy Induced Osteoporosis in Female Rats

&lt;b&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/b&gt; Osteoporosis is a progressive metabolic disorder characterized by an impaired bone formation that leads to increased morbidity and mortality.&lt;i&gt; Salvia officinalis &lt;/i&gt;is a source of phytoestrogens that could help mitigate the risk of osteoporotic rat fracture by exerting sex hormones. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the curative effect of &lt;i&gt;Salvia officinalis &lt;/i&gt;Extract&lt;i&gt; &lt;/i&gt;(SOE) and&lt;i&gt; &lt;/i&gt;17β-estradiol (E&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;) and their combination&lt;i&gt; &lt;/i&gt;on bone loss in female rats with ovariectomy-induced estrogen deficiency &lt;b&gt;Materials and Methods:&lt;/b&gt; Forty adult female albino rats were divided into five groups, which included Sham control (Sham), ovariectomy (OVX), OVX+SOE, OVX+E&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; and OVX +SOE+E&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;.&lt;i&gt; &lt;/i&gt;SOE (10 mL kg&lt;sup&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;&lt;sup&gt;1&lt;/sup&gt;) and E&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; (30 μg kg&lt;sup&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;&lt;sup&gt;1&lt;/sup&gt;) had been daily gavaged in the OVX+SOE, OVX+E&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; and OVX+SOE+E&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;, respectively for 6-weeks. &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; The model of ovariectomy resulted in osteoporosis as demonstrated by the decreased serum Ca, P, vitamin D, E&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; level associated with a significant increase in PTH levels in comparison to the sham control group. Besides, OVX to rats caused up-regulation in the levels of CTX-1, P1NP, BALP, OC and RANKL comparable to the sham control group. Moreover, SOE and E&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; significantly modulated the calciotropic parameters and improved all bone turnover markers as well as RANKL as compared to the OVX group. However, Histopathological and immunohistochemical results showed defective mineralization with the destruction of the bone matrix and increased TNF-α expression from the OVX group relative to the treated groups. &lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; These results suggest that both SOE and E&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; or their combined administration are efficient inhibitors against ovariectomy-induced bone loss in female rats.

Targeting interleukin-β by plant-derived natural products: Implications for the treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

Inflammation is the main contributing factor to atheroma formation in atherosclerosis. Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) is an inflammatory mediator found in endothelial cells and resident leukocytes. Canakinumab is a selective monoclonal antibody against IL-1β which attenuates inflammation and concurrently precipitates fatal infections and sepsis. Natural products derived from medicinal plants, herbal remedy and functional foods are widely used nowadays. Experimental and clinical trial evidence supports that some natural products such as curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin have potential effects on IL-1β suppression. In this review, we tried to document findings that used medicinal plants and plant-based natural products for treating atherosclerosis and its related diseases through the suppression of IL-1β.

Ayurvedic Herbal Preparation Supplementation Does Not Improve Metabolic Health in Impaired Glucose Tolerance Subjects; Observations from a Randomised Placebo Controlled Trial

The increased usage of alternative Ayurvedic treatments as potential health-beneficial therapies emphasizes the importance of studying its efficacy in sound placebo-controlled intervention trials. An example of such a traditional Ayurvedic herbal preparation is Mohana Choorna, a mixture composed of 20 different herbs and used to prevent and treat type 2-diabetes (T2D). We studied the efficacy of “Mohana Choorna” on T2D-related parameters in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance. In a double blind, placebo-controlled cross-over trial, 19 overweight (BMI > 27 kg/m²) subjects aged 50–70 years with an impaired glucose tolerance received two four-week interventions, i.e., herbal or placebo with a four-week wash-out between interventions. HbA1c, glucose, insulin, triglycerides, cholesterol, blood pressure and augmentation index were measured before and after both interventions at fasting and during a glucose tolerance test. After both interventions, urine was collected to measure treatment exposure using LCMS-based metabolomics and whole genome gene-expression in adipose tissue of 13 subjects. The herbal intervention did not affect plasma glucose triglycerides, cholesterol, blood pressure or the augmentation index but showed a trend towards an increased insulin, HOMA-IR and postprandial insulin levels (p = 0.054, p = 0.056 and p = 0.095 respectively). An increase in expression of inflammation-related gene sets in adipose tissue was observed after the herbal intervention compared to placebo. Urine metabolomic analysis did not reveal a correlation of the presence of specific plant metabolites with “health markers”. Our findings suggest that there is no substantiating evidence to claim that four weeks’ use of the Ayurvedic herbal supplement Mohana Choorna beneficially affects glucose homeostasis.

Toxicity evaluation of an essential oil mixture from the Cretan herbs thyme, Greek sage and Cretan dittany

The importance of herbal extracts on health, which was initially based on ethnopharmacological and traditional knowledge, becomes increasingly well documented by numerous experimental and intervention studies. The daily use of beverages from different aromatic plants which becomes more popular nowadays, has been a tradition in Crete, and a habit that has been linked to the longevity seen in the island. Additionally, a certain combination of aromatic plants has been used against common cold and influenza. Interestingly, when such a mixture of essential oils from Cretan herbs (Cretan Aromatic Plants essential oil, CAPeo, from thyme, Greek sage, and Cretan dittany) was formulated, significant antiviral properties were observed in vitro and a significant reduction in the duration and severity of symptoms of patients with upper respiratory tract infections was found in a clinical study. However, since many plants extracts can exert toxic effects, toxicity issues should be properly addressed. In the present work we present an acute and sub-chronic toxicity evaluation for this mixture of aromatic plants' essential oils in rats. In fact, it is the only toxicity study for Cretan dittany. We report absence of toxicity, rendering the use of the mixture of essential oils from Cretan dittany, Greek sage and thyme as safe.

A Phytocomplex Consisting of Tropaeolum majus L. and Salvia officinalis L. Extracts Alleviates the Inflammatory Response of Dermal Fibroblasts to Bacterial Lipopolysaccharides

Background

The antimicrobial activity and effects of a phytocomplex consisting of Tropaeolum flos (T) and Salviae folium (S) extracts on the cytokine levels and transcription factors on dermal fibroblast BJ exposed to bacterial lipopolysaccharides were examined.

Methods

In order to select the most optimal combination ratio of the two extracts for using in vitro, the physicochemical characterization of vegetal extract mixtures was performed and the antioxidant and antibacterial activities were evaluated on five different formulations of T : S, namely, 1 : 1, 1 : 2, 2 : 1, 3 : 1, and 1 : 3. The best combination of bioactive compounds with regard to antioxidant and antibacterial activities (T : S 1 : 2) was selected for in vitro evaluation of the anti-inflammatory effect. Human dermal fibroblast BJ cells were treated with two doses of the extract mixture and then exposed to bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS). The levels of the cytokines involved in inflammatory response, namely, interleukin- (IL-) 6, tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) α, IL-31, and IL-33, were quantified by ELISA, and the expression of transcription factors, namely, signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3, nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB), and phosphorylated NFκB (pNFκB), were evaluated by western blot analysis.

Results

The results have shown that the mixture of T : S 1 : 2 exhibited significant antibacterial effects on Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. LPS exposure increased the cytokine levels in BJ cells and enhanced the NFκB expression. The pretreatment of BF cells exposed to LPS with the two doses of the extract mixture markedly inhibited the increase of IL-33 and TNF-α levels and amplified the NFκB expression and its activation, especially with the high dose. The low doses of the extract reduced NFκB expression but increased its activation.

Conclusions

These experimental findings suggest that the mixture of T : S 1 : 2 can exert some protection against bacterial infections and inflammation induced by LPS in BJ cells being a good therapeutic option in related conditions associated with inflammation.

Suadian Acacia Gerrardii: Antidiabetic Effect in Rats Suffering from Diabetic Nephropathy and DNA Fingerprinting Using ISSR

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

There is a widespread use of medicinal herbs with beneficial uses against different diseased conditions. This study was carried out to identify and study the biological effect of Acacia gerrardii leaf extract on lowering blood sugar in rats suffering from diabetic nephropathy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

It studied the effects of leaf extract at concentrations ranging from 100-500 mg kg-1 b.wt. per day for 4 weeks. Serum glucose levels, total lipids profile and kidney functions were estimated. Plasma levels of sodium and potassium as well as total bilirubin levels were assessed and kidneys from different groups were histopathologically examined.

RESULTS

The results showed that leaves were rich in the major compounds of phenolic acids, including salicylic acid and flavonoids with reduction of total lipids, triglycerides and total cholesterol in diabetic rats with renal failure together with reduction in uric acid, creatinine and urea with reduced vacuolar degeneration of tubules and basement membrane thickening. Additionally, the phylogenetic analysis using ISSR primers detected a genetic divergence among different samples. The results showed that the rich antioxidant content of Acacia gerrardii improved lipid, serum antioxidant and kidney function profiles in diabetic rats.

CONCLUSION

Acacia gerrardii could be used as a safe source of antioxidants. Moreover, the ISSR assay proved its usefulness in detecting genetic variations among different Acacia gerrardii samples.

An ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used for diabetes treatment in Rabat, Morocco

Diabetes mellitus is a major public health problem in Morocco. The value of ethnobotanical information is now increasingly acknowledged. To inventory and to provide ethnobotanical information on some of the medicinal plants used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes in Rabat (Morocco), a survey was undertaken from March 1^st to April 30^th 2018. This survey was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire targeting diabetic patients from the SOS Diabetes Center. 334 diabetic patients were interviewed. Of this group, 53.6% (34 men and 145 women) use medicinal plants to control their diabetes. 47.2% have type 2 diabetes and 52.5% have type 1diabetes. Thirty plant species belonging to 18 botanical families were recorded for the treatment of diabetes. The most represented families were Lamiaceae with 8 species followed by Fabaceae with 3 species. Based on the highest number of users, the most important species were Trigonella foenum-graecum L. (15.4%), Salvia officinalis L. (13.3%) and Olea europaea L. (10.8%). Leaves (47.5%), seeds (20.2%) and stem (17.6%) were the parts predominantly used to prepare the formulations, which were mainly infusions (50.9%), administrated by the oral route (98.9%). Some plants were used only by type 1 diabetics while others were used by type 2 diabetics. The observed adverse events related to the use of medicinal plants were represented by occasional heartburn in 2.2% of diabetic patients. This study is the first to collect and document information on medicinal plants and how they are used by diabetic patients. Calamintha alpina L. is reported for the first time at the international level as used in traditional treatment of diabetes and seven others were reported as new medicinal plants used to treat diabetes in Morocco. This will extend the list of plants already mentioned as used for diabetes. Further research should be carried out to validate the antidiabetic uses of most of these plant species.

Carbon tetrachloride induced hepato/renal toxicity in experimental mice: antioxidant potential of Egyptian Salvia officinalis L essential oil

The present research designed to assess the protective role of Salvia officinalis essential oil (SO) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver and kidney damage in mice. This is evidenced by estimation of antiradical scavenging activity of SO using DPPH assay, biochemical markers, histological investigation of liver and kidney sections, and comet assay. Mice were given CCl₄ (1.2 mL/kg for 24 h or 0.8 mL/kg for 2 weeks, 3 times/week) and with or without SO (0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 mL/kg, for 2 week, 5 times/week). The findings demonstrated that both acute and subacute treatment with CCl₄ alone had adverse side effects on liver and kidney of mice. These effects were evidenced by a significant increase in serum hepatic enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP, LDH, and G-GT), bilirubin, and renal function markers (blood urea, creatinine). Toxic effect of CCl₄ was accompanied by a decline in the serum total protein, albumin, globulin, and prothrombin (%). CCl₄ induced oxidative stress as evidenced by increasing serum lipid peroxidation (LPO) along with decreasing serum total glutathione S transferase (GST). A remarkable increase in hepatic DNA strand breakages and histopathological distortion in liver and kidney specimens were observed in CCl₄-intoxicated groups. Ultrastructurally, hepatocytes exhibited irregular nuclei, vacuolated cytoplasm, and distorted microorganelles. Essential oil form S. officinalis possessed antiradical scavenging (EC₅₀ = 4602 μg/mL) lower than ascorbic acid (EC₅₀ = 5.9 μg/mL). This oil was effectively exhibited hepato-nephroprotective activity especially at its higher concentrations in co-treated groups (SO plus CCl₄). The activity of SO was associated with lowering the liver enzymes, bilirubin, urea, and creatinine, along with increasing total protein, albumin, globulin, and prothrombin. The increase in GST content and the decrease in LPO and DNA breakage levels, alongside repairing the histo-architectural distortions further confirmed the protective activity of SO. SO is a potential candidate for counteracting hepato/renal injury associating CCl₄. This effect may occur via antioxidant defense mechanism which in part related to the complexity of its chemical constituents.

Metabolic impairments and tissue disorders in alloxan-induced diabetic rats are alleviated by Salvia officinalis L. essential oil

The current research explored for the first time the effect of Salvia officinalis L. (Sage) essential oil (EO) on Alloxan-induced diabetes in male Wistar rats. Sage EO was extracted by a Clevenger apparatus and analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS. The most important chemical families identified in this oil were oxygenated monoterpenes (56.32%), hydrocarbon monoterpenes (15.00%) and hydrocarbon sesquiterpenes (14.70%). All treatments were administered orally. In vitro investigation showed that the EO had α-amylase and lipase inhibitory activities with IC₅₀ = 38 μg/mL and IC₅₀ = 52 μg/mL, respectively. In vivo experiments highlighted that the activities of serum α-amylase and lipase were reduced by 46.6% and 32.1%, respectively. Sage EO reduced glycemia by 60% and the level of glycogen stored in the liver by 43.7%. Treatments of diabetes with Sage EO significantly protected the liver function by lowering serum AST (35%), ALT (79%) and LDH (43%) activities. Furthermore, Sage EO was efficient to preserve the kidney function in diabetes by reverting back serum creatinine (47%) and UA (62.5%) concentrations to control values. The obtained results altogether evidenced that Sage EO had hypoglycemic and anti-obesity effects and could be a valuable complement in future diabetes therapy.

Preventive effects of Salvia officinalis leaf extract on insulin resistance and inflammation in a model of high fat diet-induced obesity in mice that responds to rosiglitazone

Background

Salvia officinalis (sage) is a native plant to the Mediterranean region and has been used for a long time in traditional medicine for various diseases. We investigated possible anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity effects of sage methanol (MetOH) extract in a nutritional mouse model of obesity, inflammation and insulin resistance, as well as its effects on lipolysis and lipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells.

Methods

Diet-induced obese (DIO) mice were treated for five weeks with sage methanol extract (100 and 400 mg kg⁻¹/day bid), or rosiglitazone (3 mg kg⁻¹/day bid), as a positive control. Energy expenditure, food intake, body weight, fat mass, liver glycogen and lipid content were evaluated. Blood glucose, and plasma levels of insulin, lipids leptin and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were measured throughout the experiment. The effects of sage MetOH extract on lipolysis and lipogenesis were tested in vitro in 3T3-L1 cells.

Results

After two weeks of treatment, the lower dose of sage MetOH extract decreased blood glucose and plasma insulin levels during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). An insulin tolerance test (ITT), performed at day 29 confirmed that sage improved insulin sensitivity. Groups treated with low dose sage and rosiglitazone showed very similar effects on OGTT and ITT. Sage also improved HOMA-IR, triglycerides and NEFA. Treatment with the low dose increased the plasma levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-2, IL-4 and IL-10 and reduced the plasma level of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-12, TNF-α, and KC/GRO. The GC analysis revealed the presence of two PPARs agonist in sage MetOH extract. In vitro, the extract reduced in a dose-related manner the accumulation of lipid droplets; however no effect on lipolysis was observed.

Conclusions

Sage MetOH extract at low dose exhibits similar effects to rosiglitazone. It improves insulin sensitivity, inhibits lipogenesis in adipocytes and reduces inflammation as judged by plasma cytokines. Sage presents an alternative to pharmaceuticals for the treatment of diabetes and associated inflammation.

Effect of zinc gluconate, sage oil on inflammatory patterns and hyperglycemia in zinc deficient diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

The relationship between zinc homeostasis and pancreatic function had been established. In this study we aimed firstly to configure the inflammatory pattern and hyperglycemia in zinc deficient diabetic rats. Secondly to illustrate the effect of two selected agents namely Zinc gluconate and sage oil (Salvia Officinalis, family Lamiaceae).

METHODS

Rats were fed on Zinc deficient diet, deionized water for 28days along with Zinc level check up at intervals to achieve zinc deficient state then rats were rendered diabetic through receiving one dose of alloxan monohydrate (120mg/kg) body weight, classified later into 5 subgroups.

RESULTS

Treatment with sage oil (0.042mg/kg IP) and Zinc gluconate orally (150mg/kg) body weight daily for 8 weeks significantly reduced serum glucose, C-reactive protein (CRP), Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF- α), interleukins-6 1 β, inflammatory8 (IFN ȣ), pancreatic 1L1-β along with an increase in serum Zinc and pancreatic Zinc transporter 8 (ZNT8). Histopathological results of pancreatic tissues showed a good correlation with the biochemical findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Both sage oil and zinc gluconate induced an improvement in the glycemic and inflammatory states. This may be of value like the therapeutic agent for diabetes.

Moringa oleifera from Cambodia Ameliorates Oxidative Stress, Hyperglycemia, and Kidney Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetic Mice

Recent reports have shown the antidiabetic effect of Moringa oleifera from various parts of the world. However, M. oleifera from Cambodia has never determined. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the antidiabetic effect of M. oleifera extract from Cambodia. The leaf ethanolic extract contained flavonoids (31.90 mg/mL), polyphenols (53.03 mg/mL), lycopene (0.042 mg/mL), and ß-carotene (0.170 mg/mL), and possessed 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, hydrogen peroxide, and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities of 92.40, 99.25, and 83.57 TE/μM at 1 mg/mL, respectively. Db/db mice were orally administered the leaf extract (150 mg/kg/day) for 5 weeks. M. oleifera treatment significantly ameliorated the altered fasting plasma glucose (from 483 to 312 mg/dL), triglyceride (from 42.12 to 23.00 mg/dL), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (from 107.21 to 64.25 mg/dL) compared to control group, and increased the insulin levels from 946 ± 92 to 1678 ± 268 pg/mL. The histopathological damage and expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, cyclooxygenase-2, and inducible nitric oxide synthase in renal tissue decreased. These results indicate the potential antidiabetic benefits of M. oleifera ethanolic leaf extract.

The Health Benefits of Selected Culinary Herbs and Spices Found in the Traditional Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is considered one of the healthiest diets in the world. This is often attributed to low saturated fat consumption, moderate wine consumption, and high vegetable consumption. However, herbs and spices associated with these diets may also play an important role in the quality of this diet. This review summarizes the most recent research regarding the anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-hypertensive properties of this collection of culinary species. Additionally, this review briefly summarizes studies performed on lesser known herbs from around the world, with the goal of identifying new culinary species that may be useful in the treatment or prevention of diseases.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used in the traditional treatment of diabetes in Chtouka Ait Baha and Tiznit (Western Anti-Atlas), Morocco

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Morocco, diabetes mellitus is a major public health problem with more than 1.5 million cases in 2014. Medicinal plants are widely used by the Moroccan population to treat the illness.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this work is to make an inventory of plant species used in folk medicine for the management of diabetes in Chtouka Ait Baha and Tiznit provinces.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The survey was carried out by means of semi-structured questionnaires. A total of 380 interviews were conducted with traditional health practitioners and knowledgeable villagers. The data were analyzed through use value (UV), fidelity level (FL) and relative frequency of citation (RFC).

RESULTS

In total, 48 plant species belonging to 25 families were reported. Lamiaceae, Asteraceae and Apiaceae were reported as the most represented families. Six plants are reported for the first time as used in traditional treatment of diabetes and one plant species was previously unknown for its medicinal use to treat diabetes in Morocco. The most frequently cited plant species are Allium sativum L., Salvia officinalis L., Marrubium vulgare L. and Lavandula dentata L. Leaves were the most cited plant part used, decoction is the preferred mode of preparation.

CONCLUSION

This study showed the importance of folk medicine in the healthcare system for the local people living in the study area. The current study represents a useful documentation, which can contribute to preserving knowledge on the use of medicinal plants in this region and to explore the phytochemical and pharmacological potential of medicinal plants.

Pharmacological properties of Salvia officinalis and its components

Salvia officinalis (Sage) is a plant in the family of Labiatae/Lamiaceae. It is native to Middle East and Mediterranean areas, but today has been naturalized throughout the world. In folk medicine, S. officinalis has been used for the treatment of different kinds of disorders including seizure, ulcers, gout, rheumatism, inflammation, dizziness, tremor, paralysis, diarrhea, and hyperglycemia. In recent years, this plant has been a subject of intensive studies to document its traditional use and to find new biological effects. These studies have revealed a wide range of pharmacological activities for S. officinalis. Present review highlights the up-to-date information on the pharmacological findings that have been frequently reported for S. officinalis. These findings include anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antimutagenic, antidementia, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic effects. Also, chemical constituents responsible for pharmacological effects of S. officinalis and the clinical studies on this plant are presented and discussed.

Preventive effects of Salvia officinalis L. against learning and memory deficit induced by diabetes in rats: Possible hypoglycaemic and antioxidant mechanisms

Learning and memory impairment occurs in diabetes. Salvia officinalis L. (SO) has been used in Iranian traditional medicine as a remedy against diabetes. We hypothesized that chronic administration of SO (400, 600 and 800mg/kg, p.o.) and its principal constituent, rosmarinic acid, would affect on passive avoidance learning (PAL) and memory in streptozocin-induced diabetic and non-diabetic rats. We also explored hypoglycemic and antioxidant activities of SO as the possible mechanisms. Treatments were begun at the onset of hyperglycemia. PAL was assessed 30days later. Retention test was done 24h after training. At the end, animals were weighed and blood samples were drawn for further analyzing of glucose and oxidant/antioxidant markers. Diabetes induced deficits in acquisition and retrieval processes. SO (600 and 800mg/kg) and rosmarinic acid reversed learning and memory deficits induced by diabetes and improved cognition of healthy rats. While the dose of 400mg/kg had no effect, the higher doses and rosmarinic acid inhibited hyperglycemia and lipid peroxidation as well as enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase. SO prevented diabetes-induced acquisition and memory deficits through inhibiting hyperglycemia, lipid peroxidation as well as enhancing antioxidant defense systems. Therefore, SO and its principal constituent rosmarinic acid represent a potential therapeutic option against diabetic memory impairment which deserves consideration and further examination.

Antinociceptive Effect of Mirtazapine in Rats with Diabetic Neuropathy

INTRODUCTION

To evaluate the antinociceptive effect of mirtazapine and the mechanisms mediating this effect in neuropathic pain in rats with diabetes.

METHODS

The experiments were performed in Sprague Dawley rats using a hot-plate device. Streptozotocin (STZ) was administered to the rats after taking control measurements. Rats with a blood glucose level of 240 mg/dL or above in the blood specimen obtained from the tail vein 3 days after STZ administration were considered as being diabetic. Three weeks after STZ administration, the hot-plate test was performed. Compared with the control measurements, rats that exhibited >20% decrease in the second hot-plate test measurements were considered to have developed neuropathy. Drugs [mirtazapine, naloxone (opioidergic antagonist), metergoline (serotonergic antagonist), and BRL44408 (adrenergic antagonist)] and drug combinations were administered to those rats that developed neuropathy. After administrating the drugs or drug combinations, the third hot-plate test was performed.

RESULTS

Mirtazapine at doses of 10 and 15 mg/kg exhibited a significant antinociceptive effect. Naloxone, metergoline, or BRL44408 alone did not cause an antinociceptive effect. However, combinations of these drugs with mirtazapine (15 mg/kg) significantly decreased the antinociceptive effect of mirtazapine.

CONCLUSION

It is suggested that mirtazapine has a significant antinociceptive effect in diabetic neuropathy and that opioidergic, serotonergic, and adrenergic systems have roles to play in this effect.

Diabetes mellitus and its management with medicinal plants: A perspective based on Iranian research

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Complementary and alternative medicine has been increasingly used to treat chronic illnesses, such as diabetes mellitus. However, various limitations in terms of their application and efficacies exist. Furthermore, there is still much to be done to discover the right herbal medicine for diabetes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This paper aims to evaluate previous herbal studies on the management of diabetes mellitus, to address their strengths and weaknesses and propose a general framework for future studies.

APPROACH AND METHODS

Data sources such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, SpringerLink, and Wiley were searched, limited to Iran, using 36 search terms such as herbal, traditional, medicine, and phytopharmacy in combination with diabetes and related complications. Reviewed articles were evaluated regarding the use of botanical nomenclature and included information on (1) identity of plants and plant parts used, (2) the processing procedure, and (3) the extraction process. The main outcomes were extracted and then surveyed in terms of the efficacies of herbs in the management of diabetes mellitus. Then a comparative study was performed between Iranian and non-Iranian studies with respect to herbs best studied in Iran.

RESULTS

Of the 82 herbs studied in Iran, only six herbs were endemic and 19 were studied in detail. Although most of the reviewed herbs were found to decrease the level of blood glucose (BG) and/or glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) in both Iranian and non-Iranian studies, information on their pharmacological mechanisms is scarce. However, the level of HbA1C was measured in a limited number of clinical trials or animal studies. Available information on both short- and long-term use of studied herbs on diabetes related complications and functions of involved organs as well as comorbid depression and/or simultaneous changes in lifestyle is also insufficient. Furthermore, little or no information on their phytochemical, toxicological, and herb-drug interaction properties is available. It is worth noting that the efficacy of the reviewed herbs has been studied scarcely in both humans and animals regarding both Iranian and non-Iranian studies. A significant number of reviewed articles failed to cite the scientific name of herbs and include information on the processing procedure and the extraction process.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of diabetes mellitus as a multifactorial disease using herbal medicines requires a comprehensive approach. In order to discover the right herbal medicine for the management of diabetes many other important factors than the levels of BG, HbA1C and insulin should be considered. According to our criteria, all the reviewed herbs suffered from inadequate investigation in human, animal and in vitro models in this respect, whereas they are worth investigating further. However, more research on endemic plants and the traditional history of herbal medicine is warranted. In our opinion, the pharmacological, toxicological, and phytochemical information should be obtained before clinical trials. Furthermore, information such as botanical scientific nomenclature, side effects, and toxicity will improve the quality and validity of publications in herbal research. In particular, designing a database covering all valid information about herbs and/or diseases will decrease unnecessary costs and increase the efficiency of research.

Salvia libanotica improves glycemia and serum lipid profile in rats fed a high fat diet

BACKGROUND

Salvia libanotica (S. Libanotica) is a commonly used herb in folk medicine in Lebanon and the Middle East. The present study aimed to assess the scientific basis for the therapeutic use of S. libanotica in glycemia and to evaluate its effects on lipemia and abdominal fat.

METHODS

Animals were fed a high-fat diet and allocated into a control and three experimental groups (GI, GII and GIII) receiving incremental doses of the plant water extract in drinking water (50, 150 and 450 mg/Kg body weight respectively) for six weeks.

RESULTS

The intake of S. libanotica extract was associated with a significant decrease in fasting serum glucose (102.9 ± 10.8 in GII and 87.5 ± 6.4 in GIII vs. 152.1 ± 7.9 mg/dl in controls) and a two fold increase in fasting serum insulin (GIII) and liver glycogen content (GII and GIII). Group III also had better glucose tolerance following intraperitoneal glucose challenges. Additionally, the plant extract intake produced a significant improvement in serum HDL (34.4 ± 2.4 in GIII vs. 27.2 ± 1.9 mg/dl in controls) and HDL/LDL cholesterol ratio (2.79 ± 0.32 in GII and 3.02 ± 0.31 in GIII vs. 1.74 ± 0.18 in controls), as well as a decrease in abdominal fat.

CONCLUSION

The current study is the first to demonstrate that the chronic intake of S. libanotica infusion helps in the prevention of high fat-induced hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia. This supports the plant use as a remedy for the prevention of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Enriching the drinking water of rats with extracts of Salvia officinalis and Thymus vulgaris increases their resistance to oxidative stress

Nature is an attractive source of therapeutic compounds. In comparison to the artificial drugs, natural compounds cause less adverse side effects and are suitable for current molecularly oriented approaches to drug development and their mutual combining. Medicinal plants represent one of the most available remedy against various diseases. Proper examples are Salvia officinalis L. and Thymus vulgaris L. which are known aromatic medicinal plants. They are very popular and frequently used in many countries. The molecular mechanism of their biological activity has not yet been fully understood. The aim of this study was to ascertain if liver cells of experimental animals drinking extracts of sage or thyme will manifest increased resistance against oxidative stress. Adult Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into seven groups. They drank sage or thyme extracts for 2 weeks. At the end of the drinking period, blood samples were collected for determination of liver biochemical parameters and hepatocytes were isolated to analyze (i) oxidatively generated DNA damage (conventional and modified comet assay), (ii) activities of antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] and (iii) content of glutathione. Intake of sage and thyme had no effect either on the basal level of DNA damage or on the activity of SOD in rat hepatocytes and did not change the biochemical parameters of blood plasma. Simultaneously, the activity of GPx was significantly increased and the level of DNA damage induced by oxidants was decreased. Moreover, sage extract was able to start up the antioxidant protection expressed by increased content of glutathione. Our results indicate that the consumption of S.officinalis and T.vulgaris extracts positively affects resistency of rat liver cells against oxidative stress and may have hepatoprotective potential.

Studies on Bronchodilator Activity of Salvia officinalis (Sage): Possible Involvement of K+ Channel Activation and Phosphodiesterase Inhibition

The aqueous methanolic extract of the aerial parts of Salvia officinalis (So.Cr) was studied to provide possible underlying mechanism(s) for its medicinal use in asthma using the in vivo bronchodilatory assay and isolated tracheal preparations. S. officinalis (1-10 mg/kg) dose-dependently inhibited carbachol (CCh)-induced bronchospasm in anesthetized rats with three-fold greater potency than the positive control, aminophylline. In tracheal preparations, So.Cr inhibited the low K⁺ (25 mM)-induced contractions. Pretreatment of the tissues with 4-aminopyridine reversed the inhibitory effect of the plant extract against low K⁺ , whereas glibenclamide did not show any effect, thus showing the involvement of voltage-sensitive K⁺ channels. When tested against the CCh-induced pre-contractions for the involvement of any additional mechanism, interestingly, the extract showed a dose-dependent (0.03-0.1 mg/mL) inhibitory effect and shifted the inhibitory concentration response curves of isoprenaline to the left, thus showing phosphodiesterase enzyme inhibitory-like action, similar to that of papaverine. These results indicate that the crude extract of S. officinalis possesses bronchodilatory activity mediated predominantly via activation of voltage-dependent K⁺ channels and inhibition of phosphodiesterase enzyme; thus, this study provides sound pharmacological basis for its medicinal use in hyperactive airways disorders such as asthma and cough. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Medicinal Property of Sage (Salvia) to Prevent and Cure Illnesses such as Obesity, Diabetes, Depression, Dementia, Lupus, Autism, Heart Disease, and Cancer

For a long time, sage (Salvia) species have been used in traditional medicine for the relief of pain, protecting the body against oxidative stress, free radical damages, angiogenesis, inflammation, bacterial and virus infection, etc., Several studies suggest that sage species can be considered for drug development because of their reported pharmacology and therapeutic activities in many countries of Asia and Middle East, especially China and India. These studies suggest that Salvia species, in addition to treating minor common illnesses, might potentially provide novel natural treatments for the relief or cure of many serious and life-threatening diseases such as depression, dementia, obesity, diabetes, lupus, heart disease, and cancer. This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the botanical, chemical, and pharmacological aspects of sage (Saliva).

Evaluation of Antidiabetic Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Cestrum nocturnum Leaves in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Objective. To investigate antidiabetic activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Cestrum nocturnum leaves in Wistar rats. Method. Cestrum nocturnum leaves extract in hydroalcoholic solution were prepared by Soxhletation method and stored in refrigerator at 4°C for two days before use. Wistar rats were made diabetic by a single dose of streptozotocin (150 mg/kg i.p.). Hydroalcoholic leaves extract of Cestrum nocturnum was screened for antidiabetic activity and given to the STZ-induced diabetic rats at a concentration of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of body weight in different groups of 6 diabetic rats each orally once a day for 15 days. Metformin is also given to another group to support the result at a dose of 10 mg/kg of body weight orally once a day for 15 days. Blood glucose levels and body weights of rats were measured on 0, 5, 7, and 15th days. Results. Oral administration of the extracts for 15 days caused a significant (P < 0.01) reduction in blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. The body weight of diabetic animals was also improved after daily administration of extracts. The extract also improved other altered biochemical parameters associated with diabetes. Also the changes in food intake, water intake, and weight of internal organs were also restored to normal by the prolonged effect of extract treatment.

Anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant and anti-hyperlipidemic activities of Melastoma malabathricum Linn. leaves in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Melastoma malabathricum (MM) Linn leaves traditionally use in the treatment of diabetic conditions. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic and antidiabetic activity of methanolic extract taken from Melastoma malabathricum Linn (Melastomaceae).

METHODS

The methanolic leaves extract of MM Linn leaves used for the study. Chemical test of different extract, acute toxicity study and oral glucose test was performed. Diabetes was induced in rat by single intra-peritoneal injection of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg). The rats were divided into following groups: Group I - normal control, Group II (Vehicle) - diabetic control, Group III (STZ-toxic) - MM I (100 mg/kg, p.o.), Group IV - MM II (250 mg/kg, p.o.), Group V - MM III (500 mg/kg, p.o.), Group VI - glibenclamide (10 mg/kg, p.o.). Bodyweight of each rat in the different groups was recorded daily. Biochemical and antioxidant enzyme parameters were determined on day 28. Histology of different organ (heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas) was performed after sacrificing the rats with euthanasia.

RESULTS

The methanolic extract of MM did not show any acute toxicity up-to the dose of 2000 mg/kg and shown better glucose utilization in oral glucose tolerance test. Orally treatment of different doses of MM leaves extract decreased the level of serum glucose, glycated hemoglobin, glucose-6-phosphatase, fructose-1-6-biphosphate and increased the level of plasma insulin, hexokinase. MM treatment decreased liver malondialdehyde but increased the level of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase. In oral glucose tolerance test observed increased utilization of glucose. Streptozotocin induced diabetes groups rat treated with different doses of MM leaves extract and glibenclamide significantly increased the body weight. Histopathology analysis on different organ of STZ (streptozotocin) induced diabetic rat show there regenerative effect on the liver, kidney, heart and pancreas.

CONCLUSION

The antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic and antidiabetic effect of methanolic extract from Melastoma malabathricum Linn suggests a potential therapeutic treatment to antidiabetic conditions.

Improved glycemic control and lipid profile in hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetic patients consuming Salvia officinalis L. leaf extract: a randomized placebo. Controlled clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of Salvia officinalis L. (S. officinalis) leaf extract in the treatment of hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetic patients.

DESIGN

Randomized placebo-controlled parallel group study.

SETTING

Diabetes Clinic (Karaj City, Alborz Province of Iran).

INTERVENTIONS

The efficacy and safety of taking S. officinalis leaf extract (one 500 mg capsule t.i.d. for 3 months) in treatment of 40 hyperlipidemic (hypercholesterolemic and/or hypertriglyceridemic) type 2 diabetic patients were evaluated and compared with the placebo group (n=40).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Fasting blood levels of glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-C (low density lipoprotein cholesterol), HDL-C (high density lipoprotein cholesterol), SGOT (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase), SGPT (serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase) and creatinine.

RESULTS

The extract lowered fasting glucose, HbA1c, total cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL-C but increased HDL-C compared to baseline at endpoint. Percent difference mean (95% confidence interval) between the extract and placebo groups in terms of effects on fasting glucose, HbA1c, total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-C and HDL-C at endpoint were 32.2 (26.5, 37.9), 22.7 (16.8, 28.6), 16.9 (9.7, 24.1), 56.4 (36.1, 76.7), 35.6 (29.9, 41.3) and 27.6 (15.8, 39.4) (P=0.001, P=0.01, P=0.01, P=0.009, P<0.001 and P=0.008), respectively. Moreover, the extract did not have any significant effects on the other parameters compared to the placebo group at endpoint (P>0.05). No adverse effects were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

S. officinalis leaves may be safe and have anti-hyperglycemic and lipid profile improving effects in hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetic patients.