Ethnobotanical survey of usage of fresh medicinal plants in Singapore

Medicinal plants of Southeast Asia with anti-α-glucosidase activity as potential source for type-2 diabetes mellitus treatment

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Diabetes mellitus, a widespread chronic illness, affects millions worldwide, and its incidence is increasing alarmingly, especially in developing nations. Current pharmacological treatments can be costly and have undesirable side effects. To address this, medicinal plants with antidiabetic effects, particularly targeting α-glucosidase for controlling hyperglycaemia in type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hold promise for drug development with reduced toxicity and adverse reactions.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

This review aims to succinctly collect information about medicinal plant extracts that exhibit antidiabetic potential through α-glucosidase inhibition using acarbose as a standard reference in Southeast Asia. The characteristics of this inhibition are based on in vitro studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant information on medicinal plants in Southeast Asia, along with α-glucosidase inhibition studies using acarbose as a positive control, was gathered from various scientific databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.

RESULTS

About 49 papers were found from specific counties in Southeast Asia demonstrated notable α-glucosidase inhibitory potential of their medicinal plants, with several plant extracts showcasing activity comparable to or surpassing that of acarbose. Notably, 19 active constituents were identified for their α-glucosidase inhibitory effects.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings underscore the antidiabetic potential of the tested medicinal plant extracts, indicating their promise as alternative treatments for T2DM. This review can aid in the development of potent therapeutic medicines with increased effectiveness and safety for the treatment of T2DM.

Insights into the anti-infective effects of Pluchea indica (L.) Less and its bioactive metabolites against various bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pluchea indica (L.) Less (family Asteraceae) is popularly consumed as a medicinal vegetable and used in ethnomedicine to treat various diseases including gastrointestinal problems such as dysentery and leucorrhoea, which are due to bacterial, fungal or parasitic infections. There have been numerous studies on the antimicrobial effects of the plant due to these ethnomedicine use.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

This review is comprehensively discussed the information on the anti-infective properties of P. indica and its secondary metabolites, and highlight the potential of the plant as a new source of anti-infective agents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Scientific databases such as Scopus, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, and ACS Publications were used to gather the relevant information on the ability of P. indica to fight infections, with the leaves and roots receiving most of the attention.

RESULTS

Anti-bacterial, anti-mycobacterial, anti-malarial, and anti-viral activities have been the most exploited. Most studies were carried out on the crude extracts of the plant and in most studies the bioactive extracts were not standardized or chemically characterized. Several studies have reported the anti-infective activity of several bioactive components of P. indica including caffeoylquinic acids, terpenoid glycosides, thiophenes, and kaempferol.

CONCLUSIONS

The strong anti-infective effect and underlying mechanisms of the compounds provide insights into the potential of P. indica as a source of new leads for the development of anti-infective agents for use in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Exploring the Clinical Applications of Lemongrass Essential Oil: A Scoping Review

Lemongrass is a medicinal plant that produces essential oil with a variety of therapeutic properties. Although lemongrass essential oil (LGEO) is promising in clinical applications, the existing knowledge on the efficacy and safety of LGEO remains limited. This scoping review aimed to identify, summarize, and synthesize existing literature related to the clinical applications of LGEO to provide an overview of its potential therapeutic benefits for patients. Three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus) were used following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines to find articles published between 1 January 2013, and 1 November 2022. A total of 671 records were identified and 8 articles were included in this scoping review. The majority of patients received oromucosal and topical treatment. The results of the studies suggest that LGEO might be a useful tool in the treatment of periodontitis, gingivitis and oral malodour, with similar efficacy to chlorhexidine (anti-gingivitis effect) and doxycycline (periodontitis). Additionally, LGEO has the potential for treating pityriasis versicolor and preventing skin aging and may have anti-dandruff effects. These findings not only underscore the diverse clinical potential of LGEO but also emphasize its comparable efficacy to established treatments. Further research is imperative to comprehensively evaluate LGEO's effectiveness, safety, mechanisms of action, potential interactions with other medications, and its long-term tolerability across diverse populations.

Anticancer perspective of 6-shogaol: anticancer properties, mechanism of action, synergism and delivery system

Cancer is a malignant disease that has plagued human beings all the time, but the treatment effect of commonly used anticancer drugs in clinical practice is not ideal by reason of their drug tolerance and Strong adverse reactions to patients. Therefore, it is imperative to find effective and low-toxic anticancer drugs. Many research works have shown that natural products in Chinese herbal medicine have great anticancer potential, such as 6-shogaol, a monomer composition obtained from Chinese herbal ginger, which has been confirmed by numerous in vitro or vivo studies to be an excellent anti-cancer active substance. In addition, most notably, 6-shogaol has different selectivity for normal and cancer cells during treatment, which makes it valuable for further research and clinical development. Therefore, this review focus on the anti-cancer attributes, the mechanism and the regulation of related signaling pathways of 6-shogaol. In addition, its synergy with commonly used anticancer drugs, potential drug delivery systems and prospects for future research are discussed. This is the first review to comprehensively summarize the anti-cancer mechanism of 6-shogaol, hoping to provide a theoretical basis and guiding significance for future anti-cancer research and clinical development of 6-shogaol.

Effects of Leea indica leaf extracts and its phytoconstituents on natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity in human ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

The rich biodiversity of medicinal plants and their importance as sources of novel therapeutics and lead compounds warrant further research. Despite advances in debulking surgery and chemotherapy, the risks of recurrence of ovarian cancer and resistance to therapy are significant and the clinical outcomes of ovarian cancer remain poor or even incurable.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the effects of leaf extracts from a medicinal plant Leea indica and its selected phytoconstituents on human ovarian cancer cells and in combination with oxaliplatin and natural killer (NK) cells.

METHODS

Fresh, healthy leaves of L. indica were harvested and extracted in 70% methanol by maceration. The crude extract was partitioned with n-hexane, dichloromethane and ethyl acetate. Selected extracts and compounds were analyzed for their effects on cell viability of human ovarian cancer cells, NK cell cytotoxicity, and stress ligands expression for NK cell receptors. They were also evaluated for their effects on TNF-α and IL-1β production by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human U937 macrophages.

RESULTS

Leaf extracts of L. indica increased the susceptibility of human ovarian tumor cells to NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Treatment of cancer cells with methyl gallate but not gallic acid upregulated the expression of stress ligands. Tumor cells pretreated with combination of methyl gallate and low concentration of oxaliplatin displayed increased levels of stress ligands expression and concomitantly enhanced susceptibility to NK cell-mediated cytolysis. Further, NK cells completely abrogated the growth of methyl gallate-pretreated ovarian cancer cells. The leaf extracts suppressed TNF-α and IL-1β production in human U937 macrophages. Methyl gallate was more potent than gallic acid in down-regulating these cytokine levels.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated for the first time that leaf extracts of L. indica and its phytoconstituent methyl gallate enhanced the susceptibility of ovarian tumor cells to NK cell cytolysis. These results suggest that the combined effect of methyl gallate, oxaliplatin and NK cells in ovarian cancer cells warrants further investigation, for example for refractory ovarian cancer. Our work is a step towards better scientific understanding of the traditional anticancer use of L. indica.

Supplementation with the Traditional Thai Polyherbal Medicine NawaTab Ameliorates Lipid Profiles in High-Fat Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemic Rats

A tablet formulation developed from Nawametho decoction (NawaTab), a traditional Thai herbal mixture described in the Worayokasan scripture, has been used clinically for several years in the management of borderline hyperlipidemic individuals. Nevertheless, scientific evidence supporting its claims has never been identified. This study aimed to describe the antihyperlipidemic properties of NawaTab in a well-described model of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced hyperlipidemic rats. Decoction of Nawametho containing equal quantities of Aegle marmelos (L.), Carthamus tinctorius L., Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn., Phyllanthus emblica L., Piper longum L., Piper nigrum L., Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb., Terminalia chebula Retz., and Zingiber officinale Roscoe were prepared. The HFD-fed rats were administered NawaTab for 4 consecutive weeks starting from the ninth week of HFD treatment at a dose of 125 mg/kg (p.o.). Anthropometric parameters, serum lipid profiles, lipase activity, and liver and renal functional markers were measured. Histopathological examination of the liver and any steatosis was carried out at the end of this study. Consecutive treatment with NawaTab (125 mg/kg/day) in HFD-induced hyperlipidemic rats caused a significant reduction in serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. However, at the tested dose, NawaTab failed to prevent the onset of hepatic steatosis and adipose tissue accumulation. No adverse events due to the consumption of NawaTab on liver and kidney function markers were noted. These findings are the first suggestive evidence for the lipid-lowering capability of NawaTab. However, to promote the use of this formulation in the management of borderline hyperlipidemic patients, elucidation of the underlying mechanisms of action, quantification of biological markers, and clinical trials of NawaTab are urgently needed.

Alternanthera sessilis: Uncovering the nutritional and medicinal values of an edible weed

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Weeds are often considered undesirable as they interfere with the habitat of native plants, and therefore they are underestimated and underutilised. In fact, some edible weeds have beneficial nutritional and medicinal values. Alternanthera sessilis (L.) R. Br. ex DC., an edible medicinal weed is a species of the Amaranthaceae family that consists of two cultivars: green and red. Local communities in different regions have traditionally consumed the plants as food and medicine, with the green cultivar being applied to relieve pain, treat wound healing, dysentery, asthma and hypertension, while the red cultivar is applied to prevent cardiovascular and liver diseases in general.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present review intends to provide an in-depth discussion and scientific basis of A. sessilis green and red's health-promoting properties in relation to their ethnobotanical use, nutritional components and bioactive compounds.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literature search was conducted using relevant keywords on scientific search engines such as the Web of Science, Google Scholar, Medline and Scopus.

RESULTS

A. sessilis shows potent antioxidant activity as a result of its diverse phytochemical constituents, such as polyphenols, terpenes, alkaloid and carotenoids in addition to its nutritional components: vitamin C, E and unsaturated fatty acids, which contribute to its various bioactive properties: anti-microbial and anthelmintic, anti-diabetic, lipid lowering, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, anti-cancer and other biological activities. Toxicity evaluation revealed the absence of adverse effect of A. sesslis extracts.

CONCLUSION

A. sessilis has a great potential to be used as complementary medicine and ingredients for pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and functional foods, instead of being regarded as a pest. Prospects for enhancing the development and commercialisation of this edible medicinal weed as a high value health-promoting product are suggested.

The antiproliferative and apoptotic potential of Clinacanthus nutans against human breast cancer cells through targeted apoptosis pathway

Clinacanthus nutans dichloromethane fraction (CN-Dcm) extract has previously been proven to suppress breast cancer (MCF7) cell proliferation. Despite this, the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis mechanisms involved in C. nutans extract-treated MCF7 cells are still unknown. This study was intended to subfractionate CN-Dcm extract using column chromatography and analyse the treated MCF7 cells using the CellTiter 96® AQueous One Solution Cell Proliferation (MTS) assay, Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) assay, western blot, and reverse transcription-qualitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Out of nine subfraction extracts (SF1 to SF9), SF2 extract strongly inhibited MCF7 cells with the lowest IC50 value (23.51 ± 1.00 µg/mL) and substantially induced apoptosis in the MCF7 cells. In treated MCF7 cells, SF2 extract significantly upregulated the expression of P53, BAX, BID, caspase-8, caspase-9, and caspase-3, while downregulating the expression of BCL2. The presence of potential bioactive chemical compounds in the SF2 extract was identified using liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). Thus, the SF2 extract has the potential to induce apoptosis in MCF7 cells through intrinsic and extrinsic pathways.

Review of phytomedicine, phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology, toxicology, and pharmacological activities of Cymbopogon genus

The Cymbopogon genus belongs to the Andropoganeae family of the family Poaceae, which is famous for its high essential oil concentration. Cymbopogon possesses a diverse set of characteristics that supports its applications in cosmetic, pharmaceuticals and phytotherapy. The purpose of this review is to summarize and connect the evidence supporting the use of phytotherapy, phytomedicine, phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology, toxicology, pharmacological activities, and quality control of the Cymbopogon species and their extracts. To ensure the successful completion of this review, data and studies relating to this review were strategically searched and obtained from scientific databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, ScienceDirect, and Elsevier. Approximately 120 acceptable reviews, original research articles, and other observational studies were included and incorporated for further analysis. Studies showed that the genus Cymbopogon mainly contained flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which were the pivotal pharmacological active ingredients. When combined with the complex β-cyclodextrin, phytochemicals such as citronellal have been shown to have their own mechanism of action in inhibiting the descending pain pathway. Another mechanism of action described in this review is that of geraniol and citral phytochemicals, which have rose and lemon-like scents and can be exploited in soaps, detergents, mouthwash, cosmetics, and other products. Many other pharmacological effects, such as anti-protozoal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer have been discussed sequentially, along with how and which phytochemicals are responsible for the observed effect. Cymbopogon species have proven to be extremely valuable, with many applications. Its phytotherapy is proven to be due to its rich phytochemicals, obtained from different parts of the plant like leaves, roots, aerial parts, rhizomes, and even its essential oils. For herbs of Cymbopogon genus as a characteristic plant therapy, significant research is required to ensure their efficacy and safety for a variety of ailments.

Inhibition of human ether-à-go-go-related gene K+ currents expressed in HEK293 cells by three gingerol components from ginger

OBJECTIVES

Gingerols are bioactive compounds derived from ginger, our experiment investigates the effects of 6-, 8- and 10-Gin on the human ether-à-go-go-related gene (hERG) K+ channels by using patch clamp technology.

KEY FINDINGS

hERG K+ currents were suppressed by 6-, 8- and 10-Gin in a concentration-dependent manner. The IC50 values of 6-, 8- and 10-Gin were 41.5, 16.1 and 86.5 μM for the hERG K+ currents, respectively. The maximum inhibitory effects caused by 6-, 8- and 10-Gin were 44.3% ± 2.0%, 88.6% ± 1.3% and 63.1% ± 1.1%, respectively, and the effects were almost completely reversible.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that 8-Gin is the most potent hERG K+ channel inhibitor among gingerol components and may offer a new approach for understanding and treating cancer.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Phytochemical Components of Clinacanthus nutans

Recent studies on the ethnomedicinal use of Clinacanthus nutans suggest promising anti-inflammatory, anti-tumorigenic, and antiviral properties for this plant. Extraction of the leaves with polar and nonpolar solvents has yielded many C-glycosyl flavones, including schaftoside, isoorientin, orientin, isovitexin, and vitexin. Aside from studies with different extracts, there is increasing interest to understand the properties of these components, especially regarding their ability to exert anti-inflammatory effects on cells and tissues. A major focus for this review is to obtain information on the effects of C. nutans extracts and its phytochemical components on inflammatory signaling pathways in the peripheral and central nervous system. Particular emphasis is placed on their role to target the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-NF-kB pathway and pro-inflammatory cytokines, the antioxidant defense pathway involving nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1); and the phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) pathway linking to cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and production of eicosanoids. The ability to provide a better understanding of the molecular targets and mechanism of action of C. nutans extracts and their phytochemical components should encourage future studies to develop new therapeutic strategies for better use of this herb to combat inflammatory diseases.

Phytochemical Contents and Pharmacological Potential of Parkia speciosa Hassk. for Diabetic Vasculopathy: A Review

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and is considered a major health problem in the world. It is associated with endothelial dysfunction which causes progressive vascular damage. DM is a known risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications such as peripheral artery disease, coronary artery disease, and stroke. Medicinal plants may act as an alternative resource or adjunctive treatment option in the treatment of diabetes and its cardiovascular complications. Parkia speciosa (Fabaceae) is a plant found abundantly in the Southeast Asian region. Its seeds, with or without pods, and roots have long been used as a traditional medicine in this region to treat hypertension and diabetes. Studies have shown its numerous beneficial pharmacological properties. Extracts of P. speciosa, particularly from its seeds and empty pods, show the presence of polyphenols. They also exhibit potent antioxidant, hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, and antihypertensive properties. Its hypoglycemic properties are reported to be associated with the presence of β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and stigmat-4-en-3-one. The current review aimed to provide an overview of the current status of P. speciosa, its pharmacological potential, and its phytochemical content in attenuating diabetic vasculopathy. Glycemic status, oxidative stress, inflammation, and hyperlipidemia are known to play pivotal roles in the initiation and severity of diabetic cardiovascular diseases; thus, targeting these factors might be beneficial for preventing and/or treating diabetic vasculopathy.

An ethnobotanical study of wetland flora of Head Maralla Punjab Pakistan

BACKGROUND

Wetlands are biologically diverse and highly productive ecosystems that support one-third of all threatened and endangered plants of the world. Wetland plants have been studied ethnobotanically much less than terrestrial plants, including in Pakistan, thus information about the uses of local wetland plants in traditional healthcare system is scare. Head Maralla is a non-recognized wetland with diversified flora that has been focused of the current study.

METHODS

The ethnobotanical data were collected from four sites viz., River Tavi, Upstream Chenab, River Manawarwala Tavi, and Bhalolpur through questionnaire and interviews during field trips. Quantitative indices including informant consensus factor (ICF), cultural significant indext (CSI), relative frequency of citation (RFC), and use value (UV) were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

On the whole, 119 plant species were identified belonging to 54 families, of which 87 species were dicot, 12 monocots, 11 aquatic, 5 ferns, and 4 species were bryophytes. Of these, 50% of the plant species were utilized for therapeutic purposes, followed by leaves which had more than 20% usage of total consumption. Herbs were the primary source of medicine (73 spp) followed by trees (22 spp), weeds (11 spp), shrubs (9 spp), foliose (2 spp) and thaloids (2 spp) in the area. Fic ranged from 0.66 to 0.93 for constipation and respiratory disorders with an average Fic of 0.87 reflecting a high consensus among the informants about the use of plants to treat particular ailment. Major ailments viz., urination (14%), cough (8.40%), cold (6.70%), stomach (5.90%), asthma (5.90%), skin infection (5%), constipation (5%), and diarrhea (4%) etc., were treated with local plant recipes. The highest CSI value was found for A. vesica (7.55) widely used in respiratory disorders and in digestive problems. RFC ranged from 0.92 to 0.15 with the maximum value obtained for R. communis (0.95). The use values ranged from 0.03 to 0.90 with the maximum use value for R. communis (0.90). A positive correlation was found between CSI and RFC (r = 0.29), and CSI and UV (r = 0.29). The JI values ranged from 7.14 to 0.14 indicating strong affinity with Samahani valley, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. Unique species Osmunda regalis was first time reported from Pakistan with novel uses for renal and blood purifier. Fifteen percent (15%) plants contribute as fodder species consumed by local community for livestock while almost 6.7% species were utilized for timber and fuel purposes.

CONCLUSION

The ecosystem of Head Maralla provide a complex habitat for aqauatic, terrestrial, and agriculture wetland vegetation. It is suggested that conservation efforts should be made to conserve the ethnoecological knowledge of these areas and pharmacological studies should be conducted for noval drug synthesis in future.

Immunomodulatory potential of Clinacanthus nutans extracts in the co-culture of triple-negative breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231, and THP-1 macrophages

Triple-negative breast cancer is the main type of breast carcinoma that causes mortality among women because of the limited treatment options and high recurrence. Chronic inflammation has been linked with the tumor microenvironment (TME) in breast cancer progression. Clinacanthus nutans (CN) has gained much attention because of its anticancer properties, but its mechanism remains unclear. We aimed to study the qualitative phytochemical content and elucidate the cytotoxicity effects of CN on human triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), MDA-MB-231 and human macrophage-like cells such as THP-1 by using sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. As highly metastatic cells, MDA-MB-231 cells can migrate to the distal position, the effect of CN on migration were also elucidated using the scratch assay. The CN effects on ameliorating chronic inflammation in TME were studied following the co-culture of MDA-MB-231/THP-1 macrophages. The cytokine expression levels of IL-6, IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were determined using ELISA assays. The results showed that both ethanolic and aqueous CN extracts contained alkaloid, phenol and tannin, flavonoid, terpenoid, glycoside and steroid. However, saponin was only found in the aqueous extract of CN. CN was not cytotoxic to both MDA-MB-231 and THP-1 cells. The ability of MDA-MB-231 to migrate was also not halted by CN treatment. However, CN ethanol extract decreased IL-6 at 25 μg/mL (p = 0.02) and 100 μg/mL (p = 0.03) but CN aqueous extract increased IL-6 expression at 50 μg/mL (p = 0.08) and 100 μg/mL (p = 0.02). IL-1β showed decreased expression after treated with CN ethanol and CN aqueous both at 25 μg/mL (p = 0.03). TNF-α were significantly decreased after CN ethanol treatment at concentration 25- (p = 0.001), 50- (p = 0.000) and 100 μg/mL (p = 0.000). CN aqueous extract slightly inhibited TNF-α at all 25–50- and 100 μg/mL (p = 0.001, p = 0.000, p = 0.000, respectively). Overall, CN acts by ameliorating the pro-inflammatory condition in the TME and may be a potential strategy for its anticancer mechanism on highly metastatic breast cancer condition. The major pathways that link both cancer and inflammation were NF-κB and STATs thus further study on the upstream and downstream pathways is needed to fully understand the mechanism of CN extracts in cooling the inflamed TME in breast cancer.

Recent Advancement in Anticancer Activity of Clinacanthus nutans (Burm. f.) Lindau

Clinacanthus nutans is a traditional medicinal herb that is applied for the therapy of snake bites, skin infection, herpes infection, burns, scalds, dysentery, and diabetes. Clinacanthus nutans is also used to treat several cancers, including breast, cervical, colon, gastric, head and neck, liver, lung, pancreatic, and skin cancers, as well as lymphoma and leukemia; however, the underlying mechanisms of its anticancer activity remained undetermined. We searched PubMed and Google with key words “Clinacanthus nutans and cancer” and collected recent papers of Clinacanthus nutans with anticancer activity. We focused on the preparation, effects, and action mechanisms of Clinacanthus nutans extracts on various types of cancers. We hope that this mini review can help update our knowledge about active components, effects, and molecular mechanisms of extracts from this promising herb Clinacanthus nutans for ongoing studies and speed up its clinical application in the future.

Development of Phosphodiesterase-Protein-Kinase Complexes as Novel Targets for Discovery of Inhibitors with Enhanced Specificity

Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) hydrolyze cyclic nucleotides to modulate multiple signaling events in cells. PDEs are recognized to actively associate with cyclic nucleotide receptors (protein kinases, PKs) in larger macromolecular assemblies referred to as signalosomes. Complexation of PDEs with PKs generates an expanded active site that enhances PDE activity. This facilitates signalosome-associated PDEs to preferentially catalyze active hydrolysis of cyclic nucleotides bound to PKs and aid in signal termination. PDEs are important drug targets, and current strategies for inhibitor discovery are based entirely on targeting conserved PDE catalytic domains. This often results in inhibitors with cross-reactivity amongst closely related PDEs and attendant unwanted side effects. Here, our approach targeted PDE–PK complexes as they would occur in signalosomes, thereby offering greater specificity. Our developed fluorescence polarization assay was adapted to identify inhibitors that block cyclic nucleotide pockets in PDE–PK complexes in one mode and disrupt protein-protein interactions between PDEs and PKs in a second mode. We tested this approach with three different systems—cAMP-specific PDE8–PKAR, cGMP-specific PDE5–PKG, and dual-specificity RegA–R_D complexes—and ranked inhibitors according to their inhibition potency. Targeting PDE–PK complexes offers biochemical tools for describing the exquisite specificity of cyclic nucleotide signaling networks in cells.

Ginger and its active compounds in cancer therapy: From folk uses to nano-therapeutic applications

Ginger is a spice that is renowned for its characteristic aromatic fragrance and pungent taste, with documented healing properties. Field studies conducted in several Asian and African countries revealed that ginger is used traditionally in the management of cancer. The scientific community has probed into the biological validation of its extracts and isolated compounds including the gingerols, shogaols, zingiberene, and zingerone, through in-vitro and in-vivo studies. Nonetheless, an updated compilation of these data together with a deep mechanistic approach is yet to be provided. Accordingly, this review highlights the mechanisms and therapeutics of ginger and its bioactive compounds focused on a cancer context and these evidence are based on the (i) cytotoxic effect against cancer cell lines, (ii) enzyme inhibitory action, (iii) combination therapy with chemotherapeutic and phenolic compounds, (iv) possible links to the microbiome and (v) the use of nano-formulations of ginger bioactive compounds as a more effective drug delivery strategy in cancer therapy.

Genus Parkia: Phytochemical, Medicinal Uses, and Pharmacological Properties

The genus Parkia (Fabaceae, Subfamily, Mimosoideae) comprises about 34 species of mostly evergreen trees widely distributed across neotropics, Asia, and Africa. This review aims to provide an overview of the current status of the species from the genus Parkia in terms of its relationship between its phytochemistry and medical uses. Comprehensive information on Parkia species was retrieved from electronic databases, which were Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar. This review identified nine species from genus Parkia with properties of medicinal use. They are used traditionally to treat several ailments, such as diabetes, diarrhea, wounds, hypertension, cough, chronic piles, conjunctivitis, and measles. The most common species studied are P. biglobosa, P. speciosa, P. javanica, P. bicolor, P. biglandulosa, P. filicoidea, and P. clappertoniana. A considerable number of secondary metabolites, such as terpenoids, phenolic acids, flavonoids (aglycone and glycosides), and numerous volatile compounds have been identified in this genus, which are responsible for their diverse pharmacological activities. Their extracts, pure compounds and seed lectins have been reported for their anticancer, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antiulcer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimalarial, hepatoprotective, and antidiarrheal activities. The information gathered in this review might be of help for future studies in terms of the current knowledge on the link between the phytochemical components and medicinal uses. This could facilitate more discoveries on its potentials particularly in the pharmacological characteristics and potential to be developed into modern medicines.

Ethnobotanical survey of the medicinal flora of Harighal, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan

BACKGROUND

The present study is the first quantitative ethnobotanical evaluation of Harighal, an inaccessible and unexplored area of District Bagh Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK). The exploration, quantification, and comparison of ethnobotanical knowledge among different rural communities of the study area were mainly focused during field survey.

METHODOLOGY

In total, 79 informants (49 men and 34 women) were selected randomly to collect data using a semi-structured questionnaire. Various quantitative indices, including use value, relative frequency of citation, relative importance, fidelity level, and informant consent factor, were employed to evaluate the gathered information. Furthermore, primary data were also compared with twenty-two papers published from adjoining areas.

RESULT

A total of 150 medicinal plants belonging to 98 genera and 60 families were documented. Asteraceae, Fabaceae, and Rosaceae were the dominant families having 15 species each. Of these, 76 species were indigenous, 74 exotic, 136 were collected in the wild, 10 cultivated, and 4 both wild-collected and cultivated. Herbaceous taxa were the most used life form, and leaves were the most exploited plant part. Decoctions were the most preferred method used in preparation of herbal recipes. Three species viz. Mentha longifolia, Berberis lycium, and Galium aparine had the highest use value (1.05), relative frequency of citation (0.81), and relative importance value (96), respectively. The highest informant consensus factor (ICF) was reported for digestive disorders. Mentha longifolia, Punica granatum, Zanthoxylum alatum, and Olea ferruginea had 100% fidelity values. The Jaccard index revealed that uses of plants were more similar in two neighboring areas, i.e., Pearl Valley and Toli Peer.

CONCLUSION

Local inhabitants still prioritize herbal medicines as an effective way to treat a wide variety of ailments. Elders and health practitioners of the study area are well aware of indigenous knowledge about medicinal plants, but young people are not much interested in herbal practices. Thus, valuable knowledge about the use of plants is on the verge of decline.

Cactus: Chemical, nutraceutical composition and potential bio-pharmacological properties

Cactus species are plants that grow in the arid and semiarid regions of the world. They have long fascinated the attention of the scientific community due to their unusual biology. Cactus species are used for a variety of purposes, such as food, fodder, ornamental, and as medicinal plants. In the last regard, they have been used in traditional medicine for eras by the ancient people to cure several diseases. Recent scientific investigations suggest that cactus materials may be used as a source of naturally-occurring products, such as mucilage, fiber, pigments, and antioxidants. For this reason, numerous species under this family are becoming endangered and extinct. This review provides an overview of the habitat, classification, phytochemistry, chemical constituents, extraction and isolation of bioactive compounds, nutritional and pharmacological potential with pre-clinical and clinical studies of different Cactus species. Furthermore, conservation strategies for the ornamental and endangered species have also been discussed.

Effects of Vitex trifolia L. leaf extracts and phytoconstituents on cytokine production in human U937 macrophages

Background

Dysregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) form the basis of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Vitex trifolia L. is a medicinal plant growing in countries such as China, India, Australia and Singapore. Its dried ripe fruits are documented in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat ailments like rhinitis and dizziness. Its leaves are used traditionally to treat inflammation-related conditions like rheumatic pain.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effects of V. trifolia leaf extracts prepared by different extraction methods (Soxhlet, ultrasonication, and maceration) in various solvents on cytokine production in human U937 macrophages, and identify phytoconstituents from the most active leaf extract.

Methods

Fresh leaves of V. trifolia were extracted using Soxhlet, ultrasonication, and maceration in hexane, dichloromethane, methanol, ethanol or water. Each extract was evaluated for its effects on TNF-α and IL-1β cytokine production by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human U937 macrophages. The most active extract was analyzed and further purified by different chemical and spectroscopic techniques.

Results

Amongst 14 different leaf extracts investigated, extracts prepared by ultrasonication in dichloromethane and maceration in ethanol were most active in inhibiting TNF-α and IL-1β production in human U937 macrophages. Further purification led to the isolation of artemetin, casticin, vitexilactone and maslinic acid, and their effects on TNF-α and IL-1β production were evaluated. We report for the first time that artemetin suppressed TNF-α and IL-1β production. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses revealed the presence of eight other compounds. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of butylated hydroxytoluene, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, campesterol and maslinic acid in V. trifolia leaf extracts.

Conclusions

In conclusion, leaf extracts of V. trifolia obtained using different solvents and extraction methods were successfully investigated for their effects on cytokine production in human U937 macrophages. The findings provide scientific evidence for the traditional use of V. trifolia leaves (a sustainable resource) and highlight the importance of conservation of medicinal plants as resources for drug discovery. Our results together with others suggest further investigation on V. trifolia and constituents to develop novel treatment strategies in immune-mediated inflammatory conditions is warranted.

C13 Megastigmane Derivatives From Epipremnum pinnatum: β-Damascenone Inhibits the Expression of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Leukocyte Adhesion Molecules as Well as NF-κB Signaling

In order to identify active constituents and to gain some information regarding their mode of action, extracts from leaves of Epipremnum pinnatum were tested for their ability to inhibit inflammatory gene expression in endothelial- and monocyte-like cells (HUVECtert and THP-1, respectively). Bioactivity-guided fractionation using expression of PTGS2 (COX-2) mRNA as a readout resulted in the isolation of two C13 megastigmane glycosides, gusanlungionoside C (1) and citroside A (3), and the phenylalcohol glycoside phenylmethyl-2-O-(6-O-rhamnosyl)-ß-D-galactopyranoside (2). Further analysis identified six additional megastigmane glycosides and the aglycones β-damascenone (10), megastigmatrienone (11), 3-hydroxy-β-damascenone (12), and 3-oxo-7,8-dihydro-α-ionol (13). Pharmacological analysis demonstrated that 10 inhibits LPS-stimulated induction of mRNAs encoding for proinflammatory cytokines and leukocyte adhesion molecules, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8, COX-2, E-selectin, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 in HUVECtert and THP-1 cells. 10 inhibited induction of inflammatory genes in HUVECtert and THP-1 cells treated with different agonists, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and LPS. In addition to mRNA, also the upregulation of inflammatory proteins was inhibited by 10 as demonstrated by immune assays for cell surface E-selectin and secreted TNF-α. Finally, using a luciferase reporter construct, it was shown, that 10 inhibits NF-κB-dependent transcription. Therefore, we hypothesize that inhibition of NF-κB by β-damascenone (10) may represent one of the mechanisms underlying the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of Epipremnum pinnatum extracts.

Evaluation of anti-proliferative activity of medicinal plants used in Asian Traditional Medicine to treat cancer

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The extensive biodiversity of plants in Southeast Asia and inadequate research hitherto warrant a continued investigation into medicinal plants. On the basis of a careful review of fresh medicinal plant usage to treat cancer from previous ethnobotanical interviews in Singapore and from the traditional uses of the indigenous plants, fresh leaves of seven locally grown medicinal plant species were evaluated for anti-proliferative activity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the anti-proliferative activity of local medicinal plant species Clausena lansium Skeels, Clinacanthus nutans (Burm. f.) Lindau, Leea indica (Burm. f.) Merr., Pereskia bleo (Kunth) DC., Strobilanthes crispus (L.) Blume, Vernonia amygdalina Delile and Vitex trifolia L.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Fresh, healthy and mature leaves of the seven medicinal plants were harvested from various locations in Singapore and Malaysia for Soxhlet, ultrasonication and maceration extractions in three different solvents (water, ethanol and methanol). Cell proliferation assay using water soluble tetrazolium salt (WST-1) assay was performed on twelve human cancer cell lines derived from breast (MDA-MB-231, T47D), cervical (C33A), colon (HCT116), leukemia (U937), liver (HepG2, SNU-182, SNU-449), ovarian (OVCAR-5, PA-1, SK-OV-3) and uterine (MES-SA/DX5) cancer.

RESULTS

A total of 37 fresh leaf extracts from seven medicinal plants were evaluated for their anti-tumour activities in twelve human cancer cell lines. Of these, the extracts of C. lansium, L. indica, P. bleo, S. crispus, V. amygdalina and V. trifolia exhibited promising anti-proliferative activity against multiple cancer cell lines. Further investigation of selected promising leaf extracts indicated that maceration methanolic extract of L. indica was most effective overall against majority of the cancer cell lines, with best IC₅₀ values of 31.5 ± 11.4 µg/mL, 37.5 ± 0.7 µg/mL and 43.0 ± 6.2 µg/mL in cervical C33A, liver SNU-449, and ovarian PA-1 cancer cell lines, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study provide new scientific evidence for the traditional use of local medicinal plant species C. lansium, L . indica, P. bleo, S. crispus, V. amygdalina and V. trifolia in cancer treatment. These results highlight the importance of the upkeep of these indigenous plants in modern society and their relevance as resources for drug discovery.

The chemistry and biological activities of Peperomia pellucida (Piperaceae): A critical review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Peperomia pellucida (L.) Kunth is an annual weed with a preference to humid places with reduced solar radiation. This plant is mainly distributed in the Neotropics, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. It is popularly employed in the treatment of a variety of health conditions such as abscesses, abdominal pain, skin sores, conjunctivitis, measles, and kidney troubles. Several studies have also described its antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antidiabetic and a variety of other bioactivities.

THE AIM OF THE REVIEW

The aim of this work is to evaluate, using a critical review, the present ethnomedicinal applications, phytochemistry and pharmacological studies of P. pellucida essential oils (EOs) and extracts from different locations around the world.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review was performed through an online survey of the ethnomedicinal practices, chemical compositions and pharmacological applications of P. pellucida EOs and extracts. The data were mainly obtained from online journals and books published in English, Portuguese and Spanish. The information was collected from websites such as Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, ResearchGate and other online databases that provided more information about this herb.

RESULTS

Peperomia pellucida bioactivities such as antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antioxidant, fracture healing, antidiabetic and anti-hypercholesterolemia have been described in several literature sources. Nonetheless, most reports only provide the phytochemical screening of extracts, which does not allow the identification of the active compounds. From these studies, some reported constituents are not included in the Dictionary of Natural Products (DNP), which raises questions toward their identification. In addition, some biological assays were even performed without standard controls for comparison which also makes these results questionable.

CONCLUSION

This review evaluates data regarding the phytopharmaceutical potential of P. pellucida. In general, several important aspects were questionable or missing in these manuscripts, which points out the need of more investigation on the pharmacological properties and phytochemical compositions of this herb.

In Vitro Cytotoxic Activity of Clinacanthus nutans Leaf Extracts Against HeLa Cells

Objective:

This study was conducted to investigate the antiproliferative activity of extracts of Clinacanthus nutans leaves against human cervical cancer (HeLa) cells.

Methods:

C. nutans leaves were subjected to extraction using 80% methanol or water. The methanol extract was further extracted to obtain hexane, dichloromethane (DCM), and aqueous fractions. The antiproliferative activity of the extracts against HeLa cells was determined. The most cytotoxic extract was furthered analyzed by apoptosis and cell cycle assays, and the phytochemical constituents were screened by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

Results:

All of the extracts were antiproliferative against HeLa cells, and the DCM fraction had the lowest IC₅₀ value of 70 µg/mL at 48 h. Microscopic studies showed that HeLa cells exposed to the DCM fraction exhibited marked morphological features of apoptosis. The flow cytometry study also confirmed that the DCM fraction induced apoptosis in HeLa cells, with cell cycle arrest at the S phase. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of at least 28 compounds in the DCM fraction, most of which were fatty acids.

Conclusion:

The DCM fraction obtained using the extraction method described herein had a lower IC₅₀ value than those reported in previous studies that characterized the anticancer activity of C. nutans against HeLa cells.

A role of Ficus species in the management of diabetes mellitus: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common global health concerns, with a rapidly increasing incidence. A variety of medicinal plants, particularly those belonging to the genus Ficus (Moraceae), and their active compounds have been used to treat diabetes and related chronic disorders since ancient times.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this review is to provide information regarding traditional and scientific knowledge of Ficus species with antidiabetic activity to researchers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search was conducted to obtain information about the antidiabetic properties of Ficus from the electronic databases. Common and scientific names of various Ficus species were used as keywords for the search, along with the terms antidiabetic, hypoglycemic and diabetes.

RESULTS

Among the assorted species of Ficus that were included in our search, F. benghalensis, F. carica, F. glomerata, F. glumosa, F. racemosa, and F. religiosa exhibited remarkable antidiabetic properties with various mechanisms of action. Moreover, Ficus species are versatile sources of bioactive metabolites such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, coumarins, triterpenoids, sterols and vitamin E. These extracts and isolated compounds significantly have enhanced insulin secretion and subsequently reduced blood glucose level in various in vivo studies.

CONCLUSION

This review summarizes the antidiabetic potentials of the genus Ficus, including pharmacological studies with mechanisms of action as well as ethnobotanical uses. This review can help inform future scientific research towards the development of novel antidiabetic drugs.

Immunomodulatory effects of a bioactive fraction of Strobilanthes crispus in NMU-induced rat mammary tumor model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Strobilanthes crispus Blume is traditionally consumed among local Malay and indigenous communities for the treatment of cancer and other ailments such as gastrointestinal disorders, inflammatory wounds of snake bite and immune system activation amongst others. We previously demonstrated that a bioactive fraction of S. crispus leaves (F3) was cytotoxic to breast cancer cells in vitro and inhibited tumor growth in N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (NMU)-induced breast cancer rat model. F3 also normalized the white blood cell count in the tumor-bearing animals, indicating its potential immuno-stimulatory effect.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the immune stimulatory effects of F3 from S. crispus in NMU-induced rat mammary tumor model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Immunohistochemistry analysis of cellular immune parameters (CD4⁺ or CD8⁺ T cells, CIITA, MHC-II and CD68) was performed on NMU-induced rat mammary tumor nodules, followed by evaluation of the serum level of 34 cytokines using the cytokine antibody array.

RESULTS

Significant increase in MHC-II, CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cell and CIITA expression by tumor cells was observed in F3-treated rats compared to the tumor control group. F3-treated rats also displayed a significant decrease in the serum level of CCL2 and CD68⁺ infiltrating macrophages. Serum IFN-γ level in this group was increased by 1.7-fold suggesting enhanced infiltration of T cells, and upregulation of CIITA and MHC-II expression in the tumor cells might be triggered by F3-induced production of IFN-γ.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrated for the first time that a subfraction from S. crispus, F3, is capable of activating the immune system in rats-bearing NMU-induced mammary tumor, which may contribute to the anticancer effects of F3, and additionally support the traditional use of S. crispus leaves to boost the immune system.

Clinacanthus nutans: a review on ethnomedicinal uses, chemical constituents and pharmacological properties

CONTEXT

Medicinal plants have attracted global attention for their hidden therapeutic potential. Clinacanthus nutans (Burm.f) Lindau (Acanthaceae) (CN) is endemic in Southeast Asia. CN contains phytochemicals common to medicinal plants, such as flavonoids. Traditionally, CN has been used for a broad range of human ailments including snake bites and cancer.

OBJECTIVES

This article compiles the ethnomedicinal uses of CN and its phytochemistry, and thus provides a phytochemical library of CN. It also discusses the known pharmacological and biological effects of CN to enable better investigation of CN.

METHODS

This literature review was limited to articles and websites published in the English language. MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases were searched from December 2014 to September 2016 using the following keywords: "Clinacanthus nutans" and "Belalai gajah". The results were reviewed to identify relevant articles. Information from relevant selected studies was systematically analyzed from contemporary ethnopharmacological sources, evaluated against scientific literature, and extracted into tables.

RESULTS

The literature search yielded 124 articles which were then further scrutinized revealing the promising biological activities of CN, including antimicrobial, antiproliferative, antitumorigenic and anti-inflammatory effects. Few articles discussed the mechanisms for these pharmacological activities. Furthermore, CN was beneficial in small-scale clinical trials for genital Herpes and aphthous stomatitis.

CONCLUSION

Despite the rich ethnomedicinal knowledge behind the traditional uses of CN, the current scientific evidence to support these claims remains scant. More research is still needed to validate these medicinal claims, beginning by increasing the understanding of the biological actions of this plant.

Exploration of ethno-medicinal knowledge among rural communities of Pearl Valley; Rawalakot, District Poonch Azad Jammu and Kashmir

BACKGROUND

Medicinal plants are the basic source of health care in the Pearl Valley District Poonch, Azad Jammu, and Kashmir. The basic aim of present study was to record information about the use of plants in herbal preparation and quantification of recorded data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The research was conducted with the null hypothesis that there was no differential distribution of knowledge among the communities between genders and among different age groups in the study area and across cultural medicinal uses of the plants are similar. To check these hypotheses information about medicinal plants was collected from 46 laypeople and 18 herbalists by using an open ended and semistructured questionnaire. Different ethnobotanical indices were calculated in order to quantify the knowledge on the medicinal plants reported in the study.

RESULTS

Our study recorded 136 species of medicinal plants belonging to 45 families with Asteraceae (14 species) as the dominant family of the area. Decoction (26 species), juice and powder (24 species each) were most common methods of preparation. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that age and gender had the significant effect on both numbers of mentioned species and different uses. A number of known medicinal plants and the number of different uses (H: 38.51; p < 0.001) differ significantly as indicated by Kruskal-Wallis tests. These results showed that the knowledge about the plant varies among different age groups, which were the first hypothesis of the present study. The highest use values (UVs) were reported for Berberis lyceum and Ajuga bracteosa (1.13 each) followed by Abies pindrow (1.03). Highest informant consensus factor (ICF) values were recorded for digestive system diseases (ICF = 0.90) and muscular and skeletal system diseases (ICF = 0.89). The value of Jaccarad index ranged from 6.11 to 32.97 with an average value of 19.84, percentage of similarity was highest between study area and Pir Lasura National Park (34.62%).

CONCLUSION

High similarity might be due to the fact that the communities living in these areas have same sociocultural values and have more opportunities to exchange their traditional knowledge. The present study provides practical evidence about the use of medicinal plants among the inhabitants of the Pearl Valley.

Ethnopharmacological uses, phytochemistry, biological activities, and therapeutic applications of Clinacanthus nutans (Burm. f.) Lindau: A comprehensive review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Clinacanthus nutans (Burm. f.) Lindau, a widely used medicinal plant, is extensively grown in tropical Asia and Southeast Asian countries. C. nutans, with its broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, has been traditionally used to treat cancer, inflammatory disorders, diabetes, insect bites, and skin problems, consumed as a vegetable, mixed with fresh juices, in concoctions, and as a whole plant. The present review analyzes the advances in the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of C. nutans. In addition, the needs and perspectives for future investigation of this plant are addressed.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to provide a comprehensive report on the ethnomedicinal use, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, molecular mechanisms, and nutritional values of C. nutans. The present review will open new avenues for further in-depth pharmacological studies of C. nutans for it to be developed as a potential nutraceutical and to improve the available products in the market.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All the available information on C. nutans was collected using the key words "Clinacanthus nutans" and/or "ethnomedicine" and/or "phytochemicals" and/or "anticancer" and/or "anti-inflammatory" and/or "antiviral" through an electronic search of the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Clinical Trials.org, SciFinder Scholar, Scopus, and Google Scholar. In addition, unpublished materials, Ph.D. and M.Sc. dissertations, conference papers, and ethnobotanical textbooks were used. The Plant List (www.theplantlist.org) and International Plant Name Index databases were used to validate the scientific name of the plant.

RESULTS

The literature supported the ethnomedicinal uses of C. nutans as recorded in Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia for various purposes. Bioactivities experimentally proven for C. nutans include cytotoxic, anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, antimicrobial, and chemotherapeutic (in aquaculture) activities. Most of these activities have so far only been investigated in chemical, cell-based, and animal assays. Various groups of phytochemicals including five sulfur-containing glycosides, eight chlorophyll derivatives, nine cerebrosides, and a monoacylmonogalactosyl glycerol are present in C. nutans. The presence of two glycerolipids, four sulfur-containing compounds, six known flavones, a flavanol, four flavonols, two phytosterols, one polypeptide, and various phenolics and fatty acids largely influences its diverse bioactivities. Numerous reports justify the ethnomedicinal use of C. nutans as an antiviral agent in treating herpes simplex virus and varicella-zoster virus infections and as part of a traditional anticancer anti-inflammatory concoction agent for various inflammatory diseases. C. nutans tea was reported to have a good percentage of carbohydrate, crude protein, minerals, essential amino acids, nonessential amino acids, and essential fatty acids. Acute, subacute, and subchronic toxicity studies demonstrated that oral administration of ethanol and methanol extracts of C. nutans to male Swiss albino mice and male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, respectively, did not lead to any toxicity or adverse effects on the animal behavior and organs when used in amounts as high as 2g/kg.

CONCLUSION

The collected literatures demonstrated that, as an important traditional medicine, C. nutans is a promising ethnomedicinal plant with various extracts and bioactive compounds exhibiting multifarious bioactivities. However, it is important for future studies to conduct further in vitro and in vivo bioactivity evaluations systematically, following the standard pharmacology guidelines. It is crucial to elucidate in-depth molecular mechanisms, structure-activity relationships, and potential synergistic and antagonistic effects of multi-component extracts and bioactive constituents derived from C. nutans. Further studies should also focus on comprehensive toxicity that includes long-term effects and adverse effects on target organs of C. nutans and bioactive compounds in correlation with the specific pharmacological effects.

Effects of temperature, time, and solvent ratio on the extraction of phenolic compounds and the anti-radical activity of Clinacanthus nutans Lindau leaves by response surface methodology

Background

Clinacanthus nutans Lindau is a well-known plant, native to tropical Asian countries. Reports on this plant that is rich in phenolic compounds have focused on its therapeutic anti-inflammatory, anti-herpes simplex, antioxidant, and anti-cancer characteristics. In this paper, the influence of the extraction parameters—temperatures (60–80 °C), times (80–120 min), and solvent ratios (70:30–90:10) of water:ethanol were investigated using response surface methodology in order to determine the optimum extraction conditions that could produce maximum extraction yields of the phenolic compounds and the highest anti-radical activity of the C. nutans extract.

Results

The optimum conditions suggested by the predicted model were: an extraction temperature of 60 °C, an extraction time of 120 min and a water:ethanol solvent ratio of 90:10 v/v%. The residual standard error of 0.2% indicated that there was no significant difference between the actual and predicted values and it proved that the models were adequate to predict the relevant responses. All the independent variables had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on all the responses which indicated that all extraction parameters employed in this study were important in the optimization process. The R² values for three responses, extraction yields, DPPH radical scavenging activity and TPC were 0.9999, 0.9999 and 0.9983 respectively, suggesting that the quadratic polynomial models developed were satisfactorily accurate to be used in analyzing the interactions of the parameters (response and independent variables).

Conclusion

This study could be useful in the development of cosmeceutical products containing extracts of C. nutans.

Clinacanthus Nutans Hexane Extracts Induce Apoptosis Through a Caspase-Dependent Pathway in Human Cancer Cell Lines

Background:

Clinacanthus nutans (C.nutans) is a plant consumed as a cancer treatment in tropical Asia. Despite the availability of numerous anecdotal reports, evaluation of active anticancer effects has remained elusive. Therefore we here examined antiproliferative, reactive oxygen species (ROS)-inducing and apoptosis mechanisms of whole plant extracts in different cancer cell lines.

Methods:

Antiproliferative actions of five solvent extracts (hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and water) of C.nutans were tested on non-small cell lung cancer (A549), nasopharygeal cancer (CNE1) and liver cancer (HepG2) cells using MTT assay. The most potent anticancer extract was then assessed by flow cytometry to study cell cycle changes. Intracellular levels of ROS were quantified by DCFH-DA assay. Involvement of the caspase pathway in induction of apoptosis was assessed using caspase assay kits. GC-MS analysis was performed to identify phytoconstituents in the extracts.

Results:

Hexane and chloroform extracts were antiproliferative against all three cell lines, while the ethyl acetate extract, at 300 µg/mL, was antiproliferative in the CNE1 but not A549 and HepG2 cases. Methanol and water extracts did not inhibit cancer cell proliferation. The most potent anticancer hexane extract was selected for further testing. It induced apoptosis in all three cell lines as shown by an increase in the percentage of cell in sub-G1 phase. Dose-dependent increase in ROS levels in all three cell lines indicated apoptosis to be possibly modulated by oxidative stress. At high concentrations (>100 µg/mL), hexane extracts upregulated caspases 8, 9 and 3/7 across all three cell lines. GC-MS analysis of the hexane extract revealed abundance of 31 compounds.

Conclusion:

Among the five extracts of C.nutans, that with hexane extract demonstrated the highest antiproliferative activity against all three cancer cell lines tested. Action appeared to be via ion of intracellular ROS, and induction of apoptosis via intrinsic and extrinsic caspase pathways.

Descriptive study of plant resources in the context of the ethnomedicinal relevance of indigenous flora: A case study from Toli Peer National Park, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

BACKGROUND

This paper presents the first quantitative ethnobotanical study of the flora in Toli Peer National Park of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Being a remote area, there is a strong dependence by local people on ethnobotanical practices. Thus, we attempted to record the folk uses of the native plants of the area with a view to acknowledging and documenting the ethnobotanical knowledge. The aims of the study were to compile an inventory of the medicinal plants in the study area and to record the methods by which herbal drugs were prepared and administered.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on the therapeutic properties of medicinal plants was collected from 64 local inhabitants and herbalists using open ended and semi-structured questionnaires over the period Aug 2013-Jul 2014. The data were recorded into a synoptic table comprising an ethnobotanical inventory of plants, the parts used, therapeutic indications and modes of application or administration. Different ethnobotanical indices i.e. relative frequencies of citation (RFC), relative importance (RI), use value (UV) and informant consensus factor (Fic), were calculated for each of the recorded medicinal plants. In addition, a correlation analysis was performed using SPSS ver. 16 to check the level of association between use value and relative frequency of citation.

RESULTS

A total of 121 species of medicinal plants belonging to 57 families and 98 genera were recorded. The study area was dominated by herbaceous species (48%) with leaves (41%) as the most exploited plant part. The Lamiaceae and Rosaceae (9% each) were the dominant families in the study area. Among different methods of preparation, the most frequently used method was decoction (26 species) of different plant parts followed by use as juice and powder (24 species each), paste (22 species), chewing (16 species), extract (11 species), infusion (10 species) and poultice (8 species). The maximum Informant consensus factor (Fic) value was for gastro-intestinal, parasitic and hepatobiliary complaints (0.90). Berberis lycium Ajuga bracteosa, Prunella vulgaris, Adiantum capillus-veneris, Desmodium polycarpum, Pinus roxburgii, Albizia lebbeck, Cedrella serrata, Rosa brunonii, Punica granatum, Jasminum mesnyi and Zanthoxylum armatum were the most valuable plants with the highest UV, RFC and relative importance values. The Pearson correlation coefficient between UV and RFC (0.881) reflects a significant positive correlation between the use value and relative frequency of citation. The coefficient of determination indicated that 77% of the variability in UV could be explained in terms of RFC.

CONCLUSION

Systematic documentation of the medicinal plants in the Toli Peer National Park shows that the area is rich in plants with ethnomedicinal value and that the inhabitants of the area have significant knowledge about the use of such plants with herbal drugs commonly used to cure infirmities. The results of this study indicate that carrying out subsequent pharmacological and phytochemical investigations in this part of Pakistan could lead to new drug discoveries.

Investigation of uterotonic properties of Ananas comosus extracts

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In folklore medicine Ananas comosus (pineapple) is reputed to act as an abortifacient and in expectant women as a means of inducing labor. Several reports have claimed abortifacient property of A. comosus fruit (ripe or unripe). Ripe fruit has been used orally as traditional medicine in inducing abortion in Kerala state of India while the juice of unripe fruit was used for abortion in Bangladesh. However, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of pineapple extracts in inducing uterine contractions is clearly lacking.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study investigated the pharmacological effects of different fractions of pineapple extract with a range of maturities to identify the most potent uterotonic fraction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ethanolic crude extracts of pineapple (edible part) were prepared and fractionated through a series of liquid-liquid partitions. Fractions were separately tested on isolated uterine muscle from pregnant SD rats and human pregnant myometrium, which were cut into strips along the longitudinal axis of uterus. The strips were mounted vertically in organ baths (37°C) and exposed to cumulative addition of fractions (0.1-10mgml^-1), serotonin (0.05-5µM) and different inhibitors to delineate the mechanism of action of the active ingredients of the extract.

RESULTS

Aqueous fraction (F4) possesses uterine stimulant property which was blocked by verapamil but unaffected by indomethacin, prazosin and atosiban. Notably, ketanserin (10µM) diminished the maximal contractile response induced by both F4 and 5HT by 74.3% and 92.1% respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These results may indicate the presence of 5HT or 5HT-like compound(s) and serotonergic pathways may contribute to the uterotonic activity of pineapple extract.

Ethnopharmacological study and topical anti-inflammatory activity of crude extract from Poikilacanthus glandulosus (Nees) Ariza leaves

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ethnopharmacological studies are important tools as records and documentation of the empirical uses of medicinal plants in traditional communities with the purpose of generating useful knowledge to lead to the development of new medicines, biodiversity conservation and enhancement of knowledge and local culture. Poikilacanthus glandulosus is widely used by the population of City of Santiago, in Brazil, nevertheless, it does not have any validation regarding its use and its medicinal effects.

AIM

The objective of this study was to perform one ethnopharmacological survey about P. glandulosus in the City of Santiago and determine the anti-inflammatory activity in order to prove its uses in popular medicine.

METHODS

Personal and ethnopharmacological data were collected through a prepared questionnaire. The phytochemical analysis was performed observing the individual methodology for each reaction and by HPLC-UV. The antiedematogenic and anti-inflammatory (cell infiltration and histological procedure) activities of the P. glandulosus (0.01-1000μg/ear) were evaluated in the ear edema model induced by topical application of croton oil.

RESULTS

P. glandulosus is known in City of Santiago as "Gaiana" and its macerated leaves and branches are prepared with alcohol or sugarcane liquor especially for insect bites, cicatrization and inflammation. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of maslinic acid (2.024±0.10mg/g), uvaol (0.124±0.02mg/g) and sitosterol (0.502±0.05mg/g). The topical application of crude extract of P. glandulosus reduced in a dose-dependent manner the croton oil-induced ear edema and myeloperoxidase activity (neutrophils infiltration marker) with maximum inhibition of 87±2% and 64±12%, respectively at 1000µg/ear. Dexamethasone (100µg/ear), used as a positive control, inhibited croton oil-induced ear edema in 89±3% and decreased myeloperoxidase activity in 50±3%. Both P. glandulosus as dexamethasone reduced cell infiltration when evaluated by histological procedure CONCLUSION: This work allowed us to understand the specie P. glandulosus through ethnopharmacological study and it showed that the crude extract presented antiedematogenic and anti-inflammatory actions, proving their traditional use as anti-inflammatory.

Andrographis paniculata extract attenuates pathological cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis in high-fat diet fed mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees (Acanthaceae) has a considerable medicinal reputation in most parts of Asia as a potent medicine in the treatment of Endocrine disorders, inflammation and hypertension.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Water extract of A. paniculata and its active constituent andrographolide are known to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. Our aim is to identify whether A. paniculata extract could protect myocardial damage in high-fat diet induced obese mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The test mice were divided into three groups fed either with normal chow or with high fat diet (obese) or with high fat diet treated with A. paniculata extract (2g/kg/day, through gavage, for a week).

RESULTS

We found that the myocardial inflammation pathway related proteins were increased in the obese mouse which potentially contributes to cardiac hypertrophy and myocardial apoptosis. But feeding with A. paniculata extract showed significant inhibition on the effects of high fat diet.

CONCLUSION

Our study strongly suggests that supplementation of A. paniculata extract can be used for prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease in obese patients.

A comparative ethnopharmacological analysis of traditional medicine used against respiratory tract diseases in Mauritius

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Despite laudable advances in conventional medicine, respiratory tract diseases (RTD) induced morbidity and mortality continue to inflict a substantial burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Similarly, in the tropical island of Mauritius, 13,320 hospital admissions and 8.2% mortality rates were attributed to RTD solely in the year 2013. Consequently, the therapeutic benefits and relief experienced with traditional medicine (TM) against RTD by the local inhabitants cannot be underestimated. The present study aims to report and quantitatively determine the extent of utilization of plant based therapies and other miscellaneous TM preparations concocted against RTD over the island. Additionally, a similarity index was generated which is indicative of the extent of harmonisation of individual plant species against RTD when the uses mentioned in the study are compared to previous ethnobotanical studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data was compiled using a semi-structured questionnaire via face-to-face interviews with TM users and practitioners (n=384). Three quantitative ethnopharmacological indices (the use value (UV), informant consensus factor (ICF), and ethnobotanicity index (EI)) were calculated. We also calculated the similarity ratio, similarity percentage, new uses for each plant species and percentage of new use against RTD to compare primary data collected in the present study.

RESULTS

Fifty five plants were documented to be in use against 18 RTD. The most used plant species belonged to the following taxa; Lamiaceae (9%), Fabaceae (7%) and Rutaceae (7%). Thirty two plants recorded in this study have been reported to be used against RTD in previous ethnobotanical studies, of which 22 of these plants have been attributed new uses against RTD based on the results of the present study. The remaining 23 plants species have been recorded for the first time to be used traditionally against RTD. Altogether, 81 different recipes were concocted from the medicinal plants and the most common route of administration was oral intake. Common methods of obtaining medicinal plants were from the wild, cultivation and as imported herbal products. Cough was the most common RTD managed by plant species. The largest proportion of plants were employed against cold. The preference ranking both for UV placed Curcuma longa L., Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Citrus×limonia Osbeck and Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf as the most useful plant species. Only a small proportion of the indigenous plants (7.73%) proved to be useful in TM.

CONCLUSION

This study provides empirical primary ethnopharmacological data on the use of TM to manage and/or treat RTD and can contribute in preserving indigenous knowledge in Mauritius. It is anticipated that these primary data will open new avenues to identify novel drugs that can help to alleviate sufferings.

Design and development of a nanoemulsion system containing extract of Clinacanthus nutans (L.) leaves for transdermal delivery system by D-optimal mixture design and evaluation of its physicochemical properties

C. nutansis a well-known medicinal plant in South-East Asia that has attracted attention for its therapeutic characteristics. In this work, nanoemulsion has been chosen to be a carrier in encapsulation ofC. nutansextract for its potential in nanotechnology application.