Pharmacological properties of Datura stramonium L. as a potential medicinal tree: an overview

The use and potential abuse of psychoactive plants in southern Africa: an overview of evidence and future potential

Background

Most Bantu ethnic groups in southern Africa utilize indigenous herbal medicines, some of which have psychoactive properties. Traditional medical practitioners (TMPs) commonly use them not only for divinatory purposes but to treat and manage mental and other illnesses. Unfortunately, the research on their results, risks, and benefits do not align. Little is known about their potential abuse among TMPs and community members in southern Africa. Herbal medicines are complex because whole plants are sometimes used, unlike in other treatments which use only one active ingredient. However, if the key mechanisms of action of these ethnomedicinal plants can be identified through socio-pharmacological research, useful botanical agents can be developed. A review of socio-pharmacological studies to evaluate the consequences of exposure to ethnomedicinal plants with psychoactive properties was conducted with the aim of identifying harm reduction strategies and investigating how the plants could be developed into useful botanicals.

Method

The search methods involved retrieval of records from PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Dissertations and Theses Global, and OpenGrey. The English language and human subjects were used as filters. In addition, some information was obtained from TMPs and community members.

Results

The following psychoactive plants were found to be commonly used or abused: Boophone disticha, Cannabis sativa, Datura stramonium, Leonotis leonurus, Psilocybe cubensis, and Sceletium tortuosum. The commercialization of Cannabis, L. leonurus, S. tortuosum, and Aspalathus is growing fast. The abuse liability of B. disticha, D. stramonium, and P. cubensis appears not to be appreciated. Five countries were found to have TMP policies and three with TMP Councils.

Conclusion

TMPs in the region are aware of the CNS effects of the identified psychoactive plants which can be explored further to develop therapeutic agents. There is a need to work closely with TMPs to reduce harm from the abuse of these plants.

Plant cultural indicators of forest resources from the Himalayan high mountains: implications for improving agricultural resilience, subsistence, and forest restoration

AIM

Biocultural legacy practices are intricately tied to forestry resources, ethnic identity, and social cohesiveness. This study aims to determine the plant cultural values of forest resources and identify plant cultural indicators in each ethnic group, which can aid in long-term natural resource management plans in the current debate on socio-environmental and ecological transitions.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations were employed to collect data for a comprehensive and systematic ethnobotanical survey from February 2018 to October 2022.

RESULTS

A total of 330 informants reported 154 plant species from 65 families. Asteraceae was the most prominent botanical family, with herbaceous plant groups outnumbering trees and shrubs. The Gujjar and Pahari groups exhibited the highest level of overlap, followed by significant overlaps between the Gujjar and Kashmiri communities. The close affinity observed between the Gujjar and Pahari groups suggests the horizontal pattern of local plant knowledge between these communities, influenced by their sociocultural interactions and intermarriages. Notably, the Pahari community displayed a rich understanding of medicinal plants and shared unique uses for the reported taxa. This study affirms that both ecological factors and sociocultural influences have played significant roles in shaping local plant knowledge. A total of 31 plant species have been identified as plant cultural markers among all four ethnic groups. We observed a positive correlation between plant cultural values and plant use with the Gujjar and Kashmiri ethnic groups. Artemisia absinthium reported the highest use value of (0.57) with use reports of (189). Adonis aestivalis, Cynoglossum nervosum, Geum elatum, Geranium himalayense, Juncus inflexus, Oxalis acetosella, Polygonatum biflorum, and Salvia hians from the Himalayan region are among the plant taxa whose ethnomedicinal applications are described here for the first time.

CONCLUSION

Our data show that local and indigenous forest knowledge and practices could significantly contribute to forest conservation and ecological transition. This may happen if stakeholders generate clear frameworks and biocultural conservation strategies aimed at both dynamically preserve natural habitats and ways of traditional management of local natural resources.

From Plant to Chemistry: Sources of Antinociceptive Non-Opioid Active Principles for Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Design

Pain is associated with many health problems and a reduced quality of life and has been a common reason for seeking medical attention. Several therapeutics are available on the market, although side effects, physical dependence, and abuse limit their use. As the process of pain transmission and modulation is regulated by different peripheral and central mechanisms and neurotransmitters, medicinal chemistry continues to study novel ligands and innovative approaches. Among them, natural products are known to be a rich source of lead compounds for drug discovery due to their chemical structural variety and different analgesic mechanisms. Numerous studies suggested that some chemicals from medicinal plants could be alternative options for pain relief and management. Previously, we conducted a literature search aimed at identifying natural products interacting either directly or indirectly with opioid receptors. In this review, instead, we have made an excursus including active ingredients derived from plants whose mechanism of action appears from the literature to be other than the modulation of the opioid system. These substances could, either by themselves or through synthetic and/or semi-synthetic derivatives, be investigated in order to improve their pharmacokinetic characteristics and could represent a valid alternative to the opioid approach to pain therapy. They could also be the basis for the study of new mechanisms of action in the approach to this complex and disabling pathology.

Deaddicta® for maintenance treatment of Opioid-dependence: A six-month follow-up

Background

Opioid dependence, is one of the world's most critical health problems. Deaddicta is a herbal product considered an effective treatment for opioid addiction. Deaddicta's efficacy in the maintenance treatment of patients with opioid use disorder has recently been demonstrated through a double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT). This study aimed to evaluate the permanence of Deaddicta's efficacy six months after the end of the maintenance treatment for opioid dependence.

Methods

This study was performed following the previous RCT on the maintenance treatment of opioid addicts. Out of 41 participants who completed the study for three months in the previous research, 15 from the intervention group (Deaddicta capsules, 1500 mg/day) returned for follow-up. They all previously fulfilled the DSM-IV criteria for addiction, were aged 18 to 65, and had discontinued Deaddicta for six months. The outcome measures included addiction severity, depression and anxiety levels, and craving score. The scores of each parameter were compared in three phases: before intervention; after three months of intervention; and six months after the end of the study.

Results

Depression, anxiety, and craving scores decreased six months after the end of the previous study. This decrease was significant in the craving score (P = 0.011). No significant increase was observed in the frequency of use. The regression analysis showed a negative relationship between craving and the progression of phases.

Conclusion

The Deaddicta product may have desirable and effective properties in decreasing temptation and, as a result, the maintenance treatment of opioid dependence.

Datura stramonium Flowers as a Potential Natural Resource of Bioactive Molecules: Identification of Anti-Inflammatory Agents and Molecular Docking Analysis

The present study investigated the antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities of different aerial parts (flowers, leaves and seeds) of Datura stramonium. The plant material was extracted with 80% methanol for about 24 h. The sensitivity to microorganisms analysis was performed by the microdilution technique. Antioxidant tests were performed by scavenging the DPPH and ABTS radicals, and by FRAP assay. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated through the inhibition of nitric oxide production in activated macrophage RAW 264.7 cells. Cell viability was assessed with an MTT assay. Results show that the flower extract revealed a powerful antimicrobial capacity against Gram-positive bacteria and strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. No significant cytotoxicity to activated macrophages was recorded. High resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance analysis identified two molecules with important anti-inflammatory effects: 12α-hydroxydaturametelin B and daturametelin B. Molecular docking analysis with both pro-inflammatory agents tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6 revealed that both compounds showed good binding features with the selected target proteins. Our results suggest that D. stramonium flower is a promising source of compounds with potential antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Isolated withanolide steroidal lactones from D. stramonium flower extract with promising anti-inflammatory activity have therapeutic potential against inflammatory disorders.

[Deliberate intoxication with Datura Stramonium, a rare cause of confusion]

Many drugs can be responsible for this syndrome. Although it remains rare, poisoning by Datura Stramonium should be considered in the event of anticholinergic syndrome in the elderly, particularly in the event of anticholinergic manifestations.

Nephroprotective effects of Datura stramonium leaves against methotrexate nephrotoxicity via attenuation of oxidative stress-mediated inflammation and apoptosis in rats

Objective

Methotrexate (MTX) is a frontline antimetabolite anticancer drug which is used in different cancer treatments but its nephrotoxicity is a notable drawback that limits its clinical use. The present study was undertaken to examine whether Datura stramonium leaf extract (DSLE) could block MTX nephrotoxic side effect in rats.

Materials and Methods

Animals were divided randomly into Control, Ethanol extract, MTX, and Extract + MTX groups. DSLE (200 mg/kg bw) was orally administered for 21 days, while MTX was injected intraperitoneally (ip) on the 18th day. Serum levels of urea, creatinine and uric acid were determined. Kidney samples were used to determine glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities, and renal levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and caspase-3.

Results

Injection of MTX resulted in considerable increases (p<0.05) in creatinine, urea, and uric acid levels as well as renal MDA, NO, IL-6, TNF-α and caspase-3 compared to the controls. SOD and GPx increased significantly, while GSH was significantly depleted. Interestingly, DSLE markedly reduced (p<0.05) levels of creatinine, urea, uric acid, TNF-α, NO, MDA and caspase-3, whereas renal GSH increased markedly compared to the MTX group.

Conclusion

DSLE has nephroprotective activity against MTX toxicity. However, further mechanistic studies are needed.

Phytoconstituents of Datura metel extract improved motor coordination in haloperidol-induced cataleptic mice: Dual-target molecular docking and behavioural studies

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a prominent health challenge characterized by complex aetiology and limited therapeutic breakthroughs. Datura metel (DM) is a medicinal plant containing active phytoconstituents with neuropharmacological potentials. In traditional medicine, it exerts anticholinergic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and protection from organophosphate poisoning inclusively involved in the pharmacotherapy of PD. Its other PD-related medicinal potency includes treatment of motor sickness and bradycardia. However, the exact mechanisms of anti-PD effects of its phytoconstituents remain underexplored.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, methanolic extract of DM was evaluated for anti-PD behavioural effects in vivo haloperidol-induced cataleptic mice. The GC-MS-identified phytochemicals were studied for one-drug-multi-target inhibitory mechanisms against some key targets for PD treatment, alpha-synuclein (ASN) and dopa decarboxylase (DDC) using molecular docking.

RESULTS

and discussion: Chronic administration of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of DM extract improved the 14-s latency time induced by haloperidol to 54, 54 and 57 s respectively, whereas levodopa (30 mg/kg) produced 47 s in rotarod tests. Similarly, the descending times for haloperidol-induced cataleptic mice were significantly reduced from 110 s to 17.7, 17.7 and 12.5 s by the respective chronic doses of DM extract, whereas levodopa-administered mice spent 17.5 s descending the same 30 cm pole. The interesting motor coordination enhancements are suggestively due to synergistic inhibition of ASN and DCC by the phytoconstituents of DM, especially, atropine and scopolamine. From the docking analysis, the two phytochemicals interacted more potently with the active therapeutic sites of the dual targets than levodopa and carbidopa.

CONCLUSION

Methanolic extract of DM contains active phytochemicals for multi-target-directed antiparkinsonian mechanisms amenable for further studies.

Isolation, Purification, and Characterization of Homogenous Novel Bioactive Protein from Datura stramonium Stem Exhibited Larvicidal Activity against Anopheles stephensi

The insecticidal resistance of mosquitoes necessitates the development of a natural, safe, and plant-based method for vector control. Unfortunately, there are no effective vaccines or particular medications available to combat malaria; therefore, mosquitoes must be targeted directly. Previous studies have shown the health benefits of Datura stramonium, but its bioactive peptides or proteins are less explored. This is the first study on D. stramonium stem protein used for mosquito larval protein. The present study aimed to identify the purified mosquito larval protein from the crude extract of D. stramonium stem. Crude protein was isolated, precipitated, dialyzed, and purified by using ion-exchange chromatography, native PAGE, and HPLC. The highest larval mortality was observed at 5.5 mg/ml of crude protein concentration. Native PAGE was used for the analysis and purification of active proteins. The single homogeneous purified larvicidal protein appeared as a single band of 30 kDa by SDS-PAGE. The novel bioactive peptide was characterized by LC-MS/ESI-MS. The homology of the peptide was searched by the Mascot search engine. The database search revealed has not shown peptide similarity with D. stramonium protein, but homology with another plant Arabidopsis thaliana protein is probable for protein phosphatases. The lethal concentration of purified protein against 3rd instar larvae of Anopheles stephensi had LC50 and LC90 values of 25 μg/ml and 40 μg/ml. It has shown new insight into larvicidal activity and can be used as a new drug against malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases.

Substance use and substance use disorders in Africa: An epidemiological approach to the review of existing literature

The relationship between man and substances that have abuse potentials, and whose use has been associated with the development or progression of substance use disorders has continued to evolve in terms of geography, economic implications, and time. History shows that local plants with psychoactive constituents can get exported worldwide through global travel, commerce, or even conquest. Time and globalization also change people’s relationship with substances of abuse; hence, an area that was initially alien to certain substances might evolve to becoming a trafficking hub, and then a destination. A case in point is Africa where a rapidly increasing prevalence of substance use/abuse and substance use disorder among adolescents and young adults is putting enormous strain on the economy, healthcare system, and society at large. However, there appears to be a paucity of scientific literature and data on the epidemiology, risk assessment, and contributing factors to substance use and the development of substance use disorders across Africa. In this narrative review, we examine extant literature (PubMed, Google scholar, Medline) for information on the prevalence, trends, and influencers of substance use and the development of substance use disorders. This is with a view of understanding the determinants of substance use and factors that influence the development of substance use disorders in the region, and how this information can be channeled towards developing a comprehensive intervention and treatment program.

Modulation of immunological responses by aqueous extract of Datura stramonium L. seeds on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in Wistar rats

Background

Datura stramonium L. (Solanaceae) is used traditionally in west Africa to treat asthma, epilepsy, rheumatoid arthritis, filariasis microbial infections and conjunctivitis. This study investigated the immunomodulatory effects of aqueous seed extract of D. stramonium L. (ASEDS) on Wistar rats.

Methods

Thirty Wistar albino rats (180–200 g) were randomized into 6 groups (n = 5). Group 1 received distilled water only. Rats in groups 2–6 were pretreated with 10 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) Cyclophosphamide orally for 27-days to induce immunosuppression. Thereafter, they received treatment orally for 28 days as follows: Group 2 (distilled water), group 3 (5 mg/kg b.w. Levamisole), groups 4–6 (60, 90 and 120 mg/kg b.w. ASEDS, respectively). HPLC was used to determine major compounds in ASEDS. The effects of ASEDS on immune cells, immunoglobulins A, G and M levels, lipoproteins, and antioxidant status of rats were evaluated.

Results

ASEDS indicated high content of Acutumine, Quinine, Catechin, Chlorogenic acid, Gallic acid, Quercetin, Vanillic acid, Luteolin, Formosanin C, Saponin, Cyanidin, Tannic acid, 3-Carene, Limonene and α-terpineol. Cyclophosphamide triggered significant (p < 0.05) reduction in total leucocyte count and differentials, IgA, IgG, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, vitamins A, C and E levels of untreated rats. Administration of ASEDS led to significant (p < 0.05) improvement in immune cell counts, immunoglobulin synthesis, high-density lipoprotein concentration, and antioxidant status of rats in the treated groups.

Conclusions

The results obtained from the study showed the immunomodulatory activity of ASEDS, thereby indicating its potential in immunostimulatory drug discovery.

Three new α-glucosidase inhibitor benzo-isochromenes from Datura stramonium

Three new α-glucosidase inhibitory benzo-isochromenes were isolated from the chloroform fraction of Datura stramonium. Their structures were established with the help of modern spectroscopic techniques and were assigned the names as 1,6,8-triimethoxy-2-methyl-3,4-dihydrobenzoisochromene-5,10-diol, 3,6-dimethoxy-5-hydroxy-4-methylbenzoisochromene-9,11-dione and demethylflavasperon for compounds 1-3 respectively. The α-glucosidase inhibiting activity of compound 2 showed strong inhibition with an IC₅₀ value of 27.5 µM, while compound 1 exhibited moderate activity with IC₅₀ value of 60.2 µM compared to positive control (acarbose).

Antifungal Activity of Datura stramonium L. Extractives against Xylophagous Fungi

Some plants have great resistance against herbivores, invertebrates, insects, bacteria, and fungi. This resistance is mostly present in plants containing alkaloids, which are the substances responsible for giving them defensive properties. The genus Datura contains tropane alkaloids and all plants from this genus have defensive properties. In this work, we report the toxic effect against fungi of Datura stramonium extracts, obtained by the Petri dish method. The extraction solvents were water, ethanol, 2-propanol, n-butanol, propanone, butanone, 3-methyl-2-pentanone, dichloromethane, xylene, and toluene. The test fungi were Trametes versicolor (L. ex. Fr) Pilát and Rhodonia placenta (Fr.) Niemelä, K.H.Larss. & Schigel. It was found that water, butanone, and toluene extracts promoted mycelial growth, xylene extracts neither inhibited nor promoted mycelial growth, while the other extracts slightly inhibited the growth of these fungi.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and production of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants

Medicinal plants are an important source of therapeutic compounds used in the treatment of many diseases since ancient times. Interestingly, they form associations with numerous microorganisms developing as endophytes or symbionts in different parts of the plants. Within the soil, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are the most prevalent symbiotic microorganisms forming associations with more than 70% of vascular plants. In the last decade, a number of studies have reported the positive effects of AMF on improving the production and accumulation of important active compounds in medicinal plants.In this work, we reviewed the literature on the effects of AMF on the production of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants. The major findings are as follows: AMF impact the production of secondary metabolites either directly by increasing plant biomass or indirectly by stimulating secondary metabolite biosynthetic pathways. The magnitude of the impact differs depending on the plant genotype, the AMF strain, and the environmental context (e.g., light, time of harvesting). Different methods of cultivation are used for the production of secondary metabolites by medicinal plants (e.g., greenhouse, aeroponics, hydroponics, in vitro and hairy root cultures) which also are compatible with AMF. In conclusion, the inoculation of medicinal plants with AMF is a real avenue for increasing the quantity and quality of secondary metabolites of pharmacological, medical, and cosmetic interest.

The prevalence, mechanism of action, and toxicity of Nigerian psychoactive plants

Cannabis sativa, Datura stramonium, Nicotiana tabacum, and Carica papaya are plants that naturally grow in Nigeria. They are reportedly rich in neuroactive compounds that are capable of reacting with the nervous system to elicit psychoactive and/or toxic effects that deter predators. However, despite the toxicological potential of these plants, their recreational use is on the rise due to the psychoactivity they proffer and prevalence in Nigeria. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the plants' recreational use, mechanism of actions and toxicities. Relevant published documents on psychoactive plants in Nigeria were obtained from Web of Science between 2002 and 2020. Non-English documents, documents not in Science Citation Index Expanded and Google Scholar were removed while 1186 documents were reviewed. Results showed that the plants are recreationally used in Nigeria with a higher prevalence than the global frequency. They are very addictive and lead to dependence. The plants were also observed to elicit different mechanism of action, though the activation of monoaminergic neurotransmission system was common to all. Regrettably, the plants could be toxic when ingested under non-medical conditions. Conclusively, these plants are addictive with potential toxic effects. Therefore, control of the recreational use of these plants should be revamped and overhauled.

The powerful Solanaceae: Food and nutraceutical applications in a sustainable world

The Solanaceae family is considered one of the most important families among plant species because, on one hand encompasses many staple food crops of the human diet while, on the other hand, it includes species rich in powerful secondary metabolites that could be valorized in medicine or drug formulation as well as nutraceuticals and food supplements. The main genera are Solanum, Capsicum, Physalis, and Lycium which comprise several important cultivated crops (e.g., tomato, pepper, eggplant, tomatillo, and goji berry), as well as genera notable for species with several pharmaceutical properties (e.g., Datura, Nicotiana, Atropa, Mandragora, etc.). This chapter discusses the nutritional value of the most important Solanaceae species commonly used for their edible fruit, as well as those used in the development of functional foods, food supplements, and nutraceuticals due to their bioactive constituents. The toxic and poisonous effects are also discussed aiming to highlight possible detrimental consequences due to irrational use. Finally, considering the high amount of waste and by-products generated through the value chain of the main crops, the sustainable management practices implemented so far are presented with the aim to increase the added-value of these crops.

The history, current state and perspectives of aerosol therapy

Nebulization is a very effective method of drug administration. This technique has been popular since ancient times when inhalation of plants rich in tropane alkaloids with spasmolytic and analgesic effects was widely used. Undoubtedly, the invention of anasthesia in the 19th century had an influence on the development of this technique. It resulted in the search for devices that facilitated anasthesia such as pulveriser or hydronium. From the second half of the 21st century, when the first DPI and MDI inhalers were launched, the constant development of aerosol therapy has been noticed. This is due to the fact that nebulization, compared with other means of medicinal substance application (such as oral and intravenous routes of administration), is safer and it exhibits a positive dose/efficacy ratio connected to the reduction of the dose. It enables drugs administration through the lung and possesses very fast onset action. Therefore, various drugs prescribed in respiratory diseases (such as corticosteroids, β-agonists, anticholinergics) are present on the market in a form of an aerosol.

Large outbreak of Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) poisoning due to consumption of contaminated humanitarian relief food: Uganda, March-April 2019

Background

Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) contains toxic alkaloids that cause gastrointestinal and central nervous system symptoms when ingested. This can be lethal at high doses. The plant may grow together with leguminous crops, mixing with them during harvesting. On 13 March 2019, more than 200 case-patients were admitted to multiple health centres for acute gastrointestinal and neurologic symptoms. We investigated to determine the cause and magnitude of the outbreak and recommended evidence-based control and prevention measures.

Methods

We defined a suspected case as sudden onset of confusion, dizziness, convulsions, hallucinations, diarrhoea, or vomiting with no other medically plausible explanations in a resident of Napak or Amudat District from 1 March—30 April 2019. We reviewed medical records and canvassed all villages of the eight affected subcounties to identify cases. In a retrospective cohort study conducted in 17 villages that reported the earliest cases, we interviewed 211 residents about dietary history during 11–15 March. We used modified Poisson regression to assess suspected food exposures. Food samples underwent chemical (heavy metals, chemical contaminants, and toxins), proteomic, DNA, and microbiological testing in one national and three international laboratories.

Results

We identified 293 suspected cases; five (1.7%) died. Symptoms included confusion (62%), dizziness (38%), diarrhoea (22%), nausea/vomiting (18%), convulsions (12%), and hallucinations (8%). The outbreak started on 12 March, 2–12 h after Batch X of fortified corn-soy blend (CSB +) was distributed. In the retrospective cohort study, 66% of 134 persons who ate CSB + , compared with 2.2% of 75 who did not developed illness (RR_adj = 22, 95% CI = 6.0–81). Samples of Batch X distributed 11–15 March contained 14 tropane alkaloids, including atropine (25-50 ppm) and scopolamine (1-10 ppm). Proteins of Solanaceae seeds and Jimsonweed DNA were identified. No other significant laboratory findings were observed.

Conclusion

This was the largest documented outbreak caused by food contamination with tropane alkaloids. Implicated food was immediately withdrawn. Routine food safety and quality checks could prevent future outbreaks.

Datura stramonium Leaf Extract Exhibits Anti-inflammatory Activity in CCL4-Induced Hepatic Injury Model by Modulating Oxidative Stress Markers and iNOS/Nrf2 Expression

Background

Inflammation is a frequent phenomenon in the pathogenesis of hepatic disorders leading to fibrosis and cirrhosis. Phytopharmaceuticals developed from traditional medicine can provide effective therapeutic alternatives to conventional medications. Datura stramonium (DS) has reported traditional uses in inflammatory diseases. In this study, we have tried to validate its potential as a source of anti-inflammatory agents.

Methods

Powdered leaf part of DS was extracted using ethyl acetate (EA) to provide the extract (DSL-EA). Lymphocyte and macrophage viability and acute toxicity assays established the safety profile, while nitric oxide (NO) scavenging assay estimated the in vitro anti-inflammatory potential. Noninvasive anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and antinociceptive activities were monitored using BALB/c mice using low and high doses (150 and 250 mg/kg). Major inflammatory studies were performed on Sprague-Dawley male rats using CCl4-induced liver injury model. Disease induction was initiated by intraperitoneal injections of CCl4 (1 mL/kg of 30% CCl4 in olive oil). The rats were divided into six groups. The anti-inflammatory potential of DSL-EA in low and high doses (150 and 300 mg/kg, respectively) was assessed through hematological, biochemical, liver antioxidant defense, oxidative stress markers, and histological studies as well as the expression of Nrf2 and iNOS.

Results

DSL-EA exhibited prominent in vitro NO scavenging (IC50: 7.625 ± 0.51 μg/mL) and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity in paw and anal edema models. In CCl4 model, hematological investigations revealed vasotonic effects. Liver functionality was significantly (P < 0.001 - 0.05) improved in DSL-EA-treated rats. The activity level of endogenous antioxidant enzymes in liver tissues was improved in a manner identical to silymarin. The extract reduced the percent concentration of oxidative stress markers in liver tissues. Furthermore, DSL-EA displayed restorative effects on histological parameters (H and E and Masson's trichrome staining). Immunohistochemistry studies showed marked decline in Nrf2 expression, while overexpression of iNOS was also observed in disease control rats. The damage was distinctly reversed by the extract.

Medicinal Plants for Anti-neurodegenerative diseases in West Africa

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Neurodegenerative diseases are neuronal diseases that affect the brain components by degenerating the structure and function of the central or peripheral nervous system progressively. It is a leading cause of death and affects huge amount of people worldwide. Plant-based medicines have been utilised in the therapies for many illnesses that have defied western treatments, including neurodegenerative diseases.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

This review presents an overview of the major neurodegenerative diseases and reported prominent medicinal plants used in managing those diseases in West Africa.

METHODS

Scientific articles regarding medicinal plants and their usefulness in managing neurodegenerative diseases in West Africa were pooled from different scientific databases. We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses to filter articles based on their relevance. Pharmacological activity, plant parts used, experimental models, and some isolated chemical compounds of those plants were summarised.

RESULTS

In the West Africa region, Fabaceae (19%) and Solanaceae (13%) have the highest representation of plant families used to treat neurological diseases, while Apocynaceae, Asteraceae, Euphorbiaceae have also been utilised. Flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, coumarins present in those plants and their derivatives are reported to possess neuro-protective effects. Biochemical enzymes correlating to antioxidants, anti-inflammatory effects are the potential targets against neurodegenerative diseases.

CONCLUSION

Medicinal plants for anti-neurodegenerative diseases in West Africa have been documented with their neuropharmacological activities. Plant families such as Fabaceae, Solanaceae, Apocynaceae, Asteraceae, and Euphorbiaceae could be a major natural source for discovery of anti-neurodegenerative drugs, thus the metabolites from them should be given priority for neurological research. This review will provide clues for further investigations on the screening and development of anti-neurodegenerative natural products from West African medicinal plants.

The possible mechanism of Datura stramonium on pentobarbital-induced sleep in mice

BACKGROUND

Insomnia leads to the development of mental problems and missing of accuracy in affected persons. Various investigations have previously revealed which medicinal plants play a role in the improvement of insomnia. In this study, we evaluated the effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Datura stramonium on insomnia in mice.

METHODS

The extracts and fractions at different concentrations were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) to mice 30 min before the sodium pentobarbital (30 mg/kg, i.p.). Additionally, the blood was collected from cardiac and serum separated to measure brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The LC-MS was done to identify the active components. Flumazenil or naloxone were also applied to study the possible mechanism of extract. The PC12 cells were then exposed to different doses of extract and fractions, in order to evaluate cytotoxicity by MTT assay and the measured LD₅₀.

RESULTS

The hydro-alcoholic extracts of calyx, seed and petal elevated sleep duration and decreased sleep latency. In addition, water, ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions of hydro-alcoholic extract of petal increased sleep duration. Of note, Naloxone significantly reversed the hypnotic effect of the extract. The extract increased the level of BDNF in serums. As well, the toxicity assessment revealed that the extracts had not toxic on PC12 cells. The LD₅₀ value was obtained as 4.8 g/kg.

CONCLUSION

This research demonstrated that D. stramonium (including seed, petal and calyx) increased the hypnotic effect without neurotoxicity on PC12 cells. Sleep induction may be related to its active ingredients as well as the effect on opioid receptors.

Datura stramonium abrogates depression- and anxiety-like disorders in mice: possible involvement of monoaminergic pathways in its antidepressant activity

OBJECTIVES

Ethno-botanical surveys uncovered the use of Datura stramonium in the management of mental health abnormalities. Antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like activities of hydroethanol leaf extract of D. stramonium (HLDS) in mice and its possible mechanism of action were investigated in this study.

METHODS

The hole-board test (HBT), open field test (OFT), elevated plus maze test (EPMT), and social interaction test (SIT) were used to investigate the anxiolytic-like activity while forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) were employed for the antidepressant effect. Mice were pre-treated orally with purified water (10 mL/kg), bromazepam (1 mg/kg), fluoxetine (20 mg/kg) and D. stramonium (25, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg). One hour post-treatment, mice were subjected to the various tests.

RESULTS

In HBT, D. stramonium increased the head dips and sectional crossings turnover. D. stramonium increased the number of square crossed and rearings/assisted rearings in OFT. DS increased the time spent in open arms of EPM. In SIT, D. stramonium increased the frequency/duration of interactions. In FST and TST, D. stramonium decreased the duration of immobility which were reversed by doxazosin (α₁ adrenoceptor antagonist) and ondasentron (5-HT₃ receptor antagonist).

CONCLUSIONS

HLDS has anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like activities through modulation of serotoninergic and adrenergic neurotransmissions.

Metagenomic Insights into the Composition and Function of Microbes Associated with the Rootzone of Datura inoxia

The purpose of this paper is to elucidate the roles that microbes may be playing in the rootzone of the medicinal plant Daturainoxia. We hypothesized that the microbes associated with the Datura rootzone would be significantly different than the similar surrounding fields in composition and function. We also hypothesized that rhizospheric and endophytic microbes would be associated with similar metabolic functions to the plant rootzone they inhabited. The methods employed were microbial barcoding, tests of essential oils against antibiotic resistant bacteria and other soil bacterial isolates, 16S Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) metabarcoding, and Whole Genome Shotgun (WGS) taxonomic and functional analyses. A few of the main bacterial genera of interest that were differentially abundant in the Datura root microbiome were Flavobacterium (p = 0.007), Chitinophaga (p = 0.0007), Pedobacter (p = 6 × 10−5), Bradyhizobium (p = 1 × 10−8), and Paenibacillus (p = 1.46 × 10−6). There was significant evidence that the microbes associated with the Datura rootzone had elevated function related to bacterial chalcone synthase (p = 1.49 × 10−3) and permease genes (p < 0.003). There was some evidence that microbial functions in the Datura rootzone provided precursors to important plant bioactive molecules or were beneficial to plant growth. This is important because these compounds are phyto-protective antioxidants and are precursors to many aromatic bioactive compounds that are relevant to human health. In the context of known interactions, and current results, plants and microbes influence the flavonoid biosynthetic pathways of one other, in terms of the regulation of the phenylpropanoid pathway. This is the first study to focus on the microbial ecology of the Datura rootzone. There are possible biopharmaceutical and agricultural applications of the natural interplay that was discovered during this study of the Datura inoxia rhizosphere.

Modulation of neutrophil (dys)function by Ayurvedic herbs and its potential influence on SARS-CoV-2 infection

For centuries, traditional medicines of Ayurveda have been in use to manage infectious and non-infectious diseases. The key embodiment of traditional medicines is the holistic system of approach in the management of human diseases. SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection is an ongoing pandemic, which has emerged as the major health threat worldwide and is causing significant stress, morbidity and mortality. Studies from the individuals with SARS-CoV-2 infection have shown significant immune dysregulation and cytokine overproduction. Neutrophilia and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio has been correlated to poor outcome due to the disease. Neutrophils, component of innate immune system, upon stimulation expel DNA along with histones and granular proteins to form extracellular traps (NETs). Although, these DNA lattices possess beneficial activity in trapping and eliminating pathogens, NETs may also cause adverse effects by inducing immunothrombosis and tissue damage in diseases including Type 2 Diabetes and atherosclerosis. Tissues of SARS-CoV-2 infected subjects showed microthrombi with neutrophil-platelet infiltration and serum showed elevated NETs components, suggesting large involvement and uncontrolled activation of neutrophils leading to pathogenesis and associated organ damage. Hence, traditional Ayurvedic herbs exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may act in a manner that might prove beneficial in targeting over-functioning of neutrophils and there by promoting normal immune homeostasis. In the present manuscript, we have reviewed and discussed pathological importance of NETs formation in SARS-CoV-2 infections and discuss how various Ayurvedic herbs can be explored to modulate neutrophil function and inhibit NETs formation in the context of a) anti-microbial activity to enhance neutrophil function, b) immunomodulatory effects to maintain neutrophil mediated immune homeostasis and c) to inhibit NETs mediated thrombosis.

In Vitro Antibacterial and Antifungal Potential of Amyrin-Type Triterpenoid Isolated from Datura metel Linnaeus

The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the effect of the combined crude extract, fractions, and compound 1 isolated from the fruits of Datura metel against selected microbial (bacteria and fungi) strains. Results of antibacterial screening indicated marked susceptibility of the extract and its fractions against tested bacterial strains. Among the extract and various fractions, the chloroform fraction exhibited a significant effect against different bacterial strains including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis with an inhibitory zone ranging from 18 to 24 mm. Similarly, results of antifungal activity revealed that the chloroform fraction displays a promising effect against various fungal strains. The chloroform fraction was subjected to repeated chromatography analysis, which yielded compound 1 (daturaolone). Daturaolone exhibited potent activity against selected bacterial strains including Klebsiella pneumoniae, B. subtilis, S. epidermidis, and S. aureus with an inhibitory zone ranging from 12 to 30 mm. In addition, the extracts and daturaolone exhibited significant sensitivity against T. longifusus, C. albicans, A. flavus, M. canis, F. solani, and C. glabrata. Taken all together, it is concluded that our findings validated the traditional use of D. metel to treat various infectious diseases, which is supported by daturaolone.

Therapeutic Uses of Wild Plants by Rural Inhabitants of Maraog Region in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India

The main aim of this study is to document important ethnomedicinal plants from the Maraog region, located in the district of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, India. A total of 110 medicinal plant species belonging to 102 genera and 57 families were reported from the study site. All of the species were collected from wild habitats. The rural people of the Maraog region were surveyed through interview methods, group discussions, and participatory observations. In the current study, data were collected from 88 informants through the snowball method. A total of 110 plant species were collected from the study area, including 64 herbs, 24 shrubs, 9 trees, 5 climbers, 3 grasses, and 5 ferns. Most of the plant species, reported from the study area, belong to the Rosaceae and Asteraceae families, each contributing 12 plant species, followed by the Lamiaceae family with 6 plant species. The most used part of the plant in the preparation of herbal medications is the leaves, which have been reported in 62 plants, followed by roots in 14 plants, and flowers and other aerial parts in 9 plants. The ethnomedicinal data were analyzed using “Use Value,” a statistical quantitative method, with Artemisia vestita having the highest use value (1.00), followed by Cannabis sativa (0.79), Rhododendron arboreum (0.79), and Datura stramonium (0.71). Older people were found to have a vast knowledge of wild medicinal plants, while the younger generation’s knowledge was lacking. As a result, traditional knowledge about the use of plants as a source of medicine has decreased day-by-day. Therefore, there is a need to document traditional ethnobotanical knowledge. The data could serve as a basis for research by pharmacological and nutraceutical industries for the development of novel drugs.

Ethnobotany of the Himalayas: Safeguarding Medical Practices and Traditional Uses of Kashmir Regions

The present study was carried out to enlist the medicinal plants used by the local inhabitants of developing countries such as India, and the district of Kupwara of the Kashmir Himalaya has been targeted. Our research is one of the first study focusing on the statistical evaluation of the cross-cultural analysis between three different communities i.e., Dard, Kashmiri and Gujjar, of the study area. Sampling was carried out in eight villages in 2017 to 2020, and data were collected from 102 informants based on walking transects, to collect plant specimens, and semi-structured interviews. The medical usages of all collected taxa were grouped into 15 disease categories and 81 biomedical ailments. In this study, we documented around 107 plant taxa belonging to 52 families from the local inhabitants of the Kashmir Himalaya, which regulate the livelihood of the people and support cultural ecosystem services. Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, Malvaceae, Ranunculaceae, Poaceae, Solanaceae, Polygonaceae, Plantaginaceae and Brassicaceae are the top most dominant families. Herbaceous groups of plants were more common than trees and shrubs, and 71.96% of herb taxa were employed as medicine. Liliaceae, Caprifoliaceae and Portulacaceae (FUV = 0.24 each) have the highest family use value (FUV). The most prominent family was Asteraceae (seven genera, nine taxa), followed by Rosaceae and Lamiaceae (six genera, six taxa each). Persicaria Mill., Rheum L., Aconitum L. and Artemisia L. were prominent genera. Valeriana jatamansi Jones ex Roxb. (47UR), Fritillaria cirrhosa D. Don (45UR), Arisaema jacquemontii Blume (37UR), Asparagus racemosus Willd. (36UR) and Rumex acetosa L. (35UR) were the most important plant taxa with reference to use-reports. The ethnomedicinal applications of Aesculus indica Wall. ex Cambess., Solanum pseudocapsicum L., Ranunculus hirtellus Royle and Cormus domestica (L.) Spach plant taxa are reported here for the first time from the Himalayan Kashmiri people. We recommend further research on ethnopharmacological application of these newly recorded ethnobotanical plants. The medical usage of the plant was limited to different parts of the plant. In terms of the usage percentage, whole plant (26.17%), leaves (24.30%) and roots (19.63%) were found to have the highest utilization. The powder form (40.19%) was the most frequently employed method of drug/medicine preparation, followed by the utilization of extracted juice and/or other extracts (22.43%). The ICF values range from 0.85 to 1.00. Their use to remedy parasitic problems (PAR) and insect bites (IB) (ICF = 1.0 each) had the maximum consensus mentioned by the informants, although the number of taxa employed under this category was very limited. The different plant taxa used for the treatment of the gastrointestinal problems (GAS) was the most prominent disease category (262 URs, 16.19%, 25 taxa, ICF = 0.90). About 65% of the plant taxa studied is indigenous to the Asia or Himalayan regions, and around 35% is found to be exotic in nature. A strong positive correlation was found between age, gender, educational qualification and medicinal plant knowledge. No significant association was between people of different communities interviewed in terms of medical knowledge of the plants, p = 0.347 (>0.05) and χ2 = 2.120. No significant difference was found between the number of species documented concerning gender as p = 0.347 (>0.05) and χ2 =0.885. This study provides the comprehensive status of ethnomedicinal knowledge among three different communities of the study area. This study provided an impetus in discovering the baseline primary data for molecules which would help in drug discovery and management of various diseases, apart from conserving the genepool of plants in the investigated area.

Pharmacologic Similarities and Differences Among Hallucinogens

Hallucinogens constitute a unique class of substances that cause changes in the user's thoughts, perceptions, and mood through various mechanisms of action. Although the serotonergic hallucinogens such as lysergic acid diethylamide, psilocybin, and N,N-dimethyltryptamine have been termed the classical hallucinogens, many hallucinogens elicit their actions through other mechanisms such as N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonism, opioid receptor agonism, or inhibition of the reuptake of monoamines including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. The aim of this article is to compare the pharmacologic similarities and differences among substances within the hallucinogen class and their impact on physical and psychiatric effects. Potential toxicities, including life-threatening and long-term effects, will be reviewed.

Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology of Datura Species-A Review

Datura, a genus of medicinal herb from the Solanaceae family, is credited with toxic as well as medicinal properties. The different plant parts of Datura sp., mainly D. stramonium L., commonly known as Datura or Jimson Weed, exhibit potent analgesic, antiviral, anti-diarrheal, and anti-inflammatory activities, owing to the wide range of bioactive constituents. With these pharmacological activities, D. stramonium is potentially used to treat numerous human diseases, including ulcers, inflammation, wounds, rheumatism, gout, bruises and swellings, sciatica, fever, toothache, asthma, and bronchitis. The primary phytochemicals investigation on plant extract of Datura showed alkaloids, carbohydrates, cardiac glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, amino acids, and phenolic compounds. It also contains toxic tropane alkaloids, including atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscamine. Although some studies on D. stramonium have reported potential pharmacological effects, information about the toxicity remains almost uncertain. Moreover, the frequent abuse of D. stramonium for recreational purposes has led to toxic syndromes. Therefore, it becomes necessary to be aware of the toxic aspects and the potential risks accompanying its use. The present review aims to summarize the phytochemical composition and pharmacological and toxicological aspects of the plant Datura.

Effects of datumetine on hippocampal NMDAR activity

The usage (abuse) of Datura metel is becoming increasingly worrisome among the Nigerian populace especially among the youth considering its side effects such as hallucination. This work was designed to identify the phytochemicals in datura plant that potentially interact with NMDAR as it affects the electrical and memory activities of the brain. Ligand-protein interaction was assessed using autodock vina to identify phytochemicals that can interact with NMDAR. Datumetine was found to have the best interaction fit with NMDAR at both allosteric and orthosteric binding sites. Furthermore, using electrophysiological, behavioural and western blotting techniques, it was observed that the administration of datumetine positively modulates the NMDAR current by prolonging burst duration and interspike interval, induces seizures in C57BL/6 mice. Acute exposure leads to memory deficit on NOR and Y-maze test while immunoblotting results showed increased expression of GluN1 and CamKIIα while pCamKIIα-T286, CREB and BDNF were downregulated. The results showed that the memory deficit seen in datura intoxication is possibly the effects of datumetine on NMDAR.

Potent In Vitro α-Glucosidase and β-Secretase Inhibition of Amyrin-Type Triterpenoid Isolated from Datura metel Linnaeus (Angel's Trumpet) Fruits

This study deals with α-glucosidase and β-secretase inhibitory screening of extract/fractions and isolated daturaolone (1), namely, 3-oxo-6-β-hydroxy-β-amyrin (daturaolone) from chloroform fraction of Datura metel L. Among entire fractions, the chloroform soluble fraction showed excellent activity against α-glucosidase with % inhibition 90.8 with IC₅₀160.2 ± 1.85 μg and daturaolone (1) with 98.7% inhibition with IC₅₀840.4 ± 1.74 μM, respectively. Similarly, extract and daturaolone (1) also exhibited significant activity against the β-secretase enzyme (BACE1) with % activities 88.27 and 95.19 and with IC₅₀ values 304.21 ± 2.98 μg and 260.70 ± 1.87 μM, respectively, as compared to the standard inhibitor (Ans670, Sta671, Val672)-amyloid-β/A4 precursor protein 770 fragments 662-675) with % activity 94.21 and IC₅₀ value 289.24 ± 1.60 μM. This finding encourages and opens a new window for further detail phytochemical investigation on D. metel in order to isolate novel compounds with promising enzyme inhibitory potential.

Ethnomedicinal Plants Traditionally Used for the Treatment of Jaundice (Icterus) in Himachal Pradesh in Western Himalaya-A Review

Ethnomedicinal plants have a significant role in the lives of people of rural and tribal areas. Thousands of medicinal plant species are used to treat various diseases, including jaundice, and are considered an important therapeutic resource to minimize these diseases. Jaundice (icterus) is a chronic disease that occurs when the amount of bilirubin in the blood increases. This review describes different ethnomedicinal plants used for curing jaundice by tribal and rural people of Himachal Pradesh. The study reveals 87 ethnomedicinal plant species belonging to 51 different families, which are used for treating jaundice in Himachal Pradesh. These plants are arranged in a systematic way, which includes a description of their common name, botanical name, along with its family, plant parts used, region, and mode of use in tabulated form. Some of the plant extracts have already been explored for their phytochemical and pharmacological significance and proved their potential in the preparation of new medicines or drugs against the treatment of jaundice. This review is an attempt to highlight the indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants, which are specifically used for the treatment of jaundice. The data mentioned in the present review is compiled from various sources like existing literature, books, Google Scholar, and Scopus publications. Among all the observed plant species, most used medicinal plants for the treatment of jaundice include Justicia adhatoda, Emblica officinalis, Ricinus communis, Saccharum officinarum, Terminalia chebula, Berberis aristata, Cuscuta reflexa, and Tinospora cordifolia. Plants that are mostly utilized for the treatment of jaundice need to be scientifically validated by pharmacological analysis and should be subsequently used for the preparation of new drugs, which may prove far more beneficial than the existing one.

Suspect and Target Screening of Natural Toxins in the Ter River Catchment Area in NE Spain and Prioritisation by Their Toxicity

This study presents the application of a suspect screening approach to screen a wide range of natural toxins, including mycotoxins, bacterial toxins, and plant toxins, in surface waters. The method is based on a generic solid-phase extraction procedure, using three sorbent phases in two cartridges that are connected in series, hence covering a wide range of polarities, followed by liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry. The acquisition was performed in the full-scan and data-dependent modes while working under positive and negative ionisation conditions. This method was applied in order to assess the natural toxins in the Ter River water reservoirs, which are used to produce drinking water for Barcelona city (Spain). The study was carried out during a period of seven months, covering the expected prior, during, and post-peak blooming periods of the natural toxins. Fifty-three (53) compounds were tentatively identified, and nine of these were confirmed and quantified. Phytotoxins were identified as the most frequent group of natural toxins in the water, particularly the alkaloids group. Finally, the toxins identified to levels 2 and 1 were prioritised according to their bioaccumulation factor, biodegradability, frequency of detection, and toxicity. This screening and prioritisation approach resulted in different natural toxins that should be further assessed for their ecotoxicological effects and considered in future studies.

Gastrointestinal Motility, Muscle Relaxation, Antipyretic and Acute Toxicity Screening of Amyrin Type Triterpenoid (Daturaolone) Isolated From Datura metel Linnaeus (Angel's Trumpet) Fruits

Datura metel Linn is used traditionally for the treatment of various diseases including relaxation of smooth muscles, relief of fever, as well as gastrointestinal disorder. This study deals with the bio-guided isolation of an active, amyrin-type triterpenoid, namely 3-oxo-6-β-hydroxy-β-amyrin (daturaolone; 1), from the chloroform fraction of Datura metel L. (Angel’s trumpet) fruits and its gastrointestinal motility, antipyretic, and muscle relaxation effects in animal models. The chemical structure of daturaolone (1) was elucidated by NMR spectroscopy and crystallography techniques. The chloroform fraction and daturaolone (1) were assessed for the GIT motility test. Data exhibited in charcoal meal GI transit test show that chloroform fraction and daturaolone (1) significantly reduce GIT motility and increased intestinal transit time, comparable to the standard (atropine), a muscarinic receptor blocking agent. Muscle relaxant potency of the extract and daturaolone (1) was assessed in various animal paradigms. In the inclined plane screening test, it produced a significant (P < 0.05) muscle relaxation potential in a dose-dependent manner after 30, 60, and 90 min. Likewise, the muscle relaxation potential of the extract and daturaolone (1) was strongly complemented by the chimney and traction test, representing a dominant effect after 60 min of sample administration. The chloroform fraction showed good antipyretic activity, and while daturaolone (1) exhibited significant activity at a higher dose, the maximum effect (84.64%) was at 20 mg/kg i.p. In acute toxicity screening test, the chloroform extract (100, 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg) and daturaolone (1) (5, 10, 20, and 50 mg/kg) were found safe. In conclusion, the chloroform extract and daturaolone (1) exhibited strong gastrointestinal motility, muscle relaxation, and antipyretic activity in different animal models and intestinally, was found safe at higher tested doses.

Evaluation of Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Potential of Hydromethanolic Seed Extract of Datura stramonium Linn (Solanaceae)

Background

Nature has gifted a variety of phytochemicals having a potential effect against diabetes mellitus. Datura stramonium has been used as a remedy for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. The study aimed to determine the in vivo antidiabetic potential of hydromethanolic seed extract of the plant.

Methods

Dried seeds of Datura stramonium were macerated in hydromethanol. Three doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) of the seed extract were given orally to normoglycemic, glucose-loaded, and Streptozocin-induced diabetic mice. Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine (DPPH) assay was employed to determine antioxidant activity of the seed extract.

Results

All doses of hydromethanolic seed extract of D. stramonium were devoid of any significant hypoglycemic effect in normoglycemic mice compared to the negative control group. Acute glucose reduction was significant (P<0.05 at 100, P<0.01 at 200 and 400 mg/kg) with respect to negative control in oral glucose-loaded mice. All doses of seed extract significantly (P<0.0l) reduced blood glucose level on weeks 1 and 2 in STZ-induced daily-treated diabetic mice. The seed extract at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly (P<0.05) improved the body weight of diabetic mice on weeks 1 and 2. A low (100 mg/kg) dose of the seed extract delayed and significantly (P<0.05) increased body weight of mice on week 2 compared to negative control. The finding showed that the antioxidant activity of the hydromethanolic seed extract was concentration dependent and comparable with ascorbic acid. IC50 of the seed extract and ascorbic acid was found to be 11.95 and 5.07 mg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion

The findings of the study showed that hydromethanolic seed extract of Datura stramonium endowed significant antihyperglycemic and antioxidant activity.

Pityriasis capitis: Causes, pathophysiology, current modalities, and future approach

BACKGROUND

Pityriasis capitis commonly known as dandruff is one of the most common and widely seen dermatological disease that affects majority of the world population. It is more than superficial flaking, as it leads to significant structural changes in the stratum corneum and inflammatory biomarkers. Various intrinsic and extrinsic factors, such as Malassezia yeast, host epidermal conditions, sebaceous secretion, and abnormal immune responses, are found to contribute to the pathogenesis. Regardless of wide research, detail understanding, and treatment modalities, it still remains to be a cause of concern due to its recurring nature.

AIMS

The objective of this study is to enhance the understanding of its wide causes, pathophysiology, current treatment, and future approach.

METHODS

The article also aims at evaluating various promising anti-dandruff agents that can be further researched to become the leads in anti-dandruff therapy.

RESULTS & CONCLUSION

The article summarizes the current knowledge on dandruff and present new facts and evidences in order to spread awareness, create potential for new herbal treatment options, and effectively control the most commercially exploited scalp disorder.

Ethnobotany and Antimicrobial Peptides From Plants of the Solanaceae Family: An Update and Future Prospects

The Solanaceae is an important plant family that has been playing an essential role in traditional medicine and human nutrition. Members of the Solanaceae are rich in bioactive metabolites and have been used by different tribes around the world for ages. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from plants have drawn great interest in recent years and raised new hope for developing new antimicrobial agents for meeting the challenges of antibiotic resistance. This review aims to summarize the reported AMPs from plants of the Solanaceae with possible molecular mechanisms of action as well as to correlate their traditional uses with reported antimicrobial actions of the peptides. A systematic literature study was conducted using different databases until August 2019 based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. According to literature, a variety of AMPs including defensins, protease inhibitor, lectins, thionin-like peptides, vicilin-like peptides, and snaking were isolated from plants of the Solanaceae and were involved in their defense mechanism. These peptides exhibited significant antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral activity against organisms for both plant and human host. Brugmansia, Capsicum, Datura, Nicotiana, Salpichora, Solanum, Petunia, and Withania are the most commonly studied genera for AMPs. Among these genera, Capsicum and the Solanum ranked top according to the total number of studies (35%–38% studies) for different AMPs. The mechanisms of action of the reported AMPs from Solanaceae was not any new rather similar to other reported AMPs including alteration of membrane potential and permeability, membrane pore formation, and cell aggregation. Whereas, induction of cell membrane permiabilization, inhibition of germination and alteration of hyphal growth were reported as mechanisms of antifungal activity. Plants of the Solanaceae have been used traditionally as antimicrobial, insecticidal, and antiinfectious agents, and as poisons. The reported AMPs from the Solanaceae are the products of chemical shields to protect plants from microorganisms and pests which unfold an obvious link with their traditional medicinal use. In summary, it is evident that AMPs from this family possess considerable antimicrobial activity against a wide range of bacterial and fungal pathogens and can be regarded as a potential source for lead molecules to develop new antimicrobial agents.

Datura Poisoning in a Family - A Tale of Mistaken Identity

Numerous plants are traditionally grown in kitchen gardens and consumed by the general population. Incidents of accidental ingestion of harmful plants due to their striking resemblance with the edible ones are well-known. Cases: A family of three (a mother and her two children) unintentionally consumed leaves of small plants of Datura stramonium, instead of Solanum nigrum. They were admitted in intensive care unit with anticholinergic symptoms, treated symptomatically and discharged. On probing further, it is understood that both the plants look similar when young. However, it is easy to distinguish between them when the plants are fully grown. Conclusion: It is essential to educate the public regarding proper identification of locally available leafy vegetables that are fit for consumption. Also, clinicians should have a high index of suspicion in such cases of family poisoning even in the absence of a reliable history.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles mediated by traditionally used medicinal plants in Sudan

Sudan has a tremendous wealth flora due to its unique geographical location and diverse climate. Vast records of plants and plants’ secondary metabolites are reported to possess redox capacity and can be exploited for the biosynthesis of nanoparticles. Plant-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles is preferred due to their availability and their various metabolites. The present review explores the potentiality and diversity of biological activities of silver nanoparticles that originated from the combination of silver and phyto-constituents of mostly traditionally used Sudanese medicinal and aromatic plants. The green synthesis methods of silver nanoparticles mediated by more than 45 traditionally used medicinal plants are critically reviewed. In addition, parameters that affect the synthesis of plant-mediated silver nanoparticles, their characterization techniques and various biological activities are summarized and discussed. Thus, the study of green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and its applications can be extended to involve vast plant diversity of Sudan.

The Pharmacology of Visual Hallucinations in Synucleinopathies

Visual hallucinations (VH) are commonly found in the course of synucleinopathies like Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. The incidence of VH in these conditions is so high that the absence of VH in the course of the disease should raise questions about the diagnosis. VH may take the form of early and simple phenomena or appear with late and complex presentations that include hallucinatory production and delusions. VH are an unmet treatment need. The review analyzes the past and recent hypotheses that are related to the underlying mechanisms of VH and then discusses their pharmacological modulation. Recent models for VH have been centered on the role played by the decoupling of the default mode network (DMN) when is released from the control of the fronto-parietal and salience networks. According to the proposed model, the process results in the perception of priors that are stored in the unconscious memory and the uncontrolled emergence of intrinsic narrative produced by the DMN. This DMN activity is triggered by the altered functioning of the thalamus and involves the dysregulated activity of the brain neurotransmitters. Historically, dopamine has been indicated as a major driver for the production of VH in synucleinopathies. In that context, nigrostriatal dysfunctions have been associated with the VH onset. The efficacy of antipsychotic compounds in VH treatment has further supported the notion of major involvement of dopamine in the production of the hallucinatory phenomena. However, more recent studies and growing evidence are also pointing toward an important role played by serotonergic and cholinergic dysfunctions. In that respect, in vivo and post-mortem studies have now proved that serotonergic impairment is often an early event in synucleinopathies. The prominent cholinergic impairment in DLB is also well established. Finally, glutamatergic and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic modulations and changes in the overall balance between excitatory and inhibitory signaling are also contributing factors. The review provides an extensive overview of the pharmacology of VH and offers an up to date analysis of treatment options.

Cytotoxic activity of crude extracts from Datura stramonium's fungal endophytes against A549 lung carcinoma and UMG87 glioblastoma cell lines and LC-QTOF-MS/MS based metabolite profiling

BACKGROUND

Endophytic fungi are a proven source of bioactive secondary metabolites that may provide lead compounds for novel drug discovery. In this study, crude extracts from fungal endophytes isolated from Datura stramonium were evaluated for cytotoxic activity on two human cancer cell lines.

METHODS

Fungal endophytes were isolated from surface sterilized aerial parts of D. stramonium and identified using molecular, morphological and phylogenetic methods. Ethyl acetate crude extracts from these isolates were evaluated for cytotoxic activity on A549 lung carcinoma and UMG87 glioblastoma cell lines. Metabolite profiling was then performed by liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS/MS) for the cytotoxic crude extract.

RESULTS

Eleven fungal endophytes were identified from D. stramonium. Significant cytotoxicity was only observed from the crude extract of Alternaria sp. KTDL7 on UMG87 glioblastoma cells (IC₅₀ = 21.49 μg/ml). Metabolite profiling of this crude extract tentatively revealed the presence of the following secondary metabolites: 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene (1), anserinone B (2), phelligridin B (3), metacytofilin (4), phomopsidin (5) and vermixocin A (6). Compounds 2 and 3 have been shown to be cytotoxic in literature.

CONCLUSION

The findings in this study suggest that the crude extract of Alternaria sp. KTDL7 possesses compound(s) cytotoxic to glioblastoma multiforme cells. Future studies to isolate and characterize the cytotoxic compound(s) from this fungus could result in lead development of a fungal-based drug for glioblastoma multiforme treatment.

The entheogenic origins of Mormonism: A working hypothesis

Historical documents relating to early Mormonism suggest that Joseph Smith (1805–1844) employed entheogen-infused sacraments to fulfill his promise that every Mormon convert would experience visions of God and spiritual ecstasies. Early Mormon scriptures and Smith’s teachings contain descriptions consistent with using entheogenic material. Compiled descriptions of Joseph Smith’s earliest visions and early Mormon convert visions reveal the internal symptomology and outward bodily manifestations consistent with using an anticholinergic entheogen. Due to embarrassing symptomology associated with these manifestations, Smith sought for psychoactives with fewer associated outward manifestations. The visionary period of early Mormonism fueled by entheogens played a significant role in the spectacular rise of this American-born religion. The death of Joseph Smith marked the end of visionary Mormonism and the failure or refusal of his successor to utilize entheogens as a part of religious worship. The implications of an entheogenic origin of Mormonism may contribute to the broader discussion of the major world religions with evidence of entheogen use at their foundation and illustrate the value of entheogens in religious experience.

Closing the Gap Between Therapeutic Use and Mode of Action in Remedial Herbs

The ancient tradition of taking parts of a plant or preparing plant extracts for treating certain discomforts and maladies has long been lacking a scientific rationale to support its preparation and still widespread use in several parts of the world. In an attempt to address this challenge, we collected and integrated data connecting metabolites, plants, diseases, and proteins. A mechanistic hypothesis is generated when a metabolite is known to be present in a given plant, that plant is known to be used to treat a certain disease, that disease is known to be linked to the function of a given protein, and that protein is finally known or predicted to interact with the original metabolite. The construction of plant–protein networks from mutually connected metabolites and diseases facilitated the identification of plausible mechanisms of action for plants being used to treat analgesia, hypercholesterolemia, diarrhea, catarrh, and cough. Additional concrete examples using both experimentally known and computationally predicted, and subsequently experimentally confirmed, metabolite–protein interactions to close the connection circle between metabolites, plants, diseases, and proteins offered further proof of concept for the validity and scope of the approach to generate mode of action hypotheses for some of the therapeutic uses of remedial herbs.