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Tomasin R, Ferreira IC, Sawaya ACHF, Mazzafera P, Pascoal ACRF, Salvador MJ, Gomes-Marcondes MCC. Honey and Aloe vera Solution Increases Survival and Modulates the Tumor Size In Vivo. Mol Nutr Food Res 2024:e2400378. [PMID: 39328089 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202400378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
SCOPE The combination of honey and Aloe vera is used as a popular complementary treatment for cancer due to their nutraceutical properties. This study aims to investigate the anticancer activity of honey and A. vera solution and its ethanolic extraction through in vitro and in vivo approaches. METHODS AND RESULTS After comparisons of honey and A. vera (HA) solution and its ethanolic extraction solution (E) samples by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS, the study verifies HA-treatment affected only Walker tumor cells viability at the highest dose, and E-treatment has a more cytotoxic/antiproliferative effect in MCF-7 and Walker-256 cells. The in vivo results show a higher survival rate in Walker-256 tumor-bearing rats (WHA), with higher NK cell infiltration in tumor tissue and a tendency in the WE group. These results are possible due to decreased mannose-based immunomodulatory polysaccharides and aloin-A contents in the ethanolic extract solution compared to HA solution. CONCLUSION The current study provides compelling evidence of selectively cytotoxic against tumor cells under honey and A. vera solution and ethanolic extraction solution treatment, due to the cytotoxic/antiproliferative compounds. Therefore, the use of honey and A. vera solution could be used as a basis for coadjuvant therapy in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeka Tomasin
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Cancer, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Ianca Carneiro Ferreira
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Cancer, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, 13083-970, Brazil
| | | | - Paulo Mazzafera
- Department of Plant Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Aislan Cristina Rheder Fagundes Pascoal
- Department of Plant Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, 13083-970, Brazil
- Department of Basic Sciences, Health Institute of Nova Friburgo, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro, 28625-650, Brazil
| | - Marcos Jose Salvador
- Department of Plant Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Cintra Gomes-Marcondes
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Cancer, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, 13083-970, Brazil
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Zayed MF, Awis RR. A Comparison of the Health Benefits of Customized Multivitamins and Standard Supplementation Post-bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e63253. [PMID: 39070472 PMCID: PMC11282354 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.63253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Rates of obesity increase worldwide year after year. This review explored if customized multivitamins (CMV) resulted in less micronutrient deficiency and higher serum levels of vitamins and minerals when compared to standard multivitamins (SMV) post-bariatric surgery in adults. Vitamins investigated were vitamins B1, B6, B12, D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, iron, hemoglobin, ferritin, folic acid, zinc, and magnesium. In Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients weight loss surgeries (WLS) Forte or chewable CMV were studied, while in sleeve gastrectomy (SG) patients, WLS Optimum 1.0 (Opt. 1.0) or WLS Optimum 2.0 (Opt. 2.0) multivitamins were studied. An electronic search was performed on three databases (PubMed (n=28), Embase (n=120), and Cochrane (n=106)) to identify clinical trials and cohort studies. The inclusion criteria focused on studies since 2011 for adults ≥18 years old post-GB and SG. The keywords included bypass, sleeve, WLS, and multivitamins. Four clinical trials and three cohort studies were included. Jadad Scale was used to assess the quality and the bias risk in the clinical trials and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) was used for the cohort studies. The PICO model and PRISMA rules were followed, where the outcomes targeted certain vitamin serum levels and the levels of deficiencies. The results of WLS Forte were better than SMV. The chewable CMV and Opt. 1.0 results were comparable to SMV. Opt. 2.0 was slightly better than Opt. 1.0. Further modifications would enhance the CMV presented in this systemic review. SMV would still be recommended until CMV are modified and tested. Multi-center trials that monitor the effect of the modified CMV on the serum levels of vitamins and minerals in the longer term in different wider populations are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed F Zayed
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Rana R Awis
- Clinical Nutrition, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, GBR
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Abstract
Moisturizers are one of the most widely used preparations in cosmetics and have been extensively used to soften the skin for consumers. Moisturizers work effectively in combating dry skin which may cause pain, tightness, itch, stinging, and/or tingling. The aim of this review is to evaluate published studies on the history, ingredients, preparation processes, characteristics, uses, and applications of moisturizers. Moisturizers bridge the gap between medicine and consumer goods by being used to make the skin more beautiful and healthy. In the future, in moisturizer therapy, the capacity to adapt specific agents to specific dermatological demands will be crucial. Cosmetically, moisturizers make the skin smooth by the mechanism of increasing the water content in the stratum corneum, hence exerting its most vital action, which is moisturizing action and maintaining a normal skin pH.
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Haghani F, Arabnezhad MR, Mohammadi S, Ghaffarian-Bahraman A. Aloe vera and Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE FARMACOGNOSIA : ORGAO OFICIAL DA SOCIEDADE BRASILEIRA DE FARMACOGNOSIA 2022; 32:174-187. [PMID: 35287334 PMCID: PMC8908758 DOI: 10.1007/s43450-022-00231-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is defined as prolonged hyperglycemia, which can harm the eyes, kidneys, and cardiovascular and neurological systems. Herbal agents and their derived supplements have been used for treatment of diabetes mellitus as a part of integrated complementary medicine for centuries. Numerous studies have considered Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f, Xanthorrhoeaceae, as an alternative medicine due to its abundant bioactive chemicals, such as alkaloids, anthraquinones, and enthrones, with therapeutical properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuro-protective, and anti-diabetic effects. Aloe vera has received considerable attention in traditional medicine for the treatment of several diseases including diabetes mellitus. Numerous studies have investigated the effects of herbal agents on diabetes mellitus using a streptozotocin-induced diabetic model. Thereby, this article reviews the effects of Aloe vera prescription on streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus to provide a clear insight into the role of this medicinal plant in several biological functions, such as antioxidant, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-hyperlipidemic in diabetic models. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Haghani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Arabnezhad
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Salman Mohammadi
- Nutritional Health Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Ali Ghaffarian-Bahraman
- Occupational Environment Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
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Alasbahi RH, Groot MJ. Ethnoveterinary Uses of Certain Yemeni Plants: A Review of the Scientific Evidence. PLANTA MEDICA 2022; 88:237-253. [PMID: 34598289 DOI: 10.1055/a-1612-4556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Livestock is an important and integral component of agriculture production in Yemen and contributes 28% of the total agricultural production income. Research in the field of Yemeni ethnoveterinary medicine is limited to a few studies. Therefore, our work aims to substantiate scientifically the ethnoveterinary use of some documented plant species based on a literature review of their bioactivities and toxicological properties. Searching the scientific literature has revealed various pharmacological activities that may support the claimed healing activities of 11 out of 14 plant species for some of their ethnoveterinary utilization. This comprises the use of Aloe spp. latex for constipation, worms, boils, and wounds; Boswellia sacra underbark for wounds and its oleo-gum resin for mastitis; Soqotraen Boswellia species as an insect repellent; Cissus rotundifolia for stomach pain; Cyphostemma digitatum as an appetite stimulant; Psiadia punctulate for bone fracture; Pulicaria undulata as an insect repellent; combinations of Aristolochia bracteolate with Sorghum bicolor grains for bloating; Rumex nervosus and salt for eye pimples; and Trigonella foenum-graecum seeds with Hordeum vulgare grains for constipation. Some plants were found to demonstrate various toxic effects in in vivo and in vitro experimental studies. The local administration of Calotropis procera latex was also reported to induce an intense inflammatory response. It can be concluded that our work has provided valuable scientific information on the biological and toxic activities of some Yemeni ethnoveterinary remedies that could be utilized for the benefit of farmers to ration the use of these remedies and avoiding their toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawiya H Alasbahi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aden University, Khormaksar, Aden, Yemen
| | - Maria J Groot
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, part of Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
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6
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Aloe vera in diabetic dyslipidemia: Improving blood glucose and lipoprotein levels in pre-clinical and clinical studies. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2022; 13:100675. [PMID: 36481618 PMCID: PMC9732414 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2022.100675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dyslipidemia is a common feature of type 2 diabetes mellitus and is characterised by elevated triglyceride, decreased HDL cholesterol, and increased small dense LDL cholesterol levels. The underlying causes appears to be associated with insulin resistance, increased free fatty acid reflux, and low-grade inflammation, resulting in increased hepatic lipogenesis, and altered lipoprotein metabolism. Improved glycaemic control has been shown to have a positive effect on lipoprotein levels in diabetics. This can be achieved through medications/therapeutics and life style changes. Several classes of pharmacologic agents are currently in use to treat dyslipidemia. However, they may have dangerous long-term side effects, including an increased risk of liver dysfunction, weight gain, and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, stronger alternatives with fewer side effects are required to reduce the diabetes associated complications. Many secondary plant metabolites have been shown to improve glucose homeostasis and lower lipid levels. Aloe vera and its constituents have long been used in a traditional medicine system for a diverse range of biological activities, including hypoglycaemic, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing effects through various mechanisms and they have been covered well in literature. However, studies on the potential role of Aloe vera in the treatment of diabetic dyslipidemia are scanty. Therefore, in this systematic review, we focussed on the potential effect of Aloe vera and its active components in alleviating diabetic dyslipidemia, as well as their mechanism of action in pre-clinical and clinical studies.
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Sadgrove NJ, Simmonds MSJ. Pharmacodynamics of Aloe vera and acemannan in therapeutic applications for skin, digestion, and immunomodulation. Phytother Res 2021; 35:6572-6584. [PMID: 34427371 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Scientific studies of Aloe vera have tentatively explained therapeutic claims from a mechanistic perspective. Furthermore, in vitro outcomes demonstrate that the breakage of acemannan chains into smaller fragments enhances biological effects. These fragments can intravenously boost vaccine efficacy or entrain the immune system to attack cancer cells by mannose receptor agonism of macrophage or dendritic cells. With oral consumption, epithelialisation also occurs at injured sites in the small intestine or colon. The main advantage of dietary acemannan is the attenuation of the digestive process, increasing satiety, and slowing the release of sugars from starches. In the colon, acemannan is digested by microbes into short-chain fatty acids that are absorbed and augment the sensation of satiety and confer a host of other health benefits. In topical applications, an acemannan/chitosan combination accelerates the closure of wounds by promoting granular tissue formation, which creates a barrier between macrophages or neutrophils and the wound dressing. This causes M2 polarisation, reversal of inflammation, and acceleration of the re-epithelialisation process. This review summarises and explains the current pharmacodynamic paradigm in the context of acemannan in topical, oral, and intravenous applications. However, due to contradictory results in the literature, further research is required to provide scientific evidence to confirm or nullify these claims.
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Effects of Aloe Vera on healing of colonic anastomoses: experimental rat study. JOURNAL OF COLOPROCTOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcol.2018.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background Although herbal medicinal products are being used widely throughout the World, beneficial and harmful effects have not been well documented. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of Aloe Vera (AV) on colonic anastomosis healing.
Material and methods 112 albino Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five main groups: preoperative Aloe Vera Group (P), pre- and postoperative Aloe Vera Group (PP), Control Group (C), sham Aloe Vera Group (SA) and Sham Control Group (SC). Groups P, PP, and SA received 1.6 mL/kg per day Aloe Vera by orogastric feeding catheter for 1 month prior to the experiment. Groups P, PP, and C underwent anastomosis of the distal colon, and subgroups (n = 4) of each were sacrificed on postoperative day 3, 7, 14 and 21. Anastomotic bursting pressure, perianastomotic collagen content and histopathological changes were studied.
Results The SC Group had significantly higher ABP when compared with the SA Group (p = 0.0002), although hydroxyproline content showed no difference. When ABP was compared between anastomosis groups, it was found significantly lower in Aloe Vera groups on Day 3 (P3 vs. C3, p = 0.003 and PP3 vs. C3, p = 0.007). Hydroxyproline content was significantly lower in Group PP than Group C, also on Day 3 (p = 0.05). Significant difference was not detected after Day 3 in any of the study parameters.
Conclusion
Aloe Vera decreased tissue collagen content in the early postoperative period. It is advisable to call into question the concomitant usage of conventional medicine and the herbal supplements for the surgeons in their clinical practice.
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Abstract
Ranging from the skin to liver, body has an in-built detox system that keeps it running
smoothly on a daily basis. Due to the present life-style, increased stress, pollution, unhealthy dietary
habits, the natural system gets weakened. The need of present time is to unveil the herbs present in
the nature full of detox potential, inheriting the capacity to purify the kidney, liver, gut, skin and
blood. These herbal detoxifiers facilitate lungs, aids kidneys, facilitates digestive tract and skin. The
present review deals with the study of herbs under the category of detoxifiers for kidney, liver, gut,
skin and blood. The herbs were studied by sectioning them for their detoxification potential for the
major organs of the body. The use of herbal agents to detox the major organs of the body not only
helps to remove the toxins but also increases the overall energy and efficiency of the body.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ankita Wal
- Pharmacy Department, PSIT, Kanpur, India
| | - Pranay Wal
- Pharmacy Department, PSIT, Kanpur, India
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Desalegn AY, Ahmed MR. Anticoccidial Activity of Aloe debrana and Aloe pulcherrima Leaf Gel against Eimeria Oocysts. J Parasitol Res 2020; 2020:8524973. [PMID: 32550018 PMCID: PMC7275207 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8524973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Avian coccidiosis is one of the serious infectious diseases that pose huge impact on the health and production of poultry, hence mainly controlled by regular use of prophylactic and therapeutic chemical drugs. Frequent use of anticoccidial drugs, however, has resulted in the development of resistance in the Eimeria species and concerns about drug residues which have stimulated the efforts to search for alternative. Aloe pulcherrima and Aloe debrana are some of the endemic Aloe species of Ethiopia which are traditionally used for the treatment of various infectious diseases. In this study, an in vitro trial was undertaken to evaluate the effect of Aloe debrana and A. pulcherrima leaf gel infusions on the inhibition of the sporulation of oocysts of mixed Eimeria species isolated from naturally infected chickens. In this assay, petri dishes containing unsporulated coccidian oocysts at a dose of 1500 oocysts/ml of fecal solution were randomly assigned to 10, 15, 25, and 30% w/v crude gel infusion of both aloe species in 1% potassium dichromate solution while Amprolium and distilled water served as control groups. The results of this study show that 10, 15, 25, and 3 0% w/v gel infusions at the tested concentrations have anticoccidial activity as evidenced by their ability to decrease significantly (P < 0.05) the sporulation of Eimeria oocysts relative to the control incubation. The efficacy of A. debrana was found significantly better (P < 0.05) than A. pulcherrima at different concentrations. However, A. debrana at 30% concentration showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) sporulation inhibition efficacy of 79.35% (CI: 75.99-83.21) compared to A. pulcherrima (69.17%, CI: 64.65-73.92) at similar concentration in relation to the control incubation, though this could not be compared to Amprolium which was more effective (P < 0.05) with an inhibition percentage of 90.54% (CI: 89.16-92.21). This study has shown that there is potential for use of Aloe debrana leaf gel for the control of avian coccidiosis and as a chemotherapeutic, though much research is needed to determine absolute concentration which will make it comparable to commercially available drugs in terms of efficacy.
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Abstract
Synthesis of pooled data on herbal medicinal products used during and after pregnancy highlights the need for robust safety studies. OBJECTIVE: To report the incidence and nature of herbal medicinal products' adverse events and herb–drug interactions used by some pregnant and postnatal women. DATA SOURCES: The Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception until August 2018. METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION: Any studies reporting adverse events, herb–drug interactions or absence thereof associated with herbal medicinal products used during pregnancy or the postnatal period were included. Conference abstracts, pilot studies, and nonhuman studies were excluded. All included studies were critically appraised by two independent reviewers. TABULATION, INTEGRATION AND RESULTS: Database searches retrieved 3,487 citations. After duplicate removal and review of titles, abstracts, and full-text, 115 articles were critically appraised. After excluding irrelevant and low-quality articles, 74 articles were included for data extraction and synthesis. Adverse drug reactions, congenital malformations, fetal growth retardation or herb–drug interactions were the primary study objective reported by 19 of the 74 included studies, 16 cohort studies, one cross-sectional survey, and two randomized controlled trials. A total of 47 herbal medicinal products and 1,067,071 women were included in this review. Use of almond oil was associated with preterm birth (odds ratio 2.09, 95% CI 1.07–4.08), oral raspberry leaf was associated with cesarean delivery (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.47, 95% CI 1.45–8.28); heavy licorice use was associated with early preterm birth by 3.07-fold (95% CI 1.17–8.05). African herbal medicine mwanaphepo was associated with maternal morbidity (AOR 1.28; 95% CI 1.09–1.50), and neonatal death or morbidity. Fourteen studies reported absence of adverse events. Four studies reported herb–drug interactions, but none studied adverse events arising from them. CONCLUSION: The use of herbal medicinal products during pregnancy and the postnatal period should be discouraged until robust evidence of safety is available. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO, CRD42017081058.
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Fakherpour A, Jahangiri M, Yousefinejad S, Seif M, Banaee S. Assessment of aloe vera for qualitative fit testing of particulate respirators: a logistic regression approach. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2020; 58:46-53. [PMID: 31155521 PMCID: PMC6997717 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2109-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Fit testing procedure is required for filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) to ascertain an acceptable fit between the skin and facepiece sealing surface. The present study seeks to compare the efficacy of Aloe vera (A. vera) and commercial BitrexTM as challenge agents of qualitative fit testing of particulate respirators. An herbal solution consisting of A. vera at seven different concentrations was developed. Threshold Screening Tests (TSTs) of A. vera solutions were compared to BitrexTM. To do so, solutions were administered randomly on a total of 62 participants. A placebo was also tested to ensure the taste response being valid. Statistical analysis was performed using R 3.2.5.0 software. There were no statistically significant differences between the A. vera (41.7, 58.3, 75, and 91.7 mg/ml) and BitrexTM threshold tests. Therefore, the minimum concentration of A. vera to develop the threshold solution was considered to be 41.7 mg/ml. When commercial products are expensive and unavailable, a cost-effective technique would be to replace A. vera solution with a commercial product as a challenge agent of qualitative fit testing of respirators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anahita Fakherpour
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Mehdi Jahangiri
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Saeed Yousefinejad
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Mozhgan Seif
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Sean Banaee
- Community and Environmental Health, College of Health Sciences, Old Dominion University, USA
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Chu JR, Kang SY, Kim SE, Lee SJ, Lee YC, Sung MK. Prebiotic UG1601 mitigates constipation-related events in association with gut microbiota: A randomized placebo-controlled intervention study. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:6129-6144. [PMID: 31686768 PMCID: PMC6824284 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i40.6129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Constipation is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder and its etiology is multifactorial. Growing evidence suggests that intestinal dysbiosis is associated with the development of constipation. Prebiotics are subjected to bacterial fermentation in the gut to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which can help relieve constipation symptoms. The prebiotic UG1601 consists of inulin, lactitol, and aloe vera gel, which are known laxatives, but randomized, controlled clinical trials that examine the effects of this supplement on gut microbiota composition are lacking.
AIM To assess the efficacy of the prebiotic UG1601 in suppressing constipation-related adverse events in subjects with mild constipation.
METHODS Adults with a stool frequency of less than thrice a week were randomized to receive either prebiotics or a placebo supplement for 4 wk. All participants provided their fecal and blood samples at baseline and at the end of intervention. Gastrointestinal symptoms and stool frequency were evaluated. The concentrations of serum endotoxemia markers and fecal SCFAs were determined. The relative abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria and the gut microbial community in the responders and non-responders in the prebiotics supplementation group were evaluated.
RESULTS There were no significant differences in gastrointestinal symptoms between groups, although the prebiotic group showed greater symptom improvement. However, after prebiotic usage, serum cluster of differentiation (CD) 14 and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) concentrations were significantly decreased (CD14, P = 0.012; LPS, P < 0.001). The change in LPS concentration was significantly larger in the prebiotic group than in the placebo group (P < 0.001). Fecal SCFAs concentrations did not differ between groups, while the relative abundance of Roseburia hominis, a major butyrate producer, was significantly increased in the prebiotic group (P = 0.045). The abundances of the phylum Firmicutes and the family Lachnospiraceae (phylum Firmicutes, class Clostridia) (P = 0.009) were decreased in the responders within the prebiotic group. In addition, the proportions of the phylum Firmicutes, the class Clostridia, and the order Clostridiales were inversely correlated with several fecal SCFAs (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION Alterations in gut microbiota composition, including a decrease in the phylum Firmicutes and an increase in butyrate-producing bacteria, following prebiotic UG1601 supplementation might help alleviate symptom scores and endotoxemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Ryang Chu
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, South Korea
| | - Saem-Yi Kang
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, South Korea
| | - Sung-Eun Kim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, South Korea
| | - Sol-Ji Lee
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, South Korea
| | | | - Mi-Kyung Sung
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women’s University, Seoul 04310, South Korea
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| | - Kit Ieng Kuok
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| | - Ying Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
| | - Ruibing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
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Hamedi A, Moheimani SM, Sakhteman A, Etemadfard H, Moein M. An Overview on Indications and Chemical Composition of Aromatic Waters (Hydrosols) as Functional Beverages in Persian Nutrition Culture and Folk Medicine for Hyperlipidemia and Cardiovascular Conditions. J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med 2017; 22:544-561. [PMID: 29228785 PMCID: PMC5871258 DOI: 10.1177/2156587216686460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrosol beverages in Persian nutrition culture and ethnomedicine are the side products of essential oil industry that are used as delicious drinks or safe remedies. To investigate indications and chemical composition of hydrosol beverages for hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular conditions, Fars province was selected as the field of study. Ethnomedical data were gathered by questionnaires. The constituents of hydrosols were extracted with liquid/liquid extraction and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Statistical analysis were used to cluster their constituents and find the relevance of their composition. A literature survey was also performed on plants used to prepare them. Thymol was the major or second major component of these beverages, except for wormwood and olive leaf hydrosols. Based on clustering methods, although some similarities could be found, composition of barberry, will fumitory, dill, and aloe hydrosols have more differences than others. These studies may help in developing some functional beverages or new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Hamedi
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahmoud Moheimani
- Student Research Committee, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sakhteman
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hamed Etemadfard
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahmoodreza Moein
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Dey P, Dutta S, Chowdhury A, Das AP, Chaudhuri TK. Variation in Phytochemical Composition Reveals Distinct Divergence of Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. From Other Aloe Species: Rationale Behind Selective Preference of Aloe vera in Nutritional and Therapeutic Use. J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med 2017; 22:624-631. [PMID: 29228808 PMCID: PMC5871271 DOI: 10.1177/2156587217698292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, we have phytochemically characterized 5 different abundant
Aloe species, including Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f., using
silylation followed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry technique and compared the
data using multivariate statistical analysis. The results demonstrated clear distinction
of the overall phytochemical profile of A vera, highlighted by its
divergent spatial arrangement in the component plot. Lowest correlation of the
phytochemical profiles were found between A vera and A
aristata Haw. (−0.626), whereas highest correlation resided between A
aristata and A aspera Haw. (0.899). Among the individual
phytochemicals, palmitic acid was identified in highest abundance cumulatively, and
carboxylic acids were the most predominant phytochemical species in all the
Aloe species. Compared to A vera, linear correlation
analysis revealed highest and lowest correlation with A aspera
(R2 = 0.9162) and A aristata (R2 = 0.6745), respectively. Therefore, A vera demonstrated
distinct spatial allocation, reflecting its greater phytochemical variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyankar Dey
- 1 University of North Bengal, Siliguri, West Bengal, India.,2 Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Somit Dutta
- 1 University of North Bengal, Siliguri, West Bengal, India
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Zhang Y, Liu W, Liu D, Zhao T, Tian H. Efficacy of Aloe Vera Supplementation on Prediabetes and Early Non-Treated Diabetic Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients 2016; 8:nu8070388. [PMID: 27347994 PMCID: PMC4963864 DOI: 10.3390/nu8070388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2016] [Revised: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate evidence for the efficacy of aloe vera on managing prediabetes and early non-treated diabetes mellitus. We performed a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials until 28 January 2016. A total of five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 415 participants were included. Compared with the controls, aloe vera supplementation significantly reduced the concentrations of fasting blood glucose (FBG) (p = 0.02; weighed mean difference [WMD]: −30.05 mg/dL; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −54.87 to −5.23 mg/dL), glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (p < 0.00001; WMD: −0.41%; 95% CI: −0.55% to −0.27%), triglyceride (p = 0.0001), total cholesterol (TC) (p < 0.00001), and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) (p < 0.00001). Aloe vera was superior to placebo in increasing serum high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (p = 0.04). Only one adverse event was reported. The evidence from RCTs showed that aloe vera might effectively reduce the levels of FBG, HbA1c, triglyceride, TC and LDL-C, and increase the levels of HDL-C on prediabetes and early non-treated diabetic patients. Limited evidence exists about the safety of aloe vera. Given the small number and poor quality of RCTs included in the meta-analysis, these results are inconclusive. A large-scale, well-designed RCT is needed to further address this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyi Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Wen Liu
- Phase I Clinical Research Unit, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Tieyun Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Haoming Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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Dick WR, Fletcher EA, Shah SA. Reduction of Fasting Blood Glucose and Hemoglobin A1c Using Oral Aloe Vera: A Meta-Analysis. J Altern Complement Med 2016; 22:450-7. [DOI: 10.1089/acm.2015.0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- William R. Dick
- Department of Pharmacy, David Grant Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base, Fairfield, CA
| | - Emily A. Fletcher
- Department of Pharmacy, David Grant Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base, Fairfield, CA
| | - Sachin A. Shah
- Department of Pharmacy, David Grant Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base, Fairfield, CA
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA
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19
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Abeer MES, Shahira ME, Mohammed NK, Seham SEH. Chemical composition and evaluation of possible alpha glucosidase inhibitory activity of eight Aloe species. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.5897/jmpr2015.5974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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20
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Suksomboon N, Poolsup N, Punthanitisarn S. Effect ofAloe veraon glycaemic control in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Pharm Ther 2016; 41:180-8. [DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.12382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- N. Suksomboon
- Department of Pharmacy; Faculty of Pharmacy; Mahidol University; Bangkok Thailand
| | - N. Poolsup
- Department of Pharmacy; Faculty of Pharmacy; Silpakorn University; Nakhon-Pathom Thailand
| | - S. Punthanitisarn
- Department of Pharmacy; Faculty of Pharmacy; Mahidol University; Bangkok Thailand
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21
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Pothuraju R, Sharma RK, Onteru SK, Singh S, Hussain SA. Hypoglycemic and Hypolipidemic Effects ofAloe veraExtract Preparations: A Review. Phytother Res 2015; 30:200-7. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Shaik Abdul Hussain
- Dairy Technology Division; National Dairy Research Institute; Karnal 132001 Haryana India
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Pothuraju R, Sharma RK, Chagalamarri J, Kavadi PK, Jangra S. Influence of milk fermented with Lactobacillus rhamnosus NCDC 17 alone and in combination with herbal ingredients on diet induced adiposity and related gene expression in C57BL/6J mice. Food Funct 2015; 6:3576-84. [PMID: 26327356 DOI: 10.1039/c5fo00781j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Obesity has become a major health problem in developed countries and is rapidly catching up in the developing world due to changes in their life style. Dietary incorporation of functional foods, including probiotic fermented milk and herbal ingredients, is being tried to ameliorate metabolic disorders. In the present study, the effect of dietary supplementation of a probiotic (Lactobacillus rhamnosus NCDC 17) fermented milk alone or either of the herbal preparations (Aloe vera/Gymnema sylvestre powders, 1% w/w) on the progression of obesity has been studied in C57BL/6J mice fed with a high fat diet for 12 weeks. At the end of the experimental period, oral administration of L. rhamnosus and herbs resulted in a significant decrease in the body weight, epididymal fat mass, fasting blood glucose and serum insulin levels. Supplementation of the probiotic L. rhamnosus alone and in combination with herbs showed a significant decrease in the adipocyte cell size and an increase in the number. Finally, obesity related adipokines levels were maintained at normal by the treatment groups. Thus, dietary intervention of milk fermented with probiotic L. rhamnosus alone or in combination with any of the herbal preparations seems to show anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Pothuraju
- Division of Animal Biochemistry, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal-132001, Haryana, India.
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Prueksrisakul T, Chantarangsu S, Thunyakitpisal P. Effect of daily drinking of Aloe vera gel extract on plasma total antioxidant capacity and oral pathogenic bacteria in healthy volunteer: a short-term study. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 12:159-164. [PMID: 25803090 DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2014-0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Aloe vera gel extract on plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and oral pathogenic bacteria in healthy volunteer. METHODS Fifty-three healthy volunteers were participated and interviewed for history of allergy, current systemic diseases and medications. Participants were received 250 mL of A. vera gel extract daily for 14 consecutive days. At days 0 and 15 of the experiment, blood samples were collected and analyzed for biochemical markers. The plasma TAC was evaluated by ferric reducing ability of plasma technique. The biochemical markers, including aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total protein (TP), serum albumin (ALB), serum globulin (GLB), total bilirubin (TB), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (Cr) and creatinine clearance (CrCl) were measured. The antibacterial effect of A. vera gel extract against Lactobacillus spp. and Streptococcus mutans was also investigated. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-test to compare between baseline and 14 days post-intervention. RESULTS Neither allergy nor side effects of A. vera gel extract was detected. After 14 days of A. vera gel extract consumption, plasma TAC was significantly greater than that of baseline (p = 0.001). ALP, TB, TP and GLB were significantly increased (p < 0.05) which were still within normal range. AST, ALT, ALB, BUN, Cr and CrCl were not significantly different. A. vera gel extract significantly reduced the number of Lactobacillus spp. (p < 0.05), not S. mutans. CONCLUSIONS Our data revealed that A. vera gel extract significantly increased plasma TAC, and decreased the number of Lactobacillus spp. without any clinical side effects.
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Posadzki P, Watson L, Ernst E. Herb-drug interactions: an overview of systematic reviews. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2013; 75:603-18. [PMID: 22670731 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04350.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this overview of systematic reviews (SRs) is to evaluate critically the evidence regarding interactions between herbal medicinal products (HMPs) and synthetic drugs. METHODS Four electronic databases were searched to identify relevant SRs. RESULTS Forty-six SRs of 46 different HMPs met our inclusion criteria. The vast majority of SRs were of poor methodological quality. The majority of these HMPs were not associated with severe herb-drug interactions. Serious herb-drug interactions were noted for Hypericum perforatum and Viscum album. The most severe interactions resulted in transplant rejection, delayed emergence from anaesthesia, cardiovascular collapse, renal and liver toxicity, cardiotoxicity, bradycardia, hypovolaemic shock, inflammatory reactions with organ fibrosis and death. Moderately severe interactions were noted for Ginkgo biloba, Panax ginseng, Piper methysticum, Serenoa repens and Camellia sinensis. The most commonly interacting drugs were antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants. CONCLUSION The majority of the HMPs evaluated in SRs were not associated with drug interactions with serious consequences. However, the poor quality and the scarcity of the primary data prevent firm conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Posadzki
- Complementary Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, University of Exeter, Veysey Building, Salmon Pool Lane, Exeter EX2 4SG, England.
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Abstract
This overview of systematic reviews (SRs) aims to evaluate critically the evidence regarding the adverse effects of herbal medicines (HMs). Five electronic databases were searched to identify all relevant SRs, with 50 SRs of 50 different HMs meeting our inclusion criteria. Most had only minor weaknesses in methods. Serious adverse effects were noted only for four HMs: Herbae pulvis standardisatus, Larrea tridentate, Piper methysticum and Cassia senna. The most severe adverse effects were liver or kidney damage, colon perforation, carcinoma, coma and death. Moderately severe adverse effects were noted for 15 HMs: Pelargonium sidoides, Perna canaliculus, Aloe vera, Mentha piperita, Medicago sativa, Cimicifuga racemosa, Caulophyllum thalictroides, Serenoa repens, Taraxacum officinale, Camellia sinensis, Commifora mukul, Hoodia gordonii, Viscum album, Trifolium pratense and Stevia rebaudiana. Minor adverse effects were noted for 31 HMs: Thymus vulgaris, Lavandula angustifolia Miller, Boswellia serrata, Calendula officinalis, Harpagophytum procumbens, Panax ginseng, Vitex agnus-castus, Crataegus spp., Cinnamomum spp., Petasites hybridus, Agave americana, Hypericum perforatum, Echinacea spp., Silybum marianum, Capsicum spp., Genus phyllanthus, Ginkgo biloba, Valeriana officinalis, Hippocastanaceae, Melissa officinalis, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Lagerstroemia speciosa, Cnicus benedictus, Salvia hispanica, Vaccinium myrtillus, Mentha spicata, Rosmarinus officinalis, Crocus sativus, Gymnema sylvestre, Morinda citrifolia and Curcuma longa. Most of the HMs evaluated in SRs were associated with only moderately severe or minor adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Posadzki
- Peninsula Medical School, Veysey Building, Exeter, Devon.
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Savarino E, de Bortoli N, Zentilin P, Martinucci I, Bruzzone L, Furnari M, Marchi S, Savarino V. Alginate controls heartburn in patients with erosive and nonerosive reflux disease. World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:4371-8. [PMID: 22969201 PMCID: PMC3436053 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i32.4371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2012] [Revised: 07/27/2012] [Accepted: 08/15/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To evaluate the effect of a novel alginate-based compound, Faringel, in modifying reflux characteristics and controlling symptoms.
METHODS: In this prospective, open-label study, 40 patients reporting heartburn and regurgitation with proven reflux disease (i.e., positive impedance-pH test/evidence of erosive esophagitis at upper endoscopy) underwent 2 h impedance-pH testing after eating a refluxogenic meal. They were studied for 1 h under basal conditions and 1 h after taking 10 mL Faringel. In both sessions, measurements were obtained in right lateral and supine decubitus positions. Patients also completed a validated questionnaire consisting of a 2-item 5-point (0-4) Likert scale and a 10-cm visual analogue scale (VAS) in order to evaluate the efficacy of Faringel in symptom relief. Tolerability of the treatment was assessed using a 6-point Likert scale ranging from very good (1) to very poor (6).
RESULTS: Faringel decreased significantly (P < 0.001), in both the right lateral and supine decubitus positions, esophageal acid exposure time [median 10 (25th-75th percentil 6-16) vs 5.8 (4-10) and 16 (11-19) vs 7.5 (5-11), respectively] and acid refluxes [5 (3-8) vs 1 (1-1) and 6 (4-8) vs 2 (1-2), respectively], but increased significantly (P < 0.01) the number of nonacid reflux events compared with baseline [2 (1-3) vs 3 (2-5) and 3 (2-4) vs 6 (3-8), respectively]. Percentage of proximal migration decreased in both decubitus positions (60% vs 32% and 64% vs 35%, respectively; P < 0.001). Faringel was significantly effective in controlling heartburn, based on both the Likert scale [3.1 (range 1-4) vs 0.9 (0-2); P < 0.001] and VAS score [7.1 (3-9.8) vs 2 (0.1-4.8); P < 0.001], but it had less success against regurgitation, based on both the Likert scale [2.6 (1-4) vs 2.2 (1-4); P = not significant (NS)] and VAS score [5.6 (2-9.6) vs 3.9 (1-8.8); P = NS]. Overall, the tolerability of Faringel was very good 5 (2-6), with only two patients reporting modest adverse events (i.e., nausea and bloating).
CONCLUSION: Our findings demonstrate that Faringel is well-tolerated and effective in reducing heartburn by modifying esophageal acid exposure time, number of acid refluxes and their proximal migration.
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Williamson G, Coppens P, Serra-Majem L, Dew T. Review of the efficacy of green tea, isoflavones and aloe vera supplements based on randomised controlled trials. Food Funct 2011; 2:753-9. [PMID: 21927741 DOI: 10.1039/c1fo10101c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
We assess the evidence for health benefits of three commonly consumed plant food supplements (PFS), green tea, isoflavone and aloe vera, based on published systematic reviews of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Whilst the potential benefits of green tea have been reported in a wide range of health areas, it is only in the area of the metabolic syndrome that the number of RCTs is approaching sufficient to judge such efficacy. Isoflavone supplements are widely used, and RCTs indicate that they affect bone resorption at lower doses in postmenopausal women undergoing estrogen-related bone loss, but this is only translated to attenuation of bone loss at higher doses of isoflavones. A systematic review on RCTs concluded that the effects of isoflavones on hot flashes in postmenopausal women were highly variable and no conclusions could be drawn. Despite the popularity of aloe vera as a PFS, the evaluation of its efficacy as a coadjuvant therapy for certain metabolic or digestive pathologies remains scarce; it constitutes a typical example of a naturally occurring ingredient whose efficacy in topical applications presupposes its efficacy in systemic applications. Nevertheless, its possible toxic effects on oral consumption call for caution in its utility as a PFS. Since 2007, efficacy evaluation of PFS in Europe has been covered by European Union Nutrition and Health Claims legislation. The European Food Safety Authority has adopted an approach relying on RCTs, while medicinal effects are accepted based on traditional use. In general, there are insufficient RCTs for claims to be made, and conclusive results on PFS should be obtained in the future by conducting studies with more homogeneous populations, by using supplements with optimised and measured bioavailability, and by conducting larger RCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Williamson
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
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Abstract
Herbs have been used for centuries to prevent and control disease. Herbal extracts are effective because they interact with specific chemical receptors within the body and are in a pharmacodynamic sense, drugs themselves. By using herbal medicines, patients have averted the many side effects that generally come with traditional medicines, but this does not mean that side effects do not occur. Only knowledgeable practitioners can prescribe the right herb and its proper dosage. Herbal medicines had been considered in every culture, however, pharmaceutical companies overturned this type of thinking. Now, pharmaceuticals are called traditional and herbs are libeled as the 'alternative'. The biggest challenge and problem is lack of information about the effect of herbs in oral tissues, mechanism of effect, and side effects. Several popular conventional drugs on the market are derived from herbs. These include aspirin (from white willow bark), digitalis (from foxglove), and sudafed (modelled after a component in the plant ephedra). Herbal products can vary in their potency. Therefore, care must be taken in selecting herbs, even so, herbal medicines have dramatically fewer side effects and are safer to use than conventional medications. The herbs described in this article are Bloodroot, Caraway, Chamomile, Echinacea, Myrrh, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Aloe Vera, Propolis, and a summary of other herbs that are useful in dentistry. Herbs may be good alternatives to current treatments for oral health problems but it is clear that we need more research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamile B Taheri
- Oral Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
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30
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Shah SA, DiTullio P, Azadi M, Shapiro RJ, Eid TJ, Snyder JA. Effects of oral aloe vera on electrocardiographic and blood pressure measurements. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2010; 67:1942-6. [DOI: 10.2146/ajhp100041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sachin A. Shah
- Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, University of the Pacific (UP), Stockton, CA, and Regional Coordinator, David Grant USAF Medical Center, Travis AFB, CA
| | | | - Mehdi Azadi
- Department of Pharmacy, David Grant USAF Medical Center
| | | | - Tony J. Eid
- Department of Pharmacy, David Grant USAF Medical Center
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