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Chindo BA, Howes MJR, Abuhamdah S, Mallam D, Micah T, Awotula RI, Battison R, Chazot PL. Evaluation of the anti-nociceptive profile of essential oil from Melissa officinalis L. (lemon balm) in acute and chronic pain models. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 321:117500. [PMID: 38030022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Melissa officinalis L. (Lamiaceae) is a medicinal plant native to Mediterranean regions and found in other parts of the world. Extracts and essential oil from this widely cultivated culinary medicinal herb are used in traditional medicine to manage a variety of disorders that include epilepsy and pain. AIM OF THE STUDY To assess the anti-nociceptive potentials of Melissa officinalis essential oil (MO) and probe the involvement of adrenergic, opioidergic, serotonergic and potassium adenosine triphosphate (KATP) mechanisms in its anti-nociceptive effects. MATERIAL AND METHODS We employed formalin-, acetic acid and hot plate-induced nociception to study the acute anti-nociceptive effects of MO. The sciatic nerve injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain was utilized to study the anti-nociceptive effects of MO on chronic pain. Effects of MO on anxiety, cognitive deficits, oxidative stress and inflammation in the CCI rats were evaluated on elevated plus maze, open field test, novel object recognition, oxidative stress parameters and pro-inflammatory cytokines, respectively. The possible mechanism(s) of MO's anti-nociceptive effects were elucidated using prazosin, yohimbine, propranolol, glibenclimide, naloxone and metergoline, which are acknowledged antagonists for α1-, α2- and β-adrenergic, potassium adenosine triphosphate (KATP), opioidergic and serotonergic systems, respectively. RESULTS MO significantly attenuated acetic acid- and formalin-induced nociception; prolonged the mean reaction time of rats on hot plate before and following sciatic nerve chronic injury (CCI). MO ameliorated anxiety, cognitive deficits and oxidative stress, reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and produced a near total restoration of injured sciatic nerves in CCI rats. Naloxone, metergoline and glibenclimide significantly blocked, while prazosin, yohimbine and popranolol failed to block the anti-nociceptive effects of MO in formalin-induced nociception. CONCLUSIONS MO contains biologically active compounds with potential anti-nociceptive properties that modulate KATP, opioidergic and serotonergic pathways. These support the development of bioactive compounds from MO as anti-nociceptive agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben A Chindo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria.
| | | | - Sawsan Abuhamdah
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, United Kingdom; College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, P.O. Box 112612, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Danjuma Mallam
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | - Timothy Micah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | - Rosemary I Awotula
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria; Roses Veterinary Services, No. 5 Nyerere Road, Narayi High Cost, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | - Robin Battison
- Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 3DS, United Kingdom
| | - Paul L Chazot
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, United Kingdom
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Bano A, Hepsomali P, Rabbani F, Farooq U, Kanwal A, Saleem A, Bugti AA, Khan AA, Khalid Z, Bugti M, Mureed S, Khan S, Ujjan ID, Şahin S, Kara M, Khan A. The possible "calming effect" of subchronic supplementation of a standardised phospholipid carrier-based Melissa officinalis L. extract in healthy adults with emotional distress and poor sleep conditions: results from a prospective, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1250560. [PMID: 37927585 PMCID: PMC10620697 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1250560] [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] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Emotional distress conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, and poor sleep are widespread health problems that have a significant impact on people's lives. Conventional drugs are commonly prescribed to treat emotional distress and poor sleep conditions; however, these medications have several limitations and have shown multiple side effects. Over recent years botanicals-based pharmacological agents have gained increasing research and clinical interest in the management of emotional distress and sleep disorder. Of note, Melissa officinalis L. (MO) leaf extract has demonstrated considerable neuropharmacological properties both in animal and human studies and has emerged as a promising natural "calming agent." However, research in this area is limited, and more studies are needed to validate its efficacy in amelioration of emotional distress and poor sleep conditions. Objectives: We aimed to assess the pharmacological effects of subchronic supplementation of an innovative standardised phospholipid carrier-based MO aqueous extract on emotional distress and poor sleep conditions. Design: A 3-week prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, double-blinded clinical trial was conducted in 100 healthy adults complaining of a moderate degree of depression, anxiety, or stress, with scores of ≥14, ≥10, and ≥19, respectively, in the self-report Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-42) or poor sleep, as indicated by the score of >5 in the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scale. In addition, the impact of emotional distress and/or poor sleep on participants' mental wellbeing, emotional feelings, and quality of life was also assessed using the self-reported Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS), Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) scale, and quality of life (WHO-QoL-BREF) scale, respectively. Results: Oral supplementation of 200 mg of phospholipid-based MO aqueous extract (Relissa™) tablets twice a day (i.e., 400 mg/day) for 3 weeks led to significant improvements in the depressive mood, anxiety, stress, positive and negative affect (emotional feelings), overall mental wellbeing, and quality-of-life scores (all p values <0.001). Supplementation of MO extract was well tolerated, and no treatment-emergent effects or serious adverse events were reported. Conclusion: According to the results of this study, the phospholipid carrier-based MO aqueous extract possesses considerable neuropharmacological properties, and its supplementation may provide a promising therapeutic option for the management of moderate emotional distress and/or poor sleep conditions. Clinical Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT05602688.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aasiya Bano
- PEOC, Department of Health, Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan
| | - Piril Hepsomali
- School of Psychology, University of Roehampton, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fazle Rabbani
- Department of Psychiatry, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Umer Farooq
- Ayub Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Kanwal
- Department of Psychiatry, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Aisha Saleem
- Ayub Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Ali Akbar Bugti
- Department of General Surgery, Bolan Medical Complex Hospital (BMCH), Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Aftab Alam Khan
- Ayub Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Zainab Khalid
- Ayub Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Mahroo Bugti
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, BMCH, Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Shah Mureed
- Department of Paediatrics, BMCH, Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Saeed Khan
- Department of Pathology, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ikram Din Ujjan
- Department of Pathology, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS), Jamshoro, Pakistan
| | - Sümeyye Şahin
- Department of Food Engineering, Ordu University, Ordu, Türkiye
| | - Mehtap Kara
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Amjad Khan
- Nuffield Division of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Biochemistry, LUMHS, Jamshoro, Pakistan
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Mony TJ, Elahi F, Choi JW, Park SJ. Neuropharmacological Effects of Terpenoids on Preclinical Animal Models of Psychiatric Disorders: A Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11091834. [PMID: 36139909 PMCID: PMC9495487 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11091834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Terpenoids are widely distributed in nature, especially in the plant kingdom, and exhibit diverse pharmacological activities. In recent years, screening has revealed a wide variety of new terpenoids that are active against different psychiatric disorders. This review synthesized the current published preclinical studies of terpenoid use in psychiatric disorders. This review was extensively investigated to provide empirical evidence regarding the neuropharmacological effects of the vast group of terpenoids in translational models of psychiatric disorders, their relevant mechanisms of action, and treatment regimens with evidence of the safety and psychotropic efficacy. Therefore, we utilized nine (9) electronic databases and performed manual searches of each. The relevant data were retrieved from the articles published until present. We used the search terms "terpenoids" or "terpenes" and "psychiatric disorders" ("psychiatric disorders" OR "psychiatric diseases" OR "neuropsychiatric disorders" OR "psychosis" OR "psychiatric symptoms"). The efficacy of terpenoids or biosynthetic compounds in the terpenoid group was demonstrated in preclinical animal studies. Ginsenosides, bacosides, oleanolic acid, asiatic acid, boswellic acid, mono- and diterpenes, and different forms of saponins and triterpenoids were found to be important bioactive compounds in several preclinical studies of psychosis. Taken together, the findings of the present review indicate that natural terpenoids and their derivatives could achieve remarkable success as an alternative therapeutic option for alleviating the core or associated behavioral features of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamanna Jahan Mony
- Agriculture and Life Science Research Institute, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
| | - Fazle Elahi
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
| | - Ji Woong Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
- Correspondence: (J.W.C.); (S.J.P.); Tel.: +82-32-820-4955 (J.W.C.); +82-33-250-6441 (S.J.P.); Fax: +82-32-820-4829 (J.W.C.); +82-33-259-5563 (S.J.P.)
| | - Se Jin Park
- School of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences and Agriculture and Life Science Research Institute, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
- Correspondence: (J.W.C.); (S.J.P.); Tel.: +82-32-820-4955 (J.W.C.); +82-33-250-6441 (S.J.P.); Fax: +82-32-820-4829 (J.W.C.); +82-33-259-5563 (S.J.P.)
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Medicinal Plants Used for Anxiety, Depression, or Stress Treatment: An Update. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27186021. [PMID: 36144755 PMCID: PMC9500625 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27186021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental disorders, which are on the rise worldwide, are indications that pharmacological therapy can have serious adverse effects, which is why many patients prefer to use herbal products to treat these symptoms. Here, we reviewed plants and products derived from them that are commonly used for the above indications, focusing on clinical data and safety profiles. While lavender, hops, maypop, lemon balm, and valerian have consistently been shown in clinical trials to relieve mild forms of neurological disorders, particularly depression, anxiety, and stress, currently available data do not fully support the use of peppermint for anxiety disorders and depression. Recent studies support the use of saffron for depression; however, its toxicological profile raises safety concerns. St. John’s wort is effective in alleviating mild to moderate depression; however, careful use is necessary particularly due to possible interactions with other drugs. In conclusion, more studies are needed to validate the mechanism of action so that these plants can be used successfully and safely to alleviate or eliminate various mental disorders.
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Stojanović NM, Mladenović MZ, Maslovarić A, Stojiljković NI, Randjelović PJ, Radulović NS. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) essential oil and citronellal modulate anxiety-related symptoms - In vitro and in vivo studies. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 284:114788. [PMID: 34718102 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Besides psyche-related symptoms, patients with anxiety disorders can have a large number of somatic symptoms as well. Although the treatment of these disorders is mainly focused on resolving their mental component, one cannot neglect the need for the treatment of accompanying somatic symptoms. Melissa officinalis L. (lemon balm), in various formulations, has been extensively used as an ethnomedicinal remedy for the treatment of different psyche-related symptoms, and its use is considered relatively safe. AIM OF THE STUDY In the present study, the activity of M. officinalis (MO) essential oil was evaluated in several in vitro and in vivo models mimicking or involving anxiety-related somatic symptoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS To address the effect of MO essential oil on the gastrointestinal and heart-related symptoms accompanying anxiety disorders, in vitro models were utilized that follow the function of the isolated mouse ileum and atria tissues, respectively, after exposure to MO essential oil. Effects of MO essential oil on BALB/c mice motor activity was estimated using the open field, rota-rod, and horizontal wire tests. Additionally, the essential oil was assayed for its potential in inhibiting acetylcholinesterase activity. RESULTS The performance of mice treated with 25 mg/kg of the oil showed a statistically significant decrease in the motor impairment arising from acute anxiety (open field test), while there was a prolonged latency and a reduction of the frequency of falling from a rotating rod and/or a horizontal wire (signs of muscle weakness/spasms). Concentrations of the essential oil higher than 1 μg/mL were found to inhibit both spontaneous and induced ileum contractions. Moreover, the essential oil and citronellal were found to decrease isolated mouse atria contraction frequency, as well as contraction force. However, the oil was found to be a very weak acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. CONCLUSION The modulation of anxiety-related symptoms by the oil was found not to be mediated through the inhibition of the acetylcholinesterase, nonetheless, the mechanistic studies involving the ileum and cardiac tissues, revealed that the activity of MO and citronellal might be related to the modification of either voltage-gated Ca2+ channels or muscarinic receptors. Mice locomotion, balance, and muscle strength were not impacted by the essential oil; however, its main constituent, citronellal, was found to exert a certain degree of muscle function inhibition. All these results suggest that the activity of MO essential oil arises from synergistic and/or antagonistic interactions of its constituents, and is not completely dependent on the oil's main constituent.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marko Z Mladenović
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, University of Niš, Serbia.
| | | | | | | | - Niko S Radulović
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, University of Niš, Serbia.
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Chindo BA, Howes MJR, Abuhamdah S, Yakubu MI, Ayuba GI, Battison A, Chazot PL. New Insights Into the Anticonvulsant Effects of Essential Oil From Melissa officinalis L. (Lemon Balm). Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:760674. [PMID: 34721045 PMCID: PMC8551917 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.760674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Melissa officinalis L. is used in traditional European and Iranian folk medicines to treat a plethora of neurological diseases including epilepsy. We utilized the in vitro and in vivo models of epilepsy to probe the anticonvulsant potentials of essential oil from M. officinalis (MO) to gain insight into the scientific basis for its applications in traditional medicine for the management of convulsive disorders. MO was evaluated for effects on maximal electroshock (MES) and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) -induced seizures in mice, on 4–aminopyridine (4-AP)-brain slice model of epilepsy and sustained repetitive firing of current clamped neurons; and its ameliorative effects were examined on seizure severity, anxiety, depression, cognitive dysfunction, oxidative stress and neuronal cell loss in PTZ-kindled rats. MO reversibly blocked spontaneous ictal-like discharges in the 4-AP-brain slice model of epilepsy and secondary spikes from sustained repetitive firing, suggesting anticonvulsant effects and voltage-gated sodium channel blockade. MO protected mice from PTZ– and MES–induced seizures and mortality, and ameliorated seizure severity, fear-avoidance, depressive-like behavior, cognitive deficits, oxidative stress and neuronal cell loss in PTZ–kindled rats. The findings warrant further study for the potential use of MO and/or its constituent(s) as adjunctive therapy for epileptic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben A Chindo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | | | - Sawsan Abuhamdah
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom.,College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Musa I Yakubu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | - Godwin I Ayuba
- Department of Anatomic Pathology and Forensic Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | | | - Paul L Chazot
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
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Scuteri D, Hamamura K, Sakurada T, Watanabe C, Sakurada S, Morrone LA, Rombolà L, Tonin P, Bagetta G, Corasaniti MT. Efficacy of Essential Oils in Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Evidence. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:640128. [PMID: 33732159 PMCID: PMC7957371 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.640128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The demand for essential oils (EOs) has been steadily growing over the years. This is mirrored by a substantial increase in research concerned with EOs also in the field of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. The purpose of this present systematic review and meta-analysis is to investigate the preclinical evidence in favor of the working hypothesis of the analgesic properties of EOs, elucidating whether there is a consistent rational basis for translation into clinical settings. Methods: A literature search has been conducted on databases relevant for medical scientific literature, i.e., PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science from database inception until November 2, 2020, following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) criteria for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Results: The search was conducted in order to answer the following PICOS (participants/population, interventions, comparisons, outcomes, and study design) question: are EOs efficacious in reducing acute nociceptive pain and/or neuropathic pain in mice experimental models? The search retrieved 2,491 records, leaving 954 studies to screen after the removal of duplicates. The title and abstract of all 954 studies were screened, which left 127 records to evaluate in full text. Of these, 30 articles were eligible for inclusion. Conclusion: Most studies (27) assessed the analgesic properties of EOs on acute nociceptive pain models, e.g. the acetic acid writhings test, the formalin test, and the hot plate test. Unfortunately, efficacy in neuropathic pain models, which are a more suitable model for human conditions of chronic pain, had fewer results (only three studies). Moreover, some methodologies raised concerns in terms of the risk of bias. Therefore, EOs with proven efficacy in both types of pain were corroborated by methodologically consistent studies, like the EO of bergamot, which should be studied in clinical trials to enhance the translational impact of preclinical modeling on clinical pain research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiana Scuteri
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Section of Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy.,Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, Crotone, Italy
| | - Kengo Hamamura
- Laboratory of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Daiichi University of Pharmacy, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Sakurada
- Center for Supporting Pharmaceutical Education, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Daiichi University of Pharmacy, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Chizuko Watanabe
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Shinobu Sakurada
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Luigi Antonio Morrone
- Section of Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Laura Rombolà
- Section of Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Paolo Tonin
- Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, Crotone, Italy
| | - Giacinto Bagetta
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Section of Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Maria Tiziana Corasaniti
- Department of Health Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy.,School of Hospital Pharmacy, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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Soheili M, Karimian M, Hamidi G, Salami M. Alzheimer's disease treatment: The share of herbal medicines. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 24:123-135. [PMID: 33953850 PMCID: PMC8061323 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2020.50536.11512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
One of the most frequent forms of dementia in neurological disorders is Alzheimer's disease (AD). It is a chronic neurodegenerative disease characterized by impaired learning and memory. Pathological symptoms as extracellular amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and intracellular accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles occur in AD. Due to the aging of the population and increased prevalence of AD, discovery of new therapeutic agents with the highest effectiveness and fewer side effect seems to be necessary. Numerous synthetic medicines such as tacrine, donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine, memantine, glutathione, ascorbic acid, ubiquinone, ibuprofen, and ladostigil are routinely used for reduction of the symptoms and prevention of disease progression. Nowadays, herbal medicines have attracted popular attention for numerous beneficial effects with little side effects. Lavandula angustifolia, Ginkgo biloba, Melissa officinalis, Crocus sativus, Ginseng, Salvia miltiorrhiza, and Magnolia officinalis have been widely used for relief of symptoms of some neurological disorders. This paper reviews the therapeutic effects of phytomedicines with prominent effects against various factors implicated in the emergence and progression of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Soheili
- Physiology Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karimian
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| | - Gholamali Hamidi
- Physiology Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Salami
- Physiology Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
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Koyama S, Heinbockel T. The Effects of Essential Oils and Terpenes in Relation to Their Routes of Intake and Application. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1558. [PMID: 32106479 PMCID: PMC7084246 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Essential oils have been used in multiple ways, i.e., inhaling, topically applying on the skin, and drinking. Thus, there are three major routes of intake or application involved: the olfactory system, the skin, and the gastro-intestinal system. Understanding these routes is important for clarifying the mechanisms of action of essential oils. Here we summarize the three systems involved, and the effects of essential oils and their constituents at the cellular and systems level. Many factors affect the rate of uptake of each chemical constituent included in essential oils. It is important to determine how much of each constituent is included in an essential oil and to use single chemical compounds to precisely test their effects. Studies have shown synergistic influences of the constituents, which affect the mechanisms of action of the essential oil constituents. For the skin and digestive system, the chemical components of essential oils can directly activate gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors and transient receptor potential channels (TRP) channels, whereas in the olfactory system, chemical components activate olfactory receptors. Here, GABA receptors and TRP channels could play a role, mostly when the signals are transferred to the olfactory bulb and the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachiko Koyama
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Thomas Heinbockel
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Howard University, Washington, DC 20059, USA
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Volatile Terpenes and Brain Function: Investigation of the Cognitive and Mood Effects of Mentha × Piperita L. Essential Oil with In Vitro Properties Relevant to Central Nervous System Function. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10081029. [PMID: 30087294 PMCID: PMC6116079 DOI: 10.3390/nu10081029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Extracts of several members of the monoterpene-rich Lamiaceae sub-family Nepetoideae, including those from the Salvia (sage), Melissa (Lemon balm) and Rosmarinus (rosemary) genera, evince cognitive and mood effects in humans that are potentially related to their effects on cholinergic and GABAergic neurotransmission. To date, despite promising in vitro properties, the cognitive and mood effects of the closely related Mentha spicata (spearmint) and Mentha piperita (peppermint) remain unexplored. This study therefore assessed the human cognitive/mood effects of the M. spicata/piperita essential oil with the most promising, brain-relevant in vitro properties according to pre-trial in vitro screening. Design: Organic spearmint and peppermint (Mentha spicata/piperita) essential oils were pre-screened for neurotransmitter receptor binding and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, balanced cross-over study, 24 participants (mean age 25.2 years) consumed single doses of encapsulated placebo and 50 µL and 100 µL of the most promising essential oil (peppermint with nicotinic/GABAA receptor binding and AChE inhibitory properties, that increased calcium influx in a CAD cell neuronal model). Psychological functioning was assessed with mood scales and a range of standardised, cognitively demanding tasks pre-dose and at 1, 3 and 6 h post-dose. Results: The highest (100 µL) dose of essential oil improved performance on the cognitively demanding Rapid Visual Information Processing task (RVIP) at 1 h and 3 h post-dose and both doses attenuated fatigue and improved performance of the Serial 3 s subtraction task at 3 h post-dose. Conclusion: Peppermint (Mentha piperita) essential oil with high levels of menthol/menthone and characteristic in vitro cholinergic inhibitory, calcium regulatory and GABAA/nicotinic receptor binding properties, beneficially modulated performance on demanding cognitive tasks and attenuated the increase in mental fatigue associated with extended cognitive task performance in healthy adults. Future investigations should consider investigating higher doses.
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Wang ZJ, Heinbockel T. Essential Oils and Their Constituents Targeting the GABAergic System and Sodium Channels as Treatment of Neurological Diseases. Molecules 2018; 23:E1061. [PMID: 29724056 PMCID: PMC6099651 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23051061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Essential oils and the constituents in them exhibit different pharmacological activities, such as antinociceptive, anxiolytic-like, and anticonvulsant effects. They are widely applied as a complementary therapy for people with anxiety, insomnia, convulsion, pain, and cognitive deficit symptoms through inhalation, oral administration, and aromatherapy. Recent studies show that essential oils are emerging as a promising source for modulation of the GABAergic system and sodium ion channels. This review summarizes the recent findings regarding the pharmacological properties of essential oils and compounds from the oils and the mechanisms underlying their effects. Specifically, the review focuses on the essential oils and their constituents targeting the GABAergic system and sodium channels, and their antinociceptive, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant properties. Some constituents target transient receptor potential (TRP) channels to exert analgesic effects. Some components could interact with multiple therapeutic target proteins, for example, inhibit the function of sodium channels and, at the same time, activate GABAA receptors. The review concentrates on perspective compounds that could be better candidates for new drug development in the control of pain and anxiety syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Jun Wang
- Department of Anatomy, Howard University College of Medicine, 520 W Str., NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA.
| | - Thomas Heinbockel
- Department of Anatomy, Howard University College of Medicine, 520 W Str., NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA.
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Savage K, Firth J, Stough C, Sarris J. GABA-modulating phytomedicines for anxiety: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical evidence. Phytother Res 2017; 32:3-18. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Savage
- ARCADIA Mental Health Research Group, Professorial Unit, The Melbourne Clinic, Department of Psychiatry; The University of Melbourne; 2 Salisbury Street Richmond Victoria 3121 Australia
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology; Swinburne University of Technology; John St Hawthorn Victoria 3122 Australia
| | - Joseph Firth
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health; University of Manchester; Oxford Rd Manchester M13 9PL UK
- NICM, School of Science and Health; Western Sydney University; Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Con Stough
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology; Swinburne University of Technology; John St Hawthorn Victoria 3122 Australia
| | - Jerome Sarris
- ARCADIA Mental Health Research Group, Professorial Unit, The Melbourne Clinic, Department of Psychiatry; The University of Melbourne; 2 Salisbury Street Richmond Victoria 3121 Australia
- NICM, School of Science and Health; Western Sydney University; Sydney NSW Australia
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Ayaz M, Sadiq A, Junaid M, Ullah F, Subhan F, Ahmed J. Neuroprotective and Anti-Aging Potentials of Essential Oils from Aromatic and Medicinal Plants. Front Aging Neurosci 2017; 9:168. [PMID: 28611658 PMCID: PMC5447774 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2017.00168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of essential oils (EOs) and their components is known since long in traditional medicine and aromatherapy for the management of various diseases, and is further increased in the recent times. The neuroprotective and anti-aging potentials of EOs and their possible mechanism of actions were evaluated by numerous researchers around the globe. Several clinically important EOs and their components from Nigella sativa, Acorus gramineus, Lavandula angustifolia, Eucalyptus globulus, Mentha piperita, Rosmarinus officinalis, Jasminum sambac, Piper nigrum and so many other plants are reported for neuroprotective effects. This review article was aimed to summarize the current finding on EOs tested against neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer disease (AD) and dementia. The effects of EOs on pathological targets of AD and dementia including amyloid deposition (Aβ), neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), cholinergic hypofunction, oxidative stress and glutamatergic abnormalities were focused. Furthermore, effects of EOs on other neurological disorders including anxiety, depression, cognitive hypofunction epilepsy and convulsions were also evaluated in detail. In conclusion, EOs were effective on several pathological targets and have improved cognitive performance in animal models and human subjects. Thus, EOs can be developed as multi-potent agents against neurological disorders with better efficacy, safety and cost effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ayaz
- Department of Pharmacy, University of MalakandChakdara, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Sadiq
- Department of Pharmacy, University of MalakandChakdara, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Junaid
- Department of Pharmacy, University of MalakandChakdara, Pakistan
| | - Farhat Ullah
- Department of Pharmacy, University of MalakandChakdara, Pakistan
| | - Fazal Subhan
- Department of Pharmacy, University of PeshawarPeshawar, Pakistan
| | - Jawad Ahmed
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences (IBMS), Khyber Medical University (KMU)Peshawar, Pakistan
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López V, Nielsen B, Solas M, Ramírez MJ, Jäger AK. Exploring Pharmacological Mechanisms of Lavender ( Lavandula angustifolia) Essential Oil on Central Nervous System Targets. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:280. [PMID: 28579958 PMCID: PMC5437114 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lavender essential oil is traditionally used and approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) as herbal medicine to relieve stress and anxiety. Some animal and clinical studies reveal positive results in models of anxiety and depression although very little research has been done on molecular mechanisms. Our work consisted of evaluating the effects of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil on central nervous system well-established targets, such as MAO-A, SERT, GABAAand NMDA receptors as well as in vitro models of neurotoxicity. The results showed that lavender essential oil and its main components exert affinity for the glutamate NMDA-receptor in a dose-dependent manner with an IC50 value of 0.04 μl/mL for lavender oil. In addition, lavender and linalool were also able to bind the serotonin transporter (SERT) whereas they did not show affinity for GABAA-benzodiazepine receptor. In three different models of neurotoxicity, lavender did not enhance the neurotoxic insult and improved viability of SH-SY5Y cells treated with hydrogen peroxide. According to our data, the anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects attributed to lavender may be due to an antagonism on the NMDA-receptor and inhibition of SERT. This study suggests that lavender essential oil may exert pharmacological properties via modulating the NMDA receptor, the SERT as well as neurotoxicity induced by hydrogen peroxide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor López
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San JorgeZaragoza, Spain.,Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenCopenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birgitte Nielsen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenCopenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maite Solas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, University of NavarraPamplona, Spain
| | - Maria J Ramírez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, University of NavarraPamplona, Spain
| | - Anna K Jäger
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenCopenhagen, Denmark
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Shakeri A, Sahebkar A, Javadi B. Melissa officinalis L. - A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 188:204-28. [PMID: 27167460 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Revised: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Melissa officinalis L. is a medicinal plant that has long been used in different ethno-medical systems especially in the European Traditional Medicine and the Iranian Traditional Medicine for the treatment of several diseases. It is also widely used as a vegetable and to add flavor to dishes AIM OF THE REVIEW This review aimed to provide a summary on the botanical characterization, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, pharmacokinetics and toxicity of M. officinalis, and discusses research gaps and future opportunities for investigations on this plant. MATERIALS AND METHODS We extensively reviewed major unpublished old texts, and published and electronic literature on traditional medicines of different regions of the world to find traditional uses of M. officinalis. Electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and Scopus were searched to find articles (published between 1956 and 2015) on pharmacology and phytochemistry of M. officinalis. RESULTS Traditional uses of M. officinalis have been recorded mostly in European countries, Mediterranean region and Middle East countries. Phytochemical investigations revealed that this plant contains volatile compounds, triterpenoids, phenolic acids and flavonoids. Crude extracts and pure compounds isolated from M. officinalis exhibited numerous pharmacological effects, from which only anxiolytic, antiviral and antispasmodic activities of this plant as well as its effects on mood, cognition and memory have been shown in clinical trials. AChE inhibitory activity, stimulation of the acetylcholine and GABAA receptors, as well as inhibition of matrix metallo proteinase-2 are the main mechanisms proposed for the widely discussed neurological effects of this plant. CONCLUSIONS Modern pharmacological studies have now validated many traditional uses of M. officinalis. The data reviewed here revealed that M. officinalis is a potential source for the treatment of a wide range of diseases especially anxiety and some other CNS disorders, though confirmatory trials are warranted to substantiate these effects in the clinical setting. Data regarding many aspects of this plant such as mechanisms of actions, pharmacokinetics, adverse effects of the extracts, potential interactions with standard-of-care medications and active compounds is still limited which call for additional studies particularly in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abolfazl Shakeri
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Metabolic Research Centre, Royal Perth Hospital, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Behjat Javadi
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Influence of the Melissa officinalis Leaf Extract on Long-Term Memory in Scopolamine Animal Model with Assessment of Mechanism of Action. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2016; 2016:9729818. [PMID: 27239217 PMCID: PMC4864554 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9729818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Melissa officinalis (MO, English: lemon balm, Lamiaceae), one of the oldest and still most popular aromatic medicinal plants, is used in phytomedicine for the prevention and treatment of nervous disturbances. The aim of our study was to assess the effect of subchronic (28-fold) administration of a 50% ethanol extract of MO leaves (200 mg/kg, p.o.) compared with rosmarinic acid (RA, 10 mg/kg, p.o.) and huperzine A (HU, 0.5 mg/kg, p.o.) on behavioral and cognitive responses in scopolamine-induced rats. The results were linked with acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and beta-secretase (BACE-1) mRNA levels and AChE and BuChE activities in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of rats. In our study, MO and HU, but not RA, showed an improvement in long-term memory. The results were in line with mRNA levels, since MO produced a decrease of AChE mRNA level by 52% in the cortex and caused a strong significant inhibition of BACE1 mRNA transcription (64% in the frontal cortex; 50% in the hippocampus). However, the extract produced only an insignificant inhibition of AChE activity in the frontal cortex. The mechanisms of MO action are probably more complicated, since its role as a modulator of beta-secretase activity should be taken into consideration.
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Adams M, Schneider SV, Kluge M, Kessler M, Hamburger M. Epilepsy in the Renaissance: a survey of remedies from 16th and 17th century German herbals. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2012; 143:1-13. [PMID: 22710294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2012.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Revised: 06/07/2012] [Accepted: 06/07/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Before modern anticonvulsive drugs were developed people in central Europe used herbal remedies to treat epilepsy. Hundreds of different plants for this indication can be found in German herbals of the 16th and 17th centuries. Here we compile these plants and discuss their use from a pharmacological perspective. MATERIALS AND METHODS Nine of the most important European herbals of the 16th and 17th century including Bock (1577), Fuchs (1543), Mattioli (1590), Lonicerus (1660, 1770), Brunfels (1532), Zwinger (1696), and Tabernaemontanus (1591, 1678) were searched for terms related to epilepsy, and plants and recipes described for its treatment were documented. We then searched scientific literature for pharmacological evidence of their effectiveness. Additionally the overlapping of these remedies with those in De Materia Medica by the Greek physician Dioscorides was studied. RESULTS Two hundred twenty one plants were identified in the herbals to be used in the context of epilepsy. In vitro and/or in vivo pharmacological data somehow related to the indication epilepsy was found for less than 5% of these plants. Less than 7% of epilepsy remedies are in common with De Materia Medica. CONCLUSIONS Numerous plants were used to treat epilepsy in the 16th and 17th centuries. However, few of these plants have been investigated with respect to pharmacological activity on epilepsy related targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Adams
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, CH-4056 Basel, Switzerland.
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Jeon S, Hur J, Jeong HJ, Koo BS, Pak SC. SuHeXiang Wan essential oil alleviates amyloid beta induced memory impairment through inhibition of tau protein phosphorylation in mice. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2011; 39:917-32. [PMID: 21905282 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x11009305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
SuHeXiang Wan (SHXW), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been used orally for the treatment of seizures, infantile convulsions and stroke. Previously, we reported the effects of a modified SHXW essential oil in terms of sedative effect, anticonvulsant activity and antioxidative activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential beneficial effects of SHXW essential oil in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). SHXW essential oil was extracted from nine herbs. The mouse AD model was induced by a single injection of amyloid β protein (Aβ(1-42)) into the hippocampus. The animals were divided into four groups, the negative control group injected with Aβ(42-1), the Aβ group injected with Aβ(1-42), the SHXW group inhaled SHXW essential oil and received Aβ(1-42) injection, and the positive control group administered with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 10 mg/kg) and with subsequent Aβ(1-42) injection. Mice were analyzed by behavioral tests and immunological examination in the hippocampus. An additional in vitro investigation was performed to examine whether SHXW essential oil inhibits Aβ(1-42) induced neurotoxicity in a human neuroblastoma cell line, SH-SY5Y cells. Pre-inhalation of SHXW essential oil improved the Aβ(1-42) induced memory impairment and suppressed Aβ(1-42) induced JNK, p38 and Tau phosphorylation in the hippocampus. SHXW essential oil suppressed Aβ-induced apoptosis and ROS production via an up-regulation of HO-1 and Nrf2 expression in SH-SY5Y cells. The present study suggests that SHXW essential oil may have potential as a therapeutic inhalation drug for the prevention and treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songhee Jeon
- Dongguk University Research Institute of Biotechnology, Seoul 100-715, Republic of Korea.
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Abstract
An escalating "epidemic" of diseases like Alzheimer's has not yet been met by effective symptomatic treatments or preventative strategies. Among a few current prescription drugs are cholinesterase inhibitors including galantamine, originating from the snowdrop. Research into ethnobotanicals for memory or cognition has burgeoned in recent years. Based on a multi-faceted review of medicinal plants or phytochemicals, including traditional uses, relevant bioactivities, psychological and clinical evidence on efficacy and safety, this overview focuses on those for which there is promising clinical trial evidence in people with dementia, together with at least one other of these lines of supporting evidence. With respect to cognitive function, such plants reviewed include sage, Ginkgo biloba, and complex mixtures of other traditional remedies. Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) challenge carers and lead to institutionalization. Symptoms can be alleviated by some plant species (e.g., lemon balm and lavender alleviate agitation in people with dementia; St John's wort treats depression in the normal population). The ultimate goal of disease prevention is considered from the perspective of limited epidemiological and clinical trial evidence to date. The potential value of numerous plant extracts or chemicals (e.g., curcumin) with neuroprotective but as yet no clinical data are reviewed. Given intense clinical need and carer concerns, which lead to exploration of such alternatives as herbal medicines, the following research priorities are indicated: investigating botanical agents which enhance cognition in populations with mild memory impairment or at earliest disease stages, and those for BPSD in people with dementia at more advanced stages; establishing an ongoing authoritative database on herbal medicine for dementia; and further epidemiological and follow up studies of promising phytopharmaceuticals or related nutraceuticals for disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Perry
- Institute of Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 6BE, UK
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Mega TP, Santos PDM, Souza-Machado A, Noblat LDABC, Cruz ÁA. Use of medicinal herbs by patients with severe asthma managed at a Referral Center. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2011. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-82502011000300024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that may lead to limitations in regular activities, to hospitalizations and a decrease in quality of life. Adherence to drug treatment is crucial for control of the disease. The use of medicinal herbs can reduce adherence to prescriptions, as the medication may be replaced by infusions or herbal products. The objective of this study was to evaluate the frequency of use of traditional herbal medicine among severe asthmatics in Salvador. Information on use of homemade remedies was obtained through application of a questionnaire during patient visits to a referral center. We also collected data on economic and social aspects as well as disease control. One hundred and forty-four (91,1%) out of one hundred and fifty-eight patients evaluated used herbal medicines, but only 26.5% attributed improvement of asthma symptoms to this alternative treatment and only 8 had substituted a prescribed medication by herbal medicines. There was a trend towards lower adherence to prescription drug treatment in this group of patients. Despite the high frequency of use of medicinal herbs in our sample, there was no improvement in the asthma treatment in this population compared to non-users. Adherence to conventional drug treatment was satisfactory and there was neither reduction in asthma control nor increase in hospitalizations among the users of medicinal plants.
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Howes MJR, Perry E. The Role of Phytochemicals in the Treatment and Prevention of Dementia. Drugs Aging 2011; 28:439-68. [DOI: 10.2165/11591310-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Dobetsberger C, Buchbauer G. Actions of essential oils on the central nervous system: An updated review. FLAVOUR FRAG J 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/ffj.2045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Dobetsberger
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy & Diagnostics; University of Vienna; Austria
| | - Gerhard Buchbauer
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy & Diagnostics; University of Vienna; Austria
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Kennedy DO, Wightman EL. Herbal extracts and phytochemicals: plant secondary metabolites and the enhancement of human brain function. Adv Nutr 2011; 2:32-50. [PMID: 22211188 PMCID: PMC3042794 DOI: 10.3945/an.110.000117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 289] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans consume a wide range of foods, drugs, and dietary supplements that are derived from plants and which modify the functioning of the central nervous sytem (CNS). The psychoactive properties of these substances are attributable to the presence of plant secondary metabolites, chemicals that are not required for the immediate survival of the plant but which are synthesized to increase the fitness of the plant to survive by allowing it to interact with its environment, including pathogens and herbivorous and symbiotic insects. In many cases, the effects of these phytochemicals on the human CNS might be linked either to their ecological roles in the life of the plant or to molecular and biochemical similarities in the biology of plants and higher animals. This review assesses the current evidence for the efficacy of a range of readily available plant-based extracts and chemicals that may improve brain function and which have attracted sufficient research in this regard to reach a conclusion as to their potential effectiveness as nootropics. Many of these candidate phytochemicals/extracts can be grouped by the chemical nature of their potentially active secondary metabolite constituents into alkaloids (caffeine, nicotine), terpenes (ginkgo, ginseng, valerian, Melissa officinalis, sage), and phenolic compounds (curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, Hypericum perforatum, soy isoflavones). They are discussed in terms of how an increased understanding of the relationship between their ecological roles and CNS effects might further the field of natural, phytochemical drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- David O Kennedy
- Brain, Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, School of Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK.
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Huang L, Abuhamdah S, Howes MJR, Dixon CL, Elliot MSJ, Ballard C, Holmes C, Burns A, Perry EK, Francis PT, Lees G, Chazot PL. Pharmacological profile of essential oils derived from Lavandula angustifolia and Melissa officinalis with anti-agitation properties: focus on ligand-gated channels. J Pharm Pharmacol 2010. [DOI: 10.1211/jpp.60.11.0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Both Melissa officinalis (Mo) and Lavandula angustifolia (La) essential oils have putative anti-agitation properties in humans, indicating common components with a depressant action in the central nervous system. A dual radioligand binding and electrophysiological study, focusing on a range of ligand-gated ion channels, was performed with a chemically validated essential oil derived from La, which has shown clinical benefit in treating agitation. La inhibited [35S] TBPS binding to the rat forebrain gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor channel (apparent IC50 = 0.040 ± 0.001 mg mL−1), but had no effect on N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA), alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) or nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. A 50:50 mixture of Mo and La essential oils inhibited [3H] flunitrazepam binding, whereas the individual oils had no significant effect. Electrophysiological analyses with rat cortical primary cultures demonstrated that La reversibly inhibited GABA-induced currents in a concentration-dependent manner (0.01–1 mg mL−1), whereas no inhibition of NMDA- or AMPA-induced currents was noted. La elicited a significant dose-dependent reduction in both inhibitory and excitatory transmission, with a net depressant effect on neurotransmission (in contrast to the classic GABAA antagonist picrotoxin which evoked profound epileptiform burst firing in these cells). These properties are similar to those recently reported for Mo. The anti-agitation effects in patients and the depressant effects of La we report in neural membranes in-vitro are unlikely to reflect a sedative interaction with any of the ionotropic receptors examined here. These data suggest that components common to the two oils are worthy of focus to identify the actives underlying the neuronal depressant and anti-agitation activities reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Huang
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sawsan Abuhamdah
- Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CINS), School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Science Park, South Road, Durham University, Durham, UK
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Jordan
| | | | - Christine L Dixon
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Jordan
| | - Mark S J Elliot
- Centre for Ageing Related Diseases (CARD), King's College, London
| | - Clive Ballard
- Centre for Ageing Related Diseases (CARD), King's College, London
| | - Clive Holmes
- Clive Holmes: Clinical Neurosciences Research Division, University of Southampton, UK
| | | | - Elaine K Perry
- Institute of Ageing and Health, University of Newcastle, UK
| | - Paul T Francis
- Centre for Ageing Related Diseases (CARD), King's College, London
| | - George Lees
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Paul L Chazot
- Centre for Integrative Neuroscience (CINS), School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Science Park, South Road, Durham University, Durham, UK
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Abstract
A number of essential oils are currently in use as aromatherapy agents to relieve anxiety, stress, and depression. Popular anxiolytic oils include lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), rose (Rosa damascena), orange (Citrus sinensis), bergamot (Citrus aurantium), lemon (Citrus limon), sandalwood (Santalum album), clary sage (Salvia sclarea), Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis), and rose-scented geranium (Pelargonium spp.). This review discusses the chemical constituents and CNS effects of these aromatherapeutic essential oils, as well as recent studies on additional essential oils with anxiolytic activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- William N. Setzer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, Alabama 35899, USA
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26
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Neuroprotective and Neurological Properties of Melissa officinalis. Neurochem Res 2009; 34:1955-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-009-9981-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2008] [Accepted: 04/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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27
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Abuhamdah S, Chazot PL. Lemon Balm and Lavender herbal essential oils: Old and new ways to treat emotional disorders? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cacc.2008.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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