Immunomodulatory and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Semecarpus anacardium LINN. Nut Milk Extract in Experimental Inflammatory Conditions

Effectiveness of Semecarpus anacardium Linn. fruits in cancer and inflammatory diseases: A mini review

BACKGROUND

Semecarpus anacardium Linn. (SCA) fruits are found in India's sub-Himalayan, tropical, and central regions and have been utilized for centuries in traditional Indian medicine to treat various ailments. In recent times, a growing body of research has emerged indicating that the extracts and active components found in SCA fruits possess qualities that can potentially inhibit the development of cancer and inflammatory markers.

PURPOSE

This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the effects of extracts and phytochemicals of SCA fruits in cellular, animal models, and clinical trials of cancer and inflammatory diseases.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted utilizing several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, preprint platforms, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews using the keywords "Semecarpus anacardium", "Anti-inflammatory," and "cancer". The collection of articles started with establishing the database and continued until April 2024.

RESULTS

Out of 1130 retrieved database records, 316 pertained to systematic reviews. The remaining 814 records focused on examining the anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties of SCA fruits. In the course of these investigations, the four primary cancer types linked to SCA fruits are identified as lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, breast cancer, and blood cancer.

CONCLUSION

The findings will provide more support for investigating SCA fruits in cancer treatment and will furnish thorough reference data and recommendations for future studies on this botanical medication.

Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Brain Death Notifications and Organ Donation Time?

OBJECTIVES

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019, known as COVID-19, has rapidly evolved to a global pandemic. This pandemic represents an unprecedented public health issue not only for the general population but also for patients on the transplant wait list. Multiple organizations around the world have published recommendations for the proper conduct of transplant procedures, including donor and recipient screening and perioperative management. We investigated the efficacy of these new recommendations and the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the deceased donation rate, donor organ management, and the time from family consent to procurement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The characteristics of potential donors diagnosed with brain death between July 15, 2019, and November 18, 2020, were evaluated retrospectively.Demographic and clinical features,the time elapsed from the clinical diagnosis until confirmation, and rates of acceptance were recorded. Potential donors diagnosed with brain death before the pandemic and during the pandemic were compared according to these variables.

RESULTS

Within the study period, 40 patients were diagnosed with brain death: 13 before the pandemic and 27 during the pandemic. The organs from 2 donors were procured before the pandemic. Organs from 3 of 8 donors were procured during the pandemic (the organs from 5 of these 8 patients were not donated). The organ donation time was 8.5 ± 2.12 hours (minimum-maximum, 7-10 hours) in the period before the pandemic and 54 ± 11.53 hours (minimummaximum, 45-67 hours) during the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of donors decreased significantly in our hospital during the pandemic and was similarto the overallrate inTurkey.The duration of the donation process has been prolonged, and strategies to improve rates of organ donation, including infection control, have become a focus of concern.

Prophylactic or therapeutic administration of Holarrhena floribunda hydro ethanol extract suppresses complete Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis in Sprague-Dawley rats

BACKGROUND

A hydro ethanol extract of the stem bark of Holarrhena floribunda (HFE) has been shown to be effective in the management of acute inflammation. This study was to evaluate usefulness of the extract for the management of chronic inflammation in a murine model.

METHODS

Arthritis was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats using Complete Freund's Adjuvant. Anti-arthritic effect of the extract was evaluated in prophylactic and therapeutic treatment models at doses of 50, 200 and 500 mg/kg. Parameters assessed included oedema, serology of inflammatory response, bone tissue histology and haematology. Data were analysed by ANOVA and Tukey's multiple comparisons post hoc test.

RESULTS

HFE at 50-500 mg/kg dose-dependently [P ≥ 0.0354 (prophylactic) and P ≥ 0.0001 (therapeutic) inhibited swelling of the injected paw upon prophylactic [≤ 81.26% (P < 0.0001) or therapeutic [≤ 67.92% (P < 0.01) administration - and prevented spread of arthritis to the contralateral paw. The inflammation alleviation activity was further demonstrated by decrease in arthritis score, radiologic score and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. HFE at all doses significantly reduced serum interleukin (IL)-1α (P < 0.0197), and 500 mg/kg HFE reduced IL-6 (P = 0.0032). In contrast, serum concentrations of IL-10, protein kinase A and cyclic adenosine monophosphate were enhanced (P ≤ 0.0436). HFE consistently showed better prophylactic than therapeutic activity.

CONCLUSION

HFE strongly suppressed Complete Freund's Adjuvant-induced arthritis and modulated regulators of inflammation, including IL-1α, - 6 and - 10. Taken together, the data suggest that HFE has potential for use as an agent for modulation of the inflammatory response.

The Use of Medicinal Plants for the Treatment of Alopecia in the Canon of Avicenna: An Evidence-Based Review

Although mostly seen in the scalp, alopecia can occur in any hair- bearing site of the body. In spite of various modern treatments, total cost, efficacy, safety and drug dependency have caused a global willing towards natural remedies. The aim of this chapter is to focus on medicinal plants mentioned in Canon of Avicenna, one of the most primary medicinal books, for the treatment of alopecia. Databases like PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar were searched for plants mentioned in Canon for managing alopecia to find studies on their clinical efficacy or mechanisms, which may have attributed to the treatment of alopecia. 25 plants belonging to 16 families have been mentioned in Canon. Most of them have a history of use in ethno-medicine and some are used in hair growth products nowadays. Investigating literatures has shown that anti- inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties are the proposed mechanisms for the treatment of some types of alopecia. Islamic traditional medicine can give new insights for development of multiple natural treatment, which their use in human have been tested for thousands of years. By confirming their efficacy and safety, traditional herbal remedies are appropriate alternatives for chemicals mainly used for alopecia.

Unravelling the Biological Activities of the Byttneria pilosa Leaves Using Experimental and Computational Approaches

Byttneria pilosa is locally known as Harijora, and used by the native hill-tract people of Bangladesh for the treatment of rheumatalgia, snake bite, syphilis, fractured bones, elephantiasis and an antidote for poisoning. The present study was carried out to determine the possible anti-inflammatory, analgesic, neuropharmacological and anti-diarrhoeal activity of the methanol extract of B. pilosa leaves (MEBPL) through in vitro, in vivo and in silico approaches. In the anti-inflammatory study, evaluated by membrane stabilizing and protein denaturation methods, MEBPL showed a significant and dose dependent inhibition. The analgesic effect of MEBPL tested by inducing acetic acid and formalin revealed significant inhibition of pain in both tests. During the anxiolytic evaluation, the extract exhibited a significant and dose-dependent reduction of anxiety-like behaviour in mice. Similarly, mice treated with MEBPL demonstrated dose-dependent reduction in locomotion effect in the open field test and increased sedative effect in the thiopental sodium induced sleeping test. MEBPL also showed good anti-diarrheal activity in both castor oil induced diarrheal and intestinal motility tests. Besides, a previously isolated compound (beta-sitosterol) exhibited good binding affinity in docking and drug-likeliness properties in ADME/T studies. Overall, B. pilosa is a biologically active plant and could be a potential source of drug leads, which warrants further advanced study.

Pharmacological evidence for the use of Cissus assamica as a medicinal plant in the management of pain and pyrexia

The existing therapeutic agents for the management of pain and pyrexia are not very efficient and accompanied by numerous side effects. Thus, new effective agents are the most needed. The present study investigates bioactivities and phytochemical screening of different parts of Cissus assamica (Vitaceae), a Bangladeshi tribal medicinal plant. Three plant parts stems, leaves and roots were collected, washed, dried, powdered and then prepared for cold extraction. The methanolic stems and leaves extracts were fractioned with four and two solvents respectively. Different plant extracts were then investigated for in vivo antinociceptive activity and only methanolic leaves extract was investigated for in vivo antipyretic activity. In Swiss-albino mice, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight doses were used for all extracts. In the peripheral antinociceptive activity, the methanolic stem extract and its dichloromethane, chloroform, pet ether fractions and methanolic roots extract at their both doses showed significant antinociceptive responses when compared to standard diclofenac sodium (60.49% inhibition). In the central antinociceptive activity, the response was found significant for methanolic stem and methanolic roots extract in their both doses compared to standard morphine. In antipyretic activity, methanolic leaves extract significantly reduced pyrexia level at 400 and 200 mg/kg body weight doses after two, three and 4 h of administration when compared to standard. So our findings indicate that this plant possesses noteworthy pharmacological activities which may be a basis for further researches to establish a possible mode of action of its different parts.

Ethnopharmacological investigation of the aerial part of Phragmites karka (Poaceae)

BACKGROUND

In this ethnopharmacological study, methanolic extract of the aerial plant parts of Phragmites karka (Family: Poaceae) and its petroleum ether and carbon tetrachloride fractions were investigated for bioactivities in Swiss-albino mice, namely, analgesic, central nervous system (CNS) depressant, hypoglycemic, and antidiarrheal activity.

METHODS

The cold methanolic extract of the aerial plant parts of Phragmites karka (MEPK) was first prepared, and it was then further fractionated as petroleum ether (PEFMEPK) and carbon tetrachloride (CTFMEPK) fractions. Analgesic activity was performed employing acidic acid-induced writhing test, central analgesic effect by radiant heat tail-flick method. CNS depressant activity was evaluated by phenobarbitone-induced sleeping time test. Hypoglycemic activity was tested by glucose tolerance test (GTT). Antidiarrheal activity was evaluated by castor oil-induced diarrhea method. For all in vivo tests, doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight were used.

RESULTS

In the mice model, the MEPK, PEFMEPK, and CTFMEPK fractions showed significant peripheral analgesic activity at a dose of 400 mg/kg body weight with percentage of inhibition of acetic acid-induced writhing 77.67 (p<0.001), 33.50 (p<0.001), and 40.29 (p<0.001), respectively, compared to the standard dichlofenac (60.68%, p<0.001) group. The hypoglycemic properties of MEPK, PEFMEPK, and CTFMEPK extracts were evaluated in normoglycemic mice where the reduction of blood glucose level after 30 min of glucose load were 69.85%, 78.91%, and 72.73%, respectively, and for standard glibenclamide, the reduction was 72.85%. All results were significant (p<0.05). In the case of the CNS depressant activity by phenobarbitone-induced sleeping time test, the crude ME significantly reduced sleep latency by 57.14% and increased the duration of sleep by 63.29% compared to the control, which were comparable to that of standard diazepam (65.71% and 77.62%, respectively). Among all the extract and fractions, methanolic extract showed the maximum antidiarrheal effect. The methanolic extract at 200 mg/kg dose induced a significant decrease in the total number of defecation in 4 h (69.05% of inhibition, p<0.001) and at 400 mg/kg dose showed 76.19% of inhibition (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In light of the available literature, these findings represent the first experimental investigation of biological activities of P. karka in the perspective of their traditional use.

Antinociceptive effect of methanol extract of Dalbergia sissoo leaves in mice

BACKGROUND

Dalbergia sissoo DC. (Family: Fabaceae) is a medium to large deciduous tree, is locally called "shishu" in Bangladesh. It is used to treat sore throats, dysentery, syphilis, bronchitis, inflammations, infections, hernia, skin diseases, and gonorrhea. This study evaluated the antinociceptive effect of the methanol extract of D. sissoo leaves (MEDS) in mice.

METHODS

The extract was assessed for antinociceptive activity using chemical and heat induced pain models such as hot plate, tail immersion, acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin, glutamate, and cinnamaldehyde test models in mice at the doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg (p.o.) respectively. Morphine sulphate (5 mg/kg, i.p.) and diclofenac sodium (10 mg/kg, i.p.) were used as reference analgesic drugs. To confirm the possible involvement of opioid receptor in the central antinociceptive effect of MEDS, naloxone was used to antagonize the effect.

RESULTS

MEDS demonstrated potent and dose-dependent antinociceptive activity in all the chemical and heat induced mice models (p < 0.001). The findings of this study indicate that the involvement of both peripheral and central antinociceptive mechanisms. The use of naloxone verified the association of opioid receptors in the central antinociceptive effect.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated the peripheral and central antinociceptive activity of the leaves of D. sissoo. These results support the traditional use of this plant in different painful conditions.

Evaluation of Antinociceptive Activity of Ethanol Extract of Leaves of Adenanthera pavonina

Adenanthera pavonina is a deciduous tree commonly used in the traditional medicine to treat inflammation and rheumatism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antinociceptive activity of ethanol extract of leaves of A. pavonina (EEAP). EEAP was investigated using various nociceptive models induced thermally or chemically in mice including hot plate and tail immersion test, acetic acid-induced writhing, and glutamate- and formalin-induced licking tests at the doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight (p.o.). In addition, to assess the possible mechanisms, involvement of opioid system was verified using naloxone (2 mg/kg) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathway by methylene blue (MB; 20 mg/kg). The results have demonstrated that EEAP produced a significant and dose-dependent increment in the hot plate latency and tail withdrawal time. It also reduced the number of abdominal constrictions and paw lickings induced by acetic acid and glutamate respectively. EEAP inhibited the nociceptive responses in both phases of formalin test. Besides, the reversal effects of naloxone indicated the association of opioid receptors on the exertion of EEAP action centrally. Moreover, the enhancement of writhing inhibitory activity by MB suggests the possible involvement of cGMP pathway in EEAP-mediated antinociception. These results prove the antinociceptive activity of the leaves of A. pavonina and support the traditional use of this plant.

Antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of ethanolic extract of Semecarpus anacardium (Linn.) bark

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a global health problem and constantly increasing day by day. The number of diabetic people in world is expected to rise to 366 million in 2030. The available drugs for diabetes, insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents have one or more side effects and search for new antidiabetic drugs with minimal or no side effects from medicinal plants is a challenging for us. The present study was undertaken to investigate the antidiabetic and antioxidant activity of Semecarpus anacardium (Linn.) (abbreviated as SF).

METHODS

The antidiabetic activity was determined by using alloxan-induced diabetic rats. After 15 days of treatment, serum biochemical parameters such as TC, TG, LDL, HDL, SGOT and SGPT were estimated. The survival rate, body weight, organ weight, liver glycogen and blood parameters (RBC and Hb) were also measured. The antioxidant activity was measured by DPPH free radical scavenging assay. Phytochemical screening, total phenolic and total flavonoid content were determined by using standard methods.

RESULTS

The results showed that the survival rate was 100% in rats of Group SA 400. The effect of extract on blood glucose level in Groups SA 100, SA 200 and SA 400 were dose-dependent throughout the treatment period. No significant changes in organ weight to body weight ratio were observed, liver weights significantly improved in Groups SA 200 and SA 400. The bark extract exhibited significant (p < 0.05) anti-diabetic activity with lowering TC, TG, LDL level dose-dependently and protected liver which may be partially explained by attenuation of SGOT and SGPT levels and increases liver glycogen. The percentage of Hb and RBC counts were negatively correlated with the doses of extracts. In DPPH scavenging assay, IC50 values of SA extract and ascorbic acid were found 72.24 μg/ml and 17.81 μg/ml, respectively. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of steroids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, and tannins that were contribute to biological activity.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicated that stem barks of S. anacardium possess strong anti-diabetic and antioxidant potentials and support traditional medicinal use for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and good source for natural antioxidants.

Medicinal plants with potential anti-arthritic activity

ETHNO PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional medicinal plants are practiced worldwide for treatment of arthritis especially in developing countries where resources are meager. This review presents the plants profiles inhabiting throughout the world regarding their traditional usage by various tribes/ethnic groups for treatment of arthritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bibliographic investigation was carried out by analyzing classical text books and peer reviewed papers, consulting worldwide accepted scientific databases from the last six decades. Plants/their parts/extracts/polyherbal formulations, toxicity studies for arthritis have been included in the review article. The profiles presented also include information about the scientific name, family, dose, methodology along with mechanism of action and toxicity profile. Research status of 20 potential plant species has been discussed. Further, geographical distribution of research, plants distribution according to families has been given in graphical form.

RESULTS

485 plant species belonging to 100 families, traditionally used in arthritis are used. Among 100 plant families, malvaceae constitute 16, leguminasae 7, fabaceae 13, euphorbiaceae 7, compositae 20, araceae 7, solanaceae 12, liliaceae 9, apocynaceae, lauraceae, and rubiaceae 10, and remaining in lesser proportion. It was observed in our study that majority of researches are carried mainly in developing countries like India, China, Korea and Nigeria.

CONCLUSION

This review clearly indicates that list of medicinal plants presented in this review might be useful to researchers as well as practioners. This review can be useful for preliminary screening of potential anti-arthritis plants. Further toxicity profile given in the review can be useful for the researchers for finding the safe dose.

Evaluation of antinociceptive effect of ethanol extract of Hedyotis corymbosa Linn. whole plant in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hedyotis corymbosa (Linn.) Lam. is a small herb commonly called as khetpapra, traditionally used to treat a wide range of diseases including abdominal pain, arthritis and inflammation. This study was conducted to evaluate the antinociceptive effect of ethanol extract of Hedyotis corymbosa (EEHC) whole plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antinociceptive activity of EEHC was evaluated in mice using both chemical- and heat-induced pain models such as acetic acid-induced writhing, hot plate, tail immersion, formalin, and glutamate tests at 50, 100, and 200mg/kg doses. In order to verify the possible involvement of opioid receptors in the central antinociceptive effect of EEHC, the effects found in hot plate and tail immersion tests were antagonized with naloxone.

RESULTS

EEHC produced a dose-dependent antinociceptive effect against the chemical- and heat-induced pain in mice, significantly at 100 and 200mg/kg doses. These findings suggest that the action of EEHC involves both peripheral and central antinociceptive mechanisms. The antinociceptive activity of EEHC was significantly attenuated by pretreatment with naloxone, indicating the influence of opioid receptors on the exertion of EEHC action centrally.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reports the antinociceptive activity of Hedyotis corymbosa and possible underlying mechanism(s) that supports the traditional use of this plant in the treatment of different painful conditions.

Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of leaf extract of Mallotus repandus (Willd.) Muell. Arg

In folk medicine Mallotus repandus (Willd.) Muell. Arg. is used to treat muscle pain, itching, fever, rheumatic arthritis, snake bite, hepatitis, and liver cirrhosis. This study aimed to evaluate the antinociceptive as well as the anti-inflammatory activities of the methanol extract of leaf. The leaves were extracted with methanol following hot extraction and tested for the presence of phytochemical constituents. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated using acetic acid induced writhing test, xylene induced ear edema, cotton pellet induced granuloma, and tail immersion methods at doses of 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg body weight. The presence of flavonoids, saponins, and tannins was identified in the extract. The extract exhibited considerable antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities against four classical models of pain. In acetic acid induced writhing, xylene induced ear edema, and cotton pellet granuloma models, the extract revealed dose dependent activity. Additionally, it increased latency time in tail immersion model. It can be concluded that M. repandus possesses significant antinociceptive potential. These findings suggest that this plant can be used as a potential source of new antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory candidates. The activity of methanol extract is most likely mediated through central and peripheral inhibitory mechanisms. This study justified the traditional use of leaf part of this plant.

Antinociceptive effect of ethanol extract of leaves of Lannea coromandelica

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lannea coromandelica (Houtt.) Merr. is a plant locally called "Jiga", found all over Bangladesh. Leaf of the plant is traditionally used in the treatment of local swellings, pains of body, toothache etc. This study evaluated the antinociceptive effect of the ethanol extract of L. coromandelica leaves (EELC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antinociceptive activity of the extract (at the doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) was evaluated by using chemical- and heat-induced pain models such as acetic acid-induced writhing, hot plate, tail immersion, formalin, and glutamate test. To verify the possible involvement of opioid receptor in the central antinociceptive effect of EELC, naloxone was used to antagonize the effect. Besides, the involvements of ATP-sensitive K(+) channel and cGMP pathway were also justified by using glibenclemide and methylene blue.

RESULTS

EELC demonstrated significant dose-dependent antinociceptive activity in the chemical- and heat-induced nociception in mice models (p<0.05). These findings imply the involvement of both peripheral and central antinociceptive mechanisms. The use of naloxone confirmed the association of opioid receptors in the central antinociceptive effect. EELC also showed the involvements of ATP-sensitive K(+) channel and cGMP pathway for antinociceptive activity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reported the antinociceptive activity of the leaf of L. coromandelica and rationalized the traditional use of the leaf in the treatment of different painful conditions.

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of flower (Alangium salvifolium) extract

The present study aimed to evaluate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of Alangium salvifolium (AS) flower in mice. The antinociceptive activity was determined using tail immerson, acetic acid induced writhing and formalin induced licking test. Antiinflammatory effects were evaluated using carrageenan and formalin induced paw edema in mice. The methanol extract (50 and 100 mg kg(-1)) of flower of AS followed by chloroform extract (100 mg kg(-1)) produced a significant inhibition of both phases of the formalin pain test in mice, a reduction in mice writhing induced by acetic acid and delayed the response of mice to hot water thermal stimulation in tail immersion test. All flowers extract of AS also produced a substantial inhibition (nearly 50%) of carrageenan and formalin induced paw edema. The inhibitions were similar to those produced by indomethacin, p.o. The different alkaloids and flavonoids found in the extract could be account for the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory actions.

Efficacy of Varunadi Ghritha (polyherbal compound) in treated head and neck cancer cases as a biological response modifier

BACKGROUND

Persistent immune suppression is reported in Head and Neck Cancers (HNC) even after treatment and a higher recurrence rate was observed in patients with poor CD3 count. Loco regional recurrences and second primary tumours are the common forms of failure in head and neck cancers. Several agents have been tried to overcome this problem without much benefit. In Ayurveda, several plant based products have been reported to have anti-tumour and immunomodulatory properties.

AIM

To test the role of Varunadi Ghritha, as an immunomodulator in apparently healthy, treated and controlled HNC patients and to evaluate its effectiveness in preventing locoregional relapses and development of second primary tumours.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Total 78 patients of treated head and neck cancers were randomly selected for intervention and control group. Patients in the intervention group (n = 38) received Varunadi Ghritha, 5gms twice daily for one year and followed up to two years. Patients in the control group (n = 40) were followed up at regular intervals. Immune parameters were assessed in the peripheral blood at base line and at the end of administration of the study compound.

RESULTS

In the intervention group, mean percentage increase in CD3, CD19 and CD16 positive cells were significantly higher after the administration of the study compound compared to the control group indicating an immunomodulatory effect of the study compound. A non-significant improvement in disease control was observed in patients with advanced stage of disease in the intervention group.

CONCLUSION

Administration of Varunadi Ghritha resulted in an increase in T cell counts in patients with treated HNC.

Xylopia aethiopica (Annonaceae) fruit extract suppresses Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis in Sprague-Dawley rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Xylopia aethiopica is used in a decoction of the dried fruit to treat bronchitis, asthma, arthritis, rheumatism, headache, neuralgia and colic pain. The aim of the study is to evaluate the anti-arthritic effects of a 70% aqueous ethanol extract of the fruit of Xylopia aethiopica in a chronic inflammatory model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adjuvant arthritis was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by intraplantar injection of Complete Freund's adjuvant into the right hind paw. Foot volume was measured by water displacement plethysmometry. The oedema component of inflammation was evaluated as the percentage change in paw swelling and the total oedema induced calculated as area under the time course curves. In addition to X-ray radiography, histopathology of ankle joints supported by haematological analysis was used to assess the anti-arthritic action of the extract of Xylopia aethiopica (XAE).

RESULTS

Xylopia aethiopica extract (100, 300 and 600 mg kg(-1)) modified the time course curve significantly reducing hind paw oedema in the ipsilateral paw at all dose levels when administered both prophylactically and therapeutically. In addition XAE significantly suppressed the systemic spread of the arthritis from the ipsilateral to the contralateral limbs. The radiological pictures of the joints particularly metatarsal, phalanges and the ankle joint space of rats in the XAE-treated group showed protective effect against adjuvant-induced arthritis while histopathology revealed significant reduction in mononuclear infiltration, pannus formation and bone erosion. The haematological analysis in the test animals revealed significant improvement relative to the CFA model group.

CONCLUSION

Xylopia aethiopica XAE suppresses joint inflammation and destruction in arthritic rats.

Anti-nociceptive properties in rodents and the possibility of using polyphenol-rich fractions from sida urens L. (Malvaceae) against of dental caries bacteria

Background

Sida urens L. (Malvaceae) is in flora of Asian medicinal herbs and used traditionally in West of Burkina Faso for the treatment of infectious diseases and particularly used against, dental caries bacteria, fever, pain and possesses analgesic properties. This study was conducted to reveal the antibacterial effect against dental caries bacteria on the one hand, and evaluate their analgesic capacity in experimental model with Swiss mice and on the other hand, with an aim to provide a scientific basis for the traditional use of this plant for the management of dental caries bacteria.

Method

The antibacterial assays in this study were performed by using inhibition zone diameters, MIC (Minimum inhibitory concentration) and MBC (Minimal bactericidal concentration) methods. On the whole the dental caries bacteria (Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains) were used. Negative control was prepared using discs impregnated with 10% DMSO in water and commercially available Gentamicin from Alkom Laboratories LTD was used as positive reference standards for all bacterial strains. In acute toxicity test, mice received doses of extract (acetone/water extract) from Sida urens L. by intraperitoneal route and LD₅₀ was determined in Swiss mice. As for analgesic effects, acetic acid writhing method was used in mice. The acetic acid-induced writhing method was used in mice with aim to study analgesic effects.

Results

The results showed that the highest antibacterial activities were founded with the polyphenol-rich fractions against all bacterial strains compared to the standard antibiotic. About preliminary study in acute toxicity test, LD₅₀ value obtained was more than 5000 mg/kg b.w. Polyphenol-rich fractions produced significant analgesic effects in acetic acid-induced writhing method and in a dose-dependent inhibition was observed.

Conclusion

These results validate the ethno-botanical use of Sida urens L. (Malvaceae) and demonstrate the potential of this herbaceous as a potential antibacterial agent of dental caries that could be effectively used for future health care purposes.

Kalpaamruthaa ameliorates myocardial and aortic damage in cardiovascular complications associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Myocardial and aortic damage in cardiovascular complications (CVD) associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus and the protective efficacy of Kalpaamruthaa (KA) are evaluated in this study. CVD developed in 8 weeks after type 2 diabetes mellitus was induced by the administration of a high-fat diet for 2 weeks, and then with streptozotocin (2 × 35 mg·(kg body mass)(-1), by intraperitonal injection, at 24 h intervals) in male Sprague-Dawley rats. CVD-induced rats were treated with KA at 200 mg·(kg body mass)(-1)·(day)(-1) orally for 28 days. Increased oxidative stress in CVD-induced rats lowers antioxidant defense in the aorta. Treatment with KA reduced oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant status with decreased lipid peroxides in CVD-induced rats. Histological examination of the myocardium and aorta provided support for the cytoprotective effect of KA in CVD. Ultrastructural changes in the myocardium of CVD-induced rats were improved by KA treatment. Aortic damage was observed through decreased endothelial nitric oxide synthase and increased NADPH oxidase mRNA expressions in CVD-induced rats. KA reduced the aortic damage by ameliorating these levels back to normal. KA treatment reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin 6 in CVD-induced rats. Immunohistochemical expressions of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 were observed to be elevated in the myocardium of CVD-induced rats, but these were decreased by the administration of KA. This study demonstrates the cardiovascular protective effect of KA in type 2 diabetes.

Effect of DHU001, a Polyherbal Formula on Formalin-induced Paw Chronic Inflammation of Mice

The effect of DHU001, a mixed herbal formula consisted of 7 types aqueous extracts for various respiratory disorders were evaluated on the formalin-induced paw chronic inflammation in mice after oral administration. Mice were subaponeurotically injected in the left hind paw with 0.02 ml of 3.75% formalin, then subjected to 500, 250 and 125 mg/kg of DHU001 oral administration, once a day for 10 days during which then the hind-paw thickness and volume were measured daily. The paw wet-weight, histological profiles, histomorphometrical analyses and paw tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α contents were conducted at termination. After two formalin treatments, a marked increase in the paw thickness and volume was detected in the formalin-injected control as compared with that in the intact control, plus at the time of sacrifice the paw wet-weights, paw TNF-α contents were also dramatically increased with severe chronic inflammation signs at histopathological observations. However, these formalin-induced chronic inflammatory changes were dramatically decreased by treatment of dexamethasone and all three different dosages of DHU001. DHU001 has favorable effects on formalin-induced chronic inflammation mediated by TNF-α suppression, and DHU001 may represent an alternative approach for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases.

Mitigation of DMBA-induced mammary carcinoma in experimental rats by antiangiogenic property of Kalpaamruthaa

Extra cellular matrix (ECM) and basement membrane (BM) are important layers that regulate cell structure, cell migration, and cellular proliferation. Degradation of both ECM and BM mediated by proteases favors the tumor invasion and promotes angiogenesis. Female Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 180 ± 10 g were categorized into 6 groups. Group-1 animals served as vehicle control. Group-2 to Group-4 animals were administered with 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (25 mg/rat dissolved in olive oil, orally) on day 1 of experimental period to induce mammary carcinoma. (After 90 days, mammary carcinoma was confirmed by histopathological examination). Group-3 and Group-4 rats were subsequently treated with Semecarpus anacardium nut milk extract (SA) and Kalpaamruthaa (KA), respectively. Group-5 and Group-6 animals served as drug control for SA and KA, respectively. Pro-angiogenic factors like proteases, cyclooxygenase-2, and vascular endothelial growth factor were elevated in tumor-bearing animals and decreased in SA- and KA-supplemented rats. Increased levels of these angiogenic factors in tumor-bearing rats indicate the progression of mammary tumor. The decreased levels of these angiogenic in SA- and KA-treated rats may be due to the ameliorative effect of phenolic compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, and other compounds present in the drug.

Modulation of inflammatory markers by the ethanolic extract of Leucas aspera in adjuvant arthritis

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of ethanolic extract of Leucas aspera (EELA) in adjuvant arthritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Complete Freund's adjuvant served to induce arthritis. EELA was administered in two doses along with vehicle control (0.1% carboxymethyl cellulose) and positive control (Diclofenac). Levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF-)-α, C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin-2 (IL-2), Cathepsin D, activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) were estimated in plasma/hemolysate and tissue. HPLC analysis of EELA was also performed.

RESULTS

EELA exhibited significant anti-inflammatory (p<0.001) and antioxidant activity (p<0.001). It did not show mortality up to 2000 mg/kg body weight. Histopathological studies confirmed complete cartilage regeneration and near normal joint in EELA2 treated arthritic rats.

CONCLUSION

This study highlighted the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of Leucas aspera. Three major families of compounds present in EELA may explain these activities: catechins (epicatechin, beta epicatechin), flavonoids (procyanidin), phytosterols (beta-sitosterol) apart from glycosides, phenolic compounds and tannins.

Effect of DHU001, a Polyherbal Formula, on Dinitrofluorobenzene-induced Contact Dermatitis (Type I allergy)

The effect of DHU001, a mixed herbal formula consisted of 7 types aqueous extracts for various respiratory disorders were evaluated on 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) -induced contact dermatitis, type I allergic model. Contact dermatitis was induced by sensitization with dinitrophenyl-derivatized ovalbumin (DNP-OVA) and DNFB challenge as antigen. Two different dosages of DHU001 (300 and 150 mg/kg) were orally administered to DNP-OVA sensitization mice once a day for 7 days with reference material, dexamethasone (15 mg/kg, intraperitoneal treatment) . End of 7 days oral administration of DHU001 extracts or intraperitoneal treatment of dexamethasone, the changes on the edematous changes and scratching behavior were measured. Immediate after DNFB challenge on ear or paw of DNP-OVA sensitized mice, increases of ear and paw thicknesses and weights were detected with anterior ear skin (dermis to epidermis) thickness and paw scratching behavior increases. However, these contact dermatitis signs induced by DNFB treatment were reduced by treatment of the both different dosages of DHU001 and dexamethasone, respectively. The results obtained in this study suggest that oral treatment of DHU001 extracts also has relatively favorable effects on contact dermatitis.

Semecarpus anacardium Linn.: A review

Semecarpus anacardium Linn. (Family: Anacardiaceae), commonly known 'Ballataka' or 'Bhilwa', has been used in various traditional system of medicines for various ailments since ancient times. Its nuts contain a variety of biologically active compounds such as biflavonoids, phenolic compounds, bhilawanols, minerals, vitamins and amino acids, which show various medicinal properties. The fruit and nut extract shows various activities like antiatherogenic, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-reproductive, CNS stimulant, hypoglycemic, anticarcinogenic and hair growth promoter. The article reviews the various activities of the plant.

Isolation and characterization of an anticancer catechol compound from Semecarpus anacardium

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The fruits and seeds of Semecarpus anacardium are used widely for the treatment of human cancers and other diseases in the Ayurvedic and Sidda systems of medicine in India.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The principal aim of this investigation was to isolate and characterize the anticancer compound from the kernel of Semecarpus anacardium nut.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The bioactivity-tailored isolation and detailed chemical characterization were used to identify the active compound. Cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest as well as synergism between the identified anticancer compound and doxorubicin in human tumor cell lines were analyzed.

RESULTS

GC/MS, IR, proton NMR, carbon NMR and collisionally induced dissociation (CID) spectra analysis showed that the isolated active compound is 3-(8'(Z),11'(Z)-pentadecadienyl) catechol (SA-3C). SA-3C is cytotoxic to tumor cell lines with IC(50) values lower than doxorubicin and even multidrug resistant tumor cell lines were equally sensitive to SA-3C. SA-3C induced apoptosis in human leukemia cell lines in a dose-dependent manner and showed synergistic cytotoxicity with doxorubicin. The cell cycle arrest induced by SA-3C at S- and G(2)/M-phases correlated with inhibition of checkpoint kinases.

CONCLUSION

SA-3C isolated from the kernel of Semecarpus anacardium can be developed as an important anticancer agent for single agent and/or multiagent cancer therapy.

Anti-inflammatory effect of buckwheat sprouts in lipopolysaccharide-activated human colon cancer cells and mice

In conducting an in vitro screening of ethanol extracts from various natural foods using a human colon cancer cell line (CoLoTC cells), an extract of buckwheat sprouts (ExtBS) was found to express significant anti-inflammatory activity. The anti-inflammatory activity of ExtBS was confirmed by oral administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to mice. Inflammatory cytokines (interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha) were markedly up-regulated in the spleen and liver from LPS-administrated mice, and combinatory treatment with LPS and ExtBS decreased up-regulation of them in both cytokines. Both serum cytokine levels corresponded to their gene expressions in tissues, but no anti-inflammatry effect in mice was observed when ExtBS was treated intraperitoneally. ExtBS oral administration also showed protective activity as to hepatic injury induced by galactosamine/LPS treatment. Based on these data, we suggest that ExtBS contains anti-inflammatory compounds.

Effects of DHU001, a Mixed Herbal Formula on Acute Inflammation in Mice

The effects of DHU001, a mixed herbal formula consisted of 7 types aqueous extracts for treating respiratory disorders were observed on xylene-induced acute inflammation. The xylene was topically applied 60 min after administration of 500, 250 and 125 mg/kg of DHU001, and all animals were sacrificed 2 hrs after xylene application. The changes on ear weights, histolopathological analyses of ear were evaluated and compared to those of indomethacin and dexamethasone (15 mg/kg treated) - Both of drugs are well-known by anti-inflammatory agents. Xylene application resulted in marked increases in induced ear weights as compared with intact control ear. Severe vasodilation, edematous changes of ear skin and increase in the thickness of the ear tissues, neutrophil infiltration as acute inflammation were detected in xylene-treated control ears at histopathological observation. However, these xylene-induced acute inflammatory changes were dose-dependently decreased by oral treatment of DHU001. Therefore, it is concluded that DHU001 has favorable anti-inflammatory effects on xylene-applicated acute ear inflamed mice.

Behavioral and antiepileptic effects of acute administration of the extract of the plant Cestrum nocturnum Lin (lady of the night)

Cestrum nocturnum is a garden shrub from the family Solanaceae and is used as a remedy for different health disorders. The aim of the present work was to investigate the potential neuropharmacological action profile of decoctions obtained from dry leaves of the plant. Decoctions were tested in different neuropharmacological models-Irwin test, exploratory behavior, tests for analgesia, isoniazid- and picrotoxin-induced convulsions, and maximal electroshock seizures-in mice, as well as in amphetamine-induced stereotypies and penicillin epileptic foci in rats. Decoctions of 1 and 5% (D1 and D5) induced restlessness, and the 30% decoction (D30) induced passivity. D5 and D30 reduced significantly exploratory behavior and amphetamine-induced stereotypies within a 3-hour observation period. The latter effect was apparent during the second 60 minutes. Decoctions reduced the amount of writhes induced by acetic acid in a dose-dependent manner, but were not effective in the hot plate model. The decoctions were not effective against pharmacologically induced convulsions. However, repeated administration of five doses of D5, at 1-hour intervals, reduced the amplitude of penicillin-induced epileptic spikes in both primary and secondary foci, in curarized rats. Taken together, the results suggest that C. nocturnum possesses active substances with analgesic activity provided through a peripheral action mechanism, in parallel with some psychoactive activity that does not fit well the neuropharmacological action profile of known reference neurotropic drugs.

Salubrious effect of Kalpaamruthaa, a modified indigenous preparation in adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats--a biochemical approach

BACKGROUND

Interactions between the phytochemicals and drugs and their combinations are capable of providing longer remissions and perhaps a complete cure for many diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In addition to articular manifestations in RA, extra-articular signs involving reticuloendothelial and hepatic systems are an indication of more severe disease and thus, have prognostic value.

OBJECTIVES

The present study was designed to illustrate the beneficial outcome of the drug Kalpaamruthaa (constituting Semecarpus anacardium nut milk extract, fresh dried powder of Emblica officinalis fruit and honey) in adjuvant-induced arthritic rat model with respect to the changes in extra-articular manifestation involving hematological and cellular constituents.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Levels of hematological parameters, cellular constituents, activities of marker enzymes and the level of DNA damage were assessed in control, arthritis-induced, SA, KA and drug control treated rats.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Significant decrease (p<0.005) in the levels of Hb, RBC, PCV, total protein, albumin, A/G ratio, plasma uric acid, urinary urea, uric acid, creatinine, FFA, HDL and significant increase (p<0.05) in the levels of WBC, platelet count, ESR, globulin, plasma creatinine, blood glucose, urea, AST, ALT, ALP, TC, FC, TG, PL, LDL and VLDL were observed in arthritic rats. No other significant change was observed in tissue DNA and RNA levels of control and experimental animals. On the contrary an increase in DNA damage was observed in arthritic rats when compared to control animals. The above said derangements were brought back to near normal levels upon SA and KA treatments and KA revealed a profound beneficial effect than SA. The enhanced effect of KA might be attributed to the combined effects of phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, tannins and other compounds such as vitamin C present in KA. Thus KA via this preliminary protective effect might contribute to the amelioration of the disease process.

Analgesic, antipyretic and Ulcerogenic properties of an indigenous formulation--Kalpaamruthaa

A modified indigenous Siddha formulation Kalpaamruthaa (KA), containing Semecarpus anacardium nut milk extract (SA), dried powder of Emblica officinalis (EO) fruit and honey was evaluated for its analgesic, antipyretic and Ulcerogenic properties. Both SA and KA, at a dose of 150 mg/kg b. wt were compared with the standard drug diclofenac sodium. KA exhibited an enhanced effect on all properties compared with that found with sole SA treatment, and is likely to be due to synergistic and additive interactions within the complex mixture of phytochemicals present in KA.