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Deccy S, Bartkowiak C, Rodricks N, Paultre K. Echinacea Supplementation Does Not Impact Aerobic Capacity and Erythropoiesis in Athletes: A Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2024; 16:1991. [PMID: 38999738 PMCID: PMC11243582 DOI: 10.3390/nu16131991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Athletes are increasingly relying on natural supplements to improve athletic performance. Echinacea, a common herbal supplement, has been studied for its potential erythropoietin-enhancing effects, with mixed results in the literature. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to determine whether echinacea supplementation has erythropoietic or ergogenic effects in athletes. A search strategy was developed to identify trials studying the impact of echinacea supplementation on erythropoiesis and maximal oxygen uptake. The database search yielded 502 studies, 496 of which were excluded in the two-reviewer screening process. Six studies with a total of 107 athletes were included in the analysis. For hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, there were small, positive effect sizes when comparing the difference in pre- and post-intervention levels between the echinacea and placebo groups, at 0.38 (p = 0.02, 95% CI -0.04-0.80, I2 = 70%) and 0.34 (p < 0.01, 95% CI -0.10-0.78, I2 = 86%), respectively, though they did not reach statistical significance. There was also no statistically significant change in erythropoietin (effect size -0.29, p = 0.05, 95% CI -0.75-0.17, I2 = 67%) or maximal oxygen uptake (effect size -0.20, p = 0.95, 95% CI -0.60-0.21, I2 = 0%). Echinacea supplementation did not influence erythropoietin, hemoglobin, hematocrit, or maximal oxygen uptake in athletes; however, the evidence base is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Deccy
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Jackson Health Systems, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Callie Bartkowiak
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Jackson Health Systems, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Nathan Rodricks
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Jackson Health Systems, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Kristopher Paultre
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Jackson Health Systems, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Department of Orthopedics and Student Healthcare Clinic, University of Miami Health Systems, Miami, FL 33146, USA
- Club Sports, Department of Wellness and Recreation, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33146, USA
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Hotea I, Dragomirescu M, Berbecea A, Radulov I. Phytochemicals as Alternatives to Antibiotics in Animal Production. Vet Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.106978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the continuous improvement of feed diets and recipes, animal health problems persist. For their treatment, antibiotics and chemotherapy have been shown to have side effects hard to control. The antibiotic residues in animal products may endanger human health. Since the antibiotics were restricted in animals’ diets, which were previously used to keep under control digestive and respiratory pathologies, as well as allergies, so the researchers began to search for natural alternatives. Thus, it was developed the concept of phytoadditives, and these natural plant extracts are gaining ground in animal farming. Since then, more and more animal breeders and farms are willing to use various types of phytoadditives. This chapter aims to present the most widely used phytochemicals in animal nutrition, their effects on animal production and health, and to make some recommendations on the use of phytochemicals in farm animals’ diets.
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THREE CASES OF ACUTE BACTERIAL SEPSIS IN PYGMY HIPPOPOTAMUS ( CHOEROPSIS LIBERIENSIS) CALVE SIBLINGS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 52:755-762. [PMID: 34130423 DOI: 10.1638/2020-0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A multiparous pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis) dam produced three consecutive calves that died acutely at 13-15 wk of age from bacterial sepsis, for which diagnostic and therapeutic intervention was not possible. Streptococcus iniae (Cases 1 and 3), Escherichia coli (Case 2), and an unidentified member of the family Pasteurellaceae (Case 1) were identified in postmortem tissues through bacterial culture followed by standard and molecular identification methods. After the loss of two calves, a series of vaccinations were administered to the dam during the third pregnancy to enhance transplacental and colostral transfer of antibodies to the calf. The third calf did not survive, and the source of the bacterial infection in these three calves was undetermined. Prior to and after the birth of the fourth calf, nutritional and nutraceutical supplements were provided to the dam and calf. Additionally, pest control around the barn was enhanced. The fourth calf survived. Pygmy hippopotamus calves at the age of 13-15 wk may have increased susceptibility to bacterial infection, possibly due to waning maternally derived immunity. The findings in these cases, combined with a previous association of S. iniae in pygmy hippopotamus deaths, suggest that this bacterium is an especially important pathogen of the endangered pygmy hippopotamus.
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Ayrle H, Mevissen M, Bruckmaier RM, Wellnitz O, Kaske M, Bieber A, Vögtlin A, Fricker R, Walkenhorst M. Effects of an oral hydro-ethanolic purple coneflower extract on performance, clinical health and immune parameters in calves. Res Vet Sci 2021; 138:148-160. [PMID: 34144282 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded field trial was to investigate the effects of oral administration of purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea L. (EP)) on performance, health and immune parameters in calves. Calves (n = 27) were enrolled to three groups (9 calves per group): 0.5 g EP/calf per day (ECL), 5 g EP/calf per day (ECH) or placebo. Calves were vaccinated with Bluetongue-Virus (BTV) serotype 4 vaccine to investigate EPs effects on seroconversion. Clinical and performance parameters, inter alia body weight, health and milk intake were recorded for 57 days. Blood samples were analyzed for BTV antibodies and IgG by ELISA, white and red blood cell counts by flow cytometry and mRNA abundance of various inflammatory markers in leukocytes (IL-1β, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox-2) and prostaglandin E synthase) was studied. The findings demonstrated no differences between groups regarding performance parameters. In all groups, calves suffered from diarrhea for a minimum of 2 days, but EP reduced the number of diarrhea days by 44% in ECL and increased the body temperature. Interestingly, ECL resulted in an increased number of respiratory disease days during the follow-up period. EP did not change blood cell and IgG counts, whereas eosinophil granulocytes were reduced in ECL. Decreased levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit were found in ECH. Prostaglandin E synthase levels in leukocytes were higher in ECL and ECH, whereas no differences were obtained for IL-1β, IL-8, TNFα and Cox-2. Due to the unexpected occurrence of BTV seropositive calves before the first vaccination, 13 calves were excluded from the evaluation on seroconversion and no statistical analyses could be performed regarding antibody production. BTV-4 antibodies were not produced in 4 placebo-calves, whereas 4 of 5 and 1 of 6 ECL- and ECH-calves produced antibodies. Further investigations are needed to draw final conclusions on mode of action and efficacy of EP in calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Ayrle
- Department of Livestock Sciences, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), Ackerstrasse 113, Frick 5070, Switzerland; Division Veterinary Pharmacology & Toxicology, Department of Clinical Research and Veterinary Public Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 124, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Meike Mevissen
- Division Veterinary Pharmacology & Toxicology, Department of Clinical Research and Veterinary Public Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 124, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Rupert M Bruckmaier
- Veterinary Physiology, Department of Clinical Research and Veterinary Public Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bremgartenstrasse 109a, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Olga Wellnitz
- Veterinary Physiology, Department of Clinical Research and Veterinary Public Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bremgartenstrasse 109a, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Martin Kaske
- Swiss Calf Health Service, Department of Farm Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, Zurich 8057, Switzerland.
| | - Anna Bieber
- Department of Livestock Sciences, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), Ackerstrasse 113, Frick 5070, Switzerland.
| | - Andrea Vögtlin
- Institute of Virology and Immunology, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland and Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Raffael Fricker
- Institute of Virology and Immunology, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland and Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Michael Walkenhorst
- Department of Livestock Sciences, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), Ackerstrasse 113, Frick 5070, Switzerland.
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Daily intake of a homeopathic agent by dogs modulates white cell defenses and reduces bacterial counts in feces. Microb Pathog 2021; 156:104936. [PMID: 33951540 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.104936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Motivated by conventional medicines' ineffectiveness and the appearance of bacterial resistance, homeopathic medicines are being increasingly demanded by the veterinary market. Dog feces contain high bacterial and pathogenic loads, which can cause diseases in animals and facilitate zoonotic transmission. Adequate animal immunity contributes to the elimination of potential pathogens. This work's objective was to evaluate the effects of using a homeopathic medication on blood cell counts, serum protein levels, and fecal bacterial counts in dogs. Two groups were used, each including five 19-month-old Beagle dogs. The homeopathic product Orgainfecto® was sprayed on the two daily meals in the treated group (T), at 0.5 mL/animal/day for 60 days; the group that did not receive the homeopathic was considered the control (C), who were fed only the vehicle used in the production of the homeopathic as a placebo. On days 1, 30, and 60, individual stool samples were collected for bacterial counts in the stool, blood samples for blood counts, and serum for biochemical tests. Total bacterial counts in feces were lower in group T on days 30 and 60 of the experiment, while total coliforms and E coli. were lower in this group on day 60. Total leukocyte counts were lower on day 60 in group T, unlike the neutrophil count, higher in group T on day 30, and eosinophils on day 60. However, the lymphocyte count was lower in group T on days 30 and 60. There was an increase in globulin and total protein in group T on day 60. We conclude that the tested homeopathic causes neutrophils and eosinophils' stimulation and increases globulins levels even with reduced lymphocytes. The daily consumption of homeopathic by dogs decreases the intestinal bacterial load, resulting in less environmental contamination and animal and human colibacillosis risks.
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Jaguezeski AM, Glombowsky P, Galli GM, da Rosa G, Araújo DN, Campigotto G, Horn VW, Sareta L, Mendes RE, Da Silva AS. Daily consumption of a homeopathic product decreases intestinal damage and stool bacterial counts in mice challenged with Escherichia coli. Microb Pathog 2020; 147:104269. [PMID: 32439564 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Escherichia coli is a bacterium normally found in the gastrointestinal tract of domestic animals that can usually control the infection. Nevertheless, some factors (high exposure, stress conditions, animal category, among others) can favor the exacerbation of E. coli infection and cause of disease. Because it is a zoonotic bacterium, it is important to control the infection, avoiding contamination of home interiors in the case of pets. There are various forms of treatment for E. coli; nevertheless, there are few options for prevention. In the present study, we evaluated homeopathy. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine whether administration of a prophylactic homeopathic in water would minimize the negative effects of E. coli infection, as well as reducing bacterial counts in the feces of a experimental model. Forty mice were divided into four experimental groups (n = 10/group). Groups NC (negative control) and PC (positive control) were not treated; in group T1, the animals received 0.002 mL/day/animal of the homeopathic in water, and animals in group T2 0.004 mL/day/animal. The experiment lasted 54 days, and on the 31st day, mice of T1, T2 and PC groups were infected orally a 0.2 mL inoculum of 1.5 × 108 CFU of E. coli. Euthanasia and sample collection were performed on the 40th and 54th days of the experiment (n = 5/group/time point). Blood, liver, spleen, intestine, and feces samples were collected from the final portion of the intestine. There was no significant difference in animal weight between groups at the end of the experiment. Neutrophil count was lower in PC group animals on day 40, while on day 54, the counts were lower in T2 and PC. Lymphocyte counts were lower only in the PC group than in the NC group on day 54. Globulins were lower in the NC and PC groups than in T1 and T2 on day 40, remaining lower the PC group and higher in T1 on day 54; levels of immunoglobulin IgG and IgM were higher in groups T1 and T2, which differed from PC and NC. TNF-α levels were higher in the T1 and T2 groups at 40 and 54 days. INF-γ levels were higher in T1, T2, and PC compared to NC on day 40, remaining higher than NC in groups T1 and T2 on day 54. Total bacterial count, total coliforms and E. coli counts were lower in group T1 and higher in NC and PC on days 40 and 54, when they were lower for T1 and T2. Histologically, no lesions were observed in extra-intestinal tissues; however the height of intestinal crypts in the PC group was smaller than the others on day 40. On day 54, villi and crypts of all infected groups were larger in T1 and T2 than in NC; sizes in the PC group were higher than those of all other groups. These data suggest that the homeopathic agent in the drinking water improved health of the mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonise M Jaguezeski
- Department of Toxicological Biochemistry, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Patricia Glombowsky
- Graduate Program in Animal Science, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Gabriela M Galli
- Graduate Program in Animal Science, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Gilneia da Rosa
- Graduate Program in Animal Science, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Denise N Araújo
- Graduate Program in Animal Science, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Chapecó, SC, Brazil; Department of Animal Science, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Campigotto
- Graduate Program in Animal Science, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Vitor W Horn
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Instituto Federal Catarinense (IFC), Concórdia, SC, Brazil
| | - Laércio Sareta
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Instituto Federal Catarinense (IFC), Concórdia, SC, Brazil
| | - Ricardo E Mendes
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Instituto Federal Catarinense (IFC), Concórdia, SC, Brazil
| | - Aleksandro S Da Silva
- Department of Toxicological Biochemistry, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Animal Science, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Chapecó, SC, Brazil; Department of Animal Science, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Chapecó, SC, Brazil.
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Ren QC, Xuan JJ, Che CY, Yan XC, Hu ZZ. Desirable effects of dietary 4-O-methyl-glucuronoarabinoxylan from the Echinacea plant on growth performance, thigh meat quality and development of small intestine in female Partridge-Shank broilers. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/an18416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In this trial we aimed to assess the effects of dietary supplementation of 4-O-methyl-glucuronoarabinoxylan (4OMG) on growth performance, thigh meat quality and small intestine development of female Partridge-Shank broilers. A total of 240 1-day-old female Partridge-Shank broilers were randomly distributed to four groups with three replicates of 20 within each group. Groups received either 0, 15, 20 or 25 g 4OMG/kg DM of diet. During the whole experiment of 60 days, broilers had ad libitum access to water and feed. At pen level, feed intake was recorded daily and broilers were weighed at the start and end of the experiment. For each group, three pens with a total of 20 broilers were randomly selected to determine the thigh meat quality and the small intestine development of broilers. Broilers fed diets with higher 4OMG had greater final liveweight (P = 0.004), daily bodyweight gain (P = 0.004) and gain-to-feed ratio (P < 0.001), muscle pH values (P = 0.031) and redness (P = 0.001), duodenal weight index (P = 0.042), jejunal (P = 0.043) and ileal length (P = 0.049), duodenal (P < 0.001) and ileal villus height (P = 0.008), but lower percentage of dead birds (P < 0.001), drip loss (P = 0.042) and shear force value (P = 0.043) of the thigh muscles. These results indicate that increasing dietary supplementation of 4OMG may improve growth performance and meat quality of female Partridge-Shank broilers through better development of small intestine.
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Martin TD, Green MS, Whitehead MT, Scheett TP, Webster MJ, Hudson GM. Six weeks of oral Echinacea purpurea supplementation does not enhance the production of serum erythropoietin or erythropoietic status in recreationally active males with above-average aerobic fitness. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2019; 44:791-795. [PMID: 30608872 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2018-0783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of 6 weeks of oral Echinacea purpurea supplementation on serum erythropoietin (EPO) and erythropoietic status. Twenty-four males (mean ± SE; age = 25.2 ± 1.4 years, height = 178.1 ± 1.4 cm, body mass = 78.1 ± 1.6 kg, body fat = 12.7 ± 0.9%, maximal oxygen uptake = 52.9 ± 0.9 mL·kg-1·min-1) were randomly grouped using a matched-pair, double-blind design and self-administered 8000 mg·day-1 of either E. purpurea (n = 12) or placebo (n = 12) for 42 consecutive days. Blood samples were collected prior to supplementation (day 0) and every 2 weeks during the supplementation period (days 14, 28, and 42) and were analyzed for EPO, red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Separate 2 × 4 (group × time) factorial ANOVA with repeated measures on time were used to determine statistical differences with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. There were no significant interaction, group, or time effects observed for EPO or erythropoietic status markers for any of the measurement points (p ≤ 0.05). The present study indicated that 6 weeks of oral E. purpurea supplementation in recreationally active males with above average aerobic fitness did not enhance EPO or erythropoietic status. These findings are in contrast with previous reports of E. purpurea supplementation in untrained participants with average fitness levels, but consistent with observations in trained endurance athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler D Martin
- a Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, Troy University, Troy, AL 36082, USA
| | - Michael S Green
- a Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, Troy University, Troy, AL 36082, USA
| | - Malcolm T Whitehead
- b Department of Kinesiology and Health Science, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX 75962, USA
| | - Timothy P Scheett
- c Department of Health and Human Performance, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - Michael J Webster
- d College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Valdosta State University, Valdosta, GA 31698, USA
| | - Geoffrey M Hudson
- e Department of Health, Kinesiology, & Sport, The University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
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Elghandour MM, Kanth Reddy PR, Salem AZ, Ranga Reddy PP, Hyder I, Barbabosa-Pliego A, Yasaswini D. Plant Bioactives and Extracts as Feed Additives in Horse Nutrition. J Equine Vet Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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10
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Seckin C, Alpun Kalayci G, Turan N, Yilmaz A, Cizmecigil UY, Aydin O, Richt JA, Yilmaz H. Immunomodulatory effects of Echinacea and Pelargonium on the innate and adoptive immunity in calves. FOOD AGR IMMUNOL 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/09540105.2018.1444738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nuri Turan
- Department of Virology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Istanbul, Avcilar, Turkey
| | - Aysun Yilmaz
- Department of Virology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Istanbul, Avcilar, Turkey
| | - Utku Y. Cizmecigil
- Department of Virology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Istanbul, Avcilar, Turkey
| | - Ozge Aydin
- Department of Virology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Istanbul, Avcilar, Turkey
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, NY, USA
| | - Huseyin Yilmaz
- Department of Virology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Istanbul, Avcilar, Turkey
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Abstract
A whole new industry has grown up around dietary supplements that purportedly can, enhance exercise performance or enhance the recovery from exercise. Many of these new supplements are ‘functional foods’ or nutraceuticals that have active molecules or ingredients that purportedly can reduce inflammation, prevent oxidative stress or have other benefits for whatever may ails an equine athlete. The blitz of advertising that usually accompanies such miracle ergogenic (i.e. performance enhancing) products suggests that a great deal of scientific research has been published to support those claims. Unfortunately, the majority of new dietary supplements are being promoted with little or no scientific basis for the claims made on their labels or in the advertisements touting their benefits. In many cases, no research has been performed to demonstrate efficacy of these new expensive, avant-garde, dietary supplements in the horse. So how can we determine if a new supplement improves recovery from exercise or has potential to improve athletic capacity? The purpose of this review is to outline the important questions a horse owner, trainer, veterinarian, or regulator should ask before deciding it is ok (safety, legality) or even beneficial to feed a supplement to an athletic horse.
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Affiliation(s)
- K.H. McKeever
- Equine Science Center, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey, 84 Lipman Drive, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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Baumann CW, Kwak D. Echinacea Supplementation: Does it Really Improve Aerobic Fitness? J Exerc Nutrition Biochem 2016; 20:1-6. [PMID: 27757381 PMCID: PMC5067421 DOI: 10.20463/jenb.2016.09.20.3.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Revised: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Echinacea is an herbal supplement used by endurance athletes for its performance boosting properties. It is thought that Echinacea improves the blood's oxygen carrying capacity by increasing production of erythropoietin (EPO), a glycoprotein that regulates red blood cell formation. Subsequently, these changes would lead to an overall improvement in maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and running economy (RE), two markers of aerobic fitness. The purpose of this review is to briefly discuss the physiological variables associated with distance running performance and how these variables are influenced by Echinacea supplementation. METHODS To determine Echinacea's ergogenic potential, human studies that used Echinacea in conjunction to analyzing the blood's oxygen carrying capacity and/or aerobic fitness were assessed. RESULTS Taken together, the majority of the published literature does not support the claim that Echinacea is a beneficial ergogenic aid. With the exception of one study, several independent groups have reported Echinacea supplementation does not increase EPO production, blood markers of oxygen transport, VO2max or RE in healthy untrained or trained subjects. CONCLUSION To date, the published literature does not support the use of Echinacea as an ergogenic aid to improve aerobic fitness in healthy untrained or trained subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory W. Baumann
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MinnesotaUSA
| | - Dongmin Kwak
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MinnesotaUSA
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Ayrle H, Mevissen M, Kaske M, Nathues H, Gruetzner N, Melzig M, Walkenhorst M. Medicinal plants--prophylactic and therapeutic options for gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases in calves and piglets? A systematic review. BMC Vet Res 2016; 12:89. [PMID: 27268043 PMCID: PMC4896019 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-016-0714-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases in calves and piglets lead to significant economic losses in livestock husbandry. A high morbidity has been reported for diarrhea (calves ≤ 35%; piglets ≤ 50%) and for respiratory diseases (calves ≤ 80%; piglets ≤ 40%). Despite a highly diverse etiology and pathophysiology of these diseases, treatment with antimicrobials is often the first-line therapy. Multi-antimicrobial resistance in pathogens results in international accordance to strengthen the research in novel treatment options. Medicinal plants bear a potential as alternative or additional treatment. Based on the versatile effects of their plant specific multi-component-compositions, medicinal plants can potentially act as 'multi-target drugs'. Regarding the plurality of medicinal plants, the aim of this systematic review was to identify potential medicinal plant species for prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases and for modulation of the immune system and inflammation in calves and piglets. RESULTS Based on nine initial sources including standard textbooks and European ethnoveterinary studies, a total of 223 medicinal plant species related to the treatment of gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases was identified. A defined search strategy was established using the PRISMA statement to evaluate 30 medicinal plant species starting from 20'000 peer-reviewed articles published in the last 20 years (1994-2014). This strategy led to 418 references (257 in vitro, 84 in vivo and 77 clinical trials, thereof 48 clinical trials in veterinary medicine) to evaluate effects of medicinal plants and their efficacy in detail. The findings indicate that the most promising candidates for gastrointestinal diseases are Allium sativum L., Mentha x piperita L. and Salvia officinalis L.; for diseases of the respiratory tract Echinacea purpurea (L.) MOENCH, Thymus vulgaris L. and Althea officinalis L. were found most promising, and Echinacea purpurea (L.) MOENCH, Camellia sinensis (L.) KUNTZE, Glycyrrhiza glabra L. and Origanum vulgare L. were identified as best candidates for modulation of the immune system and inflammation. CONCLUSIONS Several medicinal plants bear a potential for novel treatment strategies for young livestock. There is a need for further research focused on gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases in calves and piglets, and the findings of this review provide a basis on plant selection for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Ayrle
- Department of Livestock Sciences, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), Ackerstrasse 113, postbox 219, Frick, 5070, Switzerland. .,Division Veterinary Pharmacology & Toxicology, Department Clinical Research and Veterinary Public Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Laenggassstrasse 124, Bern, 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Meike Mevissen
- Division Veterinary Pharmacology & Toxicology, Department Clinical Research and Veterinary Public Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Laenggassstrasse 124, Bern, 3012, Switzerland
| | - Martin Kaske
- Department of Farm Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, Zurich, 8057, Switzerland
| | - Heiko Nathues
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Swine Clinic, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bremgartenstrasse 109a, Bern, 3012, Switzerland
| | - Niels Gruetzner
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Swine Clinic, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bremgartenstrasse 109a, Bern, 3012, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Melzig
- Dahlem Centre of Plant Sciences, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Koenigin-Luise-Strasse 2 + 4, Berlin, 14195, Germany
| | - Michael Walkenhorst
- Department of Livestock Sciences, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), Ackerstrasse 113, postbox 219, Frick, 5070, Switzerland
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Barbour EK, Ayyash DB, Iyer A, Harakeh S, Kumosani T. A Review of Approaches Targeting the Replacement of Coccidiostat Application in Poultry Production. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2015. [DOI: 10.1590/1516-635x1704405-418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - DB Ayyash
- American University of Beirut, Lebanon
| | - A Iyer
- King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia
| | - S Harakeh
- King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia
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Jahanian E, Jahanian R, Rahmani HR, Alikhani M. Dietary supplementation of Echinacea purpurea powder improved performance, serum lipid profile, and yolk oxidative stability in laying hens. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2015.1091344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elaheh Jahanian
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
| | - Rahman Jahanian
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
| | - Hamid-Reza Rahmani
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
| | - Masoud Alikhani
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
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Echinacea purpurea root extract inhibits TNF release in response to Pam3Csk4 in a phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase dependent manner. Cell Immunol 2015; 297:94-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2015.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Revised: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Stevenson JL, Krishnan S, Inigo MM, Stamatikos AD, Gonzales JU, Cooper JA. Echinacea-Based Dietary Supplement Does Not Increase Maximal Aerobic Capacity in Endurance-Trained Men and Women. J Diet Suppl 2015; 13:324-38. [PMID: 26317662 DOI: 10.3109/19390211.2015.1036189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine if an echinacea-based dietary supplement (EBS) provided at two different doses (a regular dose (RD), 8,000 mg/day, vs. a double dose (DD), 16,000 mg/day) would increase erythropoietin (EPO) and other blood markers involved in improving aerobic capacity and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) in endurance-trained men. Secondly, to determine if any sex differences exist between male and female endurance-trained athletes. METHODS Forty-five endurance athletes completed three visits during a 35-day intervention. Participants were randomized into placebo (PLA; n = 8 men, n = 7 women), RD of EBS (n = 7 men, n = 8 women), or DD of EBS (n = 15 men) for the 35-day intervention period. At baseline, weight, body composition, and VO2max were measured. Blood was drawn to measure EPO, ferritin, red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. At the mid-intervention visit, blood was collected. At the post-intervention visit, all measurements from the baseline visit were obtained once again. RESULTS There was a significant increase in VO2max for endurance-trained men in PLA (increase of 2.8 ± 1.5 ml kg(-1) min(-1), p = .01) and RD of EBS (increase of 2.6 ± 1.8 ml kg(-1) min(-1), p = .04), but not in DD of EBS (p = .96). Importantly, there was no difference in the change in VO2max between PLA and RD of EBS. For endurance-trained women, VO2max did not change in either treatment (PLA: -0.7 ± 1.7 ml kg(-1) min(-1), p = .31; RD of EBS: -0.2 ± 2.4 ml kg(-1) min(-1), p = .80). There were no significant changes in any blood parameter across visits for any treatment group. CONCLUSIONS This EBS should not be recommended as a means to improve performance in endurance athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jada L Stevenson
- a Department of Nutritional Sciences , Texas Tech University , Lubbock , Texas , USA
| | - Sridevi Krishnan
- a Department of Nutritional Sciences , Texas Tech University , Lubbock , Texas , USA
| | - Melissa M Inigo
- b Department of Exercise and Sports Sciences , Texas Tech University , Lubbock , Texas , USA
| | - Alexis D Stamatikos
- a Department of Nutritional Sciences , Texas Tech University , Lubbock , Texas , USA
| | - Joaquin U Gonzales
- b Department of Exercise and Sports Sciences , Texas Tech University , Lubbock , Texas , USA
| | - Jamie A Cooper
- a Department of Nutritional Sciences , Texas Tech University , Lubbock , Texas , USA
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Torkan S, Khamesipour F, Katsande S. Evaluating the effect of oral administration of Echinacea hydroethanolic extract on the immune system in dog. AUTONOMIC & AUTACOID PHARMACOLOGY 2015; 35:9-13. [PMID: 25832590 DOI: 10.1111/aap.12024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2014] [Revised: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 01/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to evaluate the effects of oral administration of Echinacea hydroethanolic extract on the dog's immune system. The study was performed on 14 dogs that were referred to the veterinary clinic. These dogs were randomly allocated to two equal treatment groups. The first group received 1 ml of 5% Echinacea hydroethanolic extract two times a day for 2 months, and the second group received a placebo (water). To do haematology and immunology tests, the dogs were bled on days 0, 30 and 60. Blood tests, including packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell count (RBC), white blood cell count (WBC), counting neutrophils (Nut), lymphocytes (Lym), monocytes (Mon), eosinophils (Eos), basophils (Baso) and B cell, were performed. Furthermore, safety factor IgM and per cent of phagocytosis and phagocyte were measured from the blood sample. The results showed that in the group which received Echinacea PCV, Hb, RBC count, WBC count, Lym, Nut, the per cent of phagocytosis and IgM significantly increased (P < 0.05). Moreover, positive effects of Echinacea plant on the immune system were observed. There was a significant change in HTC, RBC, Hb over time in the group that received Echinacea and the per cent of phagocytosis and IgM (P < 0.05). The study establishes that these extracts might have appreciable immunostimulatory activity. However, further studies are required to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Torkan
- Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran, P.O. Box: 166
| | - F Khamesipour
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran, P.O. Box: 166
| | - S Katsande
- Paraclinical veterinary studies, University of Zimbabwe, P. O. Box MP 167 Mt Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Antioxidant Potential of the Polyherbal Formulation "ImmuPlus": A Nutritional Supplement for Horses. Vet Med Int 2014; 2014:434239. [PMID: 24876991 PMCID: PMC4024405 DOI: 10.1155/2014/434239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Revised: 04/15/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to counteract harmful effects of oxidative stress due to pathological conditions or physical exercise, horses are often administered dietary supplements having supposed high antioxidant activities. The aim of the present study was to identify the in vitro antioxidant potential of “ImmuPlus”, a polyherbal formulation (Global Herbs LTD, Chichester, West Sussex, Great Britain), containing three medicinal plants (Withania somnifera, Tinospora cordifolia, and Emblica officinalis), known in Ayurveda for their use in human disease treatment. Extracts obtained by different solvents (water, methanol, ethanol, acetone, and hexane) were tested for total antioxidant capacity, total reducing power, scavenging activity against DPPH radical, and total polyphenol and flavonoid contents. Our results showed that, except as regards hexane, all the used solvents are able to extract compounds having high antioxidant activity, even when compared to ascorbic acid. Regression analysis showed significant correlations between antioxidant properties and polyphenol/flavonoid contents, indicating the latter, known for their beneficial effects on health of human and animal beings, as major components responsible for the strong antioxidant capacities. Moreover, obtained results suggest the effective role of the polyherbal mixture as good source of antioxidants in horses.
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Abstract
In the domain of nutrition, exploring the diet-health linkages is major area of research. The outcomes of such interventions led to widespread acceptance of functional and nutraceutical foods; however, augmenting immunity is a major concern of dietary regimens. Indeed, the immune system is incredible arrangement of specific organs and cells that enabled humans to carry out defense against undesired responses. Its proper functionality is essential to maintain the body homeostasis. Array of plants and their components hold immunomodulating properties. Their possible inclusion in diets could explore new therapeutic avenues to enhanced immunity against diseases. The review intended to highlight the importance of garlic (Allium sativum), green tea (Camellia sinensis), ginger (Zingiber officinale), purple coneflower (Echinacea), black cumin (Nigella sativa), licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Astragalus and St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) as natural immune boosters. These plants are bestowed with functional ingredients that may provide protection against various menaces. Modes of their actions include boosting and functioning of immune system, activation and suppression of immune specialized cells, interfering in several pathways that eventually led to improvement in immune responses and defense system. In addition, some of these plants carry free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory activities that are helpful against cancer insurgence. Nevertheless, interaction between drugs and herbs/botanicals should be well investigated before recommended for their safe use, and such information must be disseminated to the allied stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Tauseef Sultan
- a Department of Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology , Bahauddin Zakariya University , Multan , Pakistan
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Whitehead MT, Martin TD, Scheett TP, Webster MJ. Running economy and maximal oxygen consumption after 4 weeks of oral Echinacea supplementation. J Strength Cond Res 2012; 26:1928-33. [PMID: 22728943 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0b013e318237e779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of 4 weeks of oral Echinacea (ECH) supplementation on erythropoietin (EPO), red blood cell (RBC) count, running economy (RE), and VO2max. Twenty-four men aged 24.9 ± 4.2 years, height 178.9 ± 7.9 cm, weight 87.9 ± 14.6 kg, body fat 19.3 ± 6.5% were grouped using a double-blind design and self-administered an 8,000-mg·d(-1) dosage of either ECH or placebo (PLA) in 5 × 400 mg × 4 times per day for 28 days. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for RBCs and EPO using automated flow cytometery and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Maximal graded exercise tests (GXTs) were administered to measure VO2max, RE, and heart-rate responses. Analysis of variance was used to determine statistically significant differences (P ≤ 0.05). The EPO increased significantly in ECH at 7 days (ECH: 15.75 ± 0.64, PLA: 10.01 ± 0.73 mU·ml(-1)), 14 days (ECH: 18.88 ± 0.71, PLA: 11.02 ± 0.69 mU·ml(-1)), and 21 days (ECH: 16.06 ± 0.55, PLA: 9.20 ± 0.55 mU·ml(-1)). VO2max increased significantly in ECH (ECH: 1.47 ± 1.28, PLA: -0.13 ± 0.52%). Running economy improved significantly in ECH as indicated by a decrease in submaximal VO2max during the first 2 stages of the GXT (stage 1: ECH -1.50 ± 1.21, PLA 0.60 ± 1.95%; stage 2: ECH -1.67 ± 1.43, PLA 0.01 ± 1.03%). These data suggest that ECH supplementation results in significant increases in EPO, VO2max, and running economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm T Whitehead
- Department of Physical Therapy, Arkansas State University, State University, Arkansas, USA.
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Talbot WA, Pinchbeck GL, Knottenbelt DC, Graham H, McKane SA. A randomised, blinded, crossover study to assess the efficacy of a feed supplement in alleviating the clinical signs of headshaking in 32 horses. Equine Vet J 2012; 45:293-7. [PMID: 22994634 DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2012.00618.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY Feed supplements are commonly used by owners to alleviate headshaking; however, randomised, controlled trials are required to assess their efficacy. OBJECTIVE To determine the efficacy of a feed supplement for alleviation of the clinical signs of headshaking using a randomised, blinded, placebo-controlled trial. METHODS Using a crossover design, 44 horses previously diagnosed with chronic idiopathic headshaking received both the supplement and a matching placebo per os for 28 days with a washout period between of 14 days. Video recordings were taken at rest and exercise prior to the study and at the end of both periods of treatment. The degree of headshaking was assessed in a blinded, randomised manner by 2 veterinary surgeons. At the same time points, owners completed a questionnaire to assess the severity of headshaking signs. A Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to compare the scores while on supplement and placebo. RESULTS Using the video assessments, there was no significant difference between scores while on supplement compared with placebo (P = 0.7). Using the questionnaire responses, there was no significant difference between scores for any activity when the placebo and the supplement were compared with each other. However, owners reported significant improvement during all activities for both placebo and supplement compared with pretreatment scores. CONCLUSIONS AND POTENTIAL RELEVANCE The supplement offered no benefit over a placebo in alleviating the clinical signs of headshaking. There appeared to be a significant proxy placebo effect when the outcome was based on subjective owner perception of clinical signs. This study demonstrated no beneficial effect of this supplement on the clinical signs of headshaking. The study did show a significant placebo effect, thereby highlighting the necessity of properly conducted, randomised controlled trials, with blinding, to assess true treatment effects in trials in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- W A Talbot
- University of Liverpool, Neston, Wirral, UK.
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Applications of the phytomedicine Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) in infectious diseases. J Biomed Biotechnol 2011; 2012:769896. [PMID: 22131823 PMCID: PMC3205674 DOI: 10.1155/2012/769896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Accepted: 08/29/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracts of Echinacea purpurea (EP, purple coneflower) have been used traditionally in North America for the treatment of various types of infections and wounds, and they have become very popular herbal medicines globally. Recent studies have revealed that certain standardized preparations contain potent and selective antiviral and antimicrobial activities. In addition, they display multiple immune-modulatory activities, comprising stimulation of certain immune functions such as phagocytic activity of macrophages and suppression of the proinflammatory responses of epithelial cells to viruses and bacteria, which are manifested as alterations in secretion of various cytokines and chemokines. These immune modulations result from upregulation or downregulation of the relevant genes and their transcription factors. All these bioactivities can be demonstrated at noncytotoxic concentrations of extract and appear to be due to multiple components rather than the individual chemical compounds that characterize Echinacea extracts. Potential applications of the bioactive extracts may go beyond their traditional uses.
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Russo R, Autore G, Severino L. Pharmaco-Toxicological Aspects of Herbal Drugs Used in Domestic Animals. Nat Prod Commun 2009. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x0900401230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Herbal drugs are more and more used both in human and veterinary medicine to mitigate and prevent minor diseases and to support conventional medicine using allopathic drugs. Nevertheless, ‘natural product’ does not mean lack of adverse effects, and many people and veterinarians do not know enough about the adverse reactions that can occur following the administration of such drugs in domestic animals. Moreover, herbal products can interact with each other when administered concomitantly or can agonize or antagonize the effects of synthetic drugs administered as primary therapy. The use of non-conventional medicines (NCM) should be considered as a veterinary practise. In this paper, the herbal drugs most utilized in domestic animals, both pets and large animals, are reviewed, as their use is increasing, despite the prejudices of the academic world and some of the adverse effects and interactions that can occur in domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Russo
- Department of Pathology and Animal Health, University of Naples Federico II, via Delpino 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Autore
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Salerno, via Ponte Don Melillo, 84084, Fisciano (SA), Italy
| | - Lorella Severino
- Department of Pathology and Animal Health, University of Naples Federico II, via Delpino 1, 80137, Naples, Italy
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Wu H, Nardone A, Lacetera N. Effects of a standardized purified dry extract from Echinacea angustifolia on proliferation and interferon gamma secretion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in dairy heifers. Res Vet Sci 2009; 87:396-8. [PMID: 19482325 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2009.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2008] [Revised: 05/04/2009] [Accepted: 05/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study was performed to ascertain whether a standardized extract from Echinacea angustifolia (Polinacea) affects proliferation and interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) secretion in bovine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). PBMC from six Holstein heifers were incubated with 0, 6.3, 20, 60, or 180 microg/ml of the tested compound. Proliferation was stimulated by concanavalin A (ConA) or pokeweed-mitogen (PWM). Secretion of IFN-gamma was stimulated by ConA. All concentrations of Polinacea exerted a mitogenic effect. With respect to control PBMC (0 microg/ml), the lowest and highest increase of proliferation were observed with Polinacea at 6.3 (2-fold increase) or 180 (10-fold increase) microg/ml, respectively. Polinacea at 180 microg/ml reduced ConA-driven proliferation, whereas at 20 and 60 microg/ml improved proliferation of PWM-stimulated PBMC. IFN-gamma secretion was not affected. In conclusion, Polinacea modulates bovine PBMC proliferation, and deserves to be tested in vivo to define conditions that may benefit from its utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Wu
- Department of Animal Husbandry, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine College, Xining, China
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Ali EHA. Protective effects of Echinacea on cyproterone acetate induced liver damage in male rats. Pak J Biol Sci 2008; 11:2464-2471. [PMID: 19205265 DOI: 10.3923/pjbs.2008.2464.2471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The study was planed to evaluate the effect of Echinacea (E.) on liver toxicity in rats treated with Cyproterone Acetate (CA). Rats were divided into 5 groups treated for 2 and 4 weeks, 1-control 2- Echinacea (63 mg/kg/day), 3-CA (25 mg/kg/day), 4-E.+CA and 5-E. for 1 week before E.+CA. All treatments were administered via an oral tube with the same mentioned doses. Rats treated with CA or E.+CA exhibited a significant increase in liver gamma glutamyl transpeptidase and malondialdehyde as compared with the control group. A marked decrease was recorded in all treated groups in comparison with the control with respect to glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. All treatments caused an increase in serum IGG and IGM in comparison with the control value. WBCs showed an increase after E. and CA treatment. While RBCs count and heamatocrit value showed a significant decrease in CA and E+CA treated rats in comparison with the control after four weeks of treatment. These data suggested that, E. possesses a protective effect on the liver against the CA toxicity by increasing auto immunity and blood picture components. Also the E. antioxidant properties exerted counteracting effects on the CA induced oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- E H A Ali
- Department of Zoology, University College for Women, Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, 1 Asmaa Fahmy Street, Misr El Gadida, Elmirghany, Cairo, Egypt
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Williams CA, Lamprecht ED. Some commonly fed herbs and other functional foods in equine nutrition: A review. Vet J 2008; 178:21-31. [PMID: 17689992 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2007.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2007] [Revised: 06/05/2007] [Accepted: 06/10/2007] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Most herbs and functional foods have not been scientifically tested; this is especially true for the horse. This paper reviews some of the literature pertinent to herbal supplementation in horses and other species. Common supplements like Echinacea, garlic, ginger, ginseng, and yucca are not regulated, and few studies have investigated safe, efficacious doses. Ginseng has been found to exert an inhibitory effect on pro-inflammatory cytokines and cyclooxygenase-2 expression. Equine studies have tested the anti-inflammatory effects of a single dose of ginger, post-exercise. Echinacea has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Yucca contains steroid-like saponins, which produce anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-spasmodic effects. However, some herbs have drug-like actions that interact with dietary components and may contain prohibited substances like salicylates, digitalis, heroin, cocaine and marijuana. Horses fed garlic at >0.2g/kg per day developed Heinz body anaemia. Drug-herb interactions are common and caution needs to be taken when implementing 'natural product' usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carey A Williams
- Department of Animal Sciences, Equine Science Center, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA.
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Zhai Z, Liu Y, Wu L, Senchina DS, Wurtele ES, Murphy PA, Kohut ML, Cunnick JE. Enhancement of innate and adaptive immune functions by multiple Echinacea species. J Med Food 2007; 10:423-34. [PMID: 17887935 PMCID: PMC2362099 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2006.257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinacea preparations are commonly used as nonspecific immunomodulatory agents. Alcohol extracts from three widely used Echinacea species, Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea, were investigated for immunomodulating properties. The three Echinacea species demonstrated a broad difference in concentrations of individual lipophilic amides and hydrophilic caffeic acid derivatives. Mice were gavaged once a day (for 7 days) with one of the Echinacea extracts (130 mg/kg) or vehicle and immunized with sheep red blood cells (sRBC) 4 days prior to collection of immune cells for multiple immunological assays. The three herb extracts induced similar, but differential, changes in the percentage of immune cell populations and their biological functions, including increased percentages of CD49+ and CD19+ lymphocytes in spleen and natural killer cell cytotoxicity. Antibody response to sRBC was significantly increased equally by extracts of all three Echinacea species. Concanavalin A-stimulated splenocytes from E. angustifolia- and E. pallida-treated mice demonstrated significantly higher T cell proliferation. In addition, the Echinacea treatment significantly altered the cytokine production by mitogen-stimulated splenic cells. The three herbal extracts significantly increased interferon-alpha production, but inhibited the release of tumor necrosis factor-gamma and interleukin (IL)-1beta. Only E. angustifolia- and E. pallida-treated mice demonstrated significantly higher production of IL-4 and increased IL-10 production. Taken together, these findings demonstrated that Echinacea is a wide-spectrum immunomodulator that modulates both innate and adaptive immune responses. In particular, E. angustifolia or E. pallida may have more anti-inflammatory potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zili Zhai
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Department of Neuroscience, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Lankun Wu
- Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - David S. Senchina
- Department of Immunobiology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Health and Human Performance and Interdepartmental, Department of Microbiology Programs, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Eve S. Wurtele
- Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Patricia A. Murphy
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Marian L. Kohut
- Department of Immunobiology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Health and Human Performance and Interdepartmental, Department of Microbiology Programs, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | - Joan E. Cunnick
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Department of Neuroscience, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Department of Immunobiology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
- Health and Human Performance and Interdepartmental, Department of Microbiology Programs, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
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Epp TS, McDonough P, Padilla DJ, Cox JH, Poole DC, Erickson HH. The effect of herbal supplementation on the severity of exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1079/ecp200438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
AbstractExercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH) is a serious condition that affects the health and possibly the performance of all racehorses. However, only two treatments, furosemide and the Flair™ equine nasal strip, both of which reduce capillary transmural pressure, have been successful in reducing EIPH. Alternatively, transient impairment of platelet function and coagulation during exercise has been considered an additional contributor to EIPH. Consequently, herbal formulations designed to enhance platelet function, and hence coagulation, are hypothesized to reduce EIPH. To investigate the validity of this hypothesis, five Thoroughbred horses completed three maximal incremental exercise tests on a 10% inclined treadmill in a randomized cross-over design experiment. Treatments included twice daily oral administration (for 3 days) of a placebo (PL; cornstarch) and two herbal formulas, Yunnan Paiyao (YP) or Single Immortal (SI). Blood samples for coagulation profiles, complete blood counts and biochemistry profiles were collected before each exercise test. During each test, pulmonary arterial pressure, oxygen uptake, arterial blood gases, plasma lactate and time-to-fatigue were measured. Severity of EIPH was quantified via bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) at 30–60 min post-exercise. The herbal formulations were not effective in decreasing EIPH (×106 red blood cells ml−1 BAL fluid: PL, 27.1±11.6; YP, 33.2±23.4; SI, 35.3±15.4, P>0.05) or in changing any of the other variables measured with the exception of time-to-fatigue, which was slightly but significantly prolonged by Single Immortal compared with placebo and Yunnan Paiyao (PL, 670±9.6 s; YP, 665±5.5 s; SI, 685±7.9 s, P<0.05). Thus, these results do not support the use of these herbal formulations in the prevention of EIPH.
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Cohrssen A. Echinacea's immune effects-possibilities and pitfalls-two cases. Explore (NY) 2006; 2:232-3. [PMID: 16781646 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2006.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2005] [Accepted: 02/16/2006] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Amer S, Na KJ, El-Abasy M, Motobu M, Koyama Y, Koge K, Hirota Y. Immunostimulating effects of sugar cane extract on X-ray radiation induced immunosuppression in the chicken. Int Immunopharmacol 2004; 4:71-7. [PMID: 14975361 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2003.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2003] [Revised: 09/25/2003] [Accepted: 10/08/2003] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum L.) extract (SCE) on the immune system of X-ray immunosuppressed chickens. SCE (500 mg/kg/day) was administrated into the crop of 3-week-old chickens for three consecutive days before or after irradiation. The results indicated that administration of SCE before or after whole body X-ray irradiation enhanced both primary and secondary immune responses in chickens immunized with sheep red blood cells and Brucella abortus (BA) as well as cell-mediated immunity measured by delayed type hypersensitivity to human gamma-globulin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Said Amer
- National Institute of Animal Health, National Agricultural Research Organization, 3-1-5, Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0856, Japan
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Allen PC. Dietary supplementation with Echinacea and development of immunity to challenge infection with coccidia. Parasitol Res 2003; 91:74-8. [PMID: 12898224 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-003-0938-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2002] [Accepted: 05/28/2003] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
An experiment was conducted to examine the effects of dietary supplementation with 0.1% and 0.5% ground root preparations of Echinacea purpurea (EP; common name: purple cone flower) on the development of immunity following live vaccination and subsequent challenge with multiple coccidia species in an experimental model using a commercial live vaccine preparation. Effects of immunization and EP supplementation on weight gains before challenge, and weight gains, lesion scores and plasma levels of carotenoids and NO2-+NO3- following challenge were determined. In this experiment, combined live vaccination and feed supplementation with 0.1% or 0.5% EP during the first 2 weeks of life provided significant weight gain advantage compared to live vaccination alone. This advantage persisted through 2 weeks of EP withdrawal and subsequent challenge infection. EP supplementation also significantly lowered total lesion scores but did not significantly modify the effects of vaccination and challenge on plasma carotenoids or NO2-+NO3-.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia C Allen
- Animal and Natural Resources Institute, Parasite Biology Epidemiology and Systematics Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Building 1040, Room 103, BARC-East, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA.
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