Novel derivatives of plant monomeric phenolics: act as inhibitors of bacterial cell-to-cell communication

The aim of the present study was to synthesize novel active Anti-Quorum sensing derivatives from secondary metabolites viz. Gallic acid, Protocatechuic acid and Vanillic acid present in the plant Bergenia ciliata. Efficacy of all synthesized derivatives have been evaluated on the formation of bacterial biofilm and inhibition of cell-to-cell communication. Anti-Quorum Sensing activity and biofilm formation of all synthesized compounds was measured on biomonitor strain Chrobacterium violaceum, ATCC 12472 using standard paper disk-diffusion assay and quantification of violacein pigment. Among all derivatives, five derivatives 3,4,5-Trihydroxy-benzoic acid methyl ester (9a), 3,4-Dihydroxy-benzoic acid methyl ester (10a), 3,4,5-Tris-(2,4-dichloro-benzyloxy)-benzoic acid methyl ester (12), 3,4,5-Tris-(2,5-dichloro-benzyloxy)-benzoic acid methyl ester (13) and 4-(2,4-Dichloro-benzyloxy)-3-methoxy-benzoic acid methyl ester (15) has shown Anti-Quorum Sensing activity by inhibiting violacein pigment production and biofilm formation without interfering with its growth. The inhibitory effects in violacein pigment production were: positive control (C-30) 72%, (9a), (10a) 47.2%, (12) 27.3%, (13) 40.1% and (15) 22.7% at the concentration of 1 mg/mL and biofilm percent inhibition were found (C-30) 64% (9a) 46.2%, (10a) 40.3%, (12) 18.4%, (13) 35.2%, and (15) 17.3% when compared with the untreated control. Results reveal that synthesized derivatives seem to be good compounds for inhibition and formation of biofilm and AHL-mediated Quorum-sensing mechanism. The present article highlights the importance of derivatives derived from secondary metabolites as potent drug for biofilm formation and inhibition of cell-to-cell communication.

Altitudinal variation of berberine, total phenolics and flavonoid content in Thalictrum foliolosum and their correlation with antimicrobial and antioxidant activities

Background

The quality of herbal medicine is determined by its secondary metabolites, which may vary according to growth, season and altitude etc.

Objective

We studied the variation in phytochemistry and biological activities of Thalictrum foliolosum (TF) roots collected from four sites at different altitudes.

Material and methods

The berberine content in different extracts of T. foliolosum roots collected from various altitudes was estimated using HPTLC. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined using Folin-Ciocalteau reagent and aluminum chloride method respectively. The sensitivity of microbes for the extracts was studied using disc diffusion and the MIC was estimated using broth dilution method. Antioxidant capacity of the plant was studied using β-carotene bleaching assay, lipid peroxidation assay using goat liver, reducing power assay and DPPH free radical scavenging activity.

Results

Berberine content varied inversely with altitude; while phenol and flavonoid content of TF increased at higher altitudes. All the TF extracts showed moderate to high activity against Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Extracts with high berberine content were most effective against C. albicans and S. aureus and also showed relatively significant anti-lipid peroxidation, β-carotene bleaching and reducing power. TF extracts with higher phenol and flavonoid content showed better scavenging of DPPH free radicals. Berberine was used as a standard in all the antioxidant and antimicrobial experiments performed.

Conclusion

Thalictrum from lower elevations can be explored as an alternate source of berberine and the plant has high antioxidant and antimicrobial properties owing to its berberine content.

The Endophytic Symbiont-Pseudomonas aeruginosa Stimulates the Antioxidant Activity and Growth of Achyranthes aspera L

A plant growth promoting bacterial endophyte designated as AL2-14B isolated from the leaves of Achyranthes aspera L. was identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa based on its phenotypic and physiological features, and 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. AL2-14B had plant growth stimulating attributes including siderophore and indole acetic acid release, inorganic phosphate solubilization, along with nitrogenase, ammonification, and protease activities. It also exhibited antifungal property against Rhizoctonia solani. The plantlets grown in germ-free condition were inoculated with AL2-14B and studied for the colonization of endophyte. Significant increase in population of AL2-14B between 3rd and 5th days after inoculation was recorded. The treatment of plants with endophytic P. aeruginosa AL2-14B increased nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium (NPK) contents in plant by 3.8, 12.59, and 19.15%, respectively. Significant enhancement of shoot and root length, dry leaf, dry shoot and dry root weight, and leaf surface area as compared to control (P < 0.05) was recorded in AL2-14B inoculated plants. The antioxidant activities increased in plants grown in germ-free conditions and inoculated with AL2-14B. The present study emphasizes on the role of diazotrophic endophyte P. aeruginosa AL2-14B in stimulating growth of A. aspera L. and improvement of its medicinal properties. Significant increase in growth and antioxidant content of P. aeruginosa AL2-14B treated plants suggests the possibility of an economical and eco-friendly mean of achieving antioxidants rich, healthier A. aspera plants.

Grilling enhances antidiarrheal activity of Terminalia bellerica Roxb. fruits

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Terminalia bellerica Roxb. fruits are rich in a variety of biologically active ingredients. Tharu and Buksa tribes of Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand, India use grilled fruits of Terminalia bellerica as an effective cure for diarrhea AIM OF THE STUDY: We validated the ethnobotanical claim by comparing the antidiarrheal effect of grilled fruits (GF) with dried fruits (DF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 50% ethanolic extracts of GF and DF were successively fractionated; the antioxidant and bacterial inhibition activity were studied using DPPH free radical scavenging, anti-lipid peroxidation and broth dilution method respectively. Difference in metabolites of ethyl acetate fractions of GF and DF was analyzed using GC-MS, gallic acid content was determined through HPTLC. Further the in-vivo antidiarrheal effect of ethyl acetate fractions of DF and GF was studied on castor oil induced diarrhea model.

RESULTS

The ethyl acetate fractions showed potential DPPH free radical scavenging (IC₅₀ 11.13µg/ml in DF and 8.56µg/ml in GF), anti-lipid peroxidation and antibacterial activity. The non-targeted metabolic profiling showed higher content of tartaric acid, valeric acid, gallic acid, succinic acid, oxalic acid, malonic acid, malic acid, 1,2,3 trisbenzene, uridine and 11-eicosenoic acid in GF. The HPTLC results indicated that gallic acid content was 2.8 (±0.14) and 4.92 (±0.28) mg/g while ellagic acid content was 4.7 (±0.32) and 4.45 (±0.45) mg/g dry powder in DF and GF respectively. According to in vivo antidiarrheal activity DF and GF (100mg/kg oral) inhibited diarrhea by 41.87% and 71.72% respectively.

CONCLUSION

Grilling significantly altered the levels of metabolites in T. bellerica fruits which could be responsible for its increased therapeutic potential.

Traditional herbs: a remedy for cardiovascular disorders

BACKGROUND

Medicinal plants have been used in patients with congestive heart failure, systolic hypertension, angina pectoris, atherosclerosis, cerebral insufficiency, venous insufficiency and arrhythmia since centuries. A recent increase in the popularity of alternative medicine and natural products has revived interest in traditional remedies that have been used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

AIM

The purpose of this review is to provide updated, comprehensive and categorized information on the history and traditional uses of some herbal medicines that affect the cardiovascular system in order to explore their therapeutic potential and evaluate future research opportunities.

METHODS

Systematic literature searches were carried out and the available information on various medicinal plants traditionally used for cardiovascular disorders was collected via electronic search (using Pubmed, SciFinder, Scirus, GoogleScholar, JCCC@INSTIRC and Web of Science) and a library search for articles published in peer-reviewed journals. No restrictions regarding the language of publication were imposed.

RESULTS

This article highlights the cardiovascular effects of four potent traditional botanicals viz. Garlic (Allium sativum), Guggul (Commiphora wightii), Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha) and Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna). Although these plants have been used in the treatment of heart disease for hundreds of years, current research methods show us they can be utilized effectively in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases including ischemic heart disease, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias and hypertension.

CONCLUSION

Although the mechanisms of action are not very clear, there is enough evidence of their efficacy in various cardiovascular disorders. However, for bringing more objectivity and also to confirm traditional claims, more systematic, well-designed animal and randomized clinical studies with sufficient sample sizes are necessary. Multidisciplinary research is still required to exploit the vast potential of these plants. Potential synergistic and adverse side effects of herb-drug interactions also need to be studied. These approaches will help in establishing them as remedies for cardiovascular diseases and including them in the mainstream of healthcare system.

Comparative in vitro anti-tick efficacy of commercially available products and newly developed phyto-formulations against field collected and resistant tick lines of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus

Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is considered as one of the most widely distributed tick species ecto-parasitizing on livestock and causes fatal diseases with significant production loss. To address the problem of controlling acaricide resistant tick infestations on animals, attention has been paid to develop eco-friendly phyto-acaricides. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the comparative anti-tick activities of commercially available herbal and chemical products with chemically characterized phyto-formulations developed recently against field ticks and resistant tick lines of R. (B.) microplus. The chemical product Butox^® Vet was found nearly passive against all the tested resistant tick lines. However, one of the commercial polyherbal product, Zerokeet^® showed an efficacy (E%) of 41.8-75.4 % ([Formula: see text]) using recommended dilution (1:2) against field ticks and resistant tick lines. However, the other commercial product, Erina^® EP has very limited efficacy against all the tested tick. In comparison, the newly developed phyto-formulation, NBA/13/B/2 and NAC-01 conferred an E% of 82.4-91.3 % ([Formula: see text]) and 62.3-94.6 % ([Formula: see text]), respectively, against tested resistant ticks. Results indicated higher marketing potentiality of newly developed formulation in the existing tick problem scenario.

Design of folic acid conjugated chitosan nano-cur–bioenhancers to attenuate the hormone-refractory metastatic prostate carcinoma by augmenting oral bioavailability

Folic acid conjugated nano-cur–bioenhancer as a functional P-glycoprotein inhibitor enhancing oral bioavailability of curcumin.

Reversed-phase high-performance Liquid Chromatography-ultraviolet Photodiode Array Detector Validated Simultaneous Quantification of six Bioactive Phenolic Acids in Roscoea purpurea Tubers and their In vitro Cytotoxic Potential against Various Cell Lines

BACKGROUND

Roscoea purpurea or Roscoea procera Wall. (Zingiberaceae) is traditionally used for nutrition and in the treatment of various ailments.

OBJECTIVE

Simultaneous reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet (RP-HPLC) photodiode array detector identification of phenolic acids (PA's) was carried out in whole extract of tuber and their cytotoxic potential was estimated along with radical scavenging action. Bioactivity guided fractionation was also done to check the response potential against the same assay.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Identification and method validation was performed on RP-HPLC column and in vitro assays were used for bioactivity.

RESULTS

Protocatechuic acid, syringic acid, ferulic acid, rutin, apigenin, and kaempferol were quantified as 0.774%, 0.064%, 0.265%, 1.125%, 0.128%, and 0.528%, respectively. Validated method for simultaneous determination of PA's was found to be accurate, reproducible, and linearity was observed between peak area response and concentration. Recovery of identified PA's was within the acceptable limit of 97.40-104.05%. Significant pharmacological response was observed in whole extract against in vitro cytotoxic assay, that is, Sulforhodamine B assay, however, fractionation results in decreased action potential. Similar pattern of results were observed in the antioxidant assay, as total phenolic content and total flavonoid content were highest in whole extract and decreases with fractionation. Radical scavenging activity was prominent in chloroform fraction, exhibiting IC50 at 0.25 mg/mL.

CONCLUSION

Study, thus, reveals that R. purpurea exhibit significant efficacy in cytotoxic activity with the potentiality of scavenging free radicals due the presence of PA's as reported through RP-HPLC.

SUMMARY

Proto-catechuic acid, syringic acid, ferulic acid, rutin, apigenin and kaempferol were quantified as 0.774, 0.064, 0.265, 1.125, 0.128 and 0.528 %Preliminary cytotoxic activity revealed that whole extract of R. purpurea exhibit promising effect and after fractionation the potentiation of action reducesThe radical scavenging potential of whole extract and fractions are well reflected by TPC, TFC and DPPH assay.

In vitro acaricidal properties of Semecarpus anacardium fruit and Datura stramonium leaf extracts against acaricide susceptible (IVRI-I line) and resistant (IVRI-V line) Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus

In an attempt to identify plants having anti-tick properties, the 95% ethanolic and 50% hydro-ethanolic extracts of the fruits of Semecarpus anacardium and leaves of Datura stramonium were evaluated against reference tick lines of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. The 95% ethanolic extracts of S. anacardium and D. stramonium caused 50% and 20% mortality, respectively, within 72 h of treatment by adult immersion test. The LC90 value of the ethanolic fruit extract of S. anacardium was determined as 13.5% (CI 12.05-15.12). The extract was also found efficacious (73.3%±3.3%) against the multi-acaricide-resistant IVRI-V line of R.(B.) microplus. The S. anacardium extract significantly affected the reproductive physiology of treated ticks by inhibiting the oviposition and was found safe. The HPTLC fingerprinting profile revealed the presence of pyrocatechol as a marker compound. The acaricidal property of S. anacardium against chemical acaricide-resistant R. (B.) microplus was discussed.

Identification of potential plant extracts for anti-tick activity against acaricide resistant cattle ticks, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Acari: Ixodidae)

To develop an eco-friendly tick control method, seven plant extracts were prepared using 50 and 95% ethanol and evaluated for acaricidal activity against cattle tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. The adult immersion test was adopted for testing different extracts. Based on 72 h screening criterion, 95% ethanolic extracts of Datura metel fruits and Argemone mexicana whole plant were found effective showing more than 50% mortality of treated ticks. The 95% ethanolic extracts of D. metel fruits and A. mexicana whole plant exhibited acaricidal and reproductive inhibitory effects on treated ticks. The LC90 values of D. metel and A. mexicana extracts were determined as 7.13 and 11.3%, respectively. However, although both the extracts were found efficacious against deltamethrin-resistant IVRI-4 and multi-acaricide resistant IVRI-5 lines of R. (B.) microplus, they caused less mortality than treated ticks of the reference IVRI-I line. Phytochemical studies indicated the presence of alkaloids and glucosides in D. metel fruits and alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids and phenolics in A. mexicana whole plant extracts. The results indicated that these botanicals may play an important role in reducing the use of chemicals for tick control and possibly to manage resistant tick population in environment friendly manner.

A review on biological and chemical diversity in Berberis (Berberidaceae)

Berberis is an important genus and well known in the Indian as well as European systems of traditional medicine. It is used since ancient times for curing eye disease, fever, jaundice, rheumatism, vomiting during pregnancy, kidney and gall balder stones and various other ailments due to the presence of biologically active alkaloid berberine. Action of the root extracts of few species are believed to be as powerful as quinine in the treatment of malarial fever. A plethora of literature pertaining to the taxonomy, biology, chemistry, traditional and ethnic uses of Berberis in different countries and indigenous cultures was collected by both offline (library, journals, textbooks etc.) and online mode (electronic search of available databases). In addition to this, books on traditional medicine and ethno pharmacological knowledge were also referred to extract ancient uses of Berberis in different traditional medicine systems. Most of the folklore, traditional and ethno botanical claims about Berberis species were validated by broad spectrum in vitro and vivo pharmacological studies. The present article summarizes its usage in eye and liver disorder, fever, kidney and gall stones along with anticancer activity. This comprehensive review will not only help researchers for further evaluation but also provide substantial information for future exploitation of species to develop novel herbal formulations.

Effect of Asparagus racemosus (shatavari) extract on physicochemical and functional properties of milk and its interaction with milk proteins

The effects of interaction of Asparagus racemosus (shatavari) with milk constituents and physico-chemical and functional characteristics of milk was studied. Addition of freeze dried aqueous shatavari extract at a concentration of 1 g /100 ml of milk showed a decrease in pH, rennet coagulation time and an increase in acidity, viscosity and heat stability at maximum. The extract also imparted brown colour to milk and showed an increase in a* (redness) and b* (yellowness) values but a decrease in L* (lightness) value. Proteins in milk were modified by reaction with shatavari extract. The derivatives formed were characterized in terms of SDS-PAGE. Electrophoretic pattern of sodium caseinate and whey containing 1% shatavari herb extract did not show any difference in band pattern i.e. there was no difference in mobility based on size of the proteins, but the intensity (width) of bands differed.

Honey enhances the anti-quorum sensing activity and anti-biofilm potential of curcumin

In this investigation, the potential of curcumin (50 μg mL⁻¹) plus 1% of honey (ChC) in reducing QS-mediated production of virulence factors and biofilm formation inPseudomonas aeruginosaPAO1 was studied.

A validated over pressured layered chromatography (OPLC) method for separation and quantification of colchicine in Gloriosa superba (L.) tubers from different geographical regions

A validated (OPLC) method for separation, quantification & phytogeographical variation of colchicine inG. superbatuber (s) from central India.

HPTLC-densitometric determination and kinetic studies on antioxidant potential of monomeric phenolic acids (MPAs) from Bergenia species

We developed a HPTLC method for the quantification of vanillic acid, syringic acid, gallic acid and protocatechuic acid and kinetic studies on antioxidant potential in Bergenia ciliata and Bergenia stracheyi.

Indian traditional ayurvedic system of medicine and nutritional supplementation

Food is the major source for serving the nutritional needs, but with growing modernization some traditional ways are being given up. Affluence of working population with changing lifestyles and reducing affordability of sick care, in terms of time and money involved, are some of the forces that are presently driving people towards thinking about their wellness. There has been increased global interest in traditional medicine. Efforts to monitor and regulate traditional herbal medicine are underway. Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicine, remains the most ancient yet living traditions. Although India has been successful in promoting its therapies with more research and science-based approach, it still needs more extensive research and evidence base. Increased side effects, lack of curative treatment for several chronic diseases, high cost of new drugs, microbial resistance and emerging, diseases are some reasons for renewed public interest in complementary and alternative medicines. Numerous nutraceutical combinations have entered the international market through exploration of ethnopharmacological claims made by different traditional practices. This review gives an overview of the Ayurvedic system of medicine and its role in translational medicine in order to overcome malnutrition and related disorders.

Molecular and chemical profiling of 'sweet flag' (Acorus calamus L.) germplasm from India

In the present study, molecular (DAMD and ISSR) and chemical (α and β-asarone contents) markers were used to characterize the A. calamus genotypes procured from different parts of India. The cumulative analysis carried out for both DAMD and ISSR markers revealed 24.71 % polymorphism across all genotypes of A. calamus. The clustering patterns of the genotypes in the UPGMA tree showed that the genotypes are diverse, and did not show any specific correlation with their geographical provenances, reflecting the low level of genetic diversity and a high genetic differentiation among the genotypes from the same localities. All the 27 genotypes of A. calamus were also analyzed for α and β-asarone contents, and percentage of essential oil. The genotype (Ac13) from Kullu (Himachal Pradesh) showed maximum (9.5 %) percentage of oil, whereas corresponding minimum (2.8 %) was obtained from the genotypes from Pangthang (Sikkim). Similarly, the highest α and β-asarone contents (16.82 % and 92.12 %) were obtained from genotypes from Renuka (Himachal Pradesh) and Udhampur (Jammu & Kashmir), while lowest α and β-asarone contents (0.83 % and 65.96 %) resulted from Auranwa (Uttar Pradesh) and Pangthang (Sikkim) genotypes, respectively. A. calamus harbours tremendous economic value, and it is therefore, important to identify the genotypes with low α and β-asarone contents for its commercial utilization. Further, this study will help in evaluation and documentation of a large number of diverse genotypes for their value traits.

Acaricidal properties of Ricinus communis leaf extracts against organophosphate and pyrethroids resistant Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus

Indian cattle ticks have developed resistance to commonly used acaricides and an attempt has been made to formulate an ecofriendly herbal preparation for the control of acaricide resistant ticks. A 95% ethanolic extract of Ricinus communis was used to test the efficacy against reference acaricide resistant lines by in vitro assay. In in vitro assay, the extract significantly affects the mortality rate of ticks in dose-dependent manner ranging from 35.0 ± 5.0 to 95.0 ± 5.0% with an additional effect on reproductive physiology of ticks by inhibiting 36.4-63.1% of oviposition. The leaf extract was found effective in killing 48.0, 56.7 and 60.0% diazinon, deltamethrin and multi-acaricide resistant ticks, respectively. However, the cidal and oviposition limiting properties of the extract were separated when the extract was fractionated with hexane, chloroform, n-butanol and water. The HPTLC finger printing profile of R. communis leaf extract under λ(max.) - 254 showed presence of quercetin, gallic acid, flavone and kaempferol which seemed to have synergistic acaricidal action. In vivo experiment resulted in 59.9% efficacy on Ist challenge, however, following 2nd challenge the efficacy was reduced to 48.5%. The results indicated that the 95% ethanolic leaf extract of R. communis can be used effectively in integrated format for the control of acaricide resistant ticks.

Quality evaluation of ayurvedic crude drug daruharidra, its allied species, and commercial samples from herbal drug markets of India

Berberis aristata known as "Daruharidra" in Ayurveda is a versatile medicinal plant used singly or in combination with other medicinal plants for treating a variety of ailments like jaundice, enlargement of spleen, leprosy, rheumatism, fever, morning/evening sickness, snakebite, and so forth. A major bioactive marker of this genus is an alkaloid berberine, which is known for its activity against cholera, acute diarrhea, amoebiasis, and latent malaria and for the treatment of oriental sore caused by Leishmania tropica. Although the roots of B. aristata are considered as the official drug (Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India), the study revealed that different species of Berberis, namely. B. asiatica, B. chitria, and B. lycium are also used under the name of Daruharidra in different parts of the country. Detailed physicochemical and phytochemical studies of subjects like total ash, acid insoluble ash, tannins, and total alkaloids were calculated from the shade dried powdered material according to the recommended procedures. Further, heavy metal studies and quantitative estimation of berberine through HPTLC have also been performed as per ICH guidelines. A detailed study of four Berberis species, namely B. aristata, B. asiatica, B. chitria, and B. lycium, which are implicated as Daruharidra and collected from wild and ten commercial samples procured from various important drug markets in India has been carried out, which may be useful to pharmaceutical industries for the authentication of the commercial samples and exploring the possibilities of using other species as a substitute of B. aristata.

Antiulcer Activity of Hydroalchol Extract of Momordica dioica roxb. Fruit

The present study was carried out to evaluate antiulcer activity of hydroalcohol extract of Momordica dioica Roxb. fruit. Momordica dioica Roxb. fruit extract (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight) was administered orally, twice daily for 5 days for prevention from ethanol, cold-restraint stress and pylorus ligation-induced ulcers. Estimation of H(+)-K(+) ATPase activity and gastric wall mucous were performed in ethanol-induced ulcer model, antioxidant enzyme activities was carried out in cold-restraint stress-induced ulcer model, and various gastric secretion parameters like volume of gastric juice, acid output, and pH value were estimated in pylorus ligation-induced ulcer model. A significant reduction in lesion index was observed in ulcer-induced animals pre treated with extract at different doses when compared with ulcerated rats in all models. A significant decrease occurred in the level of H(+)-K(+) ATPase, volume of gastric juice, and acid output. Gastric wall mucus and pH were increased significantly. These showed dose-dependent action of extract. LPO and antioxidant enzyme levels of SOD were decreased, but CAT enzyme showed significant increase. Thus the results indicate that the Momordica dioica extract possess antiulcerogenic effect, that attributable to augmentation of gastric defense mechanisms.

Hepatoprotective potential of ethanolic extract of Ziziphus oenoplia (L.) Mill roots against antitubercular drugs induced hepatotoxicity in experimental models

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of ethanolic (50%) extract of Ziziphus oenoplia (L.) Mill (Z. oenoplia) root against isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF) induced liver damage in animal models.

METHODS

Five groups of six rats each were selected for the study. Ethanolic extract at a dose of 150 and 300 mg/kg as well as silymarin (100 mg/kg) were administered orally once daily for 21 d in INH + RIF treated groups. The serum levels of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (SALP), and bilirubin were estimated along with activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, and hepatic melondialdehyde formation. Histopathological analysis was carried out to assess injury to the liver.

RESULTS

The considerably elevated serum enzymatic activities of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin due to INH + RIF treatment were restored towards normal in a dose dependent manner after the treatment with ethanolic extract of Z. oenoplia roots. Meanwhile, the decreased activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione S-transferase and glutathione peroxidase were also restored towards normal dose dependently. In addition, ethanolic extract also significantly prevented the elevation of hepatic melondialdehyde formation in the liver of INH + RIF intoxicated rats in a dose dependent manner. The biochemical observations were supplemented with histopathological examination of rat liver sections.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study strongly indicate that ethanolic extract of Z. oenoplia has a potent hepatoprotective action against INH + RIF induced hepatic damage in rats.

Deltamethrin and cypermethrin resistance status of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus collected from six agro-climatic regions of India

A cross sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence of synthetic pyrethroids (SP) resistance in Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus in India. Twenty-seven areas located in six agro-climatic regions were selected for the collection of engorged ticks using two stage stratified sampling procedure. Adult immersion test (AIT) and larval packet test (LPT) were optimized using laboratory reared susceptible line of R.(B.) microplus (IVRI-I) for determination of 95% lethal concentration (LC(95)) of deltamethrin (29.6 ppm in AIT and 35.5 ppm in LPT) and cypermethrin (349.1 ppm in AIT and 350.7 ppm in LPT). The AIT with a discriminating dose (2 × LC(95)) was used to detect deltamethrin and cypermethrin resistance in the field isolates of R.(B.) microplus. On the basis of the data generated on three variables viz., mortality, egg masses and reproductive index, the resistance level was categorized as I, II, III and IV. The overall prevalence of SP-resistant R.(B.) microplus among the sampled farms was 66.6% (18/27). Out of these 18 areas, resistance to deltamethrin at level I was detected in 08 areas (resistance factor=2.0-4.9), at level II in 09 areas (RF=5.2-11.8), at level III in 01 area (RF=34.9) and at level IV in 01 area (RF=95.7). The resistance to cypermethrin was detected in 16 areas and level of resistance was detected at level I in 10 areas (RF=2.06-4.64) and at level II in 06 areas (RF=5.13-9.88). The middle-gangetic and trans-gangetic plains revealed higher density of resistant ticks where intensive cross bred cattle population are reared and the SP compounds are commonly used. The data generated on acaricide resistant status in ticks will help in formulating tick control strategy for the country.

In vitro evaluation of acaricidal activity of fipronil against Haemaphysalis bispinosa based on adult immersion test

Fipronil is a phenylpyrazole family insecticide which mainly affects the nervous system of insects. In the present study, the in vitro acaricidal effects of the compound against the widely prevalent multihost tick, Haemaphysalis bispinosa was assessed. The lowest concentration at which complete adult tick mortality was observed was at 25 ppm while complete absence of egg mass observed at 10 ppm. Hundred per cent inhibition of fecundity was observed at 1 ppm while complete blocking of hatching of the laid ova was observed even at 500 ppb.

Effects of solvents and surfactants against Haemaphysalis bispinosa

As per the report published by FAO (2004), the tick population in India has developed resistance against all the available acaricides. Hence, newer methods of control including potential herbal agents are required to reduce the problems caused by the ticks. Most of the herbal extracts or their fractions are dissolved in polar or non-polar solvents or detergents before tested for acaricidal activity and these diluents should be of little acaricidal activity. In the present study, adult immersion test (AIT) was carried out on adult engorged female Haemaphysalis bispinosa ticks to detect the acaricidal activity of different solvents viz., nbutanol, glycerol, acetone, ethanol, methanol and surfactants (at 1 per cent dilution) like dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO), tween 20 and triton X- 100. The study revealed that methanol was the least toxic solvent while tween 20 (1 per cent) was the least toxic detergent against H. bispinosa.

TLC densitometric quantification of picrosides (picroside-I and picroside-II) in Picrorhiza kurroa and its substitute Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora and their antioxidant studies

Picroside-I and picroside-II are known bioactive metabolites in Picrorhiza species. In the present study a simple, precise method has been established for the simultaneous determination of picrosides (picroside-I and picroside-II) in two different Picrorhiza species, P. kurroa and P. scrophulariiflora. This method was also validated for accuracy, precision, robustness, limit of detection and quantification, repeatability and recovery, according to International Conference of Harmonization guidelines. Separation and quantification was achieved by HPTLC using as the mobile phase chloroform-methanol (88:12, v/v) on precoated silica gel 60F(254) aluminum plates. Densitometric determination was carried out at wavelength λ(max) 254 nm in UV absorbance mode. Comparative study also revealed that picroside-I and picroside-II are higher in P. scrophulariiflora than P. kurroa. Picroside-I content was found to be 1.258 and 1.611%, and picroside-II was estimated as 0.481 and 0.613% in P. kurroa and P. scrophulariiflora, respectively. Antioxidant potential of these two Picrorhiza species was also studied using DPPH. At a concentration of 0.1 mg/mL the scavenging activities of P. kurroa and P. scrophulariiflora were found to 37.70 and 34.30%, respectively.

Gastroprotective activity of Cinnamomum tamala leaves on experimental gastric ulcers in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cinnamomum tamala T. Nees & Eberm (Family Lauraceae) is used traditionally in Indian System of Medicine as carminative, anthelmintic, diuretic, and used in colic, dyspepsia, and diarrhea.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was aimed to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of Cinnamomum tamala leaves.

METHODS

Cinnamomum tamala leaves extract (CTE; 50,100 and 200mg/kg body weight) was administered orally, twice daily for 5 days for prevention from ethanol (EtOH)-, cold-restraint stress (CRS)- and pylorus ligation (PL)-induced ulcers. Estimation of H(+)K(+)ATPase activity and gastric wall mucous were performed in EtOH-induced ulcer model, antioxidant enzyme activities was carried out in CRS-induced ulcer model, and various gastric secretion parameters like volume of gastric juice, acid output, and pH value were estimated in PL-induced ulcer model.

RESULTS

A significant reduction in lesion index was observed in ulcer-induced animals treated with CTE at different doses when compared with ulcerated rats in all models. A significant decrease occurred in the level of H(+)K(+)ATPase, volume of gastric juice, and acid output. Simultaneously the level of gastric wall mucus and pH were increased significantly. These showed dose-dependent action of CTE. The antioxidant enzyme levels of LPO and SOD were decreased while administering CTE at different doses, compared with their control values. Contrary to this the level of CAT enzyme showed significant increase.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study showed that Cinnamomum tamala possess significant gastroprotective activity, probably due to its free radical scavenging activity.

High-performance liquid chromatography as a tool for the chemical standardisation of Triphala--an Ayurvedic formulation

Triphala is an anti-oxidant-rich herbal formulation containing fruits of Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula and T. belerica in equal proportions. The preparation is frequently used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat diseases such as anaemia, jaundice, constipation, asthma, fever and chronic ulcers. Anti-mutagenic effects of the polyphenolic fractions isolated from Triphala have been reported, thus indicating that the phenols present in the formulation might be responsible for its therapeutic efficacy. A simple high-performance liquid chromatography method for the separation and quantitative determination of the major antioxidant polyphenols from Triphala has been developed. The use of an RP18 column with an acidic mobile phase enabled the efficient separation of gallic acid, tannic acid, syringic acid and epicatechin along with ascorbic acid within a 20 min analysis. Validation of the method was performed in order to demonstrate its selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy and robustness. In addition, optimisation of the complete extraction of phenolic compounds was also studied.

Antimicrobial activity of some important Adiantum species used traditionally in indigenous systems of medicine

Adiantum Linn. of Adiantaceae family is one of the most common and widely distributed species. Ethnomedicinally, the genus is important and popularly known as "Hansraj" in Ayurvedic System of Medicine. It has been used in cold, tumors of spleen, liver and other viscera, skin diseases, bronchitis and inflammatory diseases. It is also considered as tonic and diuretic. In the present study its four important species, i.e. Adiantum capillus-veneris, Adiantum peruvianum, Adiantum venustum and Adiantum caudatum were collected and extracted with methanol. These extracts were tested for their antimicrobial agents against five gram positive, six gram negative (including multiresistant bacteria Staphylococcus aureus) and eight fungal strains using standard microdilution assay. The maximum activity was exhibited by the methanolic extract of Adiantum venustum followed by Adiantum capillus-veneris, Adiantum peruvianum and Adiantum caudatum. The methanolic extract of Adiantum capillus-veneris had very low MIC value (0.48 microg/ml) against Escherichia coli whereas, Adiantum venustum extract against Aspergillus terreus with MIC of 0.97 microg/ml. Total phenolic constituents of Adiantum species viz. Adiantum venustum, Adiantum capillus-veneris, Adiantum peruvianum and Adiantum caudatum were 0.81% (w/w), 0.83% (w/w), 0.71% (w/w) and 0.52% (w/w), respectively (as gallic acid equivalent); implying that the observed activity could be related to the amount of phenolics.

Antimicrobial activities of Indian Berberis species

The antimicrobial activity of hydroalcoholic extracts of four Berberis species viz. Berberis aristata, Berberis asiatica, Berberis chitria and Berberis lycium were tested against eleven bacterial and eight fungal strains. B. aristata root extract gave low MICs values against Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Aspergillus flavus while stem extract against B. cereus and Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Antimicrobial activity of some Indian mosses

The present study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of ethanolic extracts of 15 Indian mosses. The antibacterial activity of ethanolic extracts was investigated against five G(+) and six G(-) bacterial strains. Antimycotic activity was assayed against 8 fungi. Sphagnum junghuhnianum, Barbula javanica, Barbula arcuata, Brachythecium populeum, Brachythecium rutabulum, Mnium marginatum and Entodon cf rubicundus were found to be most active against all the organisms.

Antiinflammatory and antioxidant activities ofDesmodium gangeticum fractions in carrageenan-induced inflamed rats

Flavonoid and alkaloid fractions of Desmodium gangeticum were evaluated for antiinflammatory and antioxidant activities in carrageenan-induced inflamed rats with the aim of studying the promising fraction for inhibitory action on ferrous sulphate induced lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and total reduced glutathione in liver and spleen homogenates of inflamed rats. The results showed that the flavonoid fraction of D. gangeticum possesses potent antioxidant activity compared with the alkaloid fraction and also with respect to the standard drug indomethacin, in terms of augmentation of the liver and spleen SOD, CAT and GPX activities, concomitant with a reduction in lipid peroxidation (TBARS). In addition, the quantification of caffeic and chlorogenic acid in the flavonoid fraction has also been carried out using HPLC, which can be utilized as a marker compound in the standardization.

Disruption of elements uptake due to excess chromium in Indian medicinal plants

Chromium and its compounds may cause disturbance in the nutrient level of the plants. Iron, manganese, copper, and zinc are essential nutrient elements and required for balanced growth and development of plants, but chromium uptake sometimes disturbed their concentration in plants. Therefore, in the present paper, an effort has been made to observe the effect of different levels of Cr on nutrient uptake of Phyllanthus amarus and Solanum nigrum, the medicinally important plants of indigenous systems of medicine having hepatoprotective and diuretic properties. The study revealed that Cr causes significant changes in nutrient uptake as compared to control plants. Besides, Cr-treated plants showed growth depression and decrease in fresh and dry weight too. With the increase in Cr supply, accumulation of Cr in roots was increased significantly. Concentration of manganese and zinc was also increased. However, copper concentration in both the plants seemed less affected by Cr.

High-performance liquid chromatographic method for the quantification of phenolics in ‘Chyavanprash’ a potent Ayurvedic drug

Quantification of bioactive principles through modern analytical tools is essential for establishing the authenticity, credibility, prescription and usage of Ayurvedic medicines/herbal formulations. 'Chyavanprash' is one of the oldest and most popular Ayurvedic preparations, used widely as a health promotive and disease preventive 'Rasayana' drug in India and elsewhere. The rejuvenating and tonic properties of 'Chavanprash' are considered mainly due to their antioxidant principles, which in turn is due to the presence of phenolic compounds. A simple high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the separation and quantitative determination of the major antioxidant compounds from 'Chyavanprash' has been developed. The use of Waters Symmetry column and an acidic mobile phase enabled the efficient separation of phenolic compounds (catechin, quercetin-3-O-rutinoside, syringic acid and gallic acid) within a 35 min analysis. Validation of the method was done with a view to demonstrate its selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy and robustness. In addition optimization of the complete extraction of phenolic compounds were also studied.

Antiulcer and antimicrobial activity of Anogeissus latifolia

Ethnobotanically, the bark of Anogeissus latifolia (Roxb. ex DC.) Wall. ex Guill. and Perr.(Combretaceae) has been reported to be used in the treatment of various disorders including stomach and skin diseases. We studied the antiulcer potential and antimicrobial activity of the 50% aqueous alcoholic extract in order to validate ethnobotanical claims regarding the plant use in the above-mentioned disorders. Gastroprotective potential of the Anogeissus latifolia extract (ALE) (100 and 200mg/kg/body weight) was studied on aspirin, cold-resistant stress (CRS), pylorus ligated (PL) and ethanol-induced ulcers. Status of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase along with lipid peroxidation (LPO) was also studied in CRS-induced ulcers. The results of the present study showed for the first time that the ALE possessed gastroprotective activity as evidenced by its significant inhibition in the formation of ulcers induced by physical and chemical agents with a maximum of 84.16% curation (200mg/kg body weight) in CRS-induced ulcers. ALE decreased LPO and SOD with concomitant increase in catalase activity in CRS-induced ulcers. Moderate antibacterial activity and antifungal activity was also observed. High performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) showed the presence of gallic acid and ellagic acid (0.95%, w/w, 0.25%, w/w, respectively) in the plant. These findings could justify, at least partially, the inclusion of this plant in the management of gastric disorders in traditional medicine.

Estimation of heavy metals in different berberis species and its market samples

Popularity of herbal drugs is increasing all over the world because of lesser side effects as compared to synthetic drugs. Besides, it costs less and easily available to poor people particularly in developing countries. But quality assurance of herbal drugs is very necessary prior to its use. Because in today's polluted environment, even herbal drugs are not safe. Berberis spp. is very important medicinal plant, having various medicinal properties. It is also included in Indian and British pharmacopoeias. Its demand is quite high in herbal drug market. So, to check the quality of market samples of this drug, ten different samples were procured from different drug markets of India for heavy metal estimation. Besides, genuine samples of four species of Berberis viz. B. aristata, B. chitria, B. lycium, B. asiatica were also collected from natural habitats to compare heavy metal concentration in both market and genuine samples. It was found that market samples were much more contaminated than genuine samples. Lead (Pb) concentration is far beyond from WHO permissible limit (10 ppm) for herbal drugs, reaching to maximum 49.75 ppm in Amritsar market sample. Likewise, concentration of all other metals like Cd, Cr and Ni were also very high in market samples as compared to genuine samples.