Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum) extract improves growth potential, antioxidant status, immune parameters and response to crowding stress in Catla catla

Natural herbs are excellent alternatives to synthetic compounds to enhance the growth performance and health status of fish. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of black cardamom (Amomum subulatum) extract (BCE) as an herbal supplement in improving the growth, antioxidant status, haematology, and serum biochemistry of Catla catla. The acclimatized fish (N = 900; average initial weight = 14.44 ± 0.33 g) were allocated into five groups (60 fish/group in triplicate) in hapas (4 × 2 × 2.5 ft) and provided with feed containing 0 (control), 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 g/kg BCE for 90 days before being subjected to 8 days of crowding stress. After 90 days, significantly higher feed utilization and growth were observed in all BCE-fed treatments compared to the control; however, the maximum values of these parameters were noted in the 2 g/kg BCE-fed treatment. Moreover, the BCE-fed groups exhibited a significant increase in antioxidant indices (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase), with a significant reduction in malondialdehyde levels, indicating a higher antioxidant capacity compared to the control. Significant improvements in haematological parameters, such as an increase in haematocrit, haemoglobin and red blood cells and a decrease in white blood cells, were observed in BCE-fed treatments compared to the control. Furthermore, BCE-fed groups showed a significant decrease in serum glucose, cortisol and triglycerides, while total protein, globulin and albumin levels were significantly higher compared with the control. During the feeding trial of 90 days, no mortality was observed; however, the lowest cumulative mortality was noted in the 2 g/kg BCE group after crowding stress of 8 days. In conclusion, the use of BCE in feed can enhance the growth performance, antioxidant status, haematology, and serum biochemistry of C. catla and improve the resistance against crowding stress. The optimum levels of BCE for C. catla were estimated based on weight gain % (1.78 g/kg; R2  = 0.97), feed conversion ratio (1.65 g/kg; R2  = 0.98), MDA content (1.66 g/kg; R2  = 0.93) and serum lysozyme activity (1.72 g/kg; R2  = 1) using broken-line regression analysis.

Non-cytotoxic, highly functionalized cellulose nanocrystals with high crystallinity and thermal stability derived from a novel agromass of Elettaria cardamomum, using a soft and benign mild oxalic acid hydrolysis

Non-cytotoxic, highly crystalline, and functionalized, thermally stable cellulose nanocrystals are extracted from the stems of Elettaria cardamom, a novel underutilised agromass, by employing a neat green, mild oxalic acid hydrolysis. The protocol involves a chemo-mechanical strategy of coupling hydrolysis with steam explosion and homogenization. The obtained CNC showed a crystallinity index of 81.51 %, an aspect ratio of 17.80 ± 1.03 and a high degradation temperature of about 339.07 °C. The extraction procedure imparted a high negative surface functionalization with a zeta potential value of -34.244 ± 0.496 mV and a polydispersity of 16.5 %. The CNC had no antibacterial activity, according to non-cytotoxic experiments conducted on four bacterial strains. This supports the notion of "One Health" in the context of AMR by demonstrating the safety of antibiotic resistance due to consistent exposure upon environmental disposal. The as-extracted nanocellulose crystals can be a potential candidate for commercial application in wide and diversified disciplines like food packaging, anti-infective surfaces for medical devices, biosensors, bioelectronics etc.

Elevation determines the productivity of large cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) cultivars in Sikkim Himalaya

Large cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) is an economically important cash crop that provides a livelihood option for the rural communities in Sikkim Himalaya. However, its production has declined drastically over the past few decades due to climate change and other factors affecting the livelihood of marginal cardamom-dependent farmers in the region. Climate change causes a shift in elevational distributions of mountain species, and it is pivotal to understand its effect on yield and yield-related traits for economically important plant species like large cardamom. For this, we randomly studied 41 large cardamom cultivation sites in Sikkim (India) with elevations ranging between 975 and 2069 m asl and evaluated the yield-related traits (number of capsules per spike, capsule length, capsule width, fresh capsule weight, dry capsule weight, number of seeds per locule, fresh seed weight, and dry seed weight) in five cultivars (Dzongu Golsey, Sawney, Seremna, Ramsey, and Varlangey). We observed a significant variability (P < 0.05) for morphometric traits in each of the five cultivars cultivated in different elevations. The cultivation of low-elevation cultivars like Seremna and Dzongu Golsey (suitable in elevation < 975 m) has shifted upward to mid (975-1515 m) and high-elevation (> 1515 m), while cultivation of high-elevation Ramsey cultivar (suitable in elevation > 1515 m) has shifted downward (< 1515 m). The Dzongu Golsey, Sawney, and Seremna cultivated in mid-elevation (975-1515 m) performed better in terms of yield-related traits than the same cultivars cultivated in high-elevation (> 1515 m) and showed moderate to high negative correlation between elevation and yield-related traits, indicating the negative effect of elevation on their yield. Likewise, Ramsey and Varlangey cultivated in high elevation (> 1515 m) performed better than the one cultivated in mid-elevation (975-1515 m) and depicted moderate to high positive correlation between elevation and yield-related traits, suggesting a positive influence of elevation on their yield. Although there is an elevational shift in the cultivation of large cardamom cultivars, the elevation influences the performance of the large cardamom cultivars, and it also suggests cultivating the cultivars in their suitable elevation range for better productivity.

Elettaria cardamomum essential oil; immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects for controlling acute Toxoplasma gondii infection

The present study was conducted to investigate the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of Elettaria cardamomum essential oil (ECEO) for the control of acute Toxoplasma gondii infection. The effect of ECEO on T. gondii tachyzoites was measured by the tetrazolium bromide method. Mice received ECEO orally at doses of 1-4 mg/kg/day for 14 days. Once acute toxoplasmosis was induced in mice, their mortality rate and parasite load were recorded. The level of liver antioxidant/oxidant enzymes and the level of mRNA expression of interleukin-1 beta and interferongamma were also investigated. ECEO particularly at a concentration of 150 µg/ml has promising in vitro anti-Toxoplasma effects (p<0.001). After treatment with ECEO, the mortality rate (9th day) and parasite load decreased (p<0.001) in the infected mice. ECEO markedly (p < 0.05) restored hepatic oxidant and antioxidant enzyme levels, as well as increased cytokines. These results report a significant inhibitory effect of ECEO mainly at a dose of 4 mg/mL, against the T. gondii Rh strain through strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress; however, further research is needed to verify these results.

Exploring the potential of 1,8-cineole from cardamom oil against food-borne pathogens: Antibacterial mechanisms and its application in meat preservation

Food-borne pathogenic bacteria are a major public health concern globally. Traditional control methods using antibiotics have limitations, leading to the exploration of alternative strategies. Essential oils such as cardamom possess antimicrobial properties and have shown efficacy against food-borne pathogenic bacteria. The utilization of essential oils and their bioactive constituents in food preservation is a viable strategy to prolong the shelf-life of food products while ensuring their quality and safety. To the best of our knowledge, there are no studies that have utilized 1,8-cineole (the main active constituent of cardamom essential oil) as a preservative in meat, so this study might be the first to utilize 1,8-cineole as an antibacterial agent in meat preservation. The application of 1,8-cineole had a significant suppressive impact on the growth rate of Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella Typhimurium in meat samples stored for 7 days at 4 °C. Additionally, the surface color of the meat samples was not negatively impacted by the application of 1,8-cineole. The minimum inhibitory concentration was 12.5-25 mg/ml, and the minimum bactericidal concentration was 25-50.0 mg/ml. The bacterial cell membrane may be the target of cardamom, causing leakage of intracellular proteins, ATP, and DNA. The obtained data in this study may pave a new avenue for using 1,8-cineole as a new perspective for dealing with this problem of food-borne pathogens and food preservation, such as meat.

on hormonal changes and spermatogenesis in the propylthiouracil-induced hypothyroidism male BALB/c mice

INTRODUCTION

Spermatogenesis is significantly influenced by the thyroid gland. Thyroid disorders can be caused by a variety of factors. Traditionally, Ellettaria cardamomum has been used to treat a variety of ailments. The effects of E. cardamomum extract (ECE) on spermatogenesis in hypothyroid mice were investigated in this study.

METHODS

In this study 42 male mice, weighing (25-35 g) were randomly divided in six groups: control group (taking normal saline, 0.5 mL/day, by oral gavage [P.O.]), hypothyroid group (taking 0.1% propylthiouracil in drinking water for 2 weeks), hypothyroid groups treated by levothyroxine (15 mg/kg/day, P.O.) and hypothyroid groups treated by ECE (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg/day, P.O.). After the end of experiments the mice were anaesthetised and blood samples were collected for hormonal analysis.

RESULTS

The sperm count and microscopic studies of testes were done also. Our results showed that the T3 , T4 , testosterone levels and spermatogenesis in hypothyroid animals decreased and thyroid-stimulating hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone increased compared with control group. Treatment by ECE reverse these effects in comparison with hypothyroid group.

CONCLUSIONS

According to our findings, the ECE may stimulates thyroid gland function and increases testosterone and spermatogenesis.

A new species of Aulacaspis Cockerell, 1893 (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Diaspididae) infesting cardamom from India

A new species of scale insect in the genus Aulacaspis (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Diaspididae) is described and illustrated from Kerala, India. Aulacaspis elettaria Joshi & Nafeesa sp. n. was collected from the host plant Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton (Zingiberaceae). Biological notes on the species are provided, including information on the occurrence, spread and pest status of this species in Kerala. An identification key based on adult females is given to separate Indian species of Aulacaspis.

Antileishmanial effects, cellular mechanisms, and cytotoxicity of Elettaria cardamomum essential oil against Leishmania major infection

Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease with various clinical manifestations. We studied the therapeutic effects of Elettaria cardamomum essential oil (ECEO) against Leishmania major infection. In vitro effects of ECEO against L. major were examined by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and macrophage assays. Nitric oxide (NO) production, infection inhibition in macrophages, and the apoptotic activity of ECEO in treated parasites were also measured. By calculating the 50% cytotoxic concentrations (CC50), we studied the cytotoxicity effects of ECEO on human macrophage cells (THP-1). The efficacy of ECEO for improving cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) lesions in mice (BALB/c) was determined by evaluating the size of lesions and the number of amastigotes before and after four weeks of treatment. The effects of ECEO on liver and kidney function in the tested mice were also evaluated. ECEO dose-dependently (p<0.001) inhibited the viability and the mean number of promastigotes and amastigote forms of L. tropica. Four weeks of treatment with ECEO at the doses of 2.5 and 5 mg/kg/ day significantly (p<0.001) improved the CL lesions and reduced the number of parasites in the infected mice. ECEO significantly increased NO production, apoptosis induction, and infection rate in parasites. The CC50 value for ECEO and MA was 303.4 µg/mL and 835.2 µg/mL, respectively. In the mice receiving ECEO at the doses of 2.5 and 5 mg/kg/day for 28 days, no significant change was reported between the serum level of liver enzymes and kidney factors when compared with the control group. ECEO displayed promising efficacy in parasite reduction in vitro and in the animal model. ECEO can thus be used as an alternative medicine to treat CL.

Protective effect of ethanolic extract of Elettaria Cardamomum against gentamicin hepato-renal toxicity in male albino rats

OBJECTIVE

Cardamom is one of the spices containing a wide range of antioxidants and is used in medicinal preparations. Thus, in this study, we want to explore the protective effect of ethanolic cardamom extract on the liver-kidney toxicity caused by gentamicin in male albino rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The experiment was applied to twenty-eight male albino rats divided randomly into four groups. The control group was given 1 ml/kg of saline orally. The gentamicin (GM) group was given a daily 80 mg/kg i.p of GM for seven days. Another group was given 100 or 200 mg/kg b.wt. p.o. ethanolic extract of Elettaria Cardamomum (EC) for seven days. Blood and liver-kidney samples were taken after the end of the study for analyses to test for liver-kidney function and lipid profile (LP).

RESULTS

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin activities were higher in the GM group than in the control group. However, the groups' differences in globulin levels and total protein (TP) were not statistically significant. Compared to the control group, the albumin level in the gentamicin group was considerably lower. On the other hand, creatinine and urea levels, lipid, serum total cholesterol levels, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) significantly increased in the gentamicin group but decreased in the control group and co-treated groups with gentamicin and ethanolic extract EC. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) significantly dropped, while the control group showed high levels of lipid and serum total cholesterol.

CONCLUSIONS

EC ethanolic extract shields the liver-kidney against GM harmful effects in male rats. Recent research demonstrated that the effects of the plant cardamom were the same at both low-high doses. The phenolic elements in EC may be responsible for this protective effect.

Cardamom oil ameliorates behavioral and neuropathological disorders in a rat model of depression induced by reserpine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Depression is a public health problem. Despite the availability of treatment options, its prevalence is increasing. A high rate of treatment failure is often reported, along with considerable side effects associated with synthetic antidepressants. Therefore, developing effective and safe antidepressants from traditional herbs or natural products as an alternative strategy is warranted to avoid side effects and increase drug efficacy. In traditional medicine, cardamom has traditionally been used to treat conditions like asthma, tooth and gum infections, cataracts, nausea, diarrhea, and even depression and anxiety as well as some problems with the heart, kidneys, and digestive system.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The current study aimed to evaluate the antidepressant activity of cardamom oil in a rat model of depression induced by reserpine and compare it with the activity of the antidepressant drug fluoxetine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Depression-like symptoms were induced in male rats by daily i. p. injection of reserpine (0.2 mg/kg/d for 15 d followed by 0.1 mg/kg/d for 21 d to maintain the depressive state), and the rats were treated with cardamom oil (oral dose = 200 mg/kg/d) for 21 d along with the maintenance dose of reserpine. We performed behavioral tests (forced swimming test and open-field test) and evaluated biochemical markers of depression.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed that cardamom oil attenuated depression-like symptoms in reserpine-injected rats by improving the behavioral changes measured by the forced swimming test and the locomotor activities measured by the open-field test. In reserpine-injected rats, cardamom oil exerted antidepressant-like effects by modulating lower levels of brain monoamine neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine), GSH, and higher oxido-nitrosative stress parameters (malondialdehyde and nitric oxide). Moreover, cardamom oil alleviated depression-like behaviors by lowering monoamine oxidase activity and raising the activities of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase and acetylcholinesterase and levels of a brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the cortex and hippocampus.

CONCLUSION

We recommend the use of cardamom oil as a safe and reliable treatment or an adjuvant for preventing depression-like symptoms in patients suffering from depression.

Antioxidant Activity in Extracts from Zingiberaceae Family: Cardamom, Turmeric, and Ginger

An increase in life expectancy leads to a greater impact of chronic non-communicable diseases. This is even more remarkable in elder populations, to whom these become main determinants of health status, affecting mental and physical health, quality of life, and autonomy. Disease appearance is closely related to the levels of cellular oxidation, pointing out the importance of including foods in one's diet that can prevent oxidative stress. Previous studies and clinical data suggest that some plant-based products can slow and reduce the cellular degradation associated with aging and age-related diseases. Many plants from one family present several applications that range from the food to the pharmaceutical industry due to their characteristic flavor and scents. The Zingiberaceae family, which includes cardamom, turmeric, and ginger, has bioactive compounds with antioxidant activities. They also have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antiemetic activities and properties that help prevent cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. These products are abundant sources of chemical substances, such as alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and diarylheptanoids. The main bioactive compounds found in this family (cardamom, turmeric, and ginger) are 1,8-cineole, α-terpinyl acetate, β-turmerone, and α-zingiberene. The present review gathers evidence surrounding the effects of dietary intake of extracts of the Zingiberaceae family and their underlying mechanisms of action. These extracts could be an adjuvant treatment for oxidative-stress-related pathologies. However, the bioavailability of these compounds needs to be optimized, and further research is needed to determine appropriate concentrations and their antioxidant effects in the body.

Aflatoxin B1 Detoxification Potentials of Garlic, Ginger, Cardamom, Black Cumin, and Sautéing in Ground Spice Mix Red Pepper Products

The uses of natural plant origin bioactive compounds are emerging as a promising strategy to detoxify aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). This study aimed to explore the potential of cooking, phytochemicals content, and antioxidant activities derived from garlic, ginger, cardamom, and black cumin to detoxify AFB1 on spice mix red pepper powder (berbere) and sauté. The effectiveness of the samples was analyzed for AFB1 detoxification potential through standard methods for the examination of food and food additives. These major spices showed an AFB1 level below the detection limit. After cooking in hot water for 7 min at 85 ℃, the experimental and commercial spice mix red pepper showed the maximum AFB1 detoxification (62.13% and 65.95%, respectively). Thus, mixing major spices to produce a spice mix red pepper powder had a positive effect on AFB1 detoxification in raw and cooked spice mix red pepper samples. Total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, ferric ion reducing antioxidant power, and ferrous ion chelating activity revealed good positive correlation with AFB1 detoxification at p < 0.05. The findings of this study could contribute to mitigation plans of AFB1 in spice-processing enterprises. Further study is required on the mechanism of AFB1 detoxification and safety of the detoxified products.

Upfront autologous haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation versus carfilzomib-cyclophosphamide-dexamethasone consolidation with carfilzomib maintenance in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma in England and Wales (CARDAMON): a randomised, phase 2, non-inferiority trial

BACKGROUND

Standard-of-care treatment for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma is bortezomib-based induction followed by high-dose melphalan and autologous haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) and lenalidomide maintenance. We aimed to evaluate whether an immunomodulatory-free carfilzomib-based induction, consolidation, and maintenance protocol without autologous HSCT was non-inferior to the same induction regimen followed by autologous HSCT and maintenance.

METHODS

CARDAMON is a randomised, open-label, phase 2 trial in 19 hospitals in England and Wales, UK. Newly diagnosed, transplantation-eligible patients with multiple myeloma aged 18 years or older with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0-2 received four 28-day cycles of carfilzomib (56 mg/m² intravenously on days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, and 16), cyclophosphamide (500 mg orally on days 1, 8, and 15), and dexamethasone (40 mg orally on days 1, 8, 15, and 22; KCd), followed by peripheral blood stem cell mobilisation. Patients with at least a partial response were randomly assigned (1:1) to either high-dose melphalan and autologous HSCT or four cycles of KCd. All randomised patients received 18 cycles of carfilzomib maintenance (56 mg/m² intravenously on days 1, 8, and 15). The primary outcomes were the proportion of patients with at least a very good partial response after induction and difference in progression-free survival rate at 2 years from randomisation (non-inferiority margin 10%), both assessed by intention to treat. Safety was assessed in all patients who started treatment. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02315716); recruitment is complete and all patients are in follow-up.

FINDINGS

Between June 16, 2015, and July 8, 2019, 281 patients were enrolled, with 218 proceeding to randomisation (109 assigned to the KCd consolidation group [99 of whom completed consolidation] and 109 to the HSCT group [104 of whom underwent transplantation]). A further seven patients withdrew before initiation of carfilzomib maintenance (two in the KCd consolidation group vs five in the HSCT group). Median age was 59 years (IQR 52 to 64); 166 (59%) of 281 patients were male and 115 (41%) were female. 152 (71%) of 214 patients with known ethnicity were White, 37 (17%) were Black, 18 (8%) were Asian, 5 (2%) identified as Mixed, and 2 (1%) identified as other. Median follow-up from randomisation was 40·2 months (IQR 32·7 to 51·8). After induction, 162 (57·7%; 95% CI 51·6 to 63·5) of 281 patients had at least a very good partial response. The 2-year progression-free survival was 75% (95% CI 65 to 82) in the HSCT group versus 68% (95% CI 58 to 76) in the KCd group (difference -7·2%, 70% CI -11·1 to -2·8), exceeding the non-inferiority margin. The most common grade 3-4 events during KCd induction and consolidation were lymphocytopenia (72 [26%] of 278 patients who started induction; 15 [14%] of 109 patients who started consolidation) and infection (50 [18%] of 278 for induction; 15 [14%] of 109 for consolidation), and during carfilzomib maintenance were hypertension (20 [21%] of 97 patients in the KCd consolidation group vs 23 [23%] of 99 patients in the HSCT group) and infection (16 [16%] of 97 patients vs 25 [25%] of 99). Treatment-related serious adverse events at any point during the trial were reported in 109 (39%) of 278 patients who started induction, with infections (80 [29%]) being the most common. Treatment-emergent deaths were reported in five (2%) of 278 patients during induction (three from infection, one from cardiac event, and one from renal failure) and one of 99 patients during maintenance after autologous HSCT (oesophageal carcinoma).

INTERPRETATION

KCd did not meet the criteria for non-inferiority compared with autologous HSCT, but the marginal difference in progression-free survival suggests that further studies are warranted to explore deferred autologous HSCT in some subgroups, such as individuals who are MRD negative after induction.

FUNDING

Cancer Research UK and Amgen.

Effect of cardamom supplementation on a number of metabolic factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Cardamom known as "queen of spice" seems to be an anti-diabetic agent due to its poly phenolic content. Since, recent studies reported controversial results related to its effect on metabolic factors, present meta-analysis examined the effect of cardamom supplementation on glycemic indices and weight profile of randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs).

METHODS

A wide search was done on biomedical electronic databases including Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE and Iranian databases, for all relevant literature published up to May 2021. Our search strategy included: [HbA1C, Blood Sugar, glycemic index, glucose tolerance test, insulin, insulin resistance, insulin sensitivity, body weight, BMI, body composition, waist circumferences] added to searched queries based on scientific Mesh terms. The included papers required to be RCTs that reported the effect of cardamom on glycemic and weight indices. We excluded studies with: a) non-randomized or non-controlled trials, b) animal studies, c) not available full text articles d) duplicate citations and e) not available full text articles. The risk of bias was assessed based on the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. The effects of cardamom supplementation were assessed using standardized mean difference (SMD) statistics. The SMD of metabolic risk factors were pooled together using random effect meta-analysis method.

RESULTS

Totally, six publications enrolling 410 participants was included in present meta-analysis. Daily 3 g supplementation of cardamom from 8 weeks to 3 months showed no significant effect on BMI (WMD: 0.07; 95% CI: [-0.12, 0.27]; P:0.5), weight (WMD: 0.01; 95% CI: [-0.22, 0.21]; P:0.95) and WC (WMD: 0.09; 95% CI: [-0.34, 0.17]; P:0.63), FBS (WMD: 0.10; 95% CI: [ -0.32, 0.12]; P:0.37), insulin (WMD: 0.83; 95% CI: [-2.07, 0.40]; P:0.19) and QUICKI (WMD: 1.14; 95% CI: [-1.11, 3.39]; P:0.32). However, significant effect occurred on HOMA-IR (WMD: 0.40; 95% CI: [-0.65, -0.15]; P:0.00), and HbA1C (WMD: 0.48; 95% CI: [-0.80, -0.16]; P:0.00).

CONCLUSION

Final findings suggest ameliorative effect of cardamom on metabolism of glucose.

Developing three-component ginger-cinnamon-cardamom composite essential oil nanoemulsion as natural food preservatives

Plant-based functional lipid ingredients, such as essential oils, with antioxidant and antibacterial activities, have gained substantial attention in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical formulations due to the increasing disquiet about the risks of artificial preservatives. However, similar to other lipid-based bioactives, their application in water-based products is challenging owing to their low water solubility and high chemical instability, especially during exposure to light, heat, moisture, and oxygen. Hence, the incorporation of essential oils into water-dispersible nanoemulsion systems can effectively address these issues. Moreover, combining various essential oils can synergistically enhance their chemical and biological properties. Consequently, the objective of this study was to develop different composite nanoemulsion systems using ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom essential oils, which were considered individually and in binary and ternary combinations. Empirical models to predict the response characteristics based on the proportions of oil phase components were also derived. The numerical multi-goal optimisation analysis suggested that 10 % ginger, 68 % cinnamon, and 22 % cardamom essential oil is the ideal oil phase combination to achieve nanoemulsions with the smallest average particle size and size distribution and the highest zeta potential and antioxidant and antibacterial activity.

Beneficial Effects of Black Cardamom (Amomum subulatum) on Hemodynamic Parameters in Normotensive and Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

&lt;b&gt;Background and Objectives:&lt;/b&gt; &lt;i&gt;Amomum subulatum&lt;/i&gt; (AS) is used to improve cardiac health in traditional medicine practice. The present study evaluates the pharmacological effect of AS aqueous extract on blood pressure in Normotensive (NR) and Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHR). &lt;b&gt;Materials and Methods:&lt;/b&gt; Blood pressure, Heart Rate (HR) and Heart Rate Variability (HRV), was recorded in catheterized Sprague-Dawley rats before and after AS intravenous administration by using Mikro-Tip Pressure-Volume System (MPVS), PowerLab. The receptor activity was assessed by using the drugs Acetylcholine (ACh) and Atropine (Atr). &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; Preliminary phytochemistry of AS suggests that it contains tannins, flavonoids and saponins. Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) was found to decrease significantly in NR and SHR as compared with the control. The lowest dose (1 mg kg&lt;sup&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;&lt;sup&gt;1&lt;/sup&gt;) produced the least (16%) while 30 mg kg&lt;sup&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;&lt;sup&gt;1&lt;/sup&gt; caused the maximum reduction (40%) in MAP. Electrocardiograph analysis revealed a significant increase in RR interval (decreased heart rate), time-domain Standard Deviation of Interbeat Interval (SDNN) and the Root Mean Square of the Successive Differences (RMSSD) and High-frequency Domain (HF%) parameters and a decrease in the Low-Frequency (LF) range, suggesting the activation and involvement of the parasympathetic limb. It was also observed that the cardiovascular effects of AS were comparable to Acetylcholine (ACh) and both were completely blocked by Atropine (1 μg kg&lt;sup&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;&lt;sup&gt;1&lt;/sup&gt;). &lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; The obtained results suggest that AS has a hypotensive effect, with an impact on the HRV of NR and SHR. &lt;i&gt;Amomum subulatum&lt;/i&gt; might cause an augmented effect on the cholinergic limb of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and decrease the blood pressure and heart rate significantly.

The effects of green cardamom supplementation on blood pressure and endothelium function in type 2 diabetic patients: A study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

Cardamom possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and blood pressure lowering properties, which might improve endothelial function in type 2 diabetic patients. However, no study has examined the effect of cardamom on diabetic patients. The present study aimed to examine the effects of 10-week green cardamom intake on blood pressure, concentrations of inflammatory and endothelial function biomarkers in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients, and its potential mechanisms.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS DESIGN

Eighty overweight or obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (aged 30-60 years) will be recruited into the trial and will assign to receive either cardamom (3 g/day, 6 capsules) or placebo (rusk powder, 6 capsules) for a period of 10 weeks. Systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure, asymmetric dimethylarginine, and nitric oxide will be measured. Serum inflammatory markers namely interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor-α, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and factors related to endothelial function including intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, CD62 antigen-like family member E, and cluster of differentiation 163 will be measured at baseline and at the end of the trial. Sociodemographic, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and three 24-hour dietary recall questionnaires will be collected for each participant.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study has been approved by The Ethics Committee of Tehran University of Medical Sciences (IR.TUMS.REC.1395.2700). Each participant will sign a written informed consent at the beginning of the study. At the end of the study, results will be published timely manner.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

(http://www.irct.ir, identifier: IRCT-2016042717254N5) Date of registration: 2016-11-23.

Post-disaster agricultural transitions in Nepal

In Spring 2015, a series of earthquakes and aftershocks struck Nepal. The earthquakes caused significant changes in labor and land availability, cash income needs, and land quality. We examine how these post-earthquake impacts converged with ongoing agricultural shifts. Earthquake-related socio-economic and landscape changes specifically motivate the adoption of cardamom, Amomum subulatum, a high-value ecologically beneficial, and low labor commercial crop. We investigate reasons for the increased interest in cardamom post-earthquake, and challenges associated with it. We find that adopting cardamom serves as an important post-disaster adaptation. However, more broadly, unevenly distributed interventions coupled with the high capital costs of agricultural transition exacerbate social differentiation in communities after the disaster. Adoption is often limited to economically better off smallholder farmers. This paper extends previous research on disasters and smallholder farming by highlighting the specific potential of disasters to accelerate agricultural transitions and resulting inequality from the changes.

Do frogs really eat cardamom? Understanding the myth of crop damage by amphibians in the Western Ghats, India

In the Western Ghats of India, amphibians are culled at cardamom plantations since they are perceived to consume cardamom. To better understand the relationship between amphibians and cardamom, a study was undertaken at these plantations, which harbor numerous threatened and range-restricted amphibians. We undertook questionnaire surveys with 298 respondents at 148 plantations across southern India. Time-activity budget and diet analysis surveys were undertaken to determine whether amphibians really consumed cardamom. The conception that amphibians eat cardamom was found to be widespread especially among small-sized plantations, leading to negative perceptions and a lack of interest in amphibian conservation. The plantation community perceives a substantial economic loss due to amphibians, even though this is non-existent as revealed by our field surveys. These perceptions would lead to a continued intolerance of amphibian presence in plantations. A suitable outreach initiative re-affirming facts and spreading awareness on the positive role of amphibians would need to be conducted to negate this age-old myth.

Effects of Cinnamon, Cardamom, Saffron, and Ginger Consumption on Markers of Glycemic Control, Lipid Profile, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetes Patients

OBJECTIVES

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) may be caused by elevated oxidative stress, inflammation, and hyperglycemia. The phytochemicals in several herbal medicines are reported to effectively improve diabetes and to ameliorate diabetic complications. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of cinnamon, cardamom, saffron, and ginger as supplementary remedies in T2D.

METHODS

This randomized controlled, clinical trial included 204 T2D patients. The participants were randomly assigned to four intervention groups receiving 3 glasses of black tea and either 3 g cardamom, or cinnamon, or ginger, or 1 g saffron and one control group which consumed only 3 tea glasses without any herbal medicine for 8 weeks. Markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, fasting blood sugar, lipid profile, and anthropometric measures were evaluated at baseline and after 8 weeks of intervention.

RESULTS

After 8 weeks of intervention, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and saffron consumption had significant effects on total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL levels (p < 0.05) compared with controls. However, the herbal products did not have significant effects on measures of glycemic control, anthropometry, inflammation, and oxidative stress. In within-group comparisons only, cinnamon intake significantly decreased fasting blood sugar (FBS).

CONCLUSIONS

The herbal remedies examined had significantly beneficial effects on cholesterol, but not on measures of glycemic control, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Based on the contradictory results reported in the literature, the effects of herbal medicine in diabetic patients should undergo further detailed investigation.

Exploration for the multi-effect of cardamom in's resistance to multiple myeloma

This paper aimed to probe the cardamom in effect on the viability, proliferation, apoptosis and periodic function of the multiple myeloma, and explore its mechanism. We used CCK-8 method to evaluate the effect of cardamom in on the viability of PBMNCs (Persom Blood Mononuclear Normal Cells). EdU can test the influence of small cell proliferation. We used the method of PI single-staining flow cytometry, in order to test the influence of tumor cell cycle. AO (Acridine Orange), EB (Ethidium Bromide) double staining fluorescene microscope was applied to observe the influence of tumor apoptotic morphology. It can be concluded that cardamom in can inhibit the viability and proliferation of MM (Multiple Myeloma) cells and cardamom in is the anti-myeloma drug with strong viability.

Histological and ultrastructural studies on the toxic effect of pan masala and its amelioration by Elettaria cardamomum

AIM

To investigate the histological and ultrastructural changes observed in pan masala intoxicated mammalian testes under the effect of cardamom.

METHODS

Male Swiss mice were given pan masala orally at a dose of 2% of the feed and cardamom at a dose of 0.2% of the feed. They were divided into three groups, control (Group I), pan masala-treated (Group II), and a combination of pan masala and cardamom-treated group (Group III). Histologically, the testes of Group II mice displayed degeneration of tubular epithelium, disruption of spermatogenesis, and a marked reduction in germ cells.

RESULTS

When cardamom was given, damage was less with fewer distorted cells and also improvement with normal tubules and spermatid differentiation in Group III. Ultrastructurally, pan masala-treated testes showed cytoplasmic vacuolation, shrinkage and pyknotic nuclei of spermatogonia, and abnormal acrosomal granules.

CONCLUSION

When cardamom was given, the amelioration process was more evident showing a comparable morphology with control.

Development of ginger based ready-to-eat appetizers by response surface methodology

Ginger is an herbaceous perennial rhizome traditionally used in culinary for its flavor and pungency. It is also used as carminative, stimulant and for its anti-emetic properties due to gingerols and shogaols. Appetite loss is one of the problems faced at high altitudes and the appetizers based on ginger may be useful for appetite stimulation. The fruit munch and ginger munch based on fresh and powdered ginger respectively were developed using response surface methodology (RSM). The sensory score, acidity and total sugars were the responses in the central composite designs of experiments with three independent variables. The ingredients raisins, dates, almonds were pre-processed by frying in stable fat while juice was extracted from pseudolemon and lemon. The optimized composition of ingredients was processed further through concentration. The carbohydrate rich munches had vitamin C content in the range 37-43mg/100g and calorific value of about 90kCal per munch. The munches packed in metalized polyester pouches had a shelf life of 8 months at ambient conditions (18-33 degrees C) as well as at a fixed temperature of 37 degrees C storage.

Blood pressure lowering, fibrinolysis enhancing and antioxidant activities of cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)

Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton. (Small cardamom) fruit powder was evaluated for its antihypertensive potential and its effect on some of the cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with stage 1 hypertension. Twenty, newly diagnosed individuals with primary hypertension of stage 1 were administered 3 g of cardamom powder in two divided doses for 12 weeks. Blood pressure was recorded initially and at 4 weeks interval for 3 months. Blood samples were also collected initially and at 4 weeks interval for estimation of lipid profile, fibrinogen and fibrinolysis. Total antioxidant status, however, was assessed initially and at the end of the study. Administration of 3 g cardamom powder significantly (p<0.001) decreased systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure and significantly (p<0.05) increased fibrinolytic activity at the end of 12th week. Total antioxidant status was also significantly (p<0.05) increased by 90% at the end of 3 months. However, fibrinogen and lipid levels were not significantly altered. All study subjects experienced a feeling of well being without any side-effects. Thus, the present study demonstrates that small cardamom effectively reduces blood pressure, enhances fibrinolysis and improves antioxidant status, without significantly altering blood lipids and fibrinogen levels in stage 1 hypertensive individuals.

Inhibition of lipid peroxidation and enhancement of GST activity by cardamom and cinnamon during chemically induced colon carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice

Globally, colorectal cancer is the third commonest cancer in men since 1975.The present study focuses on the preventive strategies aimed at reducing the incidences and mortality of large bowel cancer. Chemoprevention of colon cancer appears to be a very realistic possibility because various intermediate stages have been identified preceding the development of malignant colonic tumors. Several studies have demonstrated that generous consumption of vegetables reduces the risk of colon cancer. This idea has prompted the present investigation to search for some novel plant products, which may have possible anticarcinogenic activity. It has already been proved from various experiments that chemopreventive agents, by virtue of their anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, apoptosis-inducing activity, act at various levels including molecular, cellular, tissue and organ levels to interfere with carcinogens. Previous studies from our laboratory have already reported the inhibitory effect of cinnamon and cardamom on azoxymethane induced colon carcinogenesis by virtue of their anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic activity. This particular experiment was carried out to assess the anti-oxidative potential of these spices. Aqueous suspensions of cinnamon and cardamom have been shown to enhance the level of detoxifying enzyme (GST activity) with simultaneous decrease in lipid peroxidation levels in the treatment groups when compared to that of the carcinogen control group.

Effect of food seasoning spices mixture on biomarkers of oxidative stress in tissues of fructose-fed insulin-resistant rats

High fructose feeding in normal rats induces insulin resistance and also facilitates oxidative damage. The present study examines the effects of a spices mixture (SM) on oxidative stress markers and antioxidant potential in tissues of high fructose-fed insulin-resistant rats. Male Wistar rats received a semisynthetic diet containing either 60% fructose or 60% starch. SM administration at three different doses (10, 30, and 50 mg/day per rat) was initiated orally 15 days later and continued for the next 30 days. After the total experimental period of 45 days, peroxidation of lipids and antioxidant status in liver and kidney were quantified. Fructose-treated rats showed increased levels of peroxidation indices such as thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances and lipid hydroperoxides in tissues. The condition was associated with an inadequate antioxidant system. Administration of SM along with fructose diet reduced the levels of peroxidation markers in tissues and improved the antioxidant status. The positive effect of SM on the oxidant-antioxidant balance could be attributed to the active constituents of the different spices present in the mixture.

fruits in rats

Cardamom, the fruits of Elettaria cardamomum Maton. (Zingiberaceae) commonly known as "Heel khurd" is used in Unani system of medicine to treat gastrointestinal disorders. A crude methanolic extract (TM), essential oil (EO), petroleum ether soluble (PS) and insoluble (PI) fractions of methanolic extract, were studied in rats at doses of 100-500, 12.5-50, 12.5-150 and 450 mg/kg, respectively for their ability to inhibit the gastric lesions induced by aspirin, ethanol and pylorous ligature. In addition their effects on wall mucus and gastric acid output were recorded. All fractions (TM, EO, PS, PI) significantly inhibited gastric lesions induced by ethanol and aspirin but not those induced by pylorus ligation. TM proved to be active reducing lesions by about 70% in the EtOH-induced ulcer model at 500 mg/kg. The PS fraction reduced the lesions by 50% at 50 and 100mg/kg (no dose response was observed) with similar effect than the PI fraction at 450 mg/kg. In the aspirin-induced gastric ulcer, the best gastroprotective effect was found in the PS fraction, which inhibited lesions by nearly 100% at 12.5mg/kg. In our experimental conditions, the PS extract at doses >or=12.5mg/kg proved to be more active than ranitidine at 50mg/kg.

Cardamom extract as inhibitor of human platelet aggregation

The inhibitory activity of cardamom extract was studied on human platelets. Platelet aggregation and lipid peroxidation were evaluated with platelet rich plasma (PRP) and platelet membranes, respectively, obtained from blood of healthy volunteers. Human platelets were subjected to stimulation with a variety of agonists including ADP (2.5 mM), epinephrine (2.5 mM), collagen (10 mM), calcium ionophore A 23187 (6 microM) and ristocetin (1.25 microg/mL). The IC50 were 0.49, 0.21, 0.55 and 0.59 mg with ADP, epinephrine, collagen and calcium ionophore A 23187, respectively, and no inhibition with ristocetin. The inhibitory effect was dose dependent with concentrations varying between 0.14 and 0.70 mg and time dependent at IC50. Lipid peroxidation induced by iron--ascorbic acid system in platelet membranes was analysed with malondialdehyde (MDA) as an index. An increase in concentration of cardamom has decreased the MDA formation significantly. Hence, it may be said that aqueous extract of cardamom may have component(s), which protect platelets from aggregation and lipid peroxidation.

Dietary cardamom inhibits the formation of azoxymethane-induced aberrant crypt foci in mice and reduces COX-2 and iNOS expression in the colon

Recently, considerable attention has been focused on identifying naturally occurring chemopreventive compounds capable of inhibiting, retarding, or reversing the multi-step carcinogenesis. The primary aim of the present study was to identify the effects of a commonly consumed spice, viz., cardamom against azoxymethane (AOM) induced colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in Swiss Albino mice. The secondary aim, was to explore the ability of cardamom to modulate the status of proliferation and apoptosis, and to understand its role in altering cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression. Male Swiss albino mice were injected with AOM (dose: 5mg/Kg body weight) or saline (Group 1) weekly once for two weeks. The AOM-injected mice were randomly assigned to two groups (Groups 2 and 3). While all the groups were on standard lab chow, Group 3 received oral doses of 0.5% cardamom, in aqueous suspension, daily for 8 weeks. Following treatment, significant reduction in the incidences of aberrant crypt foci (p<0.05) was observed. This reduction in ACF was accompanied by suppression of cell proliferation (mean Brdu LI in carcinogen control =13.91+/-3.31, and 0.5% cardamom =2.723+/-0.830) and induction of apoptosis (mean AI in carcinogen control=1.547+/-0.42 and 0.5% cardamom = 6.61+/-0.55). Moreover, reduction of both COX-2 and iNOS expression was also observed. These results suggest that aqueous suspensions of cardamom have protective effects on experimentally induced colon carcinogenesis. Cardamom as a whole and its active components require further attention if the use of this spice is to be recommended for cancer prevention.

Passive and iontophoretic delivery of three diclofenac salts across various skin types

The in vitro permeation of three diclofenac salts--diclofenac sodium (DFS), diclofenac potassium (DFP) and diclofenac diethylammonium (DFD)-across skin by both passive and iontophoretic transport were investigated. Various skin types were used as the barriers to elucidate the mechanism controlling transdermal delivery of diclofenac salts. The importance of the intercellular (paracellular) route for both DFS and DFP in passive permeation was elucidated. The transfollicular route constitutes an important permeation pathway for DFS but not for DFP. The route and mechanism for transdermal iontophoresis of DFD across the skin was somewhat different to that of the other salts. Hair follicles may be a more important pathway for DFD than for DFS and DFP under iontophoresis, while the intercellular lipid pathway showed the opposite result. Combination of iontophoresis and a penetration enhancer, cardamom oil, did not show a synergistic effect on diclofenac salt permeation. The results of this investigation suggest that the transdermal mechanism and the route of diclofenac salt uptake via passive and iontophoretic transport can be affected by their counterions.