COVID-19: an In Silico Analysis on Potential Therapeutic Uses of Trikadu as Immune System Boosters

Corona virus pandemic outbreak also known as COVID-19 has created an imbalance in this world. Scientists have adopted the use of natural or alternative medicines which are consumed mostly as dietary supplements to boost the immune system as herbal remedies. India is famous for traditional medicinal formulations which includes 'Trikadu'-a combination of three acrids, namely Zingiber officinale, Piper nigrum and Piper longum which have antioxidant properties that boost our immune system hence acting as a strong preventive measure. In this study, AutoDock 4.0 was used to study interaction between the phytocompounds of Trikadu with RNA-dependent polymerase protein and enveloped protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Analysis of the results showed that coumarin, coumaperine and bisdemethoxycurcumin showed strong bonding interactions with both the proteins. We can conclude that Trikadu has the potential molecules; hence, it can be incorporated in the diet to boost the immune system as a preventive measure against the virus.

Analgesic effects of medicinal plants and phytochemicals on chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain through glial modulation

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) frequently occurs in cancer patients. This side effect lowers the quality of life of patients and may cause the patients to abandon chemotherapy. Several medications (e.g., duloxetine and gabapentin) are recommended as remedies to treat CIPN; however, usage of these drugs is limited because of low efficacy or side effects such as dizziness, nausea, somnolence, and vomiting. From ancient East Asia, the decoction of medicinal herbal formulas or single herbs have been used to treat pain and could serve as alternative therapeutic option. Recently, the analgesic potency of medicinal plants and their phytochemicals on CIPN has been reported, and a majority of their effects have been shown to be mediated by glial modulation. In this review, we summarize the analgesic efficacy of medicinal plants and their phytochemicals, and discuss their possible mechanisms focusing on glial modulation in animal studies.

Ethnobotanical and antimicrobial activities of the Gossypium (Cotton) genus: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The Malvaceae family, an important group of plants that have the Gossypium (cotton) genus has been used in folk medicine to treat microbial diseases and symptoms.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This article aims to understand its ethnobotany expression in communities and scientific elucidation of antimicrobial activities of this genus through literature review.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The bibliographic survey was carried out from 1999 to 2019 with keywords combinations such as "Gossypium + ethnobotanical", " Gossypium + medicinal ", "Gossypium + the biological activity" in scientific databases as Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, DOAJ, Scielo, Bireme.

RESULTS

After data analysis, we found that the Gossypium genus, specifically Gossypium hirsutum, G. barbadense, G. herbaceum, G. arboreum are the species most cited in the treatment of microbial diseases and symptoms in communities all over the world. In light of scientific elucidation of biological activities, the Gossypium genus has been used to treat protozoal, bacterial, fungal, and viral diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

The review demonstrated that the Gossypium genus is a promising source of biological activities against microbial diseases, especially in the treatment of protozoal diseases like malaria.

Plants used traditionally as antimalarials in Latin America: Mining the tree of life for potential new medicines

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Malaria remains a serious and challenging disease. Traditional antimalarial medicines are largely based on plants, and ethnopharmacological research has inspired the development of antimalarial pharmaceuticals such as artemisinin. Antimalarial drug resistance is an increasing problem in Plasmodium species, and new therapeutic strategies to combat malaria are needed. Although the number of malaria cases has been decreasing in Latin America, malaria remains a significant threat in many regions. Local people in Latin America have been using numerous plant species to treat malaria, some of which have been scientifically studied, but many others have not.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Our principal objective is to harness ethnobotanical data on species used traditionally to treat malaria, combined with phylogenetic approaches, to understand how ethnobotany could help identify plant genera as potential sources of new medicines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Plants used to treat malaria in Latin America were compiled from published and grey literature, unpublished data, and herbarium specimens. Initial assessment of potentially important species/genera/families included compiling the number of species used within the genus, the number of use reports per genus and species, and the geographic distribution of their use. The analysis of taxonomic distribution of species reported as antimalarial in Latin America (excluding the Southern Cone) was conducted, to determine which genera and families with reputed antimalarial properties are over-represented, and phylogenetic analyses were performed to identify if there was evidence for antimalarial species being dispersed/clustered throughout the tree or at its tips. This approach enabled 'hot-nodes' in certain families to be identified, to predict new genera with potential antimalarial properties.

RESULTS

Over 1000 plant species have been used to treat malaria in Latin America, of which over 600 species were cited only once. The genera with the highest number of antimalarial species were Aspidosperma, Solanum, Piper, Croton and Aristolochia. In terms of geographic distribution, the most widely used genera were Aspidosperma, Momordica, Cinchona, Senna and Stachytarpheta. Significant phylogenetic signal was detected in the distribution of native species used for malaria, analysed in a genus-level phylogenetic framework. The eudicot and magnoliidae lineages were over-represented, while monocots were not.

CONCLUSION

Analysis of ethnobotanical use reports in a phylogenetic framework reveals the existence of hot nodes for malaria across the Latin American flora. We demonstrate how species and genera currently lacking such reports could be pinpointed as of potential interest based on their evolutionary history. Extending this approach to other regions of the world and other diseases could accelerate the discovery of novel medicines and enhance healthcare in areas where new therapeutic strategies are needed.

Analytical implications of different methods for preparing plant cell wall material

Almost all plant cells are surrounded by a wall constructed of co-extensive networks of polysaccharides and proteoglycans. The capability to analyse cell wall components is essential for both understanding their complex biology and to fully exploit their numerous practical applications. Several biochemical and immunological techniques are used to analyse cell walls and in almost all cases the first step is the preparation of an alcohol insoluble residue (AIR). There is significant variation in the protocols used for AIR preparation, which can have a notable impact on the downstream extractability and detection of cell wall components. To explore these effects, we have formally compared ten AIR preparation methods and analysed polysaccharides subsequently extracted using high-performance anion exchange chromatography (HPAEC-PAD) and Micro Array Polymer Profiling (MAPP). Our results reveal the impact that AIR preparation has on downstream detection of cell wall components and the need for optimisation and consistency when preparing AIR.

A systematic review of anti-Entamoeba histolytica activity of medicinal plants published in the last 20 years

Amoebiasis has emerged as a major health problem worldwide. It is endemic in the present scenario is different and sub-tropical regions especially in Asia, Latin America and also in Africa. Causative of amoebiasis is a protozoan known as Entamoeba histolytica. We screened all the databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Medline and Google Scholar by using the keywords ‘anti-Entamoeba histolytica activity of medicinal plants, anti-Entamoeba histolytica activity of herbal drugs, the anti-amoebic activity of natural drugs’. In the present study, we found 7861 articles, where all articles were screened for bias analysis and included 32 full-matching articles in total reporting the use of medicinal plants as a remedy for amoebiasis. Through these articles, we found 42 herbs having anti-amoebic activity. In bias analysis, we also found four articles under high bias risk. In our study, seven medicinal plants were concluded to possess the most potent anti-amoebic activity based on their IC50 value, which was less than 1 μg mL−1. On bias analysis, we found four articles with high bias risk, hence these studies can be repeated for better results.

Ameliorative effects of Osteo-F, a newly developed herbal formula, on osteoporosis via activation of bone formation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The fruit of Schizandra chinensis and Lycium chinense, and the root of Eucommia ulmoides, components of Osteo-F, has traditionally been used for treating bone diseases in Korean Medicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The exact role and underlying mechanism of Osteo-F herbal formula on bone formation in osteoporosis was investigated in the present study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

OVX mice were treated with 0.9, 9 and 90 mg/kg of Osteo-F for 4 weeks. Bone tissues including fourth to sixth lumbar vertebrae (LV) and femur were collected to analyze the bone mineral density (BMD). In addition, serum biomarkers were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expressions of collagen, BMP-2 and osteopontin were determined in tibia to clarify the bone anabolic effects of Osteo-F in osteoporosis.

RESULTS

The levels of BMD in both of fourth to sixth LV and femur were significantly increased by Osteo-F treatment in OVX mice. Bone mineral content (BMC) was also elevated in Osteo-F-treated LV and femoral bone tissues. In addition, serum osteocalcin was markedly increased by Osteo-F in osteoporotic mice. Serum ALP and bALP levels were neutralized in Osteo-F 90 mg/kg-administered mice. Furthermore, Osteo-F treatment dramatically increased the mRNA expressions of collagen type I, BMP-2 and OPN in tibial bone specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteo-F ameliorated bone loss by increasing bone forming molecules including BMP-2 and OPN in osteoporosis. Osteo-F, a newly developed herbal formula, may be an alternative material for the management of osteoporosis with bone anabolic effects.

Traditional medicinal plants used by the Mon people in Myanmar

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Myanmar's Mon people largely depend on a traditional medical system for health care, however, information about their medical plants is rare in the current literature. In this first ethnobotanical study of Mon traditional medicinal plants (MTMs), we attempt to answer three research questions: 1) What species are used as MTMs by the Mon people and what diseases can be treated with these MTMs? 2) What are the general characteristics of these MTMs? 3) Which species and their usages have high consensus of knowledge?

AIM OF THE STUDY

We aimed (1) to document both the diversity of medicinal plants used by the Mon people and their knowledge of the therapeutic usages of these plants; and (2) to quantitatively identify the most well-known medicinal plant species and prevalent diseases treated by these species, and to evaluate the status of scientific research and application for each of these species.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethnobotanical surveys and interviews were carried out in 10 villages in four townships of Mon State, Myanmar in 2018. Data were collected from interviews with 131 informants, chosen via the snowball sampling method. Therapeutic uses of medicinal plants were categorized according to the ICPC-2 standard. Voucher specimens of plant species were collected and identified by experts. To evaluate the consensus of knowledge, we applied use reports (URs) using the R package of ethnobotanyR.

RESULTS

In total, we recorded 158 medicinal plant species belonging to 64 families as being used by the Mon people, with 13 species being newly recorded as medicinal plants in Myanmar. The people listed 78 therapeutic uses for these plants, which could be classified into 16 ICPC-2 disease categories. Digestive, urological and respiratory diseases ranked as the most prevalent diseases based on use reports. Fabaceae was the most represented family and the leaf was the most commonly used plant part. Decoction and oral administration ranked top in preparation and administration methods, respectively. Tinospora sinensis (Lour.) Merr, the introduced species Chromolaena odorata (L.) R. M. King & H. Rob., Mimosa pudica L., Tadehagi triquetrum (L.) H. Ohashi, and Alysicarpus vaginalis (L.) DC were the five most cited medicinal plant species, and were used to treat dysuria, cuts and wounds, cough, diabetes and gall stones respectively, with high consensus.

CONCLUSION

The Mon people of Myanmar have a rich and diverse knowledge of traditional medicinal plants. The list of medicinal plants in Myanmar can be renewed, with the addition of 13 species. MTMs still function as an important component of the health care of the Mon people in Myanmar, and a systematic documentation of the local knowledge of MTMs would be of great value in the future. Resource monitoring, phytochemical and pharmacological research and evidence-based drug development are suggested to promote the use of MTMs and aid drug discovery.

Efficacy of a vaginal tablet as a Persian medicine product on vulvovaginal candidiasis: a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial

Context: In Persian medicine, topical ingredients such as Rosa damascena Mill. (Rosaceae), are usually recommended for the treatment of uterine diseases. Scientific evaluation of these historical documents can be valuable for finding new potential use in conventional medicine.Objective: This clinical trial was performed to determine whether the use of the 'ward' vaginal tablet, which contains Rosa damascena, Punica granatum L. (Punicaceae), Querqus infectoria Oliv. (Fagaceae), Myrtus communis L. (Myrtaceae) and Nardostachys jatamansi (D.Don) DC. (Caprifoliaceae) could alleviate the symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis.Materials and methods: A parallel double-blinded placebo-controlled study was done. Eighteen to fifty-year-old women with vulvovaginal candidiasis were divided into the 'ward' and placebo groups, 46 individuals in each group. The 'ward' group received the 'ward' vaginal tablet containing 200 mg of dried extract. Placebo group received a placebo (composed of corn starch and lactose). One tablet was applied through the vagina for 7 consecutive nights.Results: Two weeks after medication administration, the vaginal discharge sample of patients was re-cultured; 29 patients (63.045%) in the 'ward' group and 6 (13.04%) patients in the placebo group had negative culture (p < 0.001). All clinical symptoms including itching, irritation, and vaginal discharge were significantly reduced in the 'ward' group compared with the placebo group following the intervention and the follow up (p < 0.05).Discussion and conclusions: The findings suggest the 'ward' vaginal tablet could ameliorate vulvovaginal candidiasis. Future larger studies are recommended due to compare the therapeutic effect of the 'ward' vaginal tablet with common treatments.

Optimization of pectinase-assisted extraction of Annona muricata L. juice and the effect of liquefaction on its pectin structure

BACKGROUND

Soursop (Annona muricata L.) is an underutilized tropical and subtropical fruit with high nutritional and therapeutic benefits. This fruit is faced with enormous post-harvest losses due to its high perishability. This work was aimed to optimize the pectinase-assisted extraction conditions of soursop juice using Doehlert design and to study the effect of pectinase on its pectin structure.

RESULTS

The predicted models were validated for all the responses studied and the regression coefficients ranged from 0.905 to 0.987 (P ≤ 0.05). An incubation time of 172 min, enzyme concentration of 0.04% (w/w) and incubation temperature at 42.9 °C were found to be the optimal conditions for soursop juice extraction, which resulted in 75.20%, 3.74, 7.35 °Brix, 87.06%T, and 0.44% MAE for soursop juice yield (%), pH, total soluble solids (TSS) (°Brix), clarity (%T) and titratable acidity (% malic acid equivalent, MAE), respectively. Morphologically, untreated soursop pulp presented a non-uniform spherical surface; enzyme hydrolyzed soursop exhibited ruptured and wrinkled surface; meanwhile for the different pectin obtained, untreated soursop pectin depicted porous surface and enzyme hydrolyzed soursop pectin showed whirling rough surface. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) confirmed the presence of similar chemical group stretching and vibrations in commercial pectin and soursop pectin.

CONCLUSION

Under the optimum conditions, the numerical predictions were similar to the experimental data obtained, thus confirming the validity of the models. Application of enzyme treatment caused the breakdown of pectin structure as illustrated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FTIR analyses.

Advances in phytochemical and modern pharmacological research of Rhizoma Corydalis

ABSRACTContext: Rhizoma Corydalis (RC) is the dried tubers of Corydalis yanhusuo (Y. H. Chou and Chun C. Hsu) W. T. Wang ex Z. Y. Su and C. Y. Wu (Papaveraceae). Traditionally, RC is used to alleviate pain such as headache, abdominal pain, and epigastric pain. Modern medicine shows that it has analgesic, anti-arrhythmia, and other effects.Objective: We provided an overview of the phytochemical and pharmacological properties of RC as a foundation for its clinical application and further research and development of new drugs.Methods: We collected data of various phytochemical and pharmacological effects of RC from 1982 to 2019. To correlate with existing scientific evidence, we used Google Scholar and the journal databases Scopus, PubMed, and CNKI. 'Rhizoma Corydalis', 'phytochemistry', and 'pharmacological effects' were used as key words.Results: Currently, more than 100 chemical components have been isolated and identified from RC, among which alkaloid is the pimary active component of RC. Based on prior research, RC has antinociceptive, sedative, anti-epileptic, antidepressive and anti-anxiety, acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effect, drug abstinence, anti-arrhythmic, antimyocardial infarction, dilated coronary artery, cerebral ischaemia reperfusion (I/R) injury protection, antihypertensive, antithrombotic, antigastrointestinal ulcer, liver protection, antimicrobial, anti-inflammation, antiviral, and anticancer effects.Conclusions: RC is reported to be effective in treating a variety of diseases. Current pharmacological studies on RC mainly focus on the nervous, circulatory, digestive, and endocrine systems, as well as drug withdrawal. Although experimental data support the beneficial effects of this drug, its physiological activity remains a concern. Nonetheless, this review provides a foundation for future research.

Scientific appraisal of Unani concept of islah-e-advia (rectification/purification of drugs) and its importance

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Unani system of medicine uses drugs from plants, minerals and animals (Mawaleed-e-salasa) origin. Most of the drugs used are believed to be safe, but some drugs may have toxins and produce harmful effects, so it is very important to remove the toxins or to minimize their harmful effects before using, so as to increase their therapeutic values and make easy for use.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the concept, aims and objectives of islah-e-advia (rectification/purification of drugs) in Unani system of medicine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A through literature survey was undertaken using the various online bibliographic databases like Pub Med, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Web of Science and Scopus. Classical Unani literature books which are translated in Urdu by CCRUM were used for Unani references. The keywords used for the search included "Tadbeer-e-Advia", "Islah-e-advia", Mudabbar process, detoxification and purification of drug.

RESULTS

The ancient Unani physicians were well aware of toxicity of the drugs and have divided drugs into four degrees (1°, 2°, 3° and 4°) according to the Mizaj (temperament) of drugs. The fourth degree drugs produce so strong effects that the physiological functions of the body get disturbed; such drugs are also considered to be poisonous drugs. Different methods of purification have been mentioned for drugs belonging to the third and fourth degree temperament and always recommended their use after subjecting them to certain Tadbeer (rectification/purification). Otherwise these drugs may destroy the physiological function of the body. After purification process the drugs become physically and chemically pure, therapeutically more effective and less toxic. Very few pharmacological and toxicity studies have been conducted.

CONCLUSION

Third and fourth degree drugs and its formulations have been claimed by Unani scholars to be useful in the management of various diseases of the body. After purification toxicity has been reduced in comparison crude drug. However, further elaborate and comprehensive studies are required to validate such claims.

Medicinal plants used in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: A gender perspective

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Very few studies examining quantitatively gender differences in the knowledge and use of medicinal plants exist for the Arab world. Differences in ethnobotanical knowledge of medicinal plants between men and women in Jeddah are explored here for the first time.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Our study aims to document urban medicinal plant knowledge in Jeddah, and to answer the following questions: (1) What medicinal plants are used by Saudis in Jeddah? (2) To what extent do men and women use medicinal plants? (3) Are plants used by men significantly different to those used by women? And, (4) do men and women learn about medicinal plants in different ways? Given the gendered nature of space and relations in the Arab world, we hypothesise that men and women learn about plants in different ways and that this will contribute to explain any possible differences.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethnobotanical fieldwork took place in Jeddah from August 2018 to September 2019. Individual free-listing, semi-structured interviews and an online survey questionnaire were carried out to document local medicinal plant. In total, 50 men and 50 women were interviewed face-to-face and 344 people responded to the questionnaire, of which 154 were men and 190 were women.

RESULTS

A total of 94 medicinal plant vernacular names were documented representing 85 different plant species belonging to 37 families. Men cited 63 plants (33 plant families) and women 83 (36 plant families). Sixty-one plants were cited by both men and women, two only by men and 22 only by women. Men and women learn in similar ways, but generally use medicinal plants to treat different ailments. Women rely on medicinal plant use to a larger extent.

CONCLUSION

Medicinal plant use is dependent on gendered social roles and experience, as well as preference for biomedicine or medicinal plant use. Men and women use similar plants, but women have greater knowledge that increases with age. Given the food-medicine continuum, women's double role of family food and care providers may explain their expertise in medicinal plant use.

Extracting and Analyzing Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids in Medicinal Plants: A Review

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are distributed in plant families of Asteraceae, Boraginaceae, and Fabaceae and serve in the chemical defense mechanism against herbivores. However, they became a matter of concern due to their toxicity associated with the high risk of intake within herbal preparations, e.g., phytopharmaceutical formulations, medicinal teas, or other plant-derived drug products. In 1992, the German Federal Ministry of Health established the first limits of PA content for fourteen medicinal plants. Because of the toxic effects of PAs, the Federal Institute of Risk Assessment (BfR) established more stringent limits in 2011, whereby a daily intake <0.007 µg/kg body weight was recommended and valid until 2018. A threefold higher limit was then advised by BfR. To address consumer safety, there is the need for more efficient extraction procedures along with robust, selective, and sensitive analytical methods to address these concerns. With the increased prevalence of, e.g., phytopharmaceutical formulations, this timely review comprehensively focuses on the most relevant extraction and analysis strategies for each of those fourteen plant genera. While a variety of extraction procedures has been reported, differences in PA content of up to 1110 ppm (0.11% (w/w)) were obtained dependent on the nature of the solvent and the applied extraction technique. It is evident that the efficient extraction of PAs requires further improvements or at least standardization of the extraction conditions. Comparing the various analytical techniques applied regarding selectivity and sensitivity, LC-MS methods appear most suited. This review shows that both standardized extraction and sensitive determination of PAs is required for achieving appropriate safety levels concerning public health in future.

Investigation of anti-diabetic plants used among the ethnic communities of Kanpur division, India

ETHNO PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kanpur division is one of the large areas of India with diverse traditional medicinal heritage. In this area, a large number of people suffer from diabetes mellitus. People in this area handle diabetes with herbal and modern medicinal treatments. However, folk knowledge for the treatment of diabetes is not documented.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To document and promulgate the enormous indigenous knowledge of therapeutic importance of herbal plants used by the local practitioners for diabetes mellitus.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Total 44 local practitioners (28 male and 16 female) were interviewed through a questionnaire. The medicinal plants suggested by the practitioners were identified by the taxonomist, and plant specimens were preserved.

RESULTS

Thirty-five species of plants, belonging to 24 families, were suggested by 44 local healers of Kanpur division. The fidelity level (FL), use values (UV) and relative frequency of citation (RFC) for each plant have been analyzed. The UV, FL, and RFC values of the recorded plants ranged between 0.97 to 0.23, 82.7%-24.1% and 0.327 to 0.067, respectively. Leguminosae family dominated with 14.28% of the total plants. The highest used life form was recorded as tree (43%) while the most widely used plant part was leaf (30.6%). The highest UV, FL, and RFC were recorded for the Aloe vera L. (0.97), Syzygium cumini L. (82.7%) and Momordica charantia L. (0.327) respectively.

CONCLUSION

The present study exhibits the knowledge and use of anti-diabetic plants adopted by the ethnic communities of Kanpur division. Future pharmacological investigations are required to test the potency and efficacy of herbal treatments. There is also a need for sustainable use and conservation of these medicinally useful plants.

A review of traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology of the genus Indigofera

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Indigofera is the third-largest genus in the family of Fabaceae, with approximately 750 species. It is distributed across all tropical regions. Indigofera species are widely employed in traditional medicine all around the world, against many ailments. Thus, based on these medicinal properties, various investigations have been undertaken in order to appraise the pharmacological activities and the chemical composition of these species. A recent paper provides a summary of the phytochemistry and pharmacology of the genus Indigofera. Consequently, this review is a continuation of this previous study by updating some data and adding information about the phylogeny and traditional uses of the genus.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To provide an overview of the phylogeny, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicity of the genus Indigofera, and to identify the remaining gaps and thus supply a basis for further investigations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A review of the literature was performed by consulting scientific databases such as 'ScienceDirect', 'PubMed', 'Google Scholar' and 'SpringerLink' and using the keyword Indigofera.

RESULTS

Over 60 Indigofera species are reported in traditional medicine. The uses depend on the country and the species, but similarities have been noticed. Indeed, treatments of gastrointestinal disorders, inflammatory conditions and pain, skin ailments, and respiratory and infectious diseases are recurring. Phytochemical studies have led to the identification of more than 200 compounds, notably flavonoids and terpenoids. Many pharmacological activities have been demonstrated, particularly antimicrobial, cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory activities, and thus allowed to assert most of the traditional uses of the genus. Some active compounds have been isolated and have shown remarkable therapeutic potential, like the alkaloid indirubin, which is currently being clinically trialed.

CONCLUSIONS

The data on the genus Indigofera are extensive, but gaps still remain. Indeed, some promising species have not been assessed for their phytochemistry and/or pharmacology and thus remain unexplored. Moreover, relatively few active compounds have been isolated and tested for their biological activity, and studies to explain their mechanism of action are nearly inexistent. Furthermore, some pharmacological studies have inappropriate methodologies that make the results difficult to interpret. Consequently, further in-depth and relevant research is required to supplement the knowledge on this wide-ranging genus and to confirm its reported therapeutic potential.

Phyllanthus acidus (L.) Skeels: A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Phyllanthus acidus (L.) Skeels is not only used for its edible fruits but also used to treat a wide spectrum of diseases such as inflammatory, rheumatism, bronchitis, asthma, respiratory disorder, hepatic diseases and diabetes in India, Asia, the Caribbean region, and Central and South America. This paper aims to discuss the current understanding regarding the traditional uses, phytochemical and pharmacological studies of P. acidus, and their possible research opportunities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All information on P. acidus was collected from various electronic database (ACS, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SciFinder, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Springer, Wiley, Taylor and Mendeley) and also from those published materials (Ph.D. and M.Sc. dissertations and books) by using a combination of various meaningful keywords.

RESULTS

Phytochemical analyses on barks, leaves, roots and fruits of P. acidus identified triterpene, diterpene, sesquiterpene, and glycosides as predominant classes of bioactive substances found in this plant. P. acidus was reported with various pharmacological activities such as in vivo hepatoprotective and hypoglycemic, in vitro anti-oxidant, α-glucosidase inhibitory, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. However, none of these studies are with clinical research. Some of the studies were performed with only a single set of experiments or with a high dose of extract, and thus the validity of the experimental data may be questionable. In addition, most of the studies described were without identifying the effective components. Some of the assays were even without a positive control for comparison which makes results questionable.

CONCLUSION

Although P. acidus has been proven as a valuable medicinal source from its traditional uses. However, the pharmacological experiments conducted were not sufficient to verify its traditional uses. More investigation is required to confirm the traditional claims such as bioassay-guided isolation of bioactive compounds, detailed pharmacological investigations, clinical studies, and its toxicity investigation. Additionally, an experimental design with sufficient data replication, the use of controls and authenticated research materials, and the selection of a rationale dose or concentration for the analysis are keys to providing reproducible experimental data.

Pharmacological potential of the combination of Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen) and Carthamus tinctorius (Honghua) for diabetes mellitus and its cardiovascular complications

Metabolic syndrome, such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, atherosclerosis, and high blood pressure (HBP), are closely linked pathophysiologically. However, current monotherapies for metabolic syndrome fail to target the multifactorial pathology via multiple mechanisms, as well as resolving the dysfunctionality of the cells and organs of the body. We aimed to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date review of the pharmacological advances, therapeutic potential, and phytochemistry of Salvia miltiorrhiza, Carthamus tinctorius, and Danhong injection (DHI). We discussed the molecular mechanisms of the bioactive constituents relating to diabetes mellitus and metabolic disease for further research and drug development. Interestingly, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Carthamus tinctorius, and DHI have anti-inflammatory, anti-glycemic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-cancer properties; and they mainly act by targeting the dysfunctional vasculatures including the inflammatory components of the disease to provide vascular repair as well as resolving oxidative stress. The major bioactive chemical constituents of these plants include polyphenolic acids, diterpene compounds, carthamin, and hydroxysafflor yellow A. Treatment of diabetes mellitus and its associated cardiovascular complication requires a comprehensive approach involving the use of appropriate traditional Chinese medicine formula. Danshen, Honghua, and DHI target the multiple risk factors regulating the physiologic function of the body and restore normalcy, apart from the traditional advice on exercise and diet control as treatment options in a metabolic syndrome patient.

Phytotherapy in treatment of Parkinson's disease: a review

Context: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder due to gradual loss of dopaminergic nerves in the substantia nigra (SN) in the midbrain. PD leads to certain motor disorders including resting tremor, muscle stiffness and slow movement. Medicinal plants have shown positive pharmacological effects in treating different models of PD. Objective: Tendency to use natural products, especially plants, for the treatment of PD has been growing. This article reviews the basic aspects of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds that could be used to treat PD. Methods: Reliable articles indexed in databases ISI, SID, PubMed, PubMed Central, Scopus and Web of Science were used. A total of 12 plant-derived active ingredients and 18 herbal extracts were included. Different compounds have so far been isolated from plants that affect PD especially by targeting pathways associated with the pathogenesis of the disease. Results: Although some herbal extracts such as Hibiscus asper Hook. f. (Malvaceae), Ginkgo biloba L. (Ginkgoaceae), Carthamus tinctorius L (Asteraceae) and certain active ingredients, such as berberine and curcumin, have shown positive effects in animal models of PD, potential active ingredients and mechanisms of action should be investigated in additional studies. Discussion and conclusions: Despite the wide variety of plants in the world, a limited number of them have been studied for anti-Parkinsonian activity, and therefore, there are numerous perspectives in this field for future studies on plants and their bioactive compounds.

Flash Vacuum-Expansion Process: Effect on the Sensory, Color and Texture Attributes of Avocado (Persea americana) Puree

The flash vacuum-expansion process (FVE) consists of two stages. In the first, the raw material is heated by a steam flow in a chamber at 101.325 kPa; in the second, the plant material passes into an expansion chamber (2 to 5 kPa), where the disintegration of the tissues occur. The puree obtained from the avocado pulp subjected to the first stage of the process was evaluated sensorial and instrumentally (T1), in the same way the puree obtained from fruits that were subjected to the whole process (T2) was evaluated, these were compared with avocado puree obtained by means of a food processor (control). The parameters shiny, avocado-like, luminosity, stretching and hue are more significant to describe the puree control, while boiled vegetable and homogeneity to describe T1; grainy texture, adhesiveness and fibrous are more significant to describe T2.

Phytochemical analysis and hepatoprotective effect of polyherbal formulation on CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity in mice

The potent phytotherapeutic modalities against the hepatotoxicity have motivated us to explore numerous plants and polyherbal preparations because conventional drug discovery is more expensive and tedious. So, this study was conducted to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of a polyherbal formulation (PHF), comprising of Solanum nigrum, Silybum marianum, Atrmesia absinthium, Achillea millifolium and Cichorium intybus against carbon tetrachloride(CCl4) induced hepatotoxicity in experimental rats. CCl4intoxicationinduced vacuole formation and fastdegeneration so selective liver enzymes including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkalinephosphatase (ALP) and total bilirubin in rat's plasma,as well as liver histological architecture, were used to evaluate the effect of herbal treatments with different doses (ranging 100-500 mg/kg) for two weeks. Statistical analysis showed that PHF significantly (P<.05) improved the level of liver enzymes as well as improve the liver architecture comparative to control groups. It could be concluded from current findings that PHF prepared from Solanum nigrum, Silybum marianum, Atrmesia absinthium, Achillea millifiloium and Cichorium intybus have some hepatoprotective activities.

[PROTECTIVE PROPERTIES OF DRUGS OF PLANT ORIGION IN ACUTE EMOTIONAL AND PAINFUL STRESS IN RATS]

The aim of the investigation was to study the protective properties of the herbal preparation - biotrite and tranquilizer diazepam under the modeling of emotional and painful stress in rats. Materials and methods. The experiment was conducted on 24 white male rats of 5 months of age. Animals (6 rats in the group) were kept on the standard diet of the vivarium: 1st group was intact; rats of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th groups were reproduced acute painful emotional stress for 3 hours. 60 minutes before the stress, rats received per os: the 2nd group - water, the 3rd group - diazepam in a dose of 1.25 mg / kg body weight of rats; 4th group - a preparation of biotrite in a dose of 50 mg / kg. Results and conclusion. The conducted studies demonstrated significant adaptive properties of the biotrite preparation, and the degree of their manifestations was higher than the stress-protective effects of diazepam.

Metabolites of Dietary Acteoside: Profiles, Isolation, Identification, and Hepatoprotective Capacities

In recent years, cistanche tea has been increasingly used as a major herbal supplement in functional drinks, and it has attracted a growing number of consumers because of its excellent tonic effects and medicinal properties. Acteoside (ACT), which is the principal bioactive component of Chinese cistanche tea, possesses various pharmacological effects. This study profiled, isolated, identified, and investigated the hepatoprotective capacities of metabolites in rat urine after the administration of ACT. Eleven metabolites, including one new compound (M8), were obtained and identified by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy for the first time. Compared with native ACT, ACT metabolites such as hydroxytyrosol (HT), 3-hydroxyphenylpropionic acid (3-HPP), and caffeic acid (CA) exhibited higher hepatoprotective activities by regulating oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and inflammatory responses in a GalN/LPS-induced-acute-hepatic-injury mouse model. The HT treatment markedly reduced the levels of TNF-α to 280 ± 14.3 ng/L compared with the model group (429 ± 9.20 ng/L, p < 0.01). The results obtained indicated that cistanche tea could be developed as a functional drink for the prevention of hepatic injuries and that ACT metabolites could be responsible for the potent hepatoprotective activity as well as the other therapeutic effects.

The anti-arthritic activity of total glycosides from Pterocephalus hookeri, a traditional Tibetan herbal medicine

CONTEXT

Pterocephalus hookeri (C. B. Clarke) Hock., a traditional Tibetan herbal medicine rich in glycosides, has been used to treat several diseases including rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the anti-arthritic activity of total glycosides from P. hookeri, and its possible mechanisms of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Anti-arthritic activity of total glycosides from P. hookeri (oral administration for 30 days at 14-56 mg/kg) was evaluated using paw swelling, arthritis scores and histopathological measurement in adjuvant-induced arthritis (AA) Sprague-Dawley rats. The NF-κB p65 expression in synovial tissues, and serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels was measured in AA rats, respectively. Further assessment of anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of these glycosides were carried out using inflammation and hyperalgesia models induced by xylene, carrageenan, agar and acetic acid, respectively.

RESULTS

Total glycosides (56 mg/kg) decreased the paw swelling (38.0%, p < 0.01), arthritis scores (25.3%, p < 0.01) and synovial inflammation in AA rats. The glycosides significantly (p < 0.05-0.01) attenuated the inflammation induced by xylene, carrageenan, acetic acid and agar, increased the pain threshold in acetic acid-induced writhing in mice and mechanical stimuli-induced hyperalgia in AA rats. The glycosides (14, 28, 56 mg/kg) also suppressed the NF-κB p65 expression (33.1-78.2%, p < 0.05-0.01), reduced MDA (21.3-35.9%, p < 0.01) and NO (20.3-32.4%, p < 0.05-0.01) levels, respectively, enhanced the SOD activity (7.8%, p < 0.05) at 56 mg/kg in AA rats.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our findings confirmed the anti-arthritic property of the total glycosides from P. hookeri, which may be attributed to its inhibition on NF-κB signalling and oxidative stress.

Male contraceptive efficacy of poly herbal formulation, contracept-TM, composed of aqueous extracts of Terminalia chebula fruit and Musa balbisiana seed in rat

CONTEXT

Terminalia chebula Retz (Combretaceae) and Musa balbisiana Colla (Musaceae) have a traditional reputation as a male contraceptive.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the hypo-testicular activity of aqueous extracts of Terminalia chebula (fruit) and Musa balbisiana (seed) separately, and in composite manner at the ratio of 1:1 named as 'Contracept-TM' compared to cyproterone acetate (CPA), for developing a polyherbal contraceptive.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The separate extract of above said plants or 'Contracept-TM' at the dose of 40 mg/100 g body weight of rat/day or CPA at 2 mg/100 g body weight of rat/day was administered for 28 days. Spermiological, androgenic and oxidative stress sensors, LD50 and ED50/100 g body weight values were measured.

RESULTS

Treatment of individual, 'Contracept-TM' or CPA resulted significant decrease in the count of spermatogonia A (36.36-49.09%), pre-leptotene spermatocyte (19.11-55.30%), mid-pachytene spermatocyte (28.65-47.28%) and step 7 spermatid (29.65-51.59%). Activities of testicular Δ5, 3β (21.25-48.02%),17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (29.75-55.08%), catalase (19.06-43.29%) and peroxidase (30.76-62.82%), levels of testosterone (28.15-63.44%), testicular cholesterol (19.61-49.33%), conjugated diene (29.69-84.99%) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (41.25-86.73%) were elevated compare to the control. The ED50 and LD50 values were 40 mg and 5.8 g (T. chebula), 48 mg and 6.3 g (M. bulbisiana), 40 mg and 6.0 g ('Contracept-TM'), respectively.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The said spermiological and androgenic sensors' levels were decreased significantly by 'Contracept-TM' than its constitutional individual plant extract and it may be comparable to standard anti-testicular drug like CPA. So, it may be concluded that above polyherbal formulation is potent for inducing hypo-testicular activity.

Exploration of ethno-medicinal knowledge among rural communities of Pearl Valley; Rawalakot, District Poonch Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Background

Medicinal plants are the basic source of health care in the Pearl Valley District Poonch, Azad Jammu, and Kashmir. The basic aim of present study was to record information about the use of plants in herbal preparation and quantification of recorded data.

Materials and methods

The research was conducted with the null hypothesis that there was no differential distribution of knowledge among the communities between genders and among different age groups in the study area and across cultural medicinal uses of the plants are similar. To check these hypotheses information about medicinal plants was collected from 46 laypeople and 18 herbalists by using an open ended and semistructured questionnaire. Different ethnobotanical indices were calculated in order to quantify the knowledge on the medicinal plants reported in the study.

Results

Our study recorded 136 species of medicinal plants belonging to 45 families with Asteraceae (14 species) as the dominant family of the area. Decoction (26 species), juice and powder (24 species each) were most common methods of preparation. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed that age and gender had the significant effect on both numbers of mentioned species and different uses. A number of known medicinal plants and the number of different uses (H: 38.51; p < 0.001) differ significantly as indicated by Kruskal-Wallis tests. These results showed that the knowledge about the plant varies among different age groups, which were the first hypothesis of the present study. The highest use values (UVs) were reported for Berberis lyceum and Ajuga bracteosa (1.13 each) followed by Abies pindrow (1.03). Highest informant consensus factor (ICF) values were recorded for digestive system diseases (ICF = 0.90) and muscular and skeletal system diseases (ICF = 0.89). The value of Jaccarad index ranged from 6.11 to 32.97 with an average value of 19.84, percentage of similarity was highest between study area and Pir Lasura National Park (34.62%).

Conclusion

High similarity might be due to the fact that the communities living in these areas have same sociocultural values and have more opportunities to exchange their traditional knowledge. The present study provides practical evidence about the use of medicinal plants among the inhabitants of the Pearl Valley.

Beneficial effects of phytochemicals in diabetic retinopathy: experimental and clinical evidence

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus and a major preventable cause of blindness. Strict control of blood glucose, blood pressure, and lipid profiles are the pivotal criteria to reduce the risk of developing DR. Although timely intervention with laser photocoagulation therapy could mitigate the progression of DR, it may not significantly improve visual acuity. Therefore, invasive surgical interventions such as vitrectomy are sometimes the only option to treat or manage advanced stages of DR. However, the risk of intra-ocular infections outweighs the benefits of the surgery. Newer therapies such as intraocular injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antibody and steroids serve as a viable option for the treatment of DR. However, several clinical studies that assessed the long-term efficacy and safety of this therapy have yielded inconclusive results. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop potent and safe drugs for the effective management of DR. In this review, we discuss various plant-derived small molecules (phytochemicals) that have been investigated for retinal cytoprotective effects in pre-clinical and clinical studies. Furthermore, we highlight the caveats on using phytochemicals for the management of DR.

Ethno-veterinary practices in Southern India for captive Asian elephant ailments

ETHENOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

India has a long tradition of practicing Ayurvedic medicine not only for human ailments, but also for the management of livestock in the form of ethno-veterinary practices. Asian elephant is a significant part of Indian culture, and ethno-veterinary practices have extended to manage and cure various ailments of Asian elephant in captivity. Much of this knowledge has been lost in the light of modern practices.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study is aimed at documenting the existing knowledge on ethno-veterinary medicines practiced by elephant keepers (mahouts) in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was carried out between June 2015 and February 2016 employing a questionnaire survey among 50 selected informants (mahouts) with traditional knowledge on plants in veterinary medicine. Information was elicited from the informants on various diseases prevailing among captive elephants and the traditional treatment employed by them.

RESULTS

In total, the study documented 53 plant species belonging to 29 families being used as medicine for 23 types of ailments prevailing among captive elephants. Ferula assa-foetida, Zingiber officinale, Piper longum, P. nigrum, Cuminum cyminum, Trachyspermum roxburghianum and Carum bulbocastanum were the most commonly used plants either independently or in combination. Among them, Ferula assa-foetida (12.4%) and Zingiber officinale (10.4%) had the highest usage. Of the 23 diseases reported, constipation was the most common ailment (14.6%) followed by bloating (8.7%) and flatulence (8.7%).

CONCLUSION

Documentation of this indigenous knowledge is valuable for the communities concerned, both at present and in future and for scientific consideration for wider use of traditional knowledge in treating captive elephants. The study has identified 53 medicinal plants to treat various ailments among captive elephants in southern India. The most frequently used plants in the captive elephant health care practice are F. assafoetida, Z. officinale, P. longum and P.nigrum. Among the 29 families, Apiaceae and Piperaceae are widely used. The leaves are the most useful part of the plants, while paste is the widely used form of preparation. The present findings show that mahouts have wide knowledge about elephant diseases and their treatment using herbal medicine. A more detailed investigation should be designed on priority to document the dying art of ethno-veterinary practices for the long-term conservation of the Asian elephant.

Ipomoea pes-caprae (L.) R. Br (Convolvulaceae) relieved nociception and inflammation in mice - A topical herbal medicine against effects due to cnidarian venom-skin contact

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ipomoea pes-caprae is known as bayhops, beach morning glory or goat's foot, and in Brazil as salsa-de-praia. Its leaves are used in worldwide folk medicine for the relief of jellyfish-stings symptoms. The literature only reports the neutralizing effects of nonpolar plant derived over jellyfish venoms, without validating the popular use or exploring the mechanism of action.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to evaluate and validate the topical effects of a semisolid containing hydroethanolic extract obtained from the aerial parts of I. pes-caprae using different models of paw- and ear-oedema and spontaneous nociception in mice, attempting to better understand the mechanism involved in its effect.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Leaf and stem of I. pes-caprae were extracted by ethanol 50% (v/v) and the soft-extract was incorporated in Hostacerin® cream base at 0.5%, 1.0% and 2% (w/w). The anti-hypersensitivity effects were evaluated by injecting the Physalia physalis venom into the right mice's hindpaw pre-treated either with the semisolid containing the I. pes-caprae extract or with the isolated majority compound 3,5-Di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (ISA). The topical anti-inflammatory activity was investigated using both preclinical models: paw oedema induced by trypsin, bradykinin (BK), histamine and carrageenan, and ear oedema induced by capsaicin. Additionally, the model of spontaneous nociception induced by trypsin and capsaicin were used to verify the topical antinociceptive activity.

RESULTS

The animals pre-treated with the semisolid containing I. pes-caprae extract or with the intraplantar injection of the major component (ISA) had the mechanical hypersensitivity induced by P. physalis venom significantly reduced. Significant inhibition was also observed in paw-oedema induced by trypsin, histamine and BK, and in a less extent in carrageenan-induced paw oedema. Similar effect was observed in mice challenged to the capsaicin-induced ear-oedema. Besides the vascular effects, the extract interfered with leukocyte migration induced by histamine injection. Finally, the semisolid presented significant inhibition in trypsin- and capsaicin-induced spontaneous nociception.

CONCLUSIONS

The hydroethanolic extract of I. pes-caprae showed compliance with the topical popular use of the herbal product to relieve the symptoms evoked by the cnidarian venom-skin contact, such as neurogenic oedema and nociception. The extract components seem to interfere with the effects resulting from the TRPV1, B₂R and PAR-2 activation, once it interfered with painful-behaviour and oedema induced by capsaicin, BK and trypsin, pointing the histaminergic system as the main target, once it is an important mediator in the signalling pathway of the aforementioned receptors.

Medicinal plants used to treat snakebite in Central America: Review and assessment of scientific evidence

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Every year between 1.2 and 5.5 million people worldwide are victims of snakebites, with about 400,000 left permanently injured. In Central America an estimated 5500 snakebite cases are reported by health centres, but this is likely to be an underestimate due to unreported cases in rural regions. The aim of this study is to review the medicinal plants used traditionally to treat snakebites in seven Central American countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search was performed on published primary data on medicinal plants of Central America and those specifically pertaining to use against snakebites. Plant use reports for traditional snakebite remedies identified in primary sources were extracted and entered in a database, with data analysed in terms of the most frequent numbers of use reports. The scientific evidence that might support the local uses of the most frequently reported species was also examined.

RESULTS

A total of 260 independent plant use reports were recorded in the 34 sources included in this review, encompassing 208 species used to treat snakebite in Central America. Only nine species were reported in at least three studies: Cissampelos pareira L., Piper amalago L., Aristolochia trilobata L., Sansevieria hyacinthoides (L.) Druce, Strychnos panamensis Seem., Dorstenia contrajerva L., Scoparia dulcis L., Hamelia patens Jacq., and Simaba cedron Planch. Genera with the highest number of species used to treat snakebite were Piper, Aristolochia, Hamelia, Ipomoea, Passiflora and Peperomia. The extent of the scientific evidence available to understand any pharmacological basis for their use against snakebites varied between different plant species.

CONCLUSION

At least 208 plant species are traditionally used to treat snakebite in Central America but there is a lack of clinical research to evaluate their efficacy and safety. Available pharmacological data suggest different plant species may target different symptoms of snakebites, such as pain or anxiety, although more studies are needed to further evaluate the scientific basis for their use.

Plants used to treat diabetes in Sri Lankan Siddha Medicine - An ethnopharmacological review of historical and modern sources

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

In recent decades diabetes mellitus has become a considerable health problem in countries like Sri Lanka and results in an increasing economic burden hampering the social and economic development of these countries. About 60% to 70% of the rural population in Sri Lanka rely on indigenous medicinal systems as their main source for primary health care. Siddha (Tamil) Medicine is one of the four Sri Lankan traditional medicinal systems and it is practised mostly in the eastern and northern provinces of Sri Lanka where the majority of Tamils reside.

AIM

The foundation of this study is a documentation of plant species recorded in historical and modern Sri Lankan Siddha Medical documents used to treat diabetes. Based on the systematic documentation and analysis of Siddha concepts about diabetes and its signs and preparations used to treat diabetes in Sri Lankan Siddha Medicine, the plant species included in these preparations (excluding globally or very widely used, very well studied species) were evaluated in terms of the current state-of-the-art about these species' pharmacology and effectiveness in order to lay a foundation for their further development.

METHOD

Historic and modern Sri Lankan university texts books in Tamil were used as sources for information on diabetes Siddha concepts and antidiabetic Sri Lankan Siddha Medicine preparations. Information on the known antidiabetic effects of extracts and compounds obtained from these species were used in order to assess the current state of the art of these species.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Information of ingredients, preparation methods, amount of ingredients used, and dosages of 60 antidiabetic Sri Lankan Siddha Medicine preparations were obtained. Animal parts including marine organisms, inorganic substances, and plants are the three types of ingredients used. Overall 171 plant species in 73 families were documented. Senna auriculata (L.) Roxb. (Fabaceae) was identified as the most frequently cited species. Globally distributed and very well studied plants were excluded in the pharmacological and clinical literature review which includes 123 plant species. The majority (48%) of the plant species reviewed were studied up to in vivo level as the current maximum level of scientific evidence available. Followed by 41% of species have not been studied for antidiabetic activities or did not show antidiabetic activity. Moreover, 6% and 5% were studied up to in vitro and in clinical levels, respectively. The majority of the species were studied only in the models that represent type 1 diabetes.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study systematically assessing the importance of preparations and plants used in antidiabetic Sri Lankan Siddha Medicine preparations. Antidiabetic plants are a crucial health care resource in Sri Lankan Siddha Medicine. This study also identified a wide range of methodological problems in the studies conducted so far. More and better type 2 diabetes models should be employed in future studies. This comprehensive review creates the basis for a more systematic study of these local resources.

Garcinia kola aqueous suspension prevents cerebellar neurodegeneration in long-term diabetic rat - a type 1 diabetes mellitus model

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The development of compounds able to improve metabolic syndrome and mitigate complications caused by inappropriate glycemic control in type 1 diabetes mellitus is challenging. The medicinal plant with established hypoglycemic properties Garcinia kola Heckel might have the potential to mitigate diabetes mellitus metabolic syndrome and complications.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We have investigated the neuroprotective properties of a suspension of G. kola seeds in long-term type 1 diabetes mellitus rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Wistar rats, made diabetic by single injection of streptozotocin were monitored for 8 months. Then, they were administered with distilled water or G. kola oral aqueous suspension daily for 30 days. Body weight and glycemia were determined before and after treatment. After sacrifice, cerebella were dissected out and processed for stereological quantification of Purkinje cells. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses of markers of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration were performed.

RESULTS

Purkinje cell counts were significantly increased, and histopathological signs of apoptosis and neuroinflammation decreased, in diabetic animals treated with G. kola compared to diabetic rats given distilled water. Glycemia was also markedly improved and body weight restored to non-diabetic control values, following G. kola treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that G. kola treatment improved the general condition of long-term diabetic rats and protected Purkinje cells partly by improving the systemic glycemia and mitigating neuroinflammation.

Ethnopharmacology in the fight against Plasmodium parasites and brain disorders: In memoriam of Philippe Rasoanaivo

Prof. Philippe Rasoanaivo was a highly dedicated and brilliant scientist in the field of ethnopharmacology. He worked for the Institut Malgache de Recherches Appliquées and the University of Antananarivo, Madagascar. His research was mainly focused on the endemic medicinal and aromatic plants used by traditional healers in Madagascar against a range of parasites, with special reference to Plasmodium spp. In this Editorial, we resumed the key findings of his research activity, with special reference to the discovery of alkaloids that markedly enhance the action of chloroquine against malaria parasites.

Ethnomedicine for neonatal jaundice: A cross-sectional survey in Qom, Iran

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional Medicine (TM) is popularly used for neonatal jaundice in Iran.

OBJECTIVE

to provides evidence for characteristics of traditional medicine use in the treatment of neonatal jaundice in Qom, Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Field surveys were carried out during July 2015 - August 2015 in Qom through structured questionnaire in Persian from 212 parents of children with neonatal jaundice. All plant species recorded for the treatment of neonatal jaundice were sampled. Samples were identified by a botanist and obtained a voucher specimens number and deposited in the Shiraz School of Pharmacy Herbarium. The information such as scientific name, family, local name, parts used and preparation method were provided. The Use Value (UV), Frequency of Citation (FC), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and Relative Family Importance Value (FIV) are also calculated.

RESULTS

In total, 165 (78%) of participants reported the use of traditional methods for their neonates. The use of herbal remedies was the most popular form of these traditional interventions. A total of 8 plant species belonging to 7 families were identified. Cotoneaster nummularioides Pojark. Cichorium intybus L. Alhagi maurorum Medik. Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb ex Prantl were most frequent herbs used by neonates and their feeding mother to treat jaundice. Manna was the most popular plant part and distillation and soaking were most frequent preparation methods in these patients. The use of TM in these patients is associated with their previous experience on TM use and their view on its potential risk.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided information on the prevalence, associated factors and characteristics of traditional medicine use along with ethnomedicinal knowledge from Qom in Iran on neonatal jaundice.

Phytochemical and ethnomedicinal study of Huperzia species used in the traditional medicine of Saraguros in Southern Ecuador; AChE and MAO inhibitory activity

ETHNOBOTANICAL AND ETHNOMEDICINAL RELEVANCE

This study concerns seven Huperzia species (Lycopodiaceae), namely H. brevifolia, H. columnaris, H. compacta, H. crassa, H. espinosana, H. tetragona, H. weberbaueri, which are considered sacred plants by the Saraguro community, living in the Southern Andes of Ecuador; these plants are widely used in traditional medicine and ritual ceremonies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The plants were selected on the basis of written interviews with 10 visionary healers (yachak) (2 women, 8 men), indicated as the most credible by the Saraguro Healers Council. The Informant Consensus Factor (F_ic) was determined. The first phytochemical study of the plants was performed by standard procedures, while the AChE and MAO-A inhibition by fractions enriched in high MW alkaloids, was measured in vitro.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

i) to investigate the uses of some Huperzia plants in healing and magical-religious practices of Saraguros; ii) to identify the main components of plant hydromethanolic extracts; iiì) to test the effects of alkaloidal fractions on the activity of two enzymes linked to mental health.

RESULTS

All the interviewed Saraguro yachak showed a high consensus about the uses of the seven Huperzia plants as purgatives and against supernatural diseases, such as the "espanto" (startle). In admixtures with other plants, some species also induce a state of trance or hallucinations in participants in magical-religious rituals. GC-MS of the volatile alkaloid fractions allowed the identification of some lycodine-type and lycopodine-type alkaloids (1-5) in H. compacta, H. columnaris, and H. tetragona. The flavones selgin) (6) and tricin (7) were isolated from H. brevifolia and H. espinosana. Tricin (7) was also detected in the other five species. The rare serratene triterpenes serratenediol (8) serratenediol-3-O-acetate (9), 21-episerratenediol (10), and 21-episerratenediol-3-O-acetate (11) were isolated from H. crassa. In addition, the presence of an unprecedented group of high molecular weight alkaloids has been determined. Alkaloid fractions of H. brevifolia, H. compacta, H. espinosana, and H. tetragona significantly inhibited AChE and MAO-A activities in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

The first phytochemical and ethnopharmacological study of seven Huperzia plants, widely used by Saraguro healers, led to the identification of several alkaloids and triterpenoids with different remarkable biological activities. In addition, alkaloid fractions exhibited a significant AChE and MAO-A inhibitory activity. These results may support the use of these plants in brews prepared for inducing psychoactive effects in participants in magical-religious ceremonies. This study confirms the rich traditional medical knowledge of Saraguro healers which must be documented and preserved for future generations.

A survey of herbal weeds for treating skin disorders from Southern Thailand: Songkhla and Krabi Province

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Skin diseases are common health problems which affecting to all ages. In Thailand, the number of patients diagnosed with skin diseases is increasing every year. Nowadays, The Ministry of Public Health is supporting and promoting herbs for treating various disorders, including disorders of the skin to reduce the problem of antibiotic resistance and adverse drug reactions. This study aimed to: (1) enumerate the herbal weeds for treating skin disorders; (2) study local knowledge of weed utilization for treating skin disorders according to the folk healers in Songkhla and Krabi province; and (3) study quantitative data by Informant consensus factor (ICF), Use value (UV) and Fidelity level (FL) value.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Field surveys and Semi-structured interviews about the local names, parts of plants used, preparation and use method, as well as local properties were done. The data were further analyzed by descriptive statistics, interpretation and quantitative indexes (ICF, UV as well as FL).

RESULTS

The results discovered 44 herbal species of weeds belonging to 41 genera in 25 families. The most used plant families were Amaranthaceae (6 species). Most plants were used to treat abscess (18 species; 40.91%). The highest UV was recorded for Commelina benghalensis (0.65). The highest ICF values were found in vitiligo, ringworm, tinea versicolor and burns (1.00 each). The highest FL values were recorded for Cleome gynandra, Cleome viscosa, Sphenoclea zeylanica, Acmella oleracea, Leersia hexandra, Cyperus involucratus, Phyllanthus urinaria and Iresine herbstii (100.00 each). A review of the literatures revealed that 34 plant species had already been tested for their pharmacological activities. The biological activities associated with treatment of skin diseases can be divided into four categories: antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, wound healing and antioxidant activity.

CONCLUSION

The information indicates that herbal weedy utilization is still importance to the treatment of traditional healers through accumulated experience for a long time. Therefore, this study is a guide to the conservation of folk medicinal knowledge. It might be implied as the basis for drug development and application of herbal weeds to treat skin disorders along with promoting sustainable use of natural resource.

Cornus mas L. (cornelian cherry), an important European and Asian traditional food and medicine: Ethnomedicine, phytochemistry and pharmacology for its commercial utilization in drug industry

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cornus mas L. (cornelian cherry) fruits have been used for centuries as traditional cuisine and folk medicine in various countries of Europe and Asia. In folk medicines, the fruits and other parts of the plant have been used for prevention and treatment of a wide range of diseases such as diabetes, diarrhea, gastrointestinal disorders, fevers, rheumatic pain, skin and urinary tract infections, kidney and liver diseases, sunstroke, among others. This review provides a systematic and constructive overview of ethnomedicinal uses, chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of this plant as well as future research need for its commercial utilization as nutraceutical food supplement and medicine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review is based on available literature on ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical, pharmacological, toxicity and clinical studies on Cornus mas L. (cornelian cherry) fruits and other organs that was collected from electronic (SciFinder, PubMed, Science Direct and ACS among others) and library searches of books and journals.

RESULTS

Versatile ethnomedicinal uses of the plant in different European and Asian countries have been reported. Phytochemical investigations on different parts of this plant have resulted in the identification of 101 compounds, among which anthocyanins, flavonoids and iridoids are the predominant groups. The crude extracts of fruits and other parts of the plant and their pure isolates exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities such as anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, anti-atherosclerotic, cyto-, hepato-, neuro- and renalprotective, antiplatelet and antiglaucomic activities. Anthocyanins, flavonoids, iridoids and vitamin C are the major bioactive constituents of the fruits. Fruits are non-toxic and safe food on acute toxicity studies in rat and human models. Clinical trials in diabetic type2 and hyperlipidemic patients showed significant trends of amelioration in sugar level, insulin secretion in diabetic patients and amelioration of lipid profile, apolipoprotein status and vascular inflammation in hyperlipidemic patients.

CONCLUSION

Based on our review, Cornus mas L. (cornelian cherry) fruits and leaves can be used mainly in the treatment of diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis, skin diseases, gastrointestinal and rheumatic problems. Some indications from ethnomedicines have been validated by pharmacological activities of the fruits and its extracts/pure isolates. The reported data reveal that the fruits are a potential source for treatment of diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia and gastrointestinal disorders. Unfortunately, the pharmacological studies in these areas are still insufficient to substantiate these preventive effects in confirmatory trials on the mass-scale clinical settings. Future studies on mechanisms of action, bioavailability, pharmacokinetics and adverse effects of the extracts and their bioactive constituents as well as their effective doses and long term toxic effects in humans are needed for commercial applications of these extracts/isolates in modern medicines. The available literature showed that most of the activities of the extracts are due to their constituents, anthocyanins, flavonoids and other phenolics, iridoids and vitamins for their antioxidant and other properties.

Application of seaweeds to develop new food products with enhanced shelf-life, quality and health-related beneficial properties

Edible seaweeds are a good source of antioxidants, dietary fibers, essential amino acids, vitamins, phytochemicals, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and minerals. Many studies have evaluated the gelling, thickening and therapeutic properties of seaweeds when they are used individually. This review gives an overview on the nutritional, textural, sensorial, and health-related properties of food products enriched with seaweeds and seaweed extracts. The effect of seaweed incorporation on properties of meat, fish, bakery, and other food products were highlighted in depth. Moreover, the positive effects of foods enriched with seaweeds and seaweed extracts on different lifestyle diseases such as obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes were also discussed. The results of the studies demonstrated that the addition of seaweeds, in powder or extract form, can improve the nutritional and textural properties of food products. Additionally, low-fat products with less calories and less saturated fatty acids can be prepared using seaweeds. Moreover, the addition of seaweeds also affected the health properties of food products. The results of these studies demonstrated that the health value, shelf-life and overall quality of foods can be improved through the addition of either seaweeds or seaweed extracts.

A Systematic Review of the Uterine Relaxant Effect of Herbal Sources

BACKGROUND

Preterm birth is a worldwide tragedy with a high incidence. Several medications are used to inhibit acute preterm labor, but tocolysis by these medicines do not extend pregnancy beyond 1-2 days.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to discover new medications from plant extracts or their active compounds which inhibit the uterine contractions in order to treat preterm labor.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and IranMedex databases were searched up to 1st February 2012 with the most relevant keywords.

STUDY SELECTION

All studies in which plant extracts or their active compounds inhibited the uterine contractions both in vivo and in vitro were included.

THE RESULTS

Of initial search, 259 records were reviewed and finally 72 were included among which only 31 studies isolated an active compound from the plants extract belonging mostly to classes of flavonoids and terpenes classes. Flavonoids have been known as a phosphodiesterase (PDE) and a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor. It seems that the uterolytic activity of reviewed flavonoids such as naringenin, kaempferol and quercetin, especially in a calcium free solution, was via these inhibitory pathways.

CONCLUSION

Laboring uterus response to dissimilar tocolytics differs from that of non-laboring uterus. In order to find a treatment for preterm labor, future studies should focus on the laboring uterus and also determine the structure activity relationship of the different tocolytics. This systematic review was registered to the PROSPERO with code number CRD42015027551.

Ethnobotany of medicinal plants used in Antakya: A multicultural district in Hatay Province of Turkey

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

We have compiled information about the medicinal plants used in folk medicine in the district of Antakya. Since its establishment by King Seleucus I in 300 B.C., Antakya (old Antioch) has hosted nearly 20 civilizations. Antakya, neighboring Northwestern Syria, is located on the western end of the "Silk Road" and was one of the great centers of Graeco-Roman world. Today, Antakya is a cosmopolitan city in which Arabic and Turkish are widely spoken, and where distinct ethnic and religious communities, such as Arab Alawite, Arab Christian, Arab Sunni, Turk Sunni, Armenian, and Jewish, have been living together in harmony for centuries. In addition, the rich flora in the vicinity of Antakya also renders the area interesting in terms of ethnobotanical fieldwork.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to compile the information about plants used for medicinal purposes by local people in the district of Antakya. This city is a significant region in terms of ethnobotanical fieldwork, owing to its cosmopolitan structure, long history, relatively preserved traditional community structure, and rich flora. Furthermore, we sought to compare the ethnomedicinal data geographically, cross-culturally, and historically.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ethnobotany of medicinal plants used in the district of Antakya has been investigated through two separate studies; one was conducted in 1975, interviewing 29 people, and the other was conducted in 2011-2013, interviewing 182 people. The use value (UV) and informant consensus factor (FIC) values of the plants were calculated. In order to interpret the authenticity and sources of the compiled ethnomedicinal information, previous publications that contain information about the similar medicinal uses of plants identified in our region were reviewed and evaluated meticulously. A comparison with the data obtained from other regions of Turkey and from other Mediterranean regions, as well as a cross-cultural analysis between the ethnic groups within the study area, was performed by implementation of the Jaccard index (JI) RESULTS: Throughout the study, information about 202 medicinal plant taxa was compiled. Among these plants, 39 have either not yet been mentioned in ethnobotanical or medicinal studies, or have been used for a medicinal purpose other than those encountered in the literature review. The ethnomedicinal information we gathered from the study area exhibits close similarities to the ethnomedicinal information of other Southern and Eastern Mediterranean countries where Arabic is spoken, as well as to that of Northern and Western Mediterranean countries where Latin languages are spoken. In addition to these similarities, in most cases, this ethnomedicinal information shows hybrid features of ethnomedicinal knowledge from Eastern and Western Mediterranean countries.

CONCLUSION

Based on a literature survey, we found that the cited medicinal uses for 43 plants have also been corroborated by other various biological testings. This finding strongly suggests the importance of ethnobotanical studies in the development of new medicines. We believe that this study has compiled rich ethnomedicinal information that reflects the cosmopolitan structure of Antakya in a very good way.

A herbal formula comprising Rosae Multiflorae Fructus and Lonicerae Japonicae Flos inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators and the IRAK-1/TAK1 and TBK1/IRF3 pathways in RAW 264.7 and THP-1 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As documented in the Chinese Materia Medica Grand Dictionary (), a herbal formula (RL) consisting of Rosae Multiflorae Fructus (multiflora rose hips) and Lonicerae Japonicae Flos (Japanese honeysuckle flowers) has traditionally been used in treating inflammatory disorders. RL was previously reported to inhibit the expression of various inflammatory mediators regulated by NF-κB and MAPKs that are components of the TLR4 signalling pathways.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to provide further justification for clinical application of RL in treating inflammatory disorders by further delineating the involvement of the TLR4 signalling cascades in the effects of RL on inflammatory mediators.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RL consisting of Rosae Multiflorae Fructus and Lonicerae Japonicae Flos (in 5:3 ratio) was extracted using absolute ethanol. We investigated the effect of RL on the production of cytokines and chemokines that are regulated by three key transcription factors of the TLR4 signalling pathways AP-1, NF-κB and IRF3 in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells using the multiplex biometric immunoassay. Phosphorylation of AP-1, NF-κB, IRF3, IκB-α, IKKα/β, Akt, TAK1, TBK1, IRAK-1 and IRAK-4 were examined in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells and THP-1 cells using Western blotting. Nuclear localizations of AP-1, NF-κB and IRF3 were also examined using Western blotting.

RESULTS

RL reduced the secretion of various pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines regulated by transcription factors AP-1, NF-κB and IRF3. Phosphorylation and nuclear protein levels of these transcription factors were decreased by RL treatment. Moreover, RL inhibited the activation/phosphorylation of IκB-α, IKKα/β, TAK1, TBK1 and IRAK-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Suppression of the IRAK-1/TAK1 and TBK1/IRF3 signalling pathways was associated with the effect of RL on inflammatory mediators in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 and THP-1 cells. This provides further pharmacological basis for the clinical application of RL in the treatment of inflammatory disorders.

Traditional management of diabetes in Pakistan: Ethnobotanical investigation from Traditional Health Practitioners

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The uses of anti-diabetic plants are well anchored in the traditional health care system of Pakistan. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first ethno-botanical study about the uses of plants for the treatment of diabetes. The aim of the study is to record indigenous knowledge on anti-diabetic plants from Traditional Health Practitioners (THPs) and diabetic patients. In addition, it is aimed to ascertain and validate the traditional uses of anti-diabetic plants by citing pharmacological activities and phytochemical constitutes from previously published literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ethno-medicinal data was documented during 14 field surveys, each comprising of 10 days, from 3 regions of Pakistan (Islamabad, Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa and Deserts of Sindh). In total, 113 THPs and 44 diabetic patients were interviewed using open-ended and semi-structured questionnaires. Quantitative indices, including Relative Frequency of Citation percentage (RFC %) and Disease Consensus Index (DCI) were calculated. The documented data is authenticated by comparing with 28 published articles on ethno-botanical aspects and many pharmacological studies.

RESULTS

In total, 120 plant species belonging to 50 families were reported. The ethno-botanical results indicated that Moraceae (11 species); herb (56 reports) is dominant life form; the leaves (56 reports) are the most used plant part and decoction (24%) is the preferred mode of preparation. The quantitative analysis shows that RFC% ranges from 14 to 42 and DCI varies from 0.15 to 0.74. By comparing to previous studies, 64 species are reported new in traditional treatment of DM; 40 species are new to pharmacological evidence and 3 species are new to phytochemical studies.

CONCLUSIONS

This study recoded the significant indigenous knowledge about anti-diabetic plants among the THPs and diabetic patients in Pakistan. This type of ethno-botanical knowledge on traditional use of anti-diabetic plants is an important step in designing detailed pharmacological and clinical trials for Diabetes Miletus treatment. It is recommended that further pharmacological and phytochemical analysis should be conducted on those species which lack previous references in literature and have highest Frequency of Citation (FC), Disease Consensus Index (DCI) and Relative Frequency of Citation percentage (RFC%).

A survey of medicinal plants for diabetes treating from Chana and Nathawee district, Songkhla province, Thailand

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease which cannot be cured and must be suffered for whole life. Nowadays, many patients wanting to treat themselves by herbal medicine are increasing. Therefore, surveying of medicinal plants for treating diabetes and disseminating the knowledge, might give people more choice to consume herbs. The purposes of this qualitative study were to compile the medicinal plants and their folk use to treat diabetes by local healers in Chana and Nathawee district, Songkhla province.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were used to gather about the local names, parts of plants used, preparation and use method, and local properties. Descriptive statistics, use value and interpretation were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

A total of 38 species belonging to 37 genera in 28 families were used as herbs for treating diabetes. The family mostly used as herbal medicine was Rubiaceae (4 species; 10.53%). The part of herbal medicine mostly used was the root (8 speciess; 21.05%). Decoction and drinking were the most favorite preparation form and use method. Interestingly, the most used herbal plant is Lagerstraemia speciose Pers (0.83 of Use Value).

CONCLUSION

It was found that the local healers possess the different knowledge based on their experience received secretly from the family and adapted by themselves. Thus, this study is important due to assistance for collecting the variety of knowledge before disappearing.

Ethnomedicinal plants of Aydıncık District of Mersin, Turkey

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

This survey presents crucial ethnopharmacological data on medicinal plants used by indigenous people who live in the Aydıncık district of Mersin in Turkey.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To provide a knowledge base of herbal therapies from the Aydıncık region with their traditional use, plant parts and administration methods besides computing some statistical values.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Plant samples that have been collected by spice-sellers or residents from Aydıncık for therapeutic purposes were recorded by visiting the villages during the study period, and then brought to the laboratory to diagnose the taxa. In addition, the relative frequency citation (RFC), use values (UV), informant consensus factor (ICF) and fidelity level (FL) were computed.

RESULTS

In this research conducted between 2013 and 2015, 91 taxa associated with 41 families, including 1 fern & 2 gymnosperms were defined they have been used for centuries in terms of the healing by visiting 10 villages & 5 spice-sellers in Aydıncık. Lamiaceae, Rosaceae, Araceae, Asteraceae, Cupressaceae, Orchidaceae and Pinaceae have been determined as the most used families for therapeutic purposes. The study revealed that most of the locals concurred on the use of Juniperus oxycedrus fruits & leaves to cure gastro-intestinal diseases that demonstrated the highest fidelity level (0.98). 22 taxa have not matched with any studies conducted in and around the region.

CONCLUSION

The light of the information obtained during the investigation demonstrates that the medicinal plants have been mostly utilized as analgesics (0.78 ICF). The most data were acquired from the mountain villagers & Yuruk nomads, having average ages of 65. From the viewpoint of ethnobotany, the district has remained valuable due to the winding roads, ongoing hundreds of kilometers over the mountains and along the coast is very difficult to drive making Aydıncık too far from large cities and mass tourism centers.

Comparative biochemical responses and antioxidant activities of the rabbit urinary bladder to whole grapes versus resveratrol

The objective of this study is to compare the antioxidant activity of a whole-grape suspension with the antioxidant activity or pure resveratrol on the effect of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on malondialdehyde (MDA) generation, choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity, calcium ATPase activity, and sarcoendoplasmic reticular ATPase (SERCA) of the male rabbit urinary bladder. MDA was used as a model for the effect of H2O2 on lipid peroxidation. ChAT, SERCA, and calcium ATPase were evaluated based on their importance in urinary bladder physiology and pathology. Four male rabbit bladders were used. Each bladder was separated into muscle and mucosa, frozen under liquid nitrogen and stored at -80 °C for biochemical evaluation. The effect of H2O2 on the enzymes listed above was determined in the presence and absence of either resveratrol or a whole-grape suspension. (1) Resveratrol was significantly more effective than the grape suspension at protecting the bladder muscle and mucosa against peroxidation as quantitated by MDA formation. (2) The grape suspension was significantly more effective at protecting ChAT activity against oxidative stress of the muscle than resveratrol. (3) Neither the grape suspension nor resveratrol were particularly effective at protecting the bladder muscle or mucosa calcium ATPase or SERCA against oxidative stress. (4) ChAT was significantly more sensitive to oxidative stress than either calcium ATPase or SERCA. These data support the idea that the grape suspension protects the mitochondria and nerve terminals to a significantly greater degree than resveratrol which suggests that the activities of the grape suspension are due to the combination of active components found in the grape suspension and not just resveratrol alone.

Ethnomedicinal plants of Shankaracharya Hill, Srinagar, J&K, India

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Primitive human societies have always relied on plants and plant products for various remedies. In certain areas, these folk medical prescriptions are endemic and have survived through ages from one generation to the next through word of mouth. They do not exist as written knowledge. The present study was undertaken with an objective of documenting the ethnobotanical information of medicinal plants of Shankaracharya Hill by taking the help of local herbalists, elderly and knowledgeable people.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The data was quantitatively analysed using use-value (UV), informant consensus factor (ICF) and fidelity level (Fl%) indices.

RESULTS

Total 130 plant species from 57 families and 111 genera were ethno-medicinally utilized by the 103 informants interviewed in the present study. The most used families were Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, Fabaceae and Brassicaceae. The medicinal plants were mainly herbs (79.2%). Leaves were the most used (27.6%) plant part followed by whole plant (14.8%), root (11.4%) and seed (10.5%). The most important species on the basis of UV were Viola odorata, Taraxacum campylodes, Aesculus hippocastanum, Artemisia absinthium, Daucus carota, Thymus serphyllum, Ephedra gerardiana and Salvia moorcroftiana. The values ICF ranged between 0.93 and 0.76. Only Epilobium hirsutum recorded 100% Fl. Some of the most important medicinal plants with high Fl values were Tribulus terrestris, Asparagus officinalis, Trifolium repens, Anemone biflora, Melia azedarach, A. absinthium, Lonicera quinquelocularis, Rosa webbiana, D. carota, Oxalis corniculata and Potentilla reptans.

CONCLUSION

The contribution of plant parts collected through destructive methods was 29.5%. Harvesting of roots, rhizomes, bulbs and corm kills the parent plant and could be a severe threat for survival of the often rare and slowly reproducing medicinal plants, and therefore need sustainable utilization and conservation strategies. Ethnomedicinal species like A. absinthium, A. hippocastanum, D. carota, M. azedarach, T. campylodes, T. serphyllum, T. terrestris having high number of citations, UV and FL should be analyzed for phytochemicals and pharmacology.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used in the Maseru district of Lesotho

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ethnobotanical knowledge in Lesotho is passed on orally from one generation to another. As a result it has not been well documented. Existing publications have relied on previous literature and are limited either in terms of scope or coverage. Furthermore, some of them are out of print. Therefore, there are gaps in the documentation of medicinal plants used in Lesotho.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of the current study is to investigate common ailments in Lesotho's traditional medicine and document plants that are used in treating such ailments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Interviews were conducted in five urban and four rural areas of the capital town of Maseru, by means of questionnaires to elicit information on medicinal plant use to cure common ailments. The informants were 20 males and seven females comprising 15 traditional healers, 11 herbalists and one pharmacist.

RESULTS

Reproductive ailments were found to be the most commonly treated, followed by respiratory, degenerative and digestive problems. A list of the 80 plants used for treating the common ailments is given. A total of 44 families is represented, with Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Asphodelaceae and Poaceae families having the highest number of species used for medicinal purposes. The most frequently mentioned medicinal plants in interviews include; Elephantorrhiza elephantina, Pentanisia prunelloides, Hypoxis hermerocallidea, Eriocephalus sp., Salvia runcinata, Scabiosa columbaria, Dicoma anomala, Morella serrata, Xysmalobium undulatum, and Leobordea lanceolata. Due to the high demand of medicinal plants, some species such as L. lanceolata, Tephrosia capensis, E. elephantina, D. anomala and P. prunelloides were reported as over-harvested. In some cases animal products are added to the medicinal plants to enhance their curative abilities.

CONCLUSIONS

A total of 80 plants were recorded in the study as treating 38 common ailments in the Maseru district of Lesotho. Records of eight medicinal plants and 146 new medicinal uses of 34 plants that were not recorded elsewhere in literature are reported in the current study for the first time. The new records of medicinal plants used in traditional healing practices in Lesotho clearly show the need to document these practices, and the wealth of new knowledge gained with the current study reinforces the importance of extending the study to other parts of Lesotho.

Main plants used in traditional medicine for the treatment of snake bites n the regions of the department of Antioquia, Colombia

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

In Colombia, more than 4.000 ophidian accidents occur per year and due to the scarce distribution and limited availability of antivenom, the use of traditional medicine has been perpetuated in some of its rural communities, in which initially, those affected are treated by healers and shamans using medicinal plants in different ways.

METHODS

Research was conducted with renowned healers or connoisseurs of plants on the ethnobotany of ophidian accidents in five different areas and their municipalities of Antioquia: Magdalena Medio (Caracolí, Puerto Berrío); Bajo Cauca (Caucasia, Zaragoza); Nordeste (San Roque, Yalí); Norte (Gómez Plata, Valdivia); Suroeste (Ciudad Bolívar, Salgar); collecting information related to experience and time of use of plants in the treatment of these poisonings, amounts used, ways of use (beverage, bathing, ointment, chupaderas, vapors), preparation types (maceration or decoction) and treatment duration.

RESULTS

71 plant species were identified and collected, 49.29% of them without previous reports as antiophidian and 38.0% employed for the same purpose in other geographical areas. The leaves (24.82%), stems (11.68%) and flowers (10.95%) were found to be the most frequently employed structures in the preparation of the extracts, which are usually prepared by decoction (83.94%), maceration (6.57%).

CONCLUSIONS

In this work, specimens lacking previous ethnobotanical reports have been found, plants used by ethnic groups from other regions of Antioquia and the world to treat snake bites; and herbaceous plants whose inhibitory activity of symptoms produced by some snake venoms, has been experimentally verified by in vivo and in vitro tests.

Ethnobotanical study of Loloh: Traditional herbal drinks from Bali (Indonesia)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Loloh are herbal drinks produced and consumed exclusively in Bali (Indonesia) to prevent and treat different ailments. This is the first study to document plants species used as Loloh, reporting the phytochemical components and pharmacological properties of the most cited plants. Documenting the plants used in herbal drinks in Bali by local communities to treat various ailments (providing some information on phytochemistry and pharmacology of the most interesting plants).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethnobotanical data were obtained through semi-structured interviews (individual and group discussions) and questionnaires. Plant specimens were collected, identified and made into herbarium vouchers.

RESULTS

A total of 51 plants species (belonging to 32 families) have been documented for their use in the various preparation of Loloh. Different plants and plant parts are used to prepare Loloh to treat heartburn, fever, diarrhea, hypertension, aphthous stomatitis (canker sores), and other minor health problems. These plants are mainly prepared as decoctions, are juiced or simply added to the preparation. The most cited plants (>30 informants) are Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br., Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC., Cinnamomum burmanni Nees ex Bl., and Piper betle L. These plants are well studied with multiple demonstrated pharmacological activities (e.g., antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic).

CONCLUSION

The Balinese communities still preserve a rich ethnobotanical knowledge. Several species are well known for their pharmacological properties, but some [such as Pneumatopteris callosa (Blume) Nakai and Dendrocnide stimulans (L. f.) Chew] are understudied and could be promising candidates for further research.