Canal disinfection using photo-chemically activated micro-bubble emulsion, Emblica officinalis, and Nd: YAP laser on smear layer and push-out bond strength of resin-based root canal sealer to the radicular dentin

AIMS

Evaluation of the effects of the latest root canal disinfectants i.e., Micro-bubble emulsion (MBE), Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum perovskite (Nd: YAP), Emblica officinalis (E. officinalis) on the removal of smear layer (SL) and push out bond strength (PBS) of resin-based root canal sealer to the radicular dentin.

METHODS

The coronal portion of sixty single-rooted human mandibular premolar teeth was precisely sectioned at the cementoenamel junction. The canals were prepared to utilize ProTaper universal rotary files till F3. All the study specimens were divided into four groups based on the disinfection regime (n = 15) Group 1: 5.25% NaOCl, Group 2: MBE, Group 3: Nd: YAP laser and Group 4: E. officinalis extract. All the canals were then finally irrigated using 17% EDTA solution as a final disinfecting agent. SL removal assessment was performed on five samples from each group using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Ten samples from each group were then filled with root canal filling material and the roots were sectioned. Push-out test and failure mode analysis were performed using the universal testing machine (UTM) and stereomicroscope respectively. The mean scores of PBS and SL removal were compared using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Post Hoc Tukey's HSD test p = 0.05.

RESULTS

Group-2 (MBE + EDTA) coronal section (1.50 ± 0.23) exhibited the most effective eradication of SL from the canal space. The apical third of Group-1 (NaOCl+EDTA) (2.68 ± 0.82) samples demonstrated the least effective removal of SL from the radicular canal. The maximum score of PBS of AH plus sealer to the canal dentin was exhibited by the coronal section of Group-2 (MBE + EDTA) (9.55 ± 0.45 MPa) samples. However, the apical third of Group-1 (NaOCl+ EDTA) specimens (5.16 ± 0.32 MPa) demonstrated the minimum EBS.

CONCLUSION

MBE+ EDTA displayed better smear layer removal and bond integrity of AH plus sealer to the root canal dentin. Nd: YAP+ EDTA laser and E.officinalis displayed comparable outcomes to that of control NaOCl+ EDTA.

Comparative Evaluation of the Phytochemical Analysis and Efficacy of Four Plant-derived Extracts against Streptococcus mutans: An In Vitro Study

Introduction

Oral health is a loyal part of general health. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), dental caries is the most widespread noncommunicable disease and is a significant universal public health concern. The main causative organism associated with this disease is Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). Various synthetic agents like chlorhexidine and fluorides are commercially available to prevent dental caries. However, these have side effects. Presently, research is engaged in the use of plant extracts to develop an effective and biocompatible material that may be used safely in the oral cavity.

Methodology

Four plants were collected-Emblica officinalis, Vitis vinifera seeds, Psidium guajava (P. guajava) Linn leaves, and Acacia nilotica (A. nilotica), and extracts were prepared individually. These extracts were subjected to phytochemical analysis, and bacterial growth and fermentation were assessed.

Result

The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. All the plant extracts inhibited S. mutans growth at all serial dilutions except P. guajava Linn and A. nilotica showing 55 CFU/mL and 5 CFU/mL, respectively in 1/1000 dilution only. The phytochemical analysis confirmed that all four plant extracts had alkaloids, carbohydrates, tannins, and flavonoids. Steroids and proteins are present in P. guajava Linn. Proanthocyanidins were present in Vitis vinifera. Saponins and Anthraquinones were present in A. nilotica exclusively.

Conclusion

All the extracts were effective against S. mutans. These could be tried as herbal alternatives to conventional adjuncts. However, these results must be additionally evaluated for toxicity in animal models, and effectiveness must be assessed using in vivo studies on human subjects.

How to cite this article

Kripalani KB, Thomas NA, Thimmaiah C, et al. Comparative Evaluation of the Phytochemical Analysis and Efficacy of Four Plant-derived Extracts against Streptococcus mutans: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(S-3):S258-S262.

Natural alternatives from your garden for hair care: Revisiting the benefits of tropical herbs

Hair shampoos containing botanical ingredients without synthetic additives, such as parabens, petrochemicals, sulfates and silicones are more skin- and environmentally friendly. In recent years, there is a growing demand for shampoo products with botanical extracts. Shampoos with botanical extracts are well-known for their perceived health benefits. They are also generally milder, non-toxic, natural, and less likely to disrupt the hair and scalp's natural pH and oil balance. Many also believe that shampoos with botanical origins have higher standards of quality. Numerous botanical extracts had been used as natural active ingredients in cosmetic formulations to meet consumer demands. In this review, we have revisited six tropical plants commonly added as natural active ingredients in shampoo formulations: Acacia concinna, Camellia oleifera, Azadirachta indica, Emblica officinalis, Sapindus mukorossi, and Garcinia mangostana. These plants have been traditionally used for hair care, and scientific research has shown that they exhibit relevant physicochemical properties and biological activities that are beneficial for hair care and scalp maintenance.

Clinical effects of Emblica officinalis fruit consumption on cardiovascular disease risk factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Emblica officinalis (EO) fruit consumption has been found to have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular disease (CVD) physiological risk factors in preliminary clinical intervention trials; however, questions remain regarding the overall effectiveness of EO on CVD risk. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to: 1) systematically describe the clinical research examining EO; and 2) quantitatively assess the effects of EO on CVD physiological risk factors.

METHODS

The Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar electronic platforms were searched for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published until April 7, 2021. Studies were included if they involved adults (age ≥ 18 years) ingesting a form of EO fruit; included blood lipids, blood pressure, and/or inflammatory biomarkers as outcomes; had clearly defined intervention and control treatments with pre- and post-intervention data; were peer-reviewed; and were written in English. Studies were excluded if they compared EO with another risk reduction intervention without a usual care control group. RCTs were assessed for methodological quality using the Cochrane risk-of-bias version 2 (ROB2) tool, qualitatively described, and quantitatively evaluated using random and fixed effect meta-analysis models.

RESULTS

A total of nine RCTs (n = 535 participants) were included for review. Included studies followed parallel-group (n = 6) and crossover (n = 3) designs, with EO dosage ranging from 500 mg/day to 1500 mg/day, and treatment duration ranging from 14 to 84 days. Meta-analyses revealed EO to have a significant composite effect at lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C; Mean difference (MD) = -15.08 mg/dL [95% Confidence interval (CI) = -25.43 to -4.73], I² = 77%, prediction interval = -48.29 to 18.13), very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C; MD = -5.43 mg/dL [95% CI = -8.37 to -2.49], I² = 44%), triglycerides (TG; MD = -22.35 mg/dL [95% CI = -39.71 to -4.99], I² = 62%, prediction interval = -73.47 to 28.77), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP; MD = -1.70 mg/L [95% CI = -2.06 to -1.33], I² = 0%) compared with placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to statistical and clinical heterogeneity in the limited number of clinical trials to date, the promising effects of EO on physiologic CVD risk factors in this review should be interpreted with caution. Further research is needed to determine if EO offers an efficacious option for primary or secondary prevention of CVD as either monotherapy or adjunct to evidence-based dietary patterns and/or standard pharmacotherapy.

Emblica officinalis mitigates intestinal toxicity of mice by modulating gut microbiota in lead exposure

Lead (Pb) contamination has been affecting public health for decades. As a plant-derived medicine, the safety and effectiveness of Emblica officinalis (E. officinalis) fruit extract has been emphasized. The current study focused on mitigating the adverse effects of lead (Pb) exposure in reducing its toxicity worldwide. According to our findings, E. officinalis significantly improved weight loss and colon length shortening (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). The data of colon histopathology and serum levels of inflammatory cytokines indicated a positive impact to the colonic tissue and inflammatory cell infiltration in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, we confirmed the expression level improvement of tight junction proteins (TJPs), including ZO-1, Claudin-1, and Occludin. Furthermore, we found that the abundance of some commensal species necessary for maintaining homeostasis and other beneficial function decreased in Pb exposure model, while a remarkable reversion impact was noticed on the intestinal microbiome composition in the treatment group. These findings were consistent with our speculations that E. officinalis could mitigate the adverse effects caused by Pb in alleviating intestinal tissue damage, intestinal barrier disruption, and inflammation. Meanwhile, the variations in gut microbiota might drive the fulfilling current impact. Hence, the present study could provide the theoretical basis for mitigating intestinal toxicity induced by Pb exposure with the help of E. officinalis.

Attenuation of Hyperlipidemia by Medicinal Formulations of Emblica officinalis Synergized with Nanotechnological Approaches

The ayurvedic herb Emblica officinalis (E. officinalis) is a gift to mankind to acquire a healthy lifestyle. It has great therapeutic and nutritional importance. Emblica officinalis, also known as Indian gooseberry or Amla, is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family. Amla is beneficial for treating illnesses in all its forms. The most crucial component is a fruit, which is also the most common. It is used frequently in Indian medicine as a restorative, diuretic, liver tonic, refrigerant, stomachic, laxative, antipyretic, hair tonic, ulcer preventive, and for the common cold and fever. Hyperlipidemia is also known as high cholesterol or an increase in one or more lipid-containing blood proteins. Various phytocompounds, including polyphenols, vitamins, amino acids, fixed oils, and flavonoids, are present in the various parts of E. officinalis. E. officinalis has been linked to a variety of pharmacological effects in earlier studies, including hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, radioprotective, and hyperlipidemic effects. The amla-derived active ingredients and food products nevertheless encounter challenges such as instability and interactions with other food matrices. Considering the issue from this perspective, food component nanoencapsulation is a young and cutting-edge field for controlled and targeted delivery with a range of preventative activities. The nanoformulation of E. officinalis facilitates the release of active components or food ingredients, increased bioaccessibility, enhanced therapeutic activities, and digestion in the human body. Accordingly, the current review provides a summary of the phytoconstituents of E. officinalis, pharmacological actions detailing the plant E. officinalis's traditional uses, and especially hyperlipidemic activity. Correspondingly, the article describes the uses of nanotechnology in amla therapeutics and functional ingredients.

A chemometric approach to evaluate the effects of probe-type ultrasonication on the enzyme inactivation and quality attributes of fresh amla juice

The enzymatic browning induced in amla juice due to the high activity of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) is one of the critical issues faced by the industry. The present study assessed the suitability of non-thermal, high-intensity ultrasound (US) on the inactivation of PPO and POD in fresh Indian Gooseberry juice. Ultrasonic waves, using a 6 mm titanium alloy probe were irradiated in the juice at a maximum power of 455 W and frequency of 20 kHz. The subsequent effects on biochemical attributes were studied using response surface methodology. Inactivation rates of 90.72 % and 73.18 %, respectively, for PPO and POD enzymes, were observed at the highest US intensity and exposure time. Numerical optimisation using the three-factor, three-level Box-Behnken design suggested that an optimum process at 70 % (energy density: 1610 Wcm^-2) pulsed at 5 s on and 5 s off for 7 min 30 s resulted in PPO and POD inactivation of the order of 76.42 % and 64.57 % respectively. At these experimental conditions, the optimized levels of biochemical attributes i.e., ascorbic acid (738.50 mg/100 mL), total phenols (17.10 mg/mL), DPPH antioxidant activity (58.47 %), tannins (7.11 µg/mL), colour change (ΔE = 9.04) and flavonoids (6.14 mg/mL) were achieved. The overall statistical models were significant for all the responses except for reducing sugars. Furthermore, the approximation equations for individual responses indicated that the goodness of fit was adequate (R² > 0.90). The results suggested that ultrasound is a suitable processing technique for amla juice stabilisation compared to thermal treatments that result in the loss of quality.

Utility of Indian fruits in cancer prevention and treatment: Time to undertake translational and bedside studies

The World Health Organization predicts a 70% increase in cancer incidents in developing nations over the next decade, and it will be the second leading cause of death worldwide. Traditional plant-based medicine systems play an important role against various diseases and provide health care to a large section of the population in developing countries. Indigenous fruits and their bioactive compounds with beneficial effects like antioxidant, antiproliferative, and immunomodulatory are shown to be useful in preventing the incidence of cancer. India is one of the biodiversity regions and is native to numerous flora and fauna in the world. Of the many fruiting trees indigenous to India, Mango (Mangifera indica), Black plum (Eugenia jambolana or Syzygium jambolana), Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis or Phyllanthus emblica), kokum (Garcinia indica or Brindonia indica), stone apple or bael (Aegle marmelos), Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), Karaunda (Carissa carandas) and Phalsa (Grewia asiatica), Monkey Jackfruit (Artocarpus lakoocha) and Elephant apple (Dillenia indica) have been shown to be beneficial in preventing cancer and in the treatment of cancer in validated preclinical models of study. In this review, efforts are also made to collate the fruits' anticancer effects and the important phytochemicals. Efforts are also made at emphasizing the underlying mechanism/s responsible for the beneficial effects in cancer prevention and treatment. These fruits have been a part of the diet, are non-toxic, and easily acceptable for human application. The plants and some of their phytochemicals possess diverse medicinal properties. The authors propose that future studies should be directed at detailed studies with various preclinical models of study with both composite fruit extract/juice and the individual phytochemicals. Additionally, translational studies should be planned with the highly beneficial, well-investigated and pharmacologically multifactorial amla to understand its usefulness as a cancer preventive in the high-risk population and as a supportive agent in cancer survivors. The outcome of both preclinical and clinical studies will be useful for patients, the healthcare fraternity, pharmaceutical, and agro-based sectors.

Computational and network pharmacology studies of Phyllanthus emblica to tackle SARS-CoV-2

Background

Since December 2019, SARS-CoV-2 had been a significant threat globally, which has accounted for about two million deaths. Several types of research are undergoing and have reported the significant role of repurposing existing drugs and natural lead in the treatment of COVID-19. The plant Phyllanthus emblica (Synonym-Emblica officinalis) (Euphorbiaceae) is a rich source of vitamin C, and its use as an antiviral agent has been well established.

Purpose

The present study was undertaken to investigate the potency of the several components of Phyllanthus emblica against three protein targets of 2019-nCoV viz. NSP15 endoribonuclease, main protease, and receptor binding domain of prefusion spike protein using molecular docking and dynamics studies.

Methods

The docking simulation studies were carried out using Schrödinger maestro 2018-1 MM share version, while dynamics studies were conducted to understand the binding mechanism and the complexes' stability studies.

Results

Out of sixty-six tested compounds, Chlorogenic acid, Quercitrin, and Myricetin were most effective in showing the highest binding energy against selected protein targets of SARS-CoV-2. The network pharmacology analysis study confirmed these compounds' role in modulating the immune response, inflammatory cascade, and cytokine storm through different signaling pathways.

Conclusion

Current pharmacoinformatic approach shows possible role of Phyllanthus emblica in the treatment and management of COVID-19.

Indian Indigenous Fruits as Radioprotective Agents: Past, Present and Future

Ionising radiation has been an important modality in cancer treatment and its value is immense when surgical intervention is risky or might debilitate/adversely affect the patient. However, the beneficial effect of radiation modality is negated by the damage to the adjacent healthy tissue in the field of radiation. Under these situations, the use of radioprotective compounds that can selectively protect normal tissues against radiation injury is considered very useful. However, research spanning over half a century has shown that there are no ideal radioprotectors available. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA or USFDA) approved amifostine or WR-2721 (Walter Reed-2721) [chemically S-2-(3-aminopropyl-amino) ethyl phosphorothioic acid] is toxic at their optimal concentrations. This has necessitated the need for agents that are safe and easily acceptable to humans.

BACKGROUND

Dietary agents with beneficial effects like free radical scavenging, antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects are recognized as applicable and have been investigated for their radioprotective properties. Studies in these lines have shown that the fruits of Aegle marmelos (stone apple or bael), Emblica officinalis or Phyllanthus emblica(Indian gooseberry/amla), Eugenia jambolana or Syzygium jambolana (black plum / jamun), Mangifera indica (mango) and Grewia asiatica (phalsa or falsa) that are originally reported to be indigenous to India have been investigated for their usefulness as a radioprotective agent.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review is to summarize beneficial effects of the Indian indigenous fruits stone apple, mango, Indian gooseberry, black plum, and phalsa in mitigating radiation-induced side effects, emphasize the underlying mechanism of action for the beneficial effects and address aspects that merit detail investigations for these fruits to move towards clinical application in the near future.

METHODS

The authors data mined in Google Scholar, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for publications in the field from 1981 up to July 2020. The focus was on the radioprotection and the mechanism responsible for the beneficial effects, and accordingly, the articles were collated and analyzed.

RESULTS

This article emphasizes the usefulness of stone apple, mango, Indian gooseberry, black plum, and phalsa as radioprotective agents. From a mechanistic view, reports are suggestive that the beneficial effects are mediated by triggering free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-mutagenic and anti-inflammatory effects.

CONCLUSION

For the first time, this review addresses the beneficial effects of mango, Indian gooseberry, black plum, stone apple and phalsa as radioprotective agents. The authors suggest that future studies should be directed at understanding the selective radioprotective effects with tumor-bearing laboratory animals to understand their usefulness as radioprotective drug/s during radiotherapy and as a food supplement to protect people getting exposed to low doses of radiation in occupational settings. Phase I clinical trial studies are also required to ascertain the optimal dose and the schedule to be followed with the standardized extract of these fruits. The most important aspect is that these fruits are a part of the diet, have been consumed since the beginning of mankind, are non-toxic, possess diverse medicinal properties, have easy acceptability all of which will help take research forward and be of benefit to patients, occupational workers, agribased sectors and pharma industries.

An Ayurvedic formulation of Emblica officinalis and Curcuma longa alleviates insulin resistance in diabetic rats: Involvement of curcuminoids and polyphenolics

BACKGROUND

Nishamalaki is an Ayurvedic herbal formulation used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), comprises Emblica officinalis and Curcuma longa.

OBJECTIVE(S)

One of the main cause of T2DM is Insulin Resistance (IR) hence, this study was planned to evaluate IR lowering effect of a standardized Nishamalaki extract "EmbliQur" in high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ) induced T2DM rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Curcuminoids (23.89% w/w), gallic acid (5.27% w/w) and tannins (25.44% w/w) were quantified from EmbliQur. Rats were fed HFD throughout the study of 45 days and received STZ (40 mg/kg, i.p) on the 15th day of the study. Rats with more than 250 mg/dl of fasting blood glucose level (FBGL) were considered diabetic and selected for administration of EmbliQur (500 mg and 1000 mg/kg) or the standard drug metformin (120 mg/kg, p.o) from the 18th day of the study for the next 27 days. FBGL and insulin levels of all rats were measured weekly and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was done at the end of the study. The values of FBGL and insulin were used to calculate IR by the HOMA-IR, QUICKI and Matsuda methods.

RESULTS

Rats treated with STZ/HFD had significantly higher than normal FBGL and insulin levels throughout the study and exhibited skewed IR indices in the above three methods of IR assessment. EmbliQur treatment successfully lowered the HFD/STZ-elevated BGL and insulin levels, and ameliorated IR in all models of IR evaluation.

CONCLUSION

EmbliQur 1000 mg/kg was noted to be more effective than EmbliQur 500 mg/kg in alleviating IR.

Potential Use of Amla (Phyllanthus emblica L.) Fruit Extract to Protect Skin Keratinocytes from Inflammation and Apoptosis after UVB Irradiation

Ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure is the primary risk factor for the deadliest type of skin cancer—melanoma. Incorporating natural antioxidants in skin protection products is currently a favored research theme. For this study, we selected Phyllanthus emblica L. fruit extract (PE) to assess its potential use in dermal protection against UVB-induced keratinocyte inflammation and apoptosis. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to investigate PE’s phytochemical constituents (ascorbic acid, ellagic acid, gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, and quercetin), while ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), total ROS, OH^•, O₂^•−, and H₂O₂-scavenging activities were used to determine the antioxidant properties. PE significantly increased the cell viability (MTT assay) and reduced apoptosis (Hoechst staining) in HaCaT cells exposed to UVB (40 mJ/cm²). PE abolished oxidative stress by reducing the production of intracellular ROS, O₂^•− and H₂O₂ production. Catalase activity (but not superoxide dismutase or glutathione peroxidase activity) was enhanced in keratinocytes incubated with PE prior to UVB exposure. Western blot analysis suggested that PE inhibited cytochrome c release and inhibited the dysregulation of PI3K/Akt without any impact on p38 activation. PE attenuated the inflammatory response to UVB irradiation by inhibiting AP-1, NF-κB, and the mediator PGE₂. Thus, PE is a candidate with great potential for use as an active ingredient in skin care products.

Emblica officinalis and Hordeum vulgare L. Mixture Regulates Lipolytic Activity in Differentiated 3T3-L1 Cells

In this study, we investigated the lipolytic effects of an Emblica officinalis (Indian gooseberry [IG]) and Hordeum vulgare L. (barley sprout [BP]) mixture on differentiated 3T3-L1 cells. On the ninth day of differentiation, Oil red O staining and Western blotting were performed; additionally, glycerol release and triglyceride (TG), fatty acid (FA), and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels were measured. Compared to the differentiation-induced control (C) group, the IG and BP mixture inhibited intracellular TG and FA levels by 61.7% and 48.9%, respectively, at a concentration of 200 μg/mL. Moreover, the mixture increased glycerol release and cAMP levels by more than twofold more than those in the C group. Western blotting was performed to confirm the protein expression involved in lipolysis, and the IG and BP mixture was found to significantly increase the protein activities of AMP-activated protein kinase, protein kinase A, and hormone-sensitive lipase compared to those of the C group. Furthermore, the mixture significantly inhibited the protein activities of phosphodiesterase 3B, adipose TG lipase, and perilipin compared to those of the C group at a concentration of 200 μg/mL. We found that the IG and BP mixture activates the cAMP pathway and regulates lipolytic enzymes, which are necessary for lipolysis. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the IG and BP mixture can be potentially developed as a new material for targeting mechanisms underlying lipolysis.

Nephroprotective effect of Emblica officinalis fruit extract against malachite green toxicity in piscine model: Ultrastructure and oxidative stress study

Malachite green (MG) is a multi-application dye with raised concern as aquatic toxicant. Cyprinus carpio fingerlings were exposed to MG and simultaneously fed with Emblica officinalis (EO) fruit extract to mitigate the MG induced nephrotoxicity. MG exposure developed depressed activity of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione-s-transferase, and reduced glutathione, while levels of malondialdehyde got significantly (p < .05) elevated after 60 days MG exposure. H&E staining revealed increased intracellular space, vacuolation, fluid-filled spaces, damaged brush border lining of proximal convoluted tubule (PCT), focal necrosis, nuclear transformations and shrunken glomerulus. Further, Transmission electron microscope study detailed structural cytotoxicity with the appearance of the heterochromatic nucleus, electron-dense lysosomal bodies, damaged brush border lining of PCT, and necrosis; glomerulus exhibited erythrocyte infiltration and fused pedicels of podocyte. While, EO extract supplemented diet culminated in the restoration of the renal cytoarchitecture and significantly (p < .05) enhanced activity of antioxidant enzymes.

Antihypertensive and pleiotropic effects of Phyllanthus emblica extract as an add-on therapy in patients with essential hypertension-A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial

Essential hypertension is an important cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality that is compounded by concomitant risk factors like diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia. Phyllanthus emblica is a rich source of antioxidants, tannins, and vitamin C and is used in treating various ailments in traditional medicine. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of aqueous extract of Phyllanthus emblica on essential hypertension and other protective actions. This randomized controlled trial was conducted on 150 patients with essential hypertension. Participants were randomly assigned to receive Phyllanthus emblica capsule (500 mg) or placebo twice daily, added to their routine medications for 12 weeks. Blood pressure was assessed at baseline, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after beginning treatment or placebo. Other investigations like lipid parameters, oxidant and antioxidant enzyme levels, hs-CRP levels, HbA1C, LFT, RFT, uric acid, and endothelial function were measured at baseline and 12 weeks. Both Phyllanthus emblica and placebo groups were comparable at baseline. Phyllanthus emblica had a good safety profile in patients with essential hypertension. However, the treatment with Phyllanthus emblica failed to produce any additional reduction in systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure levels and did not exhibit improvement in oxidant status, antioxidant capacity, lipid profile, HbA1C, arterial stiffness parameters, or hs-CRP levels.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles inhibit bacterial biofilm formation via altering cell membrane permeability

In the current scenario nanoparticles (NPs) have gained a breathtaking impetus due to their multidimensional applications in varied fields. In the present effort, biogenic synthesis of Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) was carried out using aqueous extract of dried powder of Emblica officinalis (Amla). Physicochemical characterization of nanoparticles was carried out via UV-Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) wherein the particles were found to be quasi spherical and with a size ranging between 3 and 11 nm. The ZnO nanoparticles exhibited significant antibacterial activity against bacteria as Streptococcus pyogenes MTCC 442, Bacillus cereus MTCC 1272, Escherichia coli MTCC 1687 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 4673. The nanoparticles displayed high anti-biofilm activity toward all the bacterial strains, when tested against three different base materials viz. glass, plastic and metal (Aluminum). Further, the nanoparticle treatment of bacterial cells caused changes in their cell membrane permeability, leading to leakage of nucleic acid from the bacterial cells, thereby defining it as the most probable mechanism for their anti-biofilm potential.

Triphala Ameliorates Nephropathy via Inhibition of TGF-β1 and Oxidative Stress in Diabetic Rats

INTRODUCTION

Advanced glycation end products, oxidative stress, and TGF-β expression play a crucial role in pathophysiology of diabetic nephropathy. Inhibition of oxidative stress and TGF-β expression by natural traditional medicines may give an economic and safe alternative treatment option. Triphala churna, a traditional medicine, has been proved to have potent antioxidant activity, and individual components of it have shown significant antidiabetic activity. Hence, the present study was designed to study the effect of Triphala churna in diabetic nephropathy in rats.

METHODS

Diabetes was induced in rats by administration of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg i.p.). Four weeks after induction of diabetes, the animals were treated with Triphala churna at the doses of 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg for next 4 weeks. Various biochemical and urine parameters such as glucose, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), total protein, and albumin were assessed at the end of study. Creatinine clearance, BUN clearance, and glomerular filtration rate were determined. Oxidative stress parameters such as malondialdehyde, catalase, reduced glutathione, and superoxide dismutase were determined in kidney tissues. TGF-β1 expression was measured with ELISA, immunohistochemistry, and western blot techniques. Histopathology study was carried out with haemotoxylin and eosin, periodic acid-Schiff, and Masson's trichrome staining to determine histological changes.

RESULTS

Treatment with Triphala churna significantly improved urine parameters. Triphala churna treatment also improved plasma proteins, albumin, creatinine, and BUN levels. The oxidative stress was reduced in the kidney with the treatment of Triphala churna. Histopathological studies revealed that Triphala churna reduced kidney damage. Immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and western blotting study revealed that treatment with Triphala decreased the expression of TGF-β in kidney tissues.

CONCLUSION

From the results, it can be concluded that Triphala churna has a significant nephroprotective effect because of its capability of inhibiting oxidative stress and TGF-β in diabetes.

Antidiabetic potential of gallic acid from Emblica officinalis: Improved glucose transporters and insulin sensitivity through PPAR-γ and Akt signaling

BACKGROUND

Nature has gifted a variety of vital phytochemicals having potential therapeutic application against various ailments. Emblica officinalis (E. officinalis), an ancient plant, has long been used as a remedy for diabetes and cardiovascular complications, and presence of abundant amount of gallic acid could be accountable for its medicinal potential.

PURPOSE

The study was aimed to determine the in-vivo and in-vitro anti-diabetic potential of gallic acid and fruit juice of E. officinalis. Molecular mechanism of gallic acid as well as fruit juice of E. officinalis for anti-diabetic potential has also been revealed.

EXPERIMENTAL STUDY DESIGN

Anti-diabetic potential of E. officinalis and gallic acid was evaluated in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and various animal models like db/db mice and fructose administered rats. PPAR-γ expression and glucose translocation were observed using western blot and PCR techniques.

RESULTS

Treatment of E. officinalis fruit juice and gallic acid facilitated their glucose homeostasis; improved insulin sensitivity; reduced obesity; abridged elevated blood pressure and declined cholesterol level, and also induced adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Mechanistically, treatment increased expression of PPAR-γ through activation of C/EBPs and simultaneously increased Glut4 translocation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Moreover, gallic acid treatment increased insulin sensitivity through activation of Akt rather than AMPK signaling pathway while fruit juice of E. officinalis showed dual activation, Akt and AMPK as well.

CONCLUSION

These findings reveal the role of gallic acid in E. officinalis mediated antidiabetic potential, and delineate the upregulation of pAkt, PPAR-γ and Glut4 in gallic acid mediated antidiabetic activity, thus providing potential therapy for diabetes and related disorders.

Polyphenolic compounds of amla prevent oxidative stress and fibrosis in the kidney and heart of 2K1C rats

Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) is a natural source of antioxidants and possesses valuable medicinal properties. However, the protective effect of amla in the kidney of two-kidneys-one-clip (2K1C) rats has not been explained sufficiently. This study was performed to evaluate the renoprotective effect of amla fruit powder (2.5% W/W) supplementation in kidneys of 2K1C rats. 2K1C rats increased the remnant kidney wet weight and also increased plasma creatinine and uric acid concentration compared to the control. Amla supplementation ameliorates elevated creatinine and uric acid concentration in plasma of 2K1C rats. Various oxidative stress indicators such as malondialdehyde, nitric oxide (NO), and advanced protein oxidation product (APOP) were also increased in plasma, heart, and kidney tissues in 2K1C rats that were also significantly brought down to normal level by amla supplementation. Moreover, the inflammatory cells entry and fibrosis in the 2K1C rat's tissues were prevented by amla supplementation. These research results suggest that amla may restore plasma antioxidant capacities and prevents oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis in 2K1C rats. Taken these results as a base, clinical supplementation of dried amla powder in diet or juice to the CKD patients would be beneficial.

Nutraceutical effects of Emblica officinalis in age-related macular degeneration

Emblica officinalis Gaetrn (i.e., Phyllanthus emblica/ Indian gooseberry/ Amla) (EO) has been used extensively as a nutraceutical in several diseases since it is known to boost immunity and offers numerous health benefits such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects. The goal of our study was to test the hypothesis that EO will rescue human AMD RPE transmitochondrial cells from mitochondria-induced cellular damage. AMD RPE transmitochondrial cell lines were created by fusion of mitochondria DNA-deficient APRE-19 (Rho0) cells with platelets isolated from AMD patients, and therefore had identical nuclei but differed in mitochondrial DNA content. These AMD RPE cells were treated with EO extract followed by characterization of effects of EO using cellular and molecular assays. Herein, EO significantly improved live cell number and mitochondrial membrane potential, reduced apoptosis and oxidative stress, down-regulated VEGF, and up-regulated PGC-1α. In conclusion, EO improved cellular and mitochondrial health, thereby playing a key cytoprotective role in AMD in vitro. Further studies are required to examine the mechanisms that mediate the cytoprotective effects of EO.

Emblicanin rich Emblica officinalis extract encapsulated double emulsion: controlled release of bioactive during phagocytosis and in vitro digestion

ABSTRACT

Controlled release of Emblicanin rich water soluble extract of Emblica officinalis (EEO) from the inner phase of water-in-oil-in-water type double emulsion (DE), during in vitro digestion and phagocytosis was investigated. It was observed that release of EEO (measured as total polyphenols and gallic acid by HPLC) from inner phase of DE was maximum during intestinal digestion followed by gastric and salivary digestion. Main reason was increased particle size of emulsion droplets and change in zeta potential by the action of digestive enzymes. ACE inhibitory activity and antioxidant activity [determined by ABTS (99.58 ± 7.24 mM/mL), DPPH (76.93 ± 0.93 µM/mL) and FRAP (6.34 ± 0.13 mM/mL)] was observed on the higher side in the intestinal digesta of EEO-encapsulated DE (EEODE) as compared to salivary and gastric digesta. However, reverse trend was observed in control sample (unencapsulated-EEO). Phagocytic activity of EEODE increased with increasing its concentration of 2-10 µL. These results indicated that the developed DE matrix was effective in protecting active components of EEO during harsh digestive conditions as evident by sustained/target release. This newly developed EEODE formulation can be used as functional ingredient in the preparation of different dairy and food based functional products.

GRAPHIC ABSTRACT

Bioactive constituents of Emblica officinalis overcome oxidative stress in mammalian cells by inhibiting hyperoxidation of peroxiredoxins

Emblica officinalis (Amla) is a renowned fruit having nutritional and medicinal traits mostly linked to its antioxidants content. In the current study, the methanolic crude extract of amla fruit is subjected to sequential fractionation to get its partially purified fractions. The ethyl acetate (EA) and butanol (BUT) fractions of amla showed maximum antioxidant potential. The ferric reducing capability and nitric oxide scavenging activity were highest in EA fraction. One of the highlights of the study is the cellular antioxidant assay conducted in HeLa cells. Additionally, HeLa cells pre-treated with EA and BUT fractions were able to combat oxidative stress via total reduction in hyperoxidation of intracellular peroxiredoxin enzyme. Gallic acid, ascorbic acid, ellagic acid, rutin, quercetin, and catechol are the major compounds present in these fractions as identified by LC-ESI-MS followed by their quantification by HPLC. These findings indicate that components of E. officinalis can protect intracellular oxidative stress-mediated degeneration. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The study highlighted that E. officinalis is a promising source of phenolics and flavonoids acting as natural antioxidants, which showed varied potential to scavenge ROS. Also, the plant fractions were able to fight intracellular oxidative stress via total reduction in hyperoxidation of the human peroxiredoxin. In conclusion, we can say that the regular intake of such food supplements that affect important antioxidant enzymes can be of special interest in the management of oxidative stress-mediated human ailments.

Emblica officinalis (Amla) Ameliorates High-Fat Diet Induced Alteration of Cardiovascular Pathophysiology

BACKGROUND

Dietary high fat possibly causes oxidative stress. Also, it alters the pathophysiology of metabolically active myocardial tissues and vascular architecture. Emblica officinalis contains a potential antioxidant that counteracts oxidative stress and possibly maintains vascular integrity.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of ethanolic extract of Emblica officinalis (EEO) on High Fat Diet (HFD) induced changes in vascular chemistry and histopathology of the cardiovascular system in male albino rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethanolic extract of Emblica officinalis (EEO) was prepared and phytochemical analysis was done. Rats were divided into four groups, having six rats in each group as follows: group 1- Control (20% fat); group 2 (20% fat+ EEO 100 mg/kg/b w); group 3 (30% fat) and group 4 (30% fat + EEO 100 mg/kg/b w). Dietary and EEO supplementation was continued for 21 days. Gravimetric and oxidative stress markers like MDA, NO, antioxidants like Vitamin C and E, and molecular marker (NOS₃) were evaluated. Histopathological analysis was done on the myocardium and elastic artery along with measurement of coronary arterial wall thickness and lumen diameter. One way ANOVA was done for analysis of data.

RESULTS

High fat diet showed a significant increase in MDA, decrease of NO with unaltered NOS₃ protein in rats fed with high fat diet, which indicate possible alteration of vascular pathophysiology. Supplementation of EEO showed an ameliorating effect on high fat diet induced oxidative stress. These results were further corroborated with findings of a histopathological study on the myocardium, elastic artery and coronary arterial architecture.

CONCLUSION

Ethanolic extract of Emblica officinalis (EEO) indicates its cardioprotective efficacy against rats fed with high fat diet.

Exploring the multifaceted neuroprotective actions of Emblica officinalis (Amla): a review

Today, neurological disorders such as epilepsy, depression, tardive dyskinesia, and stress, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, dementia, and Huntington's disease affect millions of people all over the world. Existing pharmacological interventions do not meet the desired therapeutic benefits for a significant number of patients, and hence, numerous research studies are in progress to find novel therapies for these disorders. Herbal drugs, which have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, are also being explored and scientifically evaluated for the treatment of these neurological disorders. While substantial evidence exists for the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, and anti-hyperglycemic effects of Emblica officinalis, in vivo and in vitro studies, have also revealed its beneficial therapeutic activities in numerous neurological disorders. These diverse neuroprotective pharmacodynamic actions of E. officinalis corroborated by accumulating evidence in pre-clinical research studies deserve the attention of the scientific community to develop viable pharmacotherapeutic strategies. The present review elaborates upon the latest scientific evidence pertaining to the pharmacological effects of E. officinalis in numerous neurological and neurodegenerative disorders and also gives way for future research in this area.

In vitro evaluation of cytotoxicity of Emblica officinalis (amla) on cultured human primary dental pulp fibroblasts

CONTEXT

The dental pulp tissue is capable of healing after surgical amputation of infected/inflamed tissue during vital pulp therapy, when in contact with a suitable medicament. Emblica officinalis (amla), a traditional medicine, is one such medicament which has never been evaluated for its healing potential in pulp therapy.

AIMS

The aim of the study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of E. officinalis (amla) against human primary dental pulp fibroblasts.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

This was in vitro study.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Human dental pulp fibroblasts were obtained from dental pulp tissue of extracted over-retained primary incisors. The primary cells were cultured using the Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium and used for the study after the fourth passage. The test medicament was E. officinalis with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) (100%) and untreated cells as positive and negative controls, respectively. Methyl-thiazol-diphenyl-tetrazolium (MTT) cytotoxicity assay was performed, and the cell survival was observed and analyzed at intervals of 24, 48, and 72 h.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

Cell survival within groups was compared with Wilcoxon matched-paired t-test and in between groups at each point interval was analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA test. The level of significance was set at 0.05.

RESULTS

Within the groups, across the time periods of evaluation, there was a decline in cell survival in both the groups but was statistically significant in the MTA group. On interval-wise comparison, the decline in cell survival was statistically significant between the three groups at 72 h (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

E. officinalis preserved the vitality of the human primary dental pulp fibroblasts and has the potential to be developed into vital pulp therapy medicament.

Evaluation of the effects of a standardized aqueous extract of Phyllanthus emblica fruits on endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation and lipid profile in subjects with metabolic syndrome: a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled clinical study

BACKGROUND

Endothelial dysfunction (ED) has been observed in individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and contributes to the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. The primary management of MetS involves lifestyle modifications and treatment of its individual components with drugs all of which have side effects. Thus, it would be of advantageous if natural products would be used as adjuncts or substitutes for conventional drugs. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of standardized aqueous extract of fruits of Phyllanthus emblica (P. emblica) 250 mg and 500 mg twice daily on ED, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation and lipid profile in subjects with MetS.

METHODS

In this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study endothelial function was measured by calculating reflection index (RI) using digital plethysmograph. Oxidative stress biomarkers used were nitric oxide (NO), glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Systemic inflammation was measured by determining high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and dyslipidemia by lipid profile. ANOVA, paired and unpaired t-test were used. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Out of 65 screened subjects all 59 enrolled completed the study. P. emblica aqueous extract (PEE), 250 mg and 500 mg twice daily dosing, showed significant reduction in mean RI, measure of endothelial function, at 8 and 12 weeks (p <  0.001) compared to baseline and placebo. Significant mean % change was seen in oxidative stress biomarkers, NO (+ 41.89%, + 50.7%), GSH (+ 24.31%, + 53.22%) and MDA (- 21.02%, - 31.44%), and systemic inflammation biomarker, hsCRP (- 39.68%, - 53.77%) (p <  0.001) at 12 weeks with 250 mg and 500 mg twice daily dosage respectively. Significant mean % change was also seen at 12 weeks with TC (- 7.71%, - 11.11%), HDL-C (+ 7.33% + 22.16%, p <  0.05), LDL-C (- 11.39%, - 21.8%) and TG (- 9.81%, - 19.22%) respectively with 250 mg and 500 mg twice daily (p <  0.001). PEE 500 mg twice daily was significantly more efficacious than the 250 mg twice daily and placebo. No participant discontinued the study because of adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

P.emblica aqueous extract significantly improved endothelial function, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation and lipid profile at both dosages tested, but especially at 500 mg twice daily. Thus, this product may be used as an adjunct to conventional therapy (lifestyle modification and pharmacological intervention) in the management of metabolic syndrome.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered with Clinical Trials Registry - India (CTRI) with the registration number of CTRI/2017/09/009606 . The study was registered retrospectively on 4th September 2017.

Phytofabrication of Selenium Nanoparticles From Emblica officinalis Fruit Extract and Exploring Its Biopotential Applications: Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Biocompatibility

In the present study, phytofabricated selenium nanoparticles (PF-SeNPs) were prepared from aqueous fruit extract of Emblica officinalis in a facile, green, economic, tactic and eco-friendly way. The aqueous fruit extract of E. officinalis was found to be rich with various secondary metabolites including phenolics (59.18 ± 2.91 mg gallic acid equivalents/g), flavonoids (38.50 ± 2.84 mg catechin equivalents/g), and tannins (44.28 ± 3.09 mg tannic acid equivalents/g) and determined that highly appropriate for the biosynthesis of nanoparticles. The facile phytofabrication of PF-SeNPs was confirmed by UV-visible and FTIR spectroscopic analysis. The XRD pattern and Raman spectroscopy showed that synthesized PF-SeNPs were amorphous in nature. The Zeta potential analysis confirmed that PF-SeNPs were negatively charged (-24.4 mV). The DLS analysis revealed that PF-SeNPs were in nano size and less aggregated with poly-dispersity index of less than 0.2. The SEM images depicted that PF-SeNPs were spherical in shape. The EDX analysis revealed that PF-SeNPs were constituted with Se (61.60%), C (29.96%), and O (4.41%). The HR-TEM analysis determined that PF-SeNPs were in nano size with an average diameter of 15–40 nm. The PF-SeNPs have offered fascinating bio-potential applications, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial and biocompatibility. They have also exhibited dose-dependent free radical scavenging activity, and EC50 was determined as 15.67 ± 1.41 and 18.84 ± 1.02 μg/mL for DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. The PF-SeNPs has also shown the wide range of antimicrobial activity on foodborne pathogens, and it was found to be highly efficient on fungi followed by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The biocompatibility of PF-SeNPs was assessed in N2a cells with much higher IC50 value (dose required to inhibit 50% of cell viability) compared to sodium selenite. Also, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and caspase-3 were much less altered on treatment of PF-SeNPs related to sodium selenite. The cytotoxic studies clearly determined that PF-SeNPs was much less toxic and safer related to sodium selenite. Thus, PF-SeNPs could find suitable application as antioxidant and antimicrobial agent in food, biomedical, and pharmaceutical industry.

Malachite Green Induced Ultrastructural Corneal Lesions in Cyprinus carpio and Its Amelioration Using Emblica officinalis

Malachite green, a multi-purpose dye induces cyto-toxicity upon its entry and bioaccumulation in tissues. A semi-static chronic (60 days) bioassay was conducted by exposing Cyprinus carpio to sublethal concentration of the dye and Emblica officinalis in four experimental groups viz control, malachite green, E. officinalis, and malachite green + E. officinalis. Effect of dye on the cornea was investigated considering ultra-structural alterations owing to its direct contact to the pollutant in the aquatic medium. SEM studies on corneal epithelium revealed broken continuity of pavement cells, shrunk microplicae, increased intra-microplicae distance, globularization and epithelial uplifting, thereby affecting the integrity of corneal surface and tear film adherence. Whereas dietary supplementation with the plant extract served to restore cytoarchitecture with appearance of large number of regenerating cells. Both lesions and restoration were found to be duration dependent. Thus, E. officinalis can be considered as an effective ameliorant against malachite green induced toxicity.

Extract of Emblica officinalis enhances the growth of human keratinocytes in culture

OBJECTIVE

Keratinocytes are the predominant cell type in the epidermis and play key roles in epidermal function. Thus, identification of the compounds that regulate the growth of keratinocytes is of importance. Here we searched for such compounds from the herbs used in traditional medicine Ayurveda.

METHODS

Human keratinocytes were cultured in the presence or absence of the herbal extracts for 2 weeks; the effect of the extracts on cell growth was determined by staining the cells with Coomassie brilliant blue. To detect the compounds that regulate the growth of keratinocytes, the herbal extracts were subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

RESULTS

We found that the extract of Emblica officinalis enhanced the growth of keratinocytes in culture. Further, we fractionated the extract of E. officinalis using HPLC and identified the fractions responsible for the enhanced growth of keratinocytes.

CONCLUSION

The extract of E. officinalis enhanced the growth of human keratinocytes in culture. E. officinalis contains the compounds that would be beneficial for human skin health because enhanced growth of keratinocytes would promote wound healing.

A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled, multicenter clinical trial to assess the efficacy and safety of Emblica officinalis extract in patients with dyslipidemia

BACKGROUND

Dyslipidemia is one of the most frequently implicated risk factors for development of atherosclerosis. This study evaluated the efficacy of amla (Emblica officinalis) extract (composed of polyphenols, triterpenoids, oils etc. as found in the fresh wild amla fruit) in patients with dyslipidemia.

METHODS

A total of 98 dyslipidemic patients were enrolled and divided into amla and placebo groups. Amla extract (500 mg) or a matching placebo capsule was administered twice daily for 12 weeks to the respective group of patients. The patients were followed up for 12 weeks and efficacy of study medication was assessed by analyzing lipid profile. Other parameters evaluated were apolipoprotein B (Apo B), apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1), Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), fasting blood sugar (FBS), homocysteine and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).

RESULTS

In 12 weeks, the major lipids such as total cholesterol (TC) (p = 0.0003), triglyceride (TG) (p = 0.0003), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (p = 0.0064) and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) (p = 0.0001) were significantly lower in amla group as compared to placebo group. Additionally, a 39% reduction in atherogenic index of the plasma (AIP) (p = 0.0177) was also noted in amla group. The ratio of Apo B to Apo A1 was reduced more (p = 0.0866) in the amla group as compared to the placebo. There was no significant change in CoQ10 level of amla (p = 0.2942) or placebo groups (p = 0.6744). Although there was a general trend of FBS reduction, the numbers of participants who may be classified as pre-diabetes and diabetes groups (FBS > 100 mg/dl) in the amla group were only 8. These results show that the amla extract used in the study is potentially a hypoglycaemic as well. However, this needs reconfirmation in a larger study.

CONCLUSIONS

The Amla extract has shown significant potential in reducing TC and TG levels as well as lipid ratios, AIP and apoB/apo A-I in dyslipidemic persons and thus has scope to treat general as well as diabetic dyslipidemia. A single agent to reduce cholesterol as well as TG is rare. Cholesterol reduction is achieved without concomitant reduction of Co Q10, in contrast to what is observed with statins.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registered with Clinical Trials Registry- India at www.ctri.nic.in (Registration number: CTRI/2015/04/005682 ) on 8 April 2015 (retrospectively registered).

A systematic review on the cardiovascular pharmacology of Emblica officinalis Gaertn

Introduction: The Emblica officinalis (EO) fruit has traditionally been considered as a cardioactive medication and has demonstrated remarkable cardiovascular effects in the pharmacological literature. The present study systematically reviews EO’s potential for prevention and therapy of cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

Methods: PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Proquest, Ebsco, Google, Google Scholar, Ovid, and Cochrane databases were searched from 1966 to 2017 for the English and non-English literature using the terms including the cognates of EO including amla, Emblic myrobalan, Emblica officinalis, Emblica pectinata , Indian gooseberry, and Phyllanthus emblica together with antioxidant, arrhythmia, cardioprotective, cardiotoxicity, heart disease, heart failure, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, myocardial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. The inclusion criteria were in vitro, animal, and clinical cardiovascular pharmacological studies conducted on EO and full-text accessibility. The exclusion criterion was studies in which a combination of EO and at least one other plant was investigated. The reference lists of the retrieved articles were also searched manually for additional eligible articles. The methodological quality of clinical trials was assessed by the Jadad scale, and animal studies were evaluated by the ARRIVE checklist.

Results: Nineteen articles concerning the cardiovascular pharmacological effects of EO were included in this review. The plant has shown antiatherogenic, anticoagulant, hypolipidemic, antihypertensive, antioxidant, antiplatelet, and vasodilatory effects as well as lipid deposition inhibitory properties. Moreover, it prevents from doxorubicin and isoproterenol cardiotoxicity and myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, and improves vascular endothelial function in animal studies. Some high-quality clinical studies report the vasodilatory and myocardial antioxidant properties as well as anti-platelet aggregation effects of this plant.

Conclusion: EO influences various cardiovascular risk-factors. However, there is not sufficient evidence to confirm the plant efficacy in preventing and treating CVD.

In Vitro Antilithiatic Potential of Kalanchoe pinnata, Emblica officinalis, Bambusa nutans, and Cynodon dactylon

OBJECTIVE

The study aims at the exploration of calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystal growth inhibition potential of Cynodon dactylon, Emblica officinalis, Kalanchoe pinnata, and Bambusa nutans ethyl acetate fraction rich in polyphenol and flavonoid.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethyl acetate fraction was separated from the hydromethanolic extract of C. dactylon, E. officinalis, K. pinnata, and B. nutans followed by quantitative analysis for total polyphenol and flavonoid content. Ethyl acetate fraction of all the plants were subjected to in vitro screening for the inhibition of CaO x crystals growth induced by sodium oxalate.

RESULTS

The results signify rich presence of polyphenols and flavonoids in K. pinnata and E. officinalis ethyl acetate fractions followed by C. dactylon and B. nutans. Ethyl acetate fractions of B. nutans shoot, E. officinalis fruit, and K. pinnata leaf have excellent in vitro CaO x crystal growth inhibition potential based on both the comparative concentration and the time level to achieve IC50.

CONCLUSION

The study outcome substantiates potential in vitro CaO x crystal dissolution and crystal growth inhibition properties of E. officinalis, B. nutans, C. dactylon, and K. pinnata. Rich presence of caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and luteolin in ethyl acetate fraction of B. nutans leaf, and chebulinic acid, chebulagic acid, gallic acid, ellagic acid, and quercetin of E. officinalis may have produced prominent crystal aggregation inhibition response.

Amla (Emblica officinalis) improves hepatic and renal oxidative stress and the inflammatory response in hypothyroid female wistar rats fed with a high-fat diet

BACKGROUND

We investigated the protective effects of amla (Emblica officinalis) on the pathogenesis of oxidative stress (OS) and inflammatory response in hypothyroid rats fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) as an experimental model of hypothyroidism (HT) with obesity.

METHODS

A total of 80 female wistar rats (5-months-old) were divided into eight different groups. Propylthiouracil (PTU) and HFD were used to induce the experimental HT and obesity, respectively. The euthyroid and hypothyroid rats were fed either normal chow or HFD with and without amla extract (AE, 100 mg/kg bw/day) for 6 weeks. The blood and tissues, liver and kidney OS and inflammatory parameters were studied using appropriate biochemical and molecular techniques.

RESULTS

PTU and HFD per se caused OS and inflammatory response as evidenced by increased plasma MDA, TNF-α, CRP and GPx in association with decreased levels of TAS and reduced glutathione (GSH). The proteomic analysis revealed that the expressions of pERK, pP38, TNF-α, IL6, COX2 and NOX-4 were up-regulated in the liver and kidney of these rats. In addition, all these metabolic derangements were further augmented when HT was followed by the addition of HFD. This suggested that there was a synergism between HT and the intake of HFD on the development of OS and inflammatory response.

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment with amla fruit extract significantly restored the redox imbalance and inflammatory signaling and ameliorated OS and inflammatory response, suggesting the use of this natural compound as an alternative remedy or adjuvant for the management of metabolic complications concomitant with HT.

Protective role of Emblica officinalis hydro-ethanolic leaf extract in cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity in Rats

Nephrotoxicity is a major limiting factor in cisplatin treatment. In the present study hydro-ethanolic leaf extract of Emblica officinalis was investigated for its protective role in cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity. The experiment was designed for 14 days and male Wistar rats were divided into 9 groups (n = 5). Group 1 served as control (with no treatment), group 2 served as a vehicle control and received 0.9% NaCl intraperitoneally (i.p.) on 11th day of the treatment, group 3 received a single dose of cisplatin on 11th day (12 mg/kg body weight, i.p.), group 4-6 received leaf extract only (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight, respectively) throughout the treatment, group 7-9 received leaf extract (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight, respectively) throughout the treatment and single dose of cisplatin on the 11th day of the leaf extract treatment. At the end of the experiment (i.e. on 14th day) blood samples were collected from all the groups and were sacrificed to study renal functional parameters. Treatment with above doses of E. officinalis leaf extract significantly (p ≤ 0.05) attenuates renal damage by decreasing serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), enhanced the activities of Catalase, SOD, GPx, GR and decreased the renal MDA level compared with the cisplatin treatment group. Furthermore the oral administration of Amla leaf extract improves histological damage and morphological changes in RBCs. Our results suggest that, leaf extract of E. officinalis may ameliorate renal damage caused by cisplatin.

Tannins Enriched Fraction of Emblica officinalis Fruits Alleviates High-Salt and Cholesterol Diet-Induced Cognitive Impairment in Rats via Nrf2-ARE Pathway

Modern diets containing high quantities of salt and cholesterol have exhibited to cause a considerable effect on our health. Such diets, when consumed in the long term, have also shown to be a precursor to several disorders such as the metabolic disorder and consequently, various other diseases, including cognitive deficits. In the present study, we used a high salt and cholesterol diet (HSCD) to induce cognitive impairment in rats and also investigated the pharmacological action of tannins enriched fractions of Emblica officinalis (EOT) – a fruit that has been traditionally used for the treatment of numerous disorders for centuries. Significant alterations in MDA, GSH, TBARS, GPx, mitochondrial ATP, and mitochondrial membrane potential levels were observed in rats fed HSCD, which indicated presence of oxidative stress. Moreover, classic signs of cognitive impairment and deficits in spatial learning and memory were observed in the neurobehavioral tests. E. officinalis tannins exhibited good affinity to Nrf2 receptors in in silico studies, significantly reversed the changes in the aforementioned biomarkers of oxidative stress which were altered in the model group, as well as improved the performance of rats in Morris water maze task. Our results also reflected that EOT supplementation significantly increased the expression of Nrf2 in the CA1 region of hippocampus and cortex. Additionally, TUNEL assay indicated that EOT supplementation led to reversal of DNA fragmentation and apoptosis caused by HSCD. Immunohistochemical analysis and western blot further revealed a surge in the nuclear location of Nrf2. Through our study, we have demonstrated that cognitive impairment can be caused in rats via HSCD as a result of the oxidative stress induced by the same. Additionally, we have investigated a novel mechanism of action for EOT (which strongly suggests to be via the Nrf2–ARE pathway) and demonstrated that it has the potential to be used in the treatment of cognitive impairment.

Emblica officinalis extract downregulates pro-angiogenic molecules via upregulation of cellular and exosomal miR-375 in human ovarian cancer cells

Ovarian cancer (OC) is highly resistant to current treatment strategies based on a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. We have recently demonstrated the anti-neoplastic effect of Amla extract (Emblica officinalis, AE) on OC cells in vitro and in vivo. We hypothesized that AE attenuates growth of OC through microRNA (miR)-regulated mechanism(s). The inhibitory effect of AE on proliferation, migration and invasiveness (P≤0.001) of SKOV3 cells and >90% attenuation of tumor growth in a xenograft mouse model suggested multiple targets. RT-qPCR analysis of microRNAs associated with OC showed a >2,000-fold increase in the expression of miR-375 in AE-treated SKOV3 cells that was blocked by an exogenous miR-375 inhibitor (P≤0.001). AE also decreased the gene and protein expression of IGF1R, a target of miR-375 (P≤0.001), and SNAIL1 (P≤0.002), an EMT-associated transcription factor that represses E-cadherin expression (P≤0.003). AE increased E-cadherin expression (P≤0.001). Treatment of SKOV3 cells with AE resulted in increased miR-375 in exosomes in the medium (P≤0.01). Finally, AE significantly decreased the expression of IGF1R and SNAIL1 proteins during attenuation of SKOV3-derived xenograft tumor. Together, these results show that AE modulates cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment via activation of miR-375 and by targeting IGF1R and SNAIL1 in OC cells.

Analgesic Effect of Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis Fruit) Extracts on Postoperative and Neuropathic Pain in Rats

Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis fruit), also known as “Amla” is one of the oldest edible fruits known in India. It has also traditionally been used to treat inflammation, and as an analgesic to treat wounds. However, experimental evidence for the analgesic effects of E. officinalis has been lacking. The present study investigated whether E. officinalis extracts exhibit analgesic effects in the plantar incision (PI) and spared nerve injury (SNI) pain-model rats. We evaluated the mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) using von Frey filaments, and pain-related behavior was determined after surgery based on ultrasonic vocalization (USV). The group treated with E. officinalis extracts at 300 mg/kg had significantly increased MWT values at 6 h and 24 h after the PI, and had a significantly reduced number of 22–27-kHz USVs at 6 h and 24 h after PI. Moreover, after 15 days of continuous treatment with E. officinalis extracts, the treated group showed significantly alleviated SNI-induced hypersensitivity and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Thus, E. officinalis extracts have potential analgesic effects in both postoperative and neuropathic pain models in vivo.

Therapeutic Potential and Molecular Mechanisms of Emblica officinalis Gaertn in Countering Nephrotoxicity in Rats Induced by the Chemotherapeutic Agent Cisplatin

Emblica officinalis Gaertn. belonging to family Euphorbiaceae is commonly known as Indian gooseberry or "Amla" in India. It is used as a 'rejuvenating herb' in traditional system of Indian medicine. It has been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. Thus, on the basis of its biological effects, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effect of the dried fruit extract of the E. Officinalis (EO) in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats and also to evaluate the mechanism of its nephroprotection. The study was done on male albino Wistar rats. They were divided into six groups (n = 6) viz. control, cisplatin-control, cisplatin and EO (150, 300, and 600 mg/kg; p.o. respectively in different groups) and EO only (600 mg/kg; p.o. only). EO was administered orally to the rats for a period of 10 days and on the 7th day, a single injection of cisplatin (8 mg/kg; i.p.) was administered to the cisplatin-control and EO treatment groups. The rats were sacrificed on the 10th day. Cisplatin-control rats had deranged renal function parameters and the kidney histology confirmed the presence of acute tubular necrosis. Furthermore, there were increased oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation along with higher expression of MAPK pathway proteins in the rat kidney from the cisplatin-control group. Contrary to this, EO (600 mg/kg) significantly normalized renal function, bolstered antioxidant status and ameliorated histological alterations. The inflammation and apoptosis were markedly lower in comparison to cisplatin-control rats. Furthermore, EO (600 mg/kg) inhibited MAPK phosphorylation which was instrumental in preserving renal function and morphology. In conclusion, the results of our study demonstrated that EO attenuated cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats through suppression of MAPK induced inflammation and apoptosis.

Ectopic expression and functional characterization of type III polyketide synthase mutants from Emblica officinalis Gaertn

KEY MESSAGE

Functional characterization and ectopic expression studies of chalcone synthase mutants implicate the role of phenylalanine in tailoring the substrate specificity of type III polyketide synthase. Chalcone synthase (CHS) is a plant-specific type III polyketide synthase that catalyzes the synthesis of flavonoids. Native CHS enzyme does not possess any functional activity on N-methylanthraniloyl-CoA, which is the substrate for acridione/quinolone alkaloid biosynthesis. Here, we report the functional transformation of chalcone synthase protein from Emblica officinalis (EoCHS) to quinolone and acridone synthase (ACS) with single amino acid substitutions. A cDNA of 1173 bp encoding chalcone synthase was isolated from E. officinalis and mutants (F215S and F265V) were generated by site-directed mutagenesis. Molecular modeling studies of EoCHS did not show any active binding with N-methylanthraniloyl-CoA, but the mutants of EoCHS showed strong affinity to the same. As revealed by the modeling studies, functional analysis of CHS mutants showed that they could utilize p-coumaroyl-CoA as well as N-methylanthraniloyl-CoA as substrates and yield active products such as naringenin, 4-hydroxy 1-methyl 2(H) quinolone and 1,3-dihydroxy-n-methyl acridone. Exchange of a single amino acid in EoCHS (F215S and F265V) resulted in functionally active mutants that preferred N-methylanthraniloyl-CoA over p-coumaroyl-CoA. This can be attributed to the increase in the relative volume of active sites in mutants by mutation. Moreover, metabolomic and MS analyses of tobacco leaves transiently expressing mutant genes showed high levels of naringenin, acridones and quinolone derivatives compared to wild-type CHS. This is the first report demonstrating the functional activity of EoCHS mutants with N-methylanthraniloyl-CoA and these results indicate the role of phenylalanine in altering the substrate specificity and in the evolution of type III PKSs.

Preventive and Protective Effect of Nishamalaki in STZ Induced Diabetic Complications in Wistar Rats

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes is a metabolic disease of vital health importance because of the complications associated with it. Clinical trials and animal studies have demonstrated the anti-hyperglycaemic effect of Nishamalaki. Present study was planned to evaluate the protective potential of Nishamalaki on diabetic complication in rats.

AIM

To study the Nephro-protective effect and to assess the protective potential on retinal changes of Nishamalaki in diabetic wistar rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diabetes induced with 60 mg/kg of Streptozotocin and 110 mg/kg Nicotinamide IP. Nishamalaki, a combination of Curcuma longa and Emblica officinalis administered orally with honey. Rats divided into six groups, control and diabetic rats with blood glucose above 250 mg/dl were divided into 5 groups. After 8 weeks test animals were treated with Nishamalaki, Enalapril and control with saline for 30 days. Biochemical parameters measured like Serum BSL, BUN and Creatinine and rats were observed for development of cataract. Rats sacrificed and kidney samples were taken to examine histopathological changes.

RESULTS

Blood Urea Nitrogen and Creatinine values were significantly (p<0.01) reduced in Nishamalaki group than control group. Nishamalaki showed the protective effect on kidney pathology as seen on histopathology by near normal glomerular and tubular structures. Control group showed shrunken glomerulus and tubular vacuolations. In Nishamalaki group immature sub capsular cataract with mild lenticular opacity were seen compared to the mature cataract with significant lenticular opacity and corneal vascularisation in control group.

CONCLUSION

Nishamalaki showed protective effect on development of Nephrotoxicity and it has also delayed the progression of cataract in rats.

Evaluation of Emblica officinalis fruit powder as a growth promoter in commercial broiler chickens

Aim:

The present study was conducted to evaluate the dietary addition of Emblica officinalis (Amla) fruit powder as a growth promoter in commercial broiler chickens.

Materials and Methods:

An experiment was conducted on 135 commercial broiler chicks (Ven-Cobb 400 strain) divided into three groups with three replicates of 15 chicks each. Three treatment groups were as follows – T₁: Basal diet as per BIS standards; T₂: Basal diet supplemented with 0.4% of E. officinalis fruit powder; and T₃: Basal diet supplemented with 0.8% of E. officinalis fruit powder.

Results:

The average body weights at the end of the 6^th week were significantly higher (p<0.05) in groups T₂ and T₃ compared to group T₁. Feed intake, feed conversion ratio and feed cost per kg live weight production were similar among the treatment groups. The net profit per bird was the highest in group T₂ (Rs. 19.22/bird) followed by group T₃ (Rs. 17.86/bird) and the lowest in group T₁ (Rs. 14.61/bird).

Conclusion:

Based on the results of the present study, it was concluded that dietary addition of E. officinalis (Amla) fruit powder had a positive effect on growth performance and net profit per bird in commercial broiler chickens.

Beneficial Effects of Emblica officinalis on Fluoride-induced Toxicity on Brain Biochemical Indexes and Learning-memory in Rats

Aims:

The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of Emblica officinalis against fluoride-induced alterations in the behavioral and biochemical abnormalities in rats.

Design:

The healthy adult albino rats of Wistar strain (Rattus norvegicus) weighed 200–250 g were used for experiments. The animals were divided into three groups. Group I, control rats received only drinking water (F 0.9 ppm). Group II rats were exposed to fluoride (10 ppm) water for 60 days. Group III rats were treated with E. officinalis (100 mg/day/rat) along with fluoride water for 60 days. In order to investigate the effects of elevated levels of fluoride (10 ppm) in drinking water on behavioral pattern of rat, a maze test was carried out in all three groups from day 1 till completion of treatment.

Materials and Methods:

The animals were weighed before and after treatment. After respective treatment, the animals were autopsied. The blood was collected through cardiac puncture and brain was excised blotted free of blood weighed and used for biochemical parameters. The estimation of protein, enzyme activity of cholinesterase (ChE), and lipid peroxidation were carried out in brain using standard techniques.

Results:

The tissue (brain) and serum fluoride was estimated by a fluoride-specific electrode (Orion). Learning and memory abilities assessed during maze test showed reduced memory retention in rats exposed to fluoride water in comparison to control whereas amla powder (E. officinalis) fed rats showed increased memory retention than fluoride water exposed rats. The protein content and ChE enzyme activity in brain of fluoride exposed rats diminished as compared to control whereas the same was found to be elevated in E. officinalis fed rats. The level of malanoaldehyde showed a significant increase in fluoride-treated group and decrease in E. officinalis treated group.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that exposure of rats to Na-F has detrimental effects on the brain as reflected in diminished learning and memory. Administration of E. officinalis during fluoride exposure significantly overcome neuronal fluoride toxicity and, therefore, may be used as a therapeutic agent for fluorotic victims.

Comparative antimicrobial efficacy of herbal alternatives (Emblica officinalis, Psidium guajava), MTAD, and 2.5% sodium hypochlorite against Enterococcus faecalis: An in vitro study

AIM

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of herbal alternatives (Emblica officinalis, Psidium guajava), BioPure MTAD, and 2.5% sodium hypochlorite against Enterococcus faecalis.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

The testing of the antimicrobial efficacy of selected medicaments against E. faecalis was done by the agar disk-diffusion method. Whatman paper discs of 6 mm diameter were prepared and soaked with the test solution. These discs were then placed onto the previously seeded agar Petri plates. Later, these plates were incubated for 48 h at 37 °C under the appropriate gaseous conditions in a CO2 incubator. A zone of inhibition was recorded in millimeter for each plate and the results were analyzed statistically.

RESULT

MTAD was found to be superior in its antibacterial abilities against E. faecalis compared with the other irrigants used. All the other tested irrigants showed significant zone of inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

BioPure MTAD offers better antibacterial efficacy than NaOCl. E. officinalis and P. guajava are effective antibacterial agents against E. faecalis and can be used to reduce root canal microflora and root canal failures.

Ellagic acid in Emblica officinalis exerts anti-diabetic activity through the action on β-cells of pancreas

PURPOSE

The present study was undertaken to explore the possible anti-diabetic mechanism(s) of Emblica officinalis (EO) and its active constituent, ellagic acid (EA), in vitro and in vivo.

METHOD

Neonatal streptozotocin-induced non-obese type 2 diabetic rats were treated with a methanolic extract of EO (250 or 500 mg/kg) for 28 days, and blood glucose, serum insulin, and plasma antioxidant status were measured. Insulin and glucagon immunostaining and morphometry were performed in pancreatic section, and liver TBARS and GSH levels were measured. Additionally, EA was tested for glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and glucose tolerance test.

RESULTS

Treatment with EO extract resulted in a significant decrease in the fasting blood glucose in a dose- and time-dependent manner in the diabetic rats. It significantly increased serum insulin in the diabetic rats in a dose-dependent manner. Insulin-to-glucose ratio was also increased by EO treatment. Immunostaining of pancreas showed that EO₂₅₀ increased β-cell size, but EO₅₀₀ increased β-cells number in diabetic rats. EO significantly increased plasma total antioxidants and liver GSH and decreased liver TBARS. EA stimulated glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from isolated islets and decreased glucose intolerance in diabetic rats.

CONCLUSION

Ellagic acid in EO exerts anti-diabetic activity through the action on β-cells of pancreas that stimulates insulin secretion and decreases glucose intolerance.

Toxicological Evaluation of Emblica officinalis Fruit Extract and its Anti-inflammatory and Free Radical Scavenging Properties

BACKGROUND

Emblica officinalis (Euphorbiaceae), popularly known as Indian gooseberry or "Amla" in India, is used in Ayurveda as "rejuvenating herb" since ancient times.

OBJECTIVE

This study was carried out to estimate toxicity, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative activities of the methanolic extract of Emblica officinalis fruit (MEO) in an animal model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Antioxidative property of MEO was assessed by in vitro assays such as phosphomolybdenum assay (total antioxidant capacity), free radical scavenging assays 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2'-azino-bis and 3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (DPPH and ABTS method) and lipid peroxidation assay (LPO). The anti-inflammatory property was evaluated by carrageenan-induced acute inflammation in rats by measuring rat paw volume at different time intervals and toxicological analysis using mice.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

High performance liquid chromatography studies revealed the presence of gallic acid (2.10%), mucic acid (4.90%), ellagic acid (2.10%), quercetin (28.00%), rutin (3.89%), and β-glucogallin (1.46%). MEO showed highest antioxidant activities by using DPPH (17.33-89.00%), ABTS (23.03-94.16%), nitric oxide scavenging activity (12.94-70.16%), LPO (56.54%), and phosphomolybdenum assay (142 ± 6.09 μg/ml). The LD50 was found to be approximately 1125 mg/kg (p.o). High dose of MEO showed significant reduction (72.71%) in the inflammation after 4 h of treatment, which was comparable to diclofenac (10 mg/kg) (61.57%) treated group. Significant reduction (P < 0.05) in the inflammatory cytokine (interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α) markers were also observed (57.25% and 35.41%, respectively) in serum of MEO treated animals as compared to control.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, phenolic compounds of MEO may serve as a potential herbal drug for amelioration of acute inflammation due to their modulatory action on free radicals.

SUMMARY

The methanolic extract of Emblica officinalis fruit (MEO) has potent antioxidant activity as assessed by DPPH, ABTS and LPO assaysMEO has potent anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan induced paw edema modelThe phenolic compounds of MEO might be a potential herbal drug for amelioration of acute inflammation. Abbreviations used: ROS, reactive oxygen species; RNS, reactive nitrogen species, LPO, lipid peroxidation, NO, nitric oxide, IL, interleukin; TNF α tumor necrosis factor alpha; NSAIDs, nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs; AA, ascorbic acid; MEO, methanolic extract of Emblica officinalis fruit; ABTS+; 2,2' azino bis 3 ethylbenzthiazoline 6 sulphonic acid; DPPH, 1,1 diphenyl 2 picrylhydrazyl; HPLC, high performance liquid chromatography; MDA, malondialdehyde; DMSO, dimethyl sulphoxide; ELISA, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.

Plant mediated green synthesis and antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles using Emblica officinalis fruit extract

A green straight forward method of synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in an aqueous medium was designed using Emblica officinalis (EO) fruit extract as stabilizer and reducer. The formation of AgNPs depends on the effect of extract concentration and pH were studied. The AgNPs was synthesized using E.officinalis (fruit extract) and nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis spectrophotometer, the presence of biomolecules of E.officinalis capped in AgNPs was found by FT-IR analysis, shape and size were examined by SEM and XRD. The XRD analysis respects the Bragg's law and confirmed the crystalline nature of silver nanoparticles. From XRD the average size of AgNPs was found to be around 15nm. AFM has proved to be very helpful in the determination and verification of various morphological features and parameters. EO fruit extract mediated AgNPs was synthesized and confirmed through kinetic behavior of nanoparticles. The shape of the bio-synthesized AgNPs was spherical. Potent biomolecules of E.officinalis such as polyphenols, glucose, and fructose was capped with AgNPs which reduces the toxicity. The synthesized AgNPs were tested for its antibacterial activity against the isolates by disc diffusion method. The obtained results confirmed that the E.officinalis fruit extract is a very good bioreductant for the synthesis of AgNPs. It was investigated that the synthesized AgNPs showed inhibition and had significant antibacterial against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains.

Tannoid principles of Emblica officinalis renovate cognitive deficits and attenuate amyloid pathologies against aluminum chloride induced rat model of Alzheimer's disease

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Emblica officinalis is mentioned as a maharasayana in many Ayurvedic texts and promotes intelligence, memory, freedom from disease, longevity, and strength of the senses. The present study has been designed to explore the memory-enhancing effect of the tannoid principles of E. officinalis (EoT) at the biochemical, anatomical, behavioral, and molecular levels against aluminum chloride (AlCl3) induced Alzheimer's disease (AD) in rats. Aluminum is reported to have an important role in the etiology, pathogenesis, and development of AD.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats were divided into control, AlCl3 treated, AlCl3 and EoT (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg bw) co-treated, and EoT (200 mg/kg bw) alone treated groups. In control and experimental rats, behavior tests including water maze and open field test, estimation of aluminum, assay of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and expression of amyloidogenic proteins were performed.

RESULTS

Intraperitonial injection of AlCl3 (100 mg/kg bw) for 60 days significantly elevated the concentration of aluminum (Al), activity of AChE and protein expressions of amyloid precursor protein, A-beta1-42, beta-, and gamma-secretases as compared to control group in hippocampus and cortex. Co-administration of EoT orally to AlCl3 rats for 60 days significantly revert back the Al concentration, AChE activity, and A-beta synthesis-related molecules in the studied brain regions. The spatial learning, memory, and locomotor impairments observed in AlCl3 treated rats were significantly attenuated by EoT.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, EoT may be a promising therapy in ameliorating neurotoxicity of aluminum, however further studies are warranted to elucidate the exact mechanism of action of EoT.

Immunomodulatory effects of triphala and its individual constituents: a review

The role of plant extracts and Ayurvedic polyherbal preparations in treating various ailments has been acknowledged since time immemorial. Studies based on the effect of these extracts in treatment of different diseases have also been well documented. Indian medicinal literature also emphasizes the synergistic effect of polyherbal drugs in restoring and rejuvenating immune system. This review focuses on the immunomodulatory potential of the polyherbal preparation, Triphala and its three constituents, Terminalia bellerica, Terminalia chebula and Emblica officinalis. The role of Triphala and its extract has been emphasized in stimulating neutrophil function. Under stress condition such as noise, Triphala significantly prevents elevation of IL-4 levels as well as corrects decreased IL-2 and IFN-γ levels. Under the condition of inflammatory stress its immunosuppressive activity is attributed to its inhibitory action on complement system, humoral immunity, cell mediated immunity and mitogen-induced T-lymphocyte proliferation. The aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the individual constituents reportedly enhance especially the macrophage activation due to their free radical scavenging activity and the ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species. This study thus concludes the use of Triphala and its three individual constituents as potential immunostimulants and/or immunosuppressants further suggests them to be a better alternative for allopathic immunomodulators.

Role of Triphala in dentistry

Ayurveda is considered as the “science of life,” because the ancient Indian system of health care focused views of man and his illness. India has an age-old heritage of traditional herbal medicine. Conventional drugs usually provide effective antibiotic therapy for bacterial infections, but there is an increasing problem of antibiotic resistance and a continuing need for new solutions. Hence, now herbal drugs are being preferred to synthetic antibiotics. ‘Triphala’ is a well-known powdered preparation in the Indian system of medicine (ISM). It consists of equal parts of the Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, and Terminalia belerica. Currently, Triphala is being extensively researched for its various therapeutic effects including its anti-caries, antioxidant, anti-collagenase, and anti-microbial activities. The present review will focus on the comprehensive appraisal of Triphala and its several applications in dentistry.

Comparative "in vitro" evaluation of the antiresorptive activity residing in four Ayurvedic medicinal plants. Hemidesmus indicus emerges for its potential in the treatment of bone loss diseases

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Four Indian plants, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine: Asparagus racemosus Willd., Emblica officinalis Gaertn., Hemidesmus indicus R. Br., and Rubia cordifolia L. were selected on the basis of their ethnobotanical use and of scientific evidence that suggests a potential efficacy in the treatment of bone-loss diseases. The antiresorptive properties of the four plants have been investigated. The aim was to provide adequate evidence for the exploitation of natural compounds as alternative therapeutics for the treatment of diseases caused by increased osteoclast activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Decoctions were prepared from dried plant material according to the traditional procedure and standardization by HPLC was performed using marker compounds for each species. Total polyphenols, flavonoids and radical scavenging activity of the decoctions were also determined. The bioactivity of the plant decoctions was evaluated in subsequent phases. (1) A cytotoxicity screening was performed on the mouse monocytic RAW 264.7 cell line to define the concentrations that could be utilized in the following step. (2) The antiresorptive properties of plant decoctions were compared with that of a "gold standard" drug (alendronate) by measuring osteoclastogenesis inhibition and osteoclast apoptosis. (3) The toxic effect on bone forming cells was excluded by evaluating the impact on the proliferation of osteogenic precursors (mesenchymal stem cells, MSC).

RESULTS

All the decoctions inhibited osteoclastogenesis similarly to alendronate at the highest doses, but Hemidesmus indicus and Rubia cordifolia were also effective at lower concentrations. Apoptosis increased significantly when cells were exposed to the highest concentration of Emblica officinalis, Hemidesmus indicus, and Rubia cordifolia. All concentrations of Emblica officinalis tested inhibited the proliferation of osteogenic precursors, while only the highest doses of Asparagus racemosus and Rubia cordifolia were toxic. On the contrary, Hemidesmus indicus did not affect osteogenic precursor growth at any concentration tested.

CONCLUSION

Among the medicinal plants included in the study, Hemidesmus indicus showed the greatest antiosteoclastic activity without toxic effect on osteogenic precursors. Therefore, Hemidesmus indicus exhibits the properties of an antiresorptive drug and represents the ideal candidate for further clinical investigations.