Contemporary Healthcare Systems Research Articles

Hierarchical Deep Learning for Robust Cybersecurity in Multi-Cloud Healthcare Infrastructures

Patient safety is in danger because healthcare networks are more susceptible to cyberattacks as they become more intricate and linked. By altering data transmitted between various system components, malicious actors can hack into these networks. As cloud, edge, and IoT technologies become more widely used in contemporary healthcare systems, this difficulty is predicted to increase. This study presents a Combined Hybrid Deep Learning Framework with Layer Reuse for Cybersecurity (CHDLCY) to address this issue. This system is built to detect malicious actions that modify the metadata or payload of data flows across IoT gateways, edge, and core clouds quickly and precisely. The CHDLCY's is a unique design demanding less training time, while bigger models at the core cloud profit from a cutting-edge layer-merging method. The core cloud model is partially pre-trained by reusing layers from trained edge cloud models, which drastically reduces the number of training epochs required from 35 to 40 to just 6 to 8. Thorough tests demonstrated that CHDLCY not only accelerates the training phase but also achieves remarkable accuracy rates, ranging from 98% to 100%, in identifying cyber threats. The proposed approach offers a significant improvement over previous models in terms of training efficiency and generalizability to new datasets.

Examining the impact of psychosocial safety climate on working conditions, well-being and safety of healthcare providers: a scoping review

BackgroundIn contemporary healthcare systems, the well-being and safety of healthcare providers are pivotal for sustaining a resilient healthcare system. The concept of Psychosocial Safety Climate (PSC) emerges as a crucial framework influencing job design and employee perceptions in organisational settings, although its application within healthcare settings remains relatively underexplored. The aim of this review was to explore the buffering effect of PSC and its impact on working conditions, well-being and performance.MethodThis scoping review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s recommendations and PRISMA-ScR reporting checklist. Databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Central, JSTOR, and additional online sources such as Google Scholar were searched. Only peer-reviewed studies published in English that have measured PSC using PSC-12 or PSC-4 were included in this study.FindingsHigh PSC environments correlated with enriched job resources, fostering resilience, positive job performance, and reduced job demands. Conversely, low PSC settings were linked to increased job demands, compromised well-being, and adverse job performance outcomes. Notably, PSC acted as a buffer, mitigating the negative impacts of high job demands on well-being and reinforcing positive associations between job resources, support, and performance facets among healthcare professionals.ConclusionThis review highlights the pivotal role of PSC in shaping the work environment, well-being, and performance of healthcare providers. Prioritising PSC within healthcare settings is crucial to safeguarding the well-being of healthcare providers and improving patient outcomes. Future research should further explore the relationships between PSC, burnout, and other influencing factors, employing diverse methodologies to capture its comprehensive impact within healthcare settings.

Integration of Traditional Medicine with Modern Methods

Traditional Indian medicine is deeply rooted in a holistic, preventive approach, addressing mind, body, and spirit . The amalgamation of traditional Indian medicine, such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani, with modern allopathic practices represents an evolving approach in healthcare aimed at harmonizing ancient holistic healing methods with modern scientific rigor . Ayurveda, for example, focuses on balancing the body's energies and employs natural remedies, which can complement the disease-centered, evidence-based approach of modern medicine . However, challenges in this integration include the need for scientific validation of traditional practices, regulatory standardization, and overcoming historical biases between practitioners of both systems . Literature reveals the potential for significant mutual benefits. Ayurveda’s therapies, such as Panchakarma , Shatkriyakala and Rasayana, have shown promise in managing chronic diseases , enhancing stress tolerance and integrates Ayurvedic principles with modern genetics for personalized medicine . The Herbal involvement in apothecary practices augments a steady treatment approach which can be slow paced than allopathic ways but are much more fruitful . On the modern side, evidence-based research methodologies, like randomized controlled trials, have begun evaluating the efficacy of traditional treatments, though more extensive studies are necessary to fully validate their use . Successful models of integration, such as the AYUSH ministry’s initiatives in India, provide pathways for incorporating traditional medicine into contemporary healthcare systems . This paper discusses the evolving scenario of unification of medicine, highlights existing collaborative efforts, and proposes future directions for research, clinical practice, and policy to further bridge the gap between traditional and modern approaches. It aims to emphasize the importance of ensuring both cultural preservation and scientific validation to enhance patient outcomes and healthcare accessibility in a diverse, global context. Keywords Traditional medicine, Ayurveda , Ayush , Allopathic medicine , Chronic diseases, Collaborative healthcare , Evidence-based research, Herbal treatment, Personalised medicine , Scientific approach

A Critical Review on Advancing Preventive Health Research in Ayurveda: Strategic Approaches and Imperatives

Preventive health research in Ayurveda offers valuable strategies for disease prevention and health promotion, particularly in the context of modern health challenges such as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and pandemics like COVID-19. This review critically examines strategic approaches for advancing preventive health research within Ayurveda, emphasizing the need for evidence-based validation, integration with modern scientific methodologies, and global collaboration. Key practices, including Rasayana therapy, Dinacharya, and Ritucharya, demonstrate significant potential in enhancing immunity, promoting longevity, and mitigating lifestyle-related ailments. However, challenges such as limited clinical evidence, standardization issues, and underutilization of advanced research tools hinder progress. Addressing these challenges through rigorous clinical trials, interdisciplinary research, and policy advocacy can ensure Ayurveda’s relevance in contemporary healthcare systems. The integration of traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern scientific approaches will enhance the global applicability of Ayurveda in preventive health.

Art and Health: Lessons from Indigenous Cultures

This paper examines the interconnectedness of art and health in Indigenous cultures, examining how traditional artistic practices contribute to holistic well-being. Indigenous approaches to health often integrate art as a therapeutic practice, aligning spiritual, emotional, and community health with cultural expressions like storytelling, dance, and visual arts. The paper highlights the potential for integrating these insights into contemporary healthcare systems by analyzing Indigenous health practices that embody holistic and community-focused values. The study offers a framework for reimagining healthcare to address broader aspects of human experience beyond clinical disease models, emphasizing the significance of cultural and spiritual health in promoting resilience and well-being. This work serves as a call to action for healthcare practitioners and policymakers to recognize and incorporate Indigenous healing methods and artistic expressions within modern health interventions. Keywords: Indigenous healing, art and health, holistic healthcare, cultural health practices, traditional medicine, community well-being.

Pyrazole Amides Towards Trailblazing Antimicrobial Research: Bridging in Vivo Insights and Molecular Docking Studies

Antimicrobial resistance presents a significant threat to contemporary healthcare systems, making it increasingly difficult to treat infections that were once easily managed. This study aims to assess the efficacy of pyrazole benzamide derivatives (M5a–M5o), which were synthesized for their antimicrobial and antifungal activities. These compounds were tested against methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin resistant staphylococcus aureus (VRSA), mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv and other resistant species. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were determined using standardized protocols to evaluate their potency and effectiveness. Molecular docking studies were also conducted to explore potential interactions and binding affinities at the molecular level, providing further insights into their antimicrobial and anti-tubercular mechanisms. Compounds M5i, M5k, and M5b emerged as the most potent, displaying MIC value of 3.12 μg/ml. These compounds show great potential as new agents in addressing the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance. Molecular docking studies against Enoyl-[acyl-carrier-protein] reductase (4DRE), revealed key interactions, with compound M5n showing a docking energy of -9.8 kcal/mol and compound M5g at -9.6 kcal/mol. These compounds formed important hydrogen bonds and π-interactions with residues like Lys165, Gly14, Ser94, and Ile21. Overall, the findings indicate that specific pyrazole-benzamide derivatives exhibit promising antimicrobial and antifungal activities, underscoring their potential as therapeutic agents. Additionally, the integration of molecular docking studies proves valuable in guiding the development and optimization of these compounds for future therapeutic applications.

Strengthening the pain care ecosystem to support equitable, person-centered, high-value musculoskeletal pain care.

Improving health and wellbeing outcomes for people experiencing chronic musculoskeletal pain requires collective efforts across multiple levels of a healthcare ecosystem. System-wide barriers to care equity must however be addressed (eg, lack of co-designed services; overuse of low value care/underuse of high value care; inadequate health workforce; inappropriate funding models; inequitable access to medicines and technologies; inadequate research and innovation). In this narrative review, utilizing a systems' thinking framework, we synthesize novel insights on chronic musculoskeletal pain research contextualized through the lens of this complex, interconnected system, the "pain care ecosystem." We examine the application of systems strengthening research to build capacity across this ecosystem to support equitable person-centred care and healthy ageing across the lifespan. This dynamic ecosystem is characterized by three interconnected levels. At its centre is the person experiencing chronic musculoskeletal pain (micro-level). This level is connected with health services and health workforce operating to co-design and deliver person-centred care (meso-level), underpinned further upstream by contemporary health and social care systems (macro-level context). We provide emerging evidence for how we, and others, are working towards building ecosystem resilience to support quality musculoskeletal pain care: at the macro-level (eg, informing musculoskeletal policy and health strategy priorities); at the meso-level (eg, service co-design across care settings; health workforce capacity); and downstream, at the micro-level (eg, person-centred care). We outline the mechanisms and methodologies utilized and explain the outcomes, insights and impact of this research, supported by real world examples extending from Australian to global settings.

Innovative Approaches to Strengthening Preventative Care in Contemporary Healthcare: A Systematic Review

Preventative care plays a critical role in reducing disease burden, improving patient outcomes, and lowering healthcare costs in contemporary medicine. However, the effective implementation of preventative care strategies faces numerous challenges, including technological, financial, and social barriers. This systematic review explores innovative approaches aimed at strengthening preventative care in modern healthcare systems. Key innovations include the use of telemedicine, artificial intelligence (AI), personalized medicine, and community-based public health initiatives. Telemedicine and AI have revolutionized early detection and risk assessment, while personalized medicine and genomic screening allow for tailored preventative interventions. Additionally, behavioral economics and health education programs have proven effective in promoting healthier lifestyles and improving adherence to preventative measures. The review evaluates the impact of these innovations on patient outcomes and highlights both the benefits and challenges of implementing these approaches. While the advancements offer promising results, further research is needed to address issues related to equity, ethical concerns, and global applicability. This review provides valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers looking to enhance the effectiveness of preventative care strategies in contemporary healthcare systems.

Adaptation and Validation of the Nursing Attitude Questionnaire in a Spanish Population.

Nursing, as an essential component of contemporary healthcare systems, has undergone significant changes in recent decades, resulting in an increase in research across various fields, such as mental health, well-being, and the development of the discipline itself. Currently, gender stereotypes persist, impacting the social image of the profession and influencing the professional identity of nurses and consequently, their work performance and the quality of care provided. Both public and internal perceptions of the profession are critical factors in these dynamics. to adapt and validate the Nursing Attitude Questionnaire in a Spanish sample, as it has only been validated in two languages to date. This study presents descriptive and validity analyses of several measures utilized, such as Nursing Image (NIS), Medical Empathy (JSE-HP), Professional Values (NPVS) and Communication Skills (HP-CSS). Confirmatory factor model analyses indicated that a 21-item hierarchical model provided a superior fit (χ2(df = 1.65, NFI = 0.954, SRMR = 0.065), suggesting the presence of a general factor accounting for five first-order factors. Internal consistency was deemed adequate for the total measures (α = 0.789), though variable for the subscales. Correlations among measures provided evidence of convergent and discriminant validity, highlighting consistent correlation patterns between Attitude toward Nursing and other variables. In addition, significant differences were observed in the Professionalism subscale according to sex, albeit with a medium-low effect size. Scales are presented to facilitate future interpretation of the results in similar samples. The scale validated in this study exhibited overall good psychometric performance, although certain limitations were identified within the subscales. The established scales represent a novel contribution, providing a valuable tool for the comparison of similar samples.

Fostering collaboration: an exploration of knowledge exchange between Rongoā Māori practitioners and surgical clinicians.

This research investigates the potential for collaboration of Rongoā Māori, the Indigenous healing practices of Māori, with New Zealand's contemporary healthcare system. It aims to bridge the gap between Rongoā Māori and Western medicine by exploring the perspectives of practitioners from both fields, identifying barriers to integration, and highlighting potential areas for collaboration. Qualitative interviews were conducted with both Rongoā practitioners and Western surgeons. The data collected were subjected to thematic analysis to extract key themes related to the integration process, challenges faced, and the potential for mutual recognition and respect between the two healing paradigms. The study reveals a deep respect for Rongoā Māori among Western surgeons but identifies significant systemic barriers that impede its integration. These include bureaucratic challenges and the absence of clear referral pathways. Rongoā practitioners express concerns over being overlooked within the healthcare system and highlight a lack of awareness among healthcare professionals about their practices. Despite these challenges, there is a shared interest in collaborative approaches to healthcare that respect and incorporate Rongoā Māori. The findings underscore the need for systemic changes to facilitate the integration of Rongoā Māori into mainstream healthcare, including the development of clear referral pathways and initiatives to raise awareness among healthcare professionals. The study highlights the need for a more collaborative healthcare approach that values the contributions of Rongoā Māori, aiming to improve patient care through holistic practices.

Pharmacovigilance in Ayurveda: Present & Future

Pharmacovigilance is an important element of contemporary healthcare systems, as it involves the detection and evaluation of risks associated with medications and devices. Though originally a construct linked to conventional medicine, pharmacovigilance is now embraced as crucial for Ayurvedic medicine that employs numerous herbal and mineral drugs. The main focus of this paper is to discuss how pharmacovigilance can be incorporated into Ayurveda to maintain the safety, efficacy, and credibility of Ayurvedic treatments. It provides an overview of how pharmacovigilance is currently practised, the issues related to Ayurveda, and the importance of implementing standard practices and guidelines. The future of pharmacovigilance in Ayurveda is presented as combining the holistic approach with contemporary tools, technologies, and global trends. Implementation processes customised for Ayurvedic treatments, measures regarding quality control, reporting mechanisms, and awareness creation are suggested to maintain the international acceptability and effectiveness of Ayurveda.

Traditional Black Midwifery to Enhance Birth Justice

In this commentary, we explore the significance of traditional Black midwifery practices across diaspora and global contexts, focusing on their potential for birth justice. By integrating cultural, health, and historical perspectives, we highlight the transformative power of traditional Black midwifery. Furthermore, we address the challenges that Black traditional and formally trained midwives face within contemporary health care systems. Barriers such as legal restrictions, limited recognition, and inadequate resources hinder the integration of Black midwifery into formal health care frameworks. Finally, strategies to promote collaboration, cultural, and respectful dialogue between traditional Black midwives and modern health care providers are proposed to overcome these challenges.

The last word: An analysis of power dynamics in clinical notes documenting against-medical-advice discharges

Against Medical Advice (AMA) discharges pose significant challenges to the healthcare system, straining patient-clinician relationships while contributing to avoidable morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, though these discharges culminate in patients' departure from hospitals, their effects reverberate long after, propagated by clinician notes stored in patients' medical records. These notes capture exceptionally fraught interactions between patients and providers, describing the circumstances surrounding breakdowns in clinical relationships. Additionally, they represent just one side of complex, contentious social interactions, for in describing AMA discharges, clinician notewriters quite literally have the last word. For these reasons, notes documenting AMA discharges provide insight into the ways in which clinicians conceptualize, characterize, and propagate power differentials in the contemporary healthcare system. Here, we present a qualitative thematic analysis of 185 notes documenting AMA discharges from a large urban US medical center, interpreting note dynamics through three sociological models of power analysis: (i) the distributive model of power promulgated by Max Weber, (ii) the collectivist power model characterized by Talcott Parsons and Hannah Arendt, and (iii) structural interpretations of power developed by Michel Foucault. We argue that in documenting AMA discharges, clinicians appear to conceive of their relationship with patients in almost exclusively distributive terms, which in turn contributes to an adversarial dynamic whereby both patients and clinicians ultimately suffer disempowerment. We furthermore argue that by facilitating clinicians' recognition of power's collectivist and structural dimensions, we may help transform breakdowns in patient-clinician relationships into opportunities for collaboration.

BIOREALIZATION ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGIES FOR CANCER DIAGNOSIS: IMPACT ON THE HEALTH SYSTEM

This article delves into the analysis of the impact of bio-realization engineering technologies on cancer diagnostic processes within the contemporary healthcare system. The objective of the article is to identify the potential of molecular-genetic testing and other bio-realization methods in enhancing diagnostic capabilities and therapeutic approaches for oncological diseases. To achieve this goal, general scientific methods of analysis and synthesis of existing research in this field are utilized, including a review of scientific literature and a critical analysis of the results of experimental studies. The findings confirm the significant impact of bio-realization engineering technologies on the advancement of cancer diagnostics. Specifically, molecular-genetic testing opens new avenues for early detection and personalized treatment approaches for cancer, based on the genetic characteristics of tumors. These technologies are particularly valuable for countries with limited medical resources, as they offer cost-effective and efficient solutions that provide broader access to quality diagnostic services. They also contribute to improving the overall efficacy of treatment strategies and optimizing medical research, reducing the burden on medical staff. The practical significance of the obtained results lies in the possibility of their application in the development of new diagnostic tools and techniques aimed at enhancing the accuracy, accessibility, and efficiency of cancer treatment. This, in turn, may contribute to reducing mortality from oncological diseases and improving patients' quality of life. Bio-realization engineering technologies, particularly molecular-genetic testing, play a pivotal role in modern oncological diagnostics, offering promising opportunities for the improvement of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for cancer. Their integration into the healthcare system enhances diagnostic accuracy, treatment accessibility, and the overall level of medical services, opening new horizons in the fight against oncological diseases.

ROLE OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE IN MEGHALAYA'S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM: A REVIEW AND REFLECTIONS

Since time immemorial plants have been used for a variety of purposes in the life of mankind, particularly as food, and medicines for nutrition and the treatment of diseases for both humans and animals. They are utilized across various cultures globally and have been depended upon for several millennia to support, promote, and restore human health. India has a long history of traditional medicine and Ayurveda is the most representative system. Ayurveda is a life science derived from experience. The North-East region of India, especially Meghalaya, is rich in biodiversity, making it an ideal setting for practices of traditional medicine. Traditional Healers in Meghalaya employ a diverse range of healing methods that are based on plants, which demonstrate significant potential, despite the lack of adequate scientific research to support these practices. Integration of traditional and contemporary healthcare systems is becoming increasingly popular as more and more people seek out alternative forms of healthcare, especially post-pandemic.Against this backdrop, this paper discusses the traditional medicinal knowledge that exists in Meghalaya and its uses to cure various ailments. This study explores the role of Traditional Medicine in the healthcare system in Meghalaya. Focusing on integrating traditional knowledge into modern medicine, the article aims to elucidate the benefit of integrating traditional knowledge into modern medical practices, fostering comprehensive healthcare solutions.

Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants Used in the Treatment of Transmissible Diseases

Herbal medicine, as an ancient traditional medical method, predates the establishment of contemporary healthcare systems within human culture. Globally, several groups develop their own indigenous forms of medicine and corresponding methodologies for treating and enhancing overall well-being. The research presents a comprehensive ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used in the treatment of transmissible diseases in Katsina State. A random selection technique was employed in conjunction with an open-ended interview guide over the period spanning from October 2022 to June 2023. The demographic information of the respondents was ascertained using Excel 2016. Quantitatively, the documented plants were subjected to analysis based on their Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC). This study identified 26 medicinal plants used in the administration and treatment of various transmissible diseases in the northern Nigerian state of Katsina. Moringa oleifera (28%) is the most frequently reported plant, followed by Olea Europaea (24%) and Azadirachta indica (20%). Leaves were the most frequently used part of the plants (69%), common method of preparation is decoction (65%). As their popularity and recognition expanded throughout the world, plants with medical potential remain the sole hope for the future. According to the current study, people of Katsina citizens had a solid awareness of the medicinal plant. Even with the progress of contemporary medicine, the people in the area still depend on using traditional plants for medical purposes.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Risk Factor for Premature Discontinuation of Inpatient Opioid Withdrawal Treatment.

Background: Substance use disorders present a tremendous challenge within contemporary healthcare systems. Specifically, in the domain of opioid use disorders (OUDs), several foundational elements are crucial for the efficacious management of afflicted individuals. Regrettably, the premature discontinuation of inpatient opioid withdrawal treatment is a prevalent phenomenon. This study aims to elucidate the prevalence of the premature termination of inpatient opioid withdrawal treatment among patients with comorbid ADHD. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive assessment of all participants currently undergoing inpatient opioid withdrawal treatment. Our assessment protocol included the administration of the ADHD Self-Report Scale (ADHD-SR) and the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS-k). Additionally, participants who met the thresholds on one or both questionnaires underwent further evaluation using the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults (DIVA-2.0). Results: The prevalence of individuals diagnosed with ADHD within the studied cohort was determined to be 29.3%. Among the subset of participants identified as ADHD-positive, a notable 54.5% prematurely ceased therapy. In contrast, among those identified as ADHD-negative, the premature discontinuation rate was substantially lower at 28.3%. Conclusions: In summary, the impact of ADHD as a comorbid condition on the efficacy of inpatient opioid withdrawal treatment has been underscored. By identifying comorbid ADHD early in the treatment process, tailored therapeutic approaches may help to maximize the effectiveness of interventions and may improve patient outcomes. This underscores the importance of proactive screening for ADHD as a psychiatric comorbidity in optimizing the management of individuals undergoing inpatient opioid withdrawal treatment.

Bridging theory and practice: enhancing medical education through simulation-based training methods

ntroduction. With the complexities of contemporary healthcare systems and the paramount importance of high-quality patient care, Simulation-Based Medical Education (SBME) has emerged as a pivotal innovation in the process of training healthcare professionals. This study explores the integration of SBME in undergraduate medical education to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical practice, thereby preparing students with the necessary competencies for effective healthcare delivery. Material and methods. Employing a narrative review approach, this study meticulously examined relevant literature from multiple databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, and MedEdPublish. Following objectives, we chose the sources that were best suited to explore our research questions, focusing on keywords such as „simulation”, „undergraduate medical education”, „simulation-based medical education”, „theoretical frameworks”, „procedural framework” „curriculum design”, „training efficacy”, and „training evaluation” with no restriction for the date of publications. Results. The review identified foundational educational theories underpinning SBME, such as Experiential Learning Theory and Adult Learning Theory, and traced the evolution of simulation methods from simple anatomical models to sophisticated high-fidelity simulators and virtual reality technologies. Various simulation techniques, including task trainers, manikins, and standardized patients, were analyzed for their educational value. Significant benefits of SBME, such as enhanced safety, repeatability, and adaptability, were highlighted alongside challenges like high costs and limited access. Comparative analysis revealed SBME’s advantages over traditional clinical education, particularly in learning efficiency and scalability. Conclusions. SBME represents a transformative approach in undergraduate medical education, offering a dynamic and interactive learning environment that significantly enhances clinical skills, critical thinking, and confidence. Despite its challenges, the integration of simulation-based methodologies into medical curricula is essential for addressing the evolving needs of medical training and improving patient care outcomes. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to assess the long-term impact of SBME on clinical practice and explore the integration of emerging technologies to enhance the efficacy and accessibility of simulation-based training.

EXPLORING THE ROLE OF AYURVEDA IN DISEASE PREVENTION: ANCIENT WISDOM IN MODERN HEALTHCARE

In an era where modern medicine dominates the healthcare landscape, the ancient practice of Ayurveda continues to stand the test of time, offering profound insights and holistic approaches to disease prevention. Originating over 5,000 years ago, Ayurveda, which translates to "the science of life," emphasizes the balance of mind, body, and spirit for overall well-being. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Ayurveda as people seek more natural and holistic approaches to health. This article delves into the role of Ayurveda in preventing diseases and its integration into contemporary healthcare systems. AIMS & OBJECTIVES: • To investigate the relevance of ancient Ayurvedic wisdom in contemporary healthcare. • Being aware of ayurvedic practices and recommendations for both physical and mental health. • Adopting the ayurvedic principles in daily life to attain optimal immunity for combating and preventing diseases. METHODS AND MATERIALS: • This literary review material comes from Brihatrayees and Laghutrayees. The fundamental concepts of disease prevention are investigated and compiled to create a more comprehensive framework for disease prevention in Ayurveda.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Sambong Blumea balsamifera on Diuretic and Kidney Stone Dissolution Effects

This study investigates the pharmacological effects of Blumea balsamifera (Sambong), a plant traditionally used in Filipino medicine for its diuretic and kidney stone-dissolving properties. Using Soxhlet and maceration extraction methods, Sambong extracts were obtained from the leaves and roots of the plant with ethanol as the solvent. Phytochemical analysis revealed bioactive compounds including flavonoids (luteolin, quercetin) and terpenoids (β-caryophyllene), known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and diuretic effects. The diuretic activity was tested in rats, where Sambong extracts (50 mg/mL and 100 mg/mL) were administered and the urine output was measured over 24 hours. The results showed a dose-dependent increase in urine output, with the 100 mg/mL dose producing a significant increase compared to the control group treated with furosemide. In addition to its diuretic effects, Sambong’s potential to dissolve kidney stones was evaluated by treating rats with calcium oxalate stones. The results indicated a significant reduction in stone size, with the 100 mg/mL dose achieving a 38% reduction. The comparative analysis with furosemide demonstrated that Sambong is a promising natural alternative for managing conditions such as hypertension, kidney stones, and urinary disorders, particularly in areas with limited access to pharmaceutical treatments. These findings validate Sambong’s traditional uses and highlight its therapeutic potential in modern healthcare. Future research should focus on clinical trials to assess its safety, optimal dosage, and efficacy in humans. Further investigation into its pharmacological mechanisms, including its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, could expand its use in treating various conditions, integrating Sambong into contemporary healthcare systems, especially in underserved areas.