Different Doses Of Aqueous Extract Research Articles

Anti –Inflammatory Effect of Methanolic and Aqueous Extracts of Urtica pilulifera L. Seed in Rats

Wide range of acute and chronic inflammatory ailments, side effects of their available therapies and incomplete treatment of such patients push the researches to find new and more effective drugs. To reach this aim, in the current study, we evaluate Urtica pilulifera L. (family Urticaceae) as an introduced traditional herb for treatment of inflammation in Persian Medicine (PM). In an animal study, Anti-inflammatory effects of U. pilulifera were assessed in formalin-induced hind paw edema in rats. Sodium salicylate (300 mg/kg, i.p., SS) injection was used as a positive control drug and compared with methanolic extract of U. pilulifera (20 mg/kg; i.p.) (MUP), three different doses of aqueous extract of U. pilulifera (20, 40 and 80 mg/kg; i.p.) (AUP) and a group of distilled water (6 mL/kg; i.p.). As acute anti-inflammatory effect, AUP in doses 40 and 80 mg/kg decreased edema significantly (p<0.05). In chronic anti-inflammatory response, results indicated that all AUP doses had anti-inflammatory effects (p <0.05) with no significant difference with SS group. In conclusion, AUP had anti-inflammatory effects on both acute and chronic edema; while MUP was only effective in chronic inflammation.

Antihyperlipidemic effect of Vaccinium dunalianum buds based on biological activity screening and LC-MS.

The buds of Vaccinium dunalianum Wight are used as folk medicine in the Yi settlement of the Yunnan Province, China. It has long been used as herbal tea in the local area owing to its effects of lowering blood lipids and body weight. However, there are only a few studies on its antihyperlipidemic effects, effective substances and mechanisms, especially its effectiveness in diet-induced hyperlipidemia. This study aimed to elucidate the therapeutic effects, pharmacodynamic material bases, and mechanisms of V. dunalianum buds on diet-induced hyperlipidemia. A high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemic Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat model was established. Rats were gavaged with different doses of aqueous extract of V. dunalianum(VDW) for 8 weeks and their sera and organ samples were collected. The antihyperlipidemic effect of VDW on SD rats was evaluated based on the biochemical indices and histopathological outcomes. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(LC-MS) was used to determine the main components in VDW, which were separated and purified using sequential chromatographic methods. Their chemical structures were determined using high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. 6'-O-caffeoyl-arbutin, as the principal component of VDW, was also evaluated for its antihyperlipidemic activity using an approach similar to that used for VDW. Lastly, the potential targets of VDW and 6'-O-caffeoyl-arbutin in lowering blood lipids were screened out using network pharmacology, and the selected targets were docked with arbutin derivatives. The expression of target proteins was determined using western blotting to illustrate the antihyperlipidemic mechanisms of VDW and 6'-O-caffeoyl-arbutin. VDW reduced triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase levels in the serum of modeled rats, and increased high-density lipoprotein levels. There was an improvement in steatoses, and lipid droplet accumulation decreased in vivo after VDW intervention. LC-MS revealed that VDW mainly contained arbutin and chlorogenic acid derivatives. Sixteen compounds were isolated and identified. 6'-O-caffeoyl-arbutin was the main compound of VDW (>21.67%) that showed obvious antihyperlipidemic effect with low hepatic damage at different doses. PTGS2, ADH1C, and MAOB were screened out using network pharmacology and they showed strong correlations with arbutin derivative through molecular docking. Results from WB showed that VDW and 6'-O-caffeoyl-arbutin could reduce blood lipid levels by reducing the protein expression of PTGS2, ADH1C, and MAOB. 6'-O-caffeoyl-arbutin was the main component of V. dunalianum buds. VDW and 6'-O-caffeoyl-arbutin could regulate blood lipid levels in the high-fat diet-induced rat model of hyperlipidemia without damaging their vital organs. Furthermore, they could regulate the expression of PTGS2, ADH1C, and MAOB proteins and play a role in lowering blood lipids. The findings of this study lay a foundation for the further development of V. dunalianum and 6'-O-caffeoyl-arbutin as health supplements or drugs for the management of hyperlipidemia.

Attenuation of the cytotoxic, nephrotoxic and hepatotoxic effects of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats by aqueous extract of Lepidium sativum L. (Brassicaceae)

Diabetes mellitus is a health condition whose major feature is hyperglycemia that arises from various etiologies. Diabetes mellitus is connected with constraints in the metabolism of proteins and lipids which leads to complications such as hepatopathy, nephropathy, retinopathy and vasculopathy. Plant resources are utilized for better beneficial curative molecules, minimal side effects and cost. Lepidium sativum (garden cress) is a plant whose parts have been reportedly employed in the treatment of conditions like inflammation, diabetes, pyretism, hemorrhage and hypertension. This histopathological study sought to investigate the effect of the aqueous extract of L. sativum on the tissues of the pancreas, kidney, and liver in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Haematoxylin and Eosin Staining method of histopathology was employed and the cytotoxic, nephrotoxic and hepatoxic effects on the pancreatic Islet cells, kidney and liver were attenuated on treatment with different doses of aqueous extracts of L. sativum plant.

Secondary metabolite contents and safety assessment study of the aqueous extract from the Algerian Echium trygorrhizum Pomel roots

Ethnopharmacological relevanceSpecies of Echium trygorrhizum Pomel, belonging to the Boraginaceae family, grow wild in North Africa. This plant is used in traditional Algerian medicine for the treatment of Diabetes, Jaundice and Tonsillitis. Aim of the studyTo our knowledge, no work has been done on the phytochemistry and biological activities of this plant. Moreover, no study has yet corroborated that the use of this plant is safe. Therefore, the present study was carried out to gather information on the various medicinal uses of this plant and to evaluate the total phenolic content and assess its safety after acute and sub-acute toxicity tests with rodents (mice and rats). Material and methodsAn ethnopharmacological survey was carried out using a direct questionnaire. It included some questions relating to the plant. The content of polyphénols, flavonoids and tannins present in the aqueous extract was determined by colorimetric methods. In the acute toxicity tests, three groups each containing five males and five females Albino mice were formed. The control group received water, while the test groups received different doses of aqueous extract (2000 and 5000) mg/kg body weight. In the subacute toxicity study, different doses (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) of the aqueous extract were administered to male and female rats for 28 consecutive days. Hematological analysis, biochemical parameters estimation and histopathological examination have been determined at the end of the treatment. ResultsData from the ethnopharmacological survey showed that 25, 31% of people used this plant in Algeria as a traditional medicine for the treatment of Jaundice (100%), Diabetes (28, 33%) and Tonsillitis (10%). Results also revealed that aqueous extract contains high amounts of polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins. The extract did not cause any toxicity during the 14-days observation period after a single dose of 5000 mg/kg was administered to mice, with LD50 values greater than 5000 mg/kg. In a further step, the administration of the aqueous extract at all dose levels (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) to male and female rats during the 28-days study did not result in any deaths or behavioral changes, and there were no changes in body weight, relative organ weights, or food consumption as a result of this experiment. However, male rats showed a significant difference in relative liver weight in the high dose group (1000 mg/kg) (p < 0.05) and the satellite group (p < 0.01). In female rats, liver weight significantly increased only in the satellite group compared with the control group (p < 0.01). The results showed an increase in red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (Hct) in the female groups. However, a clear decrease was observed in plasma ALP enzyme activities in females treated with the doses of 250 and 1000 mg/kg (p < 0.05) after the treatment periods. ConclusionThe study indicated that the single dose of 5 g/kg AQE can be considered relatively safe as it did not cause death or any signs of toxicity in mice. Repeated oral administration of AQE at doses below 250 g/kg/day for 28 consecutive days can be considered relatively safe.

Sedative-Hypnotic Effects of Different Extracts and Fractions of Capparis Spinosa L. in Mice

Introduction: Capparis spinosa L. (Caper) is an aromatic plant growing in dry regions around the Mediterranean area. C. spinosa is shown to have several compounds such as tannins, sterols, alkaloids, polyphenols and flavonoids. Previous studies showed that flavonoids have sedative and hypnotic effects. The aim of this study was evaluating the sedative-hypnotic effects of various extracts and fractions of C. spinosa in different doses. Methods and Results: Maceration method was used for extraction of the aerial part of the plant. All experiments conducted on male NMRI mice (18-25g weight). For evaluation the hypnotic and sedative effects of plant, open field and pentobarbital induced sleep test were used. In this study, animals were treated with different doses of aqueous extract, methanolic extract, methanolic fraction and dichloromethane fraction (i.p.). In pentobarbital induced sleep test, the duration of lack of righting reflex was reported. In open field test, the locomotor activities of mice were calculated by measuring total distance moved in the open field arena. According to the results, the dichloromethane fraction decreased the total distance moved in the open field test (ED50 = 66.6 mg/kg) and also increased the sleep duration in pentobarbital induced sleep test (ED50 =18.7 mg/kg) compared with other extract and fractions groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, the dichloromethane fraction of C. spinosa has hypnotic and sedative effects compared to the other extract and fraction groups. Further studies are necessary to find the active components responsible for the several effects of the dichloromethane fraction and the exact mechanism of action of these effects.

Hematological changes and antidiabetic activities of Colocasia esculenta (L.schatt) stem tuber aqueous extract in alloxan induced diabetic rats

Management of blood glucose level is the hallmark in the treatment of diabetes. Much work has not been done on the management of diabetes using the stem tuber extract of Colocasia esculenta. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antihyperglycemic and hematological parameter on Colocasia esculenta aqueous stem extract in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Sixty (60) male rats were used in the study. Seven days of acclimatization, the rats were divided randomly into six groups of five in each group. Group 1: Served as normal control, Group 2: Diabetic control group (negative control), Group 3: Diabetic group and “Glucinorm-M80” (positive control), Group 4: Diabetic group and extract at 200 mg/kg bodyweight, Group 5: Diabetic group and extract at 400 mg/kg, Group 6: Diabetic group and extract at 600 mg/kg. Diabetes was induced in albino rats by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan at a single dose of 120 mg/kg body weight in groups 2 to 6 after starving them for 24 hrs. The animals were given feed and water ad libitum. The albino rats were administered for twenty eight days with the aqueous Colocasia esculenta stem tuber, after which they were fasted overnight, anaesthetized with chloroform and sacrificed. The result showed that there was a significant increase (p<0.05) in mean body weight of the positive control and the treatment groups (200 mg/kg to 600 mg/kg) when compared with the negative control which has a significant decrease (p<0.05) in mean body weight. The result showed that there was a substantial decrease in blood glucose of animals administered with different doses of aqueous extract of Colocasia esculenta stem tuber and the positive control group. The result showed that a significant difference (P<0.05) in the concentrations of RBC, PCV, HB, PLT and MCH of the treatment groups and negative group when compared with the normal control group. Also there was a significant difference in glycosylate hemoglobin of the treatment groups when compared with the control group and negative group. This study has demonstrated that aqueous stem tuber extract of Colocasia esculenta has a significant increase on body weight which may have a role of improving the states of possible weight loss following complicated diabetes. Also, aqueous stem tuber extract of Colocasia esculenta has an ameliorative effect on sugar level and some hematological parameters of alloxan induced diabetic rats showing effective diabetic control and management of diabetes.

The Consequence of Aqueous Extract of Tobacco Leaves (Nicotiana tabacum. L) on Feed Intake, Body Mass, and Hematological Indices of Male Wistar Rats fed under Equal Environmental Conditions

Objective While the dangers of consuming tobacco by smoking has been of concern, the hazardous effect of other forms of tobacco consumption (in smokeless form) on health indices are less well explored. In this paper, we explored the effect of different doses of aqueous extract of tobacco leaves on feed intake, body mass, and hematological indices of male Wistar rats under equal environmental conditions. Method Using an oral route of administration, the rats (n = 24; w = 65–85 g; 2–3 weeks old) were administered at different doses of 100, 200, 400, 0 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) per day to group A, B, C, and D for 42 days, after phytochemical and acute toxicity testing of the tobacco leaves. Results Compared to the negative control group (D), packed cell volume, hemoglobin concentration, red blood cells, and lymphocytes reduced dose-dependently in contrast to the white blood cells, neutrophils, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and mean corpuscular volume. As body mass and feed intake in relation to the different doses of aqueous extract of tobacco leaves reduced significantly (p < 0.05), the reverse was observed for body mass and feed intake in relation to room temperature. Conclusions By influencing hematological indices, feed intake, and body mass, the extract of tobacco leaves can be hazardous to health. However, to assess safety and to come up with a conscious conclusion, future studies should explore the effect of the extract on organs histopathology, biochemical parameters, and lipid profile of the body.

Vascular effects of aqueous Crocus sativus petals’ extract in the hypertensive rats

Background and Aim: Crocus sativus (C. sativus) petals attenuates smooth muscle tension and blood pressure in control animals. However the antihypertensive effect and its mechanisms haven’t been recognized. This study investigates the antihypertensive effects of C. sativus petals’ aqueous extract in hypertensive rats and also responses of the rat isolated perfused mesenteric bed. Materials and Methods: The interventional experimental study was performed on 20 male rats (divided to 5 and 15 rats for in vivo and in vitro studies respectively). Hypertension was induced by DOCA-salt injection (20 mg/kg, twice weekly, for 5 weeks, S.C) and water was replaced by NaCl (1%). Five weeks later, animals were anaesthetized with sodium thiopental (30 mg intraperitoneal). Then systemic arterial blood pressure was measured by cannulation of carotid artery following administration of different doses of aqueous extract of C. sativus. Isolated mesenteric beds precontracted with KCl (40 mM), and the tension was measured in presence of different concentrations of the aqueous extract. Finally, various doses of C. sativus extract were applied after incubation by L-NAME or indomethacin. The mesentry was perfused with pump and the recordings were done by physiograph. Results: Mean arterial blood pressure in hypertensive rats was 231±6 mmHg. Administration of aqueous extracts of C. sativus reduced the blood pressure in a dose–dependent manner. In mesenteric beds preparation, addition of C. sativus reduced the contractile effects of KCl. Incubation with L-NAME but not indomethacin abolished hypotension effect of the extract. Conclusion: It was proposed that the antihypertensive effects of C. sativus petals’ extract are through the reduction in total peripheral resistance following nitric oxide production.

Phytochemical screening and anti-implantation activity of Asparagus africanus root extract in female Sprague–Dawley rats

Asparagus africanus Lam., Asparagaceae, is used traditionally as medicinal plant for treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders and for birth related applications. This study aimed to evaluate anti-implantation potential, screening for bioactive phytochemicals and to determine its toxicity. Thirty healthy rats were distributed into five groups (n = 6). Pregnant rats were orally administered vehicle and aqueous extract A. africanus at three different doses thrice daily for seven days. Misoprostol 300 µg/kg bw was used as positive control. All rats were laparotomized 24 h after the last dose and number of live fetuses, implantations and resorption sites were enumerated, and ovaries were harvested for histopathology. The phytochemical analysis was carried out using LC/MS. Acute toxicity was investigated, the animals were randomly grouped into five groups (n = 3); control, four different doses of aqueous extract A. africanus at a single dose treatment and rats were observed for 14 days. Prenatal study demonstrated that 300 mg/kg bw of extract and misoprostol were significantly increased the percentage of anti-implantation as compared to untreated rats. Histopathology of ovaries showed a dose dependent toxicity. LC/MS revealed the presence of steroidal saponins; asparasaponin II, sarsasapogenin, spirostans, and stigmasterol. The mean weight gain of rats treated with 2000 mg/kg bw of aqueous extract was significantly reduced (p = 0.032) compared to control group. In conclusion, the aqueous extract A. africanus has anti-implantation effect in female rats and is safe up to 2000 mg/kg bw. In addition, it contains some potential steroidal saponins, which could be used to explain its anti-implantation activity, however this finding needs further pharmacological studies to confirm the antifertility activities.

Determination of genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects of wild-grown Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) using the hen’s egg test for analysis of micronucleus induction

ABSTRACTThe micronucleus (MN) technique is commonly used for genotoxicity testing. The hen’s egg test (HET) for analysis of MN induction (HET-MN) is an inexpensive, rapid and simple genotoxicity assay that is compatible with animal protection and ethical considerations. Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst is known also as reishi mushroom and mushroom of immortality. It has long been used to treat disorders including fungal infections, influenza, common cold, hepatitis, diabetes, high cholesterol and cancer in many countries including China and Japan. G. lucidum strengthens the immune system and reduces the side effects of chemo- and radiotherapy. We investigated the possible genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects of the aqueous extract of wild-grown G. lucidum from Turkey using the HET-MN test. Three different doses of aqueous extract of G. lucidum, 50 µg/egg vitamin C as an antigenotoxic agent and 50 µg/egg cyclophosphamide as a genotoxic compound were injected separately or together into fertilized chicken eggs at incubation day 8. Embryonic peripheral blood smears were prepared and stained with a modified May-Grünwald-Giemsa method on incubation day 11. The frequencies of MN and nuclear abnormalities in erythrocytes were determined using light microscopy. Although the aqueous extract G. lucidum exhibited no genotoxic effect, it did exhibit an antigenotoxic effect. Our findings suggest that G. lucidum extract is a valuable natural antigenotoxic agent.

Antihyperglycaemia and related gene expressions of aqueous extract of Gongronema latifolium leaf in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Context: Gongronema latifolium Benth (Asclepiadaceae) has been highly utilized in controlling diabetes mellitus traditionally in the eastern part of Nigeria.Objectives: Antihyperglycaemic and related gene expressions of aqueous extract of Gongronema latifolium leaf in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.Materials and methods: Forty-eight female Wistar rats were induced intraperitoneally using alloxan (150 mg/kg body weight). The rats were separated into six groups (n = 8) as follows: non-diabetic control, diabetic control, diabetic rats administered 5 mg/kg body weight of metformin, and diabetic rats administered 6.36, 12.72 and 25.44 mg/kg body weight (ethnobotanical doses) of G. latifolium orally daily. On the 14th day, the animals were sacrificed and different antihyperglycaemic parameters were evaluated as well as its related gene expressions.Results: Diabetic rats administered three doses of aqueous extract of G. latifolium significantly (p < 0.05) lowered the fasting blood glucose, glycated haemoglobin, serum lipid profiles, lipid peroxidation (5.62–1.2 μ/mg protein) levels, as well as gene expression of glucose-6-phosphatase in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. There was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the liver glycogen content (16.23–112.5 mg glucose/2 g), antioxidant enzymes activities, glucose transporter (GLUT-2 and GLUT-4) levels and relative gene expression of hexokinase in diabetic rats administered different doses of aqueous extract of G. latifolium.Discussion and conclusions: It can be deduced that the aqueous extract of G. latifolium leaf at these doses may be useful in managing diabetes mellitus and its associated complications. Therefore, this extract may be a potent antidiabetic agent in clinical therapy in the future.

Evaluation of centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant activity of aqueous extract of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) roots in albino mice

Background: Skeletal muscle relaxants are used to treat both muscle spasm and spasticity, acting both as antispasmodic and antispasticity agents. In past studies some polyherbal formulations containing ashwagandha have shown skeletal muscle relaxant activity and fat extract of ashwagandha showed skeletal muscle relaxant activity in experimental animal models. This study is designed to evaluate the skeletal muscle relaxant activity of aqueous extract of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) roots in albino mice, as the literature regarding them is limited.Methods: Standard drug (diazepam) and different doses of Aqueous extract of ashwagandha (50, 100,150mg/kg) were given orally to albino mice. Skeletal muscle relaxant activity was assessed by Rota-rod apparatus. The fall off time from the rotating rod was noted for each group after 1 hour of drug administration. The difference in fall off time from the rotating rod between the standard and treated mice was taken as an index of muscle relaxation.Results: The test extract at doses (50mg/kg, 100mg/kg and 150mg/kg) showed highly significant reduction in the time spent by the animals on revolving rod in rota rod test when compared to baseline (p &lt;0.0001). As compared with diazepam, aqueous extract (150mg/kg) showed almost equal reduction in the time spent by the animals on revolving rod in rota rod test.Conclusions: This study indicates that the aqueous extract of ashwagandha possess central skeletal muscle relaxant activity. The results are promising for further investigation of efficient skeletal muscle relaxant activity.

Toxicity Effect of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Launaea taraxacifolia&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Aqueous Extract on Vital Organs of Albino Rat

Launaea taraxacifolia (Efo yanrin) aqueous extract was orally administered to albino rats with view to investigating the haematological, biochemical and histological difference on body organs. Fifteen (15) albino rats divided into five groups each of three rats were used. Group I was the control while groups II III, IV, and V were dosed with 500mg/kg, 1000mg/kg, 2000mg/kg and 3000mg/kg respectively. Rats treated with different doses of aqueous extracts had increase packed cell volume with a significant increase of 43% in groups II and V alongside with Haemoglobin of 14.3mg/dl increase compared with the control. Moreover, the differential leucocyte counts revealed moderate increase in the lymphocytes count of groups II and V when compared with normal value. The aqueous extract of L. taraxacifolia is safe and has immunostimulatory effect. However, the effect of the extract on the liver of rats has varying degrees of lesions ranging from mild to severe diffuse degeneration of hepatocytes with periportal cellular infiltration. There was presence of multiple foci of caseous necrosis of the hepatic cells. Animals to which aqueous extract was administered at graded doses showed presence of eosinophilic cast in degenerated tubules with cellular infiltration in the renal interstitium. The histological result showed that the aqueous extract of L. taraxacifolia, could be toxic to the liver and kidney and caution should therefore be exercised in its use for medicinal purpose.

NEPHROPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF SOLANUM NIGRUM LINN LEAVES OR SEEDS AND THEIR MIXTURE AGAINST GENTAMICIN-INDUCED NEPHROTOXICITY IN RATS

Abstract The present study aimed to elucidate the nephroprotective effect of different doses of aqueous extract of Solanum Nigrum Linn (AE-SN)leaves or seeds and their mixture against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Forty eight mature male rats weighted (160±5g) were randomly divided into eight groups 6 rats each. Group (1) rats were fed on basal diet and served as a negative control, while the other 7 groups were intoxicated by a single intraperioneal dose (100 mg/kg) of gentamicin to rats at the 4th week; once daily for end of the experiment (4 weeks) for induction of nephrotoxicity. Group (2) was kept intoxicated ( a positive control group ) while groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 were pre- treated orally with AE-SN extract of leaves and seeds in a dose of 250 and 500mg/kg b.wt., respectively for 4 weeks. Groups 7 and 8 were pre- treated orally with a mixture of aqueous extract of Solanum Nigrum Linn leaves and seeds in a dose of 250 and 500mg/kg b.wt respectively for 4 weeks.Feed intake was calculated daily and body weight gain was recorded weekly. Blood samples were collected and kidneys were weighted, dissected out and taken for biochemical analyses and histopathological study. Pre- treatment with AE-SN extract of leaves or seed and their mixture improved feed intake and increased body weight gain and normalized kidney weight compared to GM intoxicated rats. Also AE-SN significantly improved levels of renalmarkers and maintaining the electrolyte balance by decreasing serum level of some mineral element (Na, K and P), and increase level of calcium and vit. D. in serum compared to negative control group. Improved renal function by AE-SN treatment caused an increase in Renin , Erythropoietin (EPO) and parathyroid hormones. There were also an increase in renal antioxidant enzyme activity and partial amelioration of renal degeneration. In conclusion AE-SN aqueous extract of leave was more effective than aqueous extract of seeds. Pre-treatment with AE-SN mixture at high doses, significantly normalized level of renal markers and antioxidant activities. Ameliorative effects of AE-SN leaves or seeds and their mixture against gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity may be attributed to their antioxidant properties. Key words: nephrotoxicity, SolanumNigrumLinn gentamicin & rat.

The Effect of Olive Leaf Extract and Α-Tocopherol on Nephroprotective Activity in Rats

The present study aimed to evaluate the nephroprotective effects of different doses of aqueous extract of olive leaf (OLE), vitamin E and their combination on gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity in albino rats. 54 adult healthy male rats were divided into nine groups comprising 6 animals each. Group 1 served as normal control group. All other groups (group 2 to group 9) were administered gentamicin sulphate (GS) intraperitoneal at dose 70 mg/kg body weight for 4 week daily. Group 3, 4, 5 and 6 received olive leaf extracts at doses 20, 40, 80 and 160 mg/Kg/oral respectively. Group 7 received vitamin E 250 mg/Kg, whereas group 8 and 9 received vitamin E and olive leaf extracts (20 mg/Kg/oral and 40 mg/Kg/oral respectively). All the treatments were continued for 30 days. The results of the study indicated that olive leaf significantly protected the nephrotoxicity induced by Gentamisin sulphate. Serum creatinine, urea, malonaldhyde levels significantly increased as a result of nephrotoxicity in group 2. The renal antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were decreased; level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was elevated in group 2. Remarkably treatment with olive leaf extracts and vitamin E increased levels of antioxidant enzymes and decrease levels of MDA, serum creatinine and urea in all treated groups. Sodium levels were significantly reduced and elevated potassium levels in G2. According to the biochemical findings, were supported by histopathological evidences, administration of olive leaf extracts with vit. E more effective protection than their individual dose. Administration of olive leaf extract (20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg) plus vitamin E (250 mg/kg) indicated better protection against GS-induced nephrotoxicity. This study concluded that olive leaf acts in the kidney as a potent scavenger of free radicals to prevent the toxic effects of GS both in the biochemical and histopathological parameters. Germinated barley extract with OLE (20 mg, 40 mg) + vitamin E was showed good antioxidant properties.

Diuretic activity of aqueous extract of Spilanthes paniculata flower in rats

Objectives: To evaluate the diuretic activity of aqueous extract of Spilanthes paniculata (SpE) flowers in rats. Materials and Methods: The three different doses of aqueous extract of SpE flowers (aqueous SpE) (100 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg) and standard furosemide (10 mg/kg) were orally administered to rats. The various analytical parameters like urine volume, pH, density, conductivity, Na+ and K+ content were measured in the urine of saline loaded rats. Results: Treatment with three different doses of aqueous extract of SpE flowers (100 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg p.o.) and standard furosemide (10 mg/kg) has significantly increased the urine volume, conductivity, Na+ and K+ content as compared to control group. The pH of urine was found to be increased by aqueous extract at 500 mg/kg, whereas decreased by aqueous extract at 100 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and standard furosemide. The density of urine shows significant similarity in the treated group compared to control group. Conclusion: The results suggest that the aqueous extract of SpE flowers presents a notable diuretic effect at different doses of (100 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) which is associated with marked increase in both urinary Na+ and K+ levels. The aqueous extract (500 mg/kg) has shown the most pronounced diuretic effect and may act as loop diuretic. Key words: Asteraceae, diuretic activity, Spilanthes paniculata

Study on effect of aqueous extracts from aconite on "dose- time-toxicity" relationships in mice hearts

To study the effect of single administration of aqueous extracts from aconite on "dose-toxicity" relationship and "time-toxicity" relationship of mice hearts, through changes in electrocardiogram (ECG) and serum biochemical indexes. Mice were grouped according to different drug doses and time points, and orally administered with water extracts from aconite for once to observe the changes of mice ECG before and after the administration, calculate visceral indexes heart, liver and kidney, and detect levels of CK, LDH, BNP and CTn-I in serum. According to the "time-toxicity" relationship study, at 5 min after oral administration with aqueous extracts from aconite in mice, the heart rate of mice began rising, reached peak at 60 min and then slowly reduced; QRS, R amplitude, T duration and amplitude and QT interval declined at 5 min, reduced to the bottom at 60 min and then gradually elevated. The levels of CK, LDH, BNP and CTn-I in serum elevated at 5 min and reached the peak at 60 min, with no significant change in ratios of organs to body at different time points. On the basis of the "dose-toxicity" relationship, with the increase in single dose of aqueous extracts from aconite, the heart rate of mice. QRS, T duration and amplitude and QT interval declined gradually, and levels of CK, LDH, BNP and CTn-I in serum slowly elevated, with a certain dose dependence and no significant change in ratios of organs to body in mice. Single oral administration of different doses of aqueous extracts from aconite could cause different degrees of heart injury at different time points, with a certain dose dependence. Its peak time of toxicity is at 60 min after the administration of aqueous extracts from aconite.

In vivo anti-androgenic, anti-estrogenic and antioxidant activities of the aqueous extract of Eremomastax speciosa

ObjectiveTo evaluate the in vivo anti-androgenic, antioxidant activity and anti-estrogenic activities of Eremomastax speciosa (E. speciosa) in order to find new method for fighting against chronic diseases such as cancer. MethodsEvaluations of antiandrogenic and antioxidant activities were carried out on male rate receiving simultaneous daily administration of testosterone and different doses of aqueous extract of E. speciosa, during a period of 10 d. The evaluation of antiestrogenic activity was carried out on mature ovariectomized female rats receiving simultaneous daily administration of estradiol and different doses of extract, for a week. Then reproductive organs were weighted, levels of prostatic acid phosphatase, superoxide dismutase and catalase as well as some hematologic parameters were measured. ResultsThe treatment significantly reduced (P<0.01) the weight of ventral prostate, penis, Cowper's gland and the level of serum prostatic acid phosphatase; while a significant decrease (P<0.01) of the catalase activity was observed. A significant increase (P<0.05) in the lymphocyte number and significant decrease of monocyte (P<0.05) were noticed. The uterine relative weight were significantly reduced (P<0.01). ConclusionsGenerally, these results denote the antiandrogenic, antiestrogenic and immunomodulatory potential of E. speciosa.

Study on effect of Polygonatum sibiricum on Yin deficiency model rats induced by long-term overload swimming

To observe the effect of Polygonatum sibiricum on Yin deficiency model rats induced by long-term overload swimming. Except for the normal group, all of the remaining rats performed the long-term overload swimming for eight weeks, with five days every week and once every day, to establish the Yin deficiency model. The daily swimming time increased from 10 min to 180 min at the end of the 7th week, with the water depth of 60 cm and the water temperature at 30 degrees C. After the success of the modeling, the rats were orally administered with different doses of aqueous extracts from P. sibiricum (2.5, 10 g x kg(-1)) for eight weeks. After the final administration, their blood were collected from orbits to measure immunoglobulin A, G and M (IgA, IgG, IgM), interleukin 2 and 6 (IL-2, IL-6) and cAMP, cGMP contents in plasma General behavioral indicators (weight, facial temperature, pain threshold and holding power) of rats were observed during the drug administration. Compared with the model control group, aqueous extracts from P. sibiricum was given for eight weeks to significantly increase the rat weight and holding power of Yin deficiency model rats, decrease the facial temperature and the sensitivity of pain threshold, and increase IgA, IgG, IgM and IL-6 content and IgG content in serum, but without statistical difference. Aqueous extracts from P. sibiricum (10 g x kg(-1)) could also increase IL-2 content in serum, and decrease cAMP content and cAMP/cGMP ratio. P. sibiricum could improve the general behavioral indicators (weight, holding power, pain threshold and facial temperature), immunologic functions (IgA, IgG, IgM) and cyclic nucleotide (cAMP, cAMP/cGMP), so as to ameliorate such Yin deficiency symptoms as dysphoria in chestpalms-soles, weight loss, soreness and weakness of waist and knees, immunologic dysfunction and cyclic nucleotide system disorders.

Terminalia chebula Retz. (Combretaceae): source of a botanical acaricide against Oligonychus coffeae Nietner (Acarina: Tetranychidae)

Aqueous extract of the dry pericarp of the fruits of Terminalia chebula was evaluated in the laboratory against the tea red spider mite, Oligonychus coffeae (Nietner) to determine its effect on mortality of adult mites, viability of eggs and oviposition deterrence. The same extract was also evaluated in the field to determine its effect on mite populations. A direct spray method was used in the laboratory at concentrations of 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, and 6%. Mortality of O. coffeae was dependent on both concentration and time after application. Deposition of eggs by adult mites on treated leaf surfaces decreased significantly and the viability of eggs was also significantly reduced. No phytotoxic effect was observed when tea bushes were sprayed with different doses of aqueous extract of the dry pericarp of the fruits of Terminalia chebula. Tea samples were taint free. Quality (appearance of liquor, flavour, taint, and taste) of tea was not adversely affected by treatment with the extract. With the easy availability and distribution of T. chebula in and around the tea-growing areas of north east India, along with its processing for economic utilization, it may be incorporated in current integrated pest management programmes of tea.