Folk Medicine Research Articles

Effects of aloe vera on burn injuries: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Burn injuries cause severe pain, infection risks, psychological distress, financial burdens, and mortality, necessitating effective care. Aloe vera, a traditional burn remedy, shows wound healing potential, but its analgesic effects and efficacy with varying burn severity are uncertain. This study aims to investigate aloe vera's impact on wound healing, pain management, and infection prevention in burn patients. A systematic search on PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL was performed on 9th October 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The risk of bias was examined using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (version 2), and the meta-analysis was carried out using a random-effects model. The primary outcome was wound healing time, with secondary outcomes examining pain severity and wound infection. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to assess the quality of evidence for each outcome. Nine RCTs were included in the current study, of which six provided data on the primary outcome. Aloe vera significantly reduced mean wound healing time compared to other topicals [mean difference (MD) -3.76 days; 95% confidence interval (CI) -5.69 to -1.84]. Additionally, the meta-analysis of the secondary outcomes found no significant differences in pain reduction (MD -0.76 points; 95% CI -1.53 to 0.01) and wound infection risk (risk ratio 1.10; 95% CI 0.34 to 3.59) between aloe vera and control groups. In conclusion, aloe vera expedites wound healing in second-degree burn patients without increased infection risk compared to other antimicrobial agents. The analgesic effects on burn injuries remain uncertain.

GCMS-based phytochemical profiling and in vitro pharmacological activities of plant Alangium salviifolium (L.f) Wang

BackgroundThere is an urge for traditional herbal remedies as an alternative to modern medicine in treating several diseases. A significant number of modern pharmaceutical drugs are based on or derived from medicinal plants or their extracts. These drugs derived from the plant origin have various antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory activities. Alangium salviifolium belongs to Cornaceae family and is well known for its medicinal properties. The present study was carried out to evaluate the antibacterial, antioxidant effect and possible bioactive components present in the chloroform, acetone, ethanol, methanol and aqueous extract of Alangium salviifolium leaves.MethodologyDried leaves of Alangium salviifolium were subjected to serial solvent extraction using increasing polarity of solvents, i.e., chloroform, acetone, methanol, ethanol, and distilled water. Crude extracts were further tested for qualitative analysis of phytochemicals using standard procedure, while GCMS analysis was performed to identify the probable phytocompounds. Antibacterial activity was performed against bacterial pathogens using agar well method, whereas antioxidant activity was performed using in vitro PM, DPPH and FRAP assays.ResultsPhytochemical analysis of the extracts revealed the presence of key phytochemical classes. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, several high and low molecular weight chemical compound kinds were discovered. These chemical substances are regarded as having significant biological and pharmacological effects. All crude extracts had considerable and comparable in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial properties.ConclusionsAccording to the findings of this study, Alangium salviifolium leaves are a rich source of phytoconstituents that are crucial in stopping the advancement of numerous disorders.

Hazel Leaf Polyphenol Extract Alleviated Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Reducing Ferroptosis through Inhibiting Hippo Signaling.

Derived from hazelnuts, hazel leaf has been utilized in traditional folk medicine for centuries in countries such as Portugal, Sweden, and Iran. In our previous investigations, we conducted a preliminary assessment of the hazel leaf polyphenol extract (referred to as ZP) and identified nine compounds, such as kaempferol and chlorogenic acid, in its composition. ZP has shown promising properties as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Our research has revealed that ZP has protective effects against cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI). We conducted a comprehensive examination of both the pathological and ultrastructural aspects and found that ZP effectively ameliorated renal tissue lesions and mitigated mitochondrial damage. Moreover, ZP significantly suppressed malondialdehyde levels while increasing glutathione and catalase concentrations in the kidneys of AKI-induced mice. ZP decreased the number of apoptotic cells and decreased pro-apoptotic protein expression in the kidneys of mice and human renal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2). Furthermore, treatment with ZP increased the levels of proteins marking anti-ferroptosis, such as GPX4, FTH1, and FSP1, in experiments both in vivo and in vitro. We elucidated the underlying mechanisms of ZP's actions, revealing its inhibitory effect on Yap phosphorylation and its regulation of Lats expression, which exert a protective influence on the kidneys. Furthermore, we found that inhibiting the Hippo pathway compromised ZP's nephroprotective effects in both in vitro and in vivo studies. In summary, this research shows that ZP exhibits renoprotective properties, effectively reducing oxidative damage, apoptosis, and ferroptosis in the kidneys by targeting the Hippo pathway.

Anti-Inflammatory Salicin Derivatives from the Barks of Salix tetrasperma.

The genus Salix L. is traditionally used in folk medicine to alleviate pain caused by various kinds of inflammation. In the present study, 10 undescribed salicin derivatives along with 5 known congeners were isolated from the barks of Salix tetrasperma, and their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations, and chemical conversions. Compounds 4-6 significantly inhibited NO production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages, and the most active 4 obviously suppressed the production of IL-1β and IL-6 and decreased iNOS and COX-2 expression in a dose-dependent manner. Further Western blotting analysis revealed that the anti-inflammatory mechanism of 4 is possibly mediated through the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Distribution, Chemical Constituents and Biological Properties of Genus Malaxis.

The genus Malaxis (family Orchidaceae), comprises nearly 183 species available across the globe. The plants of this genus have long been employed in traditional medical practices because of their numerous biological properties, like the treatment of infertility, hemostasis, burning sensation, bleeding diathesis, fever, diarrhea, dysentery, febrifuge, tuberculosis, etc. Various reports highlight their phytochemical composition and biological activities. However, there is a lack of systematic review on the distribution, phytochemistry, and biological properties of this genus. Hence, this study aims to conduct a thorough and critical review of Malaxis species, covering data published from 1965 to 2022 with nearly 90 articles. Also, it examines different bioactive compounds, their chemistry, and pharmacotherapeutics as well as their traditional uses. A total of 189 unique compounds, including the oil constituents were recorded from Malaxis species. The highest active ingredients were obtained from Malaxis acuminata (103) followed by Malaxis muscifera (49) and Malaxis rheedei (33). In conclusion, this review offers an overview of the current state of knowledge on Malaxis species and highlights prospects for future research projects on them. Additionally, it recommends the promotion of domestication studies for rare medicinal orchids like Malaxis and the prompt implementation of conservation measures.

Toxicological and Sedative Effects of Chipilin (Crotalaria longirostrata) Leaf Extracts Obtained by Maceration and Supercritical Fluid Extraction.

Chipilin (Crotalaria longirostrata) is consumed as a vegetable in the preparation of traditional dishes. As a folk medicine, Chipilin extracts are used as a hypnotic and sedative agent; however, there are few reports that support these uses. This study aimed to characterize the compounds present in Chipilin leaf extracts and to investigate their sedative effect using zebrafish as an in vivo model. Extracts were obtained by maceration with water (H2O), ethanol (EtOH), and EtOH-H2O, while oleoresin was obtained by supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified by colorimetric methods. Phytochemical constituents were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The chronic and acute toxicities of Chipilin extracts were tested in zebrafish embryos and larvae, respectively. Chipilin sedative effect was tested by the larvae response to dark-light-dark transitions. EtOH-H2O extracts had the highest value of total phenolics (5345 ± 5.1 μg GAE/g), followed by water and oleoresin (1815 ± 5.1 and 394 ± 5.1 μg GAE/g, respectively). In water extracts were identified the alkaloid trachelanthamidine, 1,2β-epoxy- and the alkyl ketone 7,9-di-tert-butyl-1-oxaspiro(4,5)deca-6,9-diene-2,8-dione, while oleamide, α-monostearin, and erucamide were detected in all samples except in water extracts. Oleoresin extract had the lowest embryotoxicity (LC50 = 4.99 μg/mL) and the highest sedative effects. SFE is a green alternative to obtain Chipilin extracts rich in erucamide, an endocannabinoid analogue, which plays an important role in the development of the central nervous system and in modulating neurotransmitter release.

In vitro Evaluation of Skin Related Enzyme Inhibitory Effect and Emulgel Formulation Development Studies of Onobrychis Argyrea subsp. Argyrea with Phytochemical Analysis.

Species of Onobrychis have been used to treat skin disorders such as wounds and cuts in folk medicine and Onobrychis argyrea subsp. argyrea (OA) commonly known as 'silvery sainfoin', is a member of this genus. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the skin-related biological activities and phytochemical characterization of OA. Moreover, an emulgel formulation was developed from the main methanolic extract of the plant (OAM). Initially, to identifiy of the active fractions, aerial parts of the plant material was extracted with methanol and fractionated by n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol, respectively. Antioxidant activity was determined by CUPRAC, TOAC, FRAP and DPPH assays. Thereafter, the inhibition potential of OAM, novel formulation and all fractions was measured against elastase, collagenase, tyrosinase and hyaluronidase enzymes. OAM was analyzed and characterized by LC/MS-MS. The major bioactive flavonoids which are rutin and isoquercetin were measured and compared as qualitative and quantitative via high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis in OAM and fractions. The results showed that extracts of OA can be a potential cosmeceutical agent for skin related problems.

CONSUMER INSIGHTS AND MARKET TRENDS IN LACTATION SUPPLEMENTS: NIGERIA AND THE US PERSPECTIVE

This review presents an analysis and comparison of consumer behavior, preferences, and market trends in lactation supplements, focusing on Nigeria and the US. The study aims to identify key differences and similarities in consumer expectations, shedding light on the factors influencing the demand for lactation supplements in both countries. In Nigeria, cultural beliefs and practices play a significant role in shaping consumer behavior towards lactation supplements. Traditional remedies and herbal preparations are often preferred, reflecting a deep-rooted trust in natural products. However, there is a growing awareness of modern lactation supplements, driven by increased access to information and changing lifestyle patterns. In contrast, the US market for lactation supplements is characterized by a strong preference for science-backed products. Consumers in the US tend to prioritize safety, efficacy, and convenience, seeking products that are supported by clinical evidence and regulatory approval. The influence of healthcare providers and online reviews is particularly pronounced in shaping consumer choices. Despite these differences, several common trends emerge in consumer expectations for lactation supplements. Both Nigerian and US consumers value product transparency, seeking clear information on ingredients, sourcing, and manufacturing practices. Additionally, affordability and accessibility are key considerations for consumers in both countries, with a growing demand for lactation supplements that are affordable and readily available. Overall, this study highlights the complex interplay of cultural, economic, and regulatory factors shaping consumer behavior and market trends in lactation supplements. By understanding these dynamics, manufacturers and marketers can tailor their products and strategies to meet the evolving needs and preferences of consumers in Nigeria and the US.
 Keywords: Consumer Insights, Market Trend, Lactation, Supplements, Perspective.

An Updated Review of Membranous Nephropathy.

Membranous nephropathy (MN) is one of the most common causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults. The discovery of phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) as a target antigen has led to a paradigm shift in the understanding and management of MN. At present, serum PLA2R antibodies are used for diagnosis, prognostication, and guiding treatment. Now, with the discovery of more than 20 novel target antigens, antigen mapping is almost complete. The clinical association of certain antigens provides clues for clinicians, such as the association of nerve epidermal growth factor-like 1 with malignancies and indigenous medicines. Serum antibodies are detected for most target antigens, except exostosin 1 and 2 and transforming growth factor-beta receptor 3, but their clinical utility is yet to be defined. Genome-wide association studies and studies investigating environmental factors, such as air pollution, shed more light on the underpinnings of MN. The standard therapy of MN diversified from cyclical cyclophosphamide and steroids to include rituximab and calcineurin inhibitors over the past decades. Here, we provide a cutting-edge review of MN, focusing on genetics, immune system and environmental factors, novel target antigens and their clinical characteristics, and currently available and emerging novel therapies in MN.

Evaluation of the content of polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins, the antioxidant capacity, and the antimicrobial activity of different organic and aqueous fractions of stems of Retama monosperma

Retama monosperma is an endemic plant of the Mediterranean region that has been traditionally used in folk medicine to treat various ailments. It contains a variety of bioactive phytochemicals and exhibited several biological activities. This study aimed to assess the phytochemical screening, total phenolic, total flavonoid, and total tannin compounds, as well as the antioxidant capacity and antimicrobial activity. The phytochemical screening involved color reactions, characteristic reagents, and precipitation methods. Total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin compounds were quantified using colorimetric methods across four fractions. Antioxidant capacity was assessed using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power, 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging, and phosphomolebdenum assay. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated through disc diffusion method and the microdilution assay. Qualitative phytochemical tests revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, and sterols. Quantification of total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin compounds confirmed the richness of polyphenolic compounds in all fractions. The antioxidant capacity measurements revealed that the ethanol fractions exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity in 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, ferric reducing antioxidant power assays, and phosphomolebdenum assay. Conversely, the aqueous fraction showed highest activity in the 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assay. Regarding antimicrobial activity, the ethyl acetate fraction demonstrated superior efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus. These findings suggest that R. monosperma could serve as a valuable source of antioxidant and anti-infective phytocompounds.

Taxonomy, traditional uses and biological activity of Ficus carica L. (Moraceae): A review

Ficus carica L. (Moraceae), a tree native to the tropics and subtropics that has been used traditionally in folk medicine. The crude extracts have been the focus of many studies due to its wide range of biological effects. Even though the species has been the subject of numerous pharmacologically based studies, very few studies have published on their findings. Attempts to bridge this knowledge gap are being made to enhance the species' utility in modern research. The following review looks at all research articles on anti-diabetic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antimicrobial, drugs, antiviral, traditional medicine, ethnopharmacology, toxicity, and cytotoxic activity. Therapeutically, some of the more fascinating impacts are on cancer prevention, liver diseases, blood sugar and antimicrobial activity. While the leaves, fruits and latex of the F. carica plant have been the primary focus of biological research, the stem and roots have got almost minimal attention. The results of this investigation indicate that extracts from all parts of F. carica are non-toxic. However, further well-planned clinical trials are required to confirm preclinical findings because the safety and effectiveness of F. carica have not been fully evaluated in humans. It is important to investigate the extract's mechanism of action. Establishing the standard dose and safety is necessary.

Nutraceutical Aspects of Selected Wild Edible Plants of the Italian Central Apennines

All over the world, wild edible plants are an essential source of chemical components that justify their use in folk medicine. The aim of this review is to document and summarize the knowledge of ten wild plants analyzed in a previous study for their ethnomedical significance. Achillea millefolium, Borago officinalis, Foeniculum vulgare, Gentiana lutea, Juniperus communis, Laurus nobilis, Malva sylvestris, Satureja montana, Silybum marianum and Urtica dioica were the subjects of our study. They are commonly found in the central Italian Apennines and the Mediterranean basin. Phytochemicals contained in wild plants, such as phenols, polyphenols, flavonoids, condensed tannins, carotenoids, etc., are receiving increasing attention, as they exert a wide range of biological activities with resulting benefits for human health. Based on the 353 studies we reviewed, we focused our study on the following: (a) the ethnobotanical practices and bioactive phytochemicals; (b) the composition of polyphenols and their role as antioxidants; (c) the methodologies commonly used to assess antioxidant activity; (d) the most advanced spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques used to visualize and characterize all components (metabolomic fingerprinting). The potential of pure compounds and extracts to be used as nutraceuticals has also been highlighted through a supposed mechanism of action.

First Report of Powdery Mildew Caused by Podosphaera xanthii on Acalypha indica in China.

Acalypha indica L. is an annual erect herb of the Euphorbiaceae family. This plant is found widely in the tropics and parts of Africa and Asia (Chakraborty et al. 2023). In China, A. indica is a vegetable and also used as a folk medicine due to its antipyretic and hemostatic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In February 2022 and 2023, powdery mildew symptoms were observed on 70% of A. indica plants on the Hainan Medical University campus (19° 58' 53″ N; 110° 19' 47″ E) in Haikou, Hainan Province, China. Powdery mildew colonies covered the leaf surfaces and stems of affected plants, causing discoloration and defoliation. Mycelia were superficial and hyphal appressoria were nipple-shaped. Conidiophores (n =30) were unbranched, cylindrical, 66 to 150 × 10 to 15 µm, and produced three to five immature conidia in chains with a crenate outline. Foot cells (n =30) were cylindrical, straight or sometimes curved at the base, and 31 to 59 µm long. Conidia (n =100) were ellipsoid-ovoid to doliiform, 20 to 33 ×12 to 20 µm (length/width ratio = 1.3 to 2.4), with well-developed fibrosin bodies, and produced germ tubes from the lateral position. Based on these morphological characteristics, the pathogen was provisionally identified as Podosphaera xanthii (Braun and Cook 2012). The teleomorph was not observed. A specimen was deposited in the Hainan Medical University Plant Pathology Herbarium as HMAI-23. To confirm the genus identification and ascertain a putative species, genomic DNA was extracted from mycelium, conidiophores, and conidia using a fungal DNA kit (Omega Bio-Tek, USA). The rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region was amplified with primers ITS1/ITS4 (White et al. 1990) and sequenced directly. The resulting 575-bp sequence was deposited in GenBank (accession no. OR775733). A BLASTn search in GenBank of this sequence showed 99% similarity with the ITS sequences of P. xanthii on plants of Fabaceae, Malvaceae and Cucurbitaceae family from China (MH143485, MT242593, MK439611 and MH143483), Thailand (LC270779 and LC270778), Korea (MG754404), Vietnam (KM260704), and Puerto Rico (OP882310). Additionally, the 28S rDNA region was amplified using the primer pairs NL1 and NL4 (O´Donnell 1993; accession no. OR784547). This region shared 99% similarity with P. xanthii isolates (LC371333, LC270780, AB936277, and OP765401) as well. To confirm pathogenicity, five healthy potted plants of A. indica were inoculated by gently pressing a powdery mildew-infected leaf onto 15 young leaves. Five non-inoculated plants served as controls. All plants were maintained in a greenhouse at 24 to 30°C, 70% relative humidity, with a 16-h photoperiod. After 7 days, inoculated leaves showed powdery mildew symptoms whereas no symptoms were observed on control plants. The fungal colonies observed on inoculated plants were morphologically identical to those found on the originally infected leaves collected from Hainan Province. Based on the morphological characteristics and molecular identification, the fungus was identified as P. xanthii. In different countries and regions, P. xanthii has been previously reported on A. indica from Sudan and India (Amano 1986). To our knowledge, this is the first record of P. xanthii infecting A. indica in China. We are concerned that the pathogen could become a threat to the widespread planting of A. indica in the future.

Assessment of the insecticidal efficacy of ethanol extract of Millettia pachyloba Drake leaves against Plutella xylostella Linnaeus moth

Plutella xylostella (L.), a menacing threat to cruciferous crops, exhibits cross-resistance to various chemical agents. The exploration of plant-derived insecticides emerges as an intervention strategy for the successful management of P. xylostella. Millettia pachyloba Drake is renowned as a traditional remedy for diverse health issues and has insecticidal properties. Experimental investigations in both laboratory and greenhouse settings utilized M. pachyloba extract (EMPE) at concentrations ranging from 2 to 10% (w/v). The objectives included inducing toxicity and controlling P. xylostella larvae effectively, assessing nutritional impacts through parameters like relative consumption rate (RCR), relative growth rate of larvae (RGR), efficiency of conversion of digested food (ECD), efficiency of conversion of ingested food (ECI), approximate digestibility (AD), and assimilation ratio (AR), and evaluating leaf damage inflicted by P. xylostella larvae on Brassica juncea. In the laboratory, the application of EMPE on P. xylostella larvae and pupae for 24, 48, and 72 hours yielded markedly higher mortality rates than the water-treated control (p < 0.05). Significant reductions in RGR, RCR, ECD, ECI, AD, and AR were evident throughout the larval stage (p < 0.05). In the greenhouse, EMPE treatments demonstrated notable differences from the water control treatment. On the 15th day of treatment, the EMPE treatment at 10% (w/v) exhibited the highest mortality rate (p < 0.05). Significantly reduced leaf damage was observed with EMPE treatments, displaying an inverse correlation with escalating concentrations. Particularly, the highest enhancement across all surveyed parameters was observed in the EMPE 10% (w/v) treatment, which was comparable to the positive control with fipronil (p > 0.05). Noteworthy differences in damage reduction percentage (DRP) were identified between EMPE contact treatments and the water control group (p < 0.05), indicating the promising potential of Millettia pachyloba extract for pest control.

Developement and Stability Evaluation of Natural Topical Formulations Containing Pinus sibirica Essential Oil

Abstract Pinus sibirica (P. sibirica) is used in folk medicine for centuries in treatment of various diseases due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity. The present study was focused on formulating semi-solid topical cream and gel preparations with P. sibirica essential oil (EOPS) and on evaluation of their stability during three months of storage. After preparation of semi-solid formulations (cream and gel), we followed parameters such as organoleptic characteristics, pH values, electrical conductivity, phase separation, washability, swelling index and microbiological contamination. Tests for physical and microbiological stability were performed considering different storage conditions at temperature (4±2° C, 25±2°C and 40±2°C) for 12 weeks. All test were performed at sampling time points of 7th, 30th, 60th, 90th day after storage. Cream with EOPS was white colour, it is homogenous with pleasant odor characteristic to used EOPS while gel with EOPS was transparent, it is homogenous with specific odor. After application to skin, EOPS cream was leaving non-greasy film while gel with EOPS was leaving sticky film and cooling effect. In all tested samples, we observed no phase separation and pH values were optimal for skin application. During three months of storage at different conditions, all tested formulations were stable and addition of EOPS did not cause any changes in followed parameters. Both cream and gel formulation remained stable since we did not notice any significant changes in all followed parameters during storage at different temperatures. Addition of 0.5% of EOPS did not change visual, sensory and microbial properties of formulations.

Exploring the inhibitory impact of Mongolian medicinal He-Zi-3 soup on mammary gland hyperplasia in rats induced by estrogen and progestogen

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMammary gland hyperplasia, a prevalent benign breast condition, often serves as a precursor to various other breast diseases. He-Zi-3 soup (HZ-3), a traditional Mongolian remedy, is utilized for treating this condition. Aim of the studyTo explore the effect and underlying mechanism of HZ-3, a Mongolian medicinal preparation, on mammary gland hyperplasia. Materials and methodsThis study aimed to assess the impact of different doses of HZ-3 in a rat model of mammary hyperplasia. The active components within HZ-3 drug serum were identified and analyzed through network pharmacology and target prediction. To elucidate the underlying mechanism of HZ-3 in addressing mammary hyperplasia, we conducted a series of investigations on estradiol-induced mammary hyperplasia in model rates. Assessments included measurements of papilla width and height, hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson staining, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. ResultsOur investigation revealed the identification of 21 compounds, primarily terpenoids, through serum medicinal chemistry screening. Utilizing network pharmacological analysis, we observed predominant regulation through the estrogen pathway, closely associated with key genes including esr1,esr2, ncoa1, krt 19, ctsd, ebag 9, and bcl-2. Assessments encompassing nipple height and width, histological examination, immunohistochemical analysis, and serum hormone levels via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay demonstrated the inhibitory effect of HZ-3 on mammary hyperplasia in rat models. RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses corroborated these findings, affirming the suppression of mammary hyperplasia by HZ-3 through the activation of estrogen pathway signaling.

Phytochemical profile, in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial activities of different extracts of an Algerian endemic: Teucrium atratum

Teucrium atratum Pomel. is a species belonging to the Lamiaceae family used in Algerian folk medicine. The present work essentially aimed to assess the phenolic composition and to evaluate some of the biological effects of different extracts, never previously studied, of T. atratum growing in Algeria. High levels of total phenolic and flavonoids were recorded in the hydromethanolic extract. Chlorogenic acid, isoquercetin, coumarin, cinnamic acid, quercetin dihydrate, and catechin were identified in the methanolic extract by mean of HPLC. The antioxidant activity assessed showed that the methanolic extract was the most active, while, the hydromethanolic extract showed a great power to reduce iron. In addition, all extracts had a significant antibacterial effect against the four tested bacterial strains, with Staphylococcus aureus as the most sensitive one. These findings can be a starting point to evaluate the plant as a source of natural bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antibacterial effects.

Preliminary Phytochemical Evaluation and Antimicrobial studies of the methanol stem bark extract of Detarium microcarpum

Detarium microcarpum is an African native plant that grows in the wild in several African countries, notably in savannah areas. The plant has a wide therapeutic application and is often referred to as the miracle plant by the traditional herbalist. Folk medicine relies heavily on its leaves and fruits. Hence, this research was aimed at qualitatively and quantitatively estimating the phytoconstituents inherent in the plant as well as to evaluate its antimicrobial potentials. Qualitative analysis of the methanol crude extracts was carried out to identify the presence of the classes of secondary metabolites: The results of the phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, steroids and Glycosides. Similarly, the quantitative estimation of these phytoconstituents revealed the following percentage of the metabolite; alkaloids (112.35 mg/100g Atropine sulfate eqv), saponins (96.84 mg/100g Gravimetric), Tannins (159.65 mg/100g Tannic acid eqv), Flavanoids (125.47 mg/100g Quarcetine eqv) Glycosides (397.53 mg/100g), Steroids (34.52 mg/100g Cholestrol), Total phenolics (228.24 mg/100 Gallic acid eqv). The paper disc diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial activity of the Crude methanol extract of Datarium microcarpum using standard procedures (Bauer et al 1996). The results of antimicrobial efficacies revealed that the crude methanol extract of stem bark Detarium microcarpum was effective in inhibiting the growth of the following microorganisms; Protius, Bacillus subtilis staphylococaccus aureus, Enterobacta, Eschericia coli Shigelia dysenteriae, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Aspergillus nigger, Aspergillus flavus, Candida albican and Rhezome. The methanol crude extract showed a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) from 1.0×104 to 4.0×104 . Keywords: Phytochemical, antimicrobial studies, stem bark, and Detarium microcarpum

Wound healing activity of hydromethanolic Dioscorea bulbifera extract on male wistar rat excision wound models

IntroductionWound healing is a complex physiological process that involves a series of coordinated events that recover structural and functional tissue integrity. The desire to promote nature-based solutions has led to the screening of various plants and herbs for their wound healing potentials with results showing the enhancement of various aspects of the wound healing process. Dioscorea bulbifera possesses a wide range of applications in folk remedies. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is used in the treatment of mumps, goitre, sore throat, gastric cancer and carcinoma of the rectum alone or in combination with other plants. The present study evaluated the effect of hydromethanolic extract of Dioscorea bulbifera (HEDB) on wound size, percentage of wound contraction and tissue hydroxyproline in male Wistar rat excision wound models. MethodsTwenty-five (25) male Wistar rats (180–200 g) were used for the study. They were divided into five (5) groups comprising five (5) animals per group. A circular excision wound (1.5–2 cm) was experimentally induced in each animal following ketamine anaesthesia. Groups I and II served as negative and positive controls and were treated with topical administration of distilled water and petroleum jelly respectively. Groups III, IV and V served as the experimental groups and were treated with 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg of HEDB topically. The diameter of the wound was measured and the wound area and percentage of wound contraction were calculated. Tissue hydroxyproline was determined using tissue excised from the healed portion of the dorsal surface of the animals via coulometric standard procedures. ResultsData from the study indicates that animals in the experimental groups (III, IV and V) had an earlier wound closure compared to the control. Animals treated with 200 mg/kg HEDB (Group III) showed complete wound closure by day 17, whereas animals treated with 400 mg/kg (Group IV) and 800 mg/kg HEDB (Group V) groups achieved complete wound closure by the 18th and 20th day of the experiment respectively. Similarly, all the animals in the experimental groups had significantly increased percentage of wound contraction compared to negative control (P < 0.05). Tissue hydroxyproline was significantly raised amongst the animals treated with 200 and 800 mg/kgHEDB compared to the negative control (p < 0.05). DiscussionEvidence from the study has shown that HEDB possesses potent wound healing activity as the present study has demonstrated that it reduced wound area, and increased wound contraction and tissue hydroxyproline on experimentally induced excision wound male Wistar rat models. These findings provide scientific evidence that validates the traditional medicinal application of Dioscorea bulbifera in promoting wound healing.

A Panoramic Review on the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis through Herbalism.

Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. The conventional treatment options for arthritis often come with limitations and potential side effects, leading to increased interest in herbal plants as alternative therapies. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the use of herbal plants in arthritis treatment, focusing on their traditional remedies, active components, mechanisms of action, and pharmaceutical approaches for enhancing their delivery. Various herbal plants, including turmeric, ginger, Boswellia, and willow bark, have shown anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them valuable options for managing arthritis symptoms. The active components of these herbal plants, such as curcumin, gingerols, and boswellic acids, contribute to their therapeutic effects. To enhance the delivery of herbal medicines, pharmaceutical approaches like nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, microneedles, and inhalation systems have been explored. These approaches aim to improve bioavailability, targeted delivery, and controlled release of herbal compounds. Safety considerations, including potential interactions with medications and the risk of allergic reactions, are also discussed. Future perspectives for this field involve conducting well-designed clinical studies, enhancing standardization and quality control measures, exploring novel drug delivery systems, and fostering collaborations between traditional medicine practitioners and healthcare professionals. Continued research and development in these areas will help unlock the full potential of herbal plants in arthritis treatment, offering personalized and effective care for affected individuals.