Folk Medicine Research Articles

Chemical profiling By LC[sbnd]HRMS, antioxidant potential, enzyme inhibition, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations of Acantholimon acerosum

The principal objective of this study is to evaluate phenolic content and biological activity in vitro and silico properties of A. acerosum (Willd.) Boiss. subsp. acerosum's (A. acerosum). The antioxidant activity of A. acerosum was assessed in a variety of bioanalytical methods. Strong antioxidant activity was shown for both water (WEAA) and ethanol (EEAA) extracts of the aerial parts of A. Acerosum. Also, it was shown that hyperoside is the most prevalent phenolic compound in EEAA (12,940.83 mg kg−1) and WEAA (5409.67 mg kg−1) by LCHRMS. The enzyme inhibitory abilities of the EEAA were then realised. The IC50 values of EEAA against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) (E.C.3.1.1.7), α-glycosidase (E.C.3.2.1.20), and α-amylase (E.C.3.2.1.1) were determined as 1.828 μg mL−1, 0.615 μg mL−1, and 1.081 μg mL−1, respectively. Subsequently, the α-amylase, α-glycosidase, and AChE enzymes were subjected to molecular docking and molecular dynamic interactions using major compounds of EEAA as ligands. High enzyme-inhibiting properties of EEAA were also determined in silico. It has been reported that numerous traditional and contemporary medical applications of A. acerosum. It can be said that the effective antioxidant results obtained in our study are the basis of previously performed traditional or contemporary medical practices.

Ge-Zhi-Jie-Jiu decoction alleviates alcoholic liver disease through multiple signaling pathways

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAlcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a growing public health concern caused by excessive alcohol consumption, but effective treatments are limited. Ge-Zhi-Jie-Jiu decoction (JJY) is a modified traditional Chinese herbal remedy that aims to alleviate ALD. This formula contains various components such as Ge Hua, Ge Gen, Zhi Ju Zi, and other medicinal-food herbs. However, the specific pharmacotherapeutic compounds of JJY and its pharmacological mechanisms remain unclear. Aim of the studyThis study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanism and pharmacodynamic basis of JJY in treating ALD. Materials and methodsUPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, HPLC fingerprinting, and LC-MS techniques were used for the composition identification and quality control of JJY. The pharmacological components and molecular mechanisms of JJY in anti-ALD were then predicted using network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches. Ultimately, an acute alcoholic liver injury mouse model was developed, and the potential mechanisms were verified by hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), Oil Red O, and TUNEL staining, real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), Western blot (WB) and molecular docking analysis. ResultsThe results showed that the main components of JJY are organic acids, flavonoids, and isoflavonoids, in which puerarin, daidzein, glycitein, ononin, quercetin, and tectorigenin can be used as the indicator components of JJY. In addition, JJY might ameliorate ALD through several pathways, including potentially promoting alcohol metabolism via alcohol-metabolizing enzymes, and possibly inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis via the Nrf2/Keap1/HO-1 and MAPK signaling pathways. Furthermore, JJY may also alleviated hepatic lipid accumulation through the PPARα signaling pathway. ConclusionsJJY has significant anti-ALD efficacy with multiple mechanisms. This study offers a solid experimental foundation for JJY's development as a medicine with anti-ALD characteristics and elucidates its probable active components.

Climate Change Impact and Traditional Adaptation Practices in Northeast India: A Review

The review explores the intricate traditional knowledge (TK) nurtured by the diverse indigenous communities of Northeast (NE) India, emphasizing on their adaptive strategies amidst the region's evolving climate patterns. NE India faces a multitude of climate change-induced risks, including earthquakes, landslides, flash floods, and thunderstorms/lightning, highlighting the critical role of indigenous knowledge in mitigating these challenges. Through generations of experience, indigenous cultures have amassed a treasure trove of traditional ecological knowledge, particularly pertinent in NE India's context. Given the region's vulnerability to climate change impacts, these indigenous practices are indispensable. The review provides an in-depth analysis of these aspects, shedding light on recent climate change impacts, prevalent issues, and the indigenous adaptation strategies in NE India. Recognizing the significance of indigenous knowledge in climate change adaptation, the review stresses the importance of integrating it with scientific knowledge to enhance adaptation effectiveness. It extensively covers various aspects of traditional farming systems, watershed governance, the preservation of biodiversity, and traditional medical practices in NE India. However, the region faces challenges from growing development, the industrial revolution, and devastation, emphasizing an urgent need to document, evaluate, and preserve indigenous cultures' traditional ecological knowledge (TEK).

Adenocalymma alliaceum: An Overview

Adenocalymma alliaceum, commonly known as Garlic Vine or Lahsun bel, is an herbal shrub belonging to the family Bignoniaceae. It is native to northern Brazil and the Amazon rainforest, and certain species can also be found in the Chhattisgarh, Kerala states of India. This evergreen plant is highly valued for its ornamental qualities, with bright green leaves and tri-colored blooms that emit a distinct garlic-like fragrance. It grows up to 6-8 feet in height and is popular for landscaping purposes. The plant has various pharmacological activities that have been studied particularly in the management of diabetes mellitus. The bark, leaves, stems, and roots of Adenocalymma alliaceum contain a range of bioactive compounds that have been used to treat different diseases and disorders. Phytoconstituents such as diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide are major chemical constituents of the plant, exhibiting antimicrobial, antihyperlipidemic, antifungal, and antimycotic activities. These properties make Adenocalymma alliaceum a promising source for the development of allopathic drugs. While the plant has traditional and cultural significance, it has also gained attention for its potential therapeutic properties. However, it is important to note that although it is used as a folk medicine in local communities, it is not extensively mentioned in published books or literature. In summary, Adenocalymma alliaceum is an intriguing natural resource with a rich cultural heritage and significant pharmacological potential. Further research and exploration of this plant may uncover additional therapeutic benefits and contribute to the development of novel drugs and treatments.

Moringa oleifera hydroalcoholic leaf extracts mitigate valproate-induced oxidative status in the extraorbital lacrimal gland in a rat model

Dysfunction of the extraorbital lacrimal gland (ELG) can lead to loss of vision due to damage to the epithelium of cornea. The broad-spectrum anti-epileptic drug sodium valproate (SV) has numerous side effects. Moringa oleifera (M.oleifera) is widely used as a food and in folk medicine. The effects of orally administered SV and M. oleifera hydroalcoholic leaf extract on rat ELG were investigated in this study by analysing both antioxidant and oxidant parameters. Additionally, boron level and tissue factor (TF) activity were determined. Protein changes were detected by sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Significantly lower values of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and total antioxidant status (TAS) were observed in the SV group compared to the control group. Treatment with Moringa extract significantly increased SOD, CAT and TAS values in the Moringa given SV group (SVM). While no significant differences were observed between the sialic acid values of the groups, lipid peroxidation (LPO), nitric oxide (NO) and total oxidant status (TOS) values were significantly elevated in the SV group compared to the control group. Due to the effect of Moringa extract, LPO, NO and TOS levels were significantly decreased in the SVM group compared to the SV group. TF activity was not meaningfully altered between groups. Compared to control rats, oxidative stress index (OSI) level significantly increased, whereas the boron level decreased in the SV group. Moringa extract treatment noticeably reduced OSI in the SVM group. According to SDS-PAGE, decreases in the density of protein bands with molecular weights of 51, 83, and 90 kDa were observed in SV given rats compared to the other groups. These decreases were reversed by the administration of Moringa extract. Moringa extract has shown protective properties arising from antioxidant potential, especially with its very low OSI value. Individuals undergoing SV treatment and having ELG complications might consider using Moringa extract to mitigate valproate induced damage.

Herbal Healer: A Comprehensive Review of the Overall Plant Profile and Medicinal Properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra

This review highlights the significance of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) as a traditional medicinal plant with diverse therapeutic benefits. In India, where traditional remedies are widely preferred over allopathic medicines, thanks to its natural nature and fewer side effects, licorice has a notable position. Being one of the four "Medhya Rasayana" in Ayurveda, G. glabra has been used for memory enhancement, cognition, and nerve function improvements for over 4,000 years. Liquorice cultivation is widespread in several countries, and its chemical constituents include flavonoids, glycosides, triterpenoid aglycone, glycyrrhizin, and Glabridin. The plant has demonstrated multiple pharmacological activities such as, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, memory enhancement, antistress, hepatoprotective, immunomodulation, antihyperglycemic, and anticancer effects. moreover, licorice shows antimicrobial, antinociceptive, dermatological, and neuroprotective properties. These diverse therapeutic effects have led to its potential use in various health-related concerns. To completely comprehend its modes of action, additional research is needed, define optimal dosages, and ensure long-term safety and efficacy. In conclusion, licorice stands as a significant herbal medicine with a rich history of use and remarkable potential for enhancing human health. Its multiple biological activities make it a valuable candidate for complementary and alternative medicine. Standardization of licorice extracts and rigorous quality control are essential for consistent therapeutic applications. As scientific research expands, licorice-based products are anticipated to play an increasingly vital role in holistic healthcare.

The total tannins of Geum japonicum Thunb. var. chinense extracted by green and natural deep eutectic solvent: Extraction optimization, component identification and hypoglycemic activity

Geum japonicum Thunb. var. chinense (G. japonicum) is a cultivated medicinal plant and used as folk medicine, among which tannins are the main active ingredients. In this work, L-proline-lactic acid (Pro:La) as natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) was tailored for the total tannins extraction from G. japonicum with the optimal conditions as follows: water content of 29 %, solid-liquid ratio of 27:1 (mg/mL), extraction time of 48 min, and extraction temperature of 48°C. In high fat diet-induced obese mice, the total tannin extract of G. japonicum can significantly reduce the body weight and serum lipid levels, improve glucose tolerance impairment and insulin resistance, reduce islet hypertrophy and protect the liver. Targeted fractionation of the total tannin extract of G. japonicum led to the isolation of sixteen tannins. Notably, the isolated tannins, except for ellagic acid and 3,3′-di-O-methylellagic acid, possessed strong α-glucosidase inhibitory activities (IC50: 1.401–4.801 μg/mL) and dose-dependently inhibited glucose consumption of Caco-2 model system in vitro. These results indicate that the NADES (Pro:La) can effectively extract total tannins from G. japonicum and provide a reference for further applications in medicine and healthcare products.

The Anti-Arthritic Potential of the Ethanolic Extract of Salvia Lachnostachys Benth. Leaves and Icetexane Dinor-Diterpenoid Fruticuline B.

The decoction of Salvia lachnostachys Benth. leaves is used in Brazilian folk medicine for anti-spasmodic, antipyretic, and anxiolytic purposes. Some of the biological effects of an S. lachnostachys extract have been shown to be anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antidepressant effects. In addition, this medicinal plant produces several compounds including icetexane diterpenoids, such as fruticuline A and fruticuline B. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the anti-hyperalgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of fruticuline B (FRUT B) and the ethanolic extract obtained from the leaves of S. lachnostachys (EESL) in experimental mouse models. EESL (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg) and FRUT B (1 mg/kg) were evaluated in articular inflammation-induced models in Swiss mice. In articular inflammation induced by Zymosan, EESL (300 mg/kg) and FRUT B (1 mg/kg) significantly reduced mechanical hyperalgesia (83.17% inhibition for EESL and 81.19% for FRUT B); edema (68.75% reduction for EESL and 33.66% for FRUT B); leukocyte migration (81.3% for EESSL and 92.2% for FRUT B), and nitric oxide production (88.3% for EESL and 74.4% for FRUT B). The exposure to fruticuline B significantly inhibited the edema (51.5%), mechanical (88.12%) and cold hyperalgesia (80.8%), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) (63.4%) activity 24 h after CFA injection. In the pleurisy model, FRUT B reduced 89.1% of leukocyte migration and 50.3% in nitric oxide production. Four hours after carrageenan injection, FRUT B (1 mg/kg) diminished 89.11% of mechanical hyperalgesia, 65.8% of paw edema, and 82.12% of the response to cold hyperalgesia. In the MTT test, EESL and fruticuline B caused no cytotoxicity. The present study revealed, for the first time, the anti-arthritic and anti-nociceptive effects of FRUT B, pointing out the therapeutic potential of the species to control inflammation and nociception. Future studies are needed to evaluate other biological properties of fruticuline B and to better understand its mechanism of action.

Rapid discovery of natural antioxidants in Hypericum japonicum: Dual roles of the liquid phase mobile phase as extraction and separation solvent

Hypericum japonicum is a traditional folk medicine with various bioactivities such as hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-tumorous. The antioxidant effect of H. japonicum is one of the most prominent effects due to its responsibility for many of its activities. To clarify active natural substance, the antioxidant properties of H. japonicum were preliminarily assessed by ferric reducing–antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) and Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD). Then, a straightforward and effective method named online liquid extraction-high performance liquid chromatography combined with ABTS antioxidant assay and mass spectrometry (OLE-HPLC-ABTS/Q-TOF-MS) was developed to swiftly and directly discover the antioxidants in H. japonicum. Using mobile phase as extraction and separation reagent, coupled with online activity analysis and compounds identification by high-resolution MS, the online system enables rapid screening of natural antioxidant bioactives from complex mixture. By using it, a total of 9 compounds including flavonoids and phenolic acids characterized by retention time, precise mass, and fragmentation ions in MS/MS spectra showed antioxidant action. Finally, the antioxidant and SOD activity of main found active compounds were validated by in vitro experiment assay and molecular docking. In summary, these results suggested that H. japonicum could be considered as a potential source of natural antioxidants, and the online integrated system might become a promising candidate for the natural antioxidants discovery in the future.

Exploring the Potential of Turmeric as a Natural Antibacterial Agent: In Vitro Evaluation of Crude Paste and Aqueous Extract

Background: There is growing concern in the use of natural antimicrobial compounds due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. One such contender is turmeric (Curcuma longa), an herb known for its usage in medicine for centuries; nowadays, however, its prospects in pharmacology are being actively discussed. Since access and utilization of modern health care is scarce in Bangladesh, such natural cures are worth researching. Objective: To assess the in vitro antibacterial activity of turmeric’s crude paste and aqueous extract against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Methods: The study was carried out in the Department of Pharmacology with the collaboration of Department of Microbiology, Mymensingh Medical College, Bangladesh, over a period of one year from July 2010 to June 2011, and it consisted of three experiments: Effects of crude turmeric paste incorporated in nutrient agar media, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of Aqueous Turmeric Extract and Amikacin by broth dilution method, and Subculture method to confirm bactericidal effect. Results: CTP demonstrated effective growth of S. aureus at 10% concentration and E. coli at 30% concentration. The MIC of ATE was found to be 800 μg/ml for S. aureus and 2000 μg/ml for E. coli. The MIC for amikacin was 10 μg/ml for both organisms. These effects have been further substantiated in subculture studies regarding their bactericidal properties. Conclusion: From the findings of the current study, it is evident that both turmeric and its crude paste had profound antibacterial effects against S. aureus and E. coli, though the effect of crude paste was observed to be stronger than that of the aqueous extract. Although not as strong as Amikacin, its organic nature and possibility of side effects make it worth pursuing. Hence, this work adds to the literature on the fact that turmeric has health benefits as highlighted by traditional medical practice and points to the need to find new natural sources of .............

Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of the ethyl acetate extract of two strains of Thai Laetiporus sulphureus mushroom

Laetiporus sulphureus, a wood-decaying mushroom, has been reported to be a good source of natural bioactive components. Traditionally used in folk medicine, L. sulphureus has shown its beneficial effects on human health. This study was conducted to evaluate the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of two strains of Thai L. sulphureus mushrooms (MFLUCC 12-0546 and MFLUCC 12-0547) using disc diffusion assay and an ABTS antioxidant assay, respectively. Initially, the mushroom mycelia were prepared and cultured in potato dextrose broth (PDB) and malt extract broth (MEB) at 30°C for 10 days. The ethyl acetate extracts were prepared using the culture supernatants and used for both assays. Although the two mushroom strains were very similar in morphology, they exhibited different antibacterial and antioxidant activities. For antibacterial activity, the MEB extracts had a better effect on antibacterial activity than those obtained from the PDB culture, whereas the PDB extracts showed a better antioxidant activity than those obtained from the MEB cultivation. The results showed that the L. sulphureus extracts obtained from its mycelial state possess antibacterial and antioxidant activity. It should also be noted interestingly that both biological activities tested in the present study are dependent on the mushroom strains and media used for cultivation.

Antibacterial activity of secondary metabolites from the roots of Solanum dasyphyllum: A combined in vitro and in silico study

Solanum dasyphyllum is widely utilized for folk medicine in Ethiopia. The chromatographic separation of root extract of S. dasyphyllum led to the isolation of six compounds: tremulacin (1), scopoletin (2), stigmasterol (3), β-sitosterol (4), palmitic acid (5) and 2,3-dihydroxypropyl-9Z,12Z-octadecadienoate (6). The structures of the compounds were determined using NMR (1D and 2D), MS and comparison with literature data. The extract and isolated compounds were in vitro assayed against six bacterial strains and displaying activity against the tested strains. The extract exhibited stronger activity against E. coli, K. pneumoniae, and P. aeruginosa, with MIC values of 0.195±0.0, 0.391±0.0, and 0.195±0.0 mg/mL, respectively. The isolated compounds also showed good antibacterial activity with the highest activity was recorded for compound 2, with MIC values of 0.313±0.0 mg/mL against K. pneumoniae, while for the ciprofloxacin is 0.195±0.0 mg/mL against the same strain. In silico molecular docking analyses were performed for compounds 1, 2 and 3 against E. coli DNA gyrase B, P. aeruginosa LasR protein, and K. pneumoniae using AutoDock Vina and showed better binding activity. The in vitro antibacterial results and in silico analysis of the compounds revealed the potential of these compounds to be lead compound for antibacterial drug discovery. KEY WORDS: Solanum dasyphyllum, Chromatographic separation, Antibacterial activity, Molecular docking Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(6), 1843-1860. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i6.26

Crotalaria quinquefolia L. Revealed as a Potential Source of Neuropharmacophore in Both Experimental and Computational Studies.

Herbal remedies have shown great promise for improving human health. The plant Crotalaria quinquefolia is used in folk medicine to cure different diseases, including scabies, fever, discomfort, and lung infections. The present research was designed to explore bioactive compounds and evaluate the neuropharmacological effects of C. quinquefolia through in vivo and in silico approaches. Different secondary metabolites as well as the antioxidant activity were measured. Furthermore, chemical compounds were identified by HPLC and GCMS analysis. The neuropharmacological activity was examined by hole cross, hole board, open field, Y-maze, elevated plus maze, and thiopental sodium induced sleeping time tests in mice at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg body weight. Besides, an in-silico study was performed on proteins related to Alzheimer disease. The extract showed a significant content of secondary metabolites and antioxidant potential. The in-silico analysis showed that myricetin, quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol have good binding affinity with studied proteins, and QSAR studies revealed potential benefits for treating dementia, age-related macular degeneration, and more. The findings of the present neurological activity collectively imply that the extract has strong CNS depressant and anxiolytic activity. Therefore, C. quinquefolia can be a potential source of secondary metabolites to treat Alzheimer disease.

A mouse in a box is like a warlord in a city (mice as characters of Russian folklore)

Mice have accompanied a man throughout much of his history. With the advent of agriculture, mice are pests that must be exterminated by any means and rational means of extermination coexisted with magical ones. Unlike real life, in folklore and cult practice it is a complex and ambiguous character. Mice were used in divination, conspiracies and folk medicine, their image was often associated with death and evil spirits. At the same time, in fairy tales the mouse often acts as a helper, rather than a pest. All this proves the binary perception of mice which were close to the mythological world and its inhabitants and, accordingly, acted as bearers of both harm and good.

Coughs and Colds - Medicines or Home Remedies?

Coughs and Colds - Medicines or Home Remedies?

The Ethanolic Extract of Polygala paniculata L. Blocks Panx1 Channels and Reduces Ischemic Brain Infarct in a Dose- and Sex-Dependent Way.

Polygala paniculata L. is a native plant from tropical America. The therapeutic potential of the hydroalcoholic extract of P. paniculata (HEPp) has been scientifically explored due to folk medicine reports on its action against several afflictions. HEPp contains several bioactive molecules with neuroprotective activities, making it a promising candidate for stroke treatment. This study used electrophysiological, biochemical, and in vivo experiments to evaluate the molecular mechanisms underlying HEPp as a neuroprotective therapy for stroke targeting Pannexin-1 (Panx1). Panx1 is a non-selective channel that opens during ischemia and contributes to neuronal death. HEPp was not toxic to cortical neurons and pre-treatment with the extract reduced neuronal death promoted by oxygen and glucose deprivation in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, HEPp blocked Panx1 currents in a dose-dependent manner and the effect, which was shown to be partially due to rutin. Animals submitted to photothrombosis and post-treated with HEPp had reduced infarct volume, and the effective dose was lower in males (1mg/kg) than in females (10mg/kg). On the other hand, in Panx1 KD mice (50% Panx1 levels), the acute treatment reduced the infarct volume only in males. Upon chronic treatment with HEPp, a reduction in Panx1 protein levels was observed. The current study provides reliable evidence of the neuroprotective properties of HEPp in both in vitro and in vivo models of stroke. The underlying mechanism involves, at least in part, the inhibition of Panx1 channel function and possibly downregulation of protein levels, suppressing the secondary events that lead to apoptosis and inflammation.

Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Effects of Tribulus terrestris Ethanolic Extract in Scopolamine-Induced Amnesia in Zebrafish: Supported by Molecular Docking Investigation Targeting Monoamine Oxidase A.

Plants of the genus Tribulus have been used in folk medicine for wound healing, alleviating liver, stomach, and rheumatism pains, and as cognitive enhancers, sedatives, antiseptics, tonics, and stimulants. The present work aimed to evaluate whether Tribulus terrestris (Tt) administered for 15 days attenuated cognitive deficits and exhibited anxiolytic and antidepressant profiles in scopolamine-induced amnesia in zebrafish. Animals were randomly divided into six groups (eight animals per group): (1)-(3) Tt treatment groups (1, 3 and 6 mg/L), (4) control, (5) scopolamine (SCOP, 0.7 mg/kg), and (6) galantamine (Gal, 1 mg/L). Exposure to SCOP (100 µM) resulted in anxiety in zebrafish, as assessed by the novel tank diving test (NTT) and novel approach test (NAT). When zebrafish were given SCOP and simultaneously given Tt (1, 3, and 6 mg/L once daily for 10 days), the deficits were averted. Molecular interactions of chemical compounds from the Tt fractions with the monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) were investigated via molecular docking experiments. Using behavioral experiments, we showed that administration of Tt induces significant anxiolytic-antidepressant-like effects in SCOP-treated zebrafish. Our result indicated that flavonoids of Tt, namely kaempferol, quercetin, luteolin, apigetrin, and epigallocatechin, could act as promising phytopharmaceuticals for improving anxiety-related disorders.

Cnicus benedictus: Folk Medicinal Uses, Biological Activities, and In Silico Screening of Main Phytochemical Constituents.

Traditional medicine has long recognized the therapeutic potential of Cnicus benedictus, and recent scientific research has shed light on the pharmacological properties of this plant. The bioactive compounds that can be extracted from it, such as the sesquiterpene lactones arctigenin, arctiin, and cnicin, are very interesting to researchers.In this article, based on available data from pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo studies, we delve into the pharmacology of the active constituents of this plant to explore its potential therapeutic applications and underlying mechanisms of action. In addition, we present a computer analysis designed to reveal the pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties of the main phytochemicals that are active in C. benedictus through new in silico techniques and predictive tools such as SwissADME and PubChem.The data from the in silico study presented here support the traditional use of C. benedictus, as well as its promise as a source of new therapeutic chemical compounds.

Rapid-onset methemoglobinemia from traditional-medicine-induced potassium nitrate poisoning: successful treatment with methylene blue—a case report

BackgroundPotassium nitrate poisoning is a rare but potentially serious condition that can result in methemoglobinemia and subsequent cyanosis. This case report presents a unique instance of rapid-onset methemoglobinemia resulting from the ingestion of a traditional medicine preparation containing potassium nitrate, known as “kalmi shora.”Case presentationA 14-year-old Pakistani boy reported to the emergency department with a history of sudden-onset headache, drowsiness agitation, irritability, and generalized cyanosis. Pulse oximetry showed a concerning oxygen saturation level of 58%, whereas arterial blood gas analysis revealed a normal partial pressure of oxygen (90 mmHg). The profile of abrupt onset of symptoms, generalized cyanosis, and the discrepancy between the partial pressure of oxygen and oxygen saturation readings necessitated a comprehensive assessment including inquiries into potential toxins. The peculiar appearance of the blood, resembling chocolate in color, further indicated the possibility of methemoglobinemia. The patient was successfully treated with methylene blue, leading to a prompt resolution of symptoms.ConclusionThis case highlights the significance of considering toxin exposures, such as traditional-medicine-induced poisoning, in emergency settings. The report contributes to the medical literature by highlighting the potential risks associated with traditional remedies and emphasizes the critical role of prompt diagnosis and intervention in optimizing patient outcomes. Recognition of the specific etiology of methemoglobinemia, in this case, traditional medicine ingestion, is essential for effective management in emergency medicine.

Highly oxygenated antiplasmodial and non-hemolytic Δ7,9(11) stigmastane-type steroids from the twigs of Vernonia amygdalina Delile

Chemical investigations of a methanolic extract of the twigs of Vernonia amygdalina Delile (Asteraceae) resulted in the isolation and identification of three previously undescribed highly oxygenated Δ7,9(11) stigmastane-type steroids namely vernonins U−W (1−3) along with six known compounds (4−9). The structural characterization of all the isolated compounds has been conducted via comprehensive 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopy as well as HRMS. The seven steroidal derivatives 1−7 were evaluated for their antiplasmodial activity against the chloroquine-resistant strain P. falciparum Dd2 (PfDd2) and their hemolytic effect on human red blood cells (RBCs). Vernonins U (1), A (4) and stigmasterol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (7) showed the highest activity with IC50 values of (5.47 ± 0.01) μg/mL, (6.02 ± 0.13) μg/mL and (6.34 ± 0.80) μg/mL, respectively, against PfDd2, while vernonin W (3) showed moderate activity of (21.20 ± 0.40) μg/mL. None of the tested compounds displayed hemolytic effects on human RBCs up to 100 μg/mL indicating their safety. These results enrich the known chemistry of V. amygdalina and support its use in folk medicine for the treatment of malaria. This encourages further research towards new antiplasmodial drug candidates from this plant.