Herbal Treatment Research Articles

A Medical Anthropological Study on the Use of Digital Technology in Traditional Medicine (Sinhala Medicine) in Sri Lanka

Traditional Sinhala medicine (TSM), an integral part of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, has been practiced for centuries. This system, rooted in indigenous knowledge, emphasizes natural remedies, herbal treatments, and holistic approaches to health. However, the advent of digital technology has brought significant changes to various fields, including traditional medicine (TM). This research aims to understand how digital technology is being used in TSM and its effects on this traditional practice. Can TSM be developed using digital technology to suit today’s society? is the research question in this research. As both qualitative and quantitative data have been used for this research, the research has been conducted under the mixed research method. Sampling was conducted at the Maharagama and Homagama DSDs (Divisional Secretariat Division) in Colombo district, Buttala and Siyabalanduwa DSDs in Monaragala district, Kahtagasdigiliya and Kekirawa DSDs in Anuradhapura district. In order to achieve the objectives of the research, 15 traditional medical practitioners (TMP) and 60 elderly people were selected from the study areas through purposive sampling method, and data were collected through interviews and observation methods. While digital technology has the potential to enhance the practice of TM, it also poses challenges related to authenticity, quality control, and equitable access. The study reveals that digital technology has significantly improved the accessibility of TSM authenticity and equitable access. To maximize the benefits of digital technology while mitigating its drawbacks, it is essential to develop strong guidelines and foster collaboration among practitioners, technology developers, and policymakers. By doing so, Sri Lanka can ensure the continued vitality and relevance of its TM practices in the digital age, preserving its cultural heritage while improving healthcare outcomes for its population.

Diabetic Wound Healing: Factors, Mechanisms, and Treatment Strategies Using Herbal Components.

Managing diabetic wounds is a significant challenge for healthcare professionals since severe complications and delayed recovery greatly impact the patients' quality of life. This article aimed to explore various factors affecting diabetic wound healing, the mechanism of wound healing, and potential natural products having wound healing capability. It focuses on mechanisms of action and the therapeutic effectiveness of the compounds employed in the management of diabetic wounds. The review discusses the function of nutrition in wound healing, emphasizing the significance of consuming adequate amounts of protein, energy, lipids, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and water to promote healing. Several herbs, including Rosmarinus officinalis, Carica papaya, Aloe vera, Annona squamosa, and Punica granatum, are being tested for wound healing qualities in diabetes circumstances. These plants have a variety of modes of action, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory activities that help to speed up wound healing, stimulate collagen formation, and promote tissue regeneration. The variety of action mechanisms seen in natural products, especially in plants, offers hope for the treatment of diabetic wounds. It may also be possible to improve healing results and the quality of life of diabetes individuals with chronic wounds by including these herbal treatments in wound care programs.

Synergistic Inhibition of Breast Carcinoma Cell Proliferation by Quercetin and Sulforaphane via Activation of the ERK/MAPK Pathway.

In the contemporary era of drug discovery, herbal treatments have demonstrated an unparalleled ability to produce anticancer drugs. An important part of the therapy of cancer is the use of plants and their by-products via analogues, which alter the tumor microenvironment and several signaling pathways. The objective of the current investigation was to conclude the rate at which the herbal medications quercetin (QT) and sulforaphane (SFN) repressed the growth of breast carcinoma cells in MDA-MB-231 by preventing the ERK/MAPK signaling systems. The cells were assessed for several studies after being subjected to different concentrations (0-70 µM) of QT and SFN (QT + SFN) for duration of 24 h. We investigated the combination that QT + SFN generated cytotoxicity using the MTT assay. The DCFH-DA staining technique was utilized to assess ROS. The protein spectra of survival of cells, cell cycle progression, and apoptosis were evaluated employing flow cytometry and western blotting. The consequences illustrated that the relative cytotoxicity of QT and SFN was roughly 28.74 μM and 39.87 μM for MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively. Following the 24-h incubation period, MDA-MB-231 cells exhibit considerable cytotoxicity when QT and SFN are combined, with IC50 values of 19.48 μM. Moreover, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells treated with QT and SFN concurrently showed substantial production of ROS and increased apoptotic signals. Consequently, because QT + SFN inhibit the production of ERK/MAPK/JNK/p38-based control of proliferation and cell cycle-regulating proteins, it has been considered a chemotherapeutic medication. To determine the extent to which the co-treatment induces apoptosis, more in vivo study will be required before they can be used commercially.

Antiviral activity of HuaganJiedu decoction (HGJDD) against hepatitis B virus (HBV) through FOXO4/ERK/HNF4α signal pathway.

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is still a widespread global health issue. HuaganJiedu Decoction (HGJDD) is a common prescription for treating HBV in China, which has the effect of enhancing antiviral efficacy and improving clinical efficacy. However, its precise mechanism of action remains unclear, warranting further investigation to elucidate its therapeutic potential and integration into standard medical practices. This study aims to explore the therapeutic mechanism of HuaganJiedu Decoction (HGJDD) in HBV. We investigated the therapeutic potential of HGJDD, and LC-MS analysis characterized the chemical profile of HGJDD. In vitro, we utilized HepG2.2.15cell line to assess cytotoxicity and treatment efficacy of HGJDD compared to Entecavir controls. In vivo, assessments included monitoring HBV-related biomarkers and viral load. Network pharmacology and RNA-seq analyses identified molecular pathways and targets influenced by HGJDD treatment. Immunofluorescence and Western blotting provided further insights into the therapeutic mechanisms underlying HGJDD for HBV. HGJDD showed no toxicity on HepG2.2.15cells at 10%, 20%, 40%, and 80% serum concentrations. In vitro, HGJDD reduced HBsAg, HBeAg, and HBV DNA levels by dose-dependently and time-dependently. HGJDD can decrease the levels of HBsAg, HBeAg, and HBV DNA in serum and liver levels, meanwhile the therapeutic effect of high-dose HGJDD approach to EVT's in HBV Tg mice. According to intersection of network pharmacology and transcriptome, FOXO signal pathway was highlighted as potential targets and Immunofluorescence find that FOXO4D protein expression lever was increased in three HGJDD group, especially in high-dose HGJDD group. Western blotting confirmed increased level of FOXO4, ERK, and p-ERK and decreased levels of HNF4α, which reflected that the therapeutic effect was closely to FOXO4/ERK/HNF4α signal pathway. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers diverse herbal treatments for HBV, with HGJDD showing efficacy in reducing HBsAg, HBeAg, and HBV DNA levels at cellular and animal levels. This study identified that FOXO4/ERK/HNF4α signal pathway played an important role in HGJDD's therapeutic effects. These findings support HGJDD's potential in HBV treatment, providing a scientific basis for clinical use.

The power of herb’s: Effective treatment for skin diseases

Skin diseases, including conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne, pose significant challenges to public health and patient well-being. These disorders are often characterized by inflammation, infection and cosmetic concerns, leading to considerable psychological impact. The increasing prevalence of skin diseases has generated interest in both conventional and alternative treatments. Herbal remedies have emerged as a promising approach to managing skin conditions due to their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and healing properties. Plants such as turmeric, aloe vera, tea tree oil, neem, calendula, chamomile and ginger have been documented in various studies for their effectiveness in alleviating symptoms and improving skin health (Khanna et al., 2021; Gupta et al., 2020). These natural treatments are often associated with fewer side effects compared to synthetic medications, making them attractive alternatives for patients seeking holistic care. Research into the pharmacological mechanisms of these herbal treatments is crucial for optimizing their use in dermatology. the importance of integrating herbal medicine into conventional dermatological practice to enhance therapeutic outcomes and promote overall skin health.

Review on The Potential of Herbal Medicine in the Treatment of Diabetic Kidney Disease

Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD), a leading complication of diabetes mellitus, presents a significant global health challenge due to its progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Conventional therapies for DKD focus on glycemic control, blood pressure regulation, and renin-angiotensin system inhibition but often fall short in halting disease progression. This review explores the potential of herbal medicine as a complementary approach to managing DKD. Herbal medicines, rich in bioactive phytochemicals, exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and renoprotective properties that may mitigate key mechanisms driving DKD progression. Notable compounds include quercetin, curcumin, berberine, and ursolic acid, which target oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. Furthermore, herbs like Curcuma longa, Zingiber officinale, and Panax ginseng have shown promising results in preclinical and clinical studies, improving renal function and reducing proteinuria. Despite their potential, challenges remain in standardizing herbal formulations, understanding herb-drug interactions, and ensuring safety in patients with compromised renal function. Future research should prioritize large-scale clinical trials, mechanistic studies, and integrative treatment models combining herbal and conventional therapies. By leveraging the strengths of traditional and modern medicine, herbal interventions offer a promising pathway to improve outcomes for individuals with DKD

Integration of Traditional Medicine with Modern Methods

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

Integrating modern and herbal medicines in controlling malaria: experiences of orthodox healthcare providers in Ghana

BackgroundIn Ghana, the government has integrated herbal medicine into the formal healthcare system in response to widespread use of traditional remedies. However, empirical evidence supporting the contribution of integrated healthcare to malaria control remains limited. This study employed a phenomenological qualitative research design to explore the experiences of medical doctors and pharmacists from the coastal, forest and savannah regions of Ghana regarding the integration of modern and herbal medicine in the treatment and control of malaria. Donabedian’s framework for evaluating the quality of healthcare served as the foundational theoretical framework for this research.MethodsData were collected through individual in-depth interviews involving 26 participants and analysed using a framework analytical approach.ResultsThe findings revealed that inadequate political commitment to the practice of integration has led to several challenges, including the high cost of herbal anti-malaria medications, limited promotional activities surrounding integration, a shortage of qualified medical herbalists, inconsistent supply chains for herbal anti-malaria treatments, and a lack of standardisation in herbal medicine practices. Participants had divergent views regarding the impact of integration on malaria control; while medical doctors believed that the intervention has not significantly contributed to reducing malaria prevalence in Ghana, pharmacists viewed the presence of herbal clinics within government hospitals as an effective and sustainable alternative for treating malaria.ConclusionReflecting on these results, it is imperative for policymakers to explore strategies that could enhance the effectiveness of an integrated health system, thereby increasing the contribution of herbal medicine towards achieving a malaria free nation. Future research could benefit from including policymakers, heads of health directorates, and community members, regarding the role of public health interventions in addressing health inequities in Ghana.

Review on Medicinal Herbs in the Treatment of Gout

Joint urate crystals are the hallmark of the inflammatory condition known as gout. Acute gout is characterised by the abrupt development of swelling and pain that begins in the greater toe. This condition is linked to high levels of uric acid in the blood, which can occur when the kidneys do not excrete enough of the acid or when the body produces too much uric acid. Allopurinol, which inhibits the enzyme xanthine oxidase and hence lowers blood uric acid levels, is the mainstay of conventional gout treatment in contemporary medicine. Pain and inflammation can be managed with the help of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It has also been seen that non-pharmacological approaches, such as dietary improvements, can improve patients' situations. Many people believe that herbal treatments are safer and more effective than conventional pharmaceuticals, especially when it comes to patient adherence and the potential for adverse effects. Celery and parsley, when used together, have demonstrated effects comparable to those of allopurinol. This article's goal is to provide a summary of allopurinol's herbal substitutes.

Evaluation of Herbal Anticoccidials on Growth Performance in Experimentally Infected Broiler Chickens

Avian diseases, especially coccidiosis, represent a significant threat to poultry production, demanding research into the use of herbal supplements in birds’ diets. So, the aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of selected herbal components in mitigating coccidiosis in broilers and to examine their overall impact on the productivity traits of broilers. A 35-day feeding trial was conducted with 1200 male ROSS 308 broiler chickens in two poultry facilities, one non-infected, using either usual coccidiostats (UC−) or 500 g/t herbal additive (consisting of Holarrhena antidysenterica, Ficus religiosa, Berberis aristata, Allium sativum, Embelia ribes, and Azadirachta indica; HA−) and the other intentionally exposed to Eimeria via drinking water at 7 days old, with corresponding control and experimental groups (UC+ and HA+). Dietary interventions significantly influenced broiler chicken body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG) throughout the trial, notably on day 21, with UC+ treatment yielding the highest values. Herbal supplements did not affect the feed conversion ratio (FCR) or liveability. Under infection, litter dry matter (DM) content differences were notable on days 14 and 21, favouring herbal additive treatments (HA− and HA+). Herbal supplements also impacted Eimeria presence in the duodenum and jejunum on day 21, with notable differences between treatments. Despite several limitations, the study reveals that herbal additions may effectively manage Eimeria infection and enhance litter quality in broiler production, since control treatments demonstrated improved development and anatomy.

EFEKTIVITAS EKSTRAK DAUN SIRIH MERAH TERHADAP JUMLAH KOLONI BAKTERI PADA REMAJA PEREMPUAN YANG MENGALAMI KEPUTIHAN

Leukorrhea, or vaginal discharge, is a common issue faced by adolescent girls during puberty. The Indonesian Adolescent Reproductive Health Survey reports that 31.8% of young women experience this condition, indicating their increased vulnerability to vaginal infections. Bacterial growth is a primary cause of leukorrhea, particularly in adolescent girls whose thin vaginal mucosa provides a favorable environment for bacterial proliferation, resulting in excessive fluid production and discomfort. Red betel leaf extract, containing natural antiseptics and antibiotics, offers an effective treatment for leukorrhea. The research sought to examine how extract from Piper crocatum (red betel leaf) impacts the growth of bacteria responsible for leukorrhea in young female adolescents. The research employed the Total Plate Count method to measure aerobic bacterial colony numbers in the participants' leukorrhea samples The research employed a quasi-experimental methodology, utilizing a single group pre-post test design and sequential sampling. Results demonstrated a notable impact of red betel leaf extract on the quantity of bacterial colonies in teenage girls. The statistical evaluation produced a p-value below 0.05 (specifically, 0.02), validating the extract's effectiveness. The research concludes that red betel leaf extract, a readily available natural remedy, can serve as an effective therapy to reduce bacterial colonies responsible for leukorrhea in adolescent girls. This herbal treatment's accessibility makes it a practical option for community use.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON SYNTHETIC AND HERBAL MEDICATIONS FOR THE TREATMENT OF ALOPECIA

Alopecia refers to the scientific word for diminished hair growth or balding. It describes a disease in which hairs falls off from one or more parts of your body, most commonly the scalp. Losing your hair might be triggered by a variety of factors, including hereditary traits, external factors, chemical exposure, medication, dietary insufficiency, chronic tension, or prolonged sickness, among others. Alopecia is categorized into different types depending upon its pattern of diminished hair growth and its genesis. The pursuit of effective treatments has led to the exploration of both synthetic and herbal medications. This study examines the performance, mechanisms of action, tolerability profiles, and limits of synthetic and herbal remedies for alopecia. Synthetic medications such as minoxidil and finasteride are commonly prescribed and have demonstrated varying degrees of success in clinical trials. However, concerns regarding adverse effects and long-term efficacy persist. Conversely, herbal medications, including saw palmetto, ginseng, and pumpkin seed oil, have gained popularity due to their perceived natural origin and potentially fewer side effects. Nevertheless, the scientific evidence supporting their efficacy remains limited and often inconclusive. Additionally, challenges in standardization and regulation pose significant barriers to the widespread adoption of herbal treatments. This study aims to provide healthcare professionals and patients with a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of synthetic and herbal medications for alopecia, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate their therapeutic potential and optimize patient outcomes.

Promoting stem cells activity using Chinese medicine herbs in treatment of neurological disorder: A review on novel therapeutic approaches

Stem cell therapy represents a burgeoning and swiftly advancing modality for the treatment of a diverse array of neurological disorders. However, despite continued clinical trials, the underlying mechanisms of action often remain elusive. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), with its holistic approach, provides a valuable resource for the identification and evaluation of potential neuroprotective agents. Research has shown that TCM, including herbs, herbal extracts, and specific Chinese herbal constituents, can modulate the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) to some extent. This review examines the potential of TCM as a treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. Given the limitations of current therapies due to a lack of understanding of disease pathogenesis, a holistic approach to TCM offers a promising alternative. This paper also summarizes the role of stem cells in the management of neurological disorders and evaluates prior studies concerning stem cell transplantation. In addition, it explores the capacity of TCM to influence the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs. The ultimate aim of this review is to enhance our understanding of how TCM can be utilized to influence stem cell behavior and potentially treat neurodegenerative diseases.

Assessment of the Effects of Stone Herbal Mixture Drink on Liver Parameters

Background: Herbal treatments have been used for ages, across many countries and traditions to maintain health and treat diseases. Herbal medicines are sometimes seen as all-natural substitutes for traditional drugs, providing a possible means of advancing health and fitness. Investigating how herbal mixes affect various physiological characteristics, such as liver function, has drawn more attention in recent years. The stone herbal concoction under examination is made up of a number of plant-based ingredients, with unique therapeutic effects. Methods: Thirty-six (36) wistar rats in total, split into six (6) groups of six (6) animals each, participated in this experimental study: In Group 1, the control group received only water and top feed; in Group 2, the standard medication (Sylimarin, 140 mg/kg body weight) plus 0.30 ml of stone herbal mixture was given; in Group 3, 0.30 ml of stone herbal mixture was given; in Group 4, 0.25 ml was given; in Group 5, 0.20 ml was given; and in Group 6, 0.15 ml was given. The rats were ethically sacrificed by cervical dislocation after receiving the daily therapy for 21 days. Each rat's brachiocephalic artery was used to draw blood, which was then placed in a lithium haparin anticoagulant bottle and examined for liver parameters. Results: Group 3, 4, 5 & 6 which contains 1000mg, 850mg, 650mg and 500mg of the stone herbal mixture showed significant increase of all liver enzymes when compared to the control group. Also, the group two administered with 1000mg of the stone herbal mixture and 140 mg of the standard drug, sylimarine totally reversed toxicity in all the liver function parameters (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, Albumin, Total protein, Bilirubin, AFP, TNF) compared to the control group one. Groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 which contains 1000mg, 850mg, 650mg and 500mg of the stone herbal mixture showed significant decrease of Albumin, bilirubin and total protein with while the 500mg dose of herbal mixture in group 6 was increased. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study has unveiled valuable insights into the effects of the Stone Herbal Mixture on liver parameters in male albino Wistar rats. Our result demonstrated that the lowest dose of the stone herbal mixture which is 500 mg is tolerable with the liver as against other higher doses in this experiment.

The effect of postpartum interventions on healing and pain in women with perineal trauma: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Interventions aimed at perineal healing and pain relief can have a positive impact on postpartum experiences in women who experience perineal trauma during childbirth. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare various methods applied for healing and pain relief from perineal trauma based on primary studies. The study protocol was developed following PRISMA guidelines, and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Searches were conducted between March and April 2024. Registration was completed using PROSPERO. Searches were performed using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, EBSCO, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus, National Thesis Center, TR Dizin, Türkiye Klinikleri, and DergiPark Academic search engines. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the RoB-1 and RoB-2. Data were aggregated through meta-analysis, and a GRADE evidence profile was created. Nineteen studies involving 1899 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that interventions performed within the first 24h after episiotomy did not reduce pain. However, the effects of the interventions were observed on the second day, with cold application identified as the most effective method. Additionally, interventions did not affect healing during the first three days, but a more pronounced improvement was noted in the intervention group by the fifth day. Healing began around the 7th-10th days even without intervention. The REEDA (redness, edema, ecchymosis, discharge, and approximation) score decreased most significantly in the group that received perineal education (diet, Kegel exercise, infection symptoms, and perineal hygiene). Cold application is recommended on the second day to reduce pain following perineal trauma. Interventions were found to accelerate the healing process by initiating healing at least two days earlier, with perineal education being the most effective method. However, further research on topical herbal treatments and perineal hygiene education is needed to strengthen this evidence.

Growth, yield and anatomy of alpinia calcarata (<em>Heen Araththa</em>) as affected by irrigation frequency

Alpinia calcarata, often known as Heen Araththa, is a precious medicinal plant owing to its chemical properties in herbal treatments. The growth, yield and anatomical features related to the synthesis and accumulation of secondary metabolites of this plant are highly affected by drought stress. Therefore, this work investigated the influence of irrigation frequency on growth, yield and selected anatomical features of A. calcarata. Five levels of irrigation frequencies including daily watering (T1), 7-day (T2), 14-day (T3), 21-day (T4) and 28-day (T5) intervals were investigated in a protected plant house under controlled environmental conditions. A. calcarata rhizomes with a similar number of sprouting buds planted in common potting media (topsoil: sand: compost- 1:1:1) were arranged in Completely Randomized Design in triplicates. After three weeks of establishment, five distinct irrigation frequencies were implemented, with pots being watered daily up until that point. Growth and yield parameters (shoot height (cm), number of roots, number of shoots, number of leaves per shoot, leaf area (mm2), rhizome dry weight (g)) and the anatomical parameters (root epidermis thickness (μm), rhizome epidermis thickness (μm) and oil cell density (μm2)) were collected 10 weeks after establishment. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) employing the SAS analysis system. Results revealed that all selected growth, yield and anatomical parameters of A. calcarata were significantly (p<0.05) affected by irrigation frequency. Significantly (p<0.05) the highest mean shoot height (20.8cm), mean number of roots (11.3), mean number of shoots (6.8), mean rhizome dry weight (9.3g) and significantly (p<0.05) higher mean leaf area (24.9mm2) and mean number of leaves per shoot (4) of A. calcarata weregiven by 14-day irrigation frequency. It was also observed that the mean root epidermis and rhizome thickness of A. calcarata gradually increased in response to escalating drought stress. In contrast, the highest oil cell density was observed under the lowest drought stress. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the most promising irrigation frequency for higher growth and yield of A. calcarata is watering with 14-day intervals. Daily watering appeared to be the most suitable treatment to enhance oil cell density associated with secondary metabolite production of A. calcarata.

Gastrointestinal health anti-diarrheal mixture relieves spleen deficiency-induced diarrhea through regulating gut microbiota.

This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of the gastrointestinal health anti-diarrheal mixture (GHAM) on diarrhea induced by spleen deficiency, focusing on its modulation of gut microbiota. Using specific pathogen-free Wistar rats, a spleen deficiency model was created through senna leaf gavage. Rats were divided into control, model, positive control, and GHAM treatment groups. After a 14-day treatment, fecal samples were analyzed via 16S rDNA sequencing to assess microbiota alterations. GHAM significantly mitigated diarrhea and enhanced food intake and fecal quality. It increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Romboutsia and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, and decreased the levels of diarrhea-associated bacteria, such as Prevotellaceae and Bacillus, thereby improving microbiota functionality. GHAM's modulation of gut microbiota structure and function effectively alleviated spleen deficiency-induced diarrhea, positioning it as a potential natural herbal treatment for gastrointestinal ailments. This study lays the groundwork for further exploration of GHAM's regulatory impact on gut health.

PRE-CLINICAL AND CLINICAL EFFICACY OF CURCUMIN AS AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AGENT FOR PERIODONTITIS. A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Introduction: There is ongoing exploration into herbal treatments to identify adjunct therapies with minimal side effects. One such treatment involves curcumin from turmeric (Curcuma longa). This study aims to review the efficacy of curcumin as an anti-inflammatory agent for periodontitis along with the mechanisms of action involved. Methods: A systematic review of pre-clinical and clinical studies published on Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar up to May 2024 was employed following the PRISMA guidelines. Three tools were used for risk of bias assessment, namely the QUIN tool for in vitro studies, the SYRCLE’s RoB for in vivo studies, and the Cochrane RoB 2 for RCTs. Finally, nineteen studies were included for review. Results: This study highlights curcumin’s efficacy in addressing periodontitis through diverse mechanisms. Curcumin demonstrated efficacy in attenuating inflammation within periodontal tissue by inhibiting several pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators such as interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, while concurrently increasing IL-4 and IL-10. In addition, several transcription factors such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) were also inhibited by curcumin. Administration of curcumin has additionally been demonstrated to reduce other biomarkers of periodontitis, including C-reactive protein (CRP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and procalcitonin (PCT). Conclusion: Curcumin has been shown to be effective as an adjunct therapeutic agent for periodontitis due to its anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the inflammatory response through a diverse range of mechanisms of action.

An Overview of the Osteogenic potential of Indian herb Cissus quadrangularis (Veldt Grape)

Cissus quadrangularis (CQ) is a widely known herb in India and southern part of India in particular. The bone healing ability of CQ is outlined in Ayurvedic medicine and other ancient medical texts. Bone loss in elderly especially osteoporosis is a public health problem across the globe. Bioactive molecules present in medicinal plants like CQ helps not only in bone healing but also in improving overall health. CQ is suggested as a plant herb in treatment of bone fractures and bone loss as it is safe or usage and side effects are not identified so far.However, research on the effect of CQ in humans are few and far. This review attempts to give a clear picture on the available literature that describes the osteogenic role of CQ in improving bone health and healing fractures in general and maxillofacial fractures in particular. Also, the role of CQ in green synthesis of bone scaffolds and its osteogenic potential in regeneration of bone using scaffolds are also discussed.

In vitro and in vivo activity of herbal and chemical treatments against Saprolegnia ferax—a causative agent for saprolegniasis

In vitro and in vivo activity of herbal and chemical treatments against Saprolegnia ferax—a causative agent for saprolegniasis