Folk Medicine Research Articles

Versatile properties of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flowers: In vitro exploration of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities, network pharmacology analysis, and In-silico molecular docking simulation.

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. has been used in folk medicine against several diseases. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the chemical composition of the methanolic extract of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flowers and their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Besides, network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to explore the potential antitumor effect of active metabolites of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. against breast and liver cancer. The results revealed many bioactive components known for their antimicrobial and anticancer properties. Furthermore, scavenging activity was obtained, which indicated strong antioxidant properties. The plant extract exhibited antimicrobial activities against Aspergillus brasiliensis (MIC of 0.625 mg/mL), Candida albicans, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at MICs of 1.25 mg/mL. The results revealed proapoptotic activities of the O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. extract against MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and HepG2 cell lines, where it induced significant early apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at sub-G1 phases, besides increasing the expression levels of p53, cyclin D1, and caspase 3 (p <0.005). The network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis revealed that the anticancer components of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flower extract targets the PI3K-Akt pathway. More investigations might be required to test the mechanistic pathways by which O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. might exhibit its biological activities in vivo.

Pharmacognostic Standardization and Chemical Study of Euphorbia nutans Lag. Euphorbiaceae

Aims: This study was designed to set macro/micro morphological standards, phytochemical and physicochemical parameters for the identification of E. nutans, a traditional remedy for the management of many disesases. Study Design: To establish pharmacognostic standards for proper identification of E. nutans and also study its phytochemicals using Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Place and Duration: This work was undertaken at the Department of Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria for three month spanning from April through June, 2022. Methodology: Examination of microscopic characters, venation, chemomicroscopy, micromeritic properties, fluorescence analysis and phytochemical profiling using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) were carried out. Results: Epidermal cell shapes were irregular with undulate-sinuous anticlinal walls. Stomatal distribution was amphistomatic with anisocytic and anomocytic stomata on both surfaces. Areolation was quadrangular, linear and biforked vein termination. The fluorescence characteristics showed the presence of different colours supporting the presence of various phytoconstituents for both leaf and stem. The flow properties for both leaf and stem were poor while GC-MS analysis of the dichloromethane extracts revealed lupeol (64.05%), 2-methylhexacosane (9.37%), stigmasterol (4.16%) and campesterol (1.29%) as major components in the leaf while campesterol (0.67%), stigmasterol (2.15 %), beta.-sitosterol (6.22%), lupeol (9.85%) and vitamin E (1.05%) for the stem extract. Conclusion: The results of the study could be useful for correct identification, standardization and preparation of monograph.

Moss Species Discovered in Absheron National Park

Detailed information is given on the distribution, ecology, botanical properties and uses of mosses studied in the Absheron National Park, in Azerbaijan and in the world. The types identified as a result of the study are shown and information about their relevance is given. The main objective of the study was to evaluate modern scientific knowledge about the biomorphological properties of 9 species of moss, its use in traditional and folk medicine, its properties, presence and their impact on various diseases. As a result of the study, Grimmia Hedw of the family Grimmiaceae Arnott. 6 species belonging to the genus (Grimmia unicolor Hook, Grimmia pulvinata (Hedw.) Sm., Grimmia reflexidens Müll., Grimmia muehlenbeckii Schimp., Grimmia trichophylla Grev., Grimmia anomala Hampe.), Orthotrichum Hedw. of Orthotrichaceae Arnotta family. belonging to the genus, (Orthotrichum spesiosum Nees in Sturum, Orthotrichum strangulatum P. Beauv), Fontinalaceae Schimp. of the family Fontinalis Hedw. of the genus Fontinalis antipyritica Hedw. types have been discovered. As a result of scientific research, 9 species of moss were discovered. Of them: Grimmia muehlenbeckii Schimp. as a species is new to the bryoflora of Azerbaijan.

Exploring Antidiabetic Properties of Medicinal Plants in Malaria-Affected Regions

This study investigates the potential antidiabetic properties of medicinal plants commonly used in malaria-affected regions. Diabetes and malaria, both prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, often co-occur, posing unique challenges for healthcare management. Traditional remedies, including medicinal plants, have been widely employed to treat both diseases. This paper reviews the ethnobotanical use of plants with antidiabetic properties in areas where malaria is endemic, analyzing their pharmacological mechanisms, such as glucose transport inhibition and insulin sensitization. The synergistic relationship between malaria and diabetes is also examined, with an emphasis on shared pathophysiological mechanisms, such as oxidative stress and altered blood flow. The paper highlights the need for further clinical research to standardize the use of these plants and enhance their therapeutic potential. Keywords: Antidiabetic properties, medicinal plants, malaria, diabetes, ethnobotany.

Identification and Characterization of a surfactin from Pseudomonas gessardii: A Symbiotic Bacterium with Potent Anticancer Activity

Prasiola japonica, traditionally used as food and folk medicine in South Korea, exerts pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer effects. In this study, we explored symbiotic microbes associated with P. japonica and identified Pseudomonas gessardii as a nonpathogenic symbiotic bacterium through 16S rDNA sequencing. Bioactivity-guided fractionation of P. gessardii ethanol extracts, utilizing a series of non-polar to polar solvents, led to the isolation of a single bioactive compound (SF10) from the ethyl acetate fraction. Structural analysis using LC-MS and NMR spectroscopy identified SF10 as surfactin C15, a lipopeptide consisting of 7 amino acids and a β-hydroxy fatty acid chain containing 15 carbon atoms. This represents the first discovery of surfactin production in P. gessardii, expanding known surfactin-producing genera beyond Bacillus. In HT-29 colorectal cancer cells, surfactin C15 demonstrated significant anticancer activity through multiple mechanisms: inhibition of cancer stem cell marker CD133 expression, upregulation of pro-apoptotic factors (CHOP, PUMA, DR5), and modulation of cell cycle regulators (p21, cyclin E1, CDK5). Furthermore, surfactin C15 induced necrotic cell death, confirmed by increased lactate dehydrogenase release and flow cytometry analysis showing dose-dependent increases in necrotic cell populations. This study reveals a novel source of surfactin with unique cancer cell-targeting properties, particularly through its ability to induce necrosis in colorectal cancer cells, suggesting potential therapeutic applications in cancer treatment.

In Vitro and In Silico Assessment of Bioactivity Potencies With Components of Aristolochia bodamae Dingler Extracts From Turkey

AbstractAristolochia species have been widely used in folk medicine. In this work, six solvent extracts of Aristoloia bodamae leaf, seed, and flower were investigated for the photochemical contents (TPC, TFC, and LC–MS/MS), bioactivities. Additionally, molecular docking was applied to identify whether the most abundant compounds in the extracts are responsible for the bioactivity. Total phenol and flavonoid content ranges were 10.32–160.54 mg GAE/g and 3.42–50.03 mg QE/g, respectively. The most common chemical found in most extracts was o‐coumaric acid. Leaf extracts showed the highest total antioxidant, reducing power, and free radical removal activities. Seed extracts recorded the highest antibacterial activity, and for the inhibition activity seed extracts were also the highest in general. Molecular docking demonstrates firm binding between o‐coumaric acid and AChE. The stability of the best‐docked protein was evaluated using 100 ns molecular dynamic simulation and an MM‐PBSA‐assisted effective free energy estimation. The results showed that the interaction between this enzyme and the compound was remarkably stable according to energy and molecular dynamics calculations. Overall, aboveground extracts of A. bodamae exhibited high potential in reducing oxidative damage, enzyme inhibition, DNA protection potential, and antibacterial activities, probably due to their phenolic components and o‐coumaric acid.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of polysaccharide from Portulaca oleracea L.: A review of phytochemistry and immunomodulatory effect

Portulaca oleracea L., a plant with both edible and medicinal properties, is traditionally valued for its diuretic, antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, and anthelmintic functions in folk medicine. P. oleracea polysaccharide (POP), a pivotal bioactive component, has various biological activities. Notably, their immunomodulatory capabilities have emerged as a significant area of research. The extraction, purification, monosaccharide composition, structure characterization, and biological activity of POP have been extensively investigated to identify the active components and to clarify their pharmacological actions and underlying molecular mechanisms. It aims to delineate the pharmacological mechanisms and molecular pathways associated with these polysaccharides, thereby underscoring their therapeutic promise and nutritional significance. Furthermore, the review critically examines the current research landscape of POP, identifying gaps and proposing innovative perspectives to enrich the scientific discourse surrounding these bioactive compounds.

Self-diagnosis and self-medication based on internet search among Non-Medical University students of Karachi.

For a decade, the topic of self-diagnosis and self-medication has gained significant attention due to the widespread availability of information on the internet and over-the-counter medication. This research explores the rational considerations behind individuals' self-diagnosis and self-medication practices. Our main objective is to find out the frequency of self-diagnosis and self-medication in the general population and its associated risks and benefits. A cross-sectional community-based prospective study was conducted over 7 months and included 160 students from various nonmedical universities in Karachi. A questionnaire regarding baseline characteristics, self-medication, and self-diagnosis was made, and the data was collected from the participants and then analyzed using SPSS statistical software. One-fifth of the participants used the method of diagnosing themselves regularly, whereas 9% of the involved population demonstrated medicating themselves very often. However, most of the population had self-diagnosed (50.6) or self-medicated (61.9) sometimes. The internet was the primary source of searching (75%), and home remedies were the preferred medications (71.7%). The two primary reasons for this were the scarcity of time and resources. Overall, our study points out the significance of self-medication and self-diagnosis among different nonmedical students of Karachi. Teaching people about medicines, enforcing strong prescription policies, and providing medical facilities are vital steps toward preventing this problem. The role of doctors and medical students is significant; therefore, detailed doctor-patient communication needs to be encouraged.

Altingia chinensis petroleum ether extract suppresses NSCLC via induction of apoptosis, attenuation of EMT, and downregulation of PI3K/Akt pathway

BackgroundNon-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the primary type of lung cancer with the leading cause of fatalities from cancer, and the effective treatment is minimal. Altingia chinensis is a medicinal plant utilized as a traditional folk remedy to alleviate rheumatism, punch injury and paralysis. APE is the petroleum ether extract from A. Chinensis, whose antitumor effects are rarely studied. PurposeTo explore the antitumor effects of APE on NSCLC and its molecular mechanism. MethodsLLC and H1299 cells were used to explore the anticancer effect of APE on NSCLC in vitro. MTT assay and colony formation were employed to evaluate cell viability. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate apoptosis. Wound healing and transwell were employed to evaluate cell migration and invasive capacity. Meanwhile, an LLC tumor-bearing C57BL/6 mice model was established for assessing the anticancer effect of APE on NSCLC in vivo. H&E staining was used to assess histopathology. TUNEL assay was performed to assess apoptosis in tumor tissue. Network pharmacology, CESTA, and kinase assay were employed to analyze potential molecular mechanisms. Western blots were performed to detect proteins involved in apoptosis, EMT, and the PI3K/Akt pathway. ResultsThis is the first investigation to identify APE's antitumor potential in both NSCLC cells and tumor-bearing mice models. Significantly, APE dose-dependently decreased cell viability and caused morphological changes both in LLC and H1299 cells. Furthermore, APE (31.25, 62.5, and 125 μg/ml) induced apoptosis in NSCLC cells, as demonstrated by increased Annexin V-FITC/PI-stained cells, the cleaved-caspase 3 levels, and the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Additionally, APE suppressed cell migration and invasion by the increase of E-cadherin expression and the downregulation of vimentin, implying that APE inhibited cell metastasis via attenuation of EMT. Importantly, intragastric administration of 100 mg/kg APE significantly inhibited tumor growth without apparent side effects. TUNEL assay confirmed the apoptosis in tumor tissue. Western blots validated the alteration of EMT and apoptotic markers in tumor tissue, which matched the in vitro findings. Moreover, APE directly bound to PI3Kα and inhibited its activity, leading to inhibition of the PI3K-Akt pathway. ConclusionOverall, APE exhibits anti-tumor effects on NSCLC via induction of apoptosis, attenuation of EMT, and its mechanism involves the suppression of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Our study offers new insights for the identification of novel drug development for NSCLC.

A Mini Review of the Literature with a Special Focus on India on the Prevalence of Indian Traditional Medicine (ITM) use During Pregnancy

Background: Although pregnancy has been an integral part of women’s lives for millennia, not all women have found the process comfortable. About 65 percent of women in India consume Indian traditional herbs during pregnancy. Herbal medicines are used nowadays by up to half of the world's population. Phytomedicines isolated from plants contain a wide variety of bioactive components that can have both negative and positive effects. Many herbal plants, such as Sage (Salvia fruticosa), golden cotula (Matricaria aurea), anise (P. anisum), peppermint (Mentha aquatica), and cumin (Cuminum cyminum), etc., are used in pregnancy. To minimize the adverse effects, the use of Indian traditional medicine can be the best possible alternative. Objective: Regarding the usage of herbal medicines in India, there are large research gaps and a lack of a regulatory framework. This article aims to highlight the most common traditional Indian remedies used by pregnant women, along with their uses and any possible interactions between herbal remedies and prescription drugs. Method: Several databases, including the WHO guidelines, PubMed, Bentham Science, Elsevier, Springer Nature, Wiley, and Research Gate, were used to compile the data for the article following a thorough analysis of the various research findings connected to pregnancy and herbs for pregnancy care. Result: An overview of the use of herbal medicine is given in this review, along with information on its limitations and general safety. The prevalence of herbal medicine use during pregnancy in India is then discussed, along with the uses, adverse effects, side effects, and efficacy of the most popular herbal medications. Conclusion: The use of herbal medicine during pregnancy is a common phenomenon. The outcomes of this study showed Indian Traditional medicines are known to have numerous advantages that can be helpful during or after pregnancy, including raising milk production, reducing nausea, easing labor pains, reducing morning sickness, or reducing flatulence, however, some herbal remedies have the potential to be teratogenic, poisonous, and abortive, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy because the active components of some medicinal plants can cross the placental barrier and get to the foetus. To determine the safety of taking herbal medications, studies, especially clinical trial trials, must be conducted.

Evaluation of chemical constituents in Norantea guianensis aubl. Extracts, embryotoxicity, and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory potential in Danio rerio.

Norantea guianensis Aubl., commonly referred to as the parrot flower or macaw-tail vine, is a plant species found in the Brazilian Amazon, Caatinga, and Cerrado biomes. It is used in folk medicine for its anxiolytic properties, as well as its ability to alleviate headaches and reduce fever. Nevertheless, despite its therapeutic benefits, the impact on embryonic development has yet to be fully explained. The objective of this study was to evaluate chemical constituents by HPLC-DAD, UV-visible and classical phytochemistry and the LC50 of ethanolic extracts from the stem and leaves of N. guianensis in Danio rerio after 96h and to investigate their effect on developmental morphology. The findings were then related to both Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and the plant's chemical composition. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100mg/L concentrations of stem and leaves extracts. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the stem extract contained predominantly phenolic compounds, tannins, and anthraquinones, while the leaf extract contained alkaloids and flavonoids. The LC50 values for the stem and leaf extracts were 64.55mg/L and 7.16mg/L, respectively, being the stem extract was more toxic than the leaf extract. Induced malformations and alterations in the zebrafish development in different concentrations for both extract including pericardial edema, increased heart rate, spinal malformation and equilibrium disruption. Unlike to stem extract, the leaf extract delayed larval hatching and inhibited AChE activity. The findings indicate that the leaf extract possesses higher embryotoxicity and its use should be avoided during pregnancy.

Features of teaching Russian in educational institutions in Sri Lanka: the linguistic and cultural aspect

Introduction. Russian as a foreign language (RKI) is a basic element of the formation of linguistic and cultural competence of foreign language students and contributes to the improvement of their speech skills and the expansion of ideas about Russian culture, which determines the relevance of the undertaken research. The purpose of the study is to substantiate the importance of a linguocultural approach in the methodology of teaching Lankan students the Russian language by reading the works of Russian writers, in this case – on the example of the work of M.A. Bulgakov "Towel with a Rooster", as well as in the development of linguistic didactic material for teachers of the Russian Language in preparing students for the exam at the A2-B1 level of proficiency in Russian. Materials and methods. To achieve this goal, the authors use the following methods: the method of analyzing the collected data, the method of testing, the method of comparative analysis and systematization, the method of observation. The approbation of the developed linguistic didactic material based on artistic works was carried out on 150 Lankan students of the Gampaha Vikramarachchi University of Folk Medicine of the Republic of Sri Lanka, who took offline courses on learning the Russian language of the I.Ya. Yakovlev Chuvash State Pedagogical University (I.Ya. Yakovlev CHSPU). The effectiveness of taking courses using the developed linguodidactic material was proved by comparing the test results before and after the training courses. Results. The methodological development consists in the fact that on the basis of the adapted text of the work of art, exercises and test tasks have been compiled, focused both on analyzing the content of the work of art and on improving the skills of using linguistic units in speech. The exercises are accompanied by the necessary theoretical material (materials for reference) for both the student and the teacher. The system of exercises pays attention to the most common communicative situations in order to develop active Russian language skills in accordance with its norms. In addition to the linguistic material contained in the literary text, the exercises also use words and expressions related to the lexical and grammatical theme of the text, which contributes to an active increase in the lexical stock and understanding of the grammatical features of the Russian language. This method of writing assignments based on works of art allowed students to increase their interest in new vocabulary, develop their skills in using explanatory dictionaries, and also contributed to the development of studied grammatical rules not on artificially composed sentences, but through real text and communicative situations. The effectiveness of this technique is confirmed by the high results of passing the certification exam: out of 150 people who completed the training, 100 people successfully passed the exam and received state-issued certificates. Conclusion. The conducted research contributes to the teaching methodology of RKI. The developed didactic materials, taking into account the linguistic and cultural approach, have applied significance and can be used in teaching foreign language students the Russian language and in the system of their comprehensive preparation for the A2-B1 certification exam.

From Supernatural to Ornamental: Black Elder (Sambucus nigra L., Family Adoxaceae) in Sweden.

Black elder, Sambucus nigra, is a non-native but now partly naturalized shrub in Sweden; it has been cultivated here at least since the Middle Ages. Previously, this plant was associated with a supernatural being to whom sacrifices were made, and its fruits were used in folk medicine and wood for fuel and crafts. Traditional economic uses vanished with industrialization and urbanization and black elder was mostly planted as an ornamental shrub in urban parks. At the end of the 1970s, however, it made a sudden comeback: city dwellers started to gather flowers to make a refreshing non-alcoholic cordial. This diachronic study of Sambucus nigra spanning over a millennium reflects various attitudes and uses within the context of a changing human society. In addition to the simple but popular cordial, side dishes and desserts made of its fragrant flowers are becoming increasingly popular in modern Swedish cuisine. Globally it has also been (re)discovered and the utilization of this plant is growing: its flowers are used to add flavor to soft drinks, salads, desserts and various dishes; berries are used for medicine and in cooking, especially with meats, and its future uses seem to be limited only by human imagination.

Barks of Dacryodes Kukachkana presents antiinflammatory effect in rat cutaneous wounds

Background: Dacryodes kukachkana (Burseraceae) is found in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil, being the genera widely used in folk medicine for several inflammatory conditions. Objective: In this study, it was investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of the Hydroethanolic Extract of D. kukachkana (HEDk) barks in the rat model of excisional skin wounds. Methods: The wounds were induced on the dorsal region of Wistar rats and treated daily by topical application of HEDk (500 mg/100 μL), compared to the control Saline (0.9% NaCl). Clinical parameters (edema, hyperemia, exudate, hypernociception), histopathological (leukocyte infiltrate, fibroblasts, blood vessels) and oxidative stress markers were evaluated from the 2nd to the 6th day post-ulceration. Results: HEDk reduced the following parameters at the 2nd day: inflammatory exudate (0 [0-0] vs. saline: 2 [1 – 3]); wound area (36%), healing index (48.56% ± 1.886 vs. saline: 27.99% ± 2.460) and malondialdehyde (27%). HEDk also reduced leukocyte infiltrate (49 – 34%) from the 4th to the 6th days post-ulceration. HEDk increased the parameters: nociceptive threshold (31 – 73%) from the 2nd to the 4th days; blood vessels (1.9x) and reduced glutathione (32%) at the 4th day; and the number of fibroblasts (91 – 44%) at the 2nd and 6th days. Conclusion: HEDk accelerates the healing process in the rat model of excisional cutaneous wounds via attenuation of inflammatory parameters and stimulation of fibroplasia and angiogenesis.

Anti-inflammatory Activity of Clitoria ternatea L. and Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Extract Combination in Reducing VCAM-1 Levels in Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis occurs when plaque accumulates and hardens within the arterial walls, leading to blood vessel blockages and increasing the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). The extracts of butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea L.) and roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) contain flavonoids that possess strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aims to assess the effects of the combined extract of butterfly pea and roselle (EKTR) on atherosclerosis biomarkers such as Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecules-1 (VCAM-1), Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and Interleukin-6 (IL-6). The research employed a True Experimental Laboratory approach using a Post-Test Control Group Design. The subjects were 36 female Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus L.), randomly divided into six groups through a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Data were collected on the levels of VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and IL-6 in the serum of obese white rats, measured using an ELISA photometer. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 18, with statistical evaluation performed via one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test. The results showed that increasing doses of EKTR led to significant reductions in atherosclerosis biomarkers such as VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and IL-6 compared to the positive control and other groups. At a dose of 500 mg/kg BW, group F3 recorded IL-6 levels of 30.49 ± 1.60 ng/mL, VCAM-1 level of 29.42 ± 2.58 ng/mL, and ICAM-1 levels of 28.42 ± 1.72 ng/mL. In conclusion, butterfly pea and roselle, rich in flavonoids with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, are effective as traditional remedies for reducing atherosclerosis biomarkers and for preventing and treating coronary heart disease (CHD) at an optimal dose of 500 mg/kg BW.

The Phytochemistry and Medicinal value of Psidium guajava ( guava ) : Antiobesity Effect

Obesity in society has reached epidemic proportions in the 21 st century. Being Overweight is not only appearance issue but also is actually a medical concern, because it is serious health condition. Diabetes and Heart diseases that can stem from obesity . The plant Psidium guajava Linn (Guava) is used not only as food but also as folk medicine. We subjected the leaves of these plant for Alcoholic extraction using solvent Ethanol and extract were prepared we infer that the oral administration of guava leaves extract shows Anti Obesity effect (weight loss). So this study proves that the guava leaves extract helps to control obesity.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice of Acute Upper Respiratory Diseases in Rural School Adolescents in Neyyattinkara Taluk, India

Introduction: Public knowledge and practices regarding the common cold is crucial to prevent improper treatment and preserve resources and well - being. Despite global studies on the topic, there's a gap in research focusing on rural school - going late adolescents, like those in Neyyattinkara Taluk. This study aims to assess Knowledge, Attitude and Practices regarding acute upper respiratory illness among late adolescents in NeyyattinkaraTaluk. Methods: An observational cross - sectional study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices of late adolescents in rural schools of a part of India from July to September 2019. The study was done among late adolescents (aged 15 - 18) in government higher secondary schools of Neyyattinkara Taluk. A sample size of 197 was taken. Data was collected using a semi - structured questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding upper respiratory illness. Point estimate was done at 95% confidence interval. Results: Most of the adolescents had limited knowledge about upper respiratory illness, with 167 (85%) not considering it a disease. Self - medication 116 (59%) and reliance on home remedies 110 (56%) were common, while only 39 (20%) opted for antibiotics. Conclusions: There was average knowledge level in adolescents but persistent misconceptions, prevalent self - medication practices, and limited understanding of disease transmission regarding upper respiratory infections.

Cinnamon – A Competent Drug: A Review on Extraction, Analysis and Anticancer Action

AbstractCinnamon, an Indigenous species, is extensively used as a folk medicine in India, China, and other parts of the world due to its therapeutic potential inherited via the latent chemical composition. The vital component presented is cinnamaldehyde, along with cinnamic acid and cinnamate, which contributes to being an anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer agent together with the capability to control neurological syndromes like Alzheimer's and even Parkinson's diseases. Given the importance of the anticarcinogenic properties of cinnamon on various cell strains concerning the curable effect, this review focuses on evaluating different extraction methods like steam distillation, Soxhlet extraction, microwave‐assisted extraction, and more, in addition to a summary of new technologies like gas chromatography, HPLC, DART‐MS, and NMR, etc. which paved the way in characterizing the chemical composition of cinnamon. Cinnamaldehyde showed its apoptosis through various mechanistic pathways on an adequate number of cell lines and antineoplastic potential on specific multifaceted cancerous cells, which advocates for continued research and investment in this vital area of drug discovery and suggestions for future scope.

Examining Barriers to the Utilization of Malaria Control and Prevention Services in the South West Region, Cameroon

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the barriers to the utilisation of malaria control and prevention services in the southwest region of Cameroon precisely in the Fako division. Cultural beliefs and practices significantly influence health-seeking behaviours in communities, even when faced with life-threatening diseases like malaria. Methodology: Qualitative data were collected through structured interviews to understand the preferred treatment methods for malaria, the rationale behind the disease's continuous prevalence within the community, and the low usage of prevention methods prescribed in the hospitals. The data were analysed using a thematic technique, and presented following the themes that were elicited during the in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Findings: This study found that herbal medical practices are deeply rooted in the community's culture and need to be more quickly supplanted by modern medical practices. The study found that the resistance to malaria prevention methods was fueled by a lack of awareness about the importance of malaria prevention and control, contributing to the high malaria prevalence rate in the community. Also, the study found that the current healthcare system needs to be culturally sensitive, potentially leading to a lack of trust and confidence among community members. Additionally, financial constraints significantly impact the utilisation of preventive and treatment measures like mosquito nets, health centres, and community health workers. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: These findings aligned with the Health Belief Theory (HBT), which explains that individuals' beliefs and attitudes towards malaria prevention in these communities constitute a significant barrier to malaria eradication. Community members perceive malaria as a severe disease and believe they are at risk of contracting it, leading to action due to susceptibility. However, traditional remedies are preferred due to perceived barriers to mosquito nets, such as cost, lack of access, and perceived ineffectiveness of the mosquitoes’ nets. The study concluded that a culturally sensitive approach to malaria treatment and prevention, built on the community's beliefs and practices, can improve health outcomes. Therefore, organisations in charge of malaria prevention must adapt their approach to align better with the community's cultural values. The study further recommended that education and awareness campaigns about malaria prevention and control should be tailored to the community's cultural realities.

Traditional medicine use to manage hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycaemia and hypertension in Ecuador

Abstract Background Although the use of traditional medicine (TM) to manage health issues is frequently reported, clinical guidelines often overlook this practice. This study aimed to describe the frequency of TM use to control 3 cardiometabolic risk factors for non-communicable diseases (arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperglycaemia, collectively referred to as CMRF here); and associated sociodemographic, economic, and clinical characteristics. Methods Descriptive cross-sectional study with a representative population of two health districts in Ecuador, one urban in southern Quito and one in a forested rural area with diverse ethnic groups in Esmeraldas. We included 602 individuals with at least one CMRF and calculated the proportion of those who reported regular use of TM (herbal or traditional remedies) to control their CMRF. We used a multivariable logistic regression model to calculate Odds Ratios for TM use according to sociodemographic, economic, and clinical characteristics. Results TM was commonly used to control CMRF in both sociocultural contexts (39.4% Esmeraldas, 31.1% Quito), often in combination with conventional medicine (CM). A notable percentage of people (33.9% Esmeraldas, 39.0% Quito) did not take any treatment for their CMRF, and the rest used CM alone. In both settings, education was significantly associated with TM use. While in Quito people with higher education were more likely to use TM (aOR 2.04, 95%CI 1.03-3.90), in Esmeraldas, it was more common among people without formal schooling (aOR 3.76; 95%CI 1.59-8.88) as well as those of younger age (aOR per year 0.97; 95%CI 0.95-0.99) and from Afro-Ecudorian ethnicity (aOR 2.13; 95%CI 1.02-4.45). Conclusions Traditional medicine is used by a significant portion of Ecuador’s population, highlighting the need for a more accessible and intercultural approach to healthcare. Key messages • The use of traditional medicine to address hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperglycaemia appears to be widespread in different sociocultural and economic contexts of Ecuador. • To promote intercultural health, understanding the diverse sociocultural patterns associated with the use of traditional medicine, often combined with conventional medicine, is crucial.