Indian Traditional Medicine Research Articles

Inhibition of proliferation of human osteosarcoma cell line (MG63) by ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) plant extract

Trachyspermum ammi L. (TA), popularly called ajwain, is a well-known spice plant, with fruit pods that are used in Indian traditional medicine. Fruits of this plant were scientifically investigated for medicinal properties, but no studies are reported on the vegetative parts of the plant. Hence, the present investigation is aimed to evaluate the aerial parts of the plant for anti-proliferative and antioxidant effects. Methanolic extract (Me) of TA was subjected to sequential fractionation using the solvents in the increasing order of polarity viz. hexane (He), dichloromethane (Dcm), ethyl acetate (Ea), n-butanol (n-Bu), and water (Aq). Phytochemical analyses, DPPH radical scavenging assay, and in vitro antiproliferative activity on the MG63 osteosarcoma cell line (MTT assay) were performed. Preliminary phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of reducing and non-reducing sugars, amino acids, tannins, phenols, terpenoids, and saponins. Ethyl acetate fraction showed the highest amount of total phenolics (367.90±0.02), followed by n-Bu (287.50±0.04), Dcm (193.56±0.07), Me extract (190.14±0.07), Aq (142.20±0.02) and He (80.74±0.01) fractions. Ethyl acetate fraction exhibited higher DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50 =116.74 μg/mL) followed by n-Bu (IC50=133.81 μg/mL) fraction with a correlation to the higher amount of phenolics and flavonoids. However, maximum antiproliferative activity was exhibited by hexane fraction on MG 63 human osteosarcoma cell line which can be attributed to the presence of thymol, a monoterpenoid phenol present in ajwain. The current study indicates that the aerial parts of T. ammi Linn. can be considered as potential antioxidants and therapeutic against osteosarcoma.

Metabolite Profiling Foamy Substance of Cucumis sativus L. white local cultivar studied by HR-LCMS

Cucumis sativus L. belong to Cucurbitaceous. The Phytochemical profiling of white foamy substance was performed using HR-LCMS, details of projecting compounds with MS spectra, peak list, and compound structure were studied. The prominent constituent analysis (PCA) of the investigative data displayed the existence of Triterpenes: Gitoxigenin (7.76ppm), Strophanthidin(13.79ppm), Cucurbita in-C (-0.8ppm), Cucurbita in-E(5.53ppm), and Cardiac glycosides: and Digitoxigenin(-2.13ppm) in 10µl of the loaded sample.100 other composites were identified by accurate mass of Q-TOF/MS and confirmed by database compounds (IRM calibration) which comprises, abscisic acid amino acids, fatty acids pyridylactic acid etc. Strophanthidin in the premier attention in the white foamy extract is a noteworthy finding where it has interaction with various proteins in biochemical reactions. This study reports the customary implication of removing white foamy substances before slicing for ingestion. It is used as both vegetables as well as fruit in Indian traditional medicine. It is a source of bioactive compounds.

Assessment of the Antibacterial Activity of Spilanthes acmella Against Bacteria Associated with Dental Caries and Periodontal Disease: An In-vitro Microbiological Study

Dental caries and periodontal disease are two of the most common oral diseases caused by bacterial infections. Traditional medicine in India has a long history of using plant extracts for dental care. Spilanthes acmella (S. acmella), also known as the “Toothache Plant,” is a medicinal plant that has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties but has not been extensively studied for its applicability and use in dentistry. This study aims to investigate the antimicrobial action of S. acmella ethanol extract on Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), and Lactobacillus fermentum (L. fermentum), which causes dental caries, and Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), Capnocytophaga gingivalis (C. gingivalis), which causes periodontal infection. The ethanol extract of S. acmella in various dilutions of 10mg/ml, 20mg/ml, 40mg/ml, 80mg/ml, and 100mg/ml was tested for its antibacterial activity against the bacteria as mentioned above using the agar well diffusion method. Erythromycin 0.125mg/ml was used as a positive control, whereas distilled water was used as a negative control. The Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined by the broth dilution method. The results of this study have shown that the ethanol extract of S. acmella demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition of bacterial growth (13-16mm diameter), with the highest concentration of 100mg/ml showing the strongest effect. The findings of this study support the use of the S. acmella plant extract in the treatment of dental caries and periodontal infection and suggest that it may be a viable alternative to traditional antimicrobial agents.

Formulation of Chyawanprash and Comparative Evaluation with Marketed Chyawanprash

A traditional Ayurvedic compound known for its many health advantages is chyawanprash. For generations, Indian traditional medicine has utilised this intricate herbal jam to enhance general well-being and lifespan. The purpose of this study article is to investigate the formulation and assess the Chyawanprash quality factors. In addition to a mixture of herbs, spices, and honey, the formulation process entails the careful selection and processing of several botanical constituents, including amla (Emblica officinalis). Conventional techniques are employed to blend these components into a strong and agreeable concoction. Chyawanprash is evaluated by determining its physicochemical parameters, such as pH, viscosity, moisture content, and ash value, in addition to its organoleptic characteristics. Bioactivity testing can also clarify Chyawanprash's immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and other medicinal qualities. These assessments offer insightful information about the safety and effectiveness of this Ayurvedic medicine. It is essential to comprehend the composition and assess the quality standards of Chyawanprash in order to guarantee both its efficacy and safety. This study bridges the gap between conventional wisdom and contemporary medical science by adding to the continuing scientific investigation of herbal treatments.

Therapeutic potential of flavonoids in ovalbumin induced asthma in mice model.

Desmodium triquetrum DC (Fabaceae) is a plant commonly used in Indian traditional medicine to treat allergies. Asthma is a severe condition, with an estimated 300 million deaths annually, which could increase to 400 million by 2025. Flavonoids, a class of compounds found in many plants, have been found to have beneficial effects in treating asthma. In this study, researchers focused on three flavonoids, Baicalein, Naringin, and Neohesperidin, derived from Desmodium triquetrum DC, to investigate their potential as a treatment for asthma. The study used an aerosolized ovalbumin-induced asthma model to evaluate the effects of the flavonoids on various substances in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, including total differential leukocyte, nitrite, nitrate, TNF, IL-4, and IL-13. The researchers also measured the levels of myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde in the lungs. The results showed that ovalbumin-induced airway hyper-responsiveness led to a significant increase in pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. However, the flavonoids significantly decreased the severity of airway inflammation. Histopathology results also supported the effectiveness of the flavonoids. These findings suggest that these flavonoids could be a supplementary and alternative treatment for asthma by inhibiting the pro-inflammatory pathway. The findings suggest that the isolated compounds have the potential to act cumulatively to decrease the levels of the tested cytokines, normalize eosinophil and activated lymphocyte counts, and significantly reduce MPO and MDA. This indicates a possible respiratory mechanism of action for the drugs.

Modulation by Withania somnifera of stress-induced anxiogenesis and airway inflammation in rats.

Stress is an aversive stimulus which disrupts the biological milieu of the organism and a variety of emotional and environmental stressors are known to influence allergic and immunological disorders like bronchial asthma but the pharmacological basis of such interactions is not clearly defined. Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) is a potent anti-stress agent used widely in Indian traditional medicine and the present experimental study evaluated the effects of W.somnifera extract (WSE) on chronic stress-induced neurobehavioral and immunological responses in an experimental model of allergic asthma in rats. Wistar rats (200-250 g) were immunized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA) and exposed to restraint stress (RS) and WSE treatments for 15days. Following this, anxiety behavior was assessed by the elevated plus maze (EPM) test, and blood and BAL fluid samples were collected for measuring of inflammatory/immune markers by ELISA and biochemical assay. The data of the various treatment groups were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test. Restraint stress (RS) induced anxiogenic behavior in the (EPM) test in OVA immunized rats, and this was attenuated by WSE (200 and 400 mg/kg), in a dose related manner. Examination of blood and BAL fluid in these RS exposed rats also resulted in elevations in IgE, TNF-α andIL-4 levels, which were also attenuated by WSE pretreatments. Further, WSE pretreatment neutralized the such RS induced changes in oxidative stress markers viz. elevated MDA and reduced GSH levels. The data pharmacologically validates role of stress in asthma and suggests that adaptogens like WSE could be a potential complementary agent for reducing anxiety as well as airway inflammation by a multi-targeted and holistic approach. The study also highlights the significance of integration of traditional and modern medical concepts in such chronic disorders.

Antibacterial Effect of Indian Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica L.) Extract Against ESBL Producing Multi-Drug Resistant Bacteria

The most celebrating fruit in Indian traditional medicine Ayurveda is the Indian gooseberry also known as amla fruit, used the prevention of numerous diseases. No reports are available on the prevention of ESBL produced MDR bacteria has lead us to investigate amla’s bioactive compounds (total phenolics, flavonoids, tannins) and their antioxidant and antibacterial activities against MDR bacteria (E coli, P aeruginosa, S aureus, K pneumoniae, H influenza, S typhi). Higher levels of phenolics with elevated levels of antioxidant activities were noticed in amla extracts and also scavenged all types of free radicals including DPPH, ABTS, -OH, H2O2, and superoxide radicals at lowest concentrations. Disc diffusion method was used for determination of antimicrobial activities of extracts and seen temperate growth inhibition against MDR bacteria as compared to control drug, cefotaxime. The results concluded that Indian gooseberry inhibited the growth of ESBL produced MDR bacteria with high levels of phenolics and their antioxidant potential.

In Vivo Studies and Flow Cytometric Investigation on Anticancer Potential of Selenium Nanoparticles Synthesized via Aqueous Extract of Clerodendron phlomidis

Nowadays, doctors and nutritionists recommend individuals incorporate selenium-rich foods such as nuts, cereals, and mushrooms into their regular diet to maintain fitness and overall health. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) exhibit strong chemopreventive capabilities. The anticipations for SeNPs with enhanced and tunable bioactive activities have led to a keen interest in phytofabrication. In this study, the aqueous extract of Clerodendron phlomidis plant leaves was utilized for the synthesis of SeNPs. In traditional Indian medicine, this plant extract is recognized as a significant anti-diabetic agent. The flavonoids tetrahydroxylflavone, 7-hydroxyflavanone, and 6,4’-dimethyl-7-acetoxy-scutellarein present in this plant leaf extract demonstrate excellent anticancer activity. These secondary metabolites exhibit the ability to reduce sodium selenite into SeNPs. At a concentration of 13 µg/mL, the synthesized SeNPs effectively inhibited the proliferation of the HepG2 cell line. The results suggest that the SeNPs possess promising anti-cancer potential against liver cancer and can be considered as a therapeutic agent for liver cancer treatment. Additionally, the cell cycle arrest induced by SeNPs was further confirmed by the fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) method, indicating that SeNPs could efficiently differentiate cancer cells from normal cells. Notably, it showed a significant improvement in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced Swiss Wistar rat groups. This scientific investigation highlights the high anti-cancer potential of SeNPs, positioning them as a promising therapeutic agent for liver cancer treatment.

Topical antifungal keratitis therapeutic potential of Clitoria ternatea Linn. flower extract: phytochemical profiling, in silico modelling, and in vitro biological activity assessment.

Fungal keratitis (FK) poses a severe threat to vision, potentially leading to blindness if not promptly addressed. Clitoria ternatea flower extracts have a history of use in Ayurvedic and Indian traditional medicines, particularly for treating eye ailments. This study investigates the antifungal and antibiofilm effects of Clitoria ternatea flower extracts on the FK clinical isolate Coniochaeta hoffmannii. Structural details and key compound identification were analysed through FTIR and GC-MS. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of Clitoria ternatea flower extracts were determined using broth dilution and well plate techniques. Biofilm inhibitory activity was assessed through microscopic evaluation, while anti-irritant and cytotoxic properties were evaluated using CAE-EI and MTT assays. Through GC-MS and FT-IR analysis the compounds dissolved in the extract and their functional group were studied, and their toxicity screening and pharmacokinetic prediction were conducted in silico. Subsequently, compounds with high corneal permeability were further identified, and molecular docking and simulation studies at 150 ns were used to investigate their interactions with fungal virulence factors and human inflammatory proteins. At a concentration of 250 µg/mL, the Clitoria ternatea flower extract displayed effective biofilm inhibition. MIC and MFC values were determined as 500 and 1000 µg/mL, respectively. CAE-EI and MTT assays indicated no significant irritant and cytotoxic effects up to a concentration of 3 mg/mL. Compounds like 9,9-dimethoxybicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-2,4-dione showed high corneal permeability with strong and stable interactions with fungal virulence cellobiose dehydrogenase, endo β 1,4 xylanase, and glucanase, as well as corneal inflammation-associated human TNF-α and Interleukin IL-1b protein targets. The findings indicate that extracts from C. ternatea flowers could be formulated for an effective and safe alternative for developing new topical FK therapeutics.

Therapeutic uses of Cannabis in Indian Traditional medicine with attention on Gastrointestinal disorders

Ayurveda is the world's oldest and most complete spiritual teachings, as well as the "oldest medicinal system" known to man. Ayurvedic treatments along with natural substances do not have any usual side effects as contemporary drugs. The cannabis plant has been used as a medicine for thousands of years to treat various illnesses including gastrointestinal disorders. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most well-known and researched phyto cannabinoids, with impressive therapeutic properties for a variety of neurological, gastrointestinal, ophthalmic, and skin problems. Cannabis and cannabinoids are beneficial in healing the sign and symptoms of several gastrointestinal diseases, according to research, in part because they interact with the digestive tracts endogenous cannabinoid receptors. This could help in relaxing pain and cramps, reducing discomfort, and improving motility. Many Indian classical formulations were found cannabis is used processing agent in pharmaceuticals. For the treatment of GI issues, there are some popular cannabis-based ayurveda or herbal formulations on the market. CBD levels are frequently higher in medical marijuana, while THC levels are lower. For certain people, the therapeutic CBD is desirable for medicinal purposes, but the psychoactive THC may be needless and undesired. There are numbers of traditional cannabis formulations on the market that lack standardised quality control parameters and methods of evaluation.So, there is a need to develop a standardization technique with special reference to CBD and THC content to include this system of medicine in the main stream of health science. Standardization of popular Ayurvedic or herbal formulations is essential in order to assess the quality, safety, efficacy of that.

In Silico and In Vitro Studies of Antibacterial Activity of Cow Urine Distillate (CUD).

Cow urine distillate (CUD) is a traditional Indian medicine used to treat various diseases, including bacterial infections. However, there is limited evidence to support its use as a medicine, and its safety and efficacy have not been thoroughly studied. In this study, we evaluated the antibacterial activity of CUD against five bacterial strains using in vitro and in silico approaches. In vitro experiments showed that CUD has significant antibacterial activity against all tested strains with a zone of inhibition (ZOI) ranging from 13 to 24 mm and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 12.5 to 50 µg/ml. The results indicated that the 15% concentration of CUD displayed the highest antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi. To further investigate the antibacterial mechanism of CUD, we performed in silico docking studies of the active compounds of CUD with bacterial proteins involved in protein synthesis. Our results showed that 2-hydroxycinnamic acid (ΔG = -6.9 kcal/mol) and ferulic acid (ΔG = -6.8 kcal/mol) exhibited the best docking scores with the targeted proteins (DNA gyrase, PDBID: 4KFG). The hydrogen bonding interaction with amino acids Val71 and Asp73 was found to be crucial for their antibacterial activity.

Quality Control and Phytochemical Profiling of a Polyherbal Traditional Indian Medicine by GC-MS method

Introduction: Gomutra (Cow's urine) has been described to be the most effective substance of animal origin. It is useful in treating various diseases due to its pharmacological activities. Nevertheless, due to its pungent smell, palatability, shelf life and fresh availability have always remained a problem. So it is very much essential to modify it into different dosage forms. One of its traditional dosage forms is Gomutrasava, an alcoholic fermented product indicated in the management of Shvitra (vitiligo). Aim & objective: The study is planned for Pharmaceutical preparation and quality control assessment of Gomutrasava. Material & Methods: Gomutrasava was prepared according to a reference from Astanga Hrudaya. This formulation was tested for organoleptic characters and physicochemical parameters, including Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Observation & Results: After fermentation colour of Gomutrasava appeared dark brown with specific cow urine smell. pH, specific gravity at 25ºC, reftractive index, brix, viscocity, total solid content, alcohol content, reducing sugar, non reducing sugar of Gomutrasava were 5.41, 0.967 wt/ml, 1.394, 37º, 1.38/sec, 37%, 6%, 0.96%, 0.07% respectively and test for methanol and microbial contamination were negative. GC-MS revealed some compounds attributed to antimicrobial, anticancerous and antifungal activities. Conclusion Thus this data combined with analytical data will be used for clinical study and treatment of Shvitra (Vitiligo), Kushtha (Leprosy) and various skin diseases.

Green Synthesis of Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles, Characterization, and Their Neuroprotective Effect on Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Injury in Human Neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) Cell Line.

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) have a broad scale of applications in the biomedical field due to their excellent physicochemical and catalytic properties. The present study aims to synthesize the CeO2NPs from Centella asiatica (C. asiatica) leaf extract, which has been used in Indian traditional medicine for its neuroprotective properties. The CeO2NPs were characterized by ultraviolet-visible, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy- energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The antioxidant property was evaluated by 2,2-di (4-tert-octyl phenyl)-1-picrylhydrazyl and OH radical assays. The neuroprotective potential was assessed against the oxidative stress (OS) induced by H2O2 in the human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cell line. CeO2NPs exhibited significant DPPH and OH radical scavenging activity. Our results revealed that CeO2NPs significantly increased H2O2-induced cell viability, decreased lactate dehydrogenase, protein carbonyls, reactive oxygen species generation, apoptosis, and upregulated antioxidant enzyme activity. Our findings suggest that the CeO2NPs protect the SH-SY5Y cells from OS and apoptosis, which could potentially counter OS-related neurodegenerative disorders.

Effectiveness of herbal drug Terminalia Arjuna in chronic venous insufficiency - A prospective observational study

IntroductionChronic venous insufficiency (CVI) manifests in various clinical presentations ranging from asymptomatic but cosmetic problems to severe symptoms, such as lower limb edema, skin trophic changes, and ulceration. CVI substantially affects the quality of life and work productivity of the patients. Ayurveda, an ancient traditional medicine in India, evaluates the various pathological stages of CVI with a wide range of pathological conditions such as Siragranthi (venous abnormalities), Raktavaritavāta (disorders of vāta occluded by rakta ∼ blood), ApanaVaigunya (vitiated apānavāyu), Arsha (hemorrhoids), VataRakta (rheumatism due to rakta), Kushtha (integumentary disease) and Dushta Vrana (putrefied wound) depending upon the presentations of the patient. Ayurvedic texts mention Terminalia arjuna as a potential herb for treating various conditions related to the circulatory system. The drug is an effective anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-hypertensive and has a definite role in improving cardiovascular hemodynamics and wound healing. These attributes suggest that the potential of Terminalia arjuna needs to be explored as a promising venoactive drug. MethodsThis prospective observational study included 25 patients (31 limbs) with CVI who were treated with Tab Terminalia arjuna (Bark extract of Terminalia arjuna in a dose of 500 mg, given twice a day) and were observed on two visits on day 30 and day 90. Follow-up was carried out for three months to evaluate post-treatment complications or adverse effects. The clinical outcome assessment was done using Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS), and clinical grading was performed using clinical classification (C0 – C6) of CEAP (Clinical–Etiology–Anatomy–Pathophysiology) classification. ResultsThe median VCSS score (of both limbs) during the third visit was comparatively lower than the first, with a statistically significant improvement at 0.05 level. Further, there was a substantial positive improvement in the clinical classification of CEAP among the patients in pre and post treatment phase. ConclusionThe prospective observational study shows that Tab Terminalia arjuna is safe and effective in CVI, reducing the symptoms like pain, edema, inflammation, pigmentation, induration and also expediting ulcer healing.

Exploring the Landscape of Indian Traditional Medicine in Rural Tamil Nadu: Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, and Safety Concerns

Indian traditional medicine, encompassing systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani, has been deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the country for centuries. In rural Tamil Nadu, where these traditions have thrived, there exists a rich tapestry of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding traditional medicine. This study aims to delve into the landscape of traditional medicine in rural Tamil Nadu, shedding light on the depth of local knowledge, prevailing attitudes, prevalent practices, and pertinent safety concerns. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, including qualitative interviews and quantitative assessments, data was collected from diverse rural communities across Tamil Nadu. Findings reveal a nuanced understanding of traditional medicine, deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs and socio-economic factors. Local communities demonstrate a profound knowledge of medicinal plants, formulations, and therapeutic practices passed down through generations. However, alongside this wealth of knowledge, concerns regarding safety, efficacy, and regulation persist. Attitudes toward traditional medicine are multifaceted, reflecting a blend of reverence, skepticism, and pragmatism. While many individuals continue to rely on traditional healers and remedies for primary healthcare needs, others express reservations, citing issues of standardization and scientific validation. Practices vary widely, from home remedies administered by family members to consultations with traditional practitioners and integration with modern healthcare systems. This study explores Indian traditional medicine in rural Tamil Nadu, highlighting safety concerns like adulteration and misidentification of plants. It suggests a comprehensive approach that integrates traditional and modern medicine, ensuring the safety and well-being of rural communities while addressing knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The approach places a strong emphasis on using data and statistics from secondary sources to discuss the article’s subject. It draws attention to how important the current social, political, and economic environment is in shaping the conversation.

A Review on Holarrhena Anti-dysenterica

Holarrina anti-dysenterica (syn. H.pubenscens) belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is commonly known as kurchi in Hindi. It is a small tree found in dry forests all over the world, including India. H. Antidysenterica is frequently used in traditional medicine in India to treat stomach, intestinal, diarrhea and intestinal infections. Plants such as bark are often used in antibiotics, antiseptics, and antibiotics to treat amebiasis, pneumonia, gastroenteritis, and gastroenteritis. Plants have formed the basis of many traditional medicines around the world and have been used for thousands of years, and can offer people new treatments.

Improvement in the Outcome of Urolithiasis Medicine Section Patients using Traditional Indian Medicine: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Introduction: Urolithiasis (UL) is a prevalent disorder that significantly burdens the global healthcare system. Except for acute surgical conditions, most kidney stones don’t show any symptoms during presentation. Patients with asymptomatic renal calculi frequently seek alternative treatments. Several Ayurvedic preparations mentioned in Ayurvedic compendia have shown encouraging results in patients after long-term use. However, the results of several Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) on the effectiveness of Ayurvedic preparations in UL vary. Aim: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effectiveness of Ayurvedic preparations in patients with UL. Materials and Methods: The electronic databases Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and ARP were searched upto August 2023 to recognise applicable studies. The modified Jadad Scale was used to assess the quality of the studies. The Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) tool was used to determine the RoB for randomised trials. Results: The search retrieved 1459 studies, but only 19 studies were found eligible for inclusion in the study. Statistical analysis revealed a substantial decrease in the number and size of calculi in 178 cases in the intervention group compared to only 101 events in the control group (OR: 3.03, 95% CI; 2.00, 4.61). It also showed a significant reduction in the size of stones, a significant improvement in haematuria with p=0.18, a highly significant improvement in dysuria with p=0.04, and highly significant relief in pain with p<0.0001. Conclusion: This review concludes that Ayurvedic drugs have optimistic results in the treatment of UL. More substantial clinical trials with a larger sample size must be conducted to generate stronger evidence for using Ayurvedic Medicines (AyM) as a treatment choice for UL.

Application of Ayurvedic Bhasma for the Treatment of Cancer

ABSTRACT The application of Ayurvedic Bhasma in cancer treatment has garnered increasing interest due to its potential as an alternative therapeutic approach. Bhasma, a herbo-mineral formulation that consists of bioactive nanoparticles used in traditional Indian medicine, has shown promising preclinical evidence for its anticancer properties. Ayurveda, an ancient medicine system practiced in the Indian subcontinent, has successfully used various formulations to prevent or treat arbuda, which can be correlated with cancer. These formulations include Swarna Bhasma, Heerak Bhasma, Abhrak Bhasma, Manikya Bhasma, Yashada Bhasma, and many more. Using Ayurvedic medicines, the side effects of chemotherapy can be minimized, thereby increasing the life span of patients. With the advent of nanotechnology, traditional drug design and delivery are being looked upon in a completely new perspective. The anticancer activity of certain Bhasma is attributed to the presence of metallic nanoparticle content, enhancing its bioavailability and targeted action on cancer cells. In preclinical studies, some Bhasmas have demonstrated potential in inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and suppressing tumor growth. However, at the same time, limitations in the use of Bhasma for cancer treatment, such as the lack of standardized synthesis processes and documented scientific validation, have also been acknowledged. The multifaceted analysis presented underscores the need for rigorous research, including clinical trials, to validate the safety, efficacy, and specific applications of Bhasma in different cancer types and stages. Although the health-beneficial effects of these Bhasmas have been known for a long time, their mechanism of action is not clearly understood yet at least for some Bhasmas that have shown potential in clinical trials. Therefore, further detailed studies are needed to understand the therapeutic mode of action for different Bhasma. However, despite these limitations, the integration of Ayurvedic Bhasma into cancer treatment regimens emerges as a compelling prospect, potentially yielding synergistic effects.

Capacity Building in Research on Traditional Medicine: Experience of a Workshop Conducted under the Aegis of the Indian Council of Medical Research

Training healthcare professionals in research methodology is essential to promote research and innovation. This is particularly relevant in India, where there is a wealth of potential drug candidates from Indian Traditional Medicine (TM) systems that await exploration and scientific validation using modern medicine principles. Surprisingly, there is a lack of reported activities to train modern medicine practitioners in TM research in the literature. Recognising this need, a structured training program was planned and conducted under the auspices of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to train modern medicine practitioners in TM research. A survey was conducted among modern medicine practitioners to assess training gaps and identify key areas to be covered in the workshop modules. The workshop received a positive response, as evidenced by the numerous registration applications and positive feedback from participants. The present article shares the experiences of conducting the pilot workshop, which may serve as a valuable resource for planning similar workshops.

A Brief History of Traditional Indian Medicine: In Particular, Yoga and Siddha Systems of Medicine Part 1 – WHY Indian Medicos Need to Know of the Rich Medical Heritage of Bharat - An Eye-opener

Abstract A brief history of Traditional Indian Medicine, in particular Yoga and Siddha system of medicine, is presented as a four-part series including Part 1 – WHY Indian medicos need to know of the rich medical heritage of Bharat; an eye-opener, Part 2 – Evidence-based Ancient History of India that is Bharat revisited, Part 3 – A brief on the knowledge level of ancient India and knowledge codified under Yoga, pertaining to optimum health and maximising human potential and Part 4 – A brief on the Siddha system of medicine, including their knowledge level and the Siddha contribution to medical education in the ancient world. India’s rich medical heritage has been kept away from India and the world in general by a distorted colonial narrative. This article attempts to give a little glimpse to Indian medicos.