Liver Tonic Research Articles

Comparative Effectiveness of Silymarin and Choline Chloride (Liver Tonics) in Preventing the Effects of Aflatoxin B1 in Broiler Chicks

Comparative Effectiveness of Silymarin and Choline Chloride (Liver Tonics) in Preventing the Effects of Aflatoxin B1 in Broiler Chicks

GC-MS Analysis, Molecular Docking and Hepatoprotective Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Capparis zeylanica on CCl4-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Capparis zeylanica (Capparaceae) is a climbing shrub, commonly known as ‘Asadua’ in Oriya language. Folkloric it is used as anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, hepatitis and liver tonics. The present work aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective activity of Capparis zeylanica root. The ethanolic extract was subjected to GC-MS analysis and quantification of rutin, quercetin and gallic acid by HPLC. In vitro antioxidant study was evaluated by DPPH, nitric oxide radical and hydrogen peroxide assay. Hepatoprotective activity was performed by CCl4 (1.25 ml/kg, I.P) induced Wistar albino rats at dose of 200 and 300 mg/kg using silymarin (100 mg/kg) as standard. The liver tissue homogenate was examined for lipid peroxidation, SOD, CAT and GSH assay. Serum was taken for biochemical analysis and liver for histopathological study. In silico molecular docking study was performed by the indentified compounds. Gallic acid was quantified as highest in HPLC analysis. Fifty compounds were identified by GC-MS analysis. The extract exhibited significant free radical scavenging effect at highest concentration. The level of liver function enzymes (AST, ALT and ALP), bilirubin and protein were significantly improved after the administration of 200 and 300 mg/kg of extract. Alterations in SOD, CAT, GSH and lipid peroxidation levels were significantly checked by extract. Compounds propane, 1, 1-dipropoxy- (-5.2); cis-9-hexadecenal (-6.0); 17-octadecen-14-yn-1-ol (-6.0); 6-butyl-1,4-cycloheptadiene (-6.5) exhibited greater docking score as compared to standard silymarin (-5.1). The hepatoprotective potential of C. zeylanica could be due to its antioxidant effect and the synergistic effect of these compounds.

Design and development of Palmyra fruit pulp production equipment through sustainable approach

The goal of the article is to suggest the creation of an environmentally friendly product to take the place of the traditional Palmyra tree fruit pulp while still satisfying anticipated demands and having a focus on economic viability and sustainability. The Palmyra palm fruit and to create a dependable pectin extraction process by using creative design and development of modern equipment. To present a green design, analysis and manufacturing for creating model of fruit processing unit in Palmyra tree. Palmyra fruit is a natural and nutritionally rich fruit that may be used to make a variety of value-added goods. Palmyra pulp, collected from ripe fruit, is utilized in a variety of traditional foods, and its juice is a seasonal, low-cost drinking juice due to lack of mechanization. It is used to treat nausea, vomiting, worm infestations, and as an expectorant and liver tonic. A little layer of sugar palm fruit jelly applied to the affected area has a calming effect and relieves the itching caused by prickly heat right away. Adopting a sustainable system entails eco-design and development across the board. This paper's outcome would create a manufacturing process unit that would use modern concepts in an organization with a startup industry level, as well as help consumers by providing a hygienic product.

An Overview on Kalamegha (Andrographis paniculata)

Remedial plants have been used as local wellsprings of medicines since ancient times. Andrographis paniculata is a possible medicinal plant that is commonly used around the world. This plant is most often used to treat vital cool, free entrails, fever due to a couple of infectious causes, jaundice, and as a liver and cardiovascular health tonic. The plant’s concentrate and unadulterated mixtures have been evaluated for their antimicrobial, cytotoxic, anti-protozoan, mitigating, anti-oxidant, immunostimulant, anti-diabetic, anti-infective, anti-angiogenic properties. It has effect on insecticidal and poisonousness exercises, hepato-renal defense, sexual hormone balance, liver compound management. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to decontaminate andrographolide, a diterpene lactone compound found in the methanolic portion of the plant A. paniculata. When tested in detachment, the compound showed strong anti-plasmodial activity. To overcome any obstacles that may need future discovery prospects, this study portrays the current research on A. paniculata in terms of restorative use, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity, harmfulness profile, and beneficial use.

Crocetin ameliorates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by modulating mitochondrial dysfunction in L02 cells and zebrafish model

Ethnopharmacological relevanceTraditional Chinese medicine considers that the etiology and pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are related to liver depression and qi stagnation. Saffron and its active ingredient, crocetin (CCT), are used for the treatment of metabolic diseases owing to their “Liver deobstruent” and “Liver tonic” effects. However, the effect of CCT on NAFLD has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, the effect and potential molecular mechanism of CCT were explored in both in vivo and in vitro models of NAFLD. Materials and methodsCCT was isolated from saffron and purity and structure characterization were performed using HPLC, MS, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR. The effect of CCT on the viability of L02 cells and its maximum tolerable concentration (MTC) in zebrafish were investigated. Free fatty acids (FFA) and thioacetamide (TAA) were used to induce lipid accumulation in L02 cells and steatosis in zebrafish, respectively. The effects of CCT on indexes related to lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function in NAFLD models were explored using biochemical assay kits, Western blot analysis, Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), histopathology analysis, and determination of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Morphological analysis of mitochondria was performed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). ResultsThe levels of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and alanine/aspartate aminotransferases (ALT/AST) activities in FFA treated L02 cells were significantly reduced after CCT treatment. CCT treatment significantly increased ATP concentration, ΔΨm, and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and cytochrome c oxidase (COX IV) in FFA treated L02 cells. TEM images showed restoration of mitochondrial morphology. CCT decreased ATP concentration and upregulated expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and COX IV, whereas, CCT downregulated expression of BCL2-Associated X (Bax) and cleaved caspase-3 in TAA treated zebrafish. These findings indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction was alleviated after CCT treatment. Oil Red O staining of L02 cells and zebrafish showed that CCT treatment reversed the accumulation of lipid droplets. ConclusionIn summary, CCT treatment effectively alleviated the symptoms of NAFLD and restored mitochondrial function in L02 cells and zebrafish NAFLD model.

Feronia elephantum Correa: A Potential Traditional Drug

There are number of herbal plants used as medicines from the ancient time. Chemical constituents from those plants isolated for wide range of diseased condition utilizes in from the ancient times in Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha etc. systems. Feronia elephantum Correa from the family Rutaceae also known as Kaith, Wood apple is one of them which have many chemical constituents with important medicinal purposes and diseases like Diabetes mellitus, ulcer, as diuretic, liver tonic etc. Leaves of the plant are astringent, carminative and prescribed for vomiting, dysentery, hiccough, indigestion and slight bowel affections of children. The fruits are used as dessert, source of beverages and juices. The fruit pulp is used externally as a remedy for certain insect bite. The bark is aromatic and cooling, useful in vitiated conditions of pitta. It is indigenous in South India, Java, Myanmar, Malaysia and Ceylon and cultivated in many parts of India. This plant is already used traditionally in Sri Lanka for many purposes like vomiting, dysentery etc. Chemical constituents isolated from the plant different parts already investigated for many pharmacological and pharmaceutical activities like Anti-ulcer, Antidiabetic, Antimicrobial, Antibacterial, Antioxidant, cytotoxic, Antitumor, Antihistaminic, Hepatoprotective, Antifungal, Antifertility and Anti-inflammatory. This article is an attempt to compile all the details of plant Feronia elephantum Correa.

In silico docking analysis of selective bioactive compounds of Phyllanthus acidusaqueousfruit extractagainst MAPK1

Introduction and Aim: Phyllanthus acidus L.Skeels (Family: Phyllanthaceae) or Star Gooseberry which bears small, edible, juicy, sour, yellow berries fruit is known as a “liver tonic” in ayurvedic medicine. However, the behavior of the plant fruit or its constituents in cell apoptosis/cell survival is unknown. Hence, the purpose of thepresent study was to perform an in silico docking of selective bioactive compounds of aqueous extract of fruit of P.acidus (PAFAE) against MAPK1. Mitogen activated protein kinase is a family of serine threonine specific protein kinases- MAPK1/ERK1/2, JNK1-3, p38MAPK and ERK5.Activation ofMAPK1 promotes cell survival in certain tissues by inhibiting proapoptotic proteins and by stimulating anti apoptotic factors.
 
 Methodology: In silico docking studies was carried out using bioinformatics tools.The active compounds (Trihomovitamin D3; 2Z,6Z,8Z,12E Hexadecatetraenoic acid, Methyl prednisolone, Hydroxysalmeterol and Tridesacetoxykhivorin) ofP.acidus aqueous fruit extract were docked against MAPK1 resulting in receptor-ligand complex.
 
 Results: The binding energy is correlated with the probability of affinity and stable bound between ligand and its receptor.
 
 Conclusion: The molecular docking study of selective bioactive compounds of PAFAE with MAPK1 protein revealed that Tridesacetoxykhivorinand Methyl Prednisolone, is having good interaction in favorable pose with MAPK1 as shownfrom theireffective binding energy(-7.79kcal/mol and -7.19 kcal/mol), strong bond length and interactions with active site of MAPK1.

SANDALWOOD (SANTALUM ALBUM): ANCIENT TREE WITH SIGNIFICANT MEDICINAL BENEFITS

Santalum album L. is commonly known as East Indian sandalwood, Shrigandha, sandalwood and Chandana. The plant is considered as the oldest, precious and commercially significant herbal plant which is also used as timber in India. The plant is well known for its unique and distinctive fragrance. Also, this plant is considered sacred and its importance and usage are also mentioned in Vedas, Puranas, Buddhism, epics and scriptures. It is used in various religions like Hindu, Buddhism and Jainism culture for auspicious work. The heartwood of the plant is very expensive and is associated with great commercial value in the national and international market as it is enriched with fragranced essential oil. The aromatic essential oil of the plant is used in various perfumes, food products, cosmetics, aromatherapy and pharmaceutical industries. Traditionally, the plant is used in various medicinal systems such as Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha to cure diseases like jaundice, dysentery, gastric irritability and is used as a tonic for liver, heart, fever, memory improvement, anti-poison and for blood purifier. In Ayurveda, the sandalwood plant is used as an expectorant, diuretic, astringent, stimulant, coolant and sedative agent. Besides this, the plant is associated with reported therapeutic and pharmacological properties such as antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, hepatoprotective and cardio-protective properties. Although, due to the overexploitation of the plant it is enlisted in the IUCN Red List. In this review, the traditional medicinal usage of the sandalwood plant and its pharmacological properties along with its modern view is briefly described.

Varietal comparison of proximate composition and mineral profiling of Pakistan native barberry powder

Berberis Vulgaris fruit (barberry) also commonly known as “zereshk” is one of the world’s renowned medicinal plant with highly nutritious and therapeutic values, world widely. It is an elongated, 8-10mm long, bright red colored, fruit. Berberidaceae family; B. vulgaris fruit is very useful tonic for liver, heart, pancreas, gallbladder and kidneys. It prevents chronic bleeding disorders, purifies blood, lowers blood cholesterol level, blood pressure and most importantly it help to treat diabetes. In addition it is effective in treatment of parasitic liver, kidney stones, gout, colon cancer, prostate inflammation, fever, asthma and malaria. Objective: This study is aimed to check the mineral and chemical profiling of Pakistan native barberry fruit. Methods: Proximate analysis of three different varieties (BVF01, BVF02, and BVF03) of B. vulgaris fruit from different three regions Azad Kashmir, Chitral and Gilgit Baltistan demonstrated a nutritional composition in range of 77.43, 70.08, 73.12% for moisture, 0.98, 0.76, 0.89% for crude ash, 0.42, 0.33, 0.39% for crude fat, 1.53, 1.32, 1.44% for crude protein, 2.76, 2.64, 2.75% for crude fiber, 16.88, 24.87, 21.41% for Nitrogen free extract (NFE).The different varieties of barberry contained the ranges of minerals such as calcium 2724.70, 2584.13, 2693.59ppm, magnesium 998.46, 944.06, 986.32ppm, potassium 12189.75, 11,114.21, 12021.19ppm, sodium 1402.16, 872.38, 1269.44ppm, iron 449.67, 334.58, 396.90ppm, zinc 8.42, 13.78, 29.5ppm, copper 15.11, 5.45, 11.63ppm, manganese 32.5, 25.86, 28.91ppm(mg/L), respectively. Conclusions: The type of barberry cultivated in Azad Kashmir is the best having good proximate composition and highest minerals amount as compared to Chitral and Gilgit Baltistan cultivated barberry.

Sibr (Aloe barbadensis): A Short Description with Unani Approach

In many parts of world, there is still a tradition of using herbal drugs to combat various diseases & infections. Sibr is one of the essential components of Unani system of medicine and used by Unani physicians due to it’s a lot of medicinal properties since ancient time. It is commonly called Aloe-vera and belongs to the Lilicaceal family. It is a cactus like herb and grows in hot and arid environment. Unani physicians have been using this drug as a laxative, purgative (phlegm/bile), brain tonic, stomach tonic, liver tonic, emmenogogue, anti-inflammatory, blood purifier, antibacterial, and carminative agent. Hence, this drug having a vital place in Unani system of medicine and text. It is also use to reducing Low density Lipoprotein, increasing High density Lipoprotein, minimizing frost-bite injury, reducing blood glucose level, fighting against Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), allergies, and boosting immune system. This article was designed to lime light the Aloe barbadensis by describing its brief toxicology, contraindications, traditional, therapeutic and others uses.
 Keywords: Antibacterial, Aloe barbadensis, Sibr, therapeutic, Unani system of medicine.

Traditional medicinal uses of the Eurasian wild grapevine in the Iberian Peninsula

The Iberian Peninsula constitutes the Western limit of the dioecious Eurasian wild grapevine (Vitis vinifera L. subsp. sylvestris). At present, it is a threatened plant, due to human impacts. This liana has had different uses in this territory from the Paleolithic until the end of the last century, including several medicinal applications, inherited from the classical Greek culture. In order to retrieve the available written information, we carried out an exhaustive bibliographic search of the pharmacopoeia linked to this Vitaceae, from the 16th century to the present day. Current references on chemical composition of different parts of grapevine and their medicinal uses were also covered. In parallel, we conducted research in several archives and made inquiries to historians, anthropologists, and sanitary personnel. We also interviewed elderly people from rural areas of Spain and Portugal where some relic populations of wild grapevine are still conserved. Among the written and oral medicinal uses compiled, the main ones are: the use of the grapevine bleeding water to alleviate eczema and skin eruptions and to combat conjunctivitis and keratitis; the use of must from unripe berries (agua de agraz in Spanish) as liver tonic and to treat digestive diseases; the leaves were used to reduce edema, as antihemorrhoidal, and for menopausal disorders; and finally, the vinegar was used to clean and disinfect wounds both on humans and animals. This paper highlights the tremendous erosion of the traditional knowledge about this relevant plant genetic resource.

Evaluation of anxiolytic potential of Cichorium Intybus methanolic root extracts

Cichorium Intybus L. is a medicinally important plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant root is used as anti-hepatotoxic, antiulcerogenic, antiinflammatory, appetizer, digestive, stomachic, liver tonic, cholagogue, cardiotonic, depurative, diuretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, alexeteric and also as tonic. The present study was carried to screen the anxiolytic potential of Cichorium Intybus L methanolic root extracts by using different animal models like actophotometer, rotarod, staircase, holeboard, elevated plus maze tests . In the experiment the extracts found to decrease the anticipatory anxiety of the animal without significant alteration in motor coordination. Efficacy may be attributed to the presence of different phytochemicals like coumarins, flavonoids in the extracts.

Protective effect of ethanolic extract of Actinoscirpus grossus tubers against ethanol induced liver toxicity in albino rats

Liver detoxifies majority of chemicals and plays an important role in the maintenance of homeostasis of the body. In the recent years due to overwhelming use of drugs and alcohol there is an increased incidence of liver toxicities. The tubers of Actinoscirpus grossus are used in liver disease as a liver tonic in folklore medicine; However, there is no experimental basis for its therapeutic use. Hence the present study was conducted to evaluate the hepatoprotective potentials of ethanolic extract of Actinoscirpus grossus tubers in ethanol induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. Daily administration of 20% ethanol v/v p.o. at a dose of 5 g/kg for 30 consecutive days caused significant liver toxicity and there after maintained for 15 consecutive days with normal rat pellet and water ad libitum. The treatment groups were administered with group specific drugs for 15 consecutive days after 30 days of ethanol administration and control group rats were maintained for 15 consecutive days with normal rat pellet and water ad libitum. Liver toxicity was assessed on 45th day by estimating biochemical, histological and antioxidant level. Daily administration of 20% ethanol significantly increased liver enzymes and caused oxidative stress by increase in the lipid peroxidation and reduction in the catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity in liver homogenate. The histopathological examination revealed micro vesicular and macro vesicular fatty changes predominantly with mild periportal inflammation, cell infiltrate and areas of mild dilatation of sinusoids with ballooning degeneration of hepatocytes. Treatment with ethanolic extract of A. grossus tuber significantly restored the liver enzymes especially SGOT and attenuated elevated lipid peroxidation and restored catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity. The histopathological changes revealed significant reduction in the hepatocyte ballooning portal fibrosis. Thus, tubers of A. grossus plant may serve as reservoir of natural products having diverse functions and could be utilised as a potent hepatoprotective agent.

Amla and Its Nutritional Properties: A Review

: Emblica phyllanthus Linn. or Gaertn Emblica officinalis one of the most important medicinal plants in Indian traditional systems of medicine (Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha). It is commonly known as Indian gooseberry or Amla. It is a well-known fact that all components of amla are effective in the treatment of different diseases. Of everything, fruit is the most essential element. In the Indian system of medicine, Amla fruit is commonly used as a diuretic, laxative, liver tonic, refrigerant, stomachic, restorative, anti-pyretic, hair tonic, and preventive for ulcers and common cold, fever; as alone or in combination with other herbs. Major chemical constituents, including tannins, alkaloids, polyphenols, vitamins and minerals, were revealed in phytochemical studies on amla. Biological potency is found in gallic acid, ellagic acid, emblicanin A&B, phyllembein, quercetin and ascorbic acid. Amla studies show its analgesic, anti-tussive, antiatherogenic, adaptogenic, cardio, gastro, nephro and neuroprotective, chemopreventive, modulatory and anticancer radio and chemotherapy properties. Amla is also reported to have powerful free radical scavenging activities that are efficient in the prevention and treatment of various diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic, immunomodulatory, Diabetes, illnesses of the liver and heart. This article provides some information about amla and its nutritional properties.

Phytochemical Investigation and Anti-Arthritic Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extracts of Trichosanthes dioica

Trichosanthes diocia Roxb. is a Cucurbitaceous perennial herb widely distributed in tropical areas of Asia and Australia. This herb is cultivated across the globe firmly as a vegetable source. Trichosanthes diocia are used in traditional medicinal system as anti-inflammatory agent, liver tonic, cardiotonic, skin infection, antiulcer, antidiabetic etc. Number of phytochemical and pharmacological work has been carried out on deferent parts of Trichosanthes diocia, prime objective of the study to find out Anti-Arthritic activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Trichosanthes diocia. Hydroalcoholic extracts are rich of flavonoids, Vitamins, Alkaloids, proteins and saponins. Although flavonoids are also responsible for inflammatory induced Antiarthritic activity, presence of secondary metabolite phytoconstituents encourages the current work. Results of the current study shows that Trichosanthes diocia Roxb. having significant anti-arthritic activity.

Review on Darunaj-aqrabi (Doronicum hookeri C.B. Clarke): an Unexplored Medicinal Plant of Unani System of Medicine

Introduction: The rhizomes of medicinal plant Darunaj-aqrabi (Doronicum hookeri C.B. Clarke ex Hook.f.) (Family Asteraceae) has long been used in Unani system of medicine (USM) as Cardiac tonic (invigorative and exhilarant), nervine tonic, carminative, protective of the foetus, antidotary etc. in different dosage forms. It is included in specific drugs for heart and is much valuable for palpitation. Because of having antidotal characteristics and protective (corrective) attributes, the rhizomes are generally used in compound formulations having tonic effects for the body. Aim of the review: The study aims to reflect the importance of Darunaj-aqrabi in USM. This review provides essential data focusing on traditional use, phytochemistry, and pharmacological profile, thereby identifying research gaps and future opportunities for investigation and development of this plant. Materials and methods: All available information related to Darunaj-aqrabi in the internationally accepted scientific databases including Pub Med, Science Direct, Scopus, Sci Finder, Google Scholar, Microsoft academy and Web of Science were searched. Additional information was gathered from the classical text of USM on Herbs, Unani Pharmacopoeia, and so on. Results: The literature supported its use traditionally in formularies or by rural people as a digestive, carminative, protective of the foetus, cardiotonic, stomach tonic, liver tonic, lithotriptic, antidote etc. Its extract showed antibacterial, antifungal, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant activity. The main phytochemical constituents are alkaloids; saponins; flavonoids, photoactive thiophenes, sesquiterpene alcohol, paralianchol and its acetophenone derivatives. There is limited data available on this plant. Conclusion: The contemporary pharmacological studies showed the anti-microbial, antifungal, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant activity of Darunaj-aqrabi. However, most of the aspects of this herb have still not been identified. Along with this, there are inadequate details on the phytochemistry and toxicological profile. Due to the extensive traditional uses of Darunaj-aqrabi, more research on pharmacological activities, phytochemistry, toxicity and adverse effects tend to be required to determine its medicinal values.

Indigenous Knowledge and Medicinal Significance of Seasonal Weeds of District Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan

Background: Most of the medicinal plants are available as wild or weeds in the world including Pakistan. It was reported by many researcher that Pakistan is rich with medicinal flora based upon the surveys conducted in the Northern areas but still there are some areas other than Northern parts in Pakistan that has not been studied so far. There is a need to explore the medicinal flora from neglected area where most of the people still rely on local medicinal plants to cure their diseases by means of indigenous knowledge. District Gujrat is among those area that has not been explored to study the medicinal flora.Methods: Surveys were conducted to collect the indigenous knowledge and medicinal significance of seasonal weeds in Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan in winter 2018 and summer 2019. Information collected through questionnaire and interviews.Results: Weeds have much importance among local inhabitants to cure many diseases as respiratory disorders, kidney and liver disorders, muscle and skeletal disorders, ear, nose and throat problems, dermatological disorders, fever, diabetes, cancer etc. The plant parts and its percentage used by local inhabitants were leaves (58%), fruits (36%), seeds (25%), whole plant (34%), roots (32%), milky latex (1%), flowers (8%) and stem (3%). The most important families were Asteraceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae, Polygonaceae and Solanaceae. Cichorium intybus L. (Asteraceae) had 100% Fidelity Level (FL) value as liver tonic and blood purifier. Highest 0.76 Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) values were noted against stomach, gastric, intestinal and digestive problems. Achyranthes aspera L. (Amaranthaceae) showed the highest Fidelity Level (FL) values that was 93% used gastrointestinal disorders and menstrual pain.Conclusion: It was concluded that the area of Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan is a rich source of important medicinal weeds that needs to be utilized for useful medicinal purpose. There is need to create awareness among the farmers and local people about the efficacy of weeds.

A broad review on Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica linn.,) precious and nutritive Ayurvedic fruit.

Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica linn., family - Phyllanthaceae) is commonly known as amla in hindi and Indian gooseberry in english. It is one of the important ayurvedic herb which is used since ages for treatment of various health problems. Amla has very high nutritive value. It is used as medicinal herb for treatment of diseases as well as in our daily diet in form of pickles, murraba, sweet jams and candies etc. Fruit of amla is widely used in the Indian system of medicine as diuretic, laxative, liver tonic, refrigerant, hair tonic, ulcer preventive, stomachic, restorative, anti-pyretic and for common cold, fever. Various phytochemical studies on amla revealed major chemical constituents like tannins, alkaloids, polyphenols, vitamins and minerals. Gallic acid, ellagic acid, emblicanin A & B, phyllembein, quercetin and ascorbic acid are found to be biologically effective in many ways. Amla is also testified to possess potent free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic, immunomodulatory activities, which are effective in the prevention and treatment of various diseases like cancer, atherosclerosis, diabetes, liver and heart diseases.

Predisposing effect of aflatoxicosis in hepatic Coccidoisis and Pasteurellosis outbreak in a rabbitry

Five ailing and twelve carcasses of soviet chinchilla rabbit of both sexes were presented for clinical and post-mortem examination respectively from a private rabbitry with the history of continuous mortality. Detailed clinical and necropsy were conducted on ailing rabbits and dead carcasses. Heart blood and tracheal swabs were collected for microbiological studies. Organs showing lesions were collected in 10% formalin for histopathological studies. Feed sample was submitted to Animal Feed Analytical and Quality Assurance Laboratory for toxin analysis. Grossly, the liver was enlarged, hard in consistency and had yellowish white nodules on the hepatic parenchyma. Trachea showed severe congestion and haemorrhages. Culture examination of heart blood swab and tracheal swab revealed pasteurella multocida. Histopathologically, liver sections showed severe bile duct hyperplasia, periportal fibrosis, lumen of the bile duct contained varying developing stages of eimeriastediae. Trachea revealed loss of superficial epithelium and severe submucosal haemorrhage. Feed samples were positive for aflatoxins. The remaining rabbits in the rabbitry were recovered by suitable treatment with antibiotics, anticoccidial and liver tonics with change of feed.

Clinical Evaluation of the Safety and Effectiveness of Heptonica: A Ghanaian Hepatorestorative Polyherbal Product.

The incidence of liver diseases is increasing globally, and many patients in developing countries are resorting to the use of herbal products as treatment. This study was aimed at establishing the safety and effectiveness outcomes for patients with deranged liver panel treated with a Ghanaian finished polyherbal product. The product Heptonica is prepared by CPMR from three medicinal plants: Bidens pilosa, Citrus aurantifolia, and Trema orientalis. Fifty (50) participants with clinical and biochemical signs of liver impairment were purposively recruited and treated for a period of 28 days. Participants received Heptonica at a dose of 30 mL 8 hourly after meals for the treatment period. Clinical and biochemical evaluation (liver panel test, renal function test, haematology, and urinalysis) of subjects for the safety and effectiveness of the product was undertaken at days 0 (baseline), 14, and 28. Compared to the baseline values, Heptonica did not have any untoward effect on renal function, haematological parameters, and urine parameters of subjects. Clinical and liver panel results of the participants also improved compared to the baseline: serum aspartate transaminase (AST) (p < 0.0001), alanine transaminase (ALT) (p < 0.0001), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) (p- 0.0013), total bilirubin (p-0.0136), direct bilirubin (p < 0.0001), total proteins (p-0.0409), and alkaline phosphates (p- 0.0284). Level of albumin showed no significant difference within the study period. The outcome of this study indicates Heptonica has hepatorestorative action with no observable toxicity and can be used with confidence as indicated as a liver tonic.