Polyherbal Mixture Research Articles

Macroscopical and microscopical analysis of selected Indian medicinal plants and HPTLC method for quantification of chemical markers in a polyherbal formulation

Context: Pharmacognostical standardization of crude drugs is essential before carrying out its scientific validation as it furnishes the identity and authenticity of the plant. The present work was undertaken to establish the macroscopic, microscopical evaluation and HPTLC densitometric analysis of selected Indian medicinal plants and polyherbal mixture. Aims: To explore the pharmacognostical and quantitative estimation of chemical markers lupeol, rutin and shatavarin IV in polyherbal formulation using HPTLC analysis. Methods: Pharmacognostical features were studied by the macroscopic and microscopical analysis were done. High-performance thin-layer chromatography was performed to evaluate the presence of lupeol, rutin and shatavarin IV in n-hexane:ethyl acetate (6:4 v/v), ethyl acetate:acetic acid:formic acid; methanol (10:1.1:1.1:2.6 v/v) and chloroform:acetic acid:water:methanol (5:3.5:1.5:1 v/v) for lupeol, rutin and shatavarin IV, respectively. Results: The Rf values for lupeol (0.90), rutin (0.36) and shatavarin IV (0.89) in samples and reference standard were found comparable under UV light at 550, 254 and 429 nm, respectively. The quantified values of lupeol, rutin and shatavarin IV (0.067, 0.053 and 0.048 ng/g, respectively) in the polyherbal formulation were detected using HPTLC analysis. The high-performance thin-layer chromatography method developed for quantization was simple, accurate and specific. Conclusions: The present study provides useful information about plant characters and standardization of specific and accurate tools to develop quantifications for identity, transparency and reproducibility of chemical markers in polyherbal formulation.

Antidiabetic and Hepatoprotective Activity of a Novel Polyherbal preparation against Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Rats and its Formulation into a Tablet Dosage Form

Context: Diabetes is estimated to affect 79.4 million individuals in India by 2030. Aim: A polyherbal mixture containing hydroalcoholic extracts of Cinnamomum zeylanicum (CZ) bark, Eugenia jambolana (EJ) seed, Vinca rosea (VR) entire plant, and Gymnema sylvestre (GS) leaves was tested for anti-diabetic and hepatoprotective properties in different proportions. Materials and Methods: In normal and diabetic rats, the anti-diabetic and hepatoprotective efficacy was evaluated. Male and female Albino Wistar rats weighing 150–200 g were utilized in the experiment. Streptozotocin (60 mg/kg, i.p.) was used to induce diabetes. Group 1 acts as a normal control, Group 2 as a diabetic control, and Group 3 as a standard control, all animals of Group 3 were given Glibenclamide at a dose of 5 mg/kg p. o. Diabetic rats in groups 4–7 and 8–11 were given polyherbal preparations (PHPs) containing a combination of the above-mentioned plants in different proportions at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight, respectively, for dosage optimization and to determine the most efficacious and safe dose. The treatments were administered for a total of 28 days. Blood was drawn on the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th days to determine diabetic and hepatoprotective indicators such as body weight, blood glucose (BGL) levels, liver glycogen, total protein, urea, creatinine, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, and serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase. On the 28th day of the research, rats were sacrificed, and the pancreas examined for histological results. Results: BGL levels and serum liver enzymes were significantly reduced when a polyherbal mixture including CZ: EJ: VR: GS: 2: 1: 2: 2 at 400 mg/kg was administered. The optimum PHP ratio was then translated into tablet formulations (F1-F9) and tested for quality control characteristics. The weight, hardness, thickness, friability, and disintegration time of polyherbal tablets were all found to be within acceptable pharmacopeial parameters. Formulation F8, which included 20% sodium starch glycolate, had a disintegration time of 291 s. Formulation F8 was further tested for description, hardness, friability, and disintegration time during a 3-month accelerated stability testing. The results of a short-term stability investigation were likewise positive and comparable to the original formulation. Conclusion: As a result, the produced polyherbal formulation F8 may be utilized as a solid dosage form that is stable, patient-friendly, and cost-effective.

Formulation of novel polyherbal compound MAT20 with phytochemicals found in amla, tulsi, and moringa

Herbal products play an important role in mitigating the harmful effects of oxidative stress caused by free radicals. The purpose of this study was to prepare a novel antioxidant polyherbal formulation as a supplemental treatment to reduce oxidative stress. We hypothesized that the formulation “MAT20”, a polyherbal mixture containing three herbal plants, Phyllanthus emblica (amla), Ocimum sanctum (tulsi), and Moringa oleifera (moringa), possesses maximum antioxidant properties compared to each individual herb. These herbs are known in Ayurveda for their medicinal use. After obtaining extracts by using five different solvents (water, methanol, ethanol, chloroform, and acetone), we tested each for polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and saponins, which are known to have antioxidant properties and free radical scavenging activity against a free radical which reduces in the presence of antioxidants. After extensive analysis, we formulated a combination of the herbs by extracting moringa with chloroform, amla with acetone, and tulsi with methanol, which we named “MAT20." Our results show that “MAT20”, a polyherbal formulation, is an excellent source of antioxidants.

Effects of a polyherbal formulation on inflammation and histopathological alterations in mice with ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma.

Objective:Allergic asthma is a complex inflammatory disorder that affects the airways. As an ancient medical system, Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM) recommends a polyherbal formula called “Monzej-e-balgham” for the treatment of asthma. In the present investigation, the antiasthmatic effects of “Monzej-e-balgham” were examined in a murine model of allergic asthma.Materials and Methods:Twenty-eight Balb/c mice weighing 15-20 g were allocated into 4 groups. As negative and positive controls, groups I and II received phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and ovalbumin (OVA) solutions, respectively. Groups III and IV were first sensitized with OVA and then respectively treated with “Monzej-e-balgham” (63 mg/kg) and budesonide. Finally, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissues of the animals were collected and used for eosinophil counting, Th2 type interleukins (IL-5, IL-13, and IL-33) measurement, and histological examinations.Results:“Monzej-e-balgham” significantly reduced the number of eosinophils and the levels of IL-5, IL-13, and IL-33 in BALF specimens compared to OVA-sensitized group (p<0.05). It also ameliorated histopathological changes of the lung tissues such as goblet cells hyperplasia and mucus overproduction in comparison to group II. Interestingly, the results of the “Monzej-e-balgham”-treated group were comparable with those obtained for budesonide-inhaled mice.Conclusion:The present data indicated a mechanism that involves Th2 inflammatory responses in allergic asthma and suggested a polyherbal mixture for the treatment of this disease.

Effects of Ruzu, a Polyherbal Mixture, on Neurobehaviour and Expression of Serotonin and Dopamine Transporters in Rats.

There is increased possibility that combined herbal constituents may interact to increase toxicity and lower efficacy. Ruzu herbal bitters (RHB) is a blend of extracts from Curculigo pilosa, Uvaria chamae, and Citrullus colocynthis, each of which has been shown to possess important bio-effects. There is anecdotal evidence for efficacy of RHB in neurological disorders; however, there are no data on possible neurotoxic effects of RHB. Using behavioural, biochemical and molecular indices as surrogates of neurotoxicity, this study therefore evaluated the nervous system effects of RHB. Twenty male Wistar rats were divided into two groups - a control group and RHB group (n=10). RHB (0.5ml/kg) was administered to the RHB group twice daily while control group took water (0.5ml/kg). Treatments lasted 6 weeks after which behavioural tests were carried out. Animals were subsequently sacrificed and the expression of serotonin transporter (SERT) and dopamine transporter (DAT) was determined in the striatum by immunofluorescence while specific activities of catalase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma glutamyltransferase were determined. In the elevated plus maze and light and dark box tests which are models of anxiety, animals treated with RHB showed significant anxiety compared to control. They also showed impaired locomotor activity in the open field and wire hang tests. The activity of catalase was significantly increased in the brain of the RHB treated rats while an increase in the expression of both DAT and SERT was observed in the striatum.

Effects of Ruzu, a Polyherbal Mixture, on Neurobehaviour and Expression of Serotonin and Dopamine Transporters in Rats

There is increased possibility that combined herbal constituents may interact to increase toxicity and lower efficacy. Ruzu herbal bitters (RHB) is a blend of extracts from Curculigo pilosa, Uvaria chamae, and Citrullus colocynthis, each of which has been shown to possess important bio-effects. There is anecdotal evidence for efficacy of RHB in neurological disorders; however, there are no data on possible neurotoxic effects of RHB. Using behavioural, biochemical and molecular indices as surrogates of neurotoxicity, this study therefore evaluated the nervous system effects of RHB. Twenty male Wistar rats were divided into two groups – a control group and RHB group (n=10). RHB (0.5ml/kg) was administered to the RHB group twice daily while control group took water (0.5ml/kg). Treatments lasted 6 weeks after which behavioural tests were carried out. Animals were subsequently sacrificed and the expression of serotonin transporter (SERT) and dopamine transporter (DAT) was determined in the striatum by immunofluorescence while specific activities of catalase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma glutamyltransferase were determined. In the elevated plus maze and light and dark box tests which are models of anxiety, animals treated with RHB showed significant anxiety compared to control. They also showed impaired locomotor activity in the open field and wire hang tests. The activity of catalase was significantly increased in the brain of the RHB treated rats while an increase in the expression of both DAT and SERT was observed in the striatum

Effects of Anti-Sickling Polyherbal Mixture on Haematological Indices in Normal and Anaemia-Induced Rabbits

Some plants used in the management of sickle cell disease (SCD) have been shown to increase gelling time of sickle cell blood and inhibits sickling in vitro, reversal of sickling, inhibiting osmotically induced haemolysis of erythrocytes, membrane stabilization. Plants such as Sorghum bicolar, Phyllanthus amarus, U. afzelii, Securidaca longipedunculata, Momordica charantia, Dalium guineense have been found to exhibit anti-sickling properties. The polyherbal combination of these drugs was used in this study for the investigation of the effects of anti-sickling polyherbal mixture on haematological indices in rabbits. Sixty (60) New Zealand rabbits weighing 1200g ±200g, conducted in duplicate and designated experiment X (normal rabbits) and Y (anaemia induced using Cadmium 2mg/kg +10 mg/Kg body weight phenylhydrazine for 15 days). Both groups were further subdivided into four groups (A-D) with 5 animals each, administered saline substitute, different grades of polyherbal mixtures for 8 weeks. Blood sample (2mls) was collected into Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid (EDTA) bottles for full blood count. The results in the experiment (X) showed significant increase in WBC (103/μl) count across the groups (B=8.15±0.33; C=9.3±0.74; D=9.8±0.59) compared to the control group (A=7.25±0.44) (p&lt;0.05). RBC (106/μl) count showed insignificant increase in group B (5.1±0.20) and C (5.6±0.450), decrease level in D (4.4±0.26) compared to control A (4.8±0.29) (p&lt;0.05). Hb(g/dl) and HCT (%) showed similar pattern with insignificant increased levels across all treatment groups (B=14.8±0.59, 43.4±1.74; C=15.5±0.78, 45.8±3.; D=14.2±0.85, 43.7±2.62) compared to control A (13.6±0.68; 41.5±2.49) respectively. Platelets showed significant increase in group B and C (286±17.16 and 286±17.16) compared to control A (244±9.76) with significant decrease in group D (226±18.08) (p&lt;0.05). In experiment (Y), WBC count showed significant increase across all treatment groups (B= 6.4±0.26 C= 6.8±0.54 D =10.6±0.64) compared to control (A= 4±0.24) (p&lt;0.05). RBC (106/μl) count in control A gave (2.5±0.15), insignificant increase in B (3.1±0.12) with significant increase in group C (3.5±0.28) and insignificant decrease in D (2.2±0.13) (p&lt;0.05). Higher level of Hb (g/dL) was seen in group B and C (B= 8.4±0.34; C= 9.1±0.46), while D (7.7±0.46) had a slightly elevated value compared to the control A (7.1±0.36) (p&lt;0.05). HCT (%) showed significant increase across the groups (B=26±1.04; C=28±2.24; D=24±1.44) (p&lt;0.05) compared to control A (18±1.08). Red cell indices showed some degree of derangement across the study groups. Findings in this study suggest that polyherbal mixture have a positive effect on the haemoglobin, red blood cells, packed cell volume and white blood cell count of the rabbits in a dose dependent manner.

Productive Performance, Carcass Traits, and Meat Quality in Finishing Lambs Supplemented with a Polyherbal Mixture

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of a polyherbal mixture (HM) containing saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides on productive performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality of lambs during the final fattening period. Thirty-six Dorper × Katahdin lambs (23.27 ± 1.23 kg body weight (BW)) were housed in individual pens and were assigned to four treatments (n = 9) with different doses of HM: 0 (CON), 1 (HM1), 2 (HM2) and 3 (HM3) g of HM kg−1 of DM for 56 days. Data were analysed as a completely randomized design using the MIXED and GLM procedures of statistical analysis system (SAS), and linear and quadratic effects were tested to evaluate the effects of the HM level. DM digestibility decreased in lambs fed HM3 (p &lt; 0.05). There was no effect of HM on daily weight gain, dry matter intake, final BW, feed conversion, carcass characteristics, colour (L* and a*) and meat chemical composition. Meat pH, cooking loss and drip loss increased linearly (p &lt; 0.05) when the HM dose was increased. The Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF) of meat was lower (p &lt; 0.05) in lambs fed HM3. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of 3 g HM kg1 of DM improves meat tenderness. However, high doses of HM in the diet may decrease the digestibility of DM and increase the cooking loss and drip loss of lamb meat during the final fattening period.

Effect of Ruzu Herbal Bitters on the Liver Function and Lipid Profile Parameters of Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats

Ruzu herbal bitters (RHB) is a polyherbal mixture produced in Nigeria indicated for diabetes and other ailments. The consumers of the product testify of its efficacy, but there are not much scientific information on RHB. The study determined the effect of RHB on the liver function and lipid profile parameters of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Fifty-four adult albino rats were divided into nine groups of six rats each. Group 1 was the normal control, while groups 2-6 were diabetic. Group 2 was not treated, while groups 3-6 were respectively treated with 5mg/kg b.w of glibenclamide, 0.14, 0.29, and 0.57ml/kg b.w of RHB. Groups 7-9 were not diabetic but treated as groups 4-6. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of freshly prepared alloxan into adult male albino Wister rats with a single dose of 120mg/kg body weight. The blood sugar level, weight, liver function, and lipid profile of the rats were tested using standard methods. The results showed a significant (P<0.05) increase in the blood glucose level and decrease in weight in the diabetic-untreated group compared to the normal group. The liver function and lipid profile tests showed significant (P<0.05) increases in the activities of gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST); increases in the levels of total bilirubin, total cholesterol (T.CHOL), triglycerides (TG), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL); decreases in the levels of total protein, albumin and high-density lipoproteins (HDL), in the diabetic-untreated group compared to the normal group. However, treatment of the diabetic rats with different doses of RHB caused the reversal of these effects to near-normal levels in a dose-dependent manner. Our study reveals that RHB has antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and antihyperlipidemic effects.

Biomarker Analysis Based Chemoprofiling of Polyherbal Ayurvedic Formulation Containing Vitis vinifera L. by Validated UPLC-MS/MS Method.

Drakshasava is one of the commercial Ayurvedic medicines from India, prepared from grapes and spices. It is believed to address health imbalances and claimed to be beneficial for weakness, bleeding disorders, and various inflammatory diseases. It has been reported to possess pharmacological activities such as diuretic, cardioprotective, and antimicrobial. Being a polyherbal mixture, it faces challenges in its standardization and quality control. The aim of the present study is to develop a validated UPLC-MS/MS method for simultaneous quantification of 10 polyphenolic biomarkers in Drakshasava. It explores the effect of Vitis vinifera L. and additional herbs on fermentation with respect to bioactive compounds through the successive addition method. The MS methods were optimized in multiple-reaction monitoring (MRM) mode with ESI while chromatographic separation was achieved on an Acquity UPLC BEH C18 column using both isocratic and gradient elution in water and acetonitrile containing 0.1% formic acid. The developed method was validated as per ICH-Q2B guidelines and found to be within the assay variability limits. Gallic acid was found to be the most abundant marker in all the samples followed by resveratrol. The content of all the markers has been found to be increased significantly post-fermentation, compared to decoction except kaempferol. The successive addition of prashpeka drvya (minor herbs) in the formulation showed variability at different stages with respect to the selected markers and did not exhibit major changes in the chemical profiling of the final product. The developed method was found to be rapid, accurate, reliable, and highly sensitive for the simultaneous quantification of selected biomarkers in Drakshasava. The research is the first chemometric report on the standardization of Drakshasava by validated UPLC-MS/MS method. It may prove to be a useful tool for the development of new phytopharmaceutical drugs and further quality control of other polyherbal formulations.

Sub-acute antihyperlipidemic and antihyperglycemic activity of the hexane extract of a polyherbal mixture in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

The Ceylon Journal of Science is published by the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Full text available. The journal also has its own website. The Ceylon Journal of Science is a continuation of the Ceylon Journal of Science (Biological Sciences) which is no longer being published as a separate journal. The history of the journal can be found here.From May 2020, Ceylon Journal of Science is indexed in DOAJ.

Osteoprotective Effects of ‘Anti-Diabetic’ Polyherbal Mixture in Type 1 Diabetic Rats

Abstract Bone loss leading to osteopenia and osteoporosis is a frequent secondary complication of diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the value of a traditionally used ‘anti-diabetic’ polyherbal mixture as a possible remedy for the prevention of this complication. Diabetes was induced in Wistar female rats with a single intraperitoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate. The animals with blood glucose higher than 20 mmol/L for 14 consecutive days were considered diabetic. For the next 14 days, animals were treated with two concentrations of the polyherbal mixture (10 and 20 g of dry plant material/ kg). Bone histopathology was evaluated using the H&amp;E and Masson’s trichrome staining. Alloxan-induced diabetes triggered bone histological changes characteristic for the development of osteopenia and osteoporosis and treatment with the polyherbal decoction restored these histopathological changes of the bones to the healthy animal level. At the same time, treatment with these tested doses has shown no adverse effects. These findings suggest that this mixture might be used as a remedy for the prevention of diabetic bone loss.

A double blind, placebo controlled randomized evaluation of the efficacy of a Polyherbal Preparation (FaradinR) in treating sickle cell anaemia in Nigerian children

Introduction: The goal of management of sickle cell anaemia (SCA), for many years, has been to manage acute intermittent crises and slow down chronic end organ damage. In the past few decades, with increasing understanding of its pathophysiology, compounds primarily preventive in action are being investigated and used. Faradin® (a poly-herbal traditional supplement mixture) has been used aspreventive measure against painful episodes by SCA patients as an over the counter medication and anecdotal evidence suggests that it reduced the frequency and severity of painful crises as well as transfusion requirements. Alternative medications that are both affordable and available should be considered viable alternatives provided safety and efficacy are assured because of the high disease burden in Nigeria.Methods: This was a double controlled randomized study was carried out on twenty children. Each enrolled patient was randomized into either the herbal mixture or placebo after permission to participate in the study was obtain from the parents/guardian for children below 15 years or from both parents/guardian and the patients where the latter are older than 15 years. The main exclusion criterion was prior use or exposure to Faradin. Primary end points were pain alteration, death during study and blood transfusion frequency. Secondary endpoints were hemoglobin levels, neutrophil count, platelet count, hemoglobin F and A2 levels, serum bilirubin, nitric oxide concentration, drug toxicity and severe complications of sickle cell anemia reported during the study.Results: There was no severe adverse event, deaths or transfusion recorded in the two groups throughout the duration of the study. Mean hematocrit was increased in the Faradin group and reticulocyte count was increased by 12 %. Faradin reduced the total white cell count to half its baseline level and increased hemoglobin F levels by 10%. Weight and appetite were reported to increased and engenders a generalfeeling of wellbeing.Conclusion: Faradin appears to be an efficacious, nontoxic, available and affordable remedy for treating SCA patients in our setting.

Suppressive, curative, and prophylactic potentials of an antimalarial polyherbal mixture and its individual components in Plasmodium berghei-Infected mice

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMalaria remains one of the most prevalent infectious diseases in tropical regions of the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where it remains epidemiologically holoendemic. The absence of effective vaccines and Plasmodium resistance to antimalarial drugs have been the major challenges to malaria control measures. An alternative strategy could be the application of validated and standardized herbal formulations. Aim of the studyTo evaluate the antimalarial activity of a polyherbal mixture (APM) and compare it to those of its individual constituent plants. MethodsAPM consisted of stem barks of Mangifera indica (MI), Azadirachta indica (AI), Nauclea latifolia (and roots, NL) and roots of Morinda lucida (ML). Dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DHP) and pyronaridine-artesunate (PA) served as positive controls. Antimalarial activity was evaluated using suppressive, curative and prophylactic assays in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei. ResultsAll the herbal mixtures, individually and in combination, showed significant (p < 0.05) antiplasmodial activities in the various assays. They produced considerable parasite suppression (>50%), substantial clearance (>70%), and notable prophylaxis (>60%, except for NL: 35%). APM (95.4–98.7%) and AI (92%), respectively, elicited greater and comparable suppression relative to DHP (88%) and PA (87.3%). However, all the herbal decoctions, individually (72–93.6%) and in combination (82.5–91%), showed lower parasite clearance than DHP (100%) and PA (99.5%). Meanwhile, APM showed relatively greater suppression and prophylaxis than its constituent plants, suggesting that the combination produced synergistic or additive effects. ConclusionThese findings could substantiate the use of these plants, singly or in combination, as traditional remedies for malaria. Further studies are recommended to evaluate their clinical usefulness.

Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics, and Blood Metabolites of Lambs Supplemented with a Polyherbal Mixture.

Simple SummaryHerbal products as feed supplements show beneficial effects on the productive performance and health of non-ruminants, but there is limited information about the effects in ruminants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a polyherbal mixture on growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and concentration of blood metabolites in lambs during the fattening period. Polyherbal mixture supplementation improved dry matter intake and increased the live weight of lambs without affecting carcass characteristics or meat quality. Polyherbal mixture supplementation was associated with lower blood creatinine concentration suggesting beneficial effects on the renal health condition of lambs. The results suggest that the use of herbal mixtures as additives in diets of finishing lambs can improve productivity without affecting carcass characteristics and meat quality.The objective of this study was to determine the effects of the supplementation of a polyherbal mixture (HM) on the productive performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and the profile of blood metabolites of lambs fed a high-concentrate diet. Thirty-six male Pelibuey lambs (25.21 ± 0.96 kg BW) were housed in individual pens during a 56-day feeding period and were randomly assigned to four treatments: (1) Control (CON): Basal diet without HM; (2) HM1: CON + 1 g of HM kg−1 dry matter (DM); (3) HM2: CON + 2 g of HM kg−1 DM; and (4) HM3: CON + 3 g of HM kg−1 DM. Data were analyzed using the GLM (General Linear Model) procedure of statistical analysis system (SAS), and linear and quadratic effects were tested to evaluate the effects of the HM level. A quadratic increase was observed in the dry matter intake and in daily weight gain (p < 0.05) of lambs fed with HM2 and HM1, respectively. However, final body weight, body condition, carcass characteristics, and meat quality were similar among treatments (p > 0.05). It was observed a linear increase (p < 0.05) in the mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Lymphocytes in blood from lambs supplemented with the HM1 diet increased and segmented neutrophils decreased compared to lambs receiving the CON treatment (p < 0.05). The concentration of uric acid in the blood had a linear increase (p < 0.05) and the serum creatinine level decreased (p < 0.05) as the HM dietary dose increased. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of 2 and 1 g of HM kg−1 of DM improves feed consumption and daily weight gain, respectively, without affecting carcass characteristics, meat quality, and health status on finishing lambs.

Cadmium induced oxidative stress-mediated pathophysiological alterations in chickens and their amelioration by polyherbal mixture enriched feed

The study was conducted to evaluate sub-acute toxicity of cadmium (Cd) in broiler chickens and its amelioration by polyherbal mixture enriched feed (PHMEF). Thirty broiler chickens were divided into five groups. Chickens of group 1 were kept as control (C1). Chickens of group T1, T2, T3 and T4 were exposed to cadmium (as cadmium chloride) through drinking water (100 ppm), Vitamin C with Vitamin E (250 mg/kg each) in feed + Cd in drinking water (100 ppm), PHMEF (2%) alone, and PHMEF (2%) + cadmium in drinking water (100 ppm) for 28 days, respectively. Haematology, serum biochemical parameters, oxidative stress parameters like superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced-glutathione and malondialdehyde, cadmium accumulation in organs like kidney, liver and thigh muscle, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of ileum, and histopathological examination of kidney, liver and intestine were performed to evaluate toxicity of cadmium and ameliorating potential of PHMEF in broiler chickens. PHMEF modifies biochemical parameters, and oxidative stress markers. There was a significant reduction of cadmium accumulations in the PHMEF treated group.Polyherbal mixture enriched feed showed ameliorating effect against cadmium induced toxicity due to antioxidant effect as well as effect on accumulation of the cadmium in chickens

Supplementation of a combination of herbs improves immunity, uterine cleansing and facilitate early resumption of ovarian cyclicity: A study on post-partum dairy buffaloes

Ethnopharmacological relevanceA combination of Trachyspermum ammi L., Curcuma longa L., Cuminum cyminum L., Trigonella foenum-graecum L., Foeniculum vulgare Mill., Anethum graveolens L and Zingiber officinale Roscoe is used as immunity booster and reproductive efficiency enhancing agents in folklore medicine. Aim of the studyThe present study aimed to assess the immunomodulatory, uterine cleansing and reproduction enhancing effects of polyherbal mixture in post-partum buffaloes. Materials and methodsEnzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to investigate the effects of polyherbal mixture feeding on for quantification of neutrophil functions and blood progesterone hormone estimation. Ultrasonography was used to assess the status of uterine involution, fluid in uterus and ovarian follicular status. Quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to measure the expression of chemokine genes CXCR1, CXCR2 AND IL-8. Artificial insemination with cryopreserved semen was used to breed the animals. Reproductive efficiency parameters were assessed using standard calculation methods. ResultsNeutrophil functions and transcriptional abundance of chemokine genes were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in buffaloes supplemented with polyherbal mixture compared to buffaloes in control group. The rate of cervical and uterine involution was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in treatment group compared to control group. The service period was shorter, days to first insemination was earlier and the number of services per conception was lower in buffaloes supplemented with polyherbal mixture compared to the buffaloes in control group. The proportion of buffaloes with large ovarian follicles within 28 days of post-partum was also significantly (P < 0.05) higher in treatment group compared to the control group. ConclusionsThe polyherbal mixture used in the study improved the immunity of the buffaloes, facilitated early involution of cervix and uterus, efficient cleansing of lochia and improved subsequent fertility. It has the potential to be used in dairy animals for improving post-partum reproductive efficiency.

Influence of a Polyherbal Mixture in Dairy Calves: Growth Performance and Gene Expression.

A polyherbal feed mixture containing (Achyrantes aspera, Trachyspermum ammi, Citrullus colocynthis, Andrographis paniculata, and Azadirachta indica) was evaluated in growing calves through blood chemistry, blood biometry, and gene expression during the pre-ruminant to weaning period. Forty Holstein calves (initial BW 45.6 ± 3.2 kg; 22.8 ± 0.9 days post birth) from a dairy farm were randomly assigned to the following treatments: 0, 3, 4, and 5 g/d of a polyherbal mixture, dosed in colloid gels with gelatin. Calves were housed in individual outdoor boxes with ad libitum access to a 21.5% CP calf starter and water and fed individually with a mixture of milk and a non-medicated milk replacer (22% CP). Blood samples were collected on day 59 for blood chemistry, blood biometry, and gene expression analysis in leukocyte through microarray assays. Immunoglobulins were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The animals treated with the polyherbal mixture showed a quadratic effect on final body weight, daily weight gain, final hip height, and final thoracic girth. The best performance results were obtained with a treatment dose of 4 g/d. The serum IgG increased linearly with the treatment doses. Gene set enrichment analysis of upregulated genes revealed that the three biological processes with higher fold change were tight junction, mucin type O-Glycan biosynthesis, and intestinal immune network for IgA production. Also, these upregulated genes influenced arachidonic acid metabolism, and pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis. Gene ontology enrichment analysis indicated that the pathways enriched were PELP1 estrogen receptor interacting protein pathways, nuclear receptors in lipid metabolism and toxicity, tight junction, ECM-receptor interaction, thyroid hormone signaling pathways, vascular smooth muscle contraction, ribosome function, glutamatergic synapse pathway, focal adhesion, Hippo, calcium, and MAPK signaling pathways.

Effect of Fat and Protein Along with Polyherbal Preparation on Reproductive Health of Periparturient Karan Fries Cows

Background: The term “transition” comprises the various important physiological, metabolic and nutritional changes in the productive cycle of the cattle. It influences lactation, nutritional status, postpartum diseases and reproductive performance of the animal. It is, therefore, important to elaborate various nutritional strategies in this phase for optimizing productivity and minimizing health problems. A preliminary study was conducted to evaluate the influence of fat and protein along with indigenous traditional knowledge-based polyherbal preparation supplementation on reproductive and immune parameters of periparturient crossbred cows. Methods: Twenty-seven pregnant Karan Fries cows, in their last trimester were selected and divided into 3 treatment groups (T1, T2 and T3) consisting of nine animals each, based on most probable production ability (MPPA; 3002 kg) and body weight (423 kg). Cows of groups T1 (control), T2 and T3 were given TMRs having 13.1, 13.1, 16.1% crude protein (CP) and 9.82, 9.82, 10.8 MJ/kg metabolizable energy (ME) respectively, during pre-partum period. Whereas, during post-partum period, cows were offered TMRs containing 14.0, 16.8, 16.8% CP and 10.2, 11.0, 11.0 (MJ/kg) ME, respectively. T2 and T3 groups were also supplemented with polyherbal preparation post-partum. Result: The results revealed that cows in T2 and T3 group had lower incidence of retained placenta, cervicitis, metritis and better conception rate than cows of control group. Also, dietary treatments facilitated early involution of pre gravid uterine horn (P less than 0.05). Plasma total immunoglobulins (mg/ml) concentration was found to be significantly (P less than 0.05) higher in T3 group followed by T2 group. Hence, it was concluded that increasing energy and protein levels along with polyherbal mixture supplementation during transition period reduced periparturient stress and improved reproductive performance of dairy cows.

Dual mechanisms of a Sri Lankan traditional polyherbal mixture in the improvement of pancreatic beta cell functions and restoration of lipoprotein alterations in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceTraditional polyherbal preparations have been utilized in Sri Lanka since ancient times and have gained a wide acceptance throughout the country. Although an extensive body of evidence supports the use of traditional herbal mixtures in the treatment of diabetes mellitus, only a few polyherbal mixtures have been subjected to systematic scientific investigations and their mechanisms for long-term glucose control remain unclear. In general, scientific evaluations of the effectiveness of antidiabetic formulations which are prescribed by traditional practitioners have received great attention, and therefore uncovering their mechanism of action would be beneficial. AimThe aim of the present study was to investigate the therapeutic efficacy, in terms of antidiabetic and antihyperlipidaemic activities, of a well-known traditional polyherbal mixture composed of leaves of Murraya koenigii L., -cloves of Allium sativum L., - fruits of Garcinia quaesita Pierre and seeds of Piper nigrum L. in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Materials and methodsEqual amounts from each of the above plant parts (100 g) were mixed together and extracted into cold water, hot water (3 h, refluxed) and water-acetone (1:1) separately. Dose response study of cold water, hot water, and water-acetone extracts of the polyherbal mixture at three selected doses of 0.5 g/kg, 1.0 g/kg and 1.5 g/kg was conducted in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. Based on the dose response data, hot water and water-acetone extracts at the therapeutic dose of 1.0 g/kg were administered to STZ induced diabetic rats (n = 6/group) daily for 30 days in the long-term study. Glibenclamide (0.5 mg/kg) was used as the positive control. Glycaemic parameters, pancreatic β cell restoration, and lipid profile were evaluated in diabetic rats treated with the plant extract mixture. HPLC fingerprints of hot water and water-acetone extracts of the polyherbal mixture were compared with those of extracts of individual plants with the respective solvents, in the standardisation protocol. ResultsThe hot water and water-acetone extracts were shown to be active in the dose response study and 1.0 g/kg was selected for the long term study. Treatment with the hot water and water-acetone extracts of the polyherbal mixture and glibenclamide significantly lowered the glycated haemoglobin by 19%, 26%, and 43%, respectively, at the end of the intervention (p < 0.05). The serum insulin concentration was significantly increased (p < 0.05) upon the plant treatment, corroborating the evidence of β-cell restoration in the pancreas of H and E stained sections. Moreover, the above extracts reported an impressive restoration of lipoproteins in diabetic rats compared to the diabetic control rats. The homeostatic assessment of β-cell functions (HOMA-β) was also improved in rats treated with the hot water and water-acetone extracts of the polyherbal mixture. The HPLC fingerprints of the polyherbal mixture and the individual plants showed shifts in some peaks and formation of new peaks. ConclusionThe results revealed that the aforementioned polyherbal mixture possesses potent antihyperglycaemic and antihyperlipidaemic effects with considerable restoration of pancreatic β-cells, justifying the traditional use of the mixture in diabetes associated dyslipidaemia.