Practice Of Traditional Medicine Research Articles

Effect of Ethanol Extract of Physalis angulata Roots on Some Liver Marker Enzymes in Male Wistar Albino Rats

While medicinal plants have garnered significant attention for their potential therapeutic applications in human diseases, the growing reliance on these plants in traditional medicine has raised concerns regarding their safety. This study seeks to evaluate the impact of the ethanol extract of Physalis angulata root on liver marker enzymes as a means of assessing its implications for liver health. Additionally, we present findings on the phytochemical composition and acute toxicity profile of the extract. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, terpenoids, flavonoids, saponins, reducing sugars, and carbohydrates in the extract. The median lethal dose (LD50) was determined to be 316.23 mg/kg of body weight. Our data revealed statistically significant increases (p≤0.05) in the levels of aspartate amino transferase (AST) and total bilirubin in comparison to the untreated control group. Notably, a significant reduction (p≤0.05) in alanine amino transferase (ALT) levels was observed at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight of the extract, while higher doses yielded an increase relative to the untreated control. There was also a significant increase (p≤0.05) in the level of total protein in groups treated with 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg of the extract, and no significant difference (p≤0.05) in the group treated with 200 mg/kg of the extract relative to the untreated control group. There was no significant difference (p≤0.05) observed in the levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and albumin. In summary, our results indicate that the ethanol extract of Physalis angulata root exhibits dose-dependent toxicity, underscoring the importance of regulating the use of this plant in traditional medicine practices.

Exploring herbal remedy utilization for wound healing: Patterns, patient preferences, and implications for nursing practice.

The utilization of herbal remedies for wound healing is a notable aspect of traditional medicine practices. Understanding herbal use among patients yields insights for nursing care enhancement. This study aimed to investigate the utilization of herbal remedies for wound healing among diabetic patients. A total of 453 participants were enrolled, with demographic data, including age, sex, occupation, education level, residence, ethnic group, distance from health service, herbal use duration, and wound duration presented. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, including means, standard deviations, ranges, and percentages. The average participant age was 55.39 years, with most being non-civil servant workers (60.3%) and having a low education level (67.1%). Indian almond wood (9.7%) and green betel (6.8%) were the most commonly used herbs for wound healing. Family members were the primary source of information (29.1%), and 43.7% obtained herbs from personal gardens. Although 94.2% of participants did not disclose herbal use to health liaisons, 53.4% used herbs specifically for wound healing. Users reported both positive and negative effects on wounds from various herbs, indicating variability in experiences. However, the consistency of herb usage by individual patients was uncertain. The study identified diverse herbal remedies used for wound healing among patients, driven by familial recommendations. Usage pattern diversity and effects signal necessity for researching herb safety and efficacy. Clarifying the impact of consistent herb usage on wound healing is essential for understanding patients' preferences and practices. These findings emphasize the importance of open communication between patients and healthcare providers regarding herbal remedy use. Nurses should acknowledge patients' preferences for traditional healing practices while ensuring they receive evidence-based care. Patient-centered herbal strategies enhance nursing practice, fostering holistic wound care. Further research can guide nursing interventions, facilitate informed decision-making, and improve patient outcomes.

The Variation of Chemical Constituents across Altitudes in the Himalayan Kumaon Region: Exploring Nature's Wonders

This article investigates the variation in chemical constituents at different altitudes in the Himalayan region, specifically focusing on the Kumaon region. The study aims to understand the impact of altitude on the chemical composition of plants and its implications for ecological interactions and human health. Extensive field surveys were conducted across various altitudes, and plant samples were collected for chemical analysis. The results revealed significant variations in the chemical constituents of plants at different altitudes, including secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. The study also identified specific altitude-dependent patterns, with certain compounds being more abundant or absent at particular altitudes. These variations in chemical constituents can be attributed to environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and solar radiation, which change with altitude. The findings highlight the importance of considering altitude as a key factor in studying the chemical ecology of the Himalayan region. Understanding these variations can have significant implications for conservation efforts, pharmaceutical research, and traditional medicine practices in the region. Further research is needed to explore the ecological and physiological mechanisms underlying these altitude-related variations in chemical constituents.

Moluodan promotes DSS-induced intestinal inflammation involving the reprogram of macrophage function and polarization

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMoluodan (MLD) is a traditional Chinese medicine that is composed of 18 herbal medicines based on traditional Chinese medicine theory and practice. It has long been used in treating chronic gastritis and its components were traditionally used in dealing with intestinal inflammation. However, its specific pharmacological mechanism is still unclear. Aim of the studyThe upper and lower digestive tract diseases are correlated. In clinical practice, some chronic gastritis patients are also accompanied by intestinal inflammation. Due to the unclear pharmacological mechanism of MLD and its effect on intestinal inflammation, there is doubt whether MLD is still suitable for this type of patient. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the pharmacological mechanism of MLD and identify its effect in the mouse model of intestinal inflammation. Materials and methodsMice intestinal inflammation model was induced by 2.5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). The mice were given different concentrations of MLD via oral gavage (0.25, 0.5 g/kg b.w.). Pharmacodynamic indicators were assessed including body weight, colon length, disease activity index (DAI), bloody stool score, inflammatory factors, histological change, etc. RAW264.7 macrophage cells were used for in vitro experiments that illuminated the role of MLD in reprogramming macrophage function and polarization. RT-qPCR and western blots were performed to measure the mRNA and protein levels of macrophage polarization marker and effector molecules. The functions of polarized macrophages were tested using ROS detection probes, Edu assay and wound healing assay. ResultsThe administration of MLD exhibited obvious hemostatic effects, while unexpectedly accentuating various aspects of the DSS-induced intestinal inflammation in mice, including increased body weight loss and colon shortening, elevated disease activity index, and intensified colonic tissue damage. Additionally, MLD treatment induced more severe inflammatory cell infiltration and higher proinflammatory cytokines expression in colon tissue. Further results showed that MLD promoted M1 macrophage polarization and stimulated its proinflammatory cytokines expression, while only slightly affecting the function of M2 macrophage. Western blot analysis revealed that MLD induced the phosphorylation of AKT and NF-κB. The polarization of M1 macrophages induced by MLD was inhibited by either an Akt inhibitor or a NF-κB inhibitor. ConclusionsAlthough MLD has an obvious hemostatic effect, it generally promoted the severity of DSS-induced colitis in mice by facilitating macrophage polarization toward the M1 phenotype through the AKT/NF-κB pathway. Our study suggested that MLD may not be suitable for colitis, especially during the acute inflammation stage.

Ancient medicine for a modern disease: traditional Amazonian medicine to treat substance use disorders

ABSTRACTBackground: There exists an underexploited opportunity to develop innovative therapeutic approaches to SUDs based upon the complementarity between modern and traditional health systems.Objectives: Illustrate the feasibility and potentiality of such an approach through the comprehensive description of Takiwasi Center’s treatment model and program, where health concepts and practices from traditional Amazonian medicine work synergistically with modern psychotherapy and medicine in an intercultural dialog to assist in the rehabilitation of people suffering from SUDs.Methods: The description was built from a review of the literature, institutional data, participatory observation and unstructured interviews with staff, researchers and patients during treatment.Results: Since the foundation of the Takiwasi Center in 1992 in the peruvian Amazon, more than a thousand patients with different socio-cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds have received residential treatment. We present how traditional Amazonian medicine techniques and health concepts cooperate to complement modern psychology in a therapeutic community setting and propose some hypotheses about the neurobiological, psycho-emotional and spiritual healing mechanisms triggered by the program to help people identify and heal the roots of their substance misuse and addictive behavior. We also summarize quantitative outcomes during treatment showing significant improvements in a wide variety of mental health indicators.Conclusion: Takiwasi Center’s program is an option for people seeking non-conventional treatment who are sensitive to traditional Amazonian medicine practices and ready to explore the roots of their addiction. From this intercultural approach, some lessons could emerge toward a broader understanding of SUDs that may result in better patient care.

Research and development practice of traditional Chinese medicine based on network target theory and technology

Network targets theory and technology have transcended the limitations of the "single gene, single target" model, aiming to decipher the mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) based on biological network from the perspective of informatics and system. As the core of TCM network pharmacology, with the development of computer science and high-throughput experimental techniques, the network target theory and technology are beginning to exhibit a trend of organic integration with artificial intelligence technology and high-throughput multi-modal multi-omics experimental techniques. Taking the network target analysis of TCM like Yinqiao Qingre Tablets as a typical case, network target theory and technology have achieved the systematic construction, in-depth analysis, and high-throughput multi-modal multi-omics validation of multi-level biological networks spanning from traditional Chinese and Western phenotypes to tissues, cells, molecules, and traditional Chinese and Western medicines. This development helps to address critical issues in the analysis of mechanisms of TCM, including the discovery of key targets, identification of functional components, discovery of synergistic effects among compound ingredients, and elucidation of the regulatory mechanisms of formulae. It provides powerful theoretical and technological support for advancing clinical precision diagnosis and treatment, precise positioning of TCM, and precise research and development of TCM. Thus, a new paradigm of TCM research gradually emerges, combining big data and artificial intelligence(AI) with the integration of human experience and scientific evidence.

Antimicrobial activity, cytotoxicity, and phytochemical assays of organic and aqueous extracts from Sarcophyte piriei

Traditional medicine practice systems employ plants in the era of rising antimicrobial resistance. The current research investigates the antimicrobial activities of Sarcophyte piriei, whose tuber is utilized to manage diseases. There are limited studies on the efficacy, safety, and chemical composition of the Sarcophyte piriei. The objective was to investigate the antimicrobial activity, cytotoxicity, and phytochemical components. The powdered material was extracted by maceration using water and organic solvents progressively from petroleum ether (100%), dichloromethane (100%), dichloromethane: methanol (1:1) and methanol (100%) and water. Disk diffusion method was used to investigate antimicrobial activity at 100 mg/ml and minimum inhibitory concentration determined. Cytotoxicity of the extracts were evaluated using brine shrimp lethality assay. Phytochemical screening was done using standard procedures. The extracts revealed varied antimicrobial effects, the methanol: dichloromethane (1:1) extracts revealed the highest zone of inhibition 18.0 ± 0.0 mm against S. aureus while aqueous had a zone of 10.0 ± 0.0 mm against C. albicans. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentration of the active dichloromethane: methanol (1:1) against Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Minimum inhibitory concentration values obtained were: 18.75 + 00, 14.06 + 4.7 and 28. 13 + 9.4 mg/ml respectively. The minimum bactericidal concentrations values were: 62.5 + 12.5, 20.31 + 9.5 and 40.63 + 19 mg/ml respectively. The petroleum ether and dichloromethane extracts had the highest cytotoxic effects against brine shrimp with LC50 value of 55.0 µg/ml while the aqueous extract was nontoxic. Alkaloids, terpenoids, amino acids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, cardiac glycosides, diterpenes, xanthoproteins, anthocyanins, coumarins and oxalates were detected. It was concluded that the extracts of Sarcophyte piriei has antimicrobial activity and the water extracts is safe. Therefore, the secondary metabolites responsible for antimicrobial activity require to be isolated.

Growth of Chinese Medicine in Iran: Past, Present, and Prospects

Abstract The international recognition of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has continuously increased, and that medical practice has gradually become incorporated into the medical systems of many nations. As an important country in the Belt and Road Initiative, Iran has enormous potential for cooperation with China in medical and health care. High-level officials of the two countries attach great importance to cooperation in both areas. Despite the recent rapid development of TCM in Iran, that medical practice still faces many problems; examples here are the lack of practitioners of TCM as well as the paucity of comprehensive cooperation among herbal medicine factories, publishing houses, traditional medicine colleges, and universities in the two countries. The present study collected and analyzed materials related to the practice of TCM in Iran; it made a deep examination of the current situation, problems, and development prospects regarding TCM in Iran with the aim of providing ideas and references to promote the international development of that form of medicine. Following an analysis of the development trends of TCM in Iran in recent years, it became evident that the prospects for TCM in that country are extensive, and the practice has excellent potential.

Formulation and Assessment of a Ricinus communis Leaf Extract-Based Shampoo for the Treatment of Tinea capitis

Tinea capitis, a dermatophytic fungal infection affecting the scalp, represents a significant global public health concern, with particular prominence in regions characterized by limited economic resources. Unlike antibacterial medications, the options for antimicrobial treatments targeting fungal infections are relatively scarce. Furthermore, several of the existing antifungal compounds are hazardous, chemically unstable, and have poor pharmacologic properties. Therefore, it is imperative to explore alternative therapeutic avenues, particularly those derived from traditional medicinal practices and herbal compounds that have demonstrated antifungal efficacy in laboratory settings. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a shampoo containing Ricinus communis leaf extract as an adjunctive therapy for Tinea capitis using a laboratory-based experimental design. Ricinus communis leaves were harvested from Kabarak University botanical gardens, dried, and ground into a coarse powder, followed by Soxhlet extraction with methanol. The extract was concentrated to dryness and used in the formulation of a shampoo. The shampoo was evaluated for color intensity, clarity, fluidity, ability to produce foam, homogeneity, and odor. The in vitro antifungal activity on a fungal isolate of Microsporum canis species that causes Tinea capitis was performed to demonstrate the inhibitory effects of the prepared shampoo and the methanolic extract at 100%, 50%, and 25% concentrations. Ketoconazole 2% shampoo was used as a positive control. The quantitative bioassay was performed using the disk diffusion method. The results showed that the methanol extract and the formulated shampoo have an inhibitory effect against Microsporum canis. There was no statistical difference in the zone of inhibition caused by the formulated shampoo with that caused by 2% ketoconazole shampoo (P-value = 0.59957; P-value > 0.05). Therefore, the prepared shampoo demonstrated remarkable antifungal activity against the Microsporum canis sample that is comparable to 2% ketoconazole shampoo highlighting its significance as an adjuvant therapeutic alternative for the treatment of Tinea capitis.

Enhancing Brand Quality through Business Kit Assistance for Micro Enterprise Jamu Bandung

This project addresses the challenges faced by micro 'Jamu Bandung' enterprises in Indonesia. The background of the project highlights the significance of these small businesses in preserving traditional herbal medicine practices and the need to adapt to modern market dynamics. The research methodology employed a qualitative approach, including interviews, surveys, document analysis, and observation, to improve the impact of branding, packaging design, and e-commerce strategies. The results of this project have provided invaluable insights, as follows: (1) Implementation of comprehensive Brand Guidelines has significantly improved brand consistency within the micro 'Jamu Bandung' sector, fostering a unified brand identity and instilling trust among consumers, (2) Innovative packaging designs have substantially increased the appeal of 'Jamu Bandung' products. Detailed analyses demonstrate the specific design elements contributing to consumer attraction and market success, (3) The integration of e-commerce strategies shows promise in expanding market reach and deepening customer engagement. A detailed exploration of these strategies and their impact on consumer behavior offers a nuanced understanding of the project's effectiveness. Future endeavors in this direction should prioritize addressing digital literacy challenges and ensuring the sustainability of these enhancements. These efforts are crucial for long-term success and the continued preservation of Indonesia's herbal medicine heritage.

Fig Tree Leaf Caused Phytodermatitis: A Case Report

Objective: Traditional and complementary medicine practices, which are becoming more and more widespread in the world, appear as a global problem in particular. The leaves of the fig tree (Ficus carica) contain furocoumarin and this may cause phytodermatitis. In this study, it is aimed to present the medical condition of a family of four who were deliberately exposed to fig leaves. Method: Patient records were reviewed retrospectively. Results: The complaints of the patients started on the second day of exposure and the patients applied to the hospital on the fifth day. After their treatment, the patients were discharged with full recovery. Conclusion: Herbal treatment is widely used in our country as well as all over the world. Making evidence-based recommendations for the medical treatment of medicinal plants and phytotherapy products without providing adequate standardization and determining indications and contraindications poses a danger to public health.
 
 Keywords: Ficus carica, poisoning, phytodermatitis, case report.

Anti-Osteoporotic Potential of Water Extract of Anethum graveolens L. Seeds.

Anethum graveolens L., known as European dill, is a versatile herb widely used in both traditional medicine and culinary practices. Despite its long-standing history, the potential impact of the water extract of A. graveolens seeds (WEAG) on bone health remains unexplored. In this study, we investigated the influence of WEAG on osteoclast differentiation and assessed its potential as an anti-osteoporotic agent. WEAG hindered osteoclast differentiation through the suppression of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) expression in osteoclast-supporting cells and by directly targeting osteoclast precursor cells. WEAG significantly reduced the expression of key osteoclastogenic transcription factors, namely c-Fos and NFATc1, typically induced by RANKL in osteoclast precursors. This reduction was attributed to the suppression of both MAPKs and NF-κB pathways in response to RANKL. In vivo experiments further revealed that WEAG administration effectively reduces trabecular bone loss and weight gain triggered by ovariectomy, mimicking postmenopausal osteoporosis. Furthermore, our comprehensive phytochemical analysis of WEAG identified a range of phytochemical constituents, associated with bone health and weight regulation. Notably, we discovered a specific compound, isorhamnetin-3-O-glucuronide, within WEAG that exhibits anti-osteoclastogenic potential. Overall, this research elucidated the beneficial effects and mechanistic basis of WEAG on osteoclast differentiation and bone loss, indicating its potential as a viable alternative to address bone loss in conditions like postmenopause.

Pushkarmoola (Inula racemosa Hook. F.): A Healing Legacy Unveiled - Exploring its Potent Anti-Pyretic and Medicinal Significance

Pushkarmoola, scientifically known as Inula racemosa Hook. F., is a robust herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is renowned for its potent medicinal properties, particularly in the realm of cardio-pulmonary health. In contemporary times, it enjoys significant recognition and popularity in both folk and traditional medicinal practices. Its versatility in addressing various health conditions such as fever (Jwara), cardiac diseases (Hridroga), wasting (Kshaya), cough (Kasa), respiratory diseases (Svasa), and tuberculosis (Rajayakshma) has been firmly established over the years through a combination of traditional wisdom and scientific investigation.
 Objective: This article provides a concise overview of the historical significance of Inula in medicine. Inula is a valuable source of natural compounds, and this article covers their pharmacological, biochemical, and clinical studies conducted in both in-vitro and in-vivo settings. Furthermore, it places particular emphasis on Inula's widespread use in Ayurvedic literature particularly as a remedy for fever (Jwara).
 Data Source: The available literature on Pushkaramoola from original Ayurvedic scriptures, classical Ayurvedic texts from different periods, Indian Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia, and scientific databases such as ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar.
 Review Methods: Numerous references to Pushkaramoola, found in Ayurvedic classics, journals, and traditional knowledge sources, were thoroughly compiled, and analyzed. The extensive data revealed its potential as a potent antipyretic, as it is prominently featured in formulations designed to alleviate fever. Additionally, both in vivo and in vitro studies have provided evidence of its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antifungal properties.
 Conclusion: This article encourages future researchers to delve deeper into the anti-pyretic properties of Pushkarmoola, as it has been extensively documented in ancient texts for its effectiveness in treating various types of fever (jwara). This historical evidence serves as a compelling reason for scholars to explore and expand upon the potential anti-fever benefits of Pushkarmoola.

Environmental Degradation and Changes in Traditional Health Practice (THP) in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

This study on environmental degradation and changes in traditional health practices in Bayelsa state has come at the right time to contribute to the move in repositioning the Nigerian health care system. The study has identified the challenges of the traditional medicine practices majorly from the impact of environmental degradation. It sought to investigate the socio-economic characteristics of traditional health practitioners (THPs) in Bayelsa state; to examine the nature and trend of traditional health practices in Bayelsa state; and to investigate the dynamics in traditional health practices due to environmental changes in Bayelsa state. This was done by using the multi stage sampling method to select 72 THPs age between 21 and 100 years in Bayelsa state. Using a semi structured interview guide, the study sourced primary data from the respondents which was analysed using the thematic method of analysis. The results from the analysis reveals that there is low level of education among the THPs; the traditional health services no longer sustain the practitioners financially, so they result to alternative sources of income; and the reason why the practices no longer sustain the practitioners is found the challenges posed on the practice by environmental degradation. The study therefore concludes that if other factors like level of education of THPs and people’s orientation towards traditional medicine, is ruled out, then environmental degradation is one major challenge to the development of traditional medicine in Bayelsa state and Nigeria generally. Therefore, recommendations were made based on these findings.

Awareness and Attitude of Parents and Caregivers Regarding Harmful Traditional Medical Practices Towards Children in Aseer Region of Saudi Arabia.

Traditional medicine has potential benefits, but distinguishing safe from risky procedures is crucial for safeguarding children's health. Harmful practices in Aseer Region of Saudi Arabia, deeply rooted in cultural heritage, require scrutiny of parental attitudes and awareness. The study aims to investigate and analyze the awareness, attitudes, and associated factors contributing to Harmful Traditional Medical Practices towards children in Aseer Region of Saudi Arabia. This study employed a cross-sectional design, using an online survey to collect data via a structured questionnaire developed from an extensive literature review on harmful traditional child medical practices in Aseer Region of Saudi Arabia. The study found that most respondents were aged 41-49 years (42.4%), lived in cities (77%), had at least an undergraduate degree (50.1%), and favored traditional medicine (55.9%). Common traditional medicine choices included "Herbs" (28.4%) and "Belly massage" (27.6%). Age significantly affected treatment preferences, while "Place of Resident" and "Education Level" hinted at potential differences. Personal experiences (37.2%) and family networks (31.4%) were key sources of information. Logistic regression analysis uncovered intricate links between sociodemographic and traditional medicine practices. Respondents' views on "Awareness", "Effectiveness", and "Complications" demonstrated notable statistical significance, influencing parents' and caregivers' perspectives in the study. The study's outcomes underscore the imperative for heightened awareness and education concerning the potential hazards and complications tied to harmful traditional medical practices among parents and caregivers in Aseer Region of Saudi Arabia, particularly with regard to their children's well-being. The evident inclination towards traditional medicine, reliance on personal experiences and familial networks for healthcare insights, and reservations regarding contemporary medical approaches underline the significance of addressing cultural beliefs.

Prevalence of questionable health behaviours in Serbia and their psychological roots: protocol for a nationally representative survey

IntroductionWe will launch a national survey in Serbia to document the prevalence of two types of questionable health behaviours: (1) intentional non-adherence to medical recommendations and (2) use of traditional,...

Complementary/combined treatment of depression in rats: Aloe Vera, fluoxetine, acupuncture. An experimental study

BackgroundUnderstanding the effects of natural remedies and alternative therapies on animal behavior is crucial for both scientific research and potential therapeutic applications. Aloe vera, a succulent plant known for its medicinal properties, has been widely studied for its potential benefits in various health conditions. Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves the stimulation of specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. By assessing the behavioral changes in rats exposed to Aloe vera and acupuncture, this study aims to shed light on the potential benefits and mechanisms underlying these interventions. Aim of the studyThis study aims to investigate the impact of Aloe vera and acupuncture on rat behavior using an experimental approach. The findings from this research may contribute to our understanding of alternative treatments and their potential applications in both human and veterinary medicine. MethodIn this experiment, rats were divided into eight groups: one control and seven treatment groups. The rats received drugs, Aloe vera extract, or acupuncture once daily orally for 2 weeks. Their behavior was evaluated using the Open Field Test and The Forced Swim Test on days 1, 7, and 14. Blood samples were collected from the rats' hearts and analyzed to assess kidney and liver function. ResultThe results of the study showed that Aloe Vera extract, particularly at a dose of 150 mg/kg, exhibited significant antidepressant effects. The combination of Aloe Vera extract, fluoxetine, and acupuncture therapy yielded the highest antidepressant effects compared to other groups. Additionally, the Aloe Vera extract showed positive effects on kidney and liver function. Conclusionthe study suggests that Aloe Vera extract may have potential as an alternative or complementary treatment for depression. Its antidepressant effects were demonstrated, particularly at a dose of 150 mg/kg, and were further enhanced when combined with fluoxetine and acupuncture therapy. Further research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and understand the mechanisms behind these effects.

Palyatif bakımda, bakım verenlerin geleneksel ve tamamlayıcı tıp uygulamaları hakkındaki görüşleri

Introduction and Aim: The goal of palliative care is to enhance the quality of life for patients and caregivers, focusing on symptom management for patients with conditions where treatment may not be possible. The burden of common symptoms in patients with incurable diseases is increasing, and traditional and complementary medicine (GETAT) practices are being used as a part of palliative care in many countries around the world. The aim of this study is to determine caregivers’ perceptions of traditional and complementary medicine practices and to investigate the factors influencing the demand for GETAT applications in palliative care, considering the conditions of the service. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study’s population consists of caregivers of patients receiving treatment in a palliative care service conducted by family physician specialists. A mixed-method approach was utilized, employing face-to-face surveys with Likert-type questions and adding open-ended questions to the survey. Results: During the study period, 67 out of 72 caregivers who were providing care to patients were included. The average age of caregivers was 46.4 ± 13.7, and 55.2% (n=37) were female. As for education, 62.7% (n=42) had completed primary education. When inquired about GETAT knowledge, 56.7% had awareness, with the most common source of knowledge being acquaintances, neighbors, spouses, friends, and relatives at 31.3%, followed by social media at 16.4%. Among the participants who were knowledgeable about GETAT applications, the proportion of those who had previously applied it to a palliative care patient was determined to be 28.9% (n=11). Caregivers’ perspectives on GETAT applications included concerns about causing harm to the patient, individual patient-related factors, and inadequate or incorrect information about GETAT practices.When comparing GETAT knowledge based on gender, it was determined that women had a 24% higher awareness of the applications compared to men. In the group with lower education levels, the primary source of GETAT knowledge was found to be acquaintances, spouses, friends, and relatives (p<0.05). When the caregivers’ knowledge levels of GETAT were compared with the diagnoses of the patients they were caring for, a statistically significant result could not be found. Conclusion: In our study, sociodemographic information and awareness of GETAT applications were found to be similar to the literature. In a study conducted in 2020 with cancer patients receiving palliative care, a usage rate of 30% for GETAT was identified, with herbal therapy being the most frequently applied method. In our study, even though our palliative care service included not only cancer patients but also all patient groups, the rate of GETAT application was found to be 28.9%. The low rate can be interpreted as stemming from the severity of the health conditions of palliative care patients. In Turkey, caregivers have concerns about GETAT applications in palliative care services. Although further research on the subject is needed, obtaining accurate information about GETAT applications from reliable sources can potentially change perspectives.

Antimicrobial and Phytochemical Activities of Garlic (Allium sativum) on Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans Isolated from High Vaginal Swab samples and Female Students with UTI

Studies on antimicrobial and phytochemical activities of garlic on Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans isolated from HVS samples and female students with urinary tract infection were investigated. Garlic is used in many homes as condiment or as flavoring agent. The garlic used was purchased from Eke market Agbani in Nkanu West Enugu State Nigeria. Ten Urine and HVS samples were collected from female students using a universal container and swab sticks. Preliminary qualitative phytochemical analysis was done using standard methods. The powder of garlic was macerated in ethanol and chloroform to produce crude extract reconstituted with distilled water to concentrations of 200mg/ml, 100mg/ml, 50mg/ml, 25mg/ml and 12.5mg/ml. The ethanol and chloroform extract of garlic obtained was used to evaluate antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. Also, minimum inhibitory concentration was determined. The garlic extract contained alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids and saponins. The inhibitory effect of ethanol extract started at 200mg/ml with inhibition zones of 2mm against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. MIC result for garlic extract on Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans showed that the extract has inhibitory effect at low concentration of 50mg/ml and inhibition increased at 100mg/ml. Ethanol extract was the most effective extract retarding microbial growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. This study however, justify the use of garlic extract in traditional medicine practice as a therapeutic agent. In cases where possible, the ethanol extracts of garlic should be used at a concentration up to 100mg/ml so as to give a better treatment.

Modulation of cellular metabolism and alleviation of bacterial dysbiosis by Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata in non-small cell lung cancer treatment

BackgroundNon-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a highly prevalent and fatal form of lung cancer. In China, Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata (Fuzi in Chinese), derived from the lateral root of Aconitum carmichaeli Debx. (Ranunculaceae, Aconitum), is extensively prescribed to treat cancer in traditional medicine and clinical practice. However, the precise mechanism by which Fuzi treats NSCLC remains unknown. PurposeThis article aims to assess the efficacy of Fuzi against NSCLC and elucidate its underlying mechanism. MethodsMarker ingredients of Fuzi decoction were quantified using UPLC-TSQ-MS. The effectiveness of Fuzi on NSCLC was evaluated using a xenograft mouse model. Subsequently, a comprehensive approach involving network pharmacology, serum metabolomics, and 16S rDNA sequencing was employed to investigate the anti-NSCLC mechanism of Fuzi. ResultsPharmacological evaluation revealed significant tumour growth inhibition by Fuzi, accompanied by minimal toxicity. Network pharmacology identified 29 active Fuzi compounds influencing HIF-1, PI3K/Akt signalling, and central carbon metabolism in NSCLC. Integrating untargeted serum metabolomics highlighted 30 differential metabolites enriched in aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Targeted serum metabolomics confirmed elevated glucose content and reduced levels of pyruvate, lactate, citrate, α-ketoglutarate, succinate, fumarate, and malate following Fuzi administration. Furthermore, 16S rDNA sequencing assay showed that Fuzi ameliorated the dysbiosis after tumorigenesis, decreased the abundance of Proteobacteria, and increased that of Firmicutes and Bacteriodetes. PICRUSt analysis revealed that Fuzi modulated the pentose phosphate pathway of the gut microbiota. Spearman correlation showed that Proteobacteria and Escherichia_Shigella accelerated the TCA cycle, whereas Bacteroidota, Bacteroides, and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group suppressed the TCA cycle. ConclusionsThis study firstly introduces a novel NSCLC mechanism involving Fuzi, encompassing energy metabolism and intestinal flora. It clarifies the pivotal role of the gut microbiota in treating NSCLC and modulating the TCA cycle. Moreover, these findings offer valuable insights for clinical practices and future research of Fuzi against NSCLC.