Role Of Traditional Medicine Research Articles

Isoliquiritigenin alleviates SLC7A11-mediated efferocytosis inhibition to promote wounds healing in diabetes

The healing process of chronic wounds often progresses slowly and is fraught with challenges, imposing increasing economic burdens and physical suffering on patients. Managing persistent wound inflammation and stimulating angiogenesis are crucial elements in promoting wound healing. Plants have been playing a key role in traditional medicine, and their abundant bioactive components continually inspire the development and innovation of new drugs. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), a flavonoid compound derived from licorice roots known as chalcone, has demonstrated multifaceted pharmacological potential. However, its effects on diabetic wounds and the detailed mechanisms remain to be investigated. Through in-depth exploration using network pharmacology, we successfully predicted potential therapeutic targets of ISL for ischemic diseases. The revealed mechanisms primarily focused on the critical pathway of efferocytosis. Subsequent in vivo experiments demonstrated that ISL significantly enhanced the efferocytosis of dendritic cells (DC), improving the functional behaviors of endothelial cells. Further research indicated that ISL promoted DC efferocytosis by regulating SLC7A11-mediated glycolysis. Notably, the overexpression of SLC7A11 diminished the positive effects of ISL, suggesting a potential antagonistic role of SLC7A11 in the regulatory process. In the wounds of diabetic mice, we observed that ISL accelerated DC efferocytosis and angiogenesis, resulting in faster wound closure and better tissue repair. In summary, this study not only demonstrates the broad potential of ISL in managing diabetic wounds but also delves deeply into its mechanisms, laying a solid theoretical foundation for future clinical applications.

Maganin Gargajiya: Assessing the Benefits, Challenges, and Evidence of Traditional Medicine in Nigeria.

In Nigeria, traditional medicine, commonly called "Maganin Gargajiya,"holds a significant place in the healthcare system and is widely used due to its cultural relevance, accessibility, and perceived efficacy. This review seeks to evaluate whether traditional medicine is a net benefit or risk to public health. It will explore the pros, such as the care provided by traditional healers, and the cons, including delays in seeking conventional treatment and the potential health risks associated with unregulated herbal remedies. This article synthesizes existing studies on traditional medicine in Nigeria, evaluating both the benefits and risks associated with its use, based on secondary data analysis. The review aims to provide a balanced perspective on the role of traditional medicine in Nigeria, examining whether it should be integrated into, regulated alongside or divorced completely from modern healthcare to improve overall patient outcomes and safety.

Mechanistic Insight into Anticancer Prowess of Piper Species and their Bioactive Compounds: A Review

Southern Asia boasts a diverse array of Piper species, renowned for their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. These plants, also native to the American tropics, have played a significant role in traditional medicine and culinary practices. Notably, Piper longum L., P. nigrum L., and P. betle L. are recognized for their bioactive compounds, particularly alkaloids, which contribute to their beneficial properties. In recent decades, there has been increased focus on studying these plants for their potential anticancer effects, encompassing both direct cytotoxic effects and indirect modulation of the tumor microenvironment. Major scientific literature databases were consulted using appropriate keywords to present a comprehensive and proportionate analysis of the anticancer potential of the three species, including valuable insights into their therapeutic perspectives, molecular mechanisms, and broader applications in cancer treatment. Numerous pharmacological trials on the bioactive components and extracts have underscored their clinical significance, revealing multifaceted actions such as antiproliferative effects, antiangiogenic properties, immunomodulation, antimetastatic activity, induction of apoptosis, and modulation of various signaling pathways in both malignant and non-malignant disorders. Among the explored compounds, piperine and piperlongumine, prominent alkaloids within the Piper genus, have demonstrated notable efficacy in restricting the growth of cancer cells and tumors. This article emphasizes the biomedical and pharmacological findings related to the anticancer properties of the three Piper species, with a focus on their mechanism of action. These insights could open avenues for future clinical scenarios and therapeutic utilization of bioactive substances and extracts derived from these species.

"In the Village That She Comes from, Most of the People Don't Know Anything about Cervical Cancer": A Health Systems Appraisal of Cervical Cancer Prevention Services in Tanzania.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women globally. It is the most common cancer in Tanzania, resulting in about 9772 new cases and 6695 deaths each year. Research has shown an association between low levels of risk perception and knowledge of the prevention, risks, signs, etiology, and treatment of cervical cancer and low screening uptake, as contributing to high rates of cervical cancer-related mortality. However, there is scant literature on the perspectives of a wider group of stakeholders (e.g., policymakers, healthcare providers (HCPs), and women at risk), especially those living in rural and semi-rural settings. The main objective of this study is to understand knowledge and perspectives on cervical cancer risk and screening among these populations. We adapted Risso-Gill and colleagues' framework for a Health Systems Appraisal (HSA), to identify HCPs' perspective of the extent to which health system requirements for effective cervical cancer screening, prevention, and control are in place in Tanzania. We adapted interview topic guides for cervical cancer screening using the HSA framework approach. Study participants (69 in total) were interviewed between 2014 and 2018-participants included key stakeholders, HCPs, and women at risk for cervical cancer. The data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis methodology. Seven themes emerged from our analysis of semi-structured interviews and focus groups: (1) knowledge of the role of screening and preventive care/services (e.g., prevention, risks, signs, etiology, and treatment), (2) training and knowledge of HCPs, (3) knowledge of cervical cancer screening among women at risk, (4) beliefs about cervical cancer screening, (5) role of traditional medicine, (6) risk factors, and (7) symptoms and signs. Our results demonstrate that there is a low level of knowledge of the role of screening and preventive services among stakeholders, HCPs, and women living in rural and semi-rural locations in Tanzania. There is a critical need to implement more initiatives and programs to increase the uptake of screening and related services and allow women to make more informed decisions on their health.

Research Progress on Heat Stress Response Mechanism and Control Measures in Medicinal Plants.

Medicinal plants play a pivotal role in traditional medicine and modern pharmacology due to their various bioactive compounds. However, heat stress caused by climate change will seriously affect the survival and quality of medicinal plants. In this review, we update our understanding of the research progress on medicinal plants' response mechanisms and control measures under heat stress over the last decade. This includes physiological changes, molecular mechanisms, and technical means to improve the heat tolerance of medicinal plants under heat stress. It provides a reference for cultivating heat-resistant varieties of medicinal plants and the rational utilization of control measures to improve the heat resistance of medicinal plants.

Role of Traditional medicines in Public Health and Hygiene of Tribal and Non-Tribal’s in Jalpaiguri and Hooghly district of the State West Bengal, India

Role of Traditional medicines in Public Health and Hygiene of Tribal and Non-Tribal’s in Jalpaiguri and Hooghly district of the State West Bengal, India

Integrating Traditional Medicine into the Healthcare System in Ethiopia: Promoting Research and Avoiding Misappropriation

Traditional medicine is a form of medicine that has been widely used in Ethiopia for thousands of years. However, it is still practiced in the absence of formal healthcare. The current approach to the protection of traditional medicinal resources in Ethiopia is based on multiple fragmented legislations and neglects one of these problems. The main objective of this paper is to discuss the need for integrating traditional medicine into national healthcare system and protecting of traditional medicinal resources in Euthopia. This normative legal research employs statutory approach. It is found that Ethiopia has put in place a legal framework for the protection of its traditional medicinal resources, but the role of traditional medicine in healthcare is not clearly defined. Many medicinal plants are, consequently, at risk of extinction and biopiracy. Ay policy option that seeks to protect traditional medicinal resources must have in mind these three problems together, i.e loss of traditional knowledge, loss of medicinal plants, and potential misappropriation. Integrating traditional medicine into the modern health care system requires careful consideration of conservation, protection, and development of traditional practices.

Combination of Hydrolysable Tannins and Zinc Oxide on Enterocyte Functionality: In Vitro Insights.

The management of gastrointestinal disease in animals represents a significant challenge in veterinary and zootechnic practice. Traditionally, acute symptoms have been treated with antibiotics and high doses of zinc oxide (ZnO). However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for microbial resistance and ecological detriment due to the excessive application of this compound. These concerns highlight the urgency of minimizing the use of ZnO and exploring sustainable nutritional solutions. Hydrolysable tannins (HTs), which are known for their role in traditional medicine for acute gastrointestinal issues, have emerged as a promising alternative. This study examined the combined effect of food-grade HTs and subtherapeutic ZnO concentration on relevant biological functions of Caco-2 cells, a widely used model of the intestinal epithelial barrier. We found that, when used together, ZnO and HTs (ZnO/HTs) enhanced tissue repair and improved epithelial barrier function, normalizing the expression and functional organization of tight junction proteins. Finally, the ZnO/HTs combination strengthened enterocytes' defense against oxidative stress induced by inflammation stimuli. In conclusion, combining ZnO and HTs may offer a suitable and practical approach for decreasing ZnO levels in veterinary nutritional applications.

Mental health literacy and associated factors among traditional healers of Jimma town, southwest, Ethiopia 2020: a community based, cross-sectional study.

Traditional healers are in the front line to give the mental healthcare service in developing countries like Ethiopia. In Ethiopia, different studies were done focusing on the role of traditional medicine and perception of the community toward traditional medicine. However, there is paucity of studies, which shows the level of mental health literacy among traditional healers. Therefore, this study intended to mental health literacy level of traditional healers in Jimma town, Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study design was employed among 310 participants. To select the participants from Jimma town, a stratified random sampling method was utilized from August 1 to September 30, 2020. The Mental Health Literacy Questionnaire was used to assess mental health literacy for assessment of mental health literacy among traditional healers. The collected data were coded and entered into EpiData version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25.0 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariable linear regression was used for data analysis. The finding of this study showed that the samples of traditional healers found in Jimma town scored a total mean of 95.91 ± 3.0025 for mental health literacy. Age [β = -0.052 (95% CI: -0.078, -0.026)], year of experience [β = 0.095 (95% CI: 0.067, 0.123)], family history of mental illness [β = 1.709 (95% CI: 0.543, 2.360)], history of professional help seeking on mental illness [β = 0.501 (95% CI: 0.715, 2.288)], history of getting information of mental illness on media [β = 0.941 (95% CI: 0.345, 1.538)], training on mental health [β = 2.213 (995% CI: 1.520, 2.906)], history of treating mental illness [β = 1.676 (95% CI: 0.808, 2.544)], and informal education [β = -1.664 (95% CI: -2.081, -1.247)] were factors significantly associated with MHL. The mental health literacy of traditional healers mean score is lower than the mean score of other studies. Age, year of experience, training on mental illness, family history, history of professional help seeking, history of treating mental illness, information on mental illness, and informal education are significantly associated with mental health literacy. Therefore, structured training is very important to improve their level of mental health literacy.

Ethnobotanical Significance, Phytopharmacology, and Toxicological Profile of Limonia acidissima L. (Rutaceae): A Review.

Medicinal plants play a crucial role in traditional medicine, where they are extensively employed by traditional physicians for treating a wide array of ailments. Limonia acidissima (Linn), commonly known as the Wood apple and belonging to the Rutaceae family, is widely cultivated in countries, such as Pakistan, India, and Sri Lanka. The various parts of Limonia acidissima, including its roots, leaves, fruits, stem, and even the whole plant, have been traditionally used in the treatment of numerous conditions, such as constipation, diarrhea, dysentery, skin diseases, asthma, astringent, diabetes, jaundice, and dyspepsia and act as diuretic agents, cardiotonic, cardiac stimulant, and hepato-protectant. Extensive research has revealed that Limonia acidissima possesses a rich chemical composition, including quinones, lignans, flavonoids, sterols, coumarins, alkaloids, triterpenoids, phenolic acids, and volatile oils, present in its stem, leaves, fruits, stem bark, and roots. These chemical constituents contribute to its diverse therapeutic properties. In recent years, numerous studies have explored the ethanopharmacological properties of Limonia acidissima extracts, highlighting their anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-diarrheal, antimicrobial, antiulcer, wound healing, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antibacterial, antifungal, larvicidal, neuroprotective, antispermatogenic, antihistaminic, diuretic, and adsorbent activities. This comprehensive review focuses on the traditional uses, biological activities, and phytoconstituents isolated from different parts of Limonia acidissima Linn. The gathered information provides valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of this plant, serving as a foundation for further research and the development of novel pharmaceuticals. The integration of traditional knowledge with scientific evidence enhances the understanding of the medicinal properties of Limonia acidissima, fostering its utilization in modern medicine and healthcare systems.

Extraction, Isolation and Neuropharmacological Potential of Peristrophe bicalyculata (R.) Nees

Because of their widespread availability, low cost, low risk, and lack of side effects, medicinal herbs play a crucial role in traditional medicine all throughout the world. For medicinal purposes, Peristrophe bicalyculata (R.) is being used today. Nees as a nerve system tonic. Plant roots have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating, and aphrodisiac properties. This plant root may provide health advantages, making it suitable for nutraceutical and functional food compositions. This research examined P. bicalyculata (R.) neuropharmacological effects on memory enhancement to treat cognition-related illnesses and learning and memory disorders. In phytochemical investigation, P. bicalyculata (R.) Nees ethanolic extract has higher phytoconstituents. Spectrophotometric and thin layer chromatography (TLC) plate bioassay detection showed that P. bicalyculata (R.) Nees ethanolic extract inhibits acetylcholinesterase activity. TLC and high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) were performed on P. bicalyculata (R.) Nees ethanolic extract. TLC and HPTLC spots are well resolved, indicating active ingredients in the extract. Total phenolic, flavonoid, and ascorbic content of P. bicalyculata (R.) Nees ethanolic extract was measured. Ex-vivo tests like lipid peroxidation testing reveal the extract is antioxidant. In conclusion, the ethanolic extract of P. bicalyculata (R.) Nees has memory-enhancing, antidepressant, and neuroprotective properties due to its anticholinesterase potential, effect on neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, and antioxidant profile. More research is needed on its safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action for therapeutic use.

2023 Julius Axelrod Symposium: Plant-Derived Molecules Acting on G Protein-Coupled Receptors.

Plant extracts have played a significant role in traditional medicine for centuries, contributing to improved health and the treatment of various human illnesses. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are crucial in numerous physiologic functions, and there is growing evidence suggesting their involvement in the therapeutic effects of many plant extracts. In recent years, scientists have identified an expanding number of isolated molecules responsible for the biologic activity of these extracts, with many believed to act on GPCRs. This article critically reviews the evidence supporting the modulation of GPCR function by these plant-derived molecules through direct binding. Structural information is now available for some of these molecules, allowing for a comparison of their binding mode with that of endogenous GPCR ligands. The final section explores future trends and challenges, focusing on the identification of new plant-derived molecules with both orthosteric and allosteric binding modes, as well as innovative strategies for designing GPCR ligands inspired by these plant-derived compounds. In conclusion, plant-derived molecules are anticipated to play an increasingly vital role as therapeutic drugs and serve as templates for drug design. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This minireview summarizes the most pertinent publications on isolated plant-derived molecules interacting with G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and comments on available structural information on GPCR/plant-derived ligand pairs. Future challenges and trends for the isolation and characterization of plant-derived molecules and drug design are discussed.

Optimisation of hypocrellin production in Shiraia-like fungi via genetic modification involving a transcription factor gene and a putative monooxygenase gene

ABSTRACT Shiraia-like fungi, which are rare parasitic fungi found around bamboo, play an important role in traditional medicine. Their main active component, hypocrellin, is widely used in medicine, food, and cosmetics. By comparing strains with different hypocrellin yields, we identified a transcription factor (SbTF) in the hypocrellin biosynthesis pathway. SbTF from high-yielding zzz816 and low-yielding CNUCC C72 differed in its protein structure. Subsequently, SbTF from high-yielding zzz816 was overexpressed in several strains. This stabilised the yield in zzz816 and significantly increased the yield in low-yielding CNUCC C72. Comparing downstream non-essential genes between wild type and SbTF-overexpressing CNUCC C72 showed that SbMNF was significantly up-regulated. Therefore, it was selected for further study. SbMNF overexpression increased the hypocrellin yield in low-yielding CNUCC C72 and altered the composition of compounds in high-yielding CNUCC 1353PR and zzz816. This involved an increased elsinochrome C yield in CNUCC 1353PR and an increased hypocrellin B yield in zzz816 (by 2 and 70.3 times that in the corresponding wild type, respectively). This study is the first to alter hypocrellin synthesis to alter the levels of one bioactive agent compared to another. The results provide new insights regarding genetic modification and will help to optimise fungal fermentation.

Revisiting edible insects as sources of therapeutics and drug delivery systems for cancer therapy.

Cancer has been medicine's most formidable foe for long, and the rising incidence of the disease globally has made effective cancer therapy a significant challenge. Drug discovery is targeted at identifying efficacious compounds with minimal side effects and developments in nanotechnology and immunotherapy have shown promise in the fight against this complicated illness. Since ancient times, insects and insect-derived products have played a significant role in traditional medicine across several communities worldwide. The aim of this study was to inspect the traditional use of edible insects in various cultures and to explore their modern use in cancer therapy. Edible insects are sources of nutrients and a variety of beneficial substances with anticancer and immunomodulatory potential. Recently, insect derived bioactive-components have also been used as nanoparticles either in combination with chemotherapeutics or as a nano-cargo for the enhanced delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs due to their high biocompatibility, low bio-toxicity, and their antioxidant and anticancer effects. The crude extracts of different edible insects and their active components such as sericin, cecropin, solenopsin, melittin, antimicrobial peptides and fibroin produce anti-cancer and immunomodulatory effects by various mechanisms which have been discussed in this review.

Phytochemical Profile, GC-MS Profiling and In Vitro Evaluation of Some Biological Applications of the Extracts of Origanum syriacum L. and Cousinia libanotica D.C.

Indigenous to Lebanon, Origanum syriacum L. and Cousinia libanotica D.C. are notable plants in the Middle East, with O. syriacum known for its aromatic qualities and C. libanotica being less explored. Both plants have a significant role in traditional medicine for treating various ailments. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and biological properties of the extracts from these plants. The extracts were obtained through cold maceration with solvents of increasing polarity. The ethyl acetate extract of O. syriacum exhibited the highest total polyphenol content. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) identified fifteen compounds in both C. libanotica and O. syriacum extracts, whereas gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis unveiled 179 volatile compounds. Notably, the O. syriacum-MeOH extract showed moderate antioxidant activity. Both plants' methanolic extracts demonstrated significant anti-Alzheimer's potential. The O. syriacum-dichloromethane and C. libanotica-cyclohexane extracts displayed the highest cytotoxicities against the HCT-116 cell line. For anti-proliferative activity against the Caco-2 cell line, the O. syriacum-methanol and C. libanotica-cyclohexane extracts were the most effective. This study provides valuable insights into the phytochemistry and potential therapeutic applications of extracts from these two oriental plant species.

Navigating the Botanical Odyssey of <i>Ipomoea carnea</i> - A Revelatory Exploration of Taxonomy, Phytochemistry, Medicinal Horizons, and Ecological Reverberations

Ipomoea carnea is a prominent member of the Convolvulaceae family, known for its diverse phytochemical profile and potential therapeutic applications. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the taxonomy, phytochemistry, medicinal uses, and ecological significance of Ipomoea carnea. The intricate relationship between its chemical constituents and bioactivities, along with its role in traditional medicine and its impact on local ecosystems, are discussed. The wealth of compounds present in this subspecies suggests promising avenues for further research and exploration.

First Report on Mesophyll Protoplast Isolation and Regeneration System for the Duboisia Species.

The Duboisia species, a group of plants native to Australia, have been historically valued for their pharmacological properties and have played a significant role in traditional medicine and pharmaceutical research. Persistent efforts are underway to enhance the efficacy of the active ingredient scopolamine, employing both conventional breeding methods and advanced biotechnology tools. The primary objective of this research was to establish a highly efficient method for isolating mesophyll protoplasts and facilitating their regeneration, thereby laying a robust foundation for the application of various advanced plant biotechnology tools in the pursuit of genetic enhancement. The mesophyll protoplast isolation process was developed for hybrid D. myoporoides × D. hopwoodii with careful optimisation of the following parameters: leaf strip size; incubation conditions; physical treatment; and enzyme concentration. The optimal parameters were combined in each individual step; the best enzyme concentration was determined to be 2% (w/v) cellulysin and 0.5% (w/v) macerase. Protoplast yield was found to be greatly affected by the enzyme concentrations. The isolated protoplasts were cultured at a density of 0.5 × 105 to best sustain the highest cell division (33.2%) and a microcalli induction frequency of 17.9%. After 40 days of culture in a modified KM8P medium at 25 °C in darkness, visible microcalli were transferred to a solidified Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with 1 mg L-1 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) for callus induction under a 16 h photoperiod. After 30 days of culture, compact organogenic calli were transferred into a solid MS medium with 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) alone or thidiazuron (TDZ) alone or in combination with BA or naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) for shoot regeneration. The maximum shoot regeneration frequency (63.3%) was observed in the medium with 1.5 mg L-1 TDZ alone. For the first time, a reliable protoplast isolation and regeneration system from mesophyll cells was established for Duboisia with high protoplast viability, successful microcalli formation, and intact plant regeneration. This innovation will significantly contribute towards the genetic enhancement of the Duboisia species.

Photochemical Screening and Antifungal Activity of Faidherbia albida Roots

Photochemical Screening and Antifungal Activity of Faidherbia albida Roots

Phytochemical and Pharmacological Activities of black Turmeric: A Review

The plant Curcuma caesia, also referred to as kali haldi, is a member of the Zingiberaceae family. South East Asia's black turmeric is a rare endemic plant that also plays a significant role in traditional medicine. The north-east, central India, the Papi Hills of the East and West Godavari, and Andhra Pradesh all have access to this plant. The fresh and dried rhizomes of Curcuma cassia are used in traditional medicine to treat leucoderma, asthma, tumours, piles, bronchitis, bruising, and other conditions. Numerous therapeutic properties of curcuma caesia, including antioxidant, antibacterial, antipyretic, larvicidal, insecticidal, antimicrobial, wound healing, and anti-hyperglycemic, have been professionally investigated. The current study aims to provide a thorough overview of the literature on its phytochemistry, historical applications, and therapeutic research.

Ayurvedic practice, education and research, beyond dilemmas and confessions

Emergent diseases and the pursuit of universal health coverage have incited a renewed interest in the role of traditional medicines (TM) in healthcare. Ayurveda, a widely accepted and practised system in India, is gaining attention globally owing to its holistic and individualised therapeutic approaches. Addressing the contemporary relevance of Ayurveda in healthcare, the article examines concerns surrounding its core principles, educational methodologies, and research validation. Pertinent queries are raised about Ayurveda's relevance today and challenges in aligning Ayurvedic theories with current scientific paradigms and pedagogical dilemmas in Ayurvedic education. Further, we propose solutions, charting a course for Ayurveda's evolution in contemporary healthcare. This includes bridging epistemological differences by integrating modern scientific methodologies with Ayurvedic concepts. Addressing the educational challenges, we recommend comprehensive curriculum revisions considering contemporary healthcare needs. The teaching methodologies are to be enhanced to impart Ayurvedic principles effectively, acknowledging the limitations of ancient anatomical and physiological constructs. Training programs must prioritise equipping teachers with the ability to impart a critical understanding of Ayurveda's philosophy without undermining modern scientific concepts. In conclusion, this article underscores the importance of policy reforms in Ayurvedic curriculum design and teaching methodologies to ensure Ayurveda's sustained relevance and integration within contemporary healthcare systems.