Traditional Herb Research Articles

Isolation and Characterization of Novel Pueroside B Isomers and Other Bioactive Compounds from Pueraria lobata Roots: Structure Elucidation, α-Glucosidase, and α-Amylase Inhibition Studies.

Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi is a traditional medicinal herb that has been extensively used in Chinese medicine for various therapeutic purposes. In this study, twelve chemical constituents were isolated from the roots of P. lobata, comprising three puerosides (compounds 1-3), six alkaloids (compounds 4-9), and three additional compounds (compounds 10-12). Notably, compound 1 (4R-pueroside B) was identified as a novel compound. The structures of all compounds were elucidated using a range of spectroscopic techniques, including CD spectroscopy for the first-time determination of the absolute configurations of pueroside B isomers (compounds 1 and 2). Enzyme inhibition assays revealed that, with the exception of compound 2, all isolated compounds exhibited varying degrees of α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activity. Remarkably, compound 12 demonstrated IC50 values of 23.25 μM for α-glucosidase inhibition and 27.05 μM for α-amylase inhibition, which are superior to those of the positive control, acarbose (27.05 μM and 36.68 μM, respectively). Additionally, compound 11 exhibited inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase and α-amylase comparable to the positive control, acarbose. Molecular docking studies indicated that compound 12 interacts with the active sites of the enzymes via hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, and hydrophobic interactions, which likely contribute to their inhibitory effects. These findings suggest that the chemical constituents of P. lobata could be potential natural sources of α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors, with compound 12 being particularly promising for further investigation.

Obscure properties of a traditional herb Pittosporum neelgherrense used to treat snakebite envenoming against Daboia russelli venoms

In tropical nations, snakebite envenomation is a significant public health issue with negative human and social effects. This is due to three factors: 1) more species of the most hazardous snakes are present; 2) emergency medical assistance is not readily available; and 3) inadequate health care. The problems caused by snakebite envenomation have been partially resolved by immunotherapy. An extensive collection of medicinal herbs is recognized to have antivenomous properties in traditional medicine. However, very few species have undergone scientific investigation, and even fewer have had their active components separated and structurally and functionally defined. In this work, the anti-venom potential of hot and cold aqueous extracts from Pittosporum neelgherrense is evaluated using an in-vitro model. The experimental results showed that 4H-pyran-4-one, 2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-(11.20), 1-Undecanol (16.38), Lauryl acetate (18.25), and Cyclotridecane (19.14) were phytochemical substances whose chemical structures were recognized by GCMS. The Direct and Indirect hemorrhagic activity was found to be completely neutralized by P. neelgherrense extract (44.61% hot plant extract & 55.38% cold plant extract) and the zone (2.4 mm), respectively. The neutralization of venoms was indicated by the zone (0.5–0.9 cm) of hydrolysis production of proteolytic activity. Additionally, the results of the gelatine liquefaction study demonstrated that clot formation was not triggered by venom at low concentrations (50:50) but was instead brought on by higher concentrations. The present study suggested that the neutralization of venom by hot water extracts of P. neelgherrense is a potentially therapeutic application.

Curry Leaf: Traditional Herb and its Medicinal Profile, Multipotential Nutraceutical Properties, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Activity

: This review briefly discusses about herbal medication, i.e., Murraya koenigii, also known as curry leaves, that have been useful in traditional medicine for centuries and natural products with different pharmacological activities. It might lead to a better knowledge of natural products' potential therapeutic effects and the creation of promising pharmaceuticals with minimal toxicity and great effectiveness for treating different ailments. The Chinese Biomedical Database (CBM), Technological Periodical Database (VIP), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Google Scholar, Elsevier, ScienceDirect, Sci Finder, and PubMed were used to compile the content of this review. From 1975 through 2020, data were collected. More than 23 components of M. koenigii have been discovered so far, with sterols, carbohydrates, flavonoids, and alkaloids causing the most concern. Due to its multicomponent nature, M. koenigii has a wide range of beneficial biological activities, including analgesic, anticancer, antioxidative, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antidiabetic activities, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. This review discusses the vast details of M. koenigii (Curry leaves) and its possible medicinal use for different therapeutic purposes. The plant incorporates other essential substances, as discussed, are beneficial to remedy and deal with several ailment cures that exhibit different pharmacological actions. The accumulated ethnopharmacological details of that plant may be further helpful for the upcoming research about the said properties and use of M. koenigii.

NMC‐4 Ameliorates Depression‐Like Behavior and Neuroinflammation Caused by Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress

ABSTRACTDepression is a prevalent mental disorder, but the side effects of antidepressants also make depressed patients resistant. Effective and safe antidepressants should be developed from traditional herbs, with the aim of reducing the side effects of antidepressants and improving the efficacy of drugs. In this study, the new macamide compound‐4 (NMC‐4) was synthesized for the first time, addressing the problem of difficult extraction, isolation, and low content of natural macamide. NMC‐4 was characterized using mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance, and infrared spectroscopy. The protective effect of NMC‐4 against cell injury was demonstrated to be stronger than that of natural macamide (N‐benzylhexadecanamide, XA) using a PC12 cell injury model. The study explored the effects of NMC‐4 on chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)‐induced depressive symptoms. NMC‐4 significantly improved depressive‐like behaviors. NMC‐4 ameliorated CUMS‐induced depressive‐like behaviors by mitigating neuroinflammation and modulating the NF‐κB/Nrf2 and BDNF/PI3K/Akt pathways.

Metabolomics study of lipid lowering effect and lysophospholipids regulation by Alismatis rhizoma and processed forms in hyperlipidemia mice

Alismatis rhizoma (AR) is a traditional herb used for its lipid-regulating properties. Its processed forms, salt-processed AR (SAR) and bran-processed AR (BAR), are widely used. This study investigates the lipid-lowering effects of AR and its processed forms in hyperlipidemic mice, with a focus on lysophospholipid regulation. Three types of serum lysophospholipids were characterized using UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS, and their metabolic changes were analyzed with multivariate statistical statistics. The results showed that AR effectively reduced total cholesterol (TC), while SAR and BAR excelled in lowering low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C). BAR demonstrated superior effects on the TC/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio, atherogenic index (AI), and protecting kidney function, making it the most effective processed form. Additionally, a total of 216 lysophospholipids, including 153 lysophosphatidylcholines (Lyso-PCs), 49 lysophosphatidylethanolamines (Lyso-PEs), and 14 lysophosphatidylserines (Lyso-PSs), were identified in serum samples. Metabolomics analysis revealed 102 differential lysophospholipids associated with hyperlipidemia, among which 29, 21, and 22 were significantly (VIP > 1.0, P< 0.05) regulated by AR, SAR, and BAR, respectively. AR showed the most comprehensive regulation of lysophospholipids, increasing unsaturated Lyso-PCs and decreasing Lyso-PEs and Lyso-PSs, which might reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health. This study is the first to comprehensively compare the lipid-lowering effects of AR and its processed forms, highlighting their role in modulating lysophospholipid metabolism in hyperlipidemia.

Airways Relaxant and Antiasthmatic Activity of Aconitum heterophyllum Wall ex Royle. Roots: A Mechanistic Insight.

Aconitum heterophyllum Wall ex Royle. (Ranunculaceae) is a traditional medicinal herb that has shown extensive pharmacological potential to treat cough, diarrhea, and infectious diseases but no scientific evidence is available to validate its antiasthmatic potential. In this study, we have investigated the tracheal relaxation and antiasthmatic activity of the selected bioactive fraction of A. heterophyllum. Chemical profiling of the most effective fraction obtained via bioassay-guided fractionation was done using LC-MS (Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, a technique utilized in the identification, separation, and quantification of known and unknown compounds). Molecular docking analysis of characterized constituents was performed to recognize the binding receptors, followed by an evaluation of the tracheal relaxation ability of active fraction. An acute oral toxicity study of the most effective fraction was done using OECD guidelines 423. Further, the therapeutic efficacy of the fraction was validated in asthma using a guinea pig model of ovalbumin (OVA) induced allergic asthma. The bio-guided activity revealed that hydro-methanolic extract of A. heterophyllum roots (F-1) was the most active fraction. LC-MS analysis of F-1 showed the presence of six major bioactive compounds in F-1. Molecular docking studies revealed strong binding affinities of identified constituents with histaminic receptor (H1) and muscarinic receptor (M3). The ex vivo study demonstrated smooth muscle relaxant activity of F-1 via dysregulating diverse signal transduction pathways viz. histaminic and muscarinic receptors antagonism (non-competitive), stimulation of β2-adrenergic receptor pathway, and soluble guanylyl cyclase activation. The findings of acute oral toxicity studies revealed that F-1 had no toxicity up to the dose of 2000 mg/Kg. The anti-asthmatic therapeutic efficacy of F-1 was further confirmed by the amelioration of respiratory hyperresponsiveness in asthmatic guinea pigs. This is the first evidence-based study showing the antiasthmatic therapeutic potential of the traditionally used herb A. heterophyllum through, computational and animal studies.

Bioactive Natural Leads and Traditional Herbal Plants in the Management of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Brief Review

: Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic relapsing disorder that causes chronic inflammation and ulcers in the GIT. Depending upon the location, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease come under IBD. The exact etiology of IBD is still unknown. Over 8 lakhs of people were affected by inflammatory disease yearly, and the death rate increased daily. Depending upon the severity of the disease, JAK inhibitors, anti-TNF agents, and immunosuppressants can be used to manage ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. However, these treatments have been associated with harmful adverse effects, which cannot be ignored. To treat inflammatory diseases safely, various herbal medicines and their bioactive are preferred as game changers. Recently, the effectiveness of herbal plants has been recommended as the treatment against IBD, as shown by various in vivo models and clinical trials. The various herbal plants reported in the literature include gallic acid, lupeol, and curcumin aloe vera. This review focused on medicinal plants' anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-ulcer properties. Over 1.2 million healthcare practitioners are using herbal bioactive and have the advantages of lower side effects. Therefore, it is estimated that in Europe, the demand for plant-based products/formulations has risen by millions in 2020, showing the current position of herbal-based products in consumer health awareness.

Current Trends in Potential Traditional Indian Herbs: Emblica officinalis and its Medicinal Importance

Emblica officinalis, commonly known as Amla, is a potent natural antioxidant and is renowned as one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C. The berries of this plant contain the highest levels of naturally occurring Vitamin C among ripe fruits, traditionally used in various dietary practices. Research has highlighted the anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties of Emblica officinalis. The fruit, which resembles a small plum, offers heat-stable Vitamin C that has been clinically shown to be more readily absorbed than synthetic alternatives, particularly in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. Both historical and modern studies suggest that Emblica officinalis, whether used alone or in combination with other herbs, can be beneficial in treating various conditions such as colds, skin ailments, influenza, anemia, diabetes, lung issues, high cholesterol, and even as an immune booster in cancer therapies. Recognized as one of the most effective natural anti-aging remedies, Emblica officinalis is also used to treat acne and other skin disorders. Additionally, it is effective against acidity and peptic ulcers. Rich in Vitamin C, calcium, iron, essential amino acids, and a variety of other vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, regular consumption of Emblica officinalis is said to enhance immunity, support cancer prevention, and rejuvenate the body. It also helps manage chronic conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, AIDS, influenza, persistent coughs, chronic infections, chronic fatigue, and inflammation. In Ayurveda, Emblica officinalis is highly regarded for managing diabetes, bleeding disorders, and promoting strength and stamina.

Evaluating the Mechanism of a Traditional Herbal Syrup for Anemia Treatment Using Liver Metabolomics.

As a well-known Uyghur medicine, Shi-Liu-Bu-Xue Syrup (SLBXS) has been widely used to treat anemia in China for over 20 years. However, the underlying mechanisms of its effectiveness in treating anemia remain unclear. In this study, liver metabolomics was primarily employed to determine the potential regulatory mechanisms of SLBXS in treating anemia. Liver metabolomics profiling was conducted to characterize the mechanism of action of SLBXS in an acetylphenylhydrazine-induced mouse model of anemia. SLBXS was shown to decrease liver index, white blood cell count, and platelet count, while increasing red blood cell count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels. Core targets were selected for verification using Western blotting. SLBXS demonstrated a significant therapeutic effect on anemia primarily by regulating galactose metabolism and the HIF-1 signaling pathway, as indicated by the downregulation of HIF-1α, NOS3, VEGFA, and GLA proteins in the liver tissues of anemic mice. This study clarifies the potential regulatory mechanisms of hepatic metabolism by SLBXS administration in treating anemia.

Study on the underlying mechanism of Huachansu Capsule induced cardiotoxicity of normal rat by integrating transcriptomics, metabolomics and network toxicology

Ethnopharmacological relevanceHuachansu Capsule (HCSc) is a simple enteric-coated capsule refined from the skin of the dried toad, a traditional medicinal herb. It has been used clinically for many years to treat a variety of malignant tumors with remarkable efficacy. To date, a number of main components of HCSc have been reported to be cardiotoxic, but the specific mechanism of cardiotoxicity is still unknown. Aim of the studyThe aim of this study was to elucidate the possible cardiotoxic symptoms caused by high-doses of HCSc and to further reveal the complex mechanisms by which it causes cardiotoxicity. Materials and methodsUPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS and network toxicology were used to identify and predict the potential toxic components, related signaling pathways. Then, we used acute and sub-acute toxicity experiments to reveal the apparent phenomenon of HCSc-induced cardiotoxicity. Finally, we combined transcriptomics and metabolomics to elucidate the potential mechanism of action, and verified the putative mechanism by molecular docking, RT-qPCR, and Western blot. ResultsWe found 8 toad bufadienolides components may be induced cardiac toxicity HCSc main toxic components. Through toxicity experiments, we found that high dose of HCSc could increase a variety of blood routine indexes, five cardiac enzymes, heart failure indexes (BNP), troponin (cTnI and cTnT), heart rate and the degree of heart tissue damage, while low-dose of HCSc had no such changes. In addition, by molecular docking, found that 8 kinds of main toxic components and cAMP, AMPK, IL1β, mTOR all can be a very good combination, especially in the cAMP. Meanwhile, RT-qPCR and Western blot results showed that HCSc could induce cardiotoxicity by regulating a variety of heart-related differential genes and activating the cAMP signaling pathway. ConclusionsIn this study, network toxicology, transcriptomics and metabolomics were used to elucidate the complex mechanism of possible cardiotoxicity induced by high-dose HCSc. Animal experiments, molecular docking, Western blot and RT-qPCR experiments were also used to verify the above mechanism. These findings will inform further mechanistic studies and provide theoretical support for its safe clinical application.

Development of Science Electronic Modules with an Ethnoscience Integrated STEM Approach in Traditional Herbal Medicine Making

This research aims to make a feasible and practical science electronic module with an ethnoscience-integrated STEM approach to traditional herbal medicine making for the subtheme of material classification and mixed separation of grade VII junior high school. This research design uses Research and Development (R&amp;D) with a 4D model consisting of Define, Develop, Design, and Disseminate. The software used in developing electronic modules is anyflip. This research was conducted at Junior High School 2 Pracimantoro with the subject of 32 grade VII students. The instruments used in the research include product feasibility sheets, science electronic modules, and product practicality questionnaires. The feasibility and practicality instruments of the product are analyzed quantitatively and qualitative. The results of this study were electronic science modules with an integrated STEM approach to ethnoscience in traditional herbal medicine for the subthemes of material classification and mixed separation declared feasible and declared practical for use in junior high school science learning as evidenced by student response questionnaires obtaining a score of 49.3438 from the maximum number of scores of 60.

Use of Traditional Japanese Herbal Medicine Daikenchuto for the Treatment of Abdominal Distention in Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants.

Background: Very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants often experience feeding intolerance owing to organ immaturity, and the most frequent sign is the presence of abdominal distention. Daikenchuto (DKT), a traditional Japanese herbal medicine, is used to improve gastrointestinal function, particularly in adults. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of DKT in reducing abdominal distention and intestinal gas in VLBW infants. Methods: This study involved a retrospective chart review of 24 VLBW infants treated with DKT at Hamamatsu University Hospital between April 2016 and March 2021. The effects of DKT treatment at a dose of 0.3 g/kg/day were evaluated through clinical parameters and abdominal radiography. Results: Before treatment, marked abdominal distention was observed in 46% of the infants, which reduced to 4% within a week of DKT administration. The gas volume score (GVS) decreased in 92% of the patients within the first week of treatment and markedly decreased by ≥20% in 46% of the patients. The effects of improving abdominal distention and decreasing the GVS on radiography persisted for 1-2 weeks after treatment initiation. No clinical parameters affecting a GVS reduction of ≥20% and no notable adverse effects were observed. Conclusions: While the preliminary findings suggest that DKT may help manage abdominal distention in VLBW infants, further studies with placebo-controlled trials, larger sample sizes, use of advanced image processing software, and consideration of additional influencing factors are required to substantiate these results and identify predictors of treatment response.

Widely Targeted Metabolomics Analysis to Reveal Metabolite of Morus alba L. in Different Medicinal Parts.

Morus alba L. is a tradition medical and edible plant. It is rich in many important bioactive components. However, there is a dearth of systematic information about the components. Here, the Mori Cortex, Mori Folium, Mori Fructus, and Mori Ramulus were studied. Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) is used to study primary and secondary metabolites. Eight hundred two metabolites were identified and classified into 10 different categories in total. Correlation analysis, hierarchical clustering analysis, and principal component analysis of metabolites showed that different parts of the sample could be significantly different. In different medicinal parts, alkaloids accounted for 4.0%, 3.6%, 5.1%, and 4.5%; flavonoids accounted for 0.7%, 27.2%, 5.6%, 1.2%; terpenes accounted for 20.1%, 2.1%, 2.6%, 2.5%. Furthermore, the abundance of phenols, phenylpropanoids, and lipids metabolites sequentially accounted for 2.3-4.4%, 0.5-1.8%, and 2.4-5.3%. These results have improved our understanding of metabolites and provided a reference for research on the medicinal and edible value of Morus alba L. In addition, the study reveals the correlation between the components of Traditional Chinese medicine and the basic theory of TCM properties and reinterprets the ancient wisdom in the world's traditional herbs through the perspective of modern science.

Sea buckthorn extract mitigates chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by suppression of ferroptosis via scavenging ROS and blocking p53/MAPK pathways

Ethnopharmacological relevanceSea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), a traditional Tibetan medicinal herb, exhibits protective effects against cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Although Sea buckthorn extract (SBE) has been confirmed to alleviate airway inflammation in mice, its therapeutic effect and underlying mechanism on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) requires further clarification. Aim of the studyTo elucidate the alleviative effect and molecular mechanism of SBE on lipopolysaccharides (LPS)/porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE)-induced COPD by blocking ferroptosis. MethodsThe anti-ferroptotic effects of SBE were evaluated in human BEAS-2B bronchial epithelial cells using CCK8, RT-qPCR, western blotting, and transmission electron microscopy. Transwell was employed to detect chemotaxis of neutrophils. COPD model was induced by intranasally administration of LPS/PPE in mice and measured by alterations of histopathology, inflammation, and ferroptosis. RNA-sequencing, western blotting, antioxidant examination, flow cytometry, DARTS, CETSA, and molecular docking were then used to investigate its anti-ferroptotic mechanisms. ResultsIn vitro, SBE not only suppressed erastin- or RSL3-induced ferroptosis by suppressing lipid peroxides (LPOs) production and glutathione (GSH) depletion, but also suppressed ferroptosis-induced chemotactic migration of neutrophils via reducing mRNA expression of chemokines. In vivo, SBE ameliorated LPS/PPE-induced COPD phenotypes, and inhibited the generation of LPOs, cytokines, and chemokines. RNA-sequencing showed that p53 pathway and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway were implicated in SBE-mediated anti-ferroptotic action. SBE repressed erastin- or LPS/PPE-induced overactivation of p53 and MAPK pathway, thereby decreasing expression of diamine acetyltransferase 1 (SAT1) and arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15), and increasing expression of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11). Mechanistically, erastin-induced elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was reduced by SBE through directly scavenging free radicals, thereby contributing to its inhibition of p53 and MAPK pathways. CETSA, DARTS, and molecular docking further showed that ROS-generating enzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 4 (NOX4) may be the target of SBE. Overexpression of NOX4 partially impaired the anti-ferroptotic activity of SBE. ConclusionOur results demonstrated that SBE mitigated COPD by suppressing p53 and MAPK pro-ferroptosis pathways via directly scavenging ROS and blocking NOX4. These findings also supported the clinical application of Sea buckthorn in COPD therapy.

Diosmetin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside from Pogostemonis Herba alleviated SARS-CoV-2-induced pneumonia by reshaping macrophage polarization and limiting viral replication

Ethnopharmacological relevanceViral pneumonia is the leading cause of death after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Despite effective at early stage, long-term treatment with glucocorticoids can lead to a variety of adverse effects and limited benefits. The Chinese traditional herb Pogostemonis Herba is the aerial part of Pogostemon Cablin (Blanco) Benth., which has potent antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. It was used widely for treating various throat and respiratory diseases, including COVID-19, viral infection, cough, allergic asthma, acute lung injury and lung cancer. Aim of the studyTo investigate the antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects of chemical compounds from Pogostemonis Herba in SARS-CoV-2-infected hACE2-overexpressing mouse macrophage RAW264.7 cells and hACE2 transgenic mice. Materials and methodsThe hACE2-overexpressing RAW264.7 cells were exposed with SARS-CoV-2. The cell viability was detected by CCK8 assay and cell apoptotic rate was by flow cytometric assay. The expressions of macrophage M1 phenotype markers (TNF-α and IL-6) and M2 markers (IL-10 and Arg-1) as well as the viral loads were detected by qPCR. The mice were inoculated intranasally with SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant to induce viral pneumonia. The levels of macrophages, neutrophils, and T cells in the lung tissues of infected mice were analyzed by full spectrum flow cytometry. The expressions of key proteins were detected by Western blot assay. ResultsDiosmetin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (DG) presented the strongest anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity. Intervention with DG at the concentrations of 0.625–2.5 μM not only reduced the viral replication, cell apoptosis, and the productions of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) in SARS-CoV-2-infected RAW264.7 cells, but also reversed macrophage polarity from M1 to M2 phenotype. Furthermore, treatment with DG (25–100 mg/kg) alleviated acute lung injury, and reduced macrophage infiltration in SARS-COV-2-infected mice. Mechanistically, DG inhibited SARS-COV-2 gene expression and HK3 translation via targeting YTHDF1, resulting in the inactivation of glycolysis-mediated NF-κB pathway. ConclusionsDG exerted the potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities. It reduced pneumonia in SARS-COV-2-infected mice via inhibiting the viral replication and accelerating M2 macrophage polarization via targeting YTHDF1, indicating its potential for COVID-19 treatment.

Metabolomic profiling integrated with molecular exploring delineates the action of Ligusticum chuanxiong hort. on migraine

IntroductionLigusticum chuanxiong hort. (Chuanxiong, CX) is a well-known traditional edible-medicinal herb, especially in brain diseases. However, there is a lack of studies focusing on the action of CX in metabolites of migraine. Hypothesis/purposeTo investigate the action of the aqueous extract of CX (LCH) on nitroglycerin (NTG)-induced migraine. MethodsThe effects and mechanisms of LCH on migraine were evaluated in NTG-induced mice and rats. Laser speckle contrast imaging was performed to detect the cerebral blood flow. Metabolomic analysis in serum and mass spectrometry imaging in brain tissue from NTG-induced rats were conducted to explore the metabolites. The techniques including RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence were employed to estimate the molecular changes. ResultsTotally, 1480 metabolites were identified, among which, 50 and 49 differential metabolites were identified by t-test, fold change, and VIP score for NTG vs. CON and LCH+NTG vs. NTG, respectively. Next, 13 common real difference metabolites were revealed by comparative analysis, and KEGG annotation and enrichment analysis showed that the glutathione (GSH) metabolism pathway played important roles in migraine, whereas the glutamate could be metabolized to γ-glu-cys and converted to GSH. Molecular exploring further confirmed that LCH treatment increased the expression of essential components of GSH synthetase, such as GCLC and GCLM, and elevated the expression levels of Nrf-2 and its downstream targets including HO1 and NQO1. Moreover, the mass spectrometry imaging results found that LCH treatment promoted the synthesis of GSH and the spatial distribution of glucose as well as ATP metabolites to normal levels. ConclusionTo sum up, the present study firstly reveals that LCH plays a therapeutic role for migraine through glucose-glutamate-Nrf-2 axis, which might represent a promising approach in the development of advanced therapeutic strategies for migraine, and the LCH may be an effective drug or dietary supplement for relieving headache.

A comparative analysis of the composition of the primary bioactive molecules, antioxidant activities, and anti-inflammation abilities of the roots of Zanthoxylum nitidum harvested at different years of cultivation

Zanthoxylum nitidum is a traditional medicinal herb prevalent in China and Southeast Asia. However, despite being a widely cultivated perennial woody plant, an accurate reference and guide for determining the appropriate harvesting age in lacking. This study employed high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry, along with in vitro antioxidant and in vivo anti-inflammatory assays, to comprehensively analyze and compare the roots of Z. nitidum at 1–9 and 14 years. The results indicated a positive correlation between the increase in age and the root biomass. The highest decoction rates were observed in the roots of the 5- (44.08 %) and 4-year-old plants (40.42 %). However, the total alkaloid content (TAC) and the levels of nitidine chloride (NC), chelerythrine, and sanguinarine chloride initially increased but then decreased; their highest contents were 1.49 % (3-year-old), 0.50 % (7-year-old), 0.50 % (5-year-old), and 0.061 % (6-year-old), respectively. The levels of magnoflorine exhibited a trend of 3-year peaks; the respective contents were 0.36 % (3-year-old), 0.30 % (5-year-old), and 0.33 % (14-year-old). The change in the in vitro antioxidant potency composite index correlated with the wave-like trends in the total flavonoid content (TFC) and total phenolic acid (TPA). The indices for 9-, 5-, and 3-year-olds ranked among the top three and were >90. Extracts of Z. nitidum roots demonstrated a therapeutic effect in dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis mice, with that from the roots of 5-year-old plants showing the highest impact. Overall, the Z. nitidum roots of 4–6-year-old plants can be harvested as high-quality raw materials that meet the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China standards. This study provides scientific references for aspects such as the rational harvesting of Z. nitidum during artificial cultivation, the optimal utilization of land resources, and clinical use.

Anti-neuroinflammatory effects of the KIOM -patented Polygonum multiflorum maximized root tuber against LPS-stimulated BV2 Cells

The main pathological mechanism of neurodegeneration is neuroinflammation. It is known that the persistent neuroinflammatory response is harmful by causing secondary nerve tissue damage. Meanwhile, P. multiflorum is a traditional oriental medicinal herb. It has been used as a hematopoietic agent and is used to treat a variety of diseases and conditions. The aim of the present study was to compare the anti-inflammatory efficacy between the commonly available P. multiflorum (C1) and the KIOM-patented in vitro-propagated P. multiflorum (K1), which had higher content of active ingredients and biomass, using culture and cultivation conditions of LPS-induced neuroinflammation. After stimulation with LPS and treatment with C1 and K1 in mouse microglial BV-2 cells, nitric oxide (NO) production, pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion, inducible NO synthase (iNOS) expression, MAPK phosphorylation and transcription factor activity were assessed. We examined the antioxidant effect using DPPH and production of nitric oxide (NO). C1 and K1 suppressed the expression of iNOS and COX-2 and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, we determined the levels of inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and mitogen-activated protein kinases and IκBα via Western blotting to understand the regulating mechanisms. Additionally, C1 and K1 also inhibited the activation of p38 and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in LPS-stimulated BV2 cells. In all experimental results, excellent anti-neuroinflammatory effects were confirmed at a lower dose in K1 than in C1, which is believed to be due to the increased biomass. Therefore, K1 is expected to be more effective than C1 and can be applied more broadly in the development of prevention and treatment of various inflammatory-mediated neurodegenerative diseases.

Protective effect of Korean red ginseng water extract on levothyroxine-induced hyperthyroidism and propylthiouracil-induced hypothyroidism in rats

BackgroundKorean red ginseng extract (KRGE) (Family: Araliaceae) is one of the most widely used traditional herbs in Asia. Multiple studies have shown that KRGE has anti-inflammation, anti-fatigue, anti-obesity, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer effects. MethodsSprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups for PTU-induced hypothyroidism and six groups for LT4-induced hyperthyroidism. At the experiment's conclusion, rats were sacrificed, and blood, thyroid gland, and liver samples were collected. Body weight was recorded weekly, and serum hormone levels were assessed using enzyme-linked immunoassay. Thyroid gland and liver tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. KRGE was prepared in 0.5% CMC and stored at 4 °C before administration. ResultsIn the LT4-induced hyperthyroidism model, KRGE prevented decreases in body weight, thyroid gland weight, liver weight, serum glucose, and thyroid hormone levels compared to the PTU group. It also reduced increases in T3, T4, and serum aspartate aminotransferase levels after LT4 treatment. Additionally, KRGE improved thyroid gland and liver histopathology, effects not observed in the PTU-induced hypothyroidism model. ConclusionAll things considered, our research points to KRGE's potential protective role in rat hyperthyroidism caused by LT4 by lowering thyroid hormone production.

Ilex paraguariensis Extracts: A Source of Bioelements and Biologically Active Compounds for Food Supplements

Ilex paraguariensis, commonly known as yerba mate, is a plant belonging to the holly genus Ilex and the Aquifoliaceae family, indigenous to South America, and is used for the production of yerba mate. Yerba mate is renowned for its abundance of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds. Based on test results, it can be assumed that the selection of raw material for the preparation of extracts as well as the extraction method significantly influence the final content of biologically active compounds in the extracts. Consequently, this variability impacts the ultimate concentration of biologically active substances within the end product, potentially influencing human consumption. The present study aimed to quantify and compare the content of selected biological active compounds in supplements and products containing I. paraguariensis extracts, along with organic yerba mate dried through a smoke-free process, available in the European market (P-1–P-10). The evaluation focused on antioxidant substances such as neochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, 4-feruloylquinic acid, isochlorogenic acid, rutoside astragalin, and caffeine. Additionally, the concentration of specific macro and trace elements was ascertained. The antioxidant compound makeup differs between methanol-extracted samples and aqueous extracts. In both cases, methanol extracts, particularly those in instant and traditional herb forms, showed the highest content of organic compounds with antioxidant properties (such as phenolic compounds and caffeine). The highest content of chlorogenic acid was detected in both methanol (14.7412 mg/g d.w.) and water (8.3120 mg/g d.w.) extracts in product P-4. The caffeic acid content ranged from 0.1491 mg/g d.w. to 1.7938 mg/g d.w. in methanol extracts and from 0.0760 mg/g d.w. to 0.4892 mg/g d.w. in water extracts. The neochlorogenic acid content ranged from 2.6869 to 23.9750 mg/g d.w. in ethanol extracts and from 0.4529 to 10.2299 mg/g d.w. in water extracts. Therefore, the traditional preparation of yerba mate as a water infusion does not fully exploit the raw material’s potential. Among the tested products, only the dietary supplement in capsule form contained protocatechuic acid, which was not present in any other tested products. Conversely, compounds characteristic of yerba mate found in other preparations were absent in this supplement. The caffeine content was also the lowest in this product. The determined content of active substances did not consistently match the declarations made by producers if stated on the packaging.