Practice Of Traditional Medicine Research Articles

Comprehensive characterization of the compositional differences in essential oils prepared from Artemisiae argyi during different picking seasons using gas chromatography Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry

BackgroundArtemisia argyi Lévl. et Vant, commonly utilized in traditional medicine, food, and therapeutic practices such as moxibustion and fumigation, yields an essential oil with significant value. Understanding the chemical composition of Artemisia argyi essential oil (AAEO) is crucial for optimizing its production and application. PurposeThis study aims to provide a detailed characterization of the chemical constituents of AAEO, thereby enhancing our understanding of its potential uses and therapeutic efficacy. MethodsThe study employed gas chromatography Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC-Orbitrap-HRMS) for the analytical characterization of AAEO. The AAEO samples were diluted with n-hexane and subjected to direct analysis. To enhance the accuracy and reliability of compound identification, retention indices were used for correction alongside the mass spectrometry data. This study also included a comparative analysis of AAEO from eight different batches, harvested from the same location but at distinct times, to evaluate the consistency and variability in their chemical profiles. ResultsA total of 126 compounds were putatively identified in AAEO, with the primary constituents being alkenes (43.729%), alcohols (29.102%), ketones (12.257%), and ethers (9.297%). Comparative analysis of the eight AAEO batches revealed general consistency in major components, with variations in relative concentrations and minor constituents. These variations were linked to differing impacts on tumor cell viability, suggesting batch-specific therapeutic potentials. ConclusionThe investigation successfully delineated the complex chemical landscape of AAEO, revealing both the consistency and variability across different batches. These findings underline the importance of chemical characterization in understanding and harnessing the therapeutic potential of traditional medicinal substances like AAEO.

Therapeutic Values of Pyridine Molecules from Natural Sources: A Comprehensive Review

Reason for the Study: Many commercial pharmacologically interesting medicinal plant species and their formulations are used in more communities and often in more countries around the world, for their multiple uses of Active compounds from the natural sources. It should be need to extensively explored to get their properties and their benefits. The costs of drugs for resistance of common infective diseases are increased especially bacterial infections and sexually transmitted diseases. The therapeutic approach of herbal medicines is an option for concerted search for new chemical entities for new drugs development. So searching of valuable medicinal plants with their longest track record for their use and their location and distribution is must and essential.
 Aim: This study aims to provide an overview and documentation about pyridine alkaloids and their phytopharmacological activity related some medicinal plants.
 Methodology: By using the key words, the literatures were collected from Science Direct, PubMed and Google Scholar search engines. This review will create a platform to harmonizing the traditional medicine practice in the country, create a synergy between herbal medicines and modern medicine and more harmonized integrated traditional medicine practices in future. It gives an insight into the strategic plan and route map for the development of new formulations and research platform for the practice and development of herbal medicines. The pharmaceutical industry has come to consider traditional medicine as a source for identification of bio-active agents that can be used in the preparation of semi synthetic medicine in different novel formulations.
 Conclusion: This article focused some medicinal plants which contain different types and derivatives of pyridine alkaloids with their therapeutic applications. Further research needs to be done to make Novel pharmaceutical preparations with patent drugs and appropriate therapeutic documentation.

The Practice and Modalities of African Traditional Medicine in Tuberculosis Treatment - A Traditional Medical Practitioners’ Perspective

Aims: This study sought to explore the role of the traditional medical practitioner (TMP) and document the modalities of tuberculosis (TB) treatment in traditional medicine (TM) in Harare, Zimbabwe. Study design: An ethnographic research survey of TMPs in Harare urban. Place and Duration of Study: Harare’s southern suburbs of Warren Park, Mufakose, Budiriro, Belvedere, Mbare (Mupedzanhamo) and Harare central business district, between April and June 2021. Methodology: Fourteen (14) experienced TB practitioners, registered with the Zimbabwe National Traditional Healers Association (ZINATHA) were recruited for the study. These included exclusive herbalists (36%), spiritualists (14%) and those who used a combination of spiritualism and herbalism (50%) in their practice. Data was collected through semi-structured in-person interviews. The practices and treatment modalities in the traditional treatment of TB were documented; and any linkages with the conventional medical system were identified. Results: Forty-six (46) plant species from 28 families were prescribed in various polyherbal combinations for a maximum of 6 months in difficult cases. TMPs were found to be relevant and knowledgeable in the treatment of TB. In addition to offering alternative or complementary treatment options to patients, TMPs were also agents of health education promotion, and collaborated to some extent with allopathic healthcare providers across the service delivery system from diagnosis to treatment of patients. Conclusion: If formalized, TMPs have the potential to make considerable contributions to TB treatment strategies and help improve treatment outcome in TB patients.

Barriers to the safe preservation of the traditional herbal practice in Ghana

AbstractThe preservation of the culturally important traditional herbal medicine practice in Ghana is threatened by the growth of allopathic medicine. It is argued that two main factors comprise this threat: significant safety concerns over many traditional herbal preparations, and a conflict in therapeutic frameworks which provides a substrate for the production of misinformation regarding allopathic medicine. Poorly enforced regulation of the commercial herbal market and a total lack of regulation of the traditional herbal market have led to prevalent contamination of herbal preparations with pathogenic bacteria and an unacceptable risk of pharmacological toxicity due to inconsistent production methods and understanding of the active components in these preparations. Simultaneously, misinformation spread by traditional herbal practitioners about allopathic medicine has caused significant morbidity and mortality in Ghana. Evidence from the literature and experience from clinical practice in a hospital in the Eastern region of Ghana are used to explore these factors and provide recommendations. First, thorough regulation of the herbal practice is needed to allay safety concerns. Second, the overall healthcare landscape will have to change to resolve the current tensions between practices. One solution would be the formation of a cooperative healthcare system which incorporates both the allopathic and herbal practices with well‐defined, nonoverlapping scopes of practice. However, such a novel landscape may be unrealistic, with the potential for traditional herbal practices being relegated to secondary role, mainly providing pharmacologically inert preparations while continuing to benefit patients through spiritual, cultural and pastoral interventions.

Integrated skin metabolomics and network pharmacology to explore the mechanisms of Goupi Plaster for treating knee osteoarthritis

Background and aimGoupi Plaster (GP) is topical traditional Chinese medicine preparation. It has been used to treat Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) in clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, the mechanisms of GP relieve KOA are poorly understood. Experimental procedureRabbit models of KOA were established and treated with GP. Knee cartilage pathology was analyzed using hematoxylin and eosin staining, while plasma levels of inflammatory factors (interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, and IL-17) and skin neurotransmitters (calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), substance P (SP), and5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)) were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Metabolomics based on GC-TOF-MS analysis screened for skin biomarkers as well as relevant pathways. Network pharmacology screened for relevant skin targets as well as relevant pathways, and finally, MetScape software was utilized to integrate the results of metabolomics and network pharmacology to screen for key skin targets, key metabolites, and key pathways for GP treatment of KOA. Results and conclusionGP administration substantially repaired cartilage surface breaks in KOA and led to relatively intact cartilage structure and normal cell morphology. GP decreased plasma levels of IL-6 and IL-17 and skin levels of CGRP, SP and 5-HT while increased plasma IL-4. GP administration normalized the levels of 15 metabolites which were changed in KOA. Network pharmacology analysis identified 181 targets. Finally, 3 key targets, 5 key metabolites and 3 related pathways were identified, which suggested that GP improved skin barrier function and skin permeability by regulating skin lipid metabolism. GP treatment also regulated skin amino acid levels and subsequently affected neurotransmitters and signaling molecules. In addition, the purinergic signaling pathway was also involved in the treatment of GP against KOA.In conclusion, GP treatment is associated with changes in skin lipid metabolism, neurotransmitters, and the purinergic signaling pathway.

Spectroscopic evaluation of sesame and mustard oils treated with Murchana method

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in traditional medicinal practices such as Ayurveda, which emphasizes the use of natural ingredients for various therapeutic purposes. Vegetable oils are an integral part of our diet and have several applications in the cosmetics and healthcare industries. These oils have also been prescribed in ancient Ayurveda texts to treat various health problems. Ayurveda prescribes a processing technique called ‘Murchana’ to improve the therapeutic nature of the oils. Spectroscopic techniques have been used for quality assessment in many fields. High sensitivity and a low detection rate make spectroscopy a formidable analytical technique. This study focusses on the spectroscopic analysis of sesame and mustard oils prepared using the ayurvedic processing method ‘Murchana’. Spectroscopic analysis techniques including UV-Vis absorbance spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and FTIR spectroscopy were employed to study the oils. Origin software was used to plot graphs of the spectra. The results indicated that the murchana process may reduce the components of the oil responsible for its oxidation, thereby increasing the shelf life of the oils. However, further investigations, including other spectroscopy and chromatography techniques, will prove beneficial in ascertaining the effects of the murchana process on vegetable oils. The study’s findings also suggest that spectroscopic techniques can be used to supplement chemical techniques to investigate the characteristics of vegetable oils.

Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity and clinical application of traditional Chinese medicine Cynoglossum amabile: a review.

Cynoglossum amabile, a member of the Boraginaceae family, is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine and ethnomedicine known as Daotihu. Despite several studies confirming the presence of bioactive pyrrolizidine alkaloids such as amabiline, ambelline, echinatine, europine, and others in C. amabile, there has been no comprehensive review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology thus far. This review was conducted by thoroughly examining the literature and analyzing network databases. It covers various aspects of C. amabile, including botanical characteristics, geographical distribution, traditional applications, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, toxicology, and clinical applications. The results have shown that C. amabile has been traditionally used for medicinal, edible, and ornamental purposes in China for many centuries. The whole plant, root, and leaf of C. amabile are used by different ethnic groups, such as Lisu, Bai, Naxi, Yi, Jinuo, and Han, to treat malaria, hepatitis, dysentery, leucorrhea, tuberculosis cough, fracture, joint dislocation, trauma bleeding, and skin carbuncle abscess. A total of 47 chemical components, including alkaloids (pyrrolizidine alkaloids, PAs), sterols, organic acids, and saccharides, were isolated from C. amabile. Pharmacological studies show that the chemical extracts of C. amabile possess various biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-microbial, cardiovascular effects, ganglionic action, and acetylcholinesterase inhibition. However, it is important to note that C. amabile exhibits hepatotoxicity, with its toxicity being linked to its primary PAs components. Although preliminary studies suggest potential applications in the treatment of prostate diseases and alopecia, further research is needed to validate these clinical uses. Our review highlights the traditional uses, phytochemistry, biological activity, toxicity, and clinical applications of C. amabile. It emphasizes the essential guiding role of the indigenous medicinal knowledge system in developing new drugs. Previous studies have shown that the phytochemical and pharmacological characteristics of C. amabile are significantly related to its traditional medicinal practices. Cynoglossum amabile has excellent market potential and can be further analyzed in terms of phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology, which are critical for its clinical drug safety, quality evaluation, and resource development.

Traditional eye medicine practice and its determinant factors among ophthalmic patients in the West Bank.

Traditional eye medicine (TEM) is becoming more widely used across the world. Depending on the drugs used, TEM usage can be considered harmful or innocuous. The therapy may induce infection or irreparable blindness in the already injured eye.The aim of the study was to determine the proportion of traditional eye medicine practices and associated factors among adult ophthalmic patients attending ophthalmic clinics in the governmental hospitals in the West Bank. A cross-sectional study conducted on 300 patients. The data was collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The results of the study revealed that 65.7% of people use TEM. The most common symptoms that necessitated the use of traditional eye practice were inflammatory symptoms of the eye (49.2%), blurred vision (15.7%), and allergic conjunctivitis (10.7%). The most common TEM used was tea (34.0%), followed by herbal products (25.4%) and vegetable slices (potato, cucumber, and onion) (14.7%). The most traditional eye treatment was the topical route (92.9%). The majority of prescribers of traditional eye practice were traditional healers (48.7%). Furthermore, the current study found that occupation and the income were predictors of using traditional eye practice among ophthalmic patients attending ophthalmic clinics in selected West Bank hospitals. The proportion of traditional eye medicine practice was high among ophthalmic patients in the West Bank. The predictors of using traditional eye treatment were occupation and the income. The most common TEM used was tea, followed by herbal products and vegetable slices (potato, cucumber, and onion).

A descriptive review on exploiting the therapeutic significance of essential oils as a potential nutraceutical and food preservative

AbstractFor centuries, essential oils (EOs) have held a significant place in traditional medicinal practices worldwide and are commonly known for their aroma and taste. Among the 3000 recognized types, only 300 have commercial use in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. These potent natural extracts, derived from aromatic plants and herbs, have garnered attention not only in ancient healing traditions but also within modern health‐care systems. Their rich history is marked by a diverse array of therapeutic properties that have made them indispensable tools for promoting health and well‐being. Additionally, the utilization of EOs as food preservatives is an innovative and natural approach in extending the shelf life of various food products. In addition, EOs are beneficial in the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Because of their outstanding biological activities and health benefits, research on EOs has exploded in recent years. In present work, an intensive review was done on published data on therapeutic potential of some major EOs and their utilization as a preservative in food industries. Meanwhile, an investigation of the methods specifically used for the separation of EOs and regulatory considerations are also reported. The article concludes with comments on future trends.

From ritual to regulation: The ban on Nerium oleander L. in Kerala temples - A factual overview with an Ayurvedic perspective

Government-run Travancore and Malabar Devaswom boards overseeing Kerala’s 2500 temples have instituted a comprehensive ban on the usage of Nerium oleander L. flowers. Here, the authors examine the transition from traditional rituals to formal regulations, concerning the use of N. oleander in temples across Kerala. Traditionally revered in various religious ceremonies, N. oleander, a plant with both toxic and therapeutic properties, has recently faced a ban due to its potential health risks. This article provides a comprehensive factual overview of the reasons behind the ban and it delves into the Ayurvedic perspective on N. oleander, discussing its medicinal applications and the risks associated with its improper use. Although the toxicity of Nerium has been proven, the restriction on it has to be revisited on multiple levels, to fully comprehend the negative impact, this can have on the future of traditional medicine practice.

Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Analysis of lemongrass leaves: identification of bioactive compounds and their potential application

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a widely recognized aromatic herb which is popularly used in traditional medicine and culinary practices across the globe. This research study presents a comprehensive GC-MS analysis of lemongrass leaves, aimed to identify its bioactive compounds. The study explores the chemical composition of lemongrass leaves, focusing on potential applications in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. The analysis reveals various volatile and non-volatile compounds, shedding light on the therapeutic properties and potential commercial applications of this aromatic plant.

Potential health and environmental benefits of the identified phytochemicals screening of (Azadirachta indica) neem leaves in Bauchi Metropolis, Bauchi State, Nigeria

The phytochemical screening of (Azadirachta indica) Neem leaf extract was conducted to identify and quantify the presence of bioactive compounds. The study conducted various tests to assess the phytochemical components. About 1kg of matured fresh leaves of (Azadirachta indica) neem was collected from five (5) different location in Bauchi metropolis, these locations are; Kobi Street, Gida Dubu, Yelwan Tudu, Wuntin dada and Federal Low-cost areas in Bauchi metropolis, Bauchi State, Nigeria. The leaves of the plant, which were ground into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. An ethylacetate solvent was used to derive the A. indica leaf extract. The results of the research shows that the presence of alkaloids, saponins, phenols, and cardiac glycosides in the neem leaf extract is significant, and flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids were not detected in the neem leaf extract. The presence of alkaloids, saponins, phenols, and cardiac glycosides suggests that neem leaves may hold promise in traditional and contemporary medicinal practices. Alkaloids, known for their pharmacological significance, may contribute to the plant's therapeutic properties. Saponins, with their frothing and foaming characteristics, have been associated with immunomodulatory effects and their potential in agrochemical applications. Phenolic compounds, as evidenced by the positive response to the Ferric chloride test, indicate the antioxidant potential of neem leaves, which can combat oxidative stress. Conversely, the absence of flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids suggests that these specific phytochemical classes may be limited in neem leaves. These findings open avenues for further research and utilization of neem as a valuable natural resource.

Exploring tea and herbal infusions consumption patterns and behaviours: The case of Portuguese consumers

Consumption of tea and herbal infusions (THIs) have a long history in traditional medicine and cultural practices. The health-promoting benefits attributed to THIs are considered influential factors in consumer choices. However, there is limited data on consumer choices and attitudes that might interfere with the positive effects associated with THIs consumption.The aim of this study was to investigate the consumption pattern and behavior of THIs consumers in Portugal, assessing the influence of socio-demographic factors on the selection of THIs products and consumer practices related to these beverages.An online survey was conducted, and from the collected data, 720 responses met the aim of the study and were further analyzed. Most of the respondents were female, 74.4%, belonging to the 40–60 age group (40.6%) and were medium consumers of THIs (47.2%). Green tea was the most consumed type among participants, and its consumption was associated not only with age but also with the pattern of THIs consumption. Despite that, participants preferred herbal infusions, with citronella, chamomile, and lemon verbena being the most consumed types. For certain types of herbal infusions, consumption was associated with age, while other types were preferred by moderate or heavy consumers. Most participants purchased THIs in supermarkets, registered trademark and brand stores, in the form of THIs bag. Light consumers use only bag, while medium/heavy consumers indicated the use of other forms. Almost half of the respondents admitted to not reading the information on product labels before consumption and using THIs after the expiry date, while only one-third of them declared paying attention to the label instructions.This study revealed the impact of socio-demographic factors as age on the consumption patterns and preferences of THIs of consumers. Of concern is the neglect of label usage among Portuguese consumers. This emphasizes the urgency of implementing interventions to guide proper label use and promote good consumption practices to ensure the quality of THIs products.

Herbal Healing Traditions: A Study of Folk Medicines Used by Traditional Healers of Sonamukhi Block, Bankura District, West Bengal, India

This ethnobotanical study aims to dive into the traditional medicinal practices used by tribals in Sonamukhi Block, Bankura district, West Bengal, India. Focusing on the use of medicinal herbs, the study carefully investigates the intergenerational wisdom kept by traditional healers, who play an important role in healthcare administration. Through conversations with traditional healers and patients, a thorough list of medicinal plants used to treat various diseases has been developed. The study demonstrates that traditional healers successfully use these medicinal plants to produce herbal medications, offering insights into the painstaking process of herbal medicine preparation that was explored in depth during the investigation. These findings highlight the significance of joint efforts to preserve indigenous knowledge and encourage the incorporation of traditional healing techniques into contemporary healthcare. The research study focused on the complicated junction of scientific methodologies and traditional beliefs, indicating the possibility for effective collaboration between scientific institutions and indigenous populations to improve healthcare practices. The studies' thorough examination of medicinal plant usage and herbal medication manufacturing emphasizes the importance of preserving, recording, and using this unique traditional knowledge for the benefit of world healthcare.

Climate change and the future of medicinal plants research

Due to their pharmaceutical properties and secondary metabolites, medicinal plants have played a crucial role in alleviating human suffering from various illnesses, disorders, and diseases. Along with other natural and artificial disasters, rapid climate change is one of the critical causes of the decline in wild medicinal plant species. Therefore, considering their significance in traditional medicine practices and economic value, investigating the potential consequences of climate change on medicinal plants is specifically relevant. This review aimed to investigate the diversity of species of medicinal plants within current climate scenarios. Additionally, it assesses the potential implications of climate change on the projected distribution of these species in subsequent scenarios and evaluates the possible impacts of these changes on the trajectory of future research in medicinal plants. The distribution and life cycles of all vegetation, including medicinal plants, are significantly impacted by climate change. Additionally, future climate scenarios have been shown to affect the physiological performance of all vegetation worldwide. Various aspects related to climate change and its repercussions on medicinal plants are explored including the impact of increased carbon dioxide (CO2) and ozone (O3) levels, the effect of low temperature (Cold), climate warming, drought on the production of secondary metabolites, impact of threats on medicinal plants, and phenological changes. Each of these environmental factors influences the productivity and quality of different products and components of medicinal plants, either positively or negatively. Consequently, there is excellent complexity surrounding how climate change affects medicinal plants. Thus, for human survival on Earth, future researchers should carefully examine the interactions of various direct and indirect causes and their corresponding effects. Keywords: Secondary metabolites, Climate change, medicinal plants, Phenology.

Zishen Qingre Lishi Huayu recipe promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of GCs of PCOS via KLF4-C/EBPβ pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevanceZishen Qingre Lishi Huayu recipe (ZQLHR) is a herbal recipe created on the basis on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine and clinical practice, and is mainly used in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, the underlying mechanism for this fact has not been clearly elucidated. Aim of the studyTo verify whether ZQLHR regulates granulosa cells (GCs) proliferation and apoptosis through the Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) - CCATT enhancer-binding proteinβ (C/EBPβ) pathway, and to provide in vitro molecular mechanism supporting for the effects of ZQLHR to enhance follicular development and treat patients with PCOS. Materials and methodsBased on previous experiments, we performed the following experiments. Firstly, we treated KGN cells (a steroidogenic human granulosa-like tumor cell line) for 48 h using different concentrations of ZQLHR in order to observe apoptosis in each group. Secondly, the mRNA and protein expression levels of KLF4 and C/EBPβ in KGN cells after administrated with ZQLHR were examined by quantitative real-time PCR(q-PCR) and Western blot assay. Thirdly, after knocking down KLF4 and C/EBPβ using siRNAs, the relationship between KLF4 and C/EBPβ in KGN cells was detected. Further, cell counting kit-8 assay, colony formation assay and flow cytometry were used to verify whether ZQLHR promotes proliferation and facilitates apoptosis in KGN cells through the KLF4-C/EBPβ pathway. Finally, q-PCR and Western blot were used to test whether ZQLHR mediated proliferation and apoptosis-related factors such as B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X (BAX), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and cleaved caspase-3 to affect the proliferation and apoptosis of KGN cells through the KLF4-C/EBPβ pathway. ConclusionsZQLHR, containing 0.2% by volume, administered to KGN cells resulted in the lowest rate of apoptosis. The expression levels of KLF4 and C/EBPβ were increased in KGN cells following ZQLHR treatment. Additionally, ZQLHR promoted proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of KGN cells by modulating proliferation and apoptosis-related factors via the KLF4-C/EBPβ pathway. Furthermore, we confirmed that KLF4 and C/EBPβ regulate each other in KGN cells. These findings indicate that ZQLHR enhances the proliferation of GCs and suppresses their apoptosis, which constitutes a therapeutic mechanism for treating patients with PCOS.

Antidiabetic effect of the mixture of Cissus polyantha and Rytigynia senegalensis in high-fat diet and streptozocin-induced diabetic rats

BackgroundIn traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practices, many plants of the Cissus and Rytigynia genera are used to treat many diseases including diabetes mellitus.The aim of this study was to evaluate the modulating effects of the mixture of the aqueous extracts of Cissus polyantha and Rytiginia senegalensis (CPRS) on some enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism, oxidative profile, and cardiovascular parameters in diabetic rats. MethodsDiabetes was induced by a diet enriched in high-fat for 30 days associated with a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozocin (35 mg/kg). Rats with a blood glucose level greater than or equal to 200 mg/dL were selected and divided into groups. Groups 1 and 2 received distilled water. Group 3 received metformin (40 mg/kg). Groups 4 and 5 received CPRS at doses of 50 and 111 mg/kg, respectively. Glycaemia, body mass, food and water intake, insulinemia, insulin resistance and insulin secretion indices, lipid profile and cardiovascular risk indices, oxidant profile, glycogen and liver enzymes were evaluated. Histology of the pancreas and heart was performed. ResultsCPRS (50 and/or 111 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001) reduced water and food consumption, blood glucose, HOMA-IR, coronary risk index, cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-c, VLDL-c, and malondialdehyde levels, as well as glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-biphosphatase activities in diabetic animals. In contrast, CPRS (50 and/or 111 mg/kg) caused an increase (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001) in body mass, insulinemia and HDL-c levels, reduced glutathione and hepatic glycogen. HOMA-β, insulin distribution, atherogenic and cardioprotective indices as well as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glucokinase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities were also increased after CPRS administration. CPRS regenerated pancreatic islet β cells and decreased leukocyte infiltration in cardiomyocytes of diseased animals. ConclusionCPRS has hypoglycemic, antidyslipidemic, and antioxidant effects, thus validating its use in traditional medicine in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and its complications.

AĞRI (TÜRKİYE) İLİ TIBBİ BİTKİLERİNİN ETNOBOTANİK ÇALIŞMASI: GELENEKSEL BİLGİ VE TEDAVİ POTANSİYELİNİN KEŞFEDİLMESİ

Objective: This study was conducted to systematically document the use of plants, plant parts and preparation methods used by people in eight districts and sixty villages in Ağrı province. Material and Method: The medicinal plant species employed by the indigenous population for therapeutic purposes were systematically gathered and identified. Comprehensive data on traditionally utilized information were compiled, and herbarium materials were prepared. These materials have been deposited at the Iğdır National Wild Life Museum (INWM), affiliated with Iğdır University. Result and Discussion: This research identified a total of 58 taxa of medicinal plants belonging to 31 families. Among these, 50 species were found to grow naturally, while 8 species were cultivated. The predominant plant families included Asteraceae (8), Apiaceae (4), Lamiaceae (4), and Rosaceae (4). Infusion emerged as the most widely employed preparation method. The practice of traditional medicine remained prevalent among the population in Ağrı. Nevertheless, with the increasing availability of health services in the region, herbal medicine appeared to be more closely associated with healthcare and illness prevention than with curative purposes. The influx of new immigrants also contributed to the erosion of traditional knowledge. Notably, there is a discernible decline in traditional knowledge regarding the use of medicinal plants, both among younger generations and due to migration. Furthermore, this research serves as a foundational resource for prospective scientific inquiries aimed at the development of novel commercial drugs derived from plant sources.

Hooded Vultures Necrosyrtes monachus are still declining in West Africa: a nearly 50-year assessment study (1969–2019)

Large-scale declines in vulture populations have been recorded in West Africa. One concern is that the current trend in Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus populations in West Africa is poorly known. To help fill this knowledge gap, we conducted nationwide road counts in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, using (where possible) the same routes and methods as counts conducted in 1969–1973 and 2003–2004 (46–50 years later). Use of exactly the same routes was unfortunately possible only in Burkina Faso as a result of the security situation in sub-Saharan West Africa at the time of this study. Our results reveal that Burkina Faso remains a stronghold for Hooded Vultures with a mean abundance of 62 individuals per 100 km, reaching a peak of 217 per 100 km in the highest abundance areas. A comparison between early and recent studies shows that populations of Hooded Vulture are still declining in the West African sub-region. In Burkina Faso, the number of Hooded Vultures per 100 km decreased from 122 to 75 (a decline of 38%) over the last five decades. In the West African sub-region, under both ‘best-case’ and ‘worst-case’ scenarios, Hooded Vultures seem to have declined by 58% to 65% between the 1970s and 2019. The main causes of this population decline in West Africa are unintentional poisoning, decreasing food availability, and the trade in vulture body parts for Traditional Medicine. Conservation actions for Hooded Vultures in West Africa could include the implementation of supplementary feeding sites (also known as ‘vulture restaurants’) and decreasing the demand for vulture body parts (for use in Traditional Medicine and mystical practices) by offering relevant alternatives such as plants and their derivatives.

Antibacterial activity and phytochemical screening of traditional medicinal plants most preferred for treating infectious diseases in Habru District, North Wollo Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Ethiopia's healthcare system relies on traditional medicinal practices that use medicinal plants to treat human and livestock ailments. However, the lack of empirical validation regarding the efficacy of these treatments against specific infectious diseases necessitates rigorous scientific investigations. The objective of this study was to investigate the antibacterial activity and phytochemical screening on five selected medicinal plant species, namely Solanum somalense Franchet., Verbascum sinaiticum Benth., Rumex nervosus Vahl, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal and Calpurnia aurea (Ait.) Benth. The plants were first identified jointly with local informants and later considering mainly their high informant consensus and fidelity level values for their efficacy in treating infectious diseases in the area. Ethanol and aqueous extracts were prepared from the plant materials, and their antibacterial activities were evaluated against standard bacterial strains, representing both gram-positive and gram-negative types. To assess the antibacterial activity of the extracts, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using the broth dilution method. Additionally, phytochemical screening was performed using standard qualitative tests to identify various secondary metabolites. The results indicated antibacterial efficacy in the ethanol extracts of S. somalense, W. somnifera, and C. aurea against particular bacterial strains (S. somalense against S. agalactiae with MIC of 1.5 mg/mL; W. somnifera against S. aureus and E. coli, with MIC of 2 mg/mL; C. aurea against E. coli and K. pneumoniae, with MICs of 3 mg/mL and 3.5 mg/mL, respectively). The results of the phytochemical screening indicated the presence of steroids, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and terpenoids. The selected medicinal plants demonstrated promising antibacterial activity against certain bacterial strains. The current findings support the long-standing claim of the traditional medical system of the study area for their continued use of these plants in their treatment of infectious diseases. Further investigation is required to isolate the responsible active compounds and characterize the constituents and description of their antibacterial effect for possible use in areas where these infectious diseases are major health problems.