Utilization Of Traditional Medicine Research Articles

Utilization of traditional Chinese medicine in the management of cutaneous ulceration induced by cervical lymph node metastasis in tonsillar carcinoma: A case report

ObjectiveCutaneous ulcers induced by metastasis present a challenging clinical issue, often resistant to conventional dressing change interventions. In this case, we demonstrates the efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine in managing ruptured tumors. Case presentationWe present a case study of a 40-year-old Chinese male patient diagnosed with advanced tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma with cervical lymph node metastasis and cutaneous ulceration. Despite nearly six months of conventional dressing treatment yielding minimal improvement, significant healing of the ulcerated surface of the neck metastasis was observed after approximately two months of decoction therapy. The cancerous lesion exhibited a reduction of nearly 90 %, with concomitant alleviation of secondly symptoms such as cold intolerance, excessive sweating, anxiety and depression. ConclusionsIn this case, we introduces Traditional Chinese Medicine may be an effective alternative therapy for the treatment of cancer-related disease. And it may also be an optional therapeutic approach for healthcare practitioners with cutaneous carcinoma ulceration.

Assessing traditional medicine in the treatment of neurological disorders in Mali: prelude to efficient collaboration

IntroductionNeurological disorders (ND) have a high incidence in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). In this region, systemic challenges of conventional medicine (CM) and cultural beliefs have contributed to a large utilization of traditional medicine (TM). Yet, data on TM and those who use it in the treatment of ND in SSA are scarce. Here, we systematically analyze its role as a therapy modality for ND in Mali, the socio-demographic characteristics of its users, and propose next steps to optimize the dual usages of TM and CM for patients with ND.MethodsWe conducted a questionnaire study in two phases. In phase one, patients with ND answered questions on their usage of and attitudes towards TM. In phase two, the TM therapists who provided care to the patients in phase one answered questions regarding their own practices for treating ND. Patients were recruited from the country's two university neurology departments.Results3,534 of the 4,532 patients seen in the Departments of Neurology in 2019 met the inclusion criteria. Among these 3,534 patients, 2,430 (68.8%) had previously consulted TM for their present ND. Patients over 60 years of age most often used TM (83.1%). By education, illiterate patients utilized TM the most (85.5%) while those with more than a secondary education used TM the least (48.6%). An income greater than the minimum guaranteed salary was associated with decreased use of traditional medicine (OR 0.29, CI 0.25–0.35, p < 0.001). Among those using TM, it was overwhelmingly thought to be more effective than CM (84.6%). Linking illness to supernatural causes and believing TM therapists had a better understanding of illnesses were the most common reasons patients used traditional medicine (82.3% and 80.5%, respectively).We then interviewed 171 TM therapists who had provided care to the patients in phase one. These providers most commonly “sometimes” (62.6%) referred patients to CM and 4.1% never had. A majority of TM providers (62.6%) believed collaboration with CM could be improved by having doctor “take into account” our existence.ConclusionOur work shows that TM plays a central role in the provision of care for patients with ND in SSA with certain cohorts using it at higher rates. Future development of treatment of ND in SSA will require optimizing TM with CM and needs buy-in from all stakeholders including conventional medicine clinicians, traditional medicine therapists, researchers, politicians, and most importantly, patients.

Traditional Chinese medicine to improve immune imbalance of asthma: focus on the adjustment of gut microbiota.

Asthma, being the prevailing respiratory ailment globally, remains enigmatic in terms of its pathogenesis. In recent times, the advancement of traditional Chinese medicine pertaining to the intestinal microbiota has yielded a plethora of investigations, which have substantiated the potential of traditional Chinese medicine in disease prevention and treatment through modulation of the intestinal microbiota. Both animal models and clinical trials have unequivocally demonstrated the indispensable role of the intestinal microbiota in the pathogenesis of asthma. This article presents a summary of the therapeutic effects of traditional Chinese medicine in the context of regulating gut microbiota and its metabolites, thereby achieving immune regulation and inhibiting airway inflammation associated with asthma. It elucidates the mechanism by which traditional Chinese medicine modulates the gut microbiota to enhance asthma management, offering a scientific foundation for the utilization of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of asthma.

Bridging the Gap: A Comprehensive Study on Traditional Chinese Medicine Strategies for Managing Adult Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Recent studies have witnessed the incorporation of herbal medicine into the management of Disorders of Gut-Brain Interactions (DGBIs), reflecting a paradigm shift toward holistic healing modalities. However, there still exists a substantial gap in comprehending the utilization of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), particularly beyond the confines of China. This study endeavors to bridge this knowledge gap by meticulously identifying existing guidelines, critically reviewing TCM practices, and crafting contemporary treatment recommendations. We systematically searched several databases to retrieve related evidence in June 2023. Firstly, we employed the AGREE II tool to evaluate the recommended for use of TCM in the treatment of IBS, establishing a structured treatment selection hierarchy for different TCM patterns of IBS patients. Subsequently, we conducted an expert questionnaire to gain insights into the common treatment methods and medication choices practiced by clinical TCM doctors. Based on CM theory and experts' opinions, IBS with predominant Diarrheal (IBS-D) is divided into five Chinese medicine syndrome patterns, and IBS with predominant Constipation (IBS-C) is classified to four. A total of 22[Formula: see text]CM prescriptions were recommended for the management of IBS, 13 for IBS-D and 9 for IBS-C. The findings provide IBS patients with enhanced treatment choices while offering clinical physicians more specific treatment regimens. This research is the first to conduct a comprehensive study that combines guidelines with real clinical practices in the realm of TCM IBS treatment. This serves as a foundation for providing more personalized treatment options and improving the quality of life for patients.

Unveiling the Therapeutic Potentials of Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms) Flower against Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Depressive Disorders: GC-MS/MS, In Vitro, In Vivo and In Silico Approaches.

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms) is a highly invasive aquatic weed native to the Amazonia basin, known for its rapid propagation, adaptability and utilization in traditional medicine. The study aims to unveil the therapeutic potential of water hyacinth flowers methanolic extract (EC-CME) and its four kupchan fractions (EC-PESF, EC-DCMSF, EC-EASF, EC-ASF) through diversified chemical-pharmacological approaches. GC-MS/MS of EC-CME uncovered a rich tapestry of 72 phytochemical components. In vitro DPPH scavenging assay and total phenolic content determination assay deciphered promising antioxidant assays with remarkably low IC50 values of 0.353 and 0.485 µg/mL, respectively for EC-ESF and EC-ASF. Besides, different in vivo tests, including tail emersion, acetic acid-induced writhing, and thiopental-induced sleeping test of EC-CME, yielded a remarkable 8.61 ± 0.29 minutes of tail immersion time compared to the control's 2.05 ± 0.11 minutes at the highest dose (600 mg/kg). The best % inhibition of writhing was recorded as 47.96% accrued in 400 mg/kg dose, indicating robust pain-relieving properties. The onset and duration of sleep are significantly ameliorated for EC-CME, unveiling its antidepressant potential. Besides, molecular docking studies along with ADME/T analysis also validated the wet lab findings as well as their safety, efficacy and drug-likeliness profile.

Natural redox mediator anthraquinone aloe-emodin facilitated the in-situ mineralized γ-FeO(OH) membrane for the removal of tannic acid through photocatalytic-PMS activation

The growing utilization of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has resulted in an increase in wastewater. Herein, a new kind of organic-inorganic redox mediator membrane by immobilizing γ-FeO(OH) and aloe-emodin(AE) with the characteristic large π-conjugation anthraquinone structure on PVDF membrane was innovatively achieved. AE exhibiting both electron deficiency and redox activity possesses a co-catalyst role in degradation of tannic acid (TA), aiding in the separation of charge carriers through the sequential hydrogenation and dehydrogenation of AE. The removal rates of TA were 92.8 % in the tannic acid solution and 60.3 % in the simulated rhubarb wastewater by the AE-γ-FeO(OH) membrane under PMS+Vis conditions in 45 min. Also, they show a higher recovery of pure water flux and owning good fouling performance. Overall, this current work presents a novel approach for the design and preparation of organic-inorganic photocatalytic composite membrane using readily available natural products for the purification TCM wastewater.

Factors influencing limb movements in post-stroke patients

BackgroundStroke is the leading cause of long-term disability impacting patients’ daily lives. Adequate and ongoing rehabilitation is a necessity. Due to disability problems, rehabilitation in the health care system is limited. Traditional medicine has been promoted in Thailand for stroke rehabilitation, with physical therapy as the primary treatment plan. However, despite more options, many patients still receive inadequate rehabilitation. The development of an appropriate rehabilitation model is still necessary. This study aims to study factors influencing limb movements in post-stroke patients.MethodsThis cross-sectional study comprised 120 ischemic stroke patients obtained by multi-stage sampling in Muang district, Phitsanulok province. The data were collected using questionnaires with Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.89. The ability to move the muscles of the limbs of the patients was assessed using the motor power assessment form, and binary logistic regression statistics analyzed the factors influencing limb movements.ResultData analysis shows that 76% of the stroke patients were female, 39.3% aged 61–70 years had a mean of 62 years and a standard deviation (S.D.) of 8.9, 4.6% of stroke patients had a duration of illness of 6–12 months, and 94.2% had a caregiver. 53.1% received rehabilitation once a week, and 92.5% received Thai massage. Thai traditional medicine utilization methods consist of Thai massage, herbal compresses, herbal steam, and taking herbal medicines. There are two factors influencing the ability to move the limb muscles of stroke patients as follows: (1) the massage with the Thai traditional medicine rehabilitation method (Adj OR = 28.917, p-value = 0.006) and (2) the number of rehabilitation sessions per week (Adj OR = 2.465, p-value < 0.001). These two variables explain the variance of regaining limb movement among post-stroke patients of 42.5% at a significance level of 0.05. In this analysis, the predictive accuracy was 70%.ConclusionRehabilitation using Thai massage, together with the number of rehabilitation sessions per week, influenced the ability of limb movement in post-stroke patients. In other words, increasing the number of rehabilitation times per week and using Thai massage in rehabilitation will help stroke patients move their limbs better.

Prevalence of traditional eye medicine and self-treatment in Gurage Zone, Rural Ethiopia

IntroductionTraditional medicines are commonly used worldwide, especially in Africa—however, there is limited information on the prevalence and types of traditional eye medicine utilization in Ethiopia. The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence, the type and nature of traditional eye medicine use and practices related to self-medication for ophthalmic diseases in a rural Ethiopian population.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in six randomly selected primary health centers in rural Gurage Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Health-seeking behavior, use of self-medication, and traditional eye medicine were assessed in the population using a semi-structured questionnaire.Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis were computed to determine associated factors for using self-medication and traditional eye medicine.ResultOf the 814 participants interviewed, 487 (59.8%) reported using traditional eye medicine, mainly for combinations of symptoms of ocular redness, irritation, and eye discharge (95.5%). Besides, 604 (74.2%) participants reported self-treatment with tetracycline 1% eye ointment. Older age, females, low income, no formal education, and lack of access to media were risks for utilizing traditional eye medicine.ConclusionThe use of traditional eye medicine and self-treatment are common in this population. Regulatory legislation, public awareness, and making eye care are vital activities required to monitor such practices.

Trends in Communication Strategies through Traditional Medicine: Responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic in Tanzania

This study sought to establish trends in communication strategies through traditional medicine in Tanzania. The study employed the descriptive content analysis design as it was crucial for gaining insights into how language and communication strategies impact the utilization of traditional medicine in the context of COVID-19 management in Tanzania. The study involved a comprehensive documentary review of COVID-19 communication materials used in Tanzania to establish how language and communication strategies impact the utilization of traditional medicine in the context of COVID-19 management in Tanzania. Data was analyzed through the qualitative content analysis approach.The study concludes that COVID-19 communication materials made commendable efforts to reach the diverse linguistic communities in Tanzania, taking into account the country's linguistic diversity. Kiswahili and English emerged as the dominant languages, which aligns with the linguistic distribution of the population. This approach promotes inclusivity and ensures access to information. The materials demonstrated effective translation and interpretation, highlighting a commitment to accurate translation and cultural sensitivity. It is advisable to incorporate multiple languages, including local languages, to make the campaigns more accessible and relatable to linguistically diverse communities in Tanzania. Secondly, it is imperative to maintain clear communication strategies that empower individuals with varying levels of health literacy. Furthermore, when discussing traditional remedies, adopting an objective approach and stressing the significance of consulting healthcare providers for well-informed decision-making is essential. Moreover, the strategic use of visual elements should be employed to ensure a consistent and well-structured presentation of crucial information.

Unraveling the Therapeutic Potential of Miracle Plant ‘Aftimoon’ in Disease Prevention and Treatment: A Comprehensive Review

Aftimoon (Cuscuta reflexa), a member of Convolvulaceae family is a miraculous parasitic plant with a rich history of utilization in traditional medicine. It has been extensively employed in the Unani treatments all over the world, particularly in the Indian subcontinent, to treat and prevent a variety of illness. Over the years, numerous research findings have documented its diverse therapeutic effects including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective activities. It is utilized as a single medication (mufrad) in powder, mixture, and decoction form and as compound formulations (murakkab) to treat a variety of ailments, which includes hepatitis, palpitations, varicose veins, mental ailments such as epilepsy and depression as well as dermatological conditions such as vitiligo and pityriasis. A number of biologically active compounds with therapeutic potential have been recognized and isolated from this wonder plant which includes amarbelin, sterol glycosides, cuscutalin, bergenin, and others. The synergistic actions of its constituents contribute to its multifaceted healing properties. This review explores the therapeutic potential of Aftimoon, shedding light on its pharmacological properties, traditional uses, and emerging research. By synthesizing traditional knowledge with modern scientific insights, this review aims to illuminate the diversified healing properties of C.reflexa and inspire further research and foster its integration into mainstream healthcare practices. Keywords: Aftimoon; Cuscuta reflexa; Therapeutic potential; Unani medicines

The long-term trend in utilization of traditional Chinese medicine and associated factors among older people in Taiwan.

Both the size of the older population and the use of complementary and alternative medicine are increasing worldwide. This study evaluated the long-term trend in utilization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and associated factors among older people in Taiwan. Using the database of population-based interview surveys, we evaluated the one-month prevalence of TCM use among 13,945 older people aged over 65 years from 2001-2017. The sociodemographic status and medical comorbidities of older people who did and did not use TCM were compared by calculating adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in the multiple logistic regressions. The one-month prevalence of TCM use increased from 5.5% in 2001 to 9.1% in 2017 among older people in Taiwan. Overall, 7.3% of older people had used TCM within the previous month. People with a history of heart disease (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.24-2.12), use of folk therapy (OR 3.16, 95% CI 2.00-4.99), and purchase of non-prescribed Chinese herbal medicine (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.48-2.91) were more likely to use TCM than the comparison group. However, age ≥80 years (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.31-0.72) and previous hospitalization (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.41-0.85) were associated with the reduced use of TCM. From 2001-2017, the use of TCM increased in the older population in Taiwan. The use of folk medicine and purchase of non-prescribed Chinese herbal medicine were significant predictors for the use of TCM.

Chinese text recognition and knowledge graph of Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing based on BERT pre-trained language models

Background: The research and utilization of ancient traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) books are relatively limited at present. With the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), knowledge graph related technology has brought light on this field. Objective: To construct the knowledge graph of Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, analyze basic knowledge of materia medica, explore implicit knowledge, and conduct visualization display, as well to provide methodological references for the study of ancient TCM books. Methods: The types of knowledge entities and relationships between entities in Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing were analyzed. A training corpus dataset was produced by using the BIO sequence labeling method; a self-developed CNLP text labeling system was used for text labeling; the BERT model was used to recognize named entities; the relationships between entities were set based on rules and semantic associations; the data into the Neo4j-community 4.4.9 graph database was imported by using Cypher language for storage and visualization display after knowledge fusion; finally, a knowledge graph was constructed. Results: The knowledge graph of Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing included 5, 273 nodes and 11, 064 relationships. The schema layer contained 14 entity types and 15 relationship types. Through the query, knowledge can be visualized from the aspects of classification, property, and seven mutual relationships of herbal combination. Conclusion: The knowledge graph constructed in this study directly reflects the knowledge recorded in Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing and the relationship between them, which is suitable for knowledge mining and intuitive multi-dimensional display of ancient TCM books.

Views of Hong Kong Chinese medicine practitioners on the application of the “Chinese Medicine Anti-epidemic Plans” prepared by the Chinese medicine expert group of central authorities: a focus group study

BackgroundDrawing on the extensive utilization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to combat COVID-19 in Mainland China, experts designed a series of TCM anti-epidemic strategies. This study aims to understand Hong Kong CM practitioners’ application of and opinions on the “Chinese Medicine Anti-epidemic Plans.”MethodsOnline focus group interviews were conducted, and purposive sampling was employed to invite 22 CM practitioners to voluntarily participate in three interview sessions. The interviews were audio recorded, then transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were analyzed using template analysis.ResultsThree themes were derived: (1) facilitators of the “Chinese Medicine Anti-epidemic Plans,” (2) barriers of the “Chinese Medicine Anti-epidemic Plans,” and (3) expectations on improving the “Chinese Medicine Anti-epidemic Plans.” The participants could obtain relevant information from various sources, which highlights the value of the plans for TCM medicinal cuisine and non-pharmacologic therapies and guiding junior CM practitioners, supplementing Western medicine interventions, and managing Chinese herb reserves in clinics. However, the barriers included the lack of a specialized platform for timely information release, defective plan content, limited reference value to experienced CM practitioners, and lack of applicability to Hong Kong. The expectations of the CM practitioners for improving the plans were identified based on the barriers.ConclusionsTo enhance the implementation of the anti-epidemic plans, CM practitioners in Hong Kong expect to utilize a specific CM platform and refine the plans to ensure that they are realistic, focused, comprehensive, and tailored to the local context.

Revisiting Traditional Chinese Medicine in Hong Kong during the Influenza Epidemics in the 1950s and 1960s.

This paper examines the supply and utilization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in Hong Kong during the influenza epidemics of the 1950s and 1960s. Existing narratives of TCM in Hong Kong have predominantly framed with within the dichotomy of Western medicine "Xiyi" and Chinese medicine "Zhongyi," portraying TCM as marginalized and nearly wiped out by colonial power. Departing from this binary opposition, this study views TCM as an autonomous space that had never been subjugated by the colonial power which opted for minimal interventionist approach toward TCM. By adopting diachronic and synchronic perspectives on Hong Kong's unique environment shaped by its colonial history and the geopolitics of the Cold War in East Asia, particularly its relationships with "China," this research seeks to reassess the role and status of TCM in post-World War II Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, along with other countries in East Asia, traditional medicine has ceded its position as mainstream medicine to Western medicine. Faced with the crisis of "extinction," Chinese medical professionals, including medical practitioners and merchant groups, persistently sought solidarity and "self-renewal." In the 1950s and 1960s, the colonial authorities heavily relied on private entities, including charity hospitals and clinics; furthermore, there was a lack of provision of public healthcare and official prevention measures against the epidemic influenza. As such, it is not surprising that the Chinese utilized TCM, along with Western medicine, to contain the epidemics which brought about an explosive surge in the number of patients from novel influenza viruses. TCM was significantly consumed during these explosive outbreaks of influenza in 1957 and 1968. In making this argument, this paper firstly provides an overview of the associations of Chinese medical practitioners and merchants who were crucial to the development of TCM in Hong Kong. Secondly, it analyzes one level of active provision and consumption of Chinese medicine during the two flu epidemics, focusing on the medical practices of TCM practitioners in the 1957 epidemic. While recognizing the etiologic agent or agents of the disease as influenza viruses, the group of Chinese medical practitioners of the Chinese Medical Society in Hong Kong adopted the basic principles of traditional medicine regarding influenza, such as Shanghanlun and Wenbingxue, to distinguish the disease status among patients and prescribe medicine according to correct diagnoses, which were effective. Thirdly, this paper examines the level of folk culture among the people, who utilized famous prescriptions of Chinese herbal medicine and alimentotherapy, in addition to Chinese patent medicines imported from mainland China. In the context of regional commercial network, this section also demonstrates how Hong Kong served as a sole exporting port of medicinal materials (e.g., Chinese herbs) and Chinese patent medicines from the People's Republic of China to capitalist markets, including Hong Kong, under the socialist planned or controlled economy in the 1950s and 1960s. It was not only the efficacy of TCM in restoring immunity and alleviating symptoms of the human body, but also the voluntary efforts of these Chinese medical practitioners who sought to defend national medicine "Guoyi," positioning it as complementary and alternative medicine to scientific medicine. Additionally, merchants who imported and distributed Chinese medicinal materials and national "Guochan" Chinese patent medicine played a crucial role, as did the people who utilized Chinese medicine, all of which contributed to making TCM thrive in colonial Hong Kong.

Determination of phenolic content and bioactive characterization of Anatolian propolis

In this study, propolis referred to as of Türkiye Anatolian propolis was utilized. This work was aim to prepare a 70% ethanolic extract of propolis and subsequently determine certain biochemical parameters, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), phenolic and flavonoid composition, inhibitory effects on certain enzymes [acetylcholinesterase (AChE), urease, and alpha-amylase], along with assessments of antiviral activity against Vero cells, lung cancer cells (A549), and breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231). The richness of phenolic content in Anatolian propolis clearly indicates a high inhibitory effect on these enzymes. Additionally, it was observed to exert significant effects on cancer cells and demonstrated effective antiviral activity. It can be contemplated that the Anatolian propolis might serve as a potential source for novel drugs, and the isolation of its compounds could offer opportunities for utilization in traditional medicine.

Ethnopharmacological uses of fauna among the people of central Punjab, Pakistan.

The utilization of fauna and fauna-based byproducts in ethnomedicinal usages has been a longstanding human activity, practiced across various cultures worldwide. This study focuses on investigating the utilization of animal-based traditional medicine by the people of Pakistan, specifically in the Gujranwala area. Data collection took place from January to September 2019 through interviews with local communities. Ethnomedicinal applications of animal products were analyzed using several indices, including Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Relative Popularity Level (RPL), Folk Use Value (FL), and Relative Occurrence Percentage (ROP). The study identified the use of different body parts of 54 species of animals in treating various diseases and health issues. These include but are not limited to skin infections, sexual problems, pain management (e.g., in the backbone and joints), eyesight issues, immunity enhancement, cold, weakness, burns, smallpox, wounds, poisoning, muscular pain, arthritis, diabetes, fever, epilepsy, allergies, asthma, herpes, ear pain, paralysis, cough, swelling, cancer, bronchitis, girls' maturity, and stomach-related problems. Certain species of fauna were noted by informers with high "frequency of citation" (FC), ranging from 1 to 77. For instance, the black cobra was the most frequently cited animal for eyesight issues (FC = 77), followed by the domestic rabbit for burn treatment (FC = 67), and the Indus Valley spiny-tailed ground lizard for sexual problems (FC = 66). Passer domesticus and Gallus gallus were noted to have the highest ROP value of 99. The findings of this study provide valuable preliminary insights for the conservation of fauna in the Gujranwala region of Punjab, Pakistan. Additionally, screening these animals for medicinally active compounds could potentially lead to the development of novel animal-based medications, contributing to both traditional medicine preservation and modern pharmaceutical advancements.

Traditional Chinese and Mongolian Medicine Utilization Among Hypertensive Older Adults: Community Health Institutions, Hohhot, China

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and traditional Mongolian medicine (TMM) systems treat hypertension in community health institutions within China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region. This paper aims to investigate the use and influence of TCM and TMM among hypertensive older Chinese adults receiving treatment at these community health institutions. A cross-sectional survey method was used in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. A total of 1,499 completed questionnaires were collected from eight community health service centers in four municipal districts of Hohhot between May and June 2022. In all, 662 (44.2%) respondents had used community hypertension treatment services in the last year. Of the 662 respondents, 213 (32.2%) used TCM hypertension treatment services, and 64 (9.7%) used TMM treatment services less frequently and at a lower cost. Chinese herbal medicine (63.5%) and Mongolian herbal medicine (74%) were used more than other treatments. Cognition, attitude, and service provision were the main factors that affected service utilization. Ethnicity also had an impact on TMM’s service utilization. Older Chinese adults with hypertension did not fully utilize the TCM and TMM services provided. Further promotion and expansion of traditional medicine are needed from relevant government and health institutions.

Structural and Compositional Changes in Two Marine Shell Traditional Chinese Medicines: A Comparative Analysis Pre- and Post-Calcination.

Arcae concha and Meretricis concha cyclinae concha are two marine shellfish herbs with similar composition and efficacy, which are usually calcined and used clinically. This study investigated variations in the inorganic and organic components of Arcae concha and Meretricis concha cyclinae concha from different production regions, both Arcae concha and Meretricis concha cyclinae concha. The aim was to enhance the understanding of these two types of marine shell traditional Chinese medicine (msTCM) and provide a foundation for their future development and application. Spectroscopic techniques, including infrared spectroscopy, X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, were used to analyze the calcium carbonate (CaCO3) crystal and trace elements. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to investigate the decomposition process during heating. The proteins were quantified using the BCA protein assay kit. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to classify inorganic elements in the two marine shellfish traditional Chinese medicines. No significant differences were found among the various production regions. The crystal structure of CaCO3 in the raw products was aragonite, but it transformed into calcite after calcination. The contents of Ca, Na, Sr, and other inorganic elements were highest. The protein content was significantly reduced after calcination. Therefore, these factors cannot accurately reflect the internal quality of TCM, rendering qualitative identification challenging. CaCO3 dissolution in the decoction of Arcae concha and Meretricis concha cyclinae concha increased after calcination, aligning with the clinical application of calcined shell TCM. PCA revealed the inorganic elements in them, indicating that the variation in trace element composition among different drugs leads to differences in their therapeutic focus, which should be considered during usage. This study clarifies the composition and structure changes of corrugated and clam shell before and after calcining, and it lays the foundation for the comprehensive utilization of marine traditional Chinese medicine. These technical representations reveal the differences between raw materials and processed products, which will provide support for the quality control of other shellfish TCM.

Morphological Analysis of Ciplukan Plant (Physalis angulata L.) Pollen for Macroscopic Identification

This research addresses the prevalence of arthritis in Indonesia, focusing on traditional medicinal plants like Ciplukan due to the side effects of synthetic treatments. Arthritis, affecting 23.6-31.3% of the population, with Osteoarthritis (50-60% in the elderly) being the most common, necessitates alternative, less toxic remedies. Traditional medicine, relying on plant-derived remedies, is explored for its accessibility, affordability, and lower side effects. The study delves into Ciplukan, known for its anti-arthritis properties, conducting in vitro tests on its methanol extract. Results reveal anti-arthritis activity attributed to steroids, flavonoids, and alkaloids. The methodology involves macroscopic and microscopic examinations of Ciplukan plants, verifying authenticity and confirming the accuracy of plant samples. Organoleptic assessments highlight distinctive features, contributing to the plant's identification. Microscopic examination reveals the presence of stomata and palisade cells in the upper epidermis, aligning with literature data. The vascular system analysis emphasizes the efficiency of resource transport and adaptation to environmental changes. In conclusion, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of Ciplukan's characteristics, supporting its potential in arthritis treatment. The findings contribute to the utilization of traditional medicine in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of plant-based remedies with fewer side effects.

Optimizing Treatment of Herbal Plant Using SOPHERBAL Android Application Fordward Chaining Method

The utilization of traditional herbal medicine among the inhabitants of Lombok is notably prevalent yet frequently hindered by a lack of comprehension regarding the efficacy of herbal remedies for specific ailments. Addressing this challenge, this study proposes the development of an Android application called ”sopherbal,” aimed at delivering personalized herbal plant recommendations via easily accessible mobile devices. Employing forward chaining methodology, the application identifies optimal herbal remedies based on ailment type, processing techniques, usage instructions, and recommended dosage and treatment duration. Notably, while effective in this context, the forward chaining approach entails certain trade-offs and hurdles. Previous research indicates that forward chaining facilitatesaccurate recommendation generation, and it may be constrained by its reliance on predefined rules and limited adaptability to complex, evolving scenarios. Despite these challenges, the ”sopherbal” application, featuring 50 Sasak medicinal plants curated for 15 common ailments, achieved an 86% validation rate, affirming its efficacy in bridging the gap between traditional herbal knowledge and modern healthcare needs.