Traditional Pharmacopoeia Research Articles

Antiparasitic properties of leaf extracts derived from selected Nicotiana species and Nicotiana tabacum varieties

Within the traditional pharmacopeia, tobacco (Nicotiana spp.) is often cited as an efficient pesticide. This activity is generally attributed to nicotine, but tobacco plants contain other alkaloids that could potentially contribute to this effect. In this study, we tested methanolic extracts of N. glutinosa, N. glauca, N. debneyi, and N. tabacum (putrescine N-methyltransferase line, burley TN90 and Stella, Virginia ITB 683 and K326), selected according to alkaloid content. Their antiparasitic activity was evaluated in bioassays against adult fleas (Ctenocephalides felis), blowfly (Lucilia cuprina) larvae, nematodes (Caenorhabditis elegans), and ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus larvae and adults, Ixodes ricinus nymphs). None of the extracts killed fleas and blowfly larvae effectively at the concentrations tested. Only N. tabacum K326 and N. glutinosa exhibited moderate anthelmintic activity. All extracts significantly repelled R. sanguineus ticks, but not I. ricinus, and the nicotine-rich extracts rapidly knocked down all tick species and stages at high concentrations. The link between nicotine and tick knockdown was confirmed by successfully testing the pure alkaloid at concentrations found in the tobacco extracts. In contrast, repellent activity could not be correlated to the individually tested alkaloids (nicotine, nornicotine, anabasine, anatabine), although anatabine and nornicotine were active in the tick bioassay at high concentrations.

ZANTEDESCHIA AETHIOPICA (L.) SPRENG.: A REVIEW OF ITS MEDICINAL USES, PHYTOCHEMISTRY, AND BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES

Zantedeschia aethiopica is an evergreen monocotyledonous herb widely used as herbal medicine and ornamental plant. The current study is aimed at reviewing the medicinal uses, phytochemistry, and biological activities of Z. aethiopica. Information on biological activities, medicinal uses, and phytochemistry of Z. aethiopica was gathered from several internet sources which included Scopus, Google Scholar, Elsevier, Science Direct, Web of Science, PubMed, SciFinder, and BMC. Additional information on these aspects was sourced from pre-electronic sources such as journal articles, scientific reports, theses, books, and book chapters obtained from the University Library. The current study revealed that Z. aethiopica is mainly used as herbal medicine for boils, burns, gout, inflammation, insect bites, rheumatism, sores, and wounds. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies showed that Z. aethiopica extracts and compounds isolated from the species have antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antihistaminic, antialgal, antithrombotic, and anticoagulant activities. This research showed that Z. aethiopica is an integral part of the traditional pharmacopeia in several countries where the species is indigenous or naturalized, but there is the lack of alignment between the known medicinal applications, phytochemistry, and biological activities of the species. Therefore, future research should focus on evaluating the chemical and pharmacological properties of Z. aethiopica extracts and compounds associated with the species.

An integrated medicine of Bhutan: Sowa Rigpa concepts, botanical identification, and the recorded phytochemical and pharmacological properties of the eastern Himalayan medicinal plants

IntroductionBhutanese Sowa Rigpa medicine (BSM) has established unique pharmacopoeias that describe ethnotaxonomical concepts, classification systems and descriptions of medicinal plants. BSM was integrated with modern health care system in 1967. BSM uses medicinal plants, minerals and animal products as the main ingredients of the formulations used for treating various disorders. This study was aimed to highlight interesting ethnotaxonomical concepts of BSM and identify and document medicinal plants from the two remotest regions of eastern Himalayas of Bhutan – Merak and Sakteng. MethodsEthnopharmacological data was gathered from the pharmacopoeias, published monographs and research papers on Bhutanese medicinal plants. Medicinal plants diversity was surveyed using the convenience sampling methods. A literature review on the phytochemical content of the medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities was carried out using plant databases, PubMed, SciFinder and Google Scholar. ResultsA very interesting ethnotaxonomical concept of BSM has been translated into English terminologies from the traditional pharmacopoeia. A total of 50 alpine medicinal plants belonging to 25 families and 39 genera in 13 study sites between Merak and Sakteng were documented. Only 12 medicinal species were identified as priority species or are currently used at Menjong Sorig Pharmaceuticals for formulating 48 different medicines. ConclusionsThis study described the ethnotaxonomical concepts, classification and description of medicinal plants in Bhutan and botanically identified 50 alpine medicinal plants from 13 different study sites under Merak and Sakteng regions. About 12 of them were currently used as ingredients in BSM formulations and 35 species were studied for their phytochemical and pharmacological properties.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plant in Djerba island, Tunisia

Objective :The aim of this study was to document the diversity and use of natural plants in the island of Djerba (Tunisia) in traditional pharmacopoeia and other uses in order to develop an ethnobotanical catalogue that could subsequently be the subject of scientific research. Materials and Methods: The technique of semi-structured interviews was used with people originating and residing or not in Djerba. Occasional conversations and direct observations were exploited for one year. Results: We have identified 86 plants out of 122 mentioned belonging to 80 genera and 43 families. Asteraceae were the most important family represented by 13 species followed by Lamiaceae and Poaceae (7 species each). The results showed that 45 species have medicinal uses (52.32%). Leaves were the most used parts (59% of species for medicinal use). Decoction was the most common method for preparing remedies. Conclusion: This study provides an important source of information for flora valorization in the studied region. The results could form a database for the search of new natural substances with added value.

The new revolution of immunotherapy: is it time to pair it with the old one? —Yellow Leader as a candidate

With the advent of immunotherapy in cancer treatment, the natural history of this disease has changed. The immune checkpoint therapies have shown great promise in this setting, by potentiating the body’s natural immune response against tumor cells. Checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) have definitively consolidated the target of reversing the immunoevasion as one of the most universal strategies to change the natural evolution of advanced oncological diseases, and to maximize CPI treatment efficacy, synergies in immune system modulation must be seriously considered. In the field of Integrative Oncology, Chinese medicinal mushrooms have been increasingly promoted as excellent anticancer immunoenhancers. However, many plants of traditional Chinese medicine have been less visible, but—as scientific literature reveals—not less powerful as antitumor immunomodulators. Astragalus membranaceous root is a venerated plant as a tonic in traditional Chinese pharmacopoeia. This is known to be beneficial to relieve mild disorders and to help in more serious diseases, such as cancer. For this great restorative capacity was why it won the name of Huang Qi, “leader of all tonics”, or Yellow Leader, because of its colour. Astragalus root contains a variety of immunoactive constituents. Its power as an antitumor root is not only due to its immunomodulatory activity; it is able to modulate several apoptotic and antiangiogenic signaling pathways and interact with specific transcription molecules. We propose a rational model of the combination of CPI with Astragalus root chosen as representative of traditional immunotherapy, to set a paradigmatic frame to develop novel target-specific combinations with natural immunomodulators. We are convinced that by combining these two strategies in immunotherapy—the new one and the old one—we can definitely overcome immune cell exhaustion, boost the response to immunocheckpoint treatment, and minimize side effects, to get better and more efficient results in cancer immunotherapy.

Medicinal plants used for skin-related diseases among the Batswanas in Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, South Africa

Skin diseases have come under the spotlight due to the fact they are the first symptoms associated with many diseases, including AIDS. Although Western medications are available for treating skin diseases, many ethnic groups including the Batswanas in North West Province still consult traditional health practitioners (THPs) for skin diseases. This study was aimed at exploring and documenting indigenous knowledge and medicinal plants used for skin-related diseases by Batswana THPs in North West Province. Ethnobotanical information, including local name of plant, part used, methods of preparation and administration, was captured using semi-structured questionnaires. These questionnaires were administered to 30 purposively selected THPs from 10 villages. Quantitative parameters including use-value (UV), informant consensus factor (ICF) and cultural importance index (CI), were computed to determine the relative importance of plant species locally, the homogeneity of knowledge among THPs and the spread of use and versatility. In total, 80 plants belonging to 40 families and 61 genera were documented as being used in preparation of 36 recipes to treat 43 skin-related diseases grouped into 7 categories. Asparagaceae (seven plants) and Asteraceae (seven plants), Xanthorrhoeaceae (six plants) and Solanaceae (six plants) were the most representative families. The most frequently used plant parts are the roots (31%), whole plant (26%) and leaves (19%), while the most common methods of preparation include concoction (30%), maceration (23%) and decoction (19%). Hypoxis hemerocallidea (0.9) and Helichrysum paronychioides (0.8) had the highest UV, while Hypoxis hemerocallidea (0.4), Helichrysum paronychioides (0.4) and Urginea sanguinea (0.3) were the most culturally important plants. The highest ICF (0.6) was linked to miscellaneous skin diseases, with rashes (22%) being the most frequently treated in the category. The disease with the highest plant diversity for treatment is chickenpox with 22 plants, followed by yaws with 16 plants, while rashes and boils are treated using 14 plants. The study recorded 38 plants used to treat skin-related diseases for the first time in South Africa. The current findings are an indication that the Batswana traditional medicine pharmacopoeia has rich plant diversity for treatment of skin-related diseases. However, these may come under threat because the young population is not showing interest in indigenous knowledge. The current study has also opened a platform for in-depth scientific analysis to evaluate the pharmacological efficacy and safety of the identified medicinal plants.

Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Antifungal Activity of Chemical Constituents Isolated from Vernonia guineensis Roots (Asteraceae)

The present study focused on the evaluation of the antimicrobial activity and antifungal of chemical constituents isolated from the roots of Vernonia guineensis, a plant of the family Asteraceae. Vernonia guineensis is used in traditional pharmacopoeia as aphrodisiacs, anti-dysenteric, purgative, anti-gastritis, antimalarial, anti-asthenic, febrifuge, anti-icteric. The chemical study of the CH2Cl2-CH3OH mixture extract (1:1) led to the isolation of five compounds: Betulinic acid (1); alphitolic acid (2); β-sitosterol 3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3); scoparone (4); Quercetin-3-O-β-galactoside or isoquercetin (5). Betulinic acid (1), alphitolic acid (2) and scoparone (4) were isolated from Vernonia guineensis for the first time. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated based on spectroscopic analysis and comparison of their spectral data with those reported in the literature. The results of the antimicrobial tests on the 11 bacterial strains tested showed that the compounds (2) and (3) were active on most the bacterial strains tested, whereas the compound (1) was active on 4 of the 11 bacterial strains. Tested with an inhibition diameter ranging from 7 to 8 mm, while the compound (5) acted only on 1 bacterial strain. On the other hand, the compounds (2) and (3) tested showed a strong inhibition on Staphylococcus aureus ATCC BAA 977, a moderate inhibition on Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, a weak inhibition on Aerococcus viridans ATCC 11563 and a moderate inhibition on Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 51299. The MIC (Minimal Inhibitory Concentration), CMB (Concentration Minimal Bactericidal) and CMB/MIC ratios of compounds (2) and (3) have revealed the highest antibacterial potency. However, the MICs of the compound (2) vary from 312.5 to 2500 μg/mL with the smallest value (312.5 μg/mL) observed against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC BAA 977, whereas the compound (3) MICs vary from 312.5 to 5000 μg/mL with the lowest value (312.5 μg/mL) observed against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC BAA 977. The calculation of the CMB/MIC ratio revealed that compounds (2) and (3) had a bactericidal activity (CMB/MIC

Gene editing in drug discovery and therapeutic innovation

The idea according to which the most recent therapeutic methods will overcome the more traditional pharmacopoeia is widespread in recent publications. Biomedicine and gene therapies are booming, but we realize, as for other therapeutic approaches, that they suffer intrinsic constraints and limitations and that their most relevant therapeutic fields are complementary to those of traditional drugs. They are now viewed as potentially synergistic with these traditional drugs, rather than competitors. This review puts into perspective the potential of genome editing in the field of drug discovery and therapeutic innovation.

Delay of cone degeneration in retinitis pigmentosa using a 12-month treatment with Lycium barbarum supplement

Ethnopharmacological relevanceLycium barbarum L. (also known as “Goji berry”), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, has been a common herb in the traditional Chinese pharmacopoeia for centuries. The main active component is the Lycium barbarum polysaccharides and its antioxidative effect has been widely shown to provide neuroprotection to the eye, and it would, therefore, be interesting to determine if Lycium barbarum help delay vision deterioration in patients with retinitis pigmentosa. Aim of the studyCone rescue is a potential method for delaying deterioration of visual function in Retinitis pigmentosa (RP). This study aimed to investigate the treatment effect of Lycium barbarum L. (LB) supplement on retinal functions and structure in RP patients after a 12-month intervention trial. MethodsThe investigation was a double-masked and placebo-controlled clinical study. Each of forty-two RP subjects who completed the 12-month intervention (23 and 19 in the treatment and placebo groups respectively) received a daily supply of LB or placebo granules for oral administration. The primary outcome was change of best corrected visual acuity (VA) (90% and 10% contrast) from the baseline to the end of treatment. The secondary outcomes were sensitivity changes of the central visual field, amplitude of full-field electroretinogram (ffERG) (including scotopic maximal response and photopic cone response), and average macular thickness. ResultsThe compliance rates for both groups exceeded 80%. There were no deteriorations of either 90% or 10% contrast VA in the LB group compared with the placebo group (p = 0.001). A thinning of macular layer was observed in the placebo group, which was not observed in the LB group (p = 0.008). However, no significant differences were found in the sensitivity of visual field or in any parameters of ffERG between the two groups. No significant adverse effects were reported in the treatment group. ConclusionsLB supplement provides a neuroprotective effect for the retina and could help delay or minimize cone degeneration in RP. ClassificationsClinical Studies (1.05). Trial registrationclinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT02244996.

Relevance of Chrysanthellum americanum (L.) Vatke Extracts in Rat Liver Protection

Aims: To assess the relevance of Chrysanthellum americanum (L.) Vatke extracts in rat liver protection.
 Place and Duration of Study: Laboratory of Biochemistry and Applied Chemistry (LABIOCA), also in Laboratory of Department of Medicine and Traditional Pharmacopoeia (MEPHATRA-PH) of Institute for Research in Health Sciences (IRSS/CNRST) of Burkina Faso between July 2014 and August 2015.
 Study Design: Polyphenolic extract of Chrysanthellum americanum- in vivo liver protection- in vivo liver intoxication- liver necrosis parameters analysis, histopathology analysis, in vivo and in vitro antioxidant assay.
 Background: Chrysanthellum americanum L. (Vatke) is a medicinal plant well known for its flavonoids and saponins richness, but also for its strong antioxidant potential and use traditionally for liver disease treatment.
 Methodology: In vivo, anti hepatotoxicity effects of Chrysanthellum americanum was evaluated using CCl4 as hepatotoxic agent. Also, acute toxicities were determined using standards methods, serum parameters of liver injury using Cypress Diagnostics kits and histopathology analysis using Mayer's haematoxylin- eosin-phloxine coloration method. For in vitro tests, malondialdehyde and thiobarbituric acid method were used in lipid peroxidation assessment and the ABTS method in Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity assessing.
 Results: Result showed that the crude extract of C. americericum has a very low oral toxicity but, in intraperitoneal route this extract presented a high toxicity (LD50= 175 mg / kg of body weight). Histopathology micrograph indicated reduction in number of necrotic cells induced by CCl4. This beneficial action was confirmed by reduction in serum transaminases and malondialdehyde (22.68 ± 0.68 mmol MDA/ g of liver weight). In vitro antioxidant capacities, this plant extract presented a result of 35.01 ± 0.26 % and 42.01 ± 0.26 mg TE/ g respectively in LPO and TEAC.
 Conclusion: Given our results, our research confirms that Chrysanthellum americanum extracts have in vivo physiological impact and benefits in traditional medicine for specific care of liver diseases.

Echinacoside Isolated from Cistanche tubulosa Putatively Stimulates Growth Hormone Secretion via Activation of the Ghrelin Receptor.

Cistanche species, the ginseng of the desert, has been recorded to possess many biological activities in traditional Chinese pharmacopoeia and has been used as an anti-aging medicine. Three phenylethanoid glycosides—echinacoside, tubuloside A, and acteoside—were detected in the water extract of Cistanche tubulosa (Schenk) R. Wight and the major constituent, echinacoside, was further purified. Echinacoside of a concentration higher than 10−6 M displayed significant activity to stimulate growth hormone secretion of rat pituitary cells. Similar to growth hormone-releasing hormone-6, a synthetic analog of ghrelin, the stimulation of growth hormone secretion by echinacoside was inhibited by [D-Arg1, D-Phe5, D-Trp7,9, Leu11]-substance P, an inverse agonist of the ghrelin receptor. Molecular modeling showed that all the three phenylethanoid glycosides adequately interacted with the binding pocket of the ghrelin receptor, and echinacoside displayed a slightly better interaction with the receptor than tubuloside A and acteoside. The results suggest that phenylethanoid glycosides, particularly echinacoside, are active constituents putatively responsible for the anti-aging effects of C. tubulosa and may be considered to develop as non-peptidyl analogues of ghrelin.

Phytochemical Profiling of Amazonian Herbal Medicinal Products: The Role of Traditional Processing Methods

Research on traditional processing methods used to transform plants into medicines offers a valuable arena to investigate the correct formulation of herbal products. While scientific literature on traditional herbal medicines emphasizes the relevance of the taxonomical identification of the used species, the same rigor is not applied to recording the processing methods. In other words, attention is given to the ingredients, but not the recipes. This can not only jeopardize the quality of research on traditional herbal medicines, but also generate concerns once such medicines reach the global markets in compliance with modern manufacturing requirements, which are usually well far away from the traditional ones. In the present work, different traditional herbal medicines used in the region of San Martin, Peru, were analyzed by the means of UPLC-UV/DAD metabolite fingerprinting. Different extracts were prepared from same commercially available materials in order to test the effect of the recipes on the chemistry of the finished products. In particular, different plant parts and their status (fresh or dry), extraction solvents and decoction times were selected for metabolite comparisons between the extracts. In accord with literature data on others traditional pharmacopoeias, our results show how specific manufacturing steps can affect the chemistry of the finished products. Further efforts are necessary to evaluate the traditional herbal practices, whether understandable or not, with modern scientific approaches.

The Problem of Traditional African Pharmacopoeia in Obstetrics: Use of Plants for Utero-Tonic Purposes and Materno-Fetal Outcome in Douala (Cameroon)

Introduction: The use of traditional preparations for the induction or acceleration of labor remains a common practice in our country in particular and in Africa in general with sometimes derogatory outcomes for the mother and the fetus. Goal: The objective was to assess immediate maternal and neonatal outcomes in women who reported having used the traditional pharmacopoeia for utero-tonic purposes. Methodology: We conducted a multi-centric cross- sectional study with prospective data collection in the maternities of the Laquintinie Hospital, Bonassama District and Nylon Hospitals. It took place over a period of seven months, from 1st October 2016 to 31st April 2017. This included all women who reported having used the unconventional pharmacopoeia for utero-tonic purposes before or after contractions started. The student and Chi-square tests were interpreted at the statistical threshold of 5% and the 95% confidence intervals. Results: We recruited 168 cases, 68.5% of the 245 women interviewed. The mean age was 27.1 ± 0.41 years; 55% of our respondents had a secondary level of education; 80% of them were admitted at term and 43% were multiparous. Nulliparity predisposed to traditional pharmacopoeia use (RR = 1.55, CI = 0.79 - 3.03) but primiparity reduced this risk (RR = 0.4, CI = 0.24 - 0.926). Stimulation of labor was the first indication in 85% of women, the rectal evacuation enema was the main route used (67%). The majority of plants used were those of the families Asteraceae, Anthericaceae, and Malvaceae. In per partum, 42% had a brilliant dilatation; there was a statistically significant association between the occurrence of dynamic dystocia (CI = 0.28 - 1.54, p = 0.006) and the risk of perineal tear (RR = 3.13, CI = 1.68 - 5.85; p = 0.007). The APGAR score at 5 min of life was less than 7 in 64% of cases (p = 0.027). The caesarean section rate was 69%. Conclusion: Traditional products with uterotonic effects are frequently used and unregulated with its corollary of materno-fetal complications.

Biodiversity of poisonous medicinal plants solicited in the traditional phytotherapy of the central Middle Atlas -Morocco

Background : The central Middle Atlas is a region renowned for its wealth of medicinal plants and ancestral knowledge of its local population in traditional pharmacopoeia. Thus, the main aim of this study is the valorization of poisonous medicinal plants and to provide an overview on the state of plant biodiversity of toxic medicinal plants, recommended by the actors of traditional medicine in this region Methods : The survey carried out involving actors of traditional medicine in the central Middle Atlas made it possible to establish a list of toxic medicinal plants recommended by these actors. A field survey was then conducted in order to identify the plants inventoried in the different sites of the study area, for taxonomic confirmation and /or determination. Results : Ethnobotanical survey allowed us to identify 123 medicinal plants used. Of these, 83 are declared toxic. The floristic prospection of these 83 toxic medicinal plants revealed that the majority of these plants are spontaneous herbaceous, with a rate of endemism of 8.34%. In addition, these plants are grouped into 74 genera and distributed over 36 families, of which the most represented are Lamiaceae (15.66%) and Asteraceae (14.46%). Also, the study revealed that Anacyclus pyrethrum L., Aristolochia paucinervis Pomel and Urtica urens L. are the most toxic plants used therapeutically. Moreover, the results show that for some plants, the most toxic parts are the most recommended by practitioners of traditional medicine in the study area, generally with internal use. Thus, the risks of poisoning are indisputable and accentuated by the recorded cases of confusion. Conclusion : The Middle Atlas is a region known for its flora biodiversity and especially for poisonous medicinal plants. The uncontrolled use of these plants can lead to sequelae and possibly serious intoxications. Keywords : Floristic prospecting, toxic medicinal plants, Central Middle Atlas, phytotherapy.

Case report of spontaneous bilateral tubal ectopic pregnancy in the National Hospital of Pikine, Dakar

Ectopic pregnancy still remains an important cause of maternal morbidity and mortality notably because of using assisted reproductive techniques. The diagnosis is usually made intra operatively and levels of serum BHCG and ultrasound has not been useful in the diagnosis of bilateral tubal ectopic pregnancy. This leads to emphasize on the importance of meticulous ultrasound examination when an ectopic pregnancy is suspected but also a complete tubal and abdominal examination at the time of surgery even if there may be issues with significant adhesive disease. Conservative treatments like “tubal caesarean,” despite the risk of recurrence, are still very useful in our context because of the inaccessibility of assisted reproductive treatment. Risk factors for ectopic pregnancy have not been found in our case but a research track could be opened on a traditional pharmacopoeia called “ALDANKE” widely used in Senegal.

Marine Turtle Presence in the Traditional Pharmacopoeia, Cosmovision, and Beliefs of Wayuú Indigenous People

Marine turtles are considered by people of several cultures to be a gift from God. This belief often leads to the use of these reptiles in the traditional and belief systems among aboriginal peoples. Certainly this is the case among Wayuu people, who are an indigenous group settled between Venezuela and Colombia, in the Guajira Peninsula. To assess the value of marine turtles to Wayuu ancestral people, especially as a medicinal resource, we carried out a comprehensive open-ended question-based survey of traditional healers and caretakers (locally known as Piaches and Outsus) from 4 Wayuu communities in the Venezuelan portion of the Guajira Peninsula. We documented customary practices where marine turtles' body parts are used as a key element of the remedies. Eleven marine turtle body parts were identified by respondents as remedies used by Wayuu people, with 7 different ways to administer them (drink, worn, powder, among others). Four of the 5 species of marine turtles present in Venezuelan waters were identified as being used in the traditional pharmacopoeia of Wayuu people; their traditional names are included on this article. Some considerations about the Wayuu's cosmovision, customs, traditions, and belief systems are included here. Our results are important in the context of likely future evaluation of the current Venezuelan legal framework to consider inclusion of traditional use of marine turtles in Venezuela. Abstract [Spanish] Las tortugas marinas son consideradas por diversas culturas como un regalo proveniente de Dios. Es en esta creencia en la que usualmente se basan las tradiciones y costumbres de numerosas comunidades indigenas que utilizan a estos reptiles a nivel global. Ciertamente, este es el caso de los indigenas Wayuu, grupo el cual se encuentra asentado entre Colombia y Venezuela, en la Peninsula de la Guajira. Se realizo una valoracion ancestral de las tortugas marinas para los indigenas Wayuu, con especial enfasis en los usos medicinales, se llevaron a cabo una evaluacion comprensiva y exhaustiva, la cual incluyo entrevistas y encuestas con preguntas abiertas, a pobladores Wayuu con amplio conocimiento sobre las practicas medicinales tradicionales (conocidos localmente como Piaches y Outsus) en comunidades localizadas en la porcion venezolana de la Peninsula de la Guajira (territorio ancestral Wayuu). Se documentaron las practicas y costumbres en las que diversas partes del cuerpo de la tortuga marina juegan un papel primordial en la creacion y aplicacion de estos remedios tradicionales. Los entrevistados identificaron hasta once diferentes partes del cuerpo de la tortuga marina que son utilizados en la elaboracion de remedios, asi como siete diferentes formas de administracion de la medicina (tomada, untada, granulada, entre otros). Cuatro de las cinco especies de tortugas marinas presentes en las aguas territoriales venezolanas fueron identificadas como parte importante de la farmacopea tradicional de los indigenas Wayuu, en este articulo se incluyen los nombres tradicionales en Wayuunaikii de estos reptiles. Asi mismo, en la presente investigacion se mencionan algunas consideraciones sobre la cosmovision, costumbres, tradiciones y creencias Wayuu. Estos resultados son importantes en el contexto de una posible futura revision del marco ambiental legal venezolano para considerar una posible inclusion de estos usos tradicionales de tortugas marinas en Venezuela.

Technological Aptitudes and Pharmaceutical Applications of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi Leaf and Seed Oil and Fruit Powders of Ziziphus jujuba Mill

This study is aimed at describing, controlling, and improving the technological aptitude and the traditional pharmacopeia of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi conventionally used by the local population of Tizi-Ouzou (northern Algeria) and justifying the possible industrial applications of the plant. The study involved the drying of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi leaves using two types of drying process (hot air drying and open air drying). In addition, the evaluation of certain properties (physical and chemical, rheological and biological) of the obtained powders was carried out. Various gels were prepared using the powders of air-dried Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi leaves, DIC (instant controlled pressure-drop) swell-dried Ziziphus jujuba Mill fruits, and seed oil of the same fruit. These plants have been used traditionally for treating gastric disorders, wounds, and rheumatic pains. Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi is also used as an antiseptic and antihelmintic agent. The results of the analysis of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi powders have shown important chemical constituents (Na, Mg, Fe, and K), bioactive substances (polyphenols, tannins, and fatty acids), and very interesting biological activities. The obtained gels confer better physical and chemical (slightly acidic gels) properties, a higher availability of phenolic compounds, and better rheological (viscous gel) and organoleptic properties than their chemical counterparts.

Medicines in the forest: Ethnobotany of wild medicinal plants in the pharmacopeia of the Wichí people of Salta province (Argentina)

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThis article presents the results of a study on wild plant pharmacopeia and medical ethnobotany of the Wichí people of the South American Gran Chaco region, where native forest still persist. Few previous works on the former subjects exist, with only partial information. Traditionally, shamans are in charge of healing serious diseases and wild plants are used for treating minor problems. Some ethnobotanists believe that much of the present pharmacopeia of native peoples of the Gran Chaco comes from the Criollos (local non-native people) and that medicinal plants and uses would have been much fewer in the past. Aims of the studyThe study aims to: a) document the wild medicinal plants used by the Wichís and the associated ethnobotanical knowledge, b) discuss the use of medicinal plants in the current sanitary, epidemiological and ethnomedical context of the Wichís, and c) analyse the similarities between the medicinal plants and uses of the Wichís and those reported for the Criollos of the study area, for the We’enhayek (Wichís of Bolivia) and for other indigenous peoples of the Gran Chaco. All of them will help to answer a general research question: are medicinal wild plants of the Wichís present pharmacopoeia long-dated or are they relatively new adquisitions? Materials and methodsOriginal data were obtained between 2005 and 2017 from 51 informants through open and semi-structured interviews, participant observation, “walks-through-the-forest” technique and gathering of plant vouchers. Consensus of Use (CU) per species, use, ailment and use-category were calculated. Species and uses of the Wichís and those reported for other groups of the region were compared confronting the data, a similarity index (Sorensen) was calculated and a cluster analysis was carried out. An interpretative analysis of the results was performed. ResultsOriginal data consist of 408 applications for which 115 plants of 48 botanical families are used for treating 68 ailments or symptoms. Species are mainly used for treating prevalent health disorders in Wichí epidemiological context (skin and digestive disorders, fever, respiratory affections) and feminine issues. ConclusionsThe similarity of the current Wichí pharmacopoeia with the other ethnic groups of the region seem to respond more to a geographical proximity than to cultural affinity. Much (but not all) of their pharmacopoeia seem to be novel, resulting from a permanent seek for solutions to both old and new health problems in the native forests. Many medicinal plants, but not specific uses, seem to come from the neighbouring Criollos, whilst traditional remedies seem to be simultaneously preserved. Hence, I propose that the ethnobotanical “diversification hypothesis”, slightly modified, applies in the case of wild medicinal plants of the Wichís, as new wild medicines are being added to the old ones to fill therapeutic vacancies that for several sociocultural and historical reasons appear in their traditional pharmacopoeia. Altogether, results provide novel information of interest for ethnopharmacology, medical ethnobotany and related disciplines, expand the knowledge of Wichí pharmacopoeia and constitute a baseline for future diachronic and cross-cultural studies in the Gran Chaco region.

Chemical composition and antioxidant activities of different parts of Ficus sur

Introduction: Ficus sur is a plant widely used in traditional pharmacopoeia in Togo. So, this study aimed the assessment of antioxidant properties and identification of some compounds from the ethanolic extracts of different parts of the plant (leaves, fruits, roots, and barks).Methods: The phenolic and flavonoid contents of the ethanolic extracts of different organs of Ficus sur were assessed using conventional known methods. The DPPH radical scavenging and the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays were used to highlight the antioxidant activities. The different extract samples were also analysed by liquid chromatography coupled to a quadrupole-time of flight mass detector (ESI-QTOF).Results: Total phenolic contents (TPCs) for 1 mg of dry extract ranged from 489.40 ± 7.48 μg GAE (gallic acid equivalents) for the bark to 62.34 ± 2.66 μg GAE for unripe fruits. The bark exhibited the highest flavonoid content, which was closed to 90.20 ± 3.72 μg QE (quercetin equivalents)/mg of dry extract. The radical scavenging activities of the bark and unripe fruits were 56.50 ± 0.29 and 7.3 ± 0.30 μg QE/mg of dry extract, respectively. In the same order, the FRAP values of the two organs were 104.57 ± 4.75 and 19.61 ± 0.22 μmol FeSO4 Eq/mg of dry extract. Many compounds including notoginsenoside R10; 4’,5,7-trihydroxyflavan-3-ol; catechin; and boviquinone 4 were identified.Conclusion: The various organs of Ficus sur are a source of bioactive compounds especially phenolic compounds and flavonoids with antioxidant activity.

Acute and subacute toxicity of aqueous extract of the tuber of Kedrostis africana (L.) Cogn in Wistar rats.

Kedrostis africana (L.) Cogn (Cucurbitaceae) is used in South African traditional medicine and pharmacopoeia as an emetic, purgative and diuretic, and it is used against dropsy in the management of obesity. Aim of the study In this study, acute and subacute toxicity of aqueous extract of K. africanatuber was evaluated in male and female Wistar rats in order to assess its safety profile. Materials and methods In acute toxicity, the effects of a single oral dose (2,000 and 5,000 mg/kg) of aqueous extract was determined in both sexes. General behavior, adverse effects and mortality were determined for 3 h and then periodically for 14 days. The subchronic toxicity test was performed in rats. The effects of the extract in daily single oral administration at the doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg for 28 days were determined. Food and water intakes were monitored daily while body weight was monitored on a weekly bases. Hematological, biochemical and organ parameters were determined at the end of the 28-day administration. Results In the acute study, a single administration of the aqueous extract at the doses of 2,000 and 5,000 mg/kg did not induce mortality. Thus, the LD50 of the aqueous extract of K. africana (AEKA) has been estimated to be higher than 5,000 mg/kg. In the subchronic study, daily oral administration of the AEKA did not result in death of the rats or significant changes in hematological or biochemical parameters at the highest dose of 600 mg/kg. No alteration was observed in body weight, food and water intake. Liver, kidney and heart histopathology did not reveal morphological alteration. Conclusions The results showed that the aqueous tuber extract of K. africana did not cause any death, nor did it cause abnormalities in necropsy and histopathology findings. There were no acute or subchronic toxicity observed, and this indicates that the plant extract could be considered safe for oral medication.