Folk Medicine Research Articles

The antimicrobial potential of traditional remedies of Indigenous peoples from Canada against MRSA planktonic and biofilm bacteria in wound infection mimetic conditions

ABSTRACT Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is the leading cause of wound infections, often progressing into serious invasive bloodstream infections. MRSA disproportionately affects Indigenous peoples in Canada with higher rates of skin and wound infections, an example of persistent gaps in health outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples precipitated by the legacy of colonialism. Conversely, Indigenous peoples have long used natural remedies for infections and other diseases; however, their knowledge was rarely considered for modern medicine. The stagnant antibiotic discovery pipeline and alarming rise of resistance to current antibiotics prompted us to turn to Indigenous medicine as an untapped source of antimicrobials. As such, we collected and prepared 85 extracts of medicinal plants of value to Indigenous peoples spanning the Canadian Prairies. We explored the antimicrobial potential of these extracts against MRSA under wound infection-mimetic conditions compared with culture media typically used to study bacterial antibiotic responses and biofilms but not adequately representative of infection sites. We identified extracts with MRSA growth inhibitory [ e.g. , bergamot, dock, gaillardia, and dandelion extracts] and biofilm prevention and eradication [ e.g. , gumweed extracts] activities. Extracts, including those of chokecherry, hoary puccoon, and Northern bedstraw, were only active under wound infection-mimetic conditions, highlighting the benefit of antibiotic discovery under host-relevant conditions. Testing growth inhibitory extracts against an S. aureus cross-resistance platform suggested that they act through mechanisms likely distinct from known antibiotic classes. Together, through an interdisciplinary partnership leveraging Western approaches and traditional Indigenous knowledge, we identified plant extracts with promising antimicrobial potential for drug-resistant MRSA wound infections. IMPORTANCE We explored the antimicrobial potential of traditional Indigenous remedies against MRSA under wound infection-mimetic conditions. We chose to tackle MRSA wound infections because they constitute an Indigenous health priority, ensuring mutual benefits and reciprocity, which are important principles in partnerships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers. Our partnerships strive to serve as steps towards reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada and a roadmap inspiring similar interdisciplinary collaborations to tackle other healthcare priorities. We identified extracts with promising antibacterial growth inhibitory, biofilm prevention, and eradication activities against MRSA. The antimicrobial potential of some extracts was only observed under wound infection-mimetic conditions, a proof-of-concept that screening under infection-mimetic conditions reveals novel activity undetected under standard conditions. The natural product antimicrobial extracts discovered herein warrant further investigation into their mode of action and chemical composition; they may address the dire need for new antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity to counter the AMR crisis.

Dengue Outbreak Control and Prevention: A Case Study of Gampaha District, Sri Lanka

Dengue fever remains a persistent public health challenge in Gampaha District, Sri Lanka. Despite ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Healthcare, Nutrition & Indigenous Medicine, the district reported 10,212 cases in 2022, with significant hospital admissions and deaths in high-risk areas like MC Negombo, Gampaha, and Minuwangoda. The study examines Dengue control and prevention strategies implemented from November 2022 to March 2023. Data was collected from existing records, interviews with key informants, and field observations. Major challenges were identified and prioritised using evidence-based methodologies, including the "Five Whys" root cause analysis. The analysis revealed significant challenges categorised into program-related and non-program-related issues. Key issues include inadequate use of existing data, insufficient evidence-based control measures, and operational inefficiencies. The root cause analysis identified core problems such as lack of funding, poor planning, and limited community engagement. The study highlights the critical need for data-driven decision-making and enhanced collaborative efforts. Establishing a technical body, develop context-specific programs, and improve community involvement. Resource mobilisation for research and forecasting epidemics was also emphasised. This case study provides valuable insights into the challenges and strategic interventions necessary for effective Dengue control in the Gampaha District. Emphasising evidence-based decision-making and a comprehensive action plan underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to combat Dengue in the region.

Novel Management, Cure and Complications-Control of Rheumatoid Arthritis with Traditional and Modern Remedies (A Review)

Novel Management, Cure and Complications-Control of Rheumatoid Arthritis with Traditional and Modern Remedies (A Review)

Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi—Untargeted Metabolomics Approach to Investigate the Chemical Variation in Volatile and Non-Volatile Compounds

Context: Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi is used in Brazilian folk medicine due to the wound healing and antiseptic properties of its bark, and its fruit are used as a condiment. However, the aerial parts of this plant have been studied and present some bioactive compounds as well. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the variation in volatile and non-volatile composition of S. terebinthifolia leaves using untargeted metabolomics. Material and Methods: The leaves of four trees were collected over one year; ethanolic extracts were analyzed by UHPLC-MS and fresh leaves were analyzed by GC-MS using HS-SPME. The data were processed using online software. Results: The results suggest seasonality interfered little with the chemical composition of leaves. On the other hand, the sex of the plant clearly determined the chemical composition of both volatile and non-volatile compounds. Discussion and conclusions: Chemical variability between plants with male and female flowers is fundamental information for the standardized use of its leaves. Compounds with important biological activities were putatively identified, confirming the potential use of S. terebinthifolia leaves as a source of bioactive compounds, reducing waste and increasing economic gains for local farmers throughout the year.

A Neural Phillips Curve and a Deep Output Gap

Many problems plague empirical Phillips curves (PCs). Among them is the hurdle that the two key components, inflation expectations and the output gap, are both unobserved. Traditional remedies include proxying for the absentees or extracting them via assumptions-heavy filtering procedures. I propose an alternative route: a Hemisphere Neural Network (HNN) whose architecture yields a final layer where components can be interpreted as latent states within a Neural PC. First, HNN conducts the supervised estimation of nonlinearities that arise when translating a high-dimensional set of observed regressors into latent states. Second, forecasts are economically interpretable. Among other findings, the contribution of real activity to inflation appears understated in traditional PCs. In contrast, HNN captures the 2021 upswing in inflation and attributes it to a large positive output gap starting from late 2020. The unique path of HNN’s gap comes from dispensing with unemployment and GDP in favor of an amalgam of nonlinearly processed alternative tightness indicators.

Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol in Commercial Suk-Saiyasna Herbal Remedy: Applying Hansen Solubility Parameters for Sample Extraction to Ensure Regulatory Compliance

Background: Suk-Saiyasna is a traditional Thai herbal remedy that comprises 12 distinct herbs. Among these, cannabis leaves constitute 12 of the total 78 components in this formulation. This study specifically examines the portion of the cannabis plant, which accounts for approximately 15.8% of the overall herbal composition used in the entire remedy. According to the Thailand Narcotics Act of 2022, the Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) concentration in herbal extracts must not exceed 0.2% by weight. This study aims to quantify the levels of Δ9-THC and cannabidiol (CBD) in commercial Suk-Saiyasna products. Methodology: This research utilizes Hansen Solubility Parameters (HSPs) to identify the optimal solvent for ultrasonic extraction, thereby maximizing cannabinoid yield. An advanced method was developed employing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), compliant with AOAC standards to meet regulatory guidelines. The method validation emphasized specificity, linearity, sensitivity, accuracy, and precision. Results: Dichloromethane was chosen due to its favorable HSP values, enabling highly efficient extraction of Δ9-THC and CBD, achieving recovery rates of over 99.9% after the second extraction. This investigation benefits from the accuracy of the UHPLC-MS/MS technique in quantifying cannabinoids in commercial products, with Δ9-THC concentrations observed between 0.00231% and 0.14218%, and CBD concentrations ranging from 0.00002% to 0.01541%, all remaining below the legal limit. Conclusions: The variability in cannabinoid concentrations among various commercial products highlights the need for standardization in the herbal industry. This finding underscores the critical role of rigorous quality control measures in ensuring the safety and efficacy of cannabis-derived products.

Antiedematogenic and anti-inflammatory effects of the essential oil from the fruits of Piper tuberculatum Jacq. (Piperaceae) in animal models.

Piper tuberculatum, traditionally known as 'pimenta-d'arda,' 'pimenta-longa,' or 'pimenta de macaco,' has been used in Brazilian folk medicine to treat inflammatory symptoms, It is used for its sedative effects in pain relief.Considering this species' significant essential oil content, the present study aimed to evaluate the anti-edematogenic and anti-inflammatory effects of the essential oil Piper tuberculatum (EOPT) in vivo. To this end, Swiss mice (Mus musculus) of both sexes were treated orally with the EOPT at 50, 100, and 250 mg/Kg. The rotarod and open field evaluated the potential activity in the central nervous system. At the same time, formalin and abdominal writhing tests were carried out to perform the pharmacological screening of the essential oil. Next, the anti-edematogenic effect was assessed using paw edema models induced by carrageenan, dextran, histamine, and arachidonic acid. The anti-inflammatory activity was then characterized in peritonitis (acute) and granuloma (chronic) models. All the EOPT doses (50, 100, and 250 mg/kg) had analgesic effects associated with anti-inflammatory mechanisms in screening models. Accordingly, the treatment (EOPT 100 mg/Kg) inhibited the inflammatory process in acute and chronic models. In conclusion, EOPT has analgesic, antiedematogenic, and anti-inflammatory effects, highlighting its potential use in developing anti-inflammatory drugs.

Comparative Anatomical, Histochemical, and Phytochemical Characterization of Species of the Genus Cucumis L.

Cucumis anguria L. and Cucumis dipsaceus Ehrenb. ex Spach belong to the Cucurbitaceae family and are popularly known as "maxixe." In folk medicine, they are used to treat pneumonia, hyperglycemia, wounds, and malaria. This study aims to characterize the anatomy, histochemistry, and phytochemistry of C. anguria and C. dipsaceus. Conventional methods in plant anatomy and microscopy were used to prepare and analyze semi-permanent slides containing cross-sections of the stem, petiole, leaves, and paradermal sections of the leaf blade. For the histochemical analysis, different reagents were used according to the target metabolite. Phytochemical tests of methanolic extracts of leaves were performed by thin-layer chromatography. The microscopic analysis allowed obtaining the differentiation of plant cells, the presence of tector and glandular trichomes, in addition to showing anatomical traits such as stem shape, petiole shape, and organization of the mesophyll. Histochemistry showed the presence of alkaloids, starch, phenolic compounds, lipophilic compounds, lignin, and tannins. Phytochemical prospection identified monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, triterpenes, steroids, alkaloids, and reducing sugars. The obtained results provide important information for quality control and species differentiation since there are few studies in the literature on these species.

Exploring lived experiences with tooth loss among fully edentulous patients attending Makerere University Dental Hospital, Kampala, Uganda

BackgroundOne of the most prevalent oral health issues affecting mankind is tooth loss. Besides extractions due to periodontal disease and caries, accidents and lack of dental knowledge can also result in tooth loss. Nevertheless, no known published studies have examined how edentulous patients in Uganda have lived with tooth loss. The objective of the present study was to investigate experiences of tooth loss among Ugandan edentulous patients attending Makerere University Dental Hospital.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional qualitative study using purposive recruitment of respondents. A total of 15 respondents were chosen from a variety of socio-economic groups. Qualitative data were collected using oral interviews in form of note taking and an audio-recorder. The data collected comprised the causes of tooth loss, the physical and psychological effects of losing teeth, the difficulties in managing oral hygiene when one is toothless, coping mechanisms, and supportive interventions after losing natural teeth. The collected data were transcribed and analyzed thematically using a software, Atlas Ti. The generated qualitative data were summarized as text, while demographic characteristics were presented in a table.ResultsOral infections such as periodontal disease (which destroy tooth supporting tissues), tooth decay and trauma from accidents were reportedly the main causes of tooth loss. In case of tooth pain as a first symptom, most patients choose self-medication with over-the-counter drugs and home remedies. They only consult dental professionals when the condition deteriorates. Tooth loss was associated with problems of eating, facial aesthetics and low self-esteem.ConclusionThe present study found that tooth loss was caused by periodontal disease, tooth decay and trauma from accidents. Loss of teeth was escalated by poor health seeking behavior. Tooth loss resulted in pain, eating difficulties, speech difficulties, poor facial appearance and consequently low self-esteem.

Studies on the Bioactivity (Antioxidant, Enzyme Inhibitory, Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic) and Chemical Composition of Aqueous Extracts of Some Plant Species Collected from Turkmenistan.

Alhagi persarum (AP), Alhagi persarum flowers (APF), Ephedra equisetina (EE) and Glycyrrhiza glabra root (GGR) have been utilized in Central Asian folk medicine for centuries. In the present study, antioxidant, enzyme inhibition, antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects the aqueous extracts of these plants were studied. In addition, 23 compounds were identified in the extracts using UHPLC-DAD-QqQ-MS/MS analysis. The four plant samples demonstrated promising antioxidant activities in vitro for scavenging of 2, 20-azinobis-(3-ethylbenz-thiazoline-6-sulphonate) radical (ABTS), 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), and total reducing power. AP (DPPH: 47.39 mg TE/g; ABTS:108.58 mg TE/g; CUPRAC: 117.41 mg TE/g; FRAP: 82.22 mg TE/g) and EE (DPPH: 46.75 mg TE/g; ABTS: 110.51 mg TE/g; CUPRAC: 140.77 mg TE/g; FRAP: 91.00 mg TE/g) displayed the strongest antiradical and reduction abilities in the test system. In terms of enzyme inhibition efficacy, AP and EE showed higher bioactivity. Aqueous extracts demonstrated the most potent efficacy against eight different bacterial and fungal strains in antibacterial (MIC values: 1.5-4 mg/ml) and antifungal (MIC values: 1-8 mg/ml) testing. Contrary to other activities, these aqueous extracts did not show cytotoxic effects against HaCaT cells. All bioactivities suggested that the plants could be utilized as candidate resources in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Qualitative Analysis of Daphnane Diterpenoids in Various Parts of Daphne pontica L. by UHPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap MS.

Daphne pontica L. is an evergreen shrub that is recorded as an anti-diarrheic plant in Turkish folk medicine. Previous studies on D. pontica have reported, albeit slightly, the isolation of daphnane diterpenoids, but no systematic phytochemical analysis of daphnane diterpenoids has been conducted. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate daphnane diterpenoids in the extracts from the different parts (stems, leaves, and fruits) of D. pontica. An ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with Q-Exactive hybrid quadrupole Orbitrap mass spectrometer (UHPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap MS) was used for the qualitative analysis of D. pontica. The stems, leaves, and fruits of D. pontica were extracted with diethyl ether. Each extract was then pretreated by a solid phase extraction cartridge and subjected to LC-MS/MS analysis. Detected daphnane diterpenoids were tentatively identified by comparison with an in-house daphnane library, and their chemical structures were estimated in detail by MS/MS fragmentation evaluation. A total of 33 kinds of daphnanes were identified from the different parts of D. pontica, and were classified into three subtypes: daphnane orthoester, polyhydroxy daphnane, and macrocyclic daphnane orthoester. Among them, six daphnanes were postulated to be previously unreported compounds based on MS/MS fragmentation elucidation. Furthermore, the three plant parts showed similar daphnane diterpenoid profiles, with the stems containing the most abundant daphnane diterpenoids. This is the first study to perform qualitative analysis of daphnane diterpenoids systematically and comprehensively in different parts of D. pontica. The results revealed that D. pontica is a plant resource rich in a variety of daphnane diterpenoids.

Cytotoxic Effects of Hibiscus surattensis L. Leaves Extracts on BSLT, MCF-7 and Hela Cells

Hibiscus surattensis L. leaves have been known as a folk medicine. Several previous reports have shown several potential therapeutic effects, including antidiabetic, antibacterial, anti-diarrheal, analgesic, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant, but no toxicity study is similar to the current one. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the cytotoxic effect of these commonly consumed medicinal leaves. This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity of Hibiscus surattensis L. leaves extract (HSL). The cytotoxic effect was determined through brine shrimp lethality bioassay (BSLT) and in vitro Presto Blue assay of MCF-7 and Hela cell. HSL extract was obtained by maceration using 96% ethanol. The BSLT results showed that the HSL has LC50 value of 224.814 μg/mL. MTT assay results showed the IC50 value of the HSL extract on MCF-7 cells was 1419.83 μg/mL, and Hela cells were 2050.50 μg/mL. Based on the LC50 value that has been analyzed against HSL extract shows an LC50 value of less than 1000 μg/mL which can be concluded while having potential cytotoxic activity against experimental animal larvae of A. salina Leach. The results of the cytotoxic test with Presto Blue assay on two cancer cells used showed that the HSL extract was not toxic.

Community beliefs and practices about diabetes and their implications for the prevention and management of diabetes in Southeast Ghana

BackgroundDiabetes is a major public health issue, and over half a billion people are estimated to be living with diabetes, with 6.7 million deaths reported in 2021. The global diabetes burden has been recognised and included in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to achieve a zero increase in diabetes cases and reduce one-third of premature diabetes deaths by 2030. However, local beliefs about the causes of diabetes have affected its prevention and management. This study examined community beliefs and practices about diabetes and how they affect the prevention and management of diabetes in the community.MethodsThis study was carried out in the Ho Municipality of the Volta Region of Ghana. We conducted 33 in-depth interviews with 18 patients with diabetes, 5 carers (caretakers of patients with diabetes), 3 traditional healers, 2 religious leaders, 3 community elders, and 2 assembly members who were purposefully selected from urban and rural areas across the municipality. The interviews were recorded digitally and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was applied to analyse the data using QRS NVivo 20.ResultsDiabetes was described locally as sukli dɔ (sugar disease), which affects humans. Diabetes is believed to be caused by spiritual forces (juju, bewitchment, and punishment from gods) and physical factors (unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, eating fruits and vegetables sprayed with pesticides and insecticides, sugary and starchy foods, smoking, and abuse of alcohol). In terms of the management of diabetes, participants said traditional remedies are performed for spiritual interpretation, deliverance, fortification, and cleansing before biomedical and physical remedies are sought. Diabetes was likened to HIV/AIDS, and the sufferers were described as bringing the condition upon themselves as a result of their bad deeds. They were stigmatised, coupled with delays at the hospital, and poverty has also affected the prevention and management of diabetes.ConclusionThe local belief that diabetes is caused by spiritual forces, likened to HIV/AIDS, delays at hospitals, and poverty, has affected the prevention and management of diabetes. Incorporating local beliefs and practices into the intervention design using culturally sensitive health education programmes and improving social determinants of health may help improve the prevention and management of diabetes in communities.

Accurate Acupoint Localization in 2D Hand Images: Evaluating HRNet and ResNet Architectures for Enhanced Detection Performance

Introduction: This research assesses HRNet and ResNet architectures for their precision in localizing hand acupoints on 2D images, which is integral to automated acupuncture therapy. Objectives: The primary objective was to advance the accuracy of acupoint detection in traditional Korean medicine through the application of these advanced deep-learning models, aiming to improve treatment efficacy. Background: Acupoint localization in traditional Korean medicine is crucial for effective treatment, and the study aims to enhance this process using advanced deep-learning models. Methods: The study employs YOLOv3, YOLOF, and YOLOX-s for object detection within a top-down framework, comparing HRNet and ResNet architectures. These models were trained and tested using datasets annotated by technicians and their mean values, with performance evaluated based on Average Precision at two IoU thresholds. Results: HRNet consistently demonstrated lower mean distance errors across various acupoints compared to ResNet, particularly at a 256x256 pixel resolution. Notably, the HRNet-w48 model surpassed human annotators, including medical experts, in localization accuracy. Conclusion: HRNet's superior performance in acupoint localization suggests its potential to improve the precision and efficacy of acupuncture treatments. The study highlights the promising role of machine learning in enhancing traditional medical practices and underscores the importance of accurate acupoint localization in clinical acupuncture.

Emergence of African Traditional Medicine: Understanding the Learning Process and Pedagogic Implications for Adolescents of the North West Region of Cameroon

This article examines the global debates about indigenous knowledge and Africa’s traditional medicine from the pedagogy perspective. This study investigated the emergence of African traditional medicine with keen attention on understanding the learning/apprenticeship process and deducing pedagogic implications for adolescents’ learners in the North west Region of Cameroon. Specifically, the paper examined the extent, traditional medicine influence the development of cognitive skills in adolescents. The development of cognitive skills in late adolescents is marked by social competence, decision making, and problem solving. A conceptual review of the major concepts was done. Theoretically, the article was anchored on the social learning theory of Bandura (1977). A convergent parallel mixed method research design was used. The sample of the study emerged through purposive and convenient sampling techniques. A pilot study was done with 10 participants. Interviews were conducted with 15 elders and a questionnaire for 150 adolescents drawn from 6 villages in Oku Subdivision, namely: Elak, Jikijem, Lui, Manchok, Keyon and Simonkoh. Quantitative data was entered using EpiData Version 3.1 (EpiData Association, Odense Denmark, 2008) and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Standard version, Release 21.0 (IBM Inc. 2012). Interviews and focus group discussions were transcribed verbatim. Each interview or focus group was prepared as a single primary document and assigned for coding and analysis in Atlas.Ti 5.2 software (Atlas.ti Scientific Software Development GmbH, Berlin, Germany). Statistically the weight of traditional medicine = 80.3%; Traditional medicine (R=0.382; P=0.000);. These are marked by alertness, critical thinking, decision making, social competence, problem solving, imagination, mathematical abilities, etc. From the study it is recommended that indigenous practices be taught formally in schools and that indigenous medicines be studied more keenly and upgraded.

A Bird’s Eye View on the Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) In Ayurveda

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Ayurveda marks a significant advancement in traditional medical practices. This review article explores AI's multifaceted uses and relevance in the conventional Healthcare industry and Ayurveda. It also highlights the transformative potential of AI in Ayurveda while acknowledging the importance of maintaining the holistic essence of traditional practices. By embracing AI, Ayurveda can evolve to meet contemporary healthcare demands, offering a synergistic approach that combines ancient wisdom with cutting-edge technology. The article concludes with a discussion about the future of Ayurveda in the era of Artificial Intelligence.

Versatile properties of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flowers: In vitro exploration of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities, network pharmacology analysis, and In-silico molecular docking simulation.

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. has been used in folk medicine against several diseases. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the chemical composition of the methanolic extract of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flowers and their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Besides, network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to explore the potential antitumor effect of active metabolites of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. against breast and liver cancer. The results revealed many bioactive components known for their antimicrobial and anticancer properties. Furthermore, scavenging activity was obtained, which indicated strong antioxidant properties. The plant extract exhibited antimicrobial activities against Aspergillus brasiliensis (MIC of 0.625 mg/mL), Candida albicans, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at MICs of 1.25 mg/mL. The results revealed proapoptotic activities of the O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. extract against MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and HepG2 cell lines, where it induced significant early apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at sub-G1 phases, besides increasing the expression levels of p53, cyclin D1, and caspase 3 (p <0.005). The network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis revealed that the anticancer components of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flower extract targets the PI3K-Akt pathway. More investigations might be required to test the mechanistic pathways by which O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. might exhibit its biological activities in vivo.

Pharmacognostic Standardization and Chemical Study of Euphorbia nutans Lag. Euphorbiaceae

Aims: This study was designed to set macro/micro morphological standards, phytochemical and physicochemical parameters for the identification of E. nutans, a traditional remedy for the management of many disesases. Study Design: To establish pharmacognostic standards for proper identification of E. nutans and also study its phytochemicals using Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Place and Duration: This work was undertaken at the Department of Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria for three month spanning from April through June, 2022. Methodology: Examination of microscopic characters, venation, chemomicroscopy, micromeritic properties, fluorescence analysis and phytochemical profiling using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) were carried out. Results: Epidermal cell shapes were irregular with undulate-sinuous anticlinal walls. Stomatal distribution was amphistomatic with anisocytic and anomocytic stomata on both surfaces. Areolation was quadrangular, linear and biforked vein termination. The fluorescence characteristics showed the presence of different colours supporting the presence of various phytoconstituents for both leaf and stem. The flow properties for both leaf and stem were poor while GC-MS analysis of the dichloromethane extracts revealed lupeol (64.05%), 2-methylhexacosane (9.37%), stigmasterol (4.16%) and campesterol (1.29%) as major components in the leaf while campesterol (0.67%), stigmasterol (2.15 %), beta.-sitosterol (6.22%), lupeol (9.85%) and vitamin E (1.05%) for the stem extract. Conclusion: The results of the study could be useful for correct identification, standardization and preparation of monograph.

Moss Species Discovered in Absheron National Park

Detailed information is given on the distribution, ecology, botanical properties and uses of mosses studied in the Absheron National Park, in Azerbaijan and in the world. The types identified as a result of the study are shown and information about their relevance is given. The main objective of the study was to evaluate modern scientific knowledge about the biomorphological properties of 9 species of moss, its use in traditional and folk medicine, its properties, presence and their impact on various diseases. As a result of the study, Grimmia Hedw of the family Grimmiaceae Arnott. 6 species belonging to the genus (Grimmia unicolor Hook, Grimmia pulvinata (Hedw.) Sm., Grimmia reflexidens Müll., Grimmia muehlenbeckii Schimp., Grimmia trichophylla Grev., Grimmia anomala Hampe.), Orthotrichum Hedw. of Orthotrichaceae Arnotta family. belonging to the genus, (Orthotrichum spesiosum Nees in Sturum, Orthotrichum strangulatum P. Beauv), Fontinalaceae Schimp. of the family Fontinalis Hedw. of the genus Fontinalis antipyritica Hedw. types have been discovered. As a result of scientific research, 9 species of moss were discovered. Of them: Grimmia muehlenbeckii Schimp. as a species is new to the bryoflora of Azerbaijan.

Exploring Antidiabetic Properties of Medicinal Plants in Malaria-Affected Regions

This study investigates the potential antidiabetic properties of medicinal plants commonly used in malaria-affected regions. Diabetes and malaria, both prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, often co-occur, posing unique challenges for healthcare management. Traditional remedies, including medicinal plants, have been widely employed to treat both diseases. This paper reviews the ethnobotanical use of plants with antidiabetic properties in areas where malaria is endemic, analyzing their pharmacological mechanisms, such as glucose transport inhibition and insulin sensitization. The synergistic relationship between malaria and diabetes is also examined, with an emphasis on shared pathophysiological mechanisms, such as oxidative stress and altered blood flow. The paper highlights the need for further clinical research to standardize the use of these plants and enhance their therapeutic potential. Keywords: Antidiabetic properties, medicinal plants, malaria, diabetes, ethnobotany.