Use Of Traditional Herbal Medicine Research Articles

Health system factors influencing traditional herbal medicine use during pregnancy amongst women in Mpigi District, Central Uganda.

An estimated 80% of the population in developing countries is dependent on traditional medicine for their health needs, including use during pregnancy despite limited knowledge of potential side effects including teratogenicity. Controlling use of traditional medicines during pregnancy requires understanding the driving factors. This study aimed at determining the health system factors that influence traditional herbal medicine use during pregnancy in a Ugandan setting. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 315 post-partum women obtained by random sampling from post-natal clinics of health facilities in Mpigi District after informed consent. We carried out concurrent triangulation by conducting two focused group discussions of 10 post-natal mothers each, and four Key informant interviews. Quantitative Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis. Qualitative data was analyzed by thematic content analysis and presented as narratives. Prevalence of herbal medicine use during pregnancy was 79% (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 68.1% - 86.9%), mainly consumed through oral route (96%). Costly health care adjusted Prevalence Ratio (aPR) 1.61 (95% CI 1.02-2.53), p-value 0.042, and presence and influence of Traditional Birth Attendants aPR 1.21(95% CI 1.05-1.41), p-value 0.011 were significantly associated with use of traditional herbal medicines during pregnancy. Use of traditional herbal medicines is driven by the high costs of quality health care and influence from Traditional Birth Attendants. Innovations in health financing should be promoted and Traditional Birth Attendants should be sensitized and incorporated in the mainstream health care system as community referral agents.

Cost of Traditional Herbal Medicines for Noncommunicable Diseases in Rural and Urban Communities in South Africa

ObjectivesThis study assessed traditional herbal medicine (THM) and conventional medicine (CM) utilization among participants with noncommunicable disease in South Africa. MethodsA cross-sectional study of the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiological study collected data through face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires in 2014. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression were used to determine the effect of sociodemographic and economic factors on THM and CM use. All statistical analyses were conducted using the statistical computing and graphics language “R.” ResultsOf the total 417 randomly selected participants in this study, 85% were females, 95% with no health insurance, and 81% with monthly incomes of <2000 rand (R) ($137 equivalent) per month. Moreover, 73% spend <R100 per month (6.85 US dollar conversion) on THM compared with 46% of families spending <R100 on CM last year; 7% spent >5% of their income on THM, and 10% say they are willing to pay >R500 per year on THM to feel better. Age was significantly associated with different spending patterns after controlling for other demographic factors, given that older adults were 82% (odds ratio 0.18; 95% confidence interval 0.02-0.93) less likely to pay >R100 for THM whereas younger adults were 59% (odds ratio 0.41; 95% confidence interval 0.17-0.97) less likely to pay for CM. ConclusionsThe cost of using THM and CM largely differed by age. The economic insight into this study reveals individuals more willing to pay for THM to payors, which can ultimately clue payors into areas for medication optimization from potential drug-drug interactions and adverse events and, therefore, reduce healthcare costs.

Socio-Demographic and Clinical Profiles of End-Stage Renal Disease Patients Undergoing Haemodialysis in Gaborone, Botswana

Background Chronic kidney disease has been on the rise worldwide as well as in sub- Saharan Africa. End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is a major public health problem worldwide and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. There is a dearth of data on the epidemiology of ESRD patients on renal replacement therapy in sub-Saharan Africa including Botswana. Aim To describe the socio-demographic and clinical profiles of ESRD participants on haemodialysis by gender and HIV status in Botswana. Methods A cross sectional study involving participants undergoing maintenance haemodialysis in three centers was conducted between February and June 2019. Data was analysed using Stata 14 statistical software. Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test and t-test were used to determine association between socio-demographic/clinical characteristics and gender/HIV status. Results Overall, 107 participants were enrolled and 65.4% were males. Their mean age± standard deviation at the time of initiation of haemodialysis was 47.5+13.0 years. The prevalence of HIV-infection, diabetes mellitus and hypertension were 24.3%, 26.2% and 90.7%, respectively. The regular use of traditional medicine was ascertained in 43.9% of participants. HIV-infection was significantly associated with hypertension (p=0.04) and low body mass index (p<0.01). Reported use of traditional herbal medicine was a significant associated factor among males (p= 0.01). Unemployment rate among participants was 41.1%, with 54.5% of these participants attributing their unemployment to ill health, with women significantly more affected than men (p=0.04). Conclusion Hypertension was the most common associated factor among our study participants. Participants on maintenance haemodialysis in our study were mostly males. Traditional herbal medicine use was significantly more common in men whereas female participants appeared to have higher prevalence of obesity compared to male counterparts. HIV-infected participants were significantly more likely to have low body mass index and be hypertensive. Women were significantly more likely to be unemployed due to ill health as compared to men. Prospective studies with large sample sizes are recommended to help understanding the role of individual associated factors in causing ESRD in Botswana and similar settings in sub-Saharan Africa.

Современные подходы к назначению фитопрепаратов

12 апреля в Киеве состоялась пресс-конференция, организованная фармацевтической компанией «Бионорика» — уникальным производителем лекарственных препаратов с 80-летней мировой историей. Научный подход к применению растений в медицине — это использование традиционной фитотерапии и инновационных технологий. Компании «Бионорика» принадлежит не имеющая аналогов концепция фитониринга, которая соединяет расшифровку механизмов действия растений (ФИТО) с использованием инновационных технологий и современных научных методов (инжиниринг). Представляя собой гармоничное сочетание веками проверенных возможностей лекарственных растений с самыми высокими технологиями, современными достижениями науки и техники, концепция очень востребована на сегодняшний день.

Synergistic Antitumor Activity of SH003 and Docetaxel via EGFR Signaling Inhibition in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is overexpressed in lung cancer patients. Despite treatment with various EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors, recurrence and metastasis of lung cancer are inevitable. Docetaxel (DTX) is an effective conventional drug that is used to treat various cancers. Several researchers have studied the use of traditional herbal medicine in combination with docetaxel, to improve lung cancer treatment. SH003, a novel herbal mixture, exerts anticancer effects in different cancer cell types. Here, we aimed to investigate the apoptotic and anticancer effects of SH003 in combination with DTX, in human non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). SH003, with DTX, induced apoptotic cell death, with increased expression of cleaved caspases and cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase in NSCLC cells. Moreover, SH003 and DTX induced the apoptosis of H460 cells via the suppression of the EGFR and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathways. In H460 tumor xenograft models, the administration of SH003 or docetaxel alone diminished tumor growth, and their combination effectively killed cancer cells, with increased expression of apoptotic markers and decreased expression of p-EGFR and p-STAT3. Collectively, the combination of SH003 and DTX may be a novel anticancer strategy to overcome the challenges that are associated with conventional lung cancer therapy.

Trend and pattern of using herbal medicines among people who are aware of their diabetes mellitus: results from National STEPs Surveys in 2005 to 2011 in Iran.

Use of traditional herbal medicines especially by those affected by chronic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus is important. The objective of this study was to assess trend and Pattern of using traditional herbal medicines by diabetic population in Iran. The results of this study are extracted from the National Stepwise approach to chronic disease risk factor surveillance (STEPs), conducted in 2005- 2016 in Iran. A total of 3095 Iranian diabetic individuals, aged more than 25years in 2005, 1470 diabetics in 2006, 1633 diabetics in 2007, 1652 diabetics in 2008, 1563 diabetics in 2009, and 1005 diabetics in 2011 were included in this study. We couldn't use data in 2016 because in 2016, traditional herbal use has not been questioned. First, a descriptive analysis of the study variables and prevalence of herbal use for each year, was performed. Thereafter, to determine which variables were independent predictors of adherence to herbal use, we performed multivariate logistic regression. Using traditional herbal medicines among Iranian adult population was increased from 11.1 (9.98-12.20) in 2005 to 23.5 (20.87-26.25) in 2011. The results show increase in herbal medicine use in all age groups, both urban and rural areas, and both male and female over time. Also, we found that using traditional herbal medicines was more common among female compared with male (24.2% versus 21.8%), older than middle-aged people (24.4% versus 15.9%), and people living in urban areas compared with rural area (24.13% versus 20.95%) in 2011. The use of traditional herbs for treatment, alone or in combination with other therapies by the patients who have diabetes has increased over the time. Considering the high level of using traditional herbal medicines in treatment of diabetes and because of the possible herb-drug interactions, policymakers need to take appropriate interventions to control herb store and increase people's knowledge about the herbal usage.

Quantitative and qualitative analyses of herbal medication use among Ghanaian stroke survivors

BackgroundHerbal medicines are not regulated by regulatory authorities and are often not of proven safety and efficacy. Anecdotal reports suggest widespread use of traditional herbal medicine (THM) for treatment of stroke in Africa, but verifiable data are limited in published literature. ObjectiveTo assess the frequency and reasons for THM use among Ghanaian stroke survivors. MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey of 106 consecutive stroke survivors presenting for care at a tertiary medical center in Kumasi, Ghana between June and October 2020. Information on demographic, clinical, vascular risk factors and use of THM were collected in a non-judgmental manner and analyzed. ResultsAmong the cohort, 46 (43.4%) reported use of any THM for their stroke management. There was a trend towards fewer women who reported use of THM 34.8% vs 53.3%, p = 0.06. Of those reporting use of THM, 78% had blood pressure > 140/90 mmHg vs. 56% among those not exposed to THM (p = 0.02). Top reasons proffered for use of THM were: expecting them to aid faster recovery from stroke (n = 30), expecting them to cure stroke (n = 18), and expecting them to be of superior effectiveness compared to approved conventional medications of proven efficacy/safety (n = 1). ConclusionAlmost half the individuals in this contemporary sample of Ghanaian stroke survivors reported use of THM with expectations for improved outcomes. More counseling is required to inform patients about potential safety issues with THM use, and more research is needed to explore risk/benefit of promising THMs to improve stroke outcomes.

Ocular Complications Resulting from the Use of Traditional Herbal Medicine in Central Saudi Arabia: A Review.

The present paper reviewed the ocular complications resulting from the use of traditional eye medicine in Central Saudi Arabia. We performed a literature search of the PubMed database using the keywords “traditional medicine,” “herbal medicine,” “ocular injuries,” and “visual impairments,” covering all years available for peer-reviewed full-text articles, letters, and review chapters of books. An additional search was performed in Google Scholar. All published materials were in English. Several ocular symptoms and disorders, including conjunctival cicatrization, symblepharon formation, obliteration of the fornices and the canaliculi, keratinization of the cornea, dryness, central corneal thinning, and corneal epithelial defect, have been associated with the use of traditional herbal medicine. In addition, the use of traditional eye medicine may result in corneal edema, opacity, ulceration, and perforation. Early recognition of ocular injuries could avoid or at least delay long-term sequelae. Ophthalmologists should be aware of the side effects of traditional remedies. Furthermore, public education, early detection of symptoms, and timely intervention may prevent permanent damage to the eyes.

Ethnobotanical Study of Plants Used for Human Ailments in Yilmana Densa and Quarit Districts of West Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Like other populations of developing countries, most of the populations of Ethiopia depend greatly on the use of traditional herbal medicines as the primary source of health care. However, these resources have been degraded throughout the country. Therefore, recording and documenting medicinal plants are essential for the future conservation of the species. Thus, the current study is related to this issue. Three hundred ninety-five informants participated in this study. The main data collection tools were semistructured interviews, discussions, and observation. The data were analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The quantitative methods (informant consensus factor, fidelity level) were used to analyze the level of homogeneity of the data, the agreements of informants, and the healing potential of medicinal plants. The ranking exercises (preference and direct matrix ranking) were used to quantify the most preferred and multipurpose medicinal plants. A statistical test was conducted using SPSS version 20 to test knowledge differences among the people. Following the analysis, 112 species of medicinal plants with 62 families were recorded. Most of the species were herbs, of which Fabaceae was the dominant family. Blood pressure and asthma were the most commonly reported human health problems. Most of the remedies were prepared from leaves, and most of them were prepared by pounding and were applied orally. Gastrointestinal diseases had the highest informant consensus. Five medicinal plants were recorded with the highest healing potential value for malaria, asthma, tapeworm, cough, and stomach ulcer. Verbascum sinaiticum Benth. was the most preferred medicinal plant in treating blood pressure. Trigonella foenum-graecum L. had the highest use value. The analysis results showed that local people showed significant knowledge differences (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the indigenous people have a wealth of indigenous herbal knowledge. Therefore, to sustain the wealth of indigenous knowledge of the districts, immediate and well-designed conservation practices of medicinal plants should be conducted.

Implementation of the Use of Ethnomedicinal Plants for Curing Diseases in the Indian Himalayas and Its Role in Sustainability of Livelihoods and Socioeconomic Development.

In recent times, the use of traditional herbal medicines in healthcare has declined, particularly amongst the rural population. This implies a risk of losing vital information from previous generations regarding plants and their use in traditional medicine. The objective of this study is to catalog the ways employed by inhabitants of the Garhwal Himalayas as part of their traditional approaches to healthcare. Information was gathered through snowball sampling using a questionnaire combined with informal interviews. This was supplemented by discussions with peers and practitioners prominent in this healing technique. The homogeneity within ethnomedicinal knowledge of these rural residents was tested using the informant consensus factor (Fic). The calculation of the fidelity value (FL) and the cultural importance index (CI) were made regarding the population’s dependency on plants. A total of 88 plant species from 44 families and 80 genera were identified as medicines for various complaints. Leaves were the most frequently used plant part followed by fruits, seeds, roots, bark, and flowers/buds. The largest number of taxa (15 species) were used for treatment of skin ailments (with Fic score of 0.85) followed by wounds, coughs, and digestive problems. There was a significant relationship observed between the medicinal plants used and distance (time of access) and family income. The present study will provide baseline information to be established for future research. The available information could help to discover new drugs for the pharmaceutical industry. Thus, the study revealed that the plants that have high scores of FL and CI can be used to discover new drug extraction in the future for further studies.

Wound Healing Potential of Ya-RakSa-Phlae: a Traditional Thai Herbal Recipe

Wound healing is a normal human response which suddenly occurs after the injury. An inappropriate response of the healing process can result in the problem of chronic wounds. Nowadays, use of traditional herbal medicine for wound treatment is occurring popularly. It is getting to be important, showing a huge impact on the global health care system. Ya-RakSa-Phlae” (YRSP) is a traditional Thai herbal recipe that has been traditionally used for wound treatment for a long time. However, there are no scientific researches confirming the efficiency of YRSP. This study was aimed to preliminarily investigate the related-wound biological and wound healing properties of the ethanolic extract of Ya-RakSa-Phlae recipe (E-YRSP) to prove its traditional property. E-YRSP possessed anti-bacterial activity with MIC 16-1,024 μg/mL against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Moreover, it was found to inhibit inflammation with IC50 up to 1,000 μg/mL and oxidation with IC50 ranged from 6-20 μg/mL. It was noted that activities of E-YRSP on anti-infection, anti-inflammation, and anti-oxidation markedly resulted in a competent wound healing efficacy. Phenolic compounds were abundantly found in E-YRSP as a large group of phytochemical constituents including catechin, rutin, demethoxycurcumin, luteolin, curcumin, and mangostin which might be a bioactive agent for wound healing promotion. This study has confirmed that YRSP obviously possessed strong wound healing activity as well as other biological properties associated with wound healing including, anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-bacteria. Therefore, it is worthwhile to further study on its mechanisms on wound healing process and also to develop as an alternative treatment for wound treatment.

Acute and subacute toxicity study of the methanolic extract ofolea europea.Lleaves in Wistar rat

Olea europea.L(olive tree) is a plant widely used in the world. Its leaves have an extensive use in traditional herbal medicine to prevent and/or treat several diseases especially in Mediterranean regions. Despite this, research into the study of its toxicity is very limited in the literature. For this, this study aims to study the acute and subacute toxicity of methanolic extract olive leaves in Wistar rats. To study acute toxicity, four dose levels (50,300,2000 and 5000 mg/kg body weight) were tested by single oral administration to Wistar rats. The subacute toxicity for 28 days was conducted by daily oral administration of methanolic extract of olive leaves at doses 1000,2000 and 3000 mg/kg in rats Wistar. After fourteen days of the administration of escalating doses, no deaths were recorded in the animals and no clinically detectable signs were observed. The results of subacute toxicity showed that the body weight of rats was not significantly changed by administration of methanolic extract of olive leaves. Monitoring of the behavior of the rats during the study showed the appearance of some manifestations of tremor, agitation and diarrhea in rats treated with the dose of 3000mg/kg. Grosse examination of the kidneys and liver revealed no changes in those organs and histopathological examination showed congestion and inflammation of the fat in rats treated with the dose of 3000mg/kg. the hematological profile showed no significant changes of the measured hematological parameters. Olive leaves should be used with care and caution since its methanolic extract caused some signs of toxicity and may affect the liver at repeated dose. however, more studies are needed to verify and clarify the toxic aspect ofolea europea.Lleaves.

Research progress of qiweibaizhu powder in treating digestive system diseases

Diarrhea is a common clinical problem that can lead to health complications, including death. It is the second-most common cause of death in children. The World Health Organization introduced a program to encourage the development and use of traditional herbal medicines in the treatment of diarrhea. Qiweibaizhu Powder (QWBZP) is a well-known pediatric prescription in China that is commonly used to treat digestive system diseases, such as diarrhea, which is also a type of syndrome in traditional Chinese medicine. Many studies have examined the clinical effects and mechanisms of QWBZP, and innovative and improved formulations have been developed. Recent studies on the effects of QWBZP on diarrhea caused by human rotavirus, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and mesenteric lymphadenitis in experimental models and clinical trials with diarrhea patients have been reviewed. We conducted a literature search of several databases, including PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chongqing VIP Information Co., Ltd., and Wanfang. A short background of the QWBZP is also provided. The collective findings highlight the curative effects of QWBZP on diarrhea caused by viral infection, antibiotic use, and mesenteric lymphadenitis. Furthermore, QWBZP can regulate the balance of the gastrointestinal microbiota and protect and repair the intestinal mucosal barrier. This review will provide a reference for further studies on QWBZP.

Greening Faith and Herbology in Pentecostalism in Zimbabwe

Abstract The role of religion in ecological discourse has gained ground in the quest to improve people’s lives in society. Herbal medicine is known to treat complex diseases. However, there are complexities in protecting the environment since herbal medicine entails having an in-depth understanding of traditional knowledge systems, beliefs, and practices. Pentecostal churches in Zimbabwe such as the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) have remained impervious to the widespread campaign promoting the use of herbs as an effective healing treatment. Divine healing is central to the AFM, and thus they view traditional herbal medicines as originating from evil spirits, despite scriptures referring to herbs as both food and medicine. Accordingly, developing a theology of ‘greening faith’ in the AFM will foster a constructive attitude toward the use of traditional herbal medicines. This article examines the position of the AFM on traditional herbal medicine and utilises ecotheology as its theoretical framework together with data gathered through in-depth interviews. The article concludes that the AFM should consciously use faith to protect the environment and promote the health and well-being of its believers.

Comparison of the prevalence of non-communicable diseases and traditional herbal medicine use in urban and rural communities in South Africa

BackgroundTo quantify the use of traditional herbal medicines (THM), we documented the prevalence of specific health conditions, the use of THM and the influences and reasons for using indigenous treatment practices. MethodsA cross-sectional descriptive study using a homogenous purposive sampling among 721 South Africans living in rural and urban black South African communities. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data between April–October 2014 on clinical/medical history, health-seeking behavior, and Traditional Herbal Medicine (THM) use. Descriptive, bivariate and multivariable analyses was done using R. ResultsMajority of participants (77.5%) were from the urban area. More than (90%) had no health insurance, and 80% had monthly income of< R2000 (equivalent to $ 126) in both urban and rural areas. Most participants had NCD irrespective of location, but prevalence was higher amongst urban dwellers (61%). Hypertension was found to be the most dominant cardiovascular disease risk factor. Rural participants had statistically significant higher rates of hypertension (67.1%) and diabetes (32.1%). Use of THM was significantly associated with recommendations by family or colleagues. Participants who reported poorer health status in rural areas used THM more than those in urban areas. Using multiple logistic regression, rural participants have greater than 12-to-1 odds of being THM users than urban participants (odds ratio [OR]=12.62; 95% confidence interval [CI]=(4.09, 55.34)). ConclusionsNCDs were more prevalent in urban communities with hypertension being the most prevalent. There is widespread use of THM across South Africa. Rural residents and individuals of low social economic status rely more on THM. These findings suggest a need for systematic and larger studies to understand the magnitude and predictors of variation in access to and use of healthcare services, as these are critical to developing effective culturally appropriate interventions for approaching hard-to-reach patients. Helping patients navigate the complex healthcare system is the hallmark of a responsive system of care.

A comparative ethno-religious study of traditionally used medicinal plants employed in the management of cardiovascular diseases

BackgroundDespite the availability of conventional medicine, Mauritians have a deep-rooted interest in the use of traditional herbal medicines (THMs) for the management of diseases. Nonetheless, there is currently a dearth of study that specifically addresses the extent of use of THMs among cardiovascular patients. PurposeTo document THMs employed against cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and to highlight cultural similarities and differences in their use among different religious groups. MethodsInformants (n = 384) were recruited via a face-to-face interview using a semi-structured questionnaire. Quantitative indexes, (frequency index (FI), informant consensus factor (ICF), cultural importance index (CII), and Jaccard similarity index (JSI)) were calculated. Pearson Chi-Squared test was performed to measure the relationship between demographic characteristics and use of TMs. ResultsOne hundred plants and 19 polyherbal formulations (PHF) were reported to be used against CVDs. Fruit (42.8 %) was the most used plant part and juice (27.8 %) was the most frequently reported method of preparation of plant based remedies. Based on the FI, Citrus limon scored the highest value (FI = 9.1). Hypertensive disease category was the most cited ailment category with the highest informant consensus factor (ICF = 0.65). The CII showed that Ocimum tenuiflorum, Camellia sinensis, Murraya koenigi, and Citrus limon were the culturally most important plants among Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Buddhist, respectively. The highest similarity of plant usage was between the Hindu and Muslim community (JSI = 90.9). ConclusionsThis research provides a basis of comparative preliminary documentation and analysis of therapies used to treat CVDs. More research is needed with a focus on pharmacological investigations to discover useful bioactive constituents.

Isolation and NMR Characterisation of a Pentacyclic Triterpenoid from chloroform fraction of Ageratum conyzoides Linn stem bark

This study was carried out to identify the bioactive constituents of the stem barks of Ageratum conyzoides Linn a medicinally important plant of the Asteraceae family. This plant was selected on the basis of its widespread use in traditional herbal medicine A pentacyclic triterpenoid lupeol was isolated from the chloroform soluble fraction of the ethanol extract of the stem barks of Ageratum conyzoides a plant know to have potent pharmacological properties, antiangiogenic, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory in nature using a combination of silica gel column chromatography and preparative TLC. The structure of this compound was elucidated using NMR spectroscopic analysis (1D&amp; 2D) FTIR and MS, by comparison with reported data. This is the first report of isolation of this compound from Ageratum conyzoides.

Antimalarial Efficacy and Toxicological Assessment of Extracts of Some Ghanaian Medicinal Plants.

The economic costs associated with morbidity and mortality due to malaria and malaria associated complications in many sub-Saharan countries and other malaria endemic regions of the world are huge. Reports of emergence of parasite resistance to current malaria drugs have complicated malaria treatment and require the development of new therapeutic agents. The folkloric use of medicinal plants for the management of malaria is well documented. This work evaluated the antiplasmodial activities and toxicity of some medicinal plants used to treat malaria and malaria-like symptoms in Ghana. Plant extracts were obtained by cold maceration in 70% ethanol. Antiplasmodial efficacies were assessed in vitro against 3 strains of Plasmodium falciparum strains (FCM, W2, and CAM06) and in vivo via the 4-day suppressive test in Plasmodium berghei infected mice. Cytotoxicity and acute toxicity were assessed in mammalian cells and mice, respectively. All extracts were active against at least one of the Plasmodium falciparum strains in in vitro evaluations with IC50's in the range of 4–116 μg/mL, whereas Bidens pilosa extracts, with a chemosuppression rate of 75%, was the most active plant in the in vivo experiments. All plant extracts displayed very weak to no cytotoxicity against the mammalian cell line used and exhibited very good selectivity towards the Plasmodium parasites. Syzygium guineense and Parinari congensis extracts were the most toxic in the acute toxicity tests. Altogether, the results indicate that the medicinal plants do possess impressive antiplasmodial properties and provide scientific basis for their use in traditional herbal medicine.

The role of explanatory models of chronic hepatitis B on illness experience: a qualitative study of Vietnamese participants in Australia

ABSTRACT Objective: This study utilises Kleinman’s theory of explanatory models of health and illness to explore the experience of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) among Vietnamese people living in Australia. It examines how these explanatory models are formed and shaped by the broader community, and the extent to which this influences understandings and responses to CHB. Design: This study is based on semi-structured interviews with 22 Vietnamese people with CHB in Melbourne, Australia. The individual interviews ranged from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours in length, and were electronically recorded, translated where necessary and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were thematically coded using NVivo 10, with coding themes guided by categories identified in Kleinman’s explanatory models framework. Results: Fundamental to most participants’ narratives was the profound impact of cultural, social and economic environments on their understandings and responses to CHB. Regardless of socio-demographic background, most participants juxtaposed biomedical elements of CHB with their own existing humoral-based health belief system. In the context of a chronic asymptomatic condition that, for the most part, does not require pharmaceutical treatment, a humoral-based health belief system provided a familiar conceptual framework from which participants could immediately respond and take control of their infection. This was observed through changes in diet and lifestyle, and the use of traditional herbal medicine in an attempt to ‘cure’ or halt the progression of their infection. Conclusions: By speaking to people living with CHB directly, it became clear that there is a disjuncture between what is commonly assumed by the biomedical model of CHB and what is understood by individuals with the infection. The public health burden of CHB will continue unless the healthcare system, including public health policies, deliver a hepatitis B model of care that is responsive to the needs and expectations of priority populations.

Prevalence and Factors Associated With Herbal Medicine Use among HIV Positive Patients on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy in Selected Hospitals in Nairobi County

Background: Traditional remedies have been used for many years in Africa to treat various ailments before the introduction of conventional medicines into the continent. Concurrent use of traditional herbal medicines (THM) with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is widespread among HIV infected patients. Studies done in different parts of the world show conflicting health outcomes among HIV positive patients using HAART and herbal medicine concurrently with some reporting better health outcomes while others report increased risk of adverse drug reactions. However, the extent of THM use is not known in most settings in Sub-Saharan Africa Kenya included. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with THM use among HIV infected patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) attending two comprehensive care centers in Nairobi County. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Kenyatta National Teaching and Referral Hospital and Mbagathi District Hospital. From the two centers a total of 370 participants were selected via systematic random sampling. The participants included were those aged 18 years and above, on HAART, and had consented to participate in the study. Data was collected using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire seeking information on herbal medicine use, socio-demographic and economic factors associated with herbal medicine use and the association between herbal medicine use and occurrence of adverse drug reactions. THM use referred to someone who had ever used or was currently using herbal medicine while on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) by the time of the study. Data was captured in excel sheet and exported to STATA for analysis. Results: The study established that the prevalence of herbal medicine use among HIV positive patients taking HAART was 15.5%. About 77.8% of the patients who had used herbal medicine had never disclosed to the doctor or any health care worker at the CCC about their herbal medicine use. Herbal medicine use led to decreased adherence to HAART. The longer the duration between HIV diagnosis and HAART start, the more likely a HIV positive patient was to use herbal medicine. Patients who use herbal medicine with HAART were more likely to experience adverse drug reactions. There were 59.7% participants who had good /fair adherence while 40.3% had poor adherence. Majority of those who had poor adherence had significantly higher proportion of side effects as compared to those had good/fair adherence. Conclusion: The prevalence of THM use among participants on HAART was high. This raises clinical and pharmacological concerns that need attention by the health care service providers. Keywords : Herbal Medicine, HIV, Antiretroviral Therapy DOI : 10.7176/JBAH/9-4-11