Use Of Traditional Herbs Research Articles

The Relationship Between Giving Pilis (Rice, Turmeric, Sand Ginger, Ginger, Lime) and Postpartum Maternal Health

The use of traditional herbs is intended for postpartum health care and recovery. To see the benefits of using these ingredients, it is necessary to study the relationship between the provision of traditional ingredients and the health impacts on postpartum mothers who use them. This study aims to determine the relationship between giving pilis (rice, turmeric, sand ginger, ginger, lime) and the health of post-partum mothers. This type of quantitative research uses a correlational analytical research design using a cross-sectional approach. The sample in this study was 43 postpartum mothers in the ten public health centers of the Bangkalan Madura district. The data collection technique uses an observation sheet instrument. Sampling used simple random sampling nonparametric statistical analysis with analysis tests using Chi-Square. The research results showed a relationship between giving pilis (rice, turmeric, sand ginger, ginger, lime) and the health of post-partum mothers, as evidenced by a p-value of 0.000 less than 0.05. In conclusion, giving pilis to postpartum mothers continues to be maintained because of its perceived health benefits, which are in line with the expectations of the Bangkalan community. Suggestion: The development of traditional medicine from a pharmacological perspective must be carried out so that people can use traditional medicine according to standards. After development by pharmacologists, a postpartum mother treatment policy based on local, family, and community wisdom can be formulated.

Knowledge and Practices of Home Diarrhoea Management among Adolescent Mothers with under Five Children in Nyando SubCounty, Kisumu, Kenya

Background: Globally, diarrhea is the primary cause of death for children under the age of five. In Kenya, it continues to be a significant source of illness and mortality in this age range. Mothers play crucial roles in the prevention and control of diarrhea among these children by practicing easy home management. Aim: This study aimed to assess adolescent mothers’ knowledge, and practice in the prevention and home management of diarrhoeal diseases among children under five years old in Nyando sub-county, Kenya Setting: This study was conducted in Nyando sub-county, Kisumu County, Kenya. Methods: A mixed method descriptive cross-sectional study design was conducted using a Proportionate sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and interview guides and analysed using STATA version 16 to generate the tables and bar graphs. NVivo version 12 was used to analyse the qualitative data adopting thematic analysis approach. Results: Boiling of drinking water was a common practice as reported by majority (75.8%, n= 216) of the participants. A total of 94 mothers (33.0%) expressed knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding while 10.5% (n=30) indicated maintenance of cleanliness as methods. These adolescent mothers practiced continued feeding and breastfeeding during diarrhoea episodes. In addition, the use suboptimal diarrhoea management practices such as food restriction and use of traditional herbs was practiced among the study participants. Conclusion: Continued feeding and breastfeeding during diarrhoea episodes were identified as appropriate management practices and were significant in preventing dehydration as well as increased vulnerability to malnutrition. There is also need of creating awareness of other diarrhoea management practices such as the use of banana and yoghurt as well as demystifying the use of traditional herbs in diarrhoea management.

Chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology in Africa: A review of the literature.

During the last two decades, an epidemic of a severe form of chronic kidney disease (CKD) unrelated to traditional risk factors (diabetes and hypertension) has been recognized in low- to middle-income countries. CKD of unknown aetiology (CKDu) mainly affects young working-age adults, and has become as an important and devastating public health issue. CKDu is a multifactorial disease with associated genetic and environmental risk factors. This review summarizes the current epidemiological evidence on the burden of CKDu and its probable environmental risk factors contributing to CKD in Africa. PubMed/Medline and the African Journals Online databases were searched to identify relevant population-based studies published in the last two decades. In the general population, the burden of CKD attributable to CKDu varied from 19.4% to 79%. Epidemiologic studies have established that environmental factors, including genetics, infectious agents, rural residence, low socioeconomic status, malnutrition, agricultural practise and exposure to agrochemicals, heavy metals, use of traditional herbs, and contaminated water sources or food contribute to the burden of CKD in the region. There is a great need for epidemiological studies exploring the true burden of CKDu and unique geographical distribution, and the role of environmental factors in the development of CKD/CKDu.

Penyuluhan Pola Hidup Sehat Tanpa Asam Lambung (Gerd) dan Asam Urat di Desa Bah Joga Kab. Simalungun

Aging is a natural stage in human life accompanied by physical and health changes. In Bahjoga Village, Indonesia, people face specific health challenges as they age, including digestive disorders (GERD) and gout. This extension aims to provide practical guidance on healthy living and integrate scientific knowledge with local values. The focus includes a healthy diet, regular physical activity, stress management and the use of traditional herbs. Through counseling, the community is expected to adopt practical steps to live a healthy life without digestive disorders and gout. The research method involved counseling, outreach, and measuring knowledge before and after the counseling and the health seminar participants totaled 29 people. The results showed a significant increase in people's understanding of GERD and gout after counseling. The implication is that counseling plays an important role in providing information and encouraging healthy lifestyles. This research underscores the important role of counseling in raising awareness and preventive action on certain health problems, as well as providing a strong basis for continuing extension efforts.

Eurocentric(ism) and Folk(ism) in Edegborode Festival Performance

This essay analyses the Edegborode Annual Festival Performance of Sapele, Delta state, Nigeria, as one among the many dramatic performances in Africa, with economic values, vis-à-vis the possibility of adapting the festival into contemporary folk drama using Sam Ukala’s Folkism eight (8) Laws of Aesthetic Response. There is no doubt about the tourism potential and the economic values present in many Nigerian festival Performances. However, the question of whether traditional African performances can be classified as drama or not still lingers. Adopting traditional African performances into modern African folk drama is also a challenge. It is based on these that this study is carried out. I adopt the ethnographic method of research in carrying out this research. Participant observation and face-to-face interview method was explored. I aim to examine and measure the number of western performative elements like plot, character (isation), music, song, performance arena (stage), and the audience, in the Edegborode Annual Festival Performance, and how these aesthetics fit into modern African folk drama using Folkism as a yardstick. The study shows that the Edegborode festival performance provides entertainment to its audience. Also, its ability to attract over Four Thousand (4000) local tourists within Delta State every year adds economic value to community development. Most importantly, when subjected to the aesthetics of Folkism, the Edegborode annual festival is viable source material for modern folk drama. However, there is a need for a further critical study of the economic and health potentials of the use of traditional herbs and plants in traditional festival performances. Keywords: Eurocentricism, Edegborode, Festivals, Folkism Performances

Metabolite profiling and biochemical investigation of the antidiabetic potential of Loranthus pulverulentus Wall n-butanol fraction in diabetic animal models

Ethnopharmacological relevanceGlobally, 537 million individuals are estimated to have diabetes. The traditional use of herbs for ameliorating diabetes symptoms is a common practice in Pakistan and use of Loranthus pulverulentus Wall (L. pulverulentus) by local people in Azad Jammu and Kashmir has been reported. Aim of the studyIn the present study, the antidiabetic potential of standardized n-butanol fraction of leaves of L. pulverulentus Wall, which is a parasite of Dalbergia sisso Roxb was assessed in both alloxan (ALX) and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic animal models. Materials and methodsChemical characterization of BF was performed using HPLC, GCMS and UHPLC-MS. The effect of the fraction (250 mg/kg) on insulin, plasma free fatty acids, L-lactate, pyruvate, MDA, HbA1c and glycogen levels in ALX and STZ animal models was determined. Liver and renal profiles were analyzed in the STZ model. Toxicological studies were performed by hemolytic, Ames mutagenicity, DNA protection, and thrombolytic assays. Histopathological analysis of the pancreas, liver, and kidney was performed. ResultsBF demonstrated highly significant (p < 0.001) antidiabetic potential in both diabetic models. BF significantly (p < 0.05) improved OGTT results in alloxanized diabetic mice and blocked the absorption of glucose from the gut. A significant (p < 0.001) increase in insulin levels and glycogen content in liver tissue and a decrease in plasma FFA, MDA, HbA1c, L-lactate, and pyruvate levels in STZ-diabetic mice were recorded. GC-MS and chromatographic analysis showed the presence of catechin, eugenol, longifolene, caryophyllene, Ar-tumerone and Geranyl-alpha-terpinene. Various metabolites with antidiabetic potential, including 4-hydroxycinnamyl alcohol 4-D-glucoside, zingerone glucoside, trans-trismethoxy resveratrol-d4, epigallocatechin 3-O-cinnamate, and β-glucogallin, were identified using UHPLC-MS. Animals treated with BF showed marked improvements in cellular structures of the pancreas, liver and kidneys. This fraction is non-mutagenic and protects the DNA. ConclusionThe experimental fraction contained potential antidiabetic bioactive compounds responsible for alleviating diabetes-associated biochemical dysregulation. The fraction increased insulin levels and enhanced glycogen storage in muscles and the liver. It blocked glucose absorption from the intestine and substantially decreased HbA1c, lactate, pyruvate, free fatty acids, lipid, liver and kidney damage. Therefore, the use of BF for the treatment of type-2 diabetes may be beneficial.

CARING FOR PUERPERIAL MOTHERS THROUGH THE UTILIZATION OF TRADITIONAL HERBS TO OPTIMIZE THEIR HEALTH

Puerperium is a critical period in which mothers often experience physical and psychological problems, however it is the beginning of the breastfeeding process and determines the success of exclusive breastfeeding. The use of traditional herbs for postpartum mothers is part of Indonesian culture that is starting to be abandoned in urban area. This community service activity aims to increase the knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of the community regarding the importance of postpartum maternal health care and the use of traditional herbs with proper processing methods as a promotive and preventive treatment. This activity was carried out in Gubeng Surabaya District with three stages including preparation, implementation of activities and evaluation. In the preparation stage, a situation analysis was performed. Activities were conducted by delivering lectures, discussions, video demonstrations and training. The evaluation was carried out by obtaining feedback from the social and community empowerment section as well as the pre-test and post-test questionnaires filled out by the participants. Based on the evaluation, the community service can increase participants' knowledge about postpartum health care and lactation management, thereby increasing awareness to play an active role by disseminating information to the community about the importance of family and the neighbourhood support for postpartum and breastfeeding mothers. The participants 'knowledge about the use of traditional medicinal plants for the maintenance of postpartum health and successful breastfeeding also increased, accompanied by an increase in the participants' willingness to prepare traditional jamu from fresh herbal ingredients themselves. This community service needs to be carried out in a sustainable manner with innovative delivery methods.

THE EFFECT OF GINGER FOR GARGLING ON SALIVARY PROFILE AND IN-VIVO ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY

Infectious diseases have a high incidence rate, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, caused various &#x0D; efforts to prevent and treatment the infection. One of the effort is use of traditional herbs, Ginger. Ginger is a thibbun-nabawi herb that known to have antimicrobial activity. This study aims to determine the effect of gargling activity with ginger decoction on salivary profile and in-vivo antimicrobial tests. The study was conducted in University of Darussalam Gontor with respondents who experienced mouth ulcerand dental caries. The treatment was divided into 5 groups, positive control, negative control, ginger decoction in 3 concentrations, 10%, 20%, and 30%. The sample used was respondent's saliva obtained by the spitting method. Samples were tested for pH, and volume and incubated in a microbial growth medium to calculate the number of colonies and observations in a microscope for pathogen identification. Influence of salivary profile and colony count before and after treatment tested with T-Test analysis. The results of the pH test showed an increase in the pH value to be more alkaline after being given a solution of gargling, although the pH increase was the smallest in the negative control group and the highest in the ginger group at 30% (p&gt;0.05). Measurements of saliva volume showed a decrease in saliva volume (p&gt;0.05). Differences in the number of colonies before and after treatment in the control group (+) showed significant differences compared to other groups. The minimum decrease in the number of colonies was showed by the Ginger group of 30% with insignificant differences before and after treatment. The antimicrobial activity test showed ginger decoction had a minimum antimicrobial activity due to ginger decoction was not good at diluting secondary metabolites of ginger that have antimicrobial activity

Antimicrobial Activity of Cosmos caudatus Against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.

Malaysia is known for its richness in ecosystem including medicinal plants and herbs. The use of traditional herbs for medical purposes has been practiced for ages without any proper understanding on how they work. This study aims to produce extract from the leaves of Cosmos caudatus (Ulam Raja) and to investigate the antimicrobial activity of the produced extract against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Ethanolic Soxhlet extraction was carried out to obtain the leaves extract. Product from extraction process was subsequently tested using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion test to determine its inhibitory effects against S. aureus and E. coli. Finally, the bioactive compounds in extracts were profiled using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometer (GC-MS). Findings showed ethanol is suitable to be used in obtaining extract from the leaves of C. caudatus. The extract produced was dark green and was able to inhibit the growth of both Gram-positive (S. aureus) and Gram-negative (E. coli) bacteria. The size of inhibition zones ranging from 22 to 24 mm. The zones of inhibition produced by C. caudatus extract in this study are comparable to commercial antiseptic tested simultaneously in the experiment. Analysis of extract using GC-MS revealed several bioactive compounds including palmitic acid, stigmasterol, phytol and neophytadiene These compounds are well known for their medicinal and therapeutic properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidants and antitumor. Additionally, these bioactive compounds are commonly used as ingredients in commercial antiseptics and disinfectants. This study therefore has proven the medicinal properties of C. caudatus. Findings from this study can be used to develop plant-based pharmaceutical products which are cheaper, safer, and more environmentally friendly.

Prevalence, Pattern and Perception of the Use of Traditional Herbs for Malaria Treatment among Pregnant Women in Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Area, Lagos, Nigeria

Background: Traditional herbs have been used for thousands of years to treat malaria and many pregnant women currently rely on them even with their questionable safety. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, pattern and perceptions of the use of traditional herbs for malaria treatment among pregnant women in Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Area, Lagos, Nigeria.&#x0D; Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 410 pregnant women, selected by multistage sampling. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS statistical software. The results of descriptive analysis and associations using the Chi- square test were presented in tables and charts.&#x0D; Results: The mean age of the respondents was 28±6.7years. About half, 193 (47.1%) of the respondents, used traditional herbs to treat malaria in pregnancy. The pattern of use was periodical as malaria prophylaxis 84 (43.5%) or based on the experiencing of symptoms considered to be due to malaria 80 (41.5%). Traditional herbs were used because they were considered natural and hence safer 113 (58.5%), cheaper 101 (52.3%), more effective 97 (50.3%), and more acceptable based on respondents' traditional beliefs 79 (40.0%).&#x0D; Conclusion: The majority of pregnant women who utilized traditional herbs did so only occasionally for the prevention and treatment of malaria. The perceptions of using herbal remedies to treat malaria during pregnancy were largely supportive of this practice. As vital as it is to inform pregnant women about the risks of utilizing herbs to treat malaria during pregnancy, consideration must also be given to regulating usage to ensure safety.

Barhi date (Phoenix dactylifera) extract ameliorates hepatocellular carcinoma in male rats

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor with limited treatment options. Given this fact, it may be important to develop new molecular targeted therapies from natural products, especially those which are primary sources of effective anticancer drugs with distinct mechanisms. Moreover, the complementary use of traditional herbs or fruit may increase the possibility of finding curative options for cancer. Here we explore the anticancer effects and possible molecular mechanism of Barhi date extract using an HCC rat model. Thirty two male albino rats were arbitrarily allocated into four groups: a negative control group (NCG); a positive control group (PCG), which received CCl4 (1 ml/kg b.wt./ i.p.) twice a week for three months; a Barhi date extract (400 mg/kg b.wt./day/orally) treatment group (DTG) during the third month of CCl4 administration; and a cisplatin (1.5 mg/kg b.wt./ i.p.) treatment group ( CTG) during the third month of CCl4 administration. After treatment we performed biochemical analyses of all groups to assess relative eukaryotic initiation factor 2 alpha (eIF2α), extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs), protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), and CASPASE 3 protein content, and examined expression of the genes phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and protein kinase B (AKT). We also performed an immunohistochemistry assay for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). Our data showed higher PARP and CASPASE3 levels and liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase [ALT], aspartate aminotransferase [AST], and alkaline phosphatase [ALP]) in the PCG compared to the DTG and the cisplatin treatment group CTG. However, we also found a significant decrease in PTEN in the PCG relative to both the DTG and the CTG. We conclude that the anti-tumor activity of Barhi date extract may be mediated by the inhibition of cell proliferation and apoptosis via the ERK /PARP/caspase3 pathway and the AKT/ PTEN signaling pathways.

Management of Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomitting in Breast Cancer Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study

Through a prospective cohort study we aimed to optimize prevention and management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in the emergence of new therapies for breast cancer patients. We included breast cancer patients treated with moderate emetogenic (MEC) or highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC) all stages combined, from April 2021 to November 2021. Patients were required to answer a survey of 32 questions in order to analyze the potential involvement of known and unknown risk factors in the occurrence of CINV. The acute phase of CINV was defined as nausea and vomiting that developed ≤ 24 hours after the start of chemotherapy. Delayed phase of CINV was defined as nausea and vomiting that developed &gt; 24 hours after the start of chemotherapy. The severity of nausea and vomiting was evaluated with common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) v5.0; publish to date: November 27, 2017. Analysis and results were performed using JAMOVI statistical software. In total, 177 patients received chemotherapy, 103 patients(58%) received (HEC), and 74 patients (42%) received (MEC). All patients were female (100%). Risk factors associated to occurrence of CINV included previously known factors: Younger age than 50 years (29,8%), history of pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting (74,7%), alcohol use (no patient reported previous alcohol consumption), failure to adhere to antiemetic treatment guidelines (9,6%). The compliance with treatment score (90,4%) showed a good commitment of the patients in the process of their medical healthcare. Other potential risk factors have been also explored to determine their involvement or not in the occurrence of CINV (cancer stage, performance status, education level, chemotherapy protocols, the use of traditional herbs known as an antibacterial agent and immunity booster in our context). In the acute phase, (78%) of patients experienced nausea and (47,8%) experienced vomiting. In the delayed phase, (37,1%) of patients experienced nausea and only (15,3%) experienced vomiting. The severity of nausea and vomiting was evaluated according to CTCAE v5.0 in both groups HEC and MEC. Only (8,7%) had to stop treatment for non-tolerance (table 1-2). The present study demonstrated that high compliance to treatment guidelines for CINV and individualized care could lead to more optimal management of CINV.

Nutritional Content of Functional Herbal Drinks Made from Palm Sugar Powder and Spice Powder

In all regions of the world, including Indonesia, there is a change in the patterns of disease from infectious diseases to degenerative diseases and non-communicable diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic has also raised awareness of the need to continually strengthen the immune system. Increasing the body's resistance can benefit from the use of traditional herbs with medicinal capabilities. Some biological plants such as red ginger, alang-alang root, galangal which are known to the public for their spices, can become herbal drinks when formulated with the addition of palm sugar. These three plants have been studied on a laboratory scale to identify nutrients and bioactive compounds that are beneficial for health. The purpose of this study was to determine the nutritional content of functional herbal drink products made from palm sugar and spice powder (red ginger, alang-alang root, and galangal). The research method was carried out using hedonic organoleptic tests on 3 prepared formulas, phytochemical screening, and proximate test (nutritional content) The results of the organoleptic test showed that respondents preferred a formula containing ginger (500 g), alang-alang root (200 g), galangal (100 g,) and palm sugar (200 g). Phytochemical screening showed each component (ginger, galangal, alang-alang, palm sugar, and the developed formula) was positive for flavonoids and alkaloids. Only ginger was positive for tannins, all negative components were steroids/triterpenoids and only galangal was positive for saponins. Carbohydrate, protein, fat, moisture, and ash contents were 4.49%, 4.38%, 3.95%, 47.68%, and 9.76%. The results showed that a functional herbal drink made from palm sugar and spices has health benefits and the potential to be a functional drink.

POPULARITY OF AYURVEDIC MEDICINE AFTER COVID-19

Treatments for the current global COVID-19 pandemic are still being studied. There are many drugs like Antivirals and immunomodulators have had varying degrees of success in clinical trials. Traditional herbal treatments are widely used to treat a variety of ailments. for disease prevention and treatment, particularly in countries with limited resources. It is really worth noting that now in lower elevations, COVID-related mortality rates were lower. Countries in comparison to the western world other factors that contributed to the disparity nationality, temp, relative humidity, normal resistance, and nourishment are all factors to consider. Objective: The goal of this study was to find out popularity of traditional herbs were utilized in north India to protect against COVID. Method: From October to November 2021, a questionnaire-based study was done in Dehradun district at different place North India. The brief interview was conducted at the request of the participants. A pre-designed questionnaire was used to record responses (Annexure). The data was analyses using descriptive statistics. The interview drew a total of 500 participants. Mask was utilized by the majority of respondents 84%. The use of traditional herbs and spices was affirmed by 66% of the respondents. COVID positive was found in 4 % (n = 10) of the respondents' family members. Key world: COVID-19, Traditional herb, statistics, questionnaire, immunity

Known data on the therapeutic use of Azadiracta indica (neem) for type 2 diabetes mellitus.

There has been growing interest for the therapeutic use of traditional herbs in the management of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications. Data shows the hypoglycemic activity of Azadiracta indica in diabetes. Therefore, it is of interest to document known data on the therapeutic use of Azadiracta indica (neem) for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

A pilot study on the Hepatotoxicity of herbal remedies from Assam

Background and Aim: The use of traditional herbs as disease remedies are potentially dangerous and can have a toxic effect on the liver, and the inquiry about their intake should not be overlooked. In our study, we report on 18 herb-induced liver injury cases (HILI), from Government Medical Hospital, Assam, who sustained a liver injury after consuming herbal medicines for jaundice.

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.

Natural Products Modulating Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) as Potential COVID-19 Therapies.

The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a potentially fatal multisystemic infection caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Currently, viable therapeutic options that are cost effective, safe and readily available are desired, but lacking. Nevertheless, the pandemic is noticeably of lesser burden in African and Asian regions, where the use of traditional herbs predominates, with such relationship warranting a closer look at ethnomedicine. From a molecular viewpoint, the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the crucial first phase of COVID-19 pathogenesis. Here, we review plants with medicinal properties which may be implicated in mitigation of viral invasion either via direct or indirect modulation of ACE2 activity to ameliorate COVID-19. Selected ethnomedicinal plants containing bioactive compounds which may prevent and mitigate the fusion and entry of the SARS-CoV-2 by modulating ACE2-associated up and downstream events are highlighted. Through further experimentation, these plants could be supported for ethnobotanical use and the phytomedicinal ligands could be potentially developed into single or combined preventive therapeutics for COVID-19. This will benefit researchers actively looking for solutions from plant bioresources and help lessen the burden of COVID-19 across the globe.

Indian Diaspora Gastronomy: On the Changing Use of Herbs and Spices Among Southern California's Indian Immigrant Women

Southern California has witnessed a burgeoning Indian immigrant population in recent decades. And among the cultural features that most distinguishes Indians is their cuisine. Their use of herbs and spices in food and medicine, in particular, is tightly bound to language, religion, gender, and overall cultural identity. Identifying how Indian immigrants' culinary choices adapt to southern California's varied and often fast-food based gastronomy, particularly impacts on the inter-generational transmission of traditional culinary knowledge, is important in terms of understanding the role of cultural retention and assimilation, as well as culturally-defined notions of food in physical and psychological well-being. We explored these questions by means of interviews with 31 Indian immigrant women in southern California. Participants were selected by means of snowball sampling. Our working hypothesis was that problems with sourcing and cultural assimilation pressures would have eroded the use of traditional herbs and spices. A total of 66 herbs and spices (and associated seasonings) were reported. Of these, the highest frequency of use was recorded for turmeric (100% of respondents) followed by cilantro, cinnamon, clove, cumin, curry leaves, and ginger (all 97%). The highest Species Medicinal Use Values were recorded, in descending order, for turmeric, ginger, fenugreek seeds, clove, cinnamon, curry leaves, and Tulsi. Contrary to expectations, there was no significant association between years resident in the United States and decreasing use of herbs and spices. Indeed, in some cases the confluence of northern and southern Indian immigrant women with a new identity simply as “Indian” resulted in an increase in the knowledge and use of herbs and spices. Spices are nearly all locally sourced, and where specific herbs are not readily accessible, they are cultivated in homegardens or brought directly from India. Many Indian immigrants are relatively prosperous and able to travel frequently to and from India, thus maintaining close cultural ties with their homeland. Indian immigrant women are fully aware of the health benefits associated with the use of traditional herbs and spices, and all participants reported that Indian food is a healthier choice than American cuisine. Knowledge is passedviavertical transmission, primarily through mothers and grandmothers to daughters. Overall, there is little concern among female Indian immigrants to southern California that knowledge and use of their traditional herbs and spices are in a state of decline.

Viewpoints of pregnant mothers and community health workers on antenatal care in Lweza village, Uganda.

Uganda is a low-income country with high fertility, adolescent birth, and maternal mortality rates. How Ugandan Ministry of Health antenatal education guidelines have been implemented into standardized health education and how pregnant women utilize health facilities remains unclear. We aimed to determine how women obtain education during pregnancy, what guidelines health educators follow, and what barriers exist to receiving antenatal care in Lweza Village, Uganda. Household surveys were conducted with women in Lweza who were or had previously been pregnant. Focus group discussions were conducted with community members and Lweza Primary School teachers. Interviews were conducted with key informants, including midwives, a traditional birth attendant, a community leader, and a Village Health Team member. Data collection was done in English along with a Luganda translator. Of the 100 household surveys conducted, 86% of women did not meet the WHO recommendation of 8 antenatal appointments during their pregnancies. Reasons cited for inadequate visits included facing long wait times (>7 h) at health facilities, getting education from family or traditional healers, or being told to delay antenatal care until 6 months pregnant. Informant interviews revealed that no standardized antenatal education program exists. Respondents felt least educated on family planning and postpartum depression, despite 37% of them reporting symptoms consistent with postpartum depression. Education was also lacking on the use of traditional herbs, although most women (60%) reported using them during pregnancy. Most women in Lweza do not receive 8 antenatal appointments during their pregnancies or any standardized antenatal education. Educational opportunities on family planning, postpartum depression, and the safety of traditional herbs during pregnancy exist. Future studies should focus on ways to overcome barriers to antenatal care, which could include implementing community-based education programs to improve health outcomes for women in Lweza Village.