Usage In Traditional Medicine Research Articles

Acorus calamus L. rhizome extract and its bioactive fraction exhibits antibacterial effect by modulating membrane permeability and fatty acid composition.

Ethnopharmacological relevanceIndia's ancient texts, the Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, make reference to the traditional medicinal usage of Acorus calamus L. In India and China, it has long been used to cure stomach aches, cuts, diarrhea, and skin conditions. This ability of the rhizome is attributed to its antimicrobial properties. Research studies to date have shown its antimicrobial properties. However, scientific evidence on its mode of action is still lacking. Aim of the studyAcorus calamus L. rhizome extract and its bioactive fraction exhibits antibacterial effect by modulating membrane permeability and fatty acid composition. Material and methodThe secondary metabolites in the rhizome of A. calamus L. were extracted in hexane using Soxhlet apparatus. The ability of the extract to inhibit multidrug resistant bacterial isolates, namely Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were evaluated using checkerboard assay. Further, the extract was purified using thin layer chromatography, gravity column chromatography, and combiflash chromatography. Structure elucidation of the active compound was done using GC-MS, FT-IR, and UV–Vis spectral scan. The mode of action of the bioactive fraction was determined. Bacterial membrane damage was analyzed using SEM, membrane permeability was determined using SYBR green I and PI dye, leakage of cytoplasmic contents were analyzed using Bradford assay and Fehling’s reagent. The ability to inhibit efflux pump of A. baumannii was determined using EtBr accumulation assay and β-lactamase inhibition was analyzed using nitrocefin as substrate. Also, the biofilm inhibition of B. cereus was determined using crystal violet dye. Moreover, the effect of the bioactive fraction on the fatty acid profile of the bacterial membrane was determined by GC-FAME analysis using 37 component FAME mix as standard. ResultsAcorus calamus L. rhizome hexane extract (AC-R-H) demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against all the isolates tested. AC-R-H extract also significantly reduced the MIC of ampicillin against all tested bacteria, indicating its bacterial resistance modulating properties. The assay guided purification determined Asarone as the major compound present in the bioactive fraction (S-III-BAF). S-III-BAF was found to reduce the MIC of ampicillin against Escherichia coli (100–25 mg/mL), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (15–3.25 mg/mL), Acinetobacter baumannii (12.5–1.56 mg/ml), and Bacillus cereus (10–1.25 mg/mL). Further, it recorded synergistic activity with ampicillin against B. cereus (FICI = 0.365), P. aeruginosa (FICI = 0.456), and A. baumannii (FICI = 0.245). The mode of action of S-III-BAF can be attributed to its ability to disturb the membrane integrity, enhance membrane permeability, reduce biofilm formation, and possibly alter the fatty acid composition of the bacterial cell membranes. ConclusionThe bioactive fraction of AC-R-H extract containing Asarone as the active compound showed antibacterial activity and synergistic interactions with ampicillin against the tested bacterial isolates. Such activity can be attributed to the modulation of fatty acids present in bacterial membranes, which enhances membrane permeability and causes membrane damage.

The Potential of Traditional Medicine in Combating COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objectives: The aim of the study was to review the existing data on traditional medicine in reducing the symptoms of COVID-19 patients with mild, moderate, and severe symptoms. We also investigated the adverse impact, patient outcome, source, and mode of action of traditional medicine. A brief comparison was made on adverse impacts and symptom alleviation of the commercially available drugs as well. Methods: We utilized PubMed, Scopus, WHO (GHL), and VHL in order to choose the eligible studies for the systematic review between July and August 2022. From a total of 12,263 studies, after a series of screening, 285 articles were identified in the final sample. The methodological evaluation was carried out accordingly. Results: There is a growing literature on the usage of traditional medicine for COVID-19. The majority of the studies have shown positive outcomes even though they were not carried out at diverse locations around the world. We identified that the majority (17.4%) of the traditional medicine was derived from plants. The average time in the disappearance of the symptoms was 8.8 days, whereas the disappearance of symptoms using conventional drugs (Remdesevir, Ivermectin, Tocilizumab, Baricitinib, Famotidine, Ensitrelvir and Molnupiravir) was around 12 days. The mode of action of traditional medicine was mostly the reduction of viral load (50%). In terms of the severity of the patients, most of the patients (37.5%) had mild symptoms. We also found that no major adverse impact was reported on administering the traditional medicine among the patients. Further, the majority of the study was carried out in the Asian region, mostly in China. Conclusion: Apart from expanding the study to different regions of the world, to improve the quality of data, larger-scale clinical studies in the Asian region are required.

Unveiling antioxidant capacity of standardized chitosan-tripolyphosphate microcapsules containing polyphenol-rich extract of Portulaca oleraceae

The medicinal plant Portulaca oleraceae has a long history of usage in traditional medicine. Plant extracts have several interesting pharmacological effects but have some drawbacks that can be addressed via capsulation with chitosan. This work set out to do just that tally up the antioxidant effects of a polyphenol-rich P. olerace extract and see how capsulation affected them. The reflux extraction and response surface methodology (RSM) were carried out to optimize the phenolic and flavonoid content of P. oleraceae extract. Additionally, high-resolution mass spectrometry was employed to determine the secondary metabolite present in the extract. The microcapsules of extract-loaded chitosan were prepared using the ionic gelation method and characterized in terms of size, encapsulation efficiency (EE), and morphology of microcapsules. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) was used to observe the successful production of microcapsules with a principal component analysis (PCA) approach. The antioxidant activity of microcapsules was established using the radical scavenging method. According to RSM, the highest amounts of TPC and TFC were obtained at 72.894 % ethanol, 2.031 h, and 57.384 °C. The compounds were employed from the optimized extract of P. oleraceae including phenolics and flavonoids. The microcapsules were secured with a %EE of 43.56 ± 2.31 %. The characteristics of microcapsules were approved for the obtained product's successful synthesis according to the PCA. The microcapsules have antioxidant activity in a concentration-dependent manner (p < 0.0001). The findings of this study underscored the benefits of employing chitosan as a nanocarrier for extract, offering a promising approach to enhance plant-derived therapies.

Ethanol leaf extracts of Anogeissus leiocarpus in antioxidants and hepatotoxic effects of Escherichia coli O157:H7 infected Swiss Mice.

Diseases caused by bacteria can be managed with medicinal plants with rightful dosage that will not affect body physiology and organs. This research aimed to evaluate the antioxidants and the effects of Anogeisus leiocarpus on liver function. Ethanol leaf extracts were processed for antioxidants and hepatotoxic effects using animal models. Group one (negative control) was given access to water and regular feed, group two (positive control) was dosed with 107 CFU/ml of Escherichia coli O157:H7, and groups 3-6 were dosed with 107 E. coli O157:H7 for 3 days and treated with extract concentrations of 12, 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg bw respectively for seven days. Higher ascorbic acid values in Ferric reducing antioxidant property (FRAP) and Hydroxyl radical scavenging (HRS) were recorded in the positive control (0.05 ± 0.01, 41 ± 0.05) than in the extract-treated (0.02 ± 0.14, 30 ± 0.02). Increase in DPPH (47 ± 0.1268 ± 0.05 %), Free radical scavenging property (FRAP) (0.03 ± 0.02-0.08 ± 0.14 %), and HRS (38 ± 0.14-68 ± 0.12 %) was observed in the extract. The lipid peroxidation (LPO) of the quote was 78.51 ± 2.16, GSH was 36.18 ± 3.18, and catalase was 78.42 ± 4.713. In the extract-treated, decreased values were recorded for LPO ((108.36 ± 1.12-70.19 ± 1.68 μM/g), while increased values were observed in Glutathione (GSH) (25.11 ± 2.64-33.62 ± 1.35 μM/g), and catalase (54.18 ± 2.14-60.25 ± 1.4 μM/g). The values of negative control for Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and Alkaline phosphate (ALP) were lesser than what was received in the extract treated. The plant's traditional medicine usage is effective at low dosage and could be a suitable candidate for drug development which will not affect the body's physiology and organs. The subjecting of A. leiocarpus ethanol leaf extract to antioxidants assays and its effect on liver function have further proved its value in folklore medicine.

Cuphea Genus: A Systematic Review on the Traditional uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology

Introduction: Species from the Cuphea genus (Lythraceae) have wide usage in traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases. Cuphea comprises about 260 species distributed worldwide among five continents. Method: This systematic review aimed to synthesize the information available about the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of Cuphea spp. This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria, with a search in the scientific databases, namely Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, using keywords, such as “Cuphea”, “sete-sangrias”, “Cuphea” and “polyphenols”, “Cuphea” and “flavonoid”, “Cuphea” and “pharmacology”, “Cuphea” and “traditional uses”, “Cuphea” and “toxicology”, and all references found were analyzed. Among 1438 publications identified in the initial screening, 86 studies were included based on eligibility criteria. The chemical composition of Cuphea spp. is mainly polyphenols related to therapeutic use, especially as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumoral, anti-inflammation, and antihypertensive. Results: In summary, this systematic review provides an overview of the active compounds responsible for the pharmacological actions of the genus, often linked to traditional use. Conclusion: However, its safety and potential toxicology need to be further studied, along with the bioactive mechanisms and discussion of the structure-activity relationship, besides future clinical studies for novel drug development.

Rekindling desire: Unveiling the Aphrodisiac potential of Apiaceae Elixirs

Background: In the realms of herbal pharmacology, the Apiaceae family has long held the torch, with parsley, coriander, and celery at the forefront. They have been extensively utilized in traditional therapies, including their use as aphrodisiacs. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the aphrodisiac potential of three Apiaceae plants: Petroselinum crispum, Coriandrum sativum, and Apium graveolens, both individually and in combination, to substantiate their traditional medicinal usage. Methods: The administration of extracts orally (at a dose of 250 mg/kg of body weight) was carried out daily for 15 days in various groups of male rats. To induce receptivity in female rats used for mating, hormonal treatment was employed. The study encompassed the assessment of general mating behavior, which was compared to that induced by the standard reference drug, sildenafil citrate. Additionally, hematological and biochemical assays were conducted. Results: The results of this study demonstrated that oral administration of the extracts at a dose of 250 mg/kg significantly heightened sexual activity in male rats. This was characterized by a substantial increase in parameters such as mounting frequency, erection frequency, ejaculation frequency, and copulatory rate, coupled with a noteworthy reduction in mounting latency, intromission latency, and latency time. However, when compared to the positive control group (sildenafil), the polyherbal formulation did not induce significant alterations in hematological parameters such as red blood cell count, white blood cell count, blood platelet count, and hemoglobin levels. Furthermore, the hepatic and renal markers in treated rats displayed no significant disturbances when administered with the individual extracts of the three Apiaceae plants or in combination, in comparison to the control group. The results also unveiled a substantial augmentation effect in blood testosterone levels following the individual administration of Apiaceae plant extracts when compared to the positive control group. The combined administration of these extracts at a dose of 250 mg/kg exhibited an even more pronounced effect in enhancing testosterone levels than administering the individual extracts. Conclusions: In conclusion, the polyherbal formulation comprising these Apiaceae plants demonstrated a substantial and sustained enhancement in the sexual activity of healthy male rats, without any discernible adverse effects. This suggests that the formulation maintains aphrodisiac properties, possibly attributed to its nerve-stimulating effects, thereby enhancing libido and potency. These findings not only support the traditional use of these herbs for their aphrodisiac properties but also propose potential applications for human use as a natural alternative for addressing male sexual disorders and as aphrodisiac agents.

Development of specific barcodes for identification of Aloe species based on chloroplast DNA barcoding

DNA barcoding is a widely used taxonomic tool for correctly identifying plant species. The chloroplast matK and rbcL are some of the most extensively studied variable coding genes of angiosperms and have been recommended as a universal barcode for terrestrial plants. Genus Aloe contains around 500 species, and most Aloe species have extensive traditional medicinal usage worldwide, viz., A. arborescens, A. ferox, A. maculate, and A. vera. This study evaluated the two chloroplast DNA barcodes (matK and rbcL) to develop a theoretical base for species identification and germplasm conservation of Aloe species. The Maximum Parsimony analysis was conducted to study the evolutionary relatedness of Aloe sequences using matK and rbcL sequences obtained from the NCBI nucleotide database. The results revealed that 49 Aloe accessions were segregated into four major clades using matK phylogenetic analysis. Likewise, the 29 Aloe accessions were allocated into two clades based on the rbcL phylogeny. Additionally, specific barcodes have been developed for the following species: A. vera, A. boylei, A. ciliaris, A. karasbergensis, and A. sinkatana based on SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) site analysis of barcode sequences and the corresponding DNA QR (quick response) code of each sequence was generated. This study provides a unique method for species identification of the genus Aloe and indicates the possibility of correctly identifying, discriminating, and documenting the Aloe species.

Exploring the Multifaceted Potential of Annona squamosa: A Natural Treasure for Health and Wellness

This article gives an in-depth look at the tropical fruit Annona squamosa L., which has a long history of traditional medicinal usage and is discussed in this review for its phytochemical and pharmacological qualities. The botanical specimen showcases an extensive assortment of bioactive constituents, encompassing glycosides, proteins, carbohydrates, saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolics, which have significant antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, and skin-protective properties. The leaves contain high protein content and essential oils amusing in terpenes and sesquiterpenes, which have shown potential in treating health conditions

A Review on: Herbal soap

Most of the commercial soaps and detergent contain chemical that can be harmful to the skin. Using a natural herbal soap and detergent can be a good alternative. Bacterial skin infections are most common amongst people, requiring significant attention for treatment and also for maintaining healthy skin. Ayurvedic beauty care products are too known as home grown beauty care products. Ayurvedic cosmetics are also known as the herbal cosmetics the natural content in the herbs does not have any side effect on the human body most herbal supplement are based on several botanical ingredients with long histories of traditional or folk medicine usage. The final goal of this review is to evaluate dermatological activities of the ingredients.

Moderation Effects of Meagre Information Between Promotions and Usage of Traditional Medicine

Underpinned by the attribution theory, this study examines the moderating effect of meagre information in the relationship between promotions and consumer usage of traditional medicine (TM) in Central Uganda. Traditional medicine is trendy despite efficacious concerns raised by various empirical studies. While extant literature presents several motivations for the newfound TM patronage, more is needed to discuss the role of promotions in this regard. Relatedly, the literature needs to include the contribution of meagre information and how it moderates the relationship between TM promotion and consumer usage. Using Cochran, a sample of 369 TM users was drawn from the cosmopolitan districts of Central Uganda. SPSS 25.0 and Amos 22.0 were used to clean and analyse the data, while Andrew Hayes 3.5 was used to test for moderation. The Johnson-Neyman test showed that increasing meagre information to -2.2503 creates an effect; at this point, TM promotions on consumer usage are moderated. The study concludes that the potential for inconsistencies, inadequacies and incompleteness in information related to traditional medicine is immense. Whilst the Ugandan government is still challenged to provide ideal regulatory frameworks to ensure THPs’ conformity to required safety, quality, and efficacy standards, they should make efforts to license and certify all THPs. Concerned regulatory bodies like the Uganda National Drug Authority and Uganda Communications Commission should regulate TM media communications to prevent the uneducated exaggeration of TM safety issues. They should streamline information disclosure to TM consumers and prohibit unbalanced public advertisements.

Ethnomedicinal evaluation of medicinal plants used for therapies by men and women in rural and urban communities in Makkah district

IntroductionFor the first time, differences in ethnobotanical knowledge of medicinal plants between men and women, as well as tribal and urban populations in the Makkah district, are investigated. The current research aims to provide responses to the following questions: (1) According to tribal and urban cultures, which medicinal plants are used by Saudis in Makkah? (2) In view of demographic differences, how much do male and female use medicinal plants? (3) Are the plants utilized by male and female considerably various? And, (4), how do men and women learn about therapeutic plants? Methods: Ethnomedicinal study was carried out in Makkah and its adjacent villages from September 2022 to January 2023. To document local medicinal plants, individuals used free-listing, semi-structured interviews, and an online survey form. In all, 59 male and 62 female were questioned face-to-face, and 239 participants completed the questionnaire, with 110 men and 129 women responding. Results: A total of 92 local folks for medicinal plants have been recorded, covering 88 different plant species belong to 36 families. Men cited 69 plants (34 families), whereas women referenced 64. (33 plant families). Males and females know in comparable ways, although they employ different medicinal herbs to remedy a variety of diseases. Conclusions: The use of medicinal plants by Saudis in Makkah is dependent on gendered social roles and experiences, as well as population structure. Education and urbanization exert a greater impact on the preference for biomedical or traditional medicinal usage.

Determinants of Traditional and Complementary Medicine Usage Among Ophthalmic Patients of Selected Hospitals in Ogun State, Nigeria

Background: Traditional and complementary medicine has been practiced since time immemorial, with perceived social, cultural, economic, and historical influences on its use. This practice has been viewed with mixed feelings by healthcare professionals as most have reservations about such products, their safety, quality, and effectiveness. Considering the value that people place on their eyes, they do not mind using any product for maintaining good eye health and treatment of eye diseases. Aim: The objective of this study was to appraise the determinants of Traditional and complementary medicine usage among ophthalmic patients in selected hospitals in Ogun State, Nigeria. Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two selected hospitals in Ogun State, Nigeria. Four hundred and forty respondents were purposively sampled, and data was collected by using a pretested structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26 computer software. Results: All the respondents use spiritual therapy, followed by herbs or herbal extracts (69.3%). Urine or animal waste (5.5%) is the least used Traditional and complementary medicine. The respondents use Traditional and complementary medicine because of its affordability (76.6%), availability (75.7%), accessibility (73%), and lack of trust in orthodox medicine (15%). There was a significant relationship between the sociodemographic variables (gender, age, religion, level of education, occupation, and marital status) and the choice of Traditional and complementary medicine used by the residents in the study area (p &lt; 0.005). Conclusion: The study concluded that the Ophthalmic patients in the study area still use Traditional and Complementary medicine. The most practiced traditional and complementary medicine is spiritual therapy, irrespective of religion, gender, and age. Healthcare workers must recognize the pattern of Traditional and Complementary usage among their patients, explore what their patients are using, why they are using it, and be willing to guide them appropriately to promote their eye health.

The nephrotoxicity of Aristolochia rotunda L. in rats: Mitochondrion as a target for renal toxicity of Aristolochic acids-containing plants

In recent years, there has been a growing trend in the usage of traditional medicine and herbal treatments. However, the misconception that they are completely safe resulted in irreversible complications and damages. The present study was conducted to investigate the potential renal toxicity of a commonly used drug in Iran's traditional medicine and pharmacy, known as Zaravand Gerd or Nokhod Alvand (Aristolochia rotunda L.). In Iranian traditional medicine, Zaravand Gerd is used as a remedy for respiratory system ailments, back pain, anxiety, headache and septic wounds. Fifty-six male rats were divided into seven groups (n = 8). The first group served as the control and received normal saline, while the second to seventh groups were administered varying doses of the aqueous extract of Zaravand Gerd (0.1, 0.5, 1.25, 2.5, and 5 g/kg) for a period of three weeks. Various parameters were measured to evaluate the potential kidney damage caused by the extract, including serum creatinine and BUN levels, as well as urine protein and glucose levels, which were analyzed using an autoanalyzer. Additionally, kidney tissue samples were examined pathologically, and mitochondria from the kidney tissue were isolated to assess mitochondrial parameters. The results of this study revealed that high doses of Zaravand Gerd extract led to a significant increase in urinary glucose and protein excretion compared to the control group. Pathological examination of the isolated kidney tissues indicated that the concentrations of 2.5 and 5 g/kg of Zaravand Gerd extract resulted in kidney damage and dilation of proximal convoluted tubules. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that high doses of the extract (2.5 and 5 g/kg) caused damage to the mitochondria. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the administration of high doses of Zaravand Gerd extract, which are not commonly used in traditional medicine, can have toxic effects on the kidneys in rats as an animal model. These results highlight the importance of considering the potential risks associated with herbal medicines and the necessity of usage based on scientific evidence.

Homoeopathic Pathogenetic Trial of Catharanthus roseus: A Multicentric, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

AbstractMedicinal plants have a long history of usage in traditional medicine, and Catharanthus roseus L. (G.) Don is one such plant. However, to understand its homoeopathic therapeutic effect, it was important to find the pathogenetic powers by conducting a drug proving trial. To elicit the pathogenetic response of C. roseus in homoeopathic potencies on healthy human provers, a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted at four centers under the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy. The proving trial involved 60 relatively healthy provers. All provers were given placebo in the first phase. After randomization, 40 provers in the intervention group were given C. roseus in 6C, 12C, 30C, and 200C potencies in four phases. The control group of 20 provers were administered unmedicated globules in all the phases. A maximum of 12 doses divided into 4 doses/day for 3 days were administered in all phases of the trial. The symptoms and signs manifested during the trial were noted down by the provers, elaborated by the proving masters, and the data were finally processed at the proving-cum-data processing cell of the Council. Among the 40 provers of the verum group, only 15 provers manifested 22 pathogenetic and 10 placebo symptoms, whereas 30 symptoms were reported by 12 provers in the control group. The symptoms have been manifested predominantly in 200C potency. The pathogenetic response elicited during this trial expands the scope of the use of C. roseus and needs to be further validated by a clinical verification study.

Penerapan Kebijakan Pengawasan Obat Tradisional dalam Perspektif Kesehatan Masyaraat

Traditional medicine is one part of Indonesia's rich culture that has been used by the community for a long time. However, issues surrounding the safety and efficacy of traditional medicines often arise as a concern in the public health domain. This research uses qualitative research methods. The data collection technique was carried out by literature study and from interviews with traditional medicine users, traditional healthcare practitioners, and health officials. Thus, this can assist researchers in understanding their perceptions, experiences, and viewpoints regarding traditional medicine supervision. The data that has been collected is then analyzed using three stages, namely data reduction, data presentation and conclusion drawing. This is done to ensure that the implementation of legal supervision of traditional medicines is carried out through various stages. The process begins with the granting of production licenses to producers after fulfilling predetermined requirements. After that, the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) is responsible for supervising the production process directly on site. Supervision of the production process is carried out at least once a year. However, if there are violations of either CPOTB (Good Traditional Medicine Manufacturing Practice) or GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) requirements, the inspection will be more intensive. The inspection is carried out until the manufacturer corrects and improves production activities in accordance with applicable standards.

Traditional medical practices for children in five islands from the Society archipelago (French Polynesia)

BackgroundTraditional Polynesian medicine for children has been poorly documented, and few data are available on their efficacy and safety. In this context, the aim of this study was to identify traditional practices used for treating children and then assess the efficacy and safety of the most cited remedies by reviewing the literature.MethodsIn 2022, a semi-structured survey was carried out on five islands from the Society archipelago (Bora Bora, Huahine, Moorea, Raiatea, and Tahiti). A total of 86 participants were interviewed including 19 experts in herbalism. A thorough literature review was performed on the most cited plant species to gather the relevant ethnobotanical, pharmacological, and clinical data of each remedy.ResultsParticipants mentioned using 469 remedies to treat 69 health disorders. The most represented health categories were digestive system, skin disorders, infectious diseases, and respiratory system. A total of 67 plant species (representing 731 use-reports) were mentioned and Annona muricata, Gardenia taitensis, and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis were the main plants reported. Regarding the safety of cited remedies, one plant (Microsorum grossum) showed high risk of toxicity, and its use should be avoided in infants and children.ConclusionOur survey confirms the importance of traditional medical practices for children in the Society Islands. A lack of data in children for most cited remedies demonstrate the need for more pharmacological and toxicological research on Polynesian medicinal plants. Finally, the potential risk of toxicity for some cited plant species reported calls for a better information of traditional medicine users and healers.

In vitro production of steroidal saponin, total phenols and antioxidant activity in callus suspension culture of Paris polyphylla Smith: an important Himalayan medicinal plant.

Paris polyphylla Smith (Melanthiaceae) family, which is native to the Himalayan region, has received a lot of attention recently due to its extensive history of usage in traditional medicine. The production of steroidal saponin from callus suspension cultures of P. polyphylla was observed in the current study. The current study attempted to develop a P. polyphylla plant callus suspension culture through optimization of cultivation technique for callus suspension, quantification of total phenolic components and estimation of the extract's antioxidant activity. A light-yellow callus was formed within six weeks of cultivating rhizomes on Murashige and Skoog (MS) media supplemented with Thidiazuron (TDZ). Furthermore, the effect of TDZ, Methyl Jasmonate (MeJA), and Yeast Extract (YE) on callus growth, steroidal saponin (dioscin and diosgenin), total phenolic content, total flavonoids, total tannin, and total antioxidant activity was also measured. The medium containing 0.5 μM TDZ depicted the maximum callus biomass (2.98 g fresh weight). Significantly high phenolic and tannin content was observed in the MS medium containing 50 μM MeJA, whereas, no significant increase was observed in total tannin production in any treatment. Three in vitro assays, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline- 6-sulfonic acid)) and FRAP (ferric ion reducing antioxidant potential) and FC (Folin-Ciocalteu), were used to assess antioxidant potential of callus. Maximum antioxidant analysis reported in 1.0 μM TDZ (6.89 mM AAE/100 g) containing medium followed by 50 μM MeJA (6.44 mM AAE/100g). The HPLC analysis showed a high presence of dioscin and diosgenin (5.43% and 21.09%, respectively) compared to the wild sample (2.56% and 15.05%, respectively). According to the results, callus produced on media supplemented with 50 μM MeJA have significant phenolic contents and elevated antioxidant activity; nevertheless, callus growth was greater in the presence of 0.5 μM TDZ. The findings of the current study have commercial implications since greater biomass production will result in active phytochemicals that the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors are in need desperately.

Promotions, Information Asymmetry and Usage of Traditional Medicine in Central Uganda: A Qualitative Perspective

Background: While extant literature highlights several motivations for Traditional Medicine (TM) usage; few studies have examined how promotions and information asymmetries influence traditional medicine usage behaviors. This study aimed to map out information biases underlying the marketing and promotion of Traditional Medicines in Central Uganda and explored the dimensions of attitudes and usage behaviors of TM users.&#x0D; Methods: The study utilized a qualitative approach by conducting in-depth face-to-face semistructured interviews with TM users in the metropolitan parts of Central Uganda. The study participants were recruited from the Traditional Health Practitioners (THPs) clinics with the help of community development officers under the guidance of the National Council for Traditional Healers and Herbalists' Association (NACOTHA). Study participants gave their written consent, and their identities have since been kept confidential. Saturation point was reached at 34 respondents. Data was recorded and transcribed verbatim and analyzed using content analysis.&#x0D; Results: The study indicates that incomplete, inadequate and inconsistent information especially from TM promotions leads users to overly buy and use TM. Identified themes related to information asymmetry include unverifiable information, usage side effects, and absence of expiry dates on the labels, naturalness of TM, unclear dosage rates, limited diagnosis, limited usage guidelines, and lack of authentic approvals by regulatory bodies among others.&#x0D; Conclusions: The findings raise the need for policy guidelines in the alternative health segment and multi-agency regulation of THPs in Uganda. Further, massive community sensitization and customer education are recommended since the potential for information asymmetries in TM promotions is quite large.

Carrier-Free Binary Self-Assembled Nanomedicines Originated from Traditional Herb Medicine with Multifunction to Accelerate MRSA-Infected Wound Healing by Antibacterial, Anti-Inflammation and Promoting Angiogenesis.

Deaths from bacterial infections have risen year by year. This trend is further aggravated as the overuse antibiotics and the bacterial resistance to all known antibacterial agents. Therefore, new therapeutic alternatives are urgently needed. Enlightenment the combination usage of traditional herb medicine, one carrier-free binary nanoparticles (GA-BBR NPs) was discovered, which was self-assembled from gallic acid and berberine through electrostatic interaction, π-π stacking and hydrophobic interaction; and it could be successfully prepared by a green, cost-effective and "one-pot" preparation process. The nanoparticles exhibited strong antibacterial activity and biofilm removal ability against multidrug-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) by downregulating mRNA expression of rpsF, rplC, rplN, rplX, rpsC, rpmC and rpsH to block bacterial translation mechanisms in vitro and in vivo, and it had well anti-inflammatory activity and a promising role in promoting angiogenesis to accelerate the wound healing on MRSA-infected wounds model in vivo. Additionally, the nanoparticles displayed well biocompatibility without cytotoxicity, hemolytic activity, and tissue or organ toxicity. GA-BBR NPs originated from the drug combination has potential clinical transformation value, and this study provides a new idea for the design of carrier-free nanomedicine derived from natural herbals.

Side Effects of the Coexistence of Tradition Medicine with Biomedicine in Primary Health Service Delivery in Rural Areas of Tanzania

It is approximated that 60-80 per cent of Tanzanians use Traditional Medicine (TM) as their primary source of health services alongside biomedical services. However, there is little information on the side effects of the co-existence of TM with biomedical system to primary health services delivery in Tanzania. By using Helmke and Levitsky’s Model of co-existence of formal and informal institutions in comparative politics, this article argues that the coexistence of TM and biomedicine undermine the delivery of primary health services in rural areas of Tanzania due to abrupt stoppage of using biomedicine among users, concurrent use of TM and biomedicine services, poor environment where Traditional Health Practitioners (THPs) practice and selling of counterfeit medicine to the people. The study was carried out in Bukoba District of Tanzania, data were collected through observations, documentary review and interviews which were qualitatively analysed. The study involved 11 THPs, 30 household respondents, four (4) key respondents and five (5) biomedical practitioners who were purposively included in the study. Findings of the study call for the Government to register THPs who provide services to people while they are unregistered and to provide education on proper usage of TM among health services users in rural areas.