Use Of Traditional Medicine Research Articles

Prevalence and Socio-demographic Variations in Traditional Medicine Use: A Study from East Nile Locality, Sudan

Traditional medicine (TM) remains a cornerstone of healthcare in Sudan, across urban and rural settings. We explored TM use and its association with socio-demographic characteristics (age, sex, education, economic status, and residence) in East Nile locality (ShargAlneil), Khartoum State. A survey encompassing 609 households (44.7% rural, 55.3% urban) revealed a high prevalence of TM use: over 80% reported using at least one form. Notably, significant socio-demographic variations emerged. Individuals with higher education leaned towards herbalists (p<0.05), while those with lower education favored religious healers (p<0.05). Similarly, older adults preferred religious healers (p<0.05), while males tended to choose herbalists (p<0.05). The most common ailments preferred to be treated by TM practitioners were spiritual and psychological issues, bone injuries, stomachaches, and headaches. Conversely, conditions like malaria, diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease were primarily preferred to be managed by modern medicine. This study highlights the widespread use of TM across diverse demographics, with preferences for specific types of practitioners. It also underscores a selective trust in modern medicine for certain diseases. Integrating socio-demographic and cultural perspectives into healthcare delivery can enhance understanding of community needs and guide the development of appropriate interventions. Further research is warranted to delve deeper into the reasons behind these variations in treatment preferences.

Understanding the traditional medicinal knowledge and use of medicinal herbs by tribal community of Lakhanpuri, Kanker: A Case study

Understanding the traditional medicinal knowledge and use of medicinal herbs by tribal community of Lakhanpuri, Kanker: A Case study

The efficacy and safety of herbal formulas for adults with pulmonary hypertension combined with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis involving 1,865 participants.

There is currently no effective treatment for the majority of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease combined with pulmonary hypertension (COPD-PH). Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbal formulas in combination with routine western pharmacotherapy (WP) for the treatment of COPD-PH, with positive results. This meta-analysis was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TCM herbal formulas in the treatment of COPD-PH. A systematic literature search was conducted using Web of Science, PubMed, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang, and Chinese Science and Technology Journal (VIP) from database inception until October 2023. The primary outcome was pulmonary artery pressure parameters, including pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP). Secondary outcomes included pulmonary ventilation function parameters, such as forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and the ratio of FEV1 to forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC%), as well as functional capacity assessments measured by the six-minute walk distance (6MWD). Reviewer Manager software was used for both random-effects and fixed-effects meta-analyses. We registered the protocol for this study with the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (INPLASY, registry number: INPLASY2022100041). Twenty randomized control trials with a total of 1,865 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The results of our meta-analysis revealed that TCM herbal formulas in combination with basic WP significantly reduced pulmonary artery pressure in patients with COPD-PH, including PASP [mean difference (MD) =-4.50 mmHg, 95% confidence interval (CI): -6.04, -2.95] and mPAP (MD =-4.47 mmHg, 95% CI: -5.07, -3.88). Additionally, pulmonary ventilation function and 6MWD (MD =48.13 m, 95% CI: 39.92, 56.34) were also improved in COPD-PH patients. Pulmonary ventilation function was reflected by FEV1 (MD =0.83 L, 95% CI: 0.35, 1.30) and FEV1/FVC% (MD =4.76, 95% CI: 3.75, 5.77). A total of six studies reported adverse events in detail, and all claimed that no adverse events were observed in COPD-PH patients using TCM herbal formulas. The combination of TCM herbal formulas and basic WP might be more effective in improving the quality of life and exercise capacity of patients with COPD-PH than basic WP alone. However, the firm conclusions of our study were hampered by the low quality of the evidence.

New Insights into the Use of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Treating Diabetic Kidney Disease by Regulating DNA Methylation

New Insights into the Use of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Treating Diabetic Kidney Disease by Regulating DNA Methylation

Screening COPD-Related Biomarkers and Traditional Chinese Medicine Prediction Based on Bioinformatics and Machine Learning.

To employ bioinformatics and machine learning to predict the characteristics of immune cells and genes associated with the inflammatory response and ferroptosis in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients and to aid in the development of targeted traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Mendelian randomization analysis elucidates the causal relationships among immune cells, genes, and COPD, offering novel insights for the early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of COPD. This approach also provides a fresh perspective on the use of traditional Chinese medicine for treating COPD. R software was used to extract COPD-related data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, differentially expressed genes were identified for enrichment analysis, and WGCNA was used to pinpoint genes within relevant modules associated with COPD. This analysis included determining genes linked to the inflammatory response in COPD patients and analyzing their correlation with ferroptosis. Further steps involved filtering core genes, constructing TF-miRNA‒mRNA network diagrams, and employing three types of machine learning to predict the core miRNAs, key immune cells, and characteristic genes of COPD patients. This process also delves into their correlations, single-gene GSEA, and diagnostic model predictions. Reverse inference complemented by molecular docking was used to predict compounds and traditional Chinese medicines for treating COPD; Mendelian randomization was applied to explore the causal relationships among immune cells, genes, and COPD. We identified 2443 differential genes associated with COPD through the GEO database, along with 8435 genes relevant to WGCNA and 1226 inflammation-related genes. A total of 141 genes related to the inflammatory response in COPD patients were identified, and 37 core genes related to ferroptosis were selected for further enrichment analysis and analysis. The core miRNAs predicted for COPD include hsa-miR-543, hsa-miR-181c, and hsa-miR-200a, among others. The key immune cells identified were plasma cells, activated memory CD4 T cells, gamma delta T cells, activated NK cells, M2 macrophages, and eosinophils. Characteristic genes included EGF, PLG, PTPN22, and NR4A1. A total of 78 compounds and 437 traditional Chinese medicines were predicted. Mendelian randomization analysis revealed a causal relationship between 36 types of immune cells and COPD, whereas no causal relationship was found between the core genes and COPD. A definitive causal relationship exists between immune cells and COPD, while the prediction of core miRNAs, key immune cells, characteristic genes, and targeted traditional Chinese medicines offers novel insights for the early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of COPD.

Pharmacognostic, physicochemical and phytochemical profiles of Euclea divinorum (Ebenaceae)

Background: Euclea divinorum, belonging to the family Ebeneceae, has extensive traditional medicinal use in Africa. However, it lacks sufficient published data on its pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and phytochemical properties. Aims and Objectives: Thus, this study aimed at comprehensively evaluating the pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and phytochemical properties of E. divinorum using established techniques. Materials and Methods: The evaluation included assessing organoleptic properties, macroscopy, and microscopy of leaves, stems, and roots. Various physicochemical parameters, such as loss on drying and extractive values via hot and cold maceration, were determined. Phytochemical screening was also conducted on root aqueous extracts. Results and Conclusion: Results revealed specific characteristics of E. divinorum leaves, including light green coloration, distinct odor, and bitterness. Macroscopic examination highlighted opposite phyllotaxy, simple leaf types with lamina length range of 71.09 - 93.89 mm and a width range of 6.05 - 17.59 mm, obtuse leaf apexes, cuneate leaf bases, entire leaf margins, and smooth leaf surfaces. Venation displayed a reticulate pattern, with the midrib prominently visible on the lower surface. Microscopic analysis of the lower leaf epidermis showed an average of stomatal density of 3.75±0.67, epidermal density of 35.75±2.16 and stomatal index of 10.47±1.11. Microscopic examination of the leaf lamina across the midrib revealed cortical parenchymal cells containing calcium oxalate crystals, lignified xylem, and non-lignified phloem. Stem cross-sections displayed single-layered cells comprising the epidermis, secondary phloem, secondary xylem, and pith. Similar structures were observed in root cross-sections. The plant's moisture content was found to be 44.8±1.962%, with water and alcohol-soluble extractive values of 7.27±0.17 and 1.13±0.05 g/100g, respectively, through cold maceration, and 14.77±0.28 and 11.43±0.39 g/100g, respectively through hot maceration. The total ash content was measured at 3.03± 0.103%. Phytochemical screening detected various compounds, with anthraquinone glycosides, coumarine glycosides, saponin glycosides, flavonoids, proteins, and tannins being abundant. Alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, and steroids were absent. This research contributes to standardizing E. divinorum, aiding in its identification, preventing adulteration, and ensuring therapeutic efficacy.

Extracts of the Canadian goldenrod (Solidago Canadensis L.) – promising agents with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity

S. canadensis L. and S. virgaurea L. are the most common species of Solidago L. in Europe and with a long tradition of use in medicine for various therapeutic purposes: diseases of the urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, diabetes, allergies and antiseptic purposes. Therefore, the research of species of the Solidago genus, which have a rich content of natural BACs, and the development of new effective medicinal products of plant origin are relevant. The aim. The method of work is the phytochemical and pharmacological study of extracts of the Canadian goldenrod herb, obtained by ethanol solutions of various concentrations, for the innovative perspective of creating new medicines based on them with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity. Materials and methods. The objects of the study were extracts of herb from Canadian goldenrod, obtained using purified water, 40 %, 70 % and 90 % ethanol. Phytochemical study of the extracts was performed by TLC and spectrophotometry. Study of acute toxicity, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity of extracts was carried out according to standard methods. Research results. A study of the phytochemical composition and pharmacological activity of extracts of herb from Canadian goldenrod obtained with different solvents. It was established that extracts of herb from Canadian goldenrod show anti-inflammatory activity. The most pronounced antiexudative activity is shown by the extract of the Canadian goldenrod herb (extractant - 40 % ethanol), reducing the degree of swelling by 24.77 %. Herb extracts from from Canadian goldenrod in acute toxic liver damage show moderate hepatoprotective activity, which is somewhat inferior to the comparative drug "Silibor". A more intense and effective effect on the hepatobiliary system was shown by the extract of the Canadian goldenrod herb (extractant - 40 % ethanol). Conclusions. The perspective of creation based on herb of Canadian goldenrod new drugs with hepatoprotective activity. The most promising substance turned out to be an extract of herb from Canadian goldenrod obtained with a 40 % ethanol solution.

The relationship analysis of the traditional medicine knowledge level and self-medication knowledge level on the practice the use of traditional medicine at the University of Darussalam Gontor

The use of traditional medicine aims to provide preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative measures against a disease. Self-medication is one of the curative health efforts that is often carried out by the community to prevent the disease they are suffering from, as an act of selecting and using medication without a doctor's prescription to treat disorders and symptoms of disease. This research aims to increase understanding, knowledge, and practice of traditional medicine self-medication. This type of research is observational-quantitative, using a cross-sectional approach, which is a research design to study correlation techniques between risk factors and the factors that influence them. Data collection used questionnaires distributed directly with a sample size of 481 respondents. Descriptive analysis was used to describe the entire research sample data in the form of sociodemographic data, level of knowledge, self-medication, and practice of using traditional medicine. The inferential analysis used is the Spearman rank correlation test to see the relationship between variables. The results of the research show that there is a significant relationship between the level of knowledge of traditional medicine and the practice of using traditional medicine by respondents of (p value=0.001) and r value = 0.146 and there is a significant relationship between knowledge of self-medication and the practice of using traditional medicine of (p value= 0.005) and r value = 0.128 so this research is in the same direction. Keywords: knowledge, practice, self-medication, traditional medicine

Garlic and Hypertension: Efficacy, Mechanism of Action, and Clinical Implications.

Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Garlic has a long history of use in traditional medicine for various conditions, including hypertension. This narrative review examined the scientific evidence on the efficacy of garlic in lowering blood pressure. It explores the historical uses of garlic in different cultures for medicinal purposes and delves into the phytochemical composition of garlic, highlighting key components, like allicin and ajoene, that are believed to contribute to its potential health benefits. Clinical studies that investigated the effects of garlic and garlic-based supplements on blood pressure are presented, with the findings suggesting that garlic consumption may modestly reduce blood pressure, particularly in individuals with mild hypertension. Potential mechanisms of action include increased nitric oxide production, improved endothelial function, and antioxidant properties. While garlic may offer some benefits for blood pressure management, it should not be considered a substitute for conventional antihypertensive medications. Further large-scale, long-term clinical trials are warranted to establish the efficacy of garlic in managing hypertension, including the optimal dosage and formulation.

Anticancer Activity and Mechanism of Action of Couroupita guianensis Bark Decoction in Gastric Adenocarcinoma Cancer Cell Line.

Couroupita guianensis, a medicinal plant autochthonal to South America and South India, is widely used in the ethnomedicine of the indigenous peoples of these regions thanks to its alleged antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and wound-healing properties. The majority of studies have mainly analyzed organic extracts of the Indian plant's flowers and leaves, with limited research on its bark decoction, traditionally used in Amazonian shamanic medicine. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects of the bark decoction and its main fractions obtained through chromatographic separation, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms in AGS gastric cancer cells. Viability, cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis and protein expression related to these processes were evaluated. Both the bark decoction and fraction III significantly inhibited cell viability, and the cytotoxic effect was linked to cell cycle blockade and the induction of apoptosis also through an engulfment of the autophagic flux. Increased expression or activation of the key proteins (p53, p21, cdk2, Bak, caspases, pAMPK, pAkt, beclin, p62 and LC3BII) involved in these processes was observed. The results obtained confirmed an important anticancer effect of C. guianensis bark decoction, providing scientific validation for its use in traditional medicine and highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent against gastric cancer.

Unveiling the antitumor mechanism of 7α-acetoxy-6β-hydroxyroyleanone from Plectranthus hadiensis in glioblastoma

Ethnopharmacological relevanceGlioblastoma (GB) is the most aggressive and prevalent glioma within the central nervous system. Despite considerable efforts, GB continues to exhibit a dismal 5-year survival rate (∼6%). This is largely attributed to unfavorable prognosis and lack of viable treatment options. Therefore, novel therapies centered around plant-derived compounds emerge as a compelling avenue to enhance patient survival and well-being. The South African species, Plectranthus hadiensis Schweinf. (P. hadiensis), a member of the Lamiaceae family, has a history of use in traditional medicine for treating a range of diseases, including respiratory, digestive, and liver disorders. This species exhibits diverse biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory and antitumoral properties, likely attributed to its rich composition of naturally occurring diterpenes, like the abietane diterpene, 7α-acetoxy-6β-hydroxyroyleanone (Roy). Roy has demonstrated promising antitumor effects in various cancer cell lines, making it a compelling candidate for further investigation into its mechanisms against GB. Aim of the studyThis study aims to investigate the antitumor activity and potential mechanism of Roy, a natural lead compound, in GB cells. Material and methodsRoy was isolated from the acetonic extract of P. hadiensis and its antitumor mechanism was assessed in a panel of human GB cell lines (U87, A172, H4, U373, and U118) to mimic tumor heterogeneity. Briefly, the impact of Roy treatment on the metabolic activity of cells was evaluated by Alamar Blue® assay, while cell death, cell cycle regulation, mitochondrial membrane potential, and activated caspase-3 activity were evaluated by flow cytometry. Measurement of mRNA levels of target genes was performed by qPCR, while protein expression was assessed by Western blotting. Cell uptake and impact on mitochondrial morphology were evaluated by confocal microscopy. ResultsRoy induced G2/M cell cycle arrest, mitochondrial fragmentation, and apoptosis by inhibiting the expression of anti-apoptotic proteins and increasing the levels of activated caspase-3. The concentrations of Roy needed to achieve significant inhibitory outcomes were notably lower (6–9 fold) than those of temozolomide (TMZ), the standard first-line treatment, for achieving comparable effects. In addition, at low concentrations (16 μM), Roy affected the metabolic activity of tumor cells while having no significant impact on non-tumoral cells (microglia and astrocytes). ConclusionOverall, Roy demonstrated a robust antitumor activity against GB cells offering a promising avenue for the development of novel chemotherapeutic approaches.

Addressing GI Health Through the Bidirectional Modulation of the Gut-Brain Axis With Herbal Extracts: A Narrative Review.

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) refer to agroup of disorders with chronic symptoms, such as abdominal pain, dysphagia, dyspepsia, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. Among these, functional constipation significantly impacts the quality of life and is linked with comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression. The exact pathophysiology remains unclear despite the widespread occurrence. Research suggests that the gut-brain axis plays a role in FGIDs. Disruptions in the bidirectional communication between the brain and gastrointestinal (GI) tract contribute to GI symptoms and mood disturbances. The incomplete understanding of FGID pathophysiology has led to limited treatment options. Traditional treatments often focus on single symptoms and come with side effects, prompting the need for alternative approaches that address both GI and psychological components. Alternative approaches including herbal supplements offer a natural alternative to conventional medicine by promoting regularity and gut health. Abelmoschus esculentus L. or okra has a history of use in traditional medicine. Bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides and fibers found in okra offer gastroprotective benefits. Withania somnifera is a plant commonly referred to as ashwagandha. The plant root has been used for its health-promoting effects. Research supports the use of W. somnifera to help with stress and sleep. Digexin is a herbal supplement combining W. somnifera (ashwagandha) and A. esculentus (okra). It has shown promise in improving both GI regularity and mood by modulating the gut-brain axis. Clinical studies support the potential of a novel herbal supplement that aids in the management of FGIDs. This narrative review looks at FGIDs, etiologies, current treatment, and possible therapeutic supplements to aid in symptom management.

It Is Not All about Alkaloids-Overlooked Secondary Constituents in Roots and Rhizomes of Gelsemium sempervirens (L.) J.St.-Hil.

Gelsemium sempervirens (L.) J.St.-Hil. is an evergreen shrub occurring naturally in North and Middle America. So far, more than 120 alkaloids have been identified in this plant in addition to steroids, coumarins and iridoids, and its use in traditional medicine has been traced back to these compound classes. However, a comprehensive phytochemical investigation of the plant with a special focus on further compound classes has not yet been performed. Therefore, the present study aimed at an extensive HPLC-MSn characterization of secondary metabolites and, for the first time, reports the occurrence of various depsides and phenolic glycerides in G. sempervirens roots and rhizomes, consisting of benzoic and cinnamic acid derivatives as well as dicarboxylic acids. Furthermore, mono- and disaccharides were assigned by GC-MS. Applying the Folin-Ciocalteu assay, the phenolic content of extracts obtained with different solvents was estimated to range from 30 to 50% calculated as chlorogenic acid equivalents per g dry weight and was related to the DPPH radical scavenging activity of the respective extracts. Upon lactic acid fermentation of aqueous G. sempervirens extracts, degradation of phenolic esters was observed going along with the formation of low-molecular volatile metabolites.

Astragalus polysaccharides-induced gut microbiota play a predominant role in enhancing of intestinal barrier function of broiler chickens

BackgroundThe intestinal barrier is the first line of defense against intestinal invasion by pathogens and foreign antigens and is closely associated with the gut microbiota. Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) have a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine owing to its protective properties against intestinal barrier function. The mechanism of APS-induced gut microbiota enhancing intestinal barrier function is urgently needed.ResultsDietary polysaccharide deprivation induced intestinal barrier dysfunction, decreased growth performance, altered microbial composition (Faecalibacterium, Dorea, and Coprobacillus), and reduced isobutyrate concentration. The results showed that APS facilitates intestinal barrier function in broiler chickens, including a thicker mucus layer, reduced crypt depth, and the growth of tight junction proteins. We studied the landscape of APS-induced gut microbiota and found that APS selectively promoted the growth of Parabacteroides, a commensal bacterium that plays a predominant role in enhancing intestinal barrier function. An in vitro growth assay further verified that APS selectively increased the abundance of Parabacteroides distasonis and Bacteroides uniformis. Dietary APS supplementation increased the concentrations of isobutyrate and bile acid (mainly chenodeoxycholic acid and deoxycholate acid) and activated signaling pathways related to intestinal barrier function (such as protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, tight junctions, and adherens junction signaling pathways).ConclusionsAPS intervention restored the dietary polysaccharide-induced dysfunction of the intestinal barrier by selectively promoting the abundance of Parabacteroides distasonis, and increasing the concentrations of isobutyrate and bile acids (mainly CDCA and DCA). These findings suggest that APS-induced gut microbiota and metabolic niches are promising strategies for enhancing intestinal barrier function.Graphical

A review on traditional medicine used for burn treatment.

Considering the high consumption of and preference for traditional treatments among people and the lack of enough studies on the effectiveness of these treatments, we aimed to review articles on the use of traditional and complementary medicine, focusing on how they affect healing, debridement, and hypertrophic scars. In this study, we conducted the literature search in international databases Pubmed, Google scholar, Ovid, Scopus, web of science, and Cochrane library, as well as Persian databases SID, Magiran, Iranmedex, and Irandoc. Retrieved hits were reviewed by three authors for screening based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and the screening process is expressed as PRISMA framework flow chart. Twenty-two studies were included. The evaluated outcomes were wound healing in 19, pain control in 5, itching in 4, and scar appearance in 2 studies. All of the studies showed equal or improved effects compared to common treatments. Aloe vera, Centella asiatica, and Arnebia euchroma were the most common plants. We revealed that traditional medicine is beneficial in burn wound treatment, the diversity in ingredients that are used in traditional medicine brings up the need for further controlled prospective studies to evaluate the precise superiority of these treatments compared to the standard care.

Pharmacological mechanisms of Ma Xing Shi Gan Decoction in treating influenza virus-induced pneumonia: intestinal microbiota and pulmonary glycolysis.

Influenza virus is one of the most common pathogens that cause viral pneumonia. During pneumonia, host immune inflammation regulation involves microbiota in the intestine and glycolysis in the lung tissues. In the clinical guidelines for pneumonia treatment in China, Ma Xing Shi Gan Decoction (MXSG) is a commonly prescribed traditional Chinese medicine formulation with significant efficacy, however, it remains unclear whether its specific mechanism of action is related to the regulation of intestinal microbiota structure and lung tissue glycolysis. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of action of MXSG in an animal model of influenza virus-induced pneumonia. Specifically, we aimed to elucidate how MXSG modulates intestinal microbiota structure and lung tissue glycolysis to exert its therapeutic effects on pneumonia. We established a mouse model of influenza virus-induced pneumoni, and treated with MXSG. We observed changes in inflammatory cytokine levels and conducted 16S rRNA gene sequencing to assess the intestinal microbiota structure and function. Additionally, targeted metabolomics was performed to analyze lung tissue glycolytic metabolites, and Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were performed to assess glycolysis-related enzymes, lipopolysaccharides (LPSs), HIF-1a, and macrophage surface markers. Correlation analysis was conducted between the LPS and omics results to elucidate the relationship between intestinal microbiota and lung tissue glycolysis in pneumonia animals under the intervention of Ma Xing Shi Gan Decoction. MXSG reduced the abundance of Gram-negative bacteria in the intestines, such as Proteobacteria and Helicobacter, leading to reduced LPS content in the serum and lungs. This intervention also suppressed HIF-1a activity and lung tissue glycolysis metabolism, decreased the number of M1-type macrophages, and increased the number of M2-type macrophages, effectively alleviating lung damage caused by influenza virus-induced pneumonia. MXSG can alleviate glycolysis in lung tissue, suppress M1-type macrophage activation, promote M2-type macrophage activation, and mitigate inflammation in lung tissue. This therapeutic effect appears to be mediated by modulating gut microbiota and reducing endogenous LPS production in the intestines. This study demonstrates the therapeutic effects of MXSG on pneumonia and explores its potential mechanism, thus providing data support for the use of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of respiratory infectious diseases.

Analysis of Aspects of Legal Protection for Patients Regarding Traditional Medicine in Law Number 17 of 2023 Concerning Health

This research examines legal protection for patients who are victims of traditional medical malpractice based on Law Number 17 of 2023 concerning Health. In the context of the increasing use of traditional medicine in Indonesia, it is important to understand existing legal protection mechanisms and how effective these regulations are in protecting patients' rights. This study uses a qualitative approach with literature study methods and analysis of related laws and regulations. The research results show that Law Number 17 of 2023 has provided a clearer legal framework in regulating traditional healing practices and provides protection mechanisms for patients. However, implementation in the field still faces various challenges, including a lack of effective supervision, limited public knowledge about their rights as patients, and differences in service quality in various regions. This research also identifies the important role of local governments in supervising and coaching traditional medicine service providers, as well as the need to increase education and outreach to the community regarding patient rights. In conclusion, although Law Number 17 of 2023 has provided a significant legal basis, there is still room for improvement in the implementation of this regulation to ensure optimal protection for traditional medicine patients in Indonesia.

Suppressive Effect of Coffee Leaves on Lipid Digestion and Absorption In Vitro.

Coffee leaves are a major source of bioactive components and are used as ethnomedicine. However, despite their traditional medicinal use, information about their effects on antihyperlipidemia remains limited. The aims of this study were to evaluate the main components of leaf extracts from Arabica and Robusta coffees and to examine the potential of these coffee leaves in reducing lipid digestion and absorption in vitro. Coffee leaf extracts from Arabica coffee contain a high amount of caffeine, whereas extracts from Robusta coffee contain high amounts of chlorogenic acid (CGA) and caffeine. Additionally, leaf extracts from Arabica and Robusta coffee demonstrated the inhibition of pancreatic lipase, decreased micellar cholesterol solubility, and reduced bile acid binding. Furthermore, these extracts resulted in a reduction in cholesterol uptake in Caco-2 cells. Molecular docking experiments supported this discovery, showing CGA and caffeine binding to Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1), a key protein in cholesterol absorption. The results indicated that CGA and caffeine can competitively bind to NPC1L1 at the cholesterol binding pocket, reducing its cholesterol binding rate. These findings suggest that coffee leaves might help suppress lipid absorption and digestion, highlighting their potential use in preventing and treating hyperlipidemia.

Dendrobium nobile alkaloids modulate calcium dysregulation and neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease: A bioinformatic analysis

IntroductionDendrobium nobile Lindl alkaloids, or DNLA for short, are the most active ingredients found in D.nobile, a top grade plant in Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, with an extensive history of medicinal use in Chinese traditional medicine (TCM) as a multifunctional therapeutic agent. Recent evidence has emerged linking the neuroprotective and anti-aging effects of DNLA to their involvement in promoting autophagy of toxic amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques and modulation of key enzymes involved in the hyperphosphorylation of Tau proteins. Although amyloid buildup and the aggregation of Tau proteins are central to the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD), evidence on how DNLA relate to other overlooked dysregulated AD-associated pathways is still lacking. MethodsWe intend on deciphering the underlying mechanisms driving the anti-AD effect of DNLA, using a combination of network analysis based on differentially expressed genes found in AD patients, target fishing, centrality analysis, enrichment analysis and hub genes identification. ResultsIn total, 2069 genes were found differentially expressed in SRP181886 and a PPI network constructed with common targets between DNLA and AD. Five hub genes were identified having a discriminatory power greater than 0.7; HTR2A, GRIN2B, GABRA1, HTR2C, GRIN2A, with the former being the top bottleneck node in the network. Enrichment analysis found that DNLA exert an anti-AD effect through the regulation of the calcium signaling pathway and the serotonergic system, by modulating key receptors implicated in excitatory/inhibitory neurotransmission. Additionally, DNLA were found to modulate two subunits of NMDA receptor involved in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, underlying the possible involvement of DNLA in neuroinflammation. DiscussionThis further emphasizes the therapeutic value of D.nobile and the multi-target, multi-pathway potential of DNLA to counteract the deleterious effects of calcium dysregulation and excitatory toxicity in AD, while providing evidence-based rationale behind the traditional use of D. nobile in TCM.

An Ethnobotanical Survey on the Use of Traditional Medicine among Students in the University of Lagos, Nigeria

An Ethnobotanical Survey on the Use of Traditional Medicine among Students in the University of Lagos, Nigeria