Use In Folk Medicine Research Articles

Neutralization of Bitis arietans venom-induced pathophysiological disorder, biological activities and genetic alterations by Moringa oleifera leaves

Bitis arietans venom (BAV) is known to cause various pathophysiological disorders by altering the cellular inclusions and enzymatic activities of different organs. Moringa oleifera leaf has been reportedly used for treatment of snake envenoming but there is no information on its neutralizing potentials against Bitis arietans venom. This study investigated the antivenin activity of ethanol crude extract of M. oleifera leaf on B. arietans envenomed rats and its inhibitory effects on some biological activities of the venom. The lethal dose (LD50) of BAV was estimated at 1.5 mg/kg−1. BAV induced various toxic effects in the in vivo study however, treatment with M. oleifera leaf extract (MOLE) ameliorated BAV-induced hypernatraemia and hypercalcemia. Acute anemia observed in untreated envenomed rats was reversed after treatment with various concentrations of MOLE with a significant (p < 0.05) dose dependent increase in hematological indices. Liver damage in untreated envenomed rats as indicated by higher concentration of serum liver enzymes and higher concentration of antioxidant enzymes were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in MOLE treated rats. Also, BAV exhibited hemorrhagic, hemolytic and coagulating activities which were inhibited in a dose dependent manner by MOLE. A mild DNA fragmentation noticed in tissues of the heart of untreated envenomed rats was ameliorated in the MOLE treated rats. Results obtained in this study indicated that M. oleifera leaf have antivenin activity against B. arietans venom induced toxicities and underscores its use in folk medicine for the treatment of snake bites.

Mesosphaerum suaveolens (Lamiacae): Source of antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds

The use in folk medicine of leaves of Mesosphaerum suaveolens for the treatment of diseases of the digestive system and respiratory system, raised the hypothesis that its volatile oil has biological properties against pathogenic microorganisms. To evaluate this hypothesis, the antibacterial, antifungal activity against Candida yeast strains, which modifies the action of antibiotics and antioxidants (DPPH) was evaluated in vitro. In addition, it was determined by means of Gas Chromatography (GC-FID), the constituents present in the essential oil. The results show that M. suaveolens oil has antibacterial activity against standard and multidrug-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus, with a MIC of 64 and 256 μg/mL respectively, however it does not have the capacity to enhance the action of commercial antibacterials. Regarding the anti-Candida activity, it was possible to observe that there was biological action, since they presented IC50 de 18.15 µg/mL for Candida albicans URM and 40.4 for Candida tropicalis INCQS 40042. In addition, the oil was able to modulate fluconazole for all strains analyzed. As for the antioxidant action, the oil demonstrated that even in low percentages, there is an action in the reduction of free radicals (IC50&gt; 200 µg/mL). Such activities may be related to the major constituent of the oil, the sesquiterpene β-caryophyllene (C17H28O2). Thus, M. suaveolens oil is a natural source with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Sustainable utilization of medicinal plants and conservation strategies practiced by the aboriginals of Purulia district, India: a case study on therapeutics used against some tropical otorhinolaryngologic and ophthalmic disorders

Purulia, the land of distinctive geological and archaeological features, abundant natural resources and a home to a number of aboriginals, has been studied widely to apprehend the role of ethnic remedies against myriad of diseases. Availability of natural remedies and practice of traditional knowledge have popularized the use of medicinal plants among local communities. The objective of the study is to elucidate the use of folk medicine against common otorhinolaryngologic and ophthalmic medical conditions, by various ethnic groups of Purulia district, West Bengal, India. A completely randomized ethnobotanical approach was carried out during a number of field visits conducted to interview 55 traditional healers (THs) residing across the 20 blocks of district Purulia via semi-structured open-ended questionnaire. The similarity of usage of plants for different diseases was calculated by the informant consensus factor (Fic), whereas fidelity level indicated the plants mostly cited by the informants. The correlative importance of the usage of the plants was measured by the use value (UV). A total number of 28 plant species belonging to 27 genera and 20 families are reported in this present study in the treatment of a number of otorhinolaryngologic and ophthalmic ailments such as cough and cold, eye diseases (sore eye, red eye, eye inflammation and conjunctivitis), ear diseases (earache and pus in ears), nosebleed and throat infection. The highest value for informant’s consensus factor (Fic) was observed in cough and cold (0.87) that indicates most of the plants possess analgesic and antipyretic potential, whereas the lowest value (0.33) was shown by sore eye that denotes least number of plants have been applied for eye cure. Mostly, leaf part (41.4%) is utilized to cure selected otorhinolaryngologic and ophthalmic disorders where most of the herbal formulations were applied as leaf juices (60.7%). Most significant plant species were Piper nigrum L., Ocimum sanctum L. and Zingiber officinale Roscoe according to their highest UV (1.80), followed by Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees (1.79) and Justicia adhatoda L. (1.66). The present work represents first quantitative ethnobotanical study against some tropical otorhinolaryngologic and ophthalmic disorders in remote areas of Purulia district where acute poverty, underprivileged livelihood, illiteracy, unavailability of conventional health care as well as age-old trust on THs have popularized the use of natural resources (i.e. medicinal plants). Many of the reported ethnomedicinal properties of some plants have been backed up by clinical data also. Aboriginal people also showed keen interest and knowledge regarding conservation of endangered medicinal plants and on sustainable utilization of botanical resources. Proper documentation of traditional knowledge and potential preclinical and clinical studies based on the ethnobotanical data procured may be suggested for safe and efficacious use of herbal medicine against otorhinolaryngologic and ophthalmic disorders.

Recombinant Ganoderma lucidum Immunomodulatory Protein Improves the Treatment for Chemotherapy-Induced Neutropenia.

Ganoderma lucidum, also known as LINGZHI, has a long tradition of use in folk medicine of the Far East, which is documented in the oldest Chinese pharmacopoeia, declaring it a superior medicine. LINGZHI-8 (LZ-8) is an immunoregulatory fungal protein isolated from the fruiting body of Ganoderma lucidum. Neutropenia is a condition with an abnormally low levels of neutrophils in the blood, which is caused by numerous medical conditions or medications, such as chemotherapy. The current study demonstrated that recombinant LZ-8 (rLZ-8) from Pichia promoted the differentiation of bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) into granulocytes in a neutropenia mouse model induced by cyclophosphamide. Also, it regulated the CXCR4-SDF1 axis to promote the mobilization of HSCs and the release of neutrophils from the bone marrow to peripheral blood. Binding of rLZ-8 to the colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) promotes the differentiation of HSCs into primitive CFU colonies. These results suggested that rLZ-8 has a potential effect in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia.

OVERVIEW ON PLANT CASSIA SOPHERA LINN

Medicinal herbs are moving from fringe to mainstream use, with a more significant number of people seeking remedies and health approaches free from side effects caused by synthetic chemicals Cassia sophera Linn. (Caesalpinaceae), an important drug in Unani medicine, act as a blood purifier, carminative, purgative, digestive, and diaphoretic. Many compounds have been reported from plants belonging to genus Cassia. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the phytochemical and pharmacological aspects of Cassia sophera. It is obtained from deciduous and mixed-monsoon forests throughout greater parts of India, ascending to 1300 m in outer Himalaya. It is widely used in the traditional medicinal system of India has been reported to possess analgesic, anticonvulsant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective and antiasthmatic activity, etc. India officially recognizes over 3000 plants for their medicinal value. It is generally estimated that over 6000 plants in India are in use in traditional, folk, and herbal medicine.

Potencial fitoterápico do Chenopodium Ambrosioides L. na Odontologia

Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão bibliográfica narrativa abordando as pesquisas científicas que demonstram o potencial fitoterápico do Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (mastruz) na odontologia. Métodos: Foram selecionados artigos científicos a partir das bases de dados: PubMED, BBO, LILACS, SCIELO, além de dissertações que atenderam aos requisitos do tema abordado, publicadas no período compreendido entre 2010 e 2020. A pesquisa nas plataformas se deu através dos seguintes descritores, nas línguas portuguesa e inglesa: Chenopodium ambrosioides, mastruz, fitoterápicos e odontologia. Resultados: Após a análise dos dados encontrados, observou-se que o Chenopodium ambrosioides L. é uma planta nativa da América Central e do Sul e é amplamente distribuída em todo o território brasileiro. O seu uso na medicina popular consiste no tratamento de feridas, leucorreia, processos inflamatórios e como agente anti-helmíntico. Na odontologia, atua como um potente anti-inflamatório, antifúngico e antimicrobiano, sendo capaz de interferir no desenvolvimento do biofilme. Conclusão: Os avanços nos estudos com o Chenopodium ambrosioides L. são bastante significativos. No entanto, torna-se fundamental uma maior aplicabilidade da planta na odontologia através de estudos in vivo, proporcionando um maior aprofundamento desses estudos para análises mais concretas.

Assessment of the Potential Skin Application of Plectranthus ecklonii Benth.

Plectranthus ecklonii Benth. has widespread ethnobotanical use in African folk medicine for its medicinal properties in skin conditions. In this study, two different basic formulations containing P. ecklonii extracts were prepared, one in an organic solvent and the other using water. The aqueous extract only contained rosmarinic acid (RA) at 2.02 mM, and the organic extract contained RA and parvifloron D at 0.29 and 3.13 mM, respectively. RA in aqueous solution permeated skin; however, in P. ecklonii organic extract, this was not detected. Thus, P. ecklonii aqueous extract was further studied and combined with benzophenone-4, which elevated the sun protection factor (SPF) by 19.49%. No significant cytotoxic effects were observed from the aqueous extract. The Staphylococcus epidermidis strain was used to determine a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 10 µg·mL−1. The aqueous extract inhibited the activity of acetylcholinesterase by 59.14 ± 4.97%, and the IC50 value was 12.9 µg·mL−1. The association of the P. ecklonii extract with a UV filter substantially elevated its SPF efficacy. Following the multiple bioactivities of the extract and its active substances, a finished product could be claimed as a multifunctional cosmeceutical with broad skin valuable effects, from UV protection to antiaging action.

Pharmacological evaluation of analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities of ethanolic extract of Indigofera argentea Burm. f.

Ethnopharmacological relevanceIndigofera argentea Burm. f.; commonly known as neel, jantari, hathio; is traditionally used for the treatment of headache, fever, inflammation and body pain. Local communities also used this plant for the treatment of malaria, jaundice, vertigo and gastric disorders. Aim of the studyThis study is aimed to evaluate the toxicity and possible analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities of the ethanolic crude extract of Indigofera argentea (IaCr) to support its use in folk medicine and to screen the phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity. Materials and methodsAqueous ethanolic (30:70) extract of whole plant of Indigofera argentea (IaCr) was prepared and phytochemical study was performed by preliminary methods followed by HPLC and DPPH method. In vivo experiments were performed in Wistar albino rats including hot plate, tail immersion, formalin and capsaicin-induced pain tests in rats and acetic acid-induced writhing test in mice. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by using in vitro human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization and carrageenan-induced rat paw edema test, while antipyretic activity was evaluated by Brewer’s yeast-induced pyrexia test. ResultsThe crude extract of Indigofera argentea confirmed the presence of flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, saponins and tannins as soluble ethanolic constituents in preliminary study. The maximum quantity of gallic acid equivalent (GAE) phenolics, and quercetin equivalent (QE) flavonoid content found was 81 ± 2 mg GAE/g and 56 ± 1.4 mg QE/g of extract respectively. Quantification based on HPLC exposed the presence of phenols and flavonoids, quercetin, gallic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, benzoic acid, ferulic acid and coumaric acid. In vivo experiments revealed significant P < 0.05) dose-dependent inhibition in hot plate, tail immersion and capsaicin-induced pain test. IaCr showed significant inhibition of pain latency against both phases in formalin test and considerably decreased the number of writhes caused by acetic acid at the doses of 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg. In the in vitro anti-inflammatory (HRBC) assay, IaCr showed good membrane stability with maximum percentage hemolysis inhibition of 49.29% while in carrageenan-induced paw edema test in rats the IaCr showed significant anti-inflammatory action in a dose-dependent fashion. Statistical significant reduction in rectal temperature was observed at the doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg in yeast-induced pyrexia test in rats. ConclusionThe results of the experimental studies proved the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities of Indigofera argentea and supported the traditional use of this plant.

Dereplication and quantification of the ethanol extract of Miconia albicans (Melastomaceae) by HPLC-DAD-ESI-/MS/MS, and assessment of its anti-hyperalgesic and anti-inflammatory profiles in a mice arthritis-like model: Evidence for involvement of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMiconia albicans (Sw) Triana (Melastomataceae), a medicinal plant widely used by practitioners of folk medicine in the northeast of Brazil, has been used to treat chronic inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other joint conditions. Oddly, there is little research on the species. Aim of the studyWe aimed to evaluate the anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory profile of the ethanolic leaf extract of M. albicans (EEMA), as well as to perform dereplication and quantification by HPLC-DAD-ESI-/MS/MS. Materials and methodsThe compounds present in the extracts were identified by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS. The possible anti-inflammatory effect of EEMA (50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o) was evaluated using the pleurisy model induced by carrageenan and its action on IL-1β and TNF-α levels was also evaluated. The RA model was induced through the intra-articular injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). ResultsHPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analysis identified 23 compounds, with glycoside flavonoids mainly derived from quercetin, and rutin being the main compounds. EEMA significantly reduced (p < 0.001) leukocyte migration in the pleurisy model and reduced TNF-α and IL-1β levels in pleural lavage (p < 0.001). In the CFA animal model, EEMA significantly reduced the nociceptive and hyperalgesic behaviors demonstrated by the rearing test (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05) and decreased mechanical hyperalgesia (p < 0.001). EEMA produced a significant improvement in mobility in the open-field test (only at the higher dose, p < 0.05). EEMA significantly (p < 0.01) increased hindpaw grip strength. The diameter of CFA-induced ipsilateral knee edema was significantly reduced (p < 0.001) by EEMA, which was related to reduced levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in the joint knee (p < 0.01). No indication of hepatic injury after chronic treatment was found. ConclusionTaken together, these results contribute to the chemical and pharmacological knowledge of M. albicans and demonstrated that this medicinal plant appears to be able to mitigate deleterious symptoms of RA, which supports its use in folk medicine.

Evaluation of Antidiarrheal Activity of the Ethanol Extract Leucaena leucocephala (Lam) de Wit Seed

BACKGROUND: Leucaena leucocephala belongs to the Leguminosae/Fabaceae family. L. leucocephala seeds contain alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins which according to the previous research have antidiarrhea activity.&#x0D; AIM: This study was investigate the antidiarrheal activity of the ethanol extracts of Leucaena leucocephala (Lam) de Wit seeds induced by oleum ricini and intestinal transit methods for rats.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: L. leucocephala seeds were extracted by maceration with 80% ethanol. Evaluation of antidiarrheal extract activity was performed by induction of oleum ricini and intestinal transit methods. The extract at dose doses of 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg BW was orally administered to the animals 1 h after induction by oleum ricini. Then diarrhea time, frequency, consistency, stool weight, and duration of diarrhea were observed every 30 min for 6 h. In determining the intestinal transit method, a percentage of the distance of the Chinese ink determined. This study was used positive control as Loperamide (1 mg/kg BW) and 0.5% Na-CMC as a negative control.&#x0D; RESULT: In diarrhea induced by castor oil, L. leucocephala seed extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg bw has been shown to significantly delay the onset of diarrhea, reduce diarrhea frequency, stool weight and duration of diarrhea compared with Na CMC as a negative control (p &lt; 0.05). The extract at a dose of 400 mg/kg bw did not differ significantly from loperamide as positive control (p &gt; 0.05). In this study, L. leucocephala extract reduced the distance traveled by Chinese ink in the intestine but only at a dose of 400 mg/kg bw which has a comparable activity with loperamide significantly . The antidiarrheal activity of extract showed at a dose dependent manner.&#x0D; CONCLUSION: The ethanol extract of L. leucocephala seeds has antidiarrheal activity which supports its use in folk medicines.

GC-MS analysis and pharmacological potentials of Neurada procumbens.

Muhammad Munawar Hayat*, Muhammad Uzair Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800, Pakistan Introduction The Neurada procumbens is a desert plant belongs to family Neuradaceae and traditionally used a nerve tonic and cooling agent with the name of herbal preparation “Thadal” in summer by local people. Its folkloric uses are as anthelmintic, anticonvulsant, laxative, infestinal problems, eczema, infections, rheumatism and sexual problems [1]. The leaves and fruits of the plant are used for medicinal purposes and whole plant is a source of fodder for camel [2]. It is an annual prostrate densely tomentose herb. The local name of Neurada procumbens is “Chapperi Booti” and “Als’dan”. According to Flora of West Pakistan, there is only single species distributed in Pakistan from the genus Neurada [3]. The influence of aqueous extract of N. procumbens when administered orally increases the blood pressure of rats. The study provides that elevation of blood pressure was due to vasoconstriction on the aortic strips of rats in vitro [4]. It is also reported that ethanolic extract of N. procumbens reduced the blood pressure in rabbits [5]. Quinone oxidoreductase 1 inducer activity of plant is also reported [6]. Recently, some flavonoids are isolated from N. procumbens in Egypt [7]. Literature survey revealed that there is too much diverse folkloric use of the plant in residants of Cholistan desert but little work regarding biological screening and enzymatic inhibition studies of N. procumbens has been done. Therefore, it was need to explore the therapeutical potential of the plant. The objectives of present study were to investigate the secondary metabolites, chemical constituents and enzymatic or biological activities. Despite the multiple ethanomedicinal uses of N. procumbens in diarrhea, dysentery, diabetes, inflammation, ulcer, edema, asthma, oxidative stress and skin problems, no research work is available with respect to its effectiveness in these diseases. The present work on the two crude extracts of the plant N. procumbens was undertaken for various biological and enzyme inhibition activities to scientifically rationalize the traditional uses and also includes the phytochemical screening or evaluation of the plant. Materials and Methods Collection and extraction of plant Objective: Neurada procumbens L is a medicinal herb with diverse folk history and is traditionally used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, diabetes, eczema, anticonvulsant, rheumatism, laxative, infestinal and gastrointestinal problems, sexual problems, anthelmintic, infections and respiration function. The aim of this study was to prove the uses of plant N. procumbens in gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders scientifically. Method: The phytoconstituents were identified by GC-MS technique. In this study, twelve (12) different kinds of in vitro biological and enzyme inhibition activities were performed to explore the diverse folkloric use of the plant scientifically. Results: On phytochemical screening, it was proved that plant N. procumbens is rich source of flavonoids as dichloromethane and methanol extracts have 143.45 ± 1.25 and 200.69 ± 1.97 mg QE/g of extract, respectively. By GC-MS analysis, nine (9) compounds in dichloromethane extract and six (06) in methanol extract were detected. The dicloromethane extract of whole plant of N. procumbens showed anti-lipooxygenase, anti-chymotripsin, anti- alpha glucosidase, anti-urease and anti-tyrosinase activities, whereas methanol extract showed antioxidant, anti-alpha glucosidase, anti-urease, anti-tyrosinase, anticarbonic anhydrase II, spasmolytic and bronchorelaxant activities. Conclusion: The study proofs the folk medicinal use of N. procumbens to treat diabetes, diarrhea, and improvement in gastrointestinal and respiration functions which justifies the pharmacological importance of plant. Moreover, this study can be considering a solid back ground for further in vivo studies.

Investigation of cytotoxicity potential of different extracts of Ziziphus mauritiana (Lam) leaf Allium cepa model

Previous studies showed that Ziziphus mauritiana is ethnomedicinally beneficial against various diseases, however the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of this plant have not been well investigated. Therefore this study was undertaken to investigate cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of four different solvents extracts of Ziziphus mauritiana (Lam) leaf at different concentrations (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 mg/L) using Allium cepa model. The cytotoxicity and genotoxicity parameters evaluated were mitotic index, root tip growth length and chromosomal aberration respectively. The result revealed a decrease in mitotic index percentage (%MI) and a dose dependent decrease in root tip length with increase in extracts concentration for all the extracts studied - with the ethanol extract showing the most significant effect in mitotic index. Furthermore, the effective concentrations (EC50) obtained were 81.30, 52.01, 90.68 and 112.30 mg/l for aqueous, ethanol, ethyl acetate and hexane extract respectively. Finally chromosomal aberrations such as vagrant chromosome, c-mitosis, bridged anaphase, sticky telophase were also observed in all four extracts and the percentage chromosomal aberration were observed to decrease with increased concentrations of extracts. Therefore based on the result obtained in this study it may be concluded that the plant (Ziziphus mauritiana (Lam)) extracts are cytotoxic and genotoxic in nature and the observed decrease in percentage chromosomal aberration may be as a result of antimutagenic bioactive principles present in the plant extracts. Hence care must be taken in its consumption and use in folk medicine.

Differential constituents in roots, stems and leaves of Newbouldia laevis Thunb. screened by LC/ESI-Q-TOF-MS

Newbouldia laevis (P. Beauv.) Seem. or “Boundary Tree” is a medium sized angiosperm in the Bignoniaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa, especially used in West Africa to mark property boundaries in rural areas. Despite its intensive use in folk medicine, the plant chemical composition is under investigated. The study is aimed at identifying the chemical constituents of N. laevis crude plant extracts by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on line with an untargeted high-resolution mass spectrometry. The used HPLC method showed to be suitable for the determination of withasomnine, newbouldine, and lapachol derivatives together with other known bioactive compounds like phytosterols and triterpenoids. The importance of these chemical constituents is discussed with respect to the role of N. laevis in West African ethnomedicine.

&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Lonchocarpus eriocalyx&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; (Harms) Herb Extract for Use as Painkillers

Today, many herbal preparations are being prescribed as analgesics. In the past decade, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional systems of medicine which has become a topic of global interest. Indeed, many important drugs in the market have been obtained directly/ indirectly from natural sources, for example: morphine, pilocarpine, quinine and artemisinin among others. <i>Lonchocarpus eriocalyx</i> (Harms) belongs to the family Fabaceae and is used traditionally to control fever, headache and general body pain. This plant was studied for presence of secondary metabolites and the antinocieceptive effects. Four lupane-type terpenoids; lupeol (1), friedelin (2) stigmasterol (3), and stigmasterol glucoside (4) were isolated from the ethylacetate (EtOAc) extract of leaves by extensive silica gel chromatography and their structures elucidated by spectroscopic 1D and 2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) as well as comparison with literature data. Acetic acid-induced writhing test in mice was used to study the analgesic effect of the crude extract and isolates with Acetyl-salicylic acid as the positive control (87.37%). After prior intraperitoneal injection (i.p) of the mice with the EtOAc extract (100 mg/Kg) and the isolates (10 mg/kg, p.o.), comparatively less number of writhes were observed implying that the extract and isolates had significant ability to relieve pain. Similarly, a percent inhibition of 50.52, 76.7, 66.47 and 62.24% was observed in EtOAc and compounds 1, 2 and 3 respectively compared to the positive control (87.37%). This research has confirmed the presence of painkillers in this plant and scientifically validates its use in folk medicine. The isolates can be used as templates and derivatised into alternative analgesics to support the existing strategies in the management of diseases. Improved health will enhance productivity both at National and Global levels. Large scale cultivation of this plant for commercial purposes will be an Income Generating Activity (IGA) for the rural poor and supplement the strategies aimed at poverty alleviation.

The Health-Promoting Potential of Salix spp. Bark Polar Extracts: Key Insights on Phenolic Composition and In Vitro Bioactivity and Biocompatibility.

Salix spp. have been exploited for energy generation, along with folk medicine use of bark extracts for antipyretic and analgesic benefits. Bark phenolic components, rather than salicin, have demonstrated interesting bioactivities, which may ensure the sustainable bioprospection of Salix bark. Therefore, this study highlights the detailed phenolic characterization, as well as the in vitro antioxidant, anti-hypertensive, Staphylococcus aureus growth inhibitory effects, and biocompatibility of Salix atrocinerea Brot., Salix fragilis L., and Salix viminalis L. bark polar extracts. Fifteen phenolic compounds were characterized by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet detection-mass spectrometry analysis, from which two flavan-3-ols, an acetophenone, five flavanones, and a flavonol were detected, for the first time, as their bark components. Salix bark extracts demonstrated strong free radical scavenging activity (5.58–23.62 µg mL−1 IC50 range), effective inhibition on angiotensin-I converting enzyme (58–84%), and S. aureus bactericidal action at 1250–2500 µg mL−1 (6–8 log CFU mL−1 reduction range). All tested Salix bark extracts did not show cytotoxic potential against Caco-2 cells, as well as S. atrocinerea Brot. and S. fragilis L. extracts at 625 and 1250 µg mL−1 against HaCaT and L929 cells. These valuable findings can pave innovative and safer food, nutraceutical, and/or cosmetic applications of Salix bark phenolic-containing fractions.

Use of herbal remedies in the management of sleeping sickness in four northern provinces of Angola

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThis study reports for the first time on the use of folk medicine to treat sleeping sickness and its symptoms in four endemic provinces in northern Angola. By interviewing both traditional practitioners and confirmed patients, it highlights reasons to recourse to folk medicine, the plant species used for this affection as well as arises awareness about the use of particular plants showing potential risks. Aim of the studyThe aims of this explorative study were three-fold. Firstly, it informed on access to, and use of plant-based medicine as first-choice treatment by infected persons. Secondly, it aimed at collecting comprehensive data from patients and traditional healers on herbal remedies in order to identify plant species used in the management of the disease. Thirdly, it served as contribution for primary indication of potential risk of use associated with the studied plants and their preparation. Materials and methodsThe study was conducted in 4 endemic provinces of Angola, namely Bengo, Zaire, Kwanza Norte and Uíge. We explored the use of herbal remedies by conducting structured and semi-structured interviews within two distinct study populations. The first group comprises 30 patients who had been diagnosed for trypanosomiasis and treated by the reference treatment. The second group included 9 traditional practitioners who had already treated sleeping sickness. The plants that were cited during the interviews were collected during field walks under supervision of a traditional healer, then authenticated and deposited at the National Herbarium in Luanda. ResultsOf the 30 included patients, 12 (40%) had turned to folk medicine in the management of trypanosomiasis and related symptoms. 7 medicinal plants were reported by this group. Considering the key motivation to consult a traditional practitioner, two main factors accounted for half of the cases: “past experience with folk medicine” and “family habit”. Out of 9 traditional practitioners’ interviewees, 26 medicinal plants were cited. Roots and leaves were the most used plant parts, and decoction was the common mode of preparation. Evidence for antitrypanosomal activity in the scientific literature was found for 56% (17 of 30) of the identified plant species. The most cited plant was Crossopteryx febrifuga (UR = 6). Some of the cited plants, as for example Aristolochia gigantea, raised concern about potential toxicity. ConclusionsWith 40% of infected persons having turned first to folk medicine before consulting a medical doctor, this explorative study points out that plant-based medicines play an important role in local dynamics of health care. It highlights the need for primary assessment of potential risk of use related to the herbal recipes, and for reporting it to the concerned population. This first ethnobotanical study on trypanosomiasis in endemic provinces of Angola provides information on 30 plants, of which some had been identified as promising for further pharmacological research. Our results provide a first step towards the validation and valorization of Angolan herbal remedies for sleeping sickness.

Anti-inflammatory properties of Xylopia aethiopica leaves: Interference with pro-inflammatory cytokines in THP-1-derived macrophages and flavonoid profiling.

Ethnopharmacological surveys on Guinea-Bissauan flora reveal that several species are used to treat or ameliorate the symptomatology of conditions with an inflammatory background. As such, extracts obtained from a series of plants recorded in those surveys were screened for their anti-inflammatory properties, a hydroethanolic extract obtained from the leaves of Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich, (Annonaceae), used on the treatment of headache, muscular pain and rheumatic pain, scoring positively and being further investigated. In order to identify species with anti-inflammatory properties, extracts were screened for their ability to interfere with LPS-induced TNF-α levels. Since significant effects were recorded upon treatment with the extract of the leaves obtained from X. aethiopica, further assays were conducted to elucidate additional mechanisms underlying its anti-inflammatory potential. Since little is known on the chemical composition of the plant, we also aimed to characterise its phenolic profile. Interference with cytokines was evaluated by ELISA assay, through the quantification of TNF-α and IL-6 levels in the culture medium collected from LPS-activated THP-1-derived-macrophages. Inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase was assessed based on the oxidation of linoleic acid to 13-hydroperoxylinoleic acid. Characterization of the phenolic profile was attained by HPLC-DAD. Evaluation of TNF-α levels in LPS-challenged THP-1 macrophages evidenced a significant inhibition (>90%) upon treatment with the hydroethanolic extract obtained from X. aethiopica leaves at a concentration of 500 μg/mL. Additional anti-inflammatory effects were recorded, including a significant decrease on IL-6 levels at 250 and 500 μg/mL. The extract proved to be active towards 5-LOX, leading to significant inhibition at concentrations ranging from 16 to 250 μg/mL (IC50 = 85 μg/mL). Phenolic profiling allowed the identification and quantitation of eight constituents, including caffeoylquinic acids (1-3), mono-O-glycosylated flavonols (5-8), and the mono-O-glycosyl flavone luteolin-7-O-glucoside (4). The main phenolic constituent, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (8), was found to significantly contribute to the anti-inflammatory effects, namely through the inhibition of 5-LOX. However, no effects on the decrease of TNF-α and IL-6 levels caused by this phenolic compound were found. The anti-inflammatory effects of X. aethiopica leaves are demonstrated experimentally, thus substantiating its use in folk Medicine. Relevantly, the observed anti-inflammatory properties can stimulate further studies in order to fully unveil the therapeutic potential of the plant, namely as a source of phenolic compounds with a significant ability to interfere with conventional inflammatory targets.

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Mimosa hamata (Willd.)

Anti-inflammatory activity of ethanolic extract of roots, stems and leaves Mimosa hamata was investigated at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg using carrageenan induced paw edema and cotton pellet granuloma technique in albino rats. The stem extracts showed significant activity in dose dependent manner as compared to control group. The observations suggested that the extract of M. hamata were effective in exudative and proliferative phases of inflammation i.e. in acute and chronic inflammation. The results obtained indicate that M. hamata has an anti-inflammatory activity that supports the folk medicinal use of the plant.&#x0D; Keywords: Mimosa hamata, anti-inflammatory activity, carrageenan induced paw edema, cotton pellet granuloma.

Phytochemical Screening and Evaluation of Antiulcer Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Lilium Candidum Flowers

Peptic disorders like gastro esophageal reflux disease, gastritis, peptic ulcer, duodenal ulcer etc., are the common in today’s life style. This may be due to stressful life style or improper balance diet. The pathology behind these disorders may be discrepancy between offensive and defensive mechanisms either by excess secretion of acid and pepsin or diminished ability of the gastro-duodenal mucosal barrier to protect against stomach acid-pepsin secretion. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of the most commonly used medicines and proven to be effective for certain disorders. Some people use NSAIDs on daily basis for preventive purpose. But a variety of severe side effects can be induced by NSAIDs. Studies have shown that edible natural ingredients exhibit preventive benefit of gastric ulcer. Therefore present study was designed to evaluate antiulcer activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Lilium candidum flowers in rats. Qualitative analysis of various phytochemical constituents and quantitative analysis of total phenolics and flavonoids were determined by the well-known test protocol available in the literature. The in vivo anti-ulcer activity of hydroalcoholic extract was assessed against Aspirin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Depending on the model, outcome measures were pH of gastric fluid and ulcer index as well as percent inhibition of ulcer index. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, carbohydrates, saponins, polyphenols and amino acids. The total phenolics content of L. candidum extract was (1.039mg/100mg), followed by flavonoids (0.941mg/100mg) respectively. Further hydroalcoholic extract of 100 and 200mg/kg/p.o significantly (p˂0.01) reduced the gastric pH, ulcer index in aspirin induced ulcer models in rats. The findings of this study confirmed that L. candidum extract has anti-ulcer pharmacologic activity due to one or more of the secondary metabolites present in it. Therefore, this study validates its anti-ulcer use in Indian folk medicine. Further investigations on isolation of specific phytochemicals and elucidating mechanisms of action are needed. Keywords: Lilium candidum, Phytochemical constituents, Antiulcer, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Aspirin-induced gastric ulcer.

Bereavement among widowed Latinos in the United States: A systematic review of methodology and findings

This study systematically reviewed the methodology and findings of 19 peer-reviewed studies on the experience of bereavement among widowed Latinos, including risk and protective factors to the health of this vulnerable population. Of these studies, 10 included quantitative data, 3 were qualitative studies, and 6 were narrative reviews. Results emphasized the relevance of cultural beliefs about death, rituals, religion, and Latino values (i.e., familismo, respeto, simpatía, personalismo) as common themes in the included studies, along with expressions of grief (e.g., Ataque de nervios, somatization) that vary by gender and acculturation. Risk factors associated with diminished well-being in this population included being a male, financial strain, cultural stressors, having an undocumented legal status, experiencing widowhood at a younger age, and having poor physical health. Effective coping strategies identified included having adequate social support primarily from family, religion and religious practices, the use of folk medicine, volunteering, and the use of emotional release strategies. Moreover, the results highlight that researches informing the health needs of widowed Latinos in the US is limited, and studies with enhanced methodological rigor are needed to better understand the complex needs of this vulnerable population.