Use Of Herbs Research Articles

Assessment of the Effects of TiwanTiwa Herbal Mixture Drink on Oxidative Stress Markers

Introduction: The use of herbal medicine and its effect on health has been established. Recently, there is much interest in therapeutic potential of herbal therapy use as antioxidant in reducing free radical-induced oxidative stress. Method: This study was aimed to determine the effect of herbal mixture on acetaminophen induced oxidative stress in male albino wistar rat. This is an experimental study comprising of total of forty-two (42) wistar rats divided into seven (7) groups of six (6) animals each. The seven groups were Group 1, control group fed with top feed and water only, Group 2 administered with 3000 mg acetaminophen and top feed, Group 3 with 3000 mg of acetaminophen and 140mg sylimarine, Group 4 with 3000 mg of acetaminophen and 50 mg tiwantiwa extract, Group 5 with 3000mg of acetaminophen and 100 mg tiwantiwa extract, Group 6 with 3000mg of acetaminophen and 200 mg tiwantiwa extract and Group 7 with 100 mg of tiwantiwa extract only. The treatment was given daily and lasted for 21 days, animals were sacrificed, and blood sample collected were assayed for oxidative stress; CAT, SOD, and MDA. Result obtained was analyzed with statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20. Results: The result obtained depicts significant increase in CAT and SOD of group 5 (100mg of the extract) when compared to group 2 which is the toxic group induced with 3000mg Acetaminophen. There was also a significant decrease in MDA of group 5 (100mg of extract) when compared to group 2 (p<0.05). This implies that dose level (100 mg) of Tiwantiwa herbal mixture in group 5 exhibited the capacity to alleviate 3000 mg of acetaminophen toxicity at a minimal level. This is attributed to phytochemicals present in this extract such as phenolic compounds. Conclusion: 100 mg dose level of Tiwantiwa herbal mixture has a significant effect in alleviating 3000 mg of acetaminophen toxicity, acting as strong antioxidant as evidenced in the study with results shown in CAT, SOD and MDA bioassays. This is attributed to the presence compounds such as Phenols and Alkaloids which are potent phytochemical constituents in Tiwantiwa herbal mixture with antioxidant property.

Use of herbal medicinal products among patients in primary health care in a Brazilian southeastern city: evidence from the Prover project.

To determine the prevalence and factors associated with herbal medicinal product use among primary healthcare patients in southeastern Brazil. A cross-sectional study combined with documentary research was conducted between August and November 2017, involving interviews with 1,221 adults following dispensing from primary healthcare units. The characterization of herbal medicinal product usage included assessing the prevalence, redundancy, and interaction indicators, as well as identifying sources of recommendation and acquisition. Descriptive statistics were used for variable analysis and logistic regression was used to estimate the factors associated with herbal medicinal product usage, calculating odds ratios at a significance level of 5%. The prevalence of herbal medicinal product usage was 3.8%, with 60% of them prescribed by physicians. Private pharmacies (53%) were the main sources, and Valeriana officinalis (42%) was the most cited plant species and the sole herbal medicinal product on the municipal list. The indicators of redundancy and interactions between concurrently prescribed pharmaceutical and herbal medicinal products were 42.9% and 28.6%, respectively. Herbal medicinal products usage correlated with the female sex (OR= 2.50; 95%CI= 1.11-5.59), non-white race (OR= 0.52; 95%CI= 0.28-0.94), monthly income above 1 minimum wage (OR= 3.48; 95%CI= 1.51-8.01), and self-reported of anxiety, mood disorder or depression (OR= 2.97; 95%CI= 1.55-5.66). Despite the low use of herbal medicinal products, users face a high potential for interactions and therapeutic redundancy. Special attention should be paid to patients taking herbal medicinal products and allopathic medicines concurrently. Women with anxiety, mood disorders, or depression were more likely to use herbal medicinal products, whereas non-white people were 48% less likely to use them, suggesting potential socioeconomic disparities in access.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Herbs for Breast Cancer Prevention and Survival: A Narrative Review of Epidemiological Studies from Taiwan.

This review aims to describe the association of integrating traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbs into conventional medicine (CM) in preventing breast cancer and improving survival rates among breast cancer patients of Taiwan. Of 7 relevant studies, spanning 2014-2023, 4 investigated breast cancer risk in women with menopausal symptoms and other comorbidities. All 4 reported that TCM herbal use was associated with lower risks of developing breast cancer. Three studies investigated survival in newly-diagnosed breast cancer patients receiving CM. All reported that adjunctive TCM users had lower mortality rates than CM-only patients. However, the heterogeneity of study designs, populations, and interventions may limit the generalizability and robustness of the findings. TCM herbs may promote breast cancer prevention and survival when used alongside CM. More rigorous observational research and clinical trials in specific patient populations are needed to guide clinical decision-making.

Herbal Use and Oral Health in Children: Pilot Study

Herbal Use and Oral Health in Children: Pilot Study

Collecting and reporting adverse events in low-income settings—perspectives from vaccine trials in the Gambia

BackgroundDespite Africa’s significant infectious disease burden, it is underrepresented in global vaccine clinical trials. While this trend is slowly reversing, it is important to recognize and mitigate the challenges that arise when conducting vaccine clinical trials in this environment. These challenges stem from a variety of factors peculiar to the population and may negatively impact adverse event collection and reporting if not properly addressed.MethodsAs a team of clinical researchers working within the MRCG (Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia), we have conducted 12 phase 1 to 3 vaccine trials over the past 10 years. In this article, we discuss the challenges we face and the strategies we have developed to improve the collection and reporting of adverse events in low-income settings.Outcome.Healthcare-seeking behaviors in the Gambia are influenced by spiritual and cultural beliefs as well as barriers to accessing orthodox healthcare; participants in trials may resort to non-orthodox care, reducing the accuracy of reported adverse events. To address this, trial eligibility criteria prohibit self-treatment and herbal product use during trials. Instead, round-the-clock care is provided to trial participants, facilitating safety follow-up.Constraints in the healthcare system in the Gambia such as limitations in diagnostic tools limit the specificity of diagnosis when reporting adverse events. To overcome these challenges, the Medical Research Council Unit maintains a Clinical Services Department, offering medical care and diagnostic services to study participants.Sociocultural factors, including low literacy rates and social influences, impact adverse event collection. Solicited adverse events are collected during home visits on paper-based or electronic report forms.Community engagement meetings are held before each study starts to inform community stakeholders about the study and answer any questions they may have. These meetings ensure that influential members of the community understand the purpose of the study and the risks and benefits of participating in the trial. This understanding makes them more likely to support participation within their communities.ConclusionConducting ethical vaccine clinical trials in resource-limited settings requires strategies to accurately collect and report adverse events. Our experiences from the Gambia offer insights into adverse event collection in these settings.

Social and Personal Determinants of Herbal Supplement Use in Metro Cebu, the Philippines

The present study identified herbal supplement usage patterns in Metro Cebu and comprehensively examined consumer education and behavior regarding these supplements. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from March–July 2023 involving 316 respondents, selected through purposive sampling. The study collected data on demographic characteristics, usage patterns, sources of information, and potential hesitations related to herbal supplement use. Results indicate that the typical Metro Cebu herbal supplement user is more likely to be female, possess higher education, earn above the minimum wage, and primarily reside in Cebu City (n = 202, 63.9%). Usage of herbal supplements is driven by proactive health behaviors often influenced by social networks. Respondents generally hold a positive view of herbal supplement use, particularly those who consume them daily, attributing their preference to natural products, and their perceived cost-effectiveness and potential health benefits compared to conventional medicines. The following subgroups also tend to have more positive views about herbal supplements: [a] older age, [b] employed, [c] at a lower level of education, [d] have known illnesses, and [e] have used the product for 1-5 yr. While respondents actively verify information (n = 243, 76.9%) and inform healthcare providers (n = 180, 57%) about their supplement use, the extent to which they rely on healthcare professionals and scientific sources for guidance in shaping their behavior and product choices is limited. The study underscores the need for enhanced guidance and surveillance from healthcare providers. Furthermore, it highlights a regulatory gap in the governing framework for herbal supplement use and marketing, emphasizing the importance of revisiting or introducing regulations and guidelines to ensure safe and informed consumption practices.

The use of herbal medicine for hypertension in rural and urban Thailand: a cross sectional study

IntroductionUsing herbal medicine to treat hypertension is common in Thailand. However, there is variation in the use of herbs between rural and urban areas. This study aims to observe the prevalence of herb use, describe herb users’ behaviours, and describe anti-hypertensive drug compliance among the users. MethodsA cross-sectional survey among hypertensive patients visiting primary care services in Tak (rural) and Chiang Mai (urban) provinces was conducted between March and April 2019. Patients were assessed by using questionnaires that gathered information about patient demographic data, history of hypertension, herb use behaviours, and the concurrent use of standard treatment. ResultsIn total, 400 participants were included in this study—200 from rural and 200 from urban areas. Sixty-two percent were female. The prevalence of herb use was 13.0% in urban areas and 17.5% in the rural areas. Rural participants reported a significantly longer duration of herb use (P < 0.01), and a significantly higher proportion of using unapproved herbal products (91% vs 54%, P < 0.001). Participants mostly use herbs along with standard treatment (86.9%); nevertheless, poor drug compliance was similar in both areas, with rural participants more frequently taking their medications at the wrong time (P = 0.03). ConclusionThere was a trend of higher use of unapproved herbals in rural participants. Drug compliance among herb users was poor. It is recommended that a comprehensive assessment of herb use is conducted during care for hypertensive patients in this and similar contexts.

Developing Medication Reviews to Improve the Aruban Healthcare System: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study.

This study investigated whether and how medication reviews (MRs) conducted by pharmacists and general practitioners (GPs) with patient involvement can be performed on the island of Aruba (Dutch Caribbean). In this mixed-methods pilot study (both qualitative and quantitative), constructive and observational methodologies were combined. Healthcare providers' and patients' views on MRs and aspects of Aruban healthcare and culture relevant to MRs were examined. These insights were used to develop a protocol for conducting and implementing MRs in Aruba. Surveys were distributed and semi-structured interviews were held among Aruban community pharmacists and GPs, and a pilot program was created in which MRs were carried out with four Aruban patients and their GPs. According to the included healthcare providers, the main purpose of MRs is to optimize the patient experience and achieve concordance. Even though pharmacists and GPs consider their partnership equal, they have different views as to who should bear which responsibility in the MR process in matters regarding patient selection and follow-up. Common Aruban themes that were mentioned by the healthcare providers and deemed relevant for conducting MRs included behaviour/culture, healthcare, lifestyle, and therapy compliance. Anamnesis should be concise during the MR, and questions about medication storage, concerns, beliefs, and practical problems, as well as checks for limited health literacy, were considered important. In the pilot, at least three to, maximally, eight pharmacotherapy-related problems (PRPs) were detected per MR consultation, such as an incorrect dosage of acetylsalicylic acid, an inappropriate combination tablet for blood pressure regulation, and the absence of important laboratory values. All patients considered their consultation to be positive and of added value. In addition, it was observed that an MR can potentially generate cost savings. The information obtained from the healthcare providers and patients, together with the basic principles for MRs, as applied in the Netherlands, led to a definitive and promising MR format with practical recommendations for community pharmacists in Aruba: in comparison with the Dutch MR approach, GPs and pharmacists in Aruba could collaborate more on patient selection for MRs and their follow-up, because of their specific knowledge regarding the medications patients are taking chronically (pharmacists), and possible low levels of health literacy (GPs). Taking into account the Aruban culture, pharmacists could ask extra questions during MRs, referring to lifestyle (high prevalence of obesity), readability of medication labels (limited literacy), and herbal product use (Latin American culture). GPs and medical specialists sometimes experience miscommunication regarding the prescription of medication, which means that pharmacists must carefully take into account possible duplicate medications or interactions.

After The COVID-19 Pandemic, Nurses' Attitudes Toward The Use Of Herbs For Seasonal Influenza in Türkiye

Objective: This study aims to examine the attitude of nurses toward the use of herbal therapies for seasonal influenza after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This descriptive study was completed with 153 nurses working in shifts at the university hospital. This study was conducted between April 1, 2023, and May 1, 2023. The data were collected in the form of an online questionnaire with the "Introductory Information Form" prepared by the researchers in line with the literature, and the "Attitudes Towards Using Complementary Therapies Scale". Results: The mean age of the participants was 31.84±6.32 years. Among the nurses who participated in the study, 58.2% stated that they had COVID-19 disease in the previous years (2019–2022), and 41.8% had seasonal flu this year (2023). The majority of nurses (91.5%) reported knowing herbal methods, and 39.2% reported using social media as a source of herbal method information. Demographic factors did not significantly affect COVID-19 and seasonal influenza status, herbal treatment knowledge or use. However, gender, education and marital status played a role in participation in herbal treatment. Conclusion: In this study, it was found that nurses who experienced seasonal influenza after the COVID-19 pandemic had positive attitudes toward the use of herbal treatment during influenza. The most frequently used methods for herbal treatment include herbal teas, the use of herbal oils, and mixtures. In the study, it was found that nurses used rosemary tea, chamomile oil, and black cumin honey mixtures the most, respectively.

Herbal Medicine Use among Adult Lebanese Patients with Chronic Diseases: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Introduction Herbal products are used for the management of various chronic diseases. This study sought to determine the frequency of herbal medicines use among Lebanese patients diagnosed with chronic diseases, their patterns, underlying causes and perceived efficacy. Methods This is a descriptive cross-sectional study that enrolled Lebanese adult patients from the six governorates of Lebanon between February and December 2020. Those who had hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, chronic constipation, or rheumatoid arthritis were eligible for enrollment. Results A total of 300 patients participated in this study. Around 123 participants (41%) reported using herbs. The majority purchased the herbs based on a suggestion (47.2%) from a friend or a family member. The most commonly used herbs were Pimpinella anisum, and Garlic (15.8%) for hypertension, Sage (26.9%) and Stevia (23.1%) for diabetes mellitus, Red Yeast Rice (27%) and Hawthorn (23%) for dyslipidemia, and Senna (43.6%) and Artichoke (25.8%) for chronic constipation, and Curcumin (46.2%) and Allium sativum (30.8%) for rheumatoid arthritis. The majority did not have an idea about the side effects (87.8%), drug-herbal interactions (95.1%), or drug-disease interactions (96.8%) of herbs. Most of the patients (65%) were satisfied with the herbal product use. Conclusion The use of herbal medicines is common among adult Lebanese patients diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, arthritis, and constipation. However, herbal products are not risk-free. Hence, further research in this area is warranted.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used by various ethnic tribes of Mizoram, India.

Mizoram has a diverse range of ethnic and cultural groups, including the Lushai, Mara, Lai, Bawm, Hmar, Chakma, and Bru. Through practice and experience in their protracted battles with disease and the harsh natural environment, they have amassed rich folk medicine knowledge. The preservation of indigenous knowledge, identification of bioactive compounds, and the eventual discovery of novel medicinal plant species all depend on the documentation of the traditional uses of medicinal plants. Therefore, the present study was designed to document the ethnomedicinal knowledge related to the usage of medicinal plants in Mizoram, India. An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants was carried out in 17 villages of 5 districts in Mizoram between September 2022 and January 2023. A total of 128 informants (77 males and 51 females) were interviewed. Information was gathered through field observations, group discussions, and semistructured interviews. The data were presented using descriptive statistics. To assess the importance of medicinal plant species, quantitative indices such as the informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), use value (UV), and cultural index (CI) was used. In our ethnobotanical investigation, 102 medicinal plant species from 95 genera and 58 families were recorded and documented. The majority of them (90 species) were obtained from wild habitats. The majority of the documented species were trees (48), followed by herbs (23 species) and shrubs (21 species). The most common method of preparation was decoction (67 species). Diabetes had the highest ICF value (0.81), followed by cancer, liver problems, and hypertension (0.8). The fidelity level (FL) of indigenous communities in the study area was evaluated to determine the dependability and consistency of herbal drug use. Indigenous knowledge and the variety of medicinal plant species that are used are of great values. The therapeutic applications of documented plants provide fundamental information for additional studies centered on pharmacological investigations and the preservation of the most significant species.

Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) use in pregnancy: a prospective observational study

BackgroundRaspberry leaf use during pregnancy in Australia is widespread. There has been little research exploring the potential beneficial or harmful effects of raspberry leaf on pregnancy, labour, and birth. More research is needed to appropriately inform childbearing women and maternity healthcare professionals on the effects of raspberry leaf so that women can make informed choices.MethodsThis study aimed to determine associations between raspberry leaf use in pregnancy and augmentation of labour and other secondary outcomes. Data was derived from questionnaires which captured demographic information and herbal use in pregnancy. Clinical outcomes were accessed from the maternity services’ clinical database. Data analysis was conducted in R via package ‘brms’ an implementation for Bayesian regression models.ResultsA total of 91 completed records were obtained, 44 exposed to raspberry leaf and 47, not exposed. A smaller proportion of women in the raspberry leaf cohort had augmentation of labour, epidural anaesthesia, instrumental births, caesarean section, and postpartum haemorrhage. A larger proportion had vaginal birth and length of all phases of labour were shorter. Under these conditions the use of raspberry leaf was strongly predictive of women not having their labours medically augmented.ConclusionsWhile our study demonstrated that raspberry leaf was strongly predictive of women not having their labours medically augmented, the results cannot be relied on or generalised to the wider population of pregnant women. While there were no safety concerns observed in our study, this should not be taken as evidence that raspberry leaf is safe. A randomised controlled trial is urgently needed to provide women and healthcare providers with robust evidence on which to base practice.

Catharanthus roseus intoxication mimicking acute cholangitis

BackgroundCatharanthus roseus, a Madagascar native flowering plant, is known for its glossy leaves and vibrant flowers, and its medicinal significance due to its alkaloid compounds. As a source of vinblastine and vincristine used in chemotherapy, Catharanthus roseus is also employed in traditional medicine with its flower and stalks in dried form. Its toxicity can lead to various adverse effects. We report a case of Catharanthus roseus juice toxicity presenting as acute cholangitis, emphasizing the importance of healthcare providers obtaining detailed herbal supplement histories.Case presentationA 65-year-old woman presented with abdominal pain, fever, anorexia, and lower limb numbness. Initial diagnosis of acute cholangitis was considered, but imaging excluded common bile duct stones. Further investigation revealed a history of ingesting Catharanthus roseus juice for neck pain. Laboratory findings showed leukocytosis, elevated liver enzymes, and hyperbilirubinemia. The patient developed gastric ulcers, possibly due to alkaloids in Catharanthus roseus. No bacterial growth was noted in blood cultures. The patient recovered after discontinuing the herbal extract.ConclusionsCatharanthus roseus toxicity can manifest as fever, hepatotoxicity with cholestatic jaundice, and gastric ulcers, mimicking acute cholangitis. Awareness of herbal supplement use and potential toxicities is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure prompt diagnosis and appropriate management. This case emphasizes the need for public awareness regarding the possible toxicity of therapeutic herbs and the importance of comprehensive patient histories in healthcare settings.

Consumption and adverse reaction reporting of herbal medicines among people living with HIV at University teaching hospitals in Blantyre, Malawi and Ibadan, Nigeria.

Consumption of herbal medicines among people living with HIV is a common practice in Sub-Saharan Africa. The utilization of herbal medicines was at 17.5% and 67.9% in Malawi and Nigeria, respectively. There is inadequate data on use and adverse reactions (ADRs) reporting of herbal medicines among people living with HIV (PLWHIV). This study was designed to investigate use and ADRs reporting of herbal medicines among PLWHIV at the University Teaching Hospitals in Blantyre, Malawi and Ibadan, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among PLWHIV attending Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) clinic at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi and University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was administered to 360 and 370 participants in Blantyre and Ibadan respectively, through face-to-face interviews after obtaining their informed consent. The prevalence of herbal medicines use among PLWHIV in Malawi and Nigeria was at 80.6% and 55.7% (p<0.001), respectively. The most frequently used herbal medicines in Malawi were Aloe vera (14.0%), Moringa oleifera (14.0%), Zingiber officinale (13.0%) and Allium sativum (7.0%). Likewise, in Nigeria, the most commonly used herbal medicines were Zingiber officinale (15.0%), Vernonia amygdalina (14.0%), Moringa oleifera (9.0%), and Allium sativum (11.0%). The major reason for herbal medicines' use in Malawi was ready availability (42.1%) and perception that it boosts immunity (44.6%) in Nigeria. The PLWHIV reported experiencing suspected herbal medicine ADRs in Malawi (3.9%) and in Nigeria (8.0%). A higher percentage of people living with HIV are using herbal medicines in Malawi as well as in Nigeria. In both countries, a few participants reported experiencing suspected ADRs related to herbal medicines.

(197) Natural Aphrodisiacs Consumption by Male Workers in the Katanga province, DR Congo

Abstract Introduction In a previous cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of ED among artisanal mineworkers, we found a significant association between aphrodisiacs consumption and erectile dysfunction (Musa et al. under review). Objective This study aimed at investigating the main reasons of aphrodisiacs consumption and their possible health effects in male workers in the Katanga province. Methods We conducted a mixed method study in which a first quantitative phase (survey) was conducted from March 2021 to May 2021, and included by convenience sampling, 127 artisanal miners and 122 drivers of collective taxis. All participants responded to the IIEF in the first survey. We measured urea, creatinine, sGOT, sGPT, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglyceride in serum. The second qualitative phase (interviews) took place later, and included 16 participants from the first quantitative study, 8 in each group. Results Self-reported aphrodisiacs consumption was 1.6 as prevalent among taxi-drivers compared to miners. ED was 1.5 as prevalent among aphrodisiacs' consumers compared to controls. Total cholesterol and LDL were significantly higher in aphrodisiac consumers than in non-consumers. Cultural perceptions about masculinity, support of erectile function and/or prevention of ED were themes that emerged from interviews in both groups. Two most consumed aphrodisiacs including Securidaca longepedunculata and Mitragyna stipulosa were taken with alcohol. No evidence of nephrotoxicity or hepatotoxicity was found. Conclusions In a population with high rate of herbal treatment use, we found a high prevalence of natural aphrodisiac plants that are widely consumed instead of pharmacologically proved synthetic drugs probably due to cultural beliefs. More ethno botanical studies of plants consumed as aphrodisiacs including isolation and rigorous identification of the active constituents are needed to provide the poor population with the right information and to protect them against unwanted toxic effects. Disclosure No.

Herbal treatments used by patients before surgery: A literature review example

Aim: Herbs, which hold significant historical significance in medicine and have been utilized for centuries to manage and prevent illnesses, interact with medications. This interaction extends to anesthetics and drugs administered during surgical procedures. Identifying these herbal remedies and discontinuing their use at appropriate intervals is crucial. This study aimed to identify publications examining the utilization of herbal medicine by presurgical patients through the PubMed database.Method: Literature published between 2000 and 2023 was scrutinized using the keywords "herbal medicine, presurgical patients" in the PubMed database for this study.Results: Among the studies, 56.2% constituted research articles and were thus included in the study. Those conducted within the last decade accounted for 22.2% of our sample. The majority of the studies were conducted in the United States (44.4%). The most frequently used herbs among the publications included in the sample were Echinacea (Echinacea) (n=5), Ginseng (Panax), Ginkgo biloba (n=3), Perforate St John's-wort (n=3), and Garlic (Allium sativum) (n=3).Conclusions: Insights into preoperative herbal use are pivotal. It is well-established that herbs interact with anesthetic medications. The findings of this review indicate a paucity of literature on this subject globally. Therefore, there is a demand for more rigorous, experimental studies to raise awareness among healthcare professionals.

Vanilla: A Review of Powerful Herb with Ayurvedic Medicinal Properties

Vanilla, derived from the beans of the Vanilla planifolia orchid, is a globally cherished spice known for its sweet aroma and flavor. Beyond its culinary applications, this review delves into the Ayurvedic medicinal properties of vanilla, unraveling its potential as a powerful herb in traditional medicine. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, recognizes vanilla for its diverse therapeutic attributes. The active compounds in vanilla, such as vanillin, contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These qualities align with Ayurvedic principles, emphasizing the balance of bodily functions and prevention of diseases. Vanilla has been historically employed to alleviate digestive disorders, respiratory ailments and stress-related conditions. Ayurvedic practitioners harness its calming effects on the nervous system, promoting mental well-being. Moreover, vanilla is explored for its potential antimicrobial properties, adding a layer of significance in the context of Ayurveda where natural remedies play a pivotal role. The herb's use in Ayurvedic formulations underscores its adaptability across diverse health concerns. This review consolidates current scientific research alongside traditional Ayurvedic wisdom to provide a comprehensive understanding of vanilla's medicinal potential. As consumer interest in holistic well-being grows, the integration of vanilla into Ayurvedic practices not only expands its applications but also exemplifies the synergy between traditional and contemporary approaches to health. Unveiling the multifaceted nature of vanilla as a potent herb, this exploration encourages further investigations and applications of its Ayurvedic medicinal properties in modern healthcare.

Risk factors for Undiagnosed Kidney Disease among Stable First-Degree Relatives of Chronic Kidney Disease Patients at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, South Eastern Nigeria

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health problem and has a major impact on health and cost of health care. In Nigeria, renal replacement therapy (RRT) is funded out of pockets by patients and their relatives unlike in most developed countries. There is a high clustering of the risk factors for CKD in FDRs of CKD patients, making then an ideal population for the screening for and the reversal of the modifiable risk factors that predispose to CKD.&#x0D; Objective: This study determined the risk factors for CKD in the FDRs of patients&#x0D; Methodology: This study involving 300 subjects: 150 FDRs of CKD patients and 150 control subjects without personal or family history of CKD. The study and control subjects were screened for CKD using urine albumin creatinine ratio (uACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Prevalence rate of the risk factors for CKD such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, dyslipidaemia, hyperuricaemia and life style practices like significant smoking and heavy alcohol consumption were determined for both the FDRs and the control subjects. Data was analyzed with SPSS version 21.0. Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparing the variables between the two study groups for continuous variables that were not normally distributed and Chi square tests for categorical variables.&#x0D; Results: The prevalence rate of dyslipidaemia and hyperuricaemia was significantly higher among the FDRs of CKD patients compared with the control subjects (26% versus 12%; P = 0.003) and (20.7% versus 7.3%; P = 0.001) respectively. The other risk factors for CKD that included hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, significant cigarette smoking, heavy alcohol consumption and herbal medication use were equally more among the FDRs of CKD patients compared with the controls, although not statistically significant.&#x0D; Conclusion: The risk factors for CKD were common among FDRs of CKD patients. Screening for these risk factors at the earliest possible contact with the FDRs of CKD patients and taking appropriate actions to tackle the modifiable ones will prevent the development of CKD and retard the progression of the already existing disease, reduce the alarming global burden of CKD.

Use of herbal medicine during pregnancy and associated factors among pregnant women with access to public healthcare in west Shewa zone, Central Ethiopia: sequential mixed-method study

ObjectiveThis study was aimed at assessing the prevalence of herbal drug use among pregnant women with access to modern medicine and associated factors in public health facilities in the west...

A Review on Antihypertension Drug on Herbal Plants

The use of alternative therapies, herbs, and supplements occurs at a very high rate among patients attending a variety of health care settings. Such therapy may cause significant interactions or effects on hypertension and other cardiovascular disorders and needs to be considered by clinicians. In this brief review, we highlight several commonly used alternative therapies that may have a clinical impact in the hypertensive patient. Several problems hinder our complete awareness of these effects .These problems include patients not informing physicians about alternative treatment from the herbal use, which may occur the lack of constituents with specific scientific standards for the bioactivity and bioequivalence of many herbals or supplements, and the multiple names that each bioactive substance show a therapeutic effect under a given mechanism of each drug which effect the body with a particular dose. regarding herbals therapies in the hypertension clinic it show the therapeutic effect which may increase the activity. Therefore herbal drugs including garlic, and licorice all may cause important consequences in the hypertensive patient. Added care is needed in monitoring the use and effects of herbal and alternative therapies in the hypertensive population.