Use Of Medicinal Plants Research Articles

РАЗРАБОТКА МЯГКОЙ ЛЕКАРСТВЕННОЙ ФОРМЫ НА ОСНОВЕ РАСТИТЕЛЬНОГО СЫРЬЯ ОЛЕНЬЕГО МХА (CLADONIA RANGIFERINA), ОБЛАДАЮЩЕГО АНТИСЕПТИЧЕСКИМ ДЕЙСТВИЕМ

Relevance. Contemporary realities dictate the need to search for and create new medicines, including extracts obtained from plant raw materials. The use of medicinal plants often turns out to be more favorable in terms of economic and therapeutic effectiveness, sometimes very profitable. This is especially true with regard to drugs against infectious pathogens, since many of them have developed resistance to antibiotics. Lichens are known to contain substances with antibacterial properties. Among the extracted components from lichens, usnic acid is considered one of the most promising. Work is underway to include it in the composition of dosage forms for treatment. The development of drugs for external use that contain usnic acid is considered the most studied and preferred. The aim Design of a soft medicinal form (gel) based on vegetable raw materials of Deer moss (Cladonia rangiferina), which has an antiseptic effect. Materials and methods. The materials for the creation of an antiseptic gel were: usnic acid extract isolated from Deer moss (Cladonia rangiferina); substances that form the basis of gel dosage forms (carbopol, polyethylene glycol). 3 experimental series of gel containing usnic acid have been produced. Their organoleptic and physico-chemical properties have been studied. The results of the study. Based on the results of a series of experiments, the best composition for the preparation and production of a gel containing usnic acid was determined. It includes the following component ratios: extract of usninic acid from alcohol berry 1:10 (20 ml); carbopol (0.8 g); polyethylene glycol-6000 (0.1 g). The conclusion the optimal composition of an antiseptic gel containing usnic acid has been determined. A recipe has been compiled for the manufacture of gel based on vegetable raw materials of Deer moss.

An ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used by diabetes patients attending the Teaching Hospital, Jaffna, Sri Lanka

The scope of this study is to describe the ethnobotany of medicinal plants used in the management of diabetes mellitus (DM) among diabetic patients attending the Teaching Hospital, Jaffna. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 388 patients attending the medical clinic of Teaching Hospital, Jaffna, using systematic sampling technique. Data were collected using a validated structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and were analysed to generate the summary of the percentages using descriptive statistics. Family Important Value (FIV) and Related Frequency Citation (RFC) were calculated to quantitatively determine the common consent between the informants on the use of endemic medicinal plants in the division. A total of 59 species belonging to 33 families were reported by 329 diabetic patients with the response rate of 100%. Among them Moringa oleifera Lamk. (142) was stated as the species with the highest RFC value, followed by Gymnema sylvestre (105), Momordica charantia Linn. (104). Moringaceae was the most dominant family with FIV 43.16. The value of RFC of the plants mentioned in this survey varied from 0.003 to 0.432. Moringa oleifera Lamk. showed the highest RFC value (0.432). In this study, 29 plant species used for DM management were reported for the first time in Sri Lanka. Further, antidiabetic property of Achyranthus polygonoides, Argyreia pomacea Wall. ex Choisy and Cassia tomentosa are yet to be investigated. These findings facilitate the documentation and the conservation of medicinal plants used for DM by the patients in Teaching Hospital, Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Moreover this study open doors for phytochemical screening and identification of new antidiabetic active compounds.

A Review of Medicinal Plants Used in the Management of Microbial Infections in Angola

The use of medicinal plants in the management of microbial infections is significant to the health of the indigenous people in many Angolan communities. The present study provides a comprehensive overview of medicinal plants used for the management of microbial infections in Angola. Relevant information was extracted from research articles published and associated with the use of medicinal plants in the management of microbial infections in Angola (from January 1976 to November 2023). Data or information were gathered from the literature sourced from Wiley Online, SciFinder, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, BMC, Elsevier, SpringerLink, PubMed, books, journals and published M.Sc. and Ph.D. thesis. A total of 27 plant species, representing 19 families, were recorded in this study. Hypericaceae (11%), Lamiaceae (11%), Malvaceae (11%), Phyllanthaceae (11%), Fabaceae (16%) and Rubiaceae (16%) were the most predominant families. The leaves are the most used parts (96%), followed by bark (74%) and root (70%). The data revealed that medicinal plants continue to play significant roles in the management of microbial infections in Angola. In order to explore the benefits of the therapeutic potential of indigenous medicinal plants for diseases related to infections; further scientific research studies are important to produce data on their effectiveness using appropriate test models. This approach might assist with the continuing drive regarding the integration of Angolan traditional medicine within mainstream healthcare systems.

Ethnobotanical and Ethnopharmacological Study of Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis in Yunnan Province, China

The traditional medicinal knowledge in the northwest of Yunnan Province, China have been poorly studied. Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis (PPvY) is widely cultivated and used as indigenous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat cancer in northwest Yunnan. This study aims to reveal the traditional medicinal knowledge of PPvY and folk formulas related to PPvY through literature research and ethnobotanical investigation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 highly regarded folk doctors in the northwest of Yunnan, China, based on relevant data collected in the initial phase of the research. We identified twenty-three traditional treatments, thirty pairing herbs used with PPvY in therapy, and eight processing methods of PPvY. The results indicated that PPvY and its associated formulas containing PPvY were primarily used for treating cancer and inflammation and for clearing heat and detoxifying. The TCM herbs most frequently used alongside PPvY included Engleromyces sinensis and Glycyrrhiza yunnanensis. The commonly employed processing methods primarily involved using PPvY in both its dry and fresh forms, while special processing methods, such as processing in wine and honey, steaming, and foil-packet boiling, were worth further research. Our results highlight the diversity of medicinal plants and the richness of traditional medical knowledge in northwest Yunnan, China. This study may offer clues for the development and research of indigenous medicinal plants. Additionally, a collective effort is needed to create a plan for the sustainable use of indigenous medicinal plants, enhancing local economic development while safeguarding biodiversity and traditional medicinal knowledge.

In vitro antioxidant and antibacterial activities of Ajuga integrifolia leaf extracts obtained with different solvents

BackgroundMany diseases are increasingly recognized as public health concerns worldwide because of the increasing incidence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Recently, interest in the use of indigenous medicinal plants to treat infectious illnesses has increased, highlighting the need to find new bioactive phytochemicals. Ajuga integrifolia is a plant commonly utilized in traditional drugs to treat a wide range of diseases, although its effectiveness has not been scientifically validated. The present study aimed to evaluate the total phenolic and flavonoid contents and assess the biological activities of A. integrifolia leaf extracts produced via different solvent systems.MethodsSoxhlet extraction was employed to obtain crude extracts from different solvents (methanol, ethanol and water). The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric-reducing power assays were used to measure the antioxidant activity, and the antibacterial activity of the extract was evaluated on the basis of its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against two gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli (ATCC-25922) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC-43495)) and two gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC-25923) and Streptococcus pyogenes (ATCC-19615)) via the agar disk-diffusion technique.ResultsA significant amount of total phenolic content (TPC) and flavonoid content (TFC) were present in all the extracts. The extracts presented powerful antioxidant activity in all the assays. The disc diffusion and MIC results revealed the ability of the methanol and ethanol extracts of A. integrifolia leaves to inhibit S. aureus growth at a concentration of 3.125 mg/mL. However, the water extracts were ineffective against E. coli and P. aeruginosa.ConclusionsThese findings indicate that A. integrifolia leaf extracts have reasonable biological activities. These findings underscore the importance of A. integrifolia leaves as a source of health benefits.

Perception of Traditional Medicine During Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Postpartum in the Tacueyo Indigenous Reservation, Cauca, Colombia

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the perception of traditional medicine use during gestation processes in the Tacueyo Indigenous Reservation. The aim is to understand how indigenous women in the reservation perceive and utilize this resource during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum in the period 2021-2022. Theoretical Framework: This study is relevant in a context of high maternal and perinatal morbidity rates, focusing on ancestral practices to improve adherence to prenatal and postpartum care, contributing to the reduction of maternal mortality. Method: The study was guided by qualitative methodology and an ethnographic approach, using semi-structured interviews with 10 women. Results and Discussion: The results revealed the use of medicinal plants, interculturality as a protective factor, and barriers to accessing effective medical care. Research Implications: The implications of this research highlight the need to strengthen collaboration between traditional health practices and local health institutions within the framework of the Indigenous Own and Intercultural Health System (SISPI). Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by highlighting its intercultural approach and the integration of ancestral knowledge with modern public health to improve maternal health outcomes in indigenous communities.

An Overview of the Biological Functions and Mechanisms of Action of Medicinal Plants and Seaweeds in the Shrimp Culture.

Diseases are major constraints to developing large-scale aquaculture practices in many countries. For decades, synthetic chemotherapeutic agents have been widely applied both as prophylactics and therapeutics to inhibit and control aquatic disease outbreaks. However, their use has become more restricted due to the negative impacts they have on the environment, the host and humans, as well as their limitations in preventing the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Therefore, there is a growing interest in the use of medicinal plants and seaweeds as potential alternatives to antibiotics and other synthetic chemotherapeutics. Medicinal plants and seaweeds can enhance the immune systems of animals, thereby providing protection against numerous diseases while minimizing the adverse effects associated with synthetic chemotherapeutics. Furthermore, the advantages of medicinal plants and seaweeds, such as their effectiveness, easy availability and ability to be applied on a large scale, make them appealing for use in the aquaculture industry. The main goal of this study was to review the existing knowledge of the effects of medicinal plants and seaweeds, as well as their extracts, on shrimp growth, immune response and disease resistance against bacterial and viral agents. Moreover, this paper discusses the application of seaweeds in shrimp culture. We also conducted a literature review to identify gaps in the research and provide recommendations for further advancement in this field of study. Further studies should focus on evaluating other physiological aspects, such as feed and mineral utilization, enzyme activities and histological examination.

Socialization, cultivation, and utilization of empty land for family medicinal plants

The prevalence of illness complaints among the Indonesian population is 228.15 percent, with 65.01 percent opting for self-treatment using synthetic drugs, while 38.30 percent prefer traditional medicine. The use of traditional medicines in communities, including in Katimbang Village, remains significantly lower compared to synthetic alternatives. A comprehensive strategy is needed to enhance public knowledge and understanding of how to obtain and utilize traditional medicine from medicinal plants found around the home. This socialization and cultivation activity was conducted at Integrated Service Post (Posyandu) RW 04, Katimbang Village, involving 21 community members. The event included a socialization session on family medicinal plants, pre- and post-tests, QA discussions, and the planting of 50 medicinal plant seeds, with participation from students and local residents. Statistical tests revealed the success of this intervention in improving participants' understanding of medicinal plants, with an average pre-test score of 8.4762 increasing to 8.6190 in the post-test. More than 50 percent of participants scored ≥80 in the post-test. The success of this outreach and planting activity provides a strong foundation for further increasing public awareness of the use of medicinal plants as complementary treatments for various illnesses.

Wild-grown medicinal plants used by the Asháninka people from the Tambo River, Peruvian Amazonia

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe Asháninka people are the largest Peruvian Amazonian group, yet the knowledge of their medicinal plants is scarce. This study on Asháninka herbal medicine offers an insight into the Asháninka aetiological system, resting within the wider ontological framework of animism, and cultural expressions of the biomedical understanding of illnesses. Aim of the studyTo document wild-grown (non-cultivated) plant species in current use by the Asháninka people and look closer at their herbal practices during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study examines whether the knowledge and use of medicinal plants is gendered in this society. It also compares the findings with available literature concerning the Arawakan groups from Peruvian Amazonia. Material and methodsThe fieldwork was conducted in 13 native communities of the Asháninka people along the Tambo River (Selva Central), Peru, between 2016 and 2018 and in 2022. The main field technique were guided walks in the forest with 27 female and 28 male participants, during which voucher specimens were collected and relevant information was recorded. Semi-structured interviews were performed with specialists in Asháninka traditional medicine and with lay Asháninka people to better understand Asháninka illness aetiologies. The analysis of medicinal plants included medicinal categories and uses, modes of preparations, the frequency of use and the knowledge about the plants between the genders. It also presents and discusses detailed testimonies of herbal remedies during the Covid-19 pandemic. The list of recorded plants was compared with ethnobotanical studies of other Arawakan groups from Peruvian Amazonia. ResultsAltogether, 169 wild-grown medicinal plant species were documented. Our findings highlight the importance of the Piperaceae and Acanthaceae botanical families in the Asháninka pharmacopoeia. The plants were used for 23 medicinal categories, of which dermatological disorders, digestive problems and venomous bites were the most prevalent. Over 70% of recorded plants were commonly and moderately known by the study participants. More exclusive species were found among the men than women; however, 64 % of all recorded plants were known to both genders. Sixty-one percent of recorded plants were not mentioned by any other study of medicinal plants among other Arawakan groups in Peruvian Amazonia. During the Covid-19 pandemic, nobody in the native communities at the Tambo River died directly due to the virus, which was attributed, amongst others, to effective and culturally-appropriate prophylaxis and treatments with medicinal plants. ConclusionTo this day, the Asháninka people at the Tambo River conserve the knowledge and practices related to medicinal plants which meet the daily needs of dwelling in subtropical forest; these are deeply rooted in animistic ontology, with the emphasis on spirit predation and retaliation. And yet, numerous applications of plants are compatible with the biomedical notion of illness and symptoms. Plant knowledge is shared between the genders, although specific plants exist for men and women, which are related to their gendered social and family roles. Some overlap and consensus exists with other studies regarding medicinal uses, which reflects the rich and diverse knowledge of medicinal plants among the Arawakan groups in Peruvian Amazonia, and this deserves further study.

Evaluating the Anti-Osteoporotic Potential of Mediterranean Medicinal Plants: A Review of Current Evidence.

Background: Bones are biological reservoirs for minerals and cells, offering protection to the other organs and contributing to the structural form of the body. Osteoporosis is a prevalent bone condition that significantly impacts people's quality of life. Treatments utilizing natural products and medicinal plants have gained important attention in the management of osteoporosis and its associated implications, such as osteoporotic fractures. Even though thousands of plants grow in the Mediterranean region, the use of medicinal plants as an alternative therapy for osteoporosis is still limited. Methods: This article provides a comprehensive overview of seven Mediterranean medicinal plants that are used in osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures in in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials. The mechanism of action of the medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds against diseases are also briefly discussed. Results: The findings clearly indicate the ability of the seven medicinal plants (Ammi majus, Brassica oleracea, Ceratonia siliqua L., Foeniculum vulgare, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Salvia officinalis, and Silybum marianum) as anti-osteoporosis agents. Xanthotoxin, polyphenols, liquiritin, formononetin, silymarin, and silibinin/silybin were the main bioactive compounds that contributed to the action against osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures. Conclusions: In this review, the Mediterranean medicinal plants prove their ability as an alternative agent for osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures instead of conventional synthetic therapies. Thus, this can encourage researchers to delve deeper into this field and develop medicinal-plant-based drugs.

Can the Ecological Appearance Hypothesis explain the use of medicinal plants in the region of Sete Cidades National Park in Northeast Brazil?

O uso histórico de plantas no tratamento de doenças persiste hoje como uma terapia alternativa, especialmente em regiões rurais e em desenvolvimento, devido a fatores culturais e econômicos. Este estudo teve como objetivo documentar e analisar o uso medicinal de espécies vegetais em uma comunidade rural próxima ao Parque Nacional de Sete Cidades, Piauí, com base na Hipótese da Aparência Ecológica. Foram conduzidas entrevistas semiestruturadas com 27 membros da comunidade e um levantamento fitossociológico usando o método do ponto quadrante. Os métodos de Valor de Uso, Importância Relativa e Frequência Relativa de Citação avaliaram o uso e a versatilidade das espécies. Os dados não corroboraram a hipótese, indicando a influência de fatores como disponibilidade sazonal, adaptação cultural, diversidade de habitat, percepção humana e mudanças ambientais na seleção de plantas medicinais em ambientes de cerrado e caatinga. Uma compreensão abrangente requer estudos detalhados considerando não apenas a visibilidade das plantas, mas também os contextos culturais, sazonais e ambientais específicos que moldam as práticas medicinais, permitindo uma compreensão holística da relação entre comunidades humanas e flora medicinal em ambientes de floresta seca.

Trade-off between herbal and allopathic treatments: An ethnopharmacological case study in Rema-kalenga wildlife sanctuary, Bangladesh

The Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary (RKWS) is a protected forest in Bangladesh that houses a variety of rare flora and fauna and supports the sustenance of 13 ethnic communities. This forest's indigenous and other inhabitants traditionally have a strong cultural connection to the plants, particularly medicinal plants. Due to modern allopathic medicine's rapid growth and commercial tree species prioritization, many medicinal plants are now on the verge of endangerment. Under such circumstances, it is crucial to explore how the local community perceives the importance of herbal treatments in contrast to allopathy, the underlying reasons for their perceptions, and the specific ailments for which they use the plants. The main objectives are: 1) to evaluate the perceptions of the local community towards allopathy and herbal medicine using Nussbaum's central capabilities approach, 2) to identify medicinal plant diversity, therapeutic usages, and quantitative indices, 3) to determine the factors that influence the use of medicinal plants. Repeated interviews and field surveys were conducted at the RKWS, interviewing 145 people, including the indigenous community (72.42 %) and traditional healers (8.27 %) from the surrounding seven villages. The study identified 51 medicinal plant species belonging to 39 families for their potent medicinal properties in treating various ailments. The predominant parts of the plants used in the treatments were leaves and roots. The uses were classified into 12 categories according to Nussbaum's central capabilities. The findings identified Aloe vera, Phyllanthus emblica, and Azadirachta indica as highly culturally important species. In contrast, Terminalia arjuna, Swertia chirata, and Azadirachta indica were found to have the highest relative importance. The underlying determinants influencing the preferences of individual users towards herbal medicine were income from agroforestry, beliefs, knowledge, and ethnicity, as revealed by the analysis of the ordinal logit model. The respondents viewed their strong inclination toward herbal medicine with many positive attitudes. Herbal medicine users held a negative perception of allopathy except for affiliation and practical reasons being viewed as the positive outcomes. Conversely, allopathic medicine users expressed mixed perceptions towards the treatment, with both positive and negative aspects being identified. Promoting the sustainable use of medicinal plants and their conservation efforts is imperative for the benefit of present and future generations in this region.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal and aromatic plants commonly used in the daily life of the populations of the Moroccan Middle Atlas: results of pharmacy surveys

Abstract This in-depth ethnobotanical study was conducted specifically in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco to document and analyze the use of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) among local populations suffering from various chronic conditions. This survey involved 99 participants with gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, endocrine, urinary, gynecological, or similar diseases. The main objective was to draw up a complete inventory of the MAPs used, detailing their therapeutic indications and identifying any adverse effects associated with their use, whether through misapplication, overdosing, or interaction with other drugs taken by the patients. In the present, twenty MAPs species belonging to twelve distinct botanical families were identified. Among these plants, oregano (Origanum compactum) from the Lamiaceae family is the most widely used species, with a frequency of over 30%. Leaves were the most commonly used plant organ in traditional recipes (60.6%), whereas decoction was the most predominant preparation method (51.5%). This survey was conducted using questionnaires distributed in some pharmacies, and provided valuable data on MAP use practices, highlighting the predominance of certain plant species, their main therapeutic indications, and the preparation methods preferred by the Middle Atlas inhabitants to treat their ailments.

TUMBUHAN OBAT TRADISIONAL SEBAGAI INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE MASYARAKAT SUNDA: KAJIAN ETNOPEDAGOGIK

This study discusses the use of traditional medicinal plants from an ethnopedagogical perspective, focusing on a case study in the Sundanese community. The research aims to understand the traditional healing practices involving the use of medicinal plants among the Sundanese people and how the ethnopedagogical approach can be used to uncover local knowledge and strengthen these cultural practices. The research methodology employed is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation study. The research sample was purposively selected, involving community leaders or traditional healing experts with extensive knowledge of medicinal plants and traditional healing practices in the Sundanese community. The results show that the use of traditional medicinal plants remains an integral part of the Sundanese healthcare system. These plants are used to treat various diseases and health disorders, serving as symbols of local wisdom and cultural identity. The ethnopedagogical approach facilitates the sustainable transfer of knowledge from generation to generation and raises awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the context of traditional medicine.

Examination of Biological Activity of Passiflora edulis (Çarkıfelek) Extract via Phytochemical Analysis

In recent years, the use of medicinal plants as sources of drugs or herbal extracts has been of great importance. Passiflora edulis is nowadays widely studied for its antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant potential. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the phytochemical structure of ethanol extract of P. edulis leaves and to investigate its biological properties such as antimicrobial and anticancer activities. The ethanol extract of P. edulis leaves was obtained and analyzed by GC-MS. The antimicrobial activity of P. edulis leaf extract was determined by MIC test. XTT method was used to determine the antiproliferative activity. In the phytochemical analysis of P. edulis extract, dodecanoic acid, tetradecanoic acid, and n-hexadecanoic acid were found the most. The antimicrobial effect of P. edulis leaf extract was found against pathogenic microorganisms. In addition, P. edulis leaf extract was found to have high anticancer activity against OvCar and MCF-7 cell lines, while it had the highest effect on the PC-3 cell line. It is thought that the effectiveness of this antiproliferative and antimicrobial activity is related to the secondary metabolites determined by GC-MS analysis

Ethno veterinary practices for cattle amongst traditional veterinary health care practitioners in palayamkottai, tirunelveli, tamilnadu

In the Palayamkottai, tirunelveli in tamilnadu, people make extensive use of medicinal plants to treat a number of diseases in cattle. The aim of the study was to identify the medicinal plants used to treat various ailments in cattle. Ethno veterinary survey was carried out using questionnaire and individual interviews from June to July 2024 in Palayamkottai, Tirunelveli district, Tamilnadu. The study identified total of 53 plants species divided into 31 families used in the various cattle ailments such as Foot and Mouth Disease, Dysentery, Mastitis, wound, bleeding horns, abscess, to improve milk production, pain and contusion due to trauma in Cattle by traditional veterinary health care practitioners. 16 internal and external applications are prepared by using these species. Species from the Fabaceae, Poaceae and Lamiaceae families are the most widely represented. Leaves, seeds, fruits and roots are the most commonly used parts. The results of the study provided all relevant information, particularly Ingredients, mode of preparation and route of administration.

Indigenous Knowledge and Herbal Medicine: Exploring the Ethnobotany of the Karo Tiganderket Tribe in Indonesia

This ethnobotanical study investigates the traditional use of medicinal plants in Tiganderket Village, Karo Regency, Indonesia, to document local plants' diversity, uses, and preparation methods for medicinal purposes. Utilizing a quantitative descriptive approach, data were gathered from 30 informants, including traditional healers and residents. The study identified 92 plant species from 44 families, with the Zingiberaceae family being the most dominant. Frequently used plants, such as Piper betle (belo) and Zingiber officinale (ginger), were primarily employed to treat common ailments like fever, boils, and joint pain. Boiling (74%) was the most common method of plant preparation, and leaves (50%) were the most frequently used plant parts. The Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) revealed Acorus calamus and Curcuma longa as the most cited species. At the same time, 40 of 66 recorded diseases showed high Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) values, reflecting shared knowledge of plant use. This study highlights the rich preservation of traditional medicinal plant knowledge in Tiganderket Village, which continues to play a crucial role in local healthcare practices.

The Effects of Acute Oral Toxicity of Jatropha multifida and Hyptis suaveolens on Zootechnical Parameters in Local Chickens

The substantial use of medicinal plants in traditional poultry farming is a well-established practice. The present study aimed to determine the median lethal dose (LD50) of ethanolic extracts of Jatropha multifida and Hyptis suaveolens in local chickens and to assess the effects of these extracts on feed intake, water intake, and average body weight. The methodology followed OECD Directive 223, which involves administering the highest dose of the extract to the chickens and assessing any mortality. Three homogeneous groups of five chickens each were formed for the limit dose test. The control group received distilled water, while batches 1 and 2 received 700 mg of ethanolic extract of J. multifida and H. suaveolens, respectively. The average body weight of the chickens was 350g ± 20, and the extracts were administered via gavage at a suspension of 2000 mg/kg.bwt of the extract dissolved in water. The results of the phytochemical tests indicated the presence of several chemical compounds known for their therapeutic effects. The productivity of the extract was 2.75 ± 0.19 for J. multifida and 3.3 ± 0.27 for H. suaveolens. After administration of the suspensions, observation for 14 days revealed no mortality. This finding indicated that the LD50 of the utilized ethanolic extracts exceeds the limit dose (2000 mg/kg.bwt). However, feed intake (49 ± 3 > 46±4) and average body weight (436 ± 31 > 388 ± 37) in batch 2 were significantly higher than those in batch 1. Future research should explore the subacute toxicity of J. multifida and H. suaveolens across various chicken breeds.

Ethnobotanical Surveys of Plants Used by Quilombola Communities in Brazil: A Scoping Review.

Quilombola communities play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity through traditional management models. The use of medicinal plants within these communities reflects a deep reservoir of knowledge, passed down through generations. The objective of this study was to conduct a scoping review to systematically analyze and synthesize the existing literature on the medicinal plants used by Quilombola communities in Brazil, with a focus on their therapeutic applications and cultural significance. The Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) strategy was utilized, where the population refers to the Quilombolas, the concept pertains to medicinal plants, and the context involves illness. A total of 888 studies were initially identified, but only 10 met the inclusion criteria, covering 297 plant species from 80 different families. These plants are employed in a wide range of therapeutic applications, with decoction, alcohol maceration, and infusion being the most common methods of preparation. The study highlights the rich ethnopharmacological knowledge held by Quilombola communities and underscores the need for greater recognition and integration of this traditional knowledge into public health practices. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of preserving and validating the use of medicinal plants by these communities, which could serve as a foundation for future pharmacological discoveries and the development of culturally appropriate health interventions.

Os benefícios do uso das plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos no tratamento da ansiedade em universitários no Brasil

This work aimed to point out the benefits of using medicinal plants in the treatment of anxiety,focusing on university students;point out factors that can trigger anxiety in the daily life of this group,and present medicinal plants used for the treatment and control of anxiety states.To this end,a bibliographic search was carried out in the Scielo (Scientific Electronic Library Online) and Google Scholar databases,with the following descriptors: anxiety in university students;herbal medicines, medicinal plants and anxiety. As inclusion criteria, articles published from the year 2010 and which best suited the study theme, in addition to official publications, were used. 72 articles were found,of which 39 were used, as they better met the inclusion criteria. College students have high rates of anxiety,mainly due to the context in which they live, such as a daily routine of tests, pressures and concerns. The use of medicinal plants and anxiolytic herbal medicines proves to be beneficial for this group,expanding the therapeutic possibilities,reducing the induction of side effects, in addition to having a more affordable price when compared to synthetic drugs.Among the most used plants for the treatment of anxiety, the following stand out: Passiflora incarnata L., Melissa officinalis L.,Valeriana officinalis L. and Matricaria recutita L.