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Reyes-Becerril M, Maldonado M, Vimolmangkang S, Angulo C. In vivo and ex vivo studies support the immunostimulant and immunoprotective effect of Damiana (Turnera diffusa Willd) in Almaco Jack (Seriola rivoliana). FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 146:109369. [PMID: 38220122 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2024.109369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Damiana (Turnera diffusa Willd) was evaluated in vitro for antioxidant and antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes (as a preliminary screening assessment) by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC)-Direct bioautography. A study was performed in vivo to evaluate the effects of Damiana enriched diets at 0.5 % on immune parameters in mucus and serum and gene expression in Almaco Jack (Seriola rivoliana) intestine after two and four weeks; an infection with Aeromonas hydrophila at 1x107 colony forming units (CFU) followed and an ex vivo study was carried out using head-kidney leukocytes. Ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays showed high antioxidant activities in Damiana leaves; even in the ABTS assay, Damiana at 300 μg/mL showed similar activity to ascorbic acid - the standard control. Damiana exhibited strong in vitro antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and S. pyogenes. In vivo studies showed a strong enhancement of myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities in mucus and serum of S. rivoliana supplemented with Damiana; their immunological response enhanced after infection with A. hydrophila. IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10 gene expressions upregulated in the fish intestine challenged with the bacterium. Piscidin and macrophage (MARCO) receptor gene expression up-regulated at week 4 and down-regulated after infection. Intestinal histology results confirm that Damiana not cause inflammation or damage. Finally, the ex vivo study confirmed the immunostimulant and protective effects of Damiana through increased phagocytic, respiratory burst, myeloperoxidase activities and nitric oxide generation before and upon the bacterial encounter. These results support the idea that Damiana has the potential as an immunostimulant additive for diets in aquaculture by enhancing immune parameters and protecting Almaco Jack against A. hydrophila infections upon four weeks of supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Reyes-Becerril
- Immunology & Vaccinology Group. Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, SC., Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo de Santa Rita Sur, La Paz, B.C.S. C.P., 23096, Mexico
| | - Minerva Maldonado
- Immunology & Vaccinology Group. Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, SC., Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo de Santa Rita Sur, La Paz, B.C.S. C.P., 23096, Mexico
| | - Sornkanok Vimolmangkang
- Center of Excellence in Plant-Produced Pharmaceuticals, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand; Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Carlos Angulo
- Immunology & Vaccinology Group. Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, SC., Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo de Santa Rita Sur, La Paz, B.C.S. C.P., 23096, Mexico.
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Teixeira TM, Boeff DD, de Oliveira Carvalho L, Ritter MR, Konrath EL. The traditional use of native Brazilian plants for male sexual dysfunction: Evidence from ethnomedicinal applications, animal models, and possible mechanisms of action. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116876. [PMID: 37437795 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Sexual dysfunction is a multifactorial health condition characterized by distressing disturbances in the sexual response and libido, leading to an inability to maintain penile erection and achieve pleasure. Considering the huge Brazilian biodiversity, many plants are traditionally used for aphrodisiac purposes. However, the use of native medicinal plants as sexual boosters in Brazil has been poorly studied. AIM OF THE STUDY This review focuses on the composition, pharmacology, and results of experimental trials of the main native plants used in Brazilian folk medicine with alleged aphrodisiac effects. We aimed to provide a state-of-the-art reference for research on herbs for the treatment of male sexual dysfunction by summarizing and discussing the main studies found. MATERIALS AND METHODS The relevant information was collected by searching keywords (aphrodisiac, sexual tonic, sexual stimulant, sexual vigor stimulant, sexual impotency, erectile dysfunction, etc.) from books containing primary surveys conducted in the original communities and bibliographic surveys prepared by authors linked to the national academic and scientific environment edited in Brazil. Preclinical and clinical studies of the compiled plant species were performed using scientific databases (Scopus, PubMed, SciELO, and SciFinder). RESULTS Seventy-four plant species belonging to 44 families used in Brazil to treat sexual dysfunction were compiled from ethnopharmacological literature. Fourteen plants, including Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen, Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco Schltdl., Anemopaegma arvense (Vell.) Stellfeld ex de Souza, Mimosa pudica L., Heteropterys tomentosa A. Juss., Trichilia catigua A. Juss., and Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. were pharmacologically studied to confirm these therapeutic properties. Probable modes of action include antioxidant and androgenic activities, inhibition of the PDE5 enzyme, increase in NO levels, and activation of dopaminergic and noradrenergic pathways. In addition, several different species popularly known as "catuaba" were identified, leading to adulterations and controversial effects. CONCLUSION The overall results of the present review of Brazilian folk literature reveal that Brazil has a long tradition of using plants with potential aphrodisiac effects. However, further research is required to identify, characterize, and standardize the active ingredients and herbal preparations used in aphrodisiacs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tárik Matthes Teixeira
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil
| | - Daiana Daniele Boeff
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil; Pos-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil
| | - Letícia de Oliveira Carvalho
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil; Pos-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil
| | - Mara Rejane Ritter
- Department of Botany, Biosciences Institute, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil
| | - Eduardo Luis Konrath
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil; Pos-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil.
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De Luca R, Bonanno M, Manuli A, Calabrò RS. Cutting the First Turf to Heal Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction: A Male Retrospective Cohort Study. MEDICINES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:medicines9090045. [PMID: 36135826 PMCID: PMC9503765 DOI: 10.3390/medicines9090045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) is a set of heterogeneous sexual problems, which may arise during the administration of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and persist after their discontinuation. PSSD is a rare clinical entity, and it is commonly associated with non-sexual concerns, including emotional and cognitive problems and poor quality of life. To date, however, no effective treatment is available. The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the potential efficacy of the different treatments used in clinical practice in improving male PSSD. Of the 30 patients referred to our neurobehavioral outpatient clinic from January 2020 to December 2021, 13 Caucasian male patients (mean age 29.53 ± 4.57 years), previously treated with SSRIs, were included in the study. Patients with major depressive disorder and/or psychotic symptoms were excluded a priori to avoid overlapping symptomatology, and potentially reduce the misdiagnosis rate. To treat PSSD, we decided to use drugs positively affecting the brain dopamine/serotonin ratio, such as bupropion and vortioxetine, as well as other compounds. This latter drug is known not to cause or reverse iatrogenic SD. Most patients, after treatment with vortioxetine and/or nutraceuticals, reported a significant improvement in all International Index of Erectile Function-(IIEF-5) domains (p < 0.05) from baseline (T0) to 12-month follow-up (T1). Moreover, the only patient treated with pelvic muscle vibration reached very positive results. Although our data come from a retrospective open-label study with a small sample size, drugs positively modulating the central nervous system serotonin/dopamine ratio, such as vortioxetine, could be used to potentially improve PSSD. Large-sample prospective cohort studies and randomized clinical trials are needed to investigate the real prevalence of this clinical entity and confirm such a promising approach to a potentially debilitating illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria De Luca
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Mirjam Bonanno
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Alfredo Manuli
- UOC Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, AOU Policlinico G Martino, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, 98166 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence: mailto:
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Sha'ari N, Woon LSC, Sidi H, Das S, Bousman CA, Mohamed Saini S. Beneficial effects of natural products on female sexual dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 93:153760. [PMID: 34638031 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) includes female orgasmic disorder, female sexual interest or arousal disorder, and genito-pelvic pain or penetration disorder. FSD affects 40% of women worldwide, but it is understudied and likely undertreated. Natural products are frequently used by women to treat FSD, but scientific evidence of their efficacy is lacking. OBJECTIVE This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on the study of the efficacy of natural products on FSD. STUDY DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis of existing studies on natural products in the treatment of FSD. METHODS The literature search included MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trial databases for studies published from January 2000 to February 2020. The quality and the level of evidence of the studies were assessed. The association between natural products and FSD was summarized using standardized mean differences (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS A total of 536 studies were identified, with 20 of them meeting the criteria. According to this meta-analysis, Tribulus terrestris showed a significant positive effect in improving overall female sexual function (SMD = 1.12, 95% CI = 0.46 - 1.79, p = 0.001) and individual sexual arousal (SMD = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.22 - 1.84, p = 0.013), sexual desire (SMD = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.52 - 1.63, p ≤ 0.001) and sexual orgasm (SMD = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.02 - 1.00, p = 0.040) domains compared to placebo. Panax ginseng was found to be effective in treating sexual arousal (SMD = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.11 - 0.97, p = 0.014) and sexual desire (SMD = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.27 - 0.90, p < 0.001) compared to placebo. Meanwhile, other natural products reviewed in this study, such as Trifolium pretense, did not differ significantly from placebo in terms of improving FSD. CONCLUSION Preliminary evidence suggests that Tribulus terrestris and Panax ginseng may be effective as alternative treatments for FSD in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahdiya Sha'ari
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah, Jalan Langat, Klang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Luke Sy-Cherng Woon
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hatta Sidi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Srijit Das
- Department of Human & Clinical Anatomy, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Chad A Bousman
- Department of Medical Genetics, Psychiatry, and Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Suriati Mohamed Saini
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Currently Applied Extraction Processes for Secondary Metabolites from Lippia turbinata and Turnera diffusa and Future Perspectives. SEPARATIONS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/separations8090158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The poleo (Lippia turbinata Griseb.) and damiana (Turnera diffusa Wild) are two of the most valued species in the Mexican semidesert due to their medicinal uses. The conventional essential oil extraction process is hydrodistillation, and for the extraction of antioxidants, the use of organic solvents. However, these techniques are time-consuming and degrade thermolabile molecules, and the efficiency of the process is dependent on the affinity of the solvent for bioactive compounds. Likewise, they generate solvent residues such as methanol, hexane, petroleum ether, toluene, chloroform, etc. Therefore, in recent years, ecofriendly alternatives such as ohmic heating, microwaves, ultrasound, and supercritical fluids have been studied. These methodologies allow reducing the environmental impact and processing times, in addition to increasing yields at a lower cost. Currently, there is no up-to-date information that provides a description of the ecofriendly trends for the recovery process of essential oils and antioxidants from Lippia turbinata and Turnera diffusa. This review includes relevant information on the most recent advancements in these processes, including conditions and methodological foundation.
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Estrada-Castillón E, Villarreal-Quintanilla JÁ, Encina-Domínguez JA, Jurado-Ybarra E, Cuéllar-Rodríguez LG, Garza-Zambrano P, Arévalo-Sierra JR, Cantú-Ayala CM, Himmelsbach W, Salinas-Rodríguez MM, Gutiérrez-Santillán TV. Ethnobotanical biocultural diversity by rural communities in the Cuatrociénegas Valley, Coahuila; Mexico. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2021; 17:21. [PMID: 33781298 PMCID: PMC8008621 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-021-00445-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cuatrociénegas, part of the Chihuahuan Desert, is a region of unique biological, geological, geographical, and evolutionary importance. Its current population is mestizo; nevertheless, it has high national historical, cultural, and touristic relevance in Mexico. It has been cataloged as nationally significant for its flora and fauna by Mexican law, as well as being designated a High Protection site by the World Wildlife Fund and UNESCO. Because of its diverse and complex biological and sociocultural characteristics, we considered it important to determine, identify, and analyze various aspects of the traditional ethnobotanical knowledge and practices in this region. METHODS Between 2016 and 2019, seven field trips were made to document the knowledge and use of flora. Cuatrociénegas is a protected area, collecting botanical material is regulated, so specimens were photographed and collected in neighboring communities, and in public and private gardens. Later permission was obtained to complete the collection of specimens (2019-2020). The plants were identified and entered into the flora database of the state of Coahuila, and deposited in the Herbarium of the Faculty of Forest Sciences, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Mexico. One hundred ten local residents (50 men and 60 women), aged between 27 and 91 years, were interviewed (semi-structured interviews). The cultural importance of ethnobotanical resources (cultural significance index) and its significance with respect to ethnobotanical richness in other Biosphere Reserves in Mexico (Mann-Whitney test), and similarities in the diversity of exotic species (Sørensen index) were studied. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The ethnobotanical information registers 158 species and 132 genera in 57 vascular and non-vascular families, documenting a greater knowledge and use of cultivated species (84) with respect to wild species (74). The diversity of plants reported is compared to other ethnobotanical studies carried out in Mexican Biosphere Reserves. These results are highly relevant, in spite of unique exotic species. The people local pay special attention to medicinal and ornamental plants. The species that presented the highest use values are Larrea tridentata, Jatropha dioica, and Machaeranthera pinnatifida, three species characteristic of the desert region. CONCLUSIONS The particular diversity of wild flora in Cuatrociénegas Valley, combined with the varied introduced flora, is an important multifunctional resource. Special attention to introduced species is associated with harvesting use restrictions in the protected area as well as the high value of ornamental species that are difficult to maintain in desert areas. The extensive use of ethnobotanical knowledge is an example that biocultural diversity (at the conceptual level) is also strongly associated with socio-ecological systems incorporating mestizo groups and semi-urban rural landscapes, thus ceasing to be an exclusive focus of indigenous communities and regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Estrada-Castillón
- Facultad de Ciencias Forestales, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Km 145 Carr. Nac. Linares-Cd. Victoria, A.P. 41, 67700, Linares, Nuevo Léon, México
| | | | - Juan Antonio Encina-Domínguez
- Departamento de Botánica, Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro, C.P. 25315, Buenavista, Saltillo, Coahuila, México
| | - Enrique Jurado-Ybarra
- Facultad de Ciencias Forestales, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Km 145 Carr. Nac. Linares-Cd. Victoria, A.P. 41, 67700, Linares, Nuevo Léon, México
| | - Luis Gerardo Cuéllar-Rodríguez
- Facultad de Ciencias Forestales, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Km 145 Carr. Nac. Linares-Cd. Victoria, A.P. 41, 67700, Linares, Nuevo Léon, México
| | - Patricio Garza-Zambrano
- Capital Natural, A. C., Avenida Ricardo Margain Zozaya 440, Valle del Campestre, 66265, San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León, México
| | - José Ramón Arévalo-Sierra
- Departamento de Botánica, Ecología y Fisiología Vegetal, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - César Martín Cantú-Ayala
- Facultad de Ciencias Forestales, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Km 145 Carr. Nac. Linares-Cd. Victoria, A.P. 41, 67700, Linares, Nuevo Léon, México
| | - Wibke Himmelsbach
- Facultad de Ciencias Forestales, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Km 145 Carr. Nac. Linares-Cd. Victoria, A.P. 41, 67700, Linares, Nuevo Léon, México
| | | | - Tania Vianney Gutiérrez-Santillán
- Facultad de Ciencias Forestales, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Km 145 Carr. Nac. Linares-Cd. Victoria, A.P. 41, 67700, Linares, Nuevo Léon, México.
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Efficacy and Safety of Common Ingredients in Aphrodisiacs Used for Erectile Dysfunction: A Review. Sex Med Rev 2020; 8:431-442. [PMID: 32139335 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to attain or sustain an erection for sexual intercourse. Affected men endorse difficulties with intimacy and feelings of guilt and shame. Although medical treatments are available, patients are reluctant to discuss ED with physicians and often use dietary supplements to attempt to treat their ED. As such, there is a need to better understand the effects of ingredients used in nutraceuticals for ED treatment. OBJECTIVES To summarize the literature on the efficacy and safety of the most common ingredients used in ED supplements. METHODS 10 of the most common ingredients in ED supplements were reviewed using PubMed-indexed literature to assess their efficacy and safety in treating ED. Key findings were summarized to include historical use, active ingredients, prior animal studies, human studies, and toxicity. RESULTS Nutraceuticals used in ED treatment include a variety of ingredients. Although L-arginine is a safe supplement with clinical data supporting improved erectile function, limited data exist on the efficacy of other ingredients in the treatment of ED. CONCLUSION Despite the growing use of supplements for treatment of sexual dysfunction, ED supplements remain poorly studied, with limited data demonstrating efficacy of individual ingredients. Further study is required to definitively determine the efficacy of nutraceuticals in ED treatment. Srivatsav A, Balasubramanian A, Pathak UI, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Common Ingredients in Aphrodisiacs Used for Erectile Dysfunction: A Review. J Sex Med 2020;8:431-442.
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Abarikwu SO, Onuah CL, Singh SK. Plants in the management of male infertility. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13509. [PMID: 31989693 DOI: 10.1111/and.13509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This review attempts to collate existing data and provide the perspectives for future studies on the effects of plants on the male gonads. For many of these medicinal plants such as Lepidium meyenii, Rupus coreanus, Tribulus terrestres, Panax ginseng, Petasites japonicas, Apium graveolens, Eurycoma longifólia, Pedalium murex, Corchorus depressus, Mucuna pruriens, Astragalus membranaceus, Nigella sativa, Crataegus monogyna, Fagara tessmannii, Phaleria macrocarpa, Anacyclus pyrethrum, Cynomorium songaricum and Morinda officinalis, the mechanism of actions of their active principles and crude extracts has been shown in both laboratory animals, in vitro, and human studies, and includes their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, spermatogenesis-inducing, aphrodisiac, smooth muscle relaxing and androgenic properties. Several active chemical leads including glucosinolates, anthocyanins, protodioscin, ginsenosides, sesquiterpenes, phyto-oestrogens, quassinoids, diosgenin, thymoquinone, proanthocyanidins and bajijiasu isolated from these plants are known to have target effects on the testis, but efforts have been limited in their application at the clinical level. There still appear to be many more extracts of medicinal plants that have not been characterised to determine the phytochemicals unique to them that have target effects on the gonads. Further, collaborative efforts at isolating pro-drug candidates from medicinal plants for studies at the molecular, cellular and clinical level towards elucidating their mechanisms of action on the testes are therefore warranted in the light of the current male fertility crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny O Abarikwu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Chigozie Linda Onuah
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Shio Kumar Singh
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
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Adeneye AA, Olagunju JA, Murtala BA. Evaluation of Male Fertility-Enhancing Activities of Water Seed Extract of Hunteria umbellata in Wistar Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2019; 2019:7693010. [PMID: 31485248 PMCID: PMC6710732 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7693010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this study, the male fertility-enhancing activity of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day of Hunteria umbellata water seed extract (HU) in Wistar rats was studied for 60 days. In doing this, effect of repeated doses of HU was studied on the weight gain pattern, gonadosomatic index (GSI), serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (TS), prolactin (PRL), and estradiol (ES)} as well as testicular antioxidant status of the treated rats as a way of elucidating the mechanism(s) of action of HU. METHOD Thirty-six (36) male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (I-VI) of six rats per group. Group I rats were gavaged with 10 ml/kg/day of distilled water and served as an untreated control; Group II rats were gavaged with 0.3 mg/kg/day of clomiphene in distilled water; Groups III-V rats received 100 mg/kg/day, 200 mg/kg/day, and 400 mg/kg/day of HU, respectively, and Group VI rats received 20 mg/kg/day of Vitamin C all in distilled water. All treatments were for 60 days after which the treated rats were humanely sacrificed. Sera of blood samples were processed for the above stated hormonal profile. Similarly, testicular tissues obtained were processed for semen analysis and complete antioxidant profile of the HU-treated testicles by assaying for superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH), glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and Thiobarbituric Reactive Species (TBARS). RESULTS Prolonged treatments with 100 mg/kg/day, 200 mg/kg/day, and 400 mg/kg/day of HU for 60 days induced dose dependent reductions in weight gain pattern with the most significant (p<0.001) effect recorded with the highest dose of HU. Conversely, significant (p<0.001) increase was recorded for GSI at the same HU dose. Clomiphene and HU also induced significant (p<0.01, p<0.001) dose dependent increases in the total sperm count, %live sperm, but reverse effects on %dead sperm and %abnormal sperm. On the hormonal profile, oral treatment with 100 mg/kg/day, 200 mg/kg/day, and 400 mg/kg/day of the extract induced profound (p<0.05, p<0.01, and p<0.001) dose related increases in the sera TS, LH, and FSH while it caused reverse effect on serum PRL but caused no significant alterations in the serum ES levels. Similarly, oral treatment with vitamin C and 100-400 mg/kg/day of HU induced profound (p<0.05, p<0.01, and p<0.001) increases in the antioxidant enzyme activities. CONCLUSION Overall, prolonged oral treatment with 100-400 mg/kg body weight of HU for 60 days significantly improved sperm function which was mediated via enhanced spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis, and antioxidant mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adejuwon Adewale Adeneye
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics & Toxicology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, Lagos State University College of Medicine, 1-5 Oba Akinjobi Way, G.R.A, Ikeja 100001, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Joseph Abayomi Olagunju
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Lagos State University College of Medicine, 1-5 Oba Akinjobi Way, G.R.A, Ikeja 100001, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Babatunde Adekunle Murtala
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Lagos State University College of Medicine, 1-5 Oba Akinjobi Way, G.R.A, Ikeja 100001, Lagos, Nigeria
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Plant-Derived Supplements for Sexual Health and Problems, Part 2: Further Evidence for Specific Herbal Effects. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-019-00204-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Watcho P, Tchuenchie Gatchueng MA, Defo Deeh PB, Wankeu-Nya M, Ngadjui E, Fozin Bonsou GR, Kamanyi A, Kamtchouing P. Sexual stimulant effects of the mixture of Mondia whitei, Dracaena arborea, and Bridelia ferruginea in normal and prediabetic male Wistar rats. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol 2019; 30:jbcpp-2018-0222. [PMID: 31314740 DOI: 10.1515/jbcpp-2018-0222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Background We investigated the effects of a polyherbal formulation prepared from the extracts of Mondia whitei (Periplocaceae), Dracaena arborea (Dracaenaceae), and Bridelia ferruginea (Euphorbiaceae) (MDB) on the sexual behavior of normal rats (NR) and prediabetic rats (PR). Methods Male Wistar rats were administered with drinking fructose solution (21%) or tap water for 16 weeks. After induction of prediabetic status, NR (n = 30) and PR (n = 30) were randomly distributed into 10 groups of six animals each and orally treated with distilled water (10 mL/kg), sildenafil citrate (5 mg/kg), or MDB (50, 100, or 500 mg/kg) for 21 days. Sexual behavior parameters per series (S) of ejaculation were evaluated on days 1, 7, 14, and 21. Results Drinking fructose solution (21%) induced prediabetic status in rats, characterized by a significant (p < 0.01) increase in glycemia by 43.41% compared with the control group. MDB improved sexual performances of NR and PR by increasing the mount frequency (MF) and the intromission frequency (IF) as well as the number of rats capable of ejaculating. For instance, the MF and the IF were significantly increased in animals administered with MDB for 7 (50 mg/kg, S1 and S2), 14 (100 mg/kg, S3), or 21 days (100 or 500 mg/kg, S2). This increase was more pronounced on days 7 and 14 in NR and PR treated with sildenafil citrate or MDB extracts, respectively. Conclusions The mixture of MDB improved sexual activity in NR and PR. This result may further justify the traditional use of these plants as sexual performance enhancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Watcho
- Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Department of Animal Biology, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon, Phone: +237677516130
| | - Marc-Aurèle Tchuenchie Gatchueng
- Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Department of Animal Biology, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Patrick Brice Defo Deeh
- Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Department of Animal Biology, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Modeste Wankeu-Nya
- Laboratory of Animal Biology and Physiology, Department of Animal Organisms Biology, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Esther Ngadjui
- Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Department of Animal Biology, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Georges Romeo Fozin Bonsou
- Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Department of Animal Biology, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Albert Kamanyi
- Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Department of Animal Biology, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Pierre Kamtchouing
- Faculty of Science, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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Naz M, Kamal M. Classification, causes, diagnosis and treatment of male infertility: a review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s13596-017-0269-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Prosexual Effect of Chrysactinia mexicana A. Gray (Asteraceae), False Damiana, in a Model of Male Sexual Behavior. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:2987917. [PMID: 27656650 PMCID: PMC5021457 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2987917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 07/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Chrysactinia mexicana A. Gray (Asteraceae) and Turnera diffusa Willd (Turneraceae) are employed in traditional medicine as aphrodisiacs; however, there is no scientific evidence supporting the prosexual properties of C. mexicana. The aim of this study was to determine whether an aqueous extract of C. mexicana (Cm) stimulates rat male sexual behavior in the sexual exhaustion paradigm. Sexually exhausted (SExh) male rats were treated with Cm (80, 160, and 320 mg/kg), an aqueous extract of T. diffusa (Td), or yohimbine. The sexual exhaustion state in the control group was characterized by a low percentage of males exhibiting mounts, intromissions, and ejaculations and no males demonstrating mating behavior after ejaculation. Cm (320 mg/kg), Td, or yohimbine significantly increased the proportion of SExh rats that ejaculated and resumed copulation after ejaculation. In males that exhibited reversal of sexual exhaustion, Cm (320 mg/kg) improved sexual performance by reducing the number of intromissions and shrinking ejaculation latency. The effects of treatments on sexual behavior were not related with alterations in general locomotion. In conclusion, the prosexual effects of Cm, as well as those of Td, are established at a central level, which supports the traditional use of C. mexicana for stimulating sexual activity.
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Effects of the Aqueous Extract of Eremomastax speciosa (Acanthaceae) on Sexual Behavior in Normal Male Rats. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:9706429. [PMID: 27525283 PMCID: PMC4971301 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9706429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Revised: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Objective. We studied prosexual effects of Eremomastax speciosa aqueous extract in male adult rats. Materials and Methods. 100 and 500 mg/kg of extract were administered orally (days 0, 1, 4, 7, 14, and 28 (posttreatment)). The sexual behavior of rats receiving a single dose (500 mg/kg) was also evaluated after pretreatment with Lω-NAME (10 mg/kg), haloperidol (1 mg/kg), or atropine (5 mg/kg). Controls received distilled water or testosterone enanthate (20 mg/kg/day/3 days (s.c.) before the test). Results. The extract (days 1–14) had no significant effect on mount, intromission, and ejaculation frequencies but on day 28 (14 days after treatment), it increased frequency of mounts and intromissions at 500 mg/kg. Mount, intromission, and ejaculation latencies reduced and postejaculatory intervals decreased but the effect did not persist 2 weeks after treatment. Extract prosex effects were greatly reduced by atropine and completely abolished by haloperidol, while Lω-NAME increased mount latency and potentiated extract effect on intromission and ejaculation latencies. Conclusion. In summary, E. speciosa extract can have positive effects on male sexual motivation and performance when administered for two weeks at the dose of 500 mg/kg. The effects (dopaminergic and/or cholinergic dependent) tend to appear during the posttreatment period.
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Fernandes NF, Martino-Andrade AJ, Dos Santos Lourenço AC, Muller JC, Spercoski KM, Nihi F, Miguel MD, de Oliveira VB, Dalsenter PR, Morais RN. Supplementation with Pfaffia glomerata (Sprengel) Pedersen does not affect androgenic-anabolic parameters in male rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2015; 161:46-52. [PMID: 25500301 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.11.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/30/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Paffia spp (Amaranthacea) has a widespread use of in Brazil as a possible hormonal supplement and a substitute of Panax ginseng, although information on its reproductive effects is missing. AIM OF THE STUDY To evaluated possible anabolic-androgenic or anti-androgenic effects of Pfaffia glomerata (PG) extract using intact eight-months-old male rats and pre-pubertal castrated rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Three different dose levels of PG (8.5, 30 and 85 mg/kg/day) were administered to eight-months-old rats for 28 days or to castrated males for 7 days (Hershberger assay). In the experiment with intact animals, 24h fecal samples were collected for quantification of fecal metabolites of androgens throughout treatment. At the end of the treatment period, animals were euthanized for evaluation of serum testosterone, reproductive organ weights, number of spermatids per testis, diameter of seminiferous tubules and cross-sectional area of soleus muscle fibers. In the Hershberber assay, androgenic or anti-androgenic effects were evaluated by the weights of androgen-dependent tissues: ventral prostate, seminal vesicle, glans penis and levator ani muscle/bulbocavernosus muscle. RESULTS No effects were observed in the concentrations of fecal metabolites of androgens monitored during the treatment of intact eight-months-old rats. Moreover, at the end of treatment, no changes were seen in any of the investigated parameters. In the Hershberger assay, the PG extract did not induce androgenic or anti-androgenic effects at the dose levels tested. Significant effects were only observed in animals treated with testosterone and testosterone plus flutamide, which were used as positive controls for androgenicity and anti-androgenicity, respectively. CONCLUSIONS At the dose levels tested, PG extract does not induce anabolic-androgenic or anti-androgenic effects in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ney Felipe Fernandes
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | - Juliane Centeno Muller
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Katherinne Maria Spercoski
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Fabiola Nihi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Marilis Dallarmi Miguel
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, 632, Avenida Prof. Lothário Meissner, 80210-170, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Bednarczuk de Oliveira
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, 632, Avenida Prof. Lothário Meissner, 80210-170, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Paulo Roberto Dalsenter
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Rosana Nogueira Morais
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil.
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Avelino-Flores MDC, Cruz-López MDC, Jiménez-Montejo FE, Reyes-Leyva J. Cytotoxic activity of the methanolic extract of Turnera diffusa Willd on breast cancer cells. J Med Food 2014; 18:299-305. [PMID: 25299247 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2013.0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Turnera diffusa Willd, commonly known as Damiana, is employed in traditional medicine as a stimulant, aphrodisiac, and diuretic. Its leaves and stems are used for flavoring and infusion. Damiana is considered to be safe for medicinal use by the FDA. Pharmacological studies have established the hypoglycemic, antiaromatase, prosexual, estrogenic, antibacterial, and antioxidant activity of T. diffusa. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible cytotoxic effect of extracts and organic fractions of this plant on five tumor cell lines (SiHa, C-33, Hep G2, MDA-MB-231, and T-47D) and normal human fibroblasts. The results show that the methanolic extract (TdM) displayed greater activity on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells (with an IC50 of 30.67 μg/mL) than on the other cancer cell lines. Four organic fractions of this extract exhibited activity on this cancer cell line. In the most active fraction (F4), two active compounds were isolated, arbutin (1) and apigenin (2). This is the first report of a cytotoxic effect by T. diffusa on cancer cells. The IC50 values suggest that the methanolic extract of T. diffusa has potential as an anticancer therapy.
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A review on plants used for improvement of sexual performance and virility. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:868062. [PMID: 25215296 PMCID: PMC4151601 DOI: 10.1155/2014/868062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Revised: 07/13/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The use of plant or plant-based products to stimulate sexual desire and to enhance performance and enjoyment is almost as old as the human race itself. The present paper reviews the active, natural principles, and crude extracts of plants, which have been useful in sexual disorders, have potential for improving sexual behaviour and performance, and are helpful in spermatogenesis and reproduction. Review of refereed journals and scientific literature available in electronic databases and traditional literature available in India was extensively performed. The work reviews correlation of the evidence with traditional claims, elucidation, and evaluation of a plausible concept governing the usage of plants as aphrodisiac in total. Phytoconstituents with known structures have been classified in appropriate chemical groups and the active crude extracts have been tabulated. Data on their pharmacological activity, mechanism of action, and toxicity are reported. The present review provides an overview of the herbs and their active molecule with claims for improvement of sexual behaviour. A number of herbal drugs have been validated for their effect on sexual behavior and fertility and can therefore serve as basis for the identification of new chemical leads useful in sexual and erectile dysfunction.
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Corazza O, Martinotti G, Santacroce R, Chillemi E, Di Giannantonio M, Schifano F, Cellek S. Sexual enhancement products for sale online: raising awareness of the psychoactive effects of yohimbine, maca, horny goat weed, and Ginkgo biloba. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:841798. [PMID: 25025070 PMCID: PMC4082836 DOI: 10.1155/2014/841798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of unlicensed food and herbal supplements to enhance sexual functions is drastically increasing. This phenomenon, combined with the availability of these products over the Internet, represents a challenge from a clinical and a public health perspective. METHODS A comprehensive multilingual assessment of websites, drug fora, and other online resources was carried out between February and July 2013 with exploratory qualitative searches including 203 websites. Additional searches were conducted using the Global Public Health Intelligence Network (GPHIN). Once the active constitutes of the products were identified, a comprehensive literature search was carried out using PsycInfo and PubMed. RESULTS The most common sexual enhancement products available on the Internet were identified. Their active ingredients included yohimbine, maca, horny goat weed and Ginkgo biloba. These four substances were reported with the occurrence of adverse events and the induction of psychological symptoms, such as mood changes, anxiety, and hallucinations as well as addictive behaviours. CONCLUSIONS Uncontrolled availability of sexual enhancement products that contain potentially harmful substances is a major public health concern. The possible impact on population health, particularly among subjects with psychiatric disorders, usually at risk for sexual dysfunction, may be significant. This new trend needs to be extensively studied and monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornella Corazza
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University “G. d'Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Rita Santacroce
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University “G. d'Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Eleonora Chillemi
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University “G. d'Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Schifano
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
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Szewczyk K, Zidorn C. Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and bioactivity of the genus Turnera (Passifloraceae) with a focus on damiana--Turnera diffusa. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2014; 152:424-43. [PMID: 24468305 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2013] [Revised: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Half a dozen of the currently accepted 135 Turnera species are used in traditional medicine, most notably Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. which is one of the most highly appreciated plant aphrodisiacs. Other traditional uses of Turnera L. species include the treatment of anaemia, bronchitis, cough, diabetes, fever, fungal disease, gastrointestinal complaints, pain, pulmonary and respiratory diseases, skin disorders, and women׳s health problems. Additionally, Turnera species are used as abortives, expectorants, and laxatives. PHYTOCHEMISTRY Flavonoids (22 different compounds), maltol glucoside, phenolics, cyanogenic glycosides (7 different compounds), monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, the polyterpene ficaprenol-11, fatty acids, and caffeine have been found in the genus Turnera. BIOACTIVITY Bioactivities experimentally proven for members of the genus Turnera encompass antianxiety, antiaromatase, antibacterial including antimycobacterial, antidiabetic, antioxidant, adapatogenic, antiobesity, antispasmodic, cytotoxic, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, and aphrodisiac activities. Most of these activities have so far been investigated only in chemical, cell based, or animal assays. In contrast, the antiobesity activity was also investigated in a study on healthy human subjects and with a herbal preparation containing among other ingredients Turnera diffusa leaves. Moreover, the enhancement of female sexual function was assessed in humans; again the product contained besides Turnera diffusa other potentially bioactive ingredients. However, with only few exceptions, most of the traditional uses and the experimentally verified bioactivities can currently not be related to a particular compound or compound class. A notable exception is the flavonoid apigenin, which was identified animal experiments as the antinociceptive principle of Turnera diffusa. CONCLUSION In this review, the current knowledge on ethnobotanical uses of members of the genus Turnera, the secondary metabolites reported from Turnera, and experimentally documented bioactivities from Turnera extracts and pure compounds derived from Turnera extracts are compiled. Moreover, some of the most interesting avenues for future research projects are being discussed briefly. These include in particular the aphrodisiac activity of Turnera diffusa and the antibiotic activity potentiating effect of Turnera ulmifolia L. against aminoglycoside resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Szewczyk
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 1 St, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Christian Zidorn
- Institut für Pharmazie der Universität Innsbruck, Abteilung Pharmakognosie, Innrain 80/82, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
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Bezerra AG, Smaili SS, Lopes GS, Carlini EA. Effects of Panax ginseng, Turnera diffusa and Heteropterys tomentosa extracts on hippocampal apoptosis of aged rats. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2014; 11:163-7. [PMID: 23843055 PMCID: PMC4872888 DOI: 10.1590/s1679-45082013000200005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2012] [Accepted: 04/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To verify if the medicinal plants Panax ginseng C.A. Mey, Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult., and Heteropterys tomentosa O. Mach., which are amply used by the population as tonics and cognition enhancers, could have a protective effect on cell death by apoptosis, since this could be one of the mechanisms of action of these substances. Methods: Aged male Wistar rats (n=24) were divided into four groups. Over 30 days, three groups received treatments with hydroalcoholic extracts of the plants, and one group received saline solution. A fifth group with young adult male Wistar rats (n=4) received saline solution during the same period. Using the TUNEL technique, the percentage of apoptosis in the hippocampus of these animals was evaluated. Results: No differences were observed between the percentage of apoptotic cells in the hippocampus of aged animals and of young control animals. The percentage of apoptosis in the hippocampus of aged animals treated chronically with the extracts from the three plants also did not differ from the percentage of apoptosis in the hippocampus of the control group of aged animals. Conclusion: Treatment with the hydroalcoholic extracts of Panax ginseng, Turnera diffusa, and Heteropterys tomentosa did not influence the apoptosis of the hippocampal cells of aged rats.
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Parhizkar S, Yusoff MJ, Dollah MA. Effect of Phaleria macrocarpa on Sperm Characteristics in Adult Rats. Adv Pharm Bull 2013; 3:345-52. [PMID: 24312859 PMCID: PMC3848237 DOI: 10.5681/apb.2013.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2013] [Revised: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 04/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Phaleria macrocarpa (PM) on male fertility by assessing its effect on the sperm characteristics which included the sperm count, motility, viability and morphology. METHODS Eighteen male rats were equally divided into three groups. Each group of rats was orally supplemented for 7 weeks either with PM aqueous extract (240 mg/kg), distilled water (0 mg/kg) or testosterone hormone, Andriol® Testocaps™ (4 mg/kg) respectively. On the last day of supplementation period, the rats were sacrificed and sperm was obtained from cauda epididymis via orchidectomy. The sperm count, motility, viability and morphology were determined. RESULTS PM aqueous extract significantly increased (p<0.05) the percentage of sperm viability. However, there was no significant effect of PM on the percentage of both sperm motility and morphology. The mean of body weight declined significantly in rats supplemented with PM aqueous extract compared to control groups (p<0.05). CONCLUSION The results showed that PM significantly increased sperm viability without changing the sperm motility and morphology. Hence, this study suggests that PM offers an alternative way to improve male fertility by improving the sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saadat Parhizkar
- Medicinal Plants Research Centre, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences (YUMS), Yasuj, Iran
| | - Maryam Jamielah Yusoff
- Biomedical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences,University Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Aziz Dollah
- Biomedical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences,University Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
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Analysis of pomegranate juice components in rat corpora cavernosal relaxation. Int J Impot Res 2013; 26:45-50. [DOI: 10.1038/ijir.2013.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Revised: 03/07/2013] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Antioxidant activity and protective effect of Turnera ulmifolia Linn. var. elegans against carbon tetrachloride-induced oxidative damage in rats. Food Chem Toxicol 2012; 50:4340-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2012.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Revised: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 08/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Shah GR, Chaudhari MV, Patankar SB, Pensalwar SV, Sabale VP, Sonawane NA. Evaluation of a multi-herb supplement for erectile dysfunction: a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2012; 12:155. [PMID: 22978405 PMCID: PMC3478157 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-12-155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2011] [Accepted: 08/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Evidence is lacking for multi-ingredient herbal supplements claiming therapeutic effect in sexual dysfunction in men. We examined the safety and efficacy of VigRX Plus (VXP) – a proprietary polyherbal preparation for improving male sexual function, in a double blind, randomized placebo-controlled, parallel groups, multi-centre study. Methods 78 men aged 25–50 years of age; suffering from mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (ED), participated in this study. Subjects were randomized to receive VXP or placebo at a dose of two capsules twice daily for 12 weeks. The international index of erectile function (IIEF) was the primary outcome measure of efficacy. Other efficacy measures were: Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS), Serum testosterone, Semen analysis, Investigator’s Global assessment and Subjects’ opinion. Results In subjects receiving VXP, the IIEF-Erectile Function (EF) scores improved significantly as compared to placebo. After 12 weeks of treatment, the mean (sd) IIEF-EF score at baseline increased from 16.08 (2.87) to 25.08 (4.56) in the VXP group versus 15.86 (3.24) to 16.47 (4.25) in the placebo group (P < 0.0001). Similar results were observed in each of the remaining four domains of the IIEF (orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction).There was a significant difference for VXP versus placebo comparison of mean (sd) EDITS scores of patients: 82.31(20.23) vs 36.78(22.53) and partners :(82.75(9.8) vs 18.50(9.44);P < 0.001. Thirty-five out of 39 (90%) subjects from the VXP group and one (3%) from the placebo group wished to continue with the treatment they received. Investigator’s global assessment rated VXP therapy as very good to excellent in more than 50% patients and placebo therapy as fair to good in about 25% of patients. Incidence of side effects and subject’s rating for tolerability of treatment was similar in both groups. Conclusions VigRX Plus was well tolerated and more effective than placebo in improving sexual function in men. Trial Registration Clinical Trial Registry India, CTRI/2009/091/000099, 31-03-2009
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Massoma Lembè D, Gasco M, Gonzales GF. Fertility and estrogenic activity of Turraeanthus africanus in combination with Lepidium meyenii (Black maca) in female mice. Eur J Integr Med 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2012.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Taha MME, Salga MS, Ali HM, Abdulla MA, Abdelwahab SI, Hadi AHA. Gastroprotective activities of Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. revisited: Role of arbutin. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2012; 141:273-281. [PMID: 22374081 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2012.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2011] [Revised: 01/27/2012] [Accepted: 02/10/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. has been used for the treatment of several human disorders including peptic ulcer. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY The current study is an attempt to evaluate the anti-ulcerogenic activities of arbutin, a major constituent of Turnera diffusa on two ulcer models. The possible involvement of lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and mucus barrier mechanism has been investigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS Effects of arbutin on ulcer index, gastric juice acidity, mucus content and histochemistry, gross and histological gastric lesions, nitric oxide, cytokines levels (IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), were evaluated in aspirin or ethanol-induced ulcer in vivo. Acute toxicity of arbutin was also examined in rodent model. MTT assay was used to assess the cytotoxicity of the compound on normal liver cells (WRL-68). RESULTS Pre-treatment with arbutin or omeprazole protected the gastric mucosa as seen by reduction in ulcer area and mucosal content, reduced or absence of edema, inflammation and leucocytes infiltration on both models. Arbutin significantly (P<0.05) lowered the elevated TBARS level into gasteric homogenate. Arbutin did not produce significant inhibition of NO. This natural compound has modulated the levels of interleukin-6, interleukin-10 and TNF-α. No in vitro or in vivo toxicities for arbutin were observed. CONCLUSION Thus it can be concluded that Turnera diffusa possesses anti-ulcer activity, which could be attributed to lipid peroxidation inhibitory, immuno modulatory and anti-oxidant mechanisms of arbutin but not to the intervention with nitric oxide inflammation pathway.
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Luo Q, Cui X, Yan J, Yang M, Liu J, Jiang Y, Li J, Zhou Y. Antagonistic effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides on the impaired reproductive system of male rats induced by local subchronic exposure to 60Co-γ irradiation. Phytother Res 2010; 25:694-701. [PMID: 21077258 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.3314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2010] [Revised: 07/03/2010] [Accepted: 09/07/2010] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Lycium barbarum, a famous Chinese medicinal herb, has a long history of use in traditional medicine as an antioxidant and to promote sexual fertility. Polysaccharides are the most important functional constituents in L. barbarum fruits. In this study, male rats were exposed to subchronic (60)Co-γ irradiation to investigate the effects of LBP on sperm quantity and motility, sexual ability, serum hormone levels, oxidative status and testicular tissue DNA damage on days 1, 7 and 14 of treatment. It was found that LBP significantly increased the sperm quantity and motility, shortened the erection, capture and ejaculation latencies, increased the number of captures and ejaculations, and improved the sexual ability of male rats. LBP also played a significant role in the recovery of serum testosterone levels, increased superoxide dismutase activity, decreased malondialdehyde levels, promoted oxidative balance and rescued testicular DNA damage. In conclusion, LBP has significant protective effects against damage induced by local subchronic exposure to (60)Co-γ irradiation, allowing rats to achieve near-complete recovery with LBP treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Luo
- Department of Nutrition and Food Health, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China.
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Évaluation des effets prosexuels des extraits de Bridelia ferruginea chez le rat mâle naïf. Basic Clin Androl 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s12610-010-0094-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Résumé
Bridelia ferruginea (BF, Euphorbiaceae) est un arbre dont les écorces du tronc et les feuilles sont utilisées en médecine traditionnelle pour remédier à plusieurs problèmes et en particulier l’impuissance masculine. La présente étude vise à identifier les effets prosexuels (fréquences d’érection, de monte, d’intromission et d’éjaculation) des extraits aqueux (100 mg/kg) et éthanolique (100 mg/kg) des écorces du tronc de BF administrés par voie orale à des rats Wistar adultes mâles (intacts ou castrés) sexuellement inexpérimentés pendant zéro, un et sept jours. Le comportement sexuel des rats normaux recevant une administration unique de l’extrait aqueux de BF (100 mg/kg) a été aussi évalué après prétraitement par le L-omega-nitro-arginine methyl ester (Lω-NAME, 10 mg/kg), l’halopéridol (10 mg/kg) ou l’atropine (10 mg/kg). Les animaux témoins ont reçu per os de l’eau distillée (10 ml/kg) pour le témoin neutre et une injection sous-cutanée de testostérone propionate (20 mg/kg par jour pendant trois jours avant le début du test) pour le témoin positif. Les résultats de l’étude montrent que la durée du traitement a un impact significatif (p < 0,05) sur les fréquences d’érection pénienne, de monte et d’intromission aussi bien chez les rats normaux que chez les animaux castrés. Une tendance à l’augmentation des paramètres de performance sexuelle a été aussi observée. La fréquence d’intromission des rats intacts était plus élevée (p < 0,05–0,01) à J1 et particulièrement chez les rats recevant l’extrait aqueux de BF. Chez les rats castrés, par contre, seuls les animaux traités par la testostérone ont présenté une augmentation statistique (p < 0,01–0,001) des paramètres copulatoires. Les effets prosexuels de l’extrait aqueux de BF étaient abolis par l’atropine et l’halopéridol, tandis qu’une préadministration de Lω-NAME était sans effet sur l’activité copulatoire des animaux. Ces effets stimulants sexuels de BF pourraient être attribués à la présence des flavonoïdes et des stérols, substances bioactives qui agiraient par voie dopaminergique et/ou cholinergique, et soutiennent l’intérêt de l’emploi de BF en médecine traditionnelle comme stimulant sexuel.
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Nantia EA, Moundipa PF, Monsees TK, Carreau S. Medicinal plants as potential male anti-infertility agents: a review. Basic Clin Androl 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s12610-009-0030-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
For millions of couples, the inability to have a child is a personal tragedy and a large proportion of childless people are confronted with social stigmatization (blame) and personal frustration. Formerly assigned to women, infertility of a couple is nowadays equitably distributed between the two sexes. Among the methods used to treat male infertility problems, medicinal plants have been used empirically as extracts, decoctions, fractions or semi-purified compounds. These herbal products are used in the treatment of a dysfunctioning of the libido, sexual asthenia, erection, and sperm disorders. Pharmacological activities of many of these plants have been shown in vitro using cells, in vivo (on laboratory animals) and human studies. For instance, extracts of Panax ginseng, Panax quinquefolius and Lepidium meyenii have shown positive effects on sexual desire; while extracts of Astragalus membranaceus, Asparagus racemous, Withania somnifera, Andrographis paniculata and Acanthopanax senticosus improved sperm parameters. Plants provide a treatment option that is affordable and available for infertile couples, and phytotherapy is an essential form of treatment in our health system. However, herbal products are still anarchically used in many regions and countries, and a great proportion of medicinal plants used traditionally to solve male reproductive disorders have not yet been scientifically evaluated. Therefore in this review, we have summarized most of the data dealing with the effects of plant extracts on mammalian reproductive functions.
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Kumar S, Sharma A. Anti-Anxiety Activity Studies of Various Extracts ofTurnera aphrodisiacaWard. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/j157v05n04_02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Estrada-Reyes R, Ortiz-López P, Gutiérrez-Ortíz J, Martínez-Mota L. Turnera diffusa Wild (Turneraceae) recovers sexual behavior in sexually exhausted males. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2009; 123:423-429. [PMID: 19501274 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2009.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2008] [Revised: 03/05/2009] [Accepted: 03/21/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE In folk medicine, Turnera diffusa Wild (Turnera diffusa, Turneraceae) is considered as an aphrodisiac, but its ability to restore copulation in sexually inhibited subjects has not been reported. AIM OF THE STUDY To determine whether Turnera diffusa recovers sexual behavior in sexually exhausted (SExh) male rats and to identify the main components in an aqueous extract. MATERIALS AND METHODS SExh males were treated with Turnera diffusa, 20-80 mg/kg, yohimbine, 2 mg/kg, or vehicle. RESULTS Yohimbine and Turnera diffusa (80 mg/kg) significantly increased the percentage of males achieving one ejaculatory series and resuming a second one. In addition, Turnera diffusa significantly reduced the post-ejaculatory interval. These effects were not associated to an increase in locomotor activity or anxiety-like behaviors. The HPLC-ESI-MS analysis showed the presence of caffeine, arbutine, and flavonoids as the main compounds in the active extract. CONCLUSION The results support the use of Turnera diffusa as an aphrodisiac in traditional medicine and suggest possible therapeutic properties of Turnera diffusa on sexual dysfunction. The flavonoids present in active extract may participate in its pro-sexual effect, which is analogous to those produced by yohimbine, suggesting a shared mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Estrada-Reyes
- Laboratorio de Fitofarmacología, Dirección de Investigaciones en Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Calzada México-Xochimilco 101, Col. San Lorenzo Huipulco, Delegación Tlalpan, Mexico City 14370, Mexico
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Zhao J, Dasmahapatra AK, Khan SI, Khan IA. Anti-aromatase activity of the constituents from damiana (Turnera diffusa). JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2008; 120:387-393. [PMID: 18948180 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2008] [Revised: 09/05/2008] [Accepted: 09/05/2008] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Damiana (Turnera diffusa Willd. Ex Schult) has traditionally been used as an herbal aphrodisiac. AIM OF THE STUDY The study was aimed to investigate the anti-aromatse activity and the estrogenic activity of the constituents isolated from Turnera diffusa. MATERIALS AND METHODS The methanolic extract and 24 compounds isolated from the leaves of Turnera diffusa were evaluated for aromatase activity by using a tritiated-water release assay and for estrogenic activity by using yeast estrogen screen (YES) assay. RESULTS The methanolic extract demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibitory activity of the aromatase enzyme with the IC(50) value of 63.1 microg/ml. Among the 24 tested compounds, pinocembrin and acacetin showed the most potent inhibition with IC(50) values of 10.8 and 18.7 microM, respectively. Estrogenic activity was also observed in the extract and three compounds including apigenin 7-glucoside, Z-echinacin and pinocembrin with EC(50) values of 10, 20 and 67 microuM, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The extract of Turnera diffusa and two isolated compounds pinocembrin and acacetin could significantly suppress aromatase activity. Moreover, apigenin 7-glucoside, Z-echinacin and pinocembrin showed estrogenic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianping Zhao
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, United States
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Kumar S, Madaan R, Sharma A. Estimation of Apigenin, an Anxiolytic Constituent, in Turnera aphrodisiaca. Indian J Pharm Sci 2008; 70:847-51. [PMID: 21369462 PMCID: PMC3040895 DOI: 10.4103/0250-474x.49143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2006] [Revised: 06/29/2008] [Accepted: 12/29/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
An HPTLC densitometric method has been developed to estimate apigenin in Turnera aphrodisiaca aerial and its segregated parts (leaves, stems, flowers and fruits) so that plant can be standardized on the basis of its bioactive marker. The apigenin content in methanol extract of T. aphrodisiaca aerial parts was found to be about fourteen times less than acid hydrolyzed methanol extract of the plant indicating the presence of most of apigenin in glycosidic form. Amongst different plant parts, flowers possessed maximum content of apigenin followed by leaves. The apigenin content was also determined in three marketed formulations of T. aphrodisiaca viz., NLK, DWSG and SBL. DWSG contained higher content of apigenin. Aerial parts of the plant were collected at bimonthly intervals over a period of one year in the months of January, March, May, July, September and November. The plant material collected in September showed maximum content of apigenin.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Kumar
- S. D. College of Pharmacy, Barnala-148 101, India
| | - R. Madaan
- S. D. College of Pharmacy, Barnala-148 101, India
| | - A. Sharma
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh-160 014, India
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Kumar S, Madaan R, Sharma A. Pharmacological evaluation of Bioactive Principle of Turnera aphrodisiaca. Indian J Pharm Sci 2008; 70:740-4. [PMID: 21369434 PMCID: PMC3040867 DOI: 10.4103/0250-474x.49095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2008] [Revised: 09/02/2008] [Accepted: 11/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present investigation, pharmacological evaluation of apigenin, a bioactive principle of Turnera aphrodisiaca Ward (Turneraceae) was carried out. Apigenin was evaluated for antianxiety activity at a dose of 2 mg/kg using well established models of anxiety, the hole board test, light/dark test and mirrored chamber test. Apigenin significantly increased head dipping in hole board test. Further, apigenin increased latency to leave light zone and the time spent in light compartment of light/dark model of anxiety. Apigenin also decreased the latency time to enter the mirrored chamber, and increased the total time spent/number of entries in the mirrored chamber with respect to control. All these observations confirmed the anxiolytic activity of apigenin. At a higher dose (about 12 fold the anxiolytic dose), apigenin showed mild sedative activity in actophotometer as it decreased activity scores. It (2, 5 or 10 mg/kg) was found to be devoid of anticonvulsant, antidepressant and antistress activity in MES-induced convulsion test, despair swim test and cold swimming endurance test, respectively. In tail immersion test for six hours, apigenin exhibited excellent dose dependent analgesic activity, which was comparable to that of morphine sulphate (5 mg/kg). Maximum activity was observed 30 min after the administration of 10 mg/kg dose of apigenin.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Kumar
- S. D. College of Pharmacy, Barnala-148 101, Punjab, India
| | - R. Madaan
- S. D. College of Pharmacy, Barnala-148 101, Punjab, India
| | - A. Sharma
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh-160 014, India
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Mendes FR, Carlini EA. Brazilian plants as possible adaptogens: an ethnopharmacological survey of books edited in Brazil. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2007; 109:493-500. [PMID: 17030478 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2006.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2005] [Revised: 08/16/2006] [Accepted: 08/26/2006] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
In a survey, from Brazilian books, we searched plants that are in popular use for purposes resembling those of an adaptogen. This study focused on 24 books by authors from diverse regions in the country, resulting in a total of 1317 citations of uses related to a possible adaptogen effect from approximately 766 plants. Only species native to Brazil, cited in at least four books, were selected, resulting a total of 33 species, belonging to 24 families. Of these, four species have been studied previously in relation to effects that are considered as part of an adaptogen effect (anti-stress, memory enhancement, increased physical and/or sexual performance): Heteropterys aphrodisiaca (Malpighiaceae), Paullinia cupana (Sapindaceae), Ptychopetalum olacoides (Olacaceae), and Turnera diffusa (Turneraceae). Three others--Pfaffia glomerata, Pfaffia paniculata (Amaranthaceae), and Trichilia catigua (Meliaceae)--have also been the object of pharmacological studies that support their use as a possible adaptogen, but they are listed in less than four books. The overall results obtained in the present review of Brazilian folk literature reveals that Brazil is rich in plants with potential adaptogen-like effect, but lacks pharmacological studies (mostly clinical ones) to confirm these therapeutic properties.
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Watcho P, Zelefack F, Nguelefack TB, Ngouela S, Telefo PB, Kamtchouing P, Tsamo E, Kamanyi A. Effects of the aqueous and hexane extracts of Mondia whitei on the sexual behaviour and some fertility parameters of sexually inexperienced male rats. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL, COMPLEMENTARY, AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES : AJTCAM 2006; 4:37-46. [PMID: 20162070 PMCID: PMC2816420 DOI: 10.4314/ajtcam.v4i1.31190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The effects of Mondia whitei Hook (Skeels) were studied on the sexual behaviour and some fertility parameters of sexually inexperienced male rats. Animals were orally administered 100 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of body weight (b.w) of either the aqueous or the hexane extracts of Mondia whitei whilst the control group received 10 mL/kg b.w of 0.3% Tween 80 once/day for 14 days. Their sexual behaviour was monitored on days 0, 1, 7 and 14 days of treatment and 14 days post-treatment. Some fertility parameters (index libido, quantal pregnancy, fertility index) of the treated rat were evaluated on day 13 of treatment by pairing it overnight with two proestrus females. Results showed that Mondia whitei extracts significantly (p<0.001) reduced the mount latency and the hexane extract was found to be more efficient than the aqueous extract. The treatment had no significant effect (p>0.05) on intromission, ejaculation and erection. The fertility of the animals remained unaffected. It's concluded that Mondia whitei had sexual enhancement of the sexually inexperienced male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Watcho
- Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology Laboratory, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Box 67 Dschang, Cameroon.
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Abstract
Turnera aphrodisiaca Ward (Turneraceae) has been used traditionally as an aphrodisiac, stimulant, nerve tonic, and laxative and in kidney, menstrual, and pregnancy disorders. Despite a long tradition of use in the treatment of various ailments, no systematic phytochemical and pharmacological work has ever been carried out on T. aphrodisiaca. The authors suggest that the major stumbling block in systematic exploration of the plant is non-availability of authentic plant material. In the present investigation, various pharmacognostic standards for the plant have been generated so that authentic T. aphrodisiaca could be explored for its traditional claims. Microscopically, T. aphrodisiaca leaf showed the presence of abundant unicellular, warty, non-glandular trichomes, anomocytic stomata, and a large number of calcium oxalate crystals along the veins. Powdered stem of the plant showed lignified spiral and pitted tracheidal vessels, and pericyclic fibers were observed in powder microscopy of stem. Total ash of the aerial parts of T. aphrodisiaca was approximately eight and four times more than acid-insoluble and water-soluble ash, respectively. The water-soluble extractive value of the plant was slightly higher than its ethanol-soluble extractive value. Volatile oil content of T. aphrodisiaca was found to be 0.44% (wt/vol), the thin-layer chromatography of which exhibited seven spots using toluene:ethyl acetate (93:7 vol/vol) as mobile phase. Thin-layer chromatography of the petroleum ether extract showed nine spots using hexane:dichloromethane (1:1 vol/vol), while the chloroform extract showed 11 spots using toluene:ethyl acetate:glacial acetic acid (35:4:1 by volume). Phytochemically, the plant was found to contain alkaloids, cyanogenic glycosides, steroids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, and proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Kumar
- Pharmacognosy Division, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
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Luo Q, Li Z, Huang X, Yan J, Zhang S, Cai YZ. Lycium barbarum polysaccharides: Protective effects against heat-induced damage of rat testes and H2O2-induced DNA damage in mouse testicular cells and beneficial effect on sexual behavior and reproductive function of hemicastrated rats. Life Sci 2006; 79:613-21. [PMID: 16563441 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2006.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2005] [Revised: 01/18/2006] [Accepted: 02/01/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Lycium barbarum, a famous Chinese medicinal herb, has a long history of use as a traditional remedy for male infertility. Polysaccharides are the most important functional constituent in L. barbarum fruits. We systematically investigated the effect of L. barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on rat testis damage induced by a physical factor (43 degrees C heat exposure), on DNA damage of mouse testicular cells induced by a chemical factor (H2O2), and on sexual behavior and reproductive function of hemicastrated male rats. The results showed that LBP provided a protective effect against the testicular tissue damage induced by heat exposure. When compared with negative control, a suitable concentration of LBP significantly increased testis and epididymis weights, improved superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and raised sexual hormone levels in the damaged rat testes. LBP had a dose-dependent protective effect against DNA oxidative damage of mouse testicular cells induced by H2O2. LBP improved the copulatory performance and reproductive function of hemicastrated male rats, such as shortened penis erection latency and mount latency, regulated secretion of sexual hormones and increased hormone levels, raised accessory sexual organ weights, and improved sperm quantity and quality. The present findings support the folk reputation of L. barbarum fruits as an aphrodisiac and fertility-facilitating agent, and provide scientific evidence for a basis for the extensive use of L. barbarum fruits as a traditional remedy for male infertility in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Luo
- College of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
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Abstract
Sexual dysfunction is a serious medical and social symptom that occurs in 10%-52% in men and 25%-63% in women. Numerous central and peripheral neural circuits control sexual activity. Impairment of one or more of these functional circuits may have a significant impact on personal, social and biological relationships. Although several aspects of sexual motivation and performance are known, a complete picture of the various factors that control human sexual activity is still unknown. The available drugs and treatments have limited efficacy, unpleasant side effects and contraindications in certain disease conditions. A variety of botanicals are known to have a potential effect on the sexual functions, supporting older claims and offering newer hopes. This review, while evaluating various factors that control sexual function, identifies a variety of botanicals that may be potentially useful in treating sexual dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binu Tharakan
- Plummer Movement Disorders Center, Department of Neurology, Scott and White Clinic and the Texas A&M University System, Health Science Center College of Medicine, Temple, Texas 76508, USA
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Kumar S, Sharma A. Anti-anxiety Activity Studies on Homoeopathic Formulations of Turnera aphrodisiaca Ward. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2005; 2:117-119. [PMID: 15864356 PMCID: PMC1062162 DOI: 10.1093/ecam/neh069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2004] [Accepted: 01/10/2005] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Turnera aphrodisiaca Ward (Turneraceae) has been traditionally used for the treatment of anxiety neurosis, and as an aphrodisiac. Mother tinctures (85% ethanol extracts) of T. aphrodisiaca have also been used for the treatment of central nervous system disorders. In the present investigation, T. aphrodisiaca mother tinctures formulated by three reputed manufacturers of homoeopathic medicines (NLK, DWSG and SBL) were evaluated for their anxiolytic activity. Dried mother tinctures of T. aphrodisiaca were subjected to anxiolytic activity evaluation at various doses, i.e. 50, 75, 100, 125 or 150 mg/kg p.o. in mice using elevated plus maze apparatus. Dried mother tinctures exhibited significant anxiolytic activity at 50 mg/kg (NLK), 75 mg/kg (DWSG) and 125 mg/kg (SBL), respectively, with reference to control as well as standard (diazepam, 2 mg/kg p.o.). Mother tinctures of T. aphrodisiaca available in the market, have significant anxiolytic activity. Amongst the three mother tinctures of T. aphrodisiaca analyzed, the dry residue of NLK possesses the highest amount of anxiolytic constituent(s). To ensure uniformity and consistency of biological effects in herbal formulations, these should be standardized on the basis of bioactive markers. The authors are actively involved in isolating the bioactive constituent(s) from T. aphrodisiaca so that the plant can be standardized on the basis of biologically active constituent(s).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anupam Sharma
- For reprints and all correspondence: Anupam Sharma, Pharmacognosy Division, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160 014, India. Tel: +91 172 254 1142; E-mail:
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Aung HH, Dey L, Rand V, Yuan CS. Alternative therapies for male and female sexual dysfunction. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2004; 32:161-73. [PMID: 15315255 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x04001837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Sexual dysfunction is prevalent in both men and women. Although new pharmaceutical agents have been identified for male erectile problems, sexual desire and orgasm disorders, individuals with sexual dysfunction often seek alternative therapies, including traditional Chinese medicine. This article reviews currently used alternative therapies, such as herbal medications, L-arginine, acupuncture, biofeedback and others. Potential herb-drug interactions are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han H Aung
- Tang Center for Herbal Medicine Research, Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, Pritzker School of Medicine University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
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Carro-Juárez M, Cervantes E, Cervantes-Méndez M, Rodríguez-Manzo G. Aphrodisiac properties of Montanoa tomentosa aqueous crude extract in male rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2004; 78:129-34. [PMID: 15159142 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2004.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2003] [Revised: 02/25/2004] [Accepted: 03/02/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Cihuapatli, the Mexican zoapatle (Montanoa tomentosa) has an extensive ethnomedical history of use as a traditional remedy for reproductive impairments. During the study of the ejaculatory function in rats and by testing a set of Mexican plants with medicinal properties, we observed that crude extracts of M. tomentosa facilitated ejaculation. Thus, we decided to analyze the possibility that this plant possessed sexual stimulant properties. To that aim, copulatory behavior of sexually active male rats receiving doses of 38, 75 and 150 mg/kg of the aqueous crude extract of M. tomentosa, as it is prepared in traditional medicine, was assessed. In addition, we evaluated the effect of the 75-mg/kg dose of the extract on males with anesthetization of the genital area and on sexual behavior of sexually inactive male rats (noncopulators). Results showed that acute oral administration of crude extracts of M. tomentosa facilitates expression of sexual behavior in sexually active male rats, significantly increases mounting behavior in genitally anesthetized animals and induces the expression of sexual behavior in noncopulating males. Altogether, these data reveal a facilitatory action of this extract on sexual activity and particularly on sexual arousal. Present findings provide experimental evidence that the crude extract preparation of M. tomentosa, used as a traditional remedy, possesses aphrodisiac properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Carro-Juárez
- Laboratorio de Comportamiento Reproductivo, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala, CP 90000, AP. 484, Tlaxcala, Mexico.
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44
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Oshima M, Gu Y. Pfaffia paniculata-induced changes in plasma estradiol-17beta, progesterone and testosterone levels in mice. J Reprod Dev 2004; 49:175-80. [PMID: 14967943 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.49.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study undertook chemical analysis of components of Pfaffia paniculata roots. In addition, an animal experiment was conducted in which mice had ad libitum access to water enriched with powdered P. paniculata root for 30 days. Changes in plasma concentrations of estradiol-17beta and progesterone in female mice and of testosterone in male mice were ascertained. The results revealed that P. paniculata roots contain two types of phytosteroids, beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol, in addition to other compounds such as pfaffic acid, allantoin, saponins, beta-sitosteryl-beta-D-glucoside, and stigmasteryl-beta-D-glucoside. Regarding changes in plasma concentrations of hormones, levels of the sex hormones estradiol-17beta, progesterone and testosterone were clearly higher for mice that drank P. paniculata root-enriched water than for mice that drank plain water. Powdered P. paniculata root is easily dissolved in feed or water, and as no adverse reactions were seen in mice within 30 days of oral intake, consumption of P. paniculata for long periods of time appears safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masami Oshima
- Graduate School of Medical Imaging, Suzuka University of Medical Science, 1001-1 Kishioka-cho, Suzuka-shi, Mie 510-0293, Japan
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Hernández T, Canales M, Avila JG, Duran A, Caballero J, Romo de Vivar A, Lira R. Ethnobotany and antibacterial activity of some plants used in traditional medicine of Zapotitlán de las Salinas, Puebla (México). JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2003; 88:181-188. [PMID: 12963140 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-8741(03)00213-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The village of Zapotitlán de las Salinas is situated in the Valley of Tehuacán-Cuicatlán, Puebla, Mexico. Plant species used by the local inhabitants to treat gastrointestinal diseases were identified using ethnobotanical, ethnographic and taxonomic methods. Out of 119 interviews, 44 plant species were registered, of which the following are the most frequently used (listed in descending order): Lippia graveolens H.B. et K. (Verbenaceae), Lantana achyranthifolia Desf. (Verbenaceae), Turnera diffusa (Willd.) ex Schult. (Turneraceae), Lippia oaxacana Rob. et Greenm. (Verbenaceae), Gymnolaena oaxacana (Greenm.) Rydb. (Asteraceae), Cordia curassavica (Jacq.) Roem. et Schult. (Boraginaceae), Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae) and Acalypha hederacea Torrey (Euphorbiaceae). From these plants, hexane, chloroform and ethanol extracts were prepared in order to assess their antibacterial activity against 14 bacterial strains causing the most common gastrointestinal diseases in Mexican population. All hexane extracts showed antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. There is a correlation between the frequency of mention (of plant use) and the antibacterial activity. In conclusion, the knowledge of plants most frequently used for gastrointestinal infections in Zapotitlán de las Salinas is supported by scientific rationale.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Hernández
- Laboratorio de Fitoquímica, UBIPRO, Facultad de Estudios Superiores-Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Edo. de Mexico, Mexico.
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46
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Hadidi KA, Aburjai T, Battah AK. A comparative study of Ferula hermonis root extracts and sildenafil on copulatory behaviour of male rats. Fitoterapia 2003; 74:242-6. [PMID: 12727488 DOI: 10.1016/s0367-326x(03)00032-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The effect of 600 mg/kg given by oral route to rats of Ferula hermonis roots extracts (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, methanol and water) was evaluated on sexual behaviour of male rats. Petroleum ether and ethyl acetate extracts produced a significant decrease in both the mount rate (MR) and the intromission rate (IR), significant prolongation of intromission latency (IL) was observed when these extracts were compared with both controls and sildenafil. Methanolic extract produced a significant increase in MR while no effect has been observed on IR or IL in comparison with control. The effect of water extract was not significantly different from controls for the MR and IR, but there was a significant prolongation in the IL.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Hadidi
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
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47
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Oshima M, Gu Y, Tsukada S. Effects of Lepidium meyenii Walp and Jatropha macrantha on Blood Levels of Estradiol-17 .BETA., Progesterone, Testosterone and the Rate of Embryo Implantation in Mice. J Vet Med Sci 2003; 65:1145-6. [PMID: 14600359 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.65.1145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of two Peruvian folk medicines, Lepidium meyenii Walp and Jatropha macrantha, on mouse sex steroid hormones and embryo implantation were investigated. Progesterone levels increased significantly in mice that received L. meyenii Walp, while testosterone levels increased significantly in mice that received L. meyenii Walp as well as in those that received both L. meyenii Walp and J. macrantha. However, there were no marked changes in blood levels of estradiol-17beta or the rate of embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masami Oshima
- Graduate School of Medical Imaging, Suzuka University of Medical Science, Suzuka-shi, Mie, Japan
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48
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Francis G, Kerem Z, Makkar HPS, Becker K. The biological action of saponins in animal systems: a review. Br J Nutr 2002; 88:587-605. [PMID: 12493081 DOI: 10.1079/bjn2002725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 705] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Saponins are steroid or triterpenoid glycosides, common in a large number of plants and plant products that are important in human and animal nutrition. Several biological effects have been ascribed to saponins. Extensive research has been carried out into the membrane-permeabilising, immunostimulant, hypocholesterolaemic and anticarcinogenic properties of saponins and they have also been found to significantly affect growth, feed intake and reproduction in animals. These structurally diverse compounds have also been observed to kill protozoans and molluscs, to be antioxidants, to impair the digestion of protein and the uptake of vitamins and minerals in the gut, to cause hypoglycaemia, and to act as antifungal and antiviral agents. These compounds can thus affect animals in a host of different ways both positive and negative.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Francis
- Department of Aquaculture Systems and Animal Nutrition, Institute for Animal Production in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Hohenheim (480), D 70593 Stuttgart, Germany
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49
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Cicero AFG, Piacente S, Plaza A, Sala E, Arletti R, Pizza C. Hexanic Maca extract improves rat sexual performance more effectively than methanolic and chloroformic Maca extracts. Andrologia 2002; 34:177-9. [PMID: 12059814 DOI: 10.1046/j.1439-0272.2002.00490.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Lepidium meyenii (Maca) is traditionally employed in the Andean region for its supposed properties in improving fertility. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of subacute oral administration of hexanic, methanolic and chloroformic extracts of Maca root on sexual performance in inexperienced male rats. The following sexual performance parameters were evaluated: 1st mount, 1st intromission, ejaculation and post-ejaculatory latencies, intercopulatory interval and copulatory efficacy. All the tested fractions significantly decreased intromission latency and intercopulatory interval and increased intromission frequency and copulatory efficacy (P < 0.05) as compared to controls. Hexanic and methanolic extracts were able to increase mount frequency (MF), while only hexanic fraction significantly improved mount latency (ML) (P=0.038). Globally, only the hexanic fraction significantly improved the majority of the sexual parameters measured. Sub-acute oral administration of hexanic Maca extract improved sexual performance parameters in sexually inexperienced male rats most effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F G Cicero
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Pharmacology Section, University of Modena and Reggio nell'Emilia, Italy
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50
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Ito TY, Trant AS, Polan ML. A double-blind placebo-controlled study of ArginMax, a nutritional supplement for enhancement of female sexual function. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2001; 27:541-549. [PMID: 11554217 DOI: 10.1080/713846828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
This study was open to women over the age of 21 years with an interest in improving their sexual function. Of the 77 participants, 34 received ArginMax and 43 received a placebo. ArginMax for Women is a proprietary nutritional supplement consisting of extracts of ginseng, ginkgo, and damiana, L-arginine, multivitamins, and minerals. After 4 weeks, 73.5% of the ArginMax group improved in satisfaction with their overall sex life, compared with 37.2% of the placebo group (p < 0.01). Notable improvements were also observed in sexual desire, reduction of vaginal dryness, frequency of sexual intercourse and orgasm, and clitoral sensation. No significant side effects were noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Y Ito
- University of Hawaii, School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
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