Herbal folk medicines in Northern India

Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch.: a comprehensive review of its pharmacology, phytochemicals, ethnobotanical uses, and therapeutic potential

Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch., commonly known as costus, is a perennial herb that has been traditionally used in various indigenous medicinal systems across Asia. Its historical prominence in traditional remedies underscores the need to explore its phytochemical composition, pharmacological properties, and potential therapeutic benefits. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the available literature on the pharmacological properties, phytochemical constituents, ethnobotanical uses, and therapeutic potential of S. costus. An exhaustive search was performed across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed/MedLine, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, TRIP database, and Science Direct. Both experimental and clinical studies, as well as traditional ethnobotanical records, were considered for inclusion. The phytochemical analysis revealed that S. costus contains a plethora of bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, and essential oils, which are responsible for its myriad of medicinal properties. The pharmacological studies have demonstrated its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulatory effects, among others. Ethnobotanical data showcased its extensive use in treating ailments like asthma, digestive disorders, and skin conditions. Some clinical trials also underscore its efficacy in certain health conditions, corroborating its traditional uses. S. costus possesses significant therapeutic potential, largely attributable to its rich phytochemical composition; the convergence of its traditional uses and modern pharmacological findings suggests promising avenues for future research, especially in drug development and understanding its mechanism of action in various ailments.

Mechanistic Insights into the Neuroprotective Potential of Sacred Ficus Trees

Ficus religiosa (Bo tree or sacred fig) and Ficus benghalensis (Indian banyan) are of immense spiritual and therapeutic importance. Various parts of these trees have been investigated for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hepatoprotective, dermoprotective, and nephroprotective properties. Previous reviews of Ficus mostly discussed traditional usages, photochemistry, and pharmacological activities, though comprehensive reviews of the neuroprotective potential of these Ficus species extracts and/or their important phytocompounds are lacking. The interesting phytocompounds from these trees include many bengalenosides, carotenoids, flavonoids (leucopelargonidin-3-O-β-d-glucopyranoside, leucopelargonidin-3-O-α-l-rhamnopyranoside, lupeol, cetyl behenate, and α-amyrin acetate), flavonols (kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin), leucocyanidin, phytosterols (bergapten, bergaptol, lanosterol, β-sitosterol, stigmasterol), terpenes (α-thujene, α-pinene, β-pinene, α-terpinene, limonene, β-ocimene, β-bourbonene, β-caryophyllene, α-trans-bergamotene, α-copaene, aromadendrene, α-humulene, alloaromadendrene, germacrene, γ-cadinene, and δ-cadinene), and diverse polyphenols (tannin, wax, saponin, leucoanthocyanin), contributing significantly to their pharmacological effects, ranging from antimicrobial action to neuroprotection. This review presents extensive mechanistic insights into the neuroprotective potential, especially important phytochemicals from F. religiosa and F. benghalensis. Owing to the complex pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), the currently existing drugs merely alleviate the symptoms. Hence, bioactive compounds with potent neuroprotective effects through a multitarget approach would be of great interest in developing pharmacophores for the treatment of NDDs.

The Current and Potential Application of Medicinal Cannabis Products in Dentistry

Oral and dental diseases are a major global burden, the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and may even affect an individual's general quality of life and health. The most prevalent dental and oral health conditions are tooth decay (otherwise referred to as dental caries/cavities), oral cancers, gingivitis, periodontitis, periodontal (gum) disease, Noma, oro-dental trauma, oral manifestations of HIV, sensitive teeth, cracked teeth, broken teeth, and congenital anomalies such as cleft lip and palate. Herbs have been utilized for hundreds of years in traditional Chinese, African and Indian medicine and even in some Western countries, for the treatment of oral and dental conditions including but not limited to dental caries, gingivitis and toothaches, dental pulpitis, halitosis (bad breath), mucositis, sore throat, oral wound infections, and periodontal abscesses. Herbs have also been used as plaque removers (chew sticks), antimicrobials, analgesics, anti-inflammatory agents, and antiseptics. Cannabis sativa L. in particular has been utilized in traditional Asian medicine for tooth-pain management, prevention of dental caries and reduction in gum inflammation. The distribution of cannabinoid (CB) receptors in the mouth suggest that the endocannabinoid system may be a target for the treatment of oral and dental diseases. Most recently, interest has been geared toward the use of Cannabidiol (CBD), one of several secondary metabolites produced by C. sativa L. CBD is a known anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic, anti-microbial and anti-cancer agent, and as a result, may have therapeutic potential against conditions such burning mouth syndrome, dental anxiety, gingivitis, and possible oral cancer. Other major secondary metabolites of C. sativa L. such as terpenes and flavonoids also share anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic and anti-microbial properties and may also have dental and oral applications. This review will investigate the potential of secondary metabolites of C. sativa L. in the treatment of dental and oral diseases.

Back to the Roots-An Overview of the Chemical Composition and Bioactivity of Selected Root-Essential Oils

Since ancient times, plant roots have been widely used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments and diseases due to their beneficial effects. A large number of studies have demonstrated that-besides their aromatic properties-their biological activity can often be attributed to volatile constituents. This review provides a comprehensive overview of investigations into the chemical composition of essential oils and volatile components obtained from selected aromatic roots, including Angelica archangelica, Armoracia rusticana, Carlina sp., Chrysopogon zizanioides, Coleus forskohlii, Inula helenium, Sassafras albidum, Saussurea costus, and Valeriana officinalis. Additionally, their most important associated biological impacts are reported, such as anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, pesticidal, and other miscellaneous properties. Various literature and electronic databases-including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Wiley-were screened and data was obtained accordingly. The results indicate the promising properties of root-essential oils and their potential as a source for natural biologically active products for flavor, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and fragrance industries. However, more research is required to further establish the mechanism of action mediating these bioactivities as well as essential oil standardization because the chemical composition often strongly varies depending on external factors.

Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Aucklandia lappa Root Extracts on Acetic Acid-Induced Writhing in Mice and Monosodium Iodoacetate-Induced Osteoarthritis in Rats

Osteoarthritis (OA) is an age-related joint disease and one of the most common degenerative bone diseases among elderly people. The currently used therapeutic strategies relying on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids for OA are often associated with gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and kidney disorders, despite being proven effective. Aucklandia lappa is a well-known traditional medicine. The root of A. lappa root has several bioactive compounds and has been in use as a natural remedy for bone diseases and other health conditions. We evaluated the A. lappa root extracts on OA progression as a natural therapeutic agent. A. lappa substantially reduced writhing numbers in mice induced with acetic acid. Monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) was injected into the rats through their knee joints of rats to induce experimental OA, which shows similar pathological characteristics to OA in human. A. lappa substantially reduced the MIA-induced weight-bearing of hind limb and reversed the cartilage erosion in MIA rats. IL-1β, a representative inflammatory mediator in OA, was also markedly decreased by A. lappa in the serum of MIA rats. In vitro, A. lappa lowered the secretion of NO and suppressed the IL-1β, COX-2, IL-6, and iNOS production in RAW264.7 macrophages activated with LPS. Based on its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, A. lappa could be a potential remedial agent against OA.

Aucklandia costus (Syn. Saussurea costus): Ethnopharmacology of an endangered medicinal plant of the himalayan region

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aucklandia costus Falc. a medicinal plant is native to the Himalayan region and synonymous with Saussurea costus, Saussurea lappa, and Aucklandia lappa. It has an ancient background of being used ethnopharmacologically for various body ailments. According to Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Costus roots are recommended for leukoderma, liver, kidney, blood disorders, Qi stagnation, and tridosha. Root and powder are used orally with warm water to cure gastric problems, and the paste is applied to the inflamed area to relieve pain. Root paste is applied on the skin to cure boils, blisters, and leprosy.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of the present review is to establish a correlation among the ethnopharmacological uses and scientific studies conducted on A. costus with chemical constituents, safety & toxicity data including future directions for its conservation with higher yield and effect.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted by studying books, research papers, and literature in history, agroforestry, phytopharmacology of Himalayan plants using international databases, publication, Red data book, and reports. The search engines: Pubmed, Scopus, Wiley Inter-science, Indian Materia Medica, Science Direct, and referred journals are referenced.

RESULTS

The literature collected from databases, journals, websites, and books mentioned the use of costus roots in local and traditional practices. CITES included A. costus in a critically endangered category due to lack of cultural practices and overexploitation from wild. A. costus roots are known since 13th century for use in ancient Ayurvedic products but the scientific evaluation is of future research interest. A correlation of traditional uses with scientific studies has been explored to assess the effect of root powder, extract, oil and isolated constituents: Costunolids, Saussureamine B and Dehydrocostus lactone etc. in gastric ulceration and lesions; inhibition of antigen-induced degranulation, mucin production, number of immune cells, eosinophils, and expression and secretion of Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13) in asthma. The inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators is also reported by Cynaropicrin, Alantolactone, Caryophyllene, Costic acid. Also, the sesquiterpene lactones has profound effect in inhibition of inflammatory stages and induced apoptotic cascades in cancer. Very few data on the safety and toxicity of plant parts have been noted which needs to be evaluated scientifically.

CONCLUSION

A. costus have been noted to have remarkable effect for gastric, hepatic, inflammatory, respiratory, cancer, skin problems but there were several errors in selection of plant material, authentification, selection of dose, assessment, selection of standard and control have been identified. Therefore, a schematic drug development and research strategy exploiting the potential of plant extract, fraction, products and probable constituents, costunolide, dehydrocostus lactone, cynaropicrin, saussureamine assuring dose-response relationship and safety may be determined under pre-clinical which may be extrapolated to clinical level. An evaluation of phytochemicals in A. costus collected from different geographical location in Himalayas may be drawn to identify and conserve the higher yielding plant.

Ashwagandha in brain disorders: A review of recent developments

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Withania somnifera (Family: Solanaceae), commonly known as Ashwagandha or Indian ginseng is distributed widely in India, Nepal, China and Yemen. The roots of plant consist of active phytoconstituents mainly withanolides, alkaloids and sitoindosides and are conventionally used for the treatment of multiple brain disorders.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to critically assess and summarize the current state and implication of Ashwagandha in brain disorders. We have mainly focussed on the reported neuroactive phytoconstituents, available marketed products, pharmacological studies, mechanism of action and recent patents published related to neuroprotective effects of Ashwagandha in brain disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All the information and data was collected on Ashwagandha using keywords "Ashwagandha" along with "Phytoconstituents", "Ayurvedic, Unani and Homeopathy marketed formulation", "Brain disorders", "Mechanism" and "Patents". Following sources were searched for data collection: electronic scientific databases such as Science Direct, Google Scholar, Elsevier, PubMed, Wiley On-line Library, Taylor and Francis, Springer; books such as AYUSH Pharmacopoeia; authentic textbooks and formularies.

RESULTS

Identified neuroprotective phytoconstituents of Ashwagandha are sitoindosides VII-X, withaferin A, withanosides IV, withanols, withanolide A, withanolide B, anaferine, beta-sitosterol, withanolide D with key pharmacological effects in brain disorders mainly anxiety, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Schizophrenia, Huntington's disease, dyslexia, depression, autism, addiction, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and bipolar disorders. The literature survey does not highlight any toxic effects of Ashwagandha. Further, multiple available marketed products and patents recognized its beneficial role in various brain disorders; however, very few data is available on mechanistic pathway and clinical studies of Ashwagandha for various brain disorders is scarce and not promising.

CONCLUSION

The review concludes the results of recent studies on Ashwagandha suggesting its extensive potential as neuroprotective in various brain disorders as supported by preclinical studies, clinical trials and published patents. However vague understanding of the mechanistic pathways involved in imparting the neuroprotective effect of Ashwagandha warrants further study to promote it as a promising drug candidate.

Anti-allergic effects of sesquiterpene lactones from Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch. determined using in vivo and in vitro experiments

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch. root has been used in Asian traditional medicine for the treatment of asthma, rheumatism, and other conditions. S. costus extracts were shown to alleviate house dust mite-induced atopic-like dermatitis in Nc/Nga mice; besides, sesquiterpene lactones were isolated from S. costus extracts.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

We aimed to investigate the effects of sesquiterpene lactones (alantolactone, costunolide, and dehydrocostuslactone) in allergic asthma using female Balb/c mice and rat RBL-2H3 mast cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Antigen-induced degranulation was assessed by measuring β-hexosaminidase activity in vitro. In addition, a murine ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma model was used to test the in vivo efficacy of sesquiterpene lactones.

RESULTS

Sesquiterpene lactones inhibited antigen-induced degranulation, wherein dehydrocostuslactone > costunolide > alantolactone in potency. Administration of sesquiterpene lactones decreased the number of immune cells, particularly eosinophils, and reduced the expression and secretion of Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissues of mice with ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma. Histological studies showed that sesquiterpene lactones reduced inflammation and mucin production in the lungs. Similar to the in vitro study, dehydrocostuslactone showed the highest potency, followed by costunolide and alantolactone.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide evidence that sesquiterpene lactones might be potential anti-allergic therapeutics.

Anti-allergic effects of sesquiterpene lactones from the root of Aucklandia lappa Decne

Aucklandia lappa Decne, a well-known traditional herbal medicine, is used for the treatment of asthma, rheumatism, coughs, tuberculosis and numerous other diseases. The present study evaluated the inhibitory effects of the three sesquiterpene lactones costunolide, dehydrocostus lactone, and alantolactone, isolated from a 70% methanolic extract of Aucklandia lappa, on the expression of chemokine mRNA in HaCaT human keratinocyte cells. The cytotoxicities of the compounds on HaCaT cells were evaluated using a Cell Counting Kit8 assay. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of the three compounds on chemokine expression in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‑α‑ and interferon (IFN)‑γ‑stimulated HaCaT cells were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis. Treatment with the compounds caused a significant reduction in the mRNA expression of a range of chemokines, including TARC/CCL17, MDC/CCL22, RANTES/CCL5 and interleukin‑8 in TNF-α and IFN-γ-stimulated HaCaT cells. The present study indicated that costunolide, dehydrocostus lactone and alantolactone may have the potential to be used for treating inflammatory skin disorders by suppressing chemokine expression.

Alantolactone from Saussurea lappa Exerts Antiinflammatory Effects by Inhibiting Chemokine Production and STAT1 Phosphorylation in TNF-α and IFN-γ-induced in HaCaT cells

Skin inflammation is the most common condition seen in dermatology practice and can be caused by various allergic reactions and certain toxins or chemicals. In the present study, we investigated the antiinflammatory effects of Saussurea lappa, a medicinal herb, and its marker compounds alantolactone, caryophyllene, costic acid, costunolide, and dehydrocostuslactone in the HaCaT human keratinocyte cell line. HaCaT cells were stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and treated with S. lappa or each of five marker compounds. Chemokine production and expression were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1 was determined by immunoblotting. Stimulation with TNF-α and IFN-γ significantly increased the production of the following chemokines: thymus-regulated and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC): regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted (RANTES): macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC): and interleukin-8 (IL-8). By contrast, S. lappa and the five marker compounds significantly reduced the production of these chemokines by TNF-α and IFN-γ-treated cells. S. lappa and alantolactone suppressed the TNF-α and IFN-γ-stimulated increase in the phosphorylation of STAT1. Our results demonstrate that alantolactone from S. lappa suppresses TNF-α and IFN-γ-induced production of RANTES and IL-8 by blocking STAT1 phosphorylation in HaCaT cells.

Medicinal plants with potential anti-arthritic activity

ETHNO PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional medicinal plants are practiced worldwide for treatment of arthritis especially in developing countries where resources are meager. This review presents the plants profiles inhabiting throughout the world regarding their traditional usage by various tribes/ethnic groups for treatment of arthritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bibliographic investigation was carried out by analyzing classical text books and peer reviewed papers, consulting worldwide accepted scientific databases from the last six decades. Plants/their parts/extracts/polyherbal formulations, toxicity studies for arthritis have been included in the review article. The profiles presented also include information about the scientific name, family, dose, methodology along with mechanism of action and toxicity profile. Research status of 20 potential plant species has been discussed. Further, geographical distribution of research, plants distribution according to families has been given in graphical form.

RESULTS

485 plant species belonging to 100 families, traditionally used in arthritis are used. Among 100 plant families, malvaceae constitute 16, leguminasae 7, fabaceae 13, euphorbiaceae 7, compositae 20, araceae 7, solanaceae 12, liliaceae 9, apocynaceae, lauraceae, and rubiaceae 10, and remaining in lesser proportion. It was observed in our study that majority of researches are carried mainly in developing countries like India, China, Korea and Nigeria.

CONCLUSION

This review clearly indicates that list of medicinal plants presented in this review might be useful to researchers as well as practioners. This review can be useful for preliminary screening of potential anti-arthritis plants. Further toxicity profile given in the review can be useful for the researchers for finding the safe dose.

Biodiversity and Indigenous Uses of Medicinal Plant in the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandauli District, Uttar Pradesh

Conventional medicines are very important part of Indian culture. In this study the outcome of two-year study of ethnomedicinal uses of plants in Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary (CPWLS) and nearby area is reported. Information related to different plants which are used by local community in the treatment of many common diseases and well-being in the area was collected. Data on the use of medicinal plants were collected using structured interview of about 122 participants and thorough observations and conversations with local communities. Approximately 100 plants belonging to 43 families used by the local healers were reported in this study. The plant species with the highest fidelity level (Fl) were Holarrhena antidysenterica, Lawsonia inermis, Gymnema sylvestre, Dalbergia sissoo, Cassia fistula Linn., Butea monosperma (Lam.) Kuntze., Boerhaavia diffusa Linn., Albizia lebbeck Benth., Aegle marmelos Correa., Sphaeranthus indicus Linn., and Solanum surattense Burm. f. The most frequent ailments reported were hepatitis, jaundice, constipation, and skin and urinary problems. The parts of the plants most frequently used were fruit, roots, and whole plants (17%) followed by leaves (16%) and bark (15%). This study presents new research efforts and perspectives on the search for new drugs based on local uses of medicinal plants.

A review of therapeutic potential of Saussurea lappa-An endangered plant from Himalaya

There are 300 known Saussurea species. Among them, Saussurea lappa (S. lappa) is a representative perennial herb, globally distributed across Himalaya region. S. lappa has been traditionally used in medicines without obvious adverse effects. Despite significant progress in phytochemical and biological analyses of S. lappa over the past few years, inclusive and critical reviews of this plant are anachronistic or quite limited in scope. The present review aims to summarize up-to-date information on the active constituents, pharmacology, traditional uses, trade and challenges in conservation and sustainable use of S. lappa from the literature. In addition to botanical studies and records of the traditional use of S. lappa in over 43 diseases, scientific studies investigating the latent medicinal uses of this species and its constituent phytochemicals for a range of disorders are presented and discussed. The structure, bioactivity, and likely mechanisms of action of S. lappa and its phytochemicals are highlighted. Although some progress has been made, further scrupulous efforts are required to investigate the individual compounds isolated from S. lappa to validate and understand its traditional uses and develop clinical applications. The present review offers preliminary information and gives direction for further basic and clinical research into this plant.

Uses of local plant biodiversity among the tribal communities of Pangi Valley of District Chamba in cold desert Himalaya, India

Pangi Valley is the interior most tribal area in Himachal Pradesh of Northwest Himalaya. An ethnobotanical investigation is attempted to highlight the traditional knowledge of medicinal plants being used by the tribes of Pangi Valley. Various localities visited in the valley 2-3 times in a year and ethnobotanical information was collected through interviews with elderly people, women, shepherds, and local vaids during May 2009 to September 2013. This paper documented 67 plant species from 59 genera and 36 families along with their botanical name, local name, family name, habit, medicinal parts used, and traditional usage, including the use of 35 plants with new ethnomedicinal and other use from the study area for the first time. Wild plants represent an important part of their medicinal, dietary, handicraft, fuel wood, veterinary, and fodder components. These tribal inhabitants and migrants depend on the wild plant resources for food, medicines, fuel, fibre, timber, and household articles for their livelihood security. The present study documents and contributes significant ethnobotanical information from the remote high altitude and difficult region of the world, which remains cut off from rest of the world for 6-7 months due to heavy snowfall.

Saussurea lappa alleviates inflammatory chemokine production in HaCaT cells and house dust mite-induced atopic-like dermatitis in Nc/Nga mice

Saussurea lappa is a traditional herbal medicine used for to treat various inflammatory diseases. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of S. lappa against atopic dermatitis using human keratinocyte HaCaT cells, murine mast cell line MC/9 cells, and a house dust mite-induced atopic dermatitis model of Nc/Nga mice. Treatment with the S. lappa caused a significant reduction in the mRNA levels and production of inflammatory chemokines and cytokine, including thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC), macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC), regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) in tumor necrosis factor-α/interferone-γ-stimulated HaCaT cells. S. lappa exhibited the significant reduction in histamine production in MC/9 cells. In the atopic dermatitis model, S. lappa significantly reduced the dermatitis score and serum IgE and TARC levels. In addition, the back skin and ears of S. lappa-treated Nc/Nga mice exhibited reduced histological manifestations of atopic skin lesions such as erosion, hyperplasia of the epidermis and dermis, and inflammatory cell infiltration. In conclusion, an extract of S. lappa effectively suppressed the development of atopic dermatitis, which was closely related to the reduction of chemokines and cytokine. Our study suggests that S. lappa may be a potential treatment for atopic dermatitis.

Aqueous extract of Saussurea lappa root ameliorate oxidative myocardial injury induced by isoproterenol in rats

Saussurea lappa Clarke (Compositae), is commonly known as Kushta. In Ayurvedha, it is mentioned that the aqueous extract of the root S. lappa was used for treatment of angina pectoris. The present study was designed to investigate the cardioprotective effect of aqueous extract of root of S. lappa against isoproterenol induced myocardial injury. Myocardial injury in rat was induced by the administration of isoproterenol at a dose of 85 mg/kg, i.p., The rats were pretreated with the aqueous extract of S. lappa (AESL) in three different doses (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg, p.o.) through the oral route. Isoproterenol alone-treated rats showed increased serum concentration of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine kinase (CK), and aspartate transaminase (AST), increased myocardial thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) level, and decreased myocardial glutathione (GSH) level due to myocardial damage produced by isoproterenol. This is further conformed by histopathological changes. Chronic oral administration of AESL in three different doses significantly restored the level of myocardial LDH, CK, AST, TBARS, and GSH. The extract effect was compared with the reference standard α-tocopherol which also offered similar protection in biochemical and histopathological changes. The overall beneficial effect which was observed with the dose of 200 mg/kg indicated that AESL produced significant dose-dependent activity against isoproterenol induced myocardial injury.

Phytopharmacology of Ficus religiosa

Herbs have always been the principal form of medicine in India. Medicinal plants have curative properties due to the presence of various complex chemical substances of different composition, which are found as secondary plant metabolites in one or more parts of these plants. Ficus religiosa (L.), commonly known as pepal belonging to the family Moraceae, is used traditionally as antiulcer, antibacterial, antidiabetic, in the treatment of gonorrhea and skin diseases. F. religiosa is a Bo tree, which sheltered the Buddha as he divined the “Truths.” The present review aims to update information on its phytochemistry and pharmacological activities.

Enhanced shoot multiplication in Ficus religiosa L. in the presence of adenine sulphate, glutamine and phloroglucinol

Ficus religiosa (Pipal) is a long-lived valuable multipurpose forest tree. The tree is exploited because of its religious, ornamental and medicinal value and the regeneration rate in natural habitat is low. An in vitro propagation protocol has been developed from nodal segments obtained from a 45-50-year old tree. The highest bud break frequency (100 %) followed by maximum number of multiple shoots (13.9) as well as length (2.47 cm) were obtained on Woody Plant medium (WPM) supplemented with 1.0 mg/l BAP along with 0.5 mg/l IAA. Two modifications in this medium resulted in enhanced shoot regeneration-one with 200 mg/l glutamine + 150 mg/l ADS (called as MM-1) giving 32.5 shoots per nodal explant while another modification-with 200 mg/l glutamine + 150 mg/l ADS + 100 mg/l phloroglucinol (called as MM-2) giving 35.65 shoots per explant. These two media were used for sub-culturing of shoots for 4 months. The rate of shoot multiplication was same during the first three sub-cultures on MM-1 and the shoots regenerated were healthy, afterwards shoot multiplication declined. While on MM-2, shoot multiplication declined after first sub-culture and shoots underwent the problem of early leaf fall. Rooting was best induced in micro-shoots excised from proliferated shoot cultures on semi-solid as well as liquid WPM modified with 2.0 mg/l IBA and 0.5 mg/l IAA. The in vitro-raised plantlets were potted and acclimatized under culture room conditions for 25-30 days before transfer to soil conditions, where the established plants showed more than 90 % survival.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used by the Taungya community in Terai Arc Landscape, India

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The importance/study of community-based ethnobotanical traditional knowledge is ever-increasing for designing strategies for conservation and sustainable use, appropriate drugs and dose-illness relationship.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

Present study aims to document ethnobotanical attributes of diverse medicinal plants used by the Taungya community to cure ailments in Terai Arc Landscape of India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethnobotanical data was recorded by opting peoples' participation approach involving interviews, semi-structured meetings, group discussions and filling of questionnaires.

RESULTS

Total 116 medicinal plant species comprising 97 genera and 48 families have been recorded, out of which 16% used externally, 39% used internally and 45% used both externally and internally. Various plant parts were used in form of powder, paste, juice, decoction, infusion, poultice and oral consumption to cure a variety of ailments. Twenty-three species are used as remedies against skin problems, 17 species against rheumatism and 14 species against fever.

CONCLUSION

Taungya community provided vast ethnobotanical knowledge in form of detail description of 116 medicinal plants (including 82 species with new phytomedicinal claims). Further, investigation on these species may lead to the discovery of novel bioactive molecules.

Ethnomedicines used against four common ailments by the tribal communities of Lahaul-Spiti in western Himalaya

The present study aimed to highlight the new or lesser known medicinal uses of plant bioresource along with validation of traditional knowledge that is widely used by the tribal communities to cure four common ailments in Lahaul-Spiti region of western Himalaya. The study area inhabited by Lahaulas and Bodhs (also called as Bhotias), is situated in the cold arid zone of the state of Himachal Pradesh (HP), India. During the ethnobotanical explorations (2002-2006), observations on the most common ailments like rheumatism, stomach problems, liver and sexual disorders among the natives of Lahaul-Spiti were recorded. Due to strong belief in traditional system of medicine, people still prefer to use herbal medicines prescribed by local healers. A total 58 plant species belonging to 45 genera and 24 families have been reported from the study area to cure these diseases. Maximum use of plants is reported to cure stomach disorders (29) followed by rheumatism (18), liver problems (15) and sexual ailments (9). Among plant parts used, leaves were found used in maximum herbal preparations (20) following flowers (12) and roots (11) respectively. Most of these formulations were prescribed in powder form, whereas juice and decoction forms were also used. Plants having more than one therapeutic use were represented with 24 species, however 34 species were reported to be used against single specific ailment. Validation of observations revealed 38 lesser known or new herbal preparations from 34 plant species, where 15 species were used to cure stomach disorders, 7 for rheumatism, 10 for liver disorders and 6 for sexual problems. Mode of preparation, administration and dosage are discussed along with the family and local names of plants and plant parts used.

Saussurea costus: botanical, chemical and pharmacological review of an ayurvedic medicinal plant

Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipschitz, syn Saussurea lappa C.B. Clarke is a well known and important medicinal plant widely used in several indigenous systems of medicine for the treatment of various ailments, viz. asthma, inflammatory diseases, ulcer and stomach problems. Sesquiterpene lactones have been reported as the major phytoconstituents of this species. Different pharmacological experiments in a number of in vitro and in vivo models have convincingly demonstrated the ability of Saussurea costus to exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anticancer and hepatoprotective activities, lending support to the rationale behind several of its traditional uses. Costunolide, dehydrocostus lactone and cynaropicrin, isolated from this plant, have been identified to have potential to be developed as bioactive molecules. Due to the remarkable biological activity of Saussurea costus and its constituents it will be appropriate to develop them as a medicine. The present review is an up-to-date and comprehensive analysis of the botany, chemistry, pharmacology and traditional and folkloric uses of Saussurea costus.

Indian medicinal plants as a source of antimycobacterial agents

It is estimated that one-third of the world's population is infected with tubercle bacillus and the problem of tuberculosis (TB) has been intensified due to HIV pandemic providing a large reservoir of highly susceptible individuals. Since no anti-TB drugs have been introduced in past 30 years, there is an urgent need to search for and develop new, effective and affordable anti-TB drugs. In this scenario, the plant kingdom with enormous chemical diversity may be looked as an important source of new anti-TB agents. Of 17,500 higher plant species occurring in India only about 365 species have been evaluated so far for antimycobacterial activity. The present review article describes the 255 (70% of 365) plant species from a wide range of families that have shown antimycobacterial activity. The species are enumerated in table format describing plant species and family, plant part used, type of extract and in vitro activity (MIC value), information on active compounds, if any, and uses in the ethnomedicine and Ayurveda. Interestingly, most of the plant species have shown strong positive ethnopharmacological correlation with the traditional knowledge. In addition, the recent in vitro screening methods for antimycobacterial activity are also described in brief. An attempt has been made to highlight the promising plant species for further investigation as leads for drug development.

Plants used in cosmetics

This review describes the use of some natural products in cosmetic preparations, due to their low mammalian toxicity, with a brief description of the major use, plant parts used, the actives responsible for effect and the benefits of such products. Their use in skin care; such as dryness, eczema, acne, free-radical scavenging, antiinflammatory, antiaging and skin protection effects are explained, and also the use in hair care as hair growth stimulants, hair colorants, and for hair and scalp complaints such as dandruff. Essential oils when incorporated into finished products impart many benefits such as a pleasant aroma in perfumery, shine or conditioning effects in hair care products, emolliency and improving the elasticity of the skin.

Preliminary evaluation of anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity of S. lappa, A. speciosa and A. aspera

Saussurea lappa, Argyreia speciosa and Achyranthes aspera are well known Indian medicinal plants used in the indigenous systems of medicine for the treatment of inflammatory conditions. The ethanolic extracts of the plants at the doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o. were screened for their effect on acute and chronic inflammation induced in mice and rats. S. lappa and A. speciosa were found to significantly inhibit paw edema induced by carrageenan and Freund's complete adjuvant and to prevent accumulation of inflammatory cells in carrageenan-induced peritonitis at doses of 50-200 mg/kg. A. aspera inhibited these inflammatory responses at doses of 100-200 mg/kg. The studies reveal that the ethanolic extracts of S. lappa, A. speciosa and A. aspera possess anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity and support the rationale behind the traditional use of these plants in inflammatory conditions.

In-vitro schizonticidal screening of Calotropis procera

Following an ethnobotanical approach, the ethanol extracts of Calotropis procera leaves, stems, roots, flowers and buds have been screened in vitro for antimalarial activity against chloroquine (CQ)-sensitive and CQ-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains.

Evaluation of in vitro schizontocidal activity of plant parts of Calotropis procera--an ethnobotanical approach

Calotropis procera (Ait.) R.Br. commonly known, as 'Arka' is a popular medicinal plant found throughout the tropics of Asia and Africa and is used in many traditional systems of medicine. Important factors of the various parts of this plant have been widely reported. Good record keeping of subjective and objectively recorded cures by practitioners of traditional medicinal system will help in the establishment of the use of C. procera as an antimalarial plant. It has been attempted to see the effect of crude fractions of its flower, bud and roof against a chloroquine sensitive strain, MRC 20 and a chloroquine resistant strain, MRC 76 of Plasmodium falciparum using the Desjardins method and the effectiveness of its fractions compare better with the CQ sensitive strain than the CQ resistant strain in vitro.

Inventory of plants used in traditional medicine in Somalia. IV. Plants of the families Passifloraceae-Zygophyllaceae

Thirty-seven plants are listed, which are used by traditional healers in the central and southern parts of Somalia. For each species are listed: the botanical name with synonyms, collection number, vernacular name, medicinal use, preparation of remedy and dosage. Results of a literature survey are also reported including medicinal use, substances isolated and pharmacological effects. Three plants which should have been included in Part I of the series have been added and some corrections to that paper have been made. With these additions the series comprises 180 different plant species, distributed in 59 plant families.

Clonal propagation of Picrorhiza kurroa royle ex benth. by shoot tip culture

A procedure has been developed for the clonal propagation of Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth. through shoot tip culture. Murashige and Skoog's medium (1962) supplemented with kinetin (3.0 to 5.0 mg/l) supported rapid proliferation of multiple shoots from the explants. Addition of indole-3-acetic acid (1.0 mg/l) to the kinetin containing medium showed marked improvement in the growth of regenerated shoots. However, presence of IAA in the medium did not alter the frequency of shoot multiplication. Rooting was readily achieved upon transferring shoots onto MS medium containing ∝-naphthaleneacetic acid (1.0 mg/l). Plantlets were successfully transferred to soil.

Herbal remedies in the traditional medicine of the Venezia Giulia region (north east Italy)

This study, carried out in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia Region (N.E. Italy), concerns the traditional uses of wild plants against human diseases. One hundred eighty-one local plant species are used for treating various illnesses. Parts of plants, their traditional uses, methods of preparing the drug, chemical constituents and therapeutical properties are described. Often the therapeutical properties are correctly known. This study may be useful to pharmacologists and chemists interested in plants with medicinal properties, as well as to botanists with ethnobotanical interests.

The inter-relationship of folk, traditional and Western medicine within an Asian community in Britain

A community-based interview study of Asians and a questionnaire study of health professionals were performed to ascertain the role of traditional medicine in the context of health care within the Asian community. Among Asians, knowledge of herbal remedies, the Asian healer and cultural concepts such as the 'hot/cold' theory was high. They frequently used culinary ingredients to treat common diseases such as abdominal discomfort, earache and toothache. The use of metal-based medications was rare, application of the 'hot/cold' concept was not of nutritional significance and Asian healers were infrequently consulted except during visits to India and Pakistan. Among health professionals awareness of Asian medicine was low. None had encountered morbidity resulting from its remedies while 50% felt that such remedies should be encouraged unless shown to be harmful. Traditional medicine was found to play a modest but not insignificant role within the context of total health care. There was little evidence that is use comprises a significant health threat. Opportunities for further research and a prediction of the future of Asian medicine in Britain is presented.

Ethnomedicinal plants of Jaunsar-Bawar hills, Uttar Pradesh, India

During an ethnomedicobotanical survey of Jaunsar-Bawar, a hilly tribal inhabited area in Uttar Pradesh, India, it was observed that about 100 plants are being used by the local Jaunsari tribe for the treatment of various ailments. An alphabetical list of these plants is given along with their family, local name, local uses, locality and collection number.

Ethno-medico-botanical investigations in Kerala I. Some primitive tribals of western ghats and their herbal medicine

Ethno-medico-botanical investigations of seven primitive tribals, Cholanaikken, Pathinaikken, Paniyan, Kuruman, Irular, Adiyan and Kurichan, living in the densely forested high-lands of western ghats in Kerala were carried out. One of the tribes, Cholanaikken, is the most primitive tribe known in the Indian subcontinent. Ethnically they appear close to the Australian aboriginals. All other tribes of Kerala have mixed features of Veddoids, Negroids, Australian aboriginals and Dravidian races suggesting the mixing of these races at various periods of Kerala's historical past. All the tribals investigated practice their own traditional system of medicine. The medical treatment of diseases of most of these tribals involves mysticism, magical incantations, sacrificial practices and divining. They also utilize a wide variety of herbs in treating the physical symptoms. These medicinal herbs were collected, identified and some of the interesting plants for which new medicinal uses were claimed by the tribals are described here.