1
|
Shotyk W, Barraza F, Cuss CW, Grant-Weaver I, Germani C, Javed MB, Hillier S, Noernberg T, Oleksandrenko A. Natural enrichment of Cd and Tl in the bark of trees from a rural watershed devoid of point sources of metal contamination. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:116973. [PMID: 37625536 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
To help understand the bioaccumulation of Cd and Tl in beaver tissue, we examined the enrichment of these metals in vegetation available to the animals. Bark was collected from 40 species of trees and shrubs, along with a complete soil weathering profile, within a small watershed devoid of trace metal contamination. Weathering resulted in a 5x enrichment of Cd in the soils relative to the underlying sediments, and a 6x Tl depletion: while Cd was lost from calcite and accumulates in the organic matter and oxyhydroxide fractions, Tl occurred only in the residual fraction. Soil processes alone, however, cannot explain the anomalous concentrations and enrichments of Cd in willow and poplar which contain up to 8.5 mg/kg Cd. The concentrations of Cd and Tl in the dissolved fraction (<0.45 μm) of the Wye River are similar (1.2 ± 0.4 and 1.6 ± 0.1 ng/L, respectively), and are taken to estimate their bioavailability in soil solutions. Normalizing the Cd/metal ratios in bark to the corresponding ratios in water yields the Stream Enrichment Factor: this novel approach shows that all plant species are enriched in Cd relative to Ni; 33 relative to Cu, 13 relative to Zn, and 7 relative to Mn. Thus, many plants preferentially accumulate Cd, especially willow and poplar, over these essential micronutrients. Clearly, the enrichment of Cd over Tl in bark is not a reflection of differences in bioavailability, but rather on the preferential uptake of Cd by the plants. The profound natural bioaccumulation of Cd in the bark of willow and poplar, the two favourite foods of the beaver, has ramifications for the use of these aquatic mammals as biomonitors of environmental contamination, as well as for the direct and indirect consumption of bark for traditional food and medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William Shotyk
- Bocock Chair for Agriculture and the Environment, Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
| | - Fiorella Barraza
- Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Chad W Cuss
- Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; School of Science and the Environment. Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL, Canada
| | - Iain Grant-Weaver
- Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Modern West Advisory, Suite 506, 10104 103 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 3G1, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Carla Germani
- Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Manuia. Los Conquistadores 2307, 7520215 Providencia, Región Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Muhammad Babar Javed
- Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Hatfield Consultants, Suite A, 300 MacKenzie Boulevard, Fort McMurray, AB T9H 4C4, Canada
| | - Stephen Hillier
- The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen, AB15 8QH, Scotland; Department of Soil and Environment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), SE-75007, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tommy Noernberg
- Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Phillips HN, Heins BJ. Alternative Practices in Organic Dairy Production and Effects on Animal Behavior, Health, and Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:1785. [PMID: 35883331 PMCID: PMC9311922 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of organic dairy farms has increased because of the increased growth of the organic market, higher organic milk price, and because some consumers prefer to purchase products from less intensive production systems. Best management practices are expected from organic dairy farms to ensure animal health and milk production. Organic dairy producers typically transition from conventional systems to avoid chemicals and pesticides, enhance economic viability, improve the environment, and increase soil fertility. Organic dairy producers respect and promote a natural environment for their animals, is also an important component of animal welfare. Organic producers have few options to mitigate pain in dairy calves. In the United States, therapies to mitigate pain for disbudded organic dairy calves are regulated by the US National Organic Program. Organic producers regularly use naturally derived alternatives for the treatment of health disorders of dairy calves, heifers, and cows. Alternative natural products may provide an option to mitigate pain in organic dairy calves. Despite the reluctance to implement pain alleviation methods, some organic farmers have expressed interest in or currently implement plant-based alternatives. Efficacy studies of alternative remedies for organic livestock are needed to verify that their use improves animal welfare. Non-effective practices represent a major challenge for organic dairy animal welfare. The relationship between humans and animals may be jeopardized during milking because first-lactation cows may exhibit adverse behaviors during the milking process, such as kicking and stomping. The periparturient period is particularly challenging for first-lactation cows. Adverse behaviors may jeopardize animal welfare and reduce safety for humans because stressed heifers may kick off the milking unit, kick at milkers, and display other unwanted behaviors in the milking parlor. This may reduce milking efficiency, overall production, and ultimately reduce the profitability of the dairy farm. Positive animal welfare is a challenging balancing act between the three overlapping ethic concerns. Identifying animal welfare deficits in organic livestock production is the first step in capitalizing on these opportunities to improve welfare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah N. Phillips
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Bradley J. Heins
- West Central Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, 46352 MN-329, Morris, MN 56267, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Phillips H, Sharpe K, Endres M, Heins B. Effects of oral white willow bark ( Salix alba) and intravenous flunixin meglumine on prostaglandin E 2 in healthy dairy calves. JDS COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 3:49-54. [PMID: 36340684 PMCID: PMC9623693 DOI: 10.3168/jdsc.2021-0138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
White willow bark (WWB) is commonly used in combination with other medicinal herbs and analgesics to alleviate inflammatory pain in disbudded calves under organic management, but there is no evidence to confirm an effect of WWB on inflammatory biomarkers in calves. The objective of this study was to determine whether WWB affects the inflammatory biomarker prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in healthy dairy calves. A randomized crossover trial with 2 periods and 5 treatments was used for this experiment. A 7-d washout period was used to minimize carryover effects. The treatments were (1) 57.6 mg/kg oral WWB (low dose; L-WWB), (2) 115.1 mg/kg oral WWB (medium dose; M-WWB), (3) 230.3 mg/kg oral WWB (high dose; H-WWB), (4) 2.2 mg/kg i.v. flunixin meglumine (FM), or (5) no treatment (NT). Calves (n = 25) were randomly assigned to receive 1 of the 25 treatment sequences. Blood samples were collected at 1, 2, and 4 h after administration to determine PGE2 and salicylic acid plasma concentrations. The WWB had 2,171 μg/g (± 4.3% relative standard error) salicin (0.22%). On average, calves in the FM (721 ± 274 pg/mL) treatment had lower PGE2 than calves in all other treatments. Calves in the NT (2,606 ± 271 pg/mL), L-WWB (2,509 ± 276 pg/mL), M-WWB (2,343 ± 270 pg/mL), and H-WWB (3,039 ± 270 pg/mL) treatments had similar PGE2 averaged across sampling times. Calves in the L-WWB (23.4 ± 1.9 ng/mL), M-WWB (21.5 ± 1.9 ng/mL), and H-WWB (23.3 ± 1.9 ng/mL) treatments had similar maximum salicylic acid plasma concentrations. Results from this study indicate that the WWB doses used in this experiment were ineffective at achieving dose-dependent PGE2 and salicylic acid plasma concentration responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H.N. Phillips
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul 55108
| | - K.T. Sharpe
- West Central Research and Outreach Center, Morris, MN 56267
| | - M.I. Endres
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul 55108
| | - B.J. Heins
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul 55108
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cheshier BC, Jacobson BH, Diehl C. Effect of White Willow Bark on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Following Resistance Training: A Pilot Study. THE ASIAN JOURNAL OF KINESIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.15758/ajk.2021.23.4.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is discomfort that occurs within 8-24hrs following an unaccustomed bout of physical activity that peaks within 24-27hrs and slowly resolves on its own. White willow bark (WWB) is a nutritional supplement that is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties like aspirin but without the risk of GI adverse effects. The purpose of this investigation is to determine the effectiveness of WWB on alleviating the symptoms of DOMS following exercise.METHODS Twenty-five individuals volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned to take WWB (798mg salicin) or placebo for 5 days following a lower body resistance training session which consisted of 5X10 lunges at 40% body weight (BW) and 3X fatigue leg press at 75%BW. Test procedures included visual analog scale (VAS), mid-thigh circumference and pressure pain threshold. VAS was measured pre, all five days of the supplementation period and day 6 (post-supplementation). All other variables were measured at pre, immediate, day 3(72hrs), and day 6 (post-supplementation).RESULTS No condition X time interaction was observed (p > 0.05) for any variable. However, VAS scores were lower in the WWB compared to the placebo for all time frames. There was a significant main effect of time for VAS scores indicating muscle soreness for hamstrings (p < 0.001), gluteal (p < 0.001), gastrocnemius (p < 0.001) and quadriceps (p < 0.001). In addition, there was a significant main effect of time for right midthigh pressure pain threshold (p = 0.02), mid-right (p < 0.001) and mid-left (p < 0.001) thigh circumference.CONCLUSIONS WWB may reduce subjective feelings of muscle soreness and appears to have analgesic properties.
Collapse
|
5
|
Chondroprotection and Molecular Mechanism of Action of Phytonutraceuticals on Osteoarthritis. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26082391. [PMID: 33924083 PMCID: PMC8074261 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26082391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease and an important cause of incapacitation. There is a lack of drugs and effective treatments that stop or slow the OA progression. Modern pharmacological treatments, such as analgesics, have analgesic effects but do not affect the course of OA. Long-term use of these drugs can lead to serious side effects. Given the OA nature, it is likely that lifelong treatment will be required to stop or slow its progression. Therefore, there is an urgent need for disease-modifying OA treatments that are also safe for clinical use over long periods. Phytonutraceuticals are herbal products that provide a therapeutic effect, including disease prevention, which not only have favorable safety characteristics but may have an alleviating effect on the OA and its symptoms. An estimated 47% of OA patients use alternative drugs, including phytonutraceuticals. The review studies the efficacy and action mechanism of widely used phytonutraceuticals, analyzes the available experimental and clinical data on the effect of some phytonutraceuticals (phytoflavonoids, polyphenols, and bioflavonoids) on OA, and examines the known molecular effect and the possibility of their use for chondroprotection.
Collapse
|
6
|
Herbal Medicine for Pain Management: Efficacy and Drug Interactions. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13020251. [PMID: 33670393 PMCID: PMC7918078 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13020251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Complementary and alternative medicines such as herbal medicines are not currently part of the conventional medical system. As the popularity of and global market for herbal medicine grows among all age groups, with supporting scientific data and clinical trials, specific alternative treatments such as herbal medicine can be reclassified as a practice of conventional medicine. One of the most common conditions for which adults use herbal medicine is pain. However, herbal medicines carry safety concerns and may impact the efficacy of conventional therapies. Unfortunately, mechanisms of action are poorly understood, and their use is unregulated and often underreported to medical professionals. This review aims to compile common and available herbal medicines which can be used as an alternative to or in combination with conventional pain management approaches. Efficacy and safety are assessed through clinical studies on pain relief. Ensuing herb–drug interactions such as cytochrome modulation, additive and synergistic effects, and contraindications are discussed. While self-management has been recognized as part of the overall treatment strategy for patients suffering from chronic pain, it is important for practitioners to be able to also optimize and integrate herbal medicine and, if warranted, other complementary and alternative medicines into their care.
Collapse
|
7
|
Silveira D, Prieto-Garcia JM, Boylan F, Estrada O, Fonseca-Bazzo YM, Jamal CM, Magalhães PO, Pereira EO, Tomczyk M, Heinrich M. COVID-19: Is There Evidence for the Use of Herbal Medicines as Adjuvant Symptomatic Therapy? Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:581840. [PMID: 33071794 PMCID: PMC7542597 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.581840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current recommendations for the self-management of SARS-Cov-2 disease (COVID-19) include self-isolation, rest, hydration, and the use of NSAID in case of high fever only. It is expected that many patients will add other symptomatic/adjuvant treatments, such as herbal medicines. AIMS To provide a benefits/risks assessment of selected herbal medicines traditionally indicated for "respiratory diseases" within the current frame of the COVID-19 pandemic as an adjuvant treatment. METHOD The plant selection was primarily based on species listed by the WHO and EMA, but some other herbal remedies were considered due to their widespread use in respiratory conditions. Preclinical and clinical data on their efficacy and safety were collected from authoritative sources. The target population were adults with early and mild flu symptoms without underlying conditions. These were evaluated according to a modified PrOACT-URL method with paracetamol, ibuprofen, and codeine as reference drugs. The benefits/risks balance of the treatments was classified as positive, promising, negative, and unknown. RESULTS A total of 39 herbal medicines were identified as very likely to appeal to the COVID-19 patient. According to our method, the benefits/risks assessment of the herbal medicines was found to be positive in 5 cases (Althaea officinalis, Commiphora molmol, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Hedera helix, and Sambucus nigra), promising in 12 cases (Allium sativum, Andrographis paniculata, Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea, Eucalyptus globulus essential oil, Justicia pectoralis, Magnolia officinalis, Mikania glomerata, Pelargonium sidoides, Pimpinella anisum, Salix sp, Zingiber officinale), and unknown for the rest. On the same grounds, only ibuprofen resulted promising, but we could not find compelling evidence to endorse the use of paracetamol and/or codeine. CONCLUSIONS Our work suggests that several herbal medicines have safety margins superior to those of reference drugs and enough levels of evidence to start a clinical discussion about their potential use as adjuvants in the treatment of early/mild common flu in otherwise healthy adults within the context of COVID-19. While these herbal medicines will not cure or prevent the flu, they may both improve general patient well-being and offer them an opportunity to personalize the therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dâmaris Silveira
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Jose Maria Prieto-Garcia
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Fabio Boylan
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Omar Estrada
- Biophysics and Biochemistry Center, Venezuelan Institute of Scientific Research, Caracas, Venezuela
| | | | | | | | - Edson Oliveira Pereira
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Michal Tomczyk
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Michael Heinrich
- Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, School of Pharmacy, University College of London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kang YH, Lee HJ, Lee CJ, Park JS. Natural Products as Sources of Novel Drug Candidates for the Pharmacological Management of Osteoarthritis: A Narrative Review. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2019; 27:503-513. [PMID: 31646842 PMCID: PMC6824629 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2019.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative articular disorder. Formation of bone spurs, synovial inflammation, loss of cartilage, and underlying bone restructuring have been reported to be the main pathologic characteristics of osteoarthritis symptoms. The onset and progression of osteoarthritis are attributed to various inflammatory cytokines in joint tissues and fluids that are produced by chondrocytes and/or interact with chondrocytes, as well as to low-grade inflammation in intra-articular tissues. Disruption of the equilibrium between the synthesis and degradation of the cartilage of the joint is the major cause of osteoarthritis. Hence, developing a promising pharmacological tool to restore the equilibrium between the synthesis and degradation of osteoarthritic joint cartilage can be a useful strategy for effectively managing osteoarthritis. In this review, we provide an overview of the research results pertaining to the search for a novel candidate agent for osteoarthritis management via restoration of the equilibrium between cartilage synthesis and degradation. We especially focused on investigations of medicinal plants and natural products derived from them to shed light on the potential pharmacotherapy of osteoarthritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Young-Hoon Kang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine and Changwon Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jae Lee
- Smith Liberal Arts College and Department of Addiction Science, Graduate School, Sahmyook University, Seoul 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Choong Jae Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 35015, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Sung Park
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine and Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju 52727, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lacatusu I, Badea N, Badea G, Mihaila M, Ott C, Stan R, Meghea A. Advanced bioactive lipid nanocarriers loaded with natural and synthetic anti-inflammatory actives. Chem Eng Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2019.01.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
10
|
Raisi Dehkordi Z, Rafieian-Kopaei M, Hosseini-Baharanchi FS. A double-blind controlled crossover study to investigate the efficacy of salix extract on primary dysmenorrhea. Complement Ther Med 2019; 44:102-109. [PMID: 31126541 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Primary dysmenorrhea in the absence of pelvic pathology is a common gynecologic disorder affecting the quality of life of women of reproductive age. This study evaluates the effect of salix extract on primary dysmenorrhea. DESIGN This study was a randomized crossover clinical trial. SETTING The study population included 96 female students with level two or three of primary dysmenorrhea: 48 students in the treatment group (sequence I) followed by control (sequence II) and 48 students in control group (sequence I) followed by treatment (sequence II). INTERVENTIONS The intervention was salix capsule (400 mg daily) and the active control was mefenamic acid capsule (750 mg daily) as. MAIN OUTCOMES Pain intensity, measured by the visual analog scale (VAS), amount of bleeding, and severity of dysmenorrhea symptoms were outcomes. Generalized estimating equations were used for data analysis. RESULTS The demographic and menstrual characteristics of the students were homogenous between the groups. The results showed that the students in mefenamic acid group had a significantly higher level of VAS than the students in the salix group over time (1.61 ± 0.06, P < 0.001). The estimated odds of the bleeding level in the salix and mefenamic acid group were not significantly different (P = 0.31). In average, 77.39%±16.18 of the students in salix group showed no symptoms followed by 22.18%±14.08 of the students who experienced mild symptoms. Averagely, 44.58%±20.16 of the students in the mefenamic acid group had mild symptoms followed by moderate symptoms (28.12%±15.29). CONCLUSIONS Salix extract significantly decreased dysmenorrhea in comparison to mefenamic acid, as the standard treatment of dysmenorrhea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Z Raisi Dehkordi
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - M Rafieian-Kopaei
- Medical Plants Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Science, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - F S Hosseini-Baharanchi
- Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Phytomedicine in Joint Disorders. Nutrients 2017; 9:nu9010070. [PMID: 28275210 PMCID: PMC5295114 DOI: 10.3390/nu9010070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic joint inflammatory disorders such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis have in common an upsurge of inflammation, and oxidative stress, resulting in progressive histological alterations and disabling symptoms. Currently used conventional medication (ranging from pain-killers to biological agents) is potent, but frequently associated with serious, even life-threatening side effects. Used for millennia in traditional herbalism, medicinal plants are a promising alternative, with lower rate of adverse events and efficiency frequently comparable with that of conventional drugs. Nevertheless, their mechanism of action is in many cases elusive and/or uncertain. Even though many of them have been proven effective in studies done in vitro or on animal models, there is a scarcity of human clinical evidence. The purpose of this review is to summarize the available scientific information on the following joint-friendly medicinal plants, which have been tested in human studies: Arnica montana, Boswellia spp., Curcuma spp., Equisetum arvense, Harpagophytum procumbens, Salix spp., Sesamum indicum, Symphytum officinalis, Zingiber officinalis, Panax notoginseng, and Whitania somnifera.
Collapse
|
12
|
Schaffer SD, Curry K, Yoon SJ. Herbal supplements used to treat common chronic conditions. Nurse Pract 2016; 41:26-33. [PMID: 27764065 DOI: 10.1097/01.npr.0000502793.50737.2f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This is part 2 of a three-part series designed to provide clinicians with a working knowledge of the use of herbal supplements for health and disease states. Part 2 of the series focuses on the efficacy of herbal supplements used in the treatment of common chronic conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan D Schaffer
- Saun-Joo Yoon is an associate professor at the University of Florida, College of Nursing, Gainesville, Fla. Susan D. Schaffer is a clinical associate professor at the University of Florida, College of Nursing, Gainesville, Fla. Kim Curry is a clinical associate professor at the University of Florida, College of Nursing, Gainesville, Fla
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Shara M, Stohs SJ. Efficacy and Safety of White Willow Bark (Salix alba) Extracts. Phytother Res 2015; 29:1112-6. [PMID: 25997859 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Revised: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Willow bark extract has been used for thousands of years as an anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic. In spite of its long history of use, relatively few human and animal studies have been published that confirm anecdotal observations. A small number of clinical studies have been conducted that support the use of willow bark extracts in chronic lower back and joint pain and osteoarthritis. Willow bark extracts also are widely used in sports performance and weight loss products presumably because of anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, although no human studies have been published that specifically and directly document beneficial effects. In recent years, various in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that the anti-inflammatory activity of willow bark extract is associated with down regulation of the inflammatory mediators tumor necrosis factor-α and nuclear factor-kappa B. Although willow bark extracts are generally standardized to salicin, other ingredients in the extracts including other salicylates as well as polyphenols, and flavonoids may also play prominent roles in the therapeutic actions. Adverse effects appear to be minimal as compared to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs including aspirin. The primary cause for concern may relate to allergic reactions in salicylate-sensitive individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Shara
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Sidney J Stohs
- School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, Creighton University Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68168, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Oltean H, Robbins C, van Tulder MW, Berman BM, Bombardier C, Gagnier JJ. Herbal medicine for low-back pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2014; 2014:CD004504. [PMID: 25536022 PMCID: PMC7197042 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd004504.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-back pain (LBP) is a common condition and imposes a substantial economic burden upon people living in industrialized societies. A large proportion of people with chronic LBP use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), visit CAM practitioners, or both. Several herbal medicines have been purported for use in treating people with LBP. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2006. OBJECTIVES To determine the effectiveness of herbal medicine for non-specific LBP. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following electronic databases up to September 2014: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, Clinical Trials.gov, World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Portal and PubMed; checked reference lists in review articles, guidelines and retrieved trials; and personally contacted individuals with expertise in this area. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining adults (over 18 years of age) suffering from acute, sub-acute, or chronic non-specific LBP. The interventions were herbal medicines which we defined as plants used for medicinal purposes in any form. Primary outcome measures were pain and function. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS A library scientist with the Cochrane Back Review Group conducted the database searches. One review author contacted content experts and acquired relevant citations. We downloaded full references and abstracts of the identified studies and retrieved a hard copy of each study for final inclusion decisions. Two review authors assessed risk of bias, GRADE criteria (GRADE 2004), and CONSORT compliance and a random subset were compared to assessments by a third individual. Two review authors assessed clinical relevance and resolved any disagreements by consensus. MAIN RESULTS We included 14 RCTs (2050 participants) in this review. One trial on Solidago chilensis M. (Brazilian arnica) (20 participants) found very low quality evidence of reduction in perception of pain and improved flexibility with application of Brazilian arnica-containing gel twice daily as compared to placebo gel. Capsicum frutescens cream or plaster probably produces more favourable results than placebo in people with chronic LBP (three trials, 755 participants, moderate quality evidence). Based on current evidence, it is not clear whether topical capsicum cream is more beneficial for treating people with acute LBP compared to placebo (one trial, 40 participants, low quality evidence). Another trial found equivalence of C. frutescens cream to a homeopathic ointment (one trial, 161 participants, very low quality evidence). Daily doses of Harpagophytum procumbens (devil's claw), standardized to 50 mg or 100 mg harpagoside, may be better than placebo for short-term improvements in pain and may reduce use of rescue medication (two trials, 315 participants, low quality evidence). Another H. procumbens trial demonstrated relative equivalence to 12.5 mg per day of rofecoxib (Vioxx®) but was of very low quality (one trial, 88 participants, very low quality). Daily doses of Salix alba (white willow bark), standardized to 120 mg or 240 mg salicin, are probably better than placebo for short-term improvements in pain and rescue medication (two trials, 261 participants, moderate quality evidence). An additional trial demonstrated relative equivalence to 12.5 mg per day of rofecoxib (one trial, 228 participants) but was graded as very low quality evidence. S. alba minimally affected platelet thrombosis versus a cardioprotective dose of acetylsalicylate (one trial, 51 participants). One trial (120 participants) examining Symphytum officinale L. (comfrey root extract) found low quality evidence that a Kytta-Salbe comfrey extract ointment is better than placebo ointment for short-term improvements in pain as assessed by VAS. Aromatic lavender essential oil applied by acupressure may reduce subjective pain intensity and improve lateral spine flexion and walking time compared to untreated participants (one trial, 61 participants,very low quality evidence). No significant adverse events were noted within the included trials. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS C. frutescens (Cayenne) reduces pain more than placebo. Although H. procumbens, S. alba, S. officinale L., S. chilensis, and lavender essential oil also seem to reduce pain more than placebo, evidence for these substances was of moderate quality at best. Additional well-designed large trials are needed to test these herbal medicines against standard treatments. In general, the completeness of reporting in these trials was poor. Trialists should refer to the CONSORT statement extension for reporting trials of herbal medicine interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Oltean
- University of MichiganDepartment of Orthopaedic Surgery24 Frank Lloyd Wright DrAnn ArborMIUSA48106
| | - Chris Robbins
- University of MichiganDepartment of Orthopaedic Surgery24 Frank Lloyd Wright DrAnn ArborMIUSA48106
| | - Maurits W van Tulder
- VU UniversityDepartment of Health Sciences, Faculty of Earth and Life SciencesPO Box 7057Room U454AmsterdamNetherlands1007 MB
| | - Brian M Berman
- University of Maryland School of MedicineCenter for Integrative Medicine520 W. Lombard St2nd FloorBaltimoreMarylandUSA21201
| | - Claire Bombardier
- Institute for Work & Health481 University Avenue, Suite 800TorontoONCanadaM5G 2E9
| | - Joel J Gagnier
- University of MichiganDepartment of Epidemiology, School of Public Health1415 Washington HeightsRm M5158Ann ArborMIUSA48109‐2029
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Leong DJ, Choudhury M, Hirsh DM, Hardin JA, Cobelli NJ, Sun HB. Nutraceuticals: potential for chondroprotection and molecular targeting of osteoarthritis. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:23063-85. [PMID: 24284399 PMCID: PMC3856106 DOI: 10.3390/ijms141123063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Revised: 10/30/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease and a leading cause of adult disability. There is no cure for OA, and no effective treatments which arrest or slow its progression. Current pharmacologic treatments such as analgesics may improve pain relief but do not alter OA disease progression. Prolonged consumption of these drugs can result in severe adverse effects. Given the nature of OA, life-long treatment will likely be required to arrest or slow its progression. Consequently, there is an urgent need for OA disease-modifying therapies which also improve symptoms and are safe for clinical use over long periods of time. Nutraceuticals-food or food products that provide medical or health benefits, including the prevention and/or treatment of a disease-offer not only favorable safety profiles, but may exert disease- and symptom-modification effects in OA. Forty-seven percent of OA patients use alternative medications, including nutraceuticals. This review will overview the efficacy and mechanism of action of commonly used nutraceuticals, discuss recent experimental and clinical data on the effects of select nutraceuticals, such as phytoflavonoids, polyphenols, and bioflavonoids on OA, and highlight their known molecular actions and limitations of their current use. We will conclude with a proposed novel nutraceutical-based molecular targeting strategy for chondroprotection and OA treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Leong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; E-Mails: (D.J.L.); (M.C.); (D.M.H.); (J.A.H.); (N.J.C.)
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Golding 101, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Marwa Choudhury
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; E-Mails: (D.J.L.); (M.C.); (D.M.H.); (J.A.H.); (N.J.C.)
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Golding 101, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - David M. Hirsh
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; E-Mails: (D.J.L.); (M.C.); (D.M.H.); (J.A.H.); (N.J.C.)
| | - John A. Hardin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; E-Mails: (D.J.L.); (M.C.); (D.M.H.); (J.A.H.); (N.J.C.)
| | - Neil J. Cobelli
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; E-Mails: (D.J.L.); (M.C.); (D.M.H.); (J.A.H.); (N.J.C.)
| | - Hui B. Sun
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; E-Mails: (D.J.L.); (M.C.); (D.M.H.); (J.A.H.); (N.J.C.)
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Golding 101, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| |
Collapse
|