Risks and benefits of commonly used herbal medicines in Mexico

Avocado Oil: Recent Advances in Its Anti-diabetic Potential

BACKGROUND

Diet plays a crucial role in insulin resistance and diabetes, with high-fat and high-carbohydrate diets being major contributors. However, the type of fat consumed is critical, as different fatty acids impact insulin sensitivity differently.

OBJECTIVE

This review examines the potential benefits of avocado oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), in improving glycaemic control and lipid metabolism. It also explores variations in avocado oil composition across different avocado cultivars.

METHODS

Experimental and clinical studies were analysed to assess the metabolic effects of avocado oil. The impact of MUFAs on insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, and metabolic health was reviewed, alongside the influence of fruit quality, maturity, and cultivar differences.

RESULTS

Avocado oil may enhance glycaemic control and lipid metabolism, benefiting individuals with diabetes and hypercholesterolemia. However, its composition varies significantly across avocado variants such as Hass, Reed, Ettinger, and Fuerte, influencing its therapeutic properties.

CONCLUSION

Avocado oil's high MUFA content offers promising metabolic benefits. Further research is needed to standardize its therapeutic application, considering cultivar-dependent variations in composition.

Urtica dioica Aqueous Leaf Extract: Chemical Composition and In Vitro Evaluation of Biological Activities

Urtica dioica L. has been used as a natural remedy due to its healing properties for over 2000 years. The aim of this study is to investigate the chemical composition, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antitumor properties in vitro of the aqueous extract of Urtica dioica leaves (AEUD). The chemical composition was assessed by an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography system coupled to a benchtop QExactive high-resolution accurate mass spectrometry operating in a data-dependent acquisition mode as a non-target approach. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and disc diffusion were used to assess the antibacterial efficacy against nine bacterial strains. The antioxidant impact was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and ferrous ion-chelating ability assays. By using the MTT method, the cytotoxicity effect of AEUD on colon cancer cell HCT-116 was evaluated. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the cell cycle. Finally, the anti-migration and anti-invasion properties of AEUD on HCT-116 cells were estimated using the wound healing test and Transwell assays. AEUD is a rich source of phenolic compounds. The results of disc diffusion and MIC showed that the AEUD is more active against Gram-positive bacteria than against Gram-negative bacteria. MTT assay confirmed that the AEUD inhibited HCT-116 colon cancer cell proliferation. Findings of flow cytometry confirmed that cell cycle arrest occurred at the G2 phase. Additionally, AEUD had anti-migration and anti-invasion effects. This study shows that Urtica dioica aqueous leaf extract exhibits potential antibacterial, antioxidant, and antitumoral activities on HCT-116 colon cancer cells.

Multilateral Use of Dandelion in Folk Medicine of Central-Eastern Europe

BACKGROUND

Dandelion (Taraxacum sect. Taraxacum, also referred to as Taraxacum officinale F.H. Wiggers coll.), a collective species of perennial herbaceous plants of the Asteraceae family, is commonly considered weed; however, in the traditional societies of Central-Eastern Europe, it is a source of food and medicinal raw materials. The growing interest in the medicinal properties of herbal raw materials of dandelion encouraged us to focus on their use in the traditional folk medicine of Central-Eastern European communities.

AIM

The hypothesis of the present study suggests that Taraxacum sect. Taraxacum (dandelion), which is widespread throughout Central-Eastern Europe and easily identifiable, has had notable applications in ethnopharmacology. The study aims to examine the medicinal properties of this species, focusing on its traditional uses in folk medicine across the region. The resulting data may serve as a valuable resource for contemporary pharmacognosy research.

METHODS

The analysis was based on publications dated from the end of the 18th century to the beginning of the 21st century, mainly from Poland. In addition, the study includes publications on contemporary Belarus, Ukraine, and European Russia.

RESULTS

The research showed that dandelion provided many medicinal raw materials, but the available literature did not mention the use of the herb's root, a raw material popular in contemporary natural medicine. During the period analysed, an increase in the types of raw materials was observed, and the order in which they appeared in the sources was as follows: latex > root = leaf = inflorescence > herb > herb with flowers. Additionally, a review of the literature indicated that the number of conditions under which they were used increased during the investigation period. The variety of ways to prepare the raw material is noteworthy; fresh and dried raw materials were used to make extracts, tinctures, decoctions, infusions, wrap compresses, syrups, and even wine or coffee substitutes. The mentioned preparations were prepared individually for particular ailments.

CONCLUSIONS

The vast experience of rural communities in Central-Eastern Europe concerning the medicinal applications of common dandelion has developed through centuries. The experience of rural communities may influence the direction of further phytochemical and pharmacological research.

Use of herbal medication in the perioperative period: Potential adverse drug interactions

Use of herbal medications and supplements has experienced immense growth over the last two decades, with retail sales in the USA exceeding $13 billion in 2021. Since the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994 reduced FDA oversight, these products have become less regulated. Data from 2012 shows 18% of U.S. adults used non-vitamin, non-mineral natural products. Prevalence varies regionally, with higher use in Western states. Among preoperative patients, the most commonly used herbal medications included garlic, ginseng, ginkgo, St. John's wort, and echinacea. However, 50-70% of surgical patients fail to disclose their use of herbal medications to their physicians, and most fail to discontinue them preoperatively. Since herbal medications can interact with anesthetic medications administered during surgery, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) and the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) recommend stopping herbal medications 1-2 weeks before elective surgical procedures. Potential adverse drug effects related to preoperative use of herbal medications involve the coagulation system (e.g., increasing the risk of perioperative bleeding), the cardiovascular system (e.g., arrhythmias, hypotension, hypertension), the central nervous system (e.g., sedation, confusion, seizures), pulmonary (e.g., coughing, bronchospasm), renal (e.g., diuresis) and endocrine-metabolic (e.g., hepatic dysfunction, altered metabolism of anesthetic drugs). During the preoperative evaluation, anesthesiologists should inquire about the use of herbal medications to anticipate potential adverse drug interactions during the perioperative period.

DDID: a comprehensive resource for visualization and analysis of diet-drug interactions

Diet-drug interactions (DDIs) are pivotal in drug discovery and pharmacovigilance. DDIs can modify the systemic bioavailability/pharmacokinetics of drugs, posing a threat to public health and patient safety. Therefore, it is crucial to establish a platform to reveal the correlation between diets and drugs. Accordingly, we have established a publicly accessible online platform, known as Diet-Drug Interactions Database (DDID, https://bddg.hznu.edu.cn/ddid/), to systematically detail the correlation and corresponding mechanisms of DDIs. The platform comprises 1338 foods/herbs, encompassing flora and fauna, alongside 1516 widely used drugs and 23 950 interaction records. All interactions are meticulously scrutinized and segmented into five categories, thereby resulting in evaluations (positive, negative, no effect, harmful and possible). Besides, cross-linkages between foods/herbs, drugs and other databases are furnished. In conclusion, DDID is a useful resource for comprehending the correlation between foods, herbs and drugs and holds a promise to enhance drug utilization and research on drug combinations.

A Review of Ethnomedicinal Plants as Potential Anthelmintic Agents to Alternatively Control Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Ruminants in South Africa

Small ruminant production is one of the most important animal productions for food security in the world, especially in the developing world. Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection is a threat to this animal's production. Conventional drugs that are used to control these parasites are losing their efficacy due to the development of resistant parasites. These drugs are not biologically degradable, taint meat products and are also expensive for communal farmers. Hence, research is now exploring ethnomedicinal anthelmintic plants for an alternative remedy. The objective of this paper was to review ethnomedicinal plants as a potential alternative to unsustainable commercial anthelmintics. This review sought to understand common GINs infecting ruminants, resistance manifestation in GINs to conventional treatment, reasons communal farmers choose ethnomedicine, and modes of action in anthelmintic plants. It also examined the usage of plants and plant parts, dosage forms, methods for improving bioactivity, convectional validation procedures, and restrictions on ethnomedicinal plant use as anthelmintics in ethnomedicine. Such insight is essential, as it highlights the importance of ethnoveterinary medicine and ways to adopt or improve it as a potential alternative to conventional anthelmintics.

Antitumor Profile of Combined Matricaria recutita Flower Extract and 5-Fluorouracil Chemotherapy in Sarcoma 180 In Vivo Model

Medicinal plants have been commonly associated with chemotherapeutic treatments, as an approach to reduce the toxicological risks of classical anticancer drugs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of combining the antineoplastic drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) with Matricaria recutita flowers extract (MRFE) to treat mice transplanted with sarcoma 180. Tumor inhibition, body and visceral mass variation, biochemical, hematological, and histopathological parameters were evaluated. The isolated 5-FU, 5-FU+MRFE 100 mg/kg/day, and 5-FU+MRFE 200 mg/kg/day reduced tumor growth; however, 5-FU+MRFE 200 mg/kg/day showed a more significant tumor reduction when compared to 5-FU alone. These results corroborated with the analysis of the tumor histopathological and immunodetection of the Ki67 antigen. In the toxicological analysis of the association 5-FU+MRFE 200 mg/kg/day, an intense loss of body mass was observed, possibly as a result of diarrhea. In addition, spleen atrophy, with a reduction in white pulp, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, was observed in the 5-FU groups alone and associated with MRFE 200 mg/kg/day; however, there was no statistical difference between these groups. Therefore, the MRFE 200 mg/kg/day did not interfere in myelosuppressive action of 5-FU. In hematological analysis, body and visceral mass variation and biochemical parameters related to renal (urea and creatinine) and cardiac (CK-MB) function, no alteration was observed. In biochemical parameters related to liver function enzymes, there was a reduction in aspartate transaminase (AST) values in the 5-FU groups alone and associated with MRFE 200 mg/kg/day; however, there was no statistical difference between these groups. Therefore, the MRFE 200 mg/kg/day does not appear to influence enzyme reduction. The results of this study suggest that the association between the 5-FU+MRFE 200 can positively interfere with the antitumor activity, promoting the antineoplastic-induced reduction in body mass, while minimizing the toxicity of chemotherapy.

Antioxidant Activity, Total Phenolic, Tannin, and Flavonoid Content of Five Plants Used in Traditional Medicine in Penjamo, Guanajuato

In Mexico, plants are commonly used to alleviate various ailments, including controlling some chronic degenerative diseases through the regular consumption of decoctions, infusions, and teas. However, there is little scientific evidence consolidating traditional medicine within health systems. Therefore, this work determined the phytochemical profile of the most used plants to treat various ailments (Cedro rojo, Cancerina, Ortiguilla, Hierba de la golondrina, Hierba de arlomo) and their general consumption as infusions. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts were generated, while the phytochemical compound content in the extracts obtained was quantified. The results indicate that the ethanolic extracts showed the highest phenolic compound and tannin content, with the highest contents for Cedro rojo (831.04 mg L^-1 ) and Cancerina (864.80 mg L^-1 ). The antioxidant activity was also determined, and a significant difference was observed (p<0.05). The extracts with the highest antioxidant capacity were the ethanolic extracts ranging from 250 to 907 μMET mL^-1 , while the aqueous extracts ranged from 112 to 390 μMET mL^-1 . The compounds identified by high-performance liquid chromatography characterization on the aqueous extracts highlighted the presence of chlorogenic acid>cinnamic acid>quercetin. In ethanolic extracts, the presence of chlorogenic acid>cinnamic acid>quercetin>gallic acid>ferulic acid>coumaric acid was highlighted. The correlation between bioactive compounds, type of extract, and antioxidant activity suggests a significant affinity of these phytochemical compounds for the ethanol solvent. The results indicate that these plants are good sources of antioxidant phenolics and can be incorporated for use as functional beverages. However, more studies are needed to corroborate their beneficial effect.

Therapeutic Plants with Immunoregulatory Activity and Their Applications: A Scientific Vision of Traditional Medicine in Times of COVID-19

The progression of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) in humans heavily depends on the patient's overall health status, especially on its immunoregulatory capacity. Different plants and plant-derived preparations (infusions, encapsulated, etc.) have been used as immunoregulators, several of them with scientific support. Nevertheless, due to the composition complexity of such plant-derived preparations, the molecular and physiological mechanisms involved in their beneficial effects remain, in some cases, unclear. In this review article, the most reported plants used in traditional medicine to enhance immunoregulatory capacity are presented, and their effect on the innate immune response is discussed and correlated with their respective phytochemical profile. Understanding how the plant phytochemical profile relates to the observed impact on the innate and adaptative immune response is fundamental to designing plant-derived co-treatments to lessen the symptoms and favor the recovery of COVID-19 patients. In this regard, we propose a prospective guideline for using plants and plant-derived preparations as co-treatments for COVID-19 (and similar viral infections), which could be helpful in the context of the worldwide effort to end the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Sesquiterpenoid lactones as potential anti-cancer agents: an update on molecular mechanisms and recent studies

Plants-based natural compounds are well-identified and recognized chemoprotective agents that can be used for primary and secondary cancer prevention, as they have proven efficacy and fewer side effects. In today's scenario, when cancer cases rapidly increase in developed and developing countries, the anti-cancerous plant-based compounds become highly imperative. Among others, the Asteraceae (Compositae) family's plants are rich in sesquiterpenoid lactones, a subclass of terpenoids with wide structural diversity, and offer unique anti-cancerous effects. These plants are utilized in folk medicine against numerous diseases worldwide. However, these plants are now a part of the modern medical system, with their sesquiterpenoid lactones researched extensively to find more effective and efficient cancer drug regimens. Given the evolving importance of sesquiterpenoid lactones for cancer research, this review comprehensively covers different domains in a spectrum of sesquiterpenoid lactones viz (i) Guaianolides (ii) Pseudoguaianolide (iii) Eudesmanolide (iv) Melampodinin A and (v) Germacrene, from important plants such as Cynara scolymus (globe artichoke), Arnica montana (wolf weeds), Spilanthes acmella, Taraxacum officinale, Melampodium, Solidago spp. The review, therefore, envisages being a helpful resource for the growth of plant-based anti-cancerous drug development.

Aqueous extracts of Urtica dioica (stinging nettle) leaf contain a P2-purinoceptor antagonist-Implications for male fertility

Stinging nettle root and leaf extracts were tested for their effect on prostatic smooth muscle contractility. Root extract did not affect electrical field stimulation induced-nerve mediated contractions of isolated rat prostates. On the other hand, leaf extract attenuated electrical field stimulation-induced contractions at all frequencies. Similarly, contractions elicited by exogenous administration of ATP and αβ-methylene ATP were inhibited by leaf extract, whereas contractions elicited by exogenous administration of noradrenaline or acetylcholine were unaffected. The active component was present within the aqueous phase of the leaf extract. In mouse mating studies, stinging nettle leaf extract (50 mg p.o. daily) reduced male fertility by 53% compared to vehicle-treated male mice. Cardiovascular parameters were unaffected by administration of stinging nettle leaf extract (p ≥ 0.057). Treated mice exhibited normal mating behaviour. Bladder and testes weighed less in stinging nettle leaf extract treated mice. All other organs and total body weight were unaffected. It is concluded that stinging nettle leaf extract reduces contractility of genitourinary smooth muscle by acting as an antagonist at postjunctional P2X1-purinoceptors. These data indicates that blocking sperm transport through pharmacological blockade of P2X1-purinoceptors via oral administration is consistent with an effective and convenient biological strategy male contraception.

Health-promoting and disease-mitigating potential of Verbascum thapsus L. (common mullein): A review

Medicinal plants represent rich sources of traditional medicines and numerous currently used medicines are either directly or indirectly derived from plants. Verbascum thapsus L. (great mullein or common mullein), a medicinal herb indigenous to northern Africa, western and central Asia, and Europe, has been brought to the Americas and Australia. It has been used as a medicine for lung, skin and throat disorders and has a long history of therapeutic importance, particularly as an astringent and calming agent. Presently, the dried leaves, flowers, various plant extracts and flower oil are used in several formulations within Indian traditional medicine. An extract taken from the roots is useful in minimizing toothache, and it also relieves stiffness and seizures. V. thapsus contains a wide variety of phytoconstituents, such as flavonoids, iridoid, phenylethanoid and phenylpropanoid glycosides, saponins, as well as vitamin C and minerals. The most valuable constituents are coumarin and hesperidin, which possess healing properties. Emerging literature based on experimental studies on V. thapsus demonstrates various biological and pharmacological properties, including antiviral, antioxidant, analgesic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, hypnotic, antibacterial, antifungal, as well as anticancer activities. The present review provides an updated, comprehensive, and critical evaluation of various health-promoting and disease-mitigating properties of V. thapsus.

Current Awareness of Health Professionals on the Safety of Herbal Medicine and Associated Factors in the South West of Ethiopia

Background

Recently, the World Health Organization has strongly evidenced the importance of herbal medicine safety monitoring within the existing pharmacovigilance system through active involvement of health professionals. However, there is a widespread lack of awareness among health professionals about the safety of herbal medicines. Thus, this study assessed the current awareness of health professionals on the safety of herbal medicine in the South West of Ethiopia.

Methodology

The study employed a cross-sectional study design involving multistage sampling among health professionals (n=286) working in the medical center of Jimma University, January to February, 2021. The pre-tested self-administered questionnaire containing structured questions on a five-point Likert scale was appropriately filled and returned for statistical analysis. For the analysis of data, Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used. The associations between status of awareness and predictors were determined at 5% (p<0.05) level of significance by employing multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The study revealed around 51.8% of respondents had a good awareness regarding herbal medicine safety. Working experience of 6-10 years (AOR: 0.215, 95% CI: 0.093, 0.499), having training (AOR: 0.357, 95% CI: 0.166, 0.770), and practice of safety monitoring (AOR: 0.169, 95% CI: 0.077, 0.370) were significantly associated with awareness of safety of herbal medicine.

Conclusion

This study revealed that awareness of health professionals regarding safety of herbal medicine is not satisfactory. The years of experience, training, and practice of safety monitoring of herbal medicine are the major factors affecting status awareness. Therefore, the National Regulatory Authority must urgently facilitate integrated and consistent training for all health professionals.

CONTENIDO DE POLIFENOLES, CAPACIDAD ANTIOXIDANTE Y TOXICIDAD DE Solanum ferrugineum (SOLANACEAE) CON POTENCIAL MEDICINAL

Solanum ferruginium es una planta que crece en lugares perturbados como maleza, es de uso medicinal poco utilizada que presenta un gran potencial como fuente de antioxidantes debido a su alto contenido en polifenoles. Debido a esto se analizó el contenido de polifenoles, flavonoides, proantocianidinas y capacidad antioxidante in vitro (ensayo de captación de radicales DPPH) en hojas, tallos y planta completa de tres localidades (Las agujas, Parque el Nabo y Bosque la Primavera) de Zapopan, Jalisco, así como su toxicidad subcronica en hojas. En general se observó diferencia significativa (p£ 0,05), en las muestras de las tres localidades, las hojas presentaron el mayor contenido de polifenoles (15,3±0,7 a 22±0,4 mg expresado como equivalente de ácido gálico (EAG/g) en muestras de Parque el Nabo, flavonoides (7,8±0,3 a 13,3±0,3 mg EC/g) y proantocianidinas (3,4±0,1 a 4,2±0,05 mg expresado como equivalente de catequina (EC/g) en el Bosque la Primavera. La capacidad antioxidante fue similar en todas las muestras, con valores de 8,3 a 17 µg/mL de concentración media inhibitora (CI50). En la prueba toxicológica, los ratones no mostraron signos de toxicidad a ninguna dosis por efecto de la administración de la planta en estudio, por lo que la dosis letal media (DL50) es > 15 000 mg/kg de peso corporal. El contenido de polifenoles y actividad antioxidante en S. ferruginium sobre todo en hojas indican un alto potencial con propiedades farmacológicas además de su inocuidad, por lo que es importante realizar estudios de sus compuestos fenólicos individuales, antes de ser utilizada en farmacología.

Hemoglobin F (HbF) inducers; History, Structure and Efficacies

Inherited beta-thalassemia is a major disease caused by irregular production of hemoglobin through reducing beta-globin chains. It has been observed that increasing fetal hemoglobin (HbF) production improves symptoms in the patients. Therefore, an increase in the level of HbF has been an operative approach for treating patients with beta-thalassemia. This review represents compounds with biological activities and pharmacological properties that can promote the HBF level and therefore used in the β-thalassemia patients' therapy. Various natural products with different mechanisms of action can be helpful in this medication cure. Clinical trials were efficient in improving the signs of patients. Association of in vivo, and in vitro studies of HbF induction and γ-globin mRNA growth displays that in vitro experiments could be an indicator of the in vivo response. The current study shows that; (a) HbF inducers can be grouped in several classes based on their chemical structures and mechanism of actions; b) According to several clinical trials, well-known drugs such as hydroxyurea and decitabine are useful HbF inducers; (c) The cellular biosensor K562 carrying genes under the control of the human γ-globin and β-globin gene promoters were applied during the researches; d) New natural products and lead compounds were found based on various studies as HbF inducers.

In Silico Screening of Natural Products Isolated from Mexican Herbal Medicines against COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has already taken the lives of more than 2 million people worldwide, causing several political and socio-economic disturbances in our daily life. At the time of publication, there are non-effective pharmacological treatments, and vaccine distribution represents an important challenge for all countries. In this sense, research for novel molecules becomes essential to develop treatments against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. In this context, Mexican natural products have proven to be quite useful for drug development; therefore, in the present study, we perform an in silico screening of 100 compounds isolated from the most commonly used Mexican plants, against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. As results, we identify ten compounds that meet leadlikeness criteria (emodin anthrone, kaempferol, quercetin, aesculin, cichoriin, luteolin, matricin, riolozatrione, monocaffeoyl tartaric acid, aucubin). According to the docking analysis, only three compounds target the key proteins of SARS-CoV-2 (quercetin, riolozatrione and cichoriin), but only one appears to be safe (cichoriin). ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion) properties and the physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model show that cichoriin reaches higher lung levels (100 mg/Kg, IV); therefore, it may be considered in developing therapeutic tools.

Inhibitory effect of Newtonia extracts and myricetin-3-o-rhamnoside (myricitrin) on bacterial biofilm formation

BACKGROUND

Diarrhoea is a major health issue in both humans and animals and may be caused by bacterial, viral and fungal infections. Previous studies highlighted excellent activity of Newtonia buchananii and N. hildebrandtii leaf extracts against bacterial and fungal organisms related to diarrhoea-causing pathogens. The aim of this study was to isolate the compound(s) responsible for antimicrobial activity and to investigate efficacy of the extracts and purified compound against bacterial biofilms.

METHODS

The acetone extract of N. buchananii leaf powder was separated by solvent-solvent partitioning into eight fractions, followed by bioassay-guided fractionation for isolation of antimicrobial compounds. Antibacterial activity testing was performed using a broth microdilution assay. The cytotoxicity was evaluated against Vero cells using a colorimetric MTT assay. A crystal violet method was employed to test the inhibitory effect of acetone, methanol: dichloromethane and water (cold and hot) extracts of N. buchananii and N. hildebrandtii leaves and the purified compound on biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus.

RESULTS

Myricetin-3-o-rhamnoside (myricitrin) was isolated for the first time from N. buchananii. Myricitrin was active against B. cereus, E. coli and S. aureus (MIC = 62.5 μg/ml in all cases). Additionally, myricitrin had relatively low cytotoxicity with IC₅₀ = 104 μg/ml. Extracts of both plant species had stronger biofilm inhibitory activity against Gram-positive than Gram-negative bacteria. The most sensitive bacterial strains were E. faecalis and S. aureus. The cold and hot water leaf extracts of N. buchananii had antibacterial activity and were relatively non-cytotoxic with selectivity index values of 1.98-11.44.

CONCLUSIONS

The purified compound, myricitrin, contributed to the activity of N. buchananii but it is likely that synergistic effects play a role in the antibacterial and antibiofilm efficacy of the plant extract. The cold and hot water leaf extracts of N. buchananii may be developed as potential antibacterial and antibiofilm agents in the natural treatment of gastrointestinal disorders including diarrhoea in both human and veterinary medicine.

Stem cells in natural product and medicinal plant drug discovery-An overview of new screening approaches

Natural products remain a rich source of new drugs, and the search for bioactive molecules from nature continues to play an important role in the development of new medicines. Also, there is increasing use of herbal medicines for the treatment of a plethora of diseases, and demands for more scientific evidence for their efficacy and safety remains a huge challenge. The propensity of stem cells to differentiate into almost every cell type not only holds promise for the delivery of cell-based therapies for currently incurable diseases or a useful tool in studying cell physiology and pathophysiology. Increasingly, stem cells are becoming an important tool in preclinical drug screening and toxicity testing. In this review, we examine the scientific advances made towards the use of pluripotent stem cells as a model for the screening of plant-based medicines. The combination of well-established in vitro electrophysiological and a plethora of toxicogenomic technologies, together with the optimisation of culture methods of herbal plants and pluripotent stem cells can be explored to establish the basis for efficacy, and tissue/organ-based toxicities of many currently used medicinal plants whose efficacies and toxicities remain unknown.

Public Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice on Herbal Remedies Used During Pregnancy and Lactation in West Bank Palestine

The use of herbal products by pregnant and lactating mothers without awareness of their harmful effects may expose both mother and fetus or infant to great dangers, such as abortion, premature delivery, uterine bleeding, and physical and mental retardation of the fetus. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which herbal product treatment is used and the reason for which such products are used and to ensure that these reasons are correct. An ethnopharmacological survey (cross-sectional observational design study) using a pre-piloted questionnaire was undertaken on herbal products used by pregnant and lactating women in the West Bank area of Palestine. A questionnaire was distributed to 350 pregnant and lactating women. The informed consent forms, ethics, and aims of the present study were reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at An-Najah National University. To identify the most important species used, the use value (UV) index was employed, while the SPSS program was used to analyze the data. Collected data revealed that 13 medicinal plants are utilized, while 12 plants are not used during pregnancy. Moreover, 15 plants are utilized and 9 plants are not used during lactation for treating and dealing with various problems. The most commonly used plants belonged to 14 families, including Lamiaceae, Apiaceae, Leguminosae, and Rubiaceae. The plants most used during pregnancy were sage (Salvia fruticosa), anise (Pimpinella anisum), and peppermint (Mentha × piperita). Castor (Ricinus communis) oil, ginger (Zingiber officinale), saffron (Crocus sativus), and senna (Senna alexandrina) mostly were not used by pregnant women. Moreover, cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), anise (P. anisum), peppermint (M. piperita), and sage (S. fruticosa) were mostly used during lactation. Castor (R. communis) oil, ginger (Z. officinale), garlic (Allium sativum), and aloe (Aloe vera) mostly were not used during lactation. This study is of great importance in order to decrease the possibility of endangering the lives of fetuses and infants. A combined effort among researchers, scientists, lactating women, and pregnant women may help in changing wrong uses and thoughts about medicinal plants and help to improve the overall health of both mother and fetus.

UPLC-MS/MS study of the effect of dandelion root extract on the plasma levels of the selected irreversible tyrosine kinase inhibitors dasatinib, imatinib and nilotinib in rats: Potential risk of pharmacokinetic interactions

Tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatments for chronic myeloid leukaemia based on nilotinib (NIL), dasatinib (DAS) and imatinib (IMA) have improved patient quality of life and have turned chronic myeloid leukemia from a fatal disease into a chronic disease. Dandelion is a rich source of phenolic compounds with strong biological properties, and the effects of using this plant in the treatment of different illnesses can be linked to the presence of various polyphenols found in the different parts of the plant. Thus, dandelion can potentially be used as a nutraceutical (dietary antioxidant) to prevent different disorders associated with oxidative stress, i.e. cardiovascular disorders, cancer and inflammatory processes. Mutual interference between a drug and a food constituent may result in altered pharmacokinetics of the drug and undesired or even dangerous clinical situations. In the present study, a bioanalytical ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the quantification of DAS, IMA and NIL in rat plasma. Sample preparation was carried out using solid-phase extraction with C₁₈ cartridges with a good extraction recovery of ≥94.37% for the three drugs. The method was fully validated as per the US Food and Drug Administration guidelines.

Effect of Chamomile Hydroalcoholic Extract on Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Rat

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the Chamomile hydroalcoholic extract on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rat.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rats (N.Mari, 180-220 g) of either sex were given a single intratracheal instillation of bleomycin (7.5 IU/Kg) or the vehicle (saline). Treatment groups were given the same dose of bleomycin and then received different doses of oral chamomile hydroalcoholic extract (400, 600, 800, 1000, and 1500 mg/kg/day) for two weeks.

RESULTS

Histological and pharmacological experiments of bleomycin-treated animals showed that bleomycin could cause marked pulmonary fibrosis within two weeks. In addition, administration of Chamomile hydroalcoholic extract reduced such damages in lung tissue in a dose-dependent manner. Best results were obtained with 1500 /kg/day of Chamomile hydroalcoholic extract.

CONCLUSION

From the results of current study, it can be concluded that Chamomile hydroalcoholic extract may be able to diminish the toxic effects of bleomycin on the lung tissues. Such effect of Chamomile can be attributed to the ingredients of this plant with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

Plants of Genus Mentha: From Farm to Food Factory

Genus Mentha, a member of Lamiaceae family, encompasses a series of species used on an industrial scale and with a well-described and developed culture process. Extracts of this genus are traditionally used as foods and are highly valued due to the presence of significant amounts of antioxidant phenolic compounds. Many essential oil chemotypes show distinct aromatic flavor conferred by different terpene proportions. Mint extracts and their derived essential oils exert notable effects against a broad spectrum of bacteria, fungi or yeasts, tested both in vitro or in various food matrices. Their chemical compositions are well-known, which suggest and even prompt their safe use. In this review, genus Mentha plant cultivation, phytochemical analysis and even antimicrobial activity are carefully described. Also, in consideration of its natural origin, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, a special emphasis was given to mint-derived products as an interesting alternative to artificial preservatives towards establishing a wide range of applications for shelf-life extension of food ingredients and even foodstuffs. Mentha cultivation techniques markedly influence its phytochemical composition. Both extracts and essential oils display a broad spectrum of activity, closely related to its phytochemical composition. Therefore, industrial implementation of genus Mentha depends on its efficacy, safety and neutral taste.

Five traditional Nigerian Polyherbal remedies protect against high fructose fed, Streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetes in male Wistar rats

BACKGROUND

This present study sought to assess the modulatory effects of five Nigerian traditional polyherbal in high fructose-fed, streptozotocin-induced (HF-STZ) Type 2 diabetes (T2D) in rats. T2D was achieved via fructose feeding (20%^W/V) ad libitum for 2 weeks and streptozotocin (STZ, 40 mg/kg) (15th Day) intraperitoneally.

METHODS

Seventy-two hours after STZ injection, fourty-eight diabetic rats were divided into eight of 6 rats/group: Diabetic normal untreated, glibenclamide (GBLI, 0.07 mL/kg) or yoyo (YB, 0.43), ruzu (RB, 0.08), fajik (FJB, 0.20), oroki (OB, 0.16), and fidson (FB, 0.43)/ mL/kg bitters respectively. Controls normal and diabetic untreated groups received intragastric carboxylmethylcellulose (CMC, 1 mL/kg) for eleven days.

RESULTS

T2D was characterized in rats by an increased (p < 0.001-0.05) blood glucose levels (BGL), total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein and alanine aminotransferase compared with control CMC group. Similarly, hepatic and pancreatic malondialdehyde (MDA) were increased by 180 and 97% respectively. Polyherbal treatments demonstrated efficacies on BGL as follow: YB (55.6%, 160.7 mg/dL); RB (59.7%, 145.2 mg/dL); FJB (59.8%, 243.4 mg/dL); OB (60.8%, 194.5 mg/dL) and FB (61.3%, 203.3 mg/dL) respectively by day 11 (versus GBLI, 65.1%) compared with control untreated diabetic rats. Also, elevated TC, LDL cholesterol, ALT were lowered (p < 0.05) by YB, FJB, and FB respectively in rats. YB, FJB, and OB lowered MDA levels in treated rats. Further, YB, RB, FJB and FB restored changes in liver, and pancreas histopathology. Predominant non-polar bioactive include oleic, hexadecanoic, octadecanoic among others following gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometry analyses.

CONCLUSION

Overall, these present results demonstrate anti-hyperglycemic potentials, although with cautions, of some polyherbal in T2D rats, which may, in part, be antioxidants mediated.

Taraxacum officinale and Urtica dioica extracts inhibit dengue virus serotype 2 replication in vitro

Background

Urtica dioica, Taraxacum officinale, Calea integrifolia and Caesalpinia pulcherrima are widely used all over the world for treatment of different illnesses. In Mexico, these plants are traditionally used to alleviate or counteract rheumatism and inflammatory muscle diseases. In the present study we evaluated the activity of aqueous and methanolic extracts of these four plants, on the replication of dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV2).

Methods

Extraction process was carried out in a Soxtherm® system at 60, 85 and 120 °C; a chemical fractionation in silica gel chromatography was performed and compounds present in the active fractions were identified by HPLC-DAD-ESI/MSn. The cytotoxic concentration and the inhibitory effect of extracts or fractions on the DENV2 replication were analyzed in the BHK-21 cell line (plaque forming assay). The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) and the selectivity index (SI) were calculated for the extracts and fractions.

Results

The methanolic extracts at 60 °C of T. officinale and U. dioica showed the higher inhibitory effects on DENV2 replication. After the chemical fractionation, the higher activity fraction was found for U. dioica and T. officinale, presenting IC₅₀ values of 165.7 ± 3.85 and 126.1 ± 2.80 μg/ml, respectively; SI values were 5.59 and 6.01 for each fraction. The compounds present in T. officinale, were luteolin and caffeoylquinic acids derivatives and quercertin diclycosides. The compounds in the active fraction of U. dioica, were, chlorogenic acid, quercertin derivatives and flavonol glycosides (quercetin and kaempferol).

Conclusions

Two fractions from U. dioica and T. officinale methanolic extracts with anti-dengue activity were found. The compounds present in both fractions were identified, several recognized molecules have demonstrated activity against other viral species. Subsequent biological analysis of the molecules, alone or in combination, contained in the extracts will be carried out to develop therapeutics against DENV2.

Acute and sub acute studies of catechol derivatives from Semecarpus anacardium

The present study was aimed at evaluating the acute and subacute toxicity of catechol derivatives (I-IV, isolated from Semecarpus anacardium nuts) in Wistar Albino rats. In acute study (14 days), catechol derivatives I-IV 800 mg/kg caused no behavioral adverse effects and mortality. Fifty percent (LD50) of mortality was observed in catechol derivatives I-III (1600 mg/kg b.wt) and catechol derivative IV (1250 mg/kg b.wt). In subacute study, daily oral administration of catechol derivatives I-IV (300 mg/kg b.wt) for 30 days did not result in death or significant changes in the body weight and organ weight, In hematological and some biochemical analysis showed few beneficial effects particularly in catechol derivatives I and IV treated rats that is transient rise in WBC count and HDL cholesterol and decrease in LDL, plasma and tissue lipid profile. These results indicate the impact of catechol derivatives in boosting the immune system and reducing cardiovascular risk factors and thereby they possess cardio protective and immunopotentiating effect. Further, histopathological examination of liver and kidney showed normal architecture that suggests no morphological disturbances. Based on the results obtained, it may be concluded that the catechol derivatives are potentially toxic but therapeutically effective.

Medicinal Plants from North and Central America and the Caribbean Considered Toxic for Humans: The Other Side of the Coin

The consumption of medicinal plants has notably increased over the past two decades. People consider herbal products as safe because of their natural origin, without taking into consideration whether these plants contain a toxic principle. This represents a serious health problem. A bibliographic search was carried out using published scientific material on native plants from Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, which describe the ethnobotanical and toxicological information of medicinal plants empirically considered to be toxic. A total of 216 medicinal plants belonging to 77 families have been reported as toxic. Of these plants, 76 had been studied, and 140 plants lacked studies regarding their toxicological effects. The toxicity of 16 plants species has been reported in clinical cases, particularly in children. From these plants, deaths have been reported with the consumption of Chenopodium ambrosioides, Argemone mexicana, and Thevetia peruviana. In most of the cases, the principle of the plant responsible for the toxicity is unknown. There is limited information about the toxicity of medicinal plants used in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. More toxicological studies are necessary to contribute information about the safe use of the medicinal plants cited in this review.

Liver toxicity mechanisms of herbs commonly used in Latin America

Mexico owns approximately 4500 medicinal plants species, a great diversity that position it at the second place after China. According to the Mexican health department, 90% of common population consumes them to treat various diseases. Additionally, herbal remedies in Latin America (LA) are considered a common practice, but the frequency of use and the liver damage related to its consumption is still unknown. Despite the high prevalence and indiscriminate herbal consumption, the exact mechanism of hepatotoxicity and adverse effects is not fully clarified and is still questioned. Some herb products associated with herb induced liver injury (HILI) are characterized by presenting a different chemical composition that may vary from batch to batch, also the biological activity of many medicinal plants and other natural products are directly related to their most active component and its concentration. There are two main biological components that are associated with liver damage, alkaloids, and flavonoids, which are frequent constituents of commonly used herbs. The interaction with the different cytochrome P-450 isoforms, inflammatory, and oxidative activities seem to be the main damage pathway involved in the liver. It is important to know the herbal adverse effects and mechanisms involved; therefore, this article is focused on the beneficial and deleterious effects as well as the possible toxicity mechanisms and interactions of the herbs that are frequently used in LA, since the herb-host interaction may not always be the expected or desired depending on the clinical context in which it is administered.

The effect of Aloe vera gel and sweet almond oil on striae gravidarum in nulliparous women

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Striae are linear depressions of the skin and causes psychological and sexual problems in person. Different methods are used to prevent and treat them but there is no definitive method. We compared the effect of Aloe vera gel and sweet almond oil on striae gravidarum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this double-blind clinical trial, 160 nulliparous women were enrolled and randomly divided into three case groups and one control group. The four groups were given 700 g Aloe vera, sweet almond oil, and base cream to use topically on the abdominal skin and forth group don't receive any medication as control group in five steps, they were examined study's variables (itching, erythema, and spread of striae) using statistical tests in SPSS.

RESULT

The findings showed that Aloe vera and sweet almond oil creams are more effective than the base cream and the control group to decrease itching and erythema and to prevent the spread of striae on the surface of abdomen (p < .05); however, all three creams had a similar effect on the diameter and the number of striae (p > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Aloe vera and sweet almond oil creams reduce the itching of striae and prevent their progression.

IN VITRO EFFECTS OF A COMMERCIAL HERBAL MEDICINE USED AS AFRICAN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE ON HUMAN NEUTROPHILS

Background:

Commercial herbal medicines (CHMs) being marketed as immune boosters or tonics, have gained widespread popularity. The many herbal mixtures sold have not been tested for efficacy and safety, despite their modern packaging and presentations. It is imperative that these herbal mixtures be investigated for their effects on human neutrophils.

Methods:

The selected herbal mixture (HM), Stametta™ Body healing liquid, is common in retail outlets in Pretoria, South Africa (SA) and is used as an immune booster or intended to strengthen the body. Isolated neutrophils as well as those in whole blood phagocytes were obtained from blood samples collected from consenting healthy adult volunteers. The neutrophils were incubated with the HM at different strengths, and taken through a luminol-enhanced luminescence assay, using activators- phorbol myristate acetate and N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine.

Results:

The HM had variable stimulatory and inhibitory effects on the luminescence activity of healthy isolated and non-isolated human neutrophils. The effects, ranging from weak to potent were either directly or inversely related to the concentration of the HM and were mediated through a direct protein kinase C activating mechanism and an indirect formyl peptide receptor-linked mechanism.

Conclusion:

The findings have shown the immunomodulatory potential of Stametta™. The in vitro inhibitory and stimulatory effects on neutrophils which are furthermore time-based, suggest variable effects on the immune system, which may be beneficial as well as risky. The effects at different concentrations highlight the importance of appropriate dosing. It would therefore be prudent to caution users of this commercial herbal medicine accordingly.

Old and new oral anticoagulants: Food, herbal medicines and drug interactions

The most commonly prescribed oral anticoagulants worldwide are the vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) such as warfarin. Factors affecting the pharmacokinetics of VKAs are important because deviations from their narrow therapeutic window can result in bleedings due to over-anticoagulation or thrombosis because of under-anticoagulation. In addition to pharmacodynamic interactions (e.g., augmented bleeding risk for concomitant use of NSAIDs), interactions with drugs, foods, herbs, and over-the-counter medications may affect the risk/benefit ratio of VKAs. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) including Factor Xa inhibitors (rivaroxaban, apixaban and edoxaban) and thrombin inhibitor (dabigatran) are poised to replace warfarin. Phase-3 studies and real-world evaluations have established that the safety profile of DOACs is superior to those of VKAs. However, some pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions are expected. Herein we present a critical review of VKAs and DOACs with focus on their potential for interactions with drugs, foods, herbs and over-the-counter medications.

Ethnopharmacological survey of medicinal plants used by patients with psoriasis in the West Bank of Palestine

Background

Psoriasis is a frequent skin inflammatory disorder that inflicts millions of patients around the globe. To meet their healthcare needs, patients with psoriasis often seek treatment outside the allopathic paradigm. Use of medicinal plants has emerged as one of the most common and preferred modalities of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The aim of this study was to investigate the use of medicinal plants by patients with psoriasis in the West Bank of Palestine.

Methods

The current study was a questionnaire based cross-sectional descriptive study on the use of medicinal plants by psoriasis patients in the West Bank of Palestine. A sample of 149 patients with psoriasis who were visiting outpatient clinics responded to the questionnaire in face to face interviews.

Results

Medicinal plants were used by 81 (54.4%) patients with psoriasis. Patients used 33 medicinal plants belonging to 26 families. Plants belonging to Lamiaceae and Leguminosae were the most commonly used by the study patients. Aloe vera, Trigonella arabica, Catharanthus roseus and Anthemis cotula were the most frequently used medicinal plants to treat psoriasis. Leaves and fruits were the most commonly used parts by the study patients. Paste was the most commonly used form of preparation. The use of medicinal plants was significantly associated with age and monthly household income of the patients. Enhancement of immunity, improving conventional therapy and reduction of side effects were the most commonly self-reported reasons for using medicinal plants.

Conclusions

Patients with psoriasis in Palestine seem to use medicinal plants as a CAM modality to manage their psoriasis. Many medicinal plants were commonly used by patients with psoriasis. More randomized clinical trials are needed to demonstrate safety and efficacy for the majority of these medicinal plants reported to be used by patients with psoriasis in Palestine.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12906-016-1503-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Urtica dioica pollen allergy: Clinical, biological, and allergomics analysis

BACKGROUND

The most emblematic members of Urticaceae at allergic risk level are wall pellitories (Parietaria), whereas nettle (Urtica) pollen is considered as poorly allergenic. No allergen from nettle pollen has yet been characterized, whereas 4 are listed for Parietaria pollen by the International Union of Immunological Societies. Clinical and biological profiles of 2 adult men who developed symptoms against nettle pollen and/or leaves were studied.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the allergic reaction and identify the potential nettle pollen sensitizing allergens.

METHODS

IgE-mediated reaction to nettle pollen extract was evaluated by skin prick test, immunoassay, nasal provocation, and basophil activation test. To characterize specific nettle pollen allergens, an allergomic (IgE immunoproteomic) analysis was performed combining 1- and 2-dimensional electrophoresis, IgE immunoblots of nettle pollen extract, identification of allergens by mass spectrometry, and database queries.

RESULTS

The results of biological and immunochemical analyses revealed that the allergic rhinitis was due to Urtica dioica pollen in both patients. The allergomic analysis of nettle pollen extract allowed the characterization of 4 basic protein allergens: a thaumatin-like protein (osmotin) with a relative molecular mass of 27 to 29 kDa, a pectinesterase (relative molecular mass, 40 kDa), and 2 other basic proteins with relative molecular masses of 14 to 16 kDa and 43 kDa. There is no or only very weak allergen associations between pellitory and nettle pollen.

CONCLUSION

Exposure to nettle pollen can be responsible of allergic symptoms, and several allergens were characterized. Unravelling the allergens of this underestimated allergy might help to improve diagnosis and care for patients, to predict cross-reactivities and design adapted specific immunotherapy.

Effect of human milk as a treatment for dry eye syndrome in a mouse model

PURPOSE

Dry eye syndrome (DES) affects millions of people worldwide. Homeopathic remedies to treat a wide variety of ocular diseases have previously been documented in the literature, but little systematic work has been performed to validate the remedies' efficacy using accepted laboratory models of disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of human milk and nopal cactus (prickly pear), two widely used homeopathic remedies, as agents to reduce pathological markers of DES.

METHODS

The previously described benzalkonium chloride (BAK) dry eye mouse model was used to study the efficacy of human milk and nopal cactus (prickly pear). BAK (0.2%) was applied to the mouse ocular surface twice daily to induce dry eye pathology. Fluorescein staining was used to verify that the animals had characteristic signs of DES. After induction of DES, the animals were treated with human milk (whole and fat-reduced), nopal, nopal extract derivatives, or cyclosporine four times daily for 7 days. Punctate staining and preservation of corneal epithelial thickness, measured histologically at the end of treatment, were used as indices of therapeutic efficacy.

RESULTS

Treatment with BAK reduced the mean corneal epithelial thickness from 36.77±0.64 μm in the control mice to 21.29±3.2 μm. Reduction in corneal epithelial thickness was largely prevented by administration of whole milk (33.2±2.5 μm) or fat-reduced milk (36.1±1.58 μm), outcomes that were similar to treatment with cyclosporine (38.52±2.47 μm), a standard in current dry eye therapy. In contrast, crude or filtered nopal extracts were ineffective at preventing BAK-induced loss of corneal epithelial thickness (24.76±1.78 μm and 27.99±2.75 μm, respectively), as were solvents used in the extraction of nopal materials (26.53±1.46 μm for ethyl acetate, 21.59±5.87 μm for methanol). Epithelial damage, as reflected in the punctate scores, decreased over 4 days of treatment with whole and fat-reduced milk but continued to increase in eyes treated with nopal-derived materials.

CONCLUSIONS

Whole and fat-reduced human milk showed promising effects in the prevention of BAK-induced loss of corneal epithelial thickness and epithelial damage in this mouse model. Further studies are required to determine whether human milk may be safely used to treat dry eye in patients.

Urtica dioica leaves modulates hippocampal smoothened-glioma associated oncogene-1 pathway and cognitive dysfunction in chronically stressed mice

The present study was aimed to evaluate the effect of Urtica dioica (UD) extract against chronic unpredictable stress (CUS)-induced associative memory dysfunction and attempted to explore the possible mechanism. Male Swiss albino mice (25-30g) were divided into six groups, viz. group-I received 0.3% carboxymethyl cellulose and served as control (CTRL), group II was exposed to CUS (21days) and received vehicle (CUS), group III was subjected to CUS and received Hypericum perforatum extract (350mg/kg, p.o.) (CUS+HYP), group IV received Hypericum perforatum extract (350mg/kg, p.o.) (CTRL+HYP); group V was subjected to CUS and received UD extract (50mg/kg, p.o.) (CUS+UD), group VI received UD extract (50mg/kg, p.o.) (CTRL+UD). CUS significantly induced body weight loss (p<0.05) and associative memory impairment in step down task (p<0.05) as compared to control mice. CUS significantly downregulated Smo (p<0.05), Gli1 (p<0.01), cyclin D1 (p<0.05), BDNF (p<0.01), TrKB (p<0.01) and MAPK1 (p<0.01) mRNA expression in hippocampus as compared to control mice. CUS significantly increased the levels of TBARS (p<0.01) and nitric oxide (p<0.001), and decreased catalase (p<0.001) and total thiol (p<0.01) in plasma resulting in oxidative stress and inflammation. Chronic UD administration significantly reverted CUS mediated body weight loss (p<0.05) and cognitive impairment (p<0.05). UD administration significantly decreased the levels of TBARS (p<0.01) and nitric oxide (p<0.05), and increased the levels of catalase (p<0.01) and total thiol (p<0.05) in plasma. Chronic UD administration significantly upregulated hippocampal Smo (p<0.05), Gli1 (p<0.001), cyclin D1 (p<0.05), BDNF (p<0.05), TrKB (p<0.05) and MAPK1 (p<0.05) in stressed mice. Further, UD extract did not reverse cyclopamine induced downregulation of Gli1 and Ptch1 mRNA in hippocampal slices. UD modulated Smo-Gli1 pathway in the hippocampus as well as exerted anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. UD extract might prove to be effective for stress mediated neurological disorders.

ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF GYMNOSPERMA GLUTINOSUM (SPRENG.) LESS. (ASTERACEAE) METHANOL EXTRACTS AGAINST HELICOBACTER PYLORI

BACKGROUND

Prolonged use of antibiotics may lead to the selection of drug-resistant bacteria; as a result, efforts are being made to identify new and effective antimicrobial agents, particularly, from medicinal plants, against bacterial infections. Antimicrobial activity of Gymnosperma glutinosum against Helicobacter pylori has not yet been reported.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antibacterial in vitro effect of Gymnosperma glutinosum methanol leaf extracts against Helicobacter pylori (ATCC 43504) was evaluated in liquid medium by the colorimetric 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction assay and in solid medium by the colony forming units (CFU) method.

RESULTS

Methanol extracts significantly (p<0.05) inhibited in vitro H. pylori growth in liquid medium from 24% to 82% at concentrations ranging from 31.25 mg/ml to 500 mg/ml, respectively, and in solid medium the extracts caused significant (p<0.05) 52% and 100% bacterial growth inhibition at concentrations of 250 μg/mL and 500 μg/mL, respectively, as compared with untreated control. Methanol vehicle did not affect H. pylori growth.

CONCLUSION

The observed antibacterial effect of G. glutinosum extracts may be of benefit as an adjuvant treatment of diseases caused by H. pylori.

Anti-inflammatory and toxicological evaluation of Moussonia deppeana (Schldl. & Cham) Hanst and Verbascoside as a main active metabolite

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Moussonia deppeana, known as Tlachichinole, is a Mexican medicinal plant used for treatment of inflammatory diseases, influenza, diarrhea, gastrointestinal disorders and arthritis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this paper the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities as well as the acute and sub-acute toxicological effects were evaluated for the ethanolic extract from aerial parts of M. deppeana, also its phytochemical analysis is described.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phytochemical analysis and compound isolation were performed with thin layer chromatography. The chemical identification of the main compound was performed by (1)H NMR (COSY, NOESY, HSQC and HMBC) spectra. In vitro antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content for the ethanolic extract and its primary fractions was determined by DPPH and Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. Acute and subacute toxicity tests were evaluated on Balb/C mice. Finally acute anti-inflammatory evaluation was tested for a local (TPA) and systemic (carrageenan) murine model.

RESULTS

The main compound isolated from the ethanolic extract of M. deppeana was Verbascoside, which was isolated from F3 and was identified by (1)H NMR and COSY data. Furthermore oleanolic and ursolic acids were isolated from primary fractions F1 and F2. Ethanolic extract showed IC50 = 6.71mg/mL for DPPH test and 664.12µg QE/mL for the total phenolic content. The LD50 value was >2g/kg by i.g. route in male and female mice. Sub-acute administration (28 days) of the ethanolic extract (1g/kg) did not cause lethality or alter any hematological and biochemical parameters, in addition, histological analysis of the major organs exhibited no structural changes. Anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanolic extract showed an ED50 = 1.5mg/ear and 450mg/kg for TPA and carrageenan test, respectively. Primary fractions generated moderate local and systemic anti-inflammatory activity.

CONCLUSION

The ethanolic extract from the aerial parts of M. deppeana did not cause any lethality or adverse effect in either of the acute and sub-acute toxicity tests. This exhibited an important local and systemic anti-inflammatory activity and also moderate antioxidant capacity. Moreover, the primary fraction F2 was more active for the TPA model while the primary fraction F3 was most active in the carrageenan model in vivo. The main compound isolated from F3 was verbascoside; on the other hand also ursolic and oleanolic acids were isolated from F1 and F2.

Herbal Medicine in Mexico: A Cause of Hepatotoxicity. A Critical Review

In Mexico, herbal products are commonly used as therapeutic tools. The analysis of several publications reveals that there are dozens of different herbs and herbal products used for different reasons, some of which have been implicated in causing toxic liver disease. However, methodological aspects limit the attribution of causality, and the precise incidence and clinical manifestations of herb-induced liver injury have not been well characterized. This review outlines the history of traditional herbal medicine in Mexico, critically summarizes the mechanisms and adverse effects of commonly used herbal plants, and examines the regulatory issues regarding the legal use of these products.

Toxicological evaluation of the natural products and some semisynthetic derivatives of Heterotheca inuloides Cass (Asteraceae)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Heterotheca ineuloides Cass (Asteraceae), popularly known as árnica mexicana, is widely used in Mexican traditional medicine to treat bruises, dermatological problems, rheumatic pains, and other disorders as cancer. The major constituents in H. inuloides are cadinane type sesquiterpenes, flavonoids and phytosterols. Compounds with a cadinane skeleton have been proved to possess cytotoxic activity against human-tumor cell lines and brine shrimp, and display toxic effects in different animal species. Although this plant has been widely used, there is little available information on the safety and toxicity especially of pure compounds.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

Evaluate the potential toxicity of the natural products isolated from H. inuloides and some semisynthetic derivatives.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The toxic aspects of the following natural products isolated from dried flowers of H. inuloides: 7-hydroxy-3,4-dihydrocadalene (1), 7-hydroxycadalene (2), 3,7-dihydroxy-3(4H)-isocadalen-4-one (3), (1R,4R)-1-hydroxy-4H-1,2,3,4- tetrahydrocadalen-15-oic acid (4), D-chiro-inositol (5), quercetin (6), quercetin-3,7,3'-trimethyl ether (7), quercetin-3,7,3',4'-tetramethyl ether (8), eriodictyol-7,4'-dimethyl ether (9), α-spinasterol (10), caryolan-1,9β-diol (11) and 7-(3,3-dimethylallyloxy)-coumarin (12) as well as the toxic aspects of the semisynthetic compounds 7-acetoxy-3,4-dihydrocadalene (13), 7-benzoxy-3,4-dihydrocadalene (14), 7-acetoxycadalene (15), 7-benzoxycadalene (16), quercetin pentaacetate (17), 7-hydroxycalamenene (18), 3,8-dimethyl-5-(1-methylethyl)-1,2-naphthoquinone (19), and 4-isopropyl-1,6-dimethylbenzo[c]oxepine-7,9-dione (20). Toxic activities of compounds were determined by sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay, Artemia salina assay, RAW264.7 macrophage cells. Additionally, the acute toxicity in mouse of compound 1, the major natural sesquiterpene isolated from the acetone extract, was evaluated.

RESULTS

The best cytotoxicity activity was observed for mansonone C (19) on K562 cell line with IC50 1.45 ± 0.14 μM, for 7-hydroxycadalene (2) on HCT-15 cell line with IC50 18.89 ± 1.2 μM, and for quercetin pentaacetate (17) on MCF-7 cell line with IC50 22.57 ± 2.4 μM. Sesquiterpenes mansonone C (19) and 7-hydroxy-3,4-dihydrocadalene (1) caused the strongest deleterious effects against A. salina with IC50 39.4 ± 1.07, and 45.47 ± 1.74 μM, respectively. The number of viable RAW 264.7 cells was reduced with sesquiterpenes 1 and 2 by more than 90%. In addition, the acute study of 1 revealed no lethal effects at 300 mg/kg body weight, however, a reduction in the body weight of mice, morphological changes in the tissues of the liver and kidney and toxic signs were observed at very high doses (2000 mg/kg).

CONCLUSION

The results provided evidence for the cytotoxicity of Mexican arnica (H. inuloides) metabolites and may be correlated with one of the popular uses of this plant, in traditional Mexican medicine, as anticancer remedy. Among the active compounds contained in the acetone extract, the cytotoxic activity is mainly ascribable to cadinene type sesquiterpenes. In addition, evidence of acute toxicity suggests that 7-hydroxy-3,4-dihydrocadalene (1) may lead to toxicity at very high doses.

Assimilating Traditional Healing Into Preventive Medicine Residency Curriculum

Comprehensive cultural competency includes knowledge and awareness of culturally based healing and wellness practices. Healthcare providers should be aware of the individual patient's beliefs, culture, and use of culturally based health practices because patients may adopt such practices for general wellness or as adjunct therapies without the benefit of discussion with their healthcare provider. This article describes the culturally based traditional healing curriculum that has been implemented in the University of New Mexico Public Health and General Preventive Medicine Residency Program in order to fulfill this knowledge necessity. Curricular elements were added in a stepwise manner starting in 2011, with the full content as described implemented starting in 2013. Data were collected annually with evaluation of the full curriculum occurring in 2015. New Mexico has a diverse population base that includes predominantly Hispanic and Native American cultures, making the inclusion of curriculum regarding traditional healing practices very pertinent. Residents at the University of New Mexico were educated through several curricular components about topics such as Curanderismo, the art of Mexican Folk Healing. An innovative approach was used, with a compendium of training methods that included learning directly from traditional healers and participation in healing practices. The incorporation of this residency curriculum resulted in a means to produce physicians well trained in approaching patient care and population health with knowledge of culturally based health practices in order to facilitate healthy patients and communities.