Amla (Emblica officinalisGaertn.) prevents dyslipidaemia and oxidative stress in the ageing process

Recent advances in the potential of Phyllanthus emblica L. and its related foods for combating metabolic diseases through methylglyoxal trapping

Methylglyoxal (MG) serves as the primary precursor for the nonenzymatic glycation of proteins and DNA, leading to advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Regular intake of dietary MG is strongly correlated with low-grade inflammation, potentially accelerating the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases, including obesity, diabetes, cancers, liver diseases, Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular diseases, aging, and bone loss. Although pharmaceutical agents (pimagedine and candesartan) have been developed to inhibit MG formation, they often come with serious side effects (nausea, diarrhea, headache, gastrointestinal disturbance, symptomatic hypotension, abnormal renal and liver function tests, development of antinuclear antibody, pernicious-like anemia, and hyperkalemia), highlighting the need for an efficient and safe approach to scavenging MG. Phyllanthus emblica Linn fruit, a nutritious edible fruit, and medicinal plant contains over 300 bioactive compounds. Among twenty-three herbals, 100 μg/mL of the aqueous extract of Phyllanthus emblica fruit (APF) exhibits the highest potency in trapping MG, achieving an 87.3 % reduction under d-fructose induced BSA-AGEs formation. However, there are few reports detailing APF and its related foods' specific impact on disease prevention through MG trapping. This review summarizes the mechanisms through which MG is linked to the development of metabolic diseases and provides several strategies for reducing MG levels using APF and its bioactive compounds. The potential antiglycation properties of APF may offer new applications in the food industry and pharmacological research.

Networkodynamic approach to perceive the key phytoconstituents of E. officinalis (Amla) as natural BACE1 inhibitors: an in-silico study

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a deteriorating neural disorder, and currently, available drugs are ineffective in its treatment. Emblica officinalis (Amla) is widely recognised in the Indian medicinal system for ameliorative effects in managing diabetes, hyperlipidaemia and neurological diseases. Thus, we aimed to identify the active phytoconstituents of E. officinalis and their role in inhibiting the potential targets for the possible treatment of AD. The network pharmacology approach, gene ontology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) studies were performed. A total of 36 bioactive components in E. officinalis, 95 predicted anti-AD targets, and 3398 AD-related targets were identified from different databases. The network analysis showed that BACE1, ABCB1 and AChE, CA2 are the most potential AD targets. Based on gene ontology and topology analysis results, BACE1 was a significant target related to AD pathways, and quercetin, kaempferol and myricetin showed the highest interaction with target genes. The molecular docking results found that rutin and quercetin displayed better binding affinities -7.5, -5.67 kcal/mol than the BACE1 bound internal ligand. Furthermore, MDS results suggested that quercetin and rutin could be potential inhibitors against BACE-1 protein and may have therapeutic effects in treating AD. Such promising results could be further helpful in new drug discovery against AD.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Abundance, foraging behavior and pollination efficiency of insects visiting the flowers of Aonla (Emblica officinalis)

Many insect species visit the flowers of a plant and play an important role in their pollination. Of late, the interest of the pollination biologists has been to determine their relative contribution towards the reproductive success of the plant. Such information is lacking on the pollinators of Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.), a plant of very high nutritive and medicinal importance. Therefore, let’s attempt to make this study to generate such information on this plant. The study was conducted on three varieties of Aonla (viz. Chakaiya, NA-7 and NA-10) for two years. An entire range of flower visitors of this fruit plant was captured with hand net from its field during its flowering period and were identified. On the basis of foraging mode, the flower visitors were characterized as pollinators and non-pollinators. Their abundances, foraging rates, activity durations and number of pollen grains carried on the surface were recorded, and these parameters were used to determine their relative contribution towards the reproductive success of this plant. Among the 12 insect species visiting the flowers of Aonla at the study site, 5 belonged to Hymenoptera, 6 to Diptera and one to Lepidoptera. Apis dorsata was the most abundant visitor having maximal foraging rate and carried maximal number of loose pollen grains, followed by A. mellifera, A. florea and Sarcophaga sp; other visitors had lesser values of these parameters. On the basis of these parameters, melittophilous mode of pollination was found to predominate in Aonla. However, the plant was found to be benefitted from the multispecies pollinator guild, and the pollinator diversity seemed to matter for maximization of pollination in Aonla. Therefore, there is a dire need to conserve the pollinator diversity

Enhanced Physicochemical Stability of the L-DOPA Extract of Mucuna pruriens Seeds by Adding Phyllanthus emblica

Levodopa (L-DOPA) is an essential drug for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Currently, L-DOPA can be produced by chemical synthesis and can also be found naturally in many herbs, especially Mucuna Pruriens (MP). According to clinical research, the MP extract containing L-DOPA for the treatment of Parkinson's disease could reduce side effects more than the synthetic one. Unfortunately, MP extracts can be easily degraded. Changes in physical and chemical properties such as the appearance (color, melt, solid lump) and the reduction of L-DOPA content in the extract were commonly observed. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an extraction procedure to stabilize the extract of L-DOPA. This study attempted to enhance the extraction process by modifying the traditional acidification approach using hydrochloric acid, citric acid, or ascorbic acid. According to the stability test results, using Phyllanthus emblica water (PEW) as a solvent improved the preservative properties more than other solvents. The color of the PEW-MP powder changed slightly after 12 months of accelerated storage, but the amount of L-DOPA remained the highest (73.55%). Moreover, L-DOPA was only detected in MP and PEW-MP, but not PEW alone (the HPTLC chromatogram at Rf 0.48 and the HPLC chromatogram at Rt 6.0 min). The chemical profiles of PEW and L-DOPA observed in the chromatograms indicated that they are independently separated. As a result, they can be applied to a quality control process. Therefore, PEW was proven to be a powerful solvent for L-DOPA herbal extract that could be readily used as a raw material for herbal products.

Functional and Nutraceutical Significance of Amla (Phyllanthus emblica L.): A Review

Phyllanthus emblica L. (also popularly known as amla) is a tree native to the India and Southeast Asia regions that produces fruits rich in bioactive compounds that could be explored as part of the increasing interest in naturally occurring compounds with biological activity. Thus, this review aims to highlight the nutritional aspects, rich phytochemistry and health-promoting effects of amla. Scientific evidence indicates that polyphenols are central components in fruits and other sections of the amla tree, as well as vitamin C. The rich composition of polyphenol and vitamin C imparts an important antioxidant activity along with important in vivo effects that include improved antioxidant status and activity of the endogenous antioxidant defense system. Other potential health benefits are the anti-hyperlipidemia and antidiabetic activities as well as the anticancer, anti-inflammatory, digestive tract and neurological protective activities. The promising results provided by the studies about amla bioactive compounds support their potential role in assisting the promotion of health and prevention of diseases.

Insight about the biochemical composition, postharvest processing, therapeutic potential of Indian gooseberry (amla), and its utilization in development of functional foods-A comprehensive review

Indian gooseberry/Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn. syn. Phyllanthus emblica L) has an amazing nutritional profile and is a reservoir of biologically active compounds which have potential health benefits and are regarded as a remedy for lethal diseases. The unique features of amla, conferred by their bioactive components, have extended future prospects about their usage for useful effects on human nutrition and health globally. With the rapidly growing popularity of this unique therapeutic fruit, it is important to have comprehensive knowledge of this fruit. The current review article presents the nutritional profile, bioactive components, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, and postharvest processing of amla fruit. Moreover, studies related to therapeutic properties of amla and its utilization in development of functional foods have been presented in this review. E. officinalis is a promising source of bioactive compounds which showed varied potential in the management of a number of human ailments which has been proven through various studies. Therefore, amla should be taken in the regular diet, thereby utilizing its potential health benefits. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Amla (Indian gooseberry), as source of natural bioactive compounds, has a great potential application in improving the status of human nutrition and health. The utilization of amla extract has various biological effects, like antimicrobial, antioxidant, gastroprotective, anticancer, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, radioprotective, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory effect, owing to its bioactive components. The use of amla extract has recently increased in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products to replace synthetic antioxidants which have inherent harmful health effects. The review report will provide information on bioactive components, therapeutic properties, utilization of amla in the development of future functional foods, and postharvest processing of amla, which will provide critical information to researchers all over the world.

Traditional uses, bioactive composition, pharmacology, and toxicology of Phyllanthus emblica fruits: A comprehensive review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The fruits of Phyllanthus emblica Linn or Emblica officinalis Gaertn (Phyllanthaceae), (FPE) commonly known as Indian gooseberry or Amla, gained immense importance in indigenous traditional medicinal systems, including Ayurveda, for its medicinal and nutritional benefits. It is used to cure several diseases such as common cold, fever, cough, asthma, bronchitis, diabetes, cephalalgia, ophthalmopathy, dyspepsia, colic, flatulence, hyperacidity, peptic ulcer, erysipelas, skin diseases, leprosy, hematogenesis, inflammation, anemia, emaciation, hepatopathy, jaundice, diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhages, leucorrhea, menorrhagia, cardiac disorders, and premature greying of hair.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In the present review, we presented a comprehensive analysis of the ethnopharmacology, bioactive composition, and toxicity of P. emblica to identify the gap between research and the current applications and to help explore the trends and perspectives for future studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We collected the literature published before April 2021 on the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicity of FPE. Literature in English from scientific databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley, Springer, and Google Scholar, books. These reports were analyzed and summarized to prepare this review. The plant taxonomy was verified by "The Plant List" database (http://www.theplantlist.org).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

s: FPE have been used as a rich source of vitamin C, minerals, and amino acids. Several bioactive molecules were isolated and identified from FPE such as tannins, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, alkaloids, ascorbic acid etc. The in vitro and in vivo pharmacological studies on FPE revealed its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anticancer, radioprotective, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, hypolipidemic, anti-venom, wound healing, HIV-reverse transcriptase effect. Toxicological studies on fruits indicated the absence of any adverse effect even at a high dose after oral administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Although FPE showed remarkable therapeutic activities against several diseases such as diabetes, cancer, inflammation, hepatitis B virus, and malaria, there were several drawbacks in some previous reports including the lack of information on the drug dose, standards, controls, and mechanism of action of the extract. Further in-depth studies are required to explain the mechanism of action of the extracts to reveal the role of the bioactive compounds in the reported activities.

The Effects of Nutraceuticals and Bioactive Natural Compounds on Chronic Periodontitis: A Clinical Review

The paper aims to review the current clinical evidence of various herbal agents as an adjunct treatment in the management of chronic periodontitis patients. Gingivitis and periodontitis are two common infectious inflammatory diseases of the supporting tissues of the teeth and have a multifactorial etiology. An important concern about chronic periodontitis is its association with certain systemic disease. New treatment strategies for controlling the adverse effects of chronic periodontitis have been extensively assessed and practiced in sub-clinical and clinical studies. It has been shown that the phytochemical agents have various therapeutic properties such as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects which can be beneficial for the treatment of periodontitis. The findings of this review support the adjunctive use of herbal agents in the management of chronic periodontitis. Heterogeneity and limited data may reduce the impact of these conclusions. Future long-term randomized controlled trials evaluating the clinical efficacy of adjunctive herbal therapy to scaling and root planing are needed.

Antioxidant and immunomodulatory effect of AKSS16-LIV01 – a multi herbal formulation against ethanol induced liver dysfunction in mice

Background

Liver complication arises commonly due to high alcohol consumption rate. Majority of the people residing in both developed and under developed countries consuming alcohol face various liver complications such as liver fibrosis, fatty liver, liver cirrhosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma. Invention of safe and symptomatic medication to overcome this situation is a new challenge worldwide. The main objective of the study is to deliver a safe and symptomatic medication to reduce the ethanol induced liver dysfunction.

Methods

In this study we have developed a multi herbal formulation (AKSS-16-LIV01) which minimised liver damage against various toxicants. Swiss albino mice were divided into seven groups where ethanol induced damage was observed for weeks followed by sanative response observation by our herbal formulation. The groups are normal control group, ethanol treated group (50% v/v), AKSS16-LIV01 low dose (75 mg/kg/day) pre-treated group, AKSS16-LIV01 middle dose (150 mg/kg/day) pre-treated group, AKSS16-LIV01 high dose (300 mg/kg/day) pre-treated group, Sylimarin pre-treated group (100 mg/kg/day) and only AKSS16-LIV01 (300 mg/kg/day) treated group.

Results

The results potrayed significant elevation of various biochemical parameters, lipid profile parameters, lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide (NO) concentration, nitric oxide synthase level and pro inflammatory cytokines level i.e. tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor (TGF-β1) in the ethanol induced mice. On the other hand serum total protein, total albumin, albumin globulin ratio and level of tissue antioxidant enzymes activity (SOD, CAT, GSH and GPx) were significantly reduced by ethanol. Dose depended therapeutic application of the formulation (AKSS16-LIV01) significantly suppressed all the relevant above parameters and protected the liver from ethanol induced fibrogenesis. Apart from this gross morphology of the liver, H&E liver histology and massontrichrome&serius red examination of the liver section strongly supported the hepatoprotive effect of the formulation as compared with standard drug Sylimarin. Result of the study implies that developed multi herbal formulation (AKSS16-LIV01) at a dose of 300 mg/kg/day gave the best optimum response to reduce the ethanol intoxication.

Conclusion

Result clearly depict that AKSS16-LIV01 may be a safe and nontoxic medication which protect the liver against ethanol induced oxidative injury and maintained pro inflammatory cytokines level in the future.

Graphical Abstract

Phyllanthus emblica L. (amla) branch: A safe and effective ingredient against skin aging

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Skin aging influences the changes in skin, including skin dryness, wrinkle, and irregular pigmentation. Amla (Phyllanthus emblica L.) branch has shown several benefits, but not the anti-skin aging. The study aimed to evaluate the anti-skin aging efficacy of amla branch.

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

Amla branches were standardized the phenolic acids. The extract was investigated anti-skin aging activities, including antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, anti-melanogenesis, and matrix metalloproteinase-2 inhibitory assays. Topical gel containing extract was prepared and evaluated the skin irritation by a single closed patch test. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-control study was performed in 20 volunteers for 84 consecutive days. The tested skin was evaluated by Chromameter® CR 400, Dermalab® USB, Mexameter® MX 18, Corneometer® CM 825, and Visioscan® VC 98.

RESULTS

Amla branch extract, a dark brown powder, consisted a variety of phenolic acids, mainly sinapic and ferulic acids. The extract exhibited the potent antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activities in vitro assays and the melanin suppression through inhibition of tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein-2 activities, the strong antioxidant, and the potent matrix metalloproteinase-2 in cellular assays at 0.1 mg/mL. Topical gel containing 0.1% extract was a stable and safe formulation. Clinical study was proved the superior anti-skin aging efficacy, including the lightening skin color, the enhanced skin elasticity and hydration, and the skin wrinkle reduction.

CONCLUSION

The study results suggested that amla branch is a rich source of bioactive compounds and can be a potential ingredient for utilization in anti-skin aging products.

The Effects of Medicinal Plants and Bioactive Natural Compounds on Homocysteine

BACKGROUND

Among non-communicable diseases, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in global communities. By 2030, CVD-related deaths are projected to reach a global rise of 25 million. Obesity, smoking, alcohol, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and hyperhomocysteinemia are several known risk factors for CVDs. Elevated homocysteine is tightly related to CVDs through multiple mechanisms, including inflammation of the vascular endothelium. The strategies for appropriate management of CVDs are constantly evolving; medicinal plants have received remarkable attention in recent researches, since these natural products have promising effects on the prevention and treatment of various chronic diseases. The effects of nutraceuticals and herbal products on CVD/dyslipidemia have been previously studied. However, to our knowledge, the association between herbal bioactive compounds and homocysteine has not been reviewed in details. Thus, the main objective of this study is to review the efficacy of bioactive natural compounds on homocysteine levels according to clinical trials and animal studies.

RESULTS

Based on animal studies, black and green tea, cinnamon, resveratrol, curcumin, garlic extract, ginger, and soy significantly reduced the homocysteine levels. According to the clinical trials, curcumin and resveratrol showed favorable effects on serum homocysteine. In conclusion, this review highlighted the beneficial effects of medicinal plants as natural, inexpensive, and accessible agents on homocysteine levels based on animal studies. Nevertheless, the results of the clinical trials were not uniform, suggesting that more well-designed trials are warranted.

Antihypertensive and pleiotropic effects of Phyllanthus emblica extract as an add-on therapy in patients with essential hypertension-A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial

Essential hypertension is an important cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality that is compounded by concomitant risk factors like diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia. Phyllanthus emblica is a rich source of antioxidants, tannins, and vitamin C and is used in treating various ailments in traditional medicine. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of aqueous extract of Phyllanthus emblica on essential hypertension and other protective actions. This randomized controlled trial was conducted on 150 patients with essential hypertension. Participants were randomly assigned to receive Phyllanthus emblica capsule (500 mg) or placebo twice daily, added to their routine medications for 12 weeks. Blood pressure was assessed at baseline, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after beginning treatment or placebo. Other investigations like lipid parameters, oxidant and antioxidant enzyme levels, hs-CRP levels, HbA1C, LFT, RFT, uric acid, and endothelial function were measured at baseline and 12 weeks. Both Phyllanthus emblica and placebo groups were comparable at baseline. Phyllanthus emblica had a good safety profile in patients with essential hypertension. However, the treatment with Phyllanthus emblica failed to produce any additional reduction in systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure levels and did not exhibit improvement in oxidant status, antioxidant capacity, lipid profile, HbA1C, arterial stiffness parameters, or hs-CRP levels.

Nutraceutical effects of Emblica officinalis in age-related macular degeneration

Emblica officinalis Gaetrn (i.e., Phyllanthus emblica/ Indian gooseberry/ Amla) (EO) has been used extensively as a nutraceutical in several diseases since it is known to boost immunity and offers numerous health benefits such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects. The goal of our study was to test the hypothesis that EO will rescue human AMD RPE transmitochondrial cells from mitochondria-induced cellular damage. AMD RPE transmitochondrial cell lines were created by fusion of mitochondria DNA-deficient APRE-19 (Rho0) cells with platelets isolated from AMD patients, and therefore had identical nuclei but differed in mitochondrial DNA content. These AMD RPE cells were treated with EO extract followed by characterization of effects of EO using cellular and molecular assays. Herein, EO significantly improved live cell number and mitochondrial membrane potential, reduced apoptosis and oxidative stress, down-regulated VEGF, and up-regulated PGC-1α. In conclusion, EO improved cellular and mitochondrial health, thereby playing a key cytoprotective role in AMD in vitro. Further studies are required to examine the mechanisms that mediate the cytoprotective effects of EO.

Clinical evaluation of Emblica Officinalis Gatertn (Amla) in healthy human subjects: Health benefits and safety results from a randomized, double-blind, crossover placebo-controlled study

The preventive efficacies and safety of Emblica Officinalis Gatertn (Amla), a most important and extensively studied plant in the traditional Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine, are presented. Eligible healthy adult subjects (n = 15) were randomized to receive either amla or placebo (500 mg per day) during an 18-week study. The efficacy parameters evaluated were the vascular function, blood hematology, oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers, glucose and lipid profiles, urinalysis, and liver hepatotoxicity. The amla intake showed significant improvements in the primary efficacy parameter of blood fluidity. There were also improvements in the secondary endpoints including lowering of von Willebrand factor (vWF), reduced 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) as well as thrombin (TM) biomarkers of oxidative stress along with a significant improvement in HDL-cholesterol and lowering the LDL-cholesterol levels. No substantial changes were observed in liver hepatotoxicity, urinalysis, and hematology after consumption of amla compared to baseline or placebo. In addition, no adverse events, changes safety parameters or tolerance issues were observed after consumption of amla. In conclusion, amla supplementation showed acceptable palatability, improved endothelial functions and reduced oxidative stress.

Exploring the multifaceted neuroprotective actions of Emblica officinalis (Amla): a review

Today, neurological disorders such as epilepsy, depression, tardive dyskinesia, and stress, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, dementia, and Huntington's disease affect millions of people all over the world. Existing pharmacological interventions do not meet the desired therapeutic benefits for a significant number of patients, and hence, numerous research studies are in progress to find novel therapies for these disorders. Herbal drugs, which have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, are also being explored and scientifically evaluated for the treatment of these neurological disorders. While substantial evidence exists for the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, and anti-hyperglycemic effects of Emblica officinalis, in vivo and in vitro studies, have also revealed its beneficial therapeutic activities in numerous neurological disorders. These diverse neuroprotective pharmacodynamic actions of E. officinalis corroborated by accumulating evidence in pre-clinical research studies deserve the attention of the scientific community to develop viable pharmacotherapeutic strategies. The present review elaborates upon the latest scientific evidence pertaining to the pharmacological effects of E. officinalis in numerous neurological and neurodegenerative disorders and also gives way for future research in this area.

Amla (Emblica officinalis) improves hepatic and renal oxidative stress and the inflammatory response in hypothyroid female wistar rats fed with a high-fat diet

BACKGROUND

We investigated the protective effects of amla (Emblica officinalis) on the pathogenesis of oxidative stress (OS) and inflammatory response in hypothyroid rats fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) as an experimental model of hypothyroidism (HT) with obesity.

METHODS

A total of 80 female wistar rats (5-months-old) were divided into eight different groups. Propylthiouracil (PTU) and HFD were used to induce the experimental HT and obesity, respectively. The euthyroid and hypothyroid rats were fed either normal chow or HFD with and without amla extract (AE, 100 mg/kg bw/day) for 6 weeks. The blood and tissues, liver and kidney OS and inflammatory parameters were studied using appropriate biochemical and molecular techniques.

RESULTS

PTU and HFD per se caused OS and inflammatory response as evidenced by increased plasma MDA, TNF-α, CRP and GPx in association with decreased levels of TAS and reduced glutathione (GSH). The proteomic analysis revealed that the expressions of pERK, pP38, TNF-α, IL6, COX2 and NOX-4 were up-regulated in the liver and kidney of these rats. In addition, all these metabolic derangements were further augmented when HT was followed by the addition of HFD. This suggested that there was a synergism between HT and the intake of HFD on the development of OS and inflammatory response.

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment with amla fruit extract significantly restored the redox imbalance and inflammatory signaling and ameliorated OS and inflammatory response, suggesting the use of this natural compound as an alternative remedy or adjuvant for the management of metabolic complications concomitant with HT.

Chromane isolated from leaves of Dillenia indica improves the neuronal dysfunction in STZ-induced diabetic neuropathy

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

According to the Indian traditional medicine, Dillenia indica L. has shown therapeutic efficacy in various diseases. Fruits and leaves of the plant possess anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Reactive oxygen species, formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and apoptosis are implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of the present study was to explore the effect of D. indica and its isolate, chromane (CR), on thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia, allodynia, MNCV and oxidative-nitrosative stress in streptozotocin-induced experimental diabetes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal administration of Streptozotocin (STZ; 65mg/kg) for the development of diabetic neuropathy. Chronic treatment with DAE (100, 200 and 400mg/kg, p.o.) and CR (5 and 10mg/kg, p.o.) for 30 days was started from the 60th day of STZ administration. Development of neuropathy was evident from a marked hyperalgesia and allodynia; reduced MNCV associated with increased formation of AGEs and reactive oxygen species.

RESULTS

significantly attenuated behavioral and biochemical changes associated with diabetic neuropathy. Present study suggested that DAE and CR ameliorated hyperglycemia and diabetic neuropathic pain via modulation of oxidative-nitrosative stress and reduction in AGEs formation in the diabetic rats.

CONCLUSION

Thus D. indica might be beneficial in chronic diabetics, ameliorate the progression of diabetic neuropathy and may also find application in diabetic neuropathic pain.

Lupeol and Its Role in Chronic Diseases

Lupeol belongs to pentacyclic lupane-type triterpenes and exhibits in edible vegetables, fruits and many plants. Many researches indicated that lupeol possesses many beneficial pharmacological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-dyslipidemic and anti-mutagenic effects. From various disease-targeted animal models, these reports indicated that lupeol has anti-diabetic, anti-asthma, anti-arthritic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, neuroprotective and anticancer efficiency under various routes of administration such as topical, oral, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal and intravenous. It is worth mentioning that clinical trials of lupeol were performed to treat canine oral malignant melanoma and human moderate skin acne in Japan and Korea. The detailed mechanism of anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective and anticancer activities was further reviewed from published papers. These evidence indicate that lupeol is a multi-target agent to exert diverse pharmacological potency with many potential targeting proteins such as α-glucosidase, α-amylase, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP 1B) and TCA cycle enzymes and targeting pathway such as IL-1 receptor-associated kinase-mediated toll-like receptor 4 (IRAK-TLR4), Bcl-2 family, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3-K)/Akt and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways. This review also provides suggestion that lupeol might be a valuable and potential lead compound to develop as anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective and anticancer drugs.

The potential of natural products for targeting PPARα

Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) α, -γ and -β/δ are ligand-activated transcription factors and members of the superfamily of nuclear hormone receptor. These receptors play key roles in maintaining glucose and lipid homeostasis by modulating gene expression. PPARs constitute a recognized druggable target and indeed several classes of drugs used in the treatment of metabolic disease symptoms, such as dyslipidemia (fibrates, e.g. fenofibrate and gemfibrozil) and diabetes (thiazolidinediones, e.g. rosiglitazone and pioglitazone) are ligands for the various PPAR isoforms. More precisely, antidiabetic thiazolidinediones act on PPARγ, while PPARα is the main molecular target of antidyslipidemic fibrates. Over the past few years, our understanding of the mechanism underlying the PPAR modulation of gene expression has greatly increased. This review presents a survey on terrestrial and marine natural products modulating the PPARα system with the objective of highlighting how the incredible chemodiversity of natural products can provide innovative leads for this "hot" target.

Assessment of total polyphenols, antioxidants and antimicrobial properties of aonla varieties

Phenolic content, antioxidant activities and antimicrobial activities of methanolic, ethanolic and ethyl acetate extracts of five different varieties of aonla (Emblica officinalis) fruits as well their powders were evaluated. Total polyphenolic content in fresh aonla fruit extracts varied from 70.6 to 159.4 mg GAE/g and their EC 50 (effective concentration) values for antioxidant activity ranged from 46.72 to 359.7 µg/ml. Significant varietal difference were observed in antioxidant activity of the extracts of fresh aonla fruit and powder. Among the variety analyzed, Desi variety exhibited significantly higher TPC (total polyphenol content) and antioxidant activity in fresh as well as dried form in all the extracts. Methanolic extracts of various varieties had maximum TPC and antioxidant activity. Variety NA-7 showed high TPC and antioxidant activity. Almost, similar trend was observed among the extracts of aonla powders for TPC and AOA (antioxidant activity). A high positive correlation coefficient existed between TPC and AOA of different aonla extracts. All the extracts analyzed, exhibited a strong antimicrobial potential against E. coli, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. This study suggests aonla as potential natural source of antioxidants and antimicrobial agents.

Amla Enhances Mitochondrial Spare Respiratory Capacity by Increasing Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Antioxidant Systems in a Murine Skeletal Muscle Cell Line

Amla is one of the most important plants in Indian traditional medicine and has been shown to improve various age-related disorders while decreasing oxidative stress. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a proposed cause of aging through elevated oxidative stress. In this study, we investigated the effects of Amla on mitochondrial function in C2C12 myotubes, a murine skeletal muscle cell model with abundant mitochondria. Based on cell flux analysis, treatment with an extract of Amla fruit enhanced mitochondrial spare respiratory capacity, which enables cells to overcome various stresses. To further explore the mechanisms underlying these effects on mitochondrial function, we analyzed mitochondrial biogenesis and antioxidant systems, both proposed regulators of mitochondrial spare respiratory capacity. We found that Amla treatment stimulated both systems accompanied by AMPK and Nrf2 activation. Furthermore, we found that Amla treatment exhibited cytoprotective effects and lowered reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in cells subjected to t-BHP-induced oxidative stress. These effects were accompanied by increased oxygen consumption, suggesting that Amla protected cells against oxidative stress by using enhanced spare respiratory capacity to produce more energy. Thus we identified protective effects of Amla, involving activation of mitochondrial function, which potentially explain its various effects on age-related disorders.

Phytochemistry, pharmacology and medicinal properties of Phyllanthus emblica Linn

Phyllanthus emblica L. (syn. Emblica officinalis) is commonly known as Indian gooseberry. In Ayurveda, P. emblica has been extensively used, both as edible (tonic) plants and for its therapeutic potentials. P. emblica is highly nutritious and is reported as an important dietary source of vitamin C, minerals and amino acids. All parts of the plant are used for medicinal purposes, especially the fruit, which has been used in Ayurveda as a potent Rasayana (rejuvenator). P. emblica contains phytochemicals including fixed oils, phosphatides, essential oils, tannins, minerals, vitamins, amino acids, fatty acids, glycosides, etc. Various pharmaceutical potential of P. emblica has been reported previously including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic, adaptogenic, hepatoprotective, antitumor and antiulcerogenic activities either in combined formulation or P. emblica alone. The various other Ayurvedic potentials of P. emblica are yet to be proven scientifically in order to explore its broad spectrum of therapeutic effects. On this regards we, in this review, tried to explore the complete information of P. emblica including its pharmacognosy, phytochemistry and pharmacology.

Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Emblica officinalis in Rodent Models of Acute and Chronic Inflammation: Involvement of Possible Mechanisms

Emblica officinalis, commonly known as amla in Ayurveda, is unarguably the most important medicinal plant for prevention and treatment of various ailments. The present study investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Emblica officinalis (HAEEO). Acute inflammation in rats was induced by the subplantar injection of carrageenan, histamine, serotonin, and prostaglandin E2 and chronic inflammation was induced by the cotton pellet granuloma. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of HAEEO at all the tested doses (300, 500, and 700 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.001) inhibited rat paw edema against all phlogistic agents and also reduced granuloma formation. However, at the dose of 700 mg/kg, HAEEO exhibited maximum anti-inflammatory activity in all experimental models, and the effects were comparable to that of the standard anti-inflammatory drugs. Additionally, in paw tissue the antioxidant activity of HAEEO was also measured and it was found that HAEEO significantly (P < 0.001) increased glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activity and subsequently reduced lipid peroxidation evidenced by reduced malondialdehyde. Taken all together, the results indicated that HAEEO possessed potent anti-inflammatory activity and it may hold therapeutic promise in the management of acute and chronic inflammatory conditions.

Strawberry and human health: effects beyond antioxidant activity

The usefulness of a diet rich in vegetables and fruits on human health has been widely recognized: a high intake of antioxidant and bioactive compounds may in fact play a crucial role in the prevention of several diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and other chronic pathologies. The strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) possesses a remarkable nutritional composition in terms of micronutrients, such as minerals, vitamin C, and folates, and non-nutrient elements, such as phenolic compounds, that are essential for human health. Although strawberry phenolics are known mainly for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions, recent studies have demonstrated that their biological activities also spread to other pathways involved in cellular metabolism and cellular survival. This paper has the main objective of reviewing current information about the potential mechanisms involved in the effects elicited by strawberry polyphenols on human health, devoting special attention to the latest findings.

Rutin rich Emblica officinalis Geart. fruit extract ameliorates inflammation in the pancreas of rats subjected to alcohol and cerulein administration

BACKGROUND

The modulating effect of methanolic extract of Emblica officinalis (MEEO) on ethanol (EtOH)- and cerulein (Cer)-induced pancreatitis in rats was investigated in this study.

METHODS

Male albino Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Group 1 and 2 rats served as control and fed normal diet. Group 3 and 4 rats were fed isocalorically adjusted diet containing EtOH (36% of total calories) for 5 weeks and also subjected to intraperitoneal injection of Cer 20 µg/kg b.wt. thrice weekly for the last 3 weeks of the experimental period. In addition, group 2 and 4 rats received 200 mg/kg b.wt. of MEEO from 15th day till the experimental period. Serum levels of lipase (L), amylase (A), cytokines IL-1β, IL-18, caspase-1 and oxidative stress index (OSI) were determined. Levels of fecal trypsin, total collagen, caspase-1, myeloperoxidase (MPO), antioxidants and mRNA expression of caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-18 were determined in the pancreas.

RESULTS

HPLC analysis showed the presence of rutin in MEEO. We observed a significant elevation in serum L/A ratio, IL-1β, IL-18, caspase-1, OSI, collagen, MPO activity and the mRNA expression of IL-1β, IL-18 and caspase-1 and significant reduction in fecal trypsin and antioxidant status in EtOH- and Cer-administered rats. The inflammatory markers were found to be reduced and the antioxidant status of pancreas was maintained in MEEO-coadministered rats.

CONCLUSIONS

The rutin rich nature of E. officinalis can be claimed for its anti-inflammatory and pancreato protective effects.

Composition and biological activities of hydrolyzable tannins of fruits of Phyllanthus emblica

Fruits of emblic leafflower have been used as food and traditional medicine in Asia. A wide range of biological activities have been shown in modern research suggesting potential of the fruits as healthy food and raw material for bioactive ingredients of food. Hydrolyzable tannins are among the major bioactive components of the fruits. Mucic acid gallate, mucic acid lactone gallate, monogalloylglucose, gallic acid, digalloylglucose, putranjivain A, galloyl-HHDP-glucose, elaeocarpusin, and chebulagic acid are the most abundant hydrolyzable tannins. The compositional profiles of tannins in the fruits vary depending on the cultivars as well as ripening stages. Fruits and tannin-rich extracts of fruits have shown antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-regulating activities in vitro and in animal studies. The fruits and fruit extracts have manifested protective effects on organs/tissues from damages induced by chemicals, stresses, and aging in animal models. The fruits and fruit extracts have potential in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and reducing DNA damage induced by chemicals and radiation. Antioxidative activities are likely among the mechanisms of the biological activities and physiological effects. Human intervention/clinical studies are needed to investigate the bioavailability and metabolism of the tannins and to substantiate the health benefits in humans. Emblic leafflower may be a potential raw material for natural food preservatives.

Anticancer activity of Phyllanthus emblica Linn. (Indian gooseberry): inhibition of transcription factor AP-1 and HPV gene expression in cervical cancer cells

Plant products of Phyllanthus emblica Linn. are traditionally consumed for its immense nutritive and medicinal values. However, the molecular mechanism(s) by which it exerts it effects is less understood. In this study, we investigated mechanism of action of P. emblica fruit extract (PE) by studying its effect on activator protein-1 (AP-1) activity and human papillomavirus (HPV) transcription that are essential for tumorigenicity of cervical cancer cells. PE resulted in a dose-and time-dependent inhibition of DNA binding activity of constitutively active AP-1 in both HPV16-positive (SiHa) and HPV18-positive (HeLa) cervical cancer cells. PE-induced AP-1 inhibition was found mediated through downregulation of constituent AP-1 proteins, c-Jun, JunB, JunD, and c-Fos; however, the kinetics of their inhibition varied in both the cell types. Inhibition of AP-1 by PE was accompanied by suppression of viral transcription that resulted in growth inhibition of cervical cancer cells. Growth inhibitory activity of PE was primarily manifested through induction of apoptotic cell death. These results suggest that P. emblica exhibits its anticancer activities through inhibition of AP-1 and targets transcription of viral oncogenes responsible for development and progression of cervical cancer thus indicating its possible utility for treatment of HPV-induced cervical cancers.

Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) extract inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced procoagulant and pro-inflammatory factors in cultured vascular endothelial cells

Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) has been used for many centuries in traditional Indian Ayurvedic formulations for the prevention and treatment of many inflammatory diseases. The present study evaluated the anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties of amla fruit extract. The amla fruit extract potentially and significantly reduced lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced tissue factor expression and von Willebrand factor release in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in vitro at clinically relevant concentrations (1-100 μg/ml). In a leucocyte adhesion model of inflammation, it also significantly decreased LPS-induced adhesion of human monocytic cells (THP-1) to the HUVEC, as well as reduced the expression of endothelial-leucocyte adhesion molecule-1 (E-selectin) in the target cells. In addition, the in vivo anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated in a LPS-induced endotoxaemia rat model. Oral administration of the amla fruit extract (50 mg/kg body weight) significantly decreased the concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IL-6 in serum. These results suggest that amla fruit extract may be an effective anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory agent.

Supplementation of Emblica Officinalis (Amla) Extract Reduces Oxidative Stress in Uremic Patients

Emblica Officinalis (also known as Amla or Indian Gooseberry), a natural, traditional and functional food in Asia, has physiological benefits such as hepato-, cyto- and radio- protection, as well as hypolipidemic effects. In addition, Amla often functions as a potent antioxidant due to the high level of ascorbic acid (ranging from 1,100 to 1,700 mg/100 g of fruit) in its fruit. The aim of this study was to determine whether supplementation with Amla extract could reduce oxidative stress in patients with uremia. The findings show that supplementation with Amla extract for 4 months reduced the plasma oxidative marker, 8-iso-prostaglandin, (M0 vs. M4 = 1415 ± 1234 pg/ml vs. 750 ± 496 pg/ml, p < 0.05) and increased plasma total antioxidant status (TAS) (M0 vs. M4 = 2.32 ± 0.14 mM vs. 2.55 ± 0.24 mM, p < 0.05) in uremic patients. On the other hand, there were no significant differences observed in liver function (GOP and GPT), renal function (creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and uric acid), diabetic index (plasma glucose and adiponectin) and atherogenic index (LDL/HDL ratio, total cholesterol and homocysteine) in patients treated with Amla for 4 months. Our data suggest that Amla supplementation may increase plasma antioxidant power and decrease oxidative stress in uremic patients. However, Amla extract did not influence hepatic or renal function, or diabetic and atherogenic indices in uremic patients.

Influence of Emblica officinalis aqueous extract on growth and antioxidant defense system of human hepatoma cell line (HepG2)

CONTEXT

Amla [Emblica officinalis Gaertn. (Euphorbiaceae)], a major constituent of several herbal formulations, is a well-known hepatoprotectant. Despite its extensive use, mechanistic understanding of its antioxidant action is rather limited.

OBJECTIVE

In the current study, we investigated the effects of E. officinalis extracts (from dried fruits) on cellular oxidative state using a hepatocyte cell line (HepG2). We hypothesize that E. officinalis aqueous extracts have potency to modulate basal oxidative markers and enhance endogenous antioxidant defenses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cells were incubated with aqueous extracts of E. officinalis (1-100 μg/ml) for varied time points (4-24 h) and biochemical markers of oxidative stress were determined in cell lysate.

DISCUSSION

Aqueous extracts of E. officinalis at 100 μg/ml can significantly modulate the basal levels of oxidative markers and enhance antioxidant defenses of the cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings clearly indicate the propensity of E. officinalis aqueous extracts to improve endogenous antioxidant defenses in HepG2 cells. Although further studies are required to assess their efficacy under experimentally induced oxidative, our data suggest that the hepatoprotective effects of E. officinalis reported earlier may be largely due to its potential to enhance the antioxidant defenses in vivo.

RESULTS

Because E. officinalis up to 100 μg/ml concentrations had no effect on cell viability; it was considered noncytotoxic. Incubation with E. officinalis for 24 h resulted in significant diminution in the levels of lipid hydroperoxide (18-42%) and reactive oxygen species (11-29%). Furthermore; E. officinalis increased the levels of glutathione (GSH; 18-32%); antioxidant capacity (19-31%); and activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase; 25-41%; catalase; 39-50%; GSH peroxidase; 20-35%; GSH reductase; 26-35%; and GSH S-transferase; 12-30%).