Antispasmodic and vasodilator activities of Morinda citrifolia root extract are mediated through blockade of voltage dependent calcium channels

Potential biomedical applications of Araucaria araucana as an antispasmodic, bronchodilator, vasodilator, and antiemetic: Involvement of calcium channels

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Since pre-Columbian era, the resin of Araucaria araucana tree has been used traditionally for the treatment of ulcers and wounds. Araucaria species have also been used to treat inflammation, respiratory problems, viral infections, ulcers, and rheumatoid, cardiovascular, and neurological disorders.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE

Due to its popular use, the authors aimed to scrutinize the potential of this plant as an antispasmodic and an antiemetic agent. Furthermore broncho- and vasodilatory effects of this plant was explored to rationalize its folkloric uses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Araucaria araucana crude extract (Aa.Cr) was evaluated in isolated preparations of rabbit jejunum, trachea, aorta, and atria to investigate the antispasmodic, bronchodilator, and vasodilator effects. The potential mechanistic approaches were compared with the standard drug 'verapamil'. The antiemetic activity was determined and compared with the standard drug 'domperidone' via chick emesis model.

RESULTS

Aa.Cr dose-dependently relaxed both spontaneous and K⁺-induced contractions in the isolated jejunum preparations of rabbits. In concentration-response curves of calcium (Ca⁺⁺), Aa.Cr also triggered the rightward shift like verapamil. Applying carbachol and phenylephrine (1 μM) and K+ (80 mM) to the isolated tracheal and aortic tissue preparation, respectively, resulted in broncho- and vasodilatory activities, respectively which may be due to the inhibition of Ca++ channels. Aa.Cr inhibited atrial force and spontaneous contractions in the rabbit's right atria. Aa.Cr exhibited significant antiemetic activity (P < 0.001 vs. saline) in dose-dependent (50-150 mg/kg) manner like domperidone. In silico molecular docking was performed to investigate the biological targets of purified components of Aa.Cr which revealed that cadinol dominantly targets β2 receptors to cause bronchodilation, however, eudesmin binds non-specifically to all the selected targets, while secoisolariciresinol mediated high hydrogen bonding with muscarinic receptors (M1 and M3) and Ca⁺⁺ channels, thus shows the suggested mechanistic pathways of targeted activities.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicates that Aa.Cr may exhibit antispasmodic activity, bronchodilation, and vasodilation by inhibiting voltage-dependent Ca⁺⁺ channels and release of subcellular calcium. This explains its folkloric use in hypertension, bronchospasms, gastrointestinal spasms, and emesis.

Evaluation of the Feed Nutritional Value of Noni (Morinda citrifolia) Meal for Holstein Dairy Cows

In three consecutive studies, we evaluated the effects of noni (Morinda citrifolia) meal on rumen fermentation and degradation characteristics, production performance, physiological parameters, and milk fatty acid profile in Holstein dairy cows. In in vitro (first study) and in situ (second study) experiments, rumen fluids from two fistulated Holstein dairy cows were used. The concentration of noni meal added was 0 (control), 1, 3, 5, or 7% of the basal diet (DM basis). In the in situ experiment, wheat bran was used as a control. Triplicated bags were incubated for 0, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, 72, or 96 h. In an in vivo experiment (third study), 38 Holstein cows (145 ± 87 days DIM; 1.8 ± 0.9 parity; 35.4 ± 6.3 kg/day milk yield) were equally assigned to the control and treatment groups (19 cows each). Basal feed and noni meal pellets (1.5% of total feed DM basis) were fed to the treatment group. The control group was also fed the basal feed and pellets containing 0% noni meal. There were no significant differences in in vitro dry matter digestibility, pH, total gas production (TGP), CH4, NH3-N, and volatile fatty acids (p > 0.05). In the in situ experiments, the crude protein (CP) rapidly soluble fraction ‘a’ (CP-a) was higher in noni meal than in wheat bran, and rumen degradable protein was also higher in noni meal than in wheat bran. In the in vivo experiments, when noni meal pellets were fed, there was no significant difference in milk yield and composition, but the triglyceride levels decreased (p < 0.05), the C18:1 fatty acid level increased (p < 0.05), and the C18:0 fatty acid level decreased (p < 0.05). Collectively, noni meal can be used as a feed ingredient up to 1.5% (total feed DM basis) in Holstein dairy cows and as feed supplementation to increase the C18:1 fatty acid level in milk.

Bioactive Natural Products against Systemic Arterial Hypertension: A Past 20-Year Systematic and Prospective Review

Background. Systemic arterial hypertension is one of the most common cardiovascular risks, corresponding to 45% of deaths involving CVDs. The use of natural products, such as medicinal plants, belongs to a millennial part of human therapeutics history and has been employed as an alternative anti-hypertensive treatment. Objective. The present review aims to prospect some natural products already experimentally assayed against arterial hypertension through scientific virtual libraries and patent documents over the past 20 years. Search strategy. This is a systematic review of the adoption of the PRISMA protocol and a survey of the scientific literature that synthesizes the results from published articles between 2001 and 2020 concerning the use of medicinal plants in the management of hypertension, including which parts of the plant or organism are used, as well as the mechanisms of action underlying the anti-hypertensive effect. Furthermore, a technological prospection was also carried out in patent offices from different countries in order to check technologies based on natural products claimed for the treatment or prevention of hypertension. Inclusion criteria. Scientific articles where a natural product had been experimentally assayed for anti-hypertensive activity (part of plants, plant extracts, and products derived from other organisms) were included. Data extraction and analysis. The selected abstracts of the articles and patent documents were submitted to a rigorous reading process. Those articles and patents that were not related to anti-hypertensive effects and claimed potential applications were excluded from the search. Results. Eighty specimens of biological species that showed anti-hypertensive activity were recovered, with 01 representative from the kingdom Fungi and 02 from the kingdom Protista, with emphasis on the families Asteraceae and Lamiaceae, with 6 representatives each. Leaves and aerial parts were the most used parts of the plants for the extraction of anti-hypertensive products, with maceration being the most used extraction method. Regarding phytochemical analyses, the most described classes of biomolecules in the reviewed works were alkaloids, terpenes, coumarins, flavonoids, and peptides, with the reduction of oxidative stress and the release of NO among the mechanisms of action most involved in this process. Regarding the number of patent filings, China was the country that stood out as the main one, with 813 registrations. Conclusion. The anti-hypertensive activity of natural products is still little explored in Western countries. Besides, China and India have shown more results in this area than other countries, confirming the strong influence of traditional medicine in these countries.

Changes in Phenols, Polysaccharides and Volatile Profiles of Noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) Juice during Fermentation

The change in phenols, polysaccharides and volatile profiles of noni juice from laboratory- and factory-scale fermentation was analyzed during a 63-day fermentation process. The phenol and polysaccharide contents and aroma characteristics clearly changed according to fermentation scale and time conditions. The flavonoid content in noni juice gradually increased with fermentation. Seventy-three volatile compounds were identified by solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS). Methyl hexanoate, 3-methyl-3-buten-1-ol, octanoic acid, hexanoic acid and 2-heptanone were found to be the main aroma components of fresh and fermented noni juice. A decrease in octanoic acid and hexanoic acid contents resulted in the less pungent aroma in noni juice from factory-scale fermentation. The results of principal component analysis of the electronic nose suggested that the difference in nitrogen oxide, alkanes, alcohols, and aromatic and sulfur compounds, contributed to the discrimination of noni juice from different fermentation times and scales.

Secondary Metabolites of Plants as Modulators of Endothelium Functions

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death worldwide. They may be caused by various factors or combinations of factors. Frequently, endothelial dysfunction is involved in either development of the disorder or results from it. On the other hand, the endothelium may be disordered for other reasons, e.g., due to infection, such as COVID-19. The understanding of the role and significance of the endothelium in the body has changed significantly over time—from a simple physical barrier to a complex system encompassing local and systemic regulation of numerous processes in the body. Endothelium disorders may arise from impairment of one or more signaling pathways affecting dilator or constrictor activity, including nitric oxide–cyclic guanosine monophosphate activation, prostacyclin–cyclic adenosine monophosphate activation, phosphodiesterase inhibition, and potassium channel activation or intracellular calcium level inhibition. In this review, plants are summarized as sources of biologically active substances affecting the endothelium. This paper compares individual substances and mechanisms that are known to affect the endothelium, and which subsequently may cause the development of cardiovascular disorders.

Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruit juice promotes vascular endothelium function in hypertension via glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor-CaMKKβ-AMPK-eNOS pathway

Morinda citrifolia (Noni) is extensively used in herbal remedies to prevent and treat various diseases, including hypertension. The purpose of this study was to investigate the vascular effects of noni fruit juice and characterize the upstream signaling pathways. We measured the systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, 24-hr urinary nitric oxide (NO) metabolite excretion, bodyweight (BW), and urine examination in SHR.Cg-Leprcp/NDmcr (SHR/cp) rats after 6 weeks noni juice (15 ml/kg) treatment. Noni juice significantly decreased blood pressure and 24-hr urinary NO metabolite without change of BW or urine volume. Furthermore, the noni juice extract (NJE) promoted endothelial vasorelaxation in rat aorta rings and NO product through an increase in phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). NJE might act on a glucagon like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) via Ca²⁺ /calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase β (CaMKKβ)-AMPK signaling with pretreatment of their inhibitors or antagonist in HUVECs. Deacetylasperulosidic acid (DAA) was an active compound in noni juice to improve NO release through same pathway in HUVECs. These results suggested that noni is a novel dietary plant that probably regulates GLP-1R-induced CaMKKβ-AMPK-eNOS pathway to improve endothelium-dependent relaxation, thus reduce the blood pressure probably via one of its responsible ingredient DAA.

Acute and Subchronic Oral Toxicity Study of Polyherbal Formulation Containing Allium sativum L., Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb., Curcuma aeruginosa Roxb., and Amomum compactum Sol. ex. Maton in Rats

The polyherbal formulation containing Allium sativum L., Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb., Curcuma aeruginosa Roxb., and Amomum compactum Sol ex. Maton has been used for hypertension treatment empirically. Our previous study showed its blood pressure-lowering effect on a rat model of hypertension. However, toxicity data were not available for this polyherbal formulation. This study is aimed at evaluating the acute and subchronic oral toxicity of the polyherbal formulation in rats. The acute toxicity study was conducted on 6 female Wistar rats using the fixed-dose method for the treatment group and 5 female Wistar rats for the control. The single dose of 2,000 mg/kg of the polyherbal formulation was given orally. There were no significant toxic effects and no death observed until the end of the study, and it was showed that the lethal dose 50% (LD50) of the polyherbal formulation was estimated to be more than 2,000 mg/kg. The macroscopic and microscopic examination of vital organs showed no symptoms of toxicity. At the subchronic toxicity study, the polyherbal formulation with 3 dose variations of 252 mg/kg, 1,008 mg/kg, and 4,032 mg/kg was administered for 91 days orally. The lowest dose of 252 mg/kg is equivalent to the daily recommended dose for a human. There were no significant toxic effects observed at all doses on physical sign and symptoms, weight gain, food intake, hematological parameters, biochemical parameters, and macroscopic and microscopic examination of organs. These findings showed that the short- and long-term oral administration of the polyherbal formulation is safe to use within its dose recommendation.

Immunomodulatory actions of a Polynesian herb Noni (Morinda citrifolia) and its clinical applications

Morinda citrifolia (Noni) is a popular traditional medicinal plant consumed in various forms in several countries around the world as a complementary and alternative treatment due to its established health benefits. Noni is rich in bioactive substances and has significantly exhibited pro-oxidant and immunomodulatory effects. In this review, we highlight the pharmacological basis related to the phytochemicals and polysaccharides present in Noni and its potential therapeutic effects. We screened electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus for scientific literature. Our results indicate that Noni is beneficial for various diseases with its crude extracts showing therapeutic benefit for a wide range of pathological diseases. We believe that further pharmacological and toxicological studies in addition to well-designed controlled clinical trials can validate Noni to be an effective and novel natural product for prophylactic and therapeutic use of several diseases.

Consortia of bioactives in supercritical carbon dioxide extracts of mustard and small cardamom seeds lower serum cholesterol levels in rats: new leads for hypocholesterolaemic supplements from spices

Melatonin-rich and 1,8-cineole-rich extracts have been successfully obtained from yellow mustard (YM) and small cardamom (SC) seeds, respectively, employing green technology of supercritical CO₂ (SC-CO₂) extraction. Chemical profiling confirmed the presence of melatonin and 1,8-cineole and co-extractants in the respective extracts. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy attested strong antioxidant activities of the extracts foregoing pan-assay interference compounds involved in spectroscopic analysis. These extracts also exhibited synergistic efficacies greater than unity confirming antioxidant synergy among the co-extracted bioactives therein. To ascertain hypocholesterolaemic efficacies, these extracts were co-administered orally with Triton X (at the pre-optimised dose of 175 mg/kg body weight (BW)) to Wistar albino rats at doses of 550, 175 and 55 mg/kg BW. Serum total cholesterol levels in the rats were monitored on days 3, 7, 15 and 21. On day 21, total cholesterol level reduced appreciably by 49·44 % in rats treated with YM seed extract and by 48·95 % in rats treated with SC seed extract, comparable with atorvastatin-administered rats (51·09 %). Either extract demonstrated inhibitory effects on hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase activity. A molecular docking exercise identified specific compounds in the extracts which possessed binding affinities comparable with therapeutically used HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. In silico and in vivo studies concertedly concluded that the consortium of bioactive components in the extracts cannot be considered as invalid metabolic panaceas and therefore these 'green' extracts could be safely subjected to clinical studies as preventive biotherapeutics for hypercholesterolaemia. These extracts could be consumed per se as hypocholesterolaemic supplements or could be ingredients of new spice-based therapeutic foods.

Pharmacological Studies Pertaining to Smooth Muscle Relaxant, Platelet Aggregation Inhibitory and Hypotensive Effects of Ailanthus altissima

OBJECTIVE

This in vitro and in vivo study was conducted to rationalize some of traditional medicinal uses of Ailanthus altissima in gastrointestinal, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems.

MATERIALS

Crude extract of Ailanthus altissima (Aa.Cr) and its fractions were prepared and utilized in in vitro and in vivo studies. For in vitro studies, Aa.Cr was investigated on isolated rabbit jejunum, isolated tracheal strip, and isolated aorta of rat suspended in tissue organ bath. Platelet rich and platelet poor plasma were used to study platelet aggregation inhibitory activity. In vivo antidiarrheal effect of Aa.Cr was investigated on balb/c mice pretreated with castor oil to induce diarrhea and SD rats were used to study hypotensive activity.

RESULTS

Concentration dependent spasmolytic effects of Aa.Cr and its DCM fraction (Aa.DCM) were observed on spontaneous and spasmogen induced contractions in jejunum isolated from rabbit, but effect against high potassium (high-K+) induced contractions was more potent. Moreover Aa.Cr showed parallel shifting of calcium response curve to the right side. While its aqueous fraction (Aa.aq) caused spasmogenesis of isolated rabbit jejunum, this effect was blocked partially with prior administration of atropine (1μM). Concentration dependent protection against castor oil induced diarrhea was also observed. Relaxant effect was observed by the application of Aa.Cr and Aa.DCM against high-K+ and carbachol (CCh) induced contractions in tracheal strips isolated from SD rats, while Aa.Aq caused partial relaxation of high-K+ induced contractions, but no effect was observed against CCh induced contractions. Relaxation of rat aorta by the application of Aa.Cr and its fractions was also observed. Inhibition of force of contraction in rabbit atrium was also observed. Inhibition of platelet aggregation was observed against epinephrine and ADP induced aggregation.

CONCLUSION

Keeping in view the observed results, it is concluded that smooth muscle relaxant, platelet aggregation inhibitory and hypotensive effect may be due to the blockage of calcium channels.

Vascular Protective Effects of Morinda citrifolia Leaf Extract on Postmenopausal Rats Fed with Thermoxidized Palm Oil Diet: Evidence at Microscopic Level

Atherosclerosis is now well understood as an inflammatory disease instead of lipid storage disorder; however, the conventional treatment is not targeted on treating the inflammation. Morinda citrifolia L. (Rubiaceae) leaf or noni leaf, which is a medicinal food (ulam) used in Traditional Malay Medicine to prevent chronic diseases, may have the potential to be formulated into a functional antiatherosclerotic agent. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Morinda citrifolia leaf extract (MCLE) treatment at histological and ultrastructural level, comparing it with Simvastatin. Thirty-eight female Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups: Sham (Sham), ovariectomized (OVX), ovariectomized with Simvastatin 10 mg/kg (OVX+ST), ovariectomized with low dose MC 500 mg/kg (OVX+MCLD), and ovariectomized with high dose MC 1000 mg/kg (OVX+MCHD). Atherosclerosis was induced by producing oestrogen deficiency through ovariectomy and feeding with thermoxidized palm oil (TPO) diet for 12 weeks along with the treatment. The results revealed significantly (P<0.05) lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) in the group treated with MCHD compared to the untreated OVX, whereas the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was significantly higher in the untreated OVX group compared to the Sham group. Treatment with MCHD also significantly lowered the total cholesterol (TC) level compared to the OVX. The OVX group showed significantly lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level compared to the Sham group. The untreated OVX group showed evident histological and ultrastructural features of vascular inflammation such as blood cells accumulation in the lumen, vacuolation of the endothelial cells, subendothelial space widening, elastic fibres disruption, increased intima media thickness (IMT), smooth muscle cells fragmentation, and perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) deposition. All these pathological changes were less seen in the groups treated with MCLE. In conclusion, we reported the mechanism of antiatherosclerotic property of MCLE through lipids elimination and anti-inflammatory activity. In addition, we do not recommend the use of statin in the absence of dyslipidemia as it causes PVAT deposition.

In vivo nonspecific immunomodulatory and antispasmodic effects of common purslane (Portulaca oleracea Linn.) leaf extracts in ICR mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Portulaca oleracea (common purslane) is used in traditional medicine to cure various illnesses. However, its immune-protective properties and antispasmodic effects still need more pharmacological data if the plant will be utilized in herbal and drug formulations. Therefore, the present study determined the capacity of this plant species to modulate nonspecific immune responses and to confirm its antispasmodic activity in vivo in ICR mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phagocytic activity of peritoneal macrophage, splenic lymphocyte proliferation and plasma lysozyme levels were measured in mice that were immunosuppressed using cyclophosphamide and treated with the ethyl acetate extract of Portulaca oleracea. In addition, the charcoal meal transit test was used to measure intestinal motility using ethanolic (EtOH), hexane (HEX), and ethyl acetate (EA) solvent extracts. Phytochemical analysis was undertaken and DPPH scavenging properties of the three solvent extracts were also determined.

RESULTS

The EA extract of P. oleracea exhibited immunoactivity through significant increase in phagocytosis and higher proliferative response in splenic lymphocytes. Plasma lysozyme level was also higher in EA-treated mice at high dose but this was not statistically significant. Decreased intestinal motility was also exhibited in mice treated with the three leaf solvent extracts compared to the negative control and the acetylcholine-treated group. The antispasmodic activity of the solvent extracts was comparable to that of the atropine-treated group. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of tannins in EA extract in addition to alkaloids and steroids. The EtOH and HEX extracts contain alkaloids, steroids and terpenoids. DPPH scavenging activity was highest in the EA extract.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study showed that the EA extract of P. oleracea leaves ameliorated the immunosuppressive action of cyclophosphamide in mice. The results also indicated that the three solvent extracts of the plant decreased smooth muscle spasms in mice ileum. However, further experiments are warranted to further isolate the plant's immunoactive component. Also, the mechanisms involved in the immunoactivity and antispasmodic properties of P. oleracea deserve full elucidation.

Relaxant and vasoprotective effects of ginger extracts on porcine coronary arteries

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a popular Chinese herbal medicine, which is considered to warm the stomach and dispel cold in traditional Chinese medicine. Ginger is widely used to treat stomach disorders, and it has been reported to exhibit antithrombotic activity via the inhibition of platelet aggregation and thromboxane B2 production in vitro. Cardiovascular disease is associated with the aberrant functioning of the heart and circulatory system; the relatively narrow vessels of the circulation are commonly affected and blocked by atherosclerosis, which may result in angina or heart attack. Numerous drugs and medicines are used to treat myocardial infarction; however, they are often associated with numerous side effects. Therefore, it is important to identify substitutive drugs with no unbearable side effects. In the present study, the relaxant effects of ginger crude extract (GCE) were determined on porcine coronary arteries. The DPPH radical scavenging assay, lucigenin‑enhanced chemiluminescence assay and western blot analysis were used to individually detect antioxidant assay of ginger extraction or superoxide anion produced by endothelial cells and molecular signaling. The results indicated that GCE induced relaxation of porcine coronary arteries in an endothelium‑dependent manner. GCE increased vasoprotection via the suppression of nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase. In addition, GCE possessed antioxidant ability, as determined using 1,1‑diphenyl‑2‑picrylhydrazyl and lucigenin‑enhanced chemiluminescence assays. Taken together, the present study demonstrated that GCE exerts marked vasoprotective effects and free radical‑scavenging activities in porcine coronary arteries.

In vivo antiarthritic activity of the ethanol extracts of stem bark and seeds of Calophyllum inophyllum in Freund's complete adjuvant induced arthritis

CONTEXT

Calophyllum inophyllum Linn. (Clusiaceae) (CI) is traditionally used to treat pain, inflammation, eye disorders and rheumatism.

OBJECTIVE

The present study evaluates the antiarthritic activity of the ethanol extract of the stem bark (ESBCI) and seeds (ESCI) of Calophyllum inophyllum in Freund's adjuvant induced arthritic Wistar albino rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ESBCI and ESCI were screened for in vitro anti-inflammatory activity by proteinase inhibition and membrane stabilization assays. Acute oral toxicity studies were conducted according to OECD-425 guidelines. Antiarthritic activity of ESBCI and ESCI at the dose of 250 mg/kg/p.o. was evaluated by Freund's adjuvant induced arthritic rat model.

RESULTS

ESBCI and ESCI have shown maximum inhibition at 250 μg/mL in proteinase inhibition and haemolysis assays. The LD₅₀ of ESBCI and ESCI was found to be greater than 5000 and 2000 mg/kg/p.o., respectively. In Freund's adjuvant induced arthritic rat model ESBCI, ESCI and Diclofenac treatment have shown 28.57, 36.36, and 43.51% as maximum reduction in rat paw oedema volume respectively when compared with the arthritic control rats. ESBCI and ESCI treatment at the dose level of 250 mg/kg/p.o. normalized the altered haematological and biochemical parameters of arthritic control rats. Histological and radiological evaluation confirmed the antiarthritic effect of ESBCI and ESCI.

DISCUSSION

ESBCI and ESCI were found to show significant antiarthritic activity evidenced with clinical, biochemical, histological and radiological evaluations.

CONCLUSION

The present study indicates the antiarthritic activity of ESBCI and ESCI, however its mechanism of action has to be studied in the future.

Morinda citrifolia Linn. (Noni) and Its Potential in Obesity-Related Metabolic Dysfunction

Cultural and economic shifts in the early 19th century led to the rapid development of companies that made good profits from technologically-produced commodities. In this way, some habits changed in society, such as the overconsumption of processed and micronutrient-poor foods and devices that gave rise to a sedentary lifestyle. These factors influenced host-microbiome interactions which, in turn, mediated the etiopathogenesis of “new-era” disorders and diseases, which are closely related, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hypertension, and inflammatory bowel disease, which are characterized by chronic dysregulation of metabolic and immune processes. These pathological conditions require novel and effective therapeutic approaches. Morindacitrifolia (noni) is well known as a traditional healing plant due to its medicinal properties. Thus, many studies have been conducted to understand its bioactive compounds and their mechanisms of action. However, in obesity and obesity-related metabolic (dysfunction) syndrome, other studies are necessary to better elucidate noni’s mechanisms of action, mainly due to the complexity of the pathophysiology of obesity and its metabolic dysfunction. In this review, we summarize not only the clinical effects, but also important cell signaling pathways in in vivo and in vitro assays of potent bioactive compounds present in the noni plant which have been reported in studies of obesity and obesity-associated metabolic dysfunction.

Chemical composition, vasorelaxant, antioxidant and antiplatelet effects of essential oil of Artemisia campestris L. from Oriental Morocco

BACKGROUND

Artemisia campestris L. (Asteraceae) is a medicinal herb traditionally used to treat hypertension and many other diseases. Hence, this study is aimed to analyze the essential oil of A. campestris L (AcEO) and to investigate the antiplatelet, antioxidant effects and the mechanisms of its vasorelaxant effect.

METHODS

The chemical composition of AcEO was elucidated using GC/MS analysis. Then, the antioxidant effect was tested on DPPH radical scavenging and on the prevention of β-carotene bleaching. The antiplatelet effect was performed on the presence of the platelet agonists: thrombin and ADP. The mechanism of action of the vasorelaxant effect was studied by using the cellular blockers specified to explore the involvement of NO/GC pathway and in the presence of calcium channels blockers and potassium channels blockers.

RESULTS

AcEO is predominated by the volatiles: spathulenol, ß-eudesmol and p-cymene. The maximal antioxidant effect was obtained with the dose 2 mg/ml of AcEO. The dose 1 mg/ml of AcEO showed a maximum antiplatelet effect of, respectively 49.73% ±9.54 and 48.20% ±8.49 on thrombin and ADP. The vasorelaxation seems not to be mediated via NOS/GC pathway neither via the potassium channels. However, pretreatment with calcium channels blockers attenuated this effect, suggesting that the vasorelaxation is mediated via inhibition of L-type Ca²⁺ channels and the activation of SERCA pumps of reticulum plasma.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms the antioxidant, antiplatelet and vasorelaxant effects of A.campestris L essential oil. However, the antihypertensive use of this oil should be further confirmed by the chemical fractionation and subsequent bio-guided assays.

Chemical composition, vasorelaxant, antioxidant and antiplatelet effects of essential oil of Artemisia campestris L. from Oriental Morocco

BACKGROUND

Artemisia campestris L. (Asteraceae) is a medicinal herb traditionally used to treat hypertension and many other diseases. Hence, this study is aimed to analyze the essential oil of A. campestris L (AcEO) and to investigate the antiplatelet, antioxidant effects and the mechanisms of its vasorelaxant effect.

METHODS

The chemical composition of AcEO was elucidated using GC/MS analysis. Then, the antioxidant effect was tested on DPPH radical scavenging and on the prevention of β-carotene bleaching. The antiplatelet effect was performed on the presence of the platelet agonists: thrombin and ADP. The mechanism of action of the vasorelaxant effect was studied by using the cellular blockers specified to explore the involvement of NO/GC pathway and in the presence of calcium channels blockers and potassium channels blockers.

RESULTS

AcEO is predominated by the volatiles: spathulenol, ß-eudesmol and p-cymene. The maximal antioxidant effect was obtained with the dose 2 mg/ml of AcEO. The dose 1 mg/ml of AcEO showed a maximum antiplatelet effect of, respectively 49.73% ±9.54 and 48.20% ±8.49 on thrombin and ADP. The vasorelaxation seems not to be mediated via NOS/GC pathway neither via the potassium channels. However, pretreatment with calcium channels blockers attenuated this effect, suggesting that the vasorelaxation is mediated via inhibition of L-type Ca2+ channels and the activation of SERCA pumps of reticulum plasma.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms the antioxidant, antiplatelet and vasorelaxant effects of A.campestris L essential oil. However, the antihypertensive use of this oil should be further confirmed by the chemical fractionation and subsequent bio-guided assays.

Antispasmodic, bronchodilator, vasorelaxant and cardiosuppressant effects of Buxus papillosa

Background

The present research was carried out to investigate pharmacological properties of Buxus papillosa C.K. Schneid. (Buxaceae).

Methods

Buxus papillosa extracts of leaves (BpL), stem (BpS), roots (BpR) and BpL fractions: hexane (BpL-H), aqueous (BpL-A) also plant constituent, cyclomicrobuxine effect were studied in jejunum, atria, aorta and tracheal preparations from rabbit and guine-peg.

Results

Ca⁺⁺ antagonistic effect of BpS, BpR, BpL-H, BpL-A and cyclomicrobuxine were conclusively suggested, when spontaneous contractions of rabbit jejunal preparation was relaxed along with subsequent relaxation of potassium chloride (80 mM) induced contractions. Ca⁺⁺ antagonistic effect was further confirmed, when a prominent right shift like that of verapamil was observed in Ca⁺⁺ concentration-response curves, drawn in a tissue pretreated with BpL (0.3–1.0 mg/mL). In rabbit tracheal tissues BpL, BpS, BpR, BpL-H and BpL-A produced a prominent relaxation in contractions induced by potassium chloride (80 mM) and carbachol (1 μm). When tested in rabbit aortic rings, BpL, BpS, BpR, BpL-H and BpL-A showed concentration-dependent (0.1–3.0 mg/mL) vasorelaxant effect against phenylephrine (1 μM) and high K⁺-induced contractions. In isolated guinea-pig right atria, BpL, BpS, BpR, BpL-H and BpL-A suppressed atrial force of spontaneous contractions, with BpL-A being most potent.

Conclusions

Our results reveal that Buxus papillosa possesses gut, airways and cardiovascular inhibitory actions.

Pulmonary anti-inflammatory effects and spasmolytic properties of Costa Rican noni juice (Morinda citrifolia L.)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Morinda citrifolia L. (Noni) is a medicinal plant used in Polynesia for many properties such as anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and antineoplastic effects. Recent studies showed that noni juice have anti-oxidant and acute anti-inflammatory activities likely due to polyphenols, iridoids and vitamin C content. The present study was undertaken to evaluate chronic anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects of noni juice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Therefore, we evaluated the effect of oral or intraperitoneal administrations of noni juice in vivo on the lung inflammation in ovalbumin (OVA) sensitized Brown Norway rat (with prednisolone 10mg/kg intraperitoneously as reference compound) and the ex vivo effect of noni juice on BaCl₂ (calcium signal) or methacholine (cholinergic signal) induced spasms in jejunum segments.

RESULTS

We found that noni juice (intraperitoneously 2.17mL/kg and orally 4.55mL/kg) reduced the inflammation in OVA-sensitized Brown Norway rat with regard to the decreased number of inflammatory cells in lung (macrophages minus 20-26%, lymphocytes minus 58-34%, eosinophils minus 53-30%, neutrophils minus 70-28% respectively). Noni juice demonstrated a dose-dependent NO scavenging effect up to 8.1nmol of nitrites for 50µL of noni juice. In addition noni juice inhibited (up to 90%) calcium and cholinergic induced spasms on the jejunum segments model with a rightward shift of the concentration response curve.

CONCLUSION

We describe for the first time that noni juice demonstrate (1) a chronic anti-inflammatory activity on sensitized lungs along with (2) a spasmolytic effect integrating a calcium channel blocker activity component.

Pharmacological characteristics of Artemisia vulgaris L. in isolated porcine basilar artery

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Vietnamese traditional herbalism, there are conflicting opinions about the effect of Artemisia vulgaris L. (AVL, English name: mugwort) on hypertension. Some ethnic doctors recommend the use of AVL for treatment of hypertension, whereas others advise against it. The purpose of this study was to clarify the pharmacological characteristics of AVL in isolated arteries to explain the conflicts surrounding the use of AVL for treatment of hypertension.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We initially performed a functional study using an organ bath system to investigate the effect of AVL extract on isolated porcine basilar artery. We then measured the change in intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration elicited by AVL using cultured smooth muscle cells loaded with the Ca(2+) indicator fluo-4. Finally, using HPLC, we determined the active components in AVL.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

AVL induced vasoconstriction at resting tension, and endothelial removal enhanced this effect significantly. Pretreatment with PD123319 (an AT2 receptor antagonist), Nω-nitro-L-arginine (a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor), or both, also enhanced this effect. AVL-induced contraction was competitively inhibited by methiothepin (a 5-HT1 and 5-HT2 receptor antagonist) in the presence of ketanserin (a 5-HT2 receptor antagonist). Removal of extracellular calcium with nifedipine (an L-type Ca(2+) channel blocker) or ruthenium red (a ryanodine receptor blocker) significantly reduced AVL-induced contraction, whereas losartan (an AT1 receptor antagonist) and diphenhydramine (a H1 receptor antagonist) had no effect on this contraction. AVL increased the intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration in cultured cells, and this increment was inhibited by methiothepin. HPLC analysis revealed that the retention time of the first peak in the AVL profile was similar to that of the 5-HT standard, and that addition of 5-HT to the AVL sample enhanced this peak. On the other hand, AVL induced endothelium-independent relaxation under precontracted conditions with 60mM KCl. Captopril (an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor), atenolol (a β1 receptor antagonist) and cimetidine (a H2 receptor antagonist) had no effect on this relaxation. In Ca(2+)-free 60mM KCl-containing solution, pretreatment with AVL significantly inhibited CaCl2-induced contraction.

CONCLUSION

For the first time, the present study has demonstrated that AVL has two opposite effects, contraction and relaxation, on isolated artery, which may help to explain the conflicting indications for AVL in traditional herbalism. 5-HT is a significant factor affecting artery contraction in the presence of AVL.

Anti-Diabetic Potential of Noni: The Yin and the Yang

Escalating trends of chronic diseases such as type-2 diabetes (T2D) have sparked a renewed interest in complementary and alternative medicine, including herbal products. Morinda citrifolia (noni) has been used for centuries by Pacific Islanders to treat various ailments. Commercial noni fruit juice has been marketed as a dietary supplement since 1996. In 2003, the European Commission approved Tahitian noni juice as a novel food by the Health and Consumer Protection Directorate General. Among noni's several health benefits, others and we have demonstrated the anti-diabetic effects of fermented noni fruit juice in animal models. Unfortunately, noni's exciting journey from Polynesian medicine to the research bench does not reach its final destination of successful clinical outcomes when translated into commercial products. Noni products are perceived to be safe due to their "natural" origin. However, inadequate evidence regarding bioactive compounds, molecular targets, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, long-term safety, effective dosages, and/or unanticipated side effects are major roadblocks to successful translation "from bench side to bedside". In this review we summarize the anti-diabetic potential of noni, differences between traditional and modern use of noni, along with beneficial clinical studies of noni products and challenges in clinical translation of noni's health benefits.

Studies on antidiarrhoeal, antispasmodic and bronchodilator activities of Operculina turpethum Linn

Background

Traditionally, Operculina turpethum has been used in a wide range of ailments such as, gastrointestinal disturbances and asthma. It is found in China, South Asia, Pacific Islands, and Australia. This study was aimed to provide a possible pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of O. turpethum in gut and airways disorders.

Methods

Castor oil-induced diarrhoeal mice model and isolated tissue preparations such as, rabbit jejunum and guinea-pig tracheal preparations were used to test the antidiarrhoeal, antispasmodic and bronchodilator effects and the possible mode of action(s) of the 70% aqueous-ethanolic extract of O. turpethum black variety (OTB).

Results

In the castor oil-induced diarrhoea in mice, the crude extract of OTB caused a dose-dependent (300–1000 mg/kg) protection from diarrhoea, similar to that of loperamide. In isolated rabbit jejunum preparations, OTB produced a dose-dependent inhibition of spontaneous and high K⁺(80 mM)-induced contractions with resultant median effective concentrations (EC₅₀ with 95% confidence interval) of 1.04 mg/ml (0.59-1.54) and 0.12 mg/ml (0.10-0.15; n = 4) respectively, thus showing more potency against K⁺. Pretreatment of the tissue with OTB (0.01 and 0.03 mg/ml) caused a rightward shift in the concentration response curves of Ca⁺⁺, similar to that of verapamil. In isolated guinea-pig tracheal preparations, OTB caused inhibition of carbachol and high K⁺-induced constriction at similar concentrations with respective EC₅₀ value of 0.66 mg/ml (0.53-0.82) and 0.59 mg/ml (0.45-0.62). Activity-directed fractionation revealed that the ethyl acetate fraction was more potent than the parent crude extract and hexane fraction.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the crude extract of O. turpethum possesses antidiarrhoeal, antispasmodic and bronchodilator activities, mediated possibly through the presence of Ca⁺⁺ antagonist like constituent(s), though additional mechanism(s) cannot be ruled out. Thus, this study provides the evidence for the medicinal use of plant in diarrhoea and asthma.

Ethno medicine and healthcare practices among Nicobarese of Car Nicobar - an indigenous tribe of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

This study is an attempt to document the use of medicinal plants by Nicobarese tribe from the Car Nicobar Island of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Inspite of the availability of modern healthcare facilities tribal people often take herbal medicines and Traditional Knowledge Practitioners (TKPs) serve as the local medical experts in Car Nicobar Island.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was to conduct an ethnomedicinal survey among the TKPs of Nicobarese tribe of the inhabitants of Car Nicobar Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Field research was conducted in 15 villages of Car Nicobar Island during March 2011-February 2012. TKPs were interviewed with a questionnaire-guided ethnomedical survey protocol. The data obtained were quantitatively analysed using the informant consensus factor (ICF) and use value (UV). Voucher specimens of all cited plants were collected and deposited at Regional Medical Research Centre (ICMR), Port Blair.

RESULTS

Use of 150 medicinal plant species, belonging to 122 genera encompassing 59 families were recorded during the survey. These 150 species are employed to treat 47 different medicinal uses, divided into nine categories of use. The highest ICF (0.68) was obtained for the gastrointestinal system. The Euphorbiaceae family exhibited the highest number of citations, and the species with the highest UVs were Morinda citrifolia L., Tabernaemontana crispa Roxb. and Colubrina asiatica (L.) Brongn. Of the medicinal plants reported, the most common growth form was shrubs (28%). Among several parts of individual plant species which are used, leaves constitute the major portion in preparation of medicines. Remedies were generally prepared using water as the excipient.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is an attempt to document the use of medicinal plants from the Car Nicobar Island of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Future phytochemical and pharmacological studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of the identified plants.

Ethnopharmacological analysis of medicinal plants and animals used in the treatment and management of pain in Mauritius

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pain is a multi-faceted and multi-factorial condition which is challenging to manage and treat. Conventional therapies such as analgesics, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroids amongst others have been successful to some extent in its management and treatment. Nonetheless, such therapies tend to be accompanied by undesirable effects and have a limited therapeutic range. Consequently, there is a pressing need to probe for novel analgesic and anti-nociceptive drugs from traditional medicines (TM). This study was designed to record, document and analyze herbal and animal-based therapies used for the management and treatment of pain in the tropical of Mauritius.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data was collected via face-to-face interviews with TM users (n=332) and practitioners (n=20). Seven quantitative ethnopharmacological indexes, namely family use value (FUV), use value (UV), informant agreement ratio (IAR), relative frequency of citation (RFC), fidelity level (FL), relative importance (RI) and ethnobotanicity index (EI) were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 79 plant species distributed within 40 families and 20 polyherbal preparations was recorded. Interestingly, 6 indigenous/endemic plants have been reported for the first time to be in common use for pain management and treatment in Mauritius. The most significant biologically important plant family was Xanthorrhoeaceae with highest FUV. The species which ranked highest according to its UV was Morinda citrifolia L. Morinda citrifolia L. and Ricinus communis L. also scored the highest RFC. The IAR values for the disease categories were high (0.95-0.97). Based on EI, plants species which are known to be useful in TM accounted for 11.5% of the total flora in Mauritius. Coix lacryma-jobi L. (FL=100%) had highest FL for lower back ache. Morinda citrifolia L. scored highest on most of the quantitative indices calculated including RI, which is endorsed by extensive documentation on its versatility and particularly its anti-nociceptive properties. Seven animal species were recorded to be in common use.

CONCLUSION

The present ethnopharmacological study revealed a panoply of TM to be in common use for pain management and treatment in Mauritius. This study has documented for the first time medicinal plants and animal species with potential analgesic and/or anti-nociceptive properties. This study has therefore provided important baseline primary data for the discovery of new lead molecules for drug development geared towards pain management and treatment.

Effect of noni (Morinda citrifolia Linn.) fruit and its bioactive principles scopoletin and rutin on rat vas deferens contractility: an ex vivo study

This study examined the effect of methanolic extract of Morinda citrifolia Linn. (MMC) and its bioactive principles, scopoletin and rutin, on dopamine- and noradrenaline-evoked contractility in isolated rat vas deferens preparations. MMC (1-40 mg/mL), scopoletin (1-200 μg/mL), and rutin hydrate (0.6-312.6 μg/mL) dose-dependently inhibited the contractility evoked by submaximal concentrations of both dopamine and noradrenaline, respectively. Haloperidol and prazosin, reference dopamine D2, and α 1-adrenoceptors antagonists significantly reversed the dopamine- and noradrenaline-induced contractions, respectively, in a dose-dependent manner. Interestingly, MMC per se at higher doses (60-100 mg/mL) showed dose-dependent contractile response in rat vas deferens which was partially inhibited by high doses of haloperidol but not by prazosin. These results demonstrated the biphasic effects of MMC on dopaminergic system; that is, antidopaminergic effect at lower concentrations (<40 mg/mL) and dopaminergic agonistic effect at higher concentrations (>60 mg/mL). However, similar contractile response at high doses of scopoletin (0.5-5 mg/mL) and rutin hydrate (0.5-5 mg/mL) per se was not observed. Therefore, it can be concluded that the bioactive principles of MMC, scopoletin, and rutin might be responsible for the antidopaminergic and antiadrenergic activities of MMC.

Do the health claims made for Morinda citrifolia (Noni) harmonize with current scientific knowledge and evaluation of its biological effects

Morinda citrifolia, also known as Great Morinda, Indian Mulberry, or Noni, is a plant belonging to the family Rubiaceae. A number of major chemical compounds have been identified in the leaves, roots, and fruits of Noni plant. The fruit juice is in high demand in alternative medicine for different kinds for illnesses such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, muscle ached and pains, menstrual difficulties, headache, heart diseases, AIDS, gastric ulcer, sprains, mental depression, senility, poor digestion, arteriosclerosis, blood vessel problems, and drug addiction. Several studies have also demonstrated the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and apoptosis-inducing effect of Noni in various cancers. Based on a toxicological assessment, Noni juice was considered as safe. Though a large number of in vitro, and, to a certain extent, in vivo studies demonstrated a range of potentially beneficial effects, clinical data are essentially lacking. To what extent the findings from experimental pharmacological studies are of potential clinical relevance is not clear at present and this question needs to be explored in detail before an recommendations can be made.

Study of chemical composition and volatile compounds along with in-vitro assay of antioxidant activity of two medicinal rice varieties: Karungkuravai and Mappilai samba

The objective of this study is to analyze the chemical composition and volatiles present in two medicinal rice varieties of "karungkuravai" and "mappilai samba" and to investigate their total phenolic content and bio activity. Chemical composition of the rice varieties was analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), the volatile compounds are identified using static head space analysis (SHS) followed by GC-MS. Total phenolic content (TPC) is estimated using Folin Ciocalteu colorimetric method, antioxidant assay is done using 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. GC-MS and SHS analysis identified pharmaceutically important phytochemicals present in the rice variety. The compounds like "curlone" and "7-chloro-1,3-dihydro-5-phenyl-1-(trimethylsilyl)- 2H-1-4-benzodiazapene-2-one" are identified for the first time in any rice variety. Phenols are found to be present in both rice varieties. Both rice varieties also showed antioxidant activity in both DPPH and FRAP assays and the IC50 values were 91.08 μg/ml and 359.93 μg/ml for "karungkuravai" and "mappilai samba", respectively. . The correlation coefficient and regression analysis of total phenolic content with DPPH assay and FRAP assay show significant positive correlation coefficient values and coefficient of regression values.

Antispasmodic and antidiarrheal activities of rhizomes of Polygonatum verticillatum maneuvered predominately through activation of K⁺ channels: Components identification through TLC

Polygonatum verticillatum has traditionally been used for various purposes. The present study was aimed to validate the antispasmodic and antidiarrheal properties of crude methanolic extract of rhizomes of P. verticillatum (PR). Isolated rabbit jejunum preparations were suspended in tissue baths to measure the isotonic responses using Power Lab data acquisition system for the antispasmodic activity of PR, while the antidiarrheal activity was conducted in vivo in mice. PR caused complete relaxation of the spontaneous contractions of isolated rabbit jejunum preparations in a dose-dependent mode. A complete inhibition was observed against low potassium (K(+); 25 mM)-induced contractions, while the plant extract partially inhibited the high K(+)(80 mM)-induced contractions. From a mechanistic point of view, the spasmolytic effect of PR against low K(+)was antagonized by glibenclamide similar to the effect of cromakalim, thus showing the presence of constituents in PR mediating spasmolytic activity predominantly through the activation of adenosine triphosphate-sensitive K(+)channels. When tested against castor oil-induced diarrhea in mice, oral administration of the plant extract manifested marked antidiarrheal activity at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg similar to loperamide. This study provided a pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of PR in abdominal colic and diarrhea.

Studies on tracheorelaxant and anti-inflammatory activities of rhizomes of Polygonatum verticillatum

Background

The present study describes the tracheorelaxant and anti-inflammatory effects of Polygonatum verticillatum which may support its medicinal use in hyperactive airway complaints and inflammatory disorders.

Methods

The tracheorelaxant activity of crude extract of the rhizomes of P. verticillatum (PR) was assessed in isolated guinea-pig tracheal tissues immersed in tissue organ bath filled with Tyrode’s solution and a continuous supply of carbogen gas (95% O₂ and 5% CO₂). The contractile and relaxant responses of the tissue were measured using isometric transducers coupled with Power-Lab data acquisition system. The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated in carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model, while the lipoxygenase inhibitory activity was performed in the in-vitro assay. Various chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques were used for the isolation and characterization of pure molecules.

Results

In isolated guinea-pig tracheal preparations, PR caused complete inhibition of the high K⁺ (80 mM) and carbachol-induced contractions however, it was more potent against K⁺ than CCh, similar to verapamil. Pretreatment of the tissue with PR, displaced the Ca²⁺ concentration-response curves to the right, similar to that induced by verapamil, indicating the presence of Ca²⁺ channel blocking like activity. When tested on carrageenan-induced rat paw edema, PR demonstrated a marked reduction in edema with 65.22% protection at 200 mg/kg, similar to aspirin. In the in-vitro assay, PR showed lipoxygenase inhibitory activity (IC₅₀: 102 ± 0.19 μg/mL), similar to baicalein. Bioactivity-guided fractionation led to the isolation of 2-hydroxybenzoic acid and β-sitosterol.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the plant possesses tracheorelaxant, mediated possibly through a Ca²⁺ channel blockade mechanism, and anti-inflammatory activities, which may explain the medicinal use of this plant in airway disorders and inflammation.

Antipsychotic-like activity of noni (Morinda citrifolia Linn.) in mice

Background

Noni fruit is widely consumed in tropical regions of Indonesia to the Hawaiian Islands. The noni plant has a long history of use as a medicinal plant to treat a wide variety of ailments including CNS disorders. The present investigation was designed to evaluate the antipsychotic effect of noni fruits (Morinda citrifolia Linn.) using mouse models of apomorphine-induced climbing behaviour and methamphetamine-induced stereotypy (licking, biting, gnawing and sniffing).

Methods

In acute study, the methanolic extract of Morinda citrifolia (MMC) at different doses 1, 3, 5, 10 g/kg was administered orally one hour prior to apomorphine (5 mg/kg, i.p) and methamphetamine ( 5 mg/kg, i.p) injection respectively in Swiss albino mice. In chronic studies, (TAHITIAN NONI® Juice, TNJ) was made available freely in daily drinking water at 30, 50 and 100% v/v for 7 days; 30 and 50% v/v for 21 days respectively. On the test day, an equivalent average daily divided dose of TNJ was administered by oral gavage one hour prior to apomorphine treatment. Immediately after apomorphine/ methamphetamine administration, the animals were placed in the cylindrical metal cages and observed for climbing behaviour/ stereotypy and climbing time.

Results

The acute treatment of MMC (1, 3, 5, 10 g/kg, p.o) significantly decreased the apomorphine-induced cage climbing behaviour and climbing time in mice in a dose dependent manner. The MMC also significantly inhibited methamphetamine-induced stereotypy behaviour and climbing time in mice dose-dependently. The 7 and 21 days treatment of TNJ in drinking water at 50 and 100%v/v significantly alleviated the apomorphine-induced climbing behaviour and climbing time in mice.

Conclusions

The present study results demonstrated the antidopaminergic effect of Morinda citrifolia Linn. in mice, suggesting that noni has antipsychotic-like activity which can be utilized in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. However further studies are warranted to identify the active principles responsible for the antipsychotic activity of noni.

Evaluation of gut modulatory and bronchodilator activities of Amaranthus spinosus Linn

BACKGROUND

The aqueous-methanolic extract of Amaranthus spinosus (A. spinosus Linn.,) whole plant, was studied for its laxative, spasmolytic and bronchodilator activities to validate some of its medicinal uses.

METHODS

The crude extract of A. spinosus was studied in-vivo for bronchodilator and laxative activities and in-vitro using isolated tissue preparations which were mounted in tissue baths assembly containing physiological salt solutions, maintained at 37°C and aerated with carbogen, to assess the spasmolytic effect and to find out the possible underlying mechanisms.

RESULTS

In the in-vivo experiments in mice, the administration of A. spinosus increased fecal output at doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg showing laxative activity. It also inhibited carbachol-induced bronchospasm in anesthetized rats at 1, 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg indicative of bronchodilator activity. When tested on isolated gut preparations, the plant extract showed a concentration-dependent (0.01-10.0 mg/ml) spasmogenic effect in spontaneously contracting rabbit jejunum and guinea-pig ileum. The spasmogenic effect was partially blocked in tissues pretreated with atropine (0.1 μM). When tested on K+ (80 mM)-induced sustained contractions in isolated rabbit jejunum, the plant extract caused complete relaxation and also produced a shift in the Ca++ concentration-response curves (CRCs) towards right, similar to diltiazem. In rabbit trachea, the plant extract completely inhibited K+ (80 mM) and carbachol (CCh, 1 μM)-induced contractions at 1 mg/ml but pretreatment of tissue with propranolol (1 μM), caused around 10 fold shift in the inhibitory CRCs of the plant extract constructed against CCh-induced contraction. The plant extract (up to 0.3 mg/ml) also increased both force and rate of spontaneous contractions of isolated guinea-pig atria, followed by relaxation at higher concentration (1.0-5.0 mg/ml). The cardio-stimulant effect was abolished in the presence of propranolol, similar to that of isoprenaline. Activity-directed fractionation revealed that the spasmolytic component(s) was separated in the organic fraction, whereas the spasmogenic component was concentrated in the aqueous fraction.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that A. spinosus possesses laxative activity partially mediated through cholinergic action. The spasmolytic effect was mediated through calcium channel blocking (CCB), while bronchodilator activity through a combination of β-adrenergic and CCB pathways, which may explain the traditional uses of A. spinosus in gut and airways disorders.

Hypotensive effect of Gentiana floribunda is mediated through Ca++ antagonism pathway

Background

Gentiana floribunda was investigated for the possible hypotensive and vasodilator activities in an attempt to rationalize its traditional use in hypertension.

Methods

The crude extract of Gentiana floribunda (Gf.Cr) was studied in anaesthetized rats and isolated thoracic aorta tissues.

Results

Gf.Cr which tested positive for presence of flavonoids, saponins, sterols, tannins and terpenes caused dose-dependent (3.0-100 mg/kg) fall in arterial blood pressure (BP) of rats under anaesthesia. In rat aortic ring preparations denuded of endothelium, Gf.Cr at concentration range of 1.0-10 mg/mL relaxed high K⁺ (80 mM) and phenylephrine (PE, 1 μM)-induced contractions and shifted Ca⁺⁺ dose–response curves to right, similar to that caused by verapamil. It also suppressed PE (1 μM) control peak responses at 0.3-1.0 mg/mL, obtained in Ca⁺⁺-free medium, as exhibited by verapamil. Pre-treatment of tissues with Gf.Cr produced rightward non-parallel shift of PE-curves with decline of maximum contractile response. The vasodilator effect of Gf.Cr was endothelial-independent, as it was not blocked by N_ω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride, atropine and indomethacin in endothelium-intact aortic tissues.

Conclusions

These data indicate that BP-lowering action of Gentiana floribunda occurred via Ca⁺⁺ antagonism (inhibition of Ca⁺⁺ ingress and release from intracellular stores), which provides pharmacological basis to justify its effectiveness in hypertension.

Species and tissue-specificity of prokinetic, laxative and spasmodic effects of Fumaria parviflora

Background

Fumaria parviflora Linn. (Fumariaceae), is a small branched annual herb found in many parts of the world including Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. This study was designed to provide pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of Fumaria parviflora in gut motility disorders.

Methods

The in-vivo prokinetic and laxative assays were conducted in mice. Isolated intestinal preparations (ileum and jejunum) from different animal species (mouse, guinea-pig and rabbit) were separately suspended in tissue baths containing Tyrode's solution bubbled with carbogen and maintained at 37°C. The spasmogenic responses were recorded using isotonic transducers coupled with PowerLab data acquisition system.

Results

The aqueous-methanol extract of Fumaria parviflora (Fp.Cr), which tested positive for the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins and anthraquinones showed partially atropine-sensitive prokinetic and laxative activities in the in-vivo in mice at 30 and 100 mg/kg. In the in-vitro studies, Fp.Cr (0.01-1 mg/ml) caused a concentration-dependent atropine-sensitive stimulatory effect both in mouse tissues (jejunum and ileum), and rabbit jejunum but had no effect in rabbit ileum. In guinea-pig tissues (ileum and jejunum), the crude extract showed a concentration-dependent stimulatory effect with higher efficacy in ileum and the effect was partially blocked by atropine, indicating the involvement of more than one types of gut-stimulant components (atropine-sensitive and insensitive). This could be a plausible reason for the greater efficacy of Fp.Cr in gut preparations of guinea-pig than in rabbit or mouse.

Conclusions

This study shows the prokinetic, laxative and spasmodic effects of the plant extract partially mediated through cholinergic pathways with species and tissue-selectivity, and provides a sound rationale for the medicinal use of Fumaria parviflora in gut motility disorders such as, indigestion and constipation. This study also suggests using different species to know better picture of pharmacological profile of the test material.

Protective effect of fruits of Morinda citrifolia L. on scopolamine induced memory impairment in mice: a behavioral, biochemical and cerebral blood flow study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) is widely used for different illnesses including CNS disorders. Recently Noni has been reported to prevent amyloid beta induced memory impairment in mice. However, the influence of Noni on cholinergic system has not been explored so far. Therefore, present study was designed to investigate effect of Noni fruit on memory, cerebral blood flow (CBF), oxidative stress and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in scopolamine induced amnesia model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mice were orally treated with ethanolic extract of Noni fruit and chloroform, ethyl acetate and butanol fractions of ethanolic extract for three days. Scopolamine was administered 5 min prior to acquisition trial and memory function was evaluated by passive avoidance test. CBF was measured by laser doppler flowmetry. AChE activity and oxidative stress parameters were estimated in mice brain at the end of behavioral studies. Further, effect of ethanolic extract and its fractions (5-400 μg/ml) on AChE activity was measured in vitro.

RESULTS

Scopolamine caused memory impairment along with reduced CBF, increased AChE activity and oxidative stress in mice brain. Ethanolic extract of Noni fruits and its chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions significantly improved memory and CBF. However, butanol fraction had no effect. Further, increased oxidative stress and AChE activity following scopolamine was significantly attenuated by ethanolic extract of Noni and its fractions. Moreover ethanolic extract and its fractions showed dose dependent inhibition of AChE activity in vitro.

CONCLUSION

These observations suggest that Noni may be useful in memory impairment due to its effect on CBF, AChE and oxidative stress.

Bronchodilatory effect of hydrogen sulfide in rat

OBJECTIVE(S)

The aims of present study were to elucidate the effect of NaHS as a H2S donor on precontracted rat trachea smooth muscle, role of epithelium and nitric oxide in this action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Tracheal rings from male adult Wistar rats were isolated and mounted in an organ bath containing Krebs-Henseleit solution under 1.5 g resting tension and contractions were recorded isometrically. After equilibrium period (60 min), cumulative concentrations of NaHS (0.2-1.2 mM) were applied on the tracheal basal tone or on the plateau of contractions induced by KCl (60 mM) or carbachol (CCh, 0.55 μM) in the absence and presence of certain antagonists and inhibitors.

RESULTS

The tracheal basal tone was unaffected by NaHS but tracheal contractions induced by KCl and CCh were attenuated by NaHS in a concentration-dependent manner (P< 0.001). Removing the tracheal epithelial did not attenuate the NaHS spasmolytic effect in the tissue precontracted by KCl and CCh. The bronchodilatory effect was unaffected by tissue incubation (30 min, 1 μM) with, glibenclamide, propranolol, indomethacin, methylene blue (10 μM), and L-NAME (300 μM).

CONCLUSION

It seems that bronchodilatory effect of H2S was not mediated by KATP channels, β-adrenoceptors, epithelium and production of nitric oxide, cGMP and prostaglandins. Since CCh and KCl activate Ca(2+) influx and CCh promotes Ca(2+) from intracellular pool as well, therefore, we may conclude that the relaxant effect of NaHS was mediated by the Ca(2+) influx blockade and cholinergic receptors inactivation. This preliminary study shows the possible therapeutical property of H2S in obstructive pulmonary diseases.

Antiurolithic activity of Origanum vulgare is mediated through multiple pathways

Background

Origanum vulgare Linn has traditionally been used in the treatment of urolithiasis. Therefore, we investigated the crude extract of Origanum vulgare for possible antiurolithic effect, to rationalize its medicinal use.

Methods

The crude aqueous-methanolic extract of Origanum vulgare (Ov.Cr) was studied using the in vitro and in vivo methods. In the in vitro experiments, supersaturated solution of calcium and oxalate, kidney epithelial cell lines (MDCK) and urinary bladder of rabbits were used, whereas, in the in vivo studies, rat model of urolithiasis was used for the study of preventive and curative effect.

Results

In the in vitro experiments, Ov.Cr exhibited a concentration-dependent (0.25-4 mg/ml) inhibitory effect on the slope of nucleation and aggregation and also decreased the number of calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals (COM) produced in calcium oxalate metastable solutions. It also showed concentration-dependent antioxidant effect against DPPH free radical and lipid peroxidation induced in rat kidney tissue homogenate. Ov.Cr reduced the cell toxicity using MTT assay and LDH release in renal epithelial cells (MDCK) exposed to oxalate (0.5 mM) and COM (66 μg/cm²) crystals. Ov.Cr relaxed high K⁺ (80 mM) induced contraction in rabbit urinary bladder strips, and shifted the calcium concentration-response curves (CRCs) towards right with suppression of the maximum response similar to that of verapamil, a standard calcium channel blocker. In male Wistar rats receiving lithogenic treatment comprising of 0.75% ethylene glycol in drinking water given for 3 weeks along with ammonium chloride (NH₄Cl) for the first 5 days, Ov.Cr treatment (10-30 mg/kg) prevented as well as reversed toxic changes including loss of body weight, polyurea, crystalluria, oxaluria, raised serum urea and creatinine levels and crystal deposition in kidneys compared to their respective controls.

Conclusion

These data indicating the antiurolithic activity in Ov.Cr, possibly mediated through inhibition of CaOx crystallization, antioxidant, renal epithelial cell protective and antispasmodic activities, rationalizes its medicinal use in urolithiasis.

Evaluation of the Possible Mechanisms of Antihypertensive Activity of Loranthus micranthus: An African Mistletoe

Loranthus micranthus (LM), also called African mistletoe is a major Nigerian Loranthaceae plant used traditionally to treat hypertension. The methanolic leaf extract of the plant (LMME) has been shown to elicit anti-hypertensive activity in rats but mechanism remains unclear. This study was undertaken to study the effect of LM on pressor-induced contraction of rat aorta smooth muscles and serum lipid profiles in mice. The LMME was partitioned to produce n-butanol (NBF-LMME), chloroform (CF-LMME), ethyl acetate (EAF-LMME) and water (WF-LMME) fractions. The median effective concentrations and maximum relaxation of the fractions were determined against epinephrine and KCl pre-contracted rat aorta ring model. Serum lipid profiles and nitric oxide (NO) were determined spectrophotometrically in mice administered per orally 250 mg/kg b.w. of each fraction for 21 days. Data were analyzed statistically. NBF-LMME elicited the highest dose-dependent inhibitory effect on rat aorta pre-contracted with norepinephrine and KCl, followed in decreasing order by WF-LMME > CF-LMME > EAF-LMME. Similar order of activity was observed in the ability of these fractions to inhibit elevation in artherogenic lipids, raise serum nitric oxide and reduce cardiac arginase in mice. We conclude the anti-hypertensive activity of L. micranthus involve anti-artherogenic events, vasorelaxation, cardiac arginase reduction and NO elevation.

Myostimulating effect of sesamum radiatum aqueous leaf extract in isolated Guinea-pig Taenia caeci contractile activity

This study was carried to examine the effects of the aqueous leaf extract of Sesamum radiatum, a laxative plant on the contractile activity of Taenia caeci, an intestinal smooth muscle. Strips of Taenia caeci were rapidly removed from guinea-pig and were suspended between two L-shaped stainless steel hooks in a 10 ml organ bath with Mac Ewen solution. The isometric contractile force of the Taenia caeci strips were recorded by using a strain gauge. S. radiatum aqueous leaf extract (ESera) is a spasmogenic substance. This myostimulant effect is characterized by the increase of the rhythm and the amplitude of isolated guinea-pig Taenia caeci smooth muscle in normal solution and by the development of contracture in modified solution and in solution without calcium. A similar effect was observed with ACh which caused a graded increase of the contractile activity of Taenia caeci. The effects induced by ESera and ACh were reversed in the presence of atropine. The spasmogenic effect induced by ESera could justify partially the use of S. radiatum as laxative in traditional medicine.

Studies on antidyslipidemic effects of Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruit, leaves and root extracts

Background

The objective of present study was to provide the pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of Morinda citrifolia Linn in dyslipidemia using the aqueous-ethanolic extracts of its fruits (Mc.Cr.F), leaves (Mc.Cr.L) and roots (Mc.Cr.R).

Results

Mc.Cr.F, Mc.Cr.L and Mc.Cr.R showed antidyslipidemic effects in both triton (WR-1339) and high fat diet-induced dyslipidemic rat models to variable extents. All three extracts caused reduction in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in triton-induced dyslipidemia. In high fat diet-induced dyslipidemia all these extracts caused significant reduction in total cholesterol, triglyceride, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), atherogenic index and TC/HDL ratio. Mc.Cr.R extract also caused increase in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C). The Mc.Cr.L and Mc.Cr.R reduced gain in body weight with a reduction in daily diet consumption but Mc.Cr.F had no effect on body weight and daily diet consumption.

Conclusions

These data indicate that the antidyslipidemic effect of the plant extracts was meditated through the inhibition of biosynthesis, absorption and secretion of lipids. This may be possibly due partly to the presence of antioxidant constituents in this plant. Therefore, this study rationalizes the medicinal use of Morinda citrifolia in dyslipidemia.