1
|
Thakur M, Guleria P, Sobti RC, Gautam A, Kaur T. Comparative analysis of the antibacterial efficacy and bioactive components of Thuja occidentalis obtained from four different geographical sites. Mol Cell Biochem 2024; 479:283-296. [PMID: 37059893 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04729-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not there were significant differences in the antibacterial potential of Thuja occidentalis collected from four distinct geographical sites, namely Chamba (Himachal Pradesh, India), Jalandhar (Punjab, India), Aurangabad (Bihar, India) and Kakching (Manipur, India). The plant extracts were prepared in three different solvents: ethanol, methanol, and acetone. The antibacterial potential of the plant extracts was tested against five different bacterial species using well diffusion test. The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations of the plant sample exhibiting maximum zone of inhibition against different bacterial strains were calculated. Further, the total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant efficacy (using DPPH assay) were also analysed biochemically. The activity of different antioxidant enzymes including SOD, CAT and APX were also recorded as these enzymes protect the cells from free radical damage. GC-MS analysis was also performed on all plant extracts to identify the bioactive components. The results showed that the T. occidentalis collected from the Kakching, Manipur, East side of India showed the highest zone of inhibition against all the bacterial strains, followed by Chamba, Jalandhar, and lastly Aurangabad. To analyse the impact of phytochemicals on the antibacterial efficacy, a correlation was drawn between the biochemical parameters and zone of inhibition using Karl Pearson's method. Most bacterial species demonstrated a positive correlation between antibacterial effectiveness (zone of inhibition) and biochemical markers. The GC-MS study revealed positive correlation between zone of inhibition and peak area percentages of α-Pinene, β-caryophyllene, Germacrene-D, and Humulene in all bacterial species indicating that these chemicals may play a key role in the bactericidal potential of T. occidentalis. Based on the results of this investigation, it is evident that the antibacterial effectiveness of T. occidentalis varies with its geographical location which may be attributed to the differences in the phytochemical makeup.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manish Thakur
- Department of Microbiology, DAV University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Praveen Guleria
- Department of Biotechnology, DAV University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | | | - Ayushi Gautam
- Department of Biotechnology, DAV University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Tejinder Kaur
- Department of Zoology, DAV University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kumar S, Verma M, Hajam YA, Kumar R. Honey infused with herbs: A boon to cure pathological diseases. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23302. [PMID: 38163184 PMCID: PMC10755321 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Healing with herbs has been a common practice for ages. Nowadays, various infectious diseases like malaria, flu, hepatitis B; COVID-19, etc. are commonly spreading around the world as a consequence of environmental pollution and related consequences. These diseases are not well controlled by the present drug treatment. Antibiotics are failing because of bacterial resistance. Although people believe that herbal medicines are more effective and safer. Therefore, traditional herbal remedies have been recommended for treatment purposes throughout the world. They are often used in combination, fused with honey, or alone for curing different types of ailments. Today, modern formulations of these medicines exist in the form of capsules, tablets, powders, and granules. In several traditional systems, 'Honey' is recommended as a natural medicine that improves several health conditions. In 'Ayurveda', honey is considered a most precious and miraculous product of nature and is used to treat various diseases either alone or after its infusion with herbs. It is a natural, antioxidant-rich, and highly nutritious food that is widely used as a natural sweetener without any side effects. It has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. It also proves fruitful in managing/curing various disorders like colds, coughs, cancer, diabetes, wound healing, and cardiovascular disorders. Honey infused with herbs is also used to repair wounds, diabetes, lymphedema, and the prevention of chronic venomous diseases as a part of the folk medicinal system. The current article aims to analyse the medicinal efficiency of honey infused with herbs for curing/managing/treating various types of ailments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Kumar
- Department of Biosciences, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, H.P., 171005, India
| | - Mamta Verma
- Department of Biosciences, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, H.P., 171005, India
| | - Younis Ahmad Hajam
- Department of Life Sciences and Allied Health Sciences, Sant Baba Bhag Singh University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Department of Biosciences, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, H.P., 171005, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gorain B, Karmakar V, Sarkar B, Dwivedi M, Leong JTL, Toh JH, Seah E, Ling KY, Chen KY, Choudhury H, Pandey M. Biomacromolecule-based nanocarrier strategies to deliver plant-derived bioactive components for cancer treatment: A recent review. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126623. [PMID: 37657573 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
The quest for safe chemotherapy has attracted researchers to explore anticancer potential of herbal medicines. Owing to upsurging evidence of herbal drug's beneficial effects, hopes are restored for augmenting survival rates in cancer patients. However, phytoconstituents confronted severe limitations in terms of poor absorption, low-stability, and low bioavailability. Along with toxicity issues associated with phytoconstituents, quality control and limited regulatory guidance also hinder the prevalence of herbal medicines for cancer therapy. Attempts are underway to exploit nanocarriers to circumvent the limitations of existing and new herbal drugs, where biological macromolecules (e.g., chitosan, hyaluronic acid, etc.) are established highly effective in fabricating nanocarriers and cancer targeting. Among the discussed nanocarriers, liposomes and micelles possess properties to cargo hydro- and lipophilic herbal constituents with surface modification for targeted delivery. Majorly, PEG, transferrin and folate are utilized for surface modification to improve bioavailability, circulation time and targetability. The dendrimer and carbon nanotubes responded in high-loading efficiency of phytoconstituent; whereas, SLN and nanoemulsions are suited carriers for lipophilic extracts. This review emphasized unveiling the latent potential of herbal drugs along with discussing on extended benefits of nanocarriers-based delivery of phytoconstituents for safe cancer therapy owing to enhanced clinical and preclinical outcomes without compromising safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bapi Gorain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi 835215, India.
| | - Varnita Karmakar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi 835215, India
| | - Biswatrish Sarkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi 835215, India
| | - Monika Dwivedi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi 835215, India
| | - Janelle Tsui Lyn Leong
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jing Hen Toh
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Even Seah
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kang Yi Ling
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kah Yee Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hira Choudhury
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Manisha Pandey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central University of Haryana, SSH 17, Jant, Haryana 123031, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Venkataswamy M, Karunakaran RS, Islam MS, Meriga B. Capparis zeylanica L. root extract promotes apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, inhibits epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and triggers E-cadherin expression in breast cancer cell lines. 3 Biotech 2023; 13:41. [PMID: 36643403 PMCID: PMC9832210 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-023-03461-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Capparis zeylanica L. is a climbing shrub distributed in Indian subcontinent and Mediterranean region. Almost all parts of the plant are used in folk medicine and traditional practices to treat several human ailments. The present study was aimed to investigate the role of C. zeylanica L. root extract in preventing cancerous cells growth and proliferation, as well as promoting apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Methanolic extract of C. zeylanica L. (MECz) was prepared and characterized by LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis. In vitro cytotoxicity and anti-proliferative activity of MECz was evaluated by MTT assay, while cell viability, apoptosis and cell cycle progression by Muse Cell analyzer. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein expressions of EMT markers were assessed using qRT-PCR and western blotting techniques, respectively. The MECz was found to be rich in phenolic compounds including chlorogenic acid, 6-gingerol, and certain triterpenes like ursolic acid etc. The apparent anti-metastasis activity of MECz was evident from IC50 value of 19.12 and 24.22 μg/mL, respectively, on MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells in MTT assay. An absolute decrease in cell viability (78.1-53.4% and 89.9-49.0%), augmented apoptosis (90.98-48.25% and 88.25-47.70%) and S phase, G2/M phase cell cycle arrest was found by MECz treatment on MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. The gene expression studies revealed that MECz could significantly (p < 0.001) regulate the expression of EMT markers such as snail, slug, zeb-1, twist-1, fibronectin, vimentin and E-cadherin at molecular level. These findings demonstrate that C. zeylanica L. root extract inhibits breast cancer cells growth and proliferation through regulating the expression of key EMT marker genes and proteins. Thus, MECz may be suggested as a potential anti-metastasis agent in the treatment of breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mallepogu Venkataswamy
- Department of Biochemistry, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517502 India
| | | | - Md. Shahidul Islam
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, 4000 South Africa
| | - Balaji Meriga
- Department of Biochemistry, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517502 India
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Plant Molecular Pharming and Plant-Derived Compounds towards Generation of Vaccines and Therapeutics against Coronaviruses. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10111805. [DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10111805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The current century has witnessed infections of pandemic proportions caused by Coronaviruses (CoV) including severe acute respiratory syndrome-related CoV (SARS-CoV), Middle East respiratory syndrome-related CoV (MERS-CoV) and the recently identified SARS-CoV2. Significantly, the SARS-CoV2 outbreak, declared a pandemic in early 2020, has wreaked devastation and imposed intense pressure on medical establishments world-wide in a short time period by spreading at a rapid pace, resulting in high morbidity and mortality. Therefore, there is a compelling need to combat and contain the CoV infections. The current review addresses the unique features of the molecular virology of major Coronaviruses that may be tractable towards antiviral targeting and design of novel preventative and therapeutic intervention strategies. Plant-derived vaccines, in particular oral vaccines, afford safer, effectual and low-cost avenues to develop antivirals and fast response vaccines, requiring minimal infrastructure and trained personnel for vaccine administration in developing countries. This review article discusses recent developments in the generation of plant-based vaccines, therapeutic/drug molecules, monoclonal antibodies and phytochemicals to preclude and combat infections caused by SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 viruses. Efficacious plant-derived antivirals could contribute significantly to combating emerging and re-emerging pathogenic CoV infections and help stem the tide of any future pandemics.
Collapse
|
6
|
Ismail NA, Matawali A, Kanak FA, Lee PC, How SE, Goh LPW, Gansau JA. Antimicrobial activities and phytochemical properties of Blumea balsamifera against pathogenic microorganisms. J Med Life 2022; 15:951-954. [PMID: 36188644 PMCID: PMC9514820 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2021-0296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Medicinal plants have been widely used in healthcare based on traditional knowledge. We investigated the antimicrobial activities and phytochemical contents of a plant known as Blumea balsamifera (B. balsamifera), which Sabah native people have used for health benefits. Methanolic extracts and fractions of the leaves of B. balsamifera were tested for their phytochemical contents and their antimicrobial activities against four Gram-negative and five Gram-positive strains of bacteria. The extracts of B. balsamifera showed antimicrobial activities against three Gram-positive, and one Gram-negative bacteria, with the zone of inhibition ranging from 7.8 mm±0.41 to 10.5 mm±0.71. Fraction CE.F7 exerted the broadest antimicrobial activity towards four Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria. The phytochemical constituents identified in the extracts were alkaloid, flavonoid, steroid, and cardiac glycosides. The plant extract demonstrated antimicrobial activities and contained multiple phytochemical constituents. Further investigations into potential antimicrobial agents containing promising fractions would validate the medicinal properties of B. balsamifera used in Sabah.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nurul Ain Ismail
- Biotechnology Programme, Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Azlinah Matawali
- Preparatory Centre for Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Fadzilah Awang Kanak
- Preparatory Centre for Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Ping-Chin Lee
- Biotechnology Programme, Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia,Biotechnology Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Siew-Eng How
- Industrial Chemistry Programme, Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Lucky Poh Wah Goh
- Biotechnology Programme, Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Jualang Azlan Gansau
- Biotechnology Programme, Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia,Corresponding Author: Jualang Azlan Gansau, Biotechnology Programme, Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mazrouei NA, Meslamani AZA, Alajeel R, Alghadban G, Ansari N, Kaabi MA, Sadeq A, Ibrahim R, Ibrahim OM. The patterns of herbal medicine use in the United Arab Emirates; A national study. Pharm Pract (Granada) 2022; 20:2698. [PMID: 36733511 PMCID: PMC9851812 DOI: 10.18549/pharmpract.2022.3.2698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To examine the pattern, nature, and attitude towards herbal medicines usage in the UAE. Methods A cross-sectional national questionnaire was distributed over five weeks in 7 emirates of UAE: The questioner was constructed using an online platform and delivered randomly to 448 adults in the UAE. The data collection technique adopted for this study was a convenient sampling. SPSS version 24 was used for statistical analysis. Results Among participants, 98.7% used herbal medicines (HMs), and respondents who aged between 18 and 24 years were more likely to use HMs. Participant were mainly female (70.3%), with fair health status (55%), and participant with chronic disease were significantly less likely to use HM (10.9%). The majority of herbal medicine users believed herbal medicine were harmless, because they were derivatives of natural products. The findings of this study reported that many participants use HMs to enhance immunity (26.8%), and for relaxation (23.5%). Conclusion Despites the risk of adverse-effects, many participants in this study are regular users for HMs and have perception that 89 may cure or prevent COVID-19. Therefore, awareness-raising campaigns that target HM users are essential to mitigate any unwanted consequences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Al Mazrouei
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah. United Arab Emirates.
| | - Ahmad Z Al Meslamani
- College of Pharmacy, AAU Health and Biomedical Research Center, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. ,
| | - Rand Alajeel
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah. United Arab Emirates.
| | - Ghaid Alghadban
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah.United Arab Emirates.
| | - Neda Ansari
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah. United Arab Emirates.
| | | | - Adel Sadeq
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Rana Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah. United Arab Emirates.
| | - Osama Mohamed Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah. United Arab Emirates, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Egypt.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
van Hunsel FPAM, van der Kooi D, van de Koppel S, Kroes BH, Woerdenbag HJ. Analysis of Reports on Adverse Drug Reactions Related to Herbal Medicinal Products and Herbal Supplements in the Netherlands Received by the National Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb. Drug Saf 2022; 45:651-661. [PMID: 35608783 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-022-01180-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The inclusion of herbal medicinal products and herbal supplements in pharmacovigilance systems is important because a systematic approach of collecting and analyzing adverse drug reactions related to these products will help practitioners, patients, and regulators to gain more knowledge and prevent harm. OBJECTIVE We aimed to categorize the adverse drug reaction reports on herbal medicinal products and herbal supplements submitted to the Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb between 1991 and February 2021 on the basis of their regulatory status, herbs included, and adverse drug reactions involved. METHODS We categorized products on the basis of their registration status and herbal ingredients. The products were then categorized according to the Herbal Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System. We used descriptive statistics in Microsoft Excel 2019. Pivot tables were used for the analysis and presentation of the data. RESULTS Until February 2021, a total of 789 reports of herbal medicinal products and herbal supplements were received by Lareb. In these reports, a total of 823 herbal products were labeled as suspect. These products caused a total of 1727 adverse drug reactions. Of the 823 products, 229 were registered as a medicine, and 594 were on the market as a herbal supplement. Of the 823 herbal products, 522 reports concerned single-herb products, 256 reports concerned combination products, 27 reports concerned vitamin products containing herbal ingredients, and 18 reports concerned product issues. Approximately 15% of reports concerned serious adverse drug reactions, and adulterated products harbored a high risk of causing serious adverse drug reactions. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of the herbal medicinal products and herbal supplements in the Dutch pharmacovigilance database revealed a variety of suspected herbal ingredients. The reports provide insight into the variety of herbal products used in the Netherlands and the adverse reactions associated with their use. Pharmacovigilance of herbal products is essential to ensure their safe use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Djurre van der Kooi
- Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands.,Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sonja van de Koppel
- Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - Burt H Kroes
- Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Herman J Woerdenbag
- Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Jairoun AA, Al-Hemyari SS, Shahwan M, Zyoud SH. Adulteration of Weight Loss Supplements by the Illegal Addition of Synthetic Pharmaceuticals. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26226903. [PMID: 34833995 PMCID: PMC8621677 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26226903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Weight loss supplements that have illegal additives of pharmaceutical drugs or analogues have additional health risks, and customers may not be aware of what they are taking. This research is an essential investigation and quantification of illegally added pharmaceuticals or prescription medications, specifically fluoxetine, phenolphthalein, and sibutramine, in herbal weight loss supplements offered for sale in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In this case, 137 weight loss supplements were collected and analyzed in this study. Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with UV absorption detection coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (RP-HPLC-MS/MS) analyses were used to determine the presence of the pharmaceutical chemicals. Among the weight loss supplements, 15.3% (95% CI: 9.2-21.4) contained undeclared sibutramine, 13.9% (95% CI: 8.01-19.7) contained undeclared phenolphthalein, and 5.1% (95% CI: 1.4-8.8) contained undeclared fluoxetine. Amongst all weight loss supplements, 17.5% (95% CI: 11.07-24) contained significant concentrations of either sibutramine, phenolphthalein, or fluoxetine. Whilst weight loss herbal supplements offered for sale in the UAE have relatively low percentages of undeclared pharmaceuticals, many people take several different supplements daily and may encounter quite high levels of combined exposure to toxic compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ammar A. Jairoun
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang 1800, Malaysia;
- Health and Safety Department, Dubai Municipality, Dubai P.O. Box 67, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: or
| | - Sabaa Saleh Al-Hemyari
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang 1800, Malaysia;
- Pharmacy Department, Emirates Health Services Establishment, Dubai P.O. Box 1853, United Arab Emirates
| | - Moyad Shahwan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates;
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sa’ed H. Zyoud
- Poison Control and Drug Information Center (PCDIC), College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus 44839, Palestine;
- Clinical Research Centre, An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus 44839, Palestine
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hasen G, Hashim R. Current Awareness of Health Professionals on the Safety of Herbal Medicine and Associated Factors in the South West of Ethiopia. J Multidiscip Healthc 2021; 14:2001-2008. [PMID: 34349517 PMCID: PMC8326526 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s321765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, the World Health Organization has strongly evidenced the importance of herbal medicine safety monitoring within the existing pharmacovigilance system through active involvement of health professionals. However, there is a widespread lack of awareness among health professionals about the safety of herbal medicines. Thus, this study assessed the current awareness of health professionals on the safety of herbal medicine in the South West of Ethiopia. Methodology The study employed a cross-sectional study design involving multistage sampling among health professionals (n=286) working in the medical center of Jimma University, January to February, 2021. The pre-tested self-administered questionnaire containing structured questions on a five-point Likert scale was appropriately filled and returned for statistical analysis. For the analysis of data, Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used. The associations between status of awareness and predictors were determined at 5% (p<0.05) level of significance by employing multivariate logistic regression. Results The study revealed around 51.8% of respondents had a good awareness regarding herbal medicine safety. Working experience of 6-10 years (AOR: 0.215, 95% CI: 0.093, 0.499), having training (AOR: 0.357, 95% CI: 0.166, 0.770), and practice of safety monitoring (AOR: 0.169, 95% CI: 0.077, 0.370) were significantly associated with awareness of safety of herbal medicine. Conclusion This study revealed that awareness of health professionals regarding safety of herbal medicine is not satisfactory. The years of experience, training, and practice of safety monitoring of herbal medicine are the major factors affecting status awareness. Therefore, the National Regulatory Authority must urgently facilitate integrated and consistent training for all health professionals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gemmechu Hasen
- Jimma University, Institute of Health, School of Pharmacy, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia.,Jimma University Laboratory Drug Quality (JuLaDQ), Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Rebuma Hashim
- Jimma University, Institute of Health, School of Pharmacy, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Omokhua-Uyi AG, Van Staden J. Natural product remedies for COVID-19: A focus on safety. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN ASSOCIATION OF BOTANISTS = SUID-AFRIKAANSE TYDSKRIF VIR PLANTKUNDE : AMPTELIKE TYDSKRIF VAN DIE SUID-AFRIKAANSE GENOOTSKAP VAN PLANTKUNDIGES 2021; 139:386-398. [PMID: 33753960 PMCID: PMC7970016 DOI: 10.1016/j.sajb.2021.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Infection by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 causing the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), is currently a global pandemic with more than two million deaths to date. Though a number of vaccines have recently been approved against the virus, availability remains a big challenge, and also acceptance by most people has become a big debate. This review discusses possible/proposed natural product remedies and some major conventional treatment options used to manage the infection and, safety concerns on the use of unproven or unapproved health products against COVID-19. An extensive literature review indicated that the influx of unproven and unapproved health products in the global market are on the rise, leading to various forms of self- medication. To this effect, there have been warnings by the United States Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organisation against the use of such products. Conventional drugs such as remdesivir, chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine and dexamethasone are the major proposed drugs that are currently undergoing clinical trials for the management of this disease. Efforts are being made globally in the search for possible therapeutics which may be the best way to eradicating this disease. Some countries have approved the use of natural products in the management of COVID-19, despite little or no clinical evidence on their efficacy and safety. Natural products may hold a great potential in the fight against COVID-19 but without detailed clinical trials, their potency against the virus and their safe use cannot be established. To attain this goal, extensive research followed by clinical studies are needed. Collaborative efforts between researchers, clinicians, governments and traditional medicinal practitioners in the search and development of safe and effective therapeutics from natural products for the treatment of COVID-19 could be a potential option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aitebiremen Gift Omokhua-Uyi
- Research Centre for Plant Growth and Development, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal Pietermaritzburg, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3201, South Africa
| | - Johannes Van Staden
- Research Centre for Plant Growth and Development, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal Pietermaritzburg, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3201, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Okaiyeto K, Oguntibeju OO. African Herbal Medicines: Adverse Effects and Cytotoxic Potentials with Different Therapeutic Applications. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:5988. [PMID: 34199632 PMCID: PMC8199769 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The African continent is naturally endowed with various plant species with nutritional and medicinal benefits. About 80% of the people in developing countries rely on folk medicines to treat different diseases because of indigenous knowledge, availability, and cost-effectiveness. Extensive research studies have been conducted on the medicinal uses of African plants, however, the therapeutic potentials of some of these plants has remained unexploited. Over the years, several studies have revealed that some of these African floras are promising candidates for the development of novel drugs. Despite the plethora of studies on medicinal plant research in Africa, there is still little scientific data supporting the folkloric claims of these plants. Besides, safety in the use of folk medicines has been a major public health concern over the year. Therefore, it has become mandatory that relevant authority should take measures in safeguarding the populace on the use of herbal mixtures. Thus, the present review extracted relevant information from different scientific databases and highlighted some problems associated with folk medicines, adverse effects on reproductive systems, issue about safety due to the toxicity of some plants and their toxicity effects with potential therapeutic benefits are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Oluwafemi O. Oguntibeju
- Phytomedicine and Phytochemistry Group, Oxidative Stress Research Centre, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville 7535, South Africa;
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Adewole KE, Attah AF, Osawe SO. Exploring phytotherapeutic approach in the management of valproic acid-induced toxicity. ADVANCES IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13596-021-00575-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
14
|
Khan T, Khan MA, Mashwani ZUR, Ullah N, Nadhman A. Therapeutic potential of medicinal plants against COVID-19: The role of antiviral medicinal metabolites. BIOCATALYSIS AND AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 31:101890. [PMID: 33520034 PMCID: PMC7831775 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2020.101890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There are numerous trials underway to find treatment for the COVID-19 through testing vaccines as well as existing drugs. Apart from the many synthetic chemical compounds, plant-based compounds could provide an array of \suitable candidates for testing against the virus. Studies have confirmed the role of many plants against respiratory viruses when employed either as crude extracts or their active ingredients in pure form. The purpose of this review article is to highlight the importance of phytomedicine against COVID-19. The main aim is to review the mechanistic aspects of most important phytochemical compounds that have showed potential against coronaviruses. Glycyrrhizin from the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra has shown promising potential against the previously epidemic coronavirus, SARS-CoV. Other important plants such as Artemisia annua, Isatis indigotica, Lindera aggregate, Pelargonium sidoides, and Glychirrhiza spp. have been employed against SARS-CoV. Active ingredients (e.g. emodin, reserpine, aescin, myricetin, scutellarin, apigenin, luteolin, and betulonic acid) have shown promising results against the coronaviruses. Phytochemicals have demonstrated activity against the coronaviruses through mechanisms such as viral entry inhibition, inhibition of replication enzymes and virus release blockage. However, compared to synthetic drugs, phytomedicine are mechanistically less understood and should be properly evaluated before application. Nonetheless, phytochemicals reduce the tedious job of drug discovery and provide a less time-consuming alternative for drug testing. Therefore, along with other drugs currently tested against COVID-19, plant-based drugs should be included for speedy development of COVID-19 treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tariq Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Malakand, Chakdara, KP, Pakistan
| | - Mubarak Ali Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemical and Life Sciences, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM), Mardan, 23390, Pakistan
| | | | - Nazif Ullah
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemical and Life Sciences, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM), Mardan, 23390, Pakistan
| | - Akhtar Nadhman
- Department of Integrative Biosciences, CECOS University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Aina O, Gautam L, Simkhada P, Hall S. Prevalence, determinants and knowledge about herbal medicine and non-hospital utilisation in southwest Nigeria: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e040769. [PMID: 32912997 PMCID: PMC7485235 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the prevalence, determinants, safety perceptions, effectiveness and knowledge of herbal medicines (HMs) and reasons for non-hospital utilisation. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Ekiti state, southwest Nigeria. PARTICIPANTS A representative sample (n=1600) of adults (18 years or above) currently living in Ekiti state, southwest Nigeria for at least 2 years, at the time of study. RESULTS The majority of the respondents (85% n=1265) have used HMs in the last 2 years. Across economic classes use, middle income (88.3%) was the highest (p<0.001), suggesting poverty is not a major factor, even with income inequality. Their use was the most common among respondents with a primary level of education (91.4%, p=0.001); and 100% use (p=0.009) of respondents practising African traditional religion; farmers and those 70 years or above. Our study also reveals more men (p<0.001) used HMs (89.9%) than women (78.6%) and effectiveness was a major reason for use (39.6%) followed by affordability (31.9%). Although the majority of the respondents (90%) knew the difference between certified and uncertified HMs, uncertified ones were the most commonly used (37.3%) in the population. CONCLUSION Although there is a cultural history of HM use within the study population, the choice of use was based on their effectiveness. Therefore, a scientifically valid analysis of this claim within the study population may help achieve a cheaper and affordable healthcare alternative which will be safe. This is important, considering that uncertified HMs were chosen over certified ones, even though a large majority of respondents were aware of differences and likely consequences. This study highlights the need for further investment by the government, individuals and corporate stakeholders in HM research and improvement of conventional healthcare system. This is in addition to public health awareness on the danger of use of uncertified herbal products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olujimi Aina
- School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University-Cambridge Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Lata Gautam
- School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University-Cambridge Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Padam Simkhada
- School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK
| | - Sarah Hall
- Leicester School of Pharmacy, Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang L, Li H, Zhang J, Kong X, Wu Z, Dong S, Qin X. A comparison of the efficacy and safety of complementary and alternative therapies for premature ovarian insufficiency: A protocol for network meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e21538. [PMID: 32756205 PMCID: PMC7402872 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000021538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the increase in the incidence of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) over the years, the ovarian function has become one of the integral aspects of research in reproductive medicine today. POI seriously affects the physical and mental health of women, especially reproductive health. Studies show both complementary and alternative therapies to be effective in treating POIs. However, consistency in conclusions is still far-fetched. In light of this, we will carry out a study to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of complementary and alternative therapies for POIs. We therefore develop a study protocol for a proposed network meta-analysis (NMA) and systematic review on POI. METHODS The following electronic bibliographic database will be searched: VIP database, Wanfang database, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), The Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science from inception till 31 December 2019. A search at the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform will also be done. Subsequently, the searched data will undergo independent screening, retrieving, and risk of bias assessment by 2 reviewers. Analysis will be performed on included studies using the NMA technique. Next, the primary outcomes will be compared using ADDIS 1.16.5 and Stata 15.0. RESULTS The safety and effectiveness of alternative and complementary therapies used in the treatment of POI will be compared and evaluated. CONCLUSION This work will provide high-quality evidence for clinicians in the field to build on for best practices in effective interventions (complementary and alternative therapies) for POI. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This NMA is a secondary research which based on some previously published data. Therefore, the ethical approval was not necessary. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020163873.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Honglin Li
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Jianwei Zhang
- Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Xinliang Kong
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan
| | - Zhijuan Wu
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Shuangqian Dong
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Xiuyun Qin
- Rizhao Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Rizhao, Shandong Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Aljofan M, Alkhamaiseh S. Prevalence and Factors Influencing Use of Herbal Medicines During Pregnancy in Hail, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J 2020; 20:e71-e76. [PMID: 32190372 PMCID: PMC7065689 DOI: 10.18295/squmj.2020.20.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The increasing prevalence of herbal medicine use is a global public health concern. Critically, many women continue to use herbal medicines during pregnancy despite potential maternofetal risks. The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of and factors associated with herbal medicine use during pregnancy in Saudi Arabia. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between February and May 2017. An Arabic-language 33-item survey assessing herbal medicine use was designed and distributed to 879 random women attending outpatient clinics at governmental and private hospitals in Hail, Saudi Arabia. Only women who were pregnant or had been pregnant in the previous 10 years were included. Results The mean age of the participants was 29.5 years, with 49% under 30 years old. Overall, 33% of the respondents claimed to have used herbal medicines during pregnancy. The most common reasons for doing so were to improve lactation (73%), improve the course of the pregnancy (56%) and facilitate labour (49%). Women who worked full-time and those with high school diplomas or above were significantly more likely to use herbal medicines during pregnancy (P <0.001 each). Conclusion To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to determine the prevalence and associated factors of herbal medicine use during pregnancy in Hail. The results showed a high prevalence of herbal medicine use among pregnant women in the region. Healthcare providers should therefore ensure that patients disclose the use of herbal medicines during pregnancy to avoid treatment complications or adverse herb-drug interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Aljofan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Suhaib Alkhamaiseh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jerash University, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Prevalence of use and reported side effects of herbal medicine among adults in Saudi Arabia. Complement Ther Med 2019; 48:102255. [PMID: 31987234 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2019.102255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the availability of well characterized and scientifically proven medicines, many people prefer the use of the less known herbal therapies that have no-scientific or evidence-based values as their first line of treatment. While this represents a growing worldwide issue, it is commonly practiced in developing countries including Saudi Arabia. Hence, the aim of the present study is to assess the prevalence of herbal medicine use, the most reported side effects and influencing factors in Saudi Arabia. DESIGN A community based cross sectional survey study. SETTINGS Participants were recruited by convenience sampling method from local malls and family recreation sites. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Prevalence of herbal medicine use and the associated risks. RESULTS Out of the 1300 surveyed individuals, 1226 respondents (94 %) used herbal medicines for therapeutic purposes with the majority of the respondents using them based on traditional beliefs 699 (57 %) or family recommendations 417 (34 %). Young respondents <35 year olds who live in urban cities, showed a significantly better knowledge about herbal medicines use and the associated risks than their counterparts (p < 0.001). Despite the high percentage of reported side effects (46 %), more than half of the respondents 702 (54 %) use herbal medicines as their first line of therapy. However, the most reported reasons for the use of herbal medicine are the belief that they are safer, more effective and cheaper to buy than the standard medicines. CONCLUSION There is a high prevalence use of non-scientifically proven herbal medicine and a low level of knowledge about their risks amongst participants.
Collapse
|
19
|
Menthol acts as a positive allosteric modulator on nematode levamisole sensitive nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2018; 9:44-53. [PMID: 30682641 PMCID: PMC6352305 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing and widespread emergence of resistance to the existing anti-nematodal pharmacopeia has made it imperative to develop new anthelminthic agents. Historically, plants have been important sources of therapeutic compounds and offer an alternative to synthetic drugs. Monoterpenoids are phytochemicals that have been shown to produce acute toxic effects in insects and nematodes. Previous studies have shown nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) to be possible targets for naturally occurring plant metabolites such as carvacrol and carveol. In this study we examined the effects of monoterpenoid compounds on a levamisole sensitive nAChR from Oesophagostomum dentatum and a nicotine sensitive nAChR from Ascaris suum. We expressed the receptors in Xenopus laevis oocytes and used two-electrode voltage-clamp to characterize the effect of various compounds on these cys-loop receptors. At 100 μM the majority of these compounds acted as antagonists. Interestingly, further experiments revealed that both 0.1 μM and 10 μM menthol potentiated acetylcholine and levamisole responses in the levamisole sensitive receptor but not the nicotine sensitive receptor. We also investigated the effects of 0.1 μM menthol on the contractility of A. suum somatic muscle strips. Menthol produced significant potentiation of peak contractions at each concentration of acetylcholine. The positive allosteric modulatory effects of menthol in both in vivo and in vitro experiments suggests menthol as a promising candidate for combination therapy with cholinergic anthelmintics. We screened 12 monoterpenoid compounds to search for a potential anthelmintic. Menthol acted as a PAM on levamisole sensitive nematode nAChRs in vitro & in vivo. Carvacrol produced antagonism on both levamisole and nicotine sensitive nAChRs. Monoterpenoid compounds can be used as an adjunct with cholinergic anthelmintics.
Collapse
|
20
|
Yedjou CG, Tchounwou SS, Williams K, Tchounwou PB. NOVEL CELLULAR STAINING PROTOCOL AND ANTIPROLIFERATIVE EFFECT OF VERNONIA AMYGDALINA DELILE ON LUNG AND PROSTATE CANCER CELLS. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING SCIENCES & RESEARCH TECHNOLOGY 2018; 7:552-556. [PMID: 30246001 PMCID: PMC6149525 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.1403369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
There is a critical need for more effective therapeutic approaches for cancer. Vernonia amygdalina Delile (VAD) has been used in African traditional medicine for the prevention and/or treatment of several diseases including diarrhea, intestinal illnesses, and cancer. However, the effects of VAD on human lung cancer and human prostate cancer cells remain largely unknown. The aim of this study was to explore a novel cellular staining protocol using acridine orange/propidium iodide (AO/PI) and to test the antiproferative activity of VAD against human lung cancer (A-549) cells and human prostate cancer (PC-3) cells. Our studies demonstrate that VAD inhibits the proliferation of both A-549 and PC-3 cells in a dose-dependent manner. This finding suggests that VAD may be useful in lung and prostate cancer prevention. However, further research is needed to elucidate the chemopreventive effects of VAD against cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clement G Yedjou
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Laboratory, NIH/NIMHD RCMI-Center for Environmental Health, College of Science, Engineering and Technology, Jackson State University, 1400 Lynch Street, P.O. Box 18750, Jackson, MS 39217, USA
| | - Solange S Tchounwou
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Laboratory, NIH/NIMHD RCMI-Center for Environmental Health, College of Science, Engineering and Technology, Jackson State University, 1400 Lynch Street, P.O. Box 18750, Jackson, MS 39217, USA
| | - Kathleen Williams
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Laboratory, NIH/NIMHD RCMI-Center for Environmental Health, College of Science, Engineering and Technology, Jackson State University, 1400 Lynch Street, P.O. Box 18750, Jackson, MS 39217, USA
| | - Paul B Tchounwou
- Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Laboratory, NIH/NIMHD RCMI-Center for Environmental Health, College of Science, Engineering and Technology, Jackson State University, 1400 Lynch Street, P.O. Box 18750, Jackson, MS 39217, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dhatwalia SK, Kumar M, Dhawan DK. Role of EGCG in Containing the Progression of Lung Tumorigenesis - A Multistage Targeting Approach. Nutr Cancer 2018; 70:334-349. [PMID: 29570987 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2018.1445762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Lung cancer is a prominent form among various types of cancers, irrespective of the sex worldwide. Treatment of lung cancer involves the intensive phase of chemotherapy/radiotherapy which is associated with high rate of adverse events. There is a need of safe and reliable treatment/adjunctive therapy to apprehend the cancer by reducing the undesirable outcome of primary therapy. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which is a potent antioxidant and anticancer compound extracted from the plant camellia sinensis has proved to be a novel agent to control or reduce lung tumorigenesis by affecting the signaling molecules of cell cycle regulation and apoptotic pathways. In vitro studies have revealed that EGCG can contain carcinogenesis by altering the molecules involved in multiple signal transduction pathways like ERK, VEGF, COX2, NEAT, Ras-GTPase, and kinases. The animal studies have also demonstrated effectiveness of EGCG by inhibiting various molecular pathways which include AKT, NFkB, MAPK, Bcl/Bax, DNMT1, and HIF-1α. Various attempts have been made to see the adjunctive role of EGCG in human lung cancer. Phase I/II clinical studies have recommended that EGCG is quite safe and effective in providing protection against cancer. In this review, we will discuss the role of EGCG and its molecular mechanisms in lung carcinogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Devinder K Dhawan
- a Department of Biophysics , Panjab University , Chandigarh , India.,c Nuclear Medicine, Panjab University , Chandigarh , India
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lira SM, Canabrava NV, Benjamin SR, Silva JYG, Viana DA, Lima CLS, Paredes PFM, Marques MMM, Pereira EO, Queiroz EAM, Guedes MIF. Evaluation of the toxicity and hypoglycemic effect of the aqueous extracts of Cnidoscolus quercifolius Pohl. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 50:e6361. [PMID: 28876366 PMCID: PMC5579966 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20176361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic degenerative diseases, and it is estimated to increase worldwide to around 415 million and to impact 642 million in 2040. Research shows that some plants are sources of bioactive compounds against diabetes. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the oral toxicity and the hypoglycemic effect of the aqueous extract of the leaves of Cnidoscolus quercifolius Pohl. Diabetes was induced in Swiss mice with streptozotocin and the mice were treated with an aqueous extract of C. quercifolius leaves for a period of 30 days. Phytochemical analysis showed that the extract was rich in flavonoids, catechins and triterpenoid, which did not show any mortality and behavioral alterations in mice treated with 200, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg body weight of the extract for 14 days. Histopathological analysis of organs (kidney, pancreas, liver) from mice treated with the 2000 mg/kg extract revealed no architectural change. In the present study, we found a 29% reduction in glucose levels in animals receiving 200 mg/kg body weight. These results are very promising because they showed that C. quercifolius had a hypoglycemic effect and did not present oral toxicity, thus being a new source of compounds for the control of diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S M Lira
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - N V Canabrava
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - S R Benjamin
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - J Y G Silva
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - D A Viana
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica Pathovet, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - C L S Lima
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - P F M Paredes
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - M M M Marques
- Laboratório de Parasitologia e Ecologia de Doenças Negligenciadas, Universidade Federal do Piauí, Picos, PI, Brasil
| | - E O Pereira
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - E A M Queiroz
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - M I F Guedes
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kristanc L, Kreft S. European medicinal and edible plants associated with subacute and chronic toxicity part II: Plants with hepato-, neuro-, nephro- and immunotoxic effects. Food Chem Toxicol 2016; 92:38-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2016.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
24
|
Kristanc L, Kreft S. European medicinal and edible plants associated with subacute and chronic toxicity part I: Plants with carcinogenic, teratogenic and endocrine-disrupting effects. Food Chem Toxicol 2016; 92:150-64. [PMID: 27090581 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2016.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In recent decades, the use of herbal medicines and food products has been widely embraced in many developed countries. These products are generally highly accepted by consumers who often believe that "natural" equals "safe". This is, however, an oversimplification because several botanicals have been found to contain toxic compounds in concentrations harmful to human health. Acutely toxic plants are in most cases already recognised as dangerous as a result of their traditional use, but plants with subacute and chronic toxicity are difficult or even impossible to detect by traditional use or by clinical research studies. In this review, we systematically address major issues including the carcinogenicity, teratogenicity and endocrine-disrupting effects associated with the use of herbal preparations with a strong focus on plant species that either grow natively or are cultivated in Europe. The basic information regarding the molecular mechanisms of the individual subtypes of plant-induced non-acute toxicity is given, which is followed by a discussion of the pathophysiological and clinical characteristics. We describe the genotoxic and carcinogenic effects of alkenylbenzenes, pyrrolizidine alkaloids and bracken fern ptaquiloside, the teratogenicity issues regarding anthraquinone glycosides and specific alkaloids, and discuss the human health concerns regarding the phytoestrogens and licorice consumption in detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luka Kristanc
- Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov Trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Primary Healthcare of Gorenjska, ZD Kranj, Gosposvetska Ulica 10, 4000 Kranj, Slovenia.
| | - Samo Kreft
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Tržaška Cesta 32, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Khazan M, Hedayati M, Kobarfard F, Askari S, Azizi F. Identification and determination of synthetic pharmaceuticals as adulterants in eight common herbal weight loss supplements. IRANIAN RED CRESCENT MEDICAL JOURNAL 2014; 16:e15344. [PMID: 24829782 PMCID: PMC4005444 DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.15344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2013] [Revised: 11/17/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Adulterated herbal weight loss products with containing undeclared synthetic drugs are common and responsible for many serious health damages. Objectives: The purpose of the study was to determine five synthetic adulterants in eight common herbal weight loss supplements, which are currently sold in Iran markets, to verify their presence in supplements, without mentioning on the labels. Materials and Methods: Eight common herbal weight loss samples were obtained from the Iran pharmaceutical market after advertising in the Persian language on satellite channels and internet. Five pharmacological classes of drugs used for weight loss, namely sibutramine, phenolphthalein, phenytoin, bumetanide and rimonabant, were investigated and quantified by GC-MS for the first three and LC-MS for the last two medications. Results: The most undeclared ingredients, which were illegally added include sibutramine, phenolphthalein, bumetanide, and phenytoin in the original super slim, herbaceous essence, super slim green lean, and fat loss, supplements, respectively. Rimonabant was not found. Caffeine, pseudoephedrine, theobromine and amfepramone were also found in the supplements using GC-MS assay. Conclusions: Adulterated synthetic substances were detected in the herbal weight loss products. Health care professionals should make people aware of the risks of taking herbal weight-loss supplements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Khazan
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Mehdi Hedayati
- Cellular and Molecular Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Farzad Kobarfard
- Department of Medical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Sahar Askari
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Fereidoun Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
- Corresponding Author: Fereidoun Azizi, Endocrine Research Centre, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 19395-4763, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel: +98-2122409309, Fax: +98-2122402463, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Traditional use and safety of herbal medicines1. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE FARMACOGNOSIA-BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACOGNOSY 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bjp.2014.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
27
|
Ekor M. The growing use of herbal medicines: issues relating to adverse reactions and challenges in monitoring safety. Front Pharmacol 2014; 4:177. [PMID: 24454289 PMCID: PMC3887317 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2013.00177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1131] [Impact Index Per Article: 113.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2013] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of herbal medicinal products and supplements has increased tremendously over the past three decades with not less than 80% of people worldwide relying on them for some part of primary healthcare. Although therapies involving these agents have shown promising potential with the efficacy of a good number of herbal products clearly established, many of them remain untested and their use are either poorly monitored or not even monitored at all. The consequence of this is an inadequate knowledge of their mode of action, potential adverse reactions, contraindications, and interactions with existing orthodox pharmaceuticals and functional foods to promote both safe and rational use of these agents. Since safety continues to be a major issue with the use of herbal remedies, it becomes imperative, therefore, that relevant regulatory authorities put in place appropriate measures to protect public health by ensuring that all herbal medicines are safe and of suitable quality. This review discusses toxicity-related issues and major safety concerns arising from the use of herbal medicinal products and also highlights some important challenges associated with effective monitoring of their safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martins Ekor
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast Cape Coast, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Koski SM, Laitinen-Parkkonen P, Airaksinen M. Evolution of European Union legislation of herbal medicinal products and its transposition to national legislation in 1965-2007: case Finland. Int J Health Plann Manage 2014; 30:260-75. [PMID: 24375722 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.2233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2012] [Revised: 05/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aim was to explore the progress of legislation relating to herbal medicinal products in the European Union and compare it with the corresponding progress of the legislation in Finland in 1965-2007. METHODS The study was carried out using content analysis. Data were searched from publicly available European Union directives and national acts. All definitions and safety-related requirements for herbal medicinal products were identified. The transposition of safety-related requirements into the national legislation was studied. RESULTS Medicinal products from plant origins have been part of the European Union legislation since 1965. Most plant-based products have not initially been regarded as medicinal products but rather as some kind of medicine-like products. The official definition of herbal medicinal products was introduced in Directive 2004/24/EC and implemented into the Finnish legislation with the terminology to recognise herbal medicinal products as part of medicinal products. The current safety-related requirements of medicinal products concern analogously herbal medicinal products. CONCLUSIONS Herbal medicinal products have had different definitions in pharmaceutical legislation over the study period in the European Union and Finland. The current definition places herbal medicinal products more clearly under the medicinal products' legislation. Safety-related requirements are now practically identical for all medicinal products. Transposition of the European Union legislation into the national legislation in Finland is apparent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sari M Koski
- Division of Social Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Marja Airaksinen
- Division of Social Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Wu L, Gong P, Wu Y, Liao K, Shen H, Qi Q, Liu H, Wang G, Hao H. An integral strategy toward the rapid identification of analogous nontarget compounds from complex mixtures. J Chromatogr A 2013; 1303:39-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2013.06.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2013] [Revised: 06/17/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
30
|
Research and development for botanical products in medicinals and food supplements market. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:649720. [PMID: 23606886 PMCID: PMC3625613 DOI: 10.1155/2013/649720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Botanical products sold in the health area are generally intended as drugs, medicinal products, food supplements or substances for therapeutic use. Use of botanicals for improving or to care human health has evolved independently in different countries worldwide. Regulatory issues regarding botanical products designed for the food supplements or medicinal market and their influence on research and development are discussed. European Union (EU) and United States (US) policies regulating these products are focused with comments on the legislations delivered during the last ten years and differences existing in rules between these countries are emphasized. Research and development on botanical products nowdays strongly influenced by the product destination in the market. Addressed and differentiated research for either food supplements or medicinal markets is necessary to purchase data really useful for assessment of safe and effective use for both the categories. The main objective is to catalyze interest of academic and companies' researchers on crucial aspects to be taken into account in the research for the development of botanical products.
Collapse
|
31
|
Licata A, Macaluso FS, Craxì A. Herbal hepatotoxicity: a hidden epidemic. Intern Emerg Med 2013; 8:13-22. [PMID: 22477279 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-012-0777-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2011] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Complementary and alternative therapies, including herbal products, have become increasingly popular in the general population and among patients and physicians. Regulations and pharmacovigilance regarding herbal drugs are still incomplete and need to be improved. In fact, herbals are commonly marketed on the Internet, and in many countries they are sold as food supplements, which are beyond the control of drug regulatory agencies. In Europe and the U.S., reports of hepatotoxicity from these products, including those advertised for liver diseases, are accumulating. Many herbal drugs are also commonly used in children, and in women during pregnancy and lactation, because they are believed to be "natural" and, therefore, "harmless." One emerging problem is people preferring herbal-based slimming aids to conventional dietary and physical activity. In Italy, the use of non-conventional therapies has been reported for 13.6 % of the population, and 3.7 % freely use herbal drugs, unaware of the risks associated with a potential interaction with prescription drugs. In our review, we discuss the problem of the lack of standardization of herbal drugs, the lack of randomized clinical trials regarding the majority of these products, the unawareness of risks by the patients who buy and use them, and, further, the problem of underreporting. For the most commonly used herbal products and slimming aids, we describe their potential hepatotoxicity mechanisms, the causality assessment necessary for a correct diagnosis, and the clinical patterns for which these products seem to be responsible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Licata
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia, DiBiMIS, University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127, Palermo, Italy.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Chen M, Zhang J, Lai Y, Wang S, Li P, Xiao J, Fu C, Hu H, Wang Y. Analysis ofPogostemon cablinfrom pharmaceutical research to market performances. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2012; 22:245-57. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2013.754882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
|
33
|
Miroddi M, Carnì A, Mannucci C, Moleti M, Navarra M, Calapai G. Hot flashes in a young girl: a wake-up call concerning Serenoa repens use in children. Pediatrics 2012; 130:e1374-6. [PMID: 23027164 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2011-2679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracts of the plant Serenoa repens are widely used in male adults for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Recently, therapy with S repens has been proposed as a "natural" alternative to conventional treatments for male androgenetic alopecia as well as for other hair disorders. Telogen effluvium is a form of alopecia characterized by abnormality of hair cycling, resulting in excessive loss of telogen hair. We report the case of an 11-year-old girl presenting hot flashes that appeared after treatment of telogen effluvium with a food supplement containing S repens that lasted for ~2 months. When use of the product was discontinued, the hot flashes no longer occurred. Four months after the start of S repens intake and 45 days from the cessation of therapy, the girl experienced menarche at the age of 11 years. The Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale indicated a probable relationship (score of 6) between the appearance of hot flashes and the intake of S repens. A correlation between exposure to S repens and the onset of menarche is not certain, but it cannot be excluded. Medicinal products or food supplements containing S repens are generally well tolerated in male adults, but we believe that their use in pediatric patients should be better evaluated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Miroddi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Adjene JO, Nwose EU. Histological effects of chronic administration of Phyllanthus amarus on the kidney of adult Wistar rat. NORTH AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2012; 2:193-5. [PMID: 22624139 PMCID: PMC3354409 DOI: 10.4297/najms.2010.2193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phyllanthus amarus is commonly used for treatment such as in gastro, urogenital diseases and infection. However, it is speculated to have some toxic effects such as renal tubular damage. AIMS This study was to investigate the histological effects of chronic administration of the herb on kidney of adult Wistar rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS Rats of both sexes (n = 24), with average weight of 200g were randomly assigned into two treatments (A and B) and control (C) groups of 8 rats each. Rats in treatment groups (A) and (B) respectively received daily administration of 400mg and 800mg of aqueous Phyllanthus amarus, per 70kg body weight for 30days through the orogastric tube. The control group received distilled water through the same route. All rats were fed with grower's mash and given water liberally. The rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation on the thirty-first day of the experiment and the kidneys were carefully dissected out and quickly fixed in 10% formal saline for histological study. RESULTS The observations indicate that rats in the treated groups showed some varying degree of distortion and disruption in microanatomy of the kidney including interstitial oedema and tubular necrosis, when compared to the control section. CONCLUSION This report provides further evidence that medicinal use of Phyllanthus amarus has a potential adverse effect. This warrants further studies to establish or rule out any untoward side-effect of chronic renal dysfunctions.
Collapse
|
35
|
Raynor DK, Dickinson R, Knapp P, Long AF, Nicolson DJ. Buyer beware? Does the information provided with herbal products available over the counter enable safe use? BMC Med 2011; 9:94. [PMID: 21827684 PMCID: PMC3180693 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-9-94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2011] [Accepted: 08/09/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Herbal products obtained over the counter are commonly used in Europe, North America and Australia. Although there is concern about a lack of information provided to consumers to allow the safe use of these products, there has been no published research to confirm these fears. In this study, we evaluated written information provided with commonly used herbal products in the UK in advance of a European Union Directive issued in April 2011 that tightened regulations for some herbal products, including requirements to provide safety information. METHODS Five commonly used herbal products were purchased from pharmacies, health food shops and supermarkets: St John's wort, Asian ginseng, echinacea, garlic and ginkgo. Written information provided with the products (on the package or on a leaflet contained in the package) was evaluated for inclusion of each of the key safety messages included in the monographs of the US National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Specifically, we looked for information on precautions (such as Asian ginseng not being suitable for people with diabetes), interactions with conventional medicines (such as St John's wort with the contraceptive pill and warfarin) and side effects (such as ginkgo and allergic reactions). RESULTS Our analysis showed that, overall, 51 (75%) of 68 products contained none of the key safety messages. This included 4 of 12 St John's wort products, 12 of 12 ginkgo products, 6 of 7 Asian ginseng products, 20 of 21 garlic products and 9 of 13 echinacea products. The two products purchased that are registered under the new European Union regulations (for St John's wort) contained at least 85% of the safety messages. CONCLUSIONS Most of the herbal medicine products studied did not provide key safety information which consumers need for their safe use. The new European Union legislation should ensure that St John's wort and echinacea products will include the previously missing information in due course. The legislation does not apply to existing stock. Depending on therapeutic claims made by manufacturers, garlic, ginkgo and Asian ginseng products may not be covered by the legislation and can continue to be bought without the safety information. Also, consumers will still be able to buy products over the internet from locations outside European Union jurisdiction. Potential purchasers need to know, in both the short term and the long term, how to purchase herbal products which provide the information they need for the safe use of these products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David K Raynor
- School of Healthcare, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9UT, UK
| | - Rebecca Dickinson
- School of Healthcare, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9UT, UK
| | - Peter Knapp
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Andrew F Long
- School of Healthcare, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9UT, UK
| | - Donald J Nicolson
- Quality, Safety and Informatics, Clinical and Population Sciences & Education Division, University of Dundee, Ninewells Avenue, Dundee, DD1 9SY, UK
- Current address: Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
|
37
|
Hung SK, Hillier S, Ernst E. Case reports of adverse effects of herbal medicinal products (HMPs): a quality assessment. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2011; 18:335-343. [PMID: 20739165 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2010.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2009] [Revised: 05/07/2010] [Accepted: 07/12/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Case reports provide essential information on adverse effects. Yet there is little consistency in the quality and format of reporting them. AIM In this study, we aimed to assess the quality of case reports of adverse effect of herbal medicinal products (HMPs) published during three time periods, 1986-1988, 1996-1998, and 2006-2008. METHODS We conducted literature searches in four major databases: Medline, EMBASE, AMED, and CINALH. Each case report was subject to specific inclusion criteria related to the intervention (i.e. herbal medicine) and outcome measurement (i.e. adverse effect). A 21-item scale was used to assess the quality of all included reports. Each report was categorised into low quality (score between 0 and 14), lower medium quality (score between 15 and 21), upper medium quality (score between 22 and 28), and high quality (score between 29 and 42). RESULTS In total, 137 case reports were included. The percentage of high quality case reports rose from 0% in 1986-1988 to 27.9% in 1996-1998 and 34.2% in 2006-2008; conversely, the percentages of low quality case reports dropped from 13.3% in 1986-1988 to 0% in 1996-1998 and 2.5% in 2006-2008. CONCLUSION These findings are consistent with the notion that the quality of case reports is improving. However, due to several caveats, our data should be interpreted with caution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shao Kang Hung
- Complementary Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, Universities of Exeter and Plymouth, Exeter, UK.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Balbani APS, Silva DHS, Montovani JC. Patents of drugs extracted from Brazilian medicinal plants. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2009; 19:461-73. [PMID: 19441926 DOI: 10.1517/13543770902824180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plants synthesise a vast repertoire of chemicals with various biological activities. Brazilian enormous botanical diversity facilitates the development of novel ethical drugs for the treatment of diseases in humans. OBJECTIVE To present therapeutic patent applications comprising Brazilian native plants published in the 2003-2008 period in light of legal aspects of patentability of biodiversity and public health concerns. METHODS Therapeutic patent applications related to Brazilian medicinal plants available at both the European Patent Office and the Brazilian National Institute of Industrial Property databases were reviewed. RESULTS/CONCLUSION Twenty-five patents are presented, most of which concern inflammatory, allergic, parasitic, infectious or digestive diseases, including extracts from Carapa guianensis, Copaifera genus, Cordia verbenacea, Erythrina mulungu, Physalis angulata and other pharmaceutical compositions with antileishmanial, antimalarial or trypanocidal activity. Brazilian research centres and universities are responsible for most of these inventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aracy P S Balbani
- Botucatu Medical School, Sao Paulo State University, Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Department, Botucatu, Rua Capitao Lisboa, 715-cj. 33, 18270-070, Tatui, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
|