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Sacha inchi is a plant native to the Peruvian Amazon. The oil obtained from its seeds contains high levels of alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid, which may provide protective effects against inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. In Cuba, the plant has been cultivated and the oil has been obtained, so it is important to carry out preclinical studies to evaluate its toxicity. The objective of this work was to determine the toxic effects of Sacha inchi oil, after a single oral administration to NMRI mice of both sexes. The dose administered to the animals was 2000 mg/kg of body weight, then they were observed at different intervals during the first 24 hours and daily for up to 14 days. Body weight was recorded at the beginning, after seven days and at the end of the experience, and food consumption was controlled throughout the experience. There were no deaths or signs indicative of toxicity in any animal. No macroscopic findings were observed during necropsy. In the analysis of body weight and food consumption there were no significant differences between the treated groups and the controls. The administration of single oral doses of Sacha inchi oil to NMRI mice did not show signs indicative of toxicity in either sex, showing an acute oral toxicity greater than 2000 mg/kg of body weight, so according to the method of the acute toxicity classes is not classifiable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrathin oral films are novel delivery systems that do not require water to swallow, show rapid systemic release, and allow a comfortable and precise dosage. These films represent an option for administering active metabolites from medicinal plants used against insomnia, such as Agastache mexicana. However, incorporating complex bioactive molecules can compromise the functionality of the films. This study evaluated the physicochemical properties and biological activity of sodium alginate films added with the ethanolic extracts of Agastache Mexicana. After incorporating the extracts, the films preserved their homogeneous morphology, thickness (<50 µm), and solubility time (<10 min). In contrast, hardness increased more than 40%, and elasticity increased 60%. Infrared spectroscopy analysis revealed that, after the preparation of the films, the functional groups of the extracts and the chemical structure of the ultrathin films were maintained. Moreover, we demonstrated that the hypnotic effect of Agastache mexicana was preserved, since the sleep onset latency and total sleep time in a murine model were similar between the liquid extract and the film formulation. These data support the use of ultrathin films with natural extracts as a potential treatment for sleep disorders like insomnia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Hypertension is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease, affecting approximately 1 billion individuals worldwide. The positive relationship between blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular disease is strong, independent, and consistent. By reducing blood pressure, many benefits can be seen in hypertensive patients; 50% to 60% lower risk of stroke death and an approximately 40% to 50% lower risk of death due to coronary artery disease. We review the evidence behind the pharmacological strategies available in the treatment of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]