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Background and purpose: Aphthous and oral ulcers are the most common ulcerative conditions of the oral mucosa, presenting as painful sores on the oral or tongue mucous membranes that make eating and drinking difficult. Zataria multiflora Boiss. has demonstrated therapeutic potential and has been used in formulations such as Protact® mouthwash. Recent studies indicate that this plant possesses several therapeutic effects, including alleviating inflammation and promoting healing in oral, digestive, and skin wounds. Given the documented effectiveness of this plant in treating various types of oral wounds and inflammation, along with the availability of Protact® mouthwash in pharmacies nationwide, this study aims to evaluate patient and physician satisfaction with the efficacy of Protact® mouthwash for treating oral ulcers and aphthous ulcers in Sari and Babol, the two largest cities by population in Mazandaran province. Materials and methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study included a sample of 75 individuals, consisting of 35 physicians and 40 patients from Sari and Babol who either prescribed or used Protact® mouthwash. A convenience sampling method was used, with participants selected based on their willingness to complete a checklist. Data were collected by trained interviewers visiting medical centers, physician clinics, and pharmacies, and inviting participants to complete the checklist. Data were presented as mean ± standard deviation (M ± SD), percentages, median, minimum, and maximum values. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-squared, Kolmogorov–Smirnov, and independent t-tests. Results: The majority of participants in both groups were men (patients: 52.5%, or 21 out of 40; physicians: 94.3%, or 33 out of 35). The mean, median, standard deviation, minimum, and maximum ages for physicians were 53.94, 56, 7.6, 40, and 68 years, respectively, while those for patients were 40.13, 42, 10.8, 18, and 63 years, respectively. Most patients in this study (75%) reported a high level of satisfaction after using Protact® mouthwash. This mouthwash was mainly used for the treatment of aphthous stomatitis and oral inflammation, with a frequency of 52.5%. Results from the physicians' checklists showed that Protact® mouthwash was most frequently prescribed by dentists (42.9%), followed by general practitioners, hematologists and oncologists, and radiologists (each with a frequency of 11.4%). Additionally, physicians expressed satisfaction with the healing progress in their patients. Conclusion: The findings support the effectiveness of Protact® mouthwash, a natural product produced in Iran, for the prevention and treatment of oral cavity-related conditions. The efficacy of this product is likely attributed to the presence of major phytochemicals in Zataria multiflora extract and essential oil, including thymol and carvacrol, which possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and tissue-regenerative properties beneficial to mucosal and skin healing.

Background and Objective: Exercise training and Zataria multiflora have a positive effect on health and can modulate cardiovascular risk factors. Adipose tissue-derived factors such as ANGPTL8 and adhesive molecules play an important role in exerting the pathological effects of obesity. This study aimed to investigate the effect of eight weeks of resistance-endurance exercise training combined with Zataria multiflora ingestion on the levels of ANGPTL8, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 in sedentary overweight and obese men. Methods: In this clinical trial study, 40 sedentary overweight and obese men (with an average body mass index of 28.41±1.75 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to four groups with 10 subjects each. The groups included placebo, Zataria multiflora, training, and training + Zataria multiflora. The exercise training was combined training consisting of resistance-endurance exercise, conducted three times per week over eight weeks. Zataria multiflora supplement consumption was set at 500 mg daily. Blood sampling was conducted before and after the eight-week intervention, and the levels of ANGPTL8, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 were measured using the ELISA method. Results: A significant decrease in serum levels of ANGPTL8 was observed in the training and training + Zataria multiflora groups compared to the placebo and Zataria multiflora groups (P

Statement of the Problem: Zataria multiflora (ZM) is a thyme-like plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the center and south of Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Evidence shows that ZM contains thymol and carvacrol and is therefore, effective for the treatment of many conditions especially fungal infections. Oral candidiasis is the most common opportunistic infection of the oral mucosa that plays a role in the development of denture stomatitis. Purpose: This study aimed to compare the antifungal efficacy of ZM and nystatin suspension for the treatment of denture stomatitis. Materials and Method: This single-blind clinical trial evaluated 28 patients (> 18 years old) suffering from type II or III denture stomatitis. Patients were divided into two groups. The control group used nystatin suspension while the case group used ZM drop. The number of Candida albicans (C. albicans) colony-forming units (CFUs) and erythema of the palate were evaluated at baseline and at 14 days after treatment. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 11 via Student’s t test and repeated measure ANOVA. Results: The results showed similar efficacy of nystatin and ZM in the reduction of C.albicans CFUs compared to the baseline value (p= 0.593). Both medications significantly decreased the colony count (p< 0.001). Nystatin and ZM had similar efficacy for the reduction of erythema as well (p= 0.256) and both caused a significant reduction in erythema of the palate (p

Introduction: Coronaviruses are animal-derived enveloped viruses that in addition to respiratory and digestive diseases have also been found in neurological diseases, some of which have caused nephritis or have been observed in patients with Multiple Sclerosis and mouse hepatitis. However, in general, the most important effect of coronaviruses is on the respiratory and digestive systems. This study aimed to compare the genome of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-28) with that of other viruses of the coronavirus family. Moreover, it was attempted to investigate the possibility of its falsification and finally evaluate the effect of linalool and thymol on the inactivity of the orf1ab protein of SARS-CoV-2. Materials & Methods: The Coronaviridae family virus genome sequence was obtained from the NCBI database. After alignment, the number of mutations, nucleotide diversity, number of sites in which the same substitution occurred, clustering, similarity and genetic distance, as well as dN/dS index were evaluated in this study. The three-dimensional structure of the orf1ab protein prediction and the accuracy of the predicted model was also investigated. Furthermore, this study examined the motif and the domains conserved for the orf1ab gene in all viruses of the Coronaviridae family, as well as the membrane, cytoplasm, and kinase domains in the orf1ab virus of SARS-CoV-2. Regarding the molecular docking, linalool (the most important thirst-suppressing substance of Scrophularia striata) of the model plant (i.e., araboidopsis) and thymol (the most important ingredient of Trachyspermum ammi L.) were used to prevent the inactivation of the orf1ab protein of SARS-CoV-2.Ethics code: IR.UOZ.REC.1399.003 Findings: The SARS-CoV-2 virus has 11 conserved domains and 11 genes. The presence of the NSP13 superfamily and SUD-M superfamily in the SARS-CoV-2 virus genome indicate the ability and effort of this virus to be more stable in the environment. Based on the numerical value of dN/dS (1.036) and Tajima´s D (4.39) for orf1ab, the slope of the changes during evolution for the orf1ab gene is very slow, and there is no choice of direction in virus changes. Based on the highest interaction between linalool protein and orf1ab protein (-41.0), the highest accuracy (0.172), lowest energy level (ΔG=-6.23Kcal/mol), and the best combination (Full Fitness=-1340.18 Kcal/mol) between thymol phytochemical and orf1ab protein, molecular docking results showed that both linalool protein and thymol substance bound to orf1ab protein and inhibited its activity. Discussions & Conclusions: Linalol and thymol affected the inactivity of the orf1ab protein in the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, clinical trials on linalool and thymol should be performed to confirm these hypotheses. If the hypothesis approves, it is suggested to use them in this regard. In addition, by examining the dN/dS indices, as well as evaluating the singletons, domains, and conserved areas of all viruses, it was found that the SARS-CoV-2 virus could not be purposefully manipulated.

Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer death among women; thus, developing new drugs is crucial. Essential oils (EO)s with a wide range of bioactivities, such as anticancer effects, have provided a valuable source for this purpose. In this study, components of two medicinally important EOs were identified using GC-MS analysis. Moreover, antioxidant effects, as well as anti-cancer properties, were evaluated.The EOs formulated into nanoemulsion using the spontaneous emulsification approach, separately. Comprehensive stability tests were performed to select the optimum nanoemulsions of each EO. Anticancer effect of the most stable nanoemulsion of Zataria multiflora with a particle size of 43 ± 4 nm (PDI 0.4 ± 0.2 and SPAN 0.6 ± 0.1) was significantly better non-formulated form against four human breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7, MDA-MB-175, MDA-MB-231, and MDA-MB-468. Interestingly, the anticancer effect of Artemisia dracunculus nanoemulsion (16 ± 4 nm, 0.2 ± 0.1, and 0.4 ± 0.1) was also significantly improved in compassion to the essential oil. Considering the results, prepared nanoemulsions could be used as supplementary drugs or food additives.

Objective(s): The effects of PPAR-γ agonist alone and in combination with carvacrol and Zataria multiflora on inhaled paraquat (PQ) induced-systemic inflammation and oxidative stress were examined. Materials and Methods: Control group exposed to normal saline aerosol, one group exposed to 54 mg/m3 PQ aerosol and four groups exposed to PQ aerosol and treated with 5 mg/kg/day pioglitazone, pioglitazone + 200 mg/kg/day Z. multiflora extract, pioglitazone + 20 mg/kg/day carvacrol, and 0.03 mg /kg/day dexamethasone for 16 days after the end of exposure to PQ were studied. Exposure to normal saline or PQ was performed every other days for 30 min (8 times). Different variables were measured after the end of treatment period.Results: PQ exposure significantly increased serum levels of NO2, MDA and IL-6 but dexreased CAT and IFN-γ levels and IFN-γ/IL-6 ratio compared to control group (PConclusion: The effects of combination therapy of pioglitazone with Z. multiflora or carvacrol on inhaled paraquat (PQ) induced-oxidative stress and systemic inflammation were higher than the effects of pioglitazone alone. These results suggested that the effects of the extract and carvacrol may mediated through PPAR-γ receptors.

Abstract Background: Zataria multiflora Boiss is a well-known medicinal plant and its’ essential oil (EO) is traditionally used for treatment of respiratory and digestive disorders and/or bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections. Objective: This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of long-term consumption of Z. multiflora EO on hematological and biochemical parameters in patients infected with liver hydatid disease. Materials and Methods: Fifteen patients were administered orally with Z. multiflora EO (60 mg daily) for six months. Hematological and biochemical analysis were performed on the blood samples of patients before the start of treatment and after completion of the treatment course. In hematological analysis, WBC, RBC, Hb, hematocrit, MCV, MCH, MCHC and platelets were measured. In biochemical analysis, FBS, BUN, creatinine, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, Na, K, Cl, AST, ALT, and ALK were assessed. Results: No apparent changes were observed in the values of hematological parameters of the patients after treatment. No significant changes also occurred in the values of FBS, BUN, creatinine, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, Na, and K. The mean values of AST, ALT and ALK enzymes decreased significantly after treatment (P ˂ 0.05). No adverse clinical event was noticed in the patients during the course of study. Conclusions: Long-term consumption of Z. multiflora EO induced no adverse effect on the hematological and biochemical parameters of patients infected with liver hydatid disease. Since Z. multiflora EO reduced the level of liver transaminases (AST, ALT and ALK), this herbal product may be considered as a hepatoprotective agent in human beings.

Background and purpose: In recent decades, various efforts have been made to replace synthetic materials with natural disinfectants that have less disadvantages and lead to similar or even better results. The present study was conducted to compare the effect of Artemisia aucheri and Zataria multiflora as natural disinfectants with those of Deconex and sodium hypochlorite as two industrial disinfectants on Candida albicans. Materials and methods: This experimental study was conducted in 128 resin acrylic dentures. After the inoculation of C. albicans on each denture, they were divided into four groups, each containing 32 dentures. Deconex, Sodium hypochlorite, Artemisia aucheri, and Zataria multiflora were administered in each group in four densities (0.1, 0.01, 0.001, and 0.0001). The data were analyzed in SPSS V19 applying t-test. Results: The four disinfectants were applied for 10 and 60 min. Deconex showed the highest disinfection effect on samples (P

ABSTRACT Background and objectives: Utilization of essential oils instead of chemical preservatives has received significant attention in recent years. The present study aims to evaluate chemical composition and antibacterial and antioxidant properties of essential oils of Zataria multiflora, Artemisia deracunculus and Mentha piperita. Methods: Chemical profile of the essential oils was analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The microwell dilution and agar disk diffusion methods were used to evaluate the antibacterial properties of the essential oils. Total phenolic content, β-carotene-linoleic acid bleaching test and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays were carried out to determine the antioxidant properties. Results: Menthol (39.18%) and mentone (21.64%) were the main components of the essential oil of M. piperita, while estragol (34.75%) and limonene (15.72%) were the major components of the essential oil of A. dracunculus. The main components of the essential oil of Z. multiflora were carvacrol (36.81%) and thymol (33.04%). The essential oils of M. piperita and Z. multiflora showed greater antimicrobial effects. Moreover, Z. multiflora showed the greatest antioxidant activity among the essential oils. The total phenolic content of Z. multiflora was 228.14±0.45 mg gallic acid equivalent/g. Conclusion: Given their favorable antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, the essential oils of Z. multiflora, A. deracunculus and M. piperita can be used as natural food preservatives. Keywords: Zataria multiflora, Artemisia deracunculus, Mentha piperita, antibacterial effect, antioxidant effect.

ABSTRACT Background and Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram negative opportunistic pathogen and an important cause of wound infections and nosocomial infections. The purpose of this study was to study inhibitory effects of a new ointment prepared from medicinal plants against P. aeruginosa isolates. Methods: In this study, an ointment called ZOUSH was prepared from mixing alcoholic extracts of Satureja khuzestaniea, Zataria multiflora, Mentha mozaffariani Jamzad, honey and polyurethane. Minimal inhibitory concentration of ZOUSH and its compositions alone or combined was determined using the disk diffusion method. Results: S. khuzestaniea, Z. multiflora and Mentha mozaffariani Jamzad had inhibitory effects against P. aeruginosa. The ZOUSH ointment had greater antibacterial effects than the any of its compositions used solely or combined. The diameter of inhibition zone had a direct relationship with the concentration of the extracts. Moreover, the antibacterial effect of the ZOUSH ointment was identical to that of polymyxine B (300 µg). Conclusion: We demonstrated that the ZOUSH ointment has inhibitory effects against P. aerugionosa. The inhibition zone diameter is directly correlated with the concentration of the extracts. Our results suggest that the ointment could be useful for treatment of burn wounds and skin infections.

Objectives: The hepatotoxicity induced by Acetaminophen (AAP) mostly mediated by effect on oxidative stress parameters. The Zataria multiflora (Z.M) is an herbal medicine with well-known antioxidant effect. The aim of this study is investigation of preventive effects of Z.M and Carvacrol (CAR) on AAP-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Methods: Rats were randomly divided into four groups including: 1) Control, 2) Acetaminophen (AAP), 3) and 4) CAR. The saline, Z.M (200 mg/kg) and CAR (20 mg/ kg) were administrated orally for 6 days, after that AAP (600 mg/kg) was administrated in the 7th day. Blood sampling was performed on the first and last days. Also, the liver tissue was removed for evaluation of Malondyaldehide (MDA), Thiol content, Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT). Total Protein (tPro), Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase (GOT), Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase (GPT) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) in liver tissue were evaluated. The changes (Δ) of enzymes activities were presented. Results: The Δ GOT, Δ GPT and Δ ALP in CAR group significantly decreased compared to AAP group (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001) and Δ GPT in Z.M group was significantly reduced in comparison with AAP group (P < 0.05). Also, MDA, Thiol, SOD and CAT levels in treated groups were attenuated compared to AAP group (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001). Conclusion: Z.M and CAR have a powerful hepatoprotective effect. CAR is more effective than Z.M. Based on the results. Z.M and CAR could be potent supplementary agents against hepatotoxicity of AAP in patients.

Objective(s): Cisplatin (CP), as an anti-neoplastic drug, causes testicular damage. Zataria multiflora Boiss (ZM), a medicinal plant, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ZM against CP-induced testicular toxicity. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, thirty-two adult male mice were randomly divided into four groups. The control group received normal saline with oral gavage during 7 days; ZM group received ZM (200 mg/kg) during 7 days by gavage; CP group received CP (10 mg/kg) intraperitoneally (IP) in the 5th day of study; ZM + CP group received ZM during 7 days and CP was injected in 5th day. Sperm parameters, biochemical (MDA, GSH, and PC) levels, serum testosterone levels, and histopathological and immunohistochemical assays of testis were examined one day after the last drug treatment. Results: CP treatment caused significant damage via changed sperm parameters (sperm motility, count, viability rate, and abnormalities), increased oxidative stress (increased MDA and PC levels, and decreased GSH level), histological changes (degeneration, necrosis, arrest of spermatogenesis, congestion, and decrease in thickness of the germinal epithelium, diameter of seminiferous tubules, and Johnsen’s Score), decreased serum testosterone level, and increased caspase-3 immunoreactivity. ZM preserved spermatogenesis and mitigated the toxic effects of CP on the testis tissue. In addition, treatment with ZM significantly reduced caspase-3 immunoreactivity. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that ZM as a potential antioxidant compound and due to free radicals scavenging activities has a protective effect against CP-induced testicular toxicity.

Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a life-threatening disease in many countries. Albendazole, as the drug of choice for medical treatment of CE, is accompanied by adverse effects and may be ineffective in 20%–40% of cases; hence, new and more effective compounds are urgently needed to optimize the management of the disease. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of Zataria multiflora essential oil (ZMEO) versus albendazole against human liver CE. Materials and Methods: In this nonrandomized and single-blinded clinical trial, thirty patients who were infected with liver CE were divided into two groups (15 in each) and treated with albendazole (800 mg daily) and ZMEO (60 mg daily), respectively. Albendazole and ZMEO were administered orally for 180 consecutive days. The volume of hydatid cysts was measured by ultrasonography before and 2, 4 and 6 months after the start of treatment. Simultaneously, biochemical analysis was performed on the blood samples of patients to assess the possible side effects of the two treatment regimens. Results: Two, 4 and 6 months after the start of treatment, ZMEO indicated a significantly higher ability in reduction of the volume of the hydatid cysts, compared to albendazole (P < 0.05). The mean values of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase were also significantly lower in the patients treated with ZMEO in comparison to those treated with albendazole (P < 0.05). No clinical adverse effects were observed in the patients treated by ZMEO. Conclusion: From the point of view of efficacy and safety, ZMEO indicated a significant superiority to albendazole. Hence, ZMEO may be considered as an alternative for albendazole in the medical treatment of liver CE.

Background: Despite all the progress that has been made in the manufacture of synthetic drugs, herbal drugs are increasingly taken into account. This is due to the growing belief that they have fewer side effects compared to synthetic ones. Objective: To compare the antifungal effects of extracts of Zatariamultiflora and Punicagranatum with Nystatin on Candida Albicans. Methods: This inviro trial accomplished in the school of dentistry of Tehran University in 2012. From the mouths of 25 patients with denture stomatitis were sampled using sterile swabs. Candida Albicans strains were isolated from samples and standard Candida Albicans PTCC 5027 were cultured too. Then extract of Zatariamultiflora and Punicagranatum to be obtained and antifungal of extract studied with disk diffusion method. Antifungal power of each of the extracts on the inhibition zone diameter was created in the medium. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Friedman statistical tests. Findings: Results showed extracts of Zataria and pomegranate flowers have antifungal significant effects (P

Objective(s): The aim of the present study was to prepare, characterize, and evaluate solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) containing Zataria multiflora essential oil (ZEO). Materials and Methods: In this study, Z. multiflora essential oil-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (ZE-SLNs) were prepared to improve its efficiency in controlling some fungal pathogens. SLNs containing Z. multiflora essential oil were prepared by high shear homogenization and ultra sound technique. ZEO-SLNs contained 0.03% ZEO in 5% of lipid phase (Glyceryl monostearate-GMS and Precirol® ATO 5).Tween 80 and Poloxamer 188 (2.5% w/v) were used as surfactant in the aqueous phase. The antifungal efficacy of ZE-SLNs and ZEO was compared under in vitro conditions. Results:The particle size of ZE-SLNs was around 255.5±3 nm with PDI of 0.369±0.05 and zeta potential was about -37.8±0.8 mV. Encapsulation efficacy of ZE-SLNs in crystalline form was 84±0.92%. The results showed that the ZEO and ZE-SLNs had 54 and 79% inhibition on the growth of fungal pathogens, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) under in vitro conditions for the ZEO on the fungal pathogens of Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Alternaria solani, Rhizoctonia solani, and Rhizopus stolonifer was 300, 200, 300, 200, 200 and 200 ppm, respectively, for ZE-SLNs, it was 200, 200, 200, 100, 50 and 50 ppm. The antifungal efficacy of ZE-SLNs was significantly more than ZEO. Conclusion: Our results showed that the SLNs were suitable carriers for Z. multiflora essential oil in controlling the fungal pathogens and merits further investigation.

Abstract Background and Objective: The spread of drug resistance in bacteria have prompted researchers to seek suitable alternative for antimicrobial drugs among various medicinal plants and nanoparticles. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of silver nanoparticles alone and in combination with methanol extract of Zataria multiflora on five Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Methods: Different concentrations of the nanoparticles and extract alone or in combination with each other were tested against the bacteria, using well diffusion method. Three concentration levels (lowest, average and highest) were prepared form the nanoparticles and the extract for the combination, and finally nine different combinations were prepared. Results: The extract and nanoparticles showed inhibitory effects against all the tested bacteria. The maximum diameter of growth inhibition zone in the presence of the extract and nanoparticles were observed in Streptococcus pyogenes (35.6mm) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (20.6mm), respectively. The maximum diameter of growth inhibition zone for the combination was measured in S. pyogenes (31mm). Conclusion: The combination of low concentrations of the plant extract and nanoparticles are more effective against bacteria, but the combination of their high concentrations reduce the antibacterial effects in some cases.

Abstract Background: Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that broadly is used to treat gram negative bacteria infections, although it has side effects such as nephrotoxicity. According to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties of Zataria Multiflora, the effects of co-treatment with zataria Multiflora and hydroalcholic extract on gentamicin induced nephrotoxicitj were investigated. Materials and Methods: In this study, male rats of Vistar race were divided into 4 groups: 1.control group, 2. co-treatment with gentamicin and vehicle group, 3. co-treatment with gentamicin and zataria Multifiora extract group, 4. co-treatment with zataria Multiflora extract and normal saline solution group. Zataria Multiflora hydroalcoholic extract was added to drinking water as 800 PPm concentration. They, systolic blood pressure and renal blood flow (RBF) were measured. Also, the amounts of urea, creatinine, sodium, potassium and osmolarity were measured in plasma and urine samples Results: In co-treatment group with zataria Multiflora extract, the amounts of urea, creatinine, absolute sodium excretion and relative sodium and potassium excretion and malondialdehyde (MDA) that have been inceased in treatment with gentamicin, significantly were reduced. Creatinine clearance, urine osmolarity, RBF and FRAP that was decreased in gentamicin group in compare to control group, significantly increased. Conclusion: Co-treatment prevents nephrotoxicity induced by gentamicin and attenuates oxidative-stress associated renal injury by reducing oxygen free radicals and lipid peroxidation, So it can be effective to cure rats receiving gentamicin.

Objective(s):In insulin resistance, the insulin action in liver, muscles and adipocytes decreases and result in hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and hyperinsulinemia. In this study we evaluate the effect of Zataria multiflora extract on insulin sensitivity in high fructose fed insulin resistant rats, since this extract was shown antihyperglycemic effect in streptozotocin induced diabetes in rats. Materials and Methods:Experimental rats were fed with high fructose diet for 6 weeks and then were treated with Z. multiflora extractor a pioglitazone solution for 2 weeks. Blood and tissue samples were collected for analysis at the end of two weeks. Blood glucose, serum level of triglyceride and cholesterol were measured by auto analyzer. Insulin and adiponectin levels were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Plasma free fatty acids profile was studied by gas chromatography. Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR.γ) and Glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT.4) gene expressions were assessed by real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blotting. Results: Animals were treated by Z. multiflora extractshowed insulin (43±11pmol/l), adiponectin (5.3±0.5 μg/ml), glucose (144±9.8 mg/dl), and triglyceride (120±10 mg/dl) levels significantly improved as compare with the control group [insulin (137±34 pmol/l), adiponectin (3.9±0.15 μg/ml), glucose (187±15mg/dl), and triglycerides (217±18 mg/dl)]. PPARγ protein level, also significantly increased in Zataria multiflora treated group. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the beneficial effects of Zataria multiflora extract on insulin resistance in rats fed with a high-fructose diet through at least three mechanisms including direct insulin like effect, increasing in adiponectin and of PPARγ protein expression.

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the antibacterial activity of Zataria multiflora Boiss (Avishan-e Shirazi) and Carum copticum (Zenian) extracts on Vibrio cholerae American Type Culture Collection (ATCC14035)and V. cholerae Persian Type Culture Collection (PTCC1611) strains. Methods: Antimicrobial effects of the extracts were assayed by disc diffusion and broth microdilution methods. Results: Using susceptibility tests, it was shown that Carum copticum methanolic extract had the highest antibacterial effect on V. cholerae standard strains at 6.25 mg/ml concentration. Conclusions: Other evaluations considering herbal extracts as an antibacterial agent as well as in vivo examination of these extracts is needed to provide a natural, cost effective and strong alternative for traditionally less effective antibiotics normally used.