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Abstract: The overwhelming globalburden of cancer has posed numerous challenges and opportunities for developing anti-cancer therapies. Phytochemicalshave emerged as promising synergistic compounds with potential anti-cancer effects to supplement chemo- and immune-therapeutic regimens. Anti cancer synergistic effects have been investigated in the interaction between phytocompounds derived from flavonoids such as quercetin, apigenin, kaempferol, hesperidin, emodin etc., and conventional drugs. Xanthohumol is one of the prenylatedphytoflavonoid that has demonstrated key anti-cancer activities in in vitro (anti proliferation of cancer cell lines) and in vivo(animal models of xenograft tumours)studies, and has been explored from different dimensions for targeting cancer subtypes. In the last decade, xanthohumol has been investigated how it induces the anti-cancer effects at cellular and molecular level.The different signalling cascades and targets of xanthohumolare summarized in thisreview.Overall, this reviewsummarizes the current advances made in the field of natural compounds with special reference to xanthohumol and its promising anti-cancer effectsto inhibit tumour progression.The present review hasalso touched upon the potential of xanthohumol transitioning into a lead candidate from nano-therapy viewpoint along with the challenges which need to be addressed for extensive pre-clinical and clinical anti-cancer studies.

Abstract Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is one of the most renowned and revered medicinal plants in the Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine. Ashwagandha Rasayanas (tonics), capsules, tablets, and powdered herbs (churna) have been used for curing a wide variety of ailments, including reproductive problems, and for improving fertility in men and women as well as erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Iron accumulation in reproductive organs is caused by excessive dietary intake of iron, dysregulation of iron transporters, chronic blood transfusions, and hemochromatosis. Iron overload produces oxidative stress and causes atrophy of ovaries and testes and hypogonadism, which leads to infertility in men and women. Emerging evidence from preclinical and clinical studies suggests that excessive iron-induced infertility results from dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and consequently perturbs the secretion of reproductive hormones (GnRH, FSH, LH, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone). The focus of this review is to summarize the pathophysiology of iron-overload toxicity of sex organs and the reversal of male/female infertility and libido with Ashwagandha. The bioactive ingredients of Ashwagandha appear to restore iron–overload infertility by acting on iron chelation and capturing iron free radicals (Fe+++) produced by the Fenton reaction. Many synthetic drugs have been tried for treating iron overload infertility, but the outcome has been inconsistent. Considering the high cost of these drugs, Ashwagandha may be a safer and more cost-effective phytomedicine to cure iron-overload infertility and enhance libido in humans. Collectively, the iron chelation and antioxidant effects of Ashwagandha seem to reverse iron-overload infertility in men and women by improving testicular and ovarian functions.

Bovine colostrum supplementation has been suggested as a potential factor in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of six months of bovine colostrum supplement intake (3.2 g; four capsules/day) in highly trained female athletes on changes in oxidative stress level, inflammation, and iron metabolism biomarkers after intense exercise. In this study, 20 trained female athletes were recruited. Participants were divided into two groups: 11 in the bovine colostrum (6-month supplementation) and 9 in the placebo group (6-month placebo supplementation). All participants completed an intense exercise test at the beginning of the experiment and after six months post-treatment. Blood samples were taken before, following exercise, and after 3 h recovery. Compared to the placebo group, the colostrum group showed a significant decrease in TBARS level (p< 0.01) at all time points, whereas a marked increase was observed in IL-6 (p < 0.01; pre-exercise) and SOD activity (p < 0.01), and transferrin (p < 0.01; rest period) and lactoferrin (p < 0.05; post-exercise) levels. The results suggested that 6-months of bovine colostrum supplementation is beneficial in the reduction of the harmful effects produced by free radicals (ROS), oxidative stress, and inflammation. In consequence, alleviation of the inflammatory response by bovine colostrum supplementation may also cause positive action on iron homeostasis in female athletes.

This review aimed to gather information about the biological effects of bovine colostrum (BC) supplementation for improving the respiratory health in humans and the potential role of bioactive molecules from BC as adjunctive therapy for SARS-CoV-2 infection (Coronavirus Disease 2019 – COVID-19). Several studies have shown that BC supplementation is effective against infections and respiratory allergies, as well as in attenuating immunosuppression caused by intense exercise in high-performance athletes. The major immune system modulation proteins present in BC are immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Studies have revealed that lactoferrin is effective in combating SARS-CoV-2. Hyperimmune colostrum may constitute an alternative way to produce specific antibodies against COVID-19. Based on the immune system boosting ability as well as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral/antibacterial activities, we suggest that well designed, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trials should be done to verify the safety and effectiveness of BC supplements against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Background Phyllanthusfraternus is a pantropical weed of family phyllanthaceae, mainly found in northeast India. It has been used in the folklore medicine of Manipur tribe for treating type 2 diabetes. Objective The present study was commenced to evaluate the anti-diabetic and renoprotective potential of P.fraternus (aerial parts) in alloxan-induced diabetes in rats. Materials and methods Alloxan (130 mg/kg, ip) was used for the induction of diabetes in adult male wistar rats. Animals with blood glucose level greater than 280 mg/dL were treated once daily for 14 days with various test extracts. The biochemical parameters were measured from serum on the 15th day post-treatment. Necropsy samples harvested from pancreas and kidneys were examined for histopathological changes in these organs. Results Alloxan-induced diabetes not only caused significant increases in blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, creatinine and urea levels, but also provoked high oxidative stress in pancreas and kidneys. Profound morphological injuries were observed in islets of Langerhans and kidneys of diabetic animals. Administration of methanol extract (200 and 400 mg/kg) and mother liquor (200 and 400 mg/kg) ameliorate the elevated levels of blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol as well as other biochemical parameters, but highest reduction in blood glucose concentration was observed with the largest dose of ethyl acetate fraction (400 mg/kg) of P.fraternus. Histopathological examination of pancreas and kidneys also exhibited greater protection by treatment with acetate fraction (400 mg/kg). The HPLC analysis showed the presence of four polyphenols such as catechin, gallic acid, caffeic acid and ellagic acid in ethyl acetate fraction of P. fraternus during HPLC analysis. Conclusion The results suggest that polyphenols present in P.fraternus may be responsible for the anti-diabetic and renoprotective activity in rats. Such protective effects of could be mediated through flavonol-induced anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in the pancreas and kidneys., Graphical abstract Image 1

Background: Bovine colostrum (BC) contains a myriad of bioactive molecules that are renowned for possessing unique medicinal benefits in children and adults, and BC supplements are considered safe and cost-effective options to manage/prevent the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections and gut-related problems in athletes. In this review, we will try to answer the question: How will BC supplementation ameliorate gut permeability problems among athletes? Methods: Literature searches were performed using PRISMA guidance to identify studies assessing the influence of BC supplements on gut permeability. Studies were selected using four databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCO, and a total number of 60 articles were retrieved by using appropriate keywords. Results: Nine studies were selected that met the eligibility criteria for this review. The data analysis revealed that vigorous exercise profoundly increases intestinal permeability, and BC supplementation helps to reverse gut permeability in athletes. Conclusion: BC supplementation may be highly beneficial in improving gut permeability in athletes. However, well-designed, placebo-controlled, and randomized studies are needed to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy and to determine the optimal dose schedules of BC supplementation in high-performance athletes.

Baicalein is a medicinally important flavonoid present in Scutellaria baicalensis, which has numerous biological benefits like anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihepatotoxicity, anticancer properties, etc. Recent studies have revealed that baicalein is an efficient antihepatoma agent and has the strongest antiproliferative effect toward cancerous bladder cell lines, and suppression of cell cycle progression in prostate cancer cells. This natural substance has a high commercial value because it strengthens the heart and cerebral vessels and protects the nervous system and also reduces diabetes and diabetic complications. In addition, baicalein is known to decrease inflammatory markers such as IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. In this review, we have attempted to compile the list of recent therapeutic patents of baicalein used for treating different disorders.

The massive research interest in whey has strengthened its position among coagulated milk products. Previously conducted reviews demonstrate that whey-derived functional foods provide a cascade of beneficial applications that promote health and wellbeing, and in managing numerous chronic diseases. To improve the understanding about how whey protein processing brings about new products that help in tackling health challenges is what we have attempted in this review paper. Herein, we provide an insight perspective into whey proteins processing and its derivatives from constituents, bioactivities, functionalities to therapeutic applications, drawing from: (a) prime constituents of whey protein; (b) composition and production of sweet/acidic whey; (c) bioactive peptides aspects of whey and its health/wellbeing benefits; (d) whey processing techniques: improving whey proteins’ functionalities; (e) whey and its derivatives-based products: generating new functional foods and beverages and (f) whey-derived products in health and wellbeing: some therapeutic applications. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

4-(methylthio)butyl isothiocyanate (4-MTBITC) is a hydrolytic product from the plantEruca sativaThell. In the present study, we explored the anti-cancer effect of 4-MTBITC against 7,12-dimethylbenz [a] anthracene (DMBA) induced breast cancer. Hypoxic conditions were developed using a single dose of 60 mg/kg DMBA. Hepatic and renal parameters were increased along with antioxidants in cancer-bearing rats which were lowered with the treatment of 4-MTBITC. Further, it inhibited the up-regulation of glycolytic enzymes caused by DMBA. The hypoxia pathway was evaluated using RT-PCR and it was found that the 40 mg/kg doses of 4-MTBITC statistically lowered the expression of HIF-1α. Akt/mTOR signaling pathway was one of the major pathways involved in 4-MTBITC-induced cell growth arrest by western blotting. Amino acid profiling serum-free plasma revealed the downregulation of specific amino acids required for vital components of fast-growing cancer cells. 4-MTBITC reduced the levels of serine, arginine, alanine, asparagines, and glutamic acid. Histological examination also showed neoplastic growth following DMBA doses. 4-MTBITC treated rats showed less infiltration and normal physiology. Our findings for the first time demonstrated the potential therapeutic significance of 4-MTBITC on modulation of glycolytic enzymes and hypoxia pathway in female rats.

Curdlan is an exopolysaccharide, which is composed of glucose linked with β-(1,3)-glycosidic bond and is produced by bacteria, such as Alcaligenes spp., Agrobacterium spp., Paenibacillus spp., Rhizobium spp., Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida spp., and fungal sources like Aureobasidium pullulan, Poria cocos, etc. Curdlan has been utilized in the food and pharmaceutical industries for its prebiotic, viscosifying, and water-holding properties for decades. Recently, the usefulness of curdlan has been further explored by the pharmaceutical industry for its potential therapeutic applications. Curdlan has exhibited immunoregulatory and antitumor activity in preclinical settings. It was observed that curdlan can prevent the proliferation of malarial merozoites in vivo; therefore, it may be considered as a promising therapy for the treatment of end-stage malaria. In addition, curdlan has demonstrated potent antiviral effects against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Aedes aegypti virus. It has been suggested that the virucidal properties of curdlans should be extended further for other deadly viruses, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), and the current severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19). The prebiotic property of curdlan would confer beneficial effects on the host by promoting the growth of healthy microbiota in the gut and consequently help to reduce gastrointestinal disorders. Therefore, curdlan can be employed in the manufacture of prebiotics for the management of various gastrointestinal dysbiosis problems. Studies on the mechanism of action of curdlan-induced suppression in microbial and tumor cells at the cellular and molecular levels would not only enhance our understanding regarding the therapeutic effectiveness of curdlan but also help in the discovery of new drugs and dietary supplements. The primary focus of this review is to highlight the therapeutic interventions of curdlan as an anticancer, anti-malaria, antiviral, and antibacterial agent in humans. In addition, our review provides the latest information about the chemistry and biosynthesis of curdlan and its applications for making novel dairy products, functional foods, and nutraceuticals and also details about the recent patents of curdlan and its derivatives.

Abstract: Cancer is a global multifactorial disease consisting of over 200 types of cancers. It is well recognized that primary prevention is an effective way to fight cancers by using natural polyphenolic anticancer foods, vegetables, and fruits, avoiding exposure to the carcinogenic environment, smoking cessation, and through lifestyle modifications. The present review provides up-todate information on the effects and functions of pomegranate juice and its bioactive components on the most widespread six cancer types. Pomegranate contains important polyphenolic compounds, such as ellagitannins and punicalagin, with strong antioxidant ability for scavenging free radicals and producing metal-chelates in the biological tissues. The in vitro and in vivo studies suggests that antioxidant and anti-inflammation properties of pomegranate constitute have major antimutagenic and antiproliferative activities for regulating gene expression, modulating cellular mechanisms, and limiting the ability of cancers to metastasize. A limited number of clinical studies have suggested that pomegranate ingredients have the potential for the prevention and treatment of cancer, especially colorectal and prostate cancer. In cancer therapy, it remains a clinical dilemma to hit the right target without inducing side effects. The costly anticancer chemotherapies are often associated with drug resistance and serious side effects in vital organs and noncancerous neighboring cells. It appears that the pomegranate-based phytotherapy would be affordable and cost-effective for next-generation non-pharmacologic anticancer remedies with lesser side effects. However, well-designed, randomized, double-blind, and multi-center studies are needed to establish the long-term safety, efficacy, and dose schedules for orally deliverable pomegranate formulations.

The incidence of gastrointestinal disorders (GID) and cancers is escalating all over the world. Limited consumption of colostrum by newborns not only weakens the immune system but also predisposes infants to microbial infections. Colostrum is nature's perfect food, sometimes referred to as the 'elixir of life'. Breast-fed infants have a lower incidence of GI tract infections than infants fed formula or cow's milk. As per WHO statistics, cancer is the most prevalent disease globally and causes 9.6 million deaths worldwide. The current strategies for treating cancer include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, chemotherapy and radiation exposure are usually associated with serious long-term side effects and deterioration in the quality of life (QOL) of patients. Furthermore, the hospitalization and medication costs for treating cancers are exorbitant and impose high economic burden on healthcare systems. People are desperately looking for cost-effective and affordable alternative therapies for treating GID and cancers. Therefore, there is an urgent need for clinically evaluating the anticancer compounds isolated from plants and animals. Such therapies would not only be economical and have fewer side effects, but also help to improve the QOL of cancer patients. Recently, bovine colostrum (BC) has caught the attention of many investigators to explore its anticancer potential in humans. BC impregnated dressings are highly effective in treating chronic wounds and diabetic foot ulcer. BC is rich in lactoferrin, a glycoprotein with strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial properties. Intravaginal application of BC tablets is effective in causing the regression of low-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. The underlying mechanisms of BC at cellular, genetic, and molecular levels remain to be ascertained. Oral BC supplement is well-tolerated, but some people may experience problems such as flatulence and nausea. Well-designed, randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trials are needed to access the therapeutic potential, long-term safety, and optimal doses of BC products. This review is aimed to highlight the anticancer potential of BC and its components, and the therapeutic applications of BC supplements in treating gastrointestinal diseases in children and adults. We also discuss the health promotion benefits and therapeutic potential of BC nutraceuticals in reducing the incidence of non-communicable diseases.

Roylea cinerea (D. Don) Baill. (Lamiaceae) is an indigenous plant of Western Himalayas, and has been used by the native population for the treatment of various diseases such as fever, malaria, diabetes, jaundice, and skin ailments. However, limited proportion of pharmacological and toxicological information is available on the bioactive properties of this plant. Therefore, the present study was designed to explore the anti-oxidant and anti-proliferative activities of Roylea cinerea. Methanolic extracts of leaves and stem of Roylea cinerea were prepared through maceration procedure and evaluated for the antioxidant activity using hydrogen/electron donating and hydroxyl radical scavenging assay. Significant antioxidant activity was observed for the methanolic extract of leaves in DPPH (EC50 239 µg/ml), molybdate ion reduction assay (29.73 µg ascorbic acid equivalent/mg dry weight of extract) as well as in plasmid nicking assay. Anti-proliferative and apoptotic activity in L6 rat skeletal muscle cell line was done using in vitro assays, i.e., MTT, Lactate dehydrogenase, mitochondrial membrane potential assay along with phase contrast, confocal, and scanning electron microscopy. The methanol extract of leaves and stem inhibited the growth of L6 cells with IC50 value of 69.41µg/ml and 124.93 µg/ml, respectively, and the lactate dehydrogenase activity was 20.29% and 0.3%, respectively. Cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry exhibited the arrest of cells in G1 and sub-G1 phase by methanolic leaves extract. Furthermore, the results of microscopic and docking analysis strengthened the observation made in the present study regarding the apoptotic mode of cell death in the L6 cell line. The in vitro findings of our studies revealed that the bioactive ingredients present in the methanolic extract of leaves and stem of Roylea cinerea have the anticancer potential. Further in vivo studies are needed to verify the in vitro results.

There exist overwhelming evidence that plant-derived bioactive flavonoids possess strong therapeutic activities against cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and age-related neurodegenerative disorders. Several drug discovery studies have suggested the therapeutic potential of apigenin (APG) are due to its strong anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-tumor properties. APG is found in citrus fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs. It is well documented that APG can modulate a wide variety of intra- and extra-cellular signaling pathways in in vitro cancer cell lines and in vivo neoplasm systems, and consequently retard or inhibit abnormal growth of tissues. Co-administration of APG with anti-cancer drugs has shown to increase the therapeutic potency of the later. The overall aims and objectives of this review are to highlight the potential role of APG in the prevention and treatment of different types of malignant human cancers. We will also describe different purported biochemical mechanisms associated with the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth.

A wide variety of chronic diseases, such as neurodegenerative and cardiovascular disorders, diabetes mellitus, osteoarthtitis, obesity and various cancers, are now being treated with cost effective phytomedicines. Since synthetic medicines are very expensive, concerted efforts are being made in developing and poor countries to discover cost effective medicines for the treatment of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Understanding the underlying mechanisms of bioactive medicines from natural sources would not only open incipient avenues for the scientific community and pharmaceutical industry to discover new drug molecules for the therapy of NCDs, but also help to garner knowledge for alternative therapeutic approaches for the management of chronic diseases. Fisetin is a polyphenolic molecule of flavonoids class, and belongs to the bioactive phytochemicals that have potential to block multiple signaling pathways associated with NCDs such as cell division, angiogenesis, metastasis, oxidative stress, and inflammation. The emerging evidence suggests that fisetin may be useful for the prevention and management of several types of human malignancies. Efforts are being made to enhance the bioavailability of fisetin after oral administration to prevent and/or treat cancer of the liver, breast, ovary and other organs. The intent of this review is to highlight the in vitro and in vivo activities of fisetin and to provide up-to-date information about the molecular interactions of fisetin with its cellular targets involved in cancer initiation, promotion and progression as well as to focus on strategies underway to increase the bioavailability and reduce the risk of deleterious effects, if any, associated with fisetin administration.

Neuropathic pain is a complex, chronic pain state accompanied by tissue injury and nerve damage. This important health issue constitutes a challenge for the modern medicine worldwide. The management of neuropathic pain remains a major clinical challenge, pertaining to an inadequate understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms of neuropathic pain. Various classes of drugs have been reported effective for the management of neuropathic pain viz. opiates, tricyclic antidepressants, and antiepileptic agents. However, association of adverse effects with these drugs hinders their confident prescription in people with neuropathic pain. Recently, various medicinal plants have been reported effective for the management of neuropathic pain. So, it may be prudent to look beyond synthetic drugs pertaining to their unprecedented pharmacotherapeutic effects with lesser adverse effects. The extensive literature review has been carried out from databases such as Science direct, Scifinder, Wiley online library, PubMed, Research gate, Google scholar and Chemical Abstracts. The list of Traditional Indian Medicinal plants (TIMPs) and isolated compounds have been compiled which have been reported effective as an alternative therapy for the management of neuropathic pain. This helps the researchers to discover some novel therapeutic agents against neuropathic pain.

Cancer being a multifactorial disease, its genesis and progression are enormously complicated. The classical chemotherapeutics along with recent targeted molecular therapy approach have not been effective in complete eradication of all tumor cells and is often been limited by drug resistance and side effects on normal tissues and cells. With the fast evolving field of genomics and molecular medicine translating into precision medicine, the importance of individualized therapeutic protocols has been realized. For transitioning from surgical treatments to radiotherapy to chemo and immunotherapies, in this fast advancing world, it will not be far away when the personalized medicine will be the choice of treatment for one and all. The major challenge in the anticancer drug development is multidrug resistance and relapse. In this chapter, we describe the promising anticancer targets in different phases of drug development in clinical trials along with new drug targets for personalized cancer treatment in near future.

Obesity is found to be a contributing risk factor for Cardiovascular Dysfunction (CVD), coronary heart disease (CHD) and heart failure (HF). Obesity is found to be linked to the release of several proinflammatory mediators. The fluctuation in the levels of these mediators and adipocytokines released by the adipocytes further leads to cardiovascular complications. The increase in the risk of CVD and mortality caused by obesity is due to increasing levels of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries and blood vessels leading to the heart. The current available treatment strategies leads to several unwanted side effects for the patient which leads to a decreased quality of life. Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds which occur naturally in nature. Several clinical and preclinical studies have demonstrated that flavonoids are beneficial in decreasing the cardiovascular risks presented by obesity. The mechanism of action primarily depends on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions of flavonoids. In view of these observations, the intake of foods containing flavonoids have enormous potential in preventing obesity induced cardio-metabolic diseases. However, randomized and placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to determine the long-term safety and efficacy of different flavonoids. The focus of this chapter is to highlight the cost-effective health benefits of flavonoid-rich-foods and dietary supplements containing flavonoids for the prevention and cure of obesity linked cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Obesity is characterized by an excessive accumulation of white adipose tissue (WAT) causing increases in body weight and Body Mass Index (BMI >30 kg/m2). WAT stores energy and releases free fatty acids, but it is also a dynamic endocrine organ that triggers the production of a wide array of bioactive products such as adipokines, leptin, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), cytokines and interleukins(IL-1, IL-6, IL-11). Adipokines regulate appetite, insulin sensitivity, angiogenesis, blood pressure and immune response. Leptin reduces body weight. TNF-α, cytokines and interleukins are pro-inflammatory and activate atherosclerosis and oxidative stress, leading to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). ROS and RNS adversely affects structure and function of cellular membrane and damages DNA. Obesity can be seen as the mother of numerous non-communicable chronic diseases, namely: diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, several cardiovascular diseases, nephropathy, neurodegenerative disorders (dementia, Alzheimer’s disease), osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, depression, and enhanced risk of breast and colon cancer, resulting in high morbidity and mortality among obese patients. The burden of healthcare for obesity-related diseases is escalating worldwide. This review highlights the incidences of obesity-related diseases and their preventive strategies through synthetic drugs and alternative therapies such as Ayurvedic remedies, herbal medicines, dietary interventions, nutraceuticals, lifestyle modifications, and psychotherapy. Currently nutraceuticals, probiotics, herbal remedies, and Mediterranean-type diets that are rich in fibers, fresh fruits and vegetables, olive oil, fish, poultry and dairy products are being promoted for the prevention and management of obesity-related chronic diseases and metabolic pathologies. Anti-obesity drugs assist with weight reduction by reducing appetite or decreasing the absorption of carbohydrates and saturated fats in the gut. Naturally occurring dietary polyphenols, nutraceuticals, and bioactive ingredients present in plants and spices (resveratrol, green tea catechins, quercetin, berberine, turmeric, cinnamon, red chili, black pepper, fenugreek, thymol, rosemary) are recommended for their anti-obesity actions produced through metabolism stimulation. Phytotherapies or botanical extracts attenuate adipose tissue expansion and cause adipocyte remodeling by altering inflammation-related mechanisms. Several plant-derived remedies such as Ginko biloba, Momordica charantia, Aegle marmelos, Azadirachta indica have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, and are indicated for the prevention and treatment of obesity associated metabolic syndrome and chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cancers, kidney pathology, as well as numerous cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders. The alternative therapies, healthy foods and exercise interventions are safe and effective therapeutic options to improve metabolism in body and obesity reduction. This review summarizes the mounting evidence that dietary therapies, healthy food habits, and increases in physical activity are helpful in reducing obesity and treating obesity-related complications. The purported underlying mechanisms of complementary and alternative therapies are also discussed.

Obesity is escalating all over the world and prevails among 13% of adult population. World Health Organization (WHO) has estimated that excessive body weight and obesity related incidences of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) has increased nearly fourfold over the last 25 years. Excessive deposition of peripheral and visceral fat also causes metabolic syndrome and renal complications. In obese subjects, the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as musculoskeletal and neurodegenerative disorders, infertility, and breast cancer is relatively higher than lean persons. The white adipocytes secrete a wide variety of bioactive chemicals such as adipokines, resistin, leptin, interleukins (IL-1β, IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), free fatty acid, macrophages infiltration, mast cell degranulation, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), endothelial adherence molecules and oxidative stress. These bioactive chemicals play crucial role in the pathogenesis of obesity-induced disorders like insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, vasculopathy, high blood pressure, glomerulopathy and glomerulosclerosis. Well planned health care strategies are needed to reduce the risk of nongenetic factors associated with obesity, and their links with T2D, CVDs and renal diseases. The health-care burden related to NCDs such as obesity, T2D, and CVDs and neurodegenerative disorders, renal diseases and cancer is escalating worldwide. People need to think about the cost-effective measures such as lifestyle modifications, unhealthy dietary habits, physical activity, and consumption of healthful foods containing green vegetables, fruits, and Mediterranean-type diet consisting of olive oil, poultry and fish, dairy products, fiber rich foods, and low amount of red meat. The focus of this review is to highlight the relationships of obesity-induced production of inflammatory cytokines, adipokines, distortion of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, kidney malfunction, activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, arterial hypertension, and heart attack and stroke.

Obesity-induced renal dysfunction is a potential risk factor for causing cardiometabolic diseases, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Present study was designed to evaluate the protective role of estradiol benzoate in high fat diet (HFD)-induced renal dysfunction in male rats. Six groups of rats (7 animals/group) were randomly assigned to different treatment groups. Adult male and female rats were fed high fat diet (HFD) containing 30% fat for 12 consecutive weeks. One group of male rats simultaneously received daily injections of estradiol benzoate (50 and 100 µg/kg/day, i.p.) over 12 weeks. HFD-induced obesity was assessed by calculating obesity index, adiposity index, and serum lipid profile. Renal function was determined by measuring creatinine clearance, serum urea, uric acid, electrolytes, and microproteinuria. Serum estradiol level and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were measured using standardized techniques. Hydroxyproline content was quantified in the kidneys to estimate collagen deposition. Renal oxidative stress was measured through quantification of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, superoxide anion generation and reduced glutathione levels. Hematoxylin and Eosin and special Picrosirius red staining of the isolated kidney tissues was done to observe changes in gross morphology, glomerular volume and collagen content, respectively. As opposed to the control group, HFD-fed rats demonstrated significant increase in obesity and adiposity indices, lipid profile, SBP and renal dysfunction along with increased hydroxyproline content and oxidative stress in the renal tissues. HFD also caused marked increase in SBP in both sexes. Biochemical and histological studies revealed that the males exposed to HFD were more susceptible to renal dysfunction than females. However, estradiol benzoate administration to male rats showed protection against HFD-induced renal dysfunction accompanied by significant reductions of SBP, renal oxidative stress and fibrosis. It is concluded that estradiol protects against HFD-induced hypertension and renal dysfunction in male rats. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first ones to report the renal protective action of estradiol in male rats exposed to chronically fed HFD. While the findings of this study cannot be directly extrapolated to humans, nevertheless, the renoprotective effects of estradiol warrant verification in obese men suffering from acute renal malfunction.

Plants are valuable source of polysaccharides that make a large portion of our daily diet. These are natural polymers that are essential to sustain life. They provide high-value nutrition and positively help the immune system and improve the digestive properties. They also help in the elimination of toxic by-products from the human body. Polysaccharides and human health are inextricably linked and intertwined. These are also important components of the cell wall that provides its strength and integrity. Due to their indispensable role in human health, it is very important to know the different modifications and loss of nutritional value during the processing of plant material. Nowadays, these plant-based polysaccharides are used for diverse applications including wound dressing, drug delivery, laxative, cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations. As an emerging area of plant-based medicines to reduce the side effects of synthetic sources, these polysaccharides are used to enhance the immunogenic response against a specific antigen. This review envisages some important polysaccharides (e.g. mucilages and gums, glycosamine glycans and chitin/chitosan) and their medical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications, with emphasis on the relationship between their structure and function.Keywords: Polysaccharides; Nutrition; Health Functions; Cosmetics; Vaccine; Nutraceuticals

Bovine colostrum (BC) consists of highly concentrated nutritional and bioactive components after parturition. BC supplements are promoted for prevention and management of neurological disorders (dementia, cognition, Parkinsons disease, and Alzheimers disease), cardiovascular diseases, immunity-related and allergy problems, skin disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, gut microbial symbiosis as well as type-2 diabetes, and improved athletic performance. This review provides succinct insights into emerging evidence from preclinical and clinical studies which suggest that BC constituents have enormous potential in nutraceuticals and non-pharmacological therapies. The overall composition, factors affecting, traditional and commercial products, health attributes of bovine colostrum particularly, B-type vitamins, oligosaccharides, immunoglobins, growth factors and the role of lactoferrin and lactalbumin in cancer therapy, are also briefly explained. Naturally produced bioactive components, immunoglobulins lay the foundation of life-long immunity, while the other components in colostrum promote growth and maturation of the gastrointestinal tract as well as promote differentiation of bone marrow stem cells, increase lean muscle mass, and decrease the body fat level. The bovine colostrum is rich in versatile ironbinding lactoferrin that has strong anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-microbial properties. Additionally, BC products like ginna, kharwas, aguz, and processed BC supplements like colostrum powder, capsules, and infant-formulas are marketed by many companies all over the world. Considering the escalating cost of synthetic drugs, people in developing countries are desperately looking for affordable and cost-effective therapies for curing the non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and infectious diseases. It will be interesting to see if BC might have viricidal effects against COVID-19 virus.

Context: Immunity related disorder is one of the leading causes of disease in the world. Oxidative stress and microbial infections play a major role in inflammation-induced diseases. Bovine colostrum (BC) contains immunoglobulins and lactoferrins which help in building the immunity and protect against the bacterial proliferation and growth. Aim: This study was designed to investigate the antimicrobial and antiinflammatory activities of BC. Materials and Methods: Antimicrobial activity was determined by the pour-plate method using five different strains of bacteria (Gram -ve and +ve), and carrageenan-induced rat paw edema method was used for the evaluation of antiinflammatory activity in adult Wistar rats. Diclofenac was used as standard antiinflammatory drug, and amoxicillin was used as standard antimicrobial agent. Results: BC showed significant antimicrobial activity against Escherichia. coli, Staphylococcus. aureus, Proteus. vulgaris, Enterobacter. aerogenes and Salmonella. typhi. At 100 µg/mL of BC, the inhibition zones were found to be 13mm, 11mm, 12mm, 12mm, and 11mm, respectively. The BC zones were comparatively smaller than those of amoxicillin at 10µg/mL, where the inhibition zones were 16mm, 30mm, 23mm, 22mm and 23mm, respectively. In the BC treated animals, the percentage edema inhibition was found to be 67.94% at the third hour, suggesting high antiinflammatory activity of BC in rats. Conclusion: BC may be beneficial in reducing the risks of inflammation associated diseases. Further studies are needed before BC can be recommended for therapeutic interventions in humans.