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Knee osteoarthritis (OA) has recently been ranked as the 11th highest contributor to global disability. More than 40% of patients use complementary and alternative medicine including supplements containing phytoextracts with anti-inflammatory properties as those from the Boswellia genus. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of phytoextracts from the oleogum resin of the Boswellia genus as supplementation for patients affected by knee OA. Four electronic databases were used for the research and PRISMA statements were followed throughout the study. The following inclusion criteria were used: (a) the subjects of the study were humans with a diagnosis of knee OA reported by medical staff; (b) randomization and the presence of control (placebo, negative or positive control), and (c) outcomes reported with WOMAC and/or visual analog scale (VAS) score. Publication bias was assessed with a funnel plot and through the Egger test. The Jadad scale was used in order to assess the quality of the studies included. The statistical heterogeneity was assessed using I 2 statistics. Results of meta-analysis and subgroup analysis were reported using a forest plot. A total of 13 studies involving 850 (WOMAC) and 1185 (VAS) patients met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis did not detect a significant effect of the use of Boswellia extracts between the control and the treatment groups due to the high heterogeneity of the studies (p = 0.0865 for WOMAC) and (p = 0.3966 VAS). However, the subsequent subgroup analysis demonstrated the significant beneficial effect of Boswellia extracts in the treatment of knee OA with respect to a placebo (lower WOMAC score in the treatment groups). This was also confirmed in the meta-regression applied to the WOMAC scores. This is an important finding as people exposed to NSAID-related adverse effects could benefit from the use of Boswellia extracts. However, further high-quality studies are needed to establish the clinical efficacy of extracts from the genus Boswellia., (© 2024 The Author(s). Phytotherapy Research published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Design: Prospective, randomized, double-blind, multicenter clinical trial., Case Selection: Participants between 12 and 25 years old, who were generally healthy, with 2 or more white spot lesions on the labial surface of anterior dentition., Data Analysis: 79 patients who developed white spot lesions (WSL) on the labial surface of anterior teeth following orthodontic treatment were randomly assigned to 4 intervention groups. Group 1 received 5% sodium fluoride varnish every 6 months, the second group received CPP-ACP every 6 months, the third group was treated with resin infiltration at the initial visit followed by placebo every 6 months, and the final group which was the control group was coated with 1400 ppm fluoride toothpaste every 6 months. All the candidates were instructed to brush twice daily using a specific toothbrush and 1400 ppm fluoride toothpaste. The study lasted for 12 months, and photographs of the teeth with WSL were taken before and after completion of the intervention. Photographs were analyzed using ImageJ software to compare the changes in the percentage of WSL area to total tooth surface area among the four study groups. The distribution differences among groups were compared using nonparametric tests and differences between baseline and 1-year follow-up parameters were analyzed using paired chi-square tests., Results: Reduction in the area of WSL were noted in all groups, with different levels of significance. The percentage reduction was 46.62% in the resin infiltration group and it was significantly higher than the remaining interventions. Fluoride varnish group had 26.57% reduction, the CPP-ACP group had 28.64% reduction and the control group had 29.75% reduction in the WSL area. Plaque index was noted to have significant correlation with the change in WSL area with higher plaque index scores demonstrating lesser reduction in WSL., Conclusions: The study found that resin infiltration significantly reduced the WSL area after 1-year follow-up. Fluoride toothpaste with or without CPP-ACP and fluoride varnish produced some therapeutic effects., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to British Dental Association.)

Chios mastic gum, the product of the tree Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia , has been used for more than 2500 years in traditional Greek medicine for treating several diseases, thanks to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of its components. Despite the long-time use of mastic in gastroenterology and in particular in chronic-inflammation-associated diseases, to date, the literature lacks reviews regarding this topic. The aim of the present work is to summarize available data on the effects of P. lentiscus on inflammatory bowel disease. A comprehensive review of this topic could drive researchers to conduct future studies aimed at deeply investigating P. lentiscus effects and hypothesizing a mechanism of action. The present review, indeed, schematizes the possible bioactive components of mastic gum. Particular care is given to P. lentiscus var. Chia medicaments' and supplements' chemical compositions and their pharmacological action in inflammatory bowel disease.

The aim of this state-of-the-art review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the various therapeutic effects of Mastic (Pistacia lentiscus) gum on oral health. The search of the literature was conducted across thirteen databases for relevant publications published through May 2022 in English, Arabic, or Greek using a combination of keywords and phrases. Out of 246 papers, the search procedure identified 14 papers for inclusion. Mastic gum displayed antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and inhibited plaque accumulation, constituting a beneficial adjuvant in caries prevention. In the treatment and prevention of periodontal diseases, Pistacia lentiscus essential oil provided effective antibacterial activity against a variety of periodontal bacteria as well as anti-inflammatory properties. For oral cancer, several clinical trials revealed interesting results against cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and regulation of intracellular signaling pathways. This indicates the potential of Mastic gum to serve as a preventive and therapeutic agent for oral mucosa inflammation and oral cancer. No notable toxic or side effects were reported in the clinical trials reviewed. This review highlights the various beneficial effects of Mastic gum in the prevention and potential treatment of oral diseases. Further research targeting Pistacia lentiscus products is required in order to validate and utilize these products to prevent and to treat oral health diseases., (© 2023. The Author(s) under exclusive licence to The Japanese Society of Pharmacognosy.)

Boswellic acid (BA)s are pentacyclic triterpenic acids present in gum resin of Boswellia species (such as B. serrata and B. carterii). They possess a variety of pharmacological effects such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-excitotoxic effects. These properties may have potential therapeutic implication in neurological disorders. Notably, the BAs-induced neuroprotection is proposed to be associated with the ability to reduce neurotoxic aggregates, decrease oxidative stress, and improve cognitive dysfunction. Recently, BAs have been suggested as potential agents for the treatment of brain tumors due to their potential to attenuate cell proliferation, migration, metastasis, angiogenesis, and promote apoptosis during both in vitro and in vivo studies. The present review aims to address these studies and highlights the possible underlying mechanisms of the observed effects. Besides, novel formulations and improving pharmacokinetic properties may enhance the therapeutic efficacy of BAs., Competing Interests: Declaration of interests The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Obesity and related metabolic disorders are worldwide epidemics. Current lifestyle interventions and drug treatment for obesity seem insufficient. Here, we show that Loureirin B (LB), a major flavonoid molecule extracted from Sanguis Draxonis, prevents diet-induced obesity and ameliorates concomitant metabolic abnormalities including fatty liver, insulin resistance and systemic inflammation in mice. Mechanistically, LB treatment increases the proportion of ω3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and white adipose tissue (WAT), which subsequently activates the key lipid sensor GPR120. In line with this, LB treatment promotes browning of WAT and activates BAT thermogenesis through upregulation of UCP1, a downstream effector of GPR120. Conversely, inhibition of GPR120 abolishes the thermogenic effect of LB in primary cultured brown adipocytes. Together, these results suggest that LB possesses anti-obesity property by enhancing adipose tissue thermogenesis via activation of ω3 PUFA-GPR120-UCP1 axis and holds promises for combating obesity and its related metabolic syndrome., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The current research examines the effects of administration of 150 and 250 mg/kg body weight/day of ethanolic Ferula assa-foetida L. oleo gum resin extract (FAE) for 42 days in streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats. On day 42, all rats were euthanized; HOMA-β, HOMA-IR, and QUICKI levels in pancreas were examined histopathologically and ultrastructurally . Low-dose FAE (150 mg/kg) treatment resulted in significant improvement in serum glucose, insulin and superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and catalase levels (p < .05). It also improved β-cell function, restored pancreatic β-cells, and reduced insulin resistance compared to the diabetic control rats. Necrotic and degenerative alterations in the islets, pyknotic β-cell nuclei, β-cell degranulation, reduced islet cellular density, and significant vacuolation were found in the islets of STZ-diabetic control group ratsby the histomorphological and ultrastructural examination. The pancreatic histomorphology of low dose of FAE-treated diabetic rats showed remarkable improvements in the islets, such as the β-cell number and the area of the pancreatic islets. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The experiment revealed that Ferula assa-foetida L. may exert antihyperglycemic activity in STZ diabetes via β-cell regeneration and its high antioxidant capacity. This work elucidates the role of Ferula assa-foetida L. in diabetes management. Ferula assa-foetida L. gum extract improved the morphological changes of the diabetic pancreas and stimulated the regeneration of the β cells. The findings demonstrated positive results for the long-term cure of diabetes. Additionally, this study showed the potential of isolating nutraceuticals for the development of medications., (© 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Throughout history, Humans have always used tar for different purposes such as gluing materials, waterproofing, and conserving wood, but today, it is also used in medicines and cosmetics. Many countries around the world, Norway and Morocco to name a few, obtain tar from endemic trees. In a process of dry distillation, the organic material, endemic trees in this case, is exposed to a high temperature with a restricted amount of oxygen. Eventually, it cracks the large molecules in the matter and turns it into tar., Aim of the Review: This review article sheds light on tar production and the species that have been used in the process. Equal emphasis is placed on its uses, chemical composition, and toxicity., Materials and Methods: Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines have been used to review this article. The review is put together from various articles, theses, documents in "Science Direct", "Hal (Archive ouvert)", "Web of knowledge" without limitation date., Results: It turns out that tar can be produced by 18 tree taxonomic families, notably Cupressaceae, Pinaceae, and Betulaceae. As for the production techniques, two methods are considered: Per ascensum and Per descensum, which can take different forms. The chemical composition of tar consists of acids, phenols, and aromatic hydrocarbons. The uses of tar have changed over time, while its toxicity is strongly related to its chemical composition., Conclusions: The different species used in tar production have been highlighted in this research review. Equal importance has been given to its methods of extraction, uses and its chemical components. We hope that future studies will focus more on these species used to produce tar in other biological activities., (Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Insulin resistance (IR) is the main cause of type 2 diabetes. The liver is the organ where insulin is secreted from the pancreas, and it regulates the storage and release of glucose according to the body's demand. Althouth Loureirin B (LB) has been reported to promote insulin secretion and decrease blood glucose, the effects of LB on glucose metabolism in the liver and the mechanism is still unclear. Different concentrations of LB were applied to treat on insulin resistance model (IR-HepG2) cells. The research results showed that LB inhibited the production of ROS (Reactive oxygen species) in IR-HepG2 cells, promoted the phosphorylation of AKT, down-regulated the expression of FoxO1, and up-regulated the expression of IRS1 and GLUT4. In addition, LB also down regulated the glucose metabolism related genes PEPCK and GSK3β. The glucose uptake, consumption and glycogen content were increased. Moreover, LB-treated diabetic mice also showed hypoglycaemic effects. In summary, LB may ameliorate type 2 diabetes by preventing the inactivation of IRS1/AKT pathway in IR-HepG2 cells, increasing insulin sensitivity, and regulating glucose uptake and production., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The present study investigated the effects of Shilajit extract on aspirin-induced gastric lesions in rats. We evaluated macroscopic and histopathological lesions in the stomach, measured the activity of oxidative stress enzymes in gastric tissue homogenates, and assessed serum electrolytes and parameters of kidney and liver function. Forty-five male rats were allocated to five groups: Normal control, positive control, omeprazole treatment, Shilajit treatment, and Shilajit control. The treatment period lasted for four consecutive days. The size and number of gastric lesions were significantly reduced in the Shilajit and omeprazole groups compared to the positive control group, indicating a reduction in mucosal damage and the severity of edema and leukocyte infiltration in tissue sections. A significant increase was observed in the levels of all oxidative stress parameters, except malondialdehyde, in rats treated with Shilajit and omeprazole compared to those in the positive control group. The effect of the aqueous extract of Shilajit was comparable to that of omeprazole. These results indicated the protective effects of Shilajit against aspirin-induced gastric lesions., (© 2021 The Authors. Physiological Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of The Physiological Society and the American Physiological Society.)

Background: Extracts from Boswellia serrata gum resin have anti-inflammatory effect and are used for treatment of a variety of chronic inflammatory diseases. It was previously demonstrated that the treatment with Boswellia serrata gum resin of LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults) patients decreased blood levels of IA2 antibodies, one of the markers associated with LADA autoimmune diabetes., Primary Study Objective: The purpose of this study was to test whether Boswellia serrata gum resin also influences GAD65 autoantibodies as the other marker associated with LADA., Methods/design: We report a case study of male patient diagnosed with LADA with positive GAD65 autoantibodies who was treated with extract from Boswellia serrata gum resin, during 9 months. Blood levels of GAD65 autoantibodies, fasting blood glucose levels and HbA1c were measured before the treatment and periodically during the treatment., Results: Over the observed period, the blood levels of GAD65 autoantibodies linearly decreased about 25%., Conclusion: The study confirms that extract of Boswellia serrata gum resin seems to prevent insulitis in patients with LADA, as indicated by its action on both markers of autoimmune diabetes, i.e., GAD65 and IA2 autoantibodies. The possibility that the treatment with boswellic acids of LADA patients with positive autoantibodies could be beneficial on the course of the disease, calls for further investigation and a clinical study.

Background Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the main common cause of chronic liver disease. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of Shilajit, a medicine of Ayurveda, on the liver damage caused by NAFLD. Materials and methods Forty male Wistar rats, after being established as fatty liver models by feeding a high-fat diet (HFD, 12 weeks), were divided randomly into five groups as follows: control (standard diet), vehicle (HFD + distilled water), high-dose Shilajit (HFD + 250 mg/kg Shilajit), low-dose Shilajit (HFD + 150 mg/kg Shilajit) and pioglitazone (HFD + 10 mg/kg pioglitazone). The serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), glucose and liver glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, liver weight, and histopathological manifestation outcomes were measured after the 2-week intervention. Results Shilajit treatment significantly reduced the values of AST and ALT, TG, TC, LDL, glucose, liver weight, and steatosis, and instead, increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) compared with the vehicle group (p < 0.05). Further, Shilajit treatment improved the adverse effects of HFD-induced histopathological changes in the liver as compared with the vehicle group (p < 0.001). MDA level and GPx activity increased but SOD activity decreased in the vehicle group compared with the control group (p < 0.05), while treatment with Shilajit restored the antioxidant/oxidant balance toward a significant increase in the antioxidant system in the Shilajit group (p < 0.05). Conclusions These findings suggest that Shilajit improved the histopathological NAFLD changes in the liver and indicated the potential applicability of Shilajit as a potent agent for NAFLD treatment.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Rosin, an exudate of conifer trees such as Pinus masscnlana (Pinaceae), has been used to treat psoriasis for nearly two thousand years in China despite its so far undefined pharmacology. Unfortunately, the rosin intoxication is noted from time to time, but the water-boiled rosin (WBR) has been documented to be safer. This study was performed to evaluate the in vivo anti-psoriasis efficacy of WBR., Materials and Methods: The main phytochemicals in WBR were quantified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). WBR was evaluated in the imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like inflammation mouse model for its anti-psoriasis effect at 130, 260, and 390 mg/kg, which were set according to the dose used for patients. Through a combination of q-PCR, flow cytometry, and histopathological and immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis, the in vivo efficacy was assessed in terms of the psoriasis area severity index (PASI), epidermal keratinocyte proliferation, Th1 and Th17 cell numbers in spleen, and mRNA expressions of inflammatory cytokines., Result: Oral administration of WBR ameliorates the psoriasis-like dermatitis in the imiquimod-generated mouse model. In particular, WBR given at 260 or 390 mg/kg significantly restores the normal keratinization of dorsal lesion if compared with the untreated psoriatic mice. Such an effect was addressed to correlate to the Th1/Th17 cell reduction in spleen and the suppressed expression of IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-22, IL-23, TNF-α, K17, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) after the WBR administration., Conclusion: WBR is effective in the imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like inflammation mouse model with the efficacy arising from its proliferation inhibition of Th1/Th17 cells and epidermal keratinocytes via the down-regulation of the relevant inflammatory cytokines such as IL-23, IL-17A, and IL-17F. Collectively, WBR harvested and processed in the traditional manner is an efficacious psoriasis-treating agent., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Axon retraction greatly limits functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI) and neuron polarization, which affects processes including axon formation and development, is a promising target for promoting axon regeneration. Increasing microtubule stability has been demonstrated to improve intrinsic axon regeneration processes and is critically related to endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-mitochondria interactions. We used real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence to screen a variety of natural compounds, and found that Loureirin B (LrB) effectively promoted neuron polarization and axon regeneration in vitr o and in vivo . LrB significantly inhibited ER stress and thereby promoted mitochondrial functions by regulating mitochondrial fusion. Further, LrB reactivated the Akt/GSK-3β pathway, which plays critical roles in cell survival and microtubule stabilization. Taken together, our results suggest that the effects of LrB on neuron regeneration involve the inhibition of ER stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and activation of the Akt/GSK-3β pathway, which further promotes microtubule stabilization. LrB may therefore be a promising candidate for facilitating recovery following SCI.

Two new resin glycosides, ipomeolides A (1) and B (2), both with an unusual nonlinear heteropentasaccharide core, along with five known compounds were isolated from the n-hexane/CHCl 3 (1:1) extract of the aerial parts of Ipomoea pes-caprae. Ipomeolides A (1) and B (2) are macrolactone analogues of the rare (11 R)-jalapinolic acid, and macrolactonization occurred at C-2 of the second saccharide moiety. Compounds 1 and 2 show structural variation even in the pentasaccharide core. The structures of 1 and 2 were established by a combination of spectroscopic techniques as well as chemical modifications such as acetyl and acetonide derivatives as well as hydrolysis products. The new glycosidic acid was named ipomeic acid (1c). Compounds 1, 1b, and 2b were evaluated for cytotoxicity against human tumor cell lines. Compounds 1b and 2b were not effective on epithelial cells, but affected survival of K-562, which is of hematopoietic origin. A sublethal concentration of compound 1 (4 μM) when used in combination with 1 μM doxorubicin, an anticancer agent, significantly enhanced cytotoxicity to tumor cells. Such combined synergistic potency against leukemia cells and the absence of effects on epithelial cells may be beneficial for chemotherapy with minimal side effects to treat CML (chronic myeloid leukemia) malignancies.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Semen Pharbitidis, the seeds of Pharbitis nil (Linn.) Choisy (Convolvulaceae) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicinal plant used for treating helminthiasis and epilepsy in China., Aim of the Study: This study aims to identify the anti-seizure components from Semen Pharbitidis., Methods: A bioassay-guided isolation of anti-seizure compounds from Semen Pharbitidis was performed using a zebrafish pentylenetetrazol seizure model. The structures of active compounds were elucidated by high resolution mass spectrometry. The fragments of active compounds were tested for anti-seizure activity as well., Results: The bioassay-guided isolation of ethanol extract of Semen Pharbitidis led to a group of resin glucosides, namely pharbitin. One of the fragments of pharbitin, 2-methylbutyric acid, also showed anti-seizure activity., Conclusions: We provided further experimental scientific evidence to support the traditional use of Semen Pharbitidis for the treatment of epilepsy. Pharbitin was identified to be the main anti-seizure component in Semen Pharbitidis., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The present study was conducted to investigate the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity of ethanolic ferula assa-foetida oleo-gum-resin extract (FAOGRETE) and also its effects on liver and kidney function in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. For this purpose, 42 male Wistar rats were divided into six groups (n = 7). Diabetes was induced in four groups by a single-dose of STZ at 55 mg/kg body weight, administrated intraperitoneal. After 42 days of treatment, fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels, serum insulin, biochemical parameters such as total cholesterol, triglycerides, low and high density lipoprotein cholesterol were measured. In addition the markers of liver and kidney function, such as glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, serum creatinine and urea levels were determined. The study showed that the ethanolic extract at 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w) had a significant antidiabetic activity after 42 days of treatment as the FBS levels decreased significantly while the serum insulin levels increased. Moreover, a significant decrease in the liver and kidney function markers in treated rats indicated the protective effect of the ethanolic extract against liver and kidney damage, while body weight increased. The serum concentrations were normal in normal control and healthy group treated with FAOGRETE. The results of this study showed that FAOGRETE can regulate hyperglycemia and complications of diabetes. Antidiabetic and hypolipidimic activities of FAOGRETE are probably related to its antioxidant activity. Phenolic and flavonoid compounds like ferulic acid, umbelliferone, and quercetin may play an important role in its mechanism of action., (Copyright © 2018 The Author. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.. All rights reserved.)

Proven the great potential of essential oils as anticancer agents, the current study intended to explore molecular mechanisms responsible for in vitro and in vivo anti-colon cancer efficacy of essential oil containing oleo-gum resin extract (RH) of Mesua ferrea. MTT cell viability studies showed that RH had broad spectrum cytotoxic activities. However, it induced more profound growth inhibitory effects towards two human colon cancer cell lines i.e., HCT 116 and LIM1215 with an IC 50 values of 17.38 ± 0.92 and 18.86 ± 0.80 μg/mL respectively. RH induced relatively less toxicity in normal human colon fibroblasts i.e., CCD-18co. Cell death studies conducted, revealed that RH induced characteristic morphological and biochemical changes in HCT 116. At protein level it down-regulated expression of multiple pro-survival proteins i.e., survivin, xIAP, HSP27, HSP60 and HSP70 and up-regulated expression of ROS, caspase-3/7 and TRAIL-R2 in HCT 116. Furthermore, significant reduction in invasion, migration and colony formation potential was observed in HCT 116 treated with RH. Chemical characterization by GC-MS and HPLC methods revealed isoledene and elemene as one the major compounds. RH showed potent antitumor activity in xenograft model. Overall, these findings suggest that RH holds a promise to be further studied for cheap anti-colon cancer naturaceutical development., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Aim: Bitumen is a natural substance effusing from rocks' notches in some highland areas; it has been known as an effective remedy for treating some illnesses. Considering pain relieving properties of bitumen in traditional Persian medicine (TPM) sources, this study aims to review the viewpoints of TPM sages regarding bitumen in the context of traditional Persian medicine. It also provides applicable information for interested researchers to conduct well-designed clinical trials and evaluate therapeutic effects of bitumen claimed in TPM sources., Material and Method: Various databases including Embase, SID, IRANDOC, IranMedex, Scopus and PubMed were searched with keywords "bitumen" and "Shilajit". Furthermore, main traditional Persian medicine sources including Avicenna's "Canon of medicine", "Continens Liber" by Razes, "The storehouse of medicaments" by Aghili, "Gift for the faithful" by Momen Tonekaboni and "Measure for medicine" written by Muhammad Akbar Shah Arzani were reviewed with Persian keywords "Moomiaii" and "Mumnaei" Results: According to TPM sources, bitumen was used by Iranian's physicians to treat a wide range of diseases. It was known especially as an effective remedy to improve gastrointestinal digestive problems., Conclusion: Bitumen is cited in traditional Persian medicine sources as an effective remedy for treatment of a wide range of diseases, especially GI disorders and bone pain. Recent studies showed the beneficial effects of bitumen in treatment of wound healing, however using it in medical practice for other health dilemma should be confirmed by conducting well-designed clinical studies in the future.

Shilajit is claimed as a Vajikarak (aphrodisiac) and used for the treatment of male infertility by traditional healers of the Indian subcontinent. Therefore, the present investigation was designed to assess the effectiveness of Shilajit for treatment of male infertility resulting from exposure to perilous chemicals. Effect of daily oral administration (p.o.) of Shilajit (50 mg, 100 mg and 200 mg/Kg BW) was investigated for a single spermatogenic cycle (35 days) in cadmium-induced (2 mg/Kg BW, p.o. for 35 days) infertile adult (12-14 week) swiss male mice. Shilajit treatment increased weights of reproductive organs, testicular daily sperm production, activities of testicular Δ 5 3β-HSD and 17 β-HSD enzymes and serum level of testosterone. Histopathological evaluation of testis revealed that Shilajit restored spermatogenesis as reflected by a gradual augmentation in germ cell layers with increased doses of Shilajit compared to cadmium-treated mice. Further, Shilajit treatment reverted back the adverse effects of cadmium on motility and concentration of spermatozoa. Secretory activities of the epididymis and seminal vesicle and libido, fertility and the number of litters per female were also improved by Shilajit in cadmium-treated mice. Results thus suggest the potent androgenic nature of Shilajit and its role in fertility improvement against cadmium-induced infertility., (© 2018 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the potential of plants used in secular traditional medicine and considers this an important source of evidence to assess their effectiveness and safety. Brazil is rich in biodiversity and traditional uses based on the Amerindian culture. However, many processes started with the arrival of the Portuguese in the year 1500. The successive economic cycles, for example, led to destruction of native vegetation and an intense cultural erosion. As a consequence, the information about the use of plants in the past centuries are dispersed and without interpretation. In this study a methodology to evidence the traditionality of Brazilian plants was demonstrated using data about barbatimão barks (Stryphnodendron adstringens (Mart.) Coville - Fabaceae) and Copaiba oleoresin (Copaifera spp. - Fabaceae) in wound healing, was established., Material and Methods: Data about use of the plants were recovered from bibliography published between 1576 and 2011. The books (101) were classified using weights, considering the date of publication and the source of Information. Older books that describe primary information received weight 10, while books written more recently and with secondary information received weight 0.4. A score for each category of medicinal use was calculated based on the books weights and the frequency of citation. A review about the current use of both plants was also performed from ethnobotanical studies published in journals., Results and Discussion: The traditional secular use of barks of barbatimão and oleoresin of copaiba to treat wounds was confirmed based on the historic bibliographic research. The most frequent use of barbatimão in a timeline of 500 years of Brazil's history, was as astringent, whereas for copaíba was as healing of skin and mucosal lesions. The continuous and current use of these plants to treat wounds, confirmed by recent ethnobotanical studies, is an indicative of the resilience of these remedies and their effectiveness., Conclusion: The use of preparations containing barbatimão barks and copaiba oleoresin can be considered effective in the treatment of wounds. Nonetheless, it is necessary to improve the quality of the formulas as established by WHO., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Adequate release of 5-ASA in colon is challenging as it easily permeates at the acidic pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Targeting delayed release of 5-ASA at acidic pH, Carboxymethyl cellulose-rosin gum hybrid nanoparticles (CR NP3 ) with an average size of 267nm have been crafted through nanoprecipitation method. CR NP3 was extensively characterized using Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and particle size analysis based on dynamic light scattering. Colon specific targeted in-vitro release of 5‑Aminosalicylic acid from CR NPs was monitored in simulated gastric (SGF) and intestinal (SIF) fluids. The release rate was very slow in first 2h in SGF, while in SIF, it was greater and 72% drug was released in a controlled manner during the time span of 12h in contrast to native carboxymethyl cellulose or rosin gum for which 100% release was accomplished within 5h or 8h respectively. The delayed release from CR NPs is attractive for enhancing the bioavailability of drug in colon. The drug release followed zero-order kinetics and non-Fickian diffusion mechanism., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

There is a high incidence of household knife-related injuries requiring emergency department treatment in the U.S. The Pitch Ointment, a named formula developed by a compounding pharmacist, was used separately by two patients who suffered a knife injury in a finger and a foot. This formula combines Pinene (L-Alpha) 0.5% and Canada Balsam 5% in PracaSil-Plus, special ingredients with applications in scar and wound healing. The patients' level of satisfaction with the Pitch Ointment was very high since all 4 treatment satisfaction domains by the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (effectiveness, side effects, convenience, global satisfaction) were rated over 85. These results are consistent with the clinical improvements observed in the before and after treatment photographs. The success of these case reports is evidence to suggest that the Pitch Ointment may be recommended by compounding pharmacists as a viable treatment option in scar and wound management., (Copyright© by International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding, Inc.)

Pine tar is the end product of pine wood carbonisation following distillation using extreme heat. An extensive literature search was conducted back to the 1950s for this review. Pine tar has been used in medicine for more than 2000 years to treat a range of skin conditions because of its soothing and antiseptic properties. Pine tar should not be confused with coal tar, which has been produced from coal for approximately a hundred years. Pine tar is thought to exert its effect by reducing DNA synthesis and mitotic activity, which promotes a return to normal keratinisation. In addition, pine tar has been shown to be antipruritic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal. These properties make pine tar suitable for the topical treatment of eczema, psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis and other dry, itchy, flaky or inflamed skin conditions. Topical products available over-the-counter in Australia today contain up to 2.3% pine tar, and come in several different formulations that can be used on the entire body, including the face. Modern day pine tar is manufactured with increased purity to eliminate toxic phenol and carcinogenic components, which have been of concern in the past. Primary irritation is uncommon. In conclusion, the long experience with topical pine tar therapy and its worldwide usage, together with the evidence presented in this review, suggests that pine tar is an effective treatment with minimal safety risk., (© 2016 The Authors. Australasian Journal of Dermatology © 2016 The Australasian College of Dermatologists.)

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail unit that may lead to dystrophy and disfigurement over time. It accounts for up to 50% of all nail conditions, with toenails affected more commonly than fingernails. Onychomycosis may affect quality of life and increase the prevalence and severity of foot ulcers in patients with diabetes. Available oral agents approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of onychomycosis include terbinafine and itraconazole, which have demonstrated good efficacy but are associated with the risk of systemic side effects and drug-drug interactions. Topical medications that are FDA approved for onychomycosis include ciclopirox, efinaconazole, and tavaborole. These therapies generally have incomplete efficacy compared to systemic agents as well as long treatment courses and possible local side effects such as erythema and/or blisters. Given the need for safe, effective, and cost-effective options for onychomycosis therapy, there has been a renewed interest in natural and over-the-counter (OTC) alternatives. This review will synthesize the laboratory data, known antifungal mechanisms, and clinical studies assessing the efficacy of OTC and natural products for onychomycosis treatment.

Hypothesis/purpose: The aim of the present study was to evaluate in vivo the potential anti-ischemic and antiatheromatic activity of Chios Mastic gum, the resin of the trunk and branches of "Pistacia lentiscus var. chia", used since antiquity in traditional Greek medicine. The main compounds of mastic are triterpenes, possessing phytosterol-like structures. This led to the hypothesis that mastic and particularly its neutral fraction, enriched in phytosterol-like compounds, possess antiatheromatic activities., Methods: Total Mastic Extract without Polymer (TMEWP) and the neutral mastic fraction (NMF) were administered orally for 6 weeks to normal fed and to cholesterol fed rabbits in the form of sunflower oil solution. All the animals were randomly divided into 6 groups, anesthetized and subjected to 30min ischemia of the heart, followed by 3h reperfusion: At the end of the experiment the area at risk and the infarct zone were determined with the aid of fluorescent particles and triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining, and small segments of the ascending and descending aorta and the heart were taken for histologic examination. Blood samples were collected at different time points of ischemia and reperfusion, for malondialdehyde (MDA) evaluation as an index of lipid peroxidation, for total and LDL cholesterol determination and for evaluation of oxidized LDL., Results: In the normal fed animals the NMF and the TMEWP reduced significantly the infarct size, while in the hypercholesterolemic rabbits both treatments were ineffective. Atherosclerosis was detected in all the animals fed cholesterol enriched diet in the form of subintimal accumulation of lipids and foamy macrophages. There was no detection of atherosclerosis in Groups treated with TMEWP and NMF, which both reduced the total cholesterol levels by 47 and 88% respectively, whilst had not effect on LDL oxidation. TMEWP and NMF reduced the MDA concentration in normal fed rabbits, but had no effect on MDA levels in cholesterol fed animals. TMEWP and NMPF reduce the infarct size in normal animals and possess significant antiatheromatic and hypolipidemic activities in rabbits fed cholesterol enriched diet., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.)

Schistosma infection is an endemic disease in many developing countries including Egypt. Despite the effort to control and treat the infection with praziquantel, the development of resistance is a major health problem. Myrrh extract (Mirazid*) has been used as an alternative with conflicting results. In this study the effects of Mirazide fractions on schistosomules of S. mansoni have been tested. Using column chromatography we have fractionated the molecule to 10 fractions. Two of these fractions were more potent and cause damage to the schistosomules detected by toluidine blue dyes and confirmed by electron microscopic examination. In conclusion, identification and purification of the, active molecules in these fractions may potentiate the: antischistosomal effects of Mirazid®.

Propolis is a resinous material collected by bees from bud and exudates of the plants, mixed with bee enzymes, pollen and wax. In this review, the biological properties of propolis and some therapeutic applications are discussed. The same biological activities have been investigated until today, using samples from different geographic regions. Thus, the study of the biological properties of a given sample should always be associated with its chemical composition and botanical source, representing a particular sample of a given geographic area, exploring its biological potential and the role of its constituents. Efforts have been carried out to explain propolis' mechanisms of action in vivo and in vitro, but the majority of propolis' targets and actions are still unclear. The number of formulations containing propolis and patents have increased, although propolis extracts have been used deliberately with different recommendations, not always mentioning the chemical composition, vegetal source and the methods of extraction. Clinical studies will help to obtain criterious recommendations in view of the expected outcomes. Further investigation should explore the effects of common compounds found in the samples from all over the world in an attempt to standardize the research on propolis and to obtain new drugs. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., (Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

Background: Mineral Pitch (MP) is a dark brown coloured humic matter originating from high altitude rocks. It is an Ayurvedic medicinal food, commonly used by the people of the Himalayan regions of Nepal and India for various body ailments., Methods: The Huh-7 cells were treated with different concentrations of MP for 24 h, and both apoptosis and proliferation was determined by the TUNEL and MTT assays respectively. The formation of ROS and nitric oxide was analysed by DCFH-DA and Griess reagent respectively. The expression of miRNA-21 and miRNA-22 were checked by the real time PCR. Effect of miRNA-22 on proliferation and c-myc was studied by over-expressing miRNA-22 premiRs in Huh-7 cells., Results: We found that MP enhanced anti-cancer effects by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation. MP induced both ROS and NO, upon neutralizing them, there was a partial recovery of apoptosis and proliferation. MP also induced miRNA-22 expression, while miRNA-21 expression was inhibited. Over-expression of miRNA-22 resulted in a significant inhibition of proliferation. miRNA-22 directly targeted c-myc gene, thereby inhibited proliferation. These results clearly show that MP induces its anti-cancer activity by more than one pathway., Conclusion: The data clearly indicate that MP induced apoptosis via the production of ROS, and inhibited proliferation by inducing miRNA-22 and inhibiting miRNA-21 in Huh-7 cells.

Background: Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, decubitus ulcers and pressure injuries, are localised areas of injury to the skin or the underlying tissue, or both. A range of treatments with antimicrobial properties, including impregnated dressings, are widely used in the treatment of pressure ulcers. A clear and current overview is required to facilitate decision making regarding use of antiseptic or antibiotic therapies in the treatment of pressure ulcers. This review is one of a suite of Cochrane reviews investigating the use of antiseptics and antibiotics in different types of wounds. It also forms part of a suite of reviews investigating the use of different types of dressings and topical treatments in the treatment of pressure ulcers., Objectives: To assess the effects of systemic and topical antibiotics, and topical antiseptics on the healing of infected and uninfected pressure ulcers being treated in any clinical setting., Search Methods: In October 2015 we searched: the Cochrane Wounds Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library), Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid MEDLINE (In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations), Ovid EMBASE, and EBSCO CINAHL Plus. We also searched three clinical trials registries and the references of included studies and relevant systematic reviews. There were no restrictions based on language or date of publication or study setting., Selection Criteria: Randomised controlled trials which enrolled adults with pressure ulcers of stage II or above were included in the review., Data Collection and Analysis: Two review authors independently performed study selection, risk of bias assessment and data extraction., Main Results: We included 12 trials (576 participants); 11 had two arms and one had three arms. All assessed topical agents, none looked at systemic antibiotics. The included trials assessed the following antimicrobial agents: povidone iodine, cadexomer iodine, gentian violet, lysozyme, silver dressings, honey, pine resin, polyhexanide, silver sulfadiazine, and nitrofurazone with ethoxy-diaminoacridine. Comparators included a range of other dressings and ointments without antimicrobial properties and alternative antimicrobials. Each comparison had only one trial, participant numbers were low and follow-up times short. The evidence varied from moderate to very low quality.Six trials reported the primary outcome of wound healing. All except one compared an antiseptic with a non-antimicrobial comparator. There was some moderate and low quality evidence that fewer ulcers may heal in the short term when treated with povidone iodine compared with non-antimicrobial alternatives (protease-modulating dressings (risk ratio (RR) 0.78, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.62 to 0.98) and hydrogel (RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.97)); and no clear difference between povidone iodine and a third non-antimicrobial treatment (hydrocolloid) (low quality evidence). Pine resin salve may heal more pressure ulcers than hydrocolloid (RR 2.83, 95% CI 1.14 to 7.05) (low quality evidence). There is no clear difference between cadexomer iodine and standard care, and between honey a combined antiseptic and antibiotic treatment (very low quality evidence).Six trials reported adverse events (primary safety outcome). Four reported no adverse events; there was very low quality evidence from one showing no clear evidence of a difference between cadexomer iodine and standard care; in one trial it was not clear whether data were appropriately reported.There was limited reporting of secondary outcomes. The five trials that reported change in wound size as a continuous outcome did not report any clear evidence favouring any particular antiseptic/anti-microbial treatments. For bacterial resistance, one trial found some evidence of more MRSA eradication in participants with ulcer treated with a polyhexanide dressing compared with a polyhexanide swab (RR 1.48, 95% CI 1.02 to 2.13); patients in the dressing group also reported less pain (MD -2.03, 95% CI -2.66 to -1.40). There was no clear evidence of a difference between interventions in infection resolution in three other comparisons. Evidence for secondary outcomes varied from moderate to very low quality; where no GRADE assessment was possible we identified substantial limitations which an assessment would have taken into account., Authors' Conclusions: The relative effects of systemic and topical antimicrobial treatments on pressure ulcers are not clear. Where differences in wound healing were found, these sometimes favoured the comparator treatment without antimicrobial properties. The trials are small, clinically heterogenous, generally of short duration, and at high or unclear risk of bias. The quality of the evidence ranges from moderate to very low; evidence on all comparisons was subject to some limitations.

Purpose: To determine the preventive effect of a periodontal dressing containing colophony, zinc oxide and magnesium oxide applied after scaling and root planing on clinical variables, subgingival bacteria and local immune response in patients with chronic periodontitis., Materials and Methods: In this randomised prospective clinical study, 28 volunteers with generalised moderate chronic periodontitis were treated with full-mouth scaling in a split-mouth design. In the test quadrants, the periodontal dressing was applied during the first three days. At baseline and after 6 and 12 weeks, probing pocket depth (PD), attachment level (AL) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded, and subgingival plaque samples were taken for laboratory analysis., Results: In both groups, PD, AL and BOP were significantly reduced (p=0.001). BOP was significantly lower in the control than the test group after 6 weeks (p=0.046). Significantly reduced bacterial counts of Porphyromonas gingivalis were found in the control group after 12 weeks (p=0.013). No differences were found for the microbiological results between the groups. After 12 weeks, interleukin (IL)-8 and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-8 were significantly higher in the test group (p=0.023 and p=0.003, respectively)., Conclusion: The adjunctive application of a periodontal dressing had no additional preventive effect on clinical data 12 weeks after scaling and root planing.

Infection with Dicrocoelium dendriticum in humans is seldom to be reported in Egypt. This liver fluke, which commonly infects ruminants, has a complex life cycle with two intermediate hosts; the land snail and the ant. Human infection occurs by accidental ingestion of the second intermediate host. The present reported a patient suffered from recurrent acute chole-cystitis with chronic urinary schistosomiasis whose Kato stool examination showed Dicroceolium dendriticum eggs. He was successfully treated with Mirazid.

For thousands of years, Chios Gum Mastic (CGM), the resin produced by the trunk of Pistachia lentiscus var Chia, has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes and several therapeutic properties have been attributed to it. CGM has been used in traditional medicine of various nations in the eastern Mediterranean area. This survey was carried out to identify biological mechanisms that could explain traditional usage and recent pharmacological findings. We reviewed the related scientific literature available from the NCBI PUBMED database on CGM studies and on natural products showing peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonist effects. We investigated whether CGM qualifies as a PPAR modulator. A large number of studies demonstrate that CGM has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, and anticancer properties. Recently, the first evidence of CGM antidiabetic effect became known. CGM chemical composition has been extensively analyzed and the presence of several compounds, especially triterpenoids is well documented. Some of them, oleanonic acid, oleanolic acid, and gallic acid are considered to act as PPAR modulators. PPARs are nuclear receptors functioning as transcription factors and thereby controlling cellular functions at the level of gene expression. PPARs are involved in the pathways of significant diseases, such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, inflammation, atheromatosis, and neoplasias, constituting a key target for pharmacological interventions. This article proposes that the synergistic action of some constituents of CGM on PPARs and more precisely on both PPARs isotypes-α and -γ, may be one of the major biological mechanisms via which CGM exerts its multiple effects.

The rate of human schistosomiasis increased in Al- Baha Province, Saudi Arabia in the last few years. So, it was necessary to study the prevalence of human schistosomiasis in Al-Baha Province over the period of the two years (2012-2013). In general, there was a decline in the prevalence of schistosomiasis in Al-Baha over the study period and it was significantly less in 2013 than it was in 2012. Schistosomiasis infection rate was affected by host sex as males had higher infection rate than females. Age group of 15-44 showed the highest infection rate. Prevalence of schistosomiasis in Saudi people was significantly higher than it was in non-Saudi or immigrant ones. Thus, more attention should be paid to Al-Baha area in the future schistosome control programmes.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: According to the Chinese, European, Iranian and Indian traditional medicines, oleo gum resin of Ferula assa-foetida (asafoetida) has therapeutic effects on different kinds of diseases. Some of these effects are related to the diseases of nervous system such as hysteresis and convulsion. In recent studies, some anti-epileptic and neuroprotective roles were also considered for it and we examined its possible role on treatment of peripheral neuropathy., Material and Methods: in vitro studies were carried out to identify the response of isolated sciatic nerves to different concentrations of oleo gum resin of asafoetida solved in Lock׳s solution. Then, in vivo studies were conducted to evaluate its effect on amelioration of peripheral neuropathy in mice. Peripheral neuropathy was induced by intraperiotoneal injection of high doses of pyridoxine in adult Balb/c male mice. Tail flick tests were performed to identify the incidence of neuropathy in animals. After 10 days treatment with asafoetida, the efficiency of treatment was assessed by behavioral, electrophysiological and histological studies., Results: in vitro experiments confirmed that incubating the nerves in aqueous extract of oleo gum rein of asafoetida increased the amplitude and decreased the latent period of nerve compound action potential (CAP). Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) and amplitude of CAP also improved in asafoetida treated animals. Histological and behavioral studies showed that asafoetida was able to facilitate the healing process in peripheral nerves., Conclusions: in vitro experiments showed that asafoetida is a nerve stimulant and its administration in neuropathic mice exerted neuroprotecting effects through stimulating axonal regeneration and remyelination and decrement of lymphocyte infiltration., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Dragon's blood is a bright red resin obtained from Dracaena cochinchinensis (Lour.) S.C.Chen (Yunnan, China). As a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, it has great traditional medicinal value and is used for wound healing and to stop bleeding. Its main biological activity comes from phenolic compounds. In this study, phenolic compounds were made into dropping pills and their protective effects were examined by establishing focal cerebral ischemia rats model used method of Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion (MCAO), and by investigating indexes of neurological scores, infarct volume, cerebral index, cerebral water content and oxidation stress. Compared to model group, high, middle and low groups of Dragon's blood dropping pills could improve the neurological function significantly (p<0.01) and reduce cerebral infarct volume of focal cerebral ischemia rats remarkably (p<0.05-0.01). Meanwhile, each group could alleviate cerebral water content and cerebral index (p<0.05-0.01) and regulate oxidative stress of focal cerebral ischemia rats obviously (p<0.05-0.01). Activities of middle group corresponded with that treated with positive control drug. The results obtained here showed that Dragon's blood dropping pills had protective effects on focal cerebral ischemia rats., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.)

Six partially acylated pentasaccharide resin glycosides, cairicosides A-F, were isolated from the aerial parts of Ipomoea cairica. These compounds were characterized as a group of macrolactones of simonic acid A, partially acylated with different organic acids. The lactonization site of 11S-hydroxyhexadecanoic acid (jalapinolic acid) was bound to the second saccharide moiety at C-3 in cairicosides A-E, while at C-2 in cairicoside F. Structures were established by spectroscopic and chemical methods. Compounds cairicosides A-E exhibited moderate cytotoxicity against a small panel of human tumor cell lines with IC50 values in the range of 4.28-14.31μM., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To determine the effects of applying a natural polymer solution (shellac) to dry gangrene, and thereby prevent infection and progression to wet gangrene, in diabetic patients., Methods: This randomized, controlled, pilot study included patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had unreconstructable peripheral vascular disease and were awaiting autoamputation. Eligible patients were contraindicated for surgery, had a limited life expectancy and/or had refused surgical amputations. All patients received the best possible medical treatment and were randomized to receive either topical shellac or antiseptic application of 10% povidone-iodine (PVP-I) solution to gangrenous areas., Results: A total of 26 diabetic patients were eligible for inclusion, of whom 23 completed the study: 13 were treated with shellac and 10 with PVP-I. The amputation rate was higher in the conventional treatment group versus the shellac group (60.0% versus 46.2%, respectively), although this difference was not statistically significant., Conclusions: Shellac is a natural solution that may be used to embalm gangrenous tissue in selected diabetic patients. More studies are needed to assess the long-term outcomes of this technique.

In in vitro tests, natural coniferous resin from the Norway spruce (Picea abies) is strongly antifungal. In this observational study, we tested the clinical effectiveness of a lacquer composed of spruce resin for topical treatment of onychomycosis. Thirty-seven patients with clinical diagnosis of onychomycosis were enrolled into the study. All patients used topical resin lacquer treatment daily for 9 months. A mycological culture and potassium hydroxide (KOH) stain were done from nail samples in the beginning and in the end of the study. Treatment was considered effective, if a mycological culture was negative and there was an apparent clinical cure. At study entry, 20 patients (20/37; 54%; 95% CI: 38-70) had a positive mycological culture and/or positive KOH stain for dermatophytes. At study end, the result of 13 patients was negative (13/19; 68%; 95% CI: 48-89). In one case (1/14; 7%; 95% CI: 0-21) the mycological culture was initially negative, but it turned positive during the study period. By 14 compliant patients (14/32; 44%; 95% CI: 27-61), resin lacquer treatment was considered clinically effective: complete healing took place in three cases (9%) and partial healing in 11 cases (85%). The results indicate some evidence of clinical efficacy of the natural coniferous resin used for topical treatment of onychomycosis., (© 2012 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

A crude resinous extract from Commiphora swynnertonii was tested against an experimental coccidial infection in local chickens. A total of 80 growing chickens were randomly assigned into five groups, which received different treatments. Chickens in G1 were not infected with coccidian oocysts and therefore served as a negative control. All chickens in G2, G3, G4 and G5 were infected through oral administration of coccidian oocysts suspension at a dosed rate of 1.5 × 10(4) Eimeria spp. oocysts per bird. Starting from day 3 post-infection (p.i), chickens in different groups were treated for 7 consecutive days as follows: G1 and G2 (positive control) received 5 ml of normal saline as placebo, G3 and G4 were given the extract at 400 and 800 mg/kg bodyweight whereas G5 received anticoccidial drug. Clinical signs, bodyweights, oocysts counts and mortality rates were observed regularly. Results showed that oral administration of the resinous extract to chickens with coccidiosis significantly reduced mortality rate from 94 to 25 % and oocysts counts from 1.03 × 10(5) to 6.55 × 10(3) oocysts/g faeces (p < 0.05). Also a body condition score chart indicated less severe clinical signs of the disease in the groups which received the extract. Mean daily body weights were slightly reduced by the administration of the extract but this effect disappeared by day 7 p.i. These findings clearly indicate that resinous extract from C. swynnertonii has significant anticoccidial effect against experimental Eimeria spp. infection in chickens. A larger field trial to validate the use of the extract in chickens naturally infected with Eimeria spp. is required.

Tasmayi (mumie, shilajit) is a pale brown to black substance which leaks from the layers of rocks in many mountain ranges during the warm summer months. In traditional Kazakh medicine, it is used for the treatment of bone fracture and many inflammatory ailments. It is also used as a remedy in the traditional medical systems of many countries such as India, Russia and Kazakhstan. According to the literatures, Tasmayi possesses anti-inflammatory, antiulcerogenic, antibacterial, free radical scavenging, antioxidative, memory enhancing, antidiabetic, antistress, antiallergic, immunomodulative, anti AIDS, anabolic and regeneration stimulating activities. The major physiological action of Tasmayi could be belonging to the presence of dibenzo-alpha-pyrones along with humic and fulvic acids.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a brain disorder displaying a prevalence and impact in constant expansion. This expansive and epidemic behavior is concerning medical and public opinion while focusing efforts on its prevention and treatment. One important strategy to prevent this brain impairment is based on dietary changes and nutritional supplements, functional foods and nutraceuticals. In this review we discuss the potential contributions of shilajit and complex B vitamins to AD prevention. We analyze the status of biological studies and present data of a clinical trial developed in patients with mild AD. Studies suggest that shilajit and its active principle fulvic acid, as well as a formula of shilajit with B complex vitamins, emerge as novel nutraceutical with potential uses against this brain disorder., (Copyright © 2012 IMSS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Studies were carried out to investigate the effect of crude extracts from resin, leaves, stem barks and root barks of Commiphora swynnertonii against Newcastle disease virus (NDV) using an in ovo assay. Nine-day-old embryonated chicken eggs were divided into seven groups (n = 6) and received various treatments. Six groups were inoculated with velogenic NDV strain; five groups out of these were treated with different concentrations of the four extracts or a diluent, dimethylsulphoxide. The uninoculated and inoculated groups were left as negative and positive controls, respectively. Embryo survival was observed daily and embryo weights were measured day 5 post-inoculation; a few eggs from selected groups were left to hatch. Allantoic fluid from treated eggs and serum from hatched chicks were collected for hemagglutination and hemagglutination inhibition (HI) tests to detect NDV in the eggs and antibodies against NDV in the hatched chicks respectively. Results showed that embryo survival and mean embryo weight were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in those groups which were treated with the crude extracts from C. swynnertonii than the positive control group. Also the extracts significantly (p < 0.001) reduced virus titres, whereas no viruses were detected in the allantoic fluids of the resin-treated group at the highest concentration of 500 μg/mL. Furthermore, the HI test results showed very low levels of antibodies against NDV in chicks hatched from resin and root bark extract-treated eggs suggesting that these plant materials were capable of destroying the NDV before stimulating the developing chick's immunity. The current findings have clearly demonstrated that crude extracts especially that of resin from C. swynnertonii have strong antiviral activity against NDV in ovo. In vivo trials are needed to validate the use of resin from the tree in controlling Newcastle disease in chickens.

Resin is a natural product of coniferous trees. Salves manufactured from spruce resin (Picea abies) have been used for centuries to treat wounds and skin infections. We report a pilot clinical trial designed to investigate healing rates, factors that contribute to delayed wound healing, cost-effectiveness, and incidence of allergic reactions when resin salve is used to treat complicated surgical wounds. The trial involved 23 patients in whom wound healing after surgery was delayed. These patients were assigned to resin salve treatment. The primary outcome measure was the number of days to complete wound healing. Secondary objectives included an assessment of factors contributing to delayed wound healing, an estimation of associated costs, and an investigation into the occurrence of allergic reactions related to resin salve therapy. The study achieved a healing rate of 100%. The mean ± SD healing time was 43 ± 24 days. The mean ± SD wound size (length × width × depth) was (29 ± 19) × (12 ± 7) × (4 ± 3) mm. Wound size, use of corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants, and immobilization were statistically significant (P < 0.05) contributors to delayed wound healing and impaired re-epithelialization. The total mean ± SD costs of the resin salve treatment were €45.0 ± 26.0 per patient during the entire treatment period and €1.2 ± 0.5 per treatment day. The rate of allergic reactions was 0%. The results of this pilot trial indicate that complicated surgical wounds may be treated successfully with resin salve. The treatment method is clinically effective and cost-effective, and the rate of allergic reactions is low., (© 2012 The International Society of Dermatology.)

Type 1-diabetes is an autoimmune disease, where a chronic inflammatory process finally causes β-cell death and insulin deficiency. Extracts from gum resin of Boswellia serrata (BE) have been shown to posses anti-inflammatory properties especially by targeting factors/mediators related to autoimmune diseases. Multiple low dose-streptozotocin (MLD-STZ) treatment is a method to induce diabetes in animals similar to Type 1 diabetes in humans. It was aimed to study whether or not a BE could prevent hyperglycemia, inflammation of pancreatic islets and increase of proinflammatory cytokines in the blood in MLD-STZ treated mice. In BK+/+ wild type mice, 5 days of daily treatment with 40 mg/kg STZ i.p. produced permanent increase of blood glucose, infiltration of lymphocytes into pancreatic islets (CD3-stain), apoptosis of periinsular cells (staining for activated caspase 3) after 10 days as well as shrinking of islet tissue after 35 days (H&E staining). This was associated with an increase of granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), granulocyte/macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1A, IL-1B, IL-2, IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α) in the blood. Whereas BE alone did not affect blood glucose in non diabetic mice, in STZ treated mice simultaneous i.p. injection of 150 mg/kg of BE over 10 days prevented animals from increase of blood glucose levels. Histochemical studies showed, that i.p. injection of 150 mg/kg BE for 10 days starting with STZ treatment, avoided lymphocyte infiltration into islets, apoptosis of periinsular cells and shrinking of islet size 35 days after STZ. As far as the cytokines tested are concerned, there was a significant inhibition of the increase of G-CSF and GM-CSF. BE also significantly prevented the increase of IL-1A, IL-1B, IL-2, IL-6, IFN-γ and TNF-α. It is concluded that extracts from the gum resin of Boswellia serrata prevent islet destruction and consequent hyperglycemia in an animal model of type 1 diabetes probably by inhibition of the production/action of cytokines related to induction of islet inflammation in an autoimmune process., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: The purpose was to investigate Chios mastic gum (CMG) extract as an potential anti-tumor agent for oral squamous cell carcinoma in vitro., Methods: We designed a study to examine the effects of CMG extracts on growth of oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line, YD-10B and to determine whether the extracts could induce apoptosis through the activation of caspase-3, using the common chemotherapeutic agent Paclitaxel (Taxol, Bristol-Myers Squibb) as a control., Results: MTT assay suggested that both CMG and Taxol inhibited the proliferation of YD-10B cells in a time and dose dependent manner. Moreover, 10 μg/mL of CMG and 50 μg/mL of Taxol caused fragmentation of the genomic DNA at 24 hour. Finally, 10 μg/mL of CMG and 50 μg/mL of Taxol caused cleavage of procaspase-3 in western blot analysis., Conclusions: These results suggest CMG's potential as an anti-tumor agent.