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Medicinal plants have constituted a fundamental aspect of human health and wellness for millennia. The objective of this study was to document medicinal plants used to treat human and livestock ailments in the Tehuledere District. The data were collected using semistructured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations with local informants. Preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and informant consensus factor were used for data analysis. A total of 63 medicinal plant species belonging to 59 genera and 41 families were documented. The predominant families identified were Lamiaceae and Asteraceae, each containing 6 and 5 species, respectively. Of the recorded medicinal plants, 53 (80.95%) species were used for human ailments, whereas 12 (19.05%) species were used for animal health issues. Among the recorded medicinal plant species, shrubs constitute the highest number with 35% species. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves, accounting for 59% of remedies targeting human ailments. The administration of herbal treatments was primarily oral, aimed at addressing various diseases. The most significant threat to these medicinal plants was attributed to agricultural expansion, followed by the collection of firewood. The aim of documenting the use of medicinal plants in the treatment of diseases was to capture traditional practices, with species such as Eucalyptus globulus, Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, and Lepidium sativum serving as the foundational basis for future pharmacological studies. It is imperative to prioritize the conservation of Laggera tomentosa and Urtica simensis to safeguard biodiversity and the cultural traditions associated with these endangered species. Engaging local communities in the management and conservation of plant resources, along with the preservation of their traditional knowledge, presents a cost‐effective and sustainable solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alopecia, a condition characterized by hair loss, affects a significant portion of the population and has various psychological and physical impacts. This review article explores the efficacy and safety of herbal treatments for alopecia, integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific research. The article examines various herbal remedies used across cultures, such as Saw Palmetto, Ginseng, Green Tea, and Phyllanthus Emblica, delving into their bioactive compounds and mechanisms of action. Studies and case reports, adhering to APA citation style, highlight the potential of these natural remedies in promoting hair growth and managing different types of alopecia. The review also addresses the safety profile and toxicological considerations of these herbal treatments, underscoring the importance of comprehensive evaluations and standardized dosages. The integration of herbal treatments with conventional therapies is discussed as a promising avenue for enhancing treatment outcomes. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for more rigorous clinical trials, exploration of new herbal compounds, and the development of standardized, safe herbal formulations for alopecia treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When the kidneys produce a crystallized substance, it acts as a kidney stone. Usually, it is affected by various risk factors (obesity, diabetes, hypertension and age) and treatments are available. Even though renal stone disease occurs in the older people, but the precise mechanisms of kidney stone formation and growth are still not entirely understood. Urinary stones are formed by crystals of phosphate, uric acid, magnesium ammonium phosphate, apatite and struvite. This review describes the (i). Pathogenesis, (ii). Stone formation and (iii). Prevention approaches. It also compares the surgical, herbal and allopathic urolithiasis treatments. The minerals in the body are depleted by kidney stones. Patients who have higher blood lipid levels may be more likely to develop kidney stones than healthy people. The patients are advised to consume low-fat foods, plant-based fibers and herbal treatments. Many people seek herbal therapy, because plant-based medication has fewer side effects and more efficient. To remove any kidney stone-related issues, combining herbal remedies with allopathic treatment is best option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is commonly a neurodevelopmental behavioural disorder in children and adolescents. Mainly characterized by symptoms like lack of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness, it can impact the overall mental development of the one affected. Several factors, both genetic and non-genetic, can be responsible for this disorder. Although several traditional treatment methods involve medication and other counselling techniques, they also come with different side effects. Hence, the choice is now shifting to alternative treatment techniques. Herbal treatments are considered one of the most popular complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) administered. However, issues related to the safety and efficacy of herbal remedies for the treatment of ADHD need to be investigated further. This study aims to find out the recent advancement in evidence-based use of herbal remedies for ADHD by a comprehensive and systematic review that depicts the results of the published works on herbal therapy for the disorder. The electronic databases and the references retrieved from the included studies present related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and open-label studies. Seven RCTs involving children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD met the inclusion criteria. There is a fair indication of the efficacy and safety of Melissa officinalis L., Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst., Matricaria chamomilla L., and Valeriana officinalis L. from the studies evaluated in this systematic review for the treatment of various symptoms of ADHD. Limited evidence was found for Ginkgo biloba L. and pine bark extract. However, various other preparations from other plants did not show significant efficacy. There is inadequate proof to strongly support and recommend the administration of herbal medicines for ADHD, but more research is needed in the relevant field to popularize the alternative treatment approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Warts result from an infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV). Plantar warts, also known as Verruca plantaris, can be notably painful for the patient and possess contagious qualities, thus necessitating assertive treatment. Despite several available approaches for addressing plantar warts, efficacy remains elusive. One 22-year-old firefighter suffered from numerous plantar warts. After 26 days of traditional Chinese medicine soaking, the rashes completely disappeared. The treatment was without complications or discomfort, and a three-month follow-up showed no recurrence. Our case investigation highlighted the efficacy of herbal soaking as a safe, painless, and non-invasive therapeutic option, positioning it as a potential avenue for managing multiple plantar warts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional dyspepsia (FD), a common gastrointestinal condition, poses significant burdens on both individuals and society. In this article, we conducted PubMed searches using specific keywords to review clinical trials focusing on conventional and herbal treatments for dyspepsia as well as the adverse effects of non-herbal treatments. Dyspepsia can be managed using proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, and antacids. Additionally, we explore Tegaserod, a partial agonist of the 5-HT4 receptor, in the context of prokinetic medications. We summarise the research supporting the effectiveness of non-herbal dyspepsia treatment, considering factors beyond acid reduction, such as the placebo effect and the variability of dyspepsia symptoms, as discussed in the section on proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medication. Unlike most pharmacotherapies targeting a single mechanism, herbal medications often contain multiple active ingredients that can address several signalling pathways simultaneously. Notable herbs like fennel, cumin, aloe vera, ginger, and licorice have documented uses in the literature. Whether derived from a single plant or a combination, herbal treatments hold promises for addressing multiple conditions simultaneously. Therefore, evaluating herbal therapy at all stages of development should adhere to the same scientific rigour applied to chemically specific therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants have constituted a fundamental aspect of human health and wellness for millennia. The objective of this study was to document medicinal plants used to treat human and livestock ailments in the Tehuledere District. The data were collected using semistructured interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations with local informants. Preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and informant consensus factor were used for data analysis. A total of 63 medicinal plant species belonging to 59 genera and 41 families were documented. The predominant families identified were Lamiaceae and Asteraceae, each containing 6 and 5 species, respectively. Of the recorded medicinal plants, 53 (80.95%) species were used for human ailments, whereas 12 (19.05%) species were used for animal health issues. Among the recorded medicinal plant species, shrubs constitute the highest number with 35% species. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves, accounting for 59% of remedies targeting human ailments. The administration of herbal treatments was primarily oral, aimed at addressing various diseases. The most significant threat to these medicinal plants was attributed to agricultural expansion, followed by the collection of firewood. The aim of documenting the use of medicinal plants in the treatment of diseases was to capture traditional practices, with species such as Eucalyptus globulus , Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata , and Lepidium sativum serving as the foundational basis for future pharmacological studies. It is imperative to prioritize the conservation of Laggera tomentosa and Urtica simensis to safeguard biodiversity and the cultural traditions associated with these endangered species. Engaging local communities in the management and conservation of plant resources, along with the preservation of their traditional knowledge, presents a cost-effective and sustainable solution., Competing Interests: The author declares no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Worku Misganaw and Yalew Yiblet.)

This document is a corrigendum for an article titled "Phytotherapy for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a systematic review and meta-analysis." The corrigendum addresses an error in the affiliation information of one of the authors and provides the correct affiliation. It also amends the Conflict of Interest statement to reflect the correct affiliation. The authors apologize for the errors and state that they do not affect the scientific conclusions of the article. The corrigendum was published in Frontiers in Pharmacology. [Extracted from the article]

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is commonly a neurodevelopmental behavioural disorder in children and adolescents. Mainly characterized by symptoms like lack of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness, it can impact the overall mental development of the one affected. Several factors, both genetic and non-genetic, can be responsible for this disorder. Although several traditional treatment methods involve medication and other counselling techniques, they also come with different side effects. Hence, the choice is now shifting to alternative treatment techniques. Herbal treatments are considered one of the most popular complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) administered. However, issues related to the safety and efficacy of herbal remedies for the treatment of ADHD need to be investigated further. This study aims to find out the recent advancement in evidence-based use of herbal remedies for ADHD by a comprehensive and systematic review that depicts the results of the published works on herbal therapy for the disorder. The electronic databases and the references retrieved from the included studies present related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and open-label studies. Seven RCTs involving children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD met the inclusion criteria. There is a fair indication of the efficacy and safety of Melissa officinalis L., Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst., Matricaria chamomilla L., and Valeriana officinalis L. from the studies evaluated in this systematic review for the treatment of various symptoms of ADHD. Limited evidence was found for Ginkgo biloba L. and pine bark extract. However, various other preparations from other plants did not show significant efficacy. There is inadequate proof to strongly support and recommend the administration of herbal medicines for ADHD, but more research is needed in the relevant field to popularize the alternative treatment approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is commonly a neurodevelopmental behavioural disorder in children and adolescents. Mainly characterized by symptoms like lack of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness, it can impact the overall mental development of the one affected. Several factors, both genetic and non-genetic, can be responsible for this disorder. Although several traditional treatment methods involve medication and other counselling techniques, they also come with different side effects. Hence, the choice is now shifting to alternative treatment techniques. Herbal treatments are considered one of the most popular complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) administered. However, issues related to the safety and efficacy of herbal remedies for the treatment of ADHD need to be investigated further. This study aims to find out the recent advancement in evidence-based use of herbal remedies for ADHD by a comprehensive and systematic review that depicts the results of the published works on herbal therapy for the disorder. The electronic databases and the references retrieved from the included studies present related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and open-label studies. Seven RCTs involving children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD met the inclusion criteria. There is a fair indication of the efficacy and safety of Melissa officinalis L., Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst., Matricaria chamomilla L., and Valeriana officinalis L. from the studies evaluated in this systematic review for the treatment of various symptoms of ADHD. Limited evidence was found for Ginkgo biloba L. and pine bark extract. However, various other preparations from other plants did not show significant efficacy. There is inadequate proof to strongly support and recommend the administration of herbal medicines for ADHD, but more research is needed in the relevant field to popularize the alternative treatment approach.

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus, the most common metabolic disorder, is a result of insulin insufficiency or dysfunction. The best methods for managing diabetes are diet and exercise, or diet combined with insulin or hypoglycemic medications. It should be noted that drugs used in diabetes such as metformin and insulin have side effects. Therefore, herbal treatments have been recommended as viable substitutes for antidiabetic medications since they have fewer negative effects. Several pharmacological pathways are used by herbs like acacia to lower blood sugar levels. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of acacia on diabetes. Materials and Method: This review is conducted by searching the keywords of acacia, Acacia arabica, Samghe arabi, and diabetes mellitus through journal database platforms such as Google Scholar, Pubmed, and ScienceDirect as search engines for journals related to this article between 1998 and 2023. 57 articles were studied, and after removing the articles that were not consistent with the purpose of this study and removing the duplicates, a total of 30 articles were included. Result: Studies have shown that acacia seeds contain a substance that can lower blood sugar levels in normoglycemic individuals, indicating that the action involves the release of insulin from pancreatic beta-cells. Furthermore, in an animal model of type 2 diabetes, polyphenols from the bark of Acacia showed hypoglycemic activity, reduced body weight, and improved insulin sensitivity, indicating their beneficial effects on DM. Conclusion: According to the results obtained in this study, due to the availability of raw materials and the lower cost of these plants compared to chemical drugs, more comprehensive research should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Warts result from an infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV). Plantar warts, also known as Verruca plantaris, can be notably painful for the patient and possess contagious qualities, thus necessitating assertive treatment. Despite several available approaches for addressing plantar warts, efficacy remains elusive., Case Presentation: One 22-year-old firefighter suffered from numerous plantar warts. After 26 days of traditional Chinese medicine soaking, the rashes completely disappeared. The treatment was without complications or discomfort, and a three-month follow-up showed no recurrence., Conclusion: Our case investigation highlighted the efficacy of herbal soaking as a safe, painless, and non-invasive therapeutic option, positioning it as a potential avenue for managing multiple plantar warts., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Herbal treatments are often used as a treatment for migraine. Therefore, an evaluation of their safety and efficacy is important. Based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, and Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias, a systematic literature review of randomised, controlled human trials assessing the effects of herbal treatments delivered as a single ingredient for the acute or prophylactic treatment of migraine were conducted. Studies were identified through electronic database searches on Medline (Pubmed), Cochrane Library, Scopus, and CINAHL. Nineteen studies were identified examining the effects on migraine of feverfew, butterbur, curcumin, menthol/peppermint oil, coriander, citron, Damask rose, chamomile, and lavender. Overall, findings on the efficacy of feverfew were mixed and there was positive, albeit limited evidence for butterbur. There were positive, preliminary findings on curcumin, citron, and coriander as a prophylactic treatment for migraine, and the use of menthol and chamomile as an acute treatment. However, the risk of bias was high for many studies. The results of this systematic review suggest that several herbal medicines, via their multifactorial physiological influences, present as potential options to enhance the treatment of migraine. However, further high-quality research is essential to examine their efficacy and safety as a treatment for migraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SARS-CoV-2 initiated as an outbreak from Wuhan in China in December 2019, and spreads globally. SARS-CoV-2 is a positively stranded RNA virus which belongs to the category of beta coronavirus of the family Coronaviridae. This novel Corona virus structurally resembles with the previous SARS-CoV which spread in 2002. Many treatment strategies can be effective against this novel corona virus. This novel corona virus SARS-CoV-2 resembles in features with another virus, SARS-CoV, which spread in 2002. Taking this in account the therapeutic agents which was used for the prevention of SARS-CoV can be used as potential agent for prevention of this novel corona virus. The main focus of the present study was to review the application of various chemotherapeutic agents, anti-viral or non-anti-viral agents for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2. The study also covers potential immunotherapy strategies, vaccine development, herbal formulations and nutrient combination as immunity boosters to combat with this pandemic disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of dietary supplementation with a mixture of selected medicinal herbs (Herbmix) on hematological and parasitological parameters and on the inflammatory response of lambs infected experimentally with the gastrointestinal parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus . Herbmix contained selected medicinal herbs common in central Europe (8.55% each of Althaea officinalis , Petasites hybridus , Inula helenium , Malva sylvestris , Chamomilla recutita , Plantago lanceolata , Rosmarinus officinalis , Solidago virgaurea , Fumaria officinalis , Hyssopus officinalis and Melissa officinalis , 5% Foeniculum vulgare and 1% Artemisia absinthium ). Herbmix (100 g dry matter (DM)/d) was added to the basal diets of meadow hay (600 g DM/d) and a commercial concentrate (350 g DM/d) per animal. Twenty-four female lambs were divided into four groups: infected animals (Inf), infected animals supplemented with Herbmix (Inf + Herb), uninfected control animals (C) and uninfected animals supplemented with Herbmix (C + Herb). Inf and Inf + Herb lambs were infected orally with approximately 5000 L3 larvae of a strain of H. contortus susceptible to anthelmintics (MHco1). Herbmix supplementation for Inf + Herb and C + Herb began on day 0 (D0). Feces were collected and eggs per gram (EPG) of feces were quantified on D0, D20, D32, D50 and D60. Variables differed after 24 h of ruminal incubation of the individual medicinal herbs ( P < 0.001), but the herbs had no negative effect on the fermentation patterns. The mean EPG counts were significantly lower by 45% between D32 and D50 ( P < 0.05) and by 63% between D32 and D60 ( P < 0.01) for the infected lambs receiving Herbmix (Inf + Herb). These EPG reductions were only 10 and 30% in infected group (Inf, P > 0.05). Mean cumulative gain in live weight was higher in Inf + Herb as compared to Inf by D32 ( P < 0.01) and D50 ( P < 0.001). The evaluation of red blood cells identified clinical signs of haemonchosis, such as anemia, in Inf and Inf + Herb. Total antioxidant capacity ( P < 0.008) and activity of glutathione peroxidase ( P < 0.005) in serum at D50 were lower in Inf and Inf + Herb than C and C + Herb. The concentration of serum calprotectin differed significantly ( P < 0.001) in Inf vs. Inf + Herb. The Zn and Fe serum concentrations differed significantly ( P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively) in Inf vs. Inf + Herb, Inf vs. C and Inf vs. C + Herb by D32. The mixture of the medicinal herbs thus contributed to slowing the dynamics of infection and improving the production indicators of the animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal remedies are commonly used alongside conventional medicines, although often prescribers are unaware of the concomitant use. Some herbs, however, cause liver damage or potentially serious drug interactions. While fruit and vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet, chemicals in some plants we eat can also result in interactions. At least 85 drugs are known to possibly interact with grapefruit, for example. This article introduces the issues that prescribers need to be cognisant of, underscores the need to check the summary of product characteristics (SPC) and the British National Formulary (BNF), and highlights some limitations in the current evidence. For example, most interactions studies involve two drugs, usually in healthy volunteers, but patients often receive several drugs and have a range of diseases, some of which may influence metabolic capacity. At least 50 drugs are metabolised by the gut microbiota, although this is almost certainly an underestimate. Prescribers need to check the SPC and BNF for each drug and ask patients whether they use herbal remedies: patients often do not volunteer that they are taking herbs. Therefore, prescribers need to remain vigilant for potential interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dysmenorrhea (menstrual or periodic pain) is a discomfort that occurs during painful periods. It is the first and most prominent reason for female lower abdominal pain. Most adolescent girls consider it a curse due to the periodic occurrence of painful cramps and bleeding. The pathogenesis of painful periods is most likely because of increased prostanoids, notably prostaglandins, produced by the cyclooxygenase pathway (PGs). Misuse of synthetic medications leads to the development of medication resistance and deposits toxic residues in the body; thus, there is a critical need for safe and effective alternatives. In recent decades, herbal treatment approaches have found extensive applications in the treatment of various ailments. Herbal therapies are an alternate source, which include several bioactive chemicals, and recent improvements in our understanding of the value of herbal therapy methods have caused a sharp rise in their production. The main focus of this review was to study herbal treatment options; the recent studies conducted on herbal therapies and various experimental investigations on dysmenorrhea and herbal therapy methods have been studied, and randomized controlled trials and animal models have been discussed describing the anti-inflammatory properties of some potential herbal medicines that can be used as treatment options for dysmenorrhoea. This review aimed to present herbal treatments that can be used as alternative traditional synthetic medications and oral hormonal contraceptives in the treatment of painful menstruation., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

STUDY QUESTION How common is the use of herbal supplements during pregnancy and does it adversely affect the pregnancy outcome? SUMMARY ANSWER The use of herbal products during pregnancy is very common and daily almond oil spreading is associated with preterm birth (PTB). WHAT IS KNOWN AND WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Herbal drugs are often promoted as ‘natural’ and ‘safe’ and such claims attract pregnant women. More than a quarter of Italian pregnant women consume herbs every day for at least 3 months during pregnancy. We raise an alert over the habit of daily almond oil spreading since it seems to be associated with PTB. DESIGN A multicenter retrospective cohort study performed over a 15-month period. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Seven hundred women interviewed within 3 days of childbirth, in three public hospitals in northern Italy. MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE One hundred and eighty-nine women were considered ‘regular users’, since they consumed herbs every day, for at least 3 months. Almond oil, chamomile and fennel were the most commonly used herbs. Both length of gestation and birthweight were affected by herb consumption. Almond oil users showed more pre-term birth (29 of 189) than non-users (51 of 511). After adjusting for multiple pregnancies, smoking, advanced age and drug intake, almond oil users maintained an increased risk to give birth <37th week (odds ratio = 2.09, 95% confidence interval: 1.08–4.08). BIAS, CONFOUNDING AND OTHER REASONS FOR CAUTION The association between daily spreading of almond oil and PTB only raises a hypothesis that requires confirmation in larger trials devoted to this topic. The relatively small sample size did not allow the investigation of other adverse pregnancy outcomes in herb users. GENERALIZABILITY TO OTHER POPULATIONS The population under investigation did not significantly differ from the general population attending the same hospitals. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No conflict of interest exists. The study has been supported by a public grant from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER None [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The deregulation of the marketing of dietary supplements with health claims has increased interest in evaluating the clinical effectiveness of these products. Clinical trials of herbal treatments pose challenges of limited preclinical data, lack of product standardization and characterization, and difficulties of blinding, which are substantially different from those in studies of conventional medications. These issues must be recognized and addressed if studies of herbal remedies are to provide useful information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Recent interest in Hypericum perforatum, or St. John's Wort (SJW), is related to its observed utility in treating depression. However, mounting evidence suggests one component, hypericin, may be associated with cataractogenesis. To date, this association has not been evaluated in humans. Therefore, the current study assesses the relationship between self-reported SJW use and cataracts utilizing data from a large, population-based sample. Methods: Self-reported data on SJW use in the past 12 months and cataract were obtained from the 2002 National Health Interview Survey, a nationally representative population-based sample. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) between SJW use and cataracts were estimated using logistic regression. Results: After adjusting for potential confounding characteristics, participants that reported having cataracts were 59% more likely to report SJW use (OR 1.59; 95% CI 1.02-2.46). Conclusions: The results of the current study provide support for an association between SJW use and cataracts. Based on the methodological limitations of this study, further investigation is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within this paper, the diagnosis and treatment of tinnitus in ancient Mesopotamia is considered in relation to the medical practice at that time. The sources (clay tablets, dating back to 2000 BCE) are considered and the views on the causes of tinnitus discussed. The treatment is considered in terms of exorcism, possible masking and pharmacological therapy. Many of the approaches have strong parallels in modern treatment of the symptom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background:: The use of complementary and alternative medicine for weight loss is becoming increasingly common worldwide. In overweight or obese patients, this practice could be harmful. Available data concerning the use of complementary therapies and products (CTPs) for weight loss in these patients in Colombia are limited. Objectives:: The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of self-treatment with CTPs in overweight or obese patients in Colombia and to explore the relationship between CTP use and demographic, anthropometric, and biochemical parameters. Methods:: This randomized, cross-sectional study was conducted at a registered dieticians'' office located at the Center for Nutritional Care, School of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia, and at an outpatient clinic attended by a registered dietician located at the Pablo Tobón Uribe Hospital, Medellín, Colombia. The study enrolled a random sample of overweight (body mass index [BMI], 25–30 kg/m2) or obese (BMI, >30 kg/m2) male and female patients aged 20 to 50 years received nutritional treatment in Colombia in 2002. Data concerning the use of weight-loss CTPs were gathered, and their possible association with demographic, anthropometric, and biochemical data was explored. Results:: This randomized study comprised 94 patients (70 women, 24 men; mean [SD] age, 36.5 [9.7] years; mean [SD] BMI, 28.4 [4.2] kg/m2). Forty-nine (52.1%) patients reported self-treatment with weight-loss CTPs; 40 (42.6%) patients used complementary products, and 21 (22.3%) used complementary therapies. Among the products, inadequately identified herbal medicines (ie, absence of available information concerning the composition of the products or information could not be obtained from the patient [many of the products used were not authorized for distribution in Colombia]), folkloric or home remedies, and commercial diets were most commonly used (40.0%, 40.0%, and 27.5%, respectively). The use of CTPs was more prevalent in women compared with men (P < 0.001; odds ratio [OR] = 6.43). In women, CTP use was significantly higher in patients with a higher educational level (P = 0.008; OR = 3.82) and in those who were single (P = 0.038; OR = 2.97). The use of CTPs was also more frequent in patients with a negative view of their current nutritional therapy (P = 0.002; OR = 6.8). Conclusions:: In the small group of overweight and obese patients in this study, 52.1% used CTPs. In obese women, those with a higher educational level and/or who were single were more likely to use CTPs. Patients were also more likely to use CTPs if they had a negative view of their current nutritional therapy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The objective of the study was to investigate the safety and reliability of internet websites selling and providing medical information regarding herbal substitutes for Viagra. Using keywords‘Herbal’and‘Viagra’, websites selling and providing medical information regarding herbal substitutes were identified. The top 50 sequential sites were assessed for safety and reliability against the Health on the Net (HON) criteria. Medically trained staff provided information in only 21%of the sites yet just 24%stated that the information was not a replacement for medical advice. No sites warned patients about erectile dysfunction (ED)-associated cardiovascular disease. In all, 88 and 70%of sites indicated drug efficacy and ingredients but only 36 and 21%provided contraindications and side effects, respectively. All sites fell short of the HON requirements. In conclusion, acquiring medical information and herbal substitutes for ED from the internet is convenient and easy. However, patients should be cautious as safety and reliability of this approach is poor.International Journal of Impotence Research (2005) 17, 196-200. doi:10.1038/sj.ijir.3901282 Published online 28 October 2004 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this paper is to inform psychiatrists about the basic priniciples, terminology, schools of thought, efficacy, safety and regulatory issues regarding herbal treatments for mental illness. Method: Information was obtained by computerised and manual searching of medical and botanical data bases, and by discussions with experts in herbal medicine and regulatory aspects of the pharmaceutical industry. Results: Herbal medicines are commonly used in developed and developing countries for psychiatric illness. The main schools of herbal medicine in Australia are Western herbal medicine, traditional Chinese medicine and ‘Ayurveda’ (Indian herbal medicine). Herbs used for psychiatric or neurological disorders are termed ‘nervines’. Three nervines which have attracted considerable attention recently are St John’s Wort, Gingko biloba and Valeriana officinalis. In Australia, most herbal drugs are classed as ‘listed drugs’ which are required to satisfy less rigorous safety and efficacy criteria than ‘registered drugs’. The popularity of herbal remedies has a number of clinical and research implications for psychiatry. Conclusions: Psychiatrists should not endorse treatments that are unsupported by sound research, nor remain ignorant about alternative approaches to mental illness. The extent of use of herbal treatments for mental illness suggests that psychiatrists should become more knowledgeable about developments in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic hyperglycemia and related complications involving peripheral nerves in diabetes are one of the most severe microvascular complications with an average prevalence of 50-60%. Diabetic neuropathy is among the vascular disorders of diabetes, the most debilitating and crippled, lethal condition impacting patients's quality of life., Methods: In the present review article, several hypotheses associated with the pathogenesis of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) have been introduced, among them metabolic pathways associated with polyol pathway, oxidative stress, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) amplified under chronic hyperglycemic conditions and activation of transcription factor Nuclear factor-κB (NF- κB). The review article also possesses pathogenetic and pharmacologic treatments along with others, including acupressure, lidocaine, and capsaicin for DPN., Conclusion: It may be concluded that we can combat the pathogenesis of DPN with different suggested treatments., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Beyond the metabolic functions, the liver recently has been defined as an organ of immune system (IS), which have central regulatory role for innate and adaptive immunity. The liver keeps a delicate balance between hepatic screening of pathogenic antigens and immune tolerance to self-antigens. Herbal treatments with immunological effects have potential to alter this hepatic immune balance towards either therapeutic side or diseases side by inducing liver injury via hepatotoxicity or initiation of autoimmune diseases. Most commonly known herbal treatments, which have therapeutic effect on liver and IS, have proven via in vitro , in vivo , and/or clinical studies were summarized in this review., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: This statement is to certify that all the authors have approved the manuscript being submitted. We the authors warrant that the article is our original work, which has not received prior publication in whole or in part elsewhere and is not under consideration for publication elsewhere. On behalf of all co-authors, the corresponding author shall bear full responsibility for the submission.

Objective: Interest in herbal treatments has increased without data on safety, efficacy, or rates of use in pregnancy. We examined antenatal herbal and natural product use among mothers of nonmalformed infants in 5 geographic centers. Study design: We used data on nonmalformed infants from the Slone Epidemiology Center''s case-control surveillance program for birth defects to examine rates and predictors of herbal use. Exposures were identified through maternal interview. In addition to overall use, 5 categories based on traditional uses and 2 natural product categories were created; topical products and herbal-containing multivitamins were excluded. Results: Among 4866 mothers of nonmalformed infants, 282 (5.8%) reported use of herbal or natural treatments. Use varied by study center and increased with increasing age. Conclusion: Although rates of use are low, there remains a need for investigation of the safety of these products. Given sparse data on efficacy, even small risks might well outweigh benefits. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection affects almost 3% of the global population and can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma in a significant number of those infected. Until recently, the only treatments available were pegylated interferon and ribavirin, which traditionally were not very effective and have considerable side effects. For this reason, interest in complementary and alternative medications (CAM) in the management of hepatitis C has been investigated. Some CAM has demonstrated therapeutic potential in chronic hepatitis C treatment. Unfortunately, some CAM has been shown to have the potential to cause drug-induced liver injury. This article will review and evaluate many of the natural molecules that interact with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) life cycle and discuss their potential use and safety in HCV therapy, as well as highlight some important interactions between medical and complementary treatments.

Background: We had previously demonstrated that a complex herbal formulation (Mentat; Himalaya Drug Company, Bangalore) attenuated anterograde and retrograde amnesia induced by electroconvulsive shocks (ECS) in rats. We later showed that a simplified formulation (Memorin; Phyto Pharma, Kolhapur) had similar effects., Aims: In an attempt to identify the ingredients (of the complex formulation), which purveyed the cognitive benefits, we studied two of the constituent herbs, Brahmi and Mandookaparni, separately and together. The experiments included both active (piracetam) and inactive (vehicle) controls., Methods: Adult, male, Sprague-Dawley rats (n=8 per group) were randomized to receive Brahmi, Mandookaparni, a combination of these two herbs (A300), piracetam, or vehicle from days 1 to 15. On days 11 and 12, the rats were trained in a T-maze using a food-driven paradigm. On days 13 and 14, half the rats in each group received 2 ECS (60 mC charge) per day, 5 hours apart. On day 15, recall of pre-ECS learning was assessed. On day 16, transfer of learning was assessed., Results: None of the active treatments facilitated pre-ECS learning or influenced ECS seizure duration; however, all showed varying but generally favourable profiles in the attenuation of ECS-induced retrograde and anterograde amnesia. The combination of Brahmi and Mandookaparni showed no especial advantage over the individual herbs., Conclusion: Brahmi and Mandookparni do not in themselves improve learning; however, each attenuates the amnestic effects of ECS without showing synergism in this beneficial action. Exercises in research and development are indicated to further investigate the anti-amnestic properties of these herbs, and to identify the specific chemical constituents which have procognitive effects.