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Background Some chemotherapy drugs such cyclophosphamide (CP) has destructive effects on hematopoietic cells in the bone marrow tissue. Due to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory features, medicinal herbs have protective effects on the bone marrow tissue. The aim of this experimental study is to examine the protective effects of Rubus fruticosus L. extract (RF) on blood parameters in male rats treated with CP. Methods In this experimental study, 35 male Wistar rats (220–250 g) were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 7): Control (0.5 mL normal saline), CP (15 mg/kg), positive control (RF per se 200 mg/kg), treatment 1 (CP 15 mg/kg + RF 100 mg/kg), and treatment 2 (CP 15 mg/kg + RF 200 mg/kg). All drugs and extracts were given intraperitoneally for 15 consecutive days. At the end of the intervention, all animals were euthanized and their blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture in anti-coagulant tubes for blood parameters evaluation. Results The data analysis showed that CP has decreased significantly in RBC, WBC, Platelets number, hemoglobin and hematocrit in rats (p Conclusion The use of RF can protect the blood hematopoietic tissue in bone marrow and prevent CP toxic effects.

Plumbago zeylanicaL. (Plumbaginaceae) commonly known, as chitrak is pharmacologically important plant. Various studies have been undertaken to assess the pharmacological potential of different parts of the plant namely like roots, stem, flower, and leaves as antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, anticancer, antifertility, antiulcer, antifungal and wound healing. The intention of the present review is to deliver a concise account on its ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry with an in-depth study of its phytoconstituents, facts and prospects of its potential pharmacological activities of this golden plant. An extensive literature survey was undertaken through different online platforms viz. Google Scholar and online databases namely PubMed, Science Direct and Springer. All papers based on traditional medicinal uses and pharmacological properties were included. Sixty three research articles and review articles were found to be apt for inclusion into the review. About 150 articles were retrieved for the purpose. The elaborative results vindicated thatPlumbago zeylanicaL. holds significant prospects in major health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, ulcer, liver problems, obesity, wound healing, cancer etc.

Background The Santhal tribe in Assam, India use the roots of Asparagus racemosus (Asparagaceae) as a deworming remedy. The study aimed to investigate the anthelmintic credentials of this plant, using two representative groups of helminth parasites. Methods The in vitro testing was conducted against Hymenolepis diminuta (cestode) and Syphacia obvelata (nematode). Parasites were exposed to 10, 20 and 30 mg/ml concentrations of plant extract, and efficacy was adjudged on the basis of parasites paralysis and mortality. In vivo efficacy was examined using H. diminuta-rat and S. obvelata-mice models where animals were administered 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg doses of extract. Results In vitro assay, against H. diminuta revealed that at 30 mg/ml concentration the extract showed almost a comparable efficacy with that of reference drug praziquantel (PZQ) (1 mg/ml). The in vitro efficacy of extract against S. obvelata was however lower than H. diminuta. In vivo studies against H. diminuta at 500 mg/kg revealed 53.88 and 24 % reduction in eggs per gram (EPG) and worm counts respectively. Against S. obvelata the extract showed 26.61 and 30.93 % reduction for the same. Conclusions The findings of this study present suggest that the roots of A. racemosus are effective against intestinal helminthic infections and justifies its use as an anthelmintic in the traditional medicine of the Santhals.

Background This review aims at establishing the emerging applications of phytobiotics in water treatment and disinfection. Results Statistical analysis of data obtained revealed that the use of plant product in water treatment needs more research attention. A major observation is that plants possess multifaceted components and can be sustainably developed into products for water treatment. The seed (24.53%), flower (20.75), leaf (16.98%) and fruit (11.32%) biomasses are preferred against bulb (3.77%), resin (1.89%), bark (1.89%) and tuber (1.89%). The observation suggests that novel applications of plant in water treatment need further exploration since vast and broader antimicrobial activities (63.63%) is reported than water treatment application (36.37%). Conclusions This review has revealed the existing knowledge gaps in exploration of plant resources for water treatment and product development. Chemical complexity of some plant extracts, lack of standardisation, slow working rate, poor water solubility, extraction and purification complexities are limitations that need to be overcome for industrial adoption of phytochemicals in water treatment. The field of phytobiotics should engage modern methodologies such as proteomics, genomics, and metabolomics to minimise challenges confronting phytobiotic standardisation. The knowledge disseminated awaits novel application for plant product development in water treatment.

Background Chronic neuropathic pain syndrome is associated with impaired quality of life and is poorly manageable. Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant and showed its effectiveness on diabetic neuropathy and other acute peripheral nerve injuries but it was not evaluated in the chronic neuropathic pain, chronic constriction injury (CCI) in rat model by using duloxetine (DLX) as standard. Methodology The main objective of the study was to expedite ALA effect on chronic peripheral neuropathy induced by CCI of sciatic nerve in rats. In this study, male Wister rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 8) including, normal saline, sham operated, surgery control, DLX 30mg/kg treated, ALA treated 25mg/kg, and ALA+DLX. The CCI of sciatic nerve was conducted on all animals except normal saline group and studied for 21 days (i.e. 14 days treatment period & 7 days treatment free period) by using different behavioral, biochemical and, histopathology studies. Results ALA showed minor but significant decrease of thermal hyperalgesia, cold allodynia, malondialdehyde (MDA), total protein, lipid peroxidation, and nitric oxide levels and significant increase of motor coordination, glutathione level and decreased axonal degeneration significantly. These effects sustained even during treatment free period. ALA enhanced the effect of DLX when given in combination by showing sustained effect. In conclusion, ALA acted as potent antioxidant may be this activity is responsible for the potent neuroprotective effect. Conclusion Hence, ALA attenuated the nueroinflammation mediated by chronic peripheral neuropathy. Further studies are warranted with ALA to develop as a clinically relevant therapeutic agent for the treatment of neuropathic pain.

Background Owing to the side effects of synthetic medicine and less effectiveness against different syndromes, the researchers have focused on phytotherapy to overcome these problems. The purpose of this project was to study the in vitro phytochemical, cytotoxic, total phenolic, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the methanol extract of the rhizome of Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers and its n-hexane, chloroform and aqueous fractions. Thereafter, to conduct in vivo evaluation of the effective extract for its antidiabetic and antioxidant characteristics. Methods Cytotoxic, total phenolic content and antidiabetic properties were ascertained by brine shrimps lethality, Folin- Ciocalteu reagent and alpha-amylase inhibition assays respectively while antioxidant activities were investigated through DPPH, ABTS and H2O2 assays. The methanolic extract was assessed in vivo for its antidiabetic and antioxidant activities by using Wistar albino rats. Results The phytochemical investigation of the methanolic extract and its unlike fractions revealed the availability of alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, terpenes, steroids, carbohydrate and proteins while lack of saponins and gums in methanolic extract. Steroids and carbohydrates were only present in aqueous and chloroform fraction respectively while both fractions contained proteins and alkaloids. Cardiac glycosides and flavonoids were absent in aqueous and chloroform fractions respectively. The highest brine shrimps lethality (70.5 ± 1.2), total phenolic content (28.30 ± 1.3 mg GAE/g), free radicals scavenging potential i.e. DPPH (40.02%), ABTS (40.48%) and H2O2 (50.85%) and alpha amylase inhibition (61.87%) was shown by the methanolic extract. The in vivo results did not disclose any sign of acute toxicity. The diabetic control showed a noteworthy (P P Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers (150 and 300 mg/kg b.w.). Conclusion It is concluded that the extract of rhizomes of Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers is an effective fount of antioxidant and anti-diabetic compounds. Further analysis is needed to sharpen its pharmacological activities.

Background Medicinal plants are potential source of natural products that play an important role in preventing different human diseases. P. harmala is used traditionally as emmenagogue and an abortifacient agent in the Middle East, North of Africa and West of China. It belongs to the family of Zygophyllaceae and it is a wild growing flowering plant. Its seeds are main medicinal part of the plant. Methods The current searching was done by the keywords in main indexing systems including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Institute for Scientific Information Web of Science as well as the search engine of Google Scholar. The keywords were wild rue, traditional medicine, Harman, health benefits, and pharmaceutical science. Results The most important uses of P. harmala in traditional pharmaceutical sciences are in cardiovascular, gasterointestinal, nervous, endocrine, neoplasm and tumors, pain relieving, organisms, diabetes, respiratory, disinfectant, anti-pyretic, skin and hair, rheumatism, arthritis and inflammation, and ulcers. Pharmacological effects of P. harmala are in cardiovascular system, nervous system, antimicrobial effects, antineoplasm, nervous system, endocrine, gastrointestinal effects, osteocytes, endocrine and respiratory system. Phenolic compounds are the main reason of antioxidant capacity. Conclusions Due to its pharmacological activities, P. harmala is a high potential medicinal herb and the suggestion is to increases by doing research in efficacy and safety.

Abstract The plant Stryphnodendron adstringens is a species of legume in the genus Stryphnodendron that is found in Brazil. It is also known as “barbatimão-verdadeiro” and it is popularly used in folk medicine due to its healing properties. Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the healing activity of hydrogel, together with an S. adstringens hydroalcoholic extract, in diabetic and non-diabetic rats. Methods: The phytochemical analysis of the S. adstringens hydroalcoholic extract was evaluated through HPLC and its antioxidant activity was measured by the DPPH assay. The cytotoxicity, the scratch assay, and the fibroblast cell proliferation were also evaluated. Forty (40) Wistar rats were submitted to an excision for a full-thickness wound of 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm in their dorsum. The animals were treated twice a day over 16 days, with a rich layer of the corresponding treatment: Hydrogel; Hydrogel associated with 5% S. adstringens hydroalcoholic extract (H + SAHE); S. adstringens hydroalcoholic extract (SAHE); Collagenase with Chloramphenicol; or Carbopol. Morphological and histological analyses of the injury were performed. Results: The phytochemical analysis of SAHE indicated the presence of phenolic compounds, tannins, and flavonoids. The hydroalcoholic extract showed strong antioxidant activities (IC50 = 25.56 ± 1.04 μg/mL). H + SAHE induced the fibroblast proliferation (148 ± 6.9%) and it was not cytotoxic. The association with H + SAHE showed a more pronounced healing activity than did the other treatments in the non-diabetic animals and in the diabetic animals, hence, promoting angiogenesis and reepithelialization. Conclusion: Under these scenarios, this study has demonstrated effectiveness in the recovering wounds of diabetic rats. Graphical abstract

Background Diabetes is a long-lasting and serious disease that effect in worldwide individual lives, families, and societies. Hyperglycemia of diabetes mellitus produced Advance Glycation End Products that are associated with diabetic complications like neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular diseases. Methods In this study, the natural products isolated from of Indigofera heterantha Brandis, Indigoferin A (S1), Indigoferin B (S2) and Indigoferin C (S3) were evaluated for their in vitro antiglycation activity. Results The compounds exhibited a significant inhibitory activity against the formation of Advanced Glycation End-Products with IC50 values of 674.25 ± 3.2 μM, 407.03 ± 4.7 μM and 726.41 ± 2.1 μM, respectively. Here, important structure-activity relationship was observed, when the intramolecular hydrogen bonding interactions suppressed the antiglycation activity of compound S3. Thus, the study clearly demonstrates that the number and the position of substituents act as an assisting factor and directly influence the inhibitory activity of the natural product by altering the sugar or protein binding affinity. Conclusions This study explain first time the antiglycation inhibitory ability of chemical constituents isolated from I. heterantha and can be used for above late diabetic complications.

Background Consumption of medicinal plants has diverse therapeutic benefits and could also have toxic effect. Justicia carnea is a medicinal plant that is used conventionally as blood tonic from time immemorial in Nigeria. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety of ethanol extract of J. carnea leaf assessing the hematology indices, organ antioxidant system and histology in healthy male wistar rats. Methods Powdered sample was extracted using absolute ethanol and concentrated to obtain a slurry paste of J. carnea ethanol extracts. Acute toxicity was determined in two phases using Lorke method. In subacute study, rats were randomized into six groups of five rats per group: Group 1 (control) received distilled water, group 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 received 50, 100, 500, 800 and 1200 mg/kg body weight of J. carnea ethanol extract once daily using oral gavage. At the end of 14th day of administration, rats were allowed to fast overnight, sacrificed to collect samples for biochemical analysis and histopathological examination. Results The LD50 of extract was greater than 5000 mg/kg body weight. Higher doses (> 500 mg/kg) of extract significantly (p 0.05) increased RBC, hemoglobin and platelet compared to the control. Liver superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was significantly (p ) increased at 1200 mg/kg while other tested doses caused no detrimental effect on glutathione, catalase, SOD and malondialdehyde level in liver and kidney. Histopathological examination of liver and kidney showed mild to severe pathological lesion in a dose dependent manner. Conclusions The results of this study suggests that ethanol extract of J. carnea leaf is relatively safe, could be beneficial in alleviating hematology related abnormalities without causing adverse effects on endogenous antioxidant system. However, caution should be taken as higher dose at 1200 mg/kg could cause noticeable tissue injury.

Study objective To study the effect of a herbal preparation containing a standardised BNO 1040 extract* (based on lovage root, rosemary leaves and aerial parts of centaury) on the extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) results in patients with urolithiasis (UL). Methodology 150 patients with UL (aged 18–65 years) treated with ESWL method were divided into 2 equal groups. The main group (n = 75) received standard recommendations and herbal preparation (12 months). The control group (n = 75) received standard recommendations only. The following was evaluated: time and degree of elimination of fragments; the presence of pain and leukocyturia; recurrent stone formation. Results The elimination of fragments was observed up to 14 days in 94.7% of patients in the main group versus 76% of patients in the control group. Renal colic was observed in 6.7% of patients in the main group versus 10.7% of patients in the control group; cases of leukocyturia were observed within 14 days in 10.7% versus 22.7%, respectively. During the year, a recurrent lithiasis was diagnosed in 6.7% of patients in the main group and in 16% of patients in the control group. Conclusion The use of BNO 1040 extract in combination with ESWL: contributes to more rapid and safe elimination of fragments of the calculi and reduces the risk of recurrent stone formation. Trial registration DRKS ID 00021200. Registered retrospectively in German Clinical Trial Register 27.03.2020. https://www.drks.de/

BackgroundAzadirachta indica,Khaya senegalensis,Anogeissus leiocarpusandTamarindus indicaare important ethnomedicinal plants used for health mitigation since the history of mankind. They are used discretionarily in folkloric medicine on the premise that they are natural products devoid of synthetic preservatives. However, nature endows plants with metabolites for warding off potential attacks from animals and the environment. Some of these metabolites are responsible for toxicity of some plants. Furthermore, drug-induced liver injuries and nephrotoxicity are the leading causes of pharmaceutical attrition of promising drug candidates in clinical trials. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the safety of four ethnomedicinal plants in short-, medium- and long-term usage.MethodsRats dosed once with 5000 mg/kg extracts of each of these plants served as acute study (AS) while rats dosed daily with 2000 mg/kg for 2, 12 and 14 weeks served as sub-acute (SAS), sub-chronic (SCS) and chronic (CS) studies, respectively. Rats administered distilled water served as the negative control (NC).ResultsA. leiocarpusandT. indicasignificantly reduced percentage weight gain in the SCS compared to the NC.A. leiocarpussignificantly (PK. senegalensissignificantly (PPA. indica and T. indicasignificantly (PA. leiocarpusandK. senegalensissignificantly (P+and K+were significantly higher in the SCS and CS studies compared to the NC. The histological lesions seen ranged from cellular degeneration, congestion, fibrosis to necrosis.ConclusionThus, nonlethal, reversible toxic insults occur in short-term usage (AS); while, insidious lethal toxic effects occur in medium-term (SAS) and long-term usage (SCS and CS). The ability of these plant to maintain adequate hematological parameters, bodyweight and absence of mortality may explain free usage of preparations made from these plants in folkloric medicine.

Background Trend analysis, graphical representation, and summarization of pharmacological research trends were carried out to act as guidance for the future. The main objectives of the research are to find out the complete research trend on the national tree of India so far and to validate its traditional uses along with the pharmacological hepatoprotective activity of Ficus benghalensis L. by developing three in vitro experimental models. Methods The fruit of the said plant (F. benghalensis) was extracted with different solvent (petrochemical ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, ethanol, water) system and the yield value was determined. Phytochemical screening was also done with a different solvent. In an in-vitro study, the liver of freshly slaughtered goat (Capra Capra) was used for various investigational tests, and the hepatotoxicity was induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) at a dose of 2 ml/kg, Acetaminophen at a dose of 7 g/kg, and with Erythromycin at a dose of 1.4 g/kg. The ethanol extract of fruits of F. benghalensis at the doses of 100 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg, and 500 mg/kg were used to observe its hepatoprotective effect against drug/chemical-induced in vitro hepatotoxicity as the model developed here with against a standard molecule, Silymarin. Results Amongst all solvents, ethanol was considered to be a universal solvent and resulted in a yield of 2.96%, which is maximum. Phytochemical screening of ethanol extract of fruit also showed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, and glycosides. The protein concentration of liver homogenate based on comparison with standard protein concentration was found to be 1.6 mg/mL as measured at λmax of 750 nm. About the protein concentration, catalase (enzymatic) activity was also measured using the standard curve of H2O2, to calculate the specific activity of different models to compare the study results. Conclusion The significant effect of the reduction of hepatotoxicity was found at a dose of 500 mg/kg of fruit extract against Silymarin. Evaluation of Hepatoprotective activity of fruit in terms of catalase activity with different models flourishing the new research scope to fulfill the shortage of availability of a new, efficient, safe hepatoprotective agent in upcoming days. Graphical abstract

Introduction Desmodium canum (Strong Back) is deemed a versatile traditional medicine, where it is used to treat diabetes, hypertension, asthma and erectile dysfunction. Aim To identify the various phytochemicals present within extracts of D. canum, their antioxidant capabilities and their effects on blood glucose levels, haemodynamic parameters and testosterone levels in healthy Sprague-Dawley (S-D) rats. Method Crude extracts were obtained using hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol. These were analysed for various phytochemicals and their antioxidant potential assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. The extracts were investigated for hypoglycaemic potential using the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), where extracts were administered intravenously (50 mg/kg BW) to fasted rats and their blood glucose readings monitored at 30 min intervals. The hypotensive effect of the extracts were also investigated where rats were administered intravenously at 50 mg/kg BW. These haemodynamic parameters were monitored using the CODA 6 machine at 5 min intervals for a total of 20 min. Additionally, the effect on testosterone level was investigated in male rats where extracts were administered daily by oral gavage. Serum testosterone levels were then determined using an ELISA kit. Results The different extracts showed varying phytochemical and pharmacological properties. The methanol extract showed antioxidant capabilities, while the ethyl acetate extract showed significant hypoglycaemic and hypotensive effects when compared with the control. The hexane extract showed significant activity in increasing the testosterone when compared with the control. Conclusion D. canum extracts showed significant pharmacological activities in normal Sprague- Dawley rats.

Background Rapid urbanization and industrialization have greatly impacted the inherent soil composition. Heavy metals disposed in the environment by anthropogenic activities toxicate flora and ultimately affect the phytochemical profile of medicinal plants. We report here such an investigation of the heavy metal concentrations in the leaf extract of Solanum virginianum (S. virginianum). This work has been extended to observe the phytochemical constituents and antibacterial significance of leaf extracts in methanol and aqueous medium. Methods The metal concentration was analysed on ICE 3000 series atomic absorption spectrometer. The antibacterial assessment was carried by disc diffusion technique against three gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and one gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. Results The content of Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Zinc (Zn), and Lead (Pb) were 2.04, 0.47, 0.41, and 0.10 mg/L, respectively. Saponin and coumarin were present in both extracts. Various other phytochemicals like steroids, terpenoid, and flavonoid, were present only in the water extract, while tannin was present only on methanol extract. The methanol and aqueous extracts exhibited their highest inhibition on S. aureus with zones of inhibition of 12 mm and 14 mm, respectively. Conclusion The aqueous extract possessed more phytochemicals than the methanol extract, and the aqueous extract exhibited better antibacterial activity. The high Fe content in the leaf extract may suggest its use as an anaemic medicine. Other metal contents are under the WHO range.

Background The aqueous methanolic extract of Andira inermis(A. inermis) stem bark was screened for phytochemical constituents, antioxidant activity, acute oral toxicity, and preliminary prophylactic normoglycaemic test and effect on Oral Glucose Tolerance in albino rats. Methods Andira inermis was double macerated and extracted with 80% methanol. Phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity were performed using standard methods. The extract was screened for in vitro antioxidant activity using Ferric Reducing/Antioxidant Power (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging spectrophotometric assays. Prophylactic control of glucose was evaluated in normoglycaemic and glucose-challenged albino rats. Graded test doses (100–400 mg/kg body weight) of the extract were used in the investigation. The effects observed were compared with that of glibenclamide (0.2 mg/kg) and distilled water control groups. Results The stem bark extract of A. inermis was found to contain saponins, terpenes, tannins, steroids, flavanoids, anthraquinones, carbohydrates and alkaloids. The extract was found to have a significant in vitro antioxidant activity in both methods. The oral acute toxicity study showed the extract had LD50 greater than 5000 mg/kg. The extract significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced blood glucose levels in normoglycaemic animal model (the control group seen to have − 5.6(− 8.7%) poor glucose handling; and the glibenclamide& extract treatment group (100 mg/kg) to positively reduce blood glucose 14.8(26.8%) & 16.4(25.9%) respectively). The glucose challenged test, from the 1st hour, showed − 57.4(− 89.4%),-26.8(− 33.8%),-23.8(− 26.3%),-12.8(− 13.9%) and − 9.8(− 10.4%) for the vehicle control, glibenclamide (positive control), and the 100, 200 & 400 mg/kg extract treatment groups respectively. The extract showed mild hypoglycemic effect in the results recorded, up to the 4th hour. Conclusion The results of this study elucidated that the aqueous methanolic extract of Andira inermis stem bark possessed potent antioxidant phyto-constituents with potential hypoglycaemic effects that could be explored for therapeutic use worldwide following isolation and characterization of the bioactive principles. And the results also authenticate the folklore use of the plant.

BackgroundDiabetes is widely recognized as associated with several structural and functional liver, kidney, and heart abnormalities. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the protective effect of peel extracts ofIrvingia womboluagainst diabetes complications.MethodsDiabetes was induced by intravenous administration of streptozotocin (STZ) (50 mg/kg) through the right jugular vein on rats and animals with blood glucose values of at least 250 mg/dl received orally aqueous extract of peel (AEP), hydroethanolic extract of peel (HEP), tolbutamide and DMSO 10%. Their effects on the concentration of blood glucose, total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, triglycerides, malondialdehyde (MDA) and activities of catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in diabetic and normal rats were investigated using standard methods.ResultsTwenty-one days of treatment with AEP and HEP at a dose of 400 mg/kg significantly (P P P ConclusionThe present findings suggest that AEP and HEP have a protective effect on liver, kidney, and heart in experimental diabetic rats which can be beneficial in the management of diabetes and its complications.

Background Nowadays, the green synthesis of AuNPs in the presence of plants has been attracted a lot of attention. Herein, in vivo antidiabetic activity of AuNPs synthesized using Ziziphus jujuba in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats has been evaluated. Methods Formation of AuNPs was confirmed by UV-vis, HR-TEM and XRD. Different doses of jujube gold nanoparticles (0.5 and 1 mg/kg) were used to treat streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats in different groups. At the end of experiment (21 days), serum level of fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin, Body weight, HOMA-IR, vitamin D, ALT, AST, urea, creatinine, lipid profile, prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) and liver oxidative stress markers were determined. Results results showed a significant decrease in the level of liver MDA (P = 0.001), fasting blood glucose (P = 0.0001), HOMA-IR (P = 0.0001), ALT (P = 0.0001), AST (P = 0.0001), urea (P = 0.02), Triglycerides (P = 0.002), Total cholesterol (P = 0.0001), PAB (P = 0.0001) and AIP (P = 0.001) and in contrast a significant increase total antioxidant capacity (P = 0.02), insulin (P = 0.03), Body weight (P = 0.0001) and vitamin D (P = 0.0001) in the AuNPs-treated diabetic group compared to the diabetic rats. No significant change was observed in the total thiol group (P = 0.18), LDL-C (P = 0.43), creatinine (P = 0.09) and HDL-C (P = 0.71) level in diabetic rats treated with AuNPs compared to diabetic rats. Conclusion The results of this study proves that green AuNPs exerted promising antidiabetic and anti-oxidant properties.

Background Traditionally, herbal medicines are commonly used to cure several diseases since immemorial of human life. Nevertheless, the safety of some traditionally used medicinal plants is uncertain. Since Tephrosia vogelii Hook.f is a traditionally used medicinal plant, the effects of its extracts were evaluated on lethality (LD50) and sub-acute toxicity in this study. Methods Phytochemistry screening and an in vivo toxicity evaluation of leaf and root methanolic extracts of T. vogelii using laboratory albino rats were conducted. Methanolic extracts of doses 600, 1200, 2000 and 5000 mg/kg body weights were administered single dose in rats to observe deaths within 72 h in order to determine the LD50. Methanolic extracts doses of 600, 1200 and 2000 mg/kg body weights were consecutively administered for 14 days in order to evaluate sub-acute toxicity. Results Tannins, steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids and saponins were identified in the phytochemical screening. The LD50 experiments revealed zero deaths of rats for the administered doses, 600 to 5000 mg/kg body weight. Histopathological examination of liver and kidney for sub-acute toxicity test showed safety at all doses except root methanolic extracts dose of 2000 mg/kg which exhibited necrosis and vacuolation of liver cells on the 14th day. Nonetheless, hepatic necrosis and hepatic vacuolation disappeared upon time elongation without dose administration to 28th day. Conclusion The conducted toxicity evaluation of methanolic leaf and root extracts in albino rats revealed no deleterious effects, henceforth, suggesting that T. vogelii could be safe to users using it as a medicinal plant.

Background Different parts of the medicinal plant Tamarindus indica L. are full of phytochemicals that are able to reduce elevated blood pressure, blood sugar and lipids. These pharmacological effects are due to the presence of antioxidant type compounds in those parts of the plant. This study was aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of anti-obesity effects of ethanolic extract of T. indica L. leaves (TILE) through the evaluation of biochemical parameters and gene expression analysis in high-fat diet (HFD) consuming Wistar rats. Methods Male Wistar rats were supplied with a standard diet (SD), or HFD, or HFD with 100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg or 400 mg/kg TILE for 8 weeks. The body weight, liver weight, fat weight, plasma lipids, and oxidative stress-related parameters were measured. The transcript levels of different adipogenesis related transcription factors, lipogenic enzymes, and lipolytic enzymes were also evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR. Result Phytochemical analysis demonstrated that TILE is enriched with a substantial level of polyphenols (287.20 ± 9.21 mg GAE/g extract) and flavonoids (107.52 ± 11.12 mg QE/g extract) which might be the reason of significant antioxidant and radical scavenging activities. Feeding of TILE (400 mg/kg/day) to HFD-fed rats increased activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase which is reflected as a significant reduction of oxidative stress markers like nitric oxide and malondialdehyde. TILE (400 mg/kg/day) feeding also down-regulated the mRNA levels of proadipogenic transcription factors including liver X receptor alpha (LXRα), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP1c) in diet-induced obese rats. As a consequence of this, the mRNA level of lipogenic enzymes like acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), fatty acid synthase (FAS), diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT), and HMG-CoA reductase was down-regulated with a parallel up-regulation of the transcript level of lipolytic enzyme, hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL). Conclusion Observations from this study indicate that antioxidant-rich TILE can reduce HFD-induced body weight, fat weight and liver weight as well as blood lipids through down-regulating the gene expression of proadipogenic transcription factors and lipogenic enzymes with a concerted diminution of the gene expression of lipolytic enzyme, HSL.

Background Renal failure is among the main complications of diabetes disorders and free radical from hyperglycemia is the major cause of this nephrotic complication. This study investigated the therapeutic effects of Bridelia ferruginea Benth on nephrotic damage in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. Diabetes mellitus was induced by injection of 50 mg/kg b. w. of STZ (intraperitoneal) in rats fasted overnight. Effect on nephropathy was assessed using biochemical, histological indices and gene expression of kidney tissue. Results The total flavonoids and phenolic content of petroleum ether fraction of B. ferruginea (PEFBF) was observed to be higher compared to diethyl ether fraction of B. ferruginea (DEFBF). The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl scavenging activity of the fractions were significantly (P P P B. ferruginea reduced the level of these parameters in treated diabetic rats. B. ferruginea also caused down-regulation of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, kidney injury molecule-1 and cystatin c genes. Conclusion These results revealed that, the plant has hypoglycemic activity therefore provides a pharmacological basis for its folkloric use in the management of hyperglycemia and its associated renal dysfunction.

Background Barringtonia acutangula (L.) Gaertn, Garcinia indica (Thouars) Choisy, and Feronia limonia (L.) Swingle is widely utilized in traditional folk medicine against diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome but lacks the evidence of compound-protein interaction for the treatment. Methods Phytocompounds were retrieved from herbs databases and public repositories. Probable protein targets were predicted using BindingDB (p ≥ 0.7). The pathways modulated by compounds were analyzed using the STRING and KEGG pathways. The compound-protein-pathway network was constructed using Cytoscape v3.6.1. Druglikeness was predicted by Molsoft. Docking was performed by AutoDock vina by PyRx 0.8v. Results Among three plants, eleven triterpene saponins from B. acutangula showed druggable characteristics and identified to inhibit the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1/HSD11B1) as a key protein target and also inhibit/modulate other 27 protein molecules involved in the 3 major pathways i.e. Metabolic syndrome, cGMP-PKG signaling, and insulin resistance pathways and also these compounds showed interactions with the active site amino acid residues of 11β-HSD1. Among eleven compounds Barringtogenol B scored the highest binding affinity by forming a hydrogen bond with Ile218 active site residue of 11β-HSD1. Conclusion Triterpene saponins contained in B. acutangula bark and seed inhibits 11Β-HSD1 and this multi-compound contained enriched fraction could be the potent treatment regimen for T2DM, obesity, and MetS.

Background Burkea africana is a widely used medicinal plant in folkloric medicine in many developing countries of the world. It is useful in the treatment of various ailments including hepatitis, jaundice, diarrhea, stomach aches, abscesses, oedema, epilepsy, bloody diarrhea, gonorrhea, syphilis, toothaches and poisoning. Nevertheless, there are little or no scientific evidence to substantiate this medicinal claim by traditional healers. Burkea africana stem bark was therefore, investigated for its protective or stabilizing effect on erythrocyte membrane in acetaminophen-treated rats. B. africana stem bark was extracted using 80% methanol. Erythrocyte stabilizing effect was studied using erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF) test. Thirty (30) male rats were randomly assigned into five (5) groups of six (6) rats each. Groups 1 and 2 served as normal control and negative control (acetaminophen-treated group) respectively. Groups 3, 4 and 5 were pretreated with methanol stem bark extract of Burkea africana (MSBEBA) at doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg body weight respectively once daily for seven (7) days. Blood samples were collected from the animals in all the groups on the 8 day for evaluation of packed cell volume, haemoglobin, red blood cell, white blood cell counts, and differential white blood cell count as well as erythrocyte osmotic fragility. Results The erythrocyte osmotic fragility test showed that there was a significantly (p p p Conclusion Methanol stem bark extract of Burkea africana had protective effect on the red blood cells and also improved haematological parameters. This indicates that Burkea africana may be useful in the treatment of disease conditions that results in hemolytic anemia by stabilizing red erythrocyte membranes and enhancing erythropoiesis.

Background Chemotherapy is the most widely used means of controlling trypanosomosis, however, effectiveness of the drugs available is limited by a number of factors. This study investigates the oxidative stress profile of aqueous extract of the fruit pulp of Adansonia digitata on some organs in rats infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei. Methods Thirty-five male albino rats were divided into 7 groups of 5 rats each. Groups B, C, D, E, F and G were inoculated with 0.20 ml of suspension containing 106 T. b. brucei. Group A were neither infected nor treated. Group B were infected but not treated. At onset of parasitaemia, rats in group C were treated with diminazene aceturate at 3.5 mg/kg body weight once, while rats in group D were treated with vitamin C at 200 mg/kg body weight for 3 days consecutively. Rats in groups E, F and G were treated orally for 3 days with the aqueous extract of fruit pulp of A. digitata at a dosage of 40 mg/kg, 80 mg/kg and 160 mg/kg body weight respectively. Liver and kidney tissues of the rats were collected at necropsy (10 days PI) for oxidative stress analysis. Results There was a significant (p , glutathione peroxidase and catalase among the different groups treated with aqueous extract of fruit pulp of A. digitata. Conclusion The extract of A. digitata exert protective effects against tissue peroxidation in albino rats experimentally infected with T. b. brucei.

BackgroundA high-sugar or/and high-fat diets is a major risk factors for obesity. However, increased fruit and vegetable intake has been recently linked to obesity prevention. The aim of the present study was to investigate the preventive effects of pomegranate leaves (PL), juice (PJ) and peel (PP) extracts, on insulin resistance and oxidative stress in high fat and high fructose diet-induced obese rats.MethodsObesity in rats was induced by consumption of diet high in saturated fat and fructose (HFD) for a long period (12 weeks).ResultsCompared to the control group (CG) fed chow died, the high fat and high fructose diet (HFD) group showed a significant increase in the fasted plasma levels of glucose (29.8%), insulin (45%), amylase (70%) and lipase (54%). Moreover, HFD feeding has increased lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation and decreased antioxidant enzymes levels. However, PL, PJ and PP treatment markedly prevents glucose intolerance, insulin resistance and oxidative stress and decrease amylase and lipase levels.ConclusionThese findings highlight that a long-term intake of pomegranate extracts might be a potential alternative strategy for the prevention of a HFD induced insulin resistance and oxidative stress.

BackgroundAntioxidants have protective capacity, and can be used combinedly with other substances. Both, ascorbic acid (AA) and phytol (PHY) have many important biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and organ protective activity. Recently, PHY has been found to exert an anti-pyretic effect in a mouse model. This study aims to evaluate the combined effects of AA and/or PHY with paracetamol (PARA) in Brewer’s yeast-induced fever mice model.MethodsAA (125 mg/kg) and/or PHY (200 mg/kg) were orally co-treated with the PARA (100 mg/kg, p.o.) in Brewer’s yeast-induced feverSwissmice. Data were analyzed by using GraphPadPrism software (version: 6.0), consideringp ResultsPARA alone and with PHY and/or AA significantly (p ConclusionTaken together, AA did not interfere anti-pyretic effects of PARA and PHY, suggesting its possible use as a combination substance.

BackgroundEthiopia is among the top floral biodiversity rich countries in the world. More than 7000 species of plants, 15% of they are endemic, are reported in the country. Accessibility, cultural enrichment, and cheapness make 80% of the Ethiopian people used indigenous plants for various health ailments and diseases in their traditional medical practices. Therefore, the current review examined the use patterns of medicinal plants utilized for hepatic disorders in Ethiopian traditional medical practices for further scientific investigations.MethodsEthnobotanical and related studies on medicinal plants utilized for hepatic disorders in Ethiopia were reviewed. Ethiopian university websites, Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, Medline, and other online internet search engines were used to access literature articles. The number of plant species and families, used parts, used conditions, modes of preparation, and routes of administration were tabulated and summarized using Excel spreadsheet and descriptive statistics, respectively.ResultsThe current review showed that 276 plant species belonging to 89 families were used for hepatic disorders in Ethiopian traditional medical practices. The commonly utilized plant families wereAsteraceae(10.14%),Fabaceae(9.08%),Euphorbiaceae(7.61%),Laminaceae(4.35%),Solanaceae(3.99%), andAloaceae(2.90%).Justicia schimperiana(34.34%),Croton macrostachyus,andPhytolacca dodecandra(each 20.20%),Cordia africana,Cucumis ficifolius,andRumex abyssinica(each 10.10%) were among the most utilized plant species. They were mainly distributed in Oromo (58%), southern (36%), and Amhara (35.5%) regions. Herbs (47.10%), shrubs (26.09%) and trees (20.65%) were their primary growth forms, while leaves (34.30%) and roots (33.06%) were their commonly utilized parts. Pounding (24.59%), decoction (19.67%), powdering (9.84%), and concoction (9.13%) were their major modes of preparations. Water was the most utilized solvent (48.26%) for the remedy preparations, which were mainly administered orally (76.35%).ConclusionsThis review showed that many claimed medicinal plants were utilized for the treatment of hepatic disorders in Ethiopian traditional medical practices. Hence, further experimental investigation is recommended to standardize their quality and phytochemistry and validate their safety and efficacy. Documentation and conservation of indigenous herbal knowledge have also been strengthened.

Background Therapeutic potential of Prosopis cineraria has been extensively explored by many eminent researchers against various serious diseases but its activity against Lipopolysaccharide (endotoxin) is obscure. Therefore, present experimental investigation was conducted to unravel and analyze the anti-inflammatory potential of hydro-ethanol extract of Prosopis cineraria against LPS-induced inflammation in Swiss albino male mice. Methods Swiss Albino male mice were intoxicated (intra-peritoneal) with LPS (2 mg/kg body weight) and further treated with low and high dose (i.e. 100 mg/kg body weight and 300 mg/kg body weight respectively) of hydro-ethanol extract of stem-bark of Prosopis cineraria. The levels of cytokines (TNF-α, Prostaglandins E2, IL-6, NF-κBp65, IFN-γ and IL-10) were determined in liver homogenate. Nitric oxide generated due to LPS-induced toxicity was estimated by using Griess reagent. Results The results demonstrated that the plant extract suppressed the over-expression and altered levels of cytokines due to LPS intoxication and restored the levels of TNF-α, NF-κB, NO, IL-6, IFN- γ, Prostaglandin E2 and IL-10. Conclusion The present research work unravelled the alleviating potential of Prosopis cineraria against LPS-induced inflammation by modulating the expression of cytokines.

Background Aluminium nitrate and other aluminium-containing compounds have been demonstrated to cause several health challenges. Psidium guajava L) is a well known cultivated tree with hepatoprotective nature and radical scavenging ability. Methods Twenty-five (25) female Wistar rats with average weight of 195 g were grouped into five groups (n = 5), with their weights measured and recorded weekly throughout the period of 21 days of the research. Control (group A), 32.5 mg/kg AL only (group B), 30 mg/kg AL + 250 mg/kg PGLE (group C), 20 mg/kg AL + 500 mg/kg PGLE (group D) and 10 mg/kg AL + 750 mg/kg PGLE (group E). Histological examination of the liver was done using Hematoxylin and Eosin stain. Results Various degenerative changes were observed in the liver architecture following aluminum nitrate administration when compared with the control group. Significant regenerative changes similar to control were observed following administration of high dose of Psidium guajava. Conclusion The results obtained in this study revealed that aqueous extract of Psidium guajava leaves possess good hepato-protective properties.

Background Chewing sticks are commonly used as oral hygiene tool in Africa and reactive oxygen species have been linked to the cause of degenerative diseases because of their ability to induce oxidative damage to biological molecules. Plants have been a long source of dietary antioxidants as most plants have been found to exhibit excellent antioxidant potentials. Mezoneuron benthamianum is a plant that is used locally as chewing sticks in southwest, Nigeria, but its use as a therapeutic agent in dental caries, a disease caused by bacteria especially Streptococcus mutans is poorly investigated. This study was therefore designed to investigate the anticaries activities of the crude extracts of M. benthamianum root against four clinical oral pathogens (Staphylococccus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus mutans) and the antioxidant activities using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Results The results of this study showed that M. benthamianum had a consistent activity against all the bacterial organisms tested, with the ethyl acetate extract having the highest anticaries activity with minimum inhibitory concentration values of 78 and 156 μg/mL, while the hexane extract had the least anticaries activity with MIC values of 2500 μg/ml against S. mutans and E. coli respectively. The results also revealed that the ethyl acetate and aqueous methanol extract exhibited a higher antioxidant activity (IC50 = 23.70 and 21.30 μg/mL) than standard ascorbic acid (IC50 = 38.20 μg/mL). Conclusion This study demonstrated the anticaries and antioxidant potentials of M.benthamianum and therefore justifies the folkloric use of M. benthamianum in oral hygiene.

Background Gardenia gummifera L.f. (Family: Rubeacea) is used in indigenous system of medicine to cure many diseases. To authenticate the traditional medicinal claim investigation has been under taken to evaluate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities of Gardenia gummifera L.f. fruit methanol extract (GFME). Method GFME was evaluated using various antioxidant assays, including DPPH and Nitric oxide radical scavenging assays. The protective effects of GFME were studied in carbon tetrachloride reduced biochemical markers of hepatic injury such as serum glutamyl oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamyl pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total protein (TP), total bilirubin (TB) and direct bilirubin (DB) and in silico studies were carried out to screen the GFME phytocompounds. Results The extract showed significant antioxidant activity in DPPH and Nitric oxide radical scavenging with IC50 value of 131.11 and 175.95 respectively. Quantitative phytochemical assay determines the presence of alkaloids 69.1 μg/1 mg and phenolics 76.5 μg/1 mg. GC-MS analysis of aromatic extract resulted in 36 compounds. Among them, compounds 2, 3-Dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-4 h-pyran-4-one, 2-furancarboxaldehyde 5-(hydroxymethyl) and Quinic acid are the major ones. The fruit methanol extract showed significant in vivo hepatoprotective activity by altering the levels of liver function biochemical parameters such as SGOT, SGPT, ALP, TP, TB and DB. Histology of the liver section also confirms the hepatoprotective activity of GFME. Molecular docking of GC-MS profiled phytocompounds with the target protein TGF-β1and PPARα also confirmed the therapeutic effect with good hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Conclusion Thus the present study clearly strengthened the traditional medicinal claim of the plant Gardenia gummifera L.f. possessing the hepatoprotective drug.

Scorpion sting envenoming in Saudi Arabia posed major public health problems. Conventional treatment with antivenom with its limitations and hazards called for the use of support remediation like prazosin therapy and phytotherapy as alternative solutions in systematic medicine and a trend of use in medicinal plants. The present study is aiming to procure the medicinal plants that exhibit antidotes of scorpion stings which, were scientifically ignored in Saudi Arabia. Current study data of 11 rare and endangered medicinal plants were collected identified up to the family level, in addition to the parts used. The Family Leguminosae was represented by 4 species. The families Acanthaceae, Amaranthaceae, Annonaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Myrtaceae, Plumbaginaceae, and Zygophyllaceae, were represented with a single species each. All of them have got medicinal ability of antidote potential against scorpion venoms. These commonly used herbs that belonged to 8 families were similar in the use of all parts in treatment. This review study may assist the researchers recruiting new natural herbs and their active products as therapeutic agents against scorpion envenoming. However, these medicinal plants are still requiring pharmacological and phytochemical investigations in order to be claimed as effective antidotes in scorpion envenoming syndrome.

Background Overdose of paracetamol affects liver cells leading to cell death. This is done through hepatic necrosis, which is characterized by a rupture of the plasma membrane. A variety of investigations has been conducted using herbal extracts to assess liver toxicity induced by paracetamol. Here we examined herbal plant species, Acridocarpus orientalis (A. orientalis), ethanolic extract to study its potential to protect against hepatotoxicity in mice. Serum alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and reduced glutathione (GSH) enzymes were estimated for all mice groups. A phytochemical screening was also conducted. Results Phytochemical screening showed that A. orientalis contains flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates and phenolics derivatives. A. orientalis pretreatment showed significant reduction of liver marker enzymes ALT and AST in almost all concentrations. Furthermore, serum GSH levels were significantly increased in A. orientalis pretreated mice groups. In addition, a reduction in liver weights in pretreated mice with A. orientalis showed significant weight loss at dose 250 mg/kg BW (P A. orientalis pretreated mice. Conclusion pretreatment with A. orientalis protects mice against heplatotoxic adverse effects of paracetamol as indicated by reduction of serum ALT and AST enzymes, with elevation of GSH antioxidant protective enzyme, which may have contributed to the main hepatoprotective action of A. orientalis.

Background Spathodea campanulata P. Beauv. (Bignoniaceae) is a very common plant in Bangladesh which is locally called “Rudrapalash”. In Nigeria leaves extract of S. campanulata has a reputation of being used as an anticonvulsant. In this connection, the aim of this study was to investigate other neuropharmacological effects like sedative and anxiolytic activities of methanol extract of S. campanulata (MESC) leaves in different mice tests. Methods To assay sedative activity mice were subjected to open field and hole-cross test, whereas anxiolytic activity was checked by the elevated-plus maze, light-dark box, and hole-board test. For each test, mice were divided into control group (deionized water, 0.1 ml/mouse, p.o.), standard group (diazepam, 1 mg/kg, i.p) and three test groups (200, 400 and 600 mg/kg MESC, p.o.). The acute toxicity test and phytochemical screening of MESC were performed before the pharmacological study. Results The result demonstrated strong sedative and anxiolytic activity of MESC in a dose-dependent manner. All doses of MESC (200, 400 & 600 mg/kg) reduced the number of (square & hole) crossed by mice in both open field and hole cross tests (p p p Conclusion The experimental results explicit that S. campanulata leaves possess sedative and anxiolytic activities, hence suggest further chemical investigation to identify specific phytoconstituents responsible for sedative and anxiolytic effects.

Objective The present study investigated the anti-Trypanosoma brucei brucei activity of methanolic extract of Senna occidentalis roots, leaves, stem bark, and seed in vitro and bioactive components of the most active plant part. Materials and methods Trypanosoma brucei brucei was identified by PCR, cultured in Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) and incubated at 37 °C and 5% CO2. Subsequently, the cultured T. brucei brucei were incubated with 500 μg/ml concentration of different parts of S. occidentalis plant and the most potent fraction was identified and subjected to Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Results Amplicons of the rRNA gene of T. brucei brucei detected had a size of 1200 bp. The anti-trypanosomal activities indicated that the root extract of the plant was the most active at 500 μg/ml with inhibitory activity of 88.89% and fractions (2 and 5) the most active with IC50 values of 1.49 and 1.16 μg/ml respectively. Conclusion Results from this study insinuates that phenolic and simple aliphatic compounds might play key role in the anti-trypanosomal activity of S. occidentalis roots.

Backgroundα-Amylase catalyses the hydrolysis of starch and ultimately producing glucose. Controlling the catalytic activity of this enzyme reduces glucose production in the postprandial stage, which could be a therapeutic benefit for people with diabetes. This study was conducted to evaluate α-amylase inhibition for utilizing the crude extracts of some medicinal plants traditionally used in Nepal for the treatment of diabetes and its related complications.MethodsMicrotiter plate approach has been used to assess inhibitory activities of in vitro α-amylase of methanolic extracts of thirty-two medicinal plants. A starch tolerance test was used in rats to investigate the in vivo study of the methanolic extract concerning glibenclamide as the positive control.ResultsAcacia catechu,Dioscorea bulbifera, andSwertia chirataexhibited inhibitory activity against α-amylase and with IC50values; 49.9, 296.1, and 413.5 μg/mL, respectively. Kinetics study revealed that all the extracts displayed a mixed type of inhibition pattern, with Kivalues ranging from 26.6–204.2 μg/mL. Free radical scavenging activity was again re-examined and found prominent in extracts ofA. catechu. Likewise,A. catechuandS. chiratashowed significant reduction of blood glucose concentration up to 30 min after oral dose of 250 mg/kg (F (4, 20) = 4.1,p = .048), and (F (4, 20) = 4.1,p = .036), respectively.ConclusionsEnzymatic assay for α-amylase inhibition using extracts was successfully evaluated. Also, the in-vitro and in-vivo study model revealed that medicinal plants could be a potent source of α-amylase inhibition. So, they could serve as potential candidates for future drug development strategies for curing diabetes with minimal or no adverse side effects.

Background Antigonon leptopus is a medicinal plant its leaves has not been reported for protective effects against cadmium induced hepatorenal toxicity. Cadmium (Cd) is a non-essential toxic metal used in industrial process, causes severe risk to human health with high levels. It is accumulated primarily in liver and kidney. Methods Male Wistar albino rats (200-250 g) were divided into 6 groups (n = 6) and had free access to diet and water. Cadmium chloride (5 mg/kg b.w/day) was administered orally for 21 days and methanolic extract of Antigonon leptopus (ALME) was administered to groups of cadmium treated rats at daily doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w;p.o. for 21 days. At the end, liver and kidney markers along with antioxidant parameters are evaluated. Results The results indicated that, administration of cadmium significantly (p p Conclusion Among all the three test doses, ALME at 200 mg/kg have shown significant antioxidant effect and also exerts beneficial effect against cadmium induced hepatorenal toxicity.

Background The stem bark aqueous alcohol extract of Poincianella pluviosa (PPSB extract) is rich in bioactives including gallic acid, gallic acid methyl ester, pyrogallol, ellagic acid, corilagin, 1,4,6-tri-O-galloyl-glucose, 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-glucose, 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-glucose, tellimagrandin I, tellimagrandin II, mallotinic acid, mallotusinic acid, and geraniin. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the PPSB extract as well as its inhibitory action on carbohydrate digestive enzymes relevant to type 2 diabetes. Results The PPSB extract was prepared using a mixture of 40% ethanol and 60% distilled water. The PPSB extract showed high antioxidant activities and inhibited several carbohydrate digestive enzymes. The IC50 values for inhibiting in vitro salivary amylase, pancreatic amylase, intestinal β-galactosidase and intestinal invertase were, respectively, 250 ± 15, 750 ± 40, 25 ± 5, and 75 ± 8 μg/mL. In vivo inhibition of the intestinal starch absorption was confirmed by determination of blood glucose levels in rats before and after administration of starch by gavage with or without different amounts of PPSB extract. Docking simulations performed on three different programs to rank the extract compounds most likely to bind to porcine pancreatic α-amylase suggest that geraniin is likely to be the P. pluviosa extract compound that presents the greatest binding potential to the pancreatic alpha-amylase. However, the total inhibitory action of the PPSB extract is likely to result from a summation of effects of several molecules. Furthermore, the PPSB extract did not present acute toxicity nor did it present mutagenic effects. Conclusion It can be concluded that the PPSB extract is potentially useful in controlling the postprandial glycaemic levels in diabetes. Further clinical studies with the extract are needed, however, to confirm its potential use in the management of type 2 diabetes.

Background This study was aimed at evaluating the hematinic effect of Spondias mombin and its protective role against the spleenotoxic effect of Phenylhydrazine (PHZ). Methods Thirty Wistar rats were randomized into 6 groups. Group A (Control) animals were neither given the extract nor PHZ. Rats in groups B and C were administered 150 mg/kg body weight and 300 mg/kg body weight doses of the extract respectively. Anemia was induced in rats in groups D and E by oral administration of 40 mg/kg body weight of PHZ and concomitantly administered 150 mg/kg body weight and 300 mg/kg body weight doses of the extract respectively. Anemia was also induced in rats in group F by administration of 40 mg/kg body weight of PHZ but without administration of the extract. Results Histology of the spleen show moderate expansion of the red pulp and contraction of lymphoid follicles in group F and mild follicular activation and sinus histiocytosis in group D. There were significant (p P Conclusion This study shows the hematinic effect of Spondias mombin and its possible use in ethno-medicine in managing anemic conditions, as well as its potential in protecting against the spleenotoxic effect of PHZ.

BackgroundThe present study evaluated the phytochemical profiles, anti-oxidants, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-arthritic and wound healing effect of methanol and ethyl-acetate extracts ofAzanza garckeana.ResultsMethanol extract had higher phenol, flavonoids and alkaloids concentrations, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities than ethyl-acetate extract. Ethyl-acetate and methanol extracts had IC50of 119.40 μg/mL and 133.49 μg/mL respectively against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) radicals. The extracts were more active againstKlebsiella pneumoniawhile the least activity was recoded againstBacillus subtiliswith methanol been most potent than ethyl-acetate. The IC50value of methanol extract in inhibition of protein denaturation were 310.44 μg/mL and 315.27 μg/mL while IC50value of 354.74 μg/mL and 349.57 μg/mL were recorded for membrane stabilization effect in bovine serum albumin (BSA) and egg albumin (EGA) assays respectively. There was dose dependent in vivo anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities with highest percentage paw oedema inhibitions of 51.68% and analgesia of 46.36% at 600 mg/kg bw of the methanol extract. The extract caused dosed independent increase percentage wound closure with percentage wound contraction range between 65.24 ± 2.46 and 69.68 ± .2.54 compare to untreated wound (15.35 ± 0.35 to 50.35 ± 2.35%).ConclusionThis study lends pharmacological support to folkloric usage ofAzanza garckeanain the treatment and management of several human disease.

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are one of the most common problems in urology clinics. The European Association of Urology (EAU) has been pioneering in its efforts to disseminate the latest clinical findings through the organization of the annual EAU congresses. At this year’s congress (EAU Barcelona 2019), various satellite symposia were organized, focusing on specific issues in the field of urology. "UTI − quo vadis? New alternatives to treat uncomplicated urinary tract infections" was one of the industry-sponsored symposia, organized with the aim of evaluating the current scenario and also throwing light on the paradigm shift in the treatment of acute, uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections (uUTI). Several interlinking topics were presented during this symposium. The topics covered antibiotic resistance, involving a presentation of the current data from the Global Prevalence Study on Infections in Urology (GPIU-study). This discussion was followed by case reports on the impact of antibiotic resistance on the management of patients with UTI/uUTI and treatment options for UTI/uUTI according to current guidelines. The highlight of the symposium was the presentation of very recent data from a gold standard phase III clinical trial (double-blind, double-dummy randomized study), demonstrating the non-inferiority of a herbal medicine (BNO 1045) versus antibiotic therapy (fosfomycin trometamol (FT), as a single dose = 3 g) for the treatment of acute, uncomplicated cystitis.

Background The current study undertaken to evaluate antioxidant property of Solanum macranthum fruit methanol extract and its in-vitro cytotoxic effects on breast cancer MDA-MB-231 and mice embryo fibroblast (MEF-L929) cell line. Methods The total alkaloids, phenols and flavonoids content in the methanol extract of S.macranthum fruit were estimated. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by FRAP assay, H2O2 scavenging assay and DPPH assay. Anti-inflammatory protein denaturation inhibition assay was carried out using bovine serum albumin. Anticancer property of the extract was evaluated against breast cancer MDA-MB-231 by MTT assay and comparative study was carried out on normal cells using MEF-L929 cell line. Results Phytochemical estimation revealed that total alkaloid content was measurable high (13.6 g/100 g of extract), where as the total phenolics and flavonoids content was 115.5 mg/GAE and 142.6 mg/QE. Further, the antioxidant effect of methanol extract by H2O2 assay showed considerably higher scavenging activity with 99.6% at 400 μg/ml, where as by FRAP assay the relative reducing power was estimated to be 39.1% at 400 μg/ml and in case of DPPH assay it was found to be 47.9% at 400 μg/ml. EC50 value of anti-inflammatory assay was found to be 112.96 μg/ml. Anticancer studies showed that the IC50 value was found to be 373.77 μg /ml against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line, where as the methanol extract showed negligible cytotoxic effect against normal cells (MEF -L929 cell line), indicating its cancer specific effect. Conclusion Based on the results obtained, methanol extract of Solanum macranthum fruit was found to possess significant antioxidant properties and also showed potential anticancer property against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line with negligible cytotoxic effect on normal cells revealing its potential application as an anticancer agent.

Backgroound Lepidium pinnatifidum is a multipurpose, beneficial plant and known well for its indigenous therapeutic standards. Current study is aimed to investigate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potency of Lepidium pinnatifidum. L. pinnatifidum dried powder was extracted with crude methanol (LPM) and then fractionated with various solvents to get respective fractions, termed as, n-hexane (LPH), chloroform (LPC), ethyl acetate (LPE), butanol (LPB) and the aqueous fraction (LPA). Fractions were evaluated for total flavonoid and phenolic content. Antioxidant profile was quantified via an array of antioxidant assays. Anti inflammatory activity was evaluated in vitro, and further assessed by in vivo study in Sprague Dawley rat. Result Total phenolics (TPC) range from 48.15 ± 1.03–241.23 ± 1.07 mg GAE/g while total flavonoids (TFC) quantified were 16.32 ± 1.14–136.32 ± 1.14 mg RE/g. The in vitro antioxidant assays exhibited remarkable radicals scavenging action in different assays. Substantial positive correlation was instituted between TPC, TFC and various antioxidant assays. Inhibition of the heat induced protein denaturation reflected anti inflammatory potency, further supported by in vivo carrageenan induced paw edema. Conclusion The obtained results lead to suggesting the therapeutic perspective of L. pinnatifidum in oxidative stress and inflammation associated ailments. The bio active ingredients behind its potential protectivity needs to be further confirmed.

Abstract A significant role in the pathogenesis of rhinosinusitis is played by an inflammatory reaction in the maxillary sinuses of the nasal cavity. Leukotrienes are the most powerful mediators of inflammation, especially at the early stages. The effect of combined dry extract BNO 1016 could be useful for the inhibition of the inflammation in rhinosinusitis. Thus, it appears reasonable to study the anti-inflammatory activity of the combined dry extract BNO 1016. Materials and methods The tested drug is the combined dry extract BNO 1016 produced by “Bionorica SE”. The reference drug is Ibuprofen. Leukotriene inflammation was induced by subplantar injection of zymozan into the right hind paw of male and female Wistar rats. Volumes of the resulting edema were measured and levels of anti-inflammatory activity together with mean effective dose (ED50) were calculated. Results The highest anti-inflammatory activity was observed at a dose level of 500 mg/kg of BNO 1016 during all time-points of the experiment and reached 65.2% 2 h after induction of inflammation. The anti-inflammatory activity of BNO 1016 at 500 mg/kg was credibly higher than that of Ibuprofen at all time-points of the experiment. Based on the data obtained from this leukotriene-dependent inflammation experiment the mean effective dose (ED50) for anti-inflammatory activity of dry combined extract BNO 1016 was calculated with help of Probit analysis. Conclusion The combined dry extract BNO 1016 shows a high level of anti-inflammatory activity in leukotriene-dependent inflammation which is very promising for the improvement of the treatment of patients. However, additional preclinical and clinical research on this drug should be carried out.

Background Hydroxamic acids are currently being used in diverse biological activities. We investigated the effect of hydroxamic acid, synthesized from Cyperus esculentus seeds, on the antioxidant status of the liver, spleen, and kidney of Wistar rats. Methods Twenty male rats were randomly divided into three treatment groups using hydroxamic acid at doses of 5, 15, and 50 mg/kg and a control group using distilled water. Rats were sacrificed 24 h after a seven-day repeated oral dosing. After that, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and the levels of glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were investigated in the organs. Results Our data showed that MDA levels remained unaltered in the liver, spleen, and kidney. However, it was found that hydroxamic acid at the dose of 50 mg/kg significantly increased SOD activity but depleted CAT, GPx activities and GSH levels in the liver when compared to the control groups. In splenic tissue, SOD activity and GSH levels were significantly diminished. Contrarily, in the kidney, treatment of rats with 50 mg/kg hydroxamic acid did not affect SOD activity, but GPx activity was increased while GST activity was decreased when compared to the controls. Conclusion Overall, hydroxamic acid may enhance antioxidant enzyme activities in the liver and kidney. However, caution is required at higher doses to forestall oxidative stress in the hepatic and splenic tissues.

Background: VO2 max is the single most reliable indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). More is the VO2 max more is the CRF and aerobic capacity of an individual. The status of CRF ultimately indicates the physical fitness. This study was conceptualized to estimate the CRF of medical students. Materials and Methods: This study included 161 apparently healthy participants, which included 101 male and 60 female MBBS students. The study was started after approval of the ethics committee. Each participant was clearly understood the study protocol and its output. Each participant signed the written consent form. Body weight was estimated without shoes and light clothing. The resting heart rate (RHR) was calculated by palpating radial pulse. VO2 max was determined by a predefined predicted equation using three factors, i.e., age, body weight, and RHR. VO2 max = 3.542+ (−0.014 × age in year) + (0.015 × body weight [kg]) + (−0.011 × RHR). Statistical analysis was done by unpaired test. Results: Mean VO2 max of male and female was 56.4 ± 4 and 51.9 ± 6 ml/kg/min, respectively. This difference was significant at P = 0.000. 26.7%, 28.7%, and 26.7% of males were good, excellent, and superior, respectively, in VO2 max. 13.3%, 8.3%, and 70% of females were good, excellent, and superior, respectively, in VO2 max. 21.7%, 21.1%, and 42.8% of total participants were good, excellent, and superior, respectively, in VO2 max. Conclusion: CRF of male was better than female. The majority of students' CRF was up to mark and minimal students need care to improve their CRF.

Introduction: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a polymicrobial infection of the upper genital tract characterised clinically by triad of symptoms and signs: pelvic pain, cervical motion with adnexal tenderness and fever. Conventional treatment is with broad-spectrum antibiotics. The alternative medicine, especially Homoeopathy, is the second choice of therapy as per the WHO. Case reports of PID in the medical literature are scant. We aim to report a case treated with homoeopathic constitutional medicine in a woman suffering from PID. Case Summary: A 29-year-old female presented with the symptoms of white discharge per vagina, constant dull pain in the lower abdomen, low backache, fever and lassitude for 2 weeks. Clinical findings and ultrasound of the whole abdomen suggested PID. Individualised homoeopathic medicine Calcarea carbonica was prescribed in centesimal potency which showed a positive role in the treatment of PID. Causal attribution of changes in her condition to the homoeopathic treatment was depicted by modified Naranjo criteria. Future observational studies and randomised control trials are suggested to ascertain the efficacy of homoeopathy in the cases of PID.

Background: Infectious diseases are a major challenge to humanity and public health at large. Objective: The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic narrative review of the clinical research evidence for homeopathy in the management of infectious diseases. Methods: A comprehensive search of major biomedical databases: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Pubmed, Core-Hom, AYUSH Research Portal) and other individual journal sites were conducted. Relevant research published between 1999 and 2019 was categorised by study type, clinical condition and causative pathogen. Results: The literature search of two decades (1999–2019) gathered 86 articles: Meta-analysis (n = 1), systematic reviews (n = 4), randomised controlled trials (n = 30), comparative cohort/observational studies (n = 16), cohort/observational studies (single arm) (n = 25), case series (n = 7) and case reports (n = 3). The review demonstrated the beneficial evidence of homeopathy in infectious diseases is large. Both controlled and uncontrolled studies reported positive results, early recovery, reduction of hospital stay, less use of antibiotics and satisfaction of patients. Prophylactic studies on dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis/acute encephalitis syndrome and leptospirosis have shown the potential role of homeopathy in preventing the disease outbreaks. Homoeopathy as an add-on treatment for these conditions has shown added benefits in reducing mortality, morbidity and sequelae. Homoeopathy has a possible and viable role as standalone and as an integrative medicine for different infectious diseases. Conclusion: Homoeopathy offers beneficial role in combating infections. Due to the heterogeneity of approaches, more studies in different research settings are warranted to add to the existing evidence and validating it for enhancing the self-healing power of the body against infections.

Background: Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are used in breast cancer, but they cause an array of adverse effects including dermatological changes and vomiting. Objective: The objective of the study was to examine whether Usual Care (UC) plus pre-defined homoeopathic remedies can produce different effect beyond UC plus placebo in dermatological adverse effects of radiotherapy and vomiting of chemotherapy in breast carcinoma. Methods: In this double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm trial, 88 females suffering from dermatological adverse effects due to radiotherapy (n = 41) or vomiting due to chemotherapy (n = 47) were randomised to receive either UC + Homoeopathy (verum; n = 44) or UC + Placebo (control; n = 44). The outcome measures were the number of responders showing any reduction of grades of Acute Radiation Morbidity Scoring Criteria (ARMSC) of the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group and Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC) for vomiting, measured at baseline and after 7 and 14 days. Relative Risk (RR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) was assessed; Chi-square tests were run to report P values. Results: A protocol-compliant sample (n = 80; 8 dropped out, verum: 4, control: 4) was analysed. The number of responders as per the ARMSC score after 7 days (11/18 vs. 1/19, RR = 3.3, 95% CI = 1.7–6.3, P = 0.001) and 14 days (16/18 vs. 1/19, RR = 9.4, 95% CI = 2.5–35.2, P < 0.001) was statistically significant, favouring verum over control. Similar results were obtained according to the CTC scoring after 7 days (15/22 vs. 2/21, RR = 3.3, 95% CI = 1.7–6.3, P < 0.001) and 14 days (21/22 vs. 4/21, RR = 15.1, 95% CI = 2.2–102.4, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Pre-identified homoeopathic medicines appeared superior to placebo, warranting further evaluation.

Background: Despite standard management, healing rate of Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs) remains low, posing risk of lower extremity amputation. Objectives: This study was undertaken to evaluate if Calendula Q has added benefit over individualized homoeopathic intervention (IHI). The primary objective was to achieve complete epithelialisation within 20 weeks and secondary objective was to assess the changes in quality of life using DFU Scale-short form (DFU-SF) questionnaire. Materials and Methods: A randomised controlled pilot study with a 20-week intervention was conducted from 2014-2017. 277 cases were screened and 60 cases were enrolled and randomised to Group I: IHI + Calendula Q dressing (n= 30) and Group II: IHI + normal saline (NS) dressing (n = 30), along with standard conventional medication for glycaemic control. Results: The mean time (Group I= 12 weeks, Group II= 11 weeks) of ulcer healing in both groups showed no statistically significant difference, thus calendula Q used for dressing did not have any added benefits (p= 0.0521). Arsenicum album (n= 14, 23.3%), Lycopodium (n= 8, 13.3%), Silicea (n= 7, 11.7%), Sulphur (n= 6, 10%), Phosphorus (n= 5, 10%) and Sepia (n=5, 10%) were found to be effective medicines. Conclusion: IHI, along with wound hygiene and conventional diabetic management, proved to be effective, irrespective of whether Calendula Q or normal saline was used for wound hygiene, thus leading to early, complete epithelialisation of Wagner's first and second stages of DFUs. Further studies comparing IHI with standard care are warranted.