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The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has increased. Phytotherapy, also known as herbal medicine, is one of the CAM therapies that involves using medicinal plants and plant-derived substances. This study aims to evaluate the use of phytopharmaceuticals and the factors associated with their use in patients with Systemic sclerosis (SSc). Our study is designed as a survey and consists of two parts with 32 questions. The first part gathers demographic data with 14 questions, and the second part assesses participants' knowledge about phytotherapy with 18 questions. The questionnaire was administered face-to-face to patients with SSc who consented to participate. One hundred participants completed the survey. Fifty-two (52%) participants had diffuse sclerosis. Raynaud's phenomenon affected 97 (97%) participants; 53 (53%) participants suffered from lung involvement, and 64 (64%) had musculoskeletal system involvement. A total of 55 (55%) participants had used phytopharmaceuticals after SSc diagnosis. Phytotherapy users and non-users had similar demographic and clinical characteristics in terms of age, gender, disease duration, type of SSc, organ involvement, and education level. Participants mostly used the following phytopharmaceuticals: 23 participants used Camellia sinensis (green tea), 16 used Hypericum perforatum, and 12 used Curcuma longa (curcumin). The most improved symptoms with phytopharmaceuticals were musculoskeletal system findings and skin thickness, as stated by participants. A significant portion of SSc patients used phytopharmaceuticals in their disease duration. Although patients stated that they benefited from phytopharmaceuticals, studies on the effectiveness of these treatments are insufficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Stachys represents one of the most extensive genera within the subfamily Lamioideae and ranks as one of the largest genera in the Lamiaceae family. Many Stachys species are associated with a rich history in traditional medicine across various cultures, and their extracts and essential oils are rich in non-volatile and volatile compounds. Because of their complex profile of bioactive substances, Stachys members are considered to possess an extensive spectrum of therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, cytotoxic, and wound-healing effects, as well as benefits for memory enhancement, lipid profile regulation, blood glucose control, and weight management. Despite the wide distribution and chemical diversity of the genus, studies on its biological activities remain limited. The aim of this review is to summarize the most relevant data from studies on the bioactive compounds, traditional uses, and pharmacological properties of Stachys species found in databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, and Scopus. Specific keywords were used in the search strategy, including "bioactive compounds", "Stachys", "Lamiaceae", "Stachys extract", "Stachys essential oil", "traditional uses", "chemical composition", "therapeutic potential", "clinical trials", "in vivo studies", "in vitro studies". The search strategy was performed according to the guidelines for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Data from 171 studies were included. The manuscript highlights the drug-discovery potential of Stachys species, emphasizing their potential applications in medicine, cosmetics, dietary supplements, and the food industry. Moreover, it provides important data that could assist Stachys research programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural waste is rich in bioactive molecules. When evaluating the viability of circular models for the development of health-promoting substances and final products, it is important to highlight that the industrial processing of fruits and other valuable herbal materials generates a considerable number of by-products and significant amounts of waste that contain health-promoting components. These by-products can be utilized purposefully in pharmaceuticals and related areas for the development of health-promoting products. The linear utilization of agricultural waste results in the loss of a range of valuable bioactive compounds, including polyphenols (anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and related compounds), antioxidants from other groups, phytosterols, tocopherols, and fatty acids. As an illustrative example, the waste materials of species belonging to the Vaccinium L. genus represent a notable secondary resource that can be purposefully applied to the development of health-promoting preparations. The fruits of these wasted herbal materials have been found to contain beneficial polyphenols, which play a pivotal role in the prevention of various chronic conditions, including precancerous conditions, inflammatory diseases, and other ailments. In addition, the fruits of blackberries, elderberries, and purple corn—which are similarly rich in anthocyanins—also provide a promising avenue for further development. Phenolic compounds suitable for recycling are also found in the by-products of sugarcane harvesting. Tomato waste contains a significant amount of lycopene, which is a valuable carotenoid. Other physiological functions may be attributed to the aforementioned by-products of fruit processing which, if used properly, can contribute to the prevention of certain diseases and improving quality of life. This review assesses the gaps in the existing literature on the development of health-promoting substances from herbal secondary materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We analyzed data from positively tested COVID-19 outpatients to describe self-medication with OTC drugs and use of other remedies against symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We specifically considered their type and frequency, as well as associations with patient characteristics, and reasons for use. Data were collected between May 1, 2020 and February 22, 2021 with two questionnaires in an observational cohort study with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2-positive adult outpatients in the district of Western Pomerania in Germany. 523 out of 710 outpatients (74%; 340 women and 183 men) reported using drugs and other remedies to relieve COVID-19-symptoms. Overall, participants reported utilization of 1282 finished dosage products or remedies, including 213 different ingredients. In the population of 710 outpatients, utilization of ibuprofen (26%), acetaminophen (21%), metamizole (14%), and acetylsalicylic acid (10%) was most commonly reported. Phytopharmaceuticals, herbal and animal products as well as vitamins and minerals were also frequently reported. Among the 523 participants who used drugs and other remedies, most commonly mentioned reasons for use were headache (40%), other kinds of pain (e.g. myalgia; 37%), fever (24%) and cough (16%). Our analysis showed that a majority of the participants tried to alleviate COVID-19-symptoms using drugs and other remedies. Especially analgesic and antipyretic agents, followed by herbal medicines, were used very frequently. Trial registration: German Register for Clinical Studies DRKS00021672, first registration on December 1st, 2020.

Hepatobiliary disorders contribute significantly to the structure of morbidity, causes of disability and mortality of the world’s population. Therefore, the search for and development of effective and safe hepatoprotective agents for the pharmacotherapy thereof remains a problematic issue. This article presents a pharmacological profile for each of the active ingredients of the composite phytopharmaceutical Dipana, and reviews the evidence for its effectiveness and safety in chronic hepatobiliary disorders.

Abstract Apocynin (APO) is a naturally occurring acetophenone with eminent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant peculiarities. It suffers from poor bioavailability due to low aqueous solubility. Herein, APO was loaded in a Clove oil (CO) based Nanostructured lipid carrier (NSLC) system using a simple method (ultrasonic emulsification) guided by a quality-by-design approach (23 full factorial design) to optimize the formulated NSLCs. The prepared NSLCs were evaluated regarding particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), and entrapment efficiency (EE%). The optimal formula (F2) was extensively investigated through transmission electron microscope (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), in vitro release, and stability studies. Cytotoxicity against human urinary bladder carcinoma (T24) cell line and in vivo activity studies in rats with induced cystitis were also assessed. The results disclosed that the optimal formula (F2) had PS of 214.8 ± 5.8 nm with EE% of 79.3 ± 0.9%. F2 also exhibited a strong cytotoxic effect toward the T24 cancer cells expressed by IC50 value of 5.8 ± 1.3 µg/mL. Pretreatment with the optimal formula (orally) hinted uroprotective effect against cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) in rat models, emphasized by histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical investigations. In consideration of the simple fabrication process, APO-loaded CO-based NSLCs can hold prospective potential in the prophylaxis of oncologic and urologic diseases.

We analyzed data from positively tested COVID-19 outpatients to describe self-medication with OTC drugs and use of other remedies against symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We specifically considered their type and frequency, as well as associations with patient characteristics, and reasons for use. Data were collected between May 1, 2020 and February 22, 2021 with two questionnaires in an observational cohort study with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2-positive adult outpatients in the district of Western Pomerania in Germany. 523 out of 710 outpatients (74%; 340 women and 183 men) reported using drugs and other remedies to relieve COVID-19-symptoms. Overall, participants reported utilization of 1282 finished dosage products or remedies, including 213 different ingredients. In the population of 710 outpatients, utilization of ibuprofen (26%), acetaminophen (21%), metamizole (14%), and acetylsalicylic acid (10%) was most commonly reported. Phytopharmaceuticals, herbal and animal products as well as vitamins and minerals were also frequently reported. Among the 523 participants who used drugs and other remedies, most commonly mentioned reasons for use were headache (40%), other kinds of pain (e.g. myalgia; 37%), fever (24%) and cough (16%). Our analysis showed that a majority of the participants tried to alleviate COVID-19-symptoms using drugs and other remedies. Especially analgesic and antipyretic agents, followed by herbal medicines, were used very frequently. Trial registration: German Register for Clinical Studies DRKS00021672, first registration on December 1st, 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poultry industry faces new challenges every day in production and productivity, with demands for a safer product free of residues of antibiotic growth promoters (APC), which leads to the search for other alternatives to the use of these compounds. One of the alternatives is the addition of garlic (Allium sativum) and onion (Allium cepa) extracts in broiler chickens. The allicin in garlic acts as a powerful antimicrobial, helping to control intestinal pathogens and reducing diseases. Quercetin from onions and other flavonoids also offer similar antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. Their inclusion in the diet of chickens improves the digestibility of nutrients, increases weight gains and reduces mortality. This article reviews theoretical assessments regarding the addition of garlic and onion extracts in the diet of broiler chickens. A systematic review was carried out and methods such as analytical - synthetic were required to find the main theoretical conceptions about the state of the art on the subject. In the different literatures cited, it is proven that the use of garlic and onion extracts has an influence on the improvement of productive and health parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species belonging to the genus Salvia, Lamiaceae, have been deeply involved in the folk medicine of different nations since ancient times. Lilac sage, or Salvia verticillata L. (S. verticillata) is a less studied species from the genus. However, it seems to have a prominent potential for the future drug discovery strategies of novel phytopharmaceuticals. This review aims to summarise the data on the biological activity and the phytochemical profile of extracts and essential oils derived from S. verticillata. This review is based on data from 57 in vitro and in vivo studies. The chemical profile of S. verticillata includes different synergic compounds like phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenes, and salvianolic acids. Although some small amounts of salvianolic acid B were found in S. verticillata extracts, the major compound among the salvianolic acids is salvianolic acid C, a compound associated with the potential for improving liver fibrosis, cardio- and hepatoprotection, and the inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The cannabinoid type 2 receptor agonist β-caryophyllene is one of the major compounds in S. verticillata essential oils. It is a compound with a prominent potential in regenerative medicine, neurology, immunology, and other medical fields. The in vivo and the in vitro studies, regarding S. verticillata highlighted good antioxidant potential, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal activity. S.verticillata was also reported as a potential source of drug candidates for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, because of the inhibitory activity on the acetylcholinesterase. However, the number of studies in this direction is limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solidago canadensis L. (Canadian goldenrod) is a widely distributed invasive herb from the Asteraceae family. It contains compounds that can change the soil structure and its nutritional components and thus affect indigenous species' growth, germination, and survival. Consequently, it can pose a major ecological threat to biodiversity. On the other hand, many studies show that this species, due to its chemical properties, can be used for many positive purposes in pharmacy, agriculture, medicine, cosmetic industry, etc. S. canadensis contains a diverse array of bioactive compounds that may be responsible for antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. Many studies have discussed the invasiveness of S. canadensis, and several chemical and genetic differences between this plant in native and introduced environments have been discovered. Previous ecological and environmental evaluations of the potential of S. canadensis as an ecosystem services provider have come out with four promising groups of its products: active extracts, essential oil, fuel, and others. Although identified, there is a need for detailed validation and prioritisation of ecosystem services. This article aims to overview the S. canadensis invasive features, emphasising chemical characterisation and its potential for providing ecosystem services. Moreover, it identifies scenarios and proposes a methodology for estimating S. canadensis use in bioeconomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal products and their formulations have a large market at the global level. A significant portion of the worldwide population relies upon herbal treatment. Their apparent non-toxic and cost-effective nature appeals to the population and drives researchers to pursue them for drug development. However, due to the lack of scientific evidence, their conventional preparation, poor regulation and control make these an unseen threat to the people. There has been a long-standing argument that allopathic medicines are better than herbal medicines due to their specificity and precision. To compete with modern medicines, a concept of science-based phytopharmaceutical drugs was introduced through a draft amendment notified to the Drugs and Cosmetics 1940 and Rules 1945. The amendment has introduced a definition for botanicals and their scientific evaluation for quality safety and efficacy by the Central Drugs Standard and Control Organization (CDSCO) office as a marketing authorization requirement. The present article discusses the advantages and challenges faced in the development of phytopharmaceuticals, and how they differ from dietary supplements and herbal drugs. It also gives consolidated information on Phytopharmaceuticals and their regulatory and Pharmacopoeial status with an exemplary PPI monograph – Aegle marmelos. The plant selection was done based on extensive research using the PRISMA approach. A detailed view of the opportunities and challenges provided by phytopharmaceuticals is explained in the present review.

BackgroundAntibiotic resistance is a significant global health threat, exacerbated by inappropriate prescribing practices, particularly for upper respiratory infections that are predominantly viral. Complementary and Integrative Medicine (CIM), including the use of phytopharmaceuticals, offers a potential strategy to reduce antibiotic prescriptions.ObjectiveThis study aimed to describe the impact of General Practitioners’ (GPs) naturopathy (NP) qualifications and phytopharmaceutical prescriptions on the rate of antibiotic prescribing for upper respiratory infections (RTI).MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study using routine data from the CONTinuous morbidity registration Epidemiologic NeTwork (CONTENT), which includes over 200,000 patients across four federal states in Germany. The study included data from n = 36 GPs who recorded at least one ICD-10 diagnosis of RTI. Antibiotic and phytopharmaceutical prescriptions were identified and analyzed through mixed-effects logistic regression models to explore the influence of GPs’ naturopathy qualifications and phytopharmaceutical use on antibiotic prescribing patterns.ResultsThe study included 40,344 patients managed by 36 GPs. Prescriptions of phytopharmaceuticals significantly reduced the likelihood of antibiotic use (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.45–0.52). Additionally, holding a naturopathy qualification was associated with lower rates of antibiotic prescriptions (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.69–0.78). The interaction between naturopathy qualification and phytopharmaceutical prescriptions also showed a significant effect (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.27–1.62). Patient’s year of birth influenced prescribing patterns indicating a reduction of antibiotic prescriptions for younger patients, while patients’ gender did not reveal a significant effect.ConclusionPrescriptions of phytopharmaceuticals were significantly associated with a decrease antibiotic prescriptions among GPs, especially when combined with naturopathy qualifications. Training in naturopathic approaches could enhance antibiotic stewardship efforts in primary care settings, suggesting that broader integration of CIM elements into medical training could be beneficial in mitigating antibiotic resistance.

We evaluated the long-term risks of overall cancer and all-cause mortality associated with five types of phytopharmaceuticals and the most commonly used estrogen-progestogen medications for the treatment of postmenopausal syndrome in women. Using data from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2018, we conducted a 1:2 matched cohort study with 12,087 eligible patients. We compared phytopharmaceuticals -only users (n = 4029, phytopharmaceuticals group) with HRT-only users (n = 8058, HRT group) with a washout period of ≥6 months. The phytopharmaceuticals group had significantly lower risks of overall cancer and all-cause mortality than the HRT group (adjusted hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.60 [0.40–0.9] and 0.40 [0.16–0.99], respectively) after over 180 days of use. Bupleurum and Peony Formula were associated with lower risks of overall cancer and all-cause mortality (aHR: 0.57 [0.36–0.92] and 0.33 [0.11–1.05], respectively). In conclusion, phytopharmaceuticals may serve as an alternative therapy to HRT for alleviating menopausal symptoms and reducing health risks, leading to more favorable long-term health outcomes. Further randomized control trials are necessary to validate the findings of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species belonging to the genus Echinophora (Apiaceae) have been used by humanity since ancient times as flavoring agents, preservatives, and medicines for the treatment of a broad spectrum of conditions, including respiratory, digestive and kidney disorders, fungi infections, wounds, and gastric ulcers. Phytochemical studies on this botanical genus mainly investigate the essential oil composition and reveal the species as a rich source of volatile compounds, including monoterpenes and phenylpropanoids. Among the non-volatile secondary metabolites, flavonoids, coumarins, phenolic acids, phytosterols, and polyacetylenes have been identified. Pharmacological studies revealed Echinophora extracts and essential oils exhibit different biological properties, including antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, insecticidal, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities. However, compared to other genera, the biological activity and chemical diversity of this genus are not well studied. In future decades, it is highly likely that the small genus Echinophora will play an important role in drug discovery and drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytopharmaceuticals are plant-derived compounds with a wide range of potential health benefits. Their unique characteristics and versatile applications make them promising candidates for the treatment of many diseases. Phytopharmaceuticals contain a wide range of bioactive components, including alkaloids, terpenes, and flavonoids. These compounds have a variety of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. In recent years, there has been growing interest in phytopharmaceuticals for the treatment of various conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. However, more research is needed to fully understand the efficacy and safety of these compounds. To ensure the quality and safety of phytopharmaceuticals, quality management procedures have been developed based on the principles of the World Health Organization (WHO) and Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP). Understanding these regulations is essential for assuring effective phytopharmaceutical product development, manufacture, and distribution. While phytopharmaceuticals have shown promise in laboratory research, there are challenges in translating their efficacy to effective clinical applications, particularly in terms of delivery. Innovative approaches, such as targeted delivery methods and nanoparticle-based strategies, are needed to overcome these challenges. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in the field of phytopharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytosome is a phospholipid based well-turned, self-assembled vesicular drug delivery system. It is an advanced form of herbal preparation that includes bioactive phytoconstituents of herbal extract surrounded and tied by a lipid. The phospholipid's molecular structure is composed of a head that is water-soluble and two tails that are fat-soluble. As a result of their dual solubility, the phospholipids function as an efficient emulsifier and act as a key component of our cell's membranes. Phytosomes are created with standardized plant extracts or phytoconstituents, such as flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins and xanthones, complexed with phospholipids like phosphatidylcholine. It exhibits significantly improved absorption profiles after oral administration due to enhanced lipid solubility that allows them to cross biological membranes, increasing their bioavailability. This article briefs about an updated overview of therapeutic potentials, patented technologies and recent formulations of phytosome drug delivery systems. The current review also highlights commercial availability, recent advanced research, and landmarks in the development of phytosomes and phytosome technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasomes and invasomal gel are ultraflexible, soft vesicular, phospholipid based nanocarriers with deeper skin penetration ability for transdermal applications of drugs and phytopharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Stachys represents one of the most extensive genera within the subfamily Lamioideae and ranks as one of the largest genera in the Lamiaceae family. Many Stachys species are associated with a rich history in traditional medicine across various cultures, and their extracts and essential oils are rich in non-volatile and volatile compounds. Because of their complex profile of bioactive substances, Stachys members are considered to possess an extensive spectrum of therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, cytotoxic, and wound-healing effects, as well as benefits for memory enhancement, lipid profile regulation, blood glucose control, and weight management. Despite the wide distribution and chemical diversity of the genus, studies on its biological activities remain limited. The aim of this review is to summarize the most relevant data from studies on the bioactive compounds, traditional uses, and pharmacological properties of Stachys species found in databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, and Scopus. Specific keywords were used in the search strategy, including “bioactive compounds”, “Stachys”, “Lamiaceae”, “Stachys extract”, “Stachys essential oil”, “traditional uses”, “chemical composition”, “therapeutic potential”, “clinical trials”, “in vivo studies”, “in vitro studies”. The search strategy was performed according to the guidelines for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Data from 171 studies were included. The manuscript highlights the drug-discovery potential of Stachys species, emphasizing their potential applications in medicine, cosmetics, dietary supplements, and the food industry. Moreover, it provides important data that could assist Stachys research programs.

The genus of Clematis is a buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), recognized for its flowers and adaptable as an ornamental plant in colder climates. It contains around 300 species. Clematis has a variety of active phytoconstituents or secondary metabolites which are responsible for health benefits in human beings. Traditionally various species of the clematis genus used for centuries to treat various ailments including syphilis, bone disorders, gout, rheumatism, diuretics, wound healing, blood sugar control, blood diseases, spleen difficulties, leprosy, fevers, skin diseases. A systematic review of scientific electronic database and reference books were consulted to find all relevant literature for this work. This review discusses the ethnomedicinal usage, health advantages, phytoconstituents and bioactivities of clematis species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species belonging to the genus Salvia, Lamiaceae, have been deeply involved in the folk medicine of different nations since ancient times. Lilac sage, or Salvia verticillata L. (S. verticillata) is a less studied species from the genus. However, it seems to have a prominent potential for the future drug discovery strategies of novel phytopharmaceuticals. This review aims to summarise the data on the biological activity and the phytochemical profile of extracts and essential oils derived from S. verticillata. This review is based on data from 57 in vitro and in vivo studies. The chemical profile of S. verticillata includes different synergic compounds like phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenes, and salvianolic acids. Although some small amounts of salvianolic acid B were found in S. verticillata extracts, the major compound among the salvianolic acids is salvianolic acid C, a compound associated with the potential for improving liver fibrosis, cardio- and hepatoprotection, and the inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The cannabinoid type 2 receptor agonist β-caryophyllene is one of the major compounds in S. verticillata essential oils. It is a compound with a prominent potential in regenerative medicine, neurology, immunology, and other medical fields. The in vivo and the in vitro studies, regarding S. verticillata highlighted good antioxidant potential, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal activity. S.verticillata was also reported as a potential source of drug candidates for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, because of the inhibitory activity on the acetylcholinesterase. However, the number of studies in this direction is limited.

Phytopharmaceuticals, derived from plants, are increasingly recognized for their potential therapeutic benefits. However, their effectiveness is often hindered by challenges such as poor bioavailability, stability, and targeted delivery. In this study, we aimed to address these limitations by developing PCL (phosphatidylcholine) fortified nano-phytopharmaceuticals to enhance therapeutic efficacy. PCL, a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer, was employed to encapsulate the phytopharmaceuticals, thereby improving their stability and bioavailability. The encapsulation process utilized nanoprecipitation, resulting in the formation of nanoparticles with controlled size and morphology. Various analytical techniques were employed to characterize the physicochemical properties of PCL fortified nano-phytopharmaceuticals, including dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Furthermore, the release kinetics of encapsulated phytopharmaceuticals from PCL nanoparticles were evaluated, demonstrating sustained and controlled release profiles, essential for prolonged therapeutic effects. Cytotoxicity studies conducted on in vitro cell culture models confirmed the biocompatibility and non-toxic nature of the developed nano-phytopharmaceuticals. Additionally, in vivo studies were conducted to assess the therapeutic efficacy of PCL fortified nano-phytopharmaceuticals in animal models. The results showIased improved bioavailability, targeted tissue distribution, and enhanced therapeutic effects compared to free phytopharmaceuticals. Moreover, the developed nano-phytopharmaceuticals exhibited prolonged circulation time in the bloodstream, enabling improved drug delivery and reduced dosing frequency. This review highlights the promising potential of PCL fortified nano-phytopharmaceuticals as an effective approach for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of phytopharmaceuticals. The improved stability, bioavailability, sustained release, and targeted delivery achieved through this formulation strategy offer promising opportunities for advancing plant-based therapies.

Oroxylin A (ORA), a natural compound found in plants, has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent against liver fibrosis, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. Chronic inflammation fuels cancer development and progression by promoting cellular transformation, survival, invasion, and metastasis, while cancer can create an inflammatory microenvironment, further enhancing its growth and invasiveness. Inflammasome activation also plays a crucial role in liver fibrosis which is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix components in the liver. This review aims to explore the efficacy of ORA and its mechanisms of action in these disease contexts. ORA targets hepatic stellate cells, key players in the development of liver fibrosis. By modulating signaling pathways such as transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), ORA effectively inhibits HSC activation and reduces the production of excessive extracellular matrix proteins. ORA exhibits a multitude of beneficial effects in cancer treatment. It demonstrates anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, and anti-angiogenic properties by interfering with various molecular pathways involved in cancer progression. ORA displays anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing the production of proinflammatory cytokines and influencing signaling pathways. This mechanism allows ORA to mitigate inflammation, a hallmark of many diseases, including inflammatory conditions. The therapeutic potential of ORA opens up new avenues for drug discovery and development. Ongoing research focuses on exploring new plant sources and novel compounds to expand the range of natural therapeutic candidates. Overall, this review highlights the comprehensive potential of ORA as a safe therapeutic agent. In the field of chronic diseases, ORA has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and anti-cancer potentials, making it an interesting compound for research

The genus of Clematis is a buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), recognized for its flowers and adaptable as an ornamental plant in colder climates. It contains around 300 species. Clematis has a variety of active phytoconstituents or secondary metabolites which are responsible for health benefits in human beings. Traditionally various species of the clematis genus used for centuries to treat various ailments including syphilis, bone disorders, gout, rheumatism, diuretics, wound healing, blood sugar control, blood diseases, spleen difficulties, leprosy, fevers, skin diseases. A systematic review of scientific electronic database and reference books were consulted to find all relevant literature for this work. This review discusses the ethno-medicinal usage, health advantages, phytoconstituents and bioactivities of clematis species.

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Background: Little is known about the recent trends in antibiotic and phytopharmaceutical prescribing for acute upper (URIs) and lower respiratory tract infections (LRIs) in children and adolescents. Therefore, this study investigated changes in the prescription of antibiotics and phytopharmaceuticals in children diagnosed with acute URIs and LRIs in pediatric practices in Germany in 2013, 2018, and 2022. Methods: The present retrospective study included children aged 2–12 years diagnosed with acute URIs or LRIs in one of 180 pediatric practices in 2013, 2018, and 2022. The URIs included nasopharyngitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis and tracheitis, and upper respiratory infections of multiple and unspecified sites, while the LRIs corresponded to bronchitis. The primary outcomes were the proportion of children being prescribed antibiotics and the proportion of those being prescribed phytopharmaceuticals. Results: A total of 120,894 children were diagnosed with acute URIs or LRIs in 2013 compared to 116,844 in 2018 and 127,821 in 2022. The prevalence of antibiotic prescription decreased for all diagnoses between 2013 and 2022. This decrease was statistically significant for both 2013–2018 and 2018–2022 for nasopharyngitis, pharyngitis, and bronchitis. Meanwhile, there was a significant increase in the use of phytopharmaceuticals for all diagnoses between 2013 and 2018. The prevalence of phytopharmaceutical prescription decreased slightly between 2018 and 2022, but this decrease was generally not statistically significant. Conclusions: The prescription of antibiotics has decreased and that of phytopharmaceuticals has increased in children diagnosed with acute URIs and LRIs in Germany over the last decade. More data are needed to corroborate these findings in other settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species belonging to the genus Echinophora (Apiaceae) have been used by humanity since ancient times as flavoring agents, preservatives, and medicines for the treatment of a broad spectrum of conditions, including respiratory, digestive and kidney disorders, fungi infections, wounds, and gastric ulcers. Phytochemical studies on this botanical genus mainly investigate the essential oil composition and reveal the species as a rich source of volatile compounds, including monoterpenes and phenylpropanoids. Among the non-volatile secondary metabolites, flavonoids, coumarins, phenolic acids, phytosterols, and polyacetylenes have been identified. Pharmacological studies revealed Echinophora extracts and essential oils exhibit different biological properties, including antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, insecticidal, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities. However, compared to other genera, the biological activity and chemical diversity of this genus are not well studied. In future decades, it is highly likely that the small genus Echinophora will play an important role in drug discovery and drug development.

Background: Real world evidence (RWE) is becoming increasingly important in the evaluation of medical interventions and complements findings fromcontrolled clinical trials. At the same time, the RWE approach faces considerable methodological and ethical challenges. Herbal medicinal products have their place in therapy by health professionals and in self-medication for minor complaints, as well as symptoms that have a lasting impact on quality of life. However, the currently required key studies for drug approval do not adequately reflect the consequences of a medical prescription and/or self-medication. Therefore, the usability of RWE for research in the field of phytopharmaceuticals as well as methodological basics for the establishment of a phytoregistry was discussed in a workshop. Methods: The workshop consisted of two parts: impulse presentations on the topics of RWE and phytotherapy and the development of the basis of a position paper using the methodology of the nominal group technique. Results: The impulse presentations included interdisciplinary arguments fromthe fields of research and practice of phytotherapy, register creation, health services research, artificial intelligence and telemedicine. In the nominal group process, the chances and risks of phytotherapy, as well as content-related, methodological and practical aspects of a phytoregistry were discussed (focus, added value and methodological standards of the registry, financing, expected criticism, methods of analysis and significance in comparison to other medical fields). Conclusions: Registries are an increasingly accepted way to generate evidence in addition to clinical trials. The establishment of a registry for phytopharmaceuticals with clearly defined methodological criteria and the recording of patient-centered endpoints offers the opportunity to expand the scientific basis of the use and clinical benefit of phytopharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inappropriate use of antimicrobials, along with environmental conditions, can lead to the emergence of resistant microorganisms. The use of phytopharmaceuticals and herbal medicines has a positive impact and represents a promising alternative. Psidium guajava extracts have been widely reported to have antimicrobial potential; however, studies reporting their activity against resistant bacterial strains are scarce. Because of the emerging resistance, the aim of this study was to analyze the antimicrobial capacity of the aqueous extract of guava leaves against wild-type and resistant bacterial strains. The aqueous extract obtained from the leaves of P. guajava was evaluated by HPLC for the content of total phenolics and tannins, antioxidant activity, and chemical composition. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was analyzed by the disk diffusion and broth microdilution methods. The results of the chemical analysis of the extracts showed total phenolics content of 17.02 ± 6.87 mg/g of dry extract, total tannin content of 14.09 ± 1.20 mg of tannic acid equivalents/g of dry extract, and moderate antioxidant capacity with an EC50 value of 140 µg/mL. Flavonoids are the major compounds (rutin, hesperidin, and quercetin), followed by phenolic acids. Disk diffusion test results showed the presence of inhibition halos for Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, sensitive and resistant; Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, sensitive and resistant; and Streptococcus spp., beta-hemolytic), while for Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, sensitive and resistant), there was no inhibition in the tested concentration range. The Minimal Inhibitory Concentration was 6.8 mg/mL for all Gram-positive strains evaluated. The present study demonstrated the antimicrobial activity of the aqueous extract of P. guajava against sensitive and resistant Gram-positive bacteria. The better antimicrobial activity found in the present study compared with previously reported activity should be highlighted and may be related to the higher concentration of total phenolics present in the tested extract. Moreover, the content of tannins found suggests a species with high quality that produces tannins. These new findings suggest an innovative profile regarding therapeutic resources that can be adopted to combat resistant microbial strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammation is a vital therapeutic target for creating new methods for pharmacological interventions, aside from being a stage in the pathophysiology of many diseases, such as atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Thus, molecular understanding of inflammation has led to new opportunities for drug creation and significant new implications for current clinical medicine. It has also revealed the biological targets and mechanisms of therapeutic action, opening up new opportunities to alter complex biological systems. Meanwhile, using medicinal plants to control inflammation has been recommended as an alternative to traditional therapeutic approaches for a variety of conditions, particularly when suppression of inflammation is anticipated. Several medicinal plant species have been demonstrated to have strong anti-inflammatory properties in contemporary research. The review article was discussed about the chemical constituents and biological properties of therapeutically active plants including curcumin from Curcuma longa and epigallocatechin-3-gallate from Camellia sinensis, including the molecular pharmacology of active constituents against inflammation.

Herbal sources contain a variety of bio-actives, which are also called phytochemicals. Many of the herbal bio-actives have therapeutic effects and distinguished chemical properties that allow them favorable candidates for phytomedicines. The history of traditional herbal medicines, which are the precursors of phytopharmaceuticals, dates back to ancient times. Today, many of the officially approved and widely used medicines are produced by isolating active substances from herbal sources. Although traditional pharmaceutical dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, syrups, solutions, decoctions and ointments are still used today, problems related with the absorption, biotransformation and stability of phytochemicals reduces the efficacy, bioavailability and in some cases safety of herbal medicines. Also, conventional pharmaceutical dosage forms are often providing an immediate release of phytoconstituents. Besides the use of advanced drug delivery systems offer advantages to overcome mentioned problems, they also provide extended release with maximum efficacy associated with minimum side effects. Researches on development of herbal formulations by using novel drug delivery systems have gain attention and the use of nanotechnology-based systems have special attention. One of the nano drug carrier systems is nanofibers which have unique properties making them widely used in different treatments such as infections, allergy, rheumatic diseases, inflammatory diseases, cancers, etc. In this study, the use of the nanofiber-based carrier systems to deliver herbal bio-actives through various drug application routes is overviewed.

This is a report of the webinar on Good Clinical Practices (GCP) jointly organized by Kasturba Health Society’s Medical Research Centre and Inter System Biomedica Ethics Committee. The training was organized in six scientific sessions arranged over two half days. The delegates for this webinar were from the faculties of Nutrition, Ayurveda, Life Sciences, Pharmacy, Pharmacology, and Clinical Science. The program had prominent national authorities in the domain of ethics and clinical research, who delivered opening remarks. This was followed by scientific sessions on pharmaceuticals, phytopharmaceuticals, Ayurceuticals, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements. A special session was dedicated to the informed consent form (ICF). The final session was a panel discussion on diagnostics, non-drug therapies, medical devices, quality control, clinical trials & safety monitoring. This write-up gives the gist of the presentation made by various experts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Locally adapted native indigenous plant species (NIPS) could restore the crop diversity in sustainable agriculture. Methods: Here, we report the molecular identification and nutritional profiling of some five NIPS of Karnataka; Musa paradisiaca cv. Nanjangud rasabale, Piper betle L. cv. Mysore betel leaf, Jasminum grandiflorum cv Mysore mallige, Solanum melongena L. cv. Udupi Mattu Gulla and S. melongena L. cv. Erangere badane of which the first four are Geographical Indication (GI) tagged. The samples were procured, authenticated and sequenced using two standard DNA barcodes: nuclear ITS2 and plastid rbcl. Results: The phylogenetic analysis using Neighborhood joining method revealed all the ITS2 tree topologies with higher genetic divergence than rbcl. All the rbcl tree topologies were monophyletic indicating sequence conservation. Though the concatenated ITS2 + rbcl trees had higher bootstrap support (> 98% except Solanum sp.) differences were observed because of the lack of available sequence deposition at species level. The proximate and nutritional profiling of the NIPS displayed superiority in terms of their nutritional profile and their potential application in phytopharmaceutical sector as nutritional supplements. Conclusion: To our best knowledge this is the first study reporting the screening of five NIPS plant species of Karnataka for phylogeny and nutritional analysis. We also anticipate that if research towards the identification of NIPS species is accelerated, these nutritionally enhanced crops could be used as a safe and sustainable food in changing global climatic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a multifactorial disease that can be caused by genetic factors, obesity, joint microtrauma, and excessive physical exercises. The key features of OA include gradual loss of articular cartilage, bone tissue remodeling, development of osteophytes, and subchondral sclerosis. The pathogenesis of OA is based on the loss of glycosaminoglycans, collagen disorganization, and inflammation mediated by a cytokine cascade. OA is a complex disease affecting not only cartilage, but also intraarticular and periarticular tissues. Together, these changes compromise joint function and cause chronic pain. Considerable attention has beer recently paid to OA phenotyping in order to introduce a tailored approach into patient management. Phenotypes are applicable to the three most common peripheral OA locations: gonarthrosis, coxarthrosis, and hand OA. An international group of experts of primary care has developed algorithms for OA patient management, including diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and criteria for referring the patient to a specialist (rheumatologist). Current guidelines recommend non-drug therapy, pharmacotherapy, and surgery. There is a growing interest in phytopharmaceuticals, a heterogeneous group of molecules with a high capacity of suppressing inflammation, oxidative stress, and pain, as well as improving joint function. Mucosate® in capsules (DIAMED-pharma, Russia) is one of currently available complex products with phytocompounds. It contains the NEM® complex (natural eggshell membrane), Harpagophytum root extract, glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, and manganese sulfate monohydrate.

Background: Increasing prevalence of microbial resistance and side effects of currently available drugs compels the researchers to look for alternate therapies and formulations to overcome this problem. Plant based formulations have been proved to be most reliable agents in recent times. Objective: In the current study, bio fabricated herbal silver nanoparticles (HSNPs) were prepared by reducing silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution with ethyl acetate fractions (EAF) of Blumea lacera extracts. These bios conjugated HSNPs were then assessed for potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities along with in vitro antioxidant effect. Methods and results: The synthesis was confirmed by absorbance peak at 441 nm due to surface plasmon resonance in UV-visible spectrophotometer. FTIR spectra of HSNPs indicated the phytochemicals having C-O bond responsible for reducing of Ag+ to Ago. Average size of HSNPs was found to be 59.21 nm which was in good agreement with TEM and SEM results. EDS analysis showed the existence of Silver, Nitrogen and Carbon in HSNPs. The antibacterial activity of HSNPs in terms of zone of inhibition (ZOI) via disc diffusion assay and against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was found to be 25.0±1.19 mm and 18.3±2.08 mm, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of HSNPs was found to be 50 µg/ml and 60 µg/ml against S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. The antioxidant capacity of the HSNPs was insignificant as compared to EAF but the results of anti-inflammatory activity was significant (p<0.05). Conclusion: The overall result demonstrated better in-vitro pharmacological potential of HSNPs compared to neat extract/EAF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extensive use of antibiotics has resulted in the development of drug-resistant bacteria, leading to a decline in the efficacy of traditional antibiotic treatments. Essential oils (EOs) are phytopharmaceuticals, or plant-derived compounds, that possess beneficial properties such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiviral, bacteriostatic, and bactericidal effects. In this review, we present scientific findings on the activity of EOs as an alternative therapy for common oral diseases. This narrative review provides a deeper understanding of the medicinal properties of EOs and their application in dentistry. It not only evaluates the effectiveness of these oils as antibacterial agents against common oral bacteria but also covers general information such as composition, methods of extraction, and potential toxicity. Further nonclinical and clinical studies must be conducted to determine their potential use and safety for treating oral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurodegenerative diseases refer to a group of neurological disorders as a consequence of various destructive illnesses, that predominantly impact neurons in the central nervous system, resulting in impairments in certain brain functions. Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, and other neurodegenerative disorders represent a major risk to human health. In order to optimize structural and functional recovery, reconstructive methods integrate many approaches now, to address the complex and multivariate pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders. Stem cells, with their unique property of regeneration, offer new possibilities in regenerative and reconstructive medicine. Concurrently, there is an important role for natural products in controlling many health sufferings and they can delay or even prevent the onset of various diseases. In addition, due to their therapeutic properties, they have been used as neuroprotective agents to treat neurodegenerative disorders. After decades of intensive research, scientists made advances in treating these disorders so far, but current therapies are still not capable of preventing the illnesses from progressing. Therefore, in this review, we focused on a new perspective combining stem cells and natural products as an innovative therapy option in the management of neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In our study we found that the overall meta-analysis of all cancer related fatigue (CRF) treatment studies showed significant reduction of CRF. The meta-analysis did not show significant reduction of CRF with treatment ginseng, guarana, megestrol, mistletoe, psychostimulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors/antidepressants. Metanalysis of Corticosteroids studies showed significant reduction in CRF. Further studies are needed. Purpose: In this study we aimed to estimate the effectiveness of pharmacological, nutraceutical, and phytopharmaceutical treatments on CRF. Methods: Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Ovid Psych info, CINHAHL and Cochrane Library databases were searched up to 30 September 2021. Randomized controlled trials of pharmacological, nutraceutical and phytopharmaceutical interventions for treatment of CRF for at least one week duration and have used valid tool to assess severity of CRF as a primary or secondary outcome were considered. Results: 32 eligible studies (4896 patients) were reviewed. For the overall meta-analysis, the random effect models yielded the treatment effect (95% CI) of −0.29 (−0.48,−0.09), p < 0.001. The meta-analysis did not show significant reduction of CRF with treatment with ginseng (n = 6), guarana (n = 3), megestrol (n = 2), mistletoe (n = 3), psychostimulants (n = 14), SSRI/antidepressants (n = 2). Corticosteroids (n = 2) showed significant reduction in CRF with treatment effects of 0.94 (−1.21, −0.67), p <0.0001, respectively. Conclusions: In this study, overall meta-analysis of all studies demonstrates significant reduction of CRF using Pharmacological, Nutraceutical and Phytopharmaceutical interventions with a pooled standardized treatment effect of −0.29. Metanalysis of Corticosteroids studies showed significant reduction in CRF. Further studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]