Journal of Natural Remedies

Evaluation of Anti-hyperlipidemic Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Elaeocarpus angustifolius Blume Leaves in Albino Wistar Rats

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Backgrounds: Hyperlipidemia is traditionally defined as conditions in which the concentration of cholesterol or triglyceride- carryingnlipoproteins in plasma exceeds an arbitrary normal limit. Elaeocarpus angustifolius Blume (Elaeocarpus ganitrus) is an average-sized evergreen tree with a various biological activity. The present study aimed to evaluate the antihyperlipidemic activity of ethanolic extract of E. angustifolius Blume leaves in albino Wistar rats. Materials and Methodology: The investigation was intended to scrutinize the anti-hyperlipidemic activity of extract which is ethanolic of EAB in high-fat fructose-fed hyperlipidemic rats. The EEEAB was managed at an amount level of 125, 250, and 500mg/kg p.o for 21 days in hyperlipidemic rats and atorvastatin was set as standard control. At the end of the 21 days, samples of blood were poised by the orbital retro and the profile of lipids was determined. For antioxidant activity in vitro of EEEAB was judged by using Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) radical scavenging analysis. Result: The high-fat fructose diet-treated group exhibited hyperlipidemia with increased lipid concentrations along with an increase in body weight and downfall in temperature in contrast to the group regarded as control. EEEAB showed a decrease in the lipid levels (p<0.001, p<0.01, p<0.05) in a dose dose-dependent manner in treated rats and the HDL ratio improved after administration with EEEAB. For the in vitro study, the IC₅₀ worth of EEEAB was calculated to be 22μg/ml. Conclusion: The complete experimental outcomes suggested that the pharmacological operative phytoconstituent for instance flavonoids present in the EEEAB exhibited significant antihyperlipidemic activity on hyperlipidemic rats.

A Comparative Clinical Study on Agnikarma along with Panchatikta Guggulu in the Management of Janu Sandhigatvata (Osteoarthritis of Knee Joint)

Manisha M. Kapadiya, T. S. Dudhamal (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Osteoarthritis is characterized by a slow and progressive deterioration of articular cartilage. It is a condition involving the breakdown of the protective cartilage covering the ends of the bones where two bones meet to form a joint. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of Agnikarma with Panchatikta Guggulu in the management of Janu Sandhigatavata (osteoarthritis of knee joint). A total of 61 patients of Sandhigatavata (osteoarthritis of knee joint) were selected and randomly allocated into two groups, among them 57 were completed and 4 patients dropped out. In group A (n = 29), Agnikarma was done with Panchadhatu Shalaka and Panchatikta Guggulu orally given with lukewarm water after the meal. In group B (n = 28), Agnikarma was done with Panchadhatu Shalaka and a placebo capsule has orally given with lukewarm water after the meal. group‑A provided 70.35% relief in pain while group‑B provided 61.85% relief. Relief from crepitus was observed in 5.55% of patients of group‑A, while 1.92% of patients of group‑B. Both groups provided 68.57% relief in stiffness. There was a statistically insignificant difference between both groups. Group A shows better result in pain relief than group B. Agnikarma with Panchatikta Guggulu is more effective than Agnikarma alone in the management of Janu Sandhigatavata.

Investigation of Anti-cancer Potential of Solanum virginianum L. Fruit and Leaf Extracts by In Vitro and In Silico Studies

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Solanum virginianum L. is used as an ancient medicinal plant in Ayurveda. Aim: The present study aimed to elucidate the anticancer properties of S. virginianum through in vitro and in silico studies. Methods: The plant’s fruits and leaves were subjected to hot extraction using methanol and water as a solvent. The cytotoxicity assay was carried out on MCF-7 (Adenocarcinoma breast cancer cell line) and HEK-293 (Human embryonic kidney cell line—a normal cell line). Cell migration inhibition assay and colony formation assay were performed conform on the MCF-7 cell line. The leaf aqueous extract was subjected to HR-LCMS/MS to evaluate different phytocompounds. The in silico study was performed by checking the binding affinity between NINE-selected phytocompounds and specific apoptotic target proteins. Results: Amongst all extracts, the leaf aqueous extracts showed promising results, as at the 72-h incubation period, the IC₅₀ concentration was 10.4 ± 1.13 μg/mL. Leaf aqueous extract also showed significant results in cell migration inhibition assay and colony-forming assay as compared to fruits. Finding metabolites in aqueous leaf extract was done using HR-LCMS/MS, which revealed the presence of more than 30 phytocompounds. Nine selected phytocompounds were characterized for their ability to bind to specific apoptotic target proteins. Out of the selected compounds docked, ritterazine A showed very strong binding with a binding energy of above -9kcal/mol with all the target proteins. Conclusion: Based on this study, we can conclude that the leaf of S. virginianum has potent anti-cancer activities. Furthermore, there is potential for doing comprehensive research on the therapeutic applications of this plant in breast cancer treatment.

Evaluation of Neuroprotective Effect of Salicin in an Experimental Animal Model of Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Neuropathy

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Diabetic neuropathy stands as the most prevalent secondary complication connected with diabetes mellitus. The susceptibility of mammalian nerves to oxidative stress is heightened due to their rich phospholipid content, leading to a reduced ability to counteract the free radicals responsible for neuropathy. While synthetic treatments can help alleviate oxidative stress, they often come with unwanted side effects. Shifting the focus towards natural pharmaceuticals could mitigate these negative effects. Phenolic compounds abundant in antioxidants may aid in reducing oxidative stress. Aim: Assess the preventive influence of Salicin, a phenolic compound against diabetic neuropathy induced by Streptozotocin (STZ). Methods: Four weeks following the injection of STZ into the peritoneal cavity, a noticeable reduction in thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia, cold allodynia, motor coordination and locomotor activity was noted. Natural antioxidants such as reduced glutathione and catalase were assessed along with lipid peroxidation levels on the 28th day and the sciatic nerve was subjected to histopathological examination. Results: Orally administering Salicin at dosages of 10, 15, and 20mg/kg over 28 days successfully mitigated the reduction in the nociceptive threshold and bolstered the levels of endogenous antioxidants. It also mitigated the unwanted histopathological changes effectively based on the dosage. Conclusion: Salicin having antioxidant properties, demonstrates potential in alleviating diabetic neuropathic pain and preventing associated complications.

Evaluation of Prebiotic Potential and HPTLC Analysis of Withania somnifera with Application in Improving the Chemotherapy-induced GI Side Effects

Rashmi C. Yadav, Santosh S. Bhujbal, Aarti Supekar (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Chemotherapy is a known choice of treatment for Cancer which has the aspect of producing strong adverse effects affecting the quality of life. To apar these various options are available wherein prebiotic use is emerging. An important herb Ashwagandha, derived from the dried mature roots of Withania somnifera (WS) Dunal, from the Solanaceae family (genus Withania), is utilised as a study specimen. Aim: The present study focuses on the determination of the prebiotic potential of the WS as a growth stimulant using Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA) with the support of HPTLC fingerprinting and marker study. Method: The growth analysis of WS was done using LA under microaerophilic conditions for 48hrs. The activity of WS is being confirmed using HPTLC m fingerprinting and marker study. Results: The extract showed the presence of the withaferin A with Rf of 0.364 using a solvent system (Methanol: Ethylacetate: Formic acid (1:9:0.5) and confirmed with standard marker using a solvents system of (Toluene: Ethyl acetate: Methanol: GAA (5:3.5:1:0.5). Conclusion: The growth of LA is stimulated showing an increase in lactic acid concentration and pH. HPTLC fingerprinting and marker study showed the presence of desired withanolides.

Simultaneous Quantification of Embelin, Piperine and Gallic Acid in Vidanaga Vati by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Vidanga vati is a polyherbal formulation extensively used in Ayurveda as a remedy to treat fungal infections and warm infections. It mainly contains fruit parts of Embelia ribes, Piper nigrum, Phyllanthus emblica, Terminalia bellerica and Terminalia chebula. Aim: The present study aimed at developing a validated and reliable High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method for the simultaneous analysis of Embelin, Piperine and Gallic acid from Vidanga vati. Method: The method employed BDS Hypersil C₁₈ column (250mm x 4.6mm, 5μm) as the stationary phase and Methanol: Phosphate buffer pH 2.4 (98:2 v/v) as the mobile phase to identify and quantify Embelin, Piperine and Gallic acid using HPLC. Results: Linear regression data for the calibration curves of standard Embelin, Piperine and Gallic acid showed a good linear relationship over a concentration range of 2-10μg/mL, 100-500μg/mL and 1000-5000μg/mL respectively. The percentage recoveries for Embelin, Piperine and Gallic acid were found to be in the range of 99.26-99.87%, 98.25-99.25% and 99.31-99.92% respectively. The method was assessed for accuracy, precision, selectivity and robustness. Conclusion: It was concluded that the developed HPLC method was efficient, simple, accurate and valid in the quantitative determination of Embelin, Piperine and Gallic acid.

Exploring the Antitumour Potential of Diospyros chloroxylon Roxb. Extract in EAC Models: An Integrative In Vitro and In Vivo Approach

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Natural compounds have emerged as promising alternatives, owing to their low toxicity and potential efficacy. This study investigates the anticancer effects of Diospyros chloroxylon Roxb. leaf extract on Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) in vitro and in vivo. Methods: The in vitro cytotoxicity of D. chloroxylon extract was assessed using the MTT assay on various cancer cell lines, including EAC, A549 (lung), MCF-7 (breast), DU 145 (prostate), HT 29 (colon) and Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs). The in vivo study involved the treatment of EAC-bearing mice with two doses (200mg/kg and 400mg/kg). Parameters such as body weight, tumour volume, packed cell volume, viable and non-viable cell counts, mean survival time and lifespan were evaluated. Haematological parameters and biochemical markers were also analysed, followed by histopathological analysis. Results: In the MTT assay, D. chloroxylon extract showed selective cytotoxicity, exhibiting a strong effect on EAC cells with lower IC₅₀ values than other cancer cell lines and minimal toxicity towards HUVECs. In in vivo, D. chloroxylon treatment mitigated weight loss, reduced tumour volume in a dose-dependent manner and improved survival times. It also normalised haematological and biochemical parameters, indicating its potential to manage cancer-induced complications. Histopathological studies showed that doxorubicin and higher doses of D. chloroxylon enhanced liver tissue structure. However, complete recovery from EAC-induced hepatic alterations, such as dilated sinusoids, remains elusive. Conclusion: Diospyros chloroxylon Roxb. leaf extracts demonstrated significant anticancer activity in vitro and in vivo. Its ability to selectively induce cytotoxic effects on cancer cells and its beneficial effects in an EAC mouse model suggests its potential as a therapeutic agent for cancer treatment.

Jasminum sambac (L.) Alleviates Rheumatoid Arthritis: Synergistic or Complementary Action? A Phytochemical and Pharmacological Investigation

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Jasminum sambac (L.) Aiton (JS) has promising anti-arthritic activity and is traditionally considered an analgesic. Although JS has been reported to exhibit multiple therapeutic values, its role in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is under extensive research. The biological effect of β-sitosterol was evident in crude extracts and isolated fractions for various inflammatory disorders. However, it is still unclear if β-sitosterol is the only chemical constituent that contributes most to the reported anti-arthritic activity of JS. Objectives: The current study was designed to ascertain the role of β-sitosterol present in the ethanol extract of JS on Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA) induced Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis (AIA) model in Wistar rats. Methodology: The rats were injected with CFA and treatment (days 0 to 28) with vehicle (control), ethanol extract of JS (JSE 400 mg/kg) and β- sitosterol (2 mg/kg). The estimated parameters were clinical signs, oxidative biomarkers, inflammatory markers, and ankle joint destruction, using the CT scan technique. Results: The chronic JSE treatment significantly decreased swelling and reduced the severity of arthritis. Myeloperoxidase activity, an inflammatory marker, decreased while the free radical scavenging activity was significantly elevated. However, β-sitosterol failed to alleviate inflammation and scavenge free radicals in arthritic rats. Similarly, extensive osteopenia and erosion were displayed in β-sitosterol treated rats whereas JSE treatment has marked improvement in bone structure restoration. Conclusion: The outcome demonstrates anti-arthritic activity of JSE but β-sitosterol failed to exhibit similar efficacy on its own. Interestingly, HPTLC analysis detected β-sitosterol in JSE but individual β-sitosterol lacked therapeutic outcome of JSE. It suggests that the potent activity of JS cannot be attributed to β-sitosterol alone but other vital chemical constituent/s may contribute to the observed alleviation of rheumatoid arthritis by JSE in rats.

Probiotics in Action: Enhancing Immunity and Combatting Diseases for Optimal Health

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

This review offers an in-depth examination of the mechanisms underlying the microbiome's defense against viral infections, with a specific focus on probiotic interventions. Mycotoxins, secondary compounds produced by microfungi, pose significant health risks. Yet, certain strains of Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) have exhibited remarkable efficacy in eliminating aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), the most toxic member of the aflatoxin family. Experimental setups demonstrated AFB1 binding to specific LAB strains, persisting even after gastric digestion. Laboratory studies revealed a potential protective mechanism wherein pre-incubation of probiotics with mycotoxins reduced their adhesion to mucus. Animal trials further underscored the benefits of oral probiotic administration, showcasing increased fecal excretion of mycotoxins and mitigation of associated health risks. Cyanobacteria-generated microcystins in drinking water pose a significant threat to human health. Probiotic bacteria, particularly strains like Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, have demonstrated exceptional efficacy in removing the cyanobacterial peptide toxin microcystin-LR. Optimized conditions resulted in rapid toxin elimination, highlighting the potential of probiotics in water purification. Engineered probiotics represent a cutting-edge approach to tailor microorganisms for specific therapeutic applications, exhibiting promise in treating metabolic disorders, Alzheimer's disease, and type 1 diabetes. Additionally, they serve as innovative diagnostic tools, capable of detecting pathogens and inflammation markers within the body. In the realm of antimicrobial peptide production, probiotics offer a promising platform, with genetically modified strains engineered to produce human β-defensin 2 (HBD2) for treating Crohn's disease, showcasing their potential in targeted theurapetic delivery. Biocontainment strategies have been implemented to prevent unintended environmental impacts.

Shilajeet: Classical Ayurveda Texts to Current Research - A Review

Sudarshan K. Thakur, Bharat Rathi, Renu Rathi, Anjna Tak, Manik Soni (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Shilajeet is popular worldwide for its medicinal, anti-aging, aphrodisiac, and many other properties. However, it has a wide and long history of use, and its availability, identification, and characterization are some of the most difficult conundrums, even for the related traditional medicine experts on scientific parameters. Information about it is scattered in various classical texts and research publications. This review gives a detailed description from various sources about the natural origin of Shilajeet, its availability, collection, classification, identification, purity, and analysis criteria, classical organoleptic characteristics and classical qualitative tests, physicochemical characteristics, organic composition, and elemental composition. Further, the properties of Shilajeet, research scopes, and the need and purpose of working on this drug from Indian medicine have been discussed.

Loni Shaka (Portulaca oleracea Linn.): A Potential Ethno-Medicinal Vegan Herb

Priyal Bansal, Dattatray Sarvade (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Ghol bhaji, a commonly used vegetable in Maharashtra, which is known as Loni shaka (Portulaca oleracea Linn.; family: Portulacaceae) in Ayurveda has high nutritious value containing potassium, magnesium, calcium etc, in good amounts. It is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Different pre-clinical studies proved its activities anti-inflammatory (leaf), and antimicrobial (leaf, seed, and root tuber), also whole plant extract proved to be having estrogenic activity in female rats. Ethanol is medicinally used in different ailments i.e. diarrhoea, asthma, dysentery, obesity, jaundice, throat infections, ulcers, snake bites, toothache and diabetes. Clinically, the herb has proved effective in diabetes, Perimenopausal syndrome, PCOD Wound healing etc. Loni shaka is the best antioxidant having good nutritional value. It demonstrated the herb’s enormous nutritional potential and suggested possible uses in the future. It is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts in Shaka Varga with the name of Lonika. Traditionally used as a vegetable having amla rasa which is responsible for its vatahar property and shows the effect on jarajanya vyadhi (geriatric diseases). It blooms in the summer season, especially in the morning hours.

A Brief Review on Soothing Herbs: Stress Reducing Botanicals

Niyati Shah, Chitrali Talele, Falguni Rathod (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

"Soothing herbs: stress reducing botanicals" explores the potent world of natural remedies aimed at alleviating stress and promoting holistic well-being. It delves into the diverse range of botanicals renowned for their stress-reducing properties and their historical and contemporary significance. Herbs have been cherished for centuries across cultures for their therapeutic effects on the mind and body. This comprehensive exploration navigates through various herbal allies known for their stress-relieving qualities. From adaptogens like ashwagandha and holy basil, celebrated for their ability to regulate the body's response to stress, to calming herbs such as chamomile, lavender, and lemon balm, renowned for their soothing effects on the nervous system, this abstract unravels the science and tradition behind their efficacy. Furthermore, "Soothing Herbs" sheds light on the mechanisms of action within these botanicals, elucidating how compounds like flavonoids, terpenes, and adaptogenic elements interact with the body, mitigating stress hormone levels and fostering a sense of tranquility. Moreover, it explores their diverse forms of consumption, including teas, tinctures, essential oils, and supplements, offering practical insights into integrating these remedies into everyday life. It also investigates contemporary research validating the age-old wisdom surrounding these herbs, highlighting clinical studies and trials that support their efficacy in stress management. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of responsible usage, potential contraindications, and the significance of consulting healthcare professionals before incorporating these herbs into one's regimen. "Soothing Herbs: Stress-Reducing Botanicals" serves as an informative guide, bridging ancient wisdom with modern science, and empowering individuals to explore natural alternatives for stress relief while emphasizing the holistic approach to well-being.

Passiflora edulis: A Bioactive Bounty – A Comprehensive Review

Kinjal P. Patel, Rajesh A. Maheshwari (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Passiflora edulis, commonly known as passion fruit, transcends its delightful taste by harbouring many medicinal properties. Rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and polyphenols, passion fruit displays robust free-radical-scavenging effects, suggesting potential anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits. Studies underscore its anti-cancer potential, necessitating further exploration. Passion fruit, especially its leaves, emerges as a potent source of antioxidants, as demonstrated through in vitro and in vivo assessments. Compounds like vitexin and isoorientin contribute to its antioxidative effects. Passion fruit exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, with butanoic fractions and C-glucosyl flavones showing promise in alleviating pain and suppressing inflammation. The fruit peel demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects in inflammatory bowel disease models, reinforcing its potential therapeutic role. Studies unveil passion fruit’s anti-hypertensive prowess, attributed to compounds like luteolin and γ-aminobutyric acid. Yellow passion fruit pulp and peel extract effectively reduce blood pressure, showcasing its vasodilatory effects. Passion fruit emerges as a hypolipidemic agent, countering hyperlipidemia-related risks. Juice, peel flour, and seed extracts exhibit lipid-lowering effects, attributed to compounds like pectin and linoleic acid. In the realm of antidiabetic activities, passion fruit demonstrates glucose-lowering effects in diabetic models. Aqueous leaf extracts mitigate diabetes-related complications, emphasising their potential as a preventive measure. Passion fruit peel flour improves insulin sensitivity and protects against insulin resistance. Remarkably, passion fruit unveils antitumor potential, hindering tumour growth and inducing apoptosis in various cancer cells. Polysaccharide fractions and ethanolic extracts exhibit significant anticancer effects. Finally, passion fruit manifests antidepressant properties, with cyclobutane triterpenoids identified as potential bioactive components. Ethanol extracts reduce immobility time, suggesting a role in modulating dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways. In essence, passion fruit, with its diverse bioactive compounds, holds promise as a multifaceted therapeutic agent, warranting further exploration for its extensive medicinal applications.

A Review on Ethnomedical Uses, Chemical Composition and Pharmacological Activities of Buddleja crispa

Ranjeet Kaur Parmar, Amandeep Kaur Gill, Vinay Thakur (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

With the emergence of infectious diseases, various scientific studies have been carried out on natural products to encounter them. As there is structural distinctness in natural products, researchers are focused on investigating them for the management and treatment of various ailments. Buddleja crispa Benth., commonly known as "Himalayan butterfly bush" is widely used ethnomedicinally in treating several diseases. For thousands of years, it has been used as an antispasmodic, wound healing, treating colds, dysentery, bleeding, and conditions of hepatitis, etc. This review article focuses on providing a concise summary of the botanical, ethnomedicinal, phytopharmacological, and applications of B. crispa in enzyme inhibition. It also critically assesses the existing literature to provide a scientific foundation for the appropriate use of this plant and future research.

Nephroprotective Plants in Ayurveda: A Comprehensive Review

Mamta Kumari, Piyushkumar Sadhu, Dipali Talele, Amit Pandey (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Renal diseases, particularly nephrotoxicity, pose a significant threat to human health, often stemming from exposure to medications or toxins. Acute renal failure, resulting from factors such as heart failure, hypoxia, antibiotics, chemotherapy, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, presents a critical health challenge with a high mortality rate. This review involves the potential of medicinal plants, known for their antioxidant properties, in preventing and treating kidney disorders. This article provides a thorough exploration of nephroprotective plants, including insights into their mechanism of action, active phytoconstituents, sources, and potential utilizations. The aim is to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of traditional medicinal practices and their relevance in addressing the complexities of kidney-related issues.

Wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum) Extract Reduces Inflammatory TNF-Alpha Response in Experimentally Induced Gastric Ulceration in Rat Model

Sainu Susan Oommen (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: The term ‘peptic ulcer’ refers to the ulcers that occur in either the stomach or the first part of the small intestine that leads out of the stomach, called the duodenum. Aim: The present study aims to examine the protective consequence of wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum) extract on ethanol-induced gastric ulceration in Albino Wistar rats. Methods: The extract of wheatgrass significantly reduced gastric ulceration in rats in comparison to the control ethanol group. Results: Consequently, a remarkable decrease in the inflammatory activity of the TNF-α was observed in ethanol-induced ulcerated rats receiving treatment with wheatgrass extract. The gastric volume and ulceration increased with oral administration of ethanol. A drastic decrease in the total acidity and ulcer index was observed in rats treated with wheatgrass extract. In the protective index percentage, a substantial increase was observed with doses of the wheatgrass extract. Conclusion: These results suggest the gastro-protective effect of wheatgrass extract.

Analysis of Antimicrobial and Antihistaminic Activity of Siddha Medicine Sarva Sangaara Uppu Parpam

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Respiratory disorders lead to mental stress and reduce the quality of life. Hence, there is a need to intervene with traditional healthcare systems. One such healthcare system being practised in the Southern Peninsula is Siddha. Siddhars used herbs, inorganic substances, and animal products to formulate a medicine for maintaining the balance of trihumors (Vali, Azhal and Aiyam). Sarva Sangaara Uppu Parpam is one of the formulations made using herbs indicated for respiratory disorders. Aim: The current study was carried out to analyse the antihistamine and antimicrobial of Siddha medicine Sarva Sangaara Uppu Parpam (SSUP). Methods: Antihistaminic activity was done by isolated chick ileum method and anti-microbial activity for respiratory pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia, Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa was determined by disc diffusion method. Result: The results show a statistically significant difference in the response curve of histamine with mean and standard deviation values of 6.5 and 2.258 at p < 0.001. Thus, the drug was effective against pathogens such as K. pneumonia, P. aeruginosa and fungal pathogen C. albicans with a maximum inhibitory zone of 12 mm. This medicine has antihistaminic and antimicrobial activity against K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa and C. albicans. The results of this study should have extended analysis through further preclinical analysis and clinical trials are necessary to establish the safety and efficacy of SSUP.

Phytochemical Screening and α-Glucosidase Inhibitor Activity of Aerial Parts of Maidenhair Fern: Adiantum lunulatum

T. Sravani, K. Sunitha (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Medicinal plants and herbs are used extensively in traditional medicine to treat and manage a wide range of conditions, including diabetes mellitus and its after-effects. As diabetes mellitus is increasing rapidly and is mostly caused by changes in lifestyle, the use of traditional medicines for its treatment and management has increased. Fern extracts have demonstrated tremendous potential in the management of diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular problems and neurological disorders. A prominent class of type 2 antidiabetic drugs and α-glucosidase inhibitors work by lowering postprandial hyperglycemia. Aim: The purpose of this in vitro investigation was to assess any possible inhibitory effects of aerial portions of the Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum lunulatum Burm). Methods: Using extracts of Adiantum lunulatum derived from methanolic and chloroform solvents, the research team performed phytochemical screenings to ascertain if the extracts could stop α-glucosidase. Results: Minimising the postprandial plasma glucose spikes is achieved by delaying the absorption of carbs and glucose by inhibiting the activity of α-glucosidase. The chloroform extract of Adiantum lunulatum exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 705.02 ± 2.122 μg/ml and the methanol extract exhibited an IC₅₀ value of 526.12 ± 1.155 μg/ml. Acarbose was used as a positive control with an IC₅₀ value of 314.11 ± 1.021 μg/ml. The methanol extract exhibited more potent alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity than other extracts. The phytochemical screening of the extracts showed the presence of polyphenols and flavonoids. The microscopic study of the rachis of the fronds was carried out which showed the presence of a single layer of epidermic, sclerenchyma, stele and exarch xylem which helps in authentication. Conclusion: These findings can pave the way for the development of novel medicinal compounds derived from the Maidenhair Fern and bring more standardisation to the use of traditional herbal therapies for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Phytochemical Characterization and Evaluation of Anti-oxidant Activity of Ipomoea obscura (L.)

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Dietary botanicals, including food additives, fruits, and vegetables, have been used for centuries as natural health remedies, but scientific evidence on their preventive properties remains limited. These dietary plants are a significant source of many natural antioxidants. Natural herbal medicines have no side effects on human health so these herbal medicines can be a safe alternative to harmful allopathic medicines. Aim: In this study, we evaluated the antioxidant potential of Ipomoea obscura leaf extract and profiled the bioactive compounds of the leaf extract. Methods: UV-visible spectroscopy, DPPH analysis, and LC-MS analysis. Results: UV-visible analysis of water, ethanol, and methanol extracts of I. obscura showed maximum absorption at 310.0 nm, 413 nm, and 337 nm. Results of DPPH analysis showed that the aqueous extract (53.80 ± 1.45, R² = 0.92) has the maximum antioxidant potential compared to the ethanol and methanol extracts. Phytochemical analysis of the aqueous extract of I. obscura revealed several phytochemicals including alkaloids, carbohydrates, phenols, proteins, and saponins. LC-MS data confirmed the presence of 12 bioactive compounds in the aqueous extract of I. obscura leaves. Conclusion: The study reveals that the aqueous extract of I. obscura exhibits high antioxidant potential compared to ethanolic and methanolic extracts and has active secondary metabolites.

Impact of Ayurveda Pre-monsoon Prophylaxis on Episodes and Severity of Fever, Cough and Cold in North Karnataka - A Cross-sectional Survey Study

Amal S. Chandran, B. S. Prasad, V. Sreeja Kaimal, Divya Khare (Author) — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0530

Background: Though monsoons are a real gift of nature, it is a meteorological phenomenon which brings in lots of losses in terms of money and life through the upsurge of various infectious diseases in India. According to Ayurveda, immunity is comparatively lower during the monsoon season. So, it is in practice in our institute to provide pre-monsoon prophylaxis to all interested staff and students to boost immunity. Objective: The present retrospective cross-sectional study was planned to assess the impact of Ayurveda Pre-monsoon Prophylaxis on the severity and frequency of episodes of fever, cough and cold in healthy volunteers. Methods: After obtaining ethical clearance for the cross-sectional study, a survey using Google Forms was conducted. A Google form was created to assess the health condition as well as the frequency and severity of cough, cold and fever in the study subjects before and after prophylaxis. Detailed scrutiny of the respondents was carried out by the investigators. The Google forms of people who participated in the prophylaxis and visited for follow-up six months after receiving monsoon prophylaxis were included in the analysis. The data was analyzed using paired t-test. Results: A total of 591 participants out of 806 met the inclusion criteria and participated in the study. A highly significant (p<0.001) reduction in the frequency of episodes and severity of fever, cold, and cough was found in the study subjects after prophylaxis. Conclusion: So, it may be inferred that Ayurveda Pre-monsoon prophylaxis is an effective practice to enhance overall health and thereby boost the immunity of individuals.