Recent Herbal Abstracts on Medline

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Bäurle P, Suter A, Wormstall H (2009) Safety & effectiveness of a traditional

ginkgo fresh plant extract - results from a clinical trial. Forsch

Komplementmed. Jun;16(3):156-61. Epub 2009 May 14. Psychiatric

Hospital, Münsterlingen, Switzerland. BACKGROUND: In Chinese medicine,

Ginkgo biloba is used for a variety of indications. In the current study, the

safety & efficacy of a traditional fresh plant extract was investigated in

patients w mild cognitive impairment. PATIENTS & METHODS: 59 elderly

patients were treated for 6 weeks w a twice daily tablet containing 90 mg of

fresh plant Ginkgo biloba extract. The patients suffered from age-related

mild cognitive impairment of the non-Alzheimer type assessed by the

DemTect score & the presence of symptoms, such as forgetfulness,

memory problems, & difficulties in concentration. At the end of the treatment

period, safety was primarily assessed by the occurrence of adverse events

& efficacy by the DemTect score, the SF-12 quality of life questionnaire, &

the change in cognitive symptoms, as well as the judgment of the

investigators & patients. RESULTS: At the final visit, the SF-12 mental score

had increased significantly from 48.3 +/- 10.1 to 51.3 +/- 7.9, whereas the

SF-12 body score (44.5 +/- 9.2 to 45.3 +/- 8.1) & the DemTect score (15.9

+/- 2.0 to 16.0 +/- 2.3) had not changed significantly. About half of all

patients experienced an improvement in their memory & their ability to

concentrate, as well as a decrease in symptoms of forgetfulness. The

majority of investigators & patients judged the treatment to be effective. The

tablets were very well tolerated and, as a treatment for their cognitive

impairment, highly accepted (90% would take them again). CONCLUSION:

This newly developed, fresh leaf extract of Ginkgo biloba is a safe, effective,

and, at least, adjuvant treatment option for patients w mild cognitive

impairments. Copyright 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel. PMID: 19657199

[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Deshmukh PT, Fernandes J, Atul A, Toppo E (2009) Wound healing activity

of Calotropis gigantea root bark in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. Aug

17;125(1):178-81. Epub 2009 Jun 16. Dept of Pharmacology, BR Nahata

College of Pharmacy, Mhow-Neemuch Road, Mandsaur 458001, Madhya

Pradesh, India. pradipdeshmukh

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Calotropis gigantea R.Br.

(Asclepiadaceae) is a perennial undershrub found chiefly in wastelands

throughout India. It has been reported as a traditional folkloric medicine for a

variety of alignments. The plant Calotropis gigantea is also used in some

parts of India for wound healing in combination w other plants. However

there are no scientific reports on wound healing activity of the plant

Calotropis gigantea R.Br. AIM OF THE STUDY: To investigate the effects of

Calotropis gigantea root bark on wound healing activity in rats by excision,

incision & dead space wound healing models in rats. METHODOLOGY:

Wistar albino rats of either sex weighing between 180 & 200 g were topically

treated w extract FORMULA ted in ointment by using simple ointment BP as

base. 5% (w/w) ointment was applied once daily in excision wound model.

Calotropis gigantea ethanolic extract was given orally at a dose of 100, 200,

& 400 mg/kg in incision & dead space wound healing models. Rats of

standard groups were treated w 5% Povidone iodine ointment topically. The

percentage wound closure, epithelization time, hydroxyproline content &

scar area on complete epithelization were measured. RESULTS: Topical

application of Calotropis gigantea in excision wound model increased the

percentage of wound contraction. Scar area & epithelization time were

decreased. In incision wound & dead space wound breaking strength of

wounds & hydroxyproline was increased. CONCLUSION: Calotropis

gigantea accelerated wound healing in rats & thus supports its traditional

use. PMID: 19539020 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Di Pierro F, Menghi AB, Barreca A, Lucarelli M, Calandrelli A (2009)

Greenselect Phytosome as an adjunct to a low-calorie diet for treatment of

obesity: a clinical trial. Altern Med Rev. Jun;14(2):154-60.

f.dipierro A recently developed oral FORMULA tion in

the form of coated tablets (Monoselect Camellia) (MonCam) containing

highly bioavailable green tea extract (GreenSelect Phytosome) was tested in

obese subjects (n=100) of both genders on a hypocaloric diet. 50 subjects

were assigned to the green tea extract plus hypocaloric diet, while the other

50 subjects followed the hypocaloric diet only. After 90 days of treatment,

significant weight loss & decreased body mass index (BMI) were observed

in the group taking the herbal extract (14-kg loss in the green tea group

compared to a 5-kg loss in the diet-only group); waistline was reduced only

in male subjects. Besides the effect on weight & BMI, biochemical

parameters (LDL-, HDL-, & total cholesterol, triglycerides, growth hormone,

insulin-like growth factor-1, insulin, & cortisol) were improved in both groups.

Leptin, not tested in the diet-only group, was reduced in patients taking

MonCam. Taking into consideration the high safety profile of the product &

the total absence of adverse effects observed during & after the trial,

MonCam appears to be a safe & effective tool for weight loss. PMID:

19594224 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Hwang K, Choi HG, Kim DJ, Hwang SH (2009) The effect of hydrolyzed

gardeniae fructus extract hydrogel on the treatment of ecchymoses in a rat

model. Dermatol Surg. Oct;35(10):1525-31. Epub 2009 Jul 20. Dept of

Plastic Surgery, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, Korea.

jokerhg BACKGROUND: Gardeniae fructus (GF) has been used

in traditional medicine for the treatment of inflammatory disease.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the therapeutic effect of GF gel on the resolution

of ecchymoses in rats. METHODS & MATERIALS: Fifty hind limbs (in 25

Sprague-Dawley rats) were evaluated. The ecchymoses were produced by

dropping a 100-g weight from a height of 20 cm on the posterior side of the

hind limbs 25 times. Then, 0.5 g of hydrolyzed GF extracted gel was applied

to the right hind limbs & 0.5 g of gel without GF extract powder was applied

to the left hind limbs. The area of the ecchymosis was measured, &

histological analysis was performed. RESULTS: The area affected by the

ecchymosis after 5 days was 15% in the control group & 2% in the GF gel

group (p=.002). The mean duration for the ecchymosis was 5.8 days in the

control group & 4.5 days in the GF gel group. The extravasated red blood

cells & inflammation were less prominent in the GF gel group than in the

control group. CONCLUSION: The results of this study showed that

hydrolyzed gel of GF extract, containing genipin, was effective for the

treatment of ecchymoses in a rat model. PMID: 19686362 [PubMed -

indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Javadzadeh A, Ghorbanihaghjo A, Arami S, Rashtchizadeh N, Mesgari M,

Rafeey M, Omidi Y (2009) Prevention of selenite-induced cataractogenesis

in wistar albino rats by aqueous extract of garlic. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther.

Oct;25(5):395-400. Dept of Ophthalmology, Nikookari Eye Hospital, Tabriz

University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. PURPOSE: The main aim of

this study was to evaluate the inhibitory impacts of the aqueous extract of

garlic (Ga) on the formation of cataract induced by sodium selenite (Se).

METHODS: 32 Wistar albino rat pups (4 equal groups: G1, G2, G3, & G4)

were treated as follows: G1, subcutaneous (s.c.) & intraperitoneal (i.p.)

injection of normal saline (0.3 mL) on postpartum (day 10); G2, i.p. injection

of aqueous extract of garlic (1 mL/kg body weight) & s.c. injection of normal

saline (0.3 mL) on postpartum (day 10); G3, s.c. injection of sodium selenite

(20 nmol/g body weight) & i.p. injection of normal saline (0.3 mL) on

postpartum (day 10); & G4, s.c. injection of sodium selenite (20 nmol/g body

weight) & i.p. injection of aqueous extract of garlic (1 mL/kg body weight) on

postpartum (day 10). Daily i.p. injections of aqueous extract of garlic (in G2

& G4) & normal saline (in G1 & G3) were continued for 14 days. The

development of cataract was assessed over a period of 2 weeks after

injection of sodium selenite. For further examination, the rats' lenses were

removed & analyzed for glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels,

& superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activities.

RESULTS: In G3 (Se-treated group), all rats developed grade 3 cataract in

both eyes. However, in G1 (untreated control group), G2 (Ga-treated group),

& G4 (Ga-Se-treated group), the lenses in both eyes of all rats remained

clear (P < 0.0001). This clinical finding was associated w higher GSH level &

GPX, SOD activities & lower level of MDA in the Se- & Ga-treated group

(G4) compared w SS-treated group (G3) rat lenses (P < 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS: Intraperitoneal injection of the Ga in rat model appeared to

effectively prevent Se-induced cataract, thus such herbal remedy may be

considered for treatment of cataract. PMID: 19857100 [PubMed - in process]

 

Jiang WL, Chen XG, Zhu HB, Tian JW (2009) Effect of cornuside on

experimental sepsis. Planta Med. May;75(6):614-9. Epub 2009 Mar 4.

College of Marine Life Science, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003,

PRC. This study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of cornuside, a

secoiridoid glucoside compound, in cultured macrophages as well as in an

experimental model of sepsis induced by cecal ligation & puncture (CLP) in

rats. Cornuside was added to cultured macrophages at different

concentrations, & all CLP rats were randomized to receive an intravenous

injection of the corresponding drug followed by observation of its antisepsis

effect. Our results showed that cornuside downregulated the levels of TNF-

alpha, IL-6, & NO production in a dose-dependent manner in activated

macrophages, while it upregulated the level of IL-10. Intravenous injection of

cornuside / imipenem alone / in combination reduced CLP-induced lethality

in rats after CLP. In addition, serum levels of TNF- alpha, IL-6, triggering

receptor expressed on myeloid cells, & endotoxin were downregulated. On

the other hand, the serum levels of IL-10 were upregulated. Decreased

bacterial counts in blood, peritoneum, SP, liver, & mesenteric lymph nodes &

decreased myeloperoxidase in lung, liver, & small intestine also were found

after cornuside injection. These data indicate that the antisepsis therapeutic

effect of cornuside is mediated by decreased local & systemic levels of a

wide spectrum of inflammatory mediators. This work provides first evidence

for the clinic use of cornuside as a new immunomodulatory drug that has the

capacity to inhibit the inflammatory response in sepsis. Copyright Georg

Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart. New York. PMID: 19263342 [PubMed - indexed

for MEDLINE]

 

Joo KR, Shin HP, Cha JM, Nam S, Huh Y (2009) Effect of Korean red

ginseng on superoxide dismutase inhibitor-induced pancreatitis in rats: a

histopathologic & immunohistochemical study. Pancreas. Aug;38(6):661-6.

Dept of Internal Medicine, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Seoul,

Korea. krjoo OBJECTIVES: Korean red ginseng (KRG) is a

representative herbal remedy in Korea. We examined the effects of KRG

treatment on superoxide dismutase inhibitor-induced experimental

pancreatitis. METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats & KRG from the roots of a 6-

year-old fresh Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer plant were used in this study.

Pancreatitis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of

diethyldithiocarbamate for 4 weeks. Korean red ginseng was fed orally to

rats for the next 3 weeks. At week 7, all rats were killed, & pancreatic tissues

were analyzed. RESULTS: No histological alterations were detected in the

pancreata of normal & KRG control groups. Tissues from the non-KRG-

treated pancreatitis group exhibited marked pancreatic damage including

changes in histological architecture, acinar cell necrosis & degeneration, &

cytoplasmic vacuolization. However, tissues from the KRG-treated

pancreatitis group exhibited no cellular damage & had normal histological

pancreatic architecture. Immunohistochemical examination revealed that the

expressions of nuclear factor kappaB, tumor necrosis factor alpha, inducible

nitric oxide synthase, & the oxidant stress markers, malondialdehyde & 4-

hydroxynonenal, were significantly decreased in the KRG-treated

pancreatitis group as compared w the non-KRG-treated pancreatitis group.

CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that KRG has antioxidant therapeutic

effects on superoxide dismutase inhibitor-induced pancreatitis by inhibition

of nuclear factor kappaB. PMID: 19531970 [PubMed - indexed for

MEDLINE]

 

Kassaian N, Azadbakht L, Forghani B, Amini M (2009) Effect of fenugreek

seeds on blood glucose & lipid profiles in type 2 diabetic patients. Int J Vitam

Nutr Res. Jan;79(1):34-9. Infectious Diseases Research Center, Isfahan

University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran. Arbabnia_mn

BACKGROUND: Recently use of herbal medicines, have been considered

as an alternative for therapeutic usage. So, this study was undertaken to

evaluate the hypoglycemic & hypolipidemic effects of fenugreek seeds in

type 2 diabetic patients. METHODS: In a clinical trial study, 24 type 2

diabetic patients were placed on 10 grams/day powdered fenugreek seeds

mixed w yoghurt / soaked in hot water for 8 weeks. Weight, FBS, HbA(1)C,

total cholesterol, LDL, HDL & food record were measured before & after the

study. The differences observed in food records, BMI & serum variables

were analyzed using paired-t-test & t-student & P<or=0.05 was considered

as significant. RESULTS: After exclusion of 6 cases for changing in

medication / personal problems, the results of 18 patients (11 consumed

fenugreek in hot water & 7 in yoghurt) were studied. Findings showed that

FBS, TG & VLDL-C decreased significantly (25 %, 30 % & 30.6 %

respectively) after taking fenugreek seed soaked in hot water whereas there

were no significantly changes in lab parameters in cases consumed it mixed

w yoghurt. BMI, Energy, Carbohydrate, Protein & fat intake remained

unchanged during study. CONCLUSION: This study shows that, if soaked in

hot water, fenugreek seeds can be used as an adjuvant in the control of type

2 diabetes mellitus. PMID: 19839001 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Lin YK, Leu YL, Huang TH, Wu YH, Chung PJ, Su Pang JH, Hwang TL

(2009) Anti-inflammatory effects of the extract of indigo naturalis in human

neutrophils. J Ethnopharmacol. 2009 Aug 17;125(1):51-8. Epub Jun 25.

Dept of TCM, Center for TCM, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan,

Taiwan. ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Indigo naturalis is

used by TCM to treat various inflammatory diseases. AIM OF THE STUDY:

Topical indigo naturalis ointment showed efficacy in treating psoriasis in our

previous clinical studies. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory

effects of the extract of indigo naturalis (QD) & its main components

indirubin, indigo, & tryptanthrin in human neutrophils. MATERIALS &

METHODS: Superoxide anion (O2(.-)) generation & elastase release were

measured by spectrophotometry. Some important signals including mitogen-

activated protein kinase (MAPK), cAMP, & calcium were studied by Western

blot analysis, an enzyme immunoassay, & spectrofluorometry. RESULTS:

QD significantly inhibited O2(.-) generation & elastase release in formyl-L-

methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (FMLP)-activated human neutrophils in a

concentration-dependent fashion, while neither indirubin, indigo, nor

tryptanthrin produced a comparable result. QD attenuated the FMLP-

induced phosphorylation of extracellular regulated kinase, p38 MAPK, & c-

Jun N-terminal kinase. Furthermore, QD inhibited calcium mobilization

caused by FMLP. However, QD did not affect cellular cAMP levels. On the

other hand, neither indirubin, indigo, nor tryptanthrin produced similar

changes in human neutrophils. CONCLUSIONS: Taken collectively, these

findings indicate that QD, but not indirubin, indigo, / tryptanthrin, inhibited

O2(.-) generation & elastase release in FMLP-induced human neutrophils,

which was at least partially mediated by the inhibition of MAPK activation &

regulation of calcium mobilization. PMID: 19559779 [PubMed - indexed for

MEDLINE]

 

Ma BL, Ma YM, Yan DM, Zhou H, Shi R, Wang TM, Yang Y, Wang CH,

Zhang N (2009) Effective constituents in Xiexin Decoction for anti-

inflammation. J Ethnopharmacol. 2009 Aug 17;125(1):151-6. Epub Jun 6.

Lab of Pharmacokinetics, Shanghai University of TCM, 1200 Cailun Road,

Shanghai 201203, China. AIM OF THE STUDY: To ascertain the effective

constituents in Xiexin Decoction for anti-inflammation & the interactions of

these constituents at the pharmacodynamic level. MATERIALS &

METHODS: Rats were administered oral Xiexin Tang 1h before

intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide. Nitric oxide production & Xiexin Tang

constituents in venous serum samples were quantified & the correlation

between nitric oxide production & each constituent in serum was calculated.

Raw264.7 cells were stimulated w lipopolysaccharide & one / more Xiexin

Tang constituents; cell viability & nitric oxide production was quantified.

RESULTS: Xiexin Tang significantly decreased nitric oxide production in

vivo, which correlated well w rhein, baicalin, emodin & aloe-emodin. All the

typical constituents of Xiexin Tang, w the exception of physcione &

chrysophanol, dose-dependently inhibited nitric oxide production in vitro. In

an orthogonal designed in vitro study, rhein was the most powerful

constituent, followed by baicalin then berberine & no synergy was found

among these constituents. CONCLUSIONS: Rhein was the most effective

anti-inflammatory constituent in Xiexin Tang followed by baicalin; no synergy

was observed between rhein, baicalin & berberine at the pharmacodynamic

level in vitro. PMID: 19505563 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Mukherjee R, De UK, Ram GC (2009) Evaluation of mammary gland

immunity & therapeutic potential of Tinospora cordifolia against bovine

subclinical mastitis. Trop Anim Health Prod. Oct 30. I/C, Preventive Medicine

Lab, Division of Medicine, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar,

243122, U.P., India, reenam1992 Enhancement of the diseased

mammary gland immunity & therapeutic potential of hydro-methanolic

extract of Tinospora cordifolia (T. cordifolia; stem) in bovine subclinical

mastitis was investigated. Somatic cell count (SCC), total bacterial count

(TBC), phagocytic activity, & leukocyte lysosomal enzymes like

myeloperoxidase & acid phosphatase activity & Interleukin-8 (IL-8) level

were evaluated after intramammary infusion of hydro-methanolic extract

(stem) of T.cordifolia in diseased cows. The qualitative analysis of the

extract revealed the presence of polysaccharide, phenol, alkaloid, & protein.

Intramammary infusion of hydro-methanolic extract of T. cordifolia treatment

initially enhanced the SCC; thereafter, significant reduction in cell count (P <

0.05) was observed on day 15 of the treatment period, however, reduction in

TBC was observed from day 3 onwards. The phagocytic activity of milk

polymorphonuclear cells enhanced in the diseased cows treated w the T.

cordifolia extract. Similarly, the lysosomal enzyme content of the milk

polymorphonuclear cells enhanced significantly (P < 0.05) in diseased cows

treated w T. cordifolia. The IL-8 level in milk serum also increased

significantly (P < 0.05) in diseased cows treated w the herb extract. The

results suggest that the hydro-methanolic extract of T.cordifolia (stem)

possesses antibacterial & immunomodulatory properties. In the present

study, the biological activity of the Tinospora cordifolia extract at

standardized dose against bovine subclinical mastitis is reported for the first

time. Development of alternative therapy w medicinal plants is an option for

livestock farmers who are not allowed to use the conventional allopathic

drugs under certain farming system / cannot afford to use allopathic drugs.

PMID: 19876755 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

 

Ozgoli G, Selselei EA, Mojab F, Majd HA (2009) A randomized, placebo-

controlled trial of Ginkgo biloba L. in treatment of premenstrual syndrome. J

Altern Complement Med. Aug;15(8):845-51. Nursing & Midwifery School,

Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

gozgoli BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: During the

reproductive years, most of menstruating women experience symptoms of

premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which is incapacitating in up to 10% of

cases. According to complicated etiology, various therapeutic approaches

have been proposed. Because PMS is a chronic situation, special attention

should be paid to the side-effects of pharmacological interventions. Herbal

medicine is a recent favorable therapeutic approach owing to fewer side-

effects. We aimed to determine the effect of Ginkgo biloba L. on the

symptoms of PMS. METHODS: This was a single-blind, randomized,

placebo-controlled trial conducted from November 2007 to April 2008. The

students w PMS, living in dormitories of a medical university (Tehran), who

met the inclusion criteria entered the study. The students filled out the daily

symptom rating forms in two consecutive menstrual cycles. After we verified

the PMS diagnosis in 90 students, the participants were randomly assigned

to experiment & placebo groups & took G. biloba L. tablets (containing 40

mg leaf extracts) / placebo three times a day from the 16th day of the

menstrual cycle to the 5th day of the next cycle. Data were collected using

daily symptom rating forms. RESULTS: Eighty-five (85, 94.4%) participants

completed the study. The two groups were similar in terms of demographic

characteristics & baseline overall severity of symptoms. After the

intervention, there was a significant decrease in the overall severity of

symptoms & physical & psychologic symptoms in both Ginkgo (23.68%) &

placebo (8.74%) groups (p < 0.001). However, the mean decrease in the

severity of symptoms was significantly more in the Ginkgo group compared

to the placebo group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: G. biloba L. can reduce

the severity of PMS symptoms. Further research on active ingredients &

also the efficacy & safety of various doses & treatment durations of Ginkgo

are required. PMID: 19678774 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Salhan S, Tripathi V, Sehgal R, Kumar G, Talwar GP, Chatterjee A (2009) A

phase II randomized controlled trial to evaluate the safety & efficacy of

Praneem polyherbal vaginal tablets compared w betadine vaginal pessary in

women w symptoms of abnormal vaginal discharge. Asia Pac J Public

Health. Oct;21(4):461-8. Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung

Hospital, New Delhi, India. Abnormal vaginal discharge (AVD) caused by a

variety of reproductive tract infections is a widespread syndrome among

women in India & in other developing countries. The purpose of this study

was to determine whether a polyherbal FORMULA tion, Praneem, can be

used for the regression of the syndrome. A phase IotaIota randomized

controlled study was carried out w Praneem polyherbal tablets & Betadine

vaginal pessary in 99 women w AVD. The authors found that 92% of women

using Praneem were relieved of their symptoms of AVD as against 81.6%

women using Betadine. Significant reduction was also seen w both

treatments in lower abdominal pain, vaginal itching, & dysuria. Thus, the

study indicates the efficacy of Praneem for the treatment of AVD & provides

a rationale for planning a further Phase III study on a larger sample size for

definitive conclusions. PMID: 19783561 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Shaar awy SM, Tohamy AA, Elgendy SM, Elmageed ZY, Bahnasy A,

Mohamed MS, Kandil E, Matrougui K (2009) Int J Biol Sci. Aug 11;5(6):549-

57. Protective effects of garlic & silymarin on NDEA-induced rats

hepatotoxicity. Dept of Cancer Biology, National Research Institute, Cairo

University, Cairo, Egypt. BACKGROUND: The present study was conducted

to investigate the chemopreventive effects of garlic extract & silymarin on N-

nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) & carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced

hepatotoxicity in male albino rats. METHODS & RESULTS: Animals were

pretreated w garlic, silymarin / both for one week prior to the injection of

NDEA. Then animals received a single injection of NDEA followed by weekly

subcutaneous injections of CCl(4) for 6 weeks. Oral administration was then

continued along w the injection of CCl(4) for the duration of the experiment.

Serum aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline

phosphatase (ALP), hepatic lipid peroxidation (LPO), superoxide dismutase

(SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) &

glutathione reductase (GSR) were measured. Injection of NDEA induced a

significant elevation in serum AST, ALT & ALP. In the liver, NDEA increased

oxidative stress through the increase in LPO & decrease in SOD, & GSH-

dependent enzymes. Although administration of garlic / silymarin

significantly reduced the LV toxicity, combined administration was more

effective in preventing the development of hepatotoxicity. CONCLUSION:

These novel findings suggest that silymarin & garlic have a synergistic

effect, & could be used as hepatoprotective agents against hepatotoxicity.

PMCID: 2737715 PMID: 19742242 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Sithisarn P, Jarikasem S (2009) Antioxidant activity of Acanthopanax

trifoliatus. Med Princ Pract. 2009;18(5):393-8. Epub Jul 31. Pharmaceutical

& Natural Products Dept, Thailand Institute of Scientific & Technological

Research, Technopolis, Klong Luang, Pathumthani, Thailand. OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant activity of extracts of

various parts of Acanthopanax trifoliatus obtained by different extraction

methods. The total phenolic & flavonoid contents of the extracts were also

determined. MATERIALS & METHODS: The leaves, stems, stem bark,

roots & root bark of A. trifoliatus were extracted separately using decoction,

maceration & refluxing methods. The extracts were analysed for free-

radical-scavenging activity using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl

scavenging assay & the thiobarbituric-acid-reactive substance method for

the inhibition of lipid peroxidation of a rat brain homogenate. Total phenolic

& total flavonoid contents of the extracts were measured by UV

spectrophotometry. RESULTS: The leaf decoction extracts possessed a

significantly stronger antioxidant activity as revealed by both methods. Total

phenolic & flavonoid contents of the extracts ranged from 2.16 to 21.79 g%

chlorogenic acid equivalent & from 0.37 to 9.61 g% rutin equivalent,

respectively. Analysis of the leaf decoction extract, which exhibited the most

potent antioxidant activity, by thin-layer chromatography revealed flavonoid &

polyphenolic compounds corresponding to rutin & chlorogenic acid.

CONCLUSION: The leaf aqueous extracts showed a high level of

antioxidative activity & contained high levels of both phenolic & flavonoid

compounds. The magnitude of antioxidant activity corresponded w the level

of phenolic & flavonoid compounds. Copyright 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel.

PMID: 19648763 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Tobinaga S, Sharma MK, Aalbersberg WG, Watanabe K, Iguchi K, Narui K,

Sasatsu M, Waki S (2009) Isolation & identification of a potent antimalarial &

antibacterial polyacetylene from Bidens pilosa. Planta Med. 2009

May;75(6):624-8. Epub Mar 4. Showa Pharmaceutical University, Higashi-

tamagawagakuen, Machida, Tokyo 194-8543, Japan.

tobinaga Diseases caused by malaria parasites &

pathogenic bacteria were thought to be on the brink of eradication in the

1950-1960s, but they have once again become a serious threat to mankind

as a result of the appearance of multidrug resistant strains. The spread of

these multidrug resistant organisms has prompted a worldwide search for

new classes of effective antimalarial & antibacterial drugs. Natural products

have been recognized as highly important candidates for this purpose. Our

attention has focused on the herbal plant Bidens pilosa, a weed common

throughout the world, as one of the target plants in the search for new active

compounds, owing to its empirical use in the treatment of infectious

diseases & to pharmaco-chemical studies of its crude extract. We report the

isolation of two new compounds of B. pilosa, the linear polyacetylenic diol 1

& its glucoside 2 which have previously been isolated from different plants.

Compound 1 exhibited highly potent antimalarial & antibacterial properties in

vitro as well as potent antimalarial activity by way of intravenous injection in

vivo, thereby representing a promising new class of drugs potentially

effective in the treatment of malarial & bacterial diseases. We suspect that

discovery of these compounds in B. pilosa in appreciable quantity is

because the Fijian tradition of using the fresh plant for extraction rather than

the Asian tradition of using dried plants (1 is unstable in the dried state) was

followed. Copyright Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart. New York. PMID:

19263339 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Tseng SH, Chien TY, Chen JR, Lin IH, Wang CC (2009) Hypolipidemic

Effects of Three Purgative Decoctions. Evid Based Complement Alternat

Med. 2009 Oct 30. School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei

Medical University, 250 Wu-Xing Street Taipei 110, Taiwan, ROC.

crystal In TCM, purgation is indicated when a person suffers an

illness dt the accumulation of evil internal heat. Obese individuals w a large

belly, red face, thick & yellow tongue fur, constipation, & avoidance of heat

are thought accumulates of evil internal heat, & they are also treated by

TCM doctors w purgatives such as Dachengqi Tang (TCCT), Xiaochengqi

Tang (XCCT), & Tiaowei Chengqi Tang (TWCCT). In previous studies, our

group found that TCCT has potent anti-inflammatory activity, & that XCCT is

an effective antioxidant. Since rhubarb is the principle herb in these three

prescriptions, we will first present a thorough review of the literature on the

demonstrated effect (or lack of effect) of rhubarb & rhubarb-containing

polyherbal preparations on lipid & weight control. We will then continue our

research w an investigation of the anti-obesity & lipid-lowering effect of

TCCT, XCCT, TWCCT, & rhubarb extracts using two animal models.

TWCCT lowered the serum triglyceride concentration as much as

fenofibrate in Triton WR-1339-treated mice. Daily supplementation w XCCT

& TWCCT significantly attenuated the high-fat-diet-induced

hypercholesterolemia in rats. In addition, TWCCT also significantly lowered

the high-fat-diet-induced hypertriglycemia. Although feeding high-fat diet rats

w these extracts did not cause loose stools / diarrhea / other deleterious

effects on renal / hepatic function. None of these extracts lowered the body

weight of rats fed on high-fat diet. In conclusion, the results suggest that

XCCT & TWCCT might exert beneficial effects in the treatment of

hyperlipidemia. PMID: 19880442 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

 

van der Sluijs CP, Bensoussan A, Chang S, Baber R (2009) A randomized

placebo-controlled trial on the effectiveness of an herbal FORMULA to

alleviate menopausal vasomotor symptoms. Menopause. Mar-

Apr;16(2):336-44. CompleMED, Centre for Complementary Medicine

Research, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, Australia. OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the effectiveness of a FORMULA containing Chinese herbs &

Cimicifuga racemosa in alleviating vasomotor symptoms & improving quality

of life. METHODS: Between September 2004 & October 2005, 93 healthy

women aged 45 to 65 years who reported six / more vasomotor symptoms

per 24 hours were recruited into a 20-week randomized, double-blind,

placebo-controlled trial. Women were consulted in clinics conducted within

the Sydney metropolitan area. After a 4-week baseline period, women were

randomly allocated to receive herbal (equivalent to 3,150 mg dry herb) /

identical placebo tablets for 16 weeks. Women recorded the number &

severity (1=mild to 4=very severe) of vasomotor symptoms in a daily hot

flash diary & completed the Greene Climacteric & Hot Flash Related Daily

Interference scales at each monthly consultation. RESULTS: Intention-to-

treat & per-protocol analyses found no statistically significant differences in

mean hot flash scores (product of frequency & intensity), Greene Climacteric

Scale scores, & Hot Flash Related Daily Interference Scale scores between

the placebo & herbal treatment groups after 16 weeks of intervention.

CONCLUSIONS: This herbal FORMULA containing Chinese herbs &

Cimicifuga cannot be recommended to alleviate menopausal vasomotor

symptoms / improve quality of life. PMID: 19057416 [PubMed - indexed for

MEDLINE]

 

Wang JY, Ma GW, Dai SQ, Rong TH, Wang X, Lin P, Ye WF, Zhang LJ, Li XD, Zhang X,

Yao GY (2007) [Effect of cellular immune supportive treatment on immunity of

esophageal carcinoma patients after modern two-field lymph node dissection]

[Article in Chinese]. Ai Zheng. Jul;26(7):778-81. Skate Key Lab of Oncology in

South China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, PRC. BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: Cellular

immunity suppression is marked in patients w esophageal carcinoma, which may be

resulted temporarily from surgical injury. This study was to evaluate the effect

of cellular immune supportive treatment on cellular immunity of patients w

esophageal carcinoma. METHODS: A total of 60 patients w thoracic esophageal

carcinoma, received two-field dissection, were randomized into control group &

trial (immune supportive treatment) group. The patients in trial group were

injected w Shenqi injection after operation; the patients in control group

received no immune supportive treatment. Peripheral blood

samples were obtained before operation, & 3 & 9 days after operation. AgNOR

(argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions) activity in peripheral blood T

lymphocytes was measured by tumor immune microphotometry. T cell subsets were

measured by flow cytometry. RESULTS: The proportions of CD3+CD4+ & CD4+/CD8+

cells were significantly higher in trial group than in control group at 3 days

after operation (P < 0.05). The amount of AgNOR & proportions of CD3+, CD3+CD4+,

CD4+/CD8+, & CD4+CD25+ cells were significantly higher in trial group than in

control group at 9 days after operation (P < 0.05). There was no significant

difference in 1-year survival rate between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION:

Shenqi injection could obviously improve cellular immunity of the esophageal

carcinoma patients after modern two-field dissection. PMID: 17626759 [PubMed -

indexed for MEDLINE]

 

Zhang GF, Yang ZB, Wang Y, Yang WR, Jiang SZ, Gai GS (2009) Effects

of ginger root (Zingiber officinale) processed to different particle sizes on

growth performance, antioxidant status, & serum metabolites of broiler

chickens. Poult Sci. Oct;88(10):2159-66. Dept of Animal Sciences &

Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai-an, Shandong, PR China.

A study using 144 one-day-old Arbor Acres broilers was conducted to

assess the effects of dried ginger root (Zingiber officinale) that was

processed to particle sizes of 300, 149, 74, 37, & 8.4 microm on growth

performance, antioxidant status, & serum metabolites of broiler chickens.

The birds were housed in 24 wire cages in an environmentally controlled

room. Dietary treatments were no supplementation (control) &

supplementation w ginger root processed to 5 particle sizes at the level of 5

g/kg of diet. Average daily gain, ADFI, & feed conversion rate of chicks of

each cage were measured weekly. Blood samples from 8 broilers per

treatment were obtained at d 21 & 42 of the experiment to determine

antioxidant enzymatic activities & metabolites in the serum, & the birds were

subsequently killed to determine carcass yield & abdominal fat content. All

broilers had similar ADFI / feed conversion rate over the entire experimental

period. However, broilers supplemented w ginger powder tended to have

higher ADG & had greater (P=0.014) carcass yield compared w that of the

control. Supplementation of ginger increased (P<0.001) activities of total

superoxide dismutase & glutathione peroxidase but reduced (P<0.01)

concentrations of malondialdehyde & cholesterol in serum of broilers at 21 &

42 d of age. Concentration of total protein in serum of ginger-supplemented

broilers tended (P=0.092) to be higher at 21 d & was higher (P=0.002) at 42

d of age compared w that of control broilers. Reducing particle size of ginger

powder linearly reduced (P<0.05) cholesterol (d 21) & linearly increased

(P<0.05) glutathione peroxidase (d 21), total superoxide dismutase (d 42), &

total protein (d 21 & 42). Supplementation of ginger at 5 g/kg improved

antioxidant status of broilers & the efficacy was enhanced as the particle

size was reduced from 300 to 37 microm. PMID: 19762870 [PubMed -

indexed for MEDLINE]