DNA barcoding of herbal supplements on the US commercial market associated with the purported treatment of COVID-19.

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an increased global use of traditional medicines, including Ayurvedic herbal preparations. Due to their growing demand, their processed nature, and the complexity of the global supply chain, there is an increased risk of adulteration in these products. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to assess the use of DNA barcoding for species identification in herbal supplements on the US market associated with the Ayurvedic treatment of respiratory symptoms. METHODS: A total of 54 commercial products containing Ayurvedic herbs were tested with four DNA barcoding regions (i.e., rbcL, matK, ITS2, and mini-ITS2) using two composite samples per product. Nine categories of herbs were targeted: amla, ashwagandha, cinnamon, ginger, guduchi, tribulus, tulsi, turmeric, and vacha. RESULTS: At least one species was identified in 64.8% of products and the expected species was detected in 38.9% of products. Undeclared plant species, including other Ayurvedic herbs, rice, and pepper, were detected in 19 products, and fungal species were identified in 12 products. The presence of undeclared plant species may be a result of intentional substitution or contamination during harvest or processing, while fungal DNA was likely associated with the plant material or the growing environment. The greatest sequencing success (42.6-46.3%) was obtained with the matK and rbcL primers. CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that a combination of genetic loci should be used for DNA barcoding of herbal supplements. Due to the limitations of DNA barcoding in identification of these products, future research should incorporate chemical characterization techniques.

Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don: A review of its ethnobotany, phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology and toxicities.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don is a well known medicinal plant belonging to family Apocynaceae that have been traditionally used as medicine since ancient times. C. roseus is a well-recognized herbal medicine due to its anticancer bisindole alkaloids (vinblastine (111), vincristine (112) and vindesine (121)). In the Ayurvedic system of medicine, different parts of C. roseus are used in folklore herbal medicine for treatment of many types of cancer, diabetes, stomach disorders, kidney, liver and cardiovascular diseases. AIM OF THE STUDY: The main idea behind this communication is to update comprehensively and analyze critically the traditional applications, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and toxicity of various extracts and isolated compounds from C. roseus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The presented data covers scientific works on C. roseus published across the world between 1967 and 2021 was searched from various international publishing houses using search engines as well as several traditional texts like Ayurveda and relevant books. Collected data from different sources was comprehensively summarized/analyzed for ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, analytical chemistry, biological activities and toxicity studies of C. roseus. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: C. roseus has a wide range of applications in the traditional system of medicine especially in cancer and diabetes. During phytochemical investigation, total of 344 compounds including monoterpene indole alkaloids (MIAs) (110), bisindole alkaloids (35), flavonoids (34), phenolic acids (9) and volatile constituents (156) have been reported in the various extracts and fractions of different plant parts of C. roseus. The extracts and isolated compounds of C. roseus have to exhibit many pharmacological activities such as anticancer/cytotoxic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, larvicidal and pupicidal. The comparative toxicity of extracts and bioactive compounds investigated in dose dependent manner. The investigation of toxicity showed that the both extracts and isolated compounds are safe to a certain limit beyond that they cause adverse effects. CONCLUSION: This review is a comprehensive, critically analyzed summarization of sufficient baseline information of selected topics in one place undertaken till date on C. roseus for future works and drug discovery. The phytochemical investigation including biosynthetic pathways showed that the MIAs and bisindole alkaloids are major and characteristic class of compounds in this plant. The present data confirm that the extracts/fractions and their isolated alkaloids especially vinblastine (111) and vincristine (112) have a potent anticancer/cytotoxic and antidiabetic property and there is a need for further study with particular attention to the mechanisms of anticancer activity. In biosynthesis pathways of alkaloids especially bisindole alkaloids, some enzymes and rearrangement are unexposed therefore it is required to draw special attention. It also focuses on attracting the attention of scientific communities about the widespread biological activities of this species for its better utilization prospects in the near future.

Ethnodermatological use of medicinal plants in India: From ayurvedic formulations to clinical perspectives - A review.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Traditional knowledge is a particular form of practice or skill set that was developed in ancient times and was sustained through generations via the passing of knowledge, essentially confined within a specific tribe, local people, or family lineages. Ethnodermatological use of medicinal plants in India is still a subject to conduct more studies to see if there is chemical, microbiological, and/or clinical evidence, from a scientific perspective, of their effectiveness for those skin disorders. Thus, this review can be the basis for further studies and may provide targets for drug development. AIM OF THE STUDY: We compile and emphasize the most important part of ethnodermatology, namely, traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and their applications for several skin diseases in India. We also include a brief review and explanation on dermatology in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. We review the pharmacological activity of extracts derived from some of the most cited plants against problem skin diseases as well. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Different kinds of key phrases such as "Indian traditional ethnodermatology", "ethnodermatology", "ethnobotany", "skin diseases", "Ayurveda dermatology", "pharmacological activity" were searched in online search servers/databases such as Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/), ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/), PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/), NISCAIR Online Periodicals Repository (NOPR) (http://nopr.niscair.res.in/). Based upon the analyses of data obtained from 178 articles, we formulated several important findings which are a summary shown in Tables. Tables. A total of 119 records of plants' uses have been found across India against 39 skin diseases. These are depicted with their localities of report, parts used, and preparation and administration methods against particular skin diseases. RESULTS: The knowledge and utilisation of herbal medicine in the Indian subcontinent has great potential to treat different kinds of human skin disorders. The administration of extracts from most of the plant species used is topical and few only are administrated orally. We also investigated the pharmacological activity of the extracts of the most cited plants against mice, bacterial and fungal pathogens, and human cells. CONCLUSIONS: Complementary therapy for dermatological problems and treatment remains the main option for millions of people in the Indian subcontinent. This review on the practices of ethnobotanical dermatology in India confirms the belief that their analysis will accelerate the discovery of new, effective therapeutic agents for skin diseases. However, more studies and clinical evidence are still required to determine if the identified species may contribute to skin condition treatment, particularly in atopic eczema. Today, ethnodermatology is a well-accepted international discipline and many new practices have been initiated in numerous countries. We hope this article will further accelerate the development of this area to identify a new generation of natural human skin treatments that will help meet the growing consumer demand for safe, sustainable, and natural treatments. In this context, research on plants utilised in ethnodermatology in India and elsewhere should be intensified.

Black Turmeric and Aloe Vera in the Management of Oral Submucous Fibrosis: A Prospective Clinical Study.

AIM: To determine the therapeutic efficacy of Kali haldi in the management of Oral submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) v/s steroid therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A clinical prospective study was conducted on 42 patients of oral submucous fibrosis were equally divided into 2 groups. Group A patients were treated with a mixture of powdered Kali Haldi and aloe vera gel in equal ratio 3 times a day for 3 months. Group B patients were treated with intralesional injection of hydrocortisone and hyaluronidase for 6 weeks with oral antioxidant supplements for 3 months. Burning sensation, cheek flexibility, mouth opening, and tongue protrusion were evaluated before, during, and after treatment at an interval of 15 days, 1 month, 2, month and 3 months. RESULTS: Statistically significant results were obtained at the end of 3 months duration for both the groups (P < 0.001). The Symptomatic correction was more evident in the case of Group A patients than Group B. Response of the ayurvedic regimen was potentially better as compared to the regular steroid therapy. CONCLUSION: The study concludes that Combination therapy works wonders in the case of OSMF in stages I, II, III and can be a good option, comparatively safe and with negligible side effects, but potent and equally effective management of oral submucous fibrosis. Henceforth, it will be better to do such kinds of studies on a vast scale including larger samples and longer duration to check the efficacy and durability of this ancient ayurvedic regimen.

Exploring the signature gut and oral microbiome in individuals of specific Ayurveda prakriti.

Diagnosis and treatment of various diseases in Ayurveda, the Indian system of medicine, relies on 'prakriti' phenotyping of individuals into predominantly three constitutions, kapha, pitta and vata. Recent studies propose that microbiome play an integral role in precision medicine. A study of the relationship between prakriti - the basis of personalized medicine in Ayurveda and that of gut microbiome, and possible biomarker of an individual's health, would vastly improve precision therapy. Towards this, we analyzed bacterial metagenomes from buccal (oral microbiome) and fecal (gut microbiome) samples of 272 healthy individuals of various predominant prakritis. Major bacterial genera from gut microbiome included Prevotella, Bacteroides and Dialister while oral microbiome included Streptococcus, Neisseria, Veilonella, Haemophilus, Porphyromonas and Prevotella. Though the core microbiome was shared across all individuals, we found prakriti specific signatures such as preferential presence of Paraprevotella and Christensenellaceae in vata individuals. A comparison of core gut microbiome of each prakriti with a database of 'healthy' microbes identified microbes unique to each prakriti with functional roles similar to the physiological characteristics of various prakritis as described in Ayurveda. Our findings provide evidence to Ayurvedic interventions based on prakriti phenotyping and possible microbial biomarkers that can stratify the heterogenous population and aid in precision therapy.

Traditional Indian medicine in China: The status quo of recognition, development and research.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Traditional Indian medicine is one of the oldest medical systems and remains popular worldwide. Traditional medicine systems in China and India have historical origins pertaining to mutual learning, reference, and development from medical theory to the drugs used. The exchange of traditional medicine between China and India began in the Qin and Han Dynasties (221 BC-220 AD), prospered in the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), and declined after the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD). It was also directly related to the rise and fall of Buddhism. The traditional medicines of the two countries are highly complementary because of differences in geographical climate and the modernisation process of traditional medicine. AIM: This review aimed to understand the spread and development of traditional Indian medicine in China to further promote exchange and cooperation between China and India in the field of traditional medicine. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a systematic search of MEDLINE via PubMed, CNKI, Science Direct, Sci-Hub, and other databases using the terms 'traditional Indian medicine' or 'Indian medicine' or 'Ayurveda' or 'Yoga' or 'Unani', and limiting the search to articles published between 1958 and 2019. We analysed the sources, publication date, type, and topic of the retrieved articles/studies. RESULTS: Based on the results of research on traditional Indian medicine carried out by Chinese scholars, 518 academic papers and 60 classic works published in China and abroad were collected. The results showed the following. First, Chinese scholars have systematically investigated traditional Indian medicine including its composition, management, and education; the scale of medicinal and pharmaceutical plants; protective measures of intellectual property rights of traditional medicine; and international promotion of Yoga. Second, studies have examined the development status of traditional Indian medicine in China including the spread of Yoga in the country and the industrial scale of, education in, existing problems in, and clinical research on Yoga. In addition, Chinese scholars conducted research on and the translation of classic works and terms of Ayurveda, and studied the theory, treatment, and medicine thereof. Third, the historical exchange and trading status of traditional medicine between India and China have been discussed, including the exchange of traditional medicine between the two countries, effect of traditional Indian medicine on Chinese Buddhism, and minority medicine and trade in medicinal materials between the two countries. CONCLUSION: India attaches great importance to the management of, education in, and industry of traditional medicine, and has made various efforts to protect intellectual property rights. Indian Yoga is very popular in China, and Chinese scholars have conducted some clinical research thereon. However, regulatory systems and legislation for Yoga are lacking in China. At present, traditional Chinese medicine scholars have an enhanced understanding of the term Yoga and less knowledge of the terms Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and similar concepts. We suggest that Chinese scholars further study the classic works, basic theories, treatment of clinical diseases, medicinal materials, and prescriptions compounding traditional Indian medicine. The results of this study highlight directions for Chinese scholars to pursue in further studying traditional Indian medicine comprehensively, and will help promote exchange and cooperation between China and India in the field of traditional medicine.

Ayurveda botanicals in COVID-19 management: An in silico multi-target approach.

The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2 has become a global pandemic in a very short time span. Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine to counter this highly contagious disease. There is an urgent need to find a specific cure for the disease and global efforts are directed at developing SARS-CoV-2 specific antivirals and immunomodulators. Ayurvedic Rasayana therapy has been traditionally used in India for its immunomodulatory and adaptogenic effects, and more recently has been included as therapeutic adjuvant for several maladies. Amongst several others, Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) and Asparagus racemosus (Shatavari) play an important role in Rasayana therapy. The objective of this study was to explore the immunomodulatory and anti SARS-CoV2 potential of phytoconstituents from Ashwagandha, Guduchi and Shatavari using network pharmacology and docking. The plant extracts were prepared as per ayurvedic procedures and a total of 31 phytoconstituents were identified using UHPLC-PDA and mass spectrometry studies. To assess the immunomodulatory potential of these phytoconstituents an in-silico network pharmacology model was constructed. The model predicts that the phytoconstituents possess the potential to modulate several targets in immune pathways potentially providing a protective role. To explore if these phytoconstituents also possess antiviral activity, docking was performed with the Spike protein, Main Protease and RNA dependent RNA polymerase of the virus. Interestingly, several phytoconstituents are predicted to possess good affinity for the three targets, suggesting their application for the termination of viral life cycle. Further, predictive tools indicate that there would not be adverse herb-drug pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic interactions with concomitantly administered drug therapy. We thus make a compelling case to evaluate the potential of these Rasayana botanicals as therapeutic adjuvants in the management of COVID-19 following rigorous experimental validation.

Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb. as a promising source of pharmacological compounds to treat Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A review.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb. [Family: Fabaceae (Caesalpiniaceae)], known as bonduc nut or fever nut, has been used in India for many years to treat fever, inflammation, diabetes, cardiovascular disorder, cancer and also for birth control. In recent years, the seeds of this plant are consumed to regulate the menstrual disorders in PCOS. Poly cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrinological disorders faced by women of reproductive-age in several countries. AIM OF THE REVIEW: This review is aimed at providing the updates on the potential of Caesalpinia bonducella in treating the major symptoms of PCOS and also highlights the future research needs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All the data pertaining to the plant was collected from multiple databases like Google, Science Direct, Springer, PubMed, Reaxys, Sci Finder, Wiley Online library and Taylor and Francis without any language restrictions. Moreover, information related to PCOS treatment was obtained from native medicine practitioners and from Ayurvedic pharmacopeia of India. RESULTS: More than 50 compounds have been identified in the seed kernels of C. bonducella so far. Seed kernel extracts rich in active compounds like bonducellin, caesalpinin, cassane furanoditerpenes, terpernoids, flavonoids and sterols are studied for their anti-diabetic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-cancer, anti-pyretic, and anti-oxidant properties. Recent literature has also attributed anti-androgenic and anti-estrogenic potential to this plant which might be helpful in regulating hyperandrogenism, the major predisposing factor contributing to various other clinical symptoms of PCOS. CONCLUSION: Phytochemicals in C. bonducella are effective against several ailments attributed to PCOS. However, there are no experiments done in PCOS animal models to claim the direct application of C. bonducella in PCOS treatment. Hence, further dose dependent toxicity studies are warranted in animal PCOS models and in PCOS patients to support the traditional evidence of the plants' potential to treat PCOS.

Add-on Ayurveda Treatment for Early Stage COVID-19: A Single Center Retrospective Cohort Study From Gujarat, India.

The retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of Ayurveda treatment exposure as an add-on to conventional care in early stage COVID-19 patients admitted at Samaras COVID care center, Ahmedabad, India. Conventional care included Vitamin-c, Azithromycin, and Paracetamol. Ayurveda formulations used as add-on were Dashamula and Pathyadi decoctions along with Trikatu powder, Sanshamani tablet, AYUSH-64 tablet AND Yastimadhu Ghana tablet for oral administration. Considering Add-on Ayurveda medicines as exposure of interest, patients who received Add-on Ayurveda medicines at least for 7 days were included in the exposed group while those who received only conventional care in unexposed group. Data was collected through record review and telephonic interviews. The outcomes of interest were the development of symptoms, duration of symptomatic phase in those progressing to symptomatic stage and mortality. Total 762 participants were included-[541 (71%) in the exposed group and 221 (29%) in the unexposed. Progression to symptomatic phase did not differ significantly between groups [27.6% in exposed, 24.6% in unexposed, adjusted RR 0.85; 95% CI 0.6-1.2]. The total duration of symptomatic phase among those progressing to the symptomatic stage was significantly decreased in the exposed group (x¯ = 3.66 ± 1.55 days in exposed (n = 133); x¯ = 5.34 ± 3.35 days in unexposed (n = 61), p < 0.001). No mortality was observed in either of the groups. Ayurveda Treatment as adjunctive to conventional care reduced the duration of symptomatic phase in early stage COVID-19 as compared to standalone conventional care. Add-on Ayurveda treatment has promising potential for management of early stage COVID-19.

Rational use of Ashwagandha in Ayurveda (Traditional Indian Medicine) for health and healing.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Physalis somnifera L.) is a fairly known perennial shrub of Solanaceae family, and is used in Ayurveda- Traditional Indian Medicine (TIM), since ancient times. It is well known as Ashwagandha in Sanskrit language in Ayurvedic classics. Its Mula (root) is recommended for health and healing, and the number of single and compound formulation is prescribed rationally. It is believed that the species name-somnifera is coined based on popular use to "induce sleep" in Ayurveda. AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study was aimed to bring out the experience-based traditional uses of Ashwagandha for health and healing with an emphasis on the pharmacological and biochemical scientific evidences to corroborate them. The scientific evidences have been explored from the national and international publications. MATERIALS AND METHOD: A comprehensive literary search of Ayurvedic classics was carried out systematically regarding Ashwagandha for its rationality behind the traditional uses. To excavate the subject matter, the original Ayurvedic scriptures and several standard Ayurvedic texts of different period was studied insightfully for meaningful contribution. It is to be noted that the primary source of knowledge was considered in writing this manuscript without any biased attitude. The available literature on Ashwagandha was also searched to ascertain the basis of scientific Latin name and correct identity. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia and other relevant scientific works were also taken into consideration to make the subject matter more clearly to the scientific world. For the scientific evidence of the uses, the international and national Journals and other published material were also searched to make it inquisitiveness to the scholars interested in Ayurvedic medicinal plants. RESULTS: The present paper throws ancient luminosity behind the therapeutic uses of one of the promising plant drug i.e., Ashwagandha of ancient India even to the present time. The scientific evidences corroborate the rationality ascribed in available Ayurvedic classics of various period of India has been gained. CONCLUSION: The study explores that the first reference of Ashwagandha with its significant nomenclature, useful part, properties, action, and eloquent uses has its footprint in the original texts of Ayurveda. In later works enhanced knowledge with traditional uses continued even today. Several single and compound formulations have been found to maintain the health and to alleviate the disorders rationally. It is worthy to note here that the scientific evidences corroborate the uses practiced in Ayurveda.

Withania somnifera in Neurological Disorders: Ethnopharmacological Evidence, Mechanism of Action and its Progress in Delivery Systems.

BACKGROUND: The underlying cause of major neurodegenerative disorders remains a healthcare mystery. The thoroughly investigated causes include oxidative stress, inflammation, environmental factor, mitochondrial dysfunction, and irregular neuronal protein aggregation. Withania somnifera has been used for more than 2500 years as a useful medicinal plant to improve disease defense, prevent aging, rejuvenate the body in a vulnerable situation, and generate a feeling of mental well-being. However, a persuasive paper emphasizing its neuroprotective nature is missing. OBJECTIVE: In the current review, we have delineated the protective role of W. somnifera against various neurological disorders and its progress in delivery systems. METHODS: The database used in the retrieval of data were PubMed, Scopus, Science direct, and SciFinder. The keywords used were W. somnifera, Ashwagandha, neuroprotective activities, etc. The principal source of the data retrieval includes research articles, review papers, and short communications from reputed publishers, including the New England Journal of Medicine, Elsevier, Nature, Springer, and Taylor & Francis. RESULTS: After an extensive literature review, we found that W. somnifera mitigates various neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington disease, tardive dyskinesia, stroke, and anxiety. Furthermore, natural compounds in nano sizes range possess better neuroprotective activity. Consequently, polymeric nanomicelles, nanoparticles, and nanofibers of natural products are used in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. CONCLUSION: The current review substantially deciphered the protective role of W. somnifera against various neurological disorders. However, future studies are further required better to understand the molecular mechanisms behind their neuroprotective nature.

The use of integrative therapy based on Yoga and Ayurveda in the treatment of a high-risk case of COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 with multiple comorbidities: a case report.

BACKGROUND: We report a high-risk case of a coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19)-positive patient with comorbidities including diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), hypothyroidism and chronic kidney disease (CKD), treated successfully using an integrative therapy plan based on Ayurveda and Yoga, along with government-mandated compulsory modern western medicine (MWM) treatment. Recently, some evidence has been emerging on the use of Ayurveda for treatment of COVID-19. The classical texts of Ayurvedic medicine such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita contain descriptions of pandemics of similar proportions and describe them as Janapadoddhvansa, meaning the destruction of communities, along with their causes and treatment. CASE PRESENTATION: The case reported herein is a 55-year-old man from Delhi, India, with confirmed (tested) COVID-19, who first took MWM for 7 days before seeking integrative therapy. The patient has comorbidities including DM, HTN, hypothyroidism and CKD and had developed symptoms including fever (which was resolved by the time integrative therapy was started), sore throat, dry cough, body aches, weakness, bad taste and smell, and heaviness in the abdomen. Based on the patient's symptoms and comorbidities, a treatment plan including Ayurvedic medicines, Yoga protocol, dietary recommendations and lifestyle modifications was prescribed by a registered Ayurveda doctor and a Yoga consultant. The patient started experiencing improvement in all the symptoms within 2 days after starting the treatment; he reported approximately [Formula: see text] relief from the symptoms after 5 days, and almost complete relief within 9 days. Also, the blood sugar levels (both fasting blood sugar [FBS] and postprandial blood sugar [PPBS]) exhibited significant improvement after 5 days, and decreased to within the normal range within 12 days. Besides relief in symptoms, the patient's real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test done on the 19th day returned negative results. CONCLUSIONS: Integrative therapy was found to be effective in mitigating the symptoms of COVID-19 in this patient with multiple comorbidities. Moreover, a significant improvement in blood sugar levels (not under control with modern medicine) was also achieved. Integrative therapy based on the classical texts of Ayurveda and Yoga may offer a promising and scalable treatment option for COVID-19 patients. A case series or a suitably designed randomized controlled trial is needed to assess its efficacy.

Purification of Bhallathaka (Semecarpus anacardium L.f.) enhanced anti-cancer activity.

Semecarpus anacardium L. F. commonly known as Bhallathaka, is an important Ayurvedic medicinal plant of the family Anacardiaceae. Mature fruit of this plant is used as an Ayurvedic drug for treating various ailments including cancer. The drug has been reported to cause irritation, blisters, toxicity and contact dermatitis if used in raw form. In Ayurvedic texts, various methods have been described for purification process of Bhallathaka in order to minimize the toxic effects as well as to potentiate the drug. This study was carried out to evaluate chemical profiles and anti-cancer activity of raw and purified samples of Bhallathaka. Chemical characterization was done by Liquid chromatography mass spectroscopic (LC/MS) analysis and anticancer activity was evaluated using Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) model in mice with 5-fluorouracil as standard. The result indicated that purification of Bhallathaka imparted chemical changes to certain active compounds and enhanced its anti-cancer activity when compared to raw sample. The present study concluded that traditional purification process can impact the chemical and pharmacological profile of herbal drugs and thus beneficial in increasing its safety and efficacy.

Repurposing potential of Ayurvedic medicinal plants derived active principles against SARS-CoV-2 associated target proteins revealed by molecular docking, molecular dynamics and MM-PBSA studies.

All the plants and their secondary metabolites used in the present study were obtained from Ayurveda, with historical roots in the Indian subcontinent. The selected secondary metabolites have been experimentally validated and reported as potent antiviral agents against genetically-close human viruses. The plants have also been used as a folk medicine to treat cold, cough, asthma, bronchitis, and severe acute respiratory syndrome in India and across the globe since time immemorial. The present study aimed to assess the repurposing possibility of potent antiviral compounds with SARS-CoV-2 target proteins and also with host-specific receptor and activator protease that facilitates the viral entry into the host body. Molecular docking (MDc) was performed to study molecular affinities of antiviral compounds with aforesaid target proteins. The top-scoring conformations identified through docking analysis were further validated by 100 ns molecular dynamic (MD) simulation run. The stability of the conformation was studied in detail by investigating the binding free energy using MM-PBSA method. Finally, the binding affinities of all the compounds were also compared with a reference ligand, remdesivir, against the target protein RdRp. Additionally, pharmacophore features, 3D structure alignment of potent compounds and Bayesian machine learning model were also used to support the MDc and MD simulation. Overall, the study emphasized that curcumin possesses a strong binding ability with host-specific receptors, furin and ACE2. In contrast, gingerol has shown strong interactions with spike protein, and RdRp and quercetin with main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2. In fact, all these target proteins play an essential role in mediating viral replication, and therefore, compounds targeting aforesaid target proteins are expected to block the viral replication and transcription. Overall, gingerol, curcumin and quercetin own multitarget binding ability that can be used alone or in combination to enhance therapeutic efficacy against COVID-19. The obtained results encourage further in vitro and in vivo investigations and also support the traditional use of antiviral plants preventively.

Exploring scientific validation of Triphala Rasayana in ayurveda as a source of rejuvenation for contemporary healthcare: An update.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ayurveda remains the classical and comprehensive part of the ancient Indian medicine system for well-being promotive, disease preventive, and revival approach for the human body. Triphala Rasayana is mentioned in Ayurveda, comprising fruits of three plant species viz. Phyllanthus emblica L. (P. emblica), Terminalia chebula Retz (T. chebula), and Terminalia bellirica Roxb (T.bellirica). Triphala Rasayana has been utilized in various traditional medicine systems, viz., Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani. Traditionally Rasayana based drugs are utilized in different kinds of diseases without pathophysiological associations as indicated by current medication. Various medicinal attributes of Triphala Rasayana include antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and anticataract and is also considered as a pillar for gastrointestinal treatment, specifically in functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). Due to Rasayana's accessible mode of administration, availability, and affordability, there is an increase in its global acceptance. AIM OF REVIEW: This review article summarizes the scientific validation, traditional uses, bioactive compounds, and ethnopharmacological properties of Triphala Rasayana. It also documents recent data on in vivo and in vitro pharmacological studies and clinical effects of Triphala Rasayana. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A literature review is carried out using PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, web of science, Ayush Research Portal, and Clinical Trials Registry-India. In addition to an electronic search, traditional ayurvedic texts and books were used as sources of information. RESULTS: Traditionally, "Triphala Rasayana" is classified as a tridoshic rasayana and one of the most well-studied ayurvedic Rasayana. It showed various pharmacological activities such as anticancer, antioxidant, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, cardioprotective, and antidiabetic. Besides this, Rasayana has reported ethnopharmacological activities such as antimicrobial, anticataract, wound healing, and radioprotection. It has shown a good impact on the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) system with the reported pharmacological activities in gastrointestinal disorders such as constipation, gastric ulcer, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Phytochemical studies of Triphala Rasayana revealed chemical constituents like gallic acid, ellagic acid, chebulic acid, chebulinic acid, methyl gallate, emblicanin A, and emblicanin B. Additionally, clinical studies found Triphala Rasayana to be effective against diabetes, constipation, and obesity. CONCLUSION: The present review revealed that Triphala Rasayana may treat a diverse range of diseases, especially GIT disorders. Considering the beneficial properties of Triphala Rasayana and it's proven non-toxic nature could be a source of rejuvenation in contemporary healthcare. Nevertheless, its clinical data effectively provided precious signals to correlate ayurvedic biology and modern medicine.

Keeping abreast about ashwagandha in breast cancer.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ashwagandha has been used as an ayurvedic medicine in the form of 'Rasayana' (as a tonic) even before 3000 BCE in India. As per Ayurveda, it has long been used traditionally for the treatment of inflammation, weakness, impotence, pulmonary tuberculosis. This plant is also beneficial in lumbago and leucorrhea in the female. In the recent past, Withania has shown its anti-cancerous activity in various experimental models. In addition, Withania also possesses many other properties such as anti-oxidant, anti-stress, adaptogenic, and regenerative which will eventually be beneficial and safe in treating cancer patients. AIM OF THE STUDY: This review aims to provide experimental evidence along with a deeper insight into molecular mechanisms of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) through which it acts as a chemotherapeutic agent against different types of breast cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Literature searches with the help of electronic online databases (Elsevier, Google Scholar, Scopus, Springer Link, ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, PubMed) were carried out. The timeline for collection of data for the review article was from 2000 to 2019. The plant name was validated from The Plant List (2013). Version 1.1. Published on http://www.theplantlist.org/(accessed 21st March 2020). RESULTS: Various forms of Withania somnifera were used and several in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies were reported by researchers. They found ashwagandha to exhibit anti-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, anti-invasive and anti-inflammatory properties and gave the evidence that ashwagandha has a capability for averting and treating breast cancer. CONCLUSION: Various in vitro and in vivo studies suggested Ashwagandha may possess a potential for treating breast cancer, especially ER/PR positive breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer. A clinical trial has also been conducted in the past that suggested its potential in refining quality of life in breast cancer patients. Studies directed towards molecular pathways have helped in unravelling the key mechanisms of ashwagandha. Future research should be directed towards translational studies involving breast cancer patients. These will reinforce the ancient power of our Ayurvedic medicine.

Recent Therapeutic Interventions of Fenugreek Seed: A Mechanistic Approach.

Fenugreek seeds have widespread relations with Ayurveda, Unani, and Arabic medicine. The seeds were useful for the treatment and prevention of different ailments. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) or methi is from the Leguminosae family and are primarily known for its anti-diabetic and hypocholesterolemic activities. The germinated fenugreek seeds were used in the treatment of E.coli infection in Germany and France. The important phytoconstituents responsible for such medicinal applications are saponins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, galactomannans, trigonelline, and 4-hydroxy isoleucine. Flavonoids, apigenin 6,8-di-C-glucoside, apigenin-6-C-glucosyl-8-C-galactoside, 6-Cgalactosyl- 8-C-arabinoside are the chief ingredients of fenugreek seeds; responsible for reducing blood glucose while given to diabetic rats, whereas important flavones are epigenin, luteolin and vitexin. The other major bioactive components in fenugreek seeds are polyphenols like rhaponticin and isovitexin. Fenugreek seeds contain phosphorus and are categorized into different classes such as inorganic phosphorus, phospholipids, phytates, phosphor-proteins, and nucleic acid. Germinated seeds profusely filled with amino acids with amino acids, proteins, ascorbic acid, sugars. Further, this review shares information about the recent therapeutic intervention not covered earlier; on in vivo and in vitro and some clinical applications against certain interesting ailments other than older applications. This review includes certain nano delivery systems of Fenugreek seeds and their medicinal application.

An 'Ayurveda-Biology' platform for integrative diabetes management.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Diabetes is a multifactorial disease with complex multi-organ-multi-target crosstalk in the body. Currently, the theoretical assumptions framing the diabetes management strategies are reductionist and largely focus on reducing hyperglycemia through targeted molecular drugs. While they effectively reduce hyperglycemia, they are inadequate to address the multifactorial etiopathology, chronicity and systemic complications of diabetes. Therefore, a holistic and systemic approach is essential for its successful management. We hypothesize an integrative diabetes management strategy, combining holistic principles of diabetes management with its molecular understandings, would be more appropriate to fill this gap. The holistic disease management principles of Ayurveda, the Indian system of medicine, can play a pivotal role in this context. This narrative review discusses the scope of a trans-disciplinary ' Ayurveda-Biology ' approach for deepening the holistic understanding of the pathophysiology of diabetes as well as designing novel integrative strategies for managing diabetes and restoring whole body glucose homeostasis. METHODOLOGY: The article analyses the Ayurveda scheme of diabetes management and correlates it with the molecular understanding of its pathophysiology and management. The sources of information used in this article include classical texts of Ayurveda , medical books, published research articles and scientific databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Science-Direct, etc. RESULTS: While Ayurveda and modern biomedicine uses different epistemology and ontology for describing diabetes, both the systems recognize the central role of gut and gut derived factors in postprandial glucose disposal and whole body glucose homeostasis. Essentially, the principles of both Ayurveda and modern biomedicine overlap at a gut centred view of diabetes management; and Gastro-intestinal mediated glucose disposal , a holistic concept of glucose metabolism, is emerging as a converging node for designing innovative integrative diabetes management strategies. CONCLUSIONS: An integrative disease management strategy, combining holistic and reductionist perspectives of traditional medicine and biology respectively, would be the prerogative for successful management of diabetes. Creating an ' Ayurveda-Biology' knowledge framework integrating the patient centred holistic management principles of Ayurveda and the molecular approaches of modern biology can give better insights into the biology of whole body glucose homeostasis and offer novel strategies for cost effective, holistic and multi-targeted management of diabetes.

The Vascularity of Ayurvedic Leech Therapy: Sensory Translations and Emergent Agencies in Interspecies Medicine.

This article offers vascularity as a multi-dimensional imaginary for the interspecies entanglements constituting Ayurvedic leech therapy. Whether, when, where, and how a leech decides to bite, suck, and release comprise pivotal junctures in leech therapy as practiced in southern Kerala, India. In the course of leech-human intra-actions, leeches translate matter, providing sensory mediation, relief, and amusement. Enmeshed in social and ecological relations inflected by gender, religion, class, and caste, this analysis of Ayurvedic leech therapy reframes questions of agencies starting with and from the viewpoint of the vascular capacities of leeches in their interactions with humans. This image of vascularity provides an analytic for the emergent agencies of humans and leeches constituted by sensory intra-actions at branching points in this multispecies clinical practice.