Appraising the Phytochemical and Therapeutic Perspectives of Bryonia laciniosa: A Literature Metasynthesis.

BACKGROUND: Nature has bestowed mother Earth with an array of herbals utilized as therapeutics for various human ailments since the origin of life. Bryonia laciniosa (family: Cucurbitaceae) is one such herb, which finds its mention in various traditional systems of medicine and has attracted current researchers due to its significant therapeutic value. OBJECTIVE: The current article aims to present a literature metasynthesis on Bryonia laciniosa. METHODS: The authors performed scholarly searches for peer-reviewed findings on Bryonia laciniosa and incorporated all the data related to the phytochemical and therapeutic profile of the drug. RESULTS: This compilation comprises of Phytochemical and Pharmacological profile of Bryonia laciniosa elaborating its traditional significance and recent researches related to its biological activities. The plant exhibits its potential as an antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, anticonvulsant, anti-asthmatic, anticancer, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and aphrodisiac agent. It also displays its benefits in wound healing and ulcerative colitis. CONCLUSION: The presence of flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, anthocyanins, coumarins, alkaloids, polyphenols, tannins and emodins in this plant is responsible for its various pharmacological activities. The retrospective study provides direction for existing research as well as future studies to support the domain of pharmaceutical and medical sciences.

Analysis of Active Compounds Using Target Protein Cofilin-Cucurbitacins in Cytotoxic Plant Bryonia cretica.

We examined a two-step target protein binding strategy that uses cofilin as the target protein to analyze the active constituents in Bryonia cretica. In the first step, we prepared the target protein, and used it to analyze the compounds binding to it in the second step. We used the methanolic extract of B. cretica as a library of possible active compounds. We conducted LC-MS analysis using information from our previous study. The peaks in the HPLC profile were identified as cucurbitacin D, isocucurbitacin D, and cucurbitacin I. As far as we know, there is no known study of the activity of isocucurbitacin D in this research field. Therefore, we examined the effects of isocucurbitacin D on cell proliferation and cofilin protein in human fibrosarcoma cell line HT1080 to confirm the effectiveness of this strategy. The cytotoxicity assay, the fibrous/globular actin ratio assay, and the immunoblotting analysis revealed that isocucurbitacin D showed a cytotoxic effect with disruption of target protein cofilin. The target protein binding strategy is a direct and straightforward method for finding new drug seeds from crude sources, such as natural plant extracts.

A clínica da similitude / The clinical practice of similarity

Agradecemos a gentileza do convite para proferir esta conferência no interessante momento em que, por iniciativa da comissão organizadora deste XXII Congresso Brasileiro de Homeopatia, são convidados observadores e palestrantes da área não homeopática com a intencionalidade de nos questionar e quebrar a assim chamada auto referência. Trazemos aqui algumas considerações sobre a Clínica da Similitude, que esperamos possam contribuir para a compreensão do nosso modelo e levantar questionamentos sobre a nossa prática. Foi-nos ensinado que a ciência começa na filosofia clássica como um projeto de conhecimento do homem, valendo-se inicialmente apenas da razão, incorporando posteriormente o trabalho experimental para a sua evolução e aperfeiçoamento. Nesse contexto observamos que, como consequência do resgate acidental de Hahnemann, a Homeopatia nasce bem dentro da proposta de experimentação buscando, a seguir, valer-se da razão para tentar compreender o conhecimento que ali se mostrava. (AU)

Tratamento homeopático e prevenção da Covid-19: protocolo de pesquisa clínica para avaliar a eficácia e a segurança do medicamento do gênio epidêmico / Homeopathic treatment and prevention of Covid-19: clinical research protocol to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the epidemic genius medicine

Além da reconhecida aplicação nas doenças crônicas, a homeopatia individualizada também pode atuar de forma resolutiva ou complementar nos casos agudos, incluindo as doenças epidêmicas. No entanto, para atingir esse intento, apresenta uma metodologia semiológica e terapêutica específica que deve ser seguida e respeitada, com o risco de não apresentar a eficácia e a segurança desejada. No caso das doenças epidêmicas, que pela virulência dos seus agentes provoca um quadro sintomatológico comum na maioria dos indivíduos suscetíveis, o medicamento homeopático individualizado (medicamento homeopático do gênio epidêmico) deve apresentar semelhança com o conjunto de sinais e sintomas característicos dos pacientes acometidos nos diferentes estágios de cada surto epidêmico. Estudos evidenciam a eficácia e a segurança desta prática terapêutica e/ou profilática em diversas epidemias do passado. Assim sendo, após o levantamento dos possíveis medicamentos homeopáticos individualizados do gênio epidêmico de cada epidemia, sua aplicação terapêutica e/ou profilática em larga escala deve ser sustentada por ensaios clínicos prévios que demonstrem sua eficácia e segurança, em consonância com os aspectos éticos e bioéticos da pesquisa envolvendo seres humanos. Cumprindo essas premissas da boa prática clínica, elaboramos, em março de 2020, esse protocolo de pesquisa para investigar, em ensaio clínico randomizado, duplo-cego e placebo-controlado, a eficácia e a segurança de possíveis medicamentos homeopáticos individualizados do gênio epidêmico da COVID-19. Caso a eficácia e a segurança se confirmem, e tão somente nessa condição, o medicamento poderá ser utilizado de forma generalizada e coletiva no tratamento e na prevenção da atual epidemia. Com esse intuito, encaminhamos este projeto a médicos, pesquisadores e gestores de diversos hospitais públicos e privados, solicitando uma oportunidade para aplicar essa proposta em pacientes internados em enfermarias e/ou centros de terapia intensiva destinadas ao tratamento da COVID-19.

In addition to the recognized application in chronic diseases, individualized homeopathy can also act in a resolutive or complementary way in acute cases, including epidemic diseases. However, to achieve this intent, it presents a specific semiologic and therapeutic methodology that must be followed and respected, with the risk of not presenting the desired efficacy and safety. In the case of epidemic diseases, which due to the virulence of their agents causes a common symptomatological picture in most susceptible individuals, the individualized homeopathic medicine (homeopathic medicine of the epidemic genius) should present similarity with the set of characteristic symptoms and signs of the patients affected in the different stages of each epidemic outbreak. Studies show the efficacy and safety of this therapeutic and/or prophylactic practice in several epidemics of the past. Therefore, after the survey of possible individualized homeopathic medicine from the epidemic genius of each epidemic, its therapeutic and/or large-scale prophylactic application should be supported by previous clinical trials that demonstrate its effectiveness and safety, in line with the ethical and bioethical aspects of research involving human beings. Fulfilling these premises of good clinical practice, we developed, in March 2020, this research protocol to investigate, in a randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trial, the effectiveness and safety of possible individualized homeopathic medicines of epidemic genius of COVID-19. If effectiveness and safety are confirmed, and only in this condition, the medicine may be used in a generalized and collective manner in the treatment and prevention of the current epidemic. To this end, we refer this project to physicians, researchers and managers of several public and private hospitals, requesting an opportunity to apply this proposal to patients hospitalized in wards and/or intensive care units for the treatment of COVID-19.

Survey COVID-19 first peak 2020: viewpoint of Belgian homeopathic medical doctors

This retrospective observational survey of the practice of Homeopathic Medical Doctors in Belgium including 313 patients presenting mild COVID-19 symptoms allows us to conclude that during such epidemic situation for which not any effective therapy exists and no vaccination is possible homeopathy should be considered. The efficiency score (healing of symptoms in less than 8 days) is relevant for 83,1% of these patients. 4 homeopathic medicines were prescribed to 66% of them. 1,3% needed hospitalization for some time. Not any loss of chance to cure occurred for these patients. Market data reveals that homeopathy has been largely used for prevention and healing during the early peak of COVID-19 in Belgium.

Bryonia multiflora Extract Induces Autophagy via Regulating Long Non-coding RNAs in Breast Cancer Cells.

Bryonia multiflora, one of the species of Bryonia L. (Cucurbitaceae) genus, is a perennial, dioecious, herbaceous plant with rhizome-shaped roots. Bryonia species have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antioxidant, etc., activities and their components consume antitumoral effects. Purpose of the study to investigate the effect of Bryonia Multiflora extract (BMST) on breast cancer cells. Our results revealed that MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells underwent significant morphological changes leading to cell rounding. No significant changes were observed in the cell viability by MTT. Acridine orange staining of our cells gave rise to think that BMST might lead our cells to autophagy. Therefore, possible molecular mechanisms underlying morphological changes such as autophagy (LC-3B, Beclin, AMBRA1) and apoptosis (Bcl-2) were evaluated on mRNA and protein levels. BMST treated MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells had increased levels of autophagy markers whereas decreased levels of Bcl-2. p21 levels were also found to be increased in both cells. Analysis of lncRNA expressions has shown that BMST treatment led to changes in the expression levels of several lncRNAs playing roles in autophagy. The current study has shown that BMST induces autophagy in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells via regulating the lncRNAs revealing that BMST could be a promising therapeutic agent.

Estudo preliminar para avaliação de sintomas e medicamentos prevalentes do "gênio epidêmico" da pandemia de COVID-19 no Brasil / Preliminary study to assess symptoms and prevalent drugs of the "epidemic genius" of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil

Estamos no meio da pandemia do Covid-19, em franco desenvolvimento no Brasil. No momento há perspectivas terapêuticas medicamentosa sem fases iniciais de teste, especialmente para o tratamento dos casos graves, aqueles que implicam em internação ou encaminhamento para Unidades de Terapia Intensiva. Pouco tem sido abordado sobre tentativas de tratamento de pacientes com síndrome respiratória leve. Não há escolha terapêutica efetiva para o início do quadro e, desta forma, a doença cursa de acordo com a resposta imune ou suscetibilidade individual do acometido, e há muito pouco de efetivo e específico que altere a história natural dessa enfermidade. (AU)

Antitumor Effect of Bryonia dioïca Methanol Extract: In Vitro and In Vivo Study.

Aim: A large number of plant-derived products have been approved for the treatment of numerous types of cancer, and these products have also shown to reduce the effects of metastatic cancer. The aim of this study is to evaluate the anticancer effects of a methanolic extract of Bryonia dioïca root (M extract) against B16F10 melanoma cancer cells in vitro as well as in vivo.Results: It was shown to induce apoptosis, in vitro, and to inhibit cell growth by arresting cell cycle progression in SubG1 phase. Mice bearing the melanoma cells were used to confirm any in vivo effectiveness of the M extract as an antitumor promoting agent. In mice dosed with 50 mg M/kg/d (for 28 days), tumor weight was inhibited by 65.03% compared to that in mice that did not receive the product. Our results demonstrate on the one hand, that this inhibition was accompanied by a drastic decrease regulation of complex FAK, Src, ERK, p130Cas and paxillin. On the other hand, it was marked by a measurable decrease of the metastatic descent in the lungs.Conclusions: These effects could be ascribed to the presence of bryoniosides and cucurbitacins such as cucurbitacin A and cucurbitacin G in M extract.

Covid-19, el nuevo reto de la medicina homeopática / Covid-19, the New Challenge of Homeopathic Medicine

La enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (covid-19), causada por el nuevo coronavirus tipo 2 del síndrome respiratorio agudo grave (SARS-CoV-2), ha puesto de manifiesto la necesidad de la actualización constante y la resistencia del personal médico, así como la importancia de la organización y capacidad de la comunidad para responder a una enfermedad que indudablemente cambió nuestra manera de ejercer, de estudiar y de vivir. Originado en la ciudad de Wuhan, en China, el coronavirus ha logrado extenderse a todo el mundo desencadenando una crisis de salud pública, en la que la medicina homeopática tiene un papel fundamental. (AU)

Coronavirus disease 2019 (covid-19) which is caused by the novel type 2 Severe Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), has made manifest the need for constant updating, as well as concerns regarding the resistance of medical personnel. It has also exhibited the importance of organization and the capacity to respond to a disease as a community. The viral infection has thus far undoubtedly changed the way we practice, study and live. First identified in the city of Wuhan, China, the coronavirus has managed to spread throughout the globe, triggering a public health crisis, in which Homeopathy has a fundamental role. (AU)

Bryonia dioica aqueous extract induces apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest in MDA­MB 231 breast cancer cells.

Bryonia dioica Jacq. is a climbing perennial herb with tuberous roots which is widely used in traditional medicine in Algeria for the treatment of cancer. The present study aimed to evaluate the apoptogenic activity and phytochemical composition of the aqueous extract of B. dioica roots growing in Algeria. The cytotoxic effect of B. dioica aqueous decoction against breast cancer MDA­MB­231 cells was evaluated by an MTT assay. Apoptosis induction was assessed by an Annexin V­fluorescien iosthiocyanate assay. Propidium iodide staining of cell DNA was used to assess the effects on the cell cycle. In addition to UV­Visible (UV­vis) analysis, the major compounds of the extracts were determined using liquid chromatography­mass spectrometric analyses. Our results showed that the B. dioica aqueous extract induced cell death in a time­dependent manner. The highest inhibitory effect was produced at concentrations of 50 µg/ml or higher after 72 h of treatment (91.15±0.71%). Furthermore, the extract induced apoptosis of MDA­MB­231 cells. At 250 µg/ml, 64.61% of the treated MDA­MB­231 cells were apoptotic. This was accompanied by cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase. The percentage of cells in G2/M increased from 15.7% (untreated cells) to 59.13% (50 µg/ml) and 58.51% (250 µg/ml). The UV­vis absorption spectra of B. dioica aqueous extract showed two absorption bands characteristic of the flavonol skeleton; 350­385 nm (Band I) and 250­280 nm (Band II). Myricetin (2,5,7,3,4,5­pentahydroxylflavonol) was found to be the major compound in the B. dioica aqueous extract. These findings suggest that B. dioica could be considered a promising source for developing novel therapeutics against breast cancer.

Flavonoid composition, cellular antioxidant activity and (myelo)peroxidase inhibition of a Bryonia alba L. (Cucurbitaceae) leaves extract.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study consisted in the isolation of flavonoids from the leaves of Bryonia alba L. and evaluation of their antioxidant activity and inhibition on peroxidase-catalysed reactions. METHODS: Flavonoids were isolated by preparative HPLC-DAD and their structures were elucidated by MS and NMR. Inhibitory effect was tested by the horseradish peroxidase and the myeloperoxidase assays. Cellular antioxidant assays consisted in testing the inhibitory activity on the reactive oxygen species released upon activation of neutrophils freshly isolated ex vivo from equine blood and of human monocytes-derived macrophages in vitro. Whole organism toxicity was assessed on zebrafish larvae. KEY FINDINGS: Four flavonoids (lutonarin, saponarin, isoorientin and isovitexin) were isolated. The performed assays showed significant antioxidant activity and inhibition for the peroxidase-catalysed reactions. Absence of cellular and zebrafish toxicity was confirmed. CONCLUSIONS: Bryonia alba L. leaves are particularly interesting for their flavonoids content and showed significant inhibitory effect on peroxidase-catalysed oxidation of substrates (Amplex Red and L012), as well as antioxidant/antiradical activity, proving that this species has a medicinal potential. Moreover, the present study highlights the absence of the toxicity of these leaves and offers though a novel perspective on the species, previously known as being toxic.

A review on preclinical studies conducted with Homeopathic medicine Cephalandra indica as an Anti-hyperglycemic agent

Background ­ Diabetes Mellitus a metabolic disorder affects the secretion of insulin from pancreas leading to hyperglycemia, if uncontrolled leads to complications triggered by free radical formed after oxidative stress. Homeopathic medicine Cephalandra Indica has shown antidiabetic activity in various potencies performed on preclinical studies on diabetic rat model. The present review highlights the pharmacological profile of homeopathic preparations Cephalandra Indica on preclinical studies and calculating the probable human equivalent dosage from preclinical studies for the pilot studies. Method ­ Articles published between January 1988 and December 2018 was included in review. Databases like PubMed ­ Medline, Google scholar were used for collecting the articles. Keywords like 'Homeopathy' or 'Homoeopathy', 'Invitro', 'Invivo' and 'Cephalandra Indica' were used. SABEH criteria were implemented for assessing methodology quality of articles. Results ­ Seven full text articles were included in review which had six Invivo studies and one Invitro study. This review article provided the scientific validation of high diluted homeopathic medicines pharmacological activity of Cephalandra Indica and probable mechanism of action confirmed through preclinical studies. Conversion of dosage from animal model to human dosage for pilot studies has been hypothetically proposed. Conclusion ­ Homeopathic medicine Cephalandra Indica has a therapeutic and safety profile with no toxicity observed in preclinical studies. The proposed hypothesis of conversion of dosage needs to be validated for further studies. (au)

Management of early years of simple and mucopurulent chronic bronchitis with pre-defined Homoeopathic medicines ­ a Prospective Observational Study with 2-Years Follow-Up

Background Simple and mucopurulent chronic bronchitis (SMCB) is characterized by recurrent mucoid or mucopurulent expectoration in absence of localized suppurative disease. This observational open label study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of homeopathic medicine in SMCB. Methods 1902 patients were screened from 07 centres out of which 1305 were excluded. 597 patients were enrolled as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 14 pre-defined homeopathic medicines were shortlisted for prescription after repertorizing the pathological symptoms of SMCB. Outcomes were assessed through chronic bronchitis symptom scale (CBSS) and FEV1/ FVC ratio with spirometry for over a period of two years. Appearance of any change (relief/ worse)/ status quo was immediately followed by placebo/ change in dilution/ change in remedy. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 20. Results: 532 patients were analyzed based on the intention to treat principle using last observation carry forward method. Mean CBS score reduced from 29.86±4.5 at baseline to 12.33±7.6 at completion of 2 years. Repeated measures ANOVA, at time points 0 (baseline), 3, 6, 9, 12 ,15, 18, 21 and 24 months, showed significant reduction in CBS scores [Wilk's Lambda 0.104, F=564, df 524; p=00001]. The FEV1 and FEV1/FVC was maintained within normal limits. 86% prescriptions included Lycopodium, Arsenicum album, Pulsatilla, Phosphorus, Stannum metallicum, Calcarea carbonica, Silicea, Bryonia alba. Conclusion: The result suggests effectiveness of homeopathic treatment in early years of SCMB patients. Controlled trials are warranted. (AU)

Novel molecular mechanisms for the adaptogenic effects of herbal extracts on isolated brain cells using systems biology.

INTRODUCTION: Adaptogens are natural compounds or plant extracts that increase adaptability and survival of organisms under stress. Adaptogens stimulate cellular and organismal defense systems by activating intracellular and extracellular signaling pathways and expression of stress-activated proteins and neuropeptides. The effects adaptogens on mediators of adaptive stress response and longevity signaling pathways have been reported, but their stress-protective mechanisms are still not fully understood. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study was to identify key molecular mechanisms of adaptogenic plants traditionally used to treat stress and aging-related disorders, i.e., Rhodiola rosea, Eleutherococcus senticosus, Withania somnifera, Rhaponticum carthamoides, and Bryonia alba. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms of adaptogens, we conducted RNA sequencing to profile gene expression alterations in T98G neuroglia cells upon treatment of adaptogens and analyzed the relevance of deregulated genes to adaptive stress-response signaling pathways using in silico pathway analysis software. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: At least 88 of the 3516 genes regulated by adaptogens were closely associated with adaptive stress response and adaptive stress-response signaling pathways (ASRSPs), including neuronal signaling related to corticotropin-releasing hormone, cAMP-mediated, protein kinase A, and CREB; pathways related to signaling involving CXCR4, melatonin, nitric oxide synthase, GP6, Gαs, MAPK, neuroinflammation, neuropathic pain, opioids, renin-angiotensin, AMPK, calcium, and synapses; and pathways associated with dendritic cell maturation and G-coupled protein receptor-mediated nutrient sensing in enteroendocrine cells. All samples tested showed significant effects on the expression of genes encoding neurohormones CRH, GNRH, UCN, G-protein-coupled and other transmembrane receptors TLR9, PRLR, CHRNE, GP1BA, PLXNA4, a ligand-dependent nuclear receptor RORA, transmembrane channels, transcription regulators FOS, FOXO6, SCX, STAT5A, ZFPM2, ZNF396, ZNF467, protein kinases MAPK10, MAPK13, MERTK, FLT1, PRKCH, ROS1, TTN), phosphatases PTPRD, PTPRR, peptidases, metabolic enzymes, a chaperone (HSPA6), and other proteins, all of which modulate numerous life processes, playing key roles in several canonical pathways involved in defense response and regulation of homeostasis in organisms. It is for the first time we report that the molecular mechanism of actions of melatonin and plant adaptogens are alike, all adaptogens tested activated the melatonin signaling pathway by acting through two G-protein-coupled membrane receptors MT1 and MT2 and upregulation of the ligand-specific nuclear receptor RORA, which plays a role in intellectual disability, neurological disorders, retinopathy, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and cancer, which are common in aging. Furthermore, melatonin activated adaptive signaling pathways and upregulated expression of UCN, GNRH1, TLR9, GP1BA, PLXNA4, CHRM4, GPR19, VIPR2, RORA, STAT5A, ZFPM2, ZNF396, FLT1, MAPK10, MERTK, PRKCH, and TTN, which were commonly regulated by all adaptogens tested. We conclude that melatonin is an adaptation hormone playing an important role in regulation of homeostasis. Adaptogens presumably worked as eustressors ("stress-vaccines") to activate the cellular adaptive system by inducing the expression of ASRSPs, which then reciprocally protected cells from damage caused by distress. Functional investigation by interactive pathways analysis demonstrated that adaptogens activated ASRSPs associated with stress-induced and aging-related disorders such as chronic inflammation, cardiovascular health, neurodegenerative cognitive impairment, metabolic disorders, and cancer. CONCLUSION: This study has elucidated the genome-wide effects of several adaptogenic herbal extracts in brain cells culture. These data highlight the consistent activation of ASRSPs by adaptogens in T98G neuroglia cells. The extracts affected many genes playing key roles in modulation of adaptive homeostasis, indicating their ability to modify gene expression to prevent stress-induced and aging-related disorders. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive look at the molecular mechanisms by which adaptogens exerts stress-protective effects.

Case Reports of Five Cancer Patients with Unusual Course.

INTRODUCTION: The analysis of the periodic table of elements by Jan Scholten opened the way for a new kind of classification and repertorisation of homeopathic remedies. Thereby, group analysis (resorting to series and stages) makes precise prescriptions possible. This approach appears to yield striking results, even in severe cases. Whereas Hahnemann stressed the emotional state ('Gemüthssymptome', Organon § 210) when choosing a remedy, Scholten 200 years later investigated the mental picture that represents a life conflict or even a life theme that may maintain the disease process. The person's environment, emotional traumas or a conflict drives him or her to suppress and dissect painful emotions. Such compensations can become subconscious and so strong that they can no longer be controlled; they then influence the patient with a highly destructive energy. METHODS: We present five case reports, each dealing with an unusual clinical course of severe cancer associated with homeopathic treatment using the Scholten method. RESULTS: By presenting these cases, we consider how the constitution (lifelong signs and symptoms of the patient) and the mental state are interwoven and, as a complex mechanism, might provoke disease. CONCLUSION: The appropriate homeopathic remedy, reflecting the Scholten approach, seemed to have beneficial impact on the disease process of the five individuals presented.

Estudio piloto del efecto terapéutico de algunos medicamentos homeopáticos indicados en la rinofaringitis aguda / Pilot study of therapeutic effect of some homeopathic medicines indicated for acute nasopharyngitis

El presente trabajo tiene el objetivo de mostrar el efecto terapéutico de algunos medicamentos homeopáticos en la rinofaringitis aguda o resfriado común, enfermedad aguda de vías respiratorias superiores de tipo viral de baja patogenicidad (VRSBP) y gran incidencia en la actualidad, en una muestra piloto de tipo clínico, longitudinal y prospectiva, conformada por 22 pacientes captados en la Unidad Médica de la Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía (ENMH) del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN); 15 pacientes del sexo femenino y 7 del masculino, en un rango de entre 4 y 11 años de edad. La elección de los medicament s homeopáticos se realizó con base en lasemiología de los síntomas presentados, enfatizando particularmente en las modalidades, el color del moco, ataque al estado general y la exploración física.

This paper aims to show the therapeutic effect of some homeopathic medicines in acute nasopharyngitis or common cold , acute upper respiratory disease of viral type low pathogenic ( VRSBP ) and high incidence currently in a pilot sample clinical , longitudinal and prospective type , consisting of 22 patients recruited in the Medical Unit of the National School of Medicine and Homeopathy ( ENMH ) of the National Polytechnic Institute ( IPN) ; 15 female patients and 7 male , ranging between 4 and 11 years old. The choice of homeopathic medicament s was made based on thesemiotics of the symptoms presented , emphasizing particularly on the modalities , the color of mucus, malaise and physical examination.

Substitution between Aristolochia and Bryonia genus in North-Eastern Morocco: toxicological implications.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Although acknowledged as toxic herbs, Aristolochia species are still widely used worldwide. The aristolochic acids (AA) they contain can induce the so-called "aristolochic acid nephropathy", leading to renal fibrosis and upper urinary tract cancer. Traditional Moroccan medicine still often uses Aristolochia species under the vernacular name of Bereztem for the treatment of numerous ailments, notably cancer, diabetes or digestive tract disorders. As the botanical identity and renal toxicity of used species remain unexplored, the safety of patients may be threatened. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ethnopharmacological data were collected from herbalists from the provinces of Oujda and Berkane, located in North-Eastern Morocco. Samples of Bereztem were collected at herbalist shops and checked for their content in AA using TLC and LC-MS methods. The toxicity of crude methanolic extracts of each herb was assessed on a HK-2 cell-based in vitro model by measurement of the cell survival to evaluate cytotoxicity and by assessment of renal-specific toxicity via (i) the evaluation of genes (E-cadherin and α-smooth muscle actin) expression by RT-qPCR; (ii) the quantities of ß-catenin and vimentin by immunofluorescence microscopy; (iii) the secretion of fibronectin; and (iv) the excretion of interleukin-6. RESULTS: The survey indicated that, among 42 herbalists visited, 33 were retailers of Bereztem, which was generally sold as a cancer treatment. Botanical investigations revealed that Aristolochia longa was frequently substituted by Bryonia dioica, which was associated with a higher cytotoxicity. Parameters specific to renal toxicity were also found to be enhanced, as compared to Aristolochia baetica and A. longa: down-regulation of ß-catenin and E-cadherin and up-regulation of vimentin and α-smooth muscle actin, and secretion of fibronectin and interleukin-6. CONCLUSION: In accordance with the Moroccan regulations, the use of so-called Aristolochia species should be discontinued. On one hand, the correctly identified aristolochia contain nephrotoxic aristolochic acids; on the other hand, aristolochia are massively substituted in North-Eastern Morocco and adulterated by a well-known toxic herb, B. dioica. Our data indicate that the bryony renal toxicity may be deleterious in shorter time periods than aristolochia. Reinforced on-site controls are needed to remind herbalists and harvesters that these herbs should be prohibited.

Un caso clínico de oligohidramnios severo tratado con homeopatía / A clinical case of severe oligohydramnios treated with homeopathy

Este artículo relata un caso clínico urgente de oligohidramnios (OH) severo, en una paciente primigesta que se encontraba en la semana 21 de gestación, y con un pronóstico de terminación de la misma en las siguientes 48 a 72 horas. La intervención con una prescripción compleja permitió la reversión pronta y total del OH hasta permitir la conclusión a término de un producto sano. Dada la carencia de bibliografía en esta patología, se describe la justificación de la conducta terapéutica.

This paper talks about a mild-severe, urgent case of oligohydramios (OH) in a 21 years woman on her first pregnancy, with a fatal prognosis during the next 48- 72 hours. Homeopathic intervention with a complex prescription produced a rapid and total reversion of OH, leading a term birth of a healthy boy. Due to lacking of homeopathic bibliography on this condition, it is presented rational of therapeutic conduct.

Bryonia dioica aqueous extract induces apoptosis through mitochondrial intrinsic pathway in BL41 Burkitt's lymphoma cells.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Bryonia dioica Jacq. is a climbing perennial herb with tuberous roots which is widely used in traditional medicine in Algeria for the treatment of cancers; it belongs to the genus Bryonia (Cucurbitaceae). AIM OF THE STUDY: To investigate the cytotoxic and apoptogenic activities, the phytochemical composition and acute toxicity of the aqueous extract of Bryonia dioica roots growing in Algeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Dried roots of Bryonia dioica were extracted with water (decoction). The cytotoxic effects of the aqueous extract in the Burkitt's lymphoma BL41 cell lines were evaluated by flow cytometry. Apoptosis induction was assessed by two corroborative assays; propidium iodide (PI) staining of cell DNA and flow cytometric light scatter analysis. The mitochondria membrane potential was investigated using a fluorescent dye DIOC6. The expression of caspases-3, -8, -9 and PARP was assessed by Western blot. The phytochemical screening of the roots of Bryonia dioica was performed using qualitative phytochemical standard procedures. RESULTS: The Bryonia dioica aqueous extract induced cell death in a dose-dependent manner. The IC50 of Bryonia dioica aqueous extract was estimated to be approximately 15, 63µg/ml. This was accompanied by induction of apoptosis, activation of caspase-3 and -9, cleavage of PARP and loss of mitochondria membrane potential. Furthermore, the phytochemical screening of roots of Bryonia dioica showed the presence of various bioactive such as polyphenols, sterols and triterpenes, alkaloids, c-heterosides, carbohydrates and saponins. CONCLUSION: The aqueous extract of Bryonia dioica induces apoptosis in the Burkitt's lymphoma BL41 cell lines via the mitochondrial pathway. The flavonoids, sterols and triterpens detected could be responsible for the cytotoxic and apoptogenic activities of the aqueous extract of Bryonia dioica. These findings suggest that Bryonia dioica could be considered as a promising source for developing novel therapeutics against Burkitt's lymphoma.