Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Activities of Vernonia cinerea (L.) Less.: An Updated Review.

Vernonia cinerea (L.) Less. is a perennial herbaceous plant found mainly in tropical areas, particularly in Southeast Asia, South America, and India. Various parts of V. cinerea have traditionally been used in folk medicine to treat several diseases, such as malaria, fever, and liver diseases. V. cinerea has so far yielded about 92 secondary metabolites. The majority of these are sesquiterpene lactones, but triterpenes, flavonoids, steroids, phenolics, and other compounds are present as well. V. cinerea crude extracts reportedly exhibit anti-inflammatory, antiprotozoal, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and renoprotective activities. This study aims to provide the latest up-to-date information on the botanical characterization, distribution, traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activity of V. cinerea. Information on V. cinerea was thoroughly reviewed. The literature published between 1950 and 2024 was compiled through online bibliographic databases, including SciFinder, Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer Link, Wiley, and the MDPI online library. The keywords used for the literature search included Vernonia cinerea (L.) Less. and the synonyms Cyanthillium cinereum (L.) H.Rob., Conyza cinerea L., and various others.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used by various ethnic tribes of Mizoram, India.

Mizoram has a diverse range of ethnic and cultural groups, including the Lushai, Mara, Lai, Bawm, Hmar, Chakma, and Bru. Through practice and experience in their protracted battles with disease and the harsh natural environment, they have amassed rich folk medicine knowledge. The preservation of indigenous knowledge, identification of bioactive compounds, and the eventual discovery of novel medicinal plant species all depend on the documentation of the traditional uses of medicinal plants. Therefore, the present study was designed to document the ethnomedicinal knowledge related to the usage of medicinal plants in Mizoram, India. An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants was carried out in 17 villages of 5 districts in Mizoram between September 2022 and January 2023. A total of 128 informants (77 males and 51 females) were interviewed. Information was gathered through field observations, group discussions, and semistructured interviews. The data were presented using descriptive statistics. To assess the importance of medicinal plant species, quantitative indices such as the informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), use value (UV), and cultural index (CI) was used. In our ethnobotanical investigation, 102 medicinal plant species from 95 genera and 58 families were recorded and documented. The majority of them (90 species) were obtained from wild habitats. The majority of the documented species were trees (48), followed by herbs (23 species) and shrubs (21 species). The most common method of preparation was decoction (67 species). Diabetes had the highest ICF value (0.81), followed by cancer, liver problems, and hypertension (0.8). The fidelity level (FL) of indigenous communities in the study area was evaluated to determine the dependability and consistency of herbal drug use. Indigenous knowledge and the variety of medicinal plant species that are used are of great values. The therapeutic applications of documented plants provide fundamental information for additional studies centered on pharmacological investigations and the preservation of the most significant species.

Evidências clínicas do uso de plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos na cicatrização de feridas cutâneas: uma revisão integrativa / Evidencia clínica sobre el uso de plantas medicinales y medicinas a base de hierbas en la curación de heridas en la piel: una revisión integrativa / Clinical evidence on the use of medicinal plants and herbal medicine in healing skin wounds: an integrative review

Introdução: Plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos são tradicionalmente utilizados na cicatrização de diversos tipos de feridas. Muitas plantas contêm compostos bioativos com propriedades anti-inflamatórias, antimicrobianas e cicatrizantes. Objetivo: Reunir evidências clínicas do uso de plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos na cicatrização de feridas cutâneas. Metodologia: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura. Os estudos foram coletados das bases de dados MEDLINE/PubMed e LILACS, utilizando como estratégia de busca os termos ((WoundHealing) ou (Inflammation)) e ((MedicinalPlants) ou (Phytotherapy)) com recorte temporal de 2011 a 2021. Resultados: 15 estudos foram incluídos na revisão. A maioria dos estudos foram do tipo ensaio clínico controlado randomizado. Foi investigada a eficácia de 15 espécies medicinais para o tratamento de feridas agudas e crônicas, sendo as mais recorrentes queimaduras de segundo grau, úlceras crônicas e feridas cirúrgicas. As espécies medicinais que apresentaram melhores resultados foram babosa (Aloevera), centela (Centellaasiatica),beldroega (Portulacaoleraceae), Arnebia euchroma, hipérico (Hypericum perforatum) emil-folhas (Achilleamillefolium), melhorando critérios como eritema, edema, tempodere-epitelização, tempo de cicatrização e a aparência geral da ferida. Conclusões: Plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos apresentam eficácia no processo de cicatrização, sendo, portanto, alternativa terapêutica para o tratamento de feridas cutâneas (AU).

Introduction: Medicinal plants and herbal medicines are traditionally used to heal various types of wounds. Many plants contain bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. Objective: Gathering clinical evidence on the use of medicinal plants and herbal medicine in the healing of skin wounds. Methodology:Thisisan integrative review of the literature. The studies were collected from the MEDLINE/PubMed and LILACS data bases, using the terms ((WoundHealing) or (Inflammation)) and ((MedicinalPlants) or (Phytotherapy)) as a search strategy, from 2011 to 2021. Results: Fifteen studies were included in the review. Most of them were of the randomized controlled clinical trial type. The effectiveness of 15 medicinal species was investigated for the treatment of acute and chronic wounds, the most common of which were second-degree burns, chronic ulcers,and surgical wounds. The species with the best results were Aloe vera, Centella asiatica, Portulaca oleraceae, Arnebia euchroma, Hypericum perforatum, and Achillea millefolium, improving criteria such as erythema, edema, re-epithelialization time, healing time, and the general appearance of the wound. Conclusions: Medicinalplants and herbal medicine are effective in the healing process, therefore being a therapeutic alternative for treating skin wounds (AU).

Introducción: Las plantas medicinales y las medicinas a base de hierbas se utilizan tradicionalmente para curar diversos tipos de heridas. Muchas plantas contienen compuestos bioactivos con propiedades antiinflamatorias, antimicrobianas y cicatrizantes. Objetivo: Recopilar evidencia clínica sobre el uso de plantas medicinales y medicinas a base de hierbas en la curación de heridas cutáneas. Metodología: Se trata de una revisión integradora de la literatura. Los estudios fueron obtenidos de las bases de datos MEDLINE/PubMed y LILACS, utilizando como estrategia de búsqueda los términos ((WoundHealing) o (Inflammation)) y ((MedicinalPlants) o (Phytotherapy)) con un marco temporal de 2011 a 2021. Resultados: Se incluyeron 15 estudios en la revisión. La mayoría de los estudios fueron del tipo ensayo clínico controlado aleatorio. Se investigó la eficacia de 15 especies medicinales para el tratamiento de heridas agudas y crónicas, las más comunes fueron quemaduras de segundo grado, úlceras crónicas y heridas quirúrgicas. Las especies medicinales con mejoresr esultados fueron Aloe vera, Centella asiatica, Portulaca oleraceae, Arnebia euchroma, Hypericum perforatum y Achillea millefolium, mejorando criterios como eritema, edema, tiempo de reepitelización, tiempo de cicatrización y aspecto general de la herida. Conclusiones: Plantas medicinales y medicinas a base de hierbas son efectivas en el proceso de cicatrización, siendo portanto un aalternativa terapéutica para el tratamiento de heridas en la piel (AU).

Dryopteris crassirhizoma Nakai.: A review of its botany, traditional use, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity, toxicology and pharmacokinetics.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The Dryopteris crassirhizoma Nakai., a commonly used herb, is known as "Guan Zhong" in China, "Oshida" in Japan and "Gwanjung" in Korea. It has long been used for parasitic infestation, hemorrhages and epidemic influenza. AIM OF THE REVIEW: The present paper aims to provide an up-to-date review at the advancements of the investigations on the traditional use, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity, toxicology and pharmacokinetics of D. crassirhizoma. Besides, possible trends, therapeutic potentials, and perspectives for future research of this plant are also briefly discussed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Relevant information on traditional use, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity, toxicology and pharmacokinetics of D. crassirhizoma was collected through published materials and electronic databases, including the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, Flora of China, Web of Science, PubMed, Baidu Scholar, Google Scholar, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. 109 papers included in the article and we determined that no major information was missing after many checks. All authors participated in the review process for this article and all research paper are from authoritative published materials and electronic databases. RESULTS: 130 chemical components, among which phloroglucinols are the predominant groups, have been isolated and identified from D. crassirhizoma. D. crassirhizoma with its bioactive compounds is possessed of extensive biological activities, including anti-parasite, anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, bone protective, immunomodulatory, anti-platelet and anti-hyperuricemia activity. Besides, D. crassirhizoma has special toxicology and pharmacokinetics characterization. CONCLUSIONS: D. crassirhizoma is a traditional Chinese medicine having a long history of application. This review mainly summarized the different chemical components extract from D. crassirhizoma and various reported pharmacological effects. Besides, the toxicology and pharmacokinetics of D. crassirhizoma also be analysed in this review. However, the chemical components of D. crassirhizoma are understudied and require further research to expand its medicinal potential, and it is urgent to design a new extraction scheme, so that the active ingredients can be obtained at a lower cost.

Ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry and bioactivities of Cymbopogon plants: A review.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Cymbopogon (Poaceae) plants have been used for various purposes by many indigenous peoples in all continents. In particular, almost all species in the genus have traditionally been used as folk medicine to treat ailments. Traditional application records indicated that Cymbopogon might be used extensively to treat cold, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, rheumatism, diarrhea, whole grass for cold, sore throat, tracheitis and others. AIMS OF THE REVIEW: Despite several research confirmed that Cymbopogon includes a range of active components, no review has been undertaken to consolidate information on its traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and/or quality control. Thus this article aims to update a comprehensive review about the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, cultivation techniques, economic benefits, trade, threats, and future conservation implications of Cymbopogon species. It may provide informative data for future development and further investigation of this important plant group. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Traditional medicinal books and ethnomedicinal publications related to Cymbopogon from 1992 to 2023 were collated to investigate its ethnobotanical, phytochemical and pharmacological information. The online databases including Google Scholar, SciFinder, Web of Science, Scopus, Springer Link, PubMed, Wiley, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Baidu Scholar, and WanFang Database were screened. RESULTS: Cymbopogon (Gramineae or Poaceae) plants have been grown worldwide. Traditional Chinese medicine and other medicinal systems believes that Cymbopogon has the effect of relieve a cough, analgesia, treating dizziness, traumatic injury and can relieve abdominal pain. A total of 153 compounds, including flavonoids, terpenoids, fatty acid and other compounds were isolated or identified from Cymbopogon species by phytochemical studies. The extracts or compounds from Cymbopogon have exhibited numerous biological activities such as antibacterial, antiinflammatory, antiviral, antineoplastic, antiarrhythmic, antidiabetic and other activities. The rich contents of citronellal, citronellol and geraniol found in Cymbopogon also provide significant nutritional benefits. CONCLUSION: Based on their traditional uses, phytochemicals, and pharmacological activities, Cymbopogon plants are potential medicinal and edible resources with diverse pharmacological effects. Due to various advantages of this group, they possess huge application potential in food and pharmaceutical industries, and animal husbandry. Among them, citronella is very important in terms of economic development. Further comprehensive research to evaluate the medicinal properties of Cymbopogon species will be necessary for future development.

Use of herbal medication in the perioperative period: Potential adverse drug interactions.

Use of herbal medications and supplements has experienced immense growth over the last two decades, with retail sales in the USA exceeding $13 billion in 2021. Since the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994 reduced FDA oversight, these products have become less regulated. Data from 2012 shows 18% of U.S. adults used non-vitamin, non-mineral natural products. Prevalence varies regionally, with higher use in Western states. Among preoperative patients, the most commonly used herbal medications included garlic, ginseng, ginkgo, St. John's wort, and echinacea. However, 50-70% of surgical patients fail to disclose their use of herbal medications to their physicians, and most fail to discontinue them preoperatively. Since herbal medications can interact with anesthetic medications administered during surgery, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) and the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) recommend stopping herbal medications 1-2 weeks before elective surgical procedures. Potential adverse drug effects related to preoperative use of herbal medications involve the coagulation system (e.g., increasing the risk of perioperative bleeding), the cardiovascular system (e.g., arrhythmias, hypotension, hypertension), the central nervous system (e.g., sedation, confusion, seizures), pulmonary (e.g., coughing, bronchospasm), renal (e.g., diuresis) and endocrine-metabolic (e.g., hepatic dysfunction, altered metabolism of anesthetic drugs). During the preoperative evaluation, anesthesiologists should inquire about the use of herbal medications to anticipate potential adverse drug interactions during the perioperative period.

Future aspects of plant derived bioactive metabolites as therapeutics to combat benign prostatic hyperplasia.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), characterized by prostate enlargement due to cell proliferation, is a common urinary disorder in men over 50, manifesting as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Currently, several therapeutic options are accessible for treating BPH, including medication therapy, surgery and watchful waiting. Conventional drugs such as finasteride and dutasteride are used as 5α-reductase inhibitors for the treatment of BPH. However long-term use of these drugs is restricted due to their unpleasant side effects. Despite the range of available medical therapies, the effective treatment against BPH is still inadequate. Certain therapeutic plants and their phytochemicals have the aforementioned goals and work by regulating this enzyme. AIM OF THE STUDY: This review aims to provide a comprehensive insight to advancements in diagnosis of BPH, modern treatment methods and the significance of ethnobotanically relevant medicinal plants as alternative therapeutics for managing BPH. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A thorough and systematic literature search was performed using electronic databases and search engines such as PubMed, Web of Science, NCBI and SciFinder till October 2023. Specific keywords such as "benign prostatic hyperplasia", "medicinal plants", "phytochemicals", "pharmacology", "synergy", "ethnobotany", "5-alpha reductase", "alpha blocker" and "toxicology". By include these keywords, a thorough investigation of pertinent papers was assured, and important data about the many facets of BPH could be retrieved. RESULTS: After conducting the above investigation, 104 herbal remedies were found to inhibit Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibition, alpha-blockers, or 5α -reductase inhibition effects which are supported by in vitro, in vivo and clinical trial studies evidence. Of these, 89 plants have ethnobotanical significance as alpha-blockers, alpha-reductase inhibition, or PDE-5 inhibition, and the other fifteen plants were chosen based on their ability to reduce BPH risk factors. Several phytocompounds, including, rutaecarpine, vaccarin, rutin, kaempferol, ß-sitosterol, quercetin, dicaffeoylquinic acid, rutaevin, and phytosterol-F have been reported to be useful for the management of BPH. The use of combination therapy offers a strong approach to treating long-term conditions compare to single plant extract drugs. Furthermore, several botanical combinations such as lycopene and curcumin, pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto oil, combinations of extracts from Funtumia africana (Benth.) Stapf and Abutilon mauritianum (Jacq.) Medik., and Hypselodelphys poggeana (K.Schum.) Milne-Redh. and Spermacoce radiata (DC.) Sieber ex Hiern are also supported through in vitro and in vivo studies for managing BPH through recuperation in patients with chronic long-term illnesses, as measured by the International Prostate Symptom Score. CONCLUSION: The review proposes and endorses careful utilization of conventional medications that may be investigated further to discover possible PDE-5, 5 alpha-reductase, an alpha-blocker inhibitor for managing BPH. Even though most conventional formulations, such as 5 alpha-reductase, are readily available, systemic assessment of the effectiveness and mechanism of action of the herbal constituents is still necessary to identify novel chemical moieties that can be further developed for maximum efficacy. However, there exist abundant botanicals and medicinal plants across several regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, which can be further studied and developed for utilization as a potential phytotherapeutic for the management of BPH.

The power of Punica granatum: A natural remedy for oxidative stress and inflammation; a narrative review.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Pomegranate 'Punica granatum' offers multiple health benefits, including managing hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and enhancing wound healing and infection resistance, thanks to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been symbolized by life, health, femininity, fecundity, and spirituality. AIM OF THE STUDY: Although laboratory and animal studies have been conducted on the healing effects of pomegranate, there needs to be a comprehensive review on its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects in chronic disorders. We aim to provide a comprehensive review of these effects based on in-vitro, in-vivo, and clinical studies conducted in managing various disorders. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comprehensive search of in-vitro, in-vivo, and clinical findings of pomegranate and its derivatives focusing on the highly qualified original studies and systematic reviews are carried out in valid international web databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library. RESULTS: Relevant studies have demonstrated that pomegranate and its derivatives can modulate the expression and activity of several genes, enzymes, and receptors through influencing oxidative stress and inflammation pathways. Different parts of pomegranate; roots, bark, blossoms, fruits, and leaves contain various bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and ellagitannins, that have preventive and therapeutic effects against many disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, neurological diseases, and cancers without any serious adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS: Most recent scientific evidence indicates that all parts of the pomegranate can be helpful in treating a wide range of chronic disorders due to its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. Since the safety of pomegranate fruit, juice, and extracts is established, further investigations can be designed by targeting its active antioxidant and anti-inflammatory constituents to discover new drugs.

Promising Approaches in Plant-Based Therapies for Thyroid Cancer: An Overview of In Vitro, In Vivo, and Clinical Trial Studies.

Thyroid cancer, particularly undifferentiated tumors, poses a significant challenge due to its limited response to standard therapies. The incidence of thyroid cancer, predominantly differentiated carcinomas, is on the rise globally. Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC), though rare, is highly aggressive and challenging to treat. Therefore, this study aimed to collect data and explore alternative treatments, focusing on the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) combined with natural compounds as well as the potential role of phytochemicals, including quercetin, kaempferol, apigenin, genistein, daidzein, naringenin, hesperitin, anthocyanidins, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), resveratrol, ellagic acid, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, curcumin, saponins, ursolic acid, indole-3-carbinol (I3C), capsaicin, and piperine in thyroid cancer treatment. PDT, utilizing sensitizers activated by tumor-directed light, demonstrates promising specificity compared to traditional treatments. Combining PDT with natural photosensitizers, such as hypericin and genistein, enhances cytotoxicity against thyroid carcinoma cells. This literature review summarizes the current knowledge on phytochemicals and their anti-proliferative effects in in vitro and in vivo studies, emphasizing their effectiveness and mechanism of action as a novel therapeutic approach for thyroid cancers, especially those refractory to standard treatments.

Systematic assessment of the influence of quality of studies on mistletoe in cancer care on the results of a meta-analysis on overall survival.

PURPOSE: Mistletoe treatment in cancer patients is controversial, and a Cochrane review concluded that due to heterogeneity, performing a meta-analysis was not suitable. However, several systematic reviews included meta-analyses in favor of mistletoe. The aim of this work was to assess the influence of the methodological quality of controlled studies on the results of a meta-analysis regarding overall survival. METHODS: Between April and August 2022, Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PsycINFO, CINAHL and Web of Science were systematically searched. In addition, reference lists of previously published meta-analyses were checked for relevant publications. A random effects meta-analysis with clustering was performed. The risk of bias within the studies was assessed using ROB 2.0 and ROBINS-I. RESULTS: The search identified 4685 hits, and 28 publications reporting on 28 298 patients were included in the quantitative analysis. Overall, the analysis led to a significant result in favor of mistletoe therapy (overall HR = 0.61 with 95% CI [0.53;0.7]). According to our subgroup analysis of randomized studies, studies of higher quality (lower risk of bias) did not lead to a significant result in favor of mistletoe therapy (HR = 0.78; CI = [0.30; 2.00]). CONCLUSIONS: In the case of mistletoe therapy, the results of the meta-analysis strongly depended on the methodological quality of the included studies. Calculating meta-analyses that include low-quality studies may lead to severe misinterpretation of the data.

Comparison between intrauterine application of an antibiotic and an herbal product to treat clinical endometritis in dairy cattle - A randomized multicentre field study.

Uterine diseases are main indications for antibiotic use in dairy cows. To test a non-antibiotic treatment option, we compared the effect of an intrauterine cephapirin (Metricure®; cefapirin benzathin 500 mg per dosis; CEPH) with an intrauterine applied herbal product (25 ml of EucaComp® PlantaVet containing alcoholic extracts of Calendula officinalis L., Mellissa officinalis L., Origanum majorana L. and Eucalyptus globulus Labill. (EUC)) on the clinical cure of endometritis. Examinations of 816 cows between 21 and 35 days after calving were performed and cases of clinical endometritis (n = 169) were included. Diagnosis based on a scoring system for vaginal discharge. Study animals were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups and treated immediately. After excluding animals with incomplete datasets, 136 cows (EUC: n = 61; CEPH: n = 75) remained for the final analysis. In total, 64% (EUC: 61%, CEPH: 67%) of analysed endometritis cases were considered as clinically cured 14 ± 2 days after the first treatment, 15% stayed uncured after the application of a maximum of two consecutive treatments, leading to an overall clinical cure rate of 85% (EUC: 82%, CEPH: 88%). No statistically difference in clinical cure rates could be observed between both treatment groups nor 14 ± 2 days after the first treatment (p = 0.956) neither regarding the overall cure rate (p = 0.923). In conclusion, the clinical cure of dairy cows' endometritis after the intrauterine application of the herbal product was non-inferior to the intrauterine application of the antibiotic cephapirin. These results could contribute to reduce the antimicrobial use in the daily veterinary routine treatment of endometritis.

Research Progress in Traditional Applications, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Safety Evaluation of Cynomorium songaricum.

Cynomorium songaricum Rupr. (CSR) belongs to the family Cynomoriaceae. It is a perennial succulent parasitic herb with a reddish-brown coloration, predominantly submerged in sand and lacking chlorophyll. Traditionally, it has been used in ethnic medicine to treat various diseases, such as gastric ulcers, indigestion, bowel movements, and improving sexual function. To comprehensively collect CSR data, extensive literature searches were conducted using medical, ecological, and scientific databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). This article summarizes and categorizes research on the uses, phytochemical characteristics, pharmacological activities, and toxicity of ethnic medicine, with the aim of establishing a solid foundation and proposing new avenues for exploring and developing potential applications of CSR. So far, a total of 98 compounds have been isolated and identified from CSR, including flavonoids, terpenes, steroids, and other compounds. It is worth noting that flavonoids and polysaccharides have significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, these compounds also show good application prospects in anti-tumor, antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-fatigue, anti-diabetes, and other aspects. Although extensive progress has been made in the basic research of CSR, further research is still needed to enhance the understanding of its mechanism of action and explore more unknown compounds. Our review indicates that CSR has broad prospects and deserves further research.

Therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine in the prevention and treatment of digestive inflammatory cancer transformation: Portulaca oleracea L. as a promising drug.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for centuries to treat various types of inflammation and tumors of the digestive system. Portulaca oleracea L. (POL), has been used in TCM for thousands of years. The chemical composition of POL is variable and includes flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids and organic acids and other classes of natural compounds. Many of these compounds exhibit powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer-transforming effects in the digestive system. AIM OF STUDY: In this review, we focus on the potential therapeutic role of POL in NASH, gastritis and colitis and their associated cancers, with a focus on the pharmacological properties and potential mechanisms of action of the main natural active compounds in POL. METHODS: The information and data on Portulaca oleracea L. and its main active ingredients were collated from various resources like ethnobotanical textbooks and literature databases such as CNKI, VIP (Chinese literature), PubMed, Science Direct, Elsevier and Google Scholar (English literatures), Wiley, Springer, Tailor and Francis, Scopus, Inflibnet. RESULTS: Kaempferol, luteolin, myricetin, quercetin, genistein, EPA, DHA, and melatonin were found to improve NASH and NASH-HCC, while kaempferol, apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin played a therapeutic role in gastritis and gastric cancer. Apigenin, luteolin, myricetin, quercetin, genistein, lupeol, vitamin C and melatonin were found to have therapeutic effects in the treatment of colitis and its associated cancers. The discovery of the beneficial effects of these natural active compounds in POL supports the idea that POL could be a promising novel candidate for the treatment and prevention of inflammation-related cancers of the digestive system. CONCLUSION: The discovery of the beneficial effects of these natural active compounds in POL supports the idea that POL could be a promising novel candidate for the treatment and prevention of inflammation-related cancers of the digestive system. However, clinical data describing the mode of action of the naturally active compounds of POL are still lacking. In addition, pharmacokinetic data for POL compounds, such as changes in drug dose and absorption rates, cannot be extrapolated from animal models and need to be measured in patients in clinical trials. On the one hand, a systematic meta-analysis of the existing publications on TCM containing POL still needs to be carried out. On the other hand, studies on the hepatic and renal toxicity of POL are also needed. Additionally, well-designed preclinical and clinical studies to validate the therapeutic effects of TCM need to be performed, thus hopefully providing a basis for the validation of the clinical benefits of POL.

Folk medicine, biological activity, and chemical profiles of Brazilian Acanthaceae (Lamiales) - A review.

INTRODUCTION: The botanical family Acanthaceae (order Lamiales) potentially comprises 4900 species in 191 genera with extensive morphological, habit and habitat diversity. The family is widely distributed throughout the world but is especially rich in tropical and subtropical regions. Many of its species have great ornamental importance and are broadly used for medicinal purposes in several countries of Asia and Africa. Brazil is a main center of diversity of the family, where they are distributed across all its biomes, mainly in the herbaceous-shrub stratum. Medicinal investigations about Brazilian species are scarce, the exception being a single native species, Justicia pectoralis Jacq., that is widely used and studied chemically. AIM OF THE REVIEW: This work compiled studies that indicated folk medicinal use, investigated biological activity, or evaluated the chemical composition of Brazilian species of Acanthaceae. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Medicinal uses, investigations of biological activities and chemical data were collected and summarized through bibliographic surveys. Tables were compiled to standardize the information and the appropriate references were gathered for each species. Registration of chemical components used in the treatment of ailments and in preserving health were emphasized with the aim of stimulating future investigations. RESULTS: The breadths of habitats and morphologies of the family are directly related to its chemical diversity, as confirmed here for Brazilian species. Although the investigated species represent less than 9% of the total richness of the family in Brazil, they encompass a great diversity of chemical substances. The data indicated folk medicinal uses for 26 species and biological tests for 23, while 30 species were investigated chemically. Ruellia and Justicia were the most researched genera with 12 and 11 species, representing approximately 14% and 7% of Brazilian species of each genus, respectively. Two species are native to other countries but become naturalized in Brazil. Studies of native species were carried out in different countries around the world, with many reports of medicinal uses and biological tests. Examples of uses include anticancer and antidepressant actions, as well as activities against respiratory problems and other diseases. CONCLUSIONS: This work highlights the chemical and biological diversity of the studied Brazilian species of Acanthaceae, which emphasizes the need to expand studies with native Brazilian species.

Contribution of Sub-Saharan African medicinal plants to cancer research: Scientific basis 2013-2023.

Cancer incidence and mortality rates are increasing worldwide. Cancer treatment remains a real challenge for African countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa where funding and resources are very limited. High costs, side effects and drug resistance associated with cancer treatment have encouraged scientists to invest in research into new herbal cancer drugs. In order to identify potential anticancer plants for drug development, this review aims to collect and summarize anticancer activities (in vitro/in vivo) and molecular mechanisms of sub-Saharan African medicinal plant extracts against cancer cell lines. Scientific databases such as ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and PubMed were used to search for research articles published from January 2013 to May 2023 on anticancer medicinal plants in sub-Saharan Africa. The data were analyzed to highlight the cytotoxicity and molecular mechanisms of action of these listed plants. A total of 85 research papers covering 204 medicinal plant species were selected for this review. These plants come from 57 families, the most dominant being the plants of the family Amaryllidaceae (16), Fabaceae (14), Annonaceae (10), Asteraceae (10). Plant extracts exert their anticancer activity mainly by inducing apoptosis and stopping the cell cycle of cancer cells. Several plant extracts from sub-Saharan Africa therefore have strong potential for the search for original anticancer phytochemicals. Chemoproteomics, multi-omics, genetic editing technology (CRISPR/Cas9), combined therapies and artificial intelligence tools are cutting edge emerging technologies that facilitate the discovery and structural understanding of anticancer molecules of medicinal plants, reveal their direct targets, explore their therapeutic uses and molecular bases.

Dietary polyphenols represent a phytotherapeutic alternative for gut dysbiosis associated neurodegeneration: A systematic review.

Globally, neurodegeneration and cerebrovascular disease are common and growing causes of morbidity and mortality. Pathophysiology of this group of diseases encompasses various factors from oxidative stress to gut microbial dysbiosis. The study of the etiology and mechanisms of oxidative stress as well as gut dysbiosis-induced neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, autism spectrum disorder, and Huntington's disease has recently received a lot of attention. Numerous studies lend credence to the notion that changes in the intestinal microbiota and enteric neuroimmune system have an impact on the initiation and severity of these diseases. The prebiotic role of polyphenols can influence the makeup of the gut microbiota in neurodegenerative disorders by modulating intracellular signalling pathways. Metabolites of polyphenols function directly as neurotransmitters by crossing the blood-brain barrier or indirectly via influencing the cerebrovascular system. This assessment aims to bring forth an interlink between the consumption of polyphenols biotransformed by gut microbiota which in turn modulate the gut microbial diversity and biochemical changes in the brain. This systematic review will further augment research towards the association of dietary polyphenols in the management of gut dysbiosis-associated neurodegenerative diseases.

Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Sesquiterpenoids from Atractylodes DC. Genus Rhizomes.

The rhizomes of the genus Atractylodes DC. consist of various bioactive components, including sesquiterpenes, which have attracted a great deal of research interest in recent years. In the present study, we reviewed the previously published literatures prior to November 2023 on the chemical structures, biosynthetic pathways, and pharmacological activities of the sesquiterpenoids from this genus via online databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Phytochemical studies have led to the identification of more than 160 sesquiterpenes, notably eudesmane-type sesquiterpenes. Many pharmacological activities have been demonstrated, particularly anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial and antiviral activities. This review presents updated, comprehensive and categorized information on the phytochemistry and pharmacology of sesquiterpenes in Atractylodes DC., with the aim of offering guidance for the future exploitation and utilization of active ingredients in this genus.

Ethnoveterinary medicinal plants and their utilization by the people of Soro District, Hadiya Zone, southern Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Ethnoveterinary studies are important to maintain the sustainability of livestock health and support people's livelihoods through the provision of food, maintaining livestock health, and other biological resources. This study was carried out in Soro District, southern Ethiopia, to identify, document and analyse plant species with ethnoveterinary uses along with the associated indigenous and local knowledge. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Informants were selected using purposive (key informants) and systematic random sampling (general informants) methods. Data on ethnoveterinary plants and their uses were collected through semi-structured interviews, guided field walks, 13 focus group discussions with five to seven members in each and participant observation. Informant consensus factor and fidelity level were computed to identify the most common livestock ailment categories and the best plant species with ethnoveterinary use, respectively. Preference ranking methods were used to identify the potentially effective ethnoveterinary medicinal plants for the most frequently reported livestock ailments. The use diversity of multipurpose plants with ethnoveterinary importance was analysed using the analytical methods of ethnobotany including priority ranking, comparisons and important indices. The T-test statistic was used to compare knowledge differences among different social groups. RESULTS: A total of 132 plant species in 120 genera and 61 families were reported by informants as having ethnoveterinary uses. The plants are said to be used by the local communities in various ways to treat 50 livestock health problems. Higher number of informants (23.77%) cited Momordica foetida for the treatment of 16 livestock ailments. The highest informant consensus value for this species is associated with its use for treating blackleg in cattle; Nicotiana tabacum was cited for the treatment of 15 livestock ailments mainly recommended for the Lumpy Skin Disease/Ailment of bovines; Croton macrostachyus for treatment of 13 livestock ailments including wooden tongue, FMD in bovines; and Gymnanthemum amygdalinum for nine ailments mainly diarrhoea of all livestock types. Achyranthes aspera is claimed to provide the most effective treatment for Aspiration pneumonia (severe coughing in bovines, sheep and goats) alone, while Croton macrostachyus, Ximenia americana, Allium sativum and Juniperus procera were indicated as potential plant species to treat Lumpy Skin Disease in bovines in the order given. The fidelity level analysis showed that Datura stramonium, Dodonaea viscosa subsp. angustifolia and Asparagus africanus were potential medicinal plant species to treat the respective ailments of rabies, Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) and evil eye/spirit. Multipurpose plant species including Prunus africanus, Combretum molle and Afrocarpus falcatus have been highly threatened as indicated by direct matrix ranking mainly due to collection of fuel wood, construction materials and making household utensils, and farm implements rather than for other uses. CONCLUSION: Soro District has rich and diversified livestock herbal medicinal resources, and indigenous knowledge of remedy preparations and applications is transmitted through generation lines. This resource faces anthropogenic threats with deforestation being the leading factor. Consequently, ethnoveterinary medicinal plants continue to decline before adequate and proper scientific documentation and testing are made. There is a dire need for planning and implementation of appropriate in situ and ex situ conservation strategies and to strive towards ensuring the survival and sustainable utilization of such important plant resources of Soro District. This must be supported by further documentation of the associated indigenous knowledge and pharmacological testing of the key promising species including Balanites aegyptiaca (novel species/NS to treat specific ailment), Brugmansia suaveolens (novel species/NS reported first to treat Livestock ailments/LsAs), Euclea divinorum (NS to treat specific ailments), Grevillea robusta (NS), Hagenia abyssinica (NS for the reported specific ailment), Pentanema confertiflorum (NS), Juniperus procera (NS), Maesa lanceolata (NS), Millettia ferruginea (NS for reported specific ailments), Schrebera alata/NS, Securidaca longepedunculata, Spiniluma oxyacantha/NS, Vepris nobilis (novel species reported first to treat LsAs), Zanthoxylum asiaticum /NS and Ximenia americana (NS for specific ailments). This ethnoveterinary study attempted to fill part of the gaps concerning the prevalent livestock health problems and the associated indigenous and local knowledge in the area.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials of Ammodaucus leucotrichus Coss. & Durieu seeds' extracts: In vitro and in vivo studies.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Ammodaucus leucotrichus Coss. & Durieu (Apiaceae) is traditionally used in southern Algeria as a remedy against a wide range of disease due to its health-promoting properties. AIM OF THE STUDY: To investigate anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials of plant methanolic extract and its fractions in vitro and in vivo. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Anti-radical activity was assessed in vitro using ABTS•+, superoxide anion (O2•-) and nitric oxide radical (•NO). Lipid peroxidation inhibition was also investigated in the linoleic acid system. Enzyme inhibition assay was performed against α-amylase and α-glucosidase. The anti-inflammatory effect of extracts was screened in vitro through thermal induction of human serum albumin, and in vivo on a skin acute inflammation model induced by λ-carrageenan paw injection, xylene and croton oil topical application. Analgesic effect was evaluated by acetic acid-induced writhing test. RESULTS: The highest contents of polyphenols and flavonoids was recorded by the crude extract (77.14 ± 0.01 µg GAE/mg E and 19.59 ± 0.08 µg QE/mg E, respectively). Among the extracts, ethyl acetate extract showed a promising anti-radical activity of ABTS•+, O2•- and •NO, in addition to a remarkable inhibition activity of the tested enzymes. Meanwhile, all extracts effectively protected linoleic acid against lipid peroxidation and human serum albumin structure in thermal condition even at low concentration (0.31 mg/ml). Oral administration of 200 mg/kg of crude extract successfully inhibited acetic acid induced nociception and reduced edema formation induced by xylene and carrageenan. However, a dose-dependent manner was observed to decrease ear edema by a microscopic examination in croton oil induced acute inflammation. Nitrite and malondialdehyde levels together with catalase activity were modulated in the presence of plant-derived bioactive compounds. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that Ammodaucus leucotrichus is potentially rich source of anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds.

Taraxacum: A Review of Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activity.

Taraxacum refers to the genus Taraxacum, which has a long history of use as a medicinal plant and is widely distributed around the world. There are over 2500 species in the genus Taraxacum recorded as medicinal plants in China, Central Asia, Europe, and the Americas. It has traditionally been used for detoxification, diuresis, liver protection, the treatment of various inflammations, antimicrobial properties, and so on. We used the most typically reported Taraxacum officinale as an example and assembled its chemical makeup, including sesquiterpene, triterpene, steroids, flavone, sugar and its derivatives, phenolic acids, fatty acids, and other compounds, which are also the material basis for its pharmacological effects. Pharmacological investigations have revealed that Taraxacum crude extracts and chemical compounds contain antimicrobial infection, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, anti-oxidative, liver protective, and blood sugar and blood lipid management properties. These findings adequately confirm the previously described traditional uses and aid in explaining its therapeutic applications.