Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Potential of Methanolic Extract of Neurada procumbens Linn. in Mice.

Neurada procumbens Linn. possesses a wide range of phytochemical and bioactive entities such as flavonoids and polyphenols that decrease the oxidative stress and enhance synaptic plasticity, resulting in accelerated healing processes. Almost all parts of the plant have been used in the traditional system of medicine for various disorders including its use as an anticonvulsant, sexual tonic, and anti-rheumatic agent. This study is designed to evaluate the anxiolytic and antidepressant activities of the methanolic crude extract of N. procumbens (Np.Cr) based on its use in traditional medicine and presence of the phytochemical constituents. Aqueous methanolic extract of Np.Cr was prepared under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator, and different chemical constituents were identified by phytochemical screening. Light/dark exploration, elevated plus maze (EPM), and hole board tests were used to assess the anxiolytic activity, while forced swim and tail suspension tests were used to assess the antidepressant potential of the crude extract. Treatment groups treated individually with 3 different doses; i.e., 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg of Np.Cr, showed a dose-dependent increase in time spent in light compartment and in open arms as well as increased number of head poking by the experimental animals. Np.Cr showed significant antidepressant potential (P < .05) as evident from marked decrease in behavioral despair. Findings of the present study assure that N. procumbens possess significant anxiolytic and antidepressant potential with the demands of further investigations to identify the active compound(s) responsible for these pharmacological effects.

Hepatoprotective effect of Cordia rothii extract against CCl4-induced oxidative stress via Nrf2-NFκB pathways.

Cordia rothii Roem. & Schult. possesses various beneficial effects and is traditionally used in folk medicine against liver diseases but its molecular mechanism remains unclear. Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Cordia rothii methanolic fraction (CRMF) were investigated in CCl4-induced liver injury. Antioxidant effects were evaluated using DPPH assay, ferric thiocyanate (FTC) assay, and HepG2 cells. A qualitative analysis of phytochemicals was carried out by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The hepatoprotective effects of CRMF were assessed against CCl4-induced liver damage in rats. Our results showed that CRMF significantly increased cell viability against CCl4-induced HepG2 cells. The in vivo results showed that CRMF significantly reduced the level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, hepatic antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, and increased glutathione level. Normal hepatocyte integrity and microstructures were observed in histopathological results. Furthermore, the mRNA level of inflammatory mediators including interleukon (IL)-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-KB), IL-10 and nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (NrF2) were reverted in CRMF pretreatment groups. Thus, CRMF exhibited strong antioxidant, and hepatoprotective activities, which may involve Nrf2-NFκB pathways.

Geranium wallichianum D. Don Ex Sweet Ameliorates Rheumatoid Arthritis by Curtailing the Expression of COX-II and Inflammatory Cytokines as Well as by Alleviating the Oxidative Stress.

Geranium wallichianum D. Don ex sweet traditionally been used as home remedy for backaches, joint pain, colic, and rheumatism. The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic benefits of plant in an adjuvant-induced arthritis paradigm. Immune-mediated rheumatoid arthritis was developed by injecting complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the hind paws of rats and the aqueous methanolic crude extract was administered. The animals were physically monitored for changes in paw edema size and arthritic score. Hematological parameters and systemic inflammatory indicators evaluated. Genetic expressions of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukins (IL-1ß, IL-6), necrosis factor (NF-κB), and cyclooxygenase (COX-II) enzyme were studied using real-time qPCR. PGE2 levels in blood were quantified through Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). On the 14th day, Immunoglobulin E (IGE) exhibited a substantial decline in paw edema and arthritic score. At the doses of 500 mg/Kg (P ≤ .05) and 1000 mg/Kg (P ≤ .001), IGE significantly reduced TNF-α, interleukins, and COX-II mRNA expression. IGE significantly lowered the MDA levels at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/Kg (13.18 ± .70 and 9.04 ± .26 µM/L respectively) as compared to arthritic control (30.82 ± 1.12 µM/L) group. IGE significantly improved the antioxidant enzyme activities of CAT and SOD (P ≤ .001) in treated animals. TNF-α, interleukins, and COX-II mRNA expression were also significantly reduced at the doses of 300 (P ≤ .05), 500 (P ≤ .01) and 1000 mg/Kg (P ≤ .001) which were expressed as fold changes. This study shows that Geranium wallichianum D. Don ex sweet has a strong potential to alleviate immune-mediated arthritis by lowering oxidative stress and downregulating the proinflammatory cytokines signaling mechanisms.

Caralluma tuberculata exhibits analgesic and anti-arthritic potential by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and attenuating oxidative stress.

Caralluma tuberculata N.E. Brown (Common name: Chongan), belonging to the family Asclepiadaceae is distributed widely in hilly areas of Dir, Swat, Kohat and in plain lands of Punjab, Pakistan. The plant has been used as a source of vegetable as well as home remedy for headache, muscle spasms and rheumatism. The present study was proposed to investigate the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic potential of the aqueous methanolic extract of C. tuberculata (ICE). The dried shoots of plant were used to prepare aqueous methanolic extract (30:70) by 3 days thrice maceration and filtration followed by evaporation under reduced pressure. ICE was screened for the presence of phytochemicals using preliminary phytochemical analysis and HPLC. The antioxidant potential was evaluated through DPPH assay. Analgesic potential of ICE was studied using hot plate and tail immersion methods, and anti-inflammatory activity was performed using turpentine oil and carrageenan-induced inflammation models, in wistar albino rats. Formaldehyde-induced and Complete Freund's Adjuvant-induced arthritis models were used for the assessment of anti-arthritic activity of ICE and its effects on serum levels of PGE-2 as well as gene expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were studied. ICE displayed a dose-dependent (300-1000 mg/Kg p.o.) analgesic effect in hot plate (maximum retention time of 10.87 and 13 s) and tail immersion (response time of 11 and 13.64 s) tests at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/Kg, respectively. The extract exhibited a significant decrease in paw inflammation of rats at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/Kg as compared to the disease control group. ICE also exhibited a remarkable decline in arthritic score and a dose-dependent drop in serum levels of prostaglandin E2. There was a significant suppression in the expression of TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6, NF-κB and cyclooxygenase enzyme in treatment groups. This study concludes that Caralluma tuberculata exhibits strong analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-arthritic activities thus upholding the vernacular use of the plant for pain and rheumatism.

Evaluation of Sida cordifolia L. for its potential against thrombosis in experimental models.

Thrombosis, the formation of blood clots due to platelet aggregation, vascular injury or hypercoagulability, leads to cardiovascular pathologies including myocardial or cerebral infarction. Antiplatelet and thrombolytic agents have promising effects in ameliorating thromboembolism and dissolving blood clots. However, the associated limitations generate the need to explore agents from natural origin. The aim of the study was to explore the potential of aqueous methanolic extract (Sc.Cr) of an indigenous plant, Sida cordifolia L., traditionally used for cardiovascular complaints. Sc.Cr was evaluated by clot lysis assay, acute pulmonary embolism, carrageenan-induced tail vein thrombosis and ferric chloride-induced carotid arterial thrombosis models. Hemostasis parameters were increased in a dose-dependent manner. Histological studies showed restoration with clear alveolar spaces and less red blood cell congestion. Significant reduction in infarcted length of thrombus, escalation in coagulation parameters with a profound decrease in platelet count (PC) were observed. Arterial occlusion time was increased with a reduction in weight of thrombus dose-dependently with significant augmentation in PT and APTT. Sc.Cr was also analyzed for phytochemical constituents and antioxidant potential. The results demonstrated the antithrombotic and thrombolytic potential of Sc.Cr using in vitro and in vivo experimental models.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Mentha piperita Against Urolithiasis: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study.

Background: Mentha piperita L. (peppermint) is one of the most widely consumed medicinal herbs that has gained attention from food and pharmaceutical industries due to its distinct aroma and taste. Purpose: Present study was aimed to rationalize the traditional use of peppermint in urolithiasis and to explore its possible underlying mechanism. Research Design: The aqueous methanolic crude extract of Mentha piperita (Mp.Cr) was assessed for phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity. In vitro crystallization assays were performed to determine the inhibitory effects of Mp.Cr against crystal nucleation, aggregation and growth. In vivo urolithiasis model was developed in rats by the administration of ammonium chloride and ethylene glycol in drinking water. The antiurolithic effects of Mp.Cr were evaluated by analyzing kidney homogenate, biochemical and histological parameters. Results: HPLC analysis showed the presence of epicatechin, quercetin, gallic acid, syringic acid, kaempferol, caffeic acid and coumaric acid. The maximum quantity of quercetin equivalent flavonoid and gallic acid equivalent phenolic content was found to be 63.73 ± .24 mg QE/g and 43.76 ± .6 mg GAE/g of Mp.Cr, respectively. Mp.Cr significantly normalized urinary and serum biochemistry, similar to the standard cystone treatment. Conclusions: The current study validated the preventive and curative potential of Mp.Cr against urolithiasis and justified its traditional use in kidney stone disease.

Gisekia pharnaceoides Restores Colonic Mucosal Homeostasis by Regulating Antioxidant Enzyme System and Cytokines Signaling in Ulcerative Colitis Mice Model.

BACKGROUND: Gisekia pharnaceoides Linn. (Aizoaceae), traditionally known as baluka saag or sareli is commonly found in the deep Cholistan region of Pakistan. It is used by the native community for the mitigation of a range of diseases, including inflammatory disorders and gastric ulcers. OBJECTIVE: This study is designed to evaluate the defensive impact of G. pharnaceoides in acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in mice and to discover the mechanism for anti-inflammatory action. METHODS: The ethanolic crude extract of G. pharnaceoides (Gp.Cr) was prepared and evaluated for phytochemical substances by preliminary screening and HPLC analysis. Anti-inflammatory activity of Gp.Cr (300 and 500 mg/kg) was examined by administration of 200 µl of 7.5% acetic acid intra- rectally to induce ulcerative colitis and colonic mucosal injury, while mucosal homeostasis was evaluated by disease activity index, colonic ulcer score, and hematological parameters. The anti-inflammatory potential was quantified by assessing antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPX-1), lipid peroxides, nitric oxide, and cytokines (IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α) immunoassays and further analyzed by histological analysis of colon tissues. RESULTS: Phytochemical screening of Gp.Cr revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, steroids, tannins, and saponins, while HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of quercetin, gallic acid, coumaric and sinapic acid. In acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis model, Gp.Cr (300 and 500 mg/kg) along with sulphasalazine (500 mg/kg) decreased disease activity index, ulcer scores, and hematological parameters. Gp.Cr showed a significant anti-inflammatory potential by increasing antioxidant enzymes and decreasing lipid peroxides, nitric oxide, and cytokines levels. Histopathological examination showed a significant decline in ulceration and tissue disruption. CONCLUSION: Hence, the findings confirmed the effectiveness of G. pharnaceoides crude extract in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and might be a promising remedy to manage inflammatory disorders.

Prophylactic and curative potential of peppermint oil against calcium oxalate kidney stones.

Mentha piperita L., a well-known traditional herb, constitutes essential oil as one of its important constituent, used for its flavor, aroma and therapeutic applications. Based on the antioxidant, antispasmodic and nephroprotective potential, the essential oil of Mentha piperita was evaluated for its preventive and curative effects against ethylene glycol induced urolithiasis. Peppermint oil (Mp.Eo) was evaluated for its antioxidant potential by DPPH method. Urolithiasis was developed in male rats by the administration of ammonium chloride and ethylene glycol in drinking water. Different doses of Mp.Eo (10, 30 and 50 mg/kg) and cystone, the standard antiurolithic drug (500 mg/kg), were given along with stone-inducing regimen in prophylactic model and after intoxication for the next fourteen days in curative model. Urine and serum were analyzed for various biochemical parameters. One representative kidney from each group was studied for changes in histological parameters. Mp.Eo was found to be effective against urolithiasis-associated changes including crystalluria, polyuria and acidic urine. Mp.Eo also neutralized the altered levels of urinary uric acid, magnesium, total protein, serum creatinine and serum BUN. The data obtained from the present study demonstrated the therapeutic importance of peppermint oil against urolithiasis.

Pharmacological evaluation of analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities of ethanolic extract of Indigofera argentea Burm. f.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Indigofera argentea Burm. f.; commonly known as neel, jantari, hathio; is traditionally used for the treatment of headache, fever, inflammation and body pain. Local communities also used this plant for the treatment of malaria, jaundice, vertigo and gastric disorders. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study is aimed to evaluate the toxicity and possible analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities of the ethanolic crude extract of Indigofera argentea (IaCr) to support its use in folk medicine and to screen the phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aqueous ethanolic (30:70) extract of whole plant of Indigofera argentea (IaCr) was prepared and phytochemical study was performed by preliminary methods followed by HPLC and DPPH method. In vivo experiments were performed in Wistar albino rats including hot plate, tail immersion, formalin and capsaicin-induced pain tests in rats and acetic acid-induced writhing test in mice. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by using in vitro human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization and carrageenan-induced rat paw edema test, while antipyretic activity was evaluated by Brewer's yeast-induced pyrexia test. RESULTS: The crude extract of Indigofera argentea confirmed the presence of flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, saponins and tannins as soluble ethanolic constituents in preliminary study. The maximum quantity of gallic acid equivalent (GAE) phenolics, and quercetin equivalent (QE) flavonoid content found was 81 ± 2 mg GAE/g and 56 ± 1.4 mg QE/g of extract respectively. Quantification based on HPLC exposed the presence of phenols and flavonoids, quercetin, gallic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, benzoic acid, ferulic acid and coumaric acid. In vivo experiments revealed significant P < 0.05) dose-dependent inhibition in hot plate, tail immersion and capsaicin-induced pain test. IaCr showed significant inhibition of pain latency against both phases in formalin test and considerably decreased the number of writhes caused by acetic acid at the doses of 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg. In the in vitro anti-inflammatory (HRBC) assay, IaCr showed good membrane stability with maximum percentage hemolysis inhibition of 49.29% while in carrageenan-induced paw edema test in rats the IaCr showed significant anti-inflammatory action in a dose-dependent fashion. Statistical significant reduction in rectal temperature was observed at the doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg in yeast-induced pyrexia test in rats. CONCLUSION: The results of the experimental studies proved the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities of Indigofera argentea and supported the traditional use of this plant.

Citrus aurantium Ameliorates Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity.

We aimed to study the effects of Citrus aurantium (C. aurantium) on renal functions in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. The study involved male Wistar rats weighing 250-300 g that were fed and kept under standard conditions. Rats were randomly divided into control, cisplatin administered, C. aurantium 200 mg/kg, and C. aurantium 400 mg/kg groups. Cisplatin was administered at 5 mg/kg i.p. once at the start of study to induce nephrotoxicity. Blood and urine samples were obtained at alternative days for analysis. The body weight and urine output were monitored at regular intervals. Plasma and urinary sodium, potassium, and creatinine levels were measured at the end of study duration. Absolute excretion of sodium and potassium; sodium to potassium ratio; kidney weights; fractional excretion of sodium and potassium; and absolute creatinine clearance were determined to analyze the effects of C. aurantium. Histopathological changes of kidney tissues were studied to determine relevant effects. The results indicate that cisplatin lowered the total body weights while raising the urinary output and kidney weights, reversed by C. aurantium both dose and time dependently. Similarly, C. aurantium markedly normalized plasma, urinary sodium, potassium, and creatinine levels. Cisplatin-induced absolute sodium clearance, absolute potassium clearance, absolute creatinine clearance, sodium to potassium ratio, and fractional excretion of sodium and potassium were significantly reversed by C. aurantium. Histopathological analysis showed notable improvement in C. aurantium administered groups as compared to cisplatin-induced group. Study suggests that C. aurantium possesses excellent nephroprotective effects against cisplatin-induced toxicity.

Antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic potential of Echinops echinatus in rat models of type I and type II diabetes.

Echinops echinatus is traditionally an important plant that finds its extensive use as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, nerve tonic, abortifacient, aphrodisiac, antiasthmatic, and antidiabetic agent. The current study investigates protection against the hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia in alloxan-induced (type I diabetes) and fructose-fed insulin resistance (type II diabetes) models of diabetes treated with aqueous methanolic root extract of E. echinatus (Ee.Cr). Albino rats were treated orally with Ee.Cr at doses 100, 300 and 500mg/kg. The fasting blood glucose was measured by glucometer, while standard kits were used to determine the levels of serum total cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL. The administration of Ee.Cr significantly (P<0.001) reduced the FBG concentration in a dose-dependent pattern in alloxan-induced and fructose-fed diabetic rats. The Ee.Cr also corrected the dyslipidemia associated with fructose and alloxan-induced diabetes by significantly (P<0.001) decreasing the concentration of serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL and by increasing HDL concentration. Ee.Cr also significantly (P<0.001) improved the glucose tolerance in fructose-fed rats. We conclude that Ee.Cr has antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic effects in both insulin-dependent alloxan-induced diabetes and fructose-induced insulin resistance diabetes rat models.

Vasorelaxant activities and the underlying pharmacological mechanisms of Gynura procumbens Merr. leaf extracts on rat thoracic aorta.

Previous studies have investigated the cardiovascular activity of Gynura procumbens Merr. single-solvent extracts. The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro vasorelaxant properties and the underlying pharmacological mechanisms of serial extracts and fractions of Gynura procumbens (GP). The leaves of GP were serially extracted with petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol and water using the maceration method. Suspended aortic ring preparations were pre-contracted with phenylephrine (PE 1 µM), followed by cumulative addition of GP extracts (0.25-3 mg/mL). The petroleum ether extract (GPPE) was the most potent among the four extracts. Pre-incubation of endothelium-intact aorta with atropine (1 µM), indomethacin (10 µM), methylene blue (10 µM), propranolol (1 µM) and potassium channel blockers such as TEA (1 µM), glibenclamide (10 µM), 4-aminopyridine (1 µM) and barium chloride (10 mM) had no effect on GPPE-induced vasorelaxation. The vasorelaxant effect of GPPE was partly diminished by pretreatment of aortic rings preparations with L-NAME (10 µM) and even more so in endothelium-denuded aortic rings, indicating a minimal involvement of endothelium-dependent pathway in GPPE-induced vasorelaxation. The calcium-induced vasocontractions were antagonized significantly and concentration-dependently by GPPE in calcium free and high potassium medium. These results illustrate that Ca2+ antagonizing actions of GPPE in rat isolated aorta are comparable to that of verapamil and may be mainly responsible for its vasodilation effect. The antioxidant activity of GPPE supports its vasorelaxant effect by attenuating the production of deleterious free radicals and reactive oxygen species in the vasculature.

Immunostimulant activities of the aqueous methanolic extract of Leptadenia pyrotechnica, a plant from Cholistan desert.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Leptadenia pyrotechnica (Forssk.) Decne (Asclepiadaceae) is a well-renowned medicinal shrub, used by herbal practitioners for various ailments including allergic rhinitis, productive cough, abortion, diabetes, stomach disorders, fever, kidney disorders, stones and cancer AIM OF THE STUDY: On the basis of folkloric uses, L. pyrotechnica was selected from the wide medicinal flora of the Cholistan desert of Pakistan, for the exploration of immunomodulatory potential. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aqueous methanolic (30:70) extract of aerial parts of L. pyrotechnica (Lp. Cr) was prepared by 3 days thrice maceration and subsequent evaporation under reduced pressure. In-vivo experiments were performed in Wistar albino rats including neutrophil adhesion test, haemagglutinating antibody (HA) titre, delayed-type hypersensitivity response, phagocytic activity and cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression. RESULTS: Lp. Cr produced a significant increase in phagocytic index in dose-dependent fashion (3.56, 4.18 and 5.42 at 30, 100 and 300mg/kg, respectively) as well as an augmented response in the delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction and HA titre induced by sheep erythrocytes. Lp. Cr also showed improved adhesion of neutrophils with nylon pellets (15.28, 27.85 and 38.42% at the doses of 30, 100 and 300mg/kg) and prevented myelosuppression in cyclophosphamide-treated rats as evidenced from the hematological parameters. The results of treatment were compared with normal and standard control groups throughout the study and the effects by Lp. Cr (300mg/kg) were found to be comparable with Levamisole. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated that L. pyrotechnica possesses immunostimulatory activity and justify its traditional use for the control and management of diseases in which the immune system needs to be stimulated like infectious diseases.

ANTIDIABETIC AND ANTIDYSLIPIDEMIC EFFECTS OF HELIOTROPIUM STRIGOSUM IN RAT MODELS OF TYPE I AND TYPE II DIABETES.

Heliotropiumz stnigosum Wilid. (Boraginaceae) is used traditionally as a laxative, diuretic, and as a treatment for snake bites and stings of nettles. Recent investigations have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of H. sorigosum. However, antihyperglycemic and antidyslipidemic activity of H. strigosum has not been investigated to date and we aimed to explore these activities of the crude aqueous methanolic extract of thEaerial parts of H. strigosum (Hs.Cr). Hs.Cr was administered orally at doses of 100, 300, and 500 mg/kg in alloxan-induced diabetic rats (type I diabetes) and fructose-fed rats (type II diabetes). The fasting blood glucose (FBG) concentration was assessed by glucometer, while semum total cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL were estimated by using standard kits. The FBG concentration significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in dose-dependent pattern in both alloxan-induced diabetic and fructose-fed rats on Hs.Cr administration. The percentage glucose reductions in alloxanized rats with glibenclamide, Hs.Cr 100, 300, and 500 mg/kg were obeserved to be 67, 36, 56 and 62%, respectively. In fructose-fed rats, the percentage glucose redutions associated with metformin, Hs.Cr 100, 300, and 500 mg/kg were 23, 5, 11 and 12%, respectively. The extract also corrected the dyslipidemia associated with fructose and alloxan-induced diabetes by significantly (p < 0.00 1) decreasing the concentration of serum total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL and by increasing HDL concentration. Our data demonstrate that the H. stigosum has antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic effects, thus encouraging further studies.

ANTIOXIDANT, ANTIBACTERIAL AND GUT MODULATING ACTIVITIES OF KALANCHOE LACINIATA.

Kalanchoe laciniata (L.) DC. (Crassulaceae) is a widely distributed plant in Africa and Asia. Traditionally, various communities use this plant for the treatment of a variety of ailments such as gut prob- lems, allergic conditions and wounds. The current study was designed to explore the antibacterial, antioxidant and gut modulating activities of K. laciniata in order to provide scientific rationale for its traditional uses. Phytochemical compounds were assessed through screening 70% crude methanolic extract of K. laciniata. Its gut modulatory activity was evaluated by in vitro tissue experiments on rabbit jejunum which yielded maximal spasmogenic response of 28.4 ± 4.6% (n = 4) at 3 mg/mL, while spasmolytic response was recorded with EC50 value of 3.2 mg/mL (2.8-3.5, 95% CI, n = 5). In antibacterial assays crude extract was found effective against Stapllococcus aurus and Bacillus subtilis, with MIC value of 5 and 2.5 mg/mL, respectively. The testing of the methanolic crude extract for antioxidants resulted in total phenolic contents of 27.8 ± 1.8 mg GAE/g DW and 22.7 ± 2.1 mg AAE/g DW total antioxidant activity. It also scavenged 17.3 ± 3.0% of DPPH free radical when compared with quercitin.

Diuretic activity of aqueous extract of Nigella sativa in albino rats.

The study aims to evaluate the diuretic effect and acute toxicity of a crude aqueous extract of Nigella sativa using animal models. To evaluate the diuretic activity of the plant, Albino rats were divided into five groups. The control group received normal saline (10 mL/kg), the reference group received furosemide (10 mg/kg) and the test groups were administered different doses (i.e., 10, 30 and 50 mg/kg) of the crude extract by intra-peritoneal route, respectively. Graph Pad Prism was used for the statistical analysis and p-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. We observed significant diuretic, kaliuretic and natriuretic effects in the treated groups in a dose dependent manner. However, urinary pH remained unchanged during the course of the study. The diuretic index values showed good diuretic activity of the crude extract. The Lipschitz values demonstrated that the crude extract, at the dose of 50 mg/kg, showed 46% diuretic activity compared with furosemide. With regard to the acute toxicity study, no lethal effects were observed among Albino mice even at the higher dose of 5000 mg/kg. The extract of Nigella sativa, at the dose of 50 mg/kg, significantly increased the urinary volume and modified the concentration of urinary electrolytes, and there was observed no signs of acute toxicity associated with the crude extract. Further studies are encouraged to isolate the pure phytochemical responsible for diuresis.

Diuretic activity of Boswellia serrata Roxb. oleo gum extract in albino rats.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of crude aqueous extract of Boswellia serrata Roxb. oleo gum on urinary electrolytes, pH and diuretic activity in normal albino rats. Moreover, acute toxicity of the gum extract was assessed using mice. Albino rats were divided into five groups. Control group received normal saline (10 mg/kg), reference group received furosemide (10 mg/kg) and test groups were given different doses of crude extract (10, 30 and 50 mg/kg) by intra-peritoneal route, respectively. The Graph Pad Prism was used for the statistical analysis and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Significant diuretic, kaliuretic and natriuretic effects were observed in the treated groups in a dose dependent manner. Diuretic index showed good diuretic activity of the crude extract. Lipschitz values indicated that the crude extract, at the dose of 50 mg/kg, showed 44 % diuretic activity compared to the reference drug. No lethal effects were observed among albino mice even at the higher dose of 3000 mg/kg. It is concluded that aqueous extract of Boswellia serrata oleo gum, at the dose of 50 mg/kg showed significant effects on urinary volume and concentration of urinary electrolytes with no signs of toxicity.

Possible mechanism of cardiac depressant activity of Berberis orthobotrys roots in isolated rabbit heart.

Berberis orhob, otrvs Bien. ex Aitch. (B.o.) has been reported to have antihypertensive effect in different experimental models. The aim of present study was to evaluate the possible antihypertensive mechanism. Aqueous methanolic extract of B.o. roots and its various fractions namely (ethyl acetate, n-butanol or aqueous) in different concentrations (10 ng/mL, 100 ng/mL, I pg/mL, 10 pg/mL, 100 pg/mL ) were evaluated in isolated perfused rabbit heart to assess their effect on force of contraction, HR and perfusion pressure. The crude extract of B.o. and its fractions exhibited a significant decrease in heart rate, contractility and perfusion pressure of isolated rabbit heart, however, butanolic fraction produced more prominent effect and was selected for further study. The effects of butanol fraction were not blocked by atropine (10' M) in isolated perfused heart. However, butanol fraction significantly blocked the effects of adrenaline (10' M). It is therefore conceivable that cardiac depressant activity of B.o. butanol fraction might be due to the presence of certain 3-blocking agents which might be responsible for antihypertensive effect However, further experiments are required to isolate the active compound(s) and elucidate exact mechanism of action.

Pharmacological evaluation of antihypertensive effect of aerial parts of Thymus linearis benth.

Traditionally Thymus linearis Benth. have been used for treatment of various diseases including hypertension. The present study was conducted to evaluate the hypotensive and antihypertensive effect of aqueous methanolic extract of aerial parts of Thymus linearis Benth. in normotensive and hypertensive rats. Acute and subchronic studies were also conducted. The aqueous methanolic extract produced a significant decrease in SBP, DBP, MBP and heart rate of both normotensive and hypertensive rats. LDv, of the extract was found to be 3000 mg/kg. The extract also exhibited a reduction in serum ALT, AST, ALP, cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL levels, while a significant increase in HDL level was observed. It is conceivable therefore, that Thymus linearis Benth. contains certain active compound(s) that are possibly responsible for the observed antihypertensive activity. Moreover, these findings further authenticate the traditional use of this plant in folklore medicine.

Anti-diabetic and spasmolytic potential of Farsetia hamiltonii Royle from Cholistan desert.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Folk herbal practitioners of the Cholistan desert claim Farsetia hamiltonii Royle (Brassicaceae) to treat diabetes, oxidative damages, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. The aim of this study was to scientifically find the potential of Farsetia hamiltonii in treating diabetes and gastrointestinal diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In vivo anti-diabetic activity of Farsetia hamiltonii was studied on alloxan induced diabetic rats to justify its traditional use. The in vitro antispasmodic activity on isolated tissues of rabbit jejunum was also evaluated. In addition, several enzyme inhibition studies (lipoxygenase, tyrosinase, acetylcholinesterase (AchE), carbonic II anhydrase and phosphodiesterase I) and antioxidant activity of plant extracts were also conducted. RESULTS: In vivo experiments, Farsetia hamiltonii methanol extract (300 mg/kg) significantly lowered the fasting blood glucose (107.6 ± 1.249 mg/dL up to 4th day) comparable to positive control (Glibenclamide) throughout the study period. The in vitro antispasmodic activity on isolated tissues of rabbit jejunum on methanol extract showed concentration dependent (0.01-0.3 mg/ml) relaxation of spontaneous contractions with EC50 value 0.011 µM and high K(+) (80 mM) induced contraction (0.01-0.1 mg/ml) with EC50 value 0.066 mg/ml. Farsetia hamiltonii DCM and methanol extracts exhibited some antilipoxygenase activities while tyrosinase, acetylcholinesterase (AchE), carbonic II anhydrase, phosphodiesterase I, and antioxidant activity of plant extracts were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: Our results validate the traditional use of Farsetia hamiltonii for the traditional therapeutic potential in treating diabetes and gastrointestinal diseases.