Nanoencapsulation and characterisation of Hypericum perforatum for the treatment of neuropathic pain.

AIM: This work aimed to encapsulate Hypericum perforatum extract (HPE) into nanophytosomes (NPs) and assess the therapeutic efficacy of this nanocarrier in neuropathic pain induced by partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL). METHODS: Hydroalcoholic extract of Hypericum perforatum was prepared and encapsulated into NPs by thin layer hydration method. Particle size, zeta potential, TEM, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), entrapment efficiency (%EE), and loading capacity (LC) of NPs were reported. The biochemical and histopathological examinations were measured in the sciatic nerve. RESULTS: Particle size, zeta potential, %EE, and LC were 104.7 ± 1.529 nm, -8.93 ± 1.71 mV, 87.23 ± 1.3%, and 53.12 ± 1.7%, respectively. TEM revealed well-formed and distinct vesicles. NPHPE (NPs of HPE) was significantly more effective than HPE in reducing PSNL-inducing pain. Antioxidant levels and sciatic nerve histology were reversed to normal with NPHPE. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that encapsulating HPE with phytosomes is an effective therapeutic approach for neuropathic pain.

Evaluation of Hepatoprotective Efficacy of a Polyherbal Unani Formulation Majoon-Najah against Cadmium Chloride-induced Liver Damage.

BACKGROUND: Majoon-Najah is a composite Unani formulation that consists of multiple medicinal plants and is advised for neurological illnesses. Several studies were carried out on Majoon-Najah (MN) and its ingredients to evaluate the protective effect against seizure and antidepressant activity in animals using a classical form as well as extract. Terminalia bellerica and Emblica officinalis are the major constituents of MN. Scientifically documented literature summarises the hepatoprotective potential of these constituents. AIM: The current study aimed to evaluate the possible hepatoprotective, antioxidant and antiinflammatory perspective of traditional Indian Unani formulation MN and Majoon-Najah hydroalcoholic extract (MNHE) in a Guinea pig model. METHODS: Thirty adult male albino guinea pigs were randomly assigned into five groups for this study. MN and MNHE were given intragastrically for 15 days, followed by intraperitoneal Cadmium chloride (CdCl2, 3 mg/kg/day) from days 8 to 15, as per the schedule. Blood samples were taken from the heart on the 16th day, and the liver was operated on for biochemical analysis and histopathology under complete anesthesia. RESULTS: CdCl2 changed the levels of liver function markers, serum biochemical indicators like albumin, total protein, glucose, and cholesterol in the blood; lipid peroxidation (MDA), glutathione reductase (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in hepatic tissue homogenate, pro-inflammatory cytokines level and liver cytoarchitecture. MN and MNHE were found to protect guinea pigs' liver from CdCl2-induced injury by lowering raised parameters and increasing enzymatic antioxidants. MN and MNHE did not significantly heal injured liver tissues caused by CdCl2 in histopathological examinations. CONCLUSION: CdCl2 induces hepatotoxicity that is likely to worsen with increasing dosage and duration of exposure. MN and MNHE exert their hepatoprotective action by scavenging free radicals, decreasing malondialdehyde levels, activating antioxidant enzymes, and down-regulating proinflammatory indicators.

Healing Potential of Propolis Extract-Passiflora edulis Seed Oil Emulgel Against Excisional Wound: Biochemical, Histopathological, and Cytokines Level Evidence.

Propolis is rich in natural bioactive compounds, and considering its importance for many skin therapies, emulgel was prepared. This study examines how a propolis extract (PE) and Passiflora edulis seed (PS) oil emulgel affect rat deep skin wound healing. Based on preset criteria of maximum drug content and optimum drug permeation through the stratum corneum along with drug retention in the skin layers, an optimized emulgel formula based on Box-Behnken factorial design was prepared and used for subsequent in vitro and in vivo evaluations. In vivo wound-healing activities of emulgel and control treatments were investigated in a rat model. The optimized emulgel formula exhibited superior healing activity compared with plain PE suspension-treated rats on day 14 of wounding. Histopathological investigations of hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's Trichrome-stained skin sections supported this effect. Emulgel promotes cutaneous wound healing through a variety of mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory through modulation of cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1ß, and IL-6 production, and promotion of collagen fiber formation, all of which contribute to tissue remodeling. Furthermore, when compared with propolis suspension, emulgel showed significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Emulgel significantly increased the skin's hydroxyproline level, antioxidant potential, wound contraction, increased penetration, and localized propolis deposition across the skin. Incorporation of PS oil into the emulgel accelerates the tissue regeneration process. The findings suggest that 5% propolis emulgel could be used as an alternative to treat wounds.

Successful Ayurvedic Management of Dermatophytosis-A case report.

Fungal infections are quite common in day-to-day practice. The available conventional treatments include various topical and systemic anti-pruritic and anti-fungal agents which are associated with high rates of treatment failure and adverse effects. Fungal infections manifest a great challenge to clinicians due to higher rate of recurrences and if not treated early, can lead to the development of more extensive diseases. In Ayurveda, this condition has resemblance with Dadru kustha. The characteristics of Dadrukustha are circumscribed erythematous, scaly plaques due to dematophytes infection. It is a type of Kshudra kushta, tridosaja vyadhi with dominance of pitta and kaphadosha, having characteristic features such as presence of utsannamandal (elevated circular skin lesion), kandu (itching), raga (erythyma), and pidaka (eruptions). In this case report, a 62-year old male patient suffering from tinea corporis on and off for one year was treated effectively with Ayurvedic medicines. Significant changes were observed in the skin lesion and in the patient symptoms after 42 days of regular treatment. Post-treatment follow-up after 1 month did not reveal any signs of recurrences of lesions. Ayurvedic medicines offer an effective approach to manage tinea corporis.

Efficacy of transcutaneous bilirubinometry as compared to serum bilirubin in preterm newborn during phototherapy.

Transcutaneous measurement of bilirubin is being used for neonatal jaundice. Its utility during phototherapy in preterm babies is not established. The objective of our study was to assess the efficacy of transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurement in comparison to total serum bilirubin in preterm newborns at admission and during phototherapy at the covered skin area (glabella). It was a prospective observational study and conducted at the neonatal intensive care unit of a tertiary care hospital from January 2017 to January 2019. One hundred eligible preterm neonates were enrolled. Babies who were very sick, with poor peripheral circulation, edematous, having conjugated hyperbilirubinemia, with major congenital malformations, already received phototherapy or exchange transfusion were excluded. Paired total serum bilirubin and transcutaneous bilirubin were measured at admission and 6 h and 24 h during phototherapy. TcB was measured from the area (glabella) covered by an eye protector during phototherapy. The sample for TsB was taken within 10 min of TcB measurement. The mean differences between TsB and TcB values at admission and 6 h and 24 h of phototherapy were - 0.005 (0.353) mg/dl, - 0.350 (0.611) mg/dl, and - 0.592 (0.353) mg/dl, respectively. At admission or before starting of phototherapy, the difference (TsB-TcB) was statistically not significant (p = .125), while the difference in these values was statistically significant at 6 h and 24 h of phototherapy.Conclusion: TcB measurements from the covered skin area in jaundiced preterm infants during phototherapy were not correlated with TsB and cannot be used as an alternate of serum bilirubin testing. What is known • HPLC bilirubin measurement is a gold standard test for bilirubin measurement but impractical for day to day use. Serum total bilirubin is used for clinical testing.. • There is evidence for use of transcutaneous bilirubinometry for assessment of bilirubin in term newborn. What is new • TcB measurements from a covered skin area in jaundiced preterm newborns under phototherapy were not correlated significantly at 6 h and 24 h of phototherapy, but correlated before phototherapy. • TcB cannot be used as an alternate of serum bilirubin testing in preterm infants during phototherapy.

Therapeutic Potential of Antileukotriene Drug-Camellia sinensis Extract Co-Formulation on Histamine Induced Asthma in Guinea Pigs.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: To study the therapeutic potential of Antileukotriene drug- Camellia sinensis extract co-formulation on histamine induced asthma in guinea pigs. METHODS: SRSD of Montelukast sodium was prepared by the solvent evaporation method. Lyophilized aqueous extract of Camellia sinensis leaves and SRSD mixture was filled in capsule and the capsule shell was coated to achieve initial release lag time. In vitro and pharmacokinetic study of capsules was performed and compared with commercial tablets. A further role of green tea, as an antioxidant adjunct for asthma management, has been analyzed by lung histology, mast cell count and oxidative stress assay in the serum of control and experimental animals. RESULTS: The drug release from the commercial tablet was immediate and rapid, but capsule has shown an initial 3.5 hr lag time followed by sustained action up to 8 hr. Pharmacokinetic results show that studied formulations are bioequivalent with respect to Cmax and AUC, while rest parameters showed asignificant difference. Mast cells count in lung tissue were increased (p<0.001) in the experimental group along with glycoprotein deposition in asthmatic bronchioles. Levels of SOD and GPX were decreased (p<0.05) while CAT was increased (p<0.04) in the asthma group in comparison to control. CONCLUSION: In the experimental animal model, co-formulation was effective in modulating allergic inflammation and contributing to better control of the inflammatory response. Our findings suggest that Camellia sinensis leaves extract may be used as an adjunct for future improvements in asthma treatment and prevention.

Montelukast Sodium Formulation Containing Green Tea Extract to Reduce the Oxidative Stress in Guinea Pig Model of Chronic Allergic Asthma.

AIM AND BACKGROUND: The rationale of this study is that, treatment of asthmatic Guinea pig with combined administration of Montelukast sodium and Green Tea Extract (GTE) as a single capsule will mitigate the inflammatory injury in the airways and weaken the asthmatic response. Recent patents for the treatment of asthma researched a polyphenolic alternatives for antiasthmatic combination therapy, especially for those patients who remains unresponsive or poorly responsive for current asthma therapy (US7232585B2). Synergistic activity of green tea polyphenols and therapeutic, prophylatic agents are also reported in some recent patents (US20120172423A1, US20150320696A1). The present work is therefore aimed, to study the effect of Montelukast Sodium capsules coformulated with GTE on oxidative stress markers including Malondialdehyde (MDA), Glutathione (GSH) in different organs and Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) assay in plasma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Guinea pigs were placed in histamine chamber and exposed to an aerosol challenge of 0.2% w/v histamine dihydrochloride in distilled water using pressurized air driven nebulizer at a pressure of 0.05 MPa-0.106 MPa for one week. After that, they were divided in to four groups of three each; control, asthmatic control, asthmatic treated with marketed preparation and asthmatic received developed capsules. After oral administration of formulations for three days, pigs were scarificed and oxidative stress markers level including cytoarchitectural manifestation in tissues was studied. RESULTS: In comparison with the healthy control group, MDA level of the asthmatic animal liver and lung was found to be elevated as 0.059 ± 0.031(p < 0.002) and 0.802 ± 0.310 (p < 0.005) respectively, whereas GSH level was declined as 13.223 ± 1.485 (p < 0.0001) in liver and 3.037 ± 0.282 (p < 0.0004) in lung tissues. TAC of asthmatic animal plasma was low as 2.132 ± 0.986 mM Trolox Eq/L (p < 0.009). The level of these biomarkers reverts back towards normal after treatment with marketed and developed formulation, although treatment with developed formulation was more efficacious since it was coformulated with GTE, which acts as an adjuvant for the management of inflammatory disease like asthma. CONCLUSION: It is contemplated that, use of GTE as an adjuvant to anti leukotriene drug played a significant role in asthma management by reducing oxidant injury. Since, studies in animals do not directly translate to human biology, further multi-control studies with better sampled patient population and more number of patients are needed.

Antimicrobial activity of Cannabis sativa, Thuja orientalis and Psidium guajava leaf extracts against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the antimicrobial activity of Cannabis sativa, Thuja orientalis and Psidium guajava against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and used a standardized purification protocol to determine the presence and abundance of bioactive compounds in the leaf extracts. METHODS: In vitro antimicrobial activities of the ethanolic extracts of C. sativa, T. orientalis and P. guajava were tested against MRSA. The presence of bioactive molecules in these three leaves was evaluated using biochemical assays and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). RESULTS: Resistance to methicillin, penicillin, oxacillin and cefoxitin was observed in each of the clinical and nonclinical MRSA isolates. However, they were still vulnerable to vancomycin. Used individually, the 50% extract of each plant leaf inhibited MRSA growth. A profound synergism was observed when C. sativa was used in combination with T. orientalis (1:1) and when P. guajava was used in combination with T. orientalis (1:1). This was shown by larger zones of inhibition. This synergism was probably due to the combined inhibitory effect of phenolics present in the leaf extracts (i.e., quercetin and gallic acid) and catechin, as detected by HPTLC. CONCLUSION: The leaf extracts of C. sativa, T. orientalis and P. guajava had potential for the control of both hospital- and community-acquired MRSA. Moreover, the inhibitory effect was enhanced when extracts were used in combination.

Weekly iron and folic acid supplementation with counseling reduces anemia in adolescent girls: a large-scale effectiveness study in Uttar Pradesh, India.

BACKGROUND: Weekly iron-folic acid supplementation in small-scale research trials and as administered in institutions has been demonstrated to be effective in reducing anemia in adolescent girls. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness of weekly iron-folic acid supplementation in a large-scale project in reducing the prevalence of anemia in adolescent girls. METHODS: The project provided weekly iron-folic acid tablets, family life education, and deworming tablets every 6 months to 150,700 adolescent school girls and non-schoolgirls of a total district population of 3,647,834. Consumption of the iron-folic acid tablets was supervised for schoolgirls but not for non-schoolgirls. Hemoglobin levels were assessed in a random sample of non-schoolgirls at 6 and 12 months and schoolgirls at 6 months. The effect of supplementation on the prevalence of anemia and the compliance rate were assessed over a 4-year period. RESULTS: In 4 years, the overall prevalence of anemia was reduced from 73.3% to 25.4%. Hemoglobin levels and anemia prevalence were influenced significantly at 6 months. No difference in the impact on hemoglobin or anemia prevalence was observed between supervised and unsupervised girls. Counseling on the positive effects of regular weekly iron-folic acid intake contributed to a high compliance rate of over 85%. The cost of implementation was US$0.36 per beneficiary per year. CONCLUSIONS: Weekly iron-folic acid supplementation combined with monthly education sessions and deworming every 6 months is cost-effective in reducing the prevalence of anemia in adolescent girls. Appropriate counseling, irrespective of supervision, is critical for achieving positive outcomes.