[Restorative capability of traditional Chinese medicine in autoimmune diseases of nervous system: a literature review]. / Vosstanovitel'nyi potentsial traditsionnoi kitaiskoi meditsiny pri autoimmunnykh zabolevaniyakh nervnoi sistemy: obzor literatury.

Autoimmune diseases of the nervous system are characterized by the formation of pronounced neurological deficiency and often lead to disability. Complementary medicine as an adjuvant or preventive therapy of various diseases, including autoimmune ones, is increasingly attracting the attention of doctors and researchers. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a complex of treatment methods, including acupuncture, phytotherapy, nutrition, physical exercises and other methods that are often used in common with the recognized approaches of the official medical science. The article describes the TCM methods application in autoimmune diseases of nervous system, presents the practical experience of using acupuncture, phytotherapy, diet, physical exercises. It was concluded that TCM is important and frequently underestimated health care resource, especially in prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases of nervous system.

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.

Phytotherapy of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: A Narrative Review.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a real gynecological problem among women of reproductive age from 15 to 49. A recent analysis showed that 75% of women will have an occurrence at least once per year, while 5% are observed to have recurrent vaginal mycosis-these patients may become unwell four or more times a year. This pathology is caused in 85-90% of cases by fungi of the Candida albicans species. It represents an intractable medical problem for female patients due to pain and pruritus. Due to the observation of an increasing number of strains resistant to standard preparations and an increase in the recurrence of this pathology when using local or oral preferential therapy, such as fluconazole, an analysis was launched to develop alternative methods of treating VVC using herbs such as dill, turmeric, and berberine. An in-depth analysis of databases that include scientific articles from recent years made it possible to draw satisfactory conclusions supporting the validity of herbal therapy for the pathology in question. Although phytotherapy has not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, it appears to be a promising therapeutic solution for strains that are resistant to existing treatments. There is research currently undergoing aimed at comparing classical pharmacotherapy and herbal therapy in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis for the purpose of increasing medical competence and knowledge for the care of the health and long-term comfort of gynecological patients.

Traditional lore on the healing effects of therapeutic plants used by the local communities around Simien Mountains National Park, northwestern Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Simien Mountain National Park is a world heritage site with spectacular landscapes and rich in floral diversity. Exploring the plethora of conventional wisdom regarding therapeutic flora for sustainable use and drug development is a timely endeavor. Thus, the present study was aimed at investigating therapeutic plant uses and conservation practices by the local communities dwelling in the vicinity of the Park. METHODS: Eighty randomly selected general informants and 20 purposefully selected key informants were used to collect the traditional lore from 10 purposefully selected kebeles that border the Park. Data were collected using face-to-face interviews, guided field walks, group discussions and market surveys. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the basic information collected from the informants. An independent sample t test was computed to compare the knowledge variations among different informant groups. Clustering and ranking techniques were employed to validate traditional wisdom of informants. RESULTS: Significant differences in traditional wisdom (P < 0.05) were observed only between general and key informants. Hundred thirteen therapeutic plant species belonging to 56 families were recorded. Asteraceae was the most species-rich family (10%). The majority of therapeutic species were collected from the wild (77%). Herbs and roots were the most preferred habit (47%) and plant parts (37%) for remedy preparation, respectively. Pounding was the most common preparation method (50.1%). The most frequently practiced route of administration was the oral route (48.1%). The highest Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) value (84%) was recorded for respiratory and febrile illnesses. Rumex nepalensis was the most preferred for the treatment of wounds, and Olea europaea subsp cuspidata was the first-ranked multipurpose plant. CONCLUSION: The Park is rich in therapeutic species serving as a refuge for many endemic and endangered species associated with the local community rich medicinal traditional lore. Erosion of therapeutic plants, verbal transfer of the traditional wisdom and young generation negligence in acquiring traditional lore led to the deterioration of the long tradition of using therapeutic plants for health care. Endangered multipurpose therapeutic plants like Echinops kebericho should get conservation priority. Therapeutic plants with the highest ICF and fidelity level could be candidates for drug development.

Ethnobotanical assessment of antidiabetic medicinal plants in District Karak, Pakistan.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes is a leading health disorder and is responsible for high mortality rates across the globe. Multiple treatment protocols are being applied to overcome this morbidity and mortality including plant-based traditional medicines. This study was designed to investigate the ethnomedicinal status of plant species used to treat diabetes in District Karak, Pakistan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A semi-structured survey was created to collect data about traditionally used medicinal plants for diabetes and other ailments. The convenience sampling method was applied for the selection of informants. The collected data was evaluated through quantitative tools like frequency of citation (FC), relative frequency of citation (RFC), informant consensus factor (FIC), fidelity level (FL), and use value (UV). RESULTS: A total of 346 local informants were selected for this research. Out of them, 135 participants were men and 211 participants were women. Overall 38 plant species belonging to 29 plant families were used to treat diabetes. The most dominant plant family was Oleaceae having 11 species. Powder form (19%) was the most recommended mode of preparation for plant-based ethnomedicines. Leaves (68%) were the most frequently used parts followed by fruit (47%). The highest RFC was recorded for Apteranthes tuberculata (0.147). The maximum FL was reported for Apteranthes tuberculata (94.4) and Zygophyllum indicum (94.11) for diabetes, skin, and wounds. Similarly, the highest UV of (1) each was found for Brassica rapa, Melia azedarach, and Calotropis procera. Based on documented data, the reported ailments were grouped into 7 categories. The ICF values range between 0.89 (diabetes) to 0.33 (Cardiovascular disorders). CONCLUSION: The study includes a variety of antidiabetic medicinal plants, which are used by the locals in various herbal preparations. The species Apteranthes tuberculata has been reported to be the most frequently used medicinal plant against diabetes. Therefore, it is recommended that such plants be further investigated in-vitro and in-vivo to determine their anti-diabetic effects.

[Phytoprophylaxis of complications after extracorporeal lithotrips].

AIM: To evaluate the efficiency of the drug phytolysin (capsules) in the prevention of complications after extracorporeal lithotripsy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 15 patients diagnosed with urolithiasis and chronic pyelonephritis in the latent phase were treated. The predominant localization of radiopaque stones no larger than 20 mm in size was the collecting system. The piezoelectric lithotripsy (1-2 sessions) was performed, followed by the administration of the herbal drug Phytolysin in the dosage form of a capsule. The follow-up was carried out after 14- and 30-days using laboratory, ultrasound and x-ray methods. RESULTS: In the postoperative period, there were no cases of the pyelonephritis, which may result from a short-term disturbance of the upper urinary tract urodynamics due to the passage of stone fragments. The antibacterial, antispasmodic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects of Phytolysin ensured positive changes in laboratory and bacteriological tests, contributed to the prevention of postoperative complications after extracorporeal lithotripsy (renal colic, pyelonephritis), and contributed to maintaining renal blood flow within normal limits and significantly reduced the time to stone-free status. CONCLUSIONS: Our results justify the feasibility of using phytolysin in capsules in patients with urolithiasis after extracorporeal lithotripsy. The dosage form in capsules eliminates the undesirable effects associated with the specific smell and taste, that patients noted when using phytolysin in the form of a paste.

Comparative evaluation of the efficacy of probiotic, Aloe vera, povidine-iodine, and chlorhexidine mouthwashes in the treatment of gingival inflammation: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Chemical plaque control with mouthwashes as an adjunct to mechanical plaque control with a toothbrush and dental floss has been considered an effective method for controlling gingivitis. The anti-inflammatory effects of chemical plaque control benefit the oral tissues by reducing inflammation and bleeding. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy of probiotic, Aloe vera, povidine-iodine, and chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwashes in treating gingivitis patients by assessing changes in their clinical parameters. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This prospective study was conducted on 40 patients from our outpatient department, divided into 4 groups of 10 patients each: probiotic mouthwash group (group 1); herbal (Aloe vera) mouthwash group (group 2); povidone-iodine mouthwash group (group 3); and CHX mouthwash group (group 4). All participants were provided with the same type of manual toothbrush, the Pepsodent® toothpaste and a respective mouthwash for twice-daily use until the end of a 28-day observation period. Clinical parameters, such as the marginal plaque index (MPI) and bleeding on interdental brushing (BOIB), were recorded at baseline, and on the 14th and 28th day of the study period. RESULTS: All groups showed a significant decrease in the MPI and BOIB scores. The results were similar in patients who used a probiotic mouthwash and those who used a CHX mouthwash. A comparable change in the mean scores was observed among the herbal and povidone-iodine groups from baseline to day 28. CONCLUSIONS: In the treatment of chronic gingivitis patients,a probiotic mouthwash was nearly as effective as CHX in reducing the plaque and bleeding scores. It showed better results in all clinical parameters than herbal and povidone-iodine mouthwashes. Using a mouthwash along with routine tooth brushing can help in treating gingivitis and slow the progression of the periodontal disease.

Gastrointestinal anthelmintic plants used on small ruminants in Benin: Traditional use and scientific results - Review.

In Benin, livestock breeders frequently use medicinal plants to treat gastrointestinal diseases in small ruminants. The aim of this review is to list the plants traditionally used in this context and to present the scientific findings on the efficacy of these plants. An extensive search was carried out using PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Biomed Central and Google Scholar databases to collect data, with combinations of relevant french and english keywords such as "ethnobotanical survey", "anthelmintic properties", "medicinal plants", "gastrointestinal parasites", "digestive strongyles", "Haemonchus", "Trichostrongylus", "small ruminants", "sheep", "goats" and "Benin". A total of 45 published articles met the eligibility criteria. This review listed 123 plants used by breeders to treat gastrointestinal ailments in small ruminants. The most commonly used parts are leaves and barks, and the most common forms are decoction, maceration and powder. Scientific studies have demonstrated the anthelmintic properties of 18 plants, including Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides, Newbouldia laevis, Mitragyna inermis and Combretum glutinosum. The powders or leaf extracts of these plants showed in vivo significant reductions of over 50% in egg excretion, larval establishment, viability and fertility of gastrointestinal strongyles in small ruminants. Extracts of these plants also revealed in vitro inhibitory activity of over 50% on egg hatching, larval migration and motility of gastrointestinal strongyles. This manuscript highlights the traditional use of anthelmintic plants in small ruminants in Benin and provides scientific results supporting the efficacy of these plants.

Insights and future prospects of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of functional dyspepsia.

BACKGROUND: Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a prevalent and challenging gastrointestinal disorder. Conventional medicine often faces limitations in providing effective treatment for FD, thus indicating the need to explore alternative approaches. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which is rooted in ancient Chinese traditions and has evolved over thousands of years, offers a holistic approach to well-being. TCM incorporates herbal remedies, acupuncture, and other therapies while shaping the future of complementary and alternative medicine. PURPOSE: To review the existing literature on the current status and future prospects of using TCM to treat FD. METHODS: We extensively searched the PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, an China National Knowledge Internet databases from inception to May 31, 2023 to identify relevant literature. We also searched the reference lists of the included articles. RESULTS: Clinical evidence-based research has explored the efficacy of TCM in treating FD. Recent research has illuminated the multifaceted mechanisms through which TCM interventions affect FD. TCM is a promising alternative, as it emphasizes a holistic approach and holds potential advantages in addressing the complex nature of FD. CONCLUSIONS: The integration of TCM and Western medicine offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and managing FD by bridging traditional wisdom with modern scientific understanding. This paper highlights the practical implications of this integration, the challenges to be addressed, and the potential for international collaboration to further elucidate the efficacy of TCM. However, continued research and dialog are needed to advance the modern development of TCM and to improve the quality of life of FD patients.

Study of the spread of medicinal herbs use among patients suffering from chronic diseases in Iraq.

OBJECTIVE: Aim: To assess the prevalence of medicinal plants, use among Iraqi patients with chronic disease and compare it with another study in same or different countries. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: A randomized Internet and social media questionnaire was used. In this cross-sectional study, peoples with chronic diseases from different age group were recruited. Participants had an internet questionnaire to answer. This questionnaire embraced age, gender, occupation, marital status, education level and some lifestyle details as demographic data, a large proportion of the questionnaire was related to herbs, both prescribed and OTC ones. RESULTS: Results: Gender distribution: about 70% of patients were female and 30% male. Education level: uneducated - 35%, primary school - 30%, secondary school - 25%, academic - 10%. Place of residence: 30% lived in urban and 70% in rural areas. Diseases distribution: 30% hypertension, 20% diabetes, 10% asthma, 10% migraine, 15% hyperlipidemia and 15% rheumatoid arthritis. Medicinal plants: 10% green tea, 5%fish oil, 15% anise 25% castor oil and 15% spirulina. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: The study reported a high prevalence of medicinal herbs use among patients with chronic disease in Iraq. Several factors (rural residence, education, age, multiple chronic conditions and low quality of life) associated with medicinal herbs use. This knowledge will help policy makers and health care providers for decision making on the safe use of herbal medicine.

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.

Antibacterial and anti-coronavirus investigation of selected Senegalese plant species according to an ethnobotanical survey.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: In Senegal, upper and lower respiratory tract infections constitute a real health problem. To manage these disorders, most people rely on the use of local medicinal plants. This is particularly the case for species belonging to the botanical families, Combretaceae, Fabaceae, Myrtaceae and Rubiaceae, which are widely used to treat various respiratory problems such as colds, flu, rhinitis, sinusitis, otitis, angina, bronchitis, bronchiolitis and also pneumonia. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study was to identify medicinal plants traditionally used for the management of infectious diseases, in particular those of the respiratory tract. On the basis of these ethnopharmacological uses, this study made it possible to highlight the antibacterial, antiviral and cytotoxic activities of selected plant species. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in Senegal among informants, including herbalists, traditional healers, and households, using medicinal plants in the management of infectious diseases, with a focus on respiratory tract infections. The most cited plant species were evaluated in vitro on a panel of 18 human pathogenic bacteria may be involved in respiratory infections and against the human coronavirus HCoV-229E in Huh-7 cells. The antiviral activity of the most active extracts against HCoV-229E was also evaluated on COVID-19 causing agent, SARS-CoV-2 in Vero-81 cells. In parallel, cytotoxic activities were evaluated on Huh-7 cells. RESULTS: A total of 127 informants, including 100 men (78.74%) and 27 women (21.26%) participated in this study. The ethnobotanical survey led to the inventory of 41 plant species belonging to 19 botanical families used by herbalists and/or traditional healers and some households to treat infectious diseases, with a specific focus on upper respiratory tract disorders. Among the 41 plant species, the most frequently mentioned in the survey were Guiera senegalensis J.F. Gmel. (95.2%), Combretum glutinosum Perr. Ex DC. (93.9%) and Eucalyptus spp. (82.8%). Combretaceae (30.2%) represented the most cited botanical family with six species, followed by Fabaceae (29.3%, 12 species). A total of 33 crude methanolic extracts of the 24 plant species selected for their number of citations were evaluated in vitro for their antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities. Guiera senegalensis, Combretum glutinosum, Vachellia nilotica subsp. tomentosa (Benth.) Kyal. & Boatwr, Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh., and Terminalia avicennioides Guill. & Perr., showed antibacterial activities. The most active plants against HCoV-229E were: Ficus sycomorus L., Mitragyna inermis (Willd.) Kuntze, Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir., and Spermacoce verticillata L. One of these plants, Mitragyna inermis, was also active against SARS-CoV-2. CONCLUSION: This work confirmed the anti-infective properties of plant species traditionally used in Senegal. Overall, the most frequently cited plant species showed the best antibacterial activities. Moreover, some of the selected plant species could be considered as a potential source for the management of coronavirus infections. This new scientific data justified the use of these plants in the management of some infectious pathologies, especially those of the respiratory tract.

Food drugs as drivers of therapeutic knowledge and the role of chemosensory qualities.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Chemosensory qualities of botanical drugs are important cues for anticipating physiologic consequences. Whether a botanical drug is used for both, food and medicine, or only as medicine depends on taste preferences, nutritional content, cultural background, and the individual and overall epidemiological context. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We subjected 540 botanical drugs described in De Materia Medica having at least one oral medical application to a tasting panel. The 540 drugs were grouped into those only used for medicine (388) and those also used for food (152). The associations with chemosensory qualities and therapeutic indications were compared across the two groups. We considered 22 experimentally assessed chemosensory qualities and 39 categories of therapeutic use groups. We wanted to know, 1): which chemosensory qualities increase the probability of an orally applied botanical drug to be also used for food ? 2): which chemosensory qualities augment the probability of an orally applied botanical drug to be only used for medicine? and 3): whether there are differences in therapeutic indications between orally applied botanical drugs also used for food (food drugs) and botanical drugs applied exclusively for medicinal purposes (non-food drugs) and, if yes, how the differences can be explained. RESULTS: Chemosensory qualities augmenting the probability of an orally applied botanical drug to be also used for food were sweet, starchy, salty, burning/hot, fruity, nutty, and cooling. Therapeutics used for diarrhoea, as libido modulators, purgatives, laxatives, for expelling parasites, breast and lactation and increasing diuresis, were preferentially sourced from food drugs while drugs used for liver and jaundice, vaginal discharge and humoral management showed significant negative associations with food dugs in ancient Greek-Roman materia medica. CONCLUSION: Therapeutics used for ailments of body organs involved in the digestion of food and the excretion of waste products showed a tendency to be sourced from food drugs. Arguably, the daily consumption of food offered the possibility for observing post-prandial physiologic and pharmacologic effects which led to a high therapeutic versatility of food drugs and the possibility to understand benefits of taste and flavour qualities. The difference in chemosensory qualities between food drugs and non-food drugs is demarcating the organoleptic requirements of food rather than that of medicine.

A comprehensive review of Pfaffia glomerata botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, biological activities, and biotechnology.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen, Amaranthaceae, is found in South America, mainly in Brazil, where it is considered a species of great medicinal interest owing to its popular use as a tonic, aphrodisiac, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic. These properties can be attributed to the presence of the phytosteroid, 20-Hydroxyecdysone (ß-ecdysone), the main compound found in its roots. AIM OF THE REVIEW: This review aims to provide information about the botanical characteristics, ethnomedicinal uses, the phytochemistry, the biological activities, and the biotechnology of P. glomerata, an important species to local communities and groups researching medicinal plants of South America. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The information available on P. glomerata was collected from scientific databases (ScienceDirect, PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, and Scopus) until June 7, 2023, using the search terms "Pfaffia glomerata", "Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen", and "Brazilian ginseng". The review includes studies that evaluated the botanical, ethnopharmacological, and phytochemical aspects, biological properties, nutraceutical uses, and the application of biotechnology for improving the biosynthesis of metabolites of interest. RESULTS: A total of 207 studies were identified, with 81 articles read in full. Seventy-six studies were included for qualitative synthesis. Overall, 40 compounds belonging to different classes are presented in this review, including ecdysteroids, triterpenes, saponins, flavonoids, anthraquinones, tannins, coumarins, alkaloids, and polysaccharides. Among them, flavonoids, anthraquinones, tannins, coumarins, and alkaloids were only putatively identified. ß-Ecdysone, triterpenes, saponins, and polysaccharides are the chemical components most frequently identified and isolated from P. glomerata and possibly responsible for ethnopharmacological use and the biological activities of this species, with important in vitro and in vivo activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, analgesic, gastroprotective, antioxidant, and prebiotic. CONCLUSIONS: This review summarizes discussions about the P. glomerata species, highlighting its ethnopharmacological, chemical, biotechnological, and nutraceutical importance. New scientific studies on this species are encouraged in the search for new therapeutic molecules with pharmaceutical potential and nutraceutical applications.

Polygonati Rhizoma: A review on the extraction, purification, structural characterization, biosynthesis of the main secondary metabolites and anti-aging effects.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Polygonati Rhizome (PR) is a plant that is extensively widespread in the temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere. It is a member of the Polygonatum family of Asparagaceae. PR exhibits diverse pharmacological effects and finds applications in ethnopharmacology, serving as a potent tonic for more than two millennia. PR's compounds endow it with various pharmacological properties, including anti-aging, antioxidant, anti-fatigue, anti-inflammatory, and sleep-enhancing effects, as well as therapeutic potential for osteoporosis and age-related diseases. AIM OF THE STUDY: This review seeks to offer a thorough overview of the processing, purification, extraction, structural characterization, and biosynthesis pathways of PR. Furthermore, it delves into the anti-aging mechanism of PR, using organ protection as an entry point. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Information on PR was obtained from scientific databases (Google Scholar, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SciFinder, PubMed, CNKI) and books, doctoral theses, and master's dissertations. RESULTS: In this investigation, 49 polysaccharides were extracted from PR, and the impact of various processing, extraction, and purification techniques on the structure and activity of these polysaccharides was evaluated. Additionally, 163 saponins and 46 flavonoids were identified, and three key biosynthesis pathways of secondary metabolites were outlined. Notably, PR and Polygonat Rhizomai polysaccharides (PRP) exhibit remarkable protective effects against age-induced injuries to the brain, liver, kidney, intestine, heart, and vessels, thereby promoting longevity and ameliorating the aging process. CONCLUSIONS: PR, a culinary and therapeutic herb, is rich in active components and pharmacological activities. Based on this review, PR plays a meaningful role in lifespan extension and anti-aging, which can be attributed to PRP. Future research should delve deeper into the structural aspects of PRP that underlie its anti-aging effects and explore potential synergistic interactions with other compounds. Moreover, exploring the potential applications of PR in functional foods and pharmaceutical formulations is recommended to advance the development of industries and resources focused on healthy aging.

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.

Ethnobotany of traditional cosmetics among the Oromo women in Madda Walabu District, Bale Zone, Southeastern Ethiopia.

Traditional cosmetics play a significant role in the cultural practices and personal hygiene of many ethnic groups worldwide. The Oromo, an indigenous community in Ethiopia, has a rich history of utilizing local plants for cosmetic purposes. However, the use of plants as traditional cosmetics has only been poorly investigated as more emphasis was given to traditional medicines. The study thus aimed to identify and document plant species, and parts used in traditional cosmetics and associated knowledge, and practices among Oromo women in the Madda Walabu district, Southeastern Ethiopia. A total of 150 Oromo women were interviewed to gather ethnobotanical information including the plant species used for cosmetics, their preparation methods, and their applications. Ethnobotanical indices were computed to determine the most important species used by the women. A total of 48 plant species belonging to 31 families used as sources of traditional cosmetics were recorded. Most of these plants were trees. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part in traditional cosmetics, and maceration and decoction were the most common preparation methods applied to prepare traditional cosmetics. Topical application of traditional cosmetics was the most common, while oral infusions were rarely reported type of administration. All categories had high informant consensus factor (ICF) values, ranging from 0.80 to 0.98. The highest ICF value was found for skin treatment, followed by the hair, and face mask. Overall, Commiphora habessinica, Gnidia stenophylla, Kalanchoe lanceolata, Mimusops kummel, Sesamothamnus rivae, Terminalia brownii, T. laxiflora, Acacia drepanolobium, A. mellifera, and Aloe citrina were the most frequently cited and culturally important plants by Oromo women for traditional cosmetics in the area. The study highlights the importance of local plant resources for maintaining cultural practices and personal hygiene. However, the cultural heritage associated with traditional cosmetics is facing threats from various factors. Therefore, a continuous effort to document and disseminate knowledge about traditional cosmetics practices to ensure their preservation and transmission and awakening younger generations about the importance of traditional cosmetics and their role in cultural heritage is crucial.

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.

Therapeutic potential of Angelica sinensis in addressing organ fibrosis: A comprehensive review.

Fibrosis-related diseases (FRD) include conditions like myocardial fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, hepatic fibrosis, renal fibrosis, and others. The impact of fibrosis can be severe, causing organ dysfunction, reduced functionality, and even organ failure, leading to significant health issues. Currently, there is a lack of effective modern anti-fibrosis drugs in clinical practice. However, Chinese medicine has a certain beneficial effect on the treatment of such diseases. Angelica sinensis, with its considerable medicinal value, has garnered attention for its anti-fibrosis properties in recent investigations. In the past few years, there has been a growing number of experimental inquiries into the impact of angelica polysaccharide (ASP), angelica water extract, angelica injection, and angelica compound preparation on fibrosis-associated ailments, piquing the interest of researchers. This paper aims to consolidate recent advances in the study of Angelica sinensis for the treatment of fibrosis-related disorders, offering insights for prospective investigations. Literature retrieval included core electronic databases, including Baidu Literature, CNKI, Google-Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science. The applied search utilized specified keywords to extract relevant information on the pharmacological and phytochemical attributes of plants. The investigation revealed that Angelica sinensis has the potential to impede the advancement of fibrotic diseases by modulating inflammation, oxidative stress, immune responses, and metabolism. ASP, Angelica sinensis extract, Angelica sinensis injection, and Angelica sinensis compound preparation were extensively examined and discussed. These constituents demonstrated significant anti-fibrosis activity. In essence, this review seeks to gain a profound understanding of the role of Angelica sinensis in treating fiber-related diseases. Organ fibrosis manifests in nearly all tissues and organs, posing a critical challenge to global public health due to its widespread occurrence, challenging early diagnosis, and unfavorable prognosis. Despite its prevalence, therapeutic options are limited, and their efficacy is constrained. Over the past few years, numerous studies have explored the protective effects of traditional Chinese medicine on organ fibrosis, with Angelica sinensis standing out as a multifunctional natural remedy. This paper provides a review of organ fibrosis pathogenesis and summarizes the recent two decades' progress in treating fibrosis in various organs such as the liver, lung, kidney, and heart. The review highlights the modulation of relevant signaling pathways through multiple targets and channels by the effective components of Angelica sinensis, whether used as a single medicine or in compound prescriptions.