@article {1129, title = {Abrogation of Acute Inflammation in ICR Mice with Topical Administration of Philippine Stingless Bee (Tetragonula biroi Friese) Honey}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {258-266}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {258}, abstract = {

Background: Honey, a sweet sugar-rich bee-derived product, has been widely recognized in the realm of Ayurveda and Pharmacognosy for the treatment of various inflammatory conditions including inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, arthritis, and gastric ulcer. However, the anti-inflammatory effect of Philippine honey obtained from local stingless bees remains unexplored and poorly investigated. Hence, this study delved on the anti-inflammatory potential of topically applied Philippine stingless bee honey (PSH) using the λ-Carrageenan-induced mouse model of paw edema. Materials and Methods: A total of 30, male ICR mice of six weeks of age were randomly divided into the following groups (n=10 per group) as follows: Distilled water-, 1\% Diclofenac sodium-, and Honey-treated group. All treatments were administered immediately after Carrageenan injection and then every 8 hr during the 24-hr test duration. Results: Repeated topical application of PSH significantly attenuated the gross hind paw swelling observed at the onset of the 6 hr post-induction (pi) until the 24 hr pi with Carrageenan in contrast to the Distilled water-treated group. This corresponded histologically to a marked reduction in dermal thickness, dermal edema, and leukocytic infiltration. Whereas, at the cytokine level, this correlated to significant suppression of the circulating blood levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Conclusion: Based on these results, honey from the Philippine stingless bees shows convincing anti-inflammatory activity which is partly mediated through the regulation of the expression of inflammation-associated cytokines.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Honey, IL-1β, IL-6, Philippine stingless bees, TNF-α.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.028}, author = {Mark Joseph Maranan Desamero and Mikaela Bernadette Andres Rabino and Maria Angelica Rimas Tayao and Mary Jasmin Cabillon Ang and Jussiaea Valente Bariuan and Roxanne Posilero Gapasin and Therese Marie Avena Collantes and Melissa Marie Risos Rondina and Cherry Pambid Fernandez-Colorado and Cleofas Rodriguez Cervancia and Maria Amelita Celino Estacio} } @article {1185, title = {Acacia nilotica Pod Extract has an Anti-cancer Effect on the U937 Cell Line}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {771-775}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {771}, abstract = {

Background: Acacia nilotica (A. nilotica), a tree that thrives in tropical regions, has been reported to have various medicinal uses and various pharmacological properties. Potential anti-cancer effects are one of the medical properties of parts of this tree. Objectives: To explore and evaluate the cytotoxic effect of A. nilotica, we used Acacia nilotica{\textquoteright}s pod extract on U937 cell lines as an acute myeloid leukemia model. Materials and Methods: Microscopic analysis, flow cytometry, and WST-1 tests were performed on the U937 cell line after 72 hr of treatment with different concentrations of ethanol pod extract from Acacia nilotica (A. nilotica) to test for DNA cell cycle, cell viability and apoptosis, and to determine the IC50 of the drug. Results: Treatment with A. nilotica pod extract significantly induced cell death in U937-treated cells compared with untreated control cells. Microscopic analysis revealed morphological changes in dead and fragmented cells associated with a reduction in cell number. A reduction in cell viability with an increase of cells in the late apoptosis stage by flow cytometry indicated the cytotoxic effect of A. nilotica and accumulation of cells in the sub-G1 phase of the DNA cell cycle analysis. The IC50 was identified by the WST-1 assay. Conclusion: The findings of the present study suggest that A. nilotica may be employed as a natural anti-cancer agent in research on acute myeloid leukemia in humans.

}, keywords = {Apoptosis, cytotoxicity, Flow cytometry, Natural drugs}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.081}, author = {Halla Falih Bakheit and Sebastien Taurin and Elwaleed Mohamed Elamin and Moiz Bakhiet} } @article {1191, title = {Additive Effects of High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) in Experimental Oral Carcinogenesis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {819-830}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {819}, abstract = {

Introduction: Nowadays, fructose uses dramatically increased in form of High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) found in juices and packed food. Sustained fructose utilization is detrimental to long-term human health. Objectives: To assess the additive effects of HFCS during 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)Anthracene (DMBA)-induced Hamster Buccal Pouch Carcinogenesis (HBPCs) model. Materials and Methods: The animals were separated into eight groups: Group I; vehicle control; Group II (0.5\% DMBA); Group III and IV (HFCS 8\% and 25\%); Group V (Sucrose 10\%); Group VI and VII (0.5\% DMBA+HFCS 8 and 25\%) and VIII group (0.5\% DMBA+Sucrose 10\%) respectively for 14 weeks. After the 14th week of treatment; the tumor morphology, buccal histopathology, and biochemical markers were measured and compared with carcinogenic control as well as vehicle control. Observations and Results: The buccal pouch of golden Syrian hamsters developed well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma after getting topical applications of 0.5\% DMBA in liquid paraffin three times a week for 14 weeks. Although DMBA treatment alone caused 100\% tumor development in hamsters, drinking water administration of HFCS at a concentration of 25\%/kg body weight (b.w.) to DMBA-treated hamster greatly accelerated the development of oral tumors. Additionally, during DMBA-induced oral carcinogenesis, HFCS moderatingly increased the lipid peroxidation by-products, decreased the status of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, modulated the levels of phase I and phase II detoxification agents, and favored the excretion of carcinogenic metabolite. Conclusion: The present study concludes that the additive effect of HFCS relies on its altered peroxidative and antioxidant function as well as effects on phase I and II detoxification enzymes during DMBA-induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis. Taken together the current study described that HFCS induced oral tumour development. From this study we suggested HFCS usage to be curtailed.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Detoxification enzymes, DMBA, Hamsters, HFCS, Lipid peroxidation, Oral cancer}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.087}, author = {Kavitha Kalimuthu and Sindhu Ganapathy and Balamurugan Elumalai and Asha Kumarasamypillai Radha Thayammal and Veeran Veeravarmal and Vijayalakshmi Annamalai} } @article {1171, title = {Alternanthera sessilis: A Review of Literature on the Phytoconstituents, Traditional Usage and Pharmacological Activities of Green and Red Cultivar}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {636-652}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {636}, abstract = {

The weed Alternanthera sessilis, having Green (ASG) and Red (ASR) cultivars, is a member of the Amaranthaceae. Both cultivars are known to possess high medicinal and nutraceutical values as they are widely utilized in traditional medicine. Populations from various Asian regions commonly consume this medicinal weed as part of diet and as therapeutic agent. In general, both cultivars have been employed for treating a broad range of human ailments including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypertension, and inflammatory disorders such as asthma, bronchitis and hepatitis apart from its administration as a painkiller. Following its ethnomedicinal uses, an attempt was made to review and consolidate the phytochemical constituents of ASG and ASR discovered from previous studies that utilized advanced technologies, respective traditional application among different ethnicities of Asia and their established pharmacological properties. All the information in this study was acquired through a literature search of research databases, namely ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed and Google Scholar using keywords such as Alternanthera sessilis, Alternanthera sessilis red, dwarf copperleaf and sessile joyweed. The results of each study were reviewed to identify its relevance and the cultivar that was being investigated. All relevant studies were collected and its subsequent results were reported and discussed to provide insights into the health enhancing qualities of ASG and ASR. Inspection of phytoconstituents in ASG and ASR showed the presence of polyphenol, flavonoid, carotenoid, terpenes and alkaloid with polyphenol being the major chemical group found in both cultivars. It was also revealed that whilst ASR is traditionally consumed in China, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan, indigenous usage of ASG is more common in nations such as Sri Lanka, India, and Indonesia. Both ASG and ASR showed potent anti-oxidant, anti-hyperglycemic, antimicrobial, antifungal and hepatoprotective effects while the anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and analgesic properties were disclosed in ASG only. Further processing and commercialization of this remedial weed as a product benefiting the wellbeing of humans is recommended as Alternanthera sessilis has high potential to be utilized as a curative agent while being a vital ingredient that can be included in daily consumption.

}, keywords = {Alternanthera sessilis, Dwarf copperleaf, Pharmacological properties, Phytoconstituents, Sessile joyweed}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.067}, author = {Omilla Ragavan and Sze Cheng Chan and Yi En Goh and Vuanghao Lim and Yoke Keong Yong} } @article {1187, title = {Ameliorative Effect of Rutin against Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2) Nanoparticle induced Behavioural, Biochemical and Tissue Morphological Changes in Danio rerio}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {785-795}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {785}, abstract = {

Background: Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2) is one of the most widely used metal oxide nanoparticles with unique features that permit its usage in various medical applications, including drug delivery, targeting, labelling, and loading. Rutin is a bioflavonoid found in various natural sources and has diverse biological activities and pharmaceutical applications. Some studies have evaluated the impacts of ZrO2 NPs on aquatic creatures, but little is known about their ability to recover after exposure. Since the toxicity of ZrO2 nanoparticles is not known, it would be crucial to investigate their toxicity using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model organism. Objectives: In the present work, the toxicity of ZrO2 was investigated in Danio rerio using behavioural alterations, biomarkers of oxidative stress and cellular damage. The morphology of the gill tissues, as well as the optimal amount of rutin for mitigating deleterious effects was evaluated. Materials and Methods: Fish were treated for 14 days, and seven study groups were examined: control, ZrO2 exposure alone at three distinct concentrations (5 mg/L, 10 mg/L, and 20 mg/L), and combined with rutin (100 mg/L). Results: Compared to control groups, Danio rerio treated with ZrO2 alone or in combination with rutin produced worse outcomes. However, rutin-supplemented groups exhibited greater improvement than ZrO2 alone groups. ZrO2 affects cells by causing oxidative stress and decreasing the antioxidants SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH, and Vitamin C. Enhanced oxidative stress induces behavioural and morphological modifications. The structural examination of the gill tissues revealed hyperplasia, lamellar fusion, filament erosion, and a dilated marginal channel or epithelial lifting. Conclusion: According to our data, the sub-lethal concentration of ZrO2 NPs for Danio rerio is 10 mg/L. Although ZrO2 was detrimental to the groups exposed to it, supplementing 100 mg/L of rutin was able to protect against its toxicity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Behavioural changes, Histology, Nanoparticles, Oxidative stress, Zebrafish, ZrO2 - NPs}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.083}, author = {Briska Jifrina Premnath and Bichandarkoil Jayaram Pratima and Ragunath Ravichandiran and Manoj Kumar Srinivasan and Namasivayam Nalini} } @article {1200, title = {Analysis of Phytoconstituents, Antioxidant and Anti-bacterial Properties of an Ethnobotanical Herb Cotula anthemoides L. Occurring in Purulia District of West Bengal, India}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {51-58}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {51}, abstract = {

Background: Since antiquity, traditional healers use herbs for the treatment of various ailments. Cotula anthemoides L., an ethnobotanical herb, widely used by traditional healers of Purulia district, West Bengal, India for the treatment of skin ailments. Plants contain broad range of bioactive constituents which is mainly responsible for its versatile properties. Objectives: The objectives of the present study are to analyze the phytochemicals and evaluation of antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the Aerial Part (AP) and underground Root Part (RT) of C. anthemoides. Materials and Methods: Total Phenol (TPC) and Flavonoid Contents (TFC) were estimated against Gallic acid and Quercetin. Antioxidant properties were evaluated by using 2, 2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Antibacterial properties were examined by well-diffusion method. Secondary metabolites and fatty acids were analyzed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GCMS), respectively. Results: Both aerial and root part exhibited effective zone of inhibition against gram +ve Staphylococcus aureus and gram {\textendash}ve Escherichia coli bacteria. There is a positive correlation between total phenol and flavonoid content with free radical scavenging properties. Aerial part contains comparatively higher concentration of phenolic compounds which is verified by assessment of DPPH antioxidant properties. HPLC and LC-MS study revealed the presence of phenolic acids, phenol alcohols and flavonoids. The FA analysis identified the presence of saturated FAs in the range of C12 to C26 and unsaturated FAs of C16, C18, C20 and C22. Conclusion: Definite range of phenolic compounds beside with other bio active constituents in the herb keep up the ethnobotanical status done by local healers.

}, keywords = {Anti-bacterial, Antioxidant, Cotula anthemoides, Fatty acids., Secondary metabolites}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.7}, author = {Ghanashyam Mahato and Rajani Kanta Mahato and Bangamoti Hansda} } @article {1130, title = {Analytical Quality by Design (AQBD) Assisted Development and Validation of HPTLC Method for Estimation of Rottlerin in Topical Patch Formulation}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {267-276}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {267}, abstract = {

Background: Rottlerin, a natural polyphenolic ketone is a major constituent of Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Mull. Arg. plant. Although, less explored it has diverse array of therapeutic applications. Objectives: The current work aimed to develop novel, simple, speedy, accurate, potent High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography Method (HPTLC) to separate, and quantify rottlerin from the herbal topical patch In-House formulation. Materials and Methods: This was the foremost attempt to develop and validate HPTLC method using Analytical Quality by design (AQbD) approach. Box Behnken design (BBD) coupled with response surface methodology approach was followed for the systematic optimization. The end results of toluene content, chamber conditioning time, and solvent front on Rf value of rottlerin was studied. The optimised method was validated as per ICH guidelines. Results: For HPTLC, stationary phase used was aluminium plates 60F254 coated with silica gel as. AQbD optimised conditions were mobile phase proportion namely toluene: ethyl acetate: methanol: ammonia (5:4:2:0.2), development distance 80 mm, band width 6mm, and chamber saturation time 10 min. The method generated well resolved and compact bands at Rf of 0.41{\textpm}0.05. The developed method exhibited high accuracy, precision, robustness, and recovery. The quantity of Rottlerin in developed herbal patch was found to be 134.8 ng/band. Conclusion: In a nutshell, the present study undeniably vouches for a QbD based method development approach for Rottlerin and can be extrapolated to estimate it in other herbal extracts, or marketed formulations

}, keywords = {Analytical Quality by design (AQbD), HPTLC, Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Mull. Arg., Rottlerin, Topical patch.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.029}, author = {Kaumudee Bodas and Vaibhav M Shinde and Deshmukh Vishal and Deshmukh Sheetal} } @article {1206, title = {Anti-arthritic and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Ayurvedic Polyherbal Formulation in Laboratory Animals}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {110-117}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {110}, abstract = {

Background: RD/M.ph.AA-01 is an Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation, developed for amavata, which is associated with chronic inflammatory autoimmune diseases. Objectives: The study was planned to evaluate the anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory activity of RD/M.ph.AA-01 in laboratory animals. Materials and Methods: Anti-arthritic activity of RD/M.ph.AA-01 was evaluated at 270 and 405 mg/kg doses against Complete Freund{\textquoteright}s Adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis. Anti-inflammatory activity was studied using cotton pellet granuloma and formalin-induced edema in rat models. The effect of topical application of RD/M.ph.AA-01 on Croton oil ear edema in mice was also investigated. Results: Arthritis induction caused a significant (p\<0.05) alteration in paw size, hematology, serum parameters, edematous tissue parameters, lipid peroxidation in the liver and histopathology of joints. These alterations were significantly (p\<0.05) prevented by treatment with RD/M.ph.AA-01. In the cotton pellet granuloma, RD/M. ph.AA-01 supplementation caused significant (p\<0.05) improvement in the weight of granuloma tissue, serum parameters, lipid peroxidation in the liver and histopathological changes in granuloma tissue. A significant (p\<0.05) improvement in paw size, serum parameters and liver lipid peroxidation were observed by RD/M.ph.AA-01 treatment in the formalin-induced edema model. The RD/M.ph.AA-01 also significantly (p\<0.05) suppressed Croton oil-induced ear edema. Conclusion: These findings showed that RD/M.ph.AA-01 possesses potent anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory activity.

}, keywords = {Anti-arthritic, Anti-inflammatory, Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.13}, author = {Chandrasekar Sandanapalli Basavarajaiah and Anil Tukaram Pawar and Harisha Ramappa and Vani Setty} } @article {1212, title = {Anti-atherogenic and Synergistic Effect of Decosapentanoic Acid/Linoleic Acid Fatty Acids via Janus Kinase [JAK] Mediate Inhibition of HMG-CoA Reductase in Rats Fed High Fat Diet}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {152-155}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {152}, abstract = {

Introduction: Atherosclerosis is common CHD caused by accumulation of oxidized LDL-c forming foam cell with macrophage that narrowing blood vessels. It increased risk of CVD. Green vegetables rich with PUFA is important to maintain healthy status. This study investigated the mechanistic pathway mediate combination of Decosapentanoic acid (DPA) and linoleic acid (LA) as anti-atherothengic effect in rats fed high fat diet. Materials and Methods: Seventy-five male albino rats were divided into five groups (15 rats each) were fed high fat diet (40\% Saturated fat) for 3 months: Group (I): Rats given 10 \% DPA. Group (II): Rats given 10 \% LA. Group (III): Rats given 10 \% DPA+10\% LA. Group (IV): Rats treated with atorvastatin (10 mg/kg BW) and Group (v) Untreated. In addition, Group (VI): 15 rats fed normal diet. Results: Data obtained showed that, plasma cholesterol and LDL-c levels were highly significant reduced in group III (p \< 0.001) versus other groups compared with untreated. Level of triglycerides was reduced but still high than normal (p=0.05) and atherogenic index. The activity of HMG-CoA reductase was reduced while apo-A, apo-c elevated, JAK was upregulated in combination therapy (p\< 0.001). The elevated Apo-A, apo-c activate clearing factor and decreased triglycerides. Conclusion: It was concluded that, upregulated of JAK by combination therapy mediate inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase that decreased endogenous synthesis of cholesterol and reduced its level in circulation.

}, keywords = {Atherosclerosis., HMG-CoA reductase, Janus kinase, Omega fatty acids}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.19}, author = {Etimad Huwait and Taha Abdullah Kumosani and Said Salama Moselhy} } @article {1135, title = {Antidiabetic Potential and Chronic Toxicity of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Echeveria subrigida Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {315-327}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {315}, abstract = {

Background: Echeveria subrigida extracts have biological activities of human health importance. However, the in vivo effects on glucose levels and chronic toxicity are unknown. Objectives: To analyse the in vivo hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic effects (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg b.w.) and chronic toxicity (1000 mg/kg b.w. for 270 days) of the hydroalcoholic extract of E. subrigida (HE{\textendash}Es) in BALB/c mice. Materials and Methods: The HE{\textendash}Es was analysed by HPLC. Glucose levels were measured to establish the effects on glycemia. Different parameters were registered in the toxicity assay: e.g., feed consumption, appearance/behaviour, biochemical and haematological parameters and liver and kidney histologies. Results: Quercetin{\textendash}3-O-β-glucoside and isorhamnetin{\textendash}3-O-β-glucoside were the main flavonoids in the HE{\textendash}Es. Glycemia was reduced by the HE{\textendash}Es (200 mg/kg b.w., 49.1\%) and glibenclamide (10 mg/kg b.w., 52\%) treatments. Comparing the antihyperglycemic activities, similar reductions were found between HE{\textendash}Es (100 mg/kg b.w., 29.32\%; 200 mg/kg, 28.99\%) and acarbose (10 mg/kg b.w., 19.87\%) treatments. On the other hand, the HE{\textendash}Es was innocuous in mice (LD50 \> 1000 mg/kg b.w.), and the results suggested that HE{\textendash}Es had adaptogenic, and immunostimulant activities. The hepatic and renal histologies were normal; however, male mice showed level zero steatosis that disappeared in the HE{\textendash}Es satellite after treatment withdrawal. Conclusion: This study reports for the first time the in vivo effects on blood glucose levels of HE{\textendash}Es and chronic toxicity of a Crassulaceae plant, supporting the antidiabetic potential and safety of HE{\textendash}Es. Future studies must corroborate the effects of HE{\textendash}Es in humans, allowing its use in high-value formulations.

}, keywords = {Antihyperglycemia, Crassulaceae family, Hypoglycemia, Plant natural extract, Safety}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.034}, author = {Belinda Heredia-Mercado and Francisco Delgado-Vargas and Lorenzo Ulises Osuna-Mart{\'\i}nez and Elvic Noguera-Corona and Jos{\'e} {\'A}ngel L{\'o}pez-Valenzuela and Rosalio Ramos-Pay{\'a}n and Gabriela L{\'o}pez-Angulo} } @article {1173, title = {Anti-inflammatory Effect of Squalene Isolated from Simarouba glauca in Experimental Animal Model}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {658-666}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {658}, abstract = {

Background: Most dynamic area of scientific investigation is to identify the bioactive compounds and establish their potential health effects against chronic diseases. Multi-targeted compounds with fewer side effects has shown to be potential therapeutic agents. Objectives: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of isolated Squalene (SQ), a triterpenoid from Simarouba glauca in carrageenan-induced acute inflammation. Materials and Methods: Squalene (SQ), a triterpenoid fraction was isolated from Simarouba glauca and characterized by FT-IR and NMR. Experimental animals were categorized into five groups, group I was control (0.5\% DMSO in normal saline), group II received Carrageenan (Carr), group III received SQ and Carr, whereas group IV received diclofenac and Carr. After 1 hr, SQ and diclofenac (20mg/kg) were administered (i.p.). Carrageenan suspension was injected into the sub-plantar tissue of the right hind paw. Paw edema was determined 3 hours post-carrageenan administration. Rats were sacrificed and mRNA expression of TNF-α and IL-6, levels of PGE-2 and TBARS, activities of COX-2, SOD, catalase, GPx, MPO, and the level of nitrite were measured. Results: SQ at a dose of 5.0 mg/kg body weight was found to be the minimal dose for maximum edema inhibition. Serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6, PGE-2, NO, COX-2 and levels of TBARS and MPO were significantly reduced (p \< 0.05). Antioxidant markers such as SOD, Catalse and GPx were increased significantly (p \< 0.05). Conclusion: These results suggest the anti-inflammatory properties of SQ and its multi-targeted mechanism of action, meriting its potential therapeutic efficacy in various inflammatory diseases.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Inflammation, MPO, PGE2, Squalene}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.069}, author = {Svenia Periyapurath Jose and Sandya Sukumaran and Ratheesh Mohanan and Sangeeth Saji and Aditya Asish and Sajeev Martin George} } @article {1114, title = {Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Mikania glomerata and Mikania laevigata Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {128-137}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {128}, abstract = {

Background: Mikania glomerata and Mikania laevigata (guaco) extracts are popularly used for the treatment of asthma and cough as well as for their anti-inflammatory activity, indistinctly, despite their different chemical composition. Both species may present these activities however, the specific components and the cellular mechanisms are not fully identified. Objectives: To determine the activity of fractions obtained by countercurrent chromatography pooled based on their TLC and UHPLC-MS chromatographic profiles. Materials and Methods: Fractions with antioxidant activity in DPPH and ORAC tests were assayed in dystrophic primary muscle cell cultures from mdx mice, the experimental model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), to evaluate their cellular anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The inflammatory process was evaluated by determining the TNF-α, NF- κB and IL-1β content by immunoblotting; content of 4-hydroxynonenal, superoxide dismutase (SOD); catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx); glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione (GSH) were determined to evaluate their antioxidant activity. Results: The crude M. glomerata and M. laevigata extracts, as well as 3 selected fractions presented antioxidant capacity in the ORAC assay and only Mlet Fr13 did not present activity by DPPH. Immunoblotting revealed no significant differences between the experimental groups, so no cellular anti-inflammatory effect was observed, however, reduced levels of anti-oxidant defence system components were observed for all fractions. Conclusion: Both species contain compounds that effectively reduced anti-oxidant defense system components, but none of these fractions significantly reduced inflammatory markers, suggesting that the reported anti-inflammatory activity of these species may be mediated by oxidative stress reduction.

}, keywords = {Countercurrent chromatography, DPPH, Dystrophic primary muscle cells, Guaco, ORAC, UHPLC-MS}, doi = {10.5530/097484900264}, author = {Alexandre Augusto Borghi and Elaine Minatel and Daniela Sayuri Mizobuti and Caroline Caramano de Louren{\c c}o and Fabio Fernandes de Ara{\'u}jo and Glaucia Maria Pastore and Peter Hewitson and Svetlana Ignatova and Alexandra CHF Sawaya} } @article {1190, title = {Attenuation of Oxidative Stress and Nephrotoxicity with Supplementation of Pimpinella tirupatiensis Tuberous Root in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {813-818}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {813}, abstract = {

Background: The endemic plant of Seshachalam hills, Eastern Ghats, India, known as Pimpinella tirupatiensis (Pt). Objectives: It was examined in this study for its protective effects against oxidative damage in the kidney of Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: After the induction of diabetes with Streptozotocin (40 mg kg-1 b.w), PTAq, an aqueous extract of Pt was directed orally at a dose of 750 mg kg-1 b.w. day-1. Results: Diabetic rats displayed significant decreases in Glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid, and Vitamin E content (p\<0.01) and significant elevations in lipid peroxidation (as MDA), uric acid content, and Xanthine Oxidase (XOD) activity (p\<0.01). However, PTAq supplementation in the diabetic group resulted in significant (p\<0.01) increases in Glutathione (GSH), Ascorbic Acid (AA), and Vitamin E content and declined MDA content, uric acid content, and XOD activity. Conclusion: The results advocate that Pt has the potential to avert diabetic complications triggered by oxidative stress in experimental diabetic rats and could have therapeutic implications for diabetes management in the future.

}, keywords = {Ascorbic acid, Glutathione, Lipid peroxidation, Non-enzymatic antioxidants, Pimpinella tirupatiensis}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.086}, author = {Thopireddy Lavanya and Kakarla Chandra Mohan and Kesireddy Sathyavelu Reddy and Saddala Rajeswara Reddy} } @article {1109, title = {BBD Driven Optimization of Extraction of Therapeutically Active Xanthanoid Mangiferin from Mangifera indica L. Leaves and its Antioxidant Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {84-93}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {84-93}, abstract = {

Background: Mangiferin, a C-glucosyl xanthone present in Mangifera indica leaves exhibits profuse pharmacological activities. Our research highlights the process parameter at which high yield of Mangiferin can be extracted from Mangifera indica leaves in "one run." Objectives: The study compares the efficacy of different modern and traditional methods for mangiferin extraction. Box-Behnken Design (BBD), was employed for optimizing the process parameters for the Mangiferin extraction from Mangifera indica leaves. Materials and Methods: Extraction conditions (extraction temperature, drug to solvent ratio, and extraction time) were optimized by Response-Surface Methodology (RSM), specifically BBD. Quantification analysis of Mangiferin in different extracts was done using HPLC. Further, the antioxidant potential of M. indica extracts in different solvents were evaluated using DPPH method. Results: Reflux technique, a hot solvent extraction method, conferred the highest yield of Mangiferin and ethanol was found to be the most efficient extractive solvent. Through the use of BBD, the optimal conditions for mangiferin extraction were established as extraction time- 63.653 min, extraction temperature- 63.563{\textdegree}C and drug to solvent ratio- 1:22.634 g/ml. Under such conditions, Mangiferin was yielded as 90.31 mg/g, which was nearly close to the predicted value of 91.096 mg/g. The ethanolic extract has revealed significant antioxidant potential with a percentage inhibition of 59.76 \%. Conclusion: The reflux technique stood out to be the best amongst all the other thermal and non-thermal modes of extraction used, and ethanol proves to be the most efficient extracting solvent. Additionally, Mangiferin extraction was significantly affected by all three different variables. Our study highlights the use of RSM, a modern-day statistical technique in the extraction field of therapeutically potent phytocompounds, which makes the optimization method cheap and less laborious than the traditional optimization method.

}, keywords = {Extraction, Mangifera indica, Mangiferin, Optimization, Response surface methodology.}, doi = {10.5530/097484900279}, author = {Syeda Nashvia Adin and Isha Gupta and Mohd Aqil and Mohd Mujeeb and Abdul Ahad} } @article {1150, title = {Bryonia laciniosa: A Ethnopharmacological Approach of Ayurvedic Shivlingi}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {462-467}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {462}, abstract = {

Bryonia laciniosa Linn., also known as Bryonopsis laciniosa which in traditionally called to be Shivlingi, because the upper surface of the seeds looks like a "Shivling," a popularly worshipped Hindu divinity which is Lord Shiva. It is a medicinal plant belonging to the family Cucurbitaceae. It is used to uterine tonic and boost in mental function in reducing stressed women infertility. Its main chemical component is bryonin, which is linked with lymphadenopathy, fever, asthma, bronchitis, epilepsy, cholera, colic, consumption, convulsions, cough, delirium, infertility, headache, splenomegaly, paralysis, pulmonary tuberculosis, snakebite. It has been pharmacologically proven as an anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, weight problem, and primarily as a treatment for infertility. All men or women have an innate, passionate desire to preserve their race. Becoming a mother is one of every woman{\textquoteright}s greatest love dreams. Herbal medicines are much cheaper and less difficult to obtain and have no known ill effects. Many herbs that promote infertility are also used in folk remedies that are mostly undiscovered. It is a little-known conventional drug that has been proven to be effective in treatment.

}, keywords = {Bryonia laciniosa, Bryonopsis laciniosa, Pharmacological properties, Phytoconstituents, Shivlingi.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.047}, author = {Prasad Vijay Kadam and Prachi Vikas Bhapkar and Sameer Khamroddin Shaikh and Kavita Nilesh Yadav and Damini Kallyanrao Giram}, editor = {Abhijit Sampatrao Karanje} } @article {1196, title = {Calotropin: Natural Phytomolecules for Cutting-edge Features}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {19-25}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {19}, abstract = {

Phytochemical is a collective term for plant chemicals with varied structure and function. The most common sources of phytochemicals are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and other plant foods. Calotropin is a pharmacologically active compound isolated from milkweed plants like Calotropis procera, Calotropis gigantea, and Asclepias curassavica that belong to the Asclepiadaceae family which is used for medicinal purposes in many Asian countries. Calotropin is identified as a highly potent cardenolide that has a similar chemical structure to cardiac glycosides (such as digoxin and digitoxin). Among cardenolides, calotropin is identified as the most promising agent. Calotropin has cytotoxic and anti-tumor impacts, with cancers of the breast, colon, lung, and leukemia malignancies exhibiting the most significant effects. The effects of calotropin on cancer have been extensively studied in preclinical pharmacological studies in vitro using cancer cell lines and in vivo in experimental animal models that have targeted antitumor mechanisms and anticancer signaling pathways. During ancient times, calotropin was utilized in various techniques. A macerated bark extract is frequently utilized for de-hearing hides and tanning. Calotropin is a particularly effective abortifacient or interceptive agent in females. Cardenolide calotropin is poisonous. This critique focused on its chemistry and therapeutic activity in various cancer cells.

}, keywords = {Asclepias curassavica, Calotropin, Calotropis gigantea, Calotropis procera, Cardenolide.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.3}, author = {Sourav Nag and Reshmi Paul and Sumanta Mondal and Naresh Panigrahi and Partha Roy} } @article {1102, title = {Can Ashwagandha Leaf be Replaced with its Root in Therapeutics? A Review through Published Literature}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {01-12}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {01}, abstract = {

Introduction: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Linn. Dunal) is an important and frequently used herb in Ayurvedic therapeutics. Its numerous parts, including flowers, leaves and roots, are said to have wide range of health-encouraging properties. Although Ashwagandha{\textquoteright}s root have been used traditionally, it necessitates sacrificing the whole plant. So, there is a need to explore bio-activities in other parts of the plant. Ashwagandha leaf is traditionally used as an ethnomedicine in various regions of India. Leaves of Ashwagandha are least considered in the classical literature and hardly there are references for their therapeutic utilities. Considering this, it has been planned to gather evidences against the therapeutic efficacies of Ashwagandha leaf. Materials and Methods: PubMed indexed articles published till 12th September 2022 were reviewed using the search strategy "Ashwagandha", {\textquotedblleft}Withania somnifera{\textquotedblright}, {\textquotedblleft}Ashwagandha AND leaf{\textquotedblright}, {\textquotedblleft}Withania AND leaf{\textquotedblright}. Results: Searching by using the keyword {\textquotedblleft}Ashwagandha AND leaf{\textquotedblright} yielded 252 results, while the search "Withania AND leaf" resulted in 245 results. Out of these 245/252; the free full texts were only 42 that have been considered in this review. The plant leaf is extensively used in folklore practice for various disease conditions. The leaf is preferred using both internal and external routes. Pre-clinical, clinical studies have been established diversified therapeutic benefits of Ashwagandha leaf. Conclusion: Ashwagandha leaf studies shows numerous bioactive compounds as present in its root. It can become a lead for the anticancer, neurodegenerative, anti- microbial and anti-inflammatory purpose and can be used as widely as its roots.

}, keywords = {Ashwagandha, Ashwagandha leaf, Ethnomedicine, Folklore, Withania somnifera}, doi = {10.5530/097484900286}, author = {Shreya Dhanaji Bhosale and R Galib and P K Prajapati} } @article {1199, title = {Chemical Characterization of Two Botanicals from Genus Alternanthera - A. brasiliana (L.) Kuntze and A. paronychioides A. St.-Hil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {42-50}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {42}, abstract = {

Background: Traditional medicine has become part and parcel of the present era for the maintaining and preventing of ailments. Alternanthera brasiliana and Alternanthera paronychioides (Amaranthaceae) are widely used in traditional medicine. Ab is widely familiar as penicillin in Brazil. Ap is known to treat gout, hyperuricemia, rheumatic arthritis, nephritis etc. as folk medicine. The present study aims to compare standardization profiles for A. brasiliana and A. paronychioides. Materials and Methods: Sample Ab and Ap were collected and authenticated. Authenticated samples were subjected to powder microscopy, physico-chemical, phytochemical, HPTLC and HPLC fingerprint and PXRD analysis. Results: Powder microscopic investigations revealed the characteristic features for identification. Physico-chemical investigation revealed the slightly acidic nature of both plants. The phytochemical test showed the existence of phenol, terpenoids and steroids as major secondary metabolites in both species. Photo documentation, fingerprints and spectral comparison by HPTLC and fingerprints by HPLC validate the existence of similar compounds in both Ab and Ap. PXRD analysis revealed the variance of elements present in both species. Conclusion: Comparative physico-chemical, phytochemical and HPLC, HPTLC, and P-XRD instrumental analysis of A. brasiliana and A. paronychioides provides distinct features for identification.

}, keywords = {Amaranthaceae, chromatographic fingerprinting, Comparative standardization, HPLC, HPTLC, PXRD.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.6}, author = {Achintya Kumar Mandal and Rajesh Allu and Rajesh Chandran and Divya Kallingil Gopi and Sunil Kumar Koppala Narayana and Radha Prakasam and Shakila Ramachandran} } @article {1153, title = {Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oil from Male and Female Schinus terebinthifolius}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {484-491}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {484}, abstract = {

Background: Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi is a medicinal plant popularly known as pink pepper tree, commonly used for wound healing, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial purposes. Furthermore, its fruit is used in culinary. Objectives: In order to further understand the composition and bioactivities of S. terebinthifolius essential oil from vegetative and reproductive parts of the tree, we evaluated the chemical composition and the antioxidant activity of Essential Oils (EO) obtained from different aerial parts of male and female plants. Materials and Methods: The EO was extracted by hydrodistillation; the antioxidant activity was evaluated via two in vitro assays with different mechanisms of action (DPPH and ORACFL) and the chemical composition was determined via GC-MS. Results: The EO from leaf, inflorescence and fruit of S. terebinthifolius showed distinct chemical profiles, yields and antioxidant potentials. Conclusion: The aerial parts of S. terebinthifolius may be used as a natural source of antioxidants, since all samples showed strong antioxidant capacity, mainly in the DPPH assay.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Brazilian Pepper Tree, Essential oil, GC-MS}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.050}, author = {Mara Junqueira Carneiro and Guilherme Perez Pinheiro and Andressa Mara Baseggio and M{\'a}rio Roberto Mar{\'o}stica-J{\'u}nior and Alexandra Christine Helena Frankland Sawaya} } @article {1107, title = {Chemical Profile and Antimicrobial Activity of Syagrus oleracea (Mart.) Becc. Oils and Oils Extracted from Speciomerus revoili (Pic.) Larvae}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {71-74}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {71}, abstract = {

Background: The antimicrobial effect of oils extracted from Syagrus oleracea (Mart.) to prove the action and obtain data for the future development of therapeutic products. Objectives: The present study was to determine the chemical profile and the antimicrobial potential of oils extracted from Syagrus oleracea (Mart.) Becc. almonds and Speciomerus revoilie (Pic.) larvae to obtain scientific information to prove the action and obtain data for the future development of therapeutic products. Materials and Methods: The separation, identification and quantification of fatty acids in oils extracted from the larvae of S. revoili (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) and almonds of S. oleracea (Arecaceae) were performed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The determination of antibacterial activity was performed using microdilution in plates. Results: In the oils extracted from S. revoili and S. oleracea, saturated chain fatty acids, the presence of hexanoic acid (only in almonds), and caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and those of unsaturated chain, oleic acid (omega-9) and linoleic acid (omega-6). S. revoili oil showed satisfactory results against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity., Fatty acids, Speciomerus revoili, Syagrus oleracea}, doi = {10.5530/097484900265}, author = {Luciana Helena Veloso and Dario Alves de Oliveira and Cintya Neves de Souza and Francine Souza Alves and Vany Ferraz and Anna Christina de Almeida and Afr{\^a}nio Farias de Melo J{\'u}nior and Elytania Veiga Menezes and Murilo Malveira Brand{\~a}o and Vanessade Andrade Royo} } @article {1203, title = {Comparative Therapeutic Evaluation of Insuwin and Insuwin Forte Polyherbal Formulation on Streptozotocin and Nicotinamide Induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {72-81}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {72}, abstract = {

Background: The clinical exploration and regulatory approval of herbal formulations requires authenticated preclinical studies. Objectives: This study objective is to assess the therapeutic effectiveness of Insuwin and Insuwin forte polyherbal tablet formulation (Manufactured by SKM Siddha and Ayurveda Company (India) Pvt. Ltd.,) in diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Hypoglycemic effect of Insuwin and Insuwin forte tablets were evaluated in normal fasted, oral glucose challenged, and diabetes-induced rats. Diabetes mellitus was induced by intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin (45 mg/kg and nicotinamide 110 mg/kg). Glimepiride (5 mg/ kg orally) was used as standard, Insuwin 194 mg/kg, and Insuwin forte 188 mg/kg test doses were administered for 21 days. After the treatment period, fasting blood glucose levels, serum HbA1c levels, lipid profiles, and biochemical parameters were assessed using standard laboratory techniques. The pancreas histopathology was also carried out. Results: The treatment of Insuwin and Insuwin forte significantly reduces the fasting blood sugar levels in both the normal control and diabetic rats, also Insuwin forte treatment significantly improves the glucose uptake in OGTT, and the abnormal lipid profile like increased total cholesterol, LDL, TG, and decreased HDL in diabetic rats were significantly normalized. Also decreased the elevated serum HbA1c, AST, ALT, and creatinine, additionally Insuwin forte decrease the elevated serum urea in diabetic rats. In histopathology, all the treatments showed better improvement in beta cell regeneration. Conclusion: Based on our results Insuwin and Insuwin forte was effective in diabetes mellitus. In comparison Insuwin forte showed a superior hypoglycemic effect, improve glucose uptake by induced insulin releases, regularize lipid abnormality, better liver and kidney protection, and improve the islet of Langerhans in beta cells. Hence Insuwin forte might be an effective alternative oral hypoglycemic agent for diabetes mellitus.

}, keywords = {Diabetes mellitus, Insuwin, Insuwin forte, Oral hypoglycemic agent, Polyherbal tablets.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.10}, author = {Ganesh Thangavel and Suresh Murugesan and Sudhakar Pachiappan and Murugananthan Gopal} } @article {1144, title = {Comparison of the Anti-asthmatic Potential of Himalayan Plants Lonicera obovata Royle and Morina longifolia Wall: An in vivo Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {384-391}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {384}, abstract = {

Background: Asthma is a very common and chronic disease in which there is an inflammation of the lungs. Inflammatory airways and narrowing, spasms, over-secretion of mucus, bronchoconstriction, and eosinophilic airway inflammation are generally seen in the asthmatic condition. Globally, its prevalence is rising constantly. The extracts of Lonicera obovata and Morina longifolia of the Caprifoliaceae family were traditionally used by the Himalayan local people to treat asthmatic and inflammatory conditions. Objectives: The goal of this experimental study was to identify the phytochemicals of the plants through GC-MS. To investigate and compare the anti-asthmatic potential of methanolic whole plant extracts of L. obovata and methanolic root extracts of M. longifolia through in-vivo experiments. Materials and Methods: The anti-asthmatic potential of extracts was determined by the method of leukocytosis and eosinophilia induced by milk in the Swiss albino mice model. Results: Various secondary active phytoconstituents were detected through the GC-MS screening method, some of which have anti-allergic (anti-asthmatic) and antihistaminic properties. The in vivo experiment result showed that in the case of increased leukocyte count, M. longifolia shows better results than L. obovata, and in the case of increased eosinophil count, L. obovata shows better results than M. longifolia to reduce the increased count. Conclusion: The anti-asthmatic potential of plant extracts could be due to the presence of the phytoconstituents like 1-Monolinoleoylglycerol trimethylsilyl ether in the L. obovata extracts and Octadec-9-enoic acid and Cis-vaccenic acid in both L. obovata and M. longifolia extracts. Hence, through the experiments, the unexplored anti-asthmatic properties were revealed and justifies the traditional usage of both plants to treat asthma.

}, keywords = {Anti-asthmatic, Eosinophilia, in vivo, leukocytosis, Lonicera obovata, Morina longifolia.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.041}, author = {Pooja Boora and Richa Puri and Sushila Rani and Monika Mehta and Dechan Angmo} } @article {1178, title = {Is COVID-19 Related to the Recent Surge in Research on Houttuynia cordata (Thunb)?}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {693-704}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {693}, abstract = {

Background of the Study: Houttuynia cordata is an herbal medicinal plant with a variety of ethnomedicinal properties. The plant extract has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help to reduce the complications associated with diabetes. Additionally, it is used as an anti-inflammation, antidote, astringent, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral. Objectives: The present study is a scientometric analysis of Houttuynia cordata during 1992-2021 as covered in the SCOPUS database to find out the citation impact, growth rate, and research output of Houttuynia cordata research during a three-decade period. Materials and Methods: SCOPUS database was used to download data for three decades. The information gathered was quantified using bibliometrics; further, VOS viewer was used for visualizing the keyword network. Results: The study revealed that from 2005 onwards, there was an increase in Houttuynia cordata research and publication. China turns out to be at the top with the maximum number of research publications on Houttuynia cordata. Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmaceutics were the top subject areas that constituted the leading publication. Keywords {\textquoteright}Traditional Medicine{\textquoteright} and {\textquoteright}Medicinal Plants{\textquoteright} were used mainly during the year 1992-2018, however, from 2019-2021 there is a tremendous shift from the keywords such as {\textquoteright}Traditional Medicine{\textquoteright}, and {\textquoteright}Medicinal Plants{\textquoteright} to keywords such as {\textquoteright}Coronavirus{\textquoteright} {\textquoteright}COVID-19{\textquoteright} and {\textquoteright}Pandemic{\textquoteright}, indicating that research on Houttuynia cordata relating to COVID-19 and Pandemic has become an extensive area of research from 2019 onwards. Conclusion: This study concludes that research on Houttuynia cordata has been slow since the early years, with a significant surge during the COVID-19 pandemic. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has certainly reconfirmed the relevance of Houttuynia cordata as a medicinal herb. Additionally, this study will help researchers understand the current state of the Houttuynia cordata research and can act as an information road map to further explore research on its medicinal importance which may benefit humanity in the future.

}, keywords = {Coronavirus, COVID-19, Houttuynia cordata, Medicinal plants, Scientometric Analysis, Traditional medicine}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.074}, author = {Poonam Singh Deo and Sweety Angelirie Kharumnuid and Moses M. Naga and P. Hangsing} } @article {1184, title = {Crassocephalum crepidioides (Asteraceae) Benth S. Moore Leaves Fractions Attenuate Dyslipidemia and Atherogenic Indices in Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {761-770}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {761}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus, a metabolic and endocrine disorder, is associated with an impaired lipid profile that can result in increased atherogenic indices. The effects of the aqueous and hexane fractions of C. crepidioides leaves on the lipid profile and atherogenic indices of diabetic rats were investigated in this study. Materials and Methods: Varied concentrations (50-200 mg/kg body weight) of the aqueous (CAF) and hexane (CHF) fractions of C. crepidioides were assayed against streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Histological examinations of the pancreas were carried out using hematoxylin and eosin staining procedures. Experimental rats were randomly divided into 9 groups of 6 rats each and orally treated for 14 days. Results: The tested concentrations (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) of CAF and CHF significantly (p \< 0.05) reduced plasma glucose (51.3-62.2\%), plasma and liver triglycerides (up to 50.5\% in plasma; 66.1\% in the liver), total cholesterol (up to 49.0\% in plasma; 35.3\% in the liver), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (up to 96.0 and 91.0\% in the plasma and liver), very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (up to 50.5\% in plasma; 55.0\% in the liver), and the atherogenic indices elevated by diabetes induction. The high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations were significantly increased (plasma: 73.60-127.60\%; liver: 108.70-152.5\%) in CAF and CHF-treated diabetic rats compared to the diabetic control. Histological examination showed improved tissue architecture in the pancreas of the diabetic-treated rats compared to the diabetic control. Conclusion: C. crepidioides leaf fractions possess hypolipidemic and anti-atherogenic activities. Therefore, the plant could be useful in managing diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular conditions.

}, keywords = {Atherogenic indices, Diabetes mellitus, Dyslipidemia, Histological, Solvent fractions}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.080}, author = {Opeyemi Oluwayemisi Ayodele and Funmilayo Dorcas Onajobi and Emeka Emea Okoro and Omolaja Osoniyi} } @article {1210, title = {Development and Evaluation of Nephroprotective Polyherbal Formulation against Methotrexate Induced Toxicity in Sprague Dawley Rat}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {140-145}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {140}, abstract = {

Methotrexate (MTX) is one of the most broadly used anti-cancer derivative of aminopterin and it is a first folic acid antagonist. Adult cancer, various malignancies, multiple sclerosis, dermatomyositis, sarcoidosis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and severe inflammatory disorders are all commonly treated with MTX. Medicinal plants and herbs contribute, wide range of treatment and prevention from several diseases. Herbal formulations mean dosage form consisting of one or more plants prepared herbs in selected quantities to cure mitigate diseases, by treatment, prevention and sometimes use as a supplement. Petrida foetida is used as traditionally diarrhea, stomach ache and nutritional supplement etc. Vitis vinifera, the fruit is used for dietary and the leaves and seeds are used as several herbal therapy. The current study had carried out to evaluate the nephroprotective activity of leaves and seed extracts of Petrida foetida and Vetis venifera. Nephroprotective activities of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Petrida foetida and Vitis vinifera seeds were examined against methotrexate induced Kidney damage in Sprague Dawley Rats. Biochemical parameter evaluates like Urea, Creatinine, Uric acid, Blood urea nitrogen, total protein like albumin, globulin was analyzed. Petrida foetida and Vitis venifera seeds extract of exhibited significant (p\<0.05) nephroprotective activity. Ethanolic seeds extract of Vitis vinifera and Petrida foetida menifest moderate activity upon Methotrexate induced Rat models. Study outcome shows the traditional-ethno medicinal use of Methotrexate as a potential source of Nephroprotective activity.

}, keywords = {Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)., Creatinine, Methotrexate (MTX), Nephroprotective activity, Polyherbal formulation (PHF)}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.17}, author = {Arijit Chaudhuri and Udichi Kataria and Subodh Kumar Dubey and Neha Chopra and Devendra Dhanorya and Kamal Shah and Nagendra Singh Chauhan} } @article {1155, title = {Documentation of Mosquito Repellant Plants from Fringe Villages of Manas National Park, Assam, India}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {497-503}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {497}, abstract = {

Background: Mosquito-borne diseases are among the common problems in developing countries. For centuries, herbal formulations have been used by tribal communities as medicines. A survey was carried out to document the insecticidal plants from fringe villages of Manas National Park. Materials and Methods: The survey was carried out from April to July 2020. The survey was conducted in a face-to-face manner with a ready-made questionnaire. Results: A total of 25 fringe villages were surveyed, and 57 informants were interviewed. Most of the informants were male (87\%) and aged (\>50 years old). A total of 24 plant species belonging to 18 families were recorded in the present study. Among the plant families, Solanaceae and Lamiaceae were the most famous families. Brassica rapa was the most popular plant with five citations, followed by Cinnamomum tamala and Nicotiana tabacum. Leaves were the most commonly used plant parts, followed by stems. The survey also reported that smokes, produced by burning plant parts, are the most commonly practised mode of use, followed by the rubbing of raw juices of plant parts to repel mosquitoes by fringe villagers of Manas National Park. Conclusion: With a solid ethnobotanical knowledge system supported by scientific evidence, the present study may be used by researchers to explore further the insecticidal and mosquitocidal activities of the plants.

}, keywords = {Fringe village, Larvicidal, Manas National Park, Medicinal plants, Mosquitocidal.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.052}, author = {Himangshu Baruah and Harmonjit Boro and Ananta Swargiary} } @article {1157, title = {Effect of Cholesterol and Different Solvents on Particle Size, Zeta Potential and Drug Release of Eucalyptus Oil Phytosome}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {578-590}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {578}, abstract = {

Background: Herbal extracts show poor absorption and bioavailability but their complex with phospholipids i.e., phytosome improves this major problem. Aim: The aim of research was to examine the effect of cholesterol and different organic solvents on particle size and zeta potential of eucalyptus oil phytosome. Materials and Methods: Totally six batches of phytosomes were prepared using three solvents chloroform, dichloromethane, acetone, with and without addition of cholesterol. Phytosome were evaluated for yield, FTIR, partial size and zeta potential, drug entrapment and drug release, drug release kinetics and stability studies. Results: The yield, density refractive index and maximum absorbance (λmax) of eucalyptus oil was found to be 1.65{\textpm}0.74\%, 0.9928 g/cm{\textthreesuperior} (24.2{\textdegree}C), 1.3613(24.6{\textdegree}C), and 297.733 nm respectively. There was no drug excipient interaction. The yield varied from 85.14{\textpm}0.74 to 87.14{\textpm}0.74\%, particle size varied from 71.76{\textpm}0.63 to 197.36{\textpm}0.53 nm, zeta potential varied from 15.3{\textpm}0.27 to-28.2{\textpm}0.26 mV and entrapment efficiency varied from 57.45{\textpm}0.35 to 67.34{\textpm}0.52 respectively. The in vitro drug release varied from 87.26{\textpm}0.63 to 71.35{\textpm}0.63\% up to 300 min (5 hr) and batch-A was selected as best formulation that showed Peppas Korsmeyer as the best fit model with R2 value 0.9422 and mechanism of drug release was Fickian Diffusion (Higuchi Matrix). The stability studies showed 99.14{\textpm}0.25 to 99.55{\textpm}0.52\% drug content on 28th day. Conclusion: The particle size of phytosomes was increased on addition of cholesterol. The acetone showed the smallest particle size and chloroform showed the biggest particle size that indicated that molecule diameter and molecular weight affects the solubility and assembly of phospholipid/ cholesterol in solvent in order to prepare particulate drug delivery system

}, keywords = {Eucalyptus, Evaluation, Particle size, Phytosomes, Zeta potential.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.061}, author = {Sharad Visht and Sana Sirwan Salih} } @article {1140, title = {Effect of Glutathione Enriched Polyherbal Formulation on Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Model by Regulating Oxidative Stress and PKC Pathway}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {347-355}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {347}, abstract = {

Background: Increasing evidence shows that oxidative stress is one of the root causes of metabolic disorders like diabetes. Glucose oxidation and activation of various metabolic pathways lead to a disproportionate generation of free radicals. This will significantly reduce the antioxidant status in the body. Objectives: In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of a novel glutathione enriched polyherbal formulation on a streptozotocin induced diabetic model. Materials and Methods: Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. After 3 days of injection, Glibenclamide (5mg/kg), and glutathione enriched polyherbal formulation were given orally for 28 days. Fasting blood glucose and body weight changes were measured at specific intervals. For the study, antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation products, nitrite, liver enzyme markers, gene expression of GLUT{\textendash}2, and PKC levels were evaluated. Histopathological analysis was also done. Results: The result shows that glutathione enriched polyherbal formulation treated rats significantly reduced their blood glucose and maintained their body weight. As a result, the GLUT{\textendash}2 expression was reduced, which prevented the activation of PKC. Moreover, oxidative stress was reduced by improving antioxidants like SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH by inhibiting the lipid peroxidation process. In addition, hepatic damage was also prevented by protecting the liver cells, and thereby shielding the excessive leakage of SGOT, SGPT, and ALP enzymes. The histopathological analysis of the liver gives more support to other data. Conclusion: Findings show that glutathione{\textendash}enriched polyherbal formulations have a powerful anti-diabetic effect by inhibiting oxidative stress and thus blocking PKC activation.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Diabetes, Glucose transporter, Oxidative stress, PKC}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.037}, author = {Sheethal S and Ratheesh M and Svenia P Jose and Sandya S} } @article {1119, title = {Effect of Saleekha and Majeeth in Polycystic Ovarian Disease: An Open Observational Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {168-175}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {168}, abstract = {

Introduction: PCOD is a common, complex reproductive endocrinopathy characterized by menstrual irregularities, hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovaries, metabolic and psychological disorders and affects up to 18\% of reproductive-aged women. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of Saleekha and Majeeth in PCOD. Materials and Methods: Clinically diagnosed Patients (n=30) with PCOD in age 18-35 years with oligomenorrhea or amenorrhoea were included in the study. Patients with thyroid dysfunction, systemic diseases, endometrial tuberculosis, malignancies on hormonal treatment in the last 3 months, pregnancy, and lactation were excluded. The research drug was administered orally in a dose of 3.5 gm B.D safuf (powder) of Saleekha with Josh{\={a}}nda (decoction) of Majeeth 7 gm BD for 14 days/ cycle for three consecutive cycles. Outcome measures were changes in subjective parameters (nature of bleeding, duration of cycles, duration of flow, amount of flow, weight reduction) and objective parameters, pictorial blood loss assessment chart (PBAC) score, basal metabolic index (BMI), modified Ferriman Gallwey (mFG) score, acanthosis nigricans scale and pelvic ultrasonography. Data were analyzed using the paired Student t-test. Results: Marked improvement was observed in menstrual irregularity and PBAC score with p\<0.001 which is highly significant after the intervention. Significant change is seen in BMI, Ovarian volume, and SF-12 with p\<0.001 after treatment. Safety parameters were within the normal range. Interpretation and Conclusion: Research drugs (Saleekha and Majeeth) can be used as an alternate remedy in PCOD patients, as it significant effect to regularize menstruation by reduction of BMI and probably by improving insulin resistance in PCOD. No adverse effect of the research drug was noted during the trial.

}, keywords = {BMI, Majeeth, mFG, PBAC score, PCOD, Saleekha}, doi = {10.5530/097484900240}, author = {Shabnam Bano and Wajeeha Begum and Syeda Sumaiya} } @article {1209, title = {Elucidation of the Anti-inflammatory, Anti-proliferative and Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition Inhibiting Potentials of Cichorium intybus Extract on Human Cancer Cell Line(s)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {132-139}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {132}, abstract = {

Background: Cichorium intybus L. is cultivated in various temperate regions of the world for use of its different parts (mostly roots/seeds) as medicines or food. However, the anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT)-inhibiting potential of C. intybus extracts have not been extensively studied at molecular level using suitable human cancer cell-line models. Objectives: Elucidation of the anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and EMT inhibiting potential of C. intybus extract using human cancer cell-line models. Materials and Methods: We prepared Methanolic Extract (MKE) of C. intybus leaves and studied its anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and anti-EMT activities in THP-1 and U87MG cell lines through real time expression analysis and various functional assays including cell viability, cytotoxicity, colony forming and wound healing assays. Results: MKE significantly reduced the LPS-induced transcription of proinflammatory cytokines; TNF-α, and IL-6 from macrophage turned THP-1 cells. Also, expression of TGF-β gene was significantly downregulated by MKE in both THP-1 macrophages and U87MG cells. In U87MG glioma cells, MKE significantly downregulated the expressions of proliferation (Ki67, and PCNA), and EMT markers (LIX1, VIM, ZEB1, SNAIL, and SLUG), which are associated with aggressiveness, histological grade and poor prognosis in glioma. Conclusion: It should be emphasized that this is the first study done on examining the potential of C. intybus anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and anti-EMT activities against the THP-1 macrophages and U87MG glioblastoma cells. Our findings strongly suggest C. intybus leaves as an efficient source of pharmaceutical formulations that can contribute to the treatment of inflammatory diseases and cancer and could add in improving human health significantly.

}, keywords = {Anti-EMT, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-neoplastic, Anti-proliferative, Cichorium intybus}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.16}, author = {Ankita Harishchandra Tripathi and Amrita Kumari and Rahul Anand and Ramesh Chandra Rai and Poonam Gautam and Penny Joshi and Santosh Kumar Upadhyay} } @article {1133, title = {Essential Oils of Rosmarinus officinalis and Eucalyptus globulus Cultivated in the Mountainous Region of the State of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil): Chemical Profile and Antileishmanial Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {297-306}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {297}, abstract = {

The present study aimed to characterize the chemical profile of essential oils of Rosmarinus officinalis (EORo) and Eucalyptus globulus (EOEg) cultivated in the mountainous region of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and to verify the leishmanicidal potential, as well as to determine the cytotoxicity in vitro in mammalian cells. EORo had α-Pinene (37.99\%), Cineol (21.48\%), D-Verbenone (5.78\%) and Limonene (3.28\%) as major constituents. The EOEg had as major components Cineol (75.52\%), Limonene (8.82\%) and o-Cymeno (7.81\%). The EOEg had a lower IC50 value of 14.03 {\textpm} 2.08 μg/mL, while EORo had an IC50 value of 31.12 {\textpm} 4.6 μg/mL, both during the 24-hr exposure period. In the 48-hr period, the IC50 value was almost twice as high with rosemary oil, while in eucalyptus oil there was no significant difference when exposed in this period. The selectivity of EOs was demonstrated in murine cells, showing almost 30 times less toxic to the cell than to the parasite. It can be concluded that this is a pioneering study on the potential of these essential oils against the leishmania parasite. Furthermore, the low toxicity effect on the host cell encourages future studies and in vivo applications.

}, keywords = {cytotoxicity, E. globulus, Essential oil, Leishmanicidal, R. officinalis}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.032}, author = {Rog{\'e}ria Cristina Zauli and Tarc{\'\i}sio Martins Santos and Alberto Wisniewski Jr and Patr{\'\i}cia Xander and Aislan Cristina Rheder Fagundes Pascoal} } @article {1202, title = {Estimation of Antidiabetic Trace Elements in Some Commonly Consumed Plants of West Bengal}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {67-71}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {67}, abstract = {

Introduction: Trace elements are required by human body in very minute quantities for normal functioning of the body. They are necessary and essential for good health. Trace elements mainly act as cofactors to different enzymatic reactions. Abnormalities in trace element levels in human body can possibly lead to dysfunctions and disorders. Diabetes is a myriad of metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia. Trace elements are involved in different processes in control of diabetes such homeostasis of glucose and regulation of insulin despite being a small part of living tissues. Objectives: The present work is focused on determining the amount of zinc, chromium and selenium content of leaves of some commonly consumed plants in the state of West Bengal by using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy and understanding their role as an anti-diabetic agent. Plants having medicinal properties are used in treatment of large number of diseases, including metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Materials and Methods: Two methods were used for digestion of plant samples: Wet oxidation and Dry ashing followed by AAS analysis. Conclusion: The study explored that Mentha spicata L. has maximum contribution to diabetes because of its significant content of anti-diabetic trace elements. The result can be useful for nutritional suggestion for diabetes patients as well as for the preparation of herbal formulation for diabetes mellitus in future.

}, keywords = {Anti-diabetic, Chromium, Selenium, Trace elements, Zinc}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.9}, author = {Bhargab Sarma and Prerona Saha and Sourav Deka} } @article {1181, title = {Estimation of Ursolic Acid in Methanolic Extract of Momordica dioica by HPTLC Method}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {727-732}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {727}, abstract = {

Background: A number of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications have been shown to lessen pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, there are numerous side effects connected with their use. There are, however, medicinal plants that have anti-inflammatory therapeutic effects with little to no side effects. Momordica dioica is a herb that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. There are numerous phytoconstituents in it. Ursolic acid is one of them and a pentacyclic terpenoid that is found in nature and has a number of therapeutic benefits. The current study looked at Ursolic Acid{\textquoteright}s activities (UA), a secondary plant metabolite, for its anti-inflammatory properties in the Momordica dioica plant. The current study{\textquoteright}s objective was to create and validate an HPTLC method that was quick, accurate, precise, and specific for determining ursolic acid from Momordica dioica herbal extract. Methodology/Conclusion/Significance: For quick analysis of Ursolic acid determination, The High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) was established and confirmed. On an aluminium HPTLC plate (60 F254) coated with precoated silica gel with formic acid, ethyl acetate, and toluene (7:3:0,1), chromatographic separation was accomplished. The detection process was carried out at 530 nm. Ursolic acid{\textquoteright}s Rf value was discovered to be 0.795\%. In the 400ng/band concentration range, linearity for ursolic acid was detected. The limits of detection and quantitation for ursolic acid were observed to be 0.04 ng/ band and 0.14 ng/band, respectively. The mean \% recovery of rosmarinic acid was (0.54). The method{\textquoteright}s specificity, robustness, linearity, precision, and accuracy have all been validated in compliance with ICH standards. The created method can be used to evaluate the regularity of ursolic acid in herbal extracts.

}, keywords = {Chromatography, Herbal extract, HPTLC, Inflammation, Methanol, momordica dioica, Rf value, Ursolic acid}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.077}, author = {Jui Darbhe and Vrushali Neve and Vrushali Bhalchim and Ashwini Tonpe and Pritam Khandave and Suchita Mane and Rupali Yewale} } @article {1201, title = {Evaluation of in vitro Hypoglycemic Activity and Mechanism of Action of Olax scandens Roxb. Stem Bark Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {59-66}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {59}, abstract = {

Background: Olax scandens Roxb. (Olacaceae) is a scandent thorny shrub used by many ethnic tribes of Asia to cure stomach ache, diarrhoea, fever, cough, mouth ulcers, anaemia, filaria, joint pains, intestinal and liver diseases and diabetes. Objectives: The present study was undertaken to investigate the in vitro hypoglycemic activity and mechanism of action of O. scandens stem bark extracts in five different in vitro models at different glucose concentrations. Materials and Methods: Various extracts of O. scandens stem bark was studied for their effect on glucose adsorption, glucose diffusion, glucose uptake by yeast cells, alpha glucosidase and alpha amylase inhibition at different glucose concentrations. Results: In the glucose adsorption method, the butanolic extract showed statistically significant increase in glucose bound concentration of 7.35 mM/L at 100 mM glucose concentration used. All extracts showed a significant retardation in glucose diffusion across a dialysis membrane into the external medium, at different time intervals. GDRI of ethyl acetate extract was 84.471 at 30 min whereas the butanolic extract and aqueous ethanolic extract showed highest GDRI of 80.267 and 70.386 at 120 min respectively. In the method of glucose uptake by yeast cells, aqueous ethanolic and butanolic extracts both showed significantly higher uptake of glucose of 65\% at 5 mg/mL concentration. The ethyl acetate extract and standard acarbose showed 26.25\% and 35\% inhibition of alpha glucosidase respectively at 100 μg/mL concentration. Whereas at the same concentration, ethyl acetate extract and acarbose showed 48.922\% and 63.093\% inhibition of alpha amylase. Conclusion: Significant in vitro hypoglycemic activity was seen in glucose diffusion method suggesting a possible role of fibre which may retard glucose release across the dialysis membrane. This mechanism can be correlated with retardation in the transport of glucose across the intestinal lumen thus causing a reduction in post prandial hyperglycemia.

}, keywords = {Hypoglycemia, in vitro, Olax scandens, Stem bark}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.8}, author = {Zareen Nazia and Venkatesh Sama and Rao Basava V.V and Bolleddu Rajesh} } @article {1161, title = {Evaluation of Protective Effects of Polyphenols of the Marine Brown Alga Ecklonia cava against Potassium Bromate Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {544-550}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {544}, abstract = {

Background: Ecklonia cava is a kelp (brown algae) genus belonging to Lessoniaceae with plenty of Eckol-type phlorotannins. It exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activity. Objectives: This study investigated Ecklonia cava (EC) polyphenols for their protective effects against KBrO3-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: The polyphenolic fraction was isolated from EC. Group, I was control (untreated), and group II was administered KBrO3 (135 mg/kg b.w) intragastric for four weeks. Group III was administered ECPP (200 mg/kg b.w) concurrently with KBrO3 (135 mg/kg b.w) orally, and Group VI was administered Rutin (100 mg/ kg b.w) along with KBrO3 (135 mg/kg b.w) orally. The protective effects of ECPP on KBrO3-induced nephrotoxicity in rats were assessed for the biochemical parameters of serum, various antioxidant enzymes, and histopathological changes in kidneys. Results: The level of serum of Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), uric acid, and creatinine was suggestively augmented (p\<0.001) when treated by KBrO3. The activity of antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and FRAP (ferric ion reducing antioxidant parameter) were diminished (p\<0.001). At the same time, lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide were raised (p\<0.001) with KBrO3 treatment in the kidneys. In addition, the protein carbonyl level was amplified (p\<0.001) with KBrO3 administration. Histological studies presented renal damage in KBrO3-treated animals where tissue injury was abridged in ECPP pretreatment groups. Conclusion: These results suggest that ECPP functions as an antioxidant in vivo by scavenging reactive oxygen species, which helps preclude oxidative renal injury in rats treated with KBrO3.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Ecklonia cava, Nephroproductive activity, Polyphenols, Potassium bromate.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.057}, author = {Moqbel Ali Moqbel Redhwan and Suman Samaddar and Hariprasad MG and Sumaia Abdulbari Ahmed Ali Hard and Gitima Deka and Anyembe Godfrey} } @article {1182, title = {Evaluation of Selectivity Index and Phytoconstituents Profile of Various Extracts from the Stem of Strychnos lucida R. Br. as Anti-malarial}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {733-750}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {733}, abstract = {

Introduction: Strychnos lucida R. Br. or Songga was empirically used as an anti-malarial and immunostimulant in the Tetun tribe, Indonesia. However, almost all plants from the genus Strychnos contain the alkaloid toxic compound strychnine. Objectives: The aims of this study are to determine in vitro/in vivo anti-malarial activity, to analyze the selectivity index, and to measure the phytoconstituents of various extracts (water, ethanol, ethyl acetate, n-hexane) from S. lucida stem. Materials and Methods: In vitro anti-malarial study was conducted against Plasmodium falciparum 3D7-chloroquine-sensitive, and in vitro cytotoxic was performed against Monkey kidney Vero cell. Plasmodium berghei ANKA-chloroquine sensitive infected malaria mice were used as a model for evaluation of in vivo anti-plasmodial. Phytoconstituents profile was determined using Thermo scientific LC-HRMS, and the m/z data was analyzed using Compound Discoverer software with mzCloud MS/MS Library. Results: Water (W), Ethanol (E), and Ethyl Acetate (EA) extract exhibited more potential in vitro/in vivo anti-malarial activity than n-hexane (H) extract (IC50 2.48{\textpm}0.09; 2.45{\textpm}0.02; 2.90{\textpm}0.07; 7.64{\textpm}0.30 μg/mL, respectively). The selectivity index of water, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and n-hexane extract are 211.47, 78.46, 249.62, and 32.39, respectively). According to the LC-HRMS profile, water and ethanol extract mainly contain alkaloid and phenolic compounds. Ethyl acetate and n-hexane mostly contain terpenoids and fatty acids. Conclusion: According to the result, we conclude that ethanol and water extract from S. lucida R. Br. display potential anti-malarial. Alkaloids and phenolic compounds probably have the most contribution to their anti-malarial activity.

}, keywords = {Anti-malarial, LC-HRMS, Selectivity index, Strycnos lucida R. Br., Vero cell}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.078}, author = {Uswatun Khasanah and Alvan Febrian Shalas and Bachtiar Rifai Pratita Ihsan and Lung Ayu Asti Wulandari and Nadela Cintya Nurtyas and Waril and Iin Alipiani and Ulfa Malihatus Sholiha} } @article {1215, title = {Evaluation of the Effect of Five Colombian Propolis Extracts on the Expression of Genes Associated with Cell Cycle and Inflammation in a Canine Osteosarcoma Cell Line}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {172-182}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {172}, abstract = {

Introduction: Propolis has anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties, which is why it is suggested that it could be used as an alternative or complementary drug therapy in the treatment of various pathologies such as cancer, diseases chronic-degenerative and infectious. Materials and Methods: In this study, canine bone fibroblasts were used as control cells, and the canine Osteosarcoma cell line (OSCA-8) was acquired to evaluate the effects of ethanol extracts of propolis from five Colombian regions on these cells. The cytotoxic effect was evaluated by examining changes in cell viability and proliferation. Furthermore, the expression of some relevant and characteristic genes related to the tumor phenotype, related to the proinflammatory process and cell cycle, was assessed. Results: Thus, the evaluation of the relative expression of some genes associated with the cell cycle and inflammation could improve the understanding of the cytotoxic effect of propolis extracts on OSCA-8 cell lines. Conclusion: The first time in Colombia, the biological activity of ethanol extracts of propolis was evaluated regarding the inflammation and cell cycle pathways. After 48 hr, the Colombian EEP had an effect on the increase in both OSCA-8 cells and fibroblasts.

}, keywords = {Biological activity, Cell cycle, Gene expression, Inflammation, Osteosarcoma, Propolis.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.22}, author = {Oscar Juli{\'a}n Murillo Torres and Dolly Patricia Pardo Mora and Orlando Torres Garc{\'\i}a and Mauricio Rey Buitrago} } @article {1198, title = {Exploring Phytochemicals and Anti-bacterial Properties of Bougainvillea glabra: A Systematic Review with an in silico Perspective}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {34-41}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {34}, abstract = {

Background: Anti-microbial resistance is a major global hazard to human health, which is exacerbated by high costs and low returns associated with bringing new antibiotics to market. Plants have a diverse array of bioactive secondary metabolites, representing an exciting new option for drug discovery. Materials and Methods: We used a systemic review of the phytochemical composition of Bougainvillaea glabra flower extracts and computational analysis of its antibacterial activity. SwissADME and STRING are used to identify effective medications like phytochemicals and their targets. Results: Totally 36 bioactive compounds were identified in B. glabra among the 467 investigations. We used SwissADME to test these compounds for possible drug-like properties and to find their specific target. The N-(1-Deoxy-1-fructosyl) phenylalanine was virtual docked with a bacterial target protein, tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase. We examined binding affinity and interactions in these models to estimate their anti-bacterial potential. The in silico study found solid evidence for specific phytochemicals anti-microbial activities. Notably, quercetin had a binding affinity of -7.83 and was crucial in inhibiting the translational process of protein synthesis. Conclusion: This computational investigation gives information on the potential anti-bacterial properties of phytochemicals produced from B. glabra. Our findings not only call for additional testing but also point to the possibility of synthesising novel anti-bacterial drugs derived from nature. This study helps the ongoing battle against antibiotic resistance by clearing the path for the development of novel therapeutic alternatives to combat bacterial infections through the use of computational approaches.

}, keywords = {Anti-bacterial activity, Bougainvillaea glabra, N-(1-Deoxy-1-fructosyl) phenylalanine, Phytochemical, Tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.5}, author = {P. M. Ravikumar and Pratheep Thangaraj} } @article {1204, title = {Exploring the Ameliorative Role of Equisetum diffusum D. Don Whole-Plant Methanolic-extract in Acute Inflammation and Molecular Docking Analysis of GC-MS-identified Phytocompounds with Few Prominent Inflammatory Markers/Cytokines for Inspecting the Potent}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {82-97}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {82}, abstract = {

Background: Equisetum diffusum D. Don (Fam. Equisetaceae), an important medicinal pteridophyte species has been traditionally used in the treatment of bone fracture, bone dislocation, and arthritis by various tribal communities of India. Objectives: To validate the potent anti-inflammatory properties of the whole plant methanolic-extract (EDME) using in silico, in vitro, and in vivo strategies. Materials and Methods: The EDME was characterized through total phenolic, flavonoid, tannin, saponin content and five antioxidant assays. The GC-MS analysis was done to screen the active phyto-constituents followed by in silico molecular docking studies with inflammatory markers. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by measuring protein denaturation-inhibition test, heat-induced and hypotonicity-induced haemolysis test. Carrageenan-induced paw-edema test was used to determine the in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of EDME. Results: Our results showed quite higher tannin content in EDME compared to saponin content, and showed satisfactory phenol and flavonoid contents. From the antioxidant survey, it was found that EDME has the highest activity against ABTS radical and the least against superoxide radical. Furthermore, GC-MS analysis of EDME reported the presence of 47 phyto-compounds, out of which few compounds showed good inhibition against Cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) and IL-6 compared to standard NSAIDs, in molecular docking analysis. In vitro anti-inflammatory studies indicated that EDME inhibits protein denaturation, heat-induced, and hypotonicity-induced haemolysis significantly (p\<0.001) compared to standard drugs. The in vivo anti-inflammatory study of the plant showed 52.26\% and 73.36\% reduction in paw-edema in both protective-dose groups respectively, when compared to the carrageenan control group. Conclusion: Our findings established the anti-inflammatory roles of the whole plant methanolic extract of Equisetum diffusum on strong ground which may lead to drug development for the treatment of inflammation-related complications.

}, keywords = {Carrageenan, Equisetum diffusum, GC-MS, Inflammation, Molecular docking, Paw edema.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.11}, author = {Sourav Sarkar and Debabrata Modak and Md Salman Haydar and John Johnros Georrge and Soumen Bhattacharjee} } @article {1195, title = {Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Herbal Plants in Managing Blood Sugar Levels: A Comprehensive Evaluation}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {10-18}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {10}, abstract = {

Hyperglycemia, characterized by persistently high blood glucose levels due to insufficient insulin release or insulin resistance, is a major global health concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports a substantial increase in the number of diabetic patients, from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014, and further to 463 million in 2020. As a result, there has been a growing demand for medicinal plants to address this issue. Traditional medicine has long recognized and utilized various medicinal herbs with hypoglycemic properties. This review focuses on eight specific medicinal plants: Ficus religiosa (Moraceae), Syzygium cumini (Myrtaceae), Momordica charantia (Cucurbitaceae), Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae), Ocimum tenuiflorum (Lamiaceae), Morinda citrifolia (Rubiaceae), Trigonella foenum-graecum Linn. (Fabaceae), and Peganum harmala (Zygophyllaceae), which have been found to play a significant role in managing hyperglycemia. The article explores the phytochemical constituents of these plants responsible for their hypoglycemic effects and elucidates their mechanisms of action. By providing a comprehensive review of these medicinal plants, this article offers valuable insights into their potential use for managing hyperglycemia.

}, keywords = {Herbal plants, Hyperglycemia, Insulin resistance, Phytoconstituents, Therapeutic potential.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.2}, author = {Archita Katrolia and Ved Pal and Vikesh Kumar Shukla and Rohit Singh} } @article {1151, title = {Formulation and Evaluation of Phytosomes of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Adiantum capillus-veneris for Antimicrobial Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {468-477}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {468}, abstract = {

Background: Natural plant extracts and phytoconstituents have high in vitro bioactivity but low in vivo bioactivity because of poor lipid solubility, multiple ring large molecules, or digestion in the gut. Polyphenolic phytoconstituents were complexed with phospholipids, mainly phosphatidylcholine, which molecularly attaches components to one another to produce novel drug delivery systems like phytosomes. The important constituents of the herbal extract are designed to protect from being disrupted by gastric juices and gut bacteria, as phytosomes have the ability to cross the bio-membranes that which are lipid enriched and boost bioavailability. Objectives: The current work is aimed to formulate and evaluate phytosomes from Adiantum capillus-veneris (ACV) hydroalcoholic extract for antimicrobial activity. Materials and Methods: Antisolvent precipitation method was chosen on the basis of the solubility of hydroalcoholic extract in dichloromethane. The prepared trial batches of the phytosomes complex were characterized by using particle size, zeta potential, drug entrapment efficiency, drug content, and in vitro drug release study. The optimized batch of phytosomes was characterized for compatibility studies by using Infrared Spectrometry (IR), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TSM), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and further for stability studies. Results: The results revealed that ACV hydroalcoholic extract and phosphatidylcholine were found to be connected by a non-covalent bond and did not generate a new molecule in the ACV hydroalcoholic extract-phosphatidylcholine complex and showed enhanced in vitro antimicrobial activity as compared to the hydroalcoholic extract. Conclusion: The complex{\textquoteright}s dissolution profile was found to be improved. As a result, the phospholipid complex of ACV extract can therefore be concluded to have the potential to enhance bioavailability.

}, keywords = {Adiantum capillus-veneris (ACV), Antimicrobial activity., H-ACV extract phytosomes, Hydroalcoholic extract, Phytosomes}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.048}, author = {Supriya Ganesh Jagtap and Vedant Vinay Kajale and Mukta Mahesh Abhyankar and Aditi Shrinivas Kulkarni and Minal Rushikesh Ghante} } @article {1164, title = {Formulation and in vitro Evaluation of Tablet Dosage form of Unani Anti-diabetic Powder Containing Gymnema sylvestre R. Br, Syzygium cuminii Linn. and Zingiber officinale Rosc.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {566-577}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {566}, abstract = {

Background and Objectives: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one of the leading causes of end stage renal disease, adult blindness etc. The side effects and resistance of conventional medicines for DM had put forward a need to develop an effective antidiabetic formulation with the aid of traditional medicine. Modification of dosage form in traditional system of medicine for palatability and portability is the need of hour. The antidiabetic safoof(powder) formulation containing Gurmar buti(Gymnema sylvestre R.Br), Jamun (Syzygium cuminii Linn.) and Zanjabeel (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) is having inconvenience to follow the accurate dose, palatability and stability issues due to surface area of powder. To rectify this problem the Safoof is modified into tablet dosage form with documentation of standard manufacturing procedure, its physicochemical analysis and in vitro antidiabetic evaluation. Materials and Methods: For process standardization total 10 batches were generated for the optimum working process related to the powder size, quantity of binder, wetting, granulation, time for drying and compression by trial and error. Ideal batch was selected on the basis of set parameter (friability, hardness and disintegration time), its physicochemical standards including HPLC as well as α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition activity were established. Results: With excipients 5\% Gum acacia, 5\% CMC, 1\% SSG, 0.5\% Mg stearate and 0.5\% Talc, the mean value of the hardness, friability and disintegration time of tablet were found to be 4.83 {\textpm} 0.17, 0.29 {\textpm} 0.01 and 14.24 {\textpm} 0.05 respectively. Physico-chemical data with HPLC quantification of Gymnemagenin, 6-Gingerol, 8-Gingerol, 6-Shogaol and 10-Gingerol were set in. The heavy metals and microbial contaminations are within permissible limit. Antidiabetic activity through α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition were 0.00 {\textpm} 0.00 at the 2500 μg/ml and 84.28 {\textpm} 0.58\% at the 3000 μg/ml concentration respectively. Conclusion: Classical powder is modified effectively in tablet dosage form with in vitro evaluation of its antidiabetic activity particularly α-glucosidase inhibition of crude powder and standardization data was also set in.

}, keywords = {Diabetes mellitus, Physico-chemical standardization, Powder, Tablets, α-glucosidase.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.060}, author = {Gazi Jahangeer Rather and Hamiduddin and Mohd Ikram and Md. Naquibuddin} } @article {1105, title = {Formulation and in-vitro Antidiabetic Assessment of Plumbago zeylanica Root Extract Containing Tablet}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {56-63}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {56}, abstract = {

The plant processed herbal formulation have significant role in drug discovery, same time phytoconstituents have high pharmacological potential to treat the various ailments such as diabetes or chronic hyperglycemia. The present research aims to explore and investigate the antidiabetic potential of roots of hyperglycemia Linn. During the study pharmacognosy and formulation of herbal tablet has been done. Fresh roots of plant were collected, two enzymes named as alpha-Amylase and alpha-Glucosidase were obtained from Sigma Aldric. Extraction and fractionation along with phytochemical screening was performed Herbal tablets were made using the direct compression method. The n-butanol fraction of plant extract was mixed with the excipients and compressed into tablets. Different batches of formulations were prepared by dry granulation technique. The maximum in vitro dissolution was found to be with formulation F2 that exhibit the extreme proportion of accumulative release of drug (93.96\%) due to the optimized concentration of PVP and Chitosan and the formulations F2 has potent Antidiabetic Activity and also have antioxidant potential that was performed in this study. Plant extract has been used to formulate herbal tablets. From all five batches of tablets one batch (F2) was found to be best formulation and this was used to investigate the Antidiabetic activity as well as antioxidant activity also. The plants have potential to treat hormonal disorders also hence it can be used to treat the endocrine metabolic disorders.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Chitosan, Endocrine, Hyperglycemia, in vitro, n-butanol., α-Amylase, α-Glucosidase}, doi = {10.5530/097484900211}, author = {Aakash Partap Singh and Sunil Kumar and Manjusha Chudhary and Dinesh Kumar and Beena Kumari and Bhuwanendra Singh and Renu and Manish Kumar} } @article {1211, title = {Formulation of Herbal Candies Containing Giloy Satva: A Nutritious and Palatable Herbal Confectionery Option}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {146-151}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {146}, abstract = {

Background: Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) is an Ayurvedic herb known for its numerous health benefits. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to prepare Giloy Satva candy. Materials and Methods: The candy was prepared by incorporating Giloy Satva in various concentrations batch wise, with other natural ingredients to enhance its palatability and therapeutic value. Physicochemical and therapeutic evaluation of the Giloy Satva candies involved assessing parameters such as moisture content, ash value, Total Soluble Solids (TSS), phytochemical screening, pH, sensory evaluation and Antioxidant assay. Results and Discussion: The finalized batch candy exhibited a desirable moisture content (7.44{\textpm}0.08\%), ash value (1.26{\textpm}0.67\%), and TSS (69.05 {\textdegree}Brix). The pH of the candy was found to be within the acceptable range (4.8{\textpm}0.30), ensuring its stability and suitability for consumption. In sensory evaluation, the candy received positive feedback for its taste, texture, aroma, and overall acceptability. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of the Giloy Satva candy was determined using in vitro DPPH assays. The candy exhibited significant antioxidant activity (53.23{\textpm}0.23 μg/mL), indicating its potential to combat oxidative stress and associated health issues. Conclusion: In conclusion, the Giloy Satva candy demonstrated promising physicochemical properties, excellent sensory attributes, and potent antioxidant activity. The developed candy formulation could serve as a convenient and palatable herbal preparation, offering the benefits of Giloy in an easily consumable form. Further investigations, including stability studies and clinical trials, are warranted to explore its therapeutic potential and commercial viability.

}, keywords = {Candy, Giloy satva, Hepatoprotective., Immunomodulation, T. crispa}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.18}, author = {Sharada Laxman Deore and Bhushan Arun Baviskar and Anjali Ashok Kide and Bhavana Ashok Shende and Aditya Gachake and Dwiptesha Dahake} } @article {1118, title = {FTIR Based Metabolomics Profiling and Fingerprinting of Some Medicinal Plants: An Attempt to Develop an Approach for Quality Control and Standardization of Herbal Materials}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {163-167}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {163}, abstract = {

Background: The medicinal plants are used for their various therapeutic effects in treatment and prevention of various diseases. Recently herbal medicines are playing an important role in health care across the world. With increased global acceptance of the herbal drugs proper quality control of the herbal medicines have become important to ensure the safety and efficacy of the herbal products. Herbal-based FT-IR metabolomics is a suitable method for quick and reliable quality control and metabolite profiling to ensure quality and reproducibility of herbal medicine. The FT-IR analysis is relatively easy to use, reproducible, non-destructive, and can be used for quick analysis and verification of the herbal medicines. Materials and Methods: In the present work FTIR fingerprint was obtained for extracts and powders of some of the selected medicinal plants. The samples were characterized by using FTIR metabolomics profiling on basis of the diagonostic peaks. Results: Various functional groups, such as phenolics (-OH), carbonyl (C=O), aldehyde (CH=O), ether (C-O-C), aromatic (C=C), and alkyl groups -CH, were identified. Various metabolites e.g. liquiritin, glycyrrhizic acid, glabridin, shogoal, piperine were successfully identified on basis of the diagonostic FTIR peaks. Conclusion: FTIR was found to be a simple, rapid and convenient analytical method and fingerprinting technique for quality control of herbal materials.

}, keywords = {Fingerprinting, FTIR, Medicinal plants, Metabolomics, Quality control, Secondary metabolites}, doi = {10.5530/097484900288}, author = {Manas Ranjan Sahoo and Marakanam Srinivasan Umashankara} } @article {1179, title = {GC-MS, FT-IR, and ICP-MS Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in the Methanolic Leaves Extract of Thalictrum foliolosum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {705-715}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {705}, abstract = {

Background: There are many therapeutic effects of medicinal plants that are used in treating and preventing a variety of diseases. Recently medicinal plants contain many bioactive compounds which are playing an important role in the health sector. The use of herbal medicine is based on the fact that herbal medicines are safe without any ill effects on human health and are easily accessible at minimum cost. However, there is an urgent need to assure the quality and efficacy of the product. Objectives: The main objective of current study directed to characterize possible the phytochemical compounds and mineral elements present in the methanolic leaves extract of the Thalictrum foliolosum plant by using GC-MS, FTIR, and ICP-MS analysis to ensure quality of this medicinally important herb and for a better understanding of its pharmacological claim. Materials and Methods: Thalictrum foliolosum was collected in July and August from the Hatu peak at an elevation of 3400 m in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The fine powder of the plant leaf was extracted with methanol at room temperature for 8 hr. The chemical analysis of bioactive compounds of Thalictrum foliolosum has been evaluated using GC-MS, FTIR and ICP-MS. Results: GC-MS analysis disclosed the presence of 48 compounds which shows various medicinal activities. The major phytoconstituents were Octacosanol (22.37\%), Diethyl Phthalate (22.32\%), Hexanoic acid, 2-ethyl-, ethyl ester (6.14\%), n-Hexadecanoic acid (4.11\%) and many more which exhibited antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. The compounds found in the extract were compared with mass spectra from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The crude extract was analyzed in a spectrometer Perkin Elmer Spectrum 400 and characteristic peaks were recorded indicating various functional groups such as phenol, alkanes, alcohol, amides, and amines are present. The ICP-MS technique was simultaneously used to trace the mineral element and the result revealed the presence of important micronutrients including manganese (1,770.517 ppb), ferrous (22,604.753ppb), zinc (4,322.423 ppb), chromium (491.231), copper (7,048.321ppb) and potassium (450,067.837ppb). These mineral element acts as cofactors for more than 3000 enzymes that regulate various metabolic pathways in the living system. Hence our study provides a huge platform to screen out these bioactive compounds and mineral elements which are used to treat various lethal and lifestyle diseases. Conclusion: The current study reveals that the methanolic leaves extract of Thalictrum foliolosum contains various phytoconstituents which were responsible for various biological activities. The relative concentration of bioactive compounds and mineral elements is reasonable and can be considered for medical purposes.

}, keywords = {FTRI, GC-MS, ICP-MS, Medicinal plants, Secondary metabolites}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.075}, author = {Sushila Rani and Richa Puri and Pooja Boora and Abul Qasim and Dechan Angmo and Monika Mehta} } @article {1189, title = {Hepatoprotective Assessment of Copper Calx against Anti-Tubercular Drug-induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {806-812}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {806}, abstract = {

Background: Anti-Tubercular Drugs (ATDs), while effective in treating tuberculosis, are associated with hepatotoxicity, leading to liver damage and complications. Calx of Copper, a traditional Ayurvedic preparation, has shown potential hepatoprotective properties. Objectives: To investigate the potential hepatoprotective role of Calx of Copper in mitigating ATD-induced hepatotoxicity and to examine its impact on liver function markers and histopathological changes in rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups (n=6 per group): control, ATD, Calx of Copper, ATD+Calx of Copper, and silymarin (used as a standard hepatoprotective agent). Hepatotoxicity was induced in the ATD, ATD+Calx of Copper, and silymarin groups by administering a combination of isoniazid, rifampicin, and pyrazinamide for 25 days. Calx of Copper and silymarin were orally administered at doses of 6.17 mg/kg and 12.33 mg/kg, and 300 mg/kg b.w, respectively, in their respective groups. Liver function markers, including serum transaminase and alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), were measured at the end of the study. A histopathological examination of liver tissues was also performed. Results: ATDinduced hepatotoxicity was evident through elevated serum SGPT, SGOT, ALT, and ALP levels and histopathological alterations in liver tissue. Co-administration of Calx of Copper significantly reduced SGPT, SGOT, ALT, and ALP (p\<0.05) and improved liver histopathological changes compared to the ATD group. The hepatoprotective effect of Calx of Copper was comparable to that of silymarin. Conclusion: Copper calx demonstrated significant hepatoprotective activity against ATD-induced hepatotoxicity in rats, as evidenced by normalizing liver function markers and histopathological improvements. These findings suggest that Calx of Copper may be a promising adjuvant therapy for mitigating liver damage associated with anti-tubercular drug treatment.

}, keywords = {Anti-Tubercular, Antioxidant, Copper Calx, Hepatotoxicity, Rat}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.085}, author = {Mohammad Sharique and Hariprasad M.G and Moqbel Ali Moqbel Redhwan and Ashish Jain and Shambhavi S and Mamatha A and Niranjana} } @article {1143, title = {HPLC-DAD Phenolic Composition, Antioxidant, Anticholinesterase, Antidiabetic and Anti-quorum Sensing Properties of Bitter Kola (Garcinia kola) and Kolanut (Cola acuminata)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {373-383}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {373}, abstract = {

Background: Eating Cola acuminata and Garcinia cola nuts in African societies symbolizes in socio-cultural hospitality. They stimulate the nervous system, reduce fatigue and sleep. Objectives: To determine the phenolic composition and bioactivities of G. kola and C. acuminata. Materials and Methods: Hydro-ethanol extracts of the nuts were prepared and their phenolic profiles determined using HPLC-DAD. Antioxidant, anticholinesterase, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antibiofilm and anti-quorum sensing properties were determined. Results: The most abundant phenolic compound was caffeic acid (105.4{\textpm}0.75 mg/g) in C. acuminata and myricetin (277.2{\textpm}0.90 mg/g) in G. kola. The extracts showed good antioxidant activity in five complementary assays and G. kola was more active than both α-tocopherol and BHA standards in the DPPH{\textbullet}, CUPRAC and ABTS{\textbullet}+ assays while C. acuminata was more active than only the α-tocopherol standard in the same assays. Activities were close to those of standards in the β-Carotene-linoleic acid and metal chelation assays. Both extracts had good inhibition of Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) with IC50 values 63.27{\textpm}0.98 μg/mL and 94.15{\textpm}1.05 μg/mL for C. acuminata and G. kola respectively compared to 5.50{\textpm}0.25 μg/mL for galantamine in the AChE assay. In the BChE assay, the inhibitory activity was higher for G. kola (IC50 = 38.66{\textpm}0.80 μg/ mL) that the standard galantamine (IC50 = 42.20{\textpm}0.48 μg/mL) while that for C. acuminata (IC50 = 87.31{\textpm}0.77 μg/mL) was moderate. The extracts inhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase with G. kola (IC50=18.43{\textpm}0.74 μg/mL) being more active than standard acarbose (IC50=20.52{\textpm}0.84 μg/mL in the α-glucosidase assay. The nuts could inhibit expression of virulence factors in Chomobacterium violaceum CV12472 by disrupting violacein production and flagellated Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01 by disrupting swarming motility. Conclusion: The results indicate good nutraceutical potential of both nuts.

}, keywords = {Anticholinesterase, Antidiabetic, Antioxidant, Cola acuminata, Garcinia kola, Quorum-sensing inhibition.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.040}, author = {Sameh Boudiba and Selcuk Kucukaydin and Alfred Ngenge Tamfu and Kom Blaise and Aristide Mfifen Munvera and Yasmine Arab and Ozgur Ceylan and Rodica Mihaela Dinica} } @article {1207, title = {HPTLC, Physico-chemical, Phytochemical, Macroscopic, Microscopic Analysis of Seeds of a Nutri Cereal-Finger Millet/Ragi [(Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.]}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {118-122}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {118}, abstract = {

Background: Finger Millet/Ragi [(Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.], an important nutri cereal/ millet is being cultivated in various regions across the globe. The largest cultivating continents are Asia and Africa. In this scenario of mounting importance to millets/nutri cereals as the U.N General Assembly announced {\textquoteleft}The International Year of Millets 2023{\textquoteright}, there was an urgent need for analysing this drug scientifically, for the purpose of standardisation and quality control. Objectives: HPTLC, physico-chemical, phytochemical, macroscopic, microscopic analysis of seeds of Finger Millet were conducted for standardization. Materials and Methods: Macroscopical and microscopic analysis (Anatomical and Powder Microscopy), and physico-chemical analysis of powder of seeds/grains of Finger millet were done. For, phytochemical analysis, alcoholic extraction (reflux) was performed in the powder of the drug. For HPTLC analysis, the best fingerprint was obtained in with Toluene: Ethyl acetate: Formic acid (5: 3: 0.1) as mobile phase. Results: In anatomical study, unique 5-layered testa, starchy endosperm, and single aleurone layer were identified. Physicochemical analysis revealed identity and purity of Ragi. Terpenoids, quinines, alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins and glycosides were identified as the constituent phytochemicals. The fingerprint profile of HPTLC exhibited many peaks which correspond to the various phytoconstituents present in Ragi. Conclusion: The results of the study will be beneficial in identifying Finger millet as the whole drug or in powder form, and thus standardising the raw drug.

}, keywords = {Finger Millet, HPTLC, Physicochemical, Phytochemical, Standardization.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.14}, author = {Sinimol Thekkekkoottumughath Peethambaran and Soumya Mohanan Chandrika and Sree Deepthi Girija Nalinakshan and Meghna Pooleriveettil Padikkal and Reena Viswam Lilly and Neethu Kannan Bhagyanathan and Ghanthikumar Subramanian} } @article {1148, title = {In Quest of the Mysterious Holistic Vedic Herb Bacopa monnieri (L.) Pennell}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {410-454}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {410}, abstract = {

Throughout history, complementary and alternative therapies have been widely utilised. In recent years, there has been a surge in interest in the usage of herbal treatments all around the world. Various natural chemicals, such as those produced from plants, have been investigated as potential therapies for a myriad of ailments. The essence of this review was to methodically describe everything we know about Bacopa monnieri (L.) Pennell, a mysterious holistic Vedic herb belonging to the Plantaginaceae family, a well-known nootropic and effective memory enhancer, which has recently emerged as one of the most important medical herbs, widely used therapeutically in the Orient and growing in popularity around the world. Literature was gathered from sources such as Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, and reviewed using the Prisma quality metacritic paradigm. It is now plainly obvious that current therapies fall short of meeting the demands of the vast majority of individuals with health problems, and traditional medicines are gaining appeal as a result of their reduced toxicity. Bacopa is a traditional herb used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat brain and nerve weariness, as well as in Siddha medicine to treat impaired memory. It{\textquoteright}s also used to cure brain and nerve exhaustion in Unani medicine. We improved Brahmi micropropagation and secondary metabolite biosynthesis by compiling pharmacobotanical and pharmacognostical descriptions, as well as ethnoarchaeological data and nanotechnology domination. This critique also highlights our contemporary information of pharmacological activity, preclinical and clinical investigations, significant bioactives, reported mechanisms of action, clinical effectiveness, safety, and the potential for herb-drug interactions. At the same time, the current incarnation of research at the plant is reviewed, as well as future research possibilities. Brahmi offers a lot of potential for treating a range of illnesses, including neuro-pharmacological, depression, inflammation, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and others. According to the presumptions of this review, further clinical trials and research are needed. While the impact of Brahmi as an anxiolytic and antidepressant has to be explored further, its potential as an anti-epileptic therapy and a treatment for antiepileptic drugs side effects is also being researched. Furthermore, Brahmi{\textquoteright}s antioxidant ability may explain, at least in part, the antistress, immunomodulatory, cognition-facilitating, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging benefits documented in experimental animals and clinical circumstances, necessitating further study into its other therapeutic characteristics.

}, keywords = {Bacopa monnieri, Cheminformatics, Clinical trials, Herpestis monnieri, Pharmacological Testimony, Phytomolecules., Plantaginaceae}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.045}, author = {Sumanta Mondal and Kausik Bhar and Prasenjit Mondal and Naresh Panigrahi and Suvendu Kumar Sahoo and Pydi Swetha and Subhadip Chakraborty and Nooka Yaswanth Teja and Neha Parveen} } @article {1214, title = {In silico Based Virtual Screening of Non-polar Phytochemicals obtained From Petroleum Ether Extract of Asparagus racemosus by GC-MS Analysis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {161-171}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {161}, abstract = {

Background: Evidence shows that people have used medicinal plants and plant components to treat various conditions since ancient times. Asparagus racemosus have a wide range of therapeutic potential Antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory. Aim and Objectives: The current study sought to identify potential bioactive molecules present in the petroleum ether extract of Asparagus racemosus. Materials and Methods: The presence of different molecules was identified by Gas Chromatography. Mass spectroscopy and FTIR analysis confirmed the molecular structure. The identified molecule was analyzed for drug likeliness, bioactivity, and target prediction analysis by in silico approaches using Swiss ADME, Swiss target prediction, Oasis datawarior, and mole inspiration software. Results: The petroleum ether extract is the highest source of alkaloids and steroids. The molecule (5.beta.) Pregnane-3,20, beta.-diol, 14.alpha.,1, 8. alpha.-[4-methyl-3-oxo-(1-oxa-4-azabutane-1,4-diyl)]- diacetate was found in the highest concentration (37.33\%). The identified molecule is steroidal. The in silico study exhibited good drug likeliness and therapeutic potential for the reported molecule. The molecule can be considered a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer and analgesic anti-inflammatory agents. Conclusion: The molecule (5.beta.) Pregnane-3, 20. beta.-diol, 14.alpha.,1, 8. alpha.- [4-methyl-3-oxo-(1-oxa-4-azabutane-1,4-diyl)]-,diacetate can be considered as poteintial therapeutic agent.

}, keywords = {Asparagus racemosus, Drug likeliness, Gas chromatography, In silico study, Mass spectroscopy, Petroleum ether, Target prediction.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.21}, author = {Shaik Harun Rasheed and Ravi Kumar Vakkalagadda and Sayyad Mustak and Sandip Sen} } @article {1160, title = {In vitro Cytoprotective Activity Study of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) Pod Husk Ethanolic Extract against Blue Light Irradiation}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {537-543}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {537}, abstract = {

Background: Blue light exposure has been shown to induce ROS generation and subsequent inflammatory pathways that lead to cell death, in which antioxidants could counteract this effect. Although regarded as waste, cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) Pod Husk (CPH) possesses a high polyphenolic contents, which could serve as antioxidants. Objectives: To characterize CPH ethanolic extract based on its antioxidant capacity and observe the cytoprotective ability of CPH in vitro upon blue light exposure. Materials and Methods: CPH ethanolic extract was characterized through total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and three antioxidant assays, then treated on HaCaT cells, in which cell viability was measured through MTS assay. Results: CPH extract showed high phenolic and flavonoid contents and high antioxidant capacity through DPPH and FRAP assay. CPH extract started to exert cytotoxicity from concentrations of 400 μg/mL and above, while 100 μg/mL and above in AA. Furthermore, CPH extract showed significant cytoprotective effect at 50 μg/mL at 11.92 {\textpm} 0.83\% cell viability increase, wherein AA failed to protect HaCaT cells at the same concentration at 15.79 {\textpm} 0.72\% cell viability decrease. Conclusion: CPH could serve as an alternative as blue light protection agent as it was safe to be used at higher concentrations and was able to protect HaCaT cells from blue light irradiation better than AA.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Blue light, Cell Culture, Cocoa pod husk, Cocoa pod husk cytoprotectivity against bluelight., HaCaT}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.056}, author = {Shakila Angjaya Adiyanto and Erika Chriscensia and Elizabeth Chrestella Wibowo and Joshua Nathanael and Audrey Amira Crystalia and Agus Budiawan Naro Putra and Gunawan Priadi and Fahrurrozi Fahrurrozi and Pietradewi Hartrianti} } @article {1174, title = {In vitro Urolithiasis Activity of Tridax procumbens Methanolic Extract on Calcium Oxalate Crystals Prepared by Precipitation Method}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {667-670}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {667}, abstract = {

Background: The main purpose of present to reduce the kidney stone with herbal drugs due increase in incidence rate of kidney stones significantly with change in life style from the last two decades. Aim and Methodology: The present study aimed to evaluate in vitro urolithiasis activity of Tridax procumbens on experimentally prepared calicium oxalate crystals. Calcium oxalate crystals were prepared by homogenous ppt method by using calium chloride and sodium oxalate. The crude extract was prepared by the simple maceration with methanol 1:3 ratio and the solvent was evaporated by rotary evaporator and two doses of extract selected i.e 10mg and 20 mg and compared against standard cytosine all were assayed against calcium oxalate crystals which were incubated in semi-permeable membrane with sulphuric acid. Results and Conclusion: The results were 68.02\% (10 mg), 72.41\% (20 mg) and 90\% and we conclude that the Tridax procumbens was showed significant effect of urolithiasis.

}, keywords = {Calcium oxalate crystals, Cytosine, PPT, Tridax procumbens}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.070}, author = {Aithamraju Satishchandra and V. Alagarsamy and V. Radhika and V Ravi Kumar and Bandi Narendhar and P. Subhash Chandra Bose} } @article {1175, title = {In vivo Investigation to Validate the Traditional Usage of Sorbaria tomentosa (Lindley) Reh. Root Extract against Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {671-678}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {671}, abstract = {

Background: DM is a complicated condition that impacts the handling of sugar, fat, and protein metabolism in our bodies. Medicinal herbs play a significant role in diabetes care. As a result, we focused on the plant components traditionally employed by regional medical professionals. Objectives: The current research was carried out to check if Sorbaria tomentosa (Lindley) Reh. (ST) the ethanolic root extracts anti-diabetic potential. ST is a member of the Rosaceae family commonly known by the common name "false spirae." The root extract of ST is used by the locals in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh to effectively treat diabetes. Materials and Methods: Plant ethanolic extracts were evaluated for their potential on alloxan-induced diabetic rats for 14 days. The animals were put into one of four treatment groups at random: a normal control group, not treated diabetic control group (150 mg/kg bw), a drug control group that got glibenclamide (5 mg/kg bw), and the last treatment group medicated with ST root extract (50 mg/kg BW). Liver, pancreas, and kidney histopathology were analyzed to correlate biochemical findings with histological changes. Results: Our results showed that the extract and medication-treated diabetic groups gained statistically significant weight (p<=0.001) and that their BGL went back to normal. Along with more common biological markers such as SGOT, SGPT, ALP, TC, TG, HDL, LDL, VLDL, creatinine level, uric acid, urea, and uric acid were measured. After the extract treated hyperglycaemic rats, all biochemical markers came under the normal range (p<=0.001). Improvement of the damaged structure of the liver, pancreas, and kidneys was observed after treatment with standard medication and root extracts of ST. Conclusion: Based on the data gathered from the tribal research area, to the best of our capacity, we have uncovered for the very first time the anti-diabetic efficacy of the plant parts. The empirical knowledge of previous generations is typically the basis for the traditional utilization of medicinal plants for controlling diabetes. Nevertheless, in vivo, research has assisted to discover the anti-diabetic potential of ST{\textquoteright}s ethanolic root extract and provides scientific proof to back up these claims. The plant component may also be used to create natural antidiabetic drugs that are effective.

}, keywords = {Alloxan, Diabetes mellitus, Kinnaur, Sorbaria tomentosa, Traditional knowledge, Wistar rats}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.071}, author = {Monika Mehta and Richa Puri and Dechan Angmo and Pooja Boora and Sushila Rani} } @article {1186, title = {Inhibitory Effect of Bioassay-Guided Fractionation of Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) Extract on Fructose-induced Glycated Hemoglobin and Aggregation in vitro}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {776-784}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {776}, abstract = {

Background: Chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus is a prominent inducer for free radical production which results in non-enzymatic protein glycation that cause the pathogenesis of diabetic complications and deleterious health-related issues. Since ancient times, people have consumed mushrooms as food and as a form of folk medicine. Mushrooms are becoming more and more popular due to their medicinal and nutritional advantages. Pleurotus ostreatus has considerable antioxidant properties to scavenge free radicals and is helpful to offer antiglycation activity. Objectives: The purpose of this research was to determine the inhibitory effect of bioassay-guided fractionation of Pleurotus ostreatus on formation of glycated hemoglobin and aggregation of glycated protein in vitro. Materials and Methods: Total phenolic and flavonoids were determined from the crude extract of P. ostreatus. Antioxidant capability of methanolic crude extract was determined by DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging, H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) scavenging, and ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6 -sulfonic acid) radical cation scavenging activity. Inhibitory effect of bio-guided fractionations of crude P. ostreatus extract were measured using fructosamine formation, protein carbonyls, aggregation index, and fluorescence intensity. Results: Methanolic extract of P. ostreatus has significantly high levels of phenols (16.89 {\textpm} 1.44 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (9.40 {\textpm} 0.86 mg QE/g). Methanolic extract was found to have excellent antioxidant capacity indicates from IC50 values for DPPH radical scavenging (75.23 {\textpm} 2.32 μg/mL), H2O2 scavenging (96.54 {\textpm} 2.32 μg/mL), and ABTS radical cation (50.33{\textpm} 1.82 μg/mL) scavenging activities. The analysis on fructose induced glycated hemoglobin model revealed that fraction F4 of methanolic extract of P. ostreatus is more potent to inhibit formation of glycated hemoglobin by (58.84 {\textpm} 2.36\%), fructosamine (64.32 {\textpm} 3.74\%) and protein carbonyls (51.35 {\textpm} 2.94\%). It also showed an aggregation index of 46.32 {\textpm}1.05\% and a decline in fluorescence intensity (52.04\%) which are important factor in many pathological processes. Conclusion: The fraction F4 obtained from P. ostreatus can be used for the identification of bioactive compounds that can be further considered as therapeutic agents for AGE-associated pathogenesis.

}, keywords = {Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), Anti-glycation, Antioxidant, HbA1c, Pleurotus ostreatus}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.082}, author = {Dipeksha Macwan and Hiteshkumar Vashrambhai Patel} } @article {1103, title = {An Insight into the Elusive Healer Plant {\textquotedblleft}Luffa echinata Roxb.{\textquotedblright}}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {26-41}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {26}, abstract = {

Recent years have seen a global rise in the use of herbal medicine. Many naturally occurring bioactive substances, especially those derived from plants, have been studied as potential cures for various diseases. Luffa echinata Roxb., a mysterious medicinal plant from the Cucurbitaceae family, has recently gained recognition as one of the most important medicinal herbs among them. Many phytochemicals found in this plant have been found to have therapeutic potential, including xanthones, alkaloids, phytosterols, flavonoids/isoflavonoids, chalcone, glycosides, terpenoids, saponins, carbohydrates, proteins, reducing sugars, fatty acids, tannins, and phenolic compounds. Other potent phytoconstituents of this plant include saponins, hentriacontane, gypsogenin, sapogenin, cucurbitacin (A, B, C, D, E, K, S, and I), β-sitosterol, echinatol (A and B), oleanolic acid, isoquercetin, quercimeritrin, and sitosterol glycoside. Cucurbitacin, a prominent class of triterpenoids found in L. echinata, has been proven effective in numerous reports. Recent research has shown that cucurbitacins can decapitate or inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. Luffa echinacea{\textquoteright}s fruit and leaves have long been used as purgatives and to cure liver disease, hemorrhoids, jaundice, migraines, emesis, and other conditions by Indian and Chinese physicians. Ulcers and sores have also been expelled using them. During the field study, it was found that the tribal community (Tharus) of Khatima utilized extremely bitter, squeezed fruit stuff given to sufferers of dog bites in the morning on an empty stomach, and more than 500 people have been adequately treated thus far. The therapeutic potential and phytoconstituents of Luffa echinata have been clarified by pharmacological and phytochemical studies; further study is required to investigate these phytoconstituents and their structures.

}, keywords = {Cucurbitaceae, Cucurbitacin, Ethnobotanical, Luffa echinata Roxb., Pharmacobotanical, Pharmacological Testimony, Phytomolecules}, doi = {10.5530/097484900254}, author = {Sumanta Mondal and Kausik Bhar and Renu Kumari and Prasenjit Mondal and Subhadip Chakraborty and Nooka Yaswanth Teja} } @article {1147, title = {Insight on Phytochemical and Pharmacognostic Review of Cichorium intybus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {405-409}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {xx}, abstract = {

In today{\textquoteright}s growing world herbs are gaining a lot of importance because of their ability to improve human health. One such herb is Cichorium intybus. It is also called as chicory/kasni representing Asteraceae family and cultivated across various parts of the globe. Cichorium intybus grows up to a height of 150 cm having thick, strong, irregularly branched twig like stem, long robust thick brown tapio root, lobed and unlobed leaves, seed like fruits and flowers of various colours. Chicory contains various chemical constituents like cichoric acid, sesquiterpenes, lactones, caffeic acid derivatives, inulin, sugars, proteins, sugars, volatile compounds and many more. The phytochemical composition of chicory exhibits not only various pharmacological activities such as nematicidal, hypotensive, analgesic and hepatoprotective but also used in the treatment of several diseases like diabetes, cancer, viral infections, bacterial infections, allergic reactions and antioxidant property respectively. It also has great importance in the field of Ayurveda, it had various medicinal properties and used as a flavouring agent in different food preparations like soups and salads. Current review aimed to emphasize the botanical characteristics, chemical composition, pharmacological activities and culinary applications of Cichorium intybus.

}, keywords = {Chemical composition, Cichorium intybus, Culinary applications, Pharmacological activity}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.044}, author = {Nimmathota Madhavi and B. Lohith Chandu and G. Rithika and B. Niharika and T. Rama Rao} } @article {1137, title = {Investigating the Pharmacognostic and Pharmacological Activities of Azadirachta indica L. through Biochemical Assays}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {242-254}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {242}, abstract = {

Background: Azadirachta indica L., commonly known as {\textquoteleft}neem{\textquoteright} is a member of the Mahagony family, widely available in Indian sub-continents. Neem tree is popularly known for its vast therapeutic properties such as antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antidiabetic, insecticides and pesticides. The plant leaves are commonly used in several Ayurvedic formulations such as {\textquoteleft}kwath{\textquoteright} and {\textquoteleft}churna.{\textquoteright} Due to its high therapeutic value, it is important to standardize and document the quality parameters of the plant leaves. The A. indica leaves were collected, shade dried and pharmacognostic parameters were performed using techniques such as microscopy, physicochemical tests, viz., extractive values, total ash, acid insoluble ash. Apart from this, pharmacological assays for antioxidant, antidiabetic and antimicrobial activities were performed. Based on the assays and preliminary phytochemical analysis, best extract was selected for further compound(s) detection by HPLC and HPTLC. Results: Neem methanolic extract was found to possess various phytochemicals compared to hexane extract, the methanolic extract of neem leaves also exhibited excellent antioxidant and antidiabetic activity along with good antimicrobial against gram-positive bacteria and fungi. Through HPLC and HPTLC analysis, presence of rutin hydrate, ellagic acid, and quercetin was observed in the neem leaf methanolic extract. The pharmacognostic tests values were found similar to that of stated in IP-2022. Conclusion: This is one of the first kind of research to provide a comprehensive pharmacognostic profile of leaves of A. indica L. as well as its pharmacological evaluation along with compounds detection by high throughput analysis.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant assay, Azadirachta indica, HPLC, HPTLC., Physicochemical analysis, α-amylase enzyme inhibition assay}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.026}, author = {Mamta Yadav and Smita Mishra and Ritu Tiwari and Bhavna Kumari and Mayank Shukla and Meenakshi Dahiya and Anil Teotia and Varsha Mehra and Vivekanandan Kalaiselvan and Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi} } @article {1213, title = {Isolation, Purification and Characterization of L-Carvone from Mentha longifolia Using Fractional Distillation and Quantified by Gas Chromatography}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {156-160}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {156}, abstract = {

Menta longifolia is an aromatic herb consists of dried aerial parts of Mentha longifolia belongs to family Lamiaceae. Overground parts of the plant yield 2-4\% of an essential oil, of which the chief component appears to be the monoterpene ketone, carvone. Mentha longifolia thus approaches spearmint (Mentha spicata) rather than peppermint (M. piperita) in oil composition. Other major constituents of the essential oil, according to various studies, include piperitenone and its oxide, piperitone and its oxide and pulegone. The present study involves isolation of l-Carvone from Mentha longifolia using fractional distillation as a tool for separation which was quantified using Gas chromatography. Characterization of purified L-Carvone was done using NMR spectroscopy (1HNMR and 13C-NMR). Fractions collected using fractional distillation was evaluated for anti-microbial activity for further studies.

}, keywords = {Gas chromatography, L-Carvone, Mentha longifolia, NMR.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.20}, author = {Hayat M. Mukhtar and Nishant Kumar and Amandeep Singh and Abhay Sharma and Priyanka and Prince Ahad Mir} } @article {1166, title = {Kapikacchu: The Brain Medicine}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {601-606}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {601}, abstract = {

Ancient civilizations throughout the world have survived for so many years, on the wisdom of nature in every field. Natural ways of living and managing disease have been the mainstay of all these cultures. In today{\textquoteright}s era too almost 80\% of the world population relies on herbal medicine to sustain their health care needs. Herbal medication in the form of folklore medicine or home remedies is the mainstay of disease cure in Asian, African continents as continues to be the first line of treatment in mild to moderately severe illnesses.[1,2] Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens Linn.) is an important herb mentioned in the Ayurvedic medical literature.[3] The plant is beneficial in parkinsonism, male infertility, neurological disorders etc. The negative effects are caused due to the exposure to the pod hair that{\textquoteright}s known to cause skin allergy, basically irritation and itching. That explains the name Kapikacchu. M. pruriens is widely used to manage impotency. The aphrodisiac properties of this herb are known to improve the semen quality in terms count and quality, motility etc.,[4] and is also useful in the management of diabetes mellitus and known to possess antitumour properties too. The seeds exhibit multi-systemic functions like inflammatory arthritis, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders like parkinson{\textquoteright}s disease, fever and inflammations.[5,6] This review study is an attempted to provide detailed information about this herb collected from various Ayurvedic texts and its corelative studies through the lens of pharmacology in terms of its phytoconstituents and pharmacological actions.

}, keywords = {Kapikacchu, Mucuna pruriens, Neurotransmitter, Phytoconstituents}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.063}, author = {Rupali Patil and Gautam P. Vadnere and Kundan Patil and Nalini More} } @article {1159, title = {Luffa operculata (L.) Cogn. Gestational Exposition Induces Anxiety-like Behavior and Interferes with Melatonin and Inflammation in Young Female Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {524-536}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {524}, abstract = {

Background: Luffa operculata (L.) Cogn. (Cucurbitaceae; EBN) dried fruits are abortifacient and showed undesirable effects over male and female adult Wistar rats. Objectives: The present study aimed at accessing how the gestational exposition of F1 female Wistar rats (FF1) to EBN interfered with behavior after challenge with stress or Lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Materials and Methods: Wistar rat female fetuses were gestationally exposed to a sub-abortifacient dose of EBN, and received stress or LPS challenge at a young adult age. The alterations in behavior, serum hormone levels, cytokines, and liver and kidney histological and biochemical indices were evaluated. Results: The gestational administration of EBN and NYM/LPS exposition at a young adult age induced anxiety-like behavior in the FF1, accompanied by an increase in the serum corticosterone, ACTH and melatonin levels. A diminish in the pro-inflammatory cytokines was also observed. No histochemical or biochemical alterations were seen in the liver or kidneys. Conclusion: The gestational exposition of EBN led the FF1 to reveal an anxiety-like behavior after being submitted to a stress challenge or LPS exposition at a young adult age and was accompanied by an increase of serum corticosterone and ACTH. A melatonin serum level increase has also been implicated in diminishing the pro-inflammatory cytokines.

}, keywords = {Animal behavior, Cognitive performance, Gestational treatment, Interleukins, Reproduction, Stress.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.055}, author = {Cinthia dos S. Alves and Humberto V. Frias and Leoni V. Bonamin and Eduardo F. Bondan and Cid{\'e}li P. Coelho and Maria de F{\'a}tima M. Martins and Maria M. Bernardi and Ivana B. Suffredini} } @article {1131, title = {Macro-microscopic and HPTLC Atlas of Canavalia gladiata (Jacq.) DC. Fruit}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {277-287}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {277}, abstract = {

Background: Canavalia gladiata (Jacq.) DC. (Family Leguminosae) is a large annual or perennial climber with a terete glabrous stem, native to Indo-Malaysian and also distributed in tropical, subtropical regions. C. gladiata (Jacq.) DC. is generally confused with another closely related species i.e. C. ensiformis (Linn.) DC (Jack bean). The tender pods of both the above species have close similarity in morphology, especially shape and size of fruit, therefore it is difficult to differentiate on their vegetative and also fruiting stages. The plant C. ensiformis mentioned as a synonym of C. gladiata in many of the earlier literature though they are 2 different taxa. Some authors published different colour seeds in the name of C. gladiata. It is doubtful if C. ensiformis (Linn.) DC. or C. gladiata (Jacq.) DC was studied during that analysis. Objectives: A systematic pharmacognostical study has been executed to identify the correct botanical source. Materials and Methods: All the studies were carried out by standard procedures in Pharmacopoeias and other authentic literature. Results: Macroscopically surface characters followed by odour and taste, anatomically TS of the pericarp, plecenta, testa, cotyledon and radical, powder microscopically epidermal cells with stomata and prismatic crystal cystolith, trichomes, testa palisade cells, sclereids with different shape and size, brownish content, starch grains, tracheids, fibres and prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate are the unique diagnostic characters observed. HPTLC with different spots having unique Rf values in the pericarp, testa, cotyledon and seeds will be helpful for critical identification of the species. Conclusion: The findings of the present study will be helpful in the identification and differentiation of related species as the whole drug or in powder form.

}, keywords = {Jack bean, Seed anatomy, Sword bean, Vegetable Crude Drug.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.030}, author = {Susikumar Sundharamoorthy and Gokula Kannan Sundharamoorthy and Achintya Kumar Mandal and Shakila Ramachandran and Senthilvel Govindaraju and Sunil Kumar Koppala Narayanan} } @article {1120, title = {Macro-microscopy and HPTLC Atlas of Heartwood of Erythroxylum monogynum Roxb. (Indian Bastard Sandalwood)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {176-183}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {176}, abstract = {

Background: Erythroxylum monogynum Roxb. (Fam. Erythroxylaceae) is a tree growing up to 9 m in dry evergreen to deciduous forests, distributed in South India mainly on the Deccan plateau, up to 3000 ft. The wood oil possesses characteristic pleasant odour and a pungent taste, hence adulterated with sandalwood oil in perfumery. Traditionally wood oil is used for webbing eczema; bark and wood used for stomach ailments, as a stimulant, diaphoretic, diuretic, for dyspepsia and also for continuous fever. E. monogynum is used as adulterant in the herbal drug market for the heartwood of sandal on account of their morphological and organoleptic resemblances. Objectives: A systematic pharmacognostical study of dried stem heartwood of E. monogynum has been executed to identify the microscopical and phytochemical features. Materials and Methods: Morphology, anatomy, powder microscopy and TLC/HPTLC studies were carried out by standard Pharmacopoeial protocols. Results: Surface characters, odour, taste, arrangement of xylem elements in TS, TLS, RLS, fibres, tailed pitted vessels, tyloses, xylem rays, axial parenchyma with brownish content, tracheids, fibre tracheids, prismatic crystal, crystal fibre and oil globules were the unique diagnostic characters observed. HPTLC showed 5, 6 and 11 bands under 254 nm, 366 nm and white light (post derivatisation with vanillin-sulphuric acid) respectively. The denistogram showed 12, 10 and 13 peaks at UV 254 nm, 366 nm and 520 nm after derivatisation. Conclusion: The findings of the present study will be helpful in identification of this raw drug as a whole or as a powder.

}, keywords = {Devadaru, Market adulterant, Pharmacognosy, Red cedar, Sandalwood, Wood anatomy}, doi = {10.5530/097484900201}, author = {Susikumar Sundharamoorthy and Sunil Kumar Koppala Narayana and Madhavaraj Vellaiyan and Shakila Ramachandran and Sekar Thangavel and Ilavarasan Raju} } @article {1110, title = {Monitoring of Cannabis Cultivar Technological Maturity by Trichome Morphology Analysis and HPLC Phytocannabinoid Content}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {94-100}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {94}, abstract = {

Objectives: This study aims at determining technological maturity (ten, seven, two days prior and at harvest day) through analyzing morphological changes of trichomes and phytocannabinoid content in samples from cultivated medical cannabis at three plot spots (southeast - SE, central - CN and northwest - NW) in greenhouse (with 3600 m2). Materials and Methods: Soil-grown medical cannabis T-492 plant flowers were sampled within a ten days{\textquoteright} timeline from three plot spots of 3600 m2 greenhouse. Morphology analysis was performed using Zeiss Stemi 508 stereomicroscope and phytocannabinoids content assessment was performed using German pharmacopoeial method for assay of cannabinoids. Results: HPLC analysis revealed that total THC (\%) in the samples was declining from SE (13.14\%), all the way through CN (12.38\%) to NW (9.14\%) spot. Regarding timeline, total THC (\%) was the highest in the southeast location, starting with the highest levels on the tenth day before harvest (SE-10- 13.14\%) and then decreasing on the seventh day prior to harvest (SE-7 -11.78\%), on the second day prior harvest (SE-2-11.56\%) and at the harvest day (SEh- 10.00\%). The presence of translucent-milky, yellow-orange and dark brown trichome heads was observed. An increment of the number of yellow-orange and dark brown colored capitate-stalked trichome heads was connected with cannabinoid content declining. Conclusion: This research gives directions for future conceptualization of correlational studies of cannabinoid content and changes in trichomes and purple coloration (probably from anthocyanins) in different Cannabis cultivars.

}, keywords = {Cannabinoid potency, Cultivation, Flowers, Harvest, Hemp, Liquid chromatography, Trichome morphology.}, doi = {10.5530/097484900306}, author = {Veronika Stoilkovska Gjorgievska and Ivana Cvetkovikj Karanfilova and Ana Trajkovska and Marija Karapandzova and Biljana Bauer Petrovska and Svetlana Kulevanova and Gjose Stefkov} } @article {1162, title = {Morpho-anatomy and HPTLC Profiling of Senna Mill. Seeds Used in Traditional System of Indian Medicine}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {551-561}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {551}, abstract = {

Background: The present study was carried out to compare macro-microscopy, powder microscopy and HPTLC analysis of six species such as Senna auriculata (L.) Roxb., Senna alata (L.) Roxb., Senna alexandrina Mill., Senna occidentalis (L.) Link., S. uniflora (Mill.) Irwin and Barneby, S. tora (L.) Roxb. of the genus Senna Mill. belongs to the family Caesalpiniaceae. Materials and Methods: Six selected Senna species were collected, shade dried and pharmacognostic study were performed used techniques such as microscopy and HPTLC analysis. Results: Seed macro-morphology of the selected six species shows significant variations in size, shape, colour, ornamentation and number of seeds per pod. The basic cellular structure of six Senna species was anatomically similar but variation was observed in number of layers. Microscopic characters of the selected species revealed key diagnostic features that can help to determine the relationship between the closely related species; macrosclerieds and osteosclerdies were observed in Senna auriculata and S. occidentalis. Powder microscopy of selected six Senna species varied in colour, texture and odour. Numerous rosette crystals in cotyledonary cells were found only in Senna tora which is a significant variation from other five Senna species. HPTLC finger print profiling was performed with ethanol extract at 254 nm, 366 nm and 575 nm derivatization using vannilin-sulphuric acid and the results were documented. In 254 nm 14 bands were separated but the major peak at Rf 0.31 (22.24\%) appeared in S. alexandrina. Conclusion: A detailed morphological and pharmacognostical evaluations play an important role to avoid misidentification and delimitation of selected six Senna species and HPTLC profiling is an additional analytical tool for species identification.

}, keywords = {anatomy., S. alata, S. alexandrina, S. auriculata, S. occidentalis, S. tora, S. uniflora, Senna}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.058}, author = {Radha P and Divya KG and Udhayavani C and Murugammal S and Shakila R and Sunil Kumar KN} } @article {1127, title = {Novel Approaches for the Treatment of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {235-241}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {235}, abstract = {

Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading infectious disease that caused the deaths of a total of 1.5 million people in 2020 and is one of the top causes of death globally. India is a country with the highest TB burden, and it may affect all age groups. It is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, an intracellular pathogen, and its multidrug and extensively drug-resistant strains, which continue to emerge and spread, resulting in the deadliest infectious disease. After a gap of more than 40 years, the FDA approvals over the past decade of three second-line anti-TB drugs, bedaquiline, delamanid, and pretomanid, have been major forward steps in the management of drug-resistant-TB (DR-TB). Many medicinal plants such as Zanthoxylum leprieurii, Lantana camara, and Cryptolepis sanguinolenta have extensive therapeutic potential and represent a prospective option to fight against DR-TB. Some novel compounds are in the early clinical trial phases such as DprE1 inhibitors TBA-7371 and BTZ-043, and many others that are showing promising futures. This review describes DR-TB and its current chemotherapy guidelines including novel and repurposed drugs that are included in the anti-TB regimens, medicinal plants that have therapeutic potential for the development of drug-hit candidates, drugs that are currently in clinical development, host-directed therapy, and new drug delivery systems to better understand the novel therapeutic approaches that are currently being studied for the efficacious and safe management of DR-TB, a worldwide health problem.

}, keywords = {Drug-resistant tuberculosis, immunomodulators., Medicinal plants, Nanotubes, Nitroimidazoles}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.025}, author = {Sonam Pushkar and Vibhav Varshney and Pushpendra Pushkar and Harish Kumar Sagar} } @article {1194, title = {Nutrition and Therapeutic Potential of the Dragon Fruit: A Qualitative Approach}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {1-9}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

The climbing vine cactus Hylocereusundatus, which is a native of the tropical woods of Mexico, Central America, and South America, grows the fruit known as dragon fruit, also referred to as red pitaya. With a rich cultural heritage, it has been used as a traditional medicine for centuries to treat various degenerative diseases, including arthritis, arteriosclerosis, inflammation, and brain dysfunction. Moreover, dragon fruit has exhibited promising anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. Dragon fruit is noteworthy for its impressive antioxidant capacity, which plays a crucial role in mitigating the likelihood of chronic illnesses. Within the fruit, a wide variety of phytochemicals are present, functioning as antioxidants that counteract detrimental free radicals. This protective action serves to safeguard the body against the effects of oxidative stress. Notably, the bark of the dragon fruit exhibits an even higher concentration of bioactive compounds with potent antioxidant properties. This distinctive feature holds significant interest from both a pharmacological and nutritional standpoint, suggesting a potential source of natural antioxidants for various therapeutic applications. This comprehensive review delves into the nutritional and medicinal value of dragon fruit, highlighting its various health benefits. The fruit{\textquoteright}s nutritional composition is rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which contribute to overall well-being and support various bodily functions. Moreover, the emerging evidence of dragon fruit{\textquoteright}s medicinal properties points to its potential as a complementary approach in managing certain health conditions. The fruit{\textquoteright}s anti-inflammatory properties have been associated with mitigating chronic inflammation, and its neuroprotective effects show promise in addressing brain dysfunction. As the demand for natural remedies and functional foods increases, understanding the health-promoting properties of dragon fruit becomes even more relevant. This review aims to provide valuable insights into the potential applications of dragon fruit as a nutritional and medicinal resource, encouraging further research and exploration of its diverse health benefits. In conclusion, dragon fruit{\textquoteright}s nutritional richness and medicinal attributes make it a compelling candidate for enhancing human health and well-being. By incorporating this fruit into a balanced diet, individuals can harness its therapeutic potential and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, benefiting from nature{\textquoteright}s bountiful offerings.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant potential, Dragon fruit, Inflammation., Red pitaya, Tropical fruit}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.1}, author = {Karishma Manohar Rathi and Shaktikumar Lawlesh Singh and Godwin Geo Gigi and Shubhangi Vitthal Shekade} } @article {1216, title = {An Open-Labelled Randomized Comparative Efficacy Study of Unani Formulations and Hijama Bila Shart in Tashanuji Usr al-Tamth (Spasmodic Dysmenorrhea)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {183-190}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {183}, abstract = {

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of Unani formulations and Hijama Bila Shart in Tashanuji Usr al-Tamth (spasmodic dysmenorrhea). Materials and Methods: Diagnosed patients (n=40) were randomly allocated in 2 groups (A and B). Group A (n=20) received 200 mL Joshanda (decoction) of Post Amaltas (7 g), Badiyan (5 g), and Pudina Khushk (5 g) and 6 g Sufuf (Tukhm Kharpaza (5 g), Hulba (3 g), Hab ul Qilt (3 g), and Maghz Tukhm Bakayan (1 g), twice daily, 2 days before the onset of menstruation and continued for 3 days of menstrual cycle and Hijama bila Shart (dry cupping) were applied over the suprapubic region on day 1 to day 3 of the menstrual cycle in Group B (n=20) for three consecutive cycles. The primary outcome included a Verbal Rating Scale (VRS) for the severity of pain at baseline and at each follow-up. The secondary outcome included a multidimensional scoring system WaLIDD (working ability, location, intensity, days of pain, dysmenorrhea) score at baseline and post-intervention (4th cycle). With a 5\% level of significance, the data was statistically analyzed. Results: In both groups significant pain relief was noted at each follow-up from baseline. Cupping therapy was more effective than oral medication. The mean WaLIDD score of group A and group B comparison at baseline [8.85{\textpm}1.23 and 8.20{\textpm}1.40] and post-intervention [4.10{\textpm}2.69 and 4.20{\textpm}2.40] was statistically not significant (p\>0.05). However, the intragroup comparison showed significant differences in both groups. No side effects of drugs were noted. Conclusion: Both groups were effective, safe and cost-effective, in pain management of Tashanuji Usr al-Tamth. However, further randomized standard controlled trials in large samples are recommended.

}, keywords = {Cupping therapy, Hijama Bila Shart, Spasmodic dysmenorrhea, VRS, WaLIDD score.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.23}, author = {Aneesa Begum and Shahzadi Sultana and Arshiya Sultana} } @article {1165, title = {Pharmaceutico-Analytical Assessment of Jeevanthyadi ghrita-A Polyherbal Ayurveda Formulation and its Potential Benefits}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {591}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {591}, abstract = {

Background: Standardization and documentation of Traditional medicines have caught pace in recent past and yet remain a subject of discussion. Jeevanthyadi ghrita is a commonly prescribed empirically for debilitating health conditions. However, its pharmaceutical and analytical data remains untraced. Hence an attempt was made to prepare, screen the active biological constituents and review the recent activities of ingredients of the Jeevanthyadi ghirta to rationalize the classical indications. Results: Prepared Jeevanthyadi ghrita showed presence of Alkaloids and terpenoids. HPTLC analysis detected the presence of 7 and 11 active biological constituents at 254 nm and 366 nm respectively, which remains to be identified. No significant difference was noted between plain ghrita and prepared Jeevanthyadi ghrita in relation to AGMARK parameters. Conclusion: Recent activities of ingredients showed strong anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effect that has a relation to ceasing the pathology of debilitation.

}, keywords = {Alkaloids, Anti-inflammatory, Debilitation, Immunomodulatory, Jeevanthyadi ghrita, Pharmaceutico-Analytical}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.062}, author = {Santosh F Patil and Suhaskumar Shetty and Purnachandra T} } @article {1218, title = {Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical Profile of Karavira (Nerium indicum Mill.) Roots with Reference to its Change after Shodhana (Purification Process as per Classics)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {197-202}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {197}, abstract = {

Background: Standardization is a crucial method for establishing the identification, purity, safety, and quality of herbal medicines. Numerous morphological, physicochemical, and phytochemical investigations are performed in order to standardize a medication. For the purpose of establishing standards for unprocessed crude drug, the quantitative assessment of some phytochemical characteristics is necessary. Objectives: The current work discusses the standardization of Nerium indicum root based on several pharmacognostic characteristics, and the identification of these traits will help subsequent researchers to study this species pharmacology. Materials and Methods: Sectioning of fresh root sample of N. indicum, assessment of macroscopic, microscopic, and physicochemical parameters were done based on standard procedures as per API and WHO. Qualitative phytochemical screening, quantitative estimation of total polyphenolic content and cardiac glycoside content of ashodhita (non-purified) and shodhita (purified) hydroalcoholic extract were carried out through standard procedures. Observation and Results: Pharmacognostic analysis confirms the identity of genuine root sample of Nerium indicum. Phytochemical analysis of Ashodhita and Shodhita hydroalcoholic extract shows presence of Carbohydrate, Alkaloids, Flavonoids and Saponins and negative test for Tannins, Starch and Steroids. Quantitative estimation of total phenolic content was found to be is 4.14\% w/w and 2.59\% w/w of pre and post shodhita extract respectively. Total cardiac glycoside content was found to be 3.27\% w/w and 3.05\% w/w in Ashodhita and Shodhita extract respectively. Conclusion: The results of the current investigation indicate that the physico-chemical and phytochemical analyses of Nerium indicum root, produced a set of qualitative and quantitative pharmaco-botanical parameters that can be used as a valuable source of data to establish the identity and to assess the quality and purity of the plant material in subsequent studies.

}, keywords = {Karavira, Nerium indicum, Phytochemical study., Shodhita and Ashodhita Karavira}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.25}, author = {Veerappa Hugar and Daneshwari S Kanashetti and Kamal Nayan Dwivedi} } @article {1158, title = {Pharmacognostic, Chemical Characterization Studies on Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {514-523}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {514}, abstract = {

Aim: The purpose of this study is to determine the Pharmacognostic, phytochemical and physicochemical standardization of Pleurotus ostreatus. Materials and Methods: The disease-free oyster mushroom fruiting body was collected during the rainy season from Himgiree Hi-Tech Agro (Mushroom Division) Kalyani Nagar Pune. Their identity and authentication were done. Macromorphology, cytomorphology, powder microscopy, micrometry, physicochemical evaluation, and phytochemical screening were done according to the WHO guidelines and standard methods. Results: Macromorphology of mushroom structure has a broad, oyster or fan-shaped cap, spanning 2-35 cm. yellowish grey colour, chocolaty odor, and significant taste. Cytomorphology of mushroom shows different cells such as aciculate, sphaerodunculate, lanceolate thick-walled, utriform, cornuate, Subcapitate, mucronate, cornuate, clavate 4-sterigmate basidium and in powder microscopy nodulose, isodiametric, snout like pore, spiny, bullet shaped, cuboid. The preliminary phytochemical analysis of the mushroom shows the occurrence of active compounds such as flavonoid, tannin, glycoside, coumarin, phenols, steroid, terpenoids protein and amino acid. Conclusion: The results obtained in this study the Standardization of phytochemical, physico-chemical is a fundamental dimension for sample identification, quality, and purity of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus).

}, keywords = {Cytomorphology, Oyster mushroom, Pharmacognostic study, Standardization.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.054}, author = {Prasad Vijay Kadam and Damini Kallyanrao Giram and Sameer Khamroddin Shaikh and Kavita Nilesh Yadav and Abhijit Sampatrao Karanje and Manohar Janardhan Patil} } @article {1111, title = {Pharmacognostic Evaluation and Development of Quality Control Parameters for Root of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {101-111}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {101}, abstract = {

Background: In traditional medicine, Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik, which belongs to the Malvaceae family, has been used to treat boils, sores, sprains, inflammations, tuberculosis, and leucoderma. Objectives: The objective of this study was to establish identification and quality control standards. Materials and Methods: For pharmacognostic evaluation, macroscopy, micromorphology and physicochemical constants have been used. Microchemical colour reaction tests and HPTLC studies were performed for qualitative phytochemistry. Results: Externally the root is yellowish-brown to yellowish-white and has a distinct odour, bitter taste, wavy shape, and smooth texture. The periderm was composed of 4-5 thin-walled cells. The secondary phloem has dilated rays and broad pyramid-shaped mucilage-packed rays. The fibres have thin walls and are narrow, and the secondary xylem is a compact circular cylinder with eight to eight radial lines of vessel chains. Prismatic calcium oxalate crystals, lignified long, narrow, thick-walled fibres with parenchyma cells, lignified cork cells, and cylindrical vessel elements were discovered in powdered samples. Physicochemically, the ash value was found above 8\% which shows more than 75\% solubility in acid whereas water and methanol extractive values were found to be just above and below 8\% respectively. In UV-fluorescence study, very distinctive colour changes of the powdered root have been recorded. The phytochemical analysis reveals the presence of glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, and steroids. GC-MS and HPTLC are also used to characterize lipid and phenolic molecules. Conclusion: These findings will help in the future identification and quality control of A. manihot as reference standards.

}, keywords = {Abelmoschus manihot, Pharmacognosy, Physicochemistry, Phytochemistry}, doi = {10.5530/097484900263}, author = {Deshraj Shyamkant Chumbhale and Mahendra Shivshankar Khyade} } @article {1208, title = {Pharmacognostic Standardization, Heavy Metal Analysis and Antioxidant Potential of Iris kashmiriana Baker Rhizome}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {123-131}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {123}, abstract = {

Background: Iris kashmiriana Baker, often known as Mazarmond, is a plant species classified under the Iridaceae family. This specific botanical specimen has notable therapeutic properties and has been traditionally used for the treatment of many diseases. The rhizomes are considered to be a substantial repository of secondary metabolites and have been extensively investigated for their potential in many activities, including immunomodulation, anticancer capabilities, antibacterial effects, and anthelmintic qualities. Currently, there is a lack of study about the establishment of standardization methods for the plant. Aim: the purpose of this research was to conduct standardization, phytochemical analysis, heavy metal analysis, and assessment of the antioxidant capacity of the rhizomes of Iris kashmiriana Baker, a native plant found in the Kashmir valley. Materials and Methods: The botanical specimens were gathered, subjected to a process of air drying in a shaded environment, and afterwards ground into a fine powder. The techniques used for conducting pharmacognostic investigations and phytochemical screening were in compliance with the guidelines set out by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indian Pharmacopoeia. Results: Several distinct features were observed after the implementation of organoleptic, microscopic examination, standardization, and phytochemical analysis. The quantities of all heavy metals were found to be under the acceptable range set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Furthermore, the plant extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant activity. Conclusion: This research serves as a first endeavour in the process of standardizing Iris kashmiriana rhizomes, with the objective of creating a comprehensive profile of their attributes. The results obtained from this inquiry may be used as a valuable point of reference for taxonomic verification and quality control of the perennial plant. Furthermore, the use of standardized rhizomes may be investigated as a potential alternative in the field of medicine for addressing various ailments. This alternative approach presents a higher level of safety and a decreased likelihood of unpleasant responses.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity., Iris kashmiriana Baker, Phytochemical analysis, Standardization}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.15}, author = {Saeema Farooq and Roohi Mohi-ud-din and Prince Ahad Mir and Reyaz Hassan Mir and Nishant Kumar and Zulfiqar Ali Bhat} } @article {1117, title = {Pharmacognostical Standardization of Balamulachurna- Root Powder of Sida rhombifolia subsp. retusa (L.) Borssum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {155-162}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {155}, abstract = {

Background: Ksheerabala tailam is well known Ayurvedic herbal formulation which is used in inflammations, pains and neurological disorders. The primary botanical source for Ksheerabala tailam is Balamulachurna. The literature refers to Balamulachurna as either of the root powders of Sida cordifolia, Sida acuta, Sida cordata or Sida rhombifolia subsp. retusa. To accomplish the clinical efficacy of Ksheerabala tailam, standardization of Balamulachurna is necessary. Objectives: The study is aimed to establish pharmacognostic standards of Balamulachurna with respect to Sida rhombifolia subsp. retusa root powder. Materials and Methods: Pharmacognostical standardization was carried out by focusing on organoleptic, macroscopic, microscopic, preliminary phytochemical evaluation, heavy metal assessments, fluorescence and HPTLC studies. Results: The roots macroscopic features were noticed as; an elongated taproot with few lateral roots, thick, woody, brown-coloured and bitter to taste. Organoleptic characteristics revealed the nature of the root powder as cream in colour with a pleasant odour and slightly bitter taste. The powder microscopic study specified the presence of fibres, fibre{\textendash}sclereids, tracheids, vessel elements and calcium oxalate crystals. Physicochemical studies assessed total ash (7.5\%), water-soluble ash (4.46\%), alkalinity of water-soluble ash (0.4 ml) and acid-insoluble ash (3.3\%). The preliminary phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of glycosides, alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, and quinones. The HPTLC analyses exhibited various Rf values with the diversity of multiple phytoconstituents. Conclusion: The scientific data generated by the study is beneficial for adequately identifying and establishing standards for using Sida rhombifolia subsp. retusa as a primary drug for maintaining the quality and purity of the Ksheerabala tailam, an Ayurvedic formulation.

}, keywords = {Balamulachurna, Ksheerabala tailam, Pharmacognosy, Sida rhombifolia subsp. retusa, Standardization}, doi = {10.5530/097484900224}, author = {Thota Jyostna Kumari and Goli Penchala Prasad and Goli Penchala Pratap and Mohd Kashif Husain and Padamata Sai Sudhakar} } @article {1121, title = {Pharmacological Evaluation of Different Extracts of Asparagus officinalis (Asparagaceae) as an Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-arthritic Agent in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {184-205}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {184}, abstract = {

Background: To treat the joint pain arial part of Asparagus officinalis (asparagus) has historically been used. However, its efficacy for rheumatoid arthritis has not been pharmaceutically evaluated. We explore the phytochemical analysis anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-arthritic activity of petroleum ether, ethanol and aqueous extracts of Asparagus officinalis aerial part. Materials and Methods: Tail- flick method was used to evaluate the analgesic activity anti-inflammatory activity was carried out using paw oedema induced with carrageenan and CFA induced arthritic model was used to evaluate the potential in anti- arthritic activity in rats. The Petroleum ether, ethanolic and aqueous extracts were dosed orally in three divided doses (75, 150 and 300 mg/ kg). For anti- inflammatory and analgesic activity diclofenac sodium at 10 mg/kg was used as standard, whereas in anti-arthritic model prednisolone at 5 mg/kg and methotrexate at 0.5 mg/ kg were used as standard. One-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett{\textquoteright}s multiple range test were used to analyse statistical significance between means. Results: The results revealed a dosecontrolled anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic effect with different extracts whereas at some extent analgesic activity was observed. Four compounds were present and confirmed by LCMS/MS. The CFA model{\textquoteright}s findings showed improved defence against arthritic lesions and changes in body weight. Additionally, Asparagus officinalis significantly improved rheumatoid factor, changed WBCs, and favourably altered radiographic and histological alterations. Conclusion: The findings indicate that Asparagus officinalis is a strong anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory compound that may be suggested for the treatment of both chronic and acute inflammation.

}, keywords = {Carrageenan, Chemical constituents, LCMS/MS, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Sparrow grass.}, doi = {10.5530/097484900333}, author = {Satish Kumar and Pratima Srivastava and Sumeet Gupta and Meenakshi Dhanawat and Sapna Rani and Basiru Olaitan Ajiboye and Rupesh K Gautam} } @article {1112, title = {Photoprotective Activity of Plants Used for Skin Disorders by the Native Population from the Brazilian Amazon Basin: A Preliminary Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {112-118}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {112}, abstract = {

Background: Sunscreens are essential in tropical countries with a high annual incidence of solar radiation. The incorporation of natural products in their formulations has great public acceptance and prevents several issues related to organic and inorganic filters, such as adverse reactions. The present study evaluates the antioxidant and photoprotective activities and the ability to inhibit tyrosinase of three plant species traditionally used by Amazonian inhabitants in the treatment of skin disorders. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant activity, the capacity to inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase, ratio UVA/UVB, critical wavelength, sun protection factor, and cellular viability was assessed in ethanolic extracts at 10\% of Chrysobalanus icaco, Kalanchoe pinnata, and Ayapana triplinervis collected in the State of Para-Brazil. Results: Chrysobalanus icaco and Kalanchoe pinnata showed promising antioxidant activity. Ayapana triplinervis demonstrated considerable inhibition of the tyrosinase enzyme. Plants extracts had low protection against UVB radiation, but adequate UVA protection. Ayapana triplinervis presented the lowest cellular viability of keratinocytes and murine fibroblasts. Conclusion: The addition of these extracts to other natural products with high sun protection factors can provide the consumer with a natural sunscreen.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Ayapana triplinervis, Chrysobalanus icaco, Depigmenting agent, Kalanchoe pinnata, Photoprotection, Skin disorders}, doi = {10.5530/097484900267}, author = {Thiago Portal and Margarete Tavares and Marcieni Ataide and Nadia Rezende Barbosa and Joseane R da Silva and Waldiney Pires Moraes and Jose Luiz Vieira} } @article {1192, title = {Physicochemical and in vitro Analysis of Herbal Drugs A. indica, C. longa, P. pinnata, P. corylifolia, W. fruticosa for Potential Effect in Psoriasis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {831-840}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {831}, abstract = {

Background: Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae), Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae), Psoralea corylifolia (Fabaceae), Pongamia pinnata (Fabaceae), and Woodfordia fruticosa (Lythraceae) stand as renowned medicinal plants in India. Traditionally, different parts of these plants have been employed for healing, particularly in the context of treating psoriasis and various other ailments. This catalyzed our investigation into the potential antipsoriatic properties of these botanicals. Objectives: We set out to evaluate the preliminary phytochemical analysis and in vitro antipsoriatic capabilities of acetone, ethanol, and water extracts derived from Curcuma longa, Azadirachta indica, Psoralea corylifolia, Pongamia pinnata, and Woodfordia fruticosa. Materials and Methods: The antipsoriatic potential of these extracts was assessed through the MTT assay, using HaCaT cells. Additionally, we conducted LDH assays and utilized confocal microscopy to gain further insights. Results: Our investigations unveiled the promising antiproliferative activity of these plants on skin keratinocytes. Notably, compounds A, B, and C demonstrated a significant decrease in cell viability compared to the control group. In contrast, compounds D and E did not exhibit significant differences compared to the control. Discussion and Conclusion: These findings substantiate the traditional uses of these plants in the treatment of psoriasis and underscore their potential as valuable resources in the quest for effective antipsoriatic treatments.

}, keywords = {Azadirachta indica, Curcuma longa, haCaT cells, Pongamia pinnata, Psoralea corylifolia, Woodfordia fruticosa}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.088}, author = {Arun Kumar and Saurabh Singh and Bimlesh Kumar and Sheetu Wadhwa and Dileep Singh Baghel and Narendra Kumar Panday and Sachin Kumar Singh and Shivani and Vikas Kumar Pal} } @article {1154, title = {Physico-chemical and Phytochemical Analysis of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. (Whole Plant)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {492-496}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {492}, abstract = {

Introduction: Quality, safety, and efficacy are the three main components of any therapy used for disease cure. Ayurveda encompasses vast knowledge regarding the use of numerous herbal sources for disease management. Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. (Known as Mundi) is one such drug praised in classical as well as contemporary medicinal science for its therapeutic efficacy. The present study aims at development of quality standards for the Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. (Whole plant) sample utilizing physico-chemical and phytochemical analysis. Objectives: To perform physico-chemical, phytochemical, HPTLC, FTIR and UV analysis of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn (Whole plant) sample. Materials and Methods: Physico-chemical analysis was done as per the guidelines mentioned by Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Phytochemical analysis, HPTLC, FTIR and UV analysis was done as per the globally accepted standard guidelines. Observations and Results: The observed values were then compared to the standard values to make the monograph of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. (Whole Plant).

}, keywords = {Ayurveda, Dravyaguna, Geraniol, HPTLC, Mundi, Sphaeranthus indicus.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.051}, author = {Sumedh Joshi and Megha and Bhargav Vijay Bhide and Shivani Ghildiyal and Tanuja Manoj Nesari} } @article {1113, title = {Physicochemical, Toxicity and Antioxidant Activity of Terminalia catappa Kernel Oil in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {119-127}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {119}, abstract = {

Background: Terminalia catappa Linn. is an ornamental tree belonging to the family Combretaceae. This study was aimed at evaluating the toxicity profile and antioxidant activity of the oil. Materials and Methods: Oral acute and sub-acute toxicity were studied in mice using the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guidelines. The antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH free radical. Results: Terminalia catappa seed oil demonstrated antioxidant activity by scavenging DPPH free radical with IC50 of 1.425 mg/mL while tannic acid (standard) was 5.005 mg/mL. The oral LD50 of the oil in mice was greater than 5000 mg/kg. The sub-acute toxicity study, produced no significant difference in the weight and biochemical parameters in treated animals compared to the control. Conclusion: The oil was also non-toxic to the liver, kidney, heart and lungs on histopathological examination. Our results indicated that Terminalia catappa seed oil is not toxic and contains beneficial phytochemical that demonstrated antioxidant activity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, DPPH, Phytochemical, Terminalia catappa, Toxicity.}, doi = {10.5530/097484900304}, author = {Emmanuel Mshelia Halilu and Chinenye Jane Ugwah-Oguejiofor and G{\"o}ksu Oduncuo{\u g}lu and Solomon Gamde Matthias} } @article {1106, title = {Physiochemical Characterization and in vitro Evaluation of Formulated Herbal Bioactive Loaded Transdermal Patches}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {64-70}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {64}, abstract = {

Aim: The present research aimed to formulate a transdermal patch incorporating herbal bioactive Vitex negundo extract. The polymers that were used for selected sustained release of the drug are HPMC, PVP K30 and polyethylene glycol used as a plasticizer. Materials and Methods: Transdermal patches were prepared using the drug with two (HPMC and PVP K30) different polymers. The prepared transdermal films were evaluated for their physico-chemical characteristics such as physical appearance, weight uniformity, thickness, folding endurance, moisture content, drug content, percent moisture loss and permeation studies. The skin irritation study done on rat skin showed that the formulation does not produce irritation to the skin it showed the successful release of drug from the fabricated patch. Results: The in vitro release of formulation F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 and F6 has shown release of about 89.15\%, 87.12\%, 82.34\%, 92.45\%, 86.78\% and 76.21\% at 8hr. The order of drug release was found to be F4\>F1\>F2\>F3\>F6\>F5. Conclusion: It could be concluded that it was concluded from the study, that the transdermal patch containing herbal bioactive Vitex negundo F4 batch showed the highest percent of drug release and other desirable properties can be developed.

}, keywords = {Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)., Physico-chemical properties, Stability, Transdermal, UV/Vis Spectroscopy}, doi = {10.5530/097484900244}, author = {Poojashree Verma and Neelesh Maheshwari and Deepika Bairagee} } @article {1142, title = {Phytochemical Analysis and in vitro Antioxidant Potential of Aqueous and Ethanol Extracts of Irvingia gabonensis Stem Bark}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {363-372}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {363}, abstract = {

Background: Irvingia gabonensis extracts are documented to possess antidiabetic, hypocholesterolemic, and antioxidant activities. The phytochemical components of medicinal plants are responsible for their therapeutic properties, particularly those with antioxidant properties. Objectives: The quantitative phytochemicals and in vitro antioxidant properties of the aqueous and ethanol extracts of I. gabonensis stem bark were assessed in this study. Materials and Methods: Standard techniques were used to measure the concentrations of phenols, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, steroids, and saponins in water and alcohol extracts of this plant. Total Antioxidant Power (TAP) and the extract{\textquoteright}s capacity to scavenge free radicals including superoxide, nitric oxide, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzoth iazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS+), β-carotene, and hydrogen peroxide were also evaluated. The extracts{\textquoteright} Ferric-Reducing Potential (FRAP) was also assessed. Results: The alcohol extract had significantly (P \< 0.05) higher concentrations of all the phytochemicals measured as well as near significantly (P \<0.066) higher TAP in comparison to the aqueous extracts. In general, the in vitro antioxidant capacity of the ethanol extract surpassed that of the water extract. The ethanol extract had IC50 values that were comparable to or less than the reference standards for its ability to neutralize nitric oxide, H2O2, superoxide, and DPPH radicals. Conclusion: The outcomes of the quantitative phytochemical analysis and in vitro antioxidant effects of aqueous and ethanol extracts of I. gabonensis stem bark clearly show their potential as an excellent reservoir of bioactive compounds and scavengers of deleterious oxidants; properties that could be explored therapeutically.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Free radicals, in vitro., Irvingia gabonensis, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.039}, author = {Catherine Otitolaiye and Akhere Omonkhua and Kelly Oriakhi and Edward Okello and Iyere Onoagbe and Friday Okonofua} } @article {1139, title = {Phytochemical, Antioxidant and Trace Element Analysis of Hypericum japonicum Thunb.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {338-346}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {338}, abstract = {

Background: Plants possess various bioactive compounds with many biological activities. Antioxidant plays vital roles in initiating deleterious free scavenging radical reactions. Objectives: The present study was done to determine the presence of phytochemical properties of the plant along with its antioxidant analysis of four solvent fractions (hexane, diethyl ether, ethyl acetate and methanol) from Hypericum japonicum. Furthermore, five heavy metals- Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb and Cr were analyzed. Materials and Methods: All the experiments for phytochemical and antioxidants of different solvent extracts were investigated following standard protocols. The heavy metal content was analyzed using spectroscopy method. Results: Qualitative analysis revealed that almost all the phytochemicals were present on one or other solvents. The carbohydrate and protein content was highest in hexane and ethyl acetate extract. Ethyl acetate showed highest phenol content while diethyl ether showed highest in flavonoid content. Similarly, ethyl acetate extract showed strongest antioxidant activity. Heavy metals were found in very negligible amounts. Conclusion: The present study suggests that H. japonicum might have the potential to be a good source of phytochemicals and antioxidants. Further studies are required to analyze the pharmacological properties of the plant.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Heavy metal, Hypericum japonicum, Medicinal plants, Phytochemical.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.036}, author = {Mritunjoy Kumar Roy and Ananta Swargiary} } @article {1180, title = {Phytochemical Crosstalk in Indian Gooseberry Preparation to Explain Therapeutic Potentials of Dietary Supplements}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {716-726}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {716}, abstract = {

Background: The therapeutic properties of phytochemicals found in medicinal plants, as well as in dietary plants and herbs, have had a significant impact on the development of several herbal remedies for a range of ailments. Amalaki churna, a well-known ayurvedic composition, has been traditionally used to treat a number of disorders and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer properties, among others. The presence of large number of phytochemicals in this ayurvedic formulation seems to be responsible for its diverse actions. However, little is known about the precise molecular interaction between phytochemicals and their protein targets. This study puts forward a methodical and structured approach to determine the targets for the phytochemicals recovered from the aqueous extract of Amalaki churna and to establish the phytochemical-protein cross talk occurring at the molecular level. Materials and Methods: Various phytochemicals were identified from AMCAE using spectroscopic techniques such as HPLC, NMR (1H, 13C, and 2D NMR), and UPLC-MS analysis. The phytochemical-protein cross talk was discovered utilizing network-based pharmacology, with phytochemicals serving as core nodes. Seven hub proteins were considered most important from the string network of the protein targets using variable parameters such as Degree Centrality (DCY), Closeness Centrality (CCY) and Betweenness Centrality (BCY). Molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations were carried out to ascertain the stability of the best docked phytochemical-protein complexes. The in silico findings were further validated using c-Src kinase protein as a model. Results: In this study, we have fractionated and identified 8 phytochemicals from Amalaki churna. We were able to find a total of 387 protein targets from the Drug bank and Binding DB by using structural similarity search. A network with 273 nodes and 417 edges that was acquired from Drug Bank demonstrated the substantial cross talk between phytochemicals and their protein targets. In a similar manner, phytochemical similarity search from Binding data bank resulted in a protein-phytochemical network with 143 nodes and 275 edges. Further, seven hub proteins with most interconnectedness were selected as the top most protein targets of the phytochemicals. Molecular modelling and docking experiments show that phytochemicals fit well into the target proteins{\textquoteright} active sites. Molecular dynamic studies were used to further demonstrate the durability and stability of the protein phytochemical complexes. Phytochemicals were also shown to alter cell cycle regulation, disrupt cell survival pathways, limit cell migratory capacity, and induce apoptosis. The disruption of many cellular pathways was demonstrated using c-Src kinase as a model, in which down-regulation of the tyrosine kinase by phytochemicals led in the disruption of its downstream proteins such as Akt1, cyclin D1 and vimentin. Conclusion: Network analysis, followed by molecular docking, molecular dynamics modelling, and in vitro studies, clearly underline the importance of protein-phytochemical cross-talk.

}, keywords = {Amalaki churna, Molecular dynamics, Network pharmacology, Phytochemical, Protein enrichment}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.076}, author = {Md Rafi Uz Zama Khan and Vishal Trivedi} } @article {1188, title = {Phytochemical Screening, in vitro Anti-bacterial, and Antioxidant Efficacy of Solanum virginianum L. Aerial Vegetative Parts Extracted in Four Solvents}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {796-805}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {796}, abstract = {

Background: Solanum virginianum is a key component of Ayurveda{\textquoteright}s "Dasmul Asava," used to treat inflammation, respiratory, and gastric problems. Being a repository of countless bioactive compounds, the plant is well known for its traditional medicinal value. Modern pharmacological properties like anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory have also claimed its traditional uses. Objectives: The current research was designed to perform a comparative assessment of in vitro anti-bacterial, and antioxidant potential as well as the phytoconstituents make up of plant extracts prepared in four solvents. Materials and Methods: Freshly prepared plant extracts were subjected to standard qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening protocols to identify significant phytocompounds. Different functional groups and chemical entities in plant extracts, were identified using FTIR spectroscopy. Anti-bacterial potential was assessed using disc diffusion and micro broth dilution assay. DPPH decolorization assay was adopted to determine free radical scavenging potential of plant extracts. Results: Methanolic plant extract exhibited highest number of total phenols and flavonoids. Plant extracts were also found to be effective against some ampicillin-resistant bacterial strains. Methanolic extract showed highest DPPH scavenging ability comparable to ascorbic acid. Conclusion: Although all plant extracts were endowed with good antioxidant and anti-bacterial activity but methanolic extract was found to be more potent free radical scavenger and anti-bacterial agent as it possessed appreciable levels of phenols and flavonoids. The current research could facilitate researchers to identify and isolate new bioactive compounds of medicinal importance and their predicted mode of action against various biological activities.

}, keywords = {Anti-bacterial, Antioxidant, FTIR, Phytochemical, Solanum virginianum}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.084}, author = {Preety Rohilla and Ashmita Chhikara and Pushpa Dahiya} } @article {1183, title = {Phyto-mediated Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles with Afrohybanthus travancoricus Leaf Aqueous Extract and Screening of their in vitro Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Anti-diabetic Activities}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {751-760}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {751}, abstract = {

Aim: There are many uses for silver nanoparticles in the field of biomedicine due to their exceptional properties. A major application of silver nanoparticles is the increase of antibiotics that are clinically helpful against microbes and drug-resistant bacteria. However, environmentally friendly methods for their synthesis must be developed. Objectives: Current study, the major objective of this research is concentrated on to suggest an easy and well-organized biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles by confirmed antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic activities. The ATSNPs (Afrohybanthus travancoricus silver nanoparticles) was biosynthesized with A. travancoricus plant like capping and reducing agent. Materials and Methods: The ATSNPs aqueous extract were mixed by water extract of 1mM AgNO3 solution led to appearance of greenish brown to dark brown colour indicates the synthesis of SNPs. The silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, FT-IR, SEM, XRD, and EDX analysis. Antioxidant assay was tested through DPPH and ABTS+ assays, anti-inflammatory assay through albumin denaturation and antidiabetic assay by α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities. Results: A colour change of solution from dark brown to light brown, absorption peak of ATSNPs as 290 to 300 nm in UV-vis spectroscopy. ATSNPs showed 6 intense peaks in FTIR analysis and functional groups like phenols, alcohols, 1{\textdegree} amines, alkynes, aliphatic amines, aromatics, and alkyl halides were identified. In XRD analysis showed 5 intense peaks at 20.8{\textdegree}, 30.3{\textdegree}, 40.1{\textdegree}, 40.9{\textdegree}, 60{\textdegree}. The EDX analysis the presence of Ag at 3 kev and SEM analysis showed the size of ATSNPs ranges between 88 μm {\textendash} 242 μm. Antioxidant activity was observed the dose dependent manner in both assays. Anti-inflammatory activity of ATSNPs proved maximum inhibition through egg albumin denaturation. Antidiabetic activity exhibits maximum inhibition percentage of α-amylase and α- glucosidase at 10 μg/mL. The lowest IC50 value was noted in α amylase (170 μg/mL) and α glucosidase (134 μg/mL). Conclusion: The obtained results recommended that using ATSNPs, it is likely to represented silver nanoparticles with controlled characteristics and important pharmacological activities.

}, keywords = {Afrohybanthus travancoricus, Anti-diabetic activity, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Green synthesis, Silver nanoparticles}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.079}, author = {Balrajmani Davidson Raja and Devaraj Sathiya Sheela and Elumalai Shanthi Priya and Ammasaikutty Vanitha and Kandasamy Kalimuthu and Periannan Viswanathan} } @article {1104, title = {Phytotherapeutic Potential of Natural Herbal Medicines for Management of Psoriasis: Current Status}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {42-55}, type = {Review Report}, chapter = {42}, abstract = {

Psoriasis is a complex multifunctional inflammatory autoimmune skin disease, which is mainly characterized by activation of T-cell (T-lymphocyte), abnormal proliferation keratinocyte, local vascular changes and activation of the neutrophil. A number of therapies are being used to treat psoriasis including topical, systemic and phototherapy recpectively but none of them is able to cure the disease completely, precluding the long-term serious side effects for the human body. In contrast to these, herbal therapies can play an important role for treatment of psoriasis. With this endeavor, this review reports the recent developments and patent showing potential of herbal therapy for treatment of psoriasis along with future prospect in the field of traditional and novel drug delivery system (NDDS) for treatment of psoriasis.

}, keywords = {Herbal drug, Hyperproliferation, Keratinocyte, Novel drug delivery systems, Psoriasis}, doi = {10.5530/097484900261}, author = {Nupur Maheshwari and Neelesh Maheshwari and Dinesh Kumar Mishra and Anju Goyal} } @article {1176, title = {Piper pedicellatum C. DC. Leaf Methanol Extract Inhibits Edema and Granuloma and Modulates Mediators and Cytokines in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {679-686}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {679}, abstract = {

Background: Piper pedicellatum is an ethnomedicinal plant used in various inflammatory conditions by many ethnic groups and exploration of its therapeutic potentials is imperative. Objective: This study was carried out to assess anti-inflammatory potential of the methanol extract of the plant leaves using in vivo experiments to validate the traditional uses. Materials and Methods: Carrageenan-induced paw edema and Cotton pellet-induced granuloma models were used to investigate into the anti-inflammatory potential of the plant extract in rats at 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg dose. Indomethacin (10 mg/kg) is used as reference standard. Serum levels of inflammatory markers and cytokines, hematological and serum hepatic enzyme indices were analyzed in granuloma-induced model. Results: The methanol extract suppressed Carrageenan-induced paw edema significantly at different time intervals. The highest percentage inhibition was observed at 3rd hr after Carrageenan injection, which was 42.67\% and 49.33\% for 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg dose of the extract respectively. In granuloma-induced model, the methanol extract at 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg dose inhibited exudate formation by 28.58\% and 41.27\%, respectively and inhibition of granuloma tissue was 32.45\% and 43.71\%, respectively along with significant decrement in serum C-reactive protein, Prostaglandin E2, Tumor necrosis factor-α, Interleukin-6 while increases in Interleukin-10 levels. Also, the results showed hematological and serum hepatic enzyme levels were rectified to near normal levels in treated rats. Conclusion: The outcome of the investigation reveals the potential of extract as possible anti-inflammatory agent, which can be develop into therapeutic agent or supplement and also necessitates further pharmacological studies on the plant.

}, keywords = {Cytokines, Edema, Granuloma, Interleukins, Piper pedicellatum C. DC}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.072}, author = {Dev Jyoti Kalita and Kangkan Deka and Ngurzampuii Sailo and Sanjoy Das and Bibhuti Bhusan Kakoti} } @article {1170, title = {Plant-Derived Selected Bioactive Saponins and Tannins: An Overview of their Multi-Target Mechanisms and Diverse Biological Activities}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {623-635}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {623}, abstract = {

An extensive variety of ailments have been treated using medicinal herbs for ages. Recent research has revealed that many of these plants possess multiple therapeutic activities, rendering them interesting candidates for the creation of novel medicines. This review examines the current state of knowledge regarding the multi targeted activities of medicinal plants, including their potential for treating multiple diseases like anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-hyperglycaemic and anti-cancer activities, their ability to modulate multiple pathways, enzymes, genes and proteins. Finally, the review highlights the potential of naturally derived substances from plant material, for the development of multitargeted drugs and suggests strategies for further research. The multi-target activities will be thoroughly explored in this review of ginsenosides, platycodon D, dioscin, soyasaponins and aescin were chosen as saponins, whereas methyl gallate, chebulinic acid, tannic acid, theaflavin and punicalagins were chosen as tannins. This overview gives a brief history of the isolated natural compounds, their structures, multi-target activity, and their suggested mechanisms of action.

}, keywords = {Bioactive compounds, Biological activities, Medicinal plants, Multi targets, saponins, Tannins}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.066}, author = {Dudday Venkata Vyshnavi and Sunkara Sivananda Swaroop and Akkiraju Sudheer and Somasekhar Reddy Kanala and Ramavath Muralidhar Naik and Onamala Varalakshmi} } @article {1163, title = {Possible Inhibition of Renal Protein Glycation by Carnosine and Tocopherol in Diabetic Rat}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {562-565}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {562}, abstract = {

Background: Carnosine is a biological active dipeptide in different tissue exert physiological role as buffer in muscle and cell cycle division. Tocopherol (vitamin E) is the potent antioxidant natural product. This study investigated the role of carnosine supplementation with vitamin E in protection against nephropathy in diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: This study was carried out on 75 rats grouped into five groups; control and the other rats groups (II-V) were received a single dose of streptozocine i.p, at dose of (65 mg/kg/b.w) for diabetogenesis. GPI were considered as diabetic untreated. Rats in groups 3-6 were treated i.p daily with carnosine (1mg/kg b.w), vitamin E (50,00 IU/kg b.w) or combined (10 mg/kg b.w) respectively for 12 weeks. Fasting serum was subjected for assay of glucose, HbA1c, AGEs, MDA, SOD, total antioxidant activity and inflammatory markers (TNF-α and IL-6). Results: Data obtained showed that, diabetic rats treated with carnosine and Vitamin E showed improvement in glucose, glycated hemoglobin, antioxidant enzymes, decreased inflammatory mediators and AGEs (p \<0.001) versus untreated diabetic. In addition, combined treatment is better than individual treatment (p \<0.05). Conclusion: Promising positive results were spot a new strategy of carnosine and Vitamin E rich food supplements for protection against diabetic complications. It can be used as complementary and alternative therapy for nephropathy, neuropathy and cardiomyopathy.

}, keywords = {AGEs, Carnosine, Diabetic nephropathy, Inflammation, Rat., Vitamin E}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.059}, author = {Etimad Huwait and Maryam A. Al-Ghamdi and Faisal S. Al-Shehri and Said S. Moselhy} } @article {1134, title = {Possible Involvement of Cellular Pathway and Cytokines in Manganese Induced Neurotoxicity in Neuroblastoma Cells via KH{\textendash}Type Splicing Regulatory Protein}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {307-314}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {307}, abstract = {

Background: Manganese is a toxic essential trace element and too high concentration instigates the neurodegenerative disease known as parkinsonism. Effects of manganese may lead to apoptosis. However, a detailed mechanism of manganese toxicity has not been fully elucidated. Previous published articles have highlighted the augmentation of KHSRP expression following Mn exposure. Objectives: In this work, the importance of KHSRP in Mn{\textendash}induced toxicity was checked along with the impact of other known neurotoxicity inhibitors on KHSRP. Materials and Methods: KHSRP expression, pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and pharmacological inhibitors (SAHA, Quercetin, and MCC950) were determined by exposing N2a cells to various MnCl2 concentrations. ANOVA and Dunnett{\textquoteright}s test were used to decide on the significance. Results: MnCl2 treatment led to the augmentation of the KHSPR mRNA expression and protein increase in N2a cell line. The MnCl2 treatment of N2a cells also showed an elevated liberation of IL-6, TNF-α, MCP{\textendash}1, and IL-1β. Pharmacological agents like quercetin inhibiting PI3K, MAPK, and WNT pathways, MCC950 blocking NLRP3 pathways, and SAHA showed a decrease in KHSRP expression post Mn treatment. With the inhibition of KHSRP, a decline in the release of IL-1β, IL-6, MCP{\textendash}1, and TNF-α was also observed. Conclusion: These results suggested that MnCl2 treatment of N2a cells induce the expression of KHSRP via the PI3K{\textendash}or NLRP3 pathway. Furthermore, this elevated expression of KHSRP is responsible for an increment in the liberation of pro-inflammatory markers in N2a cells. More exploration is needed to throw light on the pathway driving the KHSRP.

}, keywords = {KH{\textendash}type Splicing Regulatory Protein, Manganese Neurotoxicity, Neuroblastoma, Neurodegeneration, Neuroinflammation.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.033}, author = {Sharad Singh and Sunil More and G. S. Latha and Himanshu Agrawal and Veena S M and Francois Niyonzima} } @article {1197, title = {The Potential of Bitter Melon Residues Concerning its Physico-chemical Characterization, Bioactive Compounds, and Antioxidant Effects}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {26-33}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {26}, abstract = {

Background: Bioactive compounds from vegetables have played a substantial role as therapeutic agents in drug discovery since it contains nutraceutical and nutraceutical properties. Cucurbitaceae family encompasses several edible plants that contain valuable natural compounds. Objectives: To evaluate the physicochemical and mineral composition on Momordica charantia fruit residues. Materials and Methods: The physiochemical composition and mineral composition were characterized by FTIR and optical emission spectrophotometer, respectively. The phenolics, flavonoids and total antioxidant activity were employed by spectrophotometrically. The green ultrasound assisted extraction was used for aqueous and 12\% ethanolic extraction for evaluation of phenolic compounds by UPLC/MS. Results: The results revealed the minerals such as K, P, Ca, Na, Mg, Fe, Zn, Sr, Cu and Mn found in bitter melon. High contents of total phenolics content (683.820 to 1753.345 galic acid: quercetin (2:1)/100 g of sample) and total flavonoids (106.206 to 311.423 mg of quercetin/100 g of sample) were observed in peel aqueous extract. The aqueous extract of peel exhibited maximum inhibitory potential against DPPH radical (93\% of inhibition) than ethanolic extract. This aqueous extract of peel also contains naringenin, catechin, epicatechin, p-coumaric, ferulic and chlorogenic acids which were reveled from UPLC/MS analysis. Conclusion: This study suggests that M. charantia residues are good sources of functional proteins, lipids, fibers and minerals, resulting in greater nutritional value. In addition, M. charantia is of great interest in its promising benefits for human health, due to its antioxidant capacity and bioactive compounds.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Green extraction, Minerals, Momordica charantia, Phenolic compounds, UPLC/MS.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.4}, author = {Julianna Karla Santana Andrade and Romy Gleyse Chagas Barros and Juliete Pedreira Nogueira and Christean Santos de Oliveira and George Ricardo Santana Andrade and Silv{\^a}nio Silv{\'e}rio Lopes da Costa and Narendra Narain and Murugan Rajan} } @article {1149, title = {A Powerful Molecule of Ayurveda Science}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {455-461}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {455}, abstract = {

Shilajit is naturally found substance, also termed as shilajatu, salajit, mummiyo, or mimie. It is blackish powder obtained from high mountain rocks, especially in the Himalayans mountains. It has been used by Ayurvedic medicines to cure several disorders and to improve the quality of life. To support its rasayana property, an effort has been made to review shilajit with respect to its origin, variations, physical properties, purification, medicinal properties, and significant biological properties. Shilajit has been demonstrated to offer different health advantages based on the area from where it was harvested. Antioxidant activity and immuno-modulatory activity were highlighted among the many biological characteristics of shilajit since they are strongly related to its rasayana potential. The present review finds the various types and qualities of biomarkers in shilajit which ensure the quality, safety and effectiveness of shilajit.

}, keywords = {Ayurvedic medicine, Bioactives, Shilajit, Traditional medicine.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.046}, author = {Rubiya Saher Quazi and Venkat Chougule and Mahesh Uttamrao Shinde and Aamer Iqbal Quazi and Shivshankar Malkarjun Gunjegaokar and Amol Arun Joshi} } @article {1128, title = {Preparation of Camellia sinensis (Green Tea) and Acacia nilotica (Babul) Herbal Formulation and its Anti-Inflammatory Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {255-257}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {255}, abstract = {

Introduction: Acacia nilotica is otherwise called Babul is multipurpose nitrogen fixing tree legume. Its roots are beneficial in treating tumors, cancer, and tuberculosis. One of the most consumed beverages in the world, green tea (Camellia sinensis) has been researched for its potential health benefits in treating conditions like cancer, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and neurological illnesses. The aim of this present study is to assess the combined effects of green tea and babul herbal formulation as an anti-inflammatory agent. Materials and Methods: Green tea and Babul extract was prepared. Albumin denaturation assay and egg albumin denaturation assay were used to assess the anti-inflammatory activity. Results: Both assays showed that Green tea and babul extract was effective in inhibiting the albumin denaturation at different concentrations. Conclusion: We conclude that green tea and babul herbal formulation can be a potent anti-inflammatory agent.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory activity., Babul, Green tea, Herbal extract}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.027}, author = {Amirtha Varshini and Anju Cecil and S. Rajesh Kumar} } @article {1116, title = {QbD Based Extraction of Naringin from Citrus sinensis L. Peel and its Antioxidant Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {145-154}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {145}, abstract = {

Background: Naringin, a bioflavanoid possessing multifaceted pharmacological properties present in Citrus sinensis peel. Our research demonstrates the process parameter at which high yield of naringin can be extracted from Citrus sinensis peel in "one run." Objectives: The study compares the efficacy of different modern and conventional methods for naringin extraction. Box-Behnken Design (BBD), was availed for optimization of process parameters for the extraction of naringin from Citrus sinensis peels. Materials and Methods: Extraction conditions (extraction time, solvent-to-drug ratio and extraction temperature) were optimized by Quality by Design (QbD), specifically BBD. Quantification analysis of naringin in different extracts was done using HPLC. Further, the antioxidant potential of different extracts of C. sinensis were assessed with the DPPH method. Results: Ultrasound-assisted extraction method gives the highest yield of naringin and ethanol found to be the most effective extractive solvent. Through the use of BBD, the optimal conditions for naringin extraction were established as extraction temperature- 65.508{\textdegree}C, solvent-to-drug ratio- 25.880 mL/g and extraction time- 29.978 min. Under such conditions, naringin was yielded as 2.021 mg/g, which was nearly contiguous to the predicted value of 2.20 mg/g. The ethanolic extract has unveiled significant antioxidant activity with a percentage inhibition of 71.54\%. Conclusion: The Ultrasound-assisted extraction method stood out to be the best amongst all the other thermal and non-thermal modes of extraction used, and ethanol was proved to be the most efficient extracting solvent. Furthermore, naringin extraction was significantly affected by all three different variables. The present work highlights the use of QbD, a multivariate statistical technique in the extraction field of therapeutically potent phytoconstituents, which makes the optimization method less laborious and time-saving than the traditional optimization method.

}, keywords = {Citrus sinensis, Extraction, Naringin, Optimization, Response surface methodology}, doi = {10.5530/097484900241}, author = {Isha Gupta and Syeda Nashvia Adin and Mohd Aqil and Mohd Mujeeb} } @article {1205, title = {Quality Control and Acute Toxicity Study of Habb-i-Hayat (Unani Formulation) in Albino Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {98-109}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {98}, abstract = {

Background: Several reports acknowledge that herbal products produce toxicities due to their poor quality. Hence, the worldwide promotion of traditional medicines is not at par due to a lack of quality control and safety aspects. Habb-i-Hayat, a Unani formulation, is used for the treatment of various bodily ailments. Aim: The present study was aimed at evaluating the quality control and acute toxicity of Habb-i-Hayat. Materials and Methods: The standardization and quality control study of Habb-i-Hayat, including organoleptic characters, physicochemical properties, qualitative phytochemical evaluation, microbial load, aflatoxins and heavy metals analysis, and HPTLC, were carried out. The acute toxicity study of the same was carried out at three dose levels following OECD guidelines 423. Results: The quality control findings of Habb-i-Hayat, including by weight variation, hardness, friability, moisture content, ash values, swelling index, etc., were found within the normal limits. The TBC and TFC were found within the permissible limits. The heavy metal analysis report showed that the heavy metals, including lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury, were present within the permissible limits. The number of peaks, Rf values, and area under the curve found in the HPTLC study may be used for identification and quality of Habb-i- Hayat. The toxicity data of Habb-i-Hayat revealed that it produces some serious toxic control effects including death at higher doses. The LD50 of Habb-i-Hayat was found to be 2500 mg/kg b. w. for rats. Conclusion: The standardization and quality control reports of Habb-i-Hayat have suggested that the preparation, drying, and storage of Habb-i-Hayat followed standard operating procedures. Moreover, the findings of standardization and quality control of Habb-i-Hayat may be referred in future. The acute toxicity profile of Habb-i-Hayat has confirmed that this important Unani formulation may be safely used at therapeutic dose levels.

}, keywords = {Acute toxicity, Habb-i-Hayat, Quality control, Standardization, Unani formulation}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.12}, author = {Ifra Qayoom and Athar Parvez Ansari and Ansari Huzaifa and Mohd Musaib Bhat and Bazilah Majeed Reshi and Pankaj Goswami and Noman Anwar} } @article {1108, title = {Relative Influence of Ageratum conyzoides L. Plant Extracts on Testosterone Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {75-83}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {75}, abstract = {

Purpose: The present study was designed to investigate the inhibitory efficacy of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Ageratum conyzoide L. (AC, Family asteraceae) on testosterone induced BPH in male mice. Materials and Methods: Mice were randomly divided into five groups (n=6): negative control group received corn oil, BPH model group receive testosterone (5mg/kg/day, S.C) dissolved in corn oil. Another group received standard BPH drug finasteride (5 mg/Kg/day, I.P) along with testosterone injection (5mg/kg/day, S.C). The other two group of animals received either aqueous or ethanolic AC plant extracts (100, 500. 1000 and 2000 mg/kg, I.P) along with testosterone (5mg/kg/day, S.C) consecutively for 28 days. All animals were sacrificed at the end of the study period and prostate weight and prostatic index were determined, followed by histolopathological examination of the prostate gland. Results: The result of the present study indicated that treatment with either plant extracts caused significant reduction in prostate weight and prostatic index when compared to only testosterone treated animal group. The percentage of inhibition of prostate growth was found to be correlated in a dose dependent manner in plant extract treated groups. Histopathological examination of prostate gland revealed AC plant extracts treatment significantly reduced the glandular hyperplasia, epithelial thickness and stromal hyperplasia in the prostate gland of the treated animals. No significant elevation in serum ALT and creatinine level was recorded in any groups during the study period. Conclusion: This study hence indicate the therapeutic potential in Ageratum conyzoides L. plant extract in testosterone induced BPH model in mice.

}, keywords = {Ageratum conyzoides, Benign prostatic hyperplasia, Inhibition, Plant extracts, Prostate, Testosterone}, doi = {10.5530/097484900266}, author = {Tongchen Jomba and Manuj Kumar Bharali} } @article {1136, title = {Revealing Anti-Microbial Potential of Traditional Siddha Formulation Pancha Karpa Chooranam against Infectious Pathogens}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {399-404}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {399}, abstract = {

Background: Infectious diseases are considered to be the most significant threat to human health due to the fact that they are responsible for one-half of all deaths in tropical countries. The majority of the currently available antibiotics have significant drawbacks in terms of antimicrobial spectrum and side effects. Over usage of such antibiotics has contributed to the development of clinical resistance in formerly sensitive microorganisms. Siddha system of medicine offers interesting possibilities to combat drug{\textendash}resistant pathogens. Medicinal herbs constitute an essential component of Siddha preparations are known for its diverse range of biological activity. One such potential formulation that exists in the Siddha system is Pancha Karpa Chooranam (PKC) which comprises a unique blend of five (pancha) potential herbal ingredients. Materials and Methods: The main objective of the present investigation is to evaluate the anti-microbial efficacy of the formulation PKC using the disc diffusion method. Results: Results of the study clearly emphasise that the drug PKC exhibits significant antimicrobial activity against all the tested organisms. Potency was measured in terms of zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli (15{\textendash}23 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (13{\textendash}19 mm), B. subtilis (12{\textendash}19 mm), Salmonella typhi (16{\textendash} 23 mm), and Candida albicans (17{\textendash}21 mm). It was concluded from the results of the present investigation that the Siddha formulation PKC reveals broad spectral anti-bacterial activity against both gramme-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, B. subtilis) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi) pathogens. Conclusion: Further, it was evident that the formulation advocates potential anti-fungal activity against Candida albicans represented by the maximal zone of inhibition which attributes to the existence of structurally diverse phytochemicals present in the preparation. Hence traditional formulations like PKC shall be recommended for clinical management of drug{\textendash}resistant pathogens in near future.

}, keywords = {Anti-bacterial, Anti-fungal., Infectious diseases, Medicinal herbs, Pancha Karpa Chooranam, Phytochemicals, Siddha formulation}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.043}, author = {Sattanathan Iyswarya and Sampath Meena and Shanmugasundaram Visweswaran and Narayanan Jagathambal Muthukumar} } @article {1123, title = {Role of Polyphenols and Flavonoids as Anti-Cancer Drug Candidates: A Review}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {206-216}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {206}, abstract = {

Natural drug-based chemotherapeutic have advanced at an unprecedented rate over the past decade. Owing to protective roles in vegetation, and exceptional antioxidant qualities, polyphenols and flavonoids have demonstrated promising clinical implications in malignancies amongst other plant metabolites. It is widely debated how dietary flavonoids and polyphenols can prevent cancer. Flavonoids are believed to execute a significant role in cancer prevention and treatment, as corroborated from experimental studies, epidemiological research, and human clinical trials. Carcinogen deactivation, antimutagenic, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and differentiation, suppression of vasculature, oxidative stress, and reversion of multidrug resistance are among the many mechanisms of action that have been discovered. The present review outlines the classification of various polyphenols and flavonoids and their potential as anticancer therapeutic agents.

}, keywords = {Cancer, Flavonoids, Polyphenols, Reactive oxygen species., Secondary metabolites}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.022}, author = {Medha Mohan Hegde and K Lakshman} } @article {1132, title = {Rubia cordifolia L. Crude Aerial Part Extracts Show a High Potential as Antimalarials against Chloroquine Resistant Plasmodium falciparum Strains in vitro}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {288-296}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {288}, abstract = {

Introduction: Plasmodium falciparum human malaria parasite is resistant to most available medicines in Africa, necessitating research for new drugs. Rubia cordifolia L. is used in traditional malaria treatment in Kenya despite no supporting scientific data. Objectives: To evaluate anti-plasmodial efficacy of extracts from the aerial part of Rubia cordifolia against chloroquine sensitive (3D7) and resistant (W2) Plasmodium falciparum strains. Methods: Hexane, methanol and water were separately used in crude extractions from open shade dried aerial plant parts. Phytochemical composition was determined qualitatively. Anti-plasmodial efficacy of serial dilutions (range; 0.4 to 50 μg/ml) of each extract were evaluated in vitro and compared using ANOVA and Tukey{\textquoteright}s HSD test, at p\<0.05). Results: All the extracts significantly inhibited parasites growth, in a dose dependent manner. At 50 μg/ml, inhibition was (84.07\%, 77.94\% and 66.08\%) for hexane, methanol and water extracts respectively against W2 and (80.06\%, 78.36\% and 60.92\%) against 3D7 strain. Hexane extract showed IC50 0.551 μg/ml and 2.747 micrograms/ml against W2 and 3D7 respectively. Methanol extract, IC50 1.231 and 3.528 μ g/ml respectively, aqueous extract showed moderate activity, IC50 5.348 μg/ml and 17.341 μg/ml against the strains respectively. Chloroquine resistant (W2 strain) was more responsive to the extracts than 3D7 strain. Conclusion: Anti-plasmodial activities were in the order, Hexane\>methanol\>aqueous and were attributed to the phytochemicals present in the extracts. This presents evidence of R. cordifolia as anti-malarial drugs{\textquoteright} source. Further work is required to identify, purify, and characterize active molecules for development of anti-malaria drugs.

}, keywords = {Antimalarial activity, Crude extracts, in vitro, Plasmodium falciparum, Rubia cordifolia.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.031}, author = {Magara Jeremiah and Lucy Kamau and Grace Nyambati and Hastings Ozwara} } @article {1138, title = {Screening and Evaluation of Potential Antifungal Plant Extracts against Skin Infecting Fungus Trichophyton rubrum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {328-337}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {328}, abstract = {

Dermatophytosis is mainly caused by Trichophyton rubrum. The use of presently available conventional antifungal agents is limited due to various side-effects, requirement of long-term application, emergence of resistant organisms and cost-effectiveness. In the present study, methanolic extract of 12 medicinal plants was screened for antifungal activity against T. rubrum. To identify the phytochemicals in the extract qualitative and quantitative analysis was performed along with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). By analysing the samples using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), the chemicals that were present were identified. Among the various plants studied, the methanolic extracts of Aegle marmelos leaves (AML-ME) and Pimpinella anisum seed (PMS-ME) showed high zone of inhibition of 16 and 22 mm, respectively. MIC of both the extracts was found to be 100 μg/ml. Some major compounds identified in AML-ME with alkaloids are N, N,-dimethyl-o-(1-methyl-butyl)-hydroxylamine, 13-tetradece-11-yn-1-ol (15.21\%), n-hexadecanoic acid, Propanal, 2,3-dihydroxy-, (s)-(5.22\%) and 1,3-butanediol, and in PAS-ME, hexamethylene chloroiodide, cyclopentene,3-hexyl, E-2-octadecadecen-1-ol, n-hexadecanoic acid and 2-cyclopentene-1-undecanoic acid, ethyl ester. Both AML-ME and PAS-ME showed dose-dependent in vitro antioxidant activity against the radicals such as DPPH and ABTS. Also, FRAP activity was found in both the extracts. Altogether, the presence of antifungal and antioxidant activity in the AML-ME and PAS-ME might be advantageous in exploring these extracts as either alternative or complementary therapy to the available antifungal agents further. The phytochemicals present in these extracts has acted synergistically against the T. rubrum and affected its viability.

}, keywords = {Aegle marmelos, Antifungal activity, Bioactive compounds, Dermatophytosis., Pimpinella anisum}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.035}, author = {Margret Kanimozhi A and Caroline Rose J} } @article {1145, title = {Separation of Methanolic Leaf Extracts of Three Rutaceous Plants by Capillary Electrophoresis and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Methods}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {392-398}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {392}, abstract = {

Introduction: In the phytochemical analysis of various multi component mixtures, Capillary electrophoresis (CE) method was considered as the best alternative tool due to high efficiency resolution separations, low solvent consumption and less maintenance costs. Materials and Methods: This study uses CE and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods to evaluate the major components of methanolic leaf extract of Rutaceous plants. And also, to assess the purity of the components in isolated fractions and most importantly for the qualitative identification of the individual components of extracts based upon the relative retention time and UV profile. Results: The separation of the compounds in HPLC was attained by using ACE-5-C18 (250 x 4.6 mm) with a flow rate of 1.5 ml/min, with the UV detection at 254 nm and CE was equipped with a UV diode-array detector and bare, fused silica capillaries (56 cm 50 μm) with micro extended light path were used for the separations. Conclusion: Our study reveals that CE technique is a simple, economical and convenient method and shown high-resolution for multi-components found in plant extracts compared with HPLC profiles.

}, keywords = {Capillary Electrophoresis, HPLC, Relative Retention Time, Rutaceae.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.042}, author = {Chakravarthi Guntupalli and Narender Malothu and Ankarao Areti and Buchi N Nalluri and Praveen Sivadasu and Narayanarao Alla} } @article {1169, title = {A Short Consized Note of Current Trends and Future Prospects on Herbal Medicine}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {615-622}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {615}, abstract = {

Now a days the usage of allopathic medicine is in large-scale, however the phenomenal development in advanced science and technology came up with new therapies for various disease remedies furthermore the practice is happening and even then, we couldn{\textquoteright}t improve or to provide better healthcare system. Among the available traditional system of medicine, herbal medicine is considered as one of the rapidly growing healthcare systems around the globe particularly in rural and remote areas. Majorly available Indian traditional systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy had a long-lasted history for their effectiveness in the treatment of various diseases. Herbal medicines often provide guidelines in large for the formulation of herbal product in the treatment and control of ailments. As a result, there may be a chance to increase in analysis about the safety, standardization, efficacy, quality, adverse drug reactions, drug interactions, stability testing and preservation of herbal products. The current review focused on the importance of traditional herbal medicine in treating various diseases.

}, keywords = {Disease, Health care, Herbal, Nature, Traditional}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.065}, author = {Heera Battu and Nimmathota Madhavi} } @article {1115, title = {Simultaneous Quantitative Determination of Six Triterpenoid Saponins in Ardisia japonica Collected from Different Regions of China through LC-ESI-MS}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {138-144}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {138}, abstract = {

Background: The whole plants of Ardisia japonica (Myrsinaceae) are used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of phlegm, cough, jaundice, edema, and bruise, and triterpenoid saponins are the main bioactive components. However, triterpenoid saponins from this plant have not yet been simultaneously quantitatively determined and reported. Objectives: The present study aimed to establish a fast, simple, and reliable LC-ESI-MS analysis method for simultaneous quantization of the major triterpenoid saponins in A. japonica for the first time. Materials and Methods: Six major triterpenoid saponins from the plant species of Ardisia were selected as the reference compounds. Five batches of A. japonica were gathered from five distinct regions of P. R. China. Quantitative analysis was developed and validated by LC-ESI-MS in SIM mode. The separation conditions were optimized on a RP C18 Column with ACN and 0.1\% FA (v/v) at a flow rate of 0.2 ml/min and column temperature of 35{\textdegree}C. Results: The validation investigation found that the analysis method was accurate, recoverable, and sensitive for quantification of the six triterpenoid saponins. All of the calibration curves revealed acceptable linear regression (R2\>0.9975). The contents of six triterpenoid saponins in A. japonica from five regions varied considerably. Conclusion: The present study established a highly efficient analytical technique to quantify the triterpenoid saponins in A. japonica, and it could be further applied in the quality control of A. japonica.

}, keywords = {Ardisia japonica, LC-MS, Quantitative analysis, Triterpenoid saponin}, doi = {10.5530/097484900260}, author = {Ling Ma and Mi Zhang and Kouharu Otsuki and Yan Lei and Takashi Kikuchi and Yinghua Wang and Wei Li} } @article {1156, title = {Subacute Oral Toxicity Evaluation of Freeze-Dried Fruits of Lipote (Syzygium polycephaloides (C.B. Rob.) Merr.) in ICR Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {504-513}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {504}, abstract = {

Background: Lipote (Syzygium polycephaloides (C.B. Rob.) Merr.) is an indigenous fruit in the Philippines with potential functions against obesity and non-communicable diseases, but limited literature was available on its safety. Objectives: This study investigated the subacute toxicity effects of freeze-dried fruits of lipote (Syzygium polycephaloides (C.B. Rob.) Merr.) on ICR mice. Materials and Methods: Ten male and ten female 6-week-old ICR mice were divided into two groups: (1) control (vehicle), and (2) lipote group, given with 2000 mg/kg body weight (BW) dose of freeze-dried lipote fruit powder reconstituted in distilled water. Results: After 28 days of oral gavage, the lipote group showed no significant changes on feed and water intake, and hematology and blood chemistry parameters were comparable with those of control group and published normal values. Body weights of all experimental animals also increased significantly (p\<0.05), and no mortality, morbidity, or gross and microscopic morphological abnormalities of internal organs were noted. Conclusion: These results showed that 28-day oral consumption of freeze-dried lipote fruits is safe and has LD50 \>2000 mg/kg.

}, keywords = {Indigenous berries, Lipote, Subacute, Syzygium.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.053}, author = {Ann C. Cayetano and Liezl M. Atienza and Maria Amelita C. Estacio and Katherine Ann T. Castillo-Israel and Mark Joseph Desamero and Roxanne P. Gapasin and Jonna C. Maniwang and Rohani C. Navarro and Dianne Jane A. Sunico and James Ryan D. Aranzado and Loraine C. Bainto-Ancheta and Joan I. Delomen and Jonina Marie J. Tengco} } @article {1152, title = {Therapeutic Potential of Alstonia scholaris Latex in the Management of Inflammatory Diseases: An in vitro Approach}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {June 2023}, pages = {478-483}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {478}, abstract = {

Background: The different parts of Alstonia scholaris (AS) viz. leaf, bark root, and latex are used traditionally to treat pain, swelling, stiffness, immune deficiency, malaria, ulcer, and arthritis. The traditional healers in Dhemaji district of Assam prescribe raw AS latex for topical treatment of inflammatory diseases. The unique feature of this study is that the AS latex has been evaluated scientifically for the first time for its anti-inflammatory properties. Objectives: The present investigation evaluates the anti-inflammatory potential of the AS latex in arthritis using in vitro assays. Materials and Methods: Anti-arthritic potential of AS latex was evaluated using in vitro assays of bovine serum albumin (BSA) denaturation, egg albumin denaturation, and human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization. Results: It was observed that the standard diclofenac sodium and the AS latex showed good anti-arthritic potential. In BSA denaturation method, the latex, and diclofenac sodium showed 71.59\% and 85.23\% inhibition of proteinase enzyme at 250 μg/mL, respectively. In the egg albumin denaturation method, the latex, and standard showed the maximum percentage of inhibition of protein denaturation of 70.42\% and 81.32\%, respectively, at 250 μg/mL. In the HRBC membrane stabilization model, the latex produced considerable anti-arthritic potential in a concentration{\textendash}dependent manner. At 250 μg/ mL in hypotonic solution, latex, and diclofenac sodium showed 68.77\% and 72.12\% membrane stabilization, respectively. Conclusion: The present investigation proved the antiarthritic activity of AS latex. It may also be used in the management of other inflammatory diseases.

}, keywords = {Alstonia scholaris, Anti-arthritic, Anti-inflammatory, in vitro., Latex}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.3.049}, author = {Bapan Banik and Malay Kumar Das} } @article {1141, title = {Total Polyphenolic Content, Antioxidant Activity and Chromatographic Profiling of Extracts of Ardissia solanacea}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {356-362}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {356}, abstract = {

Background: The current study focuses on the preliminary phytochemical analysis, antioxidant potential and identification of phytochemicals in Ardissia solanacea leaves extract using chromatography and HR-MS. Materials and Methods: The occurrence of phytoconstituents in different extracts of Ardissia solanacea were assessed by standard procedures. In vitro antioxidant potential was determined by Hydrogen peroxide and DPPH method. The extract was fractionated by Flash Chromatography. The fractions were analysed using HPTLC and further analyzed by HR-MS method to detect and characterize the active phytoconstituents present in it. Results: The highest concentration of flavonoids (371.91{\textpm} 0.167 mg/g of Quercetin Equivalent), phenolics (10.138{\textpm}0.010 mg/g of Gallic acid Equivalent) and tannins (148.23{\textpm}0.510 mg/g of Tannic acid Equivalent) was observed in the ethanol extract. The antioxidant activity by DPPH and H2O2 assay demonstrated that the ethanolic extract (AsEt) showed highest anti-oxidant potential (74.21\% and 83.16\% respectively). The ASEt was fractionated by using Flash chromatography. As a result, Out of 11 fractions, one fraction namely AsEt3 was selected further based on HPTLC results. The HR-MS analysis of ASEt3 indicated presence of thirteen compounds wherein bergapten was predominantly identified. Conclusion: It was revealed that the leaves of Ardissia solanacea possesses high antioxidant potential. The known phytoconstituents namely quercetin and taxifolin along with one unknown compound were identified through the HR-MS study. Using mass library data, we report herein 2 flavonoids and 1 phenolic in the AsEt extract.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Ardissia solanacea, Flash chromatography, HR-MS analysis.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.038}, author = {Jyotsna Chopade and Asha Thomas and Sohan Chitlange} } @article {1177, title = {Traditional Use of Medicinal Plants against ENT Diseases by the Tribals of Purulia District, West Bengal, India}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {687-692}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {687}, abstract = {

Background: Since ancient times natural plant parts were extensively used for the treatment and prevention of Ear, Nose and Throat related diseases. ENT related diseases are caused by various types of micro-organism. Eleven ethnic groups (Bhumij, Birhor, Gond, Sabar, Kharwar, Kurmi, Lodha, Malpaharya, Sardar, Oraon, Santal) present in Purulia district. Objectives: This study aims to record herbal plants used in the traditional treatment of ENT related ailments in Purulia district of West Bengal. Materials and Methods: Semi-structured questionnaire, interviews with traditional healers and focused group discussion were used to gather ethnobotanical data Results: This investigation listed 24 species in 20 plant families that are beneficial for treating ENT disorders in the Purulia district of West Bengal. Conclusion: The primary source of information on therapeutic plants is traditional healers. This information has been passed down orally from one generation to the next, but it appears that it is fading from modern society since young people are not interested to continue this tradition. So, the traditional wisdom on ethnobotanicals should be digitized for future references in India.

}, keywords = {ENT, Ethnobotany, Purulia}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.073}, author = {Rajani Kanta Mahato and Ghanashyam Mahato} } @article {1168, title = {Traditonal Uses and Phytopharmacological Analysis of Ancient and Lucrative Traditional Plants Lavandula stoechas L. and Lavandula officinalis Chaix}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {607-614}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {607}, abstract = {

Traditional medicines are still widely used because they contain notably unique therapeutically active metabolites in their native condition. This elevated the illustrious tradition of indigenous cultures and folklore claims to trace back the development of new therapeutic platforms and active leads that could meet the current needs with the minimum unforeseen health risks. Lavandula stoechas L. has the exclusive property to tutelage the brain, heart, and vital organs with unique pharmacodynamic action by expelling out brain impurity and purifying black bile. It is immensely used in insanity as a memory enhancer and nervine tonic, as per the classical Unani literature, and is termed a broom of the brain, but less erudition, improper documentation, and negligence emaciated its appreciation and recognition. While Lavandula officinalis Chaix is popularly used in modern practices in aromatherapy, mental rejuvenation, the cosmetic industry, and economic generation throughout the world due to more scientific unveiling. To corroborate the ancestral heritage and ancient therapeutic arguments with antiquated scriptures, these plants have been reviewed for their traditional uses and phytopharmacological activities.

}, keywords = {Ancient medicine, Folkloric application, Pharmacology, Phytochemistry, Traditional plant}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.064}, author = {Mohammad Jameel and Abuzer Ali and Wasim Ahmad and Md. Faiyazuddin and Md Rafiul Haque and Rampratap Meena and Sadia Sultan and Kamran Ashraf} } @article {1217, title = {A Two-Year Comparative Study of the Anti-dermatophytic Activity of Thuja orientalis Essential Oil Stored at Various Temperatures}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {16}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2023}, pages = {191-196}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {191}, abstract = {

Background: Thuja orientalis generally recognized as Chinese arborvitae, placed under the family Cupressaceae is a commonly available medicinal plant in India. Objectives: In present research work Thuja leaves essential oil stored in three temperatures for two-years storage periods was evaluated against fungi causing ring worm infection in man. Materials and Methods: Thuja oil was hydro-distilled and stored for 24 months in airtight amber glass bottles at three distinct temperatures. MIC was determined through semi solid agar diffusion method containing BHIA medium. Anti-dermtophytic activity of stored oil was examined in triplets after every fourth month of storage up to 2 years. Results: Oil stored in refrigerator was found to be more stable up to two year of storage time. No activity changes were observed in this condition against all test fungi. While variable temperature condition of room temperature was found less suitable for the storage of oil. MIC against Candida albicans was increased 40\% after 2 years (\>3.5 μL/mL) and 66\% against Microsporum fulvum. Oil stored at 30{\textordmasculine}C temperature condition was found more stable upto IV testing. Slightly changes were observed during Vth testing against C. albicans, M. fulvum and M. canis. Conclusion: Present study concluded that essential oil of Thuja put away in chilliness condition can reserved their quality and properties of antifungal behaviour for long time. Accordingly, putting away of volatile oil ointment items in coolness (beneath 8{\textordmasculine}C) condition is best guidelines for long term use of therapeutic items.

}, keywords = {MIC., Microsporum, Thuja, Trichophyton, Volatile oil}, doi = {10.5530/pres.16.1.24}, author = {Neetu Jain and Seema Bhadauria} } @article {1124, title = {Unexploited Potentials of Endophytic Fungi: Patents Review on Endophytic Fungi Related to Secondary Bioactive Compounds}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {217-225}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {217}, abstract = {

Endophytic fungi are various micro-organisms that inhabit intracellular or intercellular plant tissues in symbiotic association [at certain stages of their life cycles], without causing damage or morphological changes. The endophytes from medicinal plants are important resources for discovery of natural products and secondary bioactive metabolites having the potential biotechnological applications in agriculture, medicine, and allied sectors. The endophytic fungi such as Acremonium, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Trichoderma, Penicillium, Phomopsis, Pestalotiopsis, Pseudomassari, Quercina, Trichoderma genera have been reported from different medicinal plants with potential therapeutic activity. On the other hand, the endophytic fungi can also confer profound impacts on their host plants like improvement in growth, activation of systemic tolerances towards abiotic/biotic stresses, enhancement of nutrient solublization, biosynthesis of phytohormones and stimulating accumulation of secondary metabolites. Endophytic fungi have attracted much research interest because they have provided not only novel sources of Cytotoxic compounds, Antimicrobial agents, Bio-stimulants for essential oil biosynthesis, Anticancer agents, antioxidant agents, anti-diabetic agents, immunosuppressant and insecticidal compounds. The present review reveals the importance of endophytic fungi from medicinal plants as a source of bioactive compounds as well as landscape of patents related to the production of secondary metabolites through endophytic fungi and their application in pharmaceutical sectors.

}, keywords = {Biological activity, Endophytic fungi, Patents, Phytohormones., Secondary metabolites, Symbiotic association}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.023}, author = {Priyatama V. Powar and Shilpa Chaudhari} } @article {1101, title = {Unravelling the Approaches to Treat Osteoarthritis: A Focus on the Potential of Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {December 2022}, pages = {13-25}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {13}, abstract = {

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent chronic rheumatic disorder, affecting more women than men. The prevalence and course of OA are increased by ageing and obesity. Numerous other risk factors for OA progression include oxidative stress, injury, mechanical stress, and metabolic problems. Interleukin{\textendash}1 is released during inflammatory responses, which destroys cartilage. Interleukin{\textendash}1 is correlated with the release of proteases, an enzyme that destroys cartilage further. Other cytokines similar to TNF{\textendash}alpha induce the enzyme matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), which causes joint injury. Collagenase is another enzyme that degrades collagen and so impacts negatively on the articular cartilage. NSAIDs, opioid analgesics, topical analgesics, and intra-articular steroids are being used to alleviate osteoarthritis pain, and symptoms. However, various adverse effects are linked with all of these medications, limiting their usage, for example, NSAIDs used to relieve OA pain. Nonetheless, they exhibit gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and nephrotoxicity. Tramadol also has an effect on the central nervous and gastrointestinal systems. Patients were interested in herbal plants because they were worried about the safety and inadequate effectiveness of pharmaceuticals. Plants have been used to cure a variety of ailments since ancient times, and several plants have the ability to treat OA. According to several studies, the pain and progression of OA may be considerably slowed, or halted by bioactive chemicals found in plants. Conclusion: Here we analysed the current scientific literature available that revealed a rising number of research on the possible antiosteoarthritic effects of medicinal plants and their principal ingredients, indicating the possibility of a novel therapeutic use.

}, keywords = {Antiosteoarthritic, Cartilage, Chondrocytes, Collagenase., Herbal plants, Inflammation}, doi = {10.5530/097484900001}, author = {Sonali Verma and Sumeet Gupta and Rina Das and Kavita Munjal and Meenakshi Dhanawat and Dinesh Kumar Mehta and Gurudev Goyal and Anshu Gupta} } @article {1172, title = {The Use of Caffeine Products in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {October 2023}, pages = {653-657}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {653}, abstract = {

The most used psychoactive substance globally is caffeine. Recently, the introduction of numerous products containing caffeine, as well as shifts in the consumption of both natural and artificial sources of caffeine, has received the attention of health experts. However, there is a lack of information on the consumption patterns of coffee and caffeinated products in different regions of the Saudi population. Therefore, this review aims to identify gender differences, pharmacological effects and risk of toxicity among caffeine product users in Saudi Arabia. Although there are regulations from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), there have been concerns about excessive caffeine consumption among the youth population. According to the available studies, the prevalence of coffee consumption is high among Saudi females. The extent of caffeine toxicity in Saudi Arabia is not well documented; however, given the widespread use of caffeine in the country, it is possible that instances of caffeine toxicity may arise. It should be emphasized that caffeine toxicity is not common and usually occurs only with extremely high levels of caffeine consumption. This review offers valuable insights into caffeine consumption patterns in Saudi Arabia, which can benefit a range of stakeholders, including scientists, healthcare providers and consumers. To ensure safe caffeine consumption and minimise the risk of negative outcomes arising from insufficient knowledge about its use, there is a need to educate individuals and raise public awareness about caffeine intake.

}, keywords = {Caffeine Products, Caffeine Safety, Saudi Arabia}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.4.068}, author = {Reem Rara and Rahaf Alhindi and Majd Alotaibi and Yara Shaykhayn and Anwar Alnakhli and Halah Tariq Albar and Asim Muhammed Alshanberi and Yosra Zakariyya Alhindi and Safaa Mohammed Alsanosi} } @article {1125, title = {Water Lily (Nymphaea nouchali Burm. f): An Ancient Treasure of Food and Medicine}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {15}, year = {2023}, month = {February 2023}, pages = {226-234}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {226}, abstract = {

Nymphaea nouchali (Syn. Nymphaea stellata Willd.) from family Nymphaeaceae, is a species of perennial aquatic flowering plant with huge round floating leaves and rhizomes. It is well-known and prominent herb in Ayurveda and Siddha system of medicines with multiple medicinal properties. It comes from southern and eastern regions of Asia, and is a national blossom of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Scientific investigation has revealed that it exhibits vast range of pharmacological actions, namely antihyperglycemic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic, antiinflammatory, antipyretic, antitumor, hepatoprotective, antiulcer, antihelmintic, antinociceptive, immunomodulatory activities etc. Polyphenols, flavonoids, sterols, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, protein, nymphasterol, nymphayol have been recognized as important factors in the medicinal effects of N. nouchali. The present review focuses on pharmacological and phytochemical investigation of N. nouchali.

}, keywords = {Blue water lily, Nymphaea nouchali, Pharmacological actions, Phytochemistry.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.15.2.024}, author = {Basani Kiranmai and Mondi Sandhyarani and Ashok Kumar Tiwari} } @article {1046, title = {Ameliorative Effect of Moringa oleifera Lam. Leaves Extract on the Sex Hormone Profile and Testicular Dysfunctions in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {225-232}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {225}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with reproductive impairment. Medicinal plants and herbs are the rich source of antioxidants which may ameliorate diabetes-induced male reproductive dysfunctions and could play an important role in the management of diabetes induced male infertility. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of 70\% hydroalcoholic extract of Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves on sex hormone alterations and testicular dysfunction in diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Diabetes mellitus (DM) in male rats was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg b.wt.). The induced diabetic rats were treated with three different doses (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg b.wt./day, orally for 60 days) of M. oleifera leaves extract. The results were compared with reference antidiabetic drug glibenclamide (5 mg/kg b.wt./day) treated diabetic rats. Reproductive hormones like testosterone, FSH and LH and oxidative stress parameters in the testicular tissues were determined. Histopathological and histomorphometric changes in the testis were also investigated. Results: Oral administration of three doses of M. oleifera leaves extract or glibenclamide in diabetic rats significantly improved serum sex hormones levels and restored histopathological and histomorphometric changes as compared to diabetic control rats. Furthermore, extract treatment in diabetic rats also reduced TBARS levels and improved the levels of antioxidant markers in the testicular tissue. These results were comparable with glibenclamide. Conclusion: Based on these results, it may be concluded that the extract of M. oleifera leaves possess significant antioxidant activities as well as play a pivotal role in modulating testicular dysfunction in diabetic rats.

Key words: Antioxidants, Histomorphometric, Moringa oleifera, Streptozotocin, Testis, Testosterone,

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.32}, author = {Ram Niwas Jangir and Gyan Chand Jain} } @article {1010, title = {Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, and Anti-pyretic Activities of Crinum pedunculatum R.Br. Bulb Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {24-29}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {24}, abstract = {

Background: Crinum pedunculatum R.Br. bulbs are used for the topical management of inflammation by traditional healers in the southern region of Ghana. Objectives: This study aims to assess the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-pyretic activities of different solvent extracts of Crinum pedunculatum. Methods: The analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-pyretic activities of the bulb extracts of Crinum pedunculatum were determined in rats at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg. The acetic acid induced writhing test was used to determine the analgesic activity, carrageenan was employed to determine the anti-inflammatory activity, and Brewer{\textquoteright}s yeast-induced pyrexia was studied to evaluate the extract{\textquoteright}s anti-pyretic activity. Results: All solvent extracts of Crinum pedunculatum significantly decreased (P \< 0.001) the frequency of writhing in rats at all doses with 400 mg/kg of the ethanolic extract showing a 98\% inhibition comparable to that obtained with diclofenac sodium at 94\%. These extracts also caused the inhibition of the increase in paw diameter induced by the administration of carrageenan with 400 mg/kg of the ethyl acetate extract of Crinum pedunculatum causing a 97\% inhibition of paw oedema. All doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) of the methanol extract caused a significant decrease (P \< 0.0001) in the temperature of rats induced via the administration of yeast with ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts also showed a significant reduction (P \< 0.001) in rectal temperature. Conclusion: These results obtained indicate that the methanolic, ethanolic, and ethyl acetate extracts of Crinum pedunculatum R.Br. possess analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activities.

}, keywords = {Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-pyretic, Crinum pedunculatum, Rats.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.5}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres1415.html}, author = {Peace Doe and Cynthia Amaning Danquah and Kwasi Adomako Ohemeng and Ako Ernest Opare and Ahmed Sharif and Dorcas Akua-Abora and Asamoah Kwame Akuoko and Aaron Kpabitey and Emmanuel Quarshie and Oliver Opoku Asante and Elvis Kwadwo Amponsah and Mariyana Mutwaliku and Charlotte Nuro-Brefo and Micheal Ofori} } @article {1013, title = {Analysis of Bioactive Compounds from Different Algae Samples Extracted with Ultrasound: Characterizations, Phytochemical Contents and Antioxidant Potentials}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {35-44}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {35}, abstract = {

Introduction: Algae are a significant bioactive compounds source, with variation in biological functions including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral. Both microalgae and macroalgae biomass are a rich source of high value nutraceuticals and other bio products of commercial value, making algae worth investigating into. Objectives: To analyze bioactive phytochemicals and their antioxidants properties of extracts from algae from lake Taihu, Microcystis aeruginosa, Spirogyra and Seaweed extracted with ultrasound assisted method in comparison to the traditional extraction method, and a subsequent use of the residue in producing biochar. Materials and Methods: The different algae species viz Microcystis aeruginosa, Spirogyra and Seaweed were subjected to ultrasonic and thermostatted water bath extraction with a 70\% ethanol and 30\% water (v/v) as solvent. The extracts were characterized using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The total phenol and flavonoid and antioxidant activities were assessed in vitro viz hydroxyl radical ({\textbullet}OH) scavenging activity, ferric- reducing antioxidant property, total antioxidant capacity and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity. Results: The chemical analysis indicated the existence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, phenols, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, proteins, carbohydrates, phytosterols, quinones, saponins, coumarins and glycosides. In vitro screening of the extracts also showed good antioxidant capacity (hydroxyl radical ({\textbullet}OH) scavenging activity, ferricreducing antioxidant property, total antioxidant capacity and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity), the extracted compounds are of biological and pharmacological importance. The ultrasound assisted extraction method significantly increased yield with 27.0\% in comparison to conventional method with 18.6\%. Conclusion: The study showed the different algae species were enriched with phytochemicals and that the ultrasound assisted method was an effective extraction method environmentally benignant. A complete utilization of algae biomass was achieved after biochar was made from the residue.

}, keywords = {Algae species, Antioxidant activity., ethanol, Phytochemicals, Ultrasound assisted extraction}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.7}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres1417.html}, author = {Jakpa Wizi and Lixiao Ni and Williams Kweku Darkwah and Li Xianglan} } @article {1067, title = {Anti-arthritic Potential of Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts of Euphorbia helioscopia on Adjuvant-induced Arthritis in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {304-309}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {304}, abstract = {

Background: Euphorbia helioscopia is of the family Euphorbiaceae, owning various pharmacological properties like anti-inflammatory activity. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic-autoimmune systemic disease that can be characterized by cartilage degradation, synovial hyperplasia, inflammation, and joint damage. Objectives: To assess the anti-arthritic activity of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Euphorbia helioscopia. Materials and Methods: Adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) method was followed for the evaluation. Complete Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant (CFA) was used to induce arthritis in female Wistar rats. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts (300, 150, and 75 mg/kg/day) of aerial parts of Euphorbia helioscopia were given orally to Wistar rats. Results: Both the extracts showed significant anti-arthritic activity in a dose-dependent manner. However, ethanolic extract (300mg/kg) of Euphorbia helioscopia showed potential anti-arthritic activity among the tested extracts. Conclusion: From the study, it can be concluded that Euphorbia helioscopia possesses marked anti-arthritic activity.

}, keywords = {Adjuvant induced arthritis, Antiinflammatory, Aqueous and ethanolic plant extracts, Euphorbia helioscopia, Rheumatoid Arthritis}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.44}, author = {Iram Jan and Ashish Dogra and Syed Assim Haq and Sumit Dhiman and Gurdarshan Singh and Mithilesh Kumar} } @article {1025, title = {Anticancer Activities of the Herbal Recipe Benjakul Extract against Human Breast Cancer Cells by Inducing Apoptosis and Suppressing Migration}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {115-120}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {115}, abstract = {

Background: Benjakul is a Thai traditional formulation and has been reported for cancer treatment. Objectives: In this study aimed to examine the cytotoxic effects of Benjakul extract on suppression of breast cancer cells proliferation and migration. Materials and Methods: Cytotoxic effects were determined by sulforhodamine B, colony formation, ROS formation, caspase 3 activity, and mitochondrial function. Migration assay was studied by wound healing and gelatin zymography. Results: Piperine level was showed the highest concentration in the Benjakul extract. Further, Benjakul extract exhibited cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells with low IC50 equally effects in two cancer cells and further it suppressed the colony formation. The mechanism of Benjakul to induce cells death through activating ROS formation, stimulating caspase 3 activity, and repressing mitochondrial function. Moreover, the suppression of migration by Benjakul was acted on reduction of MMP-9 expression level in culture medium. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that Benjakul extract can suppress human cancer cells proliferation along with induction of apoptosis and attenuation of migration by low concentration.

Key words: Benjakul, Breast cancer cells, Growth, Apoptosis, Migration.\ 

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.16}, author = {Benjaporn Buranrat} } @article {1021, title = {Antidiabetic Activities of Medicinal Plants in Traditional Recipes and Candidate Antidiabetic Compounds from Hydnophytum formicarum Jack. Tubers}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {89-99}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {89}, abstract = {

Introduction: Wang-Nam-Yen hospital recipe used as a traditional antidiabetic for a long time, but its beneficial properties have not been described. Materials and Methods: Antidiabetic mechanisms including anti-α-glucosidase, anti-α-amylase, anti-dipeptidyl-peptidase-4, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities, and wound healing effects of 26 medicinal plants that make up the Wang-Nam-Yen preparation were investigated. Results: Interestingly, most plants in this study inhibited α-glucosidase and α-amylase at excellent levels with higher potency than standard acarbose (18.2\% {\textpm} 0.5). Hydnophytum formicarum, Urceola minutiflora, and Lagerstroemia speciosa, inhibited DPP-4 with more than 70\% inhibition at 50 μg/mL (82.8\%{\textpm} 0.8, 71.9\% {\textpm} 0.3, and 71.1\% {\textpm} 0.1, respectively compared with standard Diprotin A at 50 μg/mL, 90.1\% {\textpm} 0.4). Terminalia arjuna showed the highest inhibition in all anti-oxidation assays. Andrographis paniculata inhibited NO production at 90.1\% {\textpm} 2.4, which was more effective than indomethacin (34.3\% {\textpm} 2.4). Most of the herbs contained high amounts of terpenoids and flavonoids, which might play an important role in antidiabetic activity. The results demonstrated that H. formicarum extract exhibited the highest anti-DPP-4 activity (IC50 = 33.87 {\textpm} 0.02 μg/mL). When H. formicarum ethanolic extract was isolated, Palmitic acid (1) exhibited DPP-4 inhibitory activity at IC50 value of 73.82 {\textpm} 2.64 μg/mL, and a mixture of stigmasterol (2) and {\ss}-sitosterol (3) at 78.58 {\textpm} 0.92 μg/mL. Conclusion: Many herbs in the Wang-Nam-Yen preparation possessed properties predictive for antidiabetic treatment. The results also suggest the possibility of further use of H. formicarum and its isolated compounds as a standard diabetic drug in the future.

}, keywords = {Anti-DPP-4 activity, Anti-inflammation activity, Anti-α-amylase activity, Anti-α-glucosidase activity, Antidiabetic recipe., Antioxidant activity}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.13}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres14113.html}, author = {Mingkwan Rachpirom and Louis R Barrows and Suriyan Thengyai and Chitchamai Ovatlarnporn and Chonlatid Sontimuang and Pitchanan Thiantongin and Panupong Puttarak} } @article {1017, title = {Antidiarrheal and Antioxidant Activities of the Aerial Parts of Caralluma dalzielii N. E. Brown}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {82-88}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {82}, abstract = {

Background: Caralluma dalzielii N.E. Brown is commonly referred to as {\textquotedblleft}Karan massalanci{\textquotedblright} in the Northwest Nigeria where it is used in treating several ailments including pain, diarrhea and stomach issues. Objectives: This study was aimed to investigate the antidiarrheal and antioxidant activities of aqueous aerial parts extract of Caralluma dalzielii. Materials and Methods: The aqueous aerial parts extract of Caralluma dalzielii (CDE) (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) was evaluated for antidiarrheal properties against gastrointestinal motility, castor oil-induced and prostaglandin-E2 (PGE2) enteropooling models in Wistar rats. Its antioxidant properties were studied by determining the total phenolic content (TPC) using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, its free radical scavenging activity using 1, 1-Diphenyl-2-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and its ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays using potassium ferrocyanide ferric chloride methods. Ascorbic acid was used as the reference. Spasmolytic effect was studied in isolated rabbit jejunum preparations in an organ bath experiment using acetylcholine (ACh). Results: CDE significantly (p\<0.05) reduced gastrointestinal transit of charcoal meal and the total number of diarrheal feces in the animals. The total phenolic content was determined to be 36.67{\textpm}3.33 mg GAE/g. IC50 value of 63.44 mg/mL was calculated in DPPH assay. The FRAP value was found to increase as the concentration of the extract increased. CDE inhibited acetylcholine-induced contraction of the rabbit jejunum in a concentration dependent manner with complete inhibition at 20.48 mg/mL of the extract. Conclusion: The extract of Caralluma dalzielii possesses antidiarrheal activities which may be related to its antimotility, antioxidant and antispasmodic properties.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Antispasmodic, Caralluma dalzielii, Gastrointestinal motility, Rabbit jejunum.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.12}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres14112.html}, author = {Chinenye J. Ugwah-Oguejiofor and Halilu E. Mshelia and Junaidu Bello and Isah Inuwa and Abdullahi Sulaiman} } @article {1092, title = {Antifungal Screening of Surveyed Plants of Gwadabawa/Illela Communities of Sokoto State-Northwest Nigeria}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {417-422}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {417}, abstract = {

Background: An earlier ethnobotanical study afforded fifteen surveyed plants, which are used as antifungal and wound healing remedies. This informed their antifungal screening to validate folklore claims. Materials and Methods: Identified, procured, and authenticated medicinal plants were each, defatted in hexane and extracted with methanol before partitioning with n-butanol to obtain an n-butanol extract with solubilized antifungal compounds in the organic phase. The resulting concentrated n-butanol extracts were then screened by subjecting each plant extract to in vitro antifungal assay for the determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extract on Aspergillus niger in a 96-well flat bottom polystyrene microtiter plate using the broth microdilution method as outlined in the 2021 Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute guideline. Results: The antifungal screening of the plants presented active plant extracts with variable antifungal properties of MIC values ranging from 3.9 to 250 (mg/ml). Only the extract of Balanites aegyptica showed no activity at all concentrations tested. The lowest extreme was recorded for Ficus Platyphylla, which gave a slight activity at the highest MIC of 125mg/ml, while the highest activity was recorded for Faidherbia albida at the lowest test concentration with a MIC of 3.90625 mg/ml. The other thirteen extracts exhibited antifungal activity in varying degree with the following MICs: Stecullia setigera (7.8125 mg/ml), Annona senegalensis (7.8125 mg/ml), Uraria picta (7.8125 mg/ml) Combretum collinum (15.65 mg/ml), Afromosia lexiflora (15.65 mg/ml), Waltheria indica (15.65 mg/ml), Guiera senegalensis (15.65 mg/ml), Carica papaya (31.25 mg/ml), Rogeria adenophylla (31.25 mg/ml), Pennisetum hordeoides (31.25 mg/ml), Acacia nilotica (31.25 mg/ml) and Sida ovata (62.5 mg/ml). Conclusion: The in vitro antifungal potential of these surveyed plants supports their traditional use, hence, information (data) furnished by this study can be exploited for their further evaluations as antimicrobial drug leads of nature.

}, keywords = {Antifungal remedy, Faidherbia albida, Gwadabawa/Illela, Plant extract, Surveyed plants}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.61}, author = {Mathias Sylvester Nefai and Mshelia Halilu Emanuel and Giaze Tijani Rabiu and Hussain Yahaya Ungo-Kore} } @article {1071, title = {Antihypertensive and Cardioprotective Property of Mimosa pudica Using Zebra Fish}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {333-337}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {333}, abstract = {

Background: Increase in blood pressure is generally termed as hypertension which is one of the common causes of cardiovascular diseases. Despite the several treatment methods, hypertension stands to be the major concern in developing countries. Angiotensin converting enzyme is one of the key contributors in regulating blood pressure where improper activation of angiotensisn leads to hypertension. Mimosa pudica plant has been reported to exhibit several therapeutic properties and thus the current study was focused on evaluating antihypertensive property of phytochemicals found in the Mimosa pudica extract. Materials and Methods: Methanol extract of Mimosa pudica was examined for presence of potential phytochemicals by GC-MS and molecular docking studies were carried out using Autodock 4.2. Results: 07 phytochemicals were identified in the methanol extract of Mimosa pudica. Further molecular docking studies against angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) was carried out and among the list of test compounds 9,12-octadecadienoic acid showed least binding energy with -6.6 kJ. Conclusion: Compounds selected as phytochemicals of Mimosa pudica from methanol extract of Mimosa pudica, specially 9,12-octadecadienoic acid considered for further evaluation of antihypertensive and cardioprotective activity.

}, keywords = {Angiotensin converting enzyme, Antihypertensive activity, Antihypertensive and cardioprotective activity, Methanol extract, Mimosa pudica}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.49}, author = {Santhosh Kondajji Hanumanthappa and Joy Hoskeri Harris and Nivedita Pujari Sudhakar and Priyanka Ashoka and Manjunatha Hanumanthappa} } @article {1072, title = {Anti-inflammatory Potential of Euphorbia helioscopia Extracts against RAW264.7 Macrophages}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {338-341}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {338}, abstract = {

Background: Euphorbia helioscopia, commonly known as sun spurge, is one of the largest species of an annual herb in the family Euphorbiaceae, which is extensively distributed worldwide. In folk medicine, it is used to treat various ailments such as malaria, osteomyelitis, and gastrointestinal ailments. The anti-inflammatory potential of Euphorbia helioscopia extracts on LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages was investigated in this work. Results: The ethanol extract was found to markedly inhibit the pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNFα) production compared to the aqueous extract treated cells. Moreover, extracts downregulated the nitric oxide levels. Finally, in this study, we have shown that Euphorbia helioscopia exerts a potent pharmacological effect on reducing the inflammatory response in macrophages. Conclusion: The results of the experiment revealed that the Euphorbia helioscopia extracts used in this study have anti-inflammatory characteristics, with the ethanolic extract having the most. The ethanolic extract had the strongest anti-inflammatory impact in terms of greatest reduction of proinflammatory indicators including IL-6, TNF-, and NO.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, ELISA, Euphorbia helioscopia, IL-6, TNF-α}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.50}, author = {Iram Jan and Nusrit Iqbal Andrabi and Yassir Arfath and Tazeem Akram and Tusharika Kotra and Zabeer Ahmed and Mithilesh Kumar} } @article {1098, title = {Anti-spasmodic and Gastroprotective Activities of Harungana madagascariensis Leaf: A Traditional Anti-diarrhoea Remedy}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {492-498}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {492}, abstract = {

Background: Harungana madagascariensis Lam. ex Poir. (Hypericaceae) leaf extract is used by some communities in the Niger Delta to treat diarrhoea, ulcers, and wounds. Objectives: This study investigated the antispasmodic, antimotility and gastroprotective properties of methanol:dichloromethane (1:1) extract of H. madagascariensis leaves (HME). Materials and Methods: The antispasmodic activity was evaluated in vitro using actions on contractions of guinea pig ileum and rabbit jejunum provoked by spasmogens. The actions of HME on gastrointestinal transit was assessed in vivo using normal defaecation and charcoal meal transit time tests in rodents. The actions of HME on gastric ulcers produced by ethanol and indomethacin were investigated. The HME was also subjected to phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity tests. Results: The HME suppressed contractions of isolated rabbit jejunum and guinea pig ileum elicited by histamine and acetylcholine. The extract elicited significant (P\<0.05) reduction of normal defaecation (12.50 - 100\%) and gastrointestinal propulsion of charcoal meal in mice (17.60 - 43.08\%). Additionally, the extract significantly (P\<0.05) prevented both ethanol- and indomethacin-induced stomach ulcers. An oral LD50 \>5000 mg/kg in mice was obtained by an acute toxicity assay on HME. Conclusion: The findings showed that the leaf of H. madagascariensis has gastroprotective, antispasmodic, and antimotility properties.

}, keywords = {Charcoal meal test, Gastric lesions, Gastrointestinal motility, Guinea pig ileum, Rabbit jejunum, Tyrode solution}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.71}, author = {Adaobi C. Ezike and Nwoyi N. Bassey and Emenike C. Amah and Daniel U. Nwankpa and Aniebiet E. Samuel and John O. Medewase} } @article {1088, title = {Awareness of Natural Herbs{\textquoteright} Effect on Blood Pressure among the Western Region of Saudi Arabia Population: A Cross-Sectional Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {461-467}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {461}, abstract = {

Background: Knowledge of potential interaction between herb-drug is essential to reduce both the risk of serious medical disorders such as life-threatening arrhythmia and uncontrolled blood pressure and the increased healthcare cost, because of treating these complications. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to assess the western Saudi population{\textquoteright}s knowledge of potential interaction between herbal preparations containing Garlic, Ginger, Cinnamon, or Liquorice when concurrently administered with conventional hypotensive therapy. The secondary aim was to explore the source of information about herbal medicine use. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January 2021 to February 2021 and involved Saudi Arabia{\textquoteright}s population from the western region. The study involved 164 participants by stratified random sampling. Results: The commonly used herbs among the western Saudi population included Garlic (44\%), Ginger (23\%), Cinnamon (13\%), Liquorice (3\%), and others (13\%). Approximately 45.1\% of herb user was based on advice from friends or relatives, 38.4\% were based on online information, and 16.5\% were based on medical resources. Our study showed that 70.7\% of the herb users weren{\textquoteright}t asked by their physicians about using herbal medicine, also 86.6\%\% weren{\textquoteright}t asked by their pharmacists. Conclusion: The study showed a low percentage of awareness of the potential effect of herbal medicines on blood pressure, and their potential interaction with conventional therapies. The study highlighted the low percentage of healthcare providers, who ask their patients about herbal medicine use before prescribing any new medication.

}, keywords = {Cinnamon, Drug interaction, Garlic, Ginger, Herbal medicine, Hypertension, Knowledge, Liquorice, Pharmacist, Physician}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.67}, author = {Afnan Bahha and Aeshah Habib and Awsaf Alluqmani and Afnan Alqurashi and Ahlam Alotaibi and Yosra Al-Hindi and Arwa Fairaq} } @article {1057, title = {Ayurveda: The Prominence of Herbal Medicine in Containment of COVID-19}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {233-240}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {233}, abstract = {

The global community is in a vulnerable and intricate state due to the COVID-19 pandemic given the lack of targeted drugs and extreme population making it an arduous journey to the public system of health care towards the extermination of the disease. The essentiality of newer compounds, novel medical instruments, and practices for diagnosis, cure, and prevention of the COVID-19 infection is the greatest concern. Since the persistent waves of COVID-19 are being observed at a variety of location across the globe, and the intensity and mutation of the virus is still possessing an inviolable threat to humanity. Along with conventional medicine, the application of traditional medicine practices using natural and herbal products has been proved effective in several disease conditions. The usage of Traditional Chinese medicine and ayurvedic medicine is used to treat COVID-19 infected patients in China and India respectively marks the contribution and effectiveness of traditional medical therapy in the restriction of the virus. The prominence of herbal products for prophylactic and symptomatic treatment for COVID-19 is notable and recommended by various organizations and governments in the world. All the pragmatic considerations and evidence to use ayurvedic practices on a large scale require further animal and robust human studies. This article reviews various practices, herbal products, effectiveness, case studies and the contribution of ayurvedic medicine, to be used to treat and restrict the viral epidemic and may further provide a forward insight into future learning, evidence compiling, and research in the respective domain.

}, keywords = {Antiviral, Ayurveda, COVID-19, Immunomodulatory, Inflammation}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.33}, author = {Sarasa Meenakshi and V Udaya Kumar and Reny Sara Raju and Sameer Dhingra and Nitesh Kumar and V Ravichandiran and Krishna Murti} } @article {1083, title = {Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Polyphenolic Extract of Baliospermun solanifolium using Central Composite Design}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {405-411}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {405}, abstract = {

Background: Plant extracts contain a considerable amount of polyphenols. These polyphenols act as reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents in the formation of silver nanoparticles. Objectives: The objective of the current study is biosynthesis, optimization, and evaluation of silver nanoparticles from the polyphenolic extract of Baliospermum solanifolium. Materials and Methods: Central composite design (CCD) was used to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from the polyphenolic extract of Baliospermum. Preliminary screening was done to find out the upper and lower limits for the optimization study. Four independent variables like Silver nitrate concentrations (mM), Baliospermum extract (\%), stirring time (min), and stirring rate (RPM) were employed. As per the design expert, 30 experiments were performed and their effects on dependent variables were listed. Analysis of synthesized AgNPs was done by visual observation, UV-vis Spectroscopy, Zeta potential, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), FTIR, FESEM, etc. Results: The development of Baliospermum silver nanoparticles was confirmed by a color change from pale yellow to dark brown. Characteristic peak of silver nanoparticles observed at 432 nm. -15 mV Zeta potentials confirmed the stability of silver nanoparticles. The sizes of the produced nanoparticles were measured using a FESEM and ranged from 70 to 140 nm. The crystalline nature of nanoparticles was confirmed with the help of X-ray crystallography. FTIR data strongly revealed the presence of phenolic compounds in the reduction, stabilization, and biosynthesis of AgNPs. Conclusion: Major Optimized factors offered by the Central composite design were 10mM AgNO3, 10 \% Baliospermum extract, 150 min, and 700 rpm. As per the data collected from FTIR and HPLC, silver nanoparticles could be capped with major phenolic groups like ellagic acid, catechins, and quercetin.

}, keywords = {Baliospermum, Central composite design, Design expert, Green synthesis, Silver nanoparticles}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.59}, author = {Sarika Ankushrao Nikam and Shilpa Pravin Chaudhari} } @article {1009, title = {Chemical and Biological Evaluation of the Aqueous Extract of Peumus boldus Molina (Monimiaceae) Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {45-52}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {45}, abstract = {

Background: Traditional medicine has inspired the scientific community to discover natural compounds with the ability to inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and with significant antioxidant capacity. These themes are associated with therapeutic processes to decrease the symptoms of Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease (AD). Acetylcholine (Ach) is an important neurotransmitter in the central nervous system responsible for transmitting the nervous impulse and increasing intestinal motility and dilation of sphincters in the gastrointestinal tract. As the species Peumus boldus Molina is widely known and used in folk medicine to treat gastrointestinal discomfort, its constituents could have an affinity for AChE and could be used to treat AD. Materials and Methods: This study evaluated the chemical, inhibitory activity of AChE (using the Elmann method and in silico), antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and oxidation inhibition of the β-carotene/linoleic acid system), and quantification of total leaf phenols from a commercial sample of P. boldus. Results: The mass spectral analysis allowed identification of the alkaloids isoboldine, boldine, clocaurine, laurotetanine, N-methylurotetanine, reticuline, and N-methylcoclaurine. In the in silico prediction test, the alkaloid N-metillaurotetanine was the best acetylcholinesterase enzyme inhibitor, with energy of -10.1 kcal mol-1. Conclusion: These results are of scientific relevance for the discovery of new drugs to treat dementia associated with Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease and stimulate the continuity of chemical and biological studies (anticholinesterase and antioxidant action) of prepurified fractions and substances isolated from P. boldus leaves.

}, keywords = {Acetylcholine, Acetylcholinesterase, Alzheimer., Antioxidant activity, Boldo}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.8}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres1418.html}, author = {Bruna Yuka Koide da Silva and Aniele da Silva Neves Lopes and Paulo Jos{\'e} Sousa Maia and Josiana Moreira Mar and Laiane Souza da Silva and Edgar Aparecido Sanches and Geone Maia Corr{\^e}a and Jaqueline de Ara{\'u}jo Bezerra and Dominique Fernandes de Moura do Carmo} } @article {1085, title = {Chemistry and Pharmacology of Honey}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {356-359}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {356}, abstract = {

Honey which is obtained from Apis mellifera has wide uses due to its chemical constituents present in it. World Wide honey is used for nutritious and medicinal purposes. The review would give the platform to the readers, researchers, scholars to have clear view of the chemical components, its probable mechanism, pharmacological activity and comparison of its ancient uses. Apart from pharmacological, nutritional and non-nutritional components its side effects are also discussed. This review would be an insight for the researchers in the field of medicine.

}, keywords = {Adverse effects, anti-oxidant, Honey, Non-nutritional, Nutritional, Pharmacological}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.53}, author = {Kamal Shah and Sumit Chhabra and Nagendra Singh Chauhan} } @article {1060, title = {Clinical Assessment of Antimicrobial Effects of Brazilian Green Propolis on Chronic Wounds}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {251-255}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {251}, abstract = {

Objectives: Chronic wounds in patients of several diseases, especially diabetics, comprise a public health problem in Brazil. The aim of this study was evaluate the effects of topical application of 5\% green propolis ointment on nonspecific chronic wounds of patients from a health unit in Cajazeiras, Para{\'\i}ba. Materials and Methods: The patients were divided into two groups: 20 for the intervention group, treated with 5\% green propolis ointment, and 20 participants for the control group, treated with an essential fatty acid, plus vitamins A and E, which has standard application in the Brazilian Public Service, both during 30 days. The following clinical variables were observed: complications (necrosis, crust), aspects of the skin around the lesion, appearance and amount of exudate, signs of infection, presence of pain during treatment, appearance of any complication and odor. Forty participants were surveyed from May 2017 to October 2018. Results: Most of them were women (52.5\%) aging from 76 to 95 years (55\%), and illiterate (77.5\%). The prevalent bacteria in the wounds were Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and most of the sensitive antibiotics were aminoglycoside. In the control group, two of eight participants evaluated on the first day remained infected, whereas, in the group treated with green propolis ointment, all nine patients had infection cleared, with reduction of pain, 81.8\% decrease of lesions with purulent exudate, and 73.4\% debridement of devitalized tissue. Conclusion: These results confirm the potential of the green propolis ointment as a debridement, bactericide, and the ability to inhibit the growth of microorganisms, and adsorb odors.

}, keywords = {Chronic wound, Clinical trial, Propolis, Treatment, Wound infection}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.36}, author = {Pascalle Sousa Rocha and Fernando Luiz Affonso Fonseca and David Feder and Luiz Elidio Greg{\'o}rio and Joserlan Nonato Moreira and Luis Rafael Leite Sampaio and Glaucia Luciano da Veiga and Fulvio Alexandre Scorza and Beatriz da Costa Aguiar Alves and Thais Gasc{\'o}n and Carla Alessandra Scorza and Fabio Ferreira Perazzo} } @article {1058, title = {Comparative Analysis of Antidermatophytic Potential of Cymbopogon citratus Essential Oil Stored in Different Temperature Condition for Two Years}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {241-245}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {241}, abstract = {

Background: Cymbopogon citratus commonly known as lemon grass is a valuable medicinal plant. In present investigation variation in the antidermatophytic potential of C. citratus essential oil was estimated in different temperature and storage periods. Materials and Methods: C. citratus essential oil was extracted through hydrodistillation methods and kept in amber bottles in three different temperature conditions like room temperature (variable from 8-45{\textdegree}C), refrigerator temperature(2-6{\textdegree}C) and 30{\textdegree}C for 2 years. Minimum inhibitory concentration was determined after every fourth month of storage against selected dermatophytes. Results: Antidermatophytic activity of C. citratus oil was found prominent due to high concentration of citral derivatives. MIC was found to be stable against Trichophyton rubrum (MTCC 296) (0.1μL/mL) and T. mentagrophytes (MTCC 7687) (0.1μL/mL) at the end of experiment in all three temperature conditions. 30{\textdegree}C temperature condition was also found quite stable. A very slight increase of MIC was found against Candida albicans (MTCC 3018) and Microsporum fulvum (MTCC 2837) at 24 months (Sixth testing) of storage. Oil stored at room temperature showed variation in MIC as compared to initial one. MIC was found to double against M. fulvum (MTCC 2837) at sixth testing (0.4μL/mL) of storage as compared to first testing (0.2μL/mL). Conclusion: Present work concluded that essential oil stored in low temperature condition can maintained their primary composition and properties for long time. Therefore, storing of essential oil products in low temperature (below 8{\textdegree}C) condition is best practices for long time application of medicinal products.

}, keywords = {C. citratus, Dermatophytes, Essential oil, Longevity, MIC, Storage}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.34}, author = {Neetu Jain and Meenakshi Sharma} } @article {1019, title = {Comparative Macroscopic and Microscopic Characterization of Raw Herbal Drugs of Abrus precatorius L. and Glycyrrhiza glabra L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {100-106}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {100}, abstract = {

Background: The root of Glycyrrhiza glabra L., also known as {\guilsinglleft}Licorice,{\textquoteright} is used as an expectorant in cough and cold preparations, used to treat hepatitis, and have therapeutic benefit against some other viruses. The roots of Abrus precatorius L. belonging to the family Leguminosae are commonly known as {\textquoteleft}Indian wild Licorice.{\textquoteright} The roots of both of these plants are used in Indian systems of medicine (I.S.M.) to treat various health ailments. The root of A. precatorius is used as a substitute or sometimes as an adulterant of G. glabra. Objectives: The present study aimed to develop comparative standards for easy and fast identification of root drug samples of two selected species. Materials and Methods: The present study involved a comparative macroscopic and microscopic characterization of the root drug samples of G. glabra and A. precatorius using compound and stereo microscopes. Results: Comparative study of qualitative and quantitative characters revealed significant differences in surface and microscopic characters. Anatomical characters such as cortex and phloem zone appearance, the appearance of vascular rays, and some powder characters, i.e., color and taste of powder and shape and size of starch grains, clearly differentiated the genuine {\textquoteleft}Liquorice{\textquoteright} drug root samples from other drug species. Conclusion: Botanical characters compiled in the present study can be used as a reference standard for future identification of individual raw root drug samples and the comparative distinction of both species{\textquoteright} root samples.

}, keywords = {Identification characters, Licorice, Macroscopic and microscopic studies, Raw root herbs, Reference standards.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.14}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres14114.html}, author = {Pankaj Kumar and Javaid Fayaz Lone and Sumeet Gairola} } @article {1077, title = {A Current Pharmacological Impacts and Perspective of Hybanthus enneaspermus (Linn.) F. Muell}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {342-349}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {342}, abstract = {

Medicine relies heavily on the use of medicinal plants. In terms of their pharmacology, they showed a broad spectrum of traits. All but a few of the medicinal plants in India are naturally rich in chemicals. An infinite number of potent phytochemicals can be synthesised by these plants. It is a tropical and subtropical shrub of the Hybanthus enneaspermus (L) famuell family. Asthma, cough, and epilepsy are all treated with the herb in ayurvedic literature as side effects of its usage. For steroids, sugars, alkaloids, polyphenols, catechins, tannins, anthraquinones, and amino acids, phytochemical analysis of Hybanthus enneaspermus achieved good quality. Alkaloids, terpenoids, tannins and glycosides are only some of the many phytochemical elements found in the plant. We examined the plant{\textquoteright}s phytopharmacological properties, including as anti-microbial and antioxidant properties as well as its effects on diabetes and arthritic conditions. We also looked at its anti-allergic and anti-convulsant properties. The active chemicals extracted from this valued herb have the potential to be used in drug development research because of the plant{\textquoteright}s wide range of pharmacological activity.

}, keywords = {Anti-allergic, Anti-arthritic, Anti-convulsant, Anti-diabetic, Anti-fertility, Anti-microbial, Antioxidant, Hybanthus enneaspermus}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.51}, author = {Ananthapalpu Krishnan Nadar Ramya and Rengasamy Devika} } @article {1066, title = {Determination of Analgesic Potential of Ethanolic Extract of Brassica campestris Leaves in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {297-303}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {297}, abstract = {

Background: Brassica campestris plant, a prominent member of Brassicaceae family, has documented therapeutic potential in the common cold, as an antibacterial, antiprotozoal, and to some extent an analgesic in folk medicine. Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the antinociceptive activity and analgesic potential of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of the Brassica campestris plant in rats. Materials and Methods: The antinociceptive potential and analgesic effects of the Brassica campestris leaves extract were evaluated by using the hot plate test and formalin analgesia method. The data were presented as mean {\textpm} standard error of the mean (M {\textpm} SEM). One-way analysis of variance [ANOVA] followed by Tukey{\textquoteright}s multiple comparison tests were performed for statistical analysis. P-value was considered signicant at \< 0.05. Results: The withdrawal latency period was noticed to be gradually and signicantly prolonged after 400mg/kg oral administration of Brassica campestris leaves extract reaching a maximum of 12.73 {\textpm} 0.61 sec (p\<0.05) as compared to control rats (6.13 {\textpm} 0.09 sec) in hot plate test. The antinociceptive behavior of experimental rats was also found quite signicant in both phases of formalin-induced pain (61 and 81\% respectively; p\<0.05) when administered to plant extract at the dose of 400mg/kg body weight as compared to control animals (25 and 40\% respectively). Conclusion: Brassica campestris leaves may contain pharmacologically active constituents associated with antinociceptive potential and analgesic effects in rats. The further characterization of those active moieties may be valuable for the treatment of pain and for designing a new analgesic strategy.

}, keywords = {Analgesic potential, Brassica campestris, Folk medicine, Formalin-induced pain, Hot-plate test, Thermal hyperalgesia}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.43}, author = {Abdullah R Alzahrani and Imran Shahid} } @article {1080, title = {Development and Assessment of Phytophospholipid Nanovesicular Systems for Treatment of Diabetic Neuropathy}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {360-368}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {360}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is the most prevalent and problematic consequence of diabetes mellitus, with the highest rates of morbidity and death, as well as a significant financial burden on diabetes treatment. Aside from commercially available formulations, substantial research on herbal-based natural therapies to treat hyperglycemia and related consequences is underway. Objectives: The major aim of the study was to use an ethosomal gel to improve transdermal penetration of Curcuma longa and Boswellia serrata and to overcome the challenges of low transdermal drug delivery permeability. Materials and Methods: Curcuma longa and Boswellia serrata loaded ethosomes were made using a cold process with various amounts of ethanol and soya lecithin, and were improved based on entrapment efficiency, vesicular size, and ex-vivo investigations. Results: The optimized ethosomal formulation was then put into a gel and evaluated. Ex-vivo tests were conducted with Curcuma longa and Boswellia serrata ethosomal gels, which were compared to plain gel. The ethosomal system produced vesicles with sizes ranging from 1 to 100 nm, a spherical, smooth surface, and a maximum entrapment efficiency of Ne9. A modified ethosomal system (Ne9) was introduced into the gel and studied further. Conclusion: According to the findings, the ethosomal gel has a lot of potential for transdermal Curcuma longa and Boswellia serrata administration.

}, keywords = {Boswellia serrata, Curcuma longa, Drying studies, Ethosomal gel, Ethosomes, Ex-vivo studies}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.54}, author = {Gaurav Tiwari and Deepa Yadav and Bhuwanendra Singh and Abhitendra Kumar and Pranay Wal and Ruchi Tiwari} } @article {1082, title = {Development of a Gastroretentive Polyherbal Formulation and its Standardization}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {379-390}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {379}, abstract = {

Background: Phytopharmaceuticals within the shape of the entire herb, plant parts, or separated bioactive constituents have been utilized broadly in therapeutics since antiquated times till date. The appealing use of drugs of the natural root has driven the requirement for standardization as per the WHO guidelines. Objectives: The main aim of the existing study was to formulate polyherbal gastroretentive capsules by using Carbopol 934 and 971P in different concentration ranges to get desired buoyancy rate. Materials and Methods: The prepared formulation was characterized by physico-chemical parameters and pharmaceutical quality control tests. Standard procedures were used to estimate the organoleptic properties, extractive values, and ash values of the crude drugs used in formulations. Extraction was carried out using Soxhlation followed by preliminary phytochemical evaluation and HPTLC fingerprinting of the extracts. The extracts were formulated into a gastroretentive polyherbal capsule and assessed for physical parameters. Results: The phytochemical assessment established the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, steroids, and glycosides. Rf values obtained from the HPTLC studies of the extracts signified the presence of important phytoconstituents such as Shogaols, 6-Gingerol, 8-Gingerol, Glycyrrhizin, Andrographolides, Marmelosin, and Conessine. Percent Carr{\textquoteright}s consolidation index ranging from 8.111 {\textpm} 0.157 to 8.827 {\textpm} 0.186, Hausner{\textquoteright}s ratio between 1.088 {\textpm} 0.002 to 1.097 {\textpm} 0.002, and angle of repose below 30 are indicative of excellent flow property of the granules. Conclusion: The gastroretentive capsules PHF4 containing granules formulated using 75 mg Carbopol 971P showed a buoyancy effect of more than 24 hr with desired structural integrity.

}, keywords = {Extraction, HPTLC fingerprinting, Polyherbal formulation, Standardization}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.56}, author = {Manish Kumar Gupta and Medha Amol Khade and Birendra Srivastava and Supriya Rajesh Hyam and Prashant Basappa Gurav} } @article {1094, title = {Development of a Solid Self-emulsifying Drug Delivery System of Boswellia serrata}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {429-441}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {429}, abstract = {

Background: Self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) and solid-SEDDS of Boswellia serrata extract (BSE) was aimed at overcoming the problems of poor solubility and bioavailability. Materials and Methods: The formulation strategy included a selection of oil phase, surfactant and co-surfactant based on qualitative and quantitative saturated solubility studies. A ternary phase diagram was constructed to identify the self-emulsifying region using water uptake studies. Pseudoternary phase diagrams were plotted using 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 ratios of surfactant and co-surfactant to identify the maximum micro-emulsification region. The prepared formulations of SEDDS were evaluated for their physical appearance, stability, drug content, and globule size determination. Solid-SEDDS were prepared by adsorption technique using mannitol (4.5\% w/w) and were evaluated for physical appearance, stability, drug content, and globule size. In-vitro studies were performed to compare the release of solid drugs, SEDDS and S-SEDDS. Results: The formulation containing Boswellia serrata (200 mg), Capmul MCM C8 (15\% w/w), Tween 20 (33.333\% w/w), Transcutol HP (16.666\% w/w) was concluded to be optimized. The release pattern was signified more than 80\% release in 30 min in case of S-SEDDS and SEDDS, and 40\% release after 120 min in case of solid drug. Solid-SEDDS may be considered a better solid oral dosage form as solidified formulations are more ideal than liquid ones in terms of their stability. Conclusion: Results suggest the potential use of SEDDS and solid-SEDDS to improve the dissolution and hence oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs like Boswellia serrata through oral route.

}, keywords = {Bioavailability, Boswellia serrata, Phase diagram, Solid-self-emulsifying drug delivery system}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.63}, author = {Vidhi Bhatia and MS Arohi Paul} } @article {1026, title = {Development of Chromatographic Fingerprint Profile and Multi-elemental Analysis of Datura metel L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {146-152}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {146}, abstract = {

Background: The Solanaceae family member Datura metel L. has been related to therapeutic benefits. The plant is widely used in Ayurveda and Siddha systems of Indian medicines. Objectives: Present study was focused to understand the phytochemical and multi elemental composition of D. metel whole plant. Materials and Methods: The whole plant of D. metel was collected, shade dried, powdered and subjected to analysis of physico-chemical parameters, thin layer chromatography, high performance thin layer chromatographic finger print profilings (HPTLC), high pressure liquid chromatographic profile at four wavelengths, X-ray fluorescence, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectrometer, powder X-ray diffractometer and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer. Results: In HPTLC, 7 spots under 254 nm, 10 spots under 366 nm and 11 spots after derivatization with vanillin sulphuric acid reagent appeared. In HPLC, 9 peaks at 230 nm, 11 peaks at 254 nm, 5 peaks at 286 nm and 7 peaks at 366 nm separated. Presence of 17 elements such as copper, cobalt, nickel, manganese, zinc, iron, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, aluminium, chlorine, carbon, oxygen, sulphur and silicon were identified. Conclusion: The elements K, Mg, Ca, Si, S and Fe play vital role on human health. Chlorine, silicon, sulfur and silica are first time identified which have significant biological functions.

Key words: Ummattai, Devil{\textquoteright}s trumpet, Solanaceae, Cardiarhythm, Asthma.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.21}, author = {Shakila Ramachandran and Saravanan Meenatchisundaram and Subashini Subramanian and Sujith Thatipelli and Achintya Kumar Mandal and Rajesh Allu} } @article {1096, title = {Effect of Althea officinalis Linnaeus (Tuqme khatmi) in Cervicitis (Iltehabe unqur rehm) - An Open Observational Clinical Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {454-460}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {454}, abstract = {

Introduction: Cervicitis (Iltehabe unqur rehm) is characterized by inflammation of the cervix. Patients may present with complaints of abnormal vaginal discharge, post coital bleeding, dyspareunia, lower backache and lower abdominal pain. In Unani system of medicine Tukhme khatmi has been Discharge selected out from various available drugs in sailan ur raham. Aim: To evaluate the effect of Tukhme khatmi (Althea officinalis Linnaeus) in cervicitis. Materials and Methods: Clinically diagnosed patients (n=30) married women between age group of 18-45 yrs with regular menses were included considering selection criteria. Safuf of tukhme khitmi 5gms with Shahed and marham of tukhme khitmi will be prepared as per standard preparation. Safuf twice daily orally and Humul at bed time for 21 days after menses with weekly follow up. Subjective and objective parameters were assessed. Primary outcome and Secondary outcome were assessed for Improvement in Abnormal Vaginal LBA, LAP, CB, dyspareunia, VSS score, VAS and SF-12 for QOL and for any adverse effect safety profile was done. Results: there was a significant improvement in abnormal vaginal discharge with a mean of 2.37{\textpm}0.56 BT and 0.37{\textpm}0 AT with p\<0.0001 and other associated sign and symptoms of cervicitis. VSS with a mean of 1.80{\textpm}0.48 BT and 0.03{\textpm}0.182 AT shows significant change with p\<0.0001 after intervention. QOL was markedly improved. Conclusion: Considering the above result tuqme khitmi is effective in alleviating symptoms of cervicitis. It can serve as an alternative treatment without any side effects and it is also cost effective. Further research is needed in large sample size for longer duration.

}, keywords = {Cervicitis, Humul, SF-12, Tuqme khatmi, VAS, VSS, Warme unqur rehm}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.66}, author = {S Shazamani and Wajeeha Begum and Syeda Sumaiya} } @article {1095, title = {Effect of Some Naturally Occurring Monoterpenes viz d-Limonene, p-Cymene and Terpinolene on the Glycemic and Hepatic Function in a Rat Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {446-453}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {446}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus is an increasingly serious health problem in society with type 2 diabetes the most common type of diabetes. Objectives: Our main aim was to test the efficacy of some naturally occurring pure monoterpenes viz d-limonene, p-cymene, terpinolene in modulating glycemic and hepatic function. Materials and Methods: Rats were given soybean oil (as source of fat) for 28 days once daily per os and a single dose of 35mg/ kg streptozotocin i.p. at the end for diabetes induction. Post diabetes detection, animals were treated with d-limonene 300mg/kg, p-cymene (150mg/kg and 200mg/kg), terpinolene (12.5mg/kg and 25 mg/kg) and standard anti-diabetic drug glibenclamide (5mg/kg) once daily orally for a period of another 28 days. At the end of the experimental period, blood glucose, serum levels of insulin, HbA1c, ALP, ALT, AST, GGT, total protein and albumin were determined. Liver was isolated for histopathology. Results: Biochemical profile revealed that d-limonene, p-cymene, and terpinolene significantly restored blood glucose, serum insulin, glycated hemoglobin, ALP, ALT, AST, GGT, albumin and total protein. However, d-limonene (300mg/kg) and terpinolene (25mg/kg) exhibited more pronounced activity than p-cymene (150mg/kg). Histopathology of diabetic group revealed binucleated cells, degeneration of parenchyma, clear cell foci, granular cytoplasm, prominent nucleoli and darkly stained nucleolus while d-limonene, p-cymene and terpinolene treated groups were successful in slowing down the progression of pathology associated with hepatic architecture. Conclusion: D-limonene, p-cymene and terpinolene have the potential to control parameters related to glycemia. Because of the fact that type 2 diabetics are at risk of several liver pathologies, d-limonene, p-cymene and terpinolene exhibited hepatoprotective activity also.

}, keywords = {Diabetes, Histopathology, Liver, Rats, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.65}, author = {Sheeba Shakeel and Nahida Tabassum} } @article {1099, title = {Emodin Exhibits Strong Cytotoxic Effect in Cervical Cancer Cells by Activating Intrinsic Pathway of Apoptosis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {499-503}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {499}, abstract = {

Background: Cervical cancer is widely acknowledged as the main cause of mortality and a major obstacle to increasing life expectancy, after breast cancer, in women. Natural products have been proven to be a promising source for the development of potential anticancer drugs. Emodin (1,3,8-trihydroxy-6-methyl-9,10-anthracenedione) is shown to exert wide range of biological effects, including antibacterial, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory and anticancer. Aim: The major aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of emodin against the progression of human cervical cancer. Materials and Methods: The cytotoxic effect of emodin on cervical cancer HeLa cells was assessed by cell viability assay and phase contrast microscopy. Moreover, DAPI staining was performed to analyze nuclear condensation. H2DCFDA staining was done to evaluate ROS generation. Activation of caspases was determined to ascertain mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in cervical cancer cells. Results: The results revealed that emodin strongly inhibited the HeLa cell growth and proliferation; which was validated by cell viability assay and phase contrast microscopy. Moreover, DAPI staining authenticated nuclear condensation and fragmentation in HeLa cells indicating initiation of apoptosis. We also observed significant ROS generation and caspases activation in emodin-treated cervical cancer cells. Conclusion: Our results suggested strong cytotoxic potential of emodin against cervical cancer cells.

}, keywords = {Apoptosis, Cervical Cancer, DAPI, Emodin, HeLa, ROS}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.72}, author = {Amir Saeed and Ahmed Alharbi} } @article {1079, title = {Evaluation of Curcumin, Piperine, and Ferrous Sulphate Combination Potential in the Adjuvant-induced Arthritis Model in Male Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {483-491}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {483}, abstract = {

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder known for prolonged joint inflammation and deformity condition. Currently, Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatment in RA patients is preferred. Objectives: The research focuses on exploring the combination (curcumin (200mg/kg), piperine (10mg/kg), and ferrous sulphate (0.1mg/kg) potential in the adjuvant-induced arthritis model (AIA) compared with disease control and prednisone acetate (standard 5 mg/kg) in the adjuvant-induced arthritis model (AIA). Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats in each group was treated with standard, curcumin, piperine, and ferrous sulphate individually as well as in combination for 28 days after the induction of arthritis. Evaluation parameters were body weight, paw edema, mobility condition, and stair climbing test. Furthermore, Red Blood Cells (RBCs), White Blood Cells (WBCs), immune organ index (spleen and thymus) was elucidated. The study was concluded with histopathology, X-ray radiography, Tumour Necrosis Factor α (TNF α), and Interleukin- 1beta (IL-β) examination. Results: The combination showed significance with the gradual increase in body weight and mobility (7th day), whereas the conditions of paw edema and stair climbing were found effective (28th day). RBC and WBC counts were found to be clinically significant. The combination was found to be highly significant in estimation of immune organ index. Combination showed significant change in infiltration of inflammatory cells, joint space, and minimal erosion in bone indicating satisfactory anti-arthritic effects. Furthermore, the combination showed improvement in joint radiodensity and narrowing in joint space. The level of TNF-α and IL-1β were found significant. Conclusion: The combination showed antiinflammatory and anti-arthritic activity.

}, keywords = {Adjuvant-induced arthritis model (AIA), Complete Freud{\textquoteright}s adjuvant, Interleukin- 1beta (IL-β), Rheumatoid Arthritis, Spleen, Thymus}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.70}, author = {Ami Thakkar and Nirav Bhatia and Gaurav Doshi} } @article {1047, title = {Evaluation of in vitro Antiplasmodial Activity and Chromatographic Analysis for Quinine and Codeine Quantification from the Total Alkaloids Extract of Mitragyna ciliata}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {135-139}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {135}, abstract = {

Background: Malaria is the most common parasitosis in the world and still constitutes a major public heath menace, particularly in subsaharan african countries. With the rising resistance of Plasmodium falciparum to antimalarial drugs, including artemisinin-based combination, there is a necessary to accelerate the discovery and development of new potential antimalarial drugs. Moreover, Traditional medicinal plants are one of the potential sources of anti-malarial drugs. In C{\^o}te d{\textquoteright}Ivoire, Mitragyna ciliata is commonly used as a medicine in the treatment of malaria in traditional medicine with limited scientific evidence. Objectives: The aim of the present work was to evaluate the in vitro antiplasmodial activity of the total alkaloids extract of Mitragyna ciliata and determine the quantification of codein and quinin, two alkaloids in this extract. Materials and Methods: The total alkaloid extract from Mitragyna ciliata stem barks was obtained using acid/base extraction method. The in vitro antiplasmodial activity of total alkaloids were tested against 4 clinical isolates of P. falciparum (ANK 21001, ANK 21002, ANK 21005 and ANK 21006) and revealed using the SYBR Green. Quinin and codein were identify and quantify using chromatographic analysis as HPLC. Results: In general, total alkaloids extract of M. ciliata exhibited moderate activity against the 4 clinical isolates of P. falciparum, with IC50 (inhibitory concentration) ranging between 18 and 37.52 μg/mL whereas dihyroartemisin, used as positive control, showed very active anti-plasmodial activity against these clinical isolates (1.38 nM \< IC50 \< 1.45 nM). The HPLC profile revealed several peaks suggesting presence of some bioactive compounds including quinin and codein, in respective contents of 21.15 mg/100 g et 1.68 mg/100 g of total alkaloids extract. Conclusion: The results obtained constitute a scientific basis to support the traditional use of M. ciliata in the treatment of malaria in C{\^o}te d{\textquoteright}Ivoire.

Key words: Alkaloids, HPLC, Clinical isolates, Antiplasmodial activity, Malaria, Mitragyna ciliata.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.19}, author = {Yemi{\'e} AA and Boni AR and Beourou S and N{\textquoteright}Guessan JD} } @article {1051, title = {Evaluation of in vitro Cholesterol Esterase Inhibitory Activity of Few Selected Vegetables {\textendash} An Indication of Cardioprotective Property}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {188-194}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {188}, abstract = {

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are responsible for severe mortality rate amongst the population. Several drugs available to control and/ or cure the same, cause severe adverse effects amidst human population. Contextually, the present study was devised to screen the in vitro cholesterol esterase (CEase) activity of few selected vegetables as an indicator of cardioprotective property. Objectives: To screen and purify the polyphenolic fractionate from the vegetable(s) extract that record an optimal CEase activity. Materials and Methods: CEase inhibitory activity was investigated using standard spectrophotometric assay. Microwave assisted central composite design based response surface methodology (CCD based RSM) was executed to quantify an improvement in the CEase inhibitory activity of Solanum melongena extract. One dimensional thin layer chromatography (1D TLC) and two-dimensional preparative thin layer chromatography (2D PTLC) analyses were carried out for Brassica oleracea var. botrytis hot water extract to identify and eluate the polyphenolic fractionate, respectively. Results: Significant CEase inhibitory activity was noticed in the hot water extract of Brassica oleracea var. botrytis (84.65 {\textpm} 3.29\%) than the other vegetable extracts. Even though the optimal process model was validated (at 5\% level), no significant improvement was recorded in the CEase inhibition. The presence of polyphenolic content in the hot water extract of Brassica oleracea var. botrytis (Rf = 0.69) was confirmed by comparing with standard quercetin (Rf = 0.60). Strong blue and moderate brownish yellow color spots revealed the presence of phenolic acid and flavonoid eluates respectively, were purified using 2D PTLC technique. The eluate has recorded a near moderate (28.57 {\textpm} 2.12\%) CEase inhibitory activity. Conclusion: Brassica oleracea var. botrytis possess significant CEase inhibitory activity and proved to be a good diet to protect from various cardiovascular diseases.

Key words: Brassica oleracea var. botrytis, Cholesterol esterase, Solanum melongena, Microwave Assisted Response Surface Methodology, Flavonoid.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.27}, author = {Thiyagarajan Sathishkumar and Muruvanda Bhuvan Uthaiah and Ravichandran Vinu Varshith and Kuppamuthu Kumaresan and Vinohar Stephen Rapheal} } @article {1081, title = {Exploration of Phytopharmacognostical Study of Ipomoea obscura (Linn.) Ker Gawl}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {369-378}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {369}, abstract = {

Background: Ipomoea obscura, also known as {\textquotedblleft}Lakshmanvel{\textquotedblright} in India, is a member of the Convolvulaceae family. Early studies were mostly concerned with early phytochemical analysis, with only a few focusing on detailed phytochemical analysis. Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify the phytochemical and pharmacognostic characteristics of I. obscura leaves. Materials and Procedures: The methanolic extracts were separated into flavonoids and phytosterol by column chromatography, which were subsequently examined by spectroscopy and HPTLC methods. Results: According to this research{\textquoteright}s findings, I. obscura leaves may be a good source of phytochemicals such flavonoids (Kaempferol and quercetin), terpenids (β-sitosterol and lupeol), which were identified by HPTLC fingerprinting, FTIR NMR, and UV spectroscopy. Conclusion: The spectroscopical data and HPTLC fingerprinting profile for the plant of interest would hopefully aid herbal medicine researchers in developing additional herbal medications that require the specific ingredient or extract.

}, keywords = {Characterization, HPTLC fingerprinting, Isolation, Microscopical study, Phytochemical investigation, Quantitative estimation}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.55}, author = {Poonam Shinde and Rajendra Bhambar and Pankaj Patil and Khanderao Jadhav and Prashant Malpure} } @article {1069, title = {Fatty Acid Profile and Antimicrobial Activity of Oils Extracted from Seeds of Oleaginous Plant Species}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {321-327}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {321}, abstract = {

Background: The in vitro antimicrobial effect of lipids has been studied and antimicrobial action of these lipids has been observed in various microbial groups. Objectives: The research studied the fatty acid profile and antimicrobial action of seed oil Acrocomia emensis, Attalea burretiana and Carpotroche brasiliensis against strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Materials and Methods: The analyzes were extracted and then hydrolysis and methylation were performed for later by Gas Chromatography coupled to a Mass Spectrometer. The determination of the antimicrobial action was determined by the agar diffusion method. Results: In species Acrocomia emensis and Attalea burretiana lauric acid was the most abundant fatty followed by myristic acid. In the oil of Carpotroche brasiliensis the hidnocarpic, chaumoogric and gorlic acids were in a greater concentration. The antimicrobial activity was observed in inhibition zones between 8-14 mm, so these oils can be made possible used as pharmaceutical adjuvants in antibiotic preparations.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity, Fatty acids, Oil plants}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.47}, author = {Sarah C C Batista and Ver{\^o}nica de M Sacramento and Vany P Ferraz and Dario A de Oliveira and Afr{\^a}nio F de Melo J{\'u}nior and Elytania V Menezes and Maria das D M Veloso and Vanessa de A Royo} } @article {1014, title = {GC-MS Analysis and Thrombolytic Property of Methanolic Leaf Extracts of Terminalia pallida Brandis against Carrageenan Instigated Tail Thrombosis Model in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {53-60}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {53}, abstract = {

Background: Several plants of Terminalia species are being reported as medicinally useful. Terminalia pallida Brandis is one of the plants of the Combretaceae family, which constitutes several pharmacologically active substances. Present work explored leaf extract{\textquoteright}s thrombolytic property, which could serve as the superior choice for currently using drugs. Objectives: The present study primarily focused on investigating the phyto-constituents such as phenolic and flavonoid compounds in methanolic leaf extract followed by GC-MS analysis and determining the in vitro thrombin inhibition and in vivo thrombolysis activity. Materials and Methods: Swiss albino mice (total = 36) were randomly distributed into six groups (n=6). Thrombosis was instigated by injecting 40 μL of 1\% carrageenan (Type-I) via the subplantar region of the right hind paw of each mouse. The plant extract was screened for its in vitro thrombin inhibitory potency. In animal studies, the size of the blood clots in mouse tails was recorded by administering the plant extracts at 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight for every 24, 48 and 72 hr, respectively. Results: A dose of 200 and 300 mg/kg of the extract showed significant thrombolytic activity at 24, 48, and 72 hr (p\< 0.001) in a concentration-dependent manner when correlated with the control group. A reduction in the length of blood clots (p\< 0.01) was observed at 48 and 72 hr. In acute oral toxicity study, administration of leaf extract showed no mortality and no significant behavioral changes up to 2000 mg/kg dose. The GC-MS analysis explored the occurrence of about 16 eluted compounds; among these, few have been reported as medicinally useful, which accounts for the therapeutic importance of the plant. Conclusion: In conclusion, the methanolic extract of T. pallida Brandis leaves at 200, and 300 mg/kg showed significant inhibition of the Thrombosis in carrageenan instigated model of mice and in vitro thrombin activity.

}, keywords = {Carrageenan, Heparin, Quercetin., Terminallia pallida Brandis, Thrombosis}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.9}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres1419.html}, author = {Sarvan Kumar Guguloth and Narender Malothu and Prasanth DSNBK} } @article {995, title = {GC-MS analysis of Phytocomponents in the Methanol Extract of Premna latifolia Roxb}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {19-23}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {19}, abstract = {

Background: According to existing literature, the genus Premna has a variety of biologically active secondary metabolites, but there are few findings on phytochemical screening of P. latifolia Roxb. Methanolic leaves extract. Objectives: Phytochemical screening of methanolic leaves extract of P. latifolia was proposed for this study. Materials and Methods: UV-chamber, HPTLC instrument (CAMAG TLC Scanner), and GC-MS instrument (Perkin-Elmer GC- Clarus) were used to analyse methanolic leaves extract of P. latifolia. To compare the peaks of components on chromatograms, the NIST library was employed. Results: The current study used GC-MS to identify probable chemical components of P. latifolia. The GC-MS analysis and NIST library comparison revealed that the methanolic extract of P. latifolia contained mainly Squalene (13.57 percent), Ergosta-5, 7, 9 (11), 22-tetraen-3-ol, (3. beta, 22E)-(0.15 percent), Stigmasterol (3.73 percent), gamma-Sitosterol (10.13 percent), Lupeol (0.33), beta-Amyrin (2.27 percent), alpha-Amyrin (2.05 percent), gamma-Sitostenone (0.35 percent), Ursolic aldehyde (1.01 percent) and Betulin (0.72 percent). The biological actions of the majority of the identified components have been reported. While scientific evidence of gamma-sitostenone{\textquoteright}s biological function is still not available. Conclusion: According to the findings, P. latifolia contains a variety of biologically active components, the majority of which are tri-terpenoids and phytosterols.

}, keywords = {GC-MS Analysis, HPTLC, Methanolic leaves extract., Phytocomponents TLC, Premna latifolia}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.4}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres1414.html}, author = {Rajesh Kumar and Brijesh Kumar and Ashutosh Kumar and Ajay Kumar and Manish Singh} } @article {1084, title = {Histo-Anatomical Study of Campanula saxifraga subsp. meyeriana (Rupr.) Ogan}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {391-394}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {391}, abstract = {

Background: Representatives of the Campanulaceae family are widespread in Azerbaijan. These plants are rich in biologically active compounds such as flavonoids, essential oils, saponins, coumarins, etc. Objectives: This work presents histo-anatomical research on cross-sections of the root, stem, leaf and petal of Campanula saxifraga subsp. meyeriana (Rupr.) Ogan. Materials and Methods: Endemic in the Caucasus, these sub-species inhabit the subalpine zone. The plant grows on horizontal rock crevices in the village of Gryz, the Guba region of Azerbaijan. Blocks were prepared according to the generally accepted methods in electron microscopy. Results: The microscopic examination of the cross-section of the stem revealed that the cortex is composed of 8-10 layers of collenchyma and laticifers are seen between the endoderm layer and the phloem. The conductive tissue is in two coextensive rings on the cross-section of the root, and laticifers are detected in the cortex. The leaf has a bifacial structure. On the cross-section of the petal, the mesophilic layer is poorly developed. Conclusion: The microscopic examination provides a basis to determine the identity of C. saxifraga subsp. meyeriana (Rupr.) Ogan.

}, keywords = {Campanula saxifraga subsp. meyeriana (Rupr.) Ogan., Histo-anatomical study, Leaf, Petal, Root, Stem}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.57}, author = {Safarova Nilufar Mubariz and Isayev Javanshir Isa and Gasimov Eldar Kochari and Rzayev Fuad Huseynali} } @article {1090, title = {An HPLC Method to Determine Phenolic Compounds of Plant Extracts: Application to Byrsonima crassifolia and Senna alata Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {395-404}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {395}, abstract = {

Background: The Amazonian Region has a variety of medicinal plants with bioactive compounds, whose characterization could present the potential for sustainable development. Objectives: A method for separating, identifying, and quantifying a mixture of nine phenolic compounds (gallic acid, 3-hydroxybenzoic acid, p-coumaric acid, catechin, myricetin, rutin, quercetin, kaempferol, and cyanidin) was developed, validated, and applied to analyze aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts from Byrsonima crassifolia (L.) Kunth and Senna alata (L.) leaves. Materials and Methods: The separation was carried out by HPLC, using a Shim-pack VP-ODS C18 column (5 μm, 150 x 4.6 mm) at 40{\textdegree}C. Detection was performed at 254 nm and separation occurred in 35 min. Results: The optimized method was validated for each of the nine phenolic compounds. The calibration curve for the phenolic compound standards showed suitable linear fitting and exhibited correlation coefficients greater than 0.990. The LOD and LOQ varied between 6.2807 - 14.8851 μg mL-1 and 6.8002 - 16.0071 μg mL-1, respectively. The method was found to be robust for changes of {\textpm}2 ml in mobile phase composition. Byrsonima crassifolia aqueous extracts indicated contents of gallic acid, catechin, rutin, and cyanidin whereas hydroethanolic one did not show the first substance. Senna alata aqueous extract presented only 3-hydroxybenzoic acid and rutin whereas myricetin, cyanidin, quercetin, and kaempferol were also identified in the hydroethanolic one. Conclusion: The HPLC method is efficient, precise, accurate, and sensitive to determining phenolic compounds in plant extracts and it is recommended for efficient assays in routine work.

}, keywords = {Bioactive compounds, Chromatographic method, Plant extracts}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.58}, author = {Mar{\'\i}lia de A Cavalcante and Janyna dos S Oliveira and Mayra S da S Barreto and Lucas P Pinheiro and Patrick de C Cantu{\'a}ria and Wardsson L Borges and Gabriel A da Silva and Tiago Marcolino de Souza} } @article {1059, title = {In silico Investigation on Phytoconstituents in Pamburus missionis S. for Antioxidant Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {246-250}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {246}, abstract = {

Background: Pamburus missionis is geographically originated from southern India and it has been used for ailments. Objectives: This current research was performed to analyze in silico evaluation of phytoconstituents present in Pamburus missionis for antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: In silico activity of the isolated constituents for antioxidant activity was carried out by Autodock 4.0 and absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion/toxicity assessed by online tools. Results: The results revealed that the phytocompounds, benzoic acid 2,3-dimethyl showed the good docking score of -5.8 kcal/mol, which was a mere docking score of standard curcumin, i.e., -6.6 kcal/mol hence proving that a good binding compatibility among the ligand and the receptor site NADPH oxidase. The Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion/toxicity evaluation of phytoconstituents assures that they had obeyed Lipinski{\textquoteright}s guideline of five suggesting their safety consumption. Conclusion: To conclude, Pamburus missionis can be a good resource of antioxidant activity and simulation studies is needed to ensure the antioxidant activity of benzoic acid 2,3-dimethyl.

}, keywords = {3-dimethyl, Benzoic acid 2, Docking, in silico, Lipinski{\textquoteright}s, Pamburus missionis}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.35}, author = {Raveesha Peeriga and Keerthi Priyanka Adarapu and Akhila Kurama and Naseemunnisa Mohammed and Lakshmana Rao Atmakuri and Deepak Kumar} } @article {1089, title = {In vitro Antioxidant Activity and Preliminary Phytochemical Evaluation of Different Extracts of Aerva javanica}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {468-473}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {468}, abstract = {

Background: Ethno medicinal validation, together with the screening of phytochemical and biological activity, is an effective method for identifying new drugs from medicinal herbs. Objectives: The present study was aimed to investigate the phytochemical nature and antioxidant potential of the selected plant Aerva javanica. Materials and Methods: The plant material of A. javanica was collected, authenticated, leaf and stem parts were separated, shade dried, powdered separately in to coarse powder and extracted with ethanol by Soxhlet apparatus. Both extracts (leaves and stem) were subjected to phytochemical evaluation, total phenolic content estimation by Folin-Ciocalteau and the total flavonoids content estimation by using aluminium chloride colorimetric method. In vitro antioxidant evaluation of the leaves and stem extracts were done by different approaches such as DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay, reducing power assay, superoxide and nitric oxide radical scavenging assays. Results: In the preliminary phytochemical analysis, both leaves and stem extract showed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, tannins and phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The results showed the absence of carbohydrates, proteins and amino acids and sterols. The total phenolic content in the ethanol extract of A. javanica leaves and stems were found to be 891mg/g and 841mg/g of extract equivalent to gallic acid. The total flavonoids content in the ethanol extract of A. javanica leaves and stems were found to be 950mg/g and 900mg/g of extract equivalent to quercetin. The leaves extract showed maximum antioxidant activity comparing with stem extract in all the test approaches employed. Conclusion: The chromatographic and spectral studies and detailed pharmacological evaluation of the extracts may give more promising data.

}, keywords = {Aerva javanica, Antioxidant activity, Preliminary phytochemical evaluation, Total flavonoid estimation, Total phenolic estimation}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.68}, author = {CK Thasneem and GR Vijayasankar and BS Venkateswarlu and R Margret Chandira and S Shanmuganathan} } @article {1064, title = {In vitro Screening for Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of 3,5-Bis(E-thienylmethylene) piperidin-4-one, a Curcumin Analogue}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {276-283}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {276}, abstract = {

Background: Curcumin is a naturally occurring bis-chalcone derivative in the commonly used Indian spice turmeric and is well-known for its potent chemopreventive, anti-angiogenic, anti-cancer properties. 3,5-bis[(E)-thienylmethylene] piperidin-4-one (BTMP) is the newly synthesised synthetic analogue of curcumin that is tested for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties in vitro. Objectives: This study was to determine the antioxidant activity and antibacterial potentials of newly synthesised analogues of curcumin viz., 3,5-bis[(E)- thienylmethylene] piperidin-4-one (BTMP), was examined in vitro. Materials and Methods: BTMP was evaluated for its antioxidant and antimicrobial using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydroxyl (DPPH{\textbullet}) radical scavenging assay, 2,2{\textquoteright}-azinobis3-ethyl benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS{\textbullet}+), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide scavenging assay, superoxide anion radical scavenging assay (O2{\textbullet}-), hydrogen peroxide scavenging, reducing ability assay, metal ion chelating and phosphomolybdenum assays. Results: 40μg/ml of BTMP showed higher antioxidant activity than the other three doses due to its highest free radical scavenging ability at this particular dose. All doses of BTMP showed antimicrobial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. 40μg/ml of BTMP showed the highest zone of inhibition against both tested pathogens. Conclusion: The introduction of basic functionality and the presence of exocyclic double bonds of BTMP has significantly contributed to the antioxidant activity and antimicrobial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Curcumin, DPPH, Reducing ability}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.40}, author = {Jayaseelan Nivedha and Kaliyamoorthi Kanimozhi and Subashchandrabose Olikkavi and T. Vidhyasagar and Natesan Vijayakumar and Chinnaiyan Uma and K. Rajeswari and Lakshmanan Vennila} } @article {1030, title = {In vitro Study of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius Leaf Extracts on Foam Cells and their Antioxidant}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {121-126}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {121}, abstract = {

Background: Internalization of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) by macrophages results in lipid-laden foam cell transformation and pro-inflammatory cytokine releasing leading to atherosclerosis which is one of chronic inflammatory diseases. Leaf extracts from Chaya or Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (Mill.) I. M. Johnst. were reported to show a potential effect on levels of lipids and lipoproteins in in vivo. Objectives: This study was to determine the biological activities of crude ethanolic extracts from Chaya leaves on foam cell formation and inflammation. Materials and Methods: Extracts of age different leaves were screened the contents of phenolics and flavonoids, antioxidant, cytotoxicity and nitric oxide production by using macrophages (RAW264.7). The effective extract was selected to study on the formation of foam cells, protein production and TNF-α gene expression. Results: All extracts showed antioxidative activity and less cytotoxicity to the cells. A mature leaf extract (Ma-CAE) significantly reduced nitric oxide production (IC50 of 235.23 {\textpm} 21.29 μg/mL). For foam cell formation, Ma-CAE slightly reduced oxLDL-induced foam cell formation. Co-treatment of oxLDL, LPS and Ma-CAE decreased the level of TNF-α production. In addition, co-treatment of 800 μg/mL Ma-CAE and oxLDL as well as co-treatment of 800 μg/mL Ma-CAE, oxLDL and LPS, significantly decreased mRNA levels of TNF-α genes. Conclusion: These results indicated that Chaya leaf extracts could slightly decrease foam cell formation and also reduce pro-inflammatory mediators which may further decrease foam cell formation.

Key words: Cnidoscolus aconitifolius, Anti-inflammation, OxLDL, TNF-α, Foam cells.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.17}, author = {Bung-on Prajanban and Niramai Fangkrathok} } @article {1049, title = {Inhibition of LDL Oxidation and Foam Cell Development of Tannin Methanol Extract from Citrus limon and Honey Formulation on Cell lines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {158-165}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {158}, abstract = {

Background: C. limon rich in Vitamin C was shown to have many health benefits having therapeutic properties. Honey was considered as an natural sweetener said to be immune booster. Hence the formulation of C. limon and honey formulation was studied to prevent oxidation and foam cell inhibition. Objectives: The present study was aimed to isolate tannins from Citrus limon (C. limon) fruit juice with a honey mixture to evaluate the antilipidemic and antioxidant activity in cell lines. Materials and Methods: Tannins were isolated from C. limon fruit juice with a honey mixture with two different solvents, i.e., methanol and water and analysed for antioxidant and LDL oxidation inhibition activity. Further tested on RAW 264.7 and THP-1 cells by employing in-vitro assays for cytotoxicity, foam cell development, inhibiting proliferation and, apoptosis. The tannin methanol extract was characterized using HPLC and GC-MS. Results: The content of total tannins present was found to be 453.96 mg tannic acid equivalent (TAE)/g methanol extract, whereas 415.87 mg TAE/g in tannin aqueous extract. The highest antilipidemic and antioxidant activity were seen in tannin methanol extract. It was seen that 240 μg/mL tannin methanol extract efficiently inhibited oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (55.89\% at 5 hr), thus preventing foam cell development, inhibiting proliferation and, apoptosis in cultured RAW 264.7 and THP-1 cells. GCMS revealed certain compounds. Conclusion: This study showed that C. limon with honey tannin methanol extract exhibits potential for antiatherosclerosis activity henceforth, considering the medicinal properties of the active phytochemicals, which can be used as a source of naturally occurring nutraceuticals, revealed the potential to prevent oxidation and foam cell formation.

Key words: Citrus limon, Tannin methanol extract, Antioxidant activity, LDL oxidation inhibition, Foam cell inhibition.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.23}, author = {Hari Priyaa G and Veena SM and Uday Muddapur and Siddalingappa Sajjanar and Kiran K Mirajkar and Anantharaju Kurupalya Shivaram and Sunil S More} } @article {1016, title = {Inhibitory Effects of Tea Leaf and Medicinal Plant Extracts on Enteric Pathogenic Bacteria Growth, Oxidation and Epithelial Cell Adhesion}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {71-81}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {71}, abstract = {

Background: Diarrhea disease was noted by WHO as the major target for control that the leading cause of diarrhea diseases are enteric pathogenic bacteria. Biological properties of tea leaf and medicinal plant which promoted the alternative way to inhibit enteric pathogenic bacteria. Objectives: To investigate antibacterial activity of tea leaf combined with medicinal plant extracts for inhibition of growth and the adhesion of enteric pathogenic bacteria on epithelial cells. Materials and Methods: Among the Camellia sinensis tea leaves; green, oolong and black tea, and 14 medicinal plants examined, aqueous and ethanolic extracts demonstrated growth inhibition against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Shigella dysenteriae, Staphylococcus aureus and Vibrio cholerae. Antioxidation, phenolics and flavonoids contents were also determined. Tea leaf and medicinal plant extracts were combined for the development of herbal tea that subsequently evaluated the inhibition of bacterial adhesion on epithelial cells. Results: The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of green tea and Garcinia cowa showed effectiveness against all enteric pathogenic bacteria, especially the fraction of ethanolic extracts that revealed the greatest bactericidal activity. Moreover, the ethanolic extract of green tea showed the highest content of phenolics and flavonoids, which also correlated with the antioxidant activity. In addition, the ethanolic extract of G. cowa had the highest flavonoid content. Hence, the combination of green tea with G. cowa extract revealed its effectiveness against enteric pathogenic bacteria and had an inhibitory effect against the adhesion of bacteria on epithelial cells. Conclusion: Herbal tea, the combination of green tea and G. cowa extract exhibited the beneficial antibacterial and antioxidant activities, which could be considered as an alternative treatment for enteric pathogenic bacteria infections and promote health benefits.

}, keywords = {Antioxidation, Cell adhesion, Enteric pathogenic bacteria, Herbal tea, Medicinal plant, Tea leaf.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.11}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres14111.html}, author = {Thida Kaewkod and Wilaiporn Songkhakul and Yingmanee Tragoolpua} } @article {1027, title = {In-vitro Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Potential of Ficus infectoria Fruits}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {153-157}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {153}, abstract = {

Background: Antioxidants are chemical substances, either synthetic or natural, that can avert or slow down a range of cellular damage. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to verify the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of alcoholic and aqueous extracts of Ficus infectoria fruits. Materials and Methods: DPPH free radical quenching test, reducing power technique, and hydrogen peroxide scavenging tests were used to assess antioxidant efficacy. In vitro anti-inflammatory experiments were also investigated for membrane stabilization potential and inhibition of proteins from denaturation. Results: Fruits included alkaloids, steroids, phenolics, flavonoids, and amino acids, according to phytochemical study. The total phenolic and flavonoid content of the methanolic and aqueous preparations were determined to be 576.16 {\textpm} 129.10 and 416.12 {\textpm} 112.01 mg/g Gallic Acid Equivalents (GAE) and 423.17 {\textpm} 56.48 and 253.35 {\textpm} 24.07 mg/g Rutin Equivalents (RE) respectively. In comparison to the benchmarks Rutin and ascorbic acid, both preparations showed significant DPPH and H2O2 quenching efficacy. As compared to the standard Indomethacin, both preparations have strong membrane stabilising and protein denaturation inhibitory potencies Conclusion: The current findings point to Ficus infectoria{\textquoteright}s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the active ingredients relevant for the activity must be identified and purified, and the exact mechanism must be determined.

Key words: Ficus infectoria, Membrane stabilization, Protein denaturation, Antioxidant, Antiinflammatory.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.22}, author = {Prince Ahad Mir and Shreya Mahajan and Ashish Verma and Nishant Kumar and Manisha Arora and Navneet Nagpal} } @article {1020, title = {Isolation, Simultaneous Quantification of Taxifolin and Taxifolin-3-O-rhamnoside and Validation by RPHPLC}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {30-34}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {30}, abstract = {

Background: Taxifolin (TA) is a flavonoid that has antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antialzheimer, anti-hyperglycemic, cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, anti-psoriatic and antialzheimer properties. Taxifolin 3-O-rhamnoside (TAR), a glycoside of taxifolin, has antioxidant, anticonvulsant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and immunosuppressive effects. Objectives: The goal of this study is to separate TA and TAR from Smilax china Linn. rhizomes, as well as to develop and validate a technique for simultaneous measurement of TA and TAR. Materials and Methods: The hydro alcoholic extract of the rhizome of S. china yielded TA and TAR. HPLC system was fitted with a C18 column (shim-pack) of size 150 mm x 4.6 mm; 5μ, with suitable eluting mixture of methanol: water (90:10 v/v) at a flowing rate of 1 ml/min and at 254 nm wavelength for identification of peaks. Lab solution software was used to establish the quantification method for above-mentioned chemical compounds. Results: TAR and TA were separated using the proposed technique at Rt 2.917 and 3.924 min respectively. Over the range of 0.1-0.8 μg/ml, calibration curves were produced with a linear relationship R2 \> 0.9941 and 0.9963, respectively. The relative standard deviation was less than 2\%. The percentage recoveries were shown to be between 97 and 102.1. TA and TAR had detection limits of 0.156 and 0.077 μg/ml; quantification limits were 0.473 and 0.234 μg/ml respectively. The technique that was devised was simple, sensitive and specific. Conclusion: The newly designed RPHPLC technique has improved specificity, precision, and accuracy. The quality of S. china and other dietary supplements containing these two flavonoids may be successfully assessed by quantifying these two flavonoids and their glycosides.

}, keywords = {3, 3{\textquoteright}, 4{\textquoteright}-pentahydroxy flavanone, 5, 7, Astilbin, Dihydroqucertin, Tuberculosis, Validation.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.6}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres1416.html}, author = {Subashini Subramanian and Shakila Ramachandran} } @article {1061, title = {KRAS G12C as a Target of Naringenin for Inducing Cell Death in NCI-H23 Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {256-262}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {256}, abstract = {

Background: Naringenin (NGN) is a commonly available flavonoid in the citrus fruits. We have previously shown that NGN is cytotoxic to the non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell line NCI-H23 (H23). Objectives: To check whether NGN could bind to the Kirsten rat sarcoma (KRAS) G12C mutant and cause its inhibition to promote apoptosis in H23 cells. Materials and Methods: NGN was docked with mutant KRAS protein followed by molecular dynamics simulation. HDOCK was used to analyse the influence of NGN on the KRAS and PI3K proteinprotein docking. We checked the ultramorphological structure of the cells. A 2D-QSAR study was carried out to predict the activity of NGN. Results: We observed that NGN bound stably to the mutant KRAS. NGN showed steady RMSF and RMSD values, good structural stability, and favourable MM/PBSA values. NGN interfered in the binding of KRAS and PI3K. NGN treated cells showed hallmarks of apoptotic cell death. The predictive pIC50 value was found to be 7.39 for NGN against KRAS. NGN cleared all the drug filters. Conclusion: We conclude that NGN could bind to the mutant KRAS potentially inhibiting KRAS. That affects the PI3K/Akt pathway activation leading to apoptosis in the NCI-H23 cells.

}, keywords = {Apoptosis, Docking, KRAS, naringenin, NSCLC, QSAR}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.37}, author = {Abani Kumar Patar and Lakhon Kma and Jitul Barman and Shekhar Ghosh and Taranga Jyoti Baruah} } @article {1091, title = {Macroscopic and Microscopic Evaluation of Sansevieria cylindrica Plant}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {412-416}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {412}, abstract = {

Aim and Objectives: The exploitation, adulteration and substitution of herbs is major hurdle for development of commercial natural products. Thus, the microscopic evaluation is the first step towards standardization of medicinal plant. A leaf from Sansevieria cylindrica Bojer ex Hook is examined both macroscopically and microscopically in the current study. Materials and Methods: Sansevieria cylindrica Bojer ex Hook (Asparagaceae) is an indoor ornamental plant. Macroscopic characteristics viz. size and shape, colour, odour and taste were studied. Microscopic evaluations were performed by means of high-resolution microscope. Anatomy of the leaves was examined by following standard method of section cutting. Results: The macroscopic assessment showed that the plant leaves are light to dark green in colour having highly fibrous structure. Stomatal constants of 230, 19.6\% stomatal index, 53.34/mm2 vein islet number, and 79.12/mm2 vein termination number were noted in the leaves. Anomocytic stomata, unicellular trichomes, xylem fibres, oxalate crystals, vascular bundles, etc. were all revealed in detailed microscopy. Conclusion: The macroscopic and microscopic findings of the Sansevieria cylindrica leaf are applicable for standardization and authentication of plant.

}, keywords = {Microscopy, Purity etc, Quality, Sansevieria cylindrica, Stomata, Xylem}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.60}, author = {Sunil Shewale and Vaishali Undale and Maruti Shelar and Bhushan Pimple and Mohini Kuchekar and Vrushali Bhalchim} } @article {1086, title = {A New Cytotoxic Ceramide from Dalbergia boehmii Taub. Stem Bark}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {442-445}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {442}, abstract = {

Background: Dalbergia boehmii (Leguminosae), is a medicinal plant used in the Northen part of Cameroon, against digestive tract diseases and fever. Objectives: This work which is part of the search for bioactive molecules through natural products, aimed to isolate, characterize and evaluate the cytotoxicity of compounds from D. boehmii. Materials and Methods: Chemical investigations were carrying out on stem barks of Dalbergia boehmii using chromatographic techniques. Structures elucidation of isolated compounds were done using 1D and 2D NMR as well as EI-MS and literature data. Some isolated compounds were evaluated in vitro against MCF-7 cell lines for their cytotoxicity activity, using the MTT colorimetric method. Results: The chemical investigation leaded to the isolation of a new ceramide derivative named Dalbergiamide (1), a triterpene identified as olean-12-ene-3,11-dione (2) isolated here for the first time from Dalbergia genus, along with two known compounds, glucoside 3-O-β- D-sitosterol (3) and glucoside 3-O-β-D-stigmasterol (4). Compounds 1 and 2 were found to be cytotoxic at 50 μM with IC50 value of 17.13 μM and 35.52 {\textpm} 2.95 μM respectively. Conclusion: These promising results suggested more in-depth studies should be carried out on this plant in order to assess its potential in the fight against cancer

}, keywords = {cytotoxicity, Dalbergia boehmii, MCF-7, Natural Products}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.64}, author = {Jean Pierre Abdou and Jean No{\"e}l Nyemb and Jean Momeni and Atikou Fadimatou and Abel Jo{\"e}l Yaya Gbaweng and Jean Paul Tsopmejio and Guidawa Fawa and Muhammad I. Choudhary} } @article {1054, title = {A Novel Stability Indicating Method for Determination of Major Alkaloid in Black Pepper by RP-HPLC in Different Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {219-224}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {219}, abstract = {

Background: Piperine is the major alkaloid found in the fruits of Black pepper. Recent studies revealed the antiurolithiatic effect of piperine. So, an attempt was made to develop an analytical method for the assay of Piperine in the formulated dosage forms. Objectives: The present study was done with the aim of developing a simple, accurate, precise and sensitive RP-HPLC method for estimation of Piperine in different dosage forms. Materials and Methods: Some trials were performed during method development using different solvents, mobile phase compositions and flow rate for the estimation of piperine in the dosage form. The developed optimized method was validated as per ICH guidelines and was employed to estimate the amount of piperine in the given dosage form. Results: The optimized chromatographic conditions were achieved using BDS C8 column with mobile phase having of water: Acetonitrile in 50: 50 ratio at 1.0ml/min flow rate. Detection was observed at 247nm using PDA detector. The retention time obtained for piperine peak was found to be 2.4 min. Conclusion: The analytical method which was developed for estimation of piperine is simple, rapid, economic, specific, precise, stable and can be successfully employed for its estimation in syrup and tablet dosage forms.

Keywords: Piperine, Tablet and syrup dosage forms, RP-HPLC, Validation, ICH guidelines,

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.31}, author = {Yenduri Suvarna and Shaik Abdul Rahaman and Arram Madhavi} } @article {1063, title = {Patterns of Caffeine Consumption in Western Province of Saudi Arabia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {269-275}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {269}, abstract = {

Introduction: Caffeine is the most consumed psychoactive drug worldwide. Nowadays, the introduction of many caffeine-containing products, along with changes in the consumption patterns of both natural and synthetic sources of caffeine, has drawn the attention of health researchers. Information regarding consumption patterns of coffee and caffeinated products among the Saudi population, particularly in different regions, remains unclear. Thus, this study aims to identify the amount and sources of caffeine consumed by the Saudi population and explore its relationship with the consumption patterns. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study used an online self-administered questionnaire, including adults who live in the western province of Saudi Arabia and use caffeine products. A 15-item questionnaire was distributed via social media platforms between 1 June and 31 August 2021. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the participants{\textquoteright} characteristics, and categorical variables were reported as frequencies and percentages. Chi-square test was used to test the difference between variables. Results: In total, 1,036 participants were included in the study. Females represented 80\% of the participants included, and nearly half of participants (58\%) received an undergraduate education. Concerning caffeine sources, most participants consumed coffee and tea (97\%), followed by OTC medications containing caffeine (21\%), energy drinks (17\%) and other, such as soft drinks and chocolate (4\%). Regarding drinking habits, most participants (89\%) replied that they drink coffee/tea only, whereas 8\% drink it with sweets and cakes and the rest (3\%) have it either with water, fruit or a cigarette. Concerning adverse effects of caffeine intake, most participants experienced sleep disturbance (67\%), headache (60\%), arrythmia (51\%) and stress and anxiety (40\%). Sex showed a significant relation with OTC medications containing caffeine (p = 0.025) and adverse effects related to caffeine intake (p = 0.002). Conclusion: The present study provides useful data for multiple stakeholders in Saudi Arabia regarding caffeine consumption. Measures should be implemented to ensure safe caffeine consumption to avoid the occurrence of secondary events associated with a lack of knowledge related to its usage.

}, keywords = {Caffeinated products, Caffeine awareness, Caffeine intake, Caffeine sources, Consumption pattern, Saudi Arabia}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.39}, author = {Reem A Radwan and Hassan H Alwafi and Yosra Z Alhindi and Alaa H Falemban and Shakeel A Ansari and Asim M Alshanberi and Nahla A Ayoub and Safaa M Alsanosi} } @article {1045, title = {Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical Evaluation of Leaf of Jatropha nana var. bengalense C.H. Rahaman and S. Mondal: An Endemic Member of Euphorbiaceae}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {204-210}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {204}, abstract = {

Background: Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies helps to maintain the quality of herbal products and purity of crude drugs by means of standardized parameters which will lead to developing the safest and efficacious natural products. Objectives: This study was undertaken to carry out pharmacognostic and phytochemical investigation of the leaves of the Jatropha nana var. bengalense (Euphorbiaceae), an ethnomedicinal plant. Materials and Methods: Epidermal Micromorphology, physical and physicochemical constants like ash value determination and UV-fluorescence study have been employed for pharmacognostic evaluation. For qualitative phytochemistry, microchemical color reaction test and TLC studies performed. Variations in different biochemical parameters of leaves of different developmental stages have been examined and the obtained data statistically analyzed following standard methods. Results: Typical paracytic type of stomata is found in hypostomatic condition distributed in irregular-shaped epidermal cells. Index of these stomata was found 20.251\%. Phytochemical analysis in qualitative and quantitative approaches has also been done to describe its chemical variability. Ash value was found above 8\% which shows more than 50\% solubility in acid whereas water and ethanol solubility is found to be just below and above the 30\% respectively. In UV- fluorescence study very distinctive colour changes of the powdered leaf have been recorded. Alcoholic extracts have shown positive results for presence of most of the phytochemical groups. Quantitative phytochemical analysis confirms that a range of phytochemicals are present in good amount in the leaves of this medicinal plant which could vary in amount in different developmental states. Thin Layer Chromatography has been carried out on ethanolic extract in two different solvent systems which show 6 different Rf values further indicates the presence of important phytochemical derivatives. Conclusion: This study will finally be needful for standardization of identification of the genuine drug, its adulterants and of the chemical constituents present in the leaves and finally bioprospection.

Key words: Adulteration, Bioprospection, Euphorbiaceae, Jatropha nana var. bengalense, Pharmacognosy.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.29}, author = {Swarnendu Mondal and Nayan Roy} } @article {1068, title = {Pharmacognostic Evaluations of Leaves and Rootback of Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. Ex Keay (False Shea)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {310-315}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {310}, abstract = {

Objectives: The present study sought to establish quality control parameters of a locally and ubiquitously occurring medicinal plant, Lophira lanceolata which is utilized as folk medicine among the local communities in Northern Nigeria as well as other regions, due to its therapeutic indication mainly as an aphrodisiac, among other uses. Materials and Methods: Pharmacognostically, different types of evaluations were carried out that focuses on organoleptic, macroscopic, microscopic, chemical evaluations as well as heavy metal assessments using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Results: Organoleptic and macroscopic studies revealed some features of the leaves as green and oblanceolate, pinnate venation, with an average leaf size length and width of 14-15 and 4-5 cm respectively. The root has a light pale-brown outer surface and a reddish-brown inner surface. The outer surface was soft and dry while the inner surface was moist and smooth. Leaf microscopy indicated the presence of anisocytic or cruciferous type of stomata while both the rootbark and leaves are not devoid of common ergastic cell contents of calcium oxalate, lignin, starch, protein and tannin. Phytochemical evaluations revealed abundance of phytoconstituent that are richly phenolic of the types of saponin, tannin, triterpenoid, flavonoid, glycosides, diterpenoids, alkaloid, steroid, anthraquinones and phenols etc. Physicochemical evaluations showed a good source of mineral content of carbohydrate (35.93 {\textpm} 1.9199 for leaves and 33.58 {\textpm} 1.6791 for rootbark), Ash (9.33 {\textpm} 0.4714 for leaves and 7.17 {\textpm} 0.2358 for rootbark) in the plant. Heavy metal analysis of the leaves and rootbark investigated for Cadmium, Copper, Lead and Mercury showed that their concentrations were within the WHO (2002) permissible limits. Conclusion: This study provides the scientific data for the proper identification and establishment of standards for the use of the plant, Lophira lanceolata (False shea).

}, keywords = {Chloral hydrate, Evaluation, Heavy metals, Lophira lanceolata, Standardization, Stomata}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.45}, author = {Mathias Sylvester Nefai and Adamu Aliyu Aliero and Waziri Altine Fakka and Bilkisu Umar Jaja} } @article {1097, title = {Pharmacognostic Studies and Antibacterial Activity of Corchorus olitorius L. Leaf}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {474-482}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {474-482}, abstract = {

Background: Corchorus olitorius L. (Family: Tiliaceae) or {\textquoteleft}Tossa Jute or Nalta Jute is an important fiber crop in India and Bangladesh. Its leaves are used as folk medicine, food source and have demulcent, diuretic, lactagogue, purgative, antidiabetic, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and tonic effects. The aim of the research is to evaluate the pharmacognostic characteristics and antimicrobial activity of Corchorus olitorius L. (C. olitorius). Materials and Methods: The pharmacognostic studies were carried out in terms of organoleptic, macroscopic, microscopic, physico-chemical evaluation, phytochemical screening, fluorescence analysis, TLC fingerprinting by standard procedures. Antibacterial activity against gram-negative bacteria E. coli was determined by agar well diffusion method. Results: The leaf of C. olitorius showed serrate margin, stipules at the base, and acute to acuminate apex. Leaves surface microscopy showed numerous prismatic calcium oxalate crystals and covering trichomes. The moisture content 6.6\% w/w, ethanol and water-soluble extractive value 4 and 17.6\% w/w, total ash 12\% w/w, while acid insoluble and water-soluble ash value 2.2 and 2.0\% w/w respectively were determined. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of flavonoids, polyphenols, phytosterols/triterpenoids, alkaloids, carbohydrates, tannins, and proteins. Thin layer chromatographic profiling of ethanolic extract was carried out which showed different Rf values. The antimicrobial test showed that aqueous extract has better antimicrobial activity around the tested bacteria (E. coli) than ethanolic extract. Conclusion: The results are helpful in the standardization of the leaf part of the plant C. olitorius. The aqueous leaf extract possessed antimicrobial properties. There is a need to isolate its constituents responsible for antimicrobial activity.

}, keywords = {Corchorus olitorius, Fluorescence analysis, Pharmacognostic, Standardization}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.69}, author = {. Manvi and Mohammad Irfan Khan and . Badruddeen and Juber Akhtar and Mohammad Ahmad} } @article {1074, title = {Pharmacognostical Standardization, Phytochemical Characteristics of Stem-bark of Zanthoxylum alatum Roxb}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {316-320}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {316}, abstract = {

Background: Zanthoxylum alatum Roxb (ZA) also known as {\textquoteleft}Indian Prickly Ash{\textquoteright} is a member of the Rutaceae family. It is native to the Himalayas, Jammu and Kashmir, Andhra Pradesh, and various other parts of India and is an important medicinal plant species. The stem bark of the plant is known to be a particularly rich source of medicinal compounds, and it is frequently utilized as an anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory agent. Despite the high therapeutic efficacy of bark, nothing is known about the requirements for its standardization. Since the quality control and standardization qualities of the product must be thoroughly documented, of the stem bark of Zanthoxylum alatum Roxb was produced as a result of the current research, which may be seen here. As part of this research, the stem bark of Z. alatum was harvested, dried in the shade, and then pulverised. The establishment of pharmacognostical standards was accomplished via the use of techniques such as microand macroscopy, physicochemical parameters, extractive values, and fluorescence analysis. Results: There were numerous distinguishing traits in the stem bark of Z. alatum Roxb that were discovered using macroscopic, microscopic, and physical-chemical criteria. Conclusion: This is the first research to provide a comprehensive pharmacognostic profile of the stem bark of Z. alatum Roxb, and it will be a helpful source of information in the development of pharmacognostic criteria for identification, purity, quality, and categorization of Z. alatum Roxb stem bark.

}, keywords = {Indian Prickly Ash, Microscopical features, Phytochemical screening., Standardization, Zanthoxylum alatum}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.46}, author = {Nishant Kumar and Pooja Puri and Navdeep Kaur and Jasreen Uppal and Apporva Chawla and Monika and Prince Ahad Mir} } @article {1015, title = {Pharmacological Evaluation of Green Chilli in Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s Disease}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {61-70}, type = {Research Article}, chapter = {61}, abstract = {

Background: Green chilli pepper (Capsicum annum L. car frutescens) is popular as a spice used in many cuisines across the world. Capsaicin, as the pharmacologically active composition of chilli pepper, has been shown to possess antioxidant, local analgesic, and hypoglycemic effects according to many studies conducted on the red chilli pepper. However, there is no data associated with the role of green chilli peppers in Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease (AD) caused by capsaicin, rather than red chilli peppers. Objectives: To evaluate the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and beta-secretase enzyme inhibition of ethanolic extract of Capsicum frutescens (EECF) or known as green chilli in in-vitro manner. Materials and Methods: Extraction was carried out on the fruits of Capsicum frutescens with ethanol. Its ethanolic extract in different concentrations was applied as the analyte to test its anti-acetylcholinesterase activity and enzymatic inhibitory action on the beta-secretase. Donepezil with various concentrations was also prepared as the control set for comparison of effect with EECF. Both the analytes were tested using the QuantiChromTM and BACE-1 FRET assay kits, for evaluation of inhibition activity against acetylcholinesterase and BACE-1 respectively. Results: There is significant increase in the percentage of inhibition against acetylcholinesterase and BACE-1 when tested with increased concentration of EECF. Compared to inhibitory effects by EECF, donepezil exhibited higher values of IC50 against both the assayed key enzymes, though also demonstrated vital inhibitory actions in both assays. EECF also showed higher potency in controlling AD progression in terms of inhibition against acetylcholinesterase, shown by IC50 value for the acetylcholinesterase, if compared to IC50 value for BACE-1. Conclusion: Green chilli or EECF has potential to have inhibitory action on acetylcholinesterase and beta-secretase enzymes in patients with AD, but limited to optimum concentration or dose.

}, keywords = {Acetylcholinesterase, Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease, Betasecretase, Capsaicin., Green chilli}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.10}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres14110.html}, author = {Pandurangan Perumal and Desmond Yong Hua Chong} } @article {1070, title = {Physicochemical Properties and Inhibitory Effects of Oregano Oil against Uropathogenic}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {328-332}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {328}, abstract = {

Background: Natural oil is an aromatic by-product of highly volatile plants. It can be easily extracted from a variety of natural sources using a variety of distillation processes due to its volatility. Oregano oil is a substance derived from the oregano plant, also known as Origanum vulgare. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the physicochemical properties of oregano oil and to relate them to its chemical composition. Moreover, to examine its antibacterial activity against urinary tract pathogens. Materials and Methods: Commercial natural oregano oil (purity >=98\%) was obtained from Bluray food products operating under the brand name Bluray Food Products. The physico-chemical characteristics of oregano oil were determined using different techniques. GC-MS was used to analyze the chemical properties of oregano oil as well as analysis of saponification value, peroxide value, p- Anisidine value, pH value, and organoleptic properties (color, odor, consistency, nature, and solubility) were performed. Results: According to the results, GC-MS identified 66 different chemicals in oregano oil, accounting for 100\% of the overall composition. It was found that oregano oil has a saponification value of 187.94 mg KOH/g, a peroxide value of 6.22, and a P-Anisidine value of 3.645. In addition, the oil of oregano was found to have inhibitory activity against all uropathogenic bacteria tested. E. coli has an inhibitory zone of 29 mm, P. aeruginosa 27 mm, K. pneumoniae 20 mm, P. mirabilis 22 mm, E. aerogenes 21 mm, E. faecalis 21-mm, A. baumannii 22-mm, N. gonorrhoeae 24-mm, S. aureus 26 mm, and S. epidermis 20-mm. Conclusion: Based on these results, it can be concluded that oregano oil was found to have optimal antibacterial activities against all tested urinary pathogenic bacteria.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial activity, GC-MS, Oregano oil, Physicochemical properties}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.48}, author = {Rana Thamer Hadi Alkhafaji and M. Jayashankar} } @article {1043, title = {Physicochemical Properties, GC-MS Analysis and Impact of Different Material Size on Yield of Himalayan C. deodara Essential Oil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {181-187}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {181}, abstract = {

Aromatic oils are called Essential Oils (EO) because of their ease of solubility in alcohol to form essence. These oils are found in the uncombined form in various parts of plants and employed for flavours, perfumes, cosmetics, beverages, disinfectants, medicines, and stabilizers. EO possess various constituents mainly sesquiterpenoids, benzenoids, phenylpropanoids etc. The demand for C. deodara plant material and its essential oil has been increasing in pharmaceutical, chemical, food and perfumery industries because of its favourable physicochemical characteristics and therapeutic efficacy. C. deodara has been used as antiseptic, insecticides, anti-inflammatory, molluscicidal and anti-fungal. Therefore, the main objective of this experimental work is to investigate the effect of different particle sizes of plant material on the yield of essential oil; to investigate the effect of processing time on C. deodara EO yield and their physicochemical characteristics and analysis of essential oil constituents using GC-MS. Different size of C. deodara material namely, grade A (large size), grade B (medium size) and grade C (small size) material has been extracted using Clevenger{\textquoteright}s apparatus to measure its physicochemical properties. The processed grade B material was extracted with n-hexane by the maceration process to analyse variation in physicochemical properties. From the results, it has been observed that medium-size material of C. deodara has a higher percentage of yield because it has an optimum surface area to release its constituents. Temperature variations have a direct impact on physical as well as chemical properties. Higher temperatures and pressures result in a {\quotesinglbase}harsh{\textquoteleft} aroma that changes the aromatic properties and decrease the oil{\textquoteleft}s therapeutic values. Distillation time has also an impact on the yield as well as on the physical and chemical properties of the material. Thin-layer chromatography showed 10 spots of different colours in essential oil. The major constituent{\textquoteleft}s percentage obtained after GC-MS analysis as α-himachlene (13.83\%), γ-himachlene (12.00\%), β-himachlene (37.34\%), Deodaron (0.43\%), α-atlantone (4.53\%), Z, γ-atlantone (2.77\%), E, γ-atlantone (3.34\%) and E, α-atlantone (10.63\%).

Key words: Cedrus deodara, Physicochemical properties, GC-MS analysis, Percentage yield, Optical rotation, Thin-layer Chromatography (TLC).

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.26}, author = {Sandeep Kumar and Bedasruti Mitra and Shalu Kashyap and Suresh Kumar} } @article {1052, title = {Phytochemical Analysis of Cleome viscosa Active Polyphenolic Compounds Possessing Antidiabetic Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {195-203}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {195}, abstract = {

Background: The counteractive action of diabetes by plant polyphenols along with their utilization in the treatment of diabetic difficulties is of expanding significance from the epidemiological information with in vitro and in vivo examinations. Objectives: We assessed the antihyperglycemic impacts of methanolic (MeCV), aqueous (AqCV), ethyl acetate (EaCV) and n-hexane (NhCV) extracts of Cleome viscosa whole plant. Materials and Methods: Qualitative phytochemical analysis and antidiabetic activities by glucose diffusion, inhibitory movement of starch processing enzymes i.e. α-glucosidase and α-amylase, glucose uptake by yeast cell method and also the non-enzymatic action (glycosylation of Hb). The identification of polyphenols in bioactive extracts was categorized by using HPLC/UV. Results: To evaluate the comparative power of these extracts, the concentrations required for 50\% and 100\% inhibition of enzyme movement were resolved. Greatest enzyme inhibition was utilized to evaluate an inhibitor{\textquoteright}s relative viability. Results demonstrated that MeCV strongly diffused by glucose and inhibited both α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzyme movement and great impact on the glucose uptake by yeast cells and non-enzymatic glycosylation of Hb with equivalent intensity respectively than acarbose. While NhCV was showed less impact on glucose diffusion, α-glucosidase, α-amylase, glucose uptake by yeast cells and glycosylation of Hb. Gallic acid (2.45\%), protocatechuic acid hexoside (0.83\%), chlorogenic acid (0.77\%), catechin (0.53\%), quercetin (0.80\%), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (0.78\%), and p-coumaric (0.07\%) were the main compounds of the MeCV. Conclusion: Based on our results we concluded that the MeCV firmly impacts on enzymatic and non-enzymatic activities due to rich content of polyphenols present in MeCV.

Key words: Enzyme inhibition, α-Glucosidase, α-Amylase, Cleome viscosa, HPLC/UV,

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.28}, author = {Suresh Yarrappagaari and Lavanya Thopireddy and Srinivasulu Cheemanapalli and Venkata Rami Reddy Narala and Kakarla Chandra Mohan and Rajeswara Reddy Saddala} } @article {1050, title = {Phytochemical Identification of Clerodendrum phlomidis Linn. by GC-MS Analysis and its Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {166-171}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {166}, abstract = {

Background: Agnimantha is an important Ayurvedic medicinal plant mentioned in the text of Acharya charak. Agni means fire and mantha means to rub together to produce fire in ancient times. Objectives: Clerodendrum phlomides Linn. (CP) leaf extracts examined for their phytochemical composition and antioxidant properties, as well as their ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AchE). Materials and Methods: A coarse powder was ground from the leaves after being shade dried at room temperature. Alcoholic and hydroalcoholic extracts of leaf tissues were dried and used to identify phytochemicals by gas chromatography, in vitro radical scavenging assays, and AchE inhibition assays. Results: In the phytochemical screening procedures, fifteen constituents were identified in the alcoholic leaf extract of CP. AchE was inhibited by the extracts in a dose dependent manner as demonstrated by in vitro scavenging tests including FRAP assay (alcoholic 215.20 μg/ml and hydro alcoholic 288.70 μg/ ml) and DPPH radical (alcoholic 167.70 μg/ml and hydro alcoholic 347.19 μg/ml). Inhibition of AchE was observed at 250 μg/ml of CP alcoholic and hydroalcoholic leaf extracts. Conclusion: We demonstrate that CP inhibits AchE activity and is capable of scavenging radicals in vitro, indicating that it could serve as an effective therapy for reversing the cholinergic deficit caused by Neurological diseases.

Key words: Clerodendrum phlomides, Antioxidants, Acetylcholinesterase, Phytochemical identification, GC-MS analysis, Oxidative stress.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.24}, author = {Srinivasan Marimuthu and Arun Manohar Gurav and Goli Penchala Prasad} } @article {1078, title = {Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Iris kashmiriana}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {350-355}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {350}, abstract = {

Iris kashmiriana belonging to the family Iridaceae, is found commonly in graveyards in the Kashmir region of India, as well as in some areas of Pakistan. This plant is used as a traditional medicinal plant by different local communities. Ethnopharmacological studies have revealed the presence of isoflavones like isonigricin (1) which is a new isoflavone and isoirisolidone (2) and Irisolidone (3) which were isolated first time from a natural source. This emphasis of this review is to focus on traditional uses, pharmacological uses, as well as phytoconstituents present in this species. But as this species is critically endangered also. By exploring more about this species, it might help in getting this species in the least concern or prevent it from being extinct. Scientific investigation has found that this plant has a lot of pharmacological activities like antimicrobial, antitumor, anthelmintic, immunomodulatory, antiseptic, antioxidant, and also used in cold, flu, malaria, joint pain, anti-inflammation, toothache, etc. This plant contains several constituents, including isoflavones, with pharmacological activities some of them are still not been fully explored yet. In this review, an approach was made to study ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and pharmacological investigations, of Iris kashmiriana, which can be explored more, so that people could know more about this plant, and start growing this medicinal plant

}, keywords = {Antitumor, Endangered plant, Immunomodulator, Iris kashmiriana, Kashmir, Traditional plant}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.52}, author = {Rishabh Chalotra and Meenakshi Dhanawat and Mubashir Maqbool and Neeru Lamba and Ayesha Bibi and Sumeet Gupta} } @article {989, title = {Post Market Analysis of Some Neem Products Sold in Nigeria}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {211-218}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {211}, abstract = {

Context: The wide acceptability of herbal medicines as finished herbal products is hindered by the lack of quality control profile and total trust in the purity, safety efficacy and identity of the herbal product. Aim: The study evaluated the pharmacognostic, physicochemical, chromatographic properties and microbial load of commercially packaged neem products in Nigeria towards ascertaining its identity, content and purity. Settings and Design: Finished neem products were randomly purchased from different market sources and tested for compliance to already established standards documented by WHO, NHP, WAHP and USP. Materials and Methods: The macroscopic, microscopic, physicochemical and chromatographic properties of finished neem products were evaluated using standard procedures. Chemical-markers such as rutin and quercetin were quantified in the products using a validated HPLC method. Microbiological quality (bacterial and fungal counts) were assessed according to USP and WHO methods and guidelines. Descriptive statistics was used in the study. Results were represented in percentages and mean with respect to standard deviation where appropriate. Results: Macroscopic and microscopic evaluations showed the absence of adulterants and foreign matter and the presence of characteristic features of Azadirachta indica. Physico-chemical tests depicted varying results indicating differing sources of collection and possible soil types. Conclusion: The macro, microscopic, physicochemical, chemical and microbiological properties of neem products towards checks for identification and purity have been established. The neem products contained primarily Azadirachta indica and is considered safe for consumption. The results obtained are beneficial towards enriching current monographs of the neem products for commercialization.

Key words: Pharmacognostic, Microscopy, Microbial load, Validation, HPLC.\ 

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.30}, author = {Obi Peter Adigwe and Omolola Temitope Fatokun and Kevwe Benefit Esievo and Aliyu Adamu and Kazeem Olatunji and Jemilat Aliyu Ibrahim and Kudirat Bolanle Mustapha} } @article {1018, title = {Preliminary Assessment of Glycemic Control and Body Fat Reduction Effects of Terminalia chebula Retz. Extract on Pre-diabetic Subjects}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {5-11}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {5}, abstract = {

Background: Terminalia chebula Retz. (Combretaceae) is a medicinal herb using in traditional medicine worldwide and has hypoglycemic effects in animal models. Objectives: The present study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial designed to study the effect of T. chebula fruit water extract (TFWE) in pre-diabetic subjects. The efficacy of TFWE and placebo were compared in terms of reducing fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels, body mass indexes (BMI), body circumferences and skinfold thicknesses. Adverse events of TFWE intervention were also investigated. Materials and Methods: TFWE was phytochemically quantitated by HPLC analysis and its inhibitory action on alpha-glucosidase. In a clinical study, 80 pre-diabetic healthy subjects were classified according to BMI as normal weight and overweight and each group was further divided into 2 groups. The treatment group received 2 capsules of TFWE 500 mg, 2 times per day, before meals for 8 weeks and the control group received 2 placebo capsules, taken orally as the treatment group. Data was collected at week 0, 4 and 8 of the study. Results: For overweight participants receiving TFWE, the mean FBS levels were significantly lower than that of the placebo group (p = 0.026) at week 8. Visceral fat levels also showed a significant reduction (p = 0.039) compared to the placebo group. TFWE dispensation did not show serious adverse events. Conclusion: The administration of 2,000 mg TFWE per day was considered safe for the pre-diabetic healthy subjects with benefits in obesity management.

}, keywords = {Diabetes, Fasting blood sugar, Obesity, Terminalia, Visceral fat.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.2}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres1412.html}, author = {Sansanee Sombattera and Bunleu Sungthong and Prasoborn Rinthong} } @article {1011, title = {Preventive Effects of Ginger Extract and Nigella sativa Oil on Anxiety and Depression Behavior in Wistar Rats Exposed to Mercuric Chloride}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {1-4}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Background: Mercuric chloride (HgCl2) is toxic to humans and animals, and usually causes systemic and nerve damage. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the neuro-protective effects of two medicinal plants rich in antioxidants against mercuric chloride poisoning in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: This is an experimental study conducted on twenty-five adult rats randomly divided into five groups of five rats each, the untreated control group and the four groups are treated daily with Ginger extract (500 mg/kg/day) and Nigella sativa oil (2ml/kg/day) for four weeks. The administration of mercuric chloride (4mg/kg/day) will be from the second week of experimentation to three weeks. Results: The results obtained showed by behavioral tests that the administration of inorganic mercury (HgCl2) significantly increases the state of anxiety and depression of rats compared to control rats, while the groups pre-treated with antioxidants can reduce the damage of these behavioral disorders. Conclusion: Ginger extract and Nigella sativa oil have a very important role in neurobehavioral alterations induced by mercury toxicity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Anxiety, Depression, Mercuric Chloride, Neuroprotection, Wistar Rats.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.1}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres1411.html}, author = {Sabri Benkermiche and Samir Djemli and Meriem Haloui and Mohamed Lamine Benabed and Abdelkrim Tahraoui} } @article {1048, title = {Quality Control Standardization and in-vitro Antioxidant Activity of Marsilea quadrifolia Linn.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {140-145}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {140}, abstract = {

Background: The species Marsilea quadrifolia L. belonging to the family Marsileaceae is a semi-aquatic plant widely distributed in the tropical and sub-tropical regions of India. The whole plant of Marsilea quadrifolia L. is extensively used for its eminent medicinal properties. Objectives: Despite promising therapeutic benefits, the plant seems to be less explored, and consequently, the present investigation focuses on exploring pharmacognostical parameters, quality control standardization and antioxidant studies. Materials and Methods: The microscopical (transverse sections of leaves, petiole, stem, and root.) studies, leaf constants (stomatal number, vein islet number, etc.), and powder microscopic examination were performed. All physicochemical evaluations, like swelling index, foaming index, etc. were accomplished as per the World health organization (WHO) guidelines. TLC profiling and HPLC standardization of ethanolic extract was also performed. In vitro, antioxidant activities of ethanolic extract were carried out by various methods. Results: The transverse sections of all parts of the plant, leaf constants, and powder microscopy were reported with clear identification. Physicochemical parameters, i.e., foaming index (\<100), Loss on drying (13.99 w/w), moisture content (13.75 w/w), total ash value (13.5 w/w) were done. Ethanolic extract was standardized with reference to quercetin and quantified HPLC data was calculated to be 2.1805{\textpm}0.02089 mg/g. The antioxidant potential of ethanolic extract and its IC50 values are reported. Conclusion: We have reported complete pharmacognostical standardization of Marsilea quadrifolia L. as per WHO guidelines. We have reported the antioxidant potential of ethanolic extract of the whole plant of Marsilea quadrifolia L. along with quantitative estimation of quercetin using HPLC.

Keywords: Quercetin, HPLC, Pharmacognosy, Phytopharmaceuticals, Sushni, European water clover.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.20}, author = {Kancharla Bhanukiran and Tarkeshwar Dubey and Siva Hemalatha} } @article {1093, title = {Quantitative Estimation of Immunomodulatory Flavonoid Quercetin by HPTLC in Different Leafy Vegetables Available in West Bengal}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {October 2022}, pages = {423-428}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {423}, abstract = {

Introduction: Leafy vegetables are commonly consumed medicinal plants used in various metabolic and infectious diseases. Additionally, their antiviral, antioxidant, anticancer, and antihypertensive activities have been reported in the literature. Objectives: To determine the quantity of immunomodulatory flavonoid, quercetin in different types of leafy vegetables available in West Bengal by using a simple validated HPTLC method. Materials and Methods: The chromatographic analysis was performed by using aluminium-backed silica gel 60 F254 plates with Toluene{\textendash}Ethyl acetate{\textendash}Formic acid 5:4:0.2 (\%v/v) as the mobile phase. The method was validated according to the ICH guidelines. Results: The total flavonoid content (TFC) in the four leafy vegetables studied varied between 58.10 to 12.28 mg QE/g. Well-separated and compact spots (Rf) of quercetin (0.55{\textpm}0.03) were detected. The regression equation obtained was y = 0.0011x - 0.0569, with a correlation coefficient (R{\texttwosuperior}) of 0.9939. The linearity range (μg/spot) was 60-160. The LOD/LOQ (ng/spot) was 6.09/18.47. Murraya koenigii (0.1992{\textpm}0.037 \%w/w) contained the maximum amount of quercetin compared to Ipomoea aquatic (0.1501{\textpm}0.039\%w/w), Coriandrum sativum (0.1430{\textpm}0.061\%w/w) and Trigonella foenum- graecum (0.1201{\textpm}0.055\%w/w) in methanolic extract. Conclusion: This study revealed that the validated HPTLC method was simple, accurate and sensitive for separating and quantifying quercetin in different leaf vegetables. Quercetin content was highest in Murraya koenigii (0.1992{\textpm}0.037 \%w/w), and least in Trigonella foenum-graecum (0.1201{\textpm}0.055 \%w/w). The developed method might be used further in standardizing and quality control of secondary metabolites in herbal formulations

}, keywords = {Flavonoid, HPTLC, Leafy vegetables, Quercetin}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.4.62}, author = {Tushar Adhikari and Prerona Saha} } @article {1065, title = {Revealing Anti-viral Potential of Siddha Formulation Manjal noi Kudineer against Hepatitis C Viral - RNA Dependent RNA Polymerase Using in-silico Docking Technique}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {284-288}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {284}, abstract = {

Background: The Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a dangerous infectious illness that has long been a concern for public health on a worldwide scale. According to calculation, over 170 million individuals are afflicted, with the highest infection rates in Africa and Asia. HCV is a major concern worldwide and eliminating it in its early phase to avoid liver cirrhosis and HCC has long been the aim for studies. To date, there is no verified vaccine available in the market and current approved therapy (standard of care). Siddha formulas have managed pathogenic infections for ages. Siddha practice strengthens the host{\textquoteright}s immunity and resilience to pathogens. Materials and Methods: The main aim of the present investigation is to screen the anti-viral potential of the siddha formulation Manjal noi Kudineer against Hepatitis C viral - RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) using in-silico docking technique. Results: Result of the study clearly emphasise that the lead cucurbitacin E ranks top with greatest binding free energy -8.96 kcal/mol, followed by Piperidine (-7.71), Curcumin (-7.45), Piperic acid (-6.77), Beta- Humulene (-6.40), Cinnamic acid (-5.89), Oleic acid (-5.59) and Piperine (-5.32). It was also evident that the therapeutics such as oleic acid and Cucurbitacin E revealing potential binding affinity in targeting the activation loop (Leu474, His475, Ser476 and Tyr477) of the viral polymerase enzyme. Followed by which other leads including Limonene, Beta-Pinene, Cinnamic acid, Anethole, Phyllanthin, Piperic acid, Curcumin and Piperine ranked second by offering prominent interactions with the residual bioactive amino acids (His475, Ser476 and Tyr477). Conclusion: From the data{\textquoteright}s of the present in-silico screening, it was concluded that the phytochemicals in the siddha formulation Manjal noi Kudineer display strong anti-viral property by blocking the target enzyme target enzyme (Hepatitis C viral polymerase) and thereby considered as a novel drug of choice for the clinical management of hepatitis C viral infection.

}, keywords = {Docking, Hepatitis C viral RdRp, Hepatitis C virus, In-silico, Manjal noi Kudineer, Siddha}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.41}, author = {Shanmugasundaram Visweswaran and Sattanathan Iyswarya and Narayanan Jegathambal Muthukumar} } @article {1029, title = {Safety Evaluation of a Standardized Dalbergia sissoo Leaf Extract (DSLE)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {172-180}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {172}, abstract = {

Background: Dalbergia sissoo, also known as Indian Rosewood, is a plant known for its medicinal value with the leaves used traditionally for its effect on joint inflammation and joint pain. Recently, Dalbergia sissoo leaves and its derived novel compound Caviunin glycoside (CAFG) was shown to alleviate symptoms and signs of osteoarthritis in a rat model. Objectives: The objective of the study was to investigate potential adverse effects, if any, of a standardized Dalbergia sissoo leaf extract (DSLE) in rats following sub-chronic administration. Materials and Methods: DSLE was standardized to a composition of not less than 2\% w/w CAFG and not less than 6\% w/w total flavonoids. In the sub-chronic study, Wistar rats (10/sex/group) were administered via gavage 0 (control), 310, 620, 1240 mg/kg body weight/day of DSLE for 90 days. Two additional groups received 0 and 1240mg/kg /day of the extract for 90 days, followed by a 28-day reversal phase. Results: The study revealed that administration of the DSLE did not result in any toxicologically significant treatment related changes in clinical observation, ophthalmic examination, body weight, body weight gain, feed consumption, clinical pathology and organ weight. The haematology and serum chemistry parameters compared to the control group were also within the normal laboratory limits. Terminal necroscopy did not indicate any treatment related gross or histopathological findings. The results of genotoxicity studies as evaluated by gene mutations in Salmonella typhimurium, and in vitro chromosome aberration assay did not reveal any genotoxicity of the extract. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, the no observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) for this standardized Dalbergia sissoo leaf extract was determined as 1240 mg/kg body weight/day, the highest dose tested.

Key words: Dalbergia sissoo, Dietary ingredient, Leaf extract, Safety, Toxicity, Sissoo, Bone health.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.25}, author = {Tejal Gandhi and Hital Shah and Ritu Trivedi and Amol Deshmukh and Lal Hingorani} } @article {1028, title = {Serjania marginata Casar. Hydroalcoholic Extract Reduced Cytokine and Inflammatory Parameters in Experimental Models of Inflammation and Infection in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {127-134}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {127}, abstract = {

Objectives: This study investigated the antimycobacterial, anti-inflammatory and antihyperalgesic effects of hydroalcoholic extract from leaves of S. marginata (EESM) in in vitro and in vivo models. Methods and Results: EESM (0.98{\textendash}1000 μg/ml) was evaluated in in vitro against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, M. bovis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis. The EESM oral administration (p.o.) (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg) and dexamethasone subcutaneous injection (s.c.) (1 mg/kg) were tested against the carrageenan-induced inflammatory paw edema and pleurisy in Swiss mice. The EESM (30 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) and dexamethasone (1 mg/kg, s.c.) were tested against the CFA-induced paw inflammation and M. bovis (bacillus Calmette-Guerin - BCG)-induced pleurisy in C57bL6 mice. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of EESM in the presence of M. tuberculosis was 62.4 μg/ml. The values of MIC of EESM in the presence S. epidermidis, K. pneumoniae were 1000 μg/mL while EESM did not interfere against P. aeruginosa growth. EESM significantly inhibited paw edema/mechanical hyperalgesia in carrageenan induced paw inflammation and leukocytes migration/proteins exudation in carrageenan-induced pleurisy model. In the BCGinduced pleurisy model, the daily treatment for 7 days, with EESM inhibited the levels of IL-1β in blood and in pleural exudate. The EESM did not alter the mycobacterial growth in the cell culture from pleural lavage, spleen and liver samples collected from BCG-treated animals. The EESM significantly inhibited the persistent edema and mechanical hyperalgesia induced by CFA. Conclusion: This study confirms the EESM anti-inflammatory property and showed that EESM has high potency in inducing inhibition of mycobaterial growth and low potency or no effects in relation to other microorganisms.

Key words: Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG), Cip{\'o}-timb{\'o}, Inflammation, Tuberculosis.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.18}, author = {Maicon Matos Leit{\~a}o and Joyce Alencar Santos Radai and Luis Fernando Benitez Macorini and Thiago Leite Fraga and Silvia Cristina Heredia-Viira and Claudia Andrea Lima Cardoso and Arielle Cristina Arena and Candida Aparecida Leite Kassuya} } @article {1062, title = {Studies on Wound Healing Potential of Polyherbal Formulation using in vitro and in vivo Assays in Swiss Albino Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {263-268}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {263}, abstract = {

Background and Aim: Individual herbs, according to Ayurveda, are insufficient to provide the intended medicinal effect. When it is adjusted as a multiple herb composition in a certain ratio, it provides a greater medicinal impact with less toxicity. This investigation is an attempt to evaluate wound healing activity of poly herbal formulation along with in-vitro and in-vivo pharmacological activity on Swiss albino rats. Experimental Procedure: Full skin defects were made in the dorsal region of rats in order to examine wound healing. The activity of the polyherbal formulation was carried out by in-vitro (hydroxyproline, collagen and hexosamine) and in-vivo (excision and burn) assays along with histopathological study. Silver sulfadiazine was used as standard drug for the experimental work of this project while ketamine hydrochloride (20mg/kg intramuscular) was used as anesthize agent. The use of 2 μg/ml and 4 μg/ml formulations resulted in substantial mobilization of keratinocytes and fibroblasts at the injury site, respectively. In case of in vitro activity, effect of polyherbal formulation on biochemical measures such as hydroxyproline, collagen and hexosamine turnover were enhanced compared with untreated group. Results: Polyherbal formulation containing herbal extract was applied on wound area on day 0, 3rd, 6th, and 9th and was found to be more significant. Burn wound area on last day was observed 26.30 {\textpm} 0.5 while surgically produced wound area was 13.666{\textpm} 0.8. Conclusion: Finally, on the basis of above results, we can conclude that polyherbal formulation may be a breakthrough for the treatment of wound healing in future.

}, keywords = {Burn wound, Epithelization, Excised wound, Hexosamine, Scar formation, Wound healing}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.38}, author = {Vikas Jogpal and Tinku and Mohit Sanduja and Ved Prakash} } @article {1055, title = {Tinospora cordifolia Stem Extract-mediated Green Synthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles and its Biological Applications}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {July 2022}, pages = {289-296}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {289}, abstract = {

Background: According to a literature review Tinospora cordifolia possess alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, and steroids with anti-cancer potential. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence on the green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles from the stem of T. cordifolia and its biological activities. Objectives: This study is intended to synthesize Selenium Nanoparticles using T. cordifolia stem extract, characterise them, and evaluate them in-vitro for antioxidant and anticancer activity. Materials and Methods: The T. cordifolia Selenium Nanoparticles (TC-SeNPs) were synthesised by reducing selenious acid with T. cordifolia stem extract. TC-SeNPs were characterized by UV{\textendash}Vis, FTIR, XRD, FE-SEM, EDAX and ICP-AES, further evaluated for in-vitro antioxidant activity by DPPH free radical scavenging test and reducing power capacity. The MTT assay of TC-SeNP was carried out in-vitro in the human breast cancer cells line (MCF-7) to determine the anticancer activity. Results: The UV-spectroscopy of TC-SeNPs showed maximum absorbance at 285 nm, which is the characteristic feature of SeNP. According to DLS, SEM, and TEM images, the size of TC-SeNPs was between 100-200 nm and was stable with a Zeta potential of -23.9mV. XRD analysis confirmed the crystallinity of TC-SeNPs. Selenium in TC-SeNP was verified in EDAX analysis (63.36\% weight) and ICP-AES 68.08 {\textpm}12.2 μg/ml selenium content. The IC50 value 28.62 {\textpm} 0.63 μg/mL and EC50 (62.50 {\textpm} 1.21 μg/mL) values indicated that the TC-SeNPs possess significant antioxidant capacity. MTT assay showed TC-SeNPs were cytotoxic to MCF-7 cell with IC50 values (31.29 {\textpm} 0.22μg/mL), suggesting that TC-SeNPs display moderate cytotoxicity that could dose-dependently inhibit cell proliferation. Conclusion: Thus, experimental evidence provides insight into the successful synthesis of the selenium nanoparticle from the stem of T. cordifolia, its potential therapeutic value, and the prospect of developing an anti-cancer TC-SeNPs formulation.

}, keywords = {anticancer, Antioxidant, Green synthesis, Phytonanoparticles, Selenium nanoparticles, Tinospora cordifolia}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.3.42}, author = {Abhijeet Puri and Swati Patil} } @article {1024, title = {Traditional and Herbal Medicines: Opportunities and Challenges}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {April 2022}, pages = {107-114}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {107}, abstract = {

Background: Since ancient times natural herbs were extensively used for the treatment and prevention of various ailments and in past few decades, due to an extensive research in traditional system of medicine various herbal medicines have been developed for the prevention and treatment of diseases, which are environmentally, organically safe and inexpensive. Indian sub-continent has a good capability to tackle the task of meeting the worldwide demand for such products due to its rich wealth in case of herbal medicine. Historically, Indian people conventionally played a vital role in the development and management of these biological sources and also preserve their pertinent data that were accumulated via trial and error over centuries. Objectives: Due to tremendous global resurgence in traditional and alternative healthcare systems, the market for herbal medicines has grown at an impressive rate and therefore has great economic importance. However, the primary barriers to the expansion of herbal medicine include biodiversity loss, over-exploitation and improper use of medicinal plants, industrialization, biopiracy, and a lack of regulation and infrastructure. For the expansion of herbal medicine usage in the twenty-first century, conservation, proper research based on traditional knowledge, quality control of herbal medicine, and correct documentation are required. Methods: The desired and encouraging testifying items for systematically evaluated reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) standards were opted. A literature exploration was accomplished utilizing SCIENCE DIRECT, SCOPUS and GOOGLE SCHOLAR to locate articles for the present scenario about traditional and herbal medicines. Conclusion: The availability and type of conventional medicine safety and effectiveness data are far from sufficient to fulfil the requirements required to support its use globally. This review paper examines the restrictions and issues associated with conservation, science and technology, regulatory constraints, potential usage of herbal medicines, the drug production industry, safety and efficacy, and the prospects for traditional remedies on a nationally and internationally scale.

Key words: Traditional medicines, Herbal medicines, Healthcare system, Regulatory constraints, Traditional Knowledge, Quality control.

}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.2.15}, author = {Sachin Saggar and Prince Ahad Mir and Nishant Kumar and Apporva Chawla and Jasreen Uppal and Shilpa and Anmoldeep Kaur} } @article {1012, title = {Virtual Screening of Fargesin Analogs as Candidates as Inhibitors of Aedes aegypti Sterol Carrier Protein}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, month = {December 2021}, pages = {12-18}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {12}, abstract = {

Background: Fargesin is a natural product that was identified by our group in previous work as a potent ligand of the sterol-binding protein-2 (SCP-2) of Aedes aegypti, the mosquito that which causes the propagation of diseases such as zika, dengue, Chikungunya, and yellow fever. Objectives: propose structural analogs synthetically accessible to be evaluated by molecular docking, preserving the fargesin privileged group{\textquoteright}s benzodioxol and methoxybenzene, with different spacer groups. Materials and Methods: Structures were obtained in PubChem{\textregistered} and SciFinder{\textregistered} databases, in .sdf format. Chemical structures were converted to pdbqt format by the OpenBabel GUI{\textregistered} program. Macromolecular target SCP-2 (PDB ID: 1PZ4) was extracted from the RSCB-PDB{\textregistered} platform, and molecular docking was performed using the Autodock vina program. The target binding site was defined based on the crystallographic ligand (palmitic acid), with grid box dimensions 16x12x18 {\r A}. Results: The database built had 1231 molecules, with molecules that had binding energy lower than -6.9 Kcal/mol considered valid results. Thus, of the 447 molecules that were most favorable, the best results were for the compounds: 188 (-12.6 Kcal/mol), 350 (-12.6 Kcal/mol), 351 (-12.3 Kcal/mol), 773 (-12.3 Kcal/mol) and 831 (-12.1 Kcal/mol). Conclusion: The results of this paper showed that isoflavonoids synthetically acessible are promising candidates for larvicidal agents, which corroborates with other published data from our research group and encourages experimental investigations.

}, keywords = {Aedes aegypti, Fargesin, Isoflavonoids, Molecular docking, Synthetic Analogs.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.14.1.3}, url = {https://phcogres.com/fulltext/v14i1/105530pres1413.html}, author = {Sammya Yasmin EM De Lima and Anderson Roberto Nery Da Silva and C{\'\i}ntia Emi Yanaguibashi Leal and Edilson B De Alencar Filho} } @article {86, title = {Amentoflavone, New Hope against SARS-CoV-2: An Outlook through its Scientific Records and an in silico Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {June 2021}, pages = {149-157}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {149}, abstract = {

Background: The plant-derived bioflavonoid amentoflavone has many important biological activities, among them remarkable antiviral effects, even against severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV). It inhibits severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) with an IC50 value of 8.3 μM. TMPRSS-2 activity is now thought to be the only factor necessary for cell entry and viral pathogenesis). In comparison, 3CLPRO is needed for COVID-19 replication and maturation during its life cycle. Aim: This study aims to perform an in silico study on amentoflavone activity against structural and non-structural severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLPRO) and human transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS-2) proteins. Materials and Methods: Molecular docking studies were carried out using compounds against 3CLPRO and TMPRSS-2 proteins through the Swiss model, Uniport, PROCHECK, Swiss PDB viewer, PyMol, PyRx, and Desmond (Schr{\"o}dinger package) computerized software. Results: Amentoflavone showed strong interactions -9.5 and -7.4 kcal/mol with 3CLPRO and TMPRSS2 proteins, respectively. In any case, it had higher binding affinities than currently approved antiviral drugs, which are underutilized in coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Conclusion: Amentoflavone may be one of the potential leads (drug candidate) to fight human coronavirus, including SARS-CoV-2. Further in vivo studies are needed to support the findings of this study.

}, keywords = {3CLPRO, Amentoflavone, Antiviral potential, COVID-19, Molecular docking, Phenolic compounds, SARS-CoV-2, TMPRSS-2}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.3.7}, author = {Rajib Hossain and Muhammad Torequl Islam and Pranta Ray and Divya Jain and Abu Saim Mohammad Saikat and Lutfun Nahar and Anupam Das Talukdar and Satyajit Sarker and Seyed Abdulmajid Ayatollahi and Miquel Martorell and Farzad Kobarfard and Nat{\'a}lia Cruz-Martins and Khattab Al-Khafaji and Anca Oana Docea and Daniela Calina} } @article {126, title = {Antiarthritic and Antinociceptive Potential of Ethanolic Extract from Leaves of Doliocarpus dentatus (Aubl.) Standl. in Mouse Model}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {April 2021}, pages = {28-33}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {28}, abstract = {

Objectives:\ The folk use of\ Doliocarpus dentatus\ for pain and inflammatory conditions led our group to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and antiarthritic effects of its ethanol extract from the leaves (EEDd) on mouse models.\ Results:\ Oral treatments with EEDd (100{\textendash}300 mg/kg) significantly inhibited the formalin-induced nociceptive and cold sensitivity, prevented acetic acid-induced nociceptive behavior, and prevented articular inflammation (including knee edema, leukocyte infiltration, and mechanical hyperalgesia) induced by zymosan. In the peritonitis model, betulinic acid (BA, 0.3{\textendash}30 mg/kg) and EEDd (300 mg/kg) significantly inhibited zymosan-induced leukocyte infiltration. In the complete Freund adjuvant (CFA) model, oral treatments with EEDd (100{\textendash}300 mg/kg) for 21 days significantly inhibited mechanical hyperalgesia, cold response, and edema. In the MTT viability assay, EEDd (3{\textendash}90 μg/mL) did not induce leukocytes cytotoxicity. cytotoxicity. Most models employed male and female\ Swiss\ mice or, for the CFA test, C57BL/6 mice.\ Conclusion:\ This study demonstrates that EEDd exhibited antinociceptive, antihyperalgesic, and antiarthritic potential in mice and BA contribute for the EEDd observed activities.

}, keywords = {Arthritis, Articular inflammation, Betulinic acid, Doliocarpus dentatus, Pain}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_79_20}, author = {Lidiane Schultz Branquinho and Maria Helena Verdan and Saulo Euclides Silva-Filho and Rodrigo Juliano Oliveira and Claudia Andrea Lima Cardoso and Arielle Cristina Arena and Candida Aparecida Leite Kassuya} } @article {988, title = {Antibacterial Assay of the Whole Plant Ethanolic Extract of Amaranthus viridis, Aerva sanguinolenta and Cynodon dactylon against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophillus {\textendash} An in vitro Microbiological Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {257-264}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {257}, abstract = {

Background: Dental caries, a multifactorial, microbial disease of calcified portion of tooth, can be controlled by controlling the microbial factor either by synthetically derived or naturally derived antibacterial components. Aim: Antibacterial assay of three whole plant ethanolic extracts against two cariogenic bacteria to find out a plant extract which could be used as therapeutically effective method of controlling dental caries by controlling its microbial factor. Materials and Methods: Antimicrobial activity of 1000 μg/ml, 750 μg/ml, 500 μg/ml and 250 μg /ml concentration of Amaranthus viridis (A1), Aerva sanguinolanta (A2), Cynodon dactylon (A3) ethanolic whole plant extracts were measured by agar disc diffusion and broth microdilution method against Streptococcus mutans, and Lactobacillus acidophilus, 5\% DMSO (negative control) and 30\% Vancomycin (positive control). Result: The 1000 μg/ml (100\%), ethanolic extracts of (A2) showed greatest inhibition zone (mean-11.860 mm) against Streptococcus mutans and (mean= 9.730 mm) against Lactobacillus acidophillus which were more than negative control but less than positive control. (A2) exhibited the lowest MIC of 0.02050 μg/ml and 0.02050 μg/ml against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophillus respectively. Conclusion: Aerva sanguinolenta whole plant ethanolic extract can be used to inhibit growth of cariogenic bacteria, thereby can be used for controlling microbial factor of dental caries in human being.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial assay, Cariogenic bacteria, Plant extracts}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.19}, author = {Shabnam Zahir and Tamal Kanti Pal and Abhijit Sengupta and Shibendu Biswas and Shyamal Bar and Rehana Parveen} } @article {79, title = {Anticoagulant Activity of Crude and Phenolic Extracts of Dalbergia ecastaphyllum (L.) Taub. Dried Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {June 2021}, pages = {121-128}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {121}, abstract = {

Background: Ischemic diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide; therefore, the search for new compounds with safer and more effective anticoagulant and antiplatelet action becomes relevant. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of Dalbergia ecastaphyllum (L.) Taub. dry leaf extract, a species of the Fabaceae family that is commonly found in Brazil, on blood coagulation. Materials and Methods: A statistical design of experiments was carried out with selection of five factors and two levels, resulting in 32 different ethanolic raw extracts. The extracts were resuspended in saline and tested in a pool of human blood. The activated partially thromboplastin time (APTT) and the prothrombin time (PT) were analysed in a Thrombolyzer{\textregistered}. Results: Treatment using ethanol 70\%, a drug/solvent ratio of 5\%, pH 9 and dynamic maceration for 6 hrs resulted in the best combination for the extraction of total phenols, while ethanol 70\%, a drug/solvent ratio of 5\% and dynamic maceration for 24 hrs showed the best flavonoid extraction, with the pH being inconclusive. On average, all extracts were capable of increasing both APTT and PT, especially those in lower dilutions (1:5); however, the overall efficacy of the extracts is inconclusive. Conclusion: The species under study showed important results in the blood clotting process in vitro, increasing the mean time of APTT and PT, which suggests that Dalbergia ecastaphyllum (L.) Taub. has some potential as a possible drug in the anticoagulant class.

}, keywords = {Anticoagulant activity, Dalbergia ecastaphyllum (L.) Taub., Flavonoids, Phenolic compounds, Plant extracts}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.3.3}, author = {Enrico Rogatto Rovetta and Mara Angelina Galv{\~a}o Magenta and Tha{\'\i}s Moura Gascon and Fernando Luiz Affonso Fonseca and Robson Miranda da Gama and Jos{\'e} Armando Jr and Hor{\'a}cio Dorigan Moya} } @article {978, title = {Antimicrobial Evaluation of Piper betel Leaves and Lime Based Hand Sanitizer}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {265-267}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {265}, abstract = {

Background: The needs of hand sanitizer increase significantly during the COVID-19 outbreak. Objectives: In this study, we prepared Piper betel and lime based hand sanitizer with a simple maceration technique. Materials and Methods: After soaking Piper betel in the hot water for 24 h, the water was collected and lime juice was added into the mixture to prepare samples with concentrations of 20, 40, 60 and 80\%. Results: The anti-bacterial activity test showed that sample of 60\% exhibited the best result among other samples with pH of 4.1. Conclusion: From this study, the sample of 60\% was promising to be developed as hand sanitizer.

}, keywords = {Anti-bacterial, Hand sanitizer, Lime juice, Maceration, Piper betel}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.20}, author = {Henny Rochaeni and Hanafi and Rachmawati Dwi Estuningsih and Muhammad Ichsan Farizi and Annisa Nurafifah and Singgih Wibowo} } @article {666, title = {Corrected and Republished: Comparative Botanical and Phytochemical Studies of Ambiguous Medicinal Plant Species of Wedelia and Eclipta (Fam. Asteraceae) Used in ASU Systems of Medicine with Special Reference to in-silico Screening of Hepatoprotective Pote}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {April 2021}, pages = {54-67}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {54}, abstract = {

Post the publication, as there were multiple corrections that were missed earlier, the article is being corrected and republished.

Comparative Botanical and Phytochemical Studies of Ambiguous Medicinal Plant Species of\ Wedelia\ and Eclipta (Fam. Asteraceae) Used in ASU Systems of Medicine with Special Reference to\ in-silico\ Screening of Hepatoprotective Potential of Marker Wedelolactone with Acetaminophen Targets.\ 

Context:\ In traditional medicine,\ Kesaraja\ (Ayurveda) or\ Manjal karisali\ (Siddha) is effective for jaundice.\ Aim:\ Three species of Asteraceae need to be studied for their therapeutic superiority of their intended claim. They are\ Wedelia chinensis\ (Osbeck) Merr. Philipp J.,\ Wedelia trilobata\ (L.) Hitchc. and\ Eclipta prostrata\ (L.) L. (Asteraceae). The present study aimed to screen and characterize the potential species for therapeutic purpose.\ Materials and Methods:\ The whole plants,\ W. chinensis\ (Osbeck) Merr.\ W. trilobata\ (L.) Hitchc. and\ E. prostrata\ (L.) (Asteraceae) were collected and botanically identified. Preliminary phytochemical analysis and high-performance thin-layer chromatography finger printing with marker wedelolactone were done for the ethanolic extracts of these plants. Botanical and pharmacognostical diagnostic characters of the plants based on macro-morphological, micro-morphological and powder microscopical characterization were worked out. Comparative\ in-vitro\ antioxidant potential of ethanolic extracts of these plant species was carried out. Using ADMET SAR software, the pharmacokinetics of wedelolactone were predicted. Using Autodock 4.2 software, the binding energy of wedelolactone on targets of acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity namely PPAR-α, AMPK, JNK-1, EGFR, Nrf2, ALT, ALP, GGT, CAR, Frizzled receptor, FXR, ERK1, LXR, mitochondrial glutamate dehydrogenase, p53, mTOR C1, CYP1A2, CYP2E1, 5-lipoxygenase, thrombin, UCP1, GSK1, RXR and PXR was predicted.\ Results:\ All the three plant species were pharmacognostically and chemically different.\ W. chinensis\ was found to possess more antioxidant potential than the other two plants. The marker compound wedelolactone was not detected in\ W. trilobata.\ Wedelolactone passed the Lipinski{\textquoteright}s rule of five, and the docking analysis of wedelolactone confirmed high binding affinity toward PPAR-α, AMPK, Nrf2, CYP2E1, EGFR, JNK1, UCP-2, thrombin, 5-lipoxygenase, mTORC1, RXR, FXR, LXR, Frizzled receptor, GDH and Erk-1.\ Conclusion:\ Based on the above observations, we conclude that the presence of marker compound wedelolactone might have attributed the potency of\ W. chinensis\ and\ E. prostrata\ in counteracting acetaminophen toxicity when compared with\ W. trilobata.

}, keywords = {Binding energy, botanical standardization, chromatographic fingerprinting, Docking, Hepatoprotective, in silico prediction, Lipinski{\textquoteright}s rule, Siddha, Therapeutic superiority, Wedelolactone}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_11_21}, author = {C. Arunachalam and R. Arunadevi and S. Murugamma and N. Monika and R. Susila and K. N. Sunil Kumar} } @article {853, title = {Cytotoxic Essential Oil from Annona sengalensis Pers. Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2021}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {211-214}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {211}, abstract = {

The cytotoxicity against brine shrimp of the essential oil obtained from the leaves of Annona senegalensis Pers. (Annonaceae) was studied. The confirmation of this toxicity has been done by using selected tumor cell lines (A549, HT29, MCF 7, RPMI, and U251). The results showed that the total oil and its fractions have showed mild to moderate cytotoxicity in brine shrimp lethality bioassay with LC50 = 27.3 μg/ml, and against some human tumor cell lines. The total oil and its fractions were analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC/MS). Seventy three compounds were identified.

}, keywords = {Annona senegalensis, Brine shrimp, cytotoxicity, Essential oil, GC/MS}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69105}, author = {A L Ahmed, and S E M Bassemx and Y H Mohamed and MW Gamila} } @article {1002, title = {Effects of Extraction Solvents on Phytochemical Screening, Cytotoxicity and Anti-Obesity Activities of Selected Sri Lankan Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {246-256}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {246}, abstract = {

Background: Phytoconstituents are known to have an arena of health benefits. The choice of extraction solvents for a desired pharmacological activity is poorly characterized. Objectives: The present study compared the use of different solvents to extract phytoconstituents, evaluate cytotoxicity and anti-obesity activities. Materials and Methods: Leaves, bark, flowers or tubers of fourteen commonly utilized plants in the Sri Lankan Ayurvedic system were used to prepare extracts of distilled water (DW), ethanol or n-hexane. Phytochemical screening, total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC), cytotoxicity and triglyceride assays were performed. Results: DW served as the best solvent to extract the highest yield of phytochemicals followed by ethanol marking hexane as the least efficient solvent. The water extract (WE) of Averrhoa bilimbi leaves and ethanol extract (EE) of Cassia auriculata showed the highest TPC. The TFC was lowest in the hexane extract (HE) of all plants. The WE of plants showed >=75\% cell viability below 500 μg/mL with no potential anti-adipogenic activity. The EE of Justicia adhathoda showed maximum lipid inhibition (88.31\%), followed by Aerva lanata (74.65\%), and Cyperus rotundus (74.04\%) at 100 μg/mL. The EE of Ipomoea aquatica (45.11\%), Murrya koenigii (41.04\%), and Hemidesmus indicus (32.97\%) showed the highest viable anti-adiposity activity at 50 μg/mL. Conclusion: The WE of most plants provided a greater yield of phytoconstituents enabling their safe usage in higher doses during Ayurvedic medication. Ethanol served as a better solvent to extract constituents responsible for anti-adipogenesis and no possible correlation was found between the phenolic content and anti-adiposity.

}, keywords = {3T3-L1, Anti-adipogenesis, Ayurveda, cytotoxicity, Medicinal plants, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.18}, author = {Silva Waruni Randika and Nugara Ruwani Nilushi and Manage Pathmalal and Undugoda Lanka and Udayanga Dhanushka and Liyanage Renuka Nilmini and Galhena Prasanna} } @article {83, title = {Embryotoxicity of Yangambin Isolated from Ocotea duckei Vattimo-Gil in Gallus gallus domesticus Embryos}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {June 2021}, pages = {135-139}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {135}, abstract = {

Introduction: Yangambin, a lignan predominant in the leaves of Ocotea duckei Vattimo-Gil, has several biological activities, such as anti-convulsant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and leishmanicidal. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the embryotoxicity of yangambin on the neurodevelopment of Gallus gallus domesticus embryos. Materials and Methods: 120 fertilized eggs were divided in three groups: G1 (PBS with 0.1 \% Tween 80), G2 (50 μg/ml yangambin) and G3 (65 μg/ml yangambin) and each egg was inoculated with 100 μL of the respective solutions. The fertilized eggs were incubated at a temperature of 37.5{\textdegree}C, with a relative humidity of 65\% to 75\%, for 48 hr and then their embryos were histologically processed. Results: In staging, carried out according to Hamburger and Hamilton (1951), variations of stages were identified. In all groups, the morphological analysis revealed the closure of the anterior neuropore and absence of malformations in the optic vesicles and in the secondary encephalic vesicles. In the caudal region, a standard development of the neural tube was observed, with well-segmented somites and regression of the primitive line. The cross sections showed that the internal structure of the somite{\textquoteright}s, composed of dermatome, myotome and sclerotome, was preserved. The statistical analysis did not show significant differences between the groups regarding the morphometry of the cephalic and caudal regions of the neural tube. Conclusion: Yangambin did not show embryotoxic effects on the neurodevelopment of Gallus gallus domesticus embryos, under the tested conditions.

}, keywords = {Chicken embryo, Lauraceae, Lignan, Neurodevelopment, Secondary metabolites}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.3.5}, author = {Thiago Felix da Silva and Maria Isabel de Assis Lima Castro and Marta Gerusa Soares de Lucena and Camilla Vila Nova Soares Silva and Laisla Rangel Peixoto and Eliane Alves Bandeira de Carvalho and Silvania Tavares Paz and Beathryz Lethycya Almeida Guimar{\~a}es and Jos{\'e} Maria Barbosa Filho and Eliete Cavalcanti da Silva} } @article {668, title = {Erratum: Comparative Botanical and Phytochemical Studies of Ambiguous Medicinal Plant Species of Wedelia and Eclipta (Fam. Asteraceae) Used in ASU Systems of Medicine}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {April 2021}, pages = {68}, type = {Erratum}, chapter = {68}, abstract = {

In the article titled {\textquotedblleft}Comparative Botanical and Phytochemical Studies of Ambiguous Medicinal Plant Species of\ Wedelia\ and\ Eclipta\ (Fam. Asteraceae) Used in ASU Systems of Medicine with Special Reference to\ in-silico\ Screening of Hepatoprotective Potential of Marker Wedelolactone with Acetaminophen Targets{\textquotedblright}, published in pages 285-298, Issue 3, Volume 12 of Pharmacognosy Research,\ there were multiple corrections to be incorporated in the article, post publication, which were missed earlier.

Thus, the article is being rectified and republished with all the corrections in an upcoming issue of the journal.

} } @article {1004, title = {Estrogenic Effect of Asparagus racemosus, Cissus quadrangularis, Punica granatum and Pueraria tuberosa in Post-menopausal Syndrome}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {238-245}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {238}, abstract = {

Background: Asparagus racemosus, Cissus quadrangularis, Punica granatum and Pueraria tuberosa are employed for their supposed properties in treatment in alleviating symptoms of menopause traditionally from ages. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the estrogenic effect of Asparagus racemosus, Cissus quadrangularis, Punica granatum and Pueraria tuberosa in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Materials and Methods: Female wistar rats were divided into sham control and ovariectomized (OVX), OVX rats receiving standard drug, raloxifene (5.4 mg/kg) and groups treated with 500 mg/kg and 700 mg/kg of test drug (containing equal quantity of Asparagus racemosus, Pueraria tuberose, Cissus quadrangularis and Punica granatum extracts) daily for 90 days. The vaginal cornification, uterine weight, bone loss, biomechanical, biochemical and histopathological observation were carried out to ascertain the effect of test drug in post-menopausal syndrome. Results: The experimental animals treated with mixture of extract of four drugs showed dose dependent activity. The significant increase in uterine weight, femur BMD, femur hardness, was observed. In addition, increased levels of calcium and phosphorus in serum and significant decreased in urine were observed as compared to control OVX group. The histopathological results also confirm the protective effect of extracts. Conclusion: The present findings strongly suggest that Asparagus racemosus, Cissus quadrangularis, Punica granatum and Pueraria tuberosa possess the potent estrogenic activity in ovariectomized rats and substantiate the ethnic use in treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

}, keywords = {Biochemical, Estrogenic, Histopathological, Menopause, Ovariectomized (OVX) rats, Post menopausal syndrome}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.17}, author = {Seema Singh and Santosh Kumar and Sunita Singh and Chetna Mishra and Dinesh Tripathi and S K Verma} } @article {111, title = {Evaluation of Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antipyretic Activity of Piperine: An Experimental Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2021}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {176-180}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {176}, abstract = {

Background: Narcotics (e.g., opioids) or non-narcotics (e.g., salicylates and corticosteroids) are used in the management of pain and inflammation, both of which have side effects, thereby emphasizing the search for natural substances. Piperine found naturally in plants of the Piperaceae family has shown inhibitory activity against 5-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase-1 in in vitro studies. Objectives: To evaluate the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activity of piperine in comparison to aspirin. Materials and Methods: Albino Wistar rats of either sex weighing 180{\textendash}200 g and Swiss mice weighing 25{\textendash}30 g were used. The tail-flick method and hot plate method in rats and acetic acid-induced writhing method in mice were used for the evaluation of analgesic activity. The carrageenan-induced paw edema method, cotton pellet-induced granuloma method, and formalin-induced arthritis method were used for the evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity. Baker{\textquoteright}s yeast-induced pyrexia model was used to evaluate antipyretic activity. Results: Piperine showed significant analgesic effect of 40\%{\textendash}55\% in tail-flick method, 58\% in hot plate method, and 54\% in acetic acid-induced writhing model, when compared to negative controls. The percentage inhibition of inflammation, in comparison to controls, was significant at 56\% for carrageenan-induced paw edema model and 40\% for formalin-induced arthritis model. In the cotton pellet-induced granuloma model, however, it was only 10\%. In the yeast model of pyrexia, piperine significantly reduced rectal temperature at 4 h. However, aspirin had better effect than piperine in all these models. Conclusion: Piperine exhibits significant analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activity though not comparable to aspirin.

}, keywords = {Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Antipyretic, Black pepper, Piper nigrum, Piperine}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_94_19}, author = {Nikhil Dhargawe and Sunil Mahakalkar and Bhagyashree Mohod and Jeffrey Pradeep Raj} } @article {179, title = {Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Gastric Antiulcerogenic Activities of the Hydroalcoholic Extract and Leaf Fractions of Solanum stipulaceum Roem. and Schult.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2021}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {328-335}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {328}, abstract = {

Background: An earlier ethnobotanical study showed that the species Solanum stipulaceum was indicated first in many orders for the treatment of gastric ulcers. Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate phytochemical profile and the antioxidant, antiulcerogenic, protective redox, and cytotoxicity activities of the hydroethanol extract (HEE) and leaf fractions of this plant. Materials and Methods: The HEE was obtained by maceration and fractionated by liquid{\textendash}liquid extraction in fractions: hexane fraction, chloroform fraction (CF), ethyl acetate fraction (EAF), and hydromethanol fraction (HMF). Phytochemical profile was evaluated by colorimetric methods. Antioxidant activity was measured by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The cellular toxicity was evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. In vivo antiulcerogenic activity was investigated using the ethanol-induced acute ulcer model. Afterward, protective redox activity was assessed with the plasma and liver of these animals using the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assay. Results: Tannins, free steroids, triterpenes, alkaloids, and flavonoids were found in HEE, and total flavonoid measured was 5.26 {\textpm} 0.23 μg/mg of the extract. The DPPH activity was higher than 70\% for HEE, EAF, and CF. Treatment with HEE (200 and 400 mg/kg) and CF, EAF, and HMF (200 mg/kg) inhibited the ulcer. CF reduces gastric lesions by 88.29\% (50 mg/kg) and 85.65\% (100 mg/kg). The HEE (400 mg/kg), CF, and EAF (200 mg/kg) reduced oxidative stress in the plasma and in the liver. HMF (200 mg/kg) reduced oxidative stress only in the liver. The HEE and fractions 10{\textendash}50 μg/mL (P \< 0.05) were nontoxic, maintaining cell viability at 65\%. Conclusion: The extract and fractions have antioxidant activity in vitro and ex vivo, antiulcerogenic effect in vivo, and low cytotoxicity up to 50 μg/mL.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Antiulcerogenic activity, cytotoxicity, Phytochemical screening, Solanum stipulaceum, Total flavonoid}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_2_20}, author = {Cirlane Alves Araujo de Lima and Daniela Feitosa de Oliveira and Andressa da Silva and Robson Silva de Lima and Jymmys Lopes dos Santos and Ant{\^o}nio Santos Dias and Andr{\'e} Luiz Lima Menezes dos Santos and Jamylle Nunes de Souza Ferro and Andrea Yu Kwan Villar Shan and Brancilene Santos de Araujo and Emiliano de Oliveira Barreto and Maria Silene da Silva and Josemar Sena Batista and Sara Maria Thomazzi and Sonia Piacente and Cosimo Pizza and Charles dos Santos Estevam} } @article {53, title = {Foliar Epidermal Study on Selected Medicinal Plants Used in Homeopathy}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {May 2021}, pages = {75-81}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {75}, abstract = {

Background:\ Homeopathy is a complementary alternative medicine system which was introduced by Samuel Hahnemann in Europe in the last part of the eighteenth century. In homeopathy, drugs are obtained from various source materials such as plants, chemicals, minerals, and animals. However, plants are the major source and about 65\% of medicines homeopathic medicines obtained from plants (HPI Vol. I to XI). Authentication and identification of genuine drugs is major concern for manufacturing units/industries. The present study will help to add key parameters in the identification of drugs.\ Objective:\ The objective of this study is to characterize the foliar epidermal characteristics of selected plants used in homeopathy.\ Materials and Methods:\ The foliar epidermal studies of\ Aegle marmelos\ (L.) Corr{\^e}a,\ Bryophyllum calycinum\ Salisb.,\ Cannabis indica\ Lam.,\ Cephalandra indica\ (Wight and Arn.) Naudin,\ Eucalyptus globulus\ Labill.,\ Gaultheria procumbens\ L.,\ Gymnema sylvestre\ (Retz.) R. Br. ex Sm.,\ Justicia adhatoda\ L.,\ Nyctanthes arbor-tristis\ L., and\ Ricinus communis\ L.\ Results:\ The study showed various characteristic features such as presence or absence of hairs or trichomes, trichomes if present were uni to multicellular, types and size of stomata, stomatal index on dorsal and ventral sides, vein-islet per mm2, vein termination per mm2, and presence or absence of idioblasts, etc. All these features will help in the identification and characterization of medicinal plants.\ Conclusion:\ The study revealed that the diversity of foliar characters of the leaf was varying from plant to plant and this variation may be a valuable tool for the authentication and identification of drug.

}, keywords = {Foliar, Homeopathy, Stomata, Vein termination, Vein-islet}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_55_20}, author = {Shilpi Singh and Digvijay Verma} } @article {75, title = {Global Research Productivity on Calotropic sps. Over the Last Decade (2011-2020): A Bibliometric Evaluation}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {June 2021}, pages = {113-120}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {113}, abstract = {

Aim: In this study, we performed a bibliometric analysis focusing on the general patterns of scientific publications about Calotropis, bibliometric analysis of Calotropis research carried out globally from 2011 to 2020. Materials and Methods: The analysis is based on 6,584 research articles identified using the Scopus database tool, further Bibliometric tools such as Biblioshiny and VOSviewer have been used to perform bibliometric analysis and build data matrixes for co-citation, coupling, scientific collaboration analysis, and co-word analysis. Results: The results show that there is an increase in the number of articles, particularly from countries like India and China. Ramos, M{\'a}rcio Viana and Rahmatullah, Mohammed are identified as the most influential authors, and King Saud University, Saudi Arabia and Universidade Federal do Ceara, Brazil as key organisations. {\textquotedblleft}Methods for in vitro evaluating antimicrobial activity: A review{\textquotedblright} this paper total of 1679 citations are received. Total of 105 articles published during this period are highly cited. Journal of Ethnopharmacology and International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences are the important journals identified. The most common area of the research focus has been on the most common area of the research focus has been on the Agricultural and Biological Sciences, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics, Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology and Medicine. Findings: Our findings can act as a useful reference for researchers, and provide insights for directing future research on Calotropis that has potential implications for forming across the world.

}, keywords = {Bibliometric evaluation, Calotropis, International collaboration, Scopus database}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.3.2}, author = {Chaman Sab M and Mallikarjun Kappi and KK Mueen Ahmed} } @article {87, title = {Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles from Stem Bark Extract of Cordia dichotoma G. Forst and Evaluation of their Antioxidant and Antibacterial activities}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {June 2021}, pages = {158-164}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {158}, abstract = {

Background: There is a lack of scientific evidence for the fabrication of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using stem bark extract of medicinal plant Cordia dichotoma and its potential therapeutic applications. Objectives: In our present study we contemplated using Cordia dichotoma extract for fabricating AgNPs and to analyze their potential applications as antioxidant and biocidal agents. Materials and Methods: AgNPs were fabricated by bio reduction of silver nitrate solution with bark extract of Cordia dichotoma. The fabricated AgNPs were characterized using U.V visible, FT-IR, XRD, SEM, EDAX, particle size analyzer, and zeta potential. Further, evaluated for their potential antioxidant activity and compared with the crude extract of Cordia dichotoma and with standard ascorbic acid. The antibacterial activity was performed against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Results: The AgNPs were synthesized and UV spectra showed maximum absorbance at 430nm, which is the characteristic feature of AgNPs. The XRD peaks at (111), (220), and (311) indicate the existence of silver with a crystalline structure. The FT-IR spectra in the range of 1516 to 1634 cm-1 reflected the presence of phenol groups which acted as the capping agents for synthesized AgNPs. The SEM images confirmed the spherical structure of AgNPs that formed aggregates with phytochemicals and appeared as composites. The average size of AgNPs is 39.8nm and exhibited good stability as evident from the zeta potential value of -33. Conclusion: Phytomediated eco-friendly synthesized and structurally characterized AgNPs can act as antioxidants and exhibited antibacterial activity against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) pathogenic bacteria.

}, keywords = {Antibacterials, Antioxidants, Cordia dichotoma, Silver nanoparticles}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.3.8}, author = {Gone Swapna and Bhattiprolu Kesava Rao} } @article {57, title = {Herbs and Medications Used for Treatment and Prophylaxis of Influenza Infections Including H5N1, H1N1, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {May 2021}, pages = {96-103}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {96}, abstract = {

Background:\ Herbs are plants or plant parts used for their scent, flavor, or therapeutic properties. Herbal medicine is one type of dietary supplement that has been used for thousands of years for treatment or prophylaxis of many diseases including influenza virus infection. Although there are many previous studies about these issues, I did not find many research about using these herbs in treatment or prophylaxis of other influenza infections including H5N1, H1N1, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), and SARS-CoV-2.\ Objective:\ To collect, evaluate, and explore new important data about using medicinal herbs in these disorders{\textquoteright} treatment or prophylaxis.\ Materials and Methods:\ I collected and explored new results and data from 24 professional health-care givers who had an experience about using these herbs in treatment or prophylaxis of these diseases. Then, I evaluated descriptively and quantitatively the results with alpha significance level <=5\% by tests such as Chi-square one-sample and reliability and validity tests.\ Results:\ The study showed many significant results about using these herbs, through using descriptive tests including one-sample Chi-square test, like in SARS-CoV-2 treatment (n\ = 414) with mean = 2.5870 {\textpm} 0.06730 and\ P\ \< 0.05, while in SARS-CoV-2, prophylaxis (n\ = 275) with mean = 2.1164 {\textpm} 0.06271 and\ P\ \< 0.05.\ Conclusion:\ This study revealed that there are some particular herbs that can be used in the treatment and prophylaxis of these diseases as adjunctives to the main typical treatment regimen, not as a monotherapy. Furthermore, many studies should be conducted in this field.

}, keywords = {Dietary supplement, Echinacea, H1N1, H5N1, Infectious disorders, Medicinal herbs, SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_32_20}, author = {Sameh Monir Abdou Desouki} } @article {61, title = {High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis and Antioxidant Activities of Extract of Azadirachta indica (Neem) Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2021}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {29-34}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {29}, abstract = {

Background: Extracts from Azadirachta indica (A. indica) tend to provide numerous health benefits including antioxidant activity. The main objectives for this research were to use standard procedures to determine total phenols, total alkaloids, total flavonoid, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazine (DPPH)-scavenging activity, ferric reducing power, and total antioxidant capacity and analyze active components of the extracts using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Materials and Methods: In vitro antioxidant potential of the A. indica extract was evaluated using DPPH and total antioxidant ability assays. Ferric reducing power ability of the extract was also examined using tannic acid and ascorbic acid as standard. Concentrations of plant extracts ranging from 0.02 to 0.10 mg/ml were prepared and mixed with appropriate volumes of reagents. Results: Methanol extract of A. indica exhibited higher content of phytochemical compounds (alkaloid = 1.9 mg QE/g; flavonoids = 3.5 mg QE/g; and phenols = 4.9 mg QE/g) at concentration 0.1 mg/ml compared to the acetone/water extract (alkaloid = 1.7 mg QE/g; flavonoids = 1.4 mg QE/g; and phenols = 2.6 mg QE/g). An overall trend found in the present study highlights the fact that the methanol extracts have better antioxidant capacities (DPPH, total antioxidant ability, and ferric reducing antioxidant property) than the acetone/water extract. HPLC analysis conducted also reveals seven peaks for methanol extract and six for acetone{\textendash}water extract with different heights. Conclusion: HPLC analysis of A. indica extracts exhibited the presence of azadirachtin compound. The study showed that the extracts can competently protect the body against oxidative stress and therefore can be used as a source of potent natural antioxidant compounds.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Azadirachta indica, High-performance liquid chromatography analysis, Leaf extracts, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_14_19}, author = {Emmanuel Ekow Biney and Matthew Nkoom and Williams Kweku Darkwah and Joshua Buer Puplampu} } @article {291, title = {The Hydroalcoholic Extract of Matricaria chamomilla Suppresses Migration and Invasion of Human Breast Cancer MDA-MB-468 and MCF-7 Cell Lines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2021}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {87-95}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {87}, abstract = {

Background: Matricaria chamomilla is an aromatic plant with antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the inhibitory role of M. chamomilla on migration and invasion of human breast cancer cells remains unclear. gThis study investigated the methods to evaluate these anticancer mechanisms of M. chamomilla on human breast cancer MCF-7 and MDA-MB-468 cell lines. Materials and Methods: The cells were treated with hydroalcoholic extract of M. chamomilla at different concentrations (50{\textendash}1300 μg/mL) for 24, 48, and 72 h in a culture medium containing 10\% fetal bovine serum. This study quantified the 50\% growth inhibition concentrations (IC50) by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay; apoptosis and necrosis through Hoechst 33342/propidium iodide staining; cell proliferation and clone formation by clonogenic assay as well as cellular migration, invasion, and attachment. After 24, 48, and 72 h of treatment, the IC50 levels were 992 {\textpm} 2.3 μg/mL, 893 {\textpm} 5.4 μg/ mL, and 785 {\textpm} 4.8 μg/mL against MDA-MB-468, respectively, and 1288 {\textpm} 5.6 μg/mL, 926 {\textpm} 2.5 μg/mL, and 921 {\textpm} 3.5 μg/mL, against MCF-7, respectively. Furthermore, increasing the extract concentrations induced cellular apoptosis and necrosis and decreased cellular invasion or migration through 8 μm pores, colonization and attachment in a dose-dependent manner. Results: It indicated time- and dose-dependent anti-invasive and antimigrative or proliferative and antitoxic effects of hydroalcoholic extract of aerial parts of chamomile on breast cancer cells. Conclusion: This study demonstrated an effective plant in preventing or treating breast cancer.

}, keywords = {Apoptosis, Attachment, Breast cancer, Invasive, Migration}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199778}, author = {Mohsen Nikseresht, and Ali Mohammad Kamali and Hamid Reza Rahimi and Hamdollah Delaviz and Mehdi Akbartabar Toori and Iraj Ragerdi Kashani and Reza Mahmoudi} } @article {128, title = {Immunological, Biochemical, and Infant-Toddler Quality of Life Parameter-Based Study of Swarna Prashana (a Herbo-Mineral Ayurveda Preparation) in Infants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {April 2021}, pages = {34-41}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {34}, abstract = {

Background:\ Increasing rate of emergence of newer infection, resistance to antibiotics, reoccurrence of infections, and malnutrition have created a space for an effective and safe solution of above issues to mankind.\ Swana Prashana\ is a unique concept of Indian system of medicine for improving the generalized immunity consequently helping the child to resist and fight against various infection and diseases.\ Aims:\ Study was planned to evaluate the efficacy of Swarna Prashana and Swarna Vacha Prashana in infants.\ Materials and Methods:\ A randomized, controlled, single-blind clinical study was planned in healthy infants to study the effect of\ Swarna Prashana\ in anthropometry, hematological, biochemical, immunological, and infant-toddler quality of life (ITQOL) parameters in 3 differently categorized groups namely Group A: (n\ = 39,\ Ghrita and Madhu). Group B: (n\ = 42,\ Swarna Bhasma, Ghrita and Madhu) Group C: (n\ = 38,\ Swarna Bhasma, Ghrita, Madhu\ and\ Vacha Churna).\ Results:\ The present clinical study showed statistically highly significant (P\ \< 0.001) increase in all the anthropometrical measurements of infants all three groups. The drugs did not hamper normal growth of the infants and they did not have any additional effect on enhancing the anthropometrical values. Hematological and biological parameters did not show significant difference in comparison in all groups. The results of Renal function and liver function tests were in normal limits after completion of treatment and post treatment follow-up suggestive of safe to be administered in infants. Immunological parameters also did not show significant difference of comparison in all groups except in Group C where immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgM, albumin, globulin levels were increased. Group C significantly improved all the ITQOL parameters while on comparison significant difference was observed in improving the physical abilities only.\ Conclusion:\ Current study suggests\ Swarna Prashana\ as infants health promotive and morbidity preventive. Author advocates a large scale randomized double blind clinical trial for further validation of impact of\ Swarna Prashan\ as mass health-care initiative.

}, keywords = {Ayurveda, Immunomodulation, Swarnaprashan, Vyadhi kshamatva}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_69_20}, author = {Satyawati Rathia and Lowkesh Chandravanshi and Virendra Kumar Kori and Kalpana Patel and Prashant Kumar Gupta} } @article {120, title = {In vitro Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Properties of Dioecious Morus alba (Moraceae) Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research,}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {April 2021}, pages = {13-21}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {13}, abstract = {

Background:\ Diabetes mellitus, characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, is a serious metabolic disorder affecting large populations worldwide. Mulberry food and supplement products known for their antidiabetic and antioxidant properties are commonly used in Asian and other countries.\ Objectives:\ The present study investigated for the first time the antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of dioecious (male and female) mulberry (Morus alba, Moraceae) extracts from leaf and stem tissues collected in two different seasons.\ Materials and Methods:In vitro\ α-amylase, α-glucosidase, polyphenol content analyses, and free radical scavenging activities were performed.\ Results:\ All extracts showed higher inhibition of α-glucosidase than α-amylase in a dose-dependent manner. Fall female stem, fall male stem, and fall female leaf extracts exhibited the highest α-glucosidase inhibitory activities. Fall male and fall female leaf extracts showed the highest ferric reducing activity. 2,2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activities were more potent for all extracts compared to 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide (NO) scavenging activities. The highest DPPH and NO radical scavenging activities were induced by fall male leaf extracts. Spring extracts contained more phenolics and fall extracts more proanthocyanidins. Correlations between IC50\ values of extracts used\ in vitro\ antidiabetic and antioxidant activities and polyphenol chemical classes were both positive and negative. In general, male extracts were more potent in their antidiabetic and antioxidant activities than female extracts.\ Conclusion:\ Overall, results showed that growing season, sex and organ of mulberry trees influence antidiabetic and antioxidant properties of extracts, knowledge that could be used in formulating effective dietary supplements for treating diabetes, and oxidative stress-related diseases.

}, keywords = {Antidiabetic, Antioxidant, Dioecious, Flavonoids, Mulberry, Phenolics}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_103_20}, author = {Paramita Basu and Charitha Thallapareddy and Camelia Maier} } @article {89, title = {Induction of Triple-negative Breast Cancer Cells to Immunogenic Cell Death and Increase Cross-Presentation by Streptomyces sanyensis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {June 2021}, pages = {165-172}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {165}, abstract = {

Background: Biomass extract of Streptomyces sanyensis (BE-SS), which is a marine microorganism, has antitumor activity and has white-to-gray aerial mycelium and long chains of long spores in aerial mycelium. Objectives: The anti-cancer effect of BE-SS on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) was confirmed and cell death by BE-SS was confirmed to have immunogenicity and whether it could be used for immuno-cancer therapy. Materials and Methods: Human and mouse TNBC cells (MDA-MB-231, HS578T, 4T1-hemagglutinin (HA) and TUBO-P2J-HA cells) were treated with BE-SS at different concentrations for 72 hr and their cytotoxicity was detected using the sulforhodamine B-based (SRB) method. Flow cytometry was used to determine the type of cell death by Annexin V/7-AAD staining and to measure surface exposure to damage-related molecular pattern (DAMP) molecules including calreticulin (CRT), heat shock protein (HSP) 70/90. Carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) dilution assay was used to evaluate the immunogenicity of dead cells induced by BE-SS. Results: BE-SS reduced the viability of human (MDA-MB-231 and HS578T-cells) and mouse (4T1-HA and TUBO-P2J-HA cells) breast cancer cells. At 72 h, the IC50 of human and mouse breast cancer cells was 0.02-0.6 μg/ml and 0.005-0.37 μg/ml, respectively. BE-SStreated breast cancer cells were positively stained with Annexin V. Surface exposure to DAMP molecules increased in a dose-and time-dependent manner. CFSE dilution analysis showed that dendritic cells (DCs) fed with BE-SS treated breast cancer cells successfully stimulated tumor-specific T-cell proliferation without inhibiting DC function and T-cell proliferation. Conclusion: BE-SS can induce immunogenicity and apoptosis in breast cancer cells and may be a good adjuvant for TNBC immunotherapy.

}, keywords = {Apoptosis, Cross-presentation, DAMPs, Immunogenic cell death, Streptomyces sanyensis, TNBC}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.3.9}, author = {Xingguo Quan and Ji-Young Lee and Jin Hee Park and Md. Masudul Haque and Hee Yeon Kim and Ilhwan Kim and Anbok Lee and Il-Whan Choi and SaeGwang Park} } @article {954, title = {Influence of Sonication on the Phenolic Content and Antioxidant activity of Terminalia catappa L. leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2021}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {368-373}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {368}, abstract = {

Aim: This study was designed to evaluate the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of ethanolic extracts from T. catappa leaves obtained by different intervals of sonication. Methods: Three commonly used methods were followed to evaluate phenolic content and four in vitro methods like 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) radical scavenging assay, ferric reducing antioxidant potency (FRAP), and total antioxidant capacity assays for measuring the antioxidant activities. Antioxidant values of these assays were expressed in terms of milligrams vitamin C equivalent (VCE) antioxidant activities. Results: This study showed that extract obtained with 40 minutes of sonication possessed significant (P \< 0.05) polyphenolic contents compared to 20 and 60 minutes sonication and control (24 hour maceration). Moreover, sonication of T. catappa leaf above 40 minutes was found to be unsuitable for extracting out phenolic contents. Even the results of antioxidant assays showed that 40 minutes of the sonicated extract exhibited significant (P \< 0.05) VCE values compared to extracts obtained at different intervals of sonication and control. Conclusions: In sonication extraction method 40 minutes is an ideal time to obtain extract enriched with high polyphenolic content with good antioxidant activity from T. catappa leaves.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, DPPH, FRAP, Sonication, T. catappa, Vitamin C}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75457}, author = {HV Annegowda and LN Anwar and MN Mordix and MN Mordi and S Ramanathan and SM Mansor} } @article {993, title = {In-silico Molecular Docking Studies of some Isolated Phytochemicals from Biophytum veldkampii against Cyclooxygenase-II Enzyme and in vivo Anti-inflammatory Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {192-198}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {192}, abstract = {

Background: The current study estimate the anti-inflammatory activity of whole plant of Biophytum veldkampii on carageenan induced inflammation on rats compiled by molecular docking studies of phytocompounds from the plants with Cyclooxygenase II (PDB ID: 3LN1). Methods: In this research Biophytum veldkampii was subjected to extraction using methanol. In-vivo anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by using carageenan induced inflammation on rats and in-silico molecular docking studies was performed by using of Autodock 4.0. Results: The outcomes revealed that the methanolic extract has most prominenant anti-inflammatory activity at various doses. Among all the substances 2,6,3{\textquoteright},4{\textquoteright}-Tetrahydroxy-2-benzylcoumaranone revealed the most effective docking rating of -6.8, which is near to Diclofenac, i.e. - 6.9, ensuring that 2,6,3{\textquoteright},4{\textquoteright}-Tetrahydroxy-2-benzylcoumaranone has a strong binding fondness in between protein and ligand. Conclusion: From the results, a conclusion can be drawn that the anti-inflammatory activity of Biophytum veldkampii in both in vivo and in silico methods. This information sustains 2,6,3{\textquoteright},4{\textquoteright}-Tetrahydroxy-2-benzylcoumaranone to be a useful anti-inflammatory compound beneficial to future clinical studies.

}, keywords = {2, 3{\textquoteright}, 4{\textquoteright}-Tetrahydroxy-2 benzylcoumaranone, 6, Autodock4.0, Carageenan, Cyclooxygenase II, In-silico, Inflammation, Phytochemical}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.11}, author = {Nagaraju Bandaru and D.S.N.B.K Prasanth and A.Rajasekhar Reddy and G.S.N Koteswara Rao and Kumar V.S Nemmani and Alla Narayana Rao} } @article {998, title = {In-vitro studies of Bryophyllum pinnatum Crude Extract on Blood Coagulation Indices: An Investigation on its Traditional Medicine Use}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {268-273}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {268}, abstract = {

Background: Bryophyllum pinnatum extract is used by African natives to stop epistaxis [nose bleeding], postpartum bleeding as well as fresh wounds bleeding. Aim: This study was carried out in order to evaluate the coagulant effects and properties of crude B. pinnatum extract using in-vitro blood coagulation screening tests. Materials and Methods: Healthy volunteers were used for the study and the following tests were performed: prothrombin time (PT), Partial Thromboplastin Time with Kaolin (PTTK), Thrombin Time (TT), Euglobulin Lysis Time (ELT), bleeding time (BT) and whole blood coagulation time (WBCT). Blood samples were collected from adult male and female volunteers by trained phlebotomist from the thumb and venous puncture depending on the type of coagulation test. Results: B. pinnatum extract produced a profound decreased in PT, PTTK, TT and ELT times which were concentration dependent. Extract concentrations of 84 mg/ml produced a highly significant reductions (p\< 0.05) in PT, PTTK and TT with 1.68 {\textpm} 0.16, 7.1 {\textpm} 0.28, 1.06 {\textpm} 0.19 sec respectively. Whole blood coagulation time was decreased by 84mg/ml concentration but not significantly. Results also showed that bleeding time was significantly reduced by 84 mg/ml concentration of B. pinnatum extract. The effect on plasma showed that the extract had coagulant property without the addition of activating agent to the platelet-poor plasma. Conclusion: This investigation confirms the traditional use of this plant extract in the treatment of bleeding episodes, indicating that the extract has blood coagulant properties and therefore could potentially be used in fibrinogen abnormality, deficiency of factors XII, XI, IX, or VIII, heparin in blood.

}, keywords = {Bleeding, Blood, Bryophyllum pinnatum, Coagulation, Extract, Plasma}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.21}, author = {Promise Madu Emeka} } @article {658, title = {Isolation and Screening of Marine Actinobacteria for their Antimicrobial Compounds}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {April 2021}, pages = {49-53}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {49}, abstract = {

Objective:\ The objective of this study is to assess the antimicrobial activity of marine actinobacteria isolated from coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh, India.\ Materials and Methods:\ Using sterile techniques, soil samples were collected from Machilipatnam (MCP), Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Biochemical tests were performed to identify isolated actinobacteria. Antimicrobial activity of the isolated organisms was performed by the disk plate technique.\ Results:\ In this study, six mangrove soil samples were collected and performed culture-dependent methods to obtain marine actinobacteria. A total of five actinobacteria were isolated in which two exhibited antibacterial as well as antifungal activity. Among the five, MCP-2 isolate had shown promising antibacterial and antifungal activity.\ Conclusion:\ The findings of this investigation revealed that the coastal marine actinobacteria are an important source of novel antibiotics

}, keywords = {Actinobacterial screening, Antibacterial, antifungal activities, Machilipatnam, mangrove soil, novel isolates}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_31_20}, author = {Yagani Jayavardhana Rao and Golla Narasimha} } @article {56, title = {Isolation, Characterization, and Optimization of Protease-Producing Bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis from Paddy Field Soil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {May 2021}, pages = {89-95}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {89}, abstract = {

Background:\ The ubiquitous proteases that are commonly found in all living organisms play an important role in cell growth and cell differentiation. The bacterium\ Bacillus thuringiensis\ (Bt) produces delta-endotoxins that exhibit toxic properties against various insecticides and has demonstrated its potency and safety as a biopesticide agent for decades. The\ Bt\ protein includes vegetative, insecticidal, and crystal proteins that exhibit highly toxicants against immature insects (larvae).\ Objectives:\ The aim of this research was to use\ Bt\ as an alternative to chemical insecticides, and the source of\ Bt\ genes aids in the development of a resistant transgenic plant that improves not only productivity but also shift life.\ Materials and Methods:\ In the present study, bacterium\ Bt\ was isolated from various paddy files around the Hunsur region, Karnataka. The isolated bacteria show a potent protease activity on skim agar plates. Morphology, colony assay, and biochemical characterization were performed for the characteristic properties of bacteria. Further, 16S ribosomal RNA partial sequencing was carried out to identify the specific species of\ Bacillus.\ Results:\ Among nine samples from different paddy soils, three\ Bacillus\ isolates SAL-P1, SAL-P2, and SAL-P3 are the major dominant colonies which were streaked onto the fresh skim milk agar plates, out of which SAL-Pl shows an abundant growth and production of an enzyme at pH 7.0, 37{\textdegree}C, and 48 h, respectively. The study also shows the optimum condition of temperature, carbon, nitrogen source, pH for growth, as well as for biomass production.\ Conclusion:\ The results of this study confirm the significance of continuous exploration of new\ Bt\ strains from different ecological regions that could be more useful for\ Bt-based bioformulations and the generation of transgenic plants. Furthermore, the growth and biomass production of\ Btg (isolated from paddy soil) and\ Bti (reference strain) were found to be identical.

}, keywords = {16S ribosomal RNA, Bacillus thuringiensis, Biochemical identification, Isolation, Optimization, Paddy soil}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_83_20}, author = {Poojitha B Sridhara and Chandan Dharmashekara and Chandrashekar Srinivasa and Chandan Shivamallu and Shiva Prasad Kollur and SM Gopinath and Asad Syed and Sharanagouda S Patil and Ashwini Prasad and DE Salamun} } @article {654, title = {Isolation, Method Development, and Validation of Diterpenes in Coffee Oil: Identification by Multiple Reaction Monitoring Approach with Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization Mode}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {April 2021}, pages = {42-48}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {42}, abstract = {

Objectives:\ The aim of the present study is to isolation, identification, and quantification of free diterpenes in coffee oil of\ Coffea arabica.\ Materials and Methods:\ For the isolation of free diterpenes, saponification reaction step was employed and followed with a liquid-liquid extraction procedure applied. Cafestol and kahweol were identified by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) of positive ionization (MRM) mode of atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) mass spectrometry detection. The quantification of free diterpenes was done by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector. The developed method was validated according to the international conference on harmonization guidelines.\ Results:\ The ion transitions of the precursor to the product ion at (M + H)+m/z\ 317.20{\textrightarrow}146.90, 281.00, 299.00 for cafestol and 315.10{\textrightarrow}144.90, 278.90, 296.90 for kahweol were observed. The proposed method was validated for linearity with excellent correlation coefficient of cafestol and kahweol were found to be 0.9997 and 0.9996, respectively. The intra-day and intermediate precisions and repeatability showed the percentage relative standard deviation was \<1\%. The recovery rate for cafestol and kahweol were observed to be in the acceptable limit of 95.303\%{\textendash}98.539\% and 95.963\%{\textendash}97.174\%, respectively. The limit of detection of cafestol and kahweol were found to be 6.81 and 7.35 ppm, respectively. The limit of quantitation (LOQ) was found to be 22.72 and 24.52 ppm, respectively.\ Conclusion:\ The developed method is simple, rapid, precise, accurate and it is recommended for efficient assays in routine work.

}, keywords = {Atmospheric pressure chemical ionization, Cafestol, Coffea arabica, Kahweol, Method validation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_66_20}, author = {Naveen Puttaswamy and Lingaraju Harakanahalli Basavegowda and Deepak Machettira and Chandrappa Siddappa and Rashmi Ramesh and Shyam Prasad Kodimule} } @article {54, title = {Leaf Extracts of Glyphaea brevis Attenuate High Blood Glucose and Lipids in Diabetic Rats Induced with Streptozotocin}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {May 2021}, pages = {82-88}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {82}, abstract = {

Background:\ Diabetes is a non-communicable disease causing impairment of carbohydrate and lipid metabolisms. Previous ethnobotanical surveys showed that leaves of\ Glyphaea brevis\ (G. brevis) are used conventionally in the treatment of diabetes with limited scientific evidence.\ Objective:\ We aimed to determine the effects of aqueous (AE) and hydroethanolic extracts (HEE) of\ G. brevis\ leaves in attenuating diabetes-linked hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in an animal model.\ Materials and Methods:\ Thirty streptozotocin-induced diabetic male rats were divided into six groups receiving the following daily treatments for 4 weeks orally: control (distilled water), reference (tolbutamide 80 mg/kg) and 4 tests (AE 250 mg/kg, AE 500 mg/kg, HEE 250 mg/kg, and HEE 500 mg/kg). The effects of each treatment on postprandial hyperglycemia were assessed using oral glucose tolerance and oral starch tolerance tests. Blood was collected to assess the effects of treatments on fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and lipid profile. Liver glycogen and gluconeogenic enzyme activity were also measured.\ Results:\ AE- and HEE-treated rats had 36\%{\textendash}64\% lower fasting blood glucose levels, 34\%{\textendash}73\% lower postprandial glycemia, and 15\%{\textendash}75\% lower HbA1c\ than rats from control group (P\ \< 0.01). AE and HEE treatments also brought about a significant increase in liver glycogen levels and lower gluconeogenic enzyme activity (P\ \< 0.01). Extract-treated groups also had lower plasma total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations (P\ \< 0.01).\ Conclusion:\ These results suggest that treatment with leaf extracts of\ G. brevis\ is effective in attenuating hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Future studies will determine the active compounds accountable for these beneficial effects.

}, keywords = {Diabetes, Glyphaea brevis, Hyperglycemia, Hyperlipidemia}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_99_20}, author = {William Dakam and Christine Fernande Nyangono Biyegue and Simone V{\'e}ronique Fannang and Julius Enyong Oben} } @article {117, title = {Nutraceutical Potential of Molokhia (Corchorus olitorius L.): A Versatile Green Leafy Vegetable}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {April 2021}, pages = {01-12}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {01}, abstract = {

Molokhia is a nutritious green leafy vegetable consumed in African and Middle Eastern countries as a viscous soup. Although the leaves are used in the traditional medicine and also reported to exhibit a number of pharmacological effects, its utilization is limited to some cultures and does not find wider utilization in the mainstream dietary habits. This review is aimed to present the nutritional and nutraceutical potential of molokhia to promote consumption of this valuable leafy vegetable. An unbiased literature search was conducted using online resources such as Google Scholar and PubMed to collect published reports on various biological/pharmacological activities of molokhia. Chemical structures of bioactive compounds were downloaded from PubChem. The leaves of molokhia are rich sources of Vitamin A (β-carotene), C, E, B1, B2, folic acid and minerals such as iron and calcium in addition to common macromolecules. Among carbohydrates, acidic polysaccharides are of particular interest because of their notable biological effects including antidiabetic and antioxidant. The vegetable is also a good source of a diverse category of phytochemicals including alkaloids, saponins, tannins, terpenes, flavonoids, and phenolics. Different extracts exhibit potent antidiabetic, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, analgesic, and wound healing effects. The extracts have shown to safe even at a dose of 3.2 g/kg body weight in experimental animals. Molokhia is a nutritious leafy vegetable loaded with essential micronutrients and phytochemical that could be handy in promoting general health. Further research is warranted to develop novel food product formulation using molokhia.

}, keywords = {Corchorus olitorius, Green leafy vegetable, Molokhia, Pharmacology, Polysaccharides, Toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_100_20}, author = {Faiyaz Ahmed} } @article {84, title = {Phytochemical Analysis, Antidiabetic Potential and in-silico Evaluation of Some Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {June 2021}, pages = {140-148}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {140}, abstract = {

Background: The increasing frequency of diabetes patients and the reported side effects of commercially available anti-hyperglycemic drugs have gathered the attention of researchers towards the search for new therapeutic approaches. Inhibition of activities of carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes is one of the approaches to reduce postprandial hyperglycemia by delaying digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. Objectives: The objective of the study was to investigate phytochemicals, antioxidants, digestive enzymes inhibitory effect, and molecular docking of potent extract. Materials and Methods: In this study, we carry out the substratebased α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activity of Asparagus racemosus, Bergenia ciliata, Calotropis gigantea, Mimosa pudica, Phyllanthus emblica, and Solanum nigrum along with the determination of total phenolic and flavonoids contents. Likewise, the antioxidant activity was evaluated by measuring the scavenging of DPPH radical. Additionally, antibacterial activity was also studied by Agar well diffusion method. Molecular docking of bioactive compounds from B. ciliata was performed via AutoDock vina. Results: B. ciliata, M. pudica, and P. emblica exhibit significant inhibitory activity against the α-glucosidase and α-amylase with IC50 (μg/ml) of (2.24 {\textpm} 0.01, 46.19 {\textpm} 1.06), (35.73 {\textpm} 0.65, 99.93 {\textpm} 0.9) and (8.12 {\textpm} 0.29, no significant activity) respectively indicating a good source for isolating a potential drug candidate for diabetes. These plant extracts also showed significant antioxidant activity with the IC50 ranges from 13.2 to 26.5 μg/mL along with the significant antibacterial activity towards Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia. Conclusion: Bergenia extract appeared to be a potent α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitor. Further research should be carried out to characterize inhibitor compounds.

}, keywords = {Diabetes, Medicinal plants, Molecular docking, α-Amylase, α-Glucosidase}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.3.6}, author = {Basanta Kumar Sapkota and Karan Khadayat and Bikash Adhikari and Darbin Kumar Poudel and Purushottam Niraula and Prakriti Budhathoki and Babita Aryal and Kusum Basnet and Mandira Ghimire and Rishab Marahatha and Niranjan Parajuli} } @article {987, title = {Phytochemical and GC-MS Analysis of Hydro Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Ocimum sanctum (L.)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {233-237}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {233}, abstract = {

Background: The pharmacological efficiency of herbal drugs has shown to be effective as conventional pharmaceutical drugs. Preliminary screening of herbal extracts helps in analysing the bioactive compounds present. Ocimum sanctum, the queen of herbs keeps a spiritual importance in Indian culture and have important place in traditional medicinal system of India. Objectives: The present study was implement to investigate the preliminary phytochemical screening and GC-MS analysis of leaf extract of O. sanctum to determine the phytoconstituents. Materials and Methods: Leaves collected were dried, crushed and mixed with ethanol and water and further applied for extract preparation. The prepare extract was used for phytochemical and GC-MS analysis. Results: In qualitative phytochemical analysis tannins, carbohydrate, quinine, anthraquinones, coumarins, phlobatanins, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, terpenoids, diterpenes, phenols were found present while GC-MS analysis showed Eugenol, Cyclohexane, bicyclo[7.2.0]undec-4-ene, 4,11,11-trimethyl-8-methylene, Oxatricyclo[ 8.2.0.0(4,6)]dodecane,,12-trimethyl-9-methylene, Tetracontane, Phytol were present in majority. Conclusion: The study concluded that O. sanctum leaf extracts contain many biological active compounds which could be exploited for a development of plant based drug.

}, keywords = {Flavonoids, GC-MS Analysis, Herbal drugs, Phenolics, Phytochemical}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.16}, author = {Atul Srivastava and Subhashini and Anand Kumar Keshari and Ragini Srivastava} } @article {992, title = {Phytochemical and Network Pharmacology Based Evaluation of Antiepileptic Potential of Identified Metabolites in Argimone mexicana}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {208-217}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {208}, abstract = {

Background: Quality-based assessment of herbal drugs or products is being more concerning for their quality, safety and regulatory purpose. A. mexicana is a traditional herbal medicine that has a long history in the treatment of arthritis, anti-fungal anti-cancer and brain disorders. Aim: Due to lack of scientific evidence based on phytopharmacology, the study is aimed for phytochemical and antiepileptic evaluation of identified metabolites in A. mexicana. Materials and Methods: Phytochemical identification was done using MS, FTIR and 1H-NMR and quantitated using HPTLC densitometric analysis. Further, ADME and network pharmacology studies were performed to evaluate biological response of identified metabolites. Results: The resulted outcomes of the spectral analysis suggest isolated compounds as ferulic acid, caffeic acid, berberine and angoline. In HPTLC quantitative analysis, the content of ferulic acid, caffeic acid, berberine and angoline was found as 3.475 {\textpm} 0.028, 1.036 {\textpm} 0.013, 0.714 {\textpm} 0.014 and 0.738 {\textpm} 0.081 μg/mg of A. mexicana extract. In ADME analysis, berberine and angoline showed good bioavailable response while in network pharmacology analysis, except angoline, all the metabolites significantly interacted with several genes (SOD1, NOS, MAPK3, UGT1As, G6PD, ACOT2, BAAT etc) associated with brain ischemia, oxidative and inflammatory stress or the genes response for elimination of toxins from the body. Conclusion: Hence, the study enlightens that A. mexicana possess several major and minor metabolites and which can be the key parameter for further quality and regulatory based assessment of A. Mexicana and biological role against oxidative and inflammatory stress induced epileptic seizure.

}, keywords = {ADME analysis, Argemone mexicana L., HPTLC, Network pharmacology, Phytoconstituents}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.13}, author = {Vinod Gahlot and Dinesh Kumar Yadav} } @article {991, title = {Potential Cosmeceutical Applications and Evaluation of Human Skin Irritation of Tagetes erecta L. Flower Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {199-207}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {199}, abstract = {

Background: Tagetes erecta L. has been traditionally used for treatment of skin diseases. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate in vitro skin anti-aging, antioxidant, antibacterial activities, and human skin irritation of T. erecta flower extract for development as a cosmeceutical skin product using aqueous, 50\%, and 95\% ethanolic extracts of T. erecta flower. Methods: Total phenolic content was defined. Quantitative analysis of syringic acid was determined by using HPLC. Antioxidant activities were performed by measurement of 2,2-diphenyl 1-pichylhydazyl free radical scavenger. Anti-aging assays were monitored inhibitory effects on tyrosinase, elastase, hyaluronidase, and collagenase activities. Antibacterial effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis was also investigated. The extract was formulated as a lotion and its stability study was evaluated and human skin irritation tests were performed. Results: The 95\% ethanolic extract had significantly higher total phenolic content and syringic acid content than the other extracts. The 95\% ethanolic extract also had stronger inhibitory activities on DPPH scavenging and against tyrosinase, elastase and hyaluronidase enzyme activities than those of 50\% ethanolic or water extracts. The 95\% ethanolic extracts showed a better antibacterial activity against S. aureus and S. epidermidis. The developed lotion containing 1\% of T. erecta extract using 95\% ethanol was stable. Moreover, skin irritation was not observed in healthy volunteers after applying the T. erecta lotion. Conclusion: This study indicates that T. erecta flower extracts, especially a 95\% ethanolic extract, are potential sources for development of cosmeceutical skin products against enzymes/reactions responsible for skin aging and bacterial skin infection.

}, keywords = {Anti-aging, Asteraceae, Marigold, Skin irritation, Tagetes erecta L.}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.12}, author = {Catheleeya Mekjaruskul and Supakanya Kumkarnjana and Niramai Fangkrathok and Worapol Kengkittipat and Nuttawut Sirichat} } @article {124, title = {Preparation of Diterpenes-Enriched Extract from Croton stellatopilosus Ohba Leaves using Enzyme- and Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {April 2021}, pages = {22-27}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {22}, abstract = {

Background:Croton stellatopilosus\ Ohba accumulates several diterpenes. Among them, plaunotol, a cytoprotective agent, has been prescribed to treat peptic ulcers.\ Objectives:\ We aimed to prepare the diterpene-enriched extract (DEE) using enzyme- and ultrasonic-assisted extractions.\ Materials and Methods:\ The type and amount of pectinase and cellulase and the condition of ultrasonic treatment were optimized. A combination of enzyme and ultrasonic treatments was performed. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was validated and used for the determination of plaunotol and plaunolide contents in the DEE.\ Results:\ A combination of cellulase (10 units) and ultrasonic (at 80\% amplitude) treatments enhanced the yield of plaunotol significantly. Application of the crude extract on diaion HP-20 resin afforded the DEE. With the validated HPLC method, the DEE contained 8.81\% {\textpm} 0.02\% w/w of plaunotol and 8.40\% {\textpm} 0.92\% w/w of plaunolide.\ Conclusion:\ We established an efficient method to prepare DEE based on green extraction. This method showed about eightfold enhancement purification factor compared to the original crude extract and about 90\% yield recovery.

}, keywords = {Cellulase-assisted, Croton stellatopilosus, Diterpenes-enriched extract, Plaunolide, Plaunotol, Ultrasonic-assisted}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_90_20}, author = {Wai Mi Aung and Supattra Limsuwanchote and Juraithip Wungsintaweekul} } @article {1005, title = {Preventive Medicinal Plants and their Phytoconstituents against SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Reviews}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {173-191}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {173}, abstract = {

Pandemic coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the newly discovered virus {\textquotedblleft}Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-CoronaVirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2){\textquotedblright}. Considering the present scenario of COVID-19 outbreak and its impact on humankind, holistic remedies with respect to herbal medicine validated from ethnopharmacological rationale are now targeting approaches globally as a preventive care against SARS-CoV-2. Aim: This review is primarily focused on to deliver a concise fact of the coronaviridae family, pathophysiology, mechanism of action, ethnopharmacological validated Indian herbs for inhibiting the virus with possible targets. Experimental procedure: In this study, science mapping tool Bibliometrix R-package was used to perform bibliometric analysis and building data matrices for keywords co-occurrence investigation, country-wise scientific production; collaboration between the countries worldwide, co-word analysis on topic {\textquotedblleft}keywords associated with SARS-CoV-2 and medicinal plants{\textquotedblright}. Results and Conclusion: Our findings is to deliver a concise knowledge about the coronaviridae family, pathophysiology, possible targets for managing the SARS-CoV-2, in addition to potential medicinal plants and their phytoconstituents against COVID-19. Target-specific inflammatory pathways due to post infection of SARS e.g. NLRP3, p38-MAPK, Metallopeptidase Domain 17; endocytosis pathways e.g. Clathrin, HMGB1 pathways are primarily highlighted along with relevant interleukins and cytokines, which directly/indirectly triggering to immune system and play a significant role. Based on selective pathways and potential lead, the outcome of our elaborated study put forward selected Indian medicinal plants that hold a very high probability as preventive care in this global crisis.

}, keywords = {Biblioshiny, Coronavirus, COVID-19, Medicinal plants, Phytoconstituents, SARS-CoV-2}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.10}, author = {Neelesh Kumar Nema and Ghouse Modin Nabeesab Mamdapur and Smitha Sarojam and Swapnil Devidas Khamborkar and Linson Cheruveettil Sajan and Sachithra Sabu and Baby Kumaranthara Chacko and Viju Jacob} } @article {51, title = {RETRACTED: The Role of Physalis angulata as Potential Anti-Type 2 Diabetic Agent}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {May 2021}, pages = {69-74}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {69}, abstract = {

This article is retracted based on the Authors{\textquoteright} Request

}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_51_19} } @article {71, title = {A Review of the Pharmacological and Nutraceutical Properties of Cynodon dactylon}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {June 2021}, pages = {104-112}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {104}, abstract = {

Background: Cynodon dactylon is the scientific name of the common perennial grass whose lustre of green pasture covers the land. In layman{\textquoteright}s language, it is seen as a surface pasture in a sports field, garden lawns or terrace gardens, or as an unwanted weed in gardens. Many are unaware of its phytoconstituents, pharmacological and nutraceutical properties which progressively make science to aim for C. dactylon{\textquoteright}s enormous nutraceutical potential in curing problems like ulcers, diabetes, arrhythmia, diarrhoea, inflammation, edema and etc. Objectives: To discuss the constituents of phytochemicals and nutraceutical properties of C. dactylon with its curative investigation for various common ailments. Materials and Methods: Different kinds of extracts i.e. aqueous extract, ethanolic extract, alcoholic extract, hydro-alcoholic extracts etc. of C. dactylon were taken into account to study their curing potential against ailments organically. Results: Having its origin from east of Africa, it contains large amounts of biologically active compounds or phytochemical compounds, which has attracted many researchers to study its curative nutraceutical properties. Experiments conducted on animals have resulted in the effect of C. dactylon is, in the field of whether treating ailments or healing up excision or incision wounds, reducing ulcers, or improving the functioning of the muscular system and the circulatory system of the body. Conclusion: Biologically active phytocontituents in C. dactylon effective against the bodily ailments and are of high importance once the products are made easily available.

}, keywords = {Cynodon dactylon, Extracts, Nutraceutical, Pharmacological, Phytoconstituents}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.3.1}, author = {Shweta Das and Sonia Morya and Arno Neumann and Vijay Kumar Chattu} } @article {997, title = {Seasonal Variation of Phytochemicals in Four Selected Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {218-226}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {218}, abstract = {

Background: The study aimed at assessing total alkaloids content (TAC), total flavonoids content (TFC), total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity (AA) and predominant individual phenolic compounds in methanol extracts of M. oleifera, S.singueana, M.azedarach leaves and stem barks of L. discolor collected during different seasons of the year. Materials and Methods: TPC, TFC and TAC were analyzed using the Folin Ciocalteau assay, aluminum chloride assay and bromocresol green assay, respectively. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) techniques were used to analyse AA. Phenolic compounds; Vanillic acid, (+)-catechin, quercetin, rutin, sinapic acid, 2,4-hydroxybenzoic acid and ferulic acid were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography diode array detector (HPLC - DAD). Results: Barks of L. discolour exhibited high levels of TPC, TFC, TAC and AA during hot-dry season (summer) as compared to S. singueana, M. oleifera and M. azedarach leaves which showed significantly (p\< 0.05) higher levels in hot-wet season (rainy). Levels of TPC, TFC and TAC were significantly (p\< 0.05) influenced by seasonal variations and correlated with levels of AA. Profiles of all phenolic compounds analyzed were not similar in terms of chemical composition and concentration during different seasons. Sinapic acid and 2,4-hydroxybenzoic acid were predominant in S. singueana while sinapic acid and ferulic acid were predominant in M. oleifera. Vanillic acid and 2,4-hydroxybenzoic acid were predominant in L. discolor and M. azedarach respectively. Conclusion: The phytochemical constituents in medicinal plants are subject to seasonal variations which in turn influence the optimum season of harvesting.

}, keywords = {Alkaloids, Antioxidant activity, Flavonoids, Medicinal plants, Phenolic compounds, Seasonal variations}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.14}, author = {Bonface Mwamatope and David Tembo and Elizabeth Kampira and Cecilia Maliwichi-Nyirenda and Victoria Ndolo} } @article {80, title = {Statistical Evaluation and Characterization of Carica papaya Metabolites}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {June 2021}, pages = {129-134}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {129}, abstract = {

Background: Natural resources are often sought for potential molecules which are pharmacologically active. Carica papaya is a well-known plant, studied for its constituent secondary metabolites and their benefits. Methods: This study focuses on identifying low molecular weight secondary metabolites form Carica papaya as potential pharmacophores, based on their structure. We determined their similarity with pharmaceutically active anti-clotting molecules using clustering method. Cheminformatic and Statistical analysis was done with data on molecular characteristics. Results: We have identified Carica papaya compounds to be pharmacologically active. In this study, we have differentiated Carica papaya compounds, through statistical analysis using clustering method, on the basis of significant molecular properties. Conclusion: Molecular similarity of secondary metabolites revealed through this study identifies, Carica papaya metabolites as a possible substitute drug and a preventive medicine against thrombosis.

}, keywords = {Clustering, Druglikeness, Ligands, Metabolites, Phytochemistry, Thrombogenesis}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.3.4}, author = {Vidhya Meleveetil} } @article {985, title = {Trypanocidal Activity of Traditional Antiparasitic Medicinal Plants from the Amazon}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {13}, year = {2021}, month = {October 2021}, pages = {227-232}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {227}, abstract = {

Background: Neglected Infectious Diseases control is an urgent need in endemic areas, but it{\textquoteright}s not a priority in the commercial interests of the pharmaceutical industry. Chagas disease (caused by Trypanosoma cruzi) is the parasitic disease of greatest impact in Latin America. Medicinal plants continue to be an affordable front-line option in endemic areas. Thus, we aimed to advance in the pharmacological evaluation of four medicinal plants traditionally used in the Amazon against parasitic infections. Materials and Methods: The plants were collected in the Amazon region of Colombia. The dry plant material was submitted to water percolation extraction. Extracts were tested in vitro against Trypanosoma cruzi (epimastigotes), and cytotoxicity was assessed against HepG2 and MRC5 cells. Finally, the general profile of metabolites present in the extracts was studied by thin-layer chromatography. Results: In vitro, against T. cruzi, extracts of Ambelania duckei and Curarea toxicofera shows concentration- dependent inhibition (IC50 of 221+/-29 and 50+/-5 μg/mL respectively), comparable with benznidazole (IC50: 0.7 μg/mL); while Abuta grandifolia and Aspidosperma excelsum exhibited IC50{\textquoteright}s \> 500 μg/mL. All extracts showed no cytotoxicity against HepG2 and MRC5 cells. Yields of extraction were between 3.2 and 9.5\% and preliminary phytochemical profile showed flavonoids and steroids in all extracts. Conclusion: Promising plants, traditionally used to treat other protozoan infections, could be assessed against T. cruzi. C. toxicofera exhibits good activity against epimastigotes of T. cruzi, being a species that can reasonably be considered for bioassay-guided antitrypanosomal fractionation.

}, keywords = {Chagas disease, cytotoxicity, Medicinal plants, Neglected Infectious Diseases, Trypanocidal agents, Trypanosoma cruzi}, doi = {10.5530/pres.13.4.15}, author = {Mar{\'\i}a-Helena Arias and Gustavo A. Vallejo and Giovanny Garavito} } @article {110, title = {Acute and Subchronic Oral Toxicity Studies of Majun Brahmi and Itrifal Muqawwi Dimagh (Traditional Unani Formulations) in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {169-175}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {169}, abstract = {

Background: Majun Brahmi (MB) and Itrifal Muqawwi Dimagh (IMD) are polyherbal Unani formulations traditionally used for the treatment of mild cognitive impairment and memory enhancement. Although they are widely used, there is no particular scientific evidence regarding the toxicity of these medicines. Objective: The present study was undertaken to evaluate the safety of MB and IMD polyherbal Unani formulation. Materials and Methods: Wistar albino rats of both genders were treated with three doses of each drug {\textendash} MB and IMD, i.e., 513.88, 1027.77, and 2055.54 mg/kg body weight (bwt) orally for 14 days for acute and 90 days for subchronic oral toxicity studies. At the end of the study, bwt gain, hematology, clinical biochemistry, and histopathological examination were performed. Although no significant changes in biochemical parameters occurred at the highest dose, mild damage to the liver, kidney, and spleen was observed. Results: At the lowest dose and at the dose of 1027.77 mg/kg bwt (therapeutic effective dose [TED]) of both the drugs, no abnormalities were observed in the biochemical and hematological parameters as well as histopathological findings. Conclusion: None of the rats exhibited apparent toxicity or mortality. The results of the present study provide evidence that both the formulations are not toxic at the TED dose and hence are clinically safe.

}, keywords = {Acute toxicity studies, Itrifal Muqawwi Dimagh, Majun Brahmi, Subchronic oral toxicity, Unani formulation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_93_19}, author = {Monika Kumari and Amjad Saifi and Mahmood A. Khan and Vinod Kumar Arora and Yasmeen Shamsi and Sumita Halder and Rafat Sultana Ahmed} } @article {204, title = {Acute Toxicity and Cytogenotoxicity of Yangambin Isolated from Ocotea duckei Vattimo-Gil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {444-449}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {444}, abstract = {

Background: Yangambin, a lignan isolated from Ocotea duckei leaves, has been reported to have antitumor, anxiolytic, hypotensive, and leishmanicidal activity, but there is little information on toxicity. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the acute toxicity of yangambin in mice, and cytotoxicity and genotoxicity through the Allium cepa assay. Materials and Methods: The yanganbin at a dose of 2000 mg/kg was orally administered once to mice to investigate acute toxicity, and meristem of the roots of Allium cepa was used to determine inhibition of root growth (root length) and mitotic index. Results: Yangambin did not cause hemolysis in sheep erythrocytes at concentrations of 12.5, 25, and 50 {\textmu}g/mL, and did not show genotoxic changes in root meristem cells of Allium cepa at the same concentrations. In the acute toxicity study in Swiss mice at a dose of 2000 mg/kg, there were no apparent clinical signs or any behavioral changes and no deaths. Conclusion: Therefore, yangambin appears to a promising active compound for future pharmacological studies.\ 

}, keywords = {Acute toxicity, Allium cepa, Lauraceae}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_73_20}, author = {Maria Isabel de Assis Lima Castro and Marta Gerusa Soares de Lucena and Camilla Vila Nova Soares Silva and Yhasminie Karine da Silva Xavier and Jos{\'e} Maria Barbosa Filho and Maria Madalena Rocha Silva Teles and Laisla Rangel Peixoto and Ivone Ant{\^o}nia de Souza and Eliete Cavalcanti da Silva} } @article {200, title = {Anatomical Description and in vitro Evaluation of the Antibacterial Potential of Aristolochia esperanzae Kuntze (Aristolochiaceae) Extract on Oral Micro-organisms}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {424-429}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {424}, abstract = {

Background: Aristolochia esperanzae Kuntze (Aristolochiaceae) is a plant present in the Brazilian flora, with few studies in the dental area, but used in integrative therapies to treat some health problems. Objectives: The initial purpose was to make an anatomical description of A. esperanzae and then test its antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) on specific oral micro-organisms-Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Enterococcus faecalis. Materials and Methods: For the pharmacognostic study, the samples were fixed in formaldehyde, acetic acid and 70\% ethyl alcohol and stored in 70\% ethanol. For the in vitro study, to obtain the essential oil (OE) and hydrolate, the plant material was mechanically macerated and subjected to hydrodistillation in Clevenger and then frozen until the time of testing. The EO was diluted in dimethylsulfoxide and the tests performed were agar diffusion (disc-diffusion) with isolated bacteria and MIC. A 0.12\% chlorhexidine digluconate solution was used as a positive control and 0.9\% sodium chloride as a negative. Results: The anatomical study showed the presence of hook-shaped trichomes and stomatal complexes. Regarding the microbiological results, they were negative for the extracts used. Conclusion: The anatomical findings may guide future studies related to the pharmacognostic properties of A. esperanzae and both OE and hydrolate did not have an antibacterial effect against S. mutans, P. gingivalis and E. faecalis.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity, Dentistry, Essential oil, Minimum inhibitory concentration, Phytotherapy}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_52_20}, author = {Carlos Roberto Botelho-Filho and Gabriela Keiko Izumi and Juliana Campos Vieira and Fernanda Mara de Paiva Bertoli and Ant{\^o}nio Pedro Ricomini Filho and Leila Teresinha Maranho and Flares Baratto-Filho and Marilisa Carneiro Le{\~a}o Gabardo} } @article {64, title = {Anticancer Activity of Ethyl Acetate Extract from Lethariella cladonioides in vitro and in vivo}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {40-46}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {40}, abstract = {

Background: Lethariella cladonioides, also known as Red Snow Tea and Golden Silk Tea, mainly grows in Tibet, Sichuan and Yunnan of China. Its medicinal value has been gradually discovered. Objectives: This study mainly evaluated the anti-cancer effect of AMH-L extracted from L. cladonioides in vitro and in vivo and to explore its anticancer mechanism. Materials and Methods: MTT assay was used to determine the cytotoxicity of AMH-L to human cancer cells A-549 and HCT-116 in vitro. Sarcoma S-180 and human lung cancer NCL-H460 cells were implanted into Kunming mice and Balb/C nude mice, respectively, anti-cancer activity in vivo was assessed by recording body weight, organ coefficient and tumor inhibition rate. Flow cytometry and western blotting were used to preliminarily explore the anticancer mechanism. Results: AMH-L, the active component of Red Snow Tea, had strong anticancer activity against A-549 and HCT-116, and IC50 was 26.17 {\textpm} 3.54 and 16.21 {\textpm} 0.83. When the dosage was 50, 100 and 150 mg/ kg, the inhibition rates of S-180 in Kunming mice were 36.04\%, 43.14\%, and 50.45\% in turn, respectively. At the end of the experiment, the dose was 150, and the relative proliferation inhibition rate of Balb/C nude mice NCI-H460 tumor was 50.36\%. Cell cycle and apoptotic results showed that AMH-L could block A-549 at G2/M phase and promote apoptosis of HCT-116 by inducing poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase lysis. Conclusion: L. cladonioides extract AMH-L exhibits strong anticancer activity in vivo and in vitro and can be used as a potential anticancer drug for further study.

}, keywords = {Anticancer drug, Apoptosis, Cell cycle, Cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, Lichen}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_70_19}, author = {Wen-Jing Lian and Xiao-Qiong He and Qian Yao and Zhong-Yu Song and Jing Wang} } @article {125, title = {Antidepressant-Like Effects of Barley (Hordeum vulgare) in a Mouse Model of Reserpine-Induced Depression}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {199-204}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {199}, abstract = {

Background: Depression is a mental disorder characterized by low mood and loss of pleasure or interest in usual activities and often results in cognitive dysfunction such as impairment of learning and memory. For most of the synthetic antidepressants, severe defects such as narrow spectrum, adverse reactions, high drug price, and easy recurrence exist. Barley is one of the richest sources of antioxidants; therefore, we examined whether barley has an effect on depression, learning, and memory in a mouse model of reserpine-induced depression. Methods: Mice were individually acclimated for 1 week and then treated with barley (200 mg/kg, p. o.) or/and fluoxetine (20 mg/kg, i. p.) for 4 weeks prior to reserpine treatment. Mice were then injected with a single dose of reserpine (2 mg/kg, i. p.) or vehicle (20 mg/kg, i. p.) and assessed for mouse behaviors 1 h prior to tests. Mouse behavior was examined in the forced swimming test, tail suspension test, hole-board test, novel place/object recognition, social interaction test, spontaneous locomotor movement (SLMA), and stereotype movement following completion of the treatment protocol. Results: There was a significant antidepressant-like effect in the forced swimming test among the barley group than in the reserpine-treated group, and these decreases were significantly attenuated to a similar extent by treatment with fluoxetine. The effect of barley on the mean duration of immobility time was significantly attenuated in comparison with the reserpine group (P \< 0.05). Moreover, the number of head pokes was significantly increased in the barley group in comparison with the reserpine or fluoxetine group. The mean duration of immobility time in the tail suspension test was significantly reduced in mice in the barley group in comparison with the reserpine group (P \< 0.05). Furthermore, the social behavior test indicated that mice treated with fluoxetine have a significant increase in the distance covered by the mice toward familiar ones compared to the barley group, whereas the distance measured to the stranger mice was significantly increased among those who received fluoxetine with barley in comparison with the barley group alone. Finally, novel object recognition test, spontaneous locomotor movements (SLMA), and the stereotype movements showed that barley significantly decreased time spent on exploring the novel objects as well as in stereotype movements in comparison with the reserpine group. Conclusion: We conclude that barley can ameliorate depressive-like effects. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that barley may be effective in treating patients with depression.

}, keywords = {Antidepressant-like effects, Barley, Forced swimming test, Novel object recognition test, Social behavior test, Spontaneous locomotor and stereotype movements, Tail suspension test}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_105_19}, author = {Hamad Rashdan Ali Al-Harbi and Sameer Al Harthi and Mansour Suliman and Omar Saadah and Ahmed Esmat and Lateef M. Khan and Shahid Karim} } @article {155, title = {Antidiabetic and Antidyslipidemic Activities of Hexane/Ethyl Acetate/Methanol Fractions of Paspalum scrobiculatum Linn. Grains in High-Fat Diet and Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {230-235}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {230}, abstract = {

Background: Dietary habits and sedentary lifestyle are the major causes of increasing obesity, which in turn causes diabetes and cardiovascular problems. With this alarming increase, there is a need for alternative therapies to treat diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Objectives: To evaluate antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic effects of fractions of Paspalum scrobiculatum grains in rats. Materials and Methods: Different doses of Hexane: Ethyl acetate fraction of P. scrobiculatum (HEPS) and Ethyl acetate: Methanol fraction of P. scrobiculatum (EMPS) fractions of P. scrobiculatum were administered to the high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ) (35 mg/ kg)-induced diabetic rats with glibenclamide at 20 mg/kg body weight (b.w) as a standard reference. Biochemical and histopathological changes were assessed after 5 weeks of treatment. Results: Daily oral treatment with HEPS and EMPS each at 100 and 200 mg/kg b.w for 5 weeks was found to be significant in the reduction of plasma glucose levels, HbA1c, increased plasma insulin levels, and normalized lipid profile and liver function parameters in HFD and STZ-induced diabetic rats. In addition, degenerative histopathological changes seen in liver, kidney, and pancreas of diabetic rats were found to be normalized in HEPS and EMPS as comparable to that of glibenclamide-treated rats. Conclusion: The obtained results suggest that HEPS and EMPS fractions of P. scrobiculatum grains possess promising antihyperglycemic and antidyslipidemic potential without apparent toxic effects, which may prove the claimed use of the plant in treatment of diabetes and dyslipidemia.

}, keywords = {Antidiabetic, Antidyslipidemic, High-fat diet, Paspalum scrobiculatum, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_6_20}, author = {G Jyothi Reddy and K Bhaskar Reddy and G V Subba Reddy} } @article {211, title = {Antihypertensive Effect of Methanol Leaf Extract of Azadirachta indica is Mediated through Suppression of Renal Caspase 3 Expressions on Nω-Nitro-L-Arginine Methyl Ester Induced Hypertension}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {460-465}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {460}, abstract = {

Background: Azadirachta indica (AI) Adr Juss (Meliaceae), known as neem, has been used traditionally for the treatment of various disease conditions including obesity and hypertension. Objective: The antihypertensive effect and mechanism of action of modulatory effect of AI were investigated after the induction of hypertension using Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). Materials and Methods: Five groups of ten rats divided as follows: Control; L-NAME (40 mg/kg); L-NAME + 100 mg/kg AI; L-NAME and 200 mg/kg AI; and L-NAME and Enalapril (25 mg/kg) were used. Results: following the application of L-NAME, hypertension (elevated systolic, diastolic, mean arterial blood pressures) and increased levels of oxidative stress markers were observed in rats. Immunohistochemistry showed increased caspase-3 expressions in hypertensive rats compared to normotensive rats. Conversely, AI treatment resulted in restoration of physiological antioxidant status and normotension, comparable to the standard antihypertensive agent enalapril. Conclusion: AI leaf is a good candidate for the management of high blood pressure.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Apoptosis, Azadirachta indica, Hypertension, Oxidative stress, Phytotherapy}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_10_20}, author = {Temidayo Olutayo Omobowale and Ademola Adetokunbo Oyagbemi and Olumuyiwa Abiola Adejumobi and Fisayo Ugbor and Ebunoluwa Racheal Asenuga and Temitayo Olabisi Ajibade and Jeremiah Moyinoluwa Afolabi and Blessing Seun Ogunpolu and Olufunke Olubunmi Falayi and Idayat Titilayo Gbadamos and Olufunke Eunice Ola-Davies and Adebowale Bernard Saba and Anofi Ashafa and Momoh Audu Yakubu and Adeolu Alex Adedapo and Oluwafemi Omoniyi Oguntibeju} } @article {77, title = {Antilithogenic Potential of Green Tea, Oolong Tea, and Black Tea}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {92-94}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {92}, abstract = {

Background: Urolithiasis and nephrolithiasis are the commonly occurring painful diseases in most parts of the world. The number of new cases associated with lithiasis is on rise, although various therapies such as percutaneous nephrolithotomy, lithotripsy, and other surgical procedures can remove the stones, high recurrence rate is a major problem. Objectives: The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antilithogenic potential of green tea, oolong tea, and black tea employing chemical model. Materials and Methods: The antilithogenic action of different teas on calcium oxalate crystal formation was investigated on artificial urine spectroscopically, and the modulation of crystal size and density was recorded microscopically. Results: The different tea types showed significant inhibitory action on nucleation and crystal size morphology and density. The optical and spectroscopic techniques demonstrated that standard drug cystone exhibited highest inhibition followed by green tea, oolong tea, and black tea. Conclusion: Green tea illustrated maximum antilithogenic property as compared to other tea types and can be used as a potential dietary agent for the prevention of lithiasis.

}, keywords = {Antilithogenic, Black tea, Cystone, Green tea, Nephrolithiasis, Oolong tea, Urolithiasis}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_67_19}, author = {Shaikh I Nasrul and Amit Sehgal} } @article {101, title = {Antimicrobial Activity and Histopathological Safety Evidence of Ochradenus baccatus Delile: A Medicinally Important Plant Growing in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2021}, pages = {131-136}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {131}, abstract = {

Background: The growing climatic condition affects plant constituents and biological activities. Ochradenus baccatus (Taily Weed) from Resedaceae family is a perennial shrub that is widely used in folk medicine in the Middle East. Aim: From the viewpoint that O. baccatus is regularly used in folk medicine, this study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and investigate the effect of O. baccatus on the biochemical and histopathological parameters of liver and kidney in experimental animals. Methods: The O. baccatus extracts were obtained by hot continuous extraction method. Agar diffusion and minimal inhibitory concentration assays were used for the antimicrobial activity. O. baccatus total extracts at doses of 100 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg were given to the first and second groups of rates, respectively, whereas the third and fourth groups received the vehicle olive oil and saline, respectively. The liver and kidney functions, as well as lipid profile and glucose levels, were measured by spectrophotometric technique on obtained blood samples. The liver and kidney tissues were evaluated for histopathological effect. Results: Ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts have similarly and potentially inhibited the bacterial micro-organisms, whereas Candida albicans was inhibited by n-hexane extract. O. baccatus total extract showed no significant effects on the kidney and liver functions (P \> 0.05). However, it significantly reduced triglyceride level (P = 0.04). The histopathological investigation of liver and kidney tissues revealed no significant differences compared to control animals. Conclusion: The medicinally important plant, O. baccatus, growing in Saudi Arabia showed no significant toxic effects on the livers and kidneys. Moreover, it demonstrated a potential antimicrobial activity besides a significant reduction in serum triglycerides in rats. These findings are in consistent with other reported results suggesting no environmental effects on the safety of this plant.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity, Histopathology, Kidney function, Lipid profile, Liver function, Ochradenus baccatus}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_103_19}, author = {Mohsen S. Al-Omar and Hussain M. Eldeeb and Mugahid A. Mobark and Hamdoon A. Mohammed} } @article {102, title = {Banisterine Alleviates Morphine-based Nephrotoxicity by Antioxidant Property: An In vivo Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2021}, pages = {137-142}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {137}, abstract = {

Background: Banisterine (BAN) as an alkaloid agent has antioxidant properties. The morphine (MOR) with the character of free radical generation has an effective role on renal pathogenesis. Objectives: This investigation critically examines the effects of the BAN against MOR-induced damage to the kidneys of rats. Materials and Methods: Sixty-four male Wistar rats were randomly assorted into 8 groups (8 rats in each), including the saline (Sal), MOR, BAN (5, 10, 15 mg/kg) and MOR + BAN treatment groups. All experimental procedures were applied by intraperitoneal injection daily for 20 days. Whole investigated values consist of total animal weight, weight of kidney, morphological criteria of kidney, antioxidant capacity and serum nitrite oxide levels. Results: Intraperitoneally MOR application significantly increased the levels of renal Malondialdehyde (MDA), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), blood creatinine, and blood nitrite oxide and also reduced the glomerular number and tissue ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) level compared to the Sal control group (P \< 0.05). Treatment of BAN and BAN + MOR in all doses significantly reduced the levels of BUN, MDA, creatinine, glomerular diameter, and nitrite oxide and also increased the glomerular number and tissue FRAP levels compared to the MOR group (P \< 0.05). Conclusion: The findings support the idea that the BAN with its antioxidant nature can eliminate MOR renal toxicity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Banisterine, in vivo, Morphine, Nephrotoxicity}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_97_19 }, author = {Mohammad Reza Salahshoor and Cyrus Jalili and Amir Abdolmaleki and Shiva Roshankhah} } @article {198, title = {The Cellular Activities of the Subfraction of Red Onion Peel Crude Ethanolic Extract in MDA-MB-231 Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {416-423}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {416}, abstract = {

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the cellular activities of a subfraction (F1) of red onion peel crude ethanolic extract in MDA-MB-231. Materials and Methods: The cell cycle profile and apoptosis induction in F1-treated MDA-MB-231 were measured using flow cytometry, and the migratory activity was measured using wound healing assay, Boyden chamber motility assay, and Matrigel chamber invasion assay, whereas other related protein expressions were measured using Western blotting. Results: Our results demonstrated that the treatment of MDA-MB-231 with F1 reduced cell proliferation of the cells via inducing cell cycle arrest at S and G2 phases. F1 also possessed a better cell cycle arrest profile than camptothecin and executed better cell migratory effect in MDA-MB-231, which was likely via inhibition of the Akt signaling pathway in MDA-MB-231. Conclusion: F1 may have the potential to be developed as a nutraceutical agent that promotes anticancer effects or to be used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs to reduce the toxicity of drugs for MDA-MB-231-type breast cancer treatment.

}, keywords = {Akt signaling pathway, Cell cycle, Cell migratory activity, Cellular activity, MDA-MB-231, Red onion peel}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_20_20}, author = {Sin Pei Choe and Poh Chiew Siah and Shern Kwok Lim and Kok Khiang Peh and Ming Thong Ong and Boon Yin Khoo} } @article {168, title = {Chemical Analysis and Biological Potentials of Extracts from Colpomenia sinuosa}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {272-277}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {272}, abstract = {

Background: Colpomenia sinuosa is a brown alga rich in molecules of pharmacological, nutraceutical, and functional properties. Despite its therapeutic potentials, this alga is poorly studied in this area of the Mediterranean. Objectives: The study objective was to investigate the physicochemical properties and biological potentials of different extracts of the brown seaweed C. sinuosa. Materials and Methods: Crude extracts and fractions were obtained by different types of solvent extractions. Proximal analysis was adopted to reveal the ash content. Protein and carbohydrate contents were determined by phenol-sulfuric acid method and Lowry and Bradford methods, respectively. The mineral content was assessed by atomic absorption spectroscopy, where the total phenolic content (TPC) was determined by Folin{\textendash}Ciocalteu reagent, antioxidant properties by radical scavenging assay, and antimicrobial activity by disc diffusion method. Finally, the anti-inflammatory activity was determined by albumin denaturation test. Results: Proximal analysis revealed high levels of total ash content (20.03 {\textpm} 0.79\%), protein content (10.77 {\textpm} 0.18\%), total lipids (4.35 {\textpm} 0.212\%), and total carbohydrates (40.367 {\textpm} 0.421\%). Magnesium concentration (16.79 {\textpm} 0.721 mg/g) was highest among macro minerals. The TPC of fractions and extracts ranged from 17.78 {\textpm} 0.092 to 39.02 {\textpm} 0.199 mg gallic acid equivalents/g dry weight. The highest scavenging activity reached 84.1\% {\textpm} 0.83 at 750 μg/mL. Maximal anti-inflammatory activity was noted in aqueous extract (59.38 {\textpm} 4.35 μg/mL). Conclusion: This significant scavenging activity increased in polar extracts obtained by Soxhlet extraction. The aqueous extracts showed the highest 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity and highest albumin denaturation inhibition, whereas the highest bactericidal activity was found in the methanolic extracts. Our results represent the first report on Lebanese C. sinuosa extract as a promising source of bioactive compounds with high antioxidant potential.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Biochemical analysis, Phaeophyta}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_91_19}, author = {Reem Monal Al Monla and Zeina T Dassouki and Hala Gali-Muhtasib and Hiba R Mawlawi} } @article {95, title = {Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Anticholine Esterase Activities of Essential Oil of Xylopia aethiopica Seeds}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {112-118}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {112}, abstract = {

Background: Xylopia aethiopica is well known to treat neurodegenerative diseases in traditional medicine and there is no scientific evidence for this claim. Objective: The current research aimed at investigating chemical characterization, antioxidant, and anticholine esterase activity of the essential oil from X. aethiopica. Materials and Methods: Essential oil extraction was carried out by the use of the steam distillation method in a modified Clevenger-type apparatus. The chemical composition of the essential oil from seeds of X. aethiopica (African pepper) was determined using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and its potentials as antioxidant and anticholine esterase were evaluated for the first time. Results: The oil yield was 5.2\% (v/w) in X. aethiopica. The GC-MS analysis identified a total of 52 compounds corresponding to 100\% of the total oil in X. aethiopica. The major constituents of X. aethiopica essential oil are terpinen-4-ol (11.88\%), α-terpineol (5.93\%), cyclohexane methanol (4.79\%), and β-copaene (4.74\%). The most abundant classes of compounds from the essential oil were oxygenated monoterpenes (MT) which amounted to (37.6\%), followed by oxygenated sesquiterpenes (29.61\%), sesquiterpenes (14.67\%), oxygenated diterpenes (9.05\%), nonterpenoid aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons (4.81\%), diterpenes (3.8\%), and MT (0.47\%) of all the identified constituents. A significant antioxidant (IC50 value of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl = 2.19 {\textpm} 0.09 mg/mL) and anticholine esterase activity (IC50 = 1.21 {\textpm} 0.06 mg/mL) was obtained for the essential oil of X. aethiopica. Conclusion: The study established the chemical composition, antioxidant, and anticholine esterase activities of the essential oil of the plant seeds.

}, keywords = {Anticholineesterase, Antioxidant, Monoterpenes, Sesquiterpenes, Xylopia aethiopica}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_47_19}, author = {Lateef Adegboyega Sulaimon and Rahmat Adetutu Adisa and Efereo Martins Obuotor and Modinat Olasunkanmi Lawal and Abdullahi I Moshood and Nura H Muhammad} } @article {73, title = {Chemical Profiling, Free Radical Scavenging and Anti-acetylcholinesterase Activities of Essential Oil from Curcuma caesia of Arunachal Pradesh, India}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {76-84}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {76}, abstract = {

Background and Aim: The rhizomes of Curcuma caesia have traditional applications for pain healing and are an imperiled species of India. A study on investigation of in vitro anti-oxidant and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory efficacy of essential oil from the rhizome part was carried out through extraction by hydrodistillation. Materials and Methods: The phyto components present in this volatile oil were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometric analysis and based on Spearman{\textquoteright}s correlation, the cooccurrence network of the 21 compounds were analyzed. In vitro anti-oxidant, anti-AChE activities were assessed with different concentrations of essential oil by spectrophotometric analysis, following the standard protocols. Results: The studies revealed that major compounds identified were Androsta-1,4-dien-3-one,17- (acetyloxy)-, (17.beta.)-Santanol acetate (16.11\%), Eucalyptol (12.98\%), Cycloprop[e]indene-1a,2(1H)-dicarboxaldehyde,3a,4,5,6,6a,6b-hexahydro- 5,5,6b-trimethyl, (1a. alpha., 3a. beta., 6a. beta., 6b. alpha) (8.96\%), methyl 7,12-octadecadienoate (6.75\%), and (+)-2-Bornanone (6.60\%). The major interactions of terpenoidal compounds with other compounds give a picture that terpenoids have a very significant role as anti-oxidants and cholinesterase inhibitors. The essential oil showed the total phenolic content of 26.72 {\textpm} 0.38 mg/g of gallic acid equivalent and total flavonoid content of 18.92 {\textpm} 0.27 mg/g of quercetin equivalent (QE). 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2, 2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid radical scavenging 50\% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of the oil were 186.33 {\textpm} 0.46 {\textmu}g/mL and 109.41 {\textpm} 0.43 {\textmu}g/mL. The hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide radical scavenging IC50s were 103.45 {\textpm} 0.58 {\textmu}g/mL and 190.55 {\textpm} 0.75 {\textmu}g/mL, respectively. The AChE inhibitory IC50 value was 156.33 {\textpm} 0.44 {\textmu}g/mL. Conclusion: The study demonstrated on essential oil extracted from rhizomes of C. caesia indigenous to Arunachal Pradesh, India, has moderate anti-oxidant property and would be a valuable non-toxic source for managing neurodegenerative diseases.

}, keywords = {Cholinergic, Ethnomedicinal, Hydrodistillation, Spectrophotometric, Terpenoid}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_84_19}, author = {Sudarshana Borah and Priyanka Sarkar and Hemanta Kumar Sharma} } @article {175, title = {Cholinergic-Enhancing and Antioxidant Effect of Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc. (Fabaceae) Landrace Aqueous Extract on Scopolamine-Induced Amnesia in Male Swiss Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {303-312}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {303}, abstract = {

Background: Currently, no drug effectively curbs down the progression of Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease (AD), and thus early prevention is important. Objectives: The present study was conducted to investigate the protective effects of the aqueous extract of Vigna subterranea seed landrace on amnesia induced by scopolamine in mice. Materials and Methods: V. subterranea aqueous extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg BW) was administered by gavage for 9 consecutive days and memory impairment was induced by repeated intraperitoneal injection of scopolamine (1.5 mg/kg). The Y-maze (YM), Morris water maze (MWM), novel object recognition paradigm (NOR), and the T maze{\texttrademark} were used to assess learning, memory, and retention. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and acetyclcholine esterase activity were also evaluated in the mouse hippocampi homogenates. Results: V. subterranea aqueous extract (400 mg/kg) significantly increased the percentage of spontaneous alternation in the YM task and decreased escape latency in the MWM. Moreover, this dose brought about a significant improvement in the time spent in the preferred TM arm and discrimination index in the NOR tasks despite repeated scopolamine injection. Additionally, low acetylcholine esterase levels, reduced lipid peroxidation (MDA), but increased antioxidant enzyme (CAT and SOD) activity were observed in hippocampi homogenate of mice pretreated with the extract. A protective action against hippocampal cell damage was also evident. Conclusion: This finding suggests that the aqueous extract of V. subterranea seed landrace may improve learning and memory.

}, keywords = {Acetylcholine esterase, Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease, Antioxidant, Memory impairment, Scopolamine, Vigna subterranean}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_62_19}, author = {Herv{\'e} Herv{\'e} Ngatanko Abaissou and Harquin Simplice Foyet and Eglantine Keugong Wado and Balbine Kamleu Nkwingwa and Jorelle Linda Damo Kamda and Lea Blondelle Kenko Djomessie and Alin Ciobica and Elisabeth Ngo Bum} } @article {173, title = {Citrus limon L. Gel Stimulate Lymphocytes and Interleukin-10 Expression in Traumatic Diabetic Oral Ulcers}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {299-302}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {299}, abstract = {

Background: Citrus limon L. and its peel report anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties. However, the effects of C. limon L. gel to treat traumatic oral ulcers on diabetic conditions have yet to be investigated. Purpose: This study aims to discover the potent effect of C. limon L. on traumatic diabetic oral ulcers, in terms of both lymphocytes and interleukin (IL)-10 expression. Materials and Methods: C. limon L. gel was made from C. limon L. peel and was extracted by means of steam distillation. Twenty male, diabetic Wistar rats with traumatic ulcers on the inferior labial mucosa were divided into four groups (n = 5). The control groups were treated with 3\% carboxylmethyl celullosa natrium and the treatment groups were treated with C. limon L. gel. Each treatment was administered once a day for either 5 or 7 days. Lymphocytes were analyzed by means of hematoxylin and eosin staining and IL-10 expression by immunohistochemistry staining. An independent t-test (P \< 0.05) was used to analyze and determine the number of lymphocytes and IL-10 expression. Results: The number of lymphocytes and IL-10 expression in the treatment groups on the fifth and 7th days was higher than those in the control groups (P \< 0.05). Conclusion: The essential oil in C. limon L. peel can be used to treat traumatic diabetic oral ulcers, as it is able to stimulate the number of lymphocytes and IL-10 expression.

}, keywords = {Citrus limon L, Diabetes mellitus, Interleukin-10, Lymphocytes, Traumatic ulcer}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_12_20}, author = {Fatma Yasmin Mahdani and Diah Savitri Ernawati and Priyo Hadi and Bagus Soebadi and Shiffin Devi Mardiyana and Dwi Susanti and Meircurius Dwi Condro Surboyo} } @article {189, title = {Comparative Analysis of the Antimicrobial Potential of Stem and Fruit Extracts of Calotropis procera}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {368-374}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {368}, abstract = {

Background: The dramatic rise in antimicrobial resistance continues to threaten the effective management and treatment of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Medicinal plants offer excellent therapeutic alternative especially due to their plethora bioactive constituents and low resistance development to them. Purpose: The comparative analysis of the antimicrobial potential of the stem and fruit extracts of Calotropis procera was investigated. Materials and Methods: Using different extracts of the plant, the phytochemical screening was determined alongside their antimicrobial properties with agar-disc diffusion assay. The antimicrobial potency of the plant extracts (200 mg/ml) was evaluated and compared by their inhibition zone (IZ), activity index (AI), percentage specific activity (PSA), and percentage total activity (PTA) values. Results: The highest antibacterial activity (IZ = 15 {\textpm} 0.5 mm) was displayed by the stem hot aqueous extract against Staphylococcus aureus, while the maximum antifungal effect was exerted by both the stem cold and hot aqueous extracts (P \> 0.05). The overall antimicrobial AI (AI = 1.56) was displayed by the stem cold aqueous extract against Candida albicans. The stem{\textquoteright}s hot and ethanolic extracts exhibited the highest achievable PSA of 100\%. Furthermore, the stem extracts displayed the PTA of 83.3\% compared to 25\% by the fruit extracts, thus confirming the greater antimicrobial potency of the plant{\textquoteright}s stem extracts. Conclusion: This study suggests that while the stem extracts of C. procera could have displayed better antimicrobial activity, the overall effects elicited by the plant could be attributed to the presence of phytochemicals as revealed by the result of the phytochemical screening. Further studies focusing on complete characterization and evaluation of the mechanism of antimicrobial action of bioactive constituents of the extracts is underway.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity, Antimicrobial resistance, Calotropis procera, Medicinal plants, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_58_20}, author = {Sharafa Adegoke Bello and Tawakalt Adedayo Ayofe and Mohammed Faridat Yakub and Abdullahi Temitope Jamiu} } @article {171, title = {Comparative Botanical and Phytochemical Studies of Ambiguous Medicinal Plant Species of Wedelia and Eclipta (Fam. Asteraceae) Used in ASU Systems of Medicine with Special Reference to in-silico Screening of Hepatoprotective Potential of Marker Wedelolacto}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {285-298}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {285}, abstract = {

Context: In traditional medicine, Kesaraja (Ayurveda) or Manjal karisali (Siddha) is effective for jaundice. Aim: Three species of Asteraceae need to be studied for their therapeutic superiority of their intended claim. They are Wedelia chinensis (Osbeck) Merr. Philipp J., Wedelia trilobata (L.) Hitchc. and Eclipta prostrata (L.) L. (Asteraceae). The present study aimed to screen and characterize the potential species for therapeutic purpose. Materials and Methods: The whole plants, W. chinensis (Osbeck) Merr. Philipp J., W. trilobata (L.) Hitchc. and Eclipta prostrata (L.) (Asteraceae) were collected and botanically identified. Preliminary phytochemical analysis and high-performance thin-layer chromatography finger printing with marker wedelolactone were done for the ethanolic extracts of these plants. Botanical and pharmacognostical diagnostic characters of the plants based on macro-morphological, micro-morphological and powder microscopical characterization were worked out. Comparative in-vitro antioxidant potential of ethanolic extracts of these plant species was carried out. Using ADMET SAR software, the pharmacokinetics of wedelolactone were predicted. Using Autodock 4.2 software, the binding energy of wedelolactone on targets of acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity namely PPAR-α, AMPK, JNK-1, EGFR, Nrf2, ALT, ALP, GGT, CAR, Frizzled receptor, FXR, ERK1, LXR, mitochondrial glutamate dehydrogenase, p53, mTOR C1, CYP1A2, CYP2E1, 5-lipoxygenase, thrombin, UCP1, GSK1, RXR and PXR was predicted. Results: All the three plant species were pharmacognostically and chemically different. W. chinensis was found to possess more antioxidant potential than the other two plants. The marker compound wedelolactone was not detected in W. trilobata. Wedelolactone passed the Lipinski{\textquoteleft}s rule of five, and the docking analysis of wedelolactone confirmed high binding affinity toward PPAR-α, AMPK, Nrf2, CYP2E1, EGFR, JNK1, UCP-2, thrombin, 5-lipoxygenase, mTORC1, RXR, FXR, LXR, Frizzled receptor, GDH and Erk-1. Conclusion: Based on the above observations, we conclude that the presence of marker compound wedelolactone might have attributed the potency of W. chinensis and E. prostrata in counteracting acetaminophen toxicity when compared with W. trilobata.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Ayurveda, Botany, Docking, Eclipta prostrata, High-performance thin-layer chromatography, Macro-morphological, Micro-morphological, Phytochemical, Powder microscopy, Siddha, Wedelia chinensis, Wedelia trilobata, Wedelolactone}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_11_20}, author = {C Arunachalam and R Arunadevi and S Murugammal and N Monika and R Susila and S N Sunil Kumar} } @article {55, title = {Cytotoxic and Antimigratory Effects on Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 Cells of Morinda citrifolia L. Leaf Extract and Formulation of Tablets from Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {24-28}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {24}, abstract = {

Background: Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases known to man. Efforts to combat the disease remain ongoing. Morinda citrifolia L. is a medicinal plant which is gaining interest as a natural chemotherapeutic agent for breast cancer treatment. Objective: This study aimed to determine the anticancer activity of M. citrifolia leaf extract on Michigan cancer foundation 7 (MCF-7) breast cancer cells as well as formulate tablets containing the extract to assess their viability. Materials and Methods: M. citrifolia leaf extract was prepared using the maceration method. Cytotoxicity and cell migration suppression, representing anticancer activity, were also assessed in MCF-7 cells by the sulforhodamine B assay and wound-healing assay. Tablets containing the extract were formulated using the wet granulation method. The prepared tablets were then evaluated regarding their physical properties and scopoletin content, a marker in the extract, before and after stability testing. Results: The extract showed cytotoxicity on MCF-7 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner with 50\% inhibitory concentration values of 39.9 {\textpm} 3.5 {\textmu}g/mL for 48 h. In addition, it showed an antimigratory effect on MCF-7 cells with a significant effect at 25 {\textmu}g/mL. The prepared tablets had good characteristics and were found to meet the requirements of the United States Pharmacopeia. Moreover, they could maintain their physical properties and scopoletin content over a 2-month period. Conclusion: This study showed that M. citrifolia leaf extract exhibited potential anti-breast cancer activity. The prepared tablets containing the extract could be a potential formulation for breast cancer treatment. However, the underlying mechanism of the extract as an antibreast cancer agent requires further investigation in subsequent study.

}, keywords = {Antibreast cancer, Antimigratory effect, Morinda citrifolia L. leaf, Scopoletin content, Tablets}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_66_19}, author = {Supavadee Boontha and Benjaporn Buranrat and Tasana Pitaksuteepong} } @article {177, title = {Determination of Flavan-3-ols by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Photodiode Array, Antioxidant Potential, Antimicrobial Activity and Pharmacognostic Evaluation of Maytenus obtusifolia (Mart.) Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {313-321}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {313}, abstract = {

Background: Maytenus obtusifolia Mart. (Syn. Monteverdia obtusifolia Mart. Biral), Celastraceae, is a species located on the coast of Brazil, which is commonly used as anti-inflammatory and on the treatment of gastric ulcers. Objectives: The aim of this study consists of the determination of quality control parameters of the plant material, as well as to develop, validate high-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array methodology for the quantification of its analytical markers and evaluate the antioxidant potential and antimicrobial activity of the extract. Materials and Methods: The plant material and ethanolic crude extract (ECE) were evaluated through pharmacopoeial and nonpharmacopoeial methods. Anti-oxidant assay was assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. Minimum inhibitory concentration was used to evaluate antimicrobial activity assay. Results: The assays have provided the following results: granulometry (d50 0.82 mm), moisture content (6.41\%{\textendash}9.03\%), pH of aqueous solution (5.41), apparent bulk density (0.41 mg/mL), heavy metals (\<10 ppm), total ash (5.20\%), and sulfated ash content (6.36\%). Total flavonoid (2.14\%; 6.24\%), tannin (6.51\%; 17.85\%), and phenolic content (41.95; 134.76 mg AG/g) regarding leaves powder and its ECE, respectively. The validated method was specific, linear, precise, accurate, and robust. The content of (-)-Epigallocatechin, (+)-Catechin and (-)-Epicatechin on the ECE was 1.00\%, 0.40\%, and 0.33\%, respectively. The anti-oxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH assay and have presented an IC50 at 18.01 μg/mL. In addition, the most important antimicrobial activity of the ECE was against Aspergillus flavus (MIC at 128 μg/mL). Conclusion: These data have demonstrated to be very useful toward the analysis and pharmacognostic quality control of M. obtusifolia Mart.

}, keywords = {Bom-nome, Flavan-3-ols, Maytenus obtusifolia, Pharmacognostic evaluation, Quality control}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_9_20}, author = {Diego Igor Alves Fernandes de Ara{\'u}jo and Anny Palloma de Lima Arruda Fernandes and Anderson Angel Vieira Pinheiro and Augusto Lopes Souto and Kaio Arag{\~a}o Sales and Priscylla Rayama Alves Fernandes de Ara{\'u}jo and Rodrigo Silva de Andrade and Marcelo Sobral da Silva} } @article {104, title = {Determination of Free and Bound Amino Acids in Plant Raw Materials of Zea mays L. by the Method of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {143-148}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {143}, abstract = {

Background: Plants have long been considered as a source of easily digestible forms of amino acids in combination with other biologically active compounds. Objectives: The aim of our research was to study the amino acid composition of the roots, leaves, and silk of Zea mays. Materials and Methods: The qualitative composition and the quantitative content of the free and the bound amino acids have been studied by the methods of paper chromatography and the high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: The content of the bound amino acids is significantly higher than the content of free amino acids in the studied plant material. The presence of 11 free amino acids and 16 bound amino acids has been found after the hydrolysis of aqueous solutions of the roots, leaves, and silk of Z. mays. Cysteine dominates quantitatively among the bound amino acids in all samples. The roots have the lowest amino acid content compared to other samples of raw materials. Conclusions: Results show the availability to use the Z. mays raw material for the production of complex remedies and functional food additives that contain amino acid complexes.

}, keywords = {Amino acids, High-performance liquid chromatography, Leaves, Roots, Zea mays L. silk}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_78_19}, author = {Uliana V Karpiuk and Victoriia S Kyslychenko and Irina S Cholak and Oksana I Yemelianova} } @article {93, title = {Development and Validation of Veratric Acid in Tabebuia avellanedae using Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry-Multiple Reaction Monitoring-Based Assay Coupled with 1,1-Diphenyl-2-Picrylhydrazyl Method}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {107-111}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {107}, abstract = {

Objective: The aim of the present study is to develop a new simple, precise, and accurate liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the quantification of veratric acid in Tabebuia avellanedae Linn. Materials and Methods: The quantification of veratric acid was done using collision-induced dissociation multiple reaction monitoring scan of mass spectrometry technique. The developed method was validated according to the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. The free radical scavenging activity was performed by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. Results: The ion transitions of the precursor to the productions were principally protonated ion [M + H]+ at m/z 182.8 \>139.20, 124.20, and 77.0 for veratric acid. The proposed method was validated for linearity with an excellent correlation coefficient of 0.9978. The intraday and intermediate precisions and repeatability showed the percentage relative standard deviation was \<2\%. The accuracy for the determination of veratric acid was within 82.20\%{\textendash}97.65\%. The limit of detection and limit of quantitation were 0.66 and 2.21 ppm, respectively. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration value for the DPPH radical scavenging activity of ascorbic acid and quality control sample (hydroalcoholic extract of T. avellanedae) was found to be 17.79 and 36.44 μg/ml, respectively. Conclusion: The developed LC-MS/MS method is a simple, rapid, precise, accurate, and it is recommended for efficient assays in routine work. T. avellanedae exhibited strong DPPH radical scavenging activity.

}, keywords = {1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, Method validation, Multiple reaction monitoring, Tabebuia avellanedae, Veratric acid}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_77_19}, author = {Puttaswamy Naveen and Harakanahalli Basavegowda Lingaraju and Siddappa Chandrappa and Srikant Anitha and Kodimule Shyam Prasad} } @article {154, title = {Effect of a Thai Folk Recipe on Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant Activities, and α-Glucosidase Inhibition by Different Solvent Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {225-229}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {225}, abstract = {

Context: Thai traditional medicine (TTM) has been widely use to treatment of various diseases. Aims: The aims of this study were determined on phytochemical screening, antioxidations, and α-glucosidase inhibition by different solvent extractions. Materials and Methods: The five medicinal plants from a TTM recipe were extracted using aqueous, 50\% ethanol and 95\% ethanol. The phytochemical screening were determined on total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) contents. Their antioxidant activities were tested using by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazy (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, 2,2-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS+) radical scavenging assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Glucose transferase mechanism was evaluated using by α-glucosidase inhibitory assay. Results: The results found that the recipe was ingredient with TPC and TFC. The aqueous extract (AE) (47.955 {\textpm} 0.256 mgGE/gExt) was significantly highest amount on TPC while, the ethanolic extract (EE) (1.988 {\textpm} 0.038 mgQE/gExt) was showed significantly highest amount on TFC. The antioxidations, DPPH, and the AE (IC50 = 0.227 {\textpm} 0.005) were significantly more potent on free radical scavenging. ABTS+, AE (IC50 = 0.148 {\textpm} 0.007), Hydro-ethanolic extract (HEE) (IC50 = 0.161 {\textpm} 0.008), and EE (IC50 = 0.151 {\textpm} 0.007) were not different on this method. FRAP, EE (12.681 {\textpm} 0.620 mgTE/gEt) were significantly more potent on cation radical reducing. The α-Glucosidase inhibitory activity, AE (IC50 = 0.021 {\textpm} 0.002 mg/mL) and HEE (IC50 = 0.076 {\textpm} 0.003 mg/mL) were significantly more potent on EE (IC50 = 0.292 {\textpm} 0.010 mg/mL) and Acarbose{\textregistered} (IC50 = 1.05 {\textpm} 0.110 mg/mL). Conclusion: The study confirms traditional use of a Thai folk herbal plants on antioxidation and α-glucosidase inhibition. The recipe was contained with also TPC and TFC might be more potential to antioxidant activities and anti-α-glucoxidase enzyme. Future study, we should be performed to clarify the mechanisms, major active compounds and in vivo.

}, keywords = {Antioxidation, Flavonoids, Phenolic compounds, Thai folk recipe, α-Glucosidase}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_100_19}, author = {Anirut Namwong and Pramote Thongkrajai and Ampa Konsue} } @article {169, title = {Effect of Carbon Tetrachloride-induced Hepatic Injury on Luffa acutangula (var.) Amara}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {278-284}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {278}, abstract = {

Objectives: To study the reversal effect of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic injury on the ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts of Luffa acutangula var. amara in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: The study included experimental mice groups in which pentobarbital-induced sleeping time and its prolongation by CCl4 is assessed by righting reflex and recovery time. Chronic liver injury was induced by oral administration of CCl4 and acute injury by a single intraperitoneal injection in experimental Wistar rats. Blood and liver specimens were used for analysis of enzymatic reactions. Results: It was noted that the mice groups treated with extracts decrease the sleeping time in and standard silymarin than the control group. Acute and chronic liver injury models showed increases in total protein and glutathione peroxidase, whereas there was a reduction in total bilirubin and serum alkaline phosphate level in extracts and standard silymarin-treated rats than control. Histopathological studies showed a significant reduction in inflammation, fatty change and gross necrosis in extracts and standard silymarin-treated animals than control. Conclusion: The study suggests that extracts of L. acutangula var. amara can be useful in treating acute and chronic hepatic injury.

}, keywords = {Aspartate aminotransferase, Carbon tetrachloride, Hepatoprotective, Luffa acutangula, Silymarin, Wistar rats}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_113_19}, author = {E Prabhu Daniel and AR Vijayakumar and W Clement Atlee and R Ilavarasan and M Sivakumar} } @article {156, title = {Effect of Seasonal Variation on Euphadienol Content in Euphorbia antiquorum L. and Euphorbia tirucalli L. using High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography Method}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {236-242}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {236}, abstract = {

Background: Ayurveda emphasizes that different parts of plants (both organized and unorganized) should be collected on a certain season to get their better yield and therapeutic value. In general, Kshira (latex) should be collected in Sharada rutu (autumn season). However, the latex of Snuhi has been stated to be collected at Shishiranta (end of winter). The latex of Snuhi has an important place in different therapeutic formulations. One of the important mentions is for the preparation of Ksharasutra, one of the widely used paramedical procedures in Ayurveda. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of seasonal variation on the quantity of euphadienol content (one of the major active constituents) in latex sample of Euphorbia antiquorum L. (EA) and Euphorbia tirucalli L. (ET). Materials and Methods: The latex was collected individually during six different seasons in a calendar year from two species i.e. EA and ET. Then, after suitable sample preparation, it was subjected to high-performance thin-layer chromatography study using euphadienol as a standard biomarker and scanned at 210 nm. Results: The euphadienol content was found to be present in all the six seasons across the calendar year. The content was found maximum in Hemanta rutu and Sharada rutu samples in case of EA and ET, respectively. Conclusion: The study proves that changes of seasons do have a certain effect on the phytoconstituents in the plants.

}, keywords = {Euphadienol, Euphorbia antiquorum, Euphorbia tirucalli, High-performance thin-layer chromatography, Snuhi}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_1_20}, author = {Sudipta Roy and Rabinarayan Acharya and VJ Shukla and Anagha Ranade} } @article {127, title = {Erratum: Phytochemical Screening and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Ethanol Extract of Scambiosa columbabria L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {205}, type = {Erratum}, chapter = {205}, abstract = {

In the article titled {\textquotedblleft}Phytochemical Screening and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Ethanol Extract of Scambiosa columbabria L.{\textquotedblright}, published on pages 35-39, Issue 1, Volume 12 in Pharmacognosy Research,[1] the terms {\textquotedblleft}Scabiosa columbaria L.{\textquotedblright},{\textquotedblright} S. columbaria{\textquotedblright} and {\textquotedblleft}Scabiosa columbaria{\textquotedblright} were misspelled as {\textquotedblleft}Scambiosa columbabria L.{\textquotedblright}, {\textquotedblleft}S. columbabria{\textquotedblright} and {\textquotedblleft}Scambiosa columbabria{\textquotedblright} respectively in the title as well as throughout the article including figures, tables, and legends. The term {\textquotedblleft}insulin-mimicking activity{\textquotedblright} was misspelled as {\textquotedblleft}insulin-mimickingactivity,{\textquotedblright} on page 38, 14th line of paragraph RESULTS AND DISCUSSION. The {\textquotedblleft}How to cite this article{\textquotedblright} section should read correctly as {\textquotedblleft}Sagbo IJ, Orock AE, Kola E, Otang-Mbeng W. Phytochemical screening and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of ethanol extract of Scabiosa columbaria L. Phcog Res 2020;12:35-9{\textquotedblright}.

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.284429} } @article {99, title = {Evaluation of Biochemical Changes in Diabetic Rats Treated with Aegle marmelos (L.) Methanolic Leaf Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {127-130}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {127}, abstract = {

Background: Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa is a widely found plant in India as well as in South Asia. For more than several centuries, it is being widely used for its medicinal properties. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the biochemical changes in alloxan-induced diabetic rats treated with methanolic leaf extracts of A. marmelos. Materials and Methods: Six treatment groups, namely control, diseased, standard (glimepiride), low dose (100 mg/kg), medium dose (250 mg/kg), and high dose (500 mg/kg) of methanolic leaf extracts, were used in the study. The biochemical effects were evaluated by the determination of bodyweight, blood glucose, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), total proteins, serum albumin, serum creatinine, and alkaline phosphatase. Results: A significant increase in the bodyweight of the animals was observed in the high-dose treated animals (350.0 {\textpm} 6.15) when compared to the diseased group animals (241.0 {\textpm} 7.23). A significant decrease in the blood glucose, SGOT, and SGPT levels was observed in the high-dose treated animals (142.3 {\textpm} 20.52, 71.6 {\textpm} 4.8, and 24.5 {\textpm} 2.42) when compared to the diseased group animals (292.8 {\textpm} 29.34, 146.3 {\textpm} 11.12, and 74.5 {\textpm} 2.88), respectively. Similarly, total proteins, serum albumin, serum creatinine, and alkaline phosphatase levels of the high-dose treated animals were also significantly decreased (6.1 {\textpm} 0.26, 4.2 {\textpm} 0.22, 0.4 {\textpm} 0.18, and 109.2 {\textpm} 14.58) when compared to the diseased group animals (9.7 {\textpm} 0.27, 5.4 {\textpm} 0.26, 1.0 {\textpm} 0.22, and 257.2 {\textpm} 8.22), respectively. Conclusion: Through the biochemical changes, it is evident that the high dose of methanolic leaf extract of A. marmelos can be used in the treatment of diabetes and its complications.

}, keywords = {Aegle marmelos, Alloxan, Bael, Diabetes, Rutaceae}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_53_19}, author = {Ravi Babu Birudu and Padmavathi Pamulapati and Sathish Kumar Manoharan} } @article {162, title = {Evaluation of Cytotoxicity and Antioxidant Potential of Bael Leaf (Aegle marmelos) on Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Line}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {267-271}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {267}, abstract = {

Background: Aegle marmelos (Bael) is one of the important medicinal plants for curing human diseases. Nevertheless, the information about the cytotoxic and antioxidant effects of Bael leaf is not much. Objectives: The objective of this study is to evaluate the cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity of Bael leaf in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell lines. Materials and Methods: Bael leaves extract was prepared by 80\% (v/v) aqueous ethanol and measured for total phenolic compound and antioxidant capacity. The ability of ethanolic Bael leaf extract to inhibit hepatic cancer cells (HepG2 cell) growth was evaluated by determining the percentages of cell viability. The levels of intracellular reactive-oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation were determined. Results: Bael leaf extract demonstrated the potentiality to inhibit the cancer cell growth with a 50\% inhibitory concentration (IC50) at 50 μg/ml and 72 μg/ml after 24 h and 48 h incubated times, respectively. The total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of ethanolic extract were 218.33 {\textpm} 43.81 mg gallic acid equivalent/g of dry extract and 33.62 {\textpm} 3.07 mg Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity/g of dry extract, respectively. At the lowest concentration of Bael leaf extract, it was found that Bael leaf extract shows the antioxidant activity by the ability to lowering the level of ROS and malondialdehyde in HepG2 cell. Conclusion: Bael leaf has a high antioxidant component, which is beneficial and can be developed as new therapeutic uses. However, further studies on the benefits of Bael leaf should be performed for better realizing and effective use soon.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Bael, cytotoxicity, Human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line, Malondialdehyde, Reactive-oxygen species}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_15_20}, author = {Kanokwan Kulprachakarn and Sakaewan Ounjaijean and Somdet Srichairatanakool and Duangta Kanjanapothi} } @article {70, title = {Evaluation of the Chemical Composition and Oral Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oil from the Leaves of Pimenta pseudocaryophyllus (Gomes) Landrum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {65-70}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {65}, abstract = {

Background: Pimenta pseudocaryophyllus is a native species from Brazil, whose leaves are used in the traditional culture as medicinal plants, being reported with antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Objectives: The aim of this study is to analyze and characterize the chemical composition of the essential oil (EO) extracted from the leaves of P. pseudocaryophyllus, as well as to evaluate its potential for antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria inhabiting the human oral cavity. Materials and Methods: The extraction was performed by steam distillation and the chemical composition was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antimicrobial potential of the EO against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecalis was evaluated by agar well diffusion method. Different dilutions of the EO (10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, 0.312, 0.156, 0.078, and 0.039\%, v/v) were tested against the micro-organisms in disk diffusion tests to evaluate the minimum inhibitory concentration. Results: The extraction yielded 0.65\% of EO in relation to fresh leaves of P. pseudocaryophyllus. GC-MS analysis identified eugenol, eucalyptol, and limonene as the major compounds of its. The material showed antimicrobial activity, especially against E. faecalis, with moderate activity against S. aureus, both at concentrations from 1.25\% to 10\%. Conclusion: The results suggested that this EO presents potential of activity against the oral micro-organisms here evaluated.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity, Essential oil, eugenol, Minimum inhibitory concentration, Phytotherapy}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_83_19}, author = {Leila Teresinha Maranho and Elaine Cristina Rosas and Tha{\'\i}s Andrade Costa and Jo{\~a}o Luiz Coelho Ribas and Flares Baratto-Filho and Marilisa Carneiro Le{\~a}o Gabardo} } @article {185, title = {Gas Chromatography-High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry Elucidation and in vitro Cell Line Studies (Sulforhodamine B) on Niosomal Gel of Benincasa hispida}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {342-351}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {342}, abstract = {

Background: The Cucurbitaceae family has been known for its presence of phytoconstituents, namely, lupeol, β-sitosterol, terpenoids, phenols, and proteins with therapeutic potential. Objectives: The research paper tries to focus on major therapeutic field of people demographic area of type of cancer. Soxhlet extraction of Benincasa hispida (BH) was carried out and crude extract was converted to powder. Niosomal gel was formulated after the optimization of drug concentration from the extract of Niosomal solution. Solution with maximum entrapment was selected for the preparation of gel. Gel was prepared by using different Carbopol grades and with comparison of different parameters. Gel was studied for gas chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC-HRMS) evaluation for check toxicity. Biologic activity was analyzed by SRB (Sulforhodamine B) assay with in vitro cell lines (human oral cancer cell line KB and Mus Musculus skin melanoma B16-F10). Results: Solution which was clear and white was selected for gel development. Carbopol 934 (1{\textquoteright}) as gelling agent showed good formulation properties. It was non-gritty, easily spreadable, and washable. The gel with maximum entrapment efficiency was evaluated further. GC-HRMS revealed 1.2-ethyl 2-Hexen-1-ol; 1,8-(3-Octyl-2-oxiranyl)-1-octanol; Dodecanoic acid, 2-penten-1-yl ester; Cholestane, 4, 5-epoxy-,(4α,5α); Cyclopentaneundecanoic acid; 17-octadecynoic acid; Octadecanoic acid, methyl ester; Methyl oleate; Tridecanoic acid, methyl ester; and Silane, dimethyl (2,3,6, tricholrophenoxy) heptadicycloxy. The selected cell lines did not show satisfactory activity at different concentrations in SRB assay. Conclusion: This research paper tried to witness the probable potential of BH for cancer with analytical base. Future studies may be undertaken at various stages and levels to further explore the potential of these families of plants.

}, keywords = {Benincasa hispida, Gas chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry, Niosomal gel, Oral cancer, Sulforhodamine B}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_37_20}, author = {Gaurav Mahesh Doshi and Akanksha Dilip Badgujar and Ishan Sudhir Mathurvaishya} } @article {108, title = {Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Elucidation and Antipsoriatic Activity on Developed Herbal Formulations from Carissa congesta, Catharanthus roseus, Annona squamosa, and Polyalthia longifolia Plant Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {163-168}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {163}, abstract = {

Background: Annonaceae and Apocynaceae families are known for their plethora of pharmacotherapeutic potential. Objectives: To evaluate antipsoriatic potential (ultraviolet [UV]-induced photodermatitis and tail model) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) studies on developed formulations from the plant extracts. Materials and Methods: Formulations of ethanolic extracts of Carissa congesta and Catharanthus roseus and petroleum ether extracts of Annona squamosa and Polyalthia longifolia were evaluated for antipsoriatic activity (UV-induced photodermatitis and tail model) at 250 and 500 mg/ kg. GC-MS studies were done subsequently after 6 months. Formulation batches were tested by different tests, viz., pH, viscosity, spreadability, washability, homogeneity, grittiness, drug content, Sudan red, bleeding, and sensitivity tests. Results: Histopathology studies indicated the absence of Munro{\textquoteright}s microabscess, regular elongation of rete ridges, capillary loop dilatation, granular cell layer, and prominent parakeratosis at 500 mg/kg. Formulations of the plant extracts did not reveal toxic components by GC-MS interpretation. No greasiness was observed during washing. Uniform homogeneity was observed with neither clumps nor large aggregates. The dispersed globules appeared red against colorless water background. Bleeding time was found to be stable during the experimentation. Conclusion: Developed topical plant formulations showed antipsoriatic potential on selected models. The GC-MS studies confirmed the presence of no drastic changes in the quantity of active constituents assuring its stability.

}, keywords = {Annona squamosa, Carissa congesta, Catharanthus roseus, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Polyalthia longifolia, Psoriasis}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_110_19}, author = {Bernadette Donald Matthews and Ankita Sajeev Patil and Gaurav Mahesh Doshi} } @article {122, title = {Genetic, Chemical, and Biological Diversity in Mangifera indica L. Cultivars}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {186-193}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {186}, abstract = {

Context: Mango is a valuable plant with vital economic importance; the leaves of its cultivars show several morphological similarities. Aims: Full differentiation of the leaves of eight Mangifera indica L. cultivars depending on genetic, chemical, and biological bases. Settings and Design: Chemometric analysis was applied to fully distinguish the diversity among cultivars; also, their gastroprotective activity was studied. Subjects and Methods: DNA fingerprinting of eight mango cultivars using random amplified polymorphic DNA{\textendash} polymerase chain reaction technique and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of phenolic compounds and flavonoids were compared using chemometric analysis. Furthermore, estimation of total polyphenolics and flavonoids and gastroprotective activity was studied. Statistical Analysis Used: One-way analysis of variance was used, followed by Tukey{\textquoteright}s post hoc test. Results: Primers OPA-O7 and OPA-O8 showed 100\% polymorphism. Total polyphenolics and flavonoids concentrations varied greatly (14.58 in Tommy atkins to 29.54 in Fagrklan g gallic acid equivalent/100 g extract and 22.49 in Tommy atkins to 93.40 in Fagrklan g rutin equivalent/100 g extract, respectively). HPLC quantification revealed that Kent had relatively high mangiferin content (732.446 mg/kg), and caffeic acid was recorded in the tested cultivars (2266.66 in Keitt to 1106.94 mg/kg in Naaomy). Pylorus ligation model in rats was used to assess gastroprotective potential at a dose of 200 mg/kg using standard ranitidine. High percentage protection was observed in Kent (65.62\%), whereas Keitt showed the lowest percentage protection (45.31\%). No direct correlation could be deduced between concentration of detected metabolites and the gastroprotective effect, so this activity might be attributed to synergistic effect between all secondary metabolites. Conclusions: This study spots the light on the great variation among the tested extracts; in addition, it provides effective techniques that pave the way for complete discrimination of these mango cultivars.

}, keywords = {Chemometric analysis, Gastroprotection, High-performance liquid chromatography, Mangifera indica L., Mangiferin, Random amplified polymorphic DNA}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_99_19}, author = {Seham S El-Hawary and Rehab M S Ashour and Sabah H El-Gayed and Haidy A Gad and Gehad A Abdel Jaleel and Rania A El Gedaily} } @article {72, title = {Ghanaian Herbal Medicines for Malaria: An Evaluation of the Clinical Safety and Effectiveness of {\textquotedblleft}Time Herbal Mixture{\textquotedblright} in Uncomplicated Malaria}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {71-75}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {71}, abstract = {

Background: Herbal antimalarials have become a popular source of treatment for most Ghanaians. The significant increase in patronage is of public health concern due to the lack of quality, safety, and efficacy data. Aim: In this report, we evaluated the clinical safety and effectiveness of a Ghanaian commercial product named {\textquotedblleft}Time Herbal Mixture{\textquotedblright} (THM). The product is formulated from the leaves of Solanum torvum and Vernonia amygdalina and the stem bark of Spathodea campanulata and Bombax buonopozense. Methods: Participants of 40 patients diagnosed with uncomplicated malaria were recruited, treated, and followed up for a period of 28 days. This population comprised 25 (62.50\%) females and 15 (37.50\%) males, with a mean age of 42.29 (12.35) years. Outcome of primary interest was the ability of the product to clear blood parasites by day 7 of the study, resolution of cardinal symptoms of malaria, and an absence of adverse effects from the use of the product. Results and Discussion: A total of 33 (82.50\%) participants achieved clearance of all parasites by day 7 (complete cure). Partial clearance was attained by 6 (15.0\%) and treatment failure in 1 (2.50\%). Resolution of the cardinal symptoms was also observed in most participants by day 7. The product also had a good safety profile as none of the participants reported any adverse effects. Liver, kidney, and hematological profiles were also normal after the study. Conclusion: {\textquotedblleft}THM,{\textquotedblright} therefore, has the potential to be used in cases of uncomplicated malaria.

}, keywords = {Bombax buonopozense, Clinical studies, Herbal antimalarials, Solanum torvum, Spathodea campanulata, Vernonia amygdalina}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_23_19}, author = {Andrews W Tetteh and Kwesi P Thomford and Merlin L Mensah and Kwame O Boadu and Ama K Thomford and Isaac K Amposah and Godfred Amofa and Benard K Turkson and Michael O Agyemang and Emmanuel DJ Owusu-Ansah} } @article {39, title = {{\textquotedblleft}Haripriya{\textquotedblright} God{\textquoteright}s Favorite: Anthocephalus cadamba (Roxb.) Miq. - At a Glance}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Resea}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {1-16}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

The Kadam tree is highly regarded as religiously and culturally in India being sacred to Lord Krishna, and hence, the tree is also known as Haripriya, God{\textquoteright}s favorite. This article provides a detailed review of Anthocephalus cadamba (Roxb) Miq. (family {\textendash} Rubiaceae) that covers taxonomical classification, vernacular names, geographical distribution, botanical description, ethnobotanical information, pharmacological studies, and phytochemistry. Several parts of this plant have a number of traditional applications for treating humanity, which includes mouth ulcer, subdermal inflammatory deposits, stomatitis, fever, gastric disturbance, astringent, febrifuge, antiseptic, diuretics, anemia, uterine complaints, increase breast milk in lactating women, improvement of semen quality in men, nanotechnology, and agroforestry. The plant parts produce various pharmacological activities such as antidiabetic, antioxidant, antitumor, nephrotoxicity, diuretic and laxative, antihepatotoxic, hypolipidemic, analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antifilarial antimalarial, sedative, antiepileptic, urolithiatic, immunomodulatory, antivenom, gastroprotective, anthelminthic, wound healing, antimicrobial, geranyl acetate esterase inhibition along with toxicological studies, nanotechnology, and agroforestry, which are newly added applications. Many phytoconstituents were isolated using various solvents and obtained compounds, such as cadambine, 3α-dihydrocadambine, isodihydrocadambine, β-sitosterol, amygdalin, phelasin, ursolic acid, linalool, and geraniol that belong to alkaloids, coumarins, terpenoids, diterpenoids, triterpenes glycosides, sterols, flavonoids, amides, and fatty acids. Various solvent extracts and their gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry studies have confirmed structures of some important phytoconstituents. Hence, this review can be a good reference for researchers who are willing to continue further research about A. cadamba.

}, keywords = {Anthocephalus cadamba, Ethnobotanical information, Haripriya, Pharmacological activities, Phytoconstituents}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_102_19}, author = {Sumanta Mondal and Kausik Bhar and Ashes Sinha Mahapatra and Joy Mukherjee and Prasenjit Mondal and Syed Tazib Rahaman and Aishwarya P Nair} } @article {82, title = {High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography Analysis of Gallic Acid and Other Phytoconstituents of Methanolic Extracts of Myrica nagi Fruit}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {95-101}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {95}, abstract = {

Background: Myrica nagi Thunb. (family: Myricaceae) is effective against gastric, metabolic, and hepatic disorders. The therapeutic effect of its fruit, which is consumed in North India, has not been confirmed, and detailed chemical profiling of the fruit is thus required. Objectives: The study objective was to develop and optimize a high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method for the characterization of gallic acid, quercetin, myricetin, and caffeic acid in the methanolic extract of M. nagi fruit and the quantification of gallic acid. Materials and Methods: Analyses were performed using HPTLC, and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. HPTLC experiments were carried out using an optimized solvent mixture, which enabled the separation and detection (at 254 and 366 nm) of four flavonoid compounds in the dried M. nagi extract. Gallic acid was quantified using calibration curves. Results: The proposed method enabled the detection of gallic acid, quercetin, myricetin, and caffeic acid. Validation took into account the estimation of linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, accuracy, and recovery of gallic acid. Gallic acid was quantified at 12.93 μg/mg of dry plant concentrate. Conclusion: This study describes the development of an HPTLC method for the analysis and characterization of phytoconstitutents in the methanolic solution of a dried M. nagi fruit extract. The method was successfully validated for the analysis of gallic acid.

}, keywords = {Flavonoid, Gallic acid, High-performance thin-layer chromatography, Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, Myrica nagi}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_104_19}, author = {Yash Prashar and Nilesh J Patel} } @article {105, title = {Identification and Characterization of Polyphenols and Volatile Terpenoid Compounds in Different Extracts of Garden Sage (Salvia officinalis L.)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2021}, pages = {149-157}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {149}, abstract = {

Introduction: Garden sage (Salvia officinalis L.) is an important medicinal and aromatic herb, used in various food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetic industries for its potential antioxidant properties. Leaves are the source of essential oils and polyphenols, used as a raw material in food and pharmaceutical industries. Materials and Methods: The study aimed to develop a complete phytochemical profile of S. officinalis leaves through liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS) and gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Soxhlet and sonicated extract were analyzed using UHPLC, data-independent acquisition in negative electrospray ionization mode. Essential oil profiling of leaves in comparison with leaves+ stem was carried out using GC-FID. Results: Among the extraction methods, Soxhlet extraction yielded significantly high levels of caffeic acid (92.45 {\textpm} 1.92 μg/g), rosmarinic acid (18821.33 {\textpm} 150.20 μg/g), luteolin-7-glucoside (635.13 {\textpm} 11.20 μg/g), carnosic acid (27.48 {\textpm} 2.37 μg/g), carnosol (1347.67 {\textpm} 30.04 μg/g), and ursolic acid (14938.67 {\textpm} 82.20 μg/g). Among the 43 identified phenolic compounds, two flavonoids, diosmetin and pectolinarigenin and two triterpenoids benthamic and micromeric acids have been first time detected in S. officinalis leaves. The results of essential oil analysis indicated the presence of α-thujone (34.43- 38.93 \%), β-thujone (6.03-7.58 \%), camphor (15.77-18.12 \%), 1,8-cineole (5.45-6.21 \%), α-humulene (5.20 \%), and camphene (4.29-5.10 \%) as major volatile terpenoid components in S. officinalis. Conclusion: Soxhlet extraction found to be the best method for polyphenol extraction and the essential oil extracted only from leaves best suitable for therapeutic purposes due to less α-thujone and β-thujone content.

}, keywords = {Garden sage, Gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector, Polyphenols, Sonication, Soxhlet extraction, Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_92_19}, author = {Yashaswini Sharma and Ravikishore Velamuri and John Fagan and Jim Schaefer and Christoph Streicher and John Stimson} } @article {206, title = {Identification, Preliminary Genetic, and Biochemical Analyses the Hedera Plants Which Naturally Distribute in Vietn}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {450-454}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {450}, abstract = {

Background: Hedera is a genus of 12{\textendash}15 species of evergreen climbing woody plants in the family Araliaceae that are considered as traditional medicinal plants. Objectives: The objectives were to classify Hedera species collected from different areas in Vietnam and characterize some chemical compounds of these species. Materials and Methods: In this study, the DNA-based technique was used to classify and analyze the genetic source of 21 Hedera plant samples found in Vietnam. In addition, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is also employed to assess the chemical compounds of these plants. Results: The collected plants mainly distribute into three groups (named as N1, N2, and N3). Based on the phenotypic identification and genetic analysis, the N1 group is indicated as Hedera nepalensis (H. nepalensis), while N3 is Hedera helix (H. helix). The HPLC analysis indicates that most of them contained more hederacoside C than α-hederin. Moreover, N1 plants are able to produce hederacoside C as N3 even the accumulation levels in N1 are moderately lower than those in N3 plants. Conclusion: These results provide important information about the local Hedera plants and help us to select the good medicinal sources for further applications in biomedical sciences.

}, keywords = {Hedera plants, Hederacoside C, High-performance liquid chromatography detection, ITS gene, MatK gene, α-hederin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_65_20}, author = {Nguyen Tuan Hiep and Pham Thi Hong Nhung and Nguyen Hoai Nguyen and Do Thi Thuy Linh and Hoang Thanh Duong and Do Thi Le Hang and Pham Thanh Huyen and Vu Thi Thom and Nguyen Minh Khoi and Dinh Doan Long} } @article {184, title = {In vitro 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme: A Reductase Inhibition Assay of Triphala Ayurvedic Formulation}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {337-341}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {337}, abstract = {

Background: Triphala, the Ayurvedic herbal formulation composed of Terminalia chebula Retz. (Combretaceae), Terminalia bellirica Roxb. (Combretaceae), and Phyllanthus emblica L. (Euphorbiaceae) fruits. It has been reported the cholesterol-lowering effect that the reduction of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase activity was proposed as a key mechanism of action. Since, triphala formulations in equal proportion (1:1:1) and different ratios of its three fruit constituents (vata, pitta, and kapha) have been prescribed by the traditional practitioners due to the patient{\textquoteright}s body conditions. The biological activities of each formulation are needed to evaluate. Objectives: The objective of the study was to investigate phytochemicals, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory effect, and HMG-CoA reductase molecular modeling of triphala extracts. Materials and Methods: Four triphala extracts were prepared by decoction and determined the contents of gallic acid, ellagic acid, chebulagic acid, and chebulinic acid as markers using high-pressure liquid chromatography analysis. The in vitro HMG CoA reductase assay was performed based on ultraviolet spectrophotometry, and molecular modeling was simulated using Autodock 1.5.6 to characterize the binding energy, ligand efficacy, and H-bond interaction. Results: All extracts contained gallic acid and chebulagic acid in the high contents, whereas ellagic acid and chebulinic acid were found in a small amount. The enzyme assay revealed pitta extract (at 10 μg/mL) was the most potent enzyme inhibition of 58.4\% {\textpm} 0.40\% (P <= 0.05). Moreover, the modeling results indicated that these four markers can interact the enzyme with different configurations and binding affinities. Conclusion: Pitta extract appeared to be a potent HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. It was a potential natural product as an alternative treatment for hypercholesterolemia.

}, keywords = {Chebulagic acid, Gallic acid, Kapha, Pitta, Vata}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_68_20}, author = {Chawannuch Mudjupa and Prasob-Orn Rinthong} } @article {123, title = {In vitro Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activities of Leaf and Flower Extracts from Bombax ceiba}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {194-198}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {194}, abstract = {

Context: Bombax ceiba is belonging to the family Bombacaceae. Dried stamen of this plant is used as vegetable and food ingredients for people in the Northern part of Thailand. There are very few reports on the biological activities in this plant, especially the flower parts. Objectives: The present study aimed to demonstrate the phytochemical screening and in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of crude extracts from B. ceiba. Materials and Methods: The leaf and flower part of B. ceiba were extracted using different solvents including water, 50\% ethanol, and 95\% ethanol. The phytochemical constituents were determined using standard qualitative methods. Total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were analyzed by colorimetric methods. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, 2,2-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothaizoline-6-sulphonate (ABTS) assay, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay were used to investigate the in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the extracts. For in vitro antidiabetic activities, α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory effects were tested. Results: Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, and cardiac glycosides in this plant. The highest TPC and TFC were found in 95\% ethanol flower extract (2.73 {\textpm} 0.064 mg gallic acid equivalent/g and 28.25 {\textpm} 2.33 mg quercetin equivalent/g, respectively.). However, the highest antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS + assay) was found in 95\% ethanol leaf extract (0.012 {\textpm} 0.0003, 0.009 {\textpm} 0.0005 mg/mL, respectively.) and FRAP assay was found in 95\% ethanol flower extract (349.27 {\textpm} 35.16 mg trolox equivalent/g). The highest α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities were found in 95\% ethanol flower extract (0.001 {\textpm} 0.0012 and 0.0002 {\textpm} 0.0001 mg/mL, respectively). Conclusion: The crude extracts from B. ceiba showed the potent in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities, especially the flower extracts. These findings confirm the ethnobotanical uses of B. ceiba as food and medicinal plants. Further studies on biological and pharmacological activities of this plant in the animal model and clinical trials must be carried out to confirm the use in medical aspects.

}, keywords = {Bombax ceiba leaf and flower extracts, In vitro antidiabetic inhibitory activity, In vitro antioxidant activity, Phytochemical screening}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_116_19}, author = {Nurarat Kriintong and Teeraporn Katisart} } @article {194, title = {In vivo Evaluation of Antimicrobial, Antipyretic, Analgesic, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Nilavembu Kudineer Capsule in Comparison with Siddha Classical Nilavembu Kudineer}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {387-393}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {387}, abstract = {

Background: The classical Siddha formulation Nilavembu Kudineer (NVK) is more effective in treating fever, infection, pain, and inflammation, but it is a liquid, is bitter in taste, is in a non-palatable form, and hence it was converted into a portable and palatable NVK capsule with increased shelf-life to comply with the needs of patients. The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the NVK capsule in comparison with the classical NVK by using animal models. Materials and Methods: NVK and NVK capsules were processed as per the standard operating procedures, and the extracts were prepared for oral administration. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of the drug in comparative assay with the standards {\textendash} ciprofloxacin and fluconazole {\textendash} were evaluated by the agar diffusion method. Analgesic activity of NVK and NVK Capsule was studied in Swiss albino mice of either sex (n=4), compared with positive control group; Antipyretic and antiinflammatory activity was studied in Wistar rats of either sex (n=4), compared with the positive control of Paracetamol and Indomethacin respectively.. Results: The zone of inhibition in antimicrobial assay revealed that NVK capsule is more effective than the extract of NVK. The NVK capsule at 200 mg/kg has equal and consistent efficacy (P \< 0.01) to reduce pyrexia compared to paracetamol 150 mg/kg at 1{\textendash}5 h. Furthermore NVK capsule at 400 mg/kg showed a statistically significant analgesic effect (P \< 0.01) and higher level of inhibition of inflammation in comparison with NVK and indomethacin (P \< 0.05). Conclusion: The study concludes that NVK capsule has very effective antimicrobial, analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory activities in comparison with classical NVK.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial, Antipyretic, Anti-inflammatory, Nilavembu Kudineer, Siddha}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_23_20}, author = {GS Lekha and E Deepika and S Swetha and A Kanagarajan and V Gayathridevi and KS Santhy} } @article {91, title = {Inhibitory Actions of Lupinifolin Isolated from Derris reticulata Stem against Carbohydrate-Digesting Enzymes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {102-106}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {102}, abstract = {

Background: Postprandial hyperglycemia is linked with the development of diabetic complications. Inhibition against the carbohydrate-digesting enzymes, specifically pancreatic α-amylase and intestinal α-glucosidase, delays carbohydrate digestion and subsides postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) levels. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the effects of lupinifolin, purified from Derris reticulata stem, a medicinal plant traditionally used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus, on in vitro α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme activities and enzyme kinetics. Subjects and Methods: The identification of the isolated phytochemical was performed using nuclear magnetic resonance{\textendash}mass spectrometry (NMR-MS) spectrometry. In vitro pancreatic α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities and enzyme kinetics were determined using the enzymatic colorimetric methods. Results: The purified phytochemical was identified as lupinifolin from the NMR-MS spectrometry. The isolated lupinifolin produced a significant α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory actions with the median inhibitory concentrations of 3.43 {\textpm} 0.77 and 56.29 {\textpm} 11.64 μg/mL, respectively. The study of enzyme kinetics showed that lupinifolin exhibited the mode of non-competitive and mixed enzyme inhibitions against α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively. Conclusion: The potent α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory actions of lupinifolin derived from D. reticulata stem evidently suggest its potential use as an alternative for the control of PPG.

}, keywords = {Derris reticulate, Diabetes mellitus, Lupinifolin, α-amylase, α-glucosidase}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_117_19}, author = {Pawitra Pulbutr and Pichnatcha Nantana and Surabot Suksabai and Chawannuch Mudjupa and Rattazart Denchai and Sakulrat Rattanakiat and Taweesak Dhammaraj} } @article {196, title = {Inhibitory Activity of Lupinifolin Isolated from Derris reticulata Stem against Biofilm Formation of Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {403-408}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {403}, abstract = {

Background: Biofilm formation activity of pathogenic bacteria plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of various diseases caused by bacterial infections. It has been reported that lupinifolin, a major phytochemical isolated from Derris reticulata stem, possesses an antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus. Nonetheless, its actions on biofilm formation properties of S. mutans and S. aureus have not been clearly established. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial and antibiofilm formation activities of lupinifolin derived from D. reticulata stem against S. mutans and S. aureus. Subjects and Methods: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was evaluated using the microbroth dilution method. The antibiofilm formation activity of lupinifolin was conducted at various incubation periods using the crystal violet biofilm formation assay. Results: The MICs of lupinifolin against S. mutans and S. aureus were 4 and 8 {\textmu}g/mL, respectively. Lupinifolin at the concentrations of sub-MICs had significant inhibitory actions against both sucrose-dependent and sucrose-independent biofilm formations of S. mutans. The lowest median inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) were found at the incubation periods of 12 h (0.57 {\textpm} 0.08 {\textmu}g/mL) and 20 h (0.21 {\textpm} 0.04 {\textmu}g/mL) against sucrose-dependent and sucrose-independent S. mutans biofilm formations, respectively. In addition, at its sub-MICs, lupinifolin also produced a significant inhibition against S. aureus biofilm formation with the lowest IC50 of 0.22 {\textpm} 0.03 {\textmu}g/mL observed at 6-h incubation. Conclusion: These results evidently indicated that lupinifolin can potentially be developed further as a natural product-derived antibiofilm-forming agent for the prevention and/or treatment of biofilm-associated bacterial infections.

}, keywords = {Biofilm, Derris reticulata, Lupinifolin, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_57_20}, author = {Pawitra Pulbutr and Kaewkallaya Thongrak and Apichart Thitprapai and Sakulrat Rattanakiat and Chawannuch Mudjupa and Achida Jaruchotikamol} } @article {65, title = {Inhibitory Effect on Human Platelet Aggregation, Antioxidant Activity, and Phytochemicals of Canna warszewiczii (A. Dietr) Nb. Tanaka}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {47-52}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {47}, abstract = {

Background: Canna warszewiczii (A. Dietr) Nb. Tanaka has been traditionally used to treat heart diseases in Vietnam, but there is a lack of scientific evidence. Objectives: This study investigated the inhibitory effect on human platelet aggregation, antioxidant activity, and main phytochemicals of fractions from the aerial and rhizome parts of the plant. Materials and Methods: Human platelets were prepared and incubated with different fraction doses (0.33, 0.75, and 1.5 mg/mL). Platelet aggregation was triggered by different agonists (adenosine diphosphate [ADP], collagen, and ristocetin). 2,2-diphenyl-1-pycrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays were done to test the free-radical scavenging activities. Spectrophotometry assays using Folin{\textendash}Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride were used to determine total flavonoid content (TFC) and total polyphenol content (TPC). The phytochemical screening was also implemented. Results: The n-hexane, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate (EA) fractions from both the rhizome and aerial parts significantly inhibited ADP-, collagen-, and ristocetin-platelet aggregations and decreased significantly the area under the platelet aggregation curve and aggregation velocity in a concentration-dependent manner, but the water fractions did not. The EA fractions showed the strongest DPPH and ABTS scavenging activity and highest TPC and TFC. Organic fractions contained variable bioactive compounds: flavonoids, polyphenols, glycosides, cardiac glycosides, coumarins, steroids, emodols, tannins, and cholesterols. Conclusion: The plant extracts or fractions could be used in the preparation of functional foods or supplements with antioxidant and antiplatelet activity. It is also a good candidate for searching novel bioactive compounds used in pharmaceutical industries for the development of antiplatelet and antioxidant agents to prevent and/or treat heart and oxidative stress-related diseases.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, antiplatelet, Canna warszewiczii (A. Dietr) Nb. Tanaka, Flavonoids, Polyphenols}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_72_19}, author = {Le Hong Luyen and Vu Thi Thom and Le Thi Thanh Huong and Duong Thi Ly Huong and Nguyen Thi Van Anh} } @article {157, title = {Kaempferol {\textendash} A Dietary Flavonoid Isolated from Blepharis integrifolia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {250-259}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {250}, abstract = {

Background: Blepharis integrifolia is in the preparation of traditional formulation for the treatment of various diseases, including digestive disorders such as flatulence and dysentery. Although a very few studies have assessed the pharmacological properties, nothing is known about the phytochemicals present and the effect of extracts on its pharmacological activities. Objectives: Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to assess the role of methanol extract of B. integrifolia (MBI) for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities. Materials and Methods: The phytochemicals present in the extract were evaluated using high-resolution liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (HR-LCMS). The extract and the isolated compound were subjected to antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory studies. Results: MBI exhibited an effective antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities at a more significant level than the standards. HR-LCMS analysis of MBI revealed the presence of kaempferol, rutin, and several phytochemicals. The activity-guided repeated fractionation of the methanol extract by silica gel column chromatography yielded a compound that exhibited strong antioxidant activity. Based on various physicochemical and spectroscopic analyses (ultraviolet, infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance [NMR], carbon-13 NMR, and MS), the bioactive compound isolated was elucidated as 3,5,7-trihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4H-chromen-4-one (kaempferol). Furthermore, the molecular docking studies for kaempferol revealed that it binds β-lactamase at MEG binding site and was found to interact with binding site residues PHE91, TRP94, ASN109, MET148, GLU147, ASN36, and ILE201. Conclusion: The results from the present study suggest that the potent antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities observed are a result of the presence of these bioactive compounds within the extract. In addition, these results also demonstrate the antioxidant potency of kaempferol which could be the basis for its alleged health-promoting potential.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Flavonoid, Free radicals, Kaempferol, Methanol extract}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_114_19}, author = {KM Anil Kumar and Ramith Ramu and S Chandan and Shivaraju Harikaranahalli Puttaiah} } @article {186, title = {Larvicidal Efficacy of Andrographis paniculata and Tinospora cordifolia against Aedes aegypti: A Dengue Vector}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {352-360}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {352}, abstract = {

Background: Aedes aegypti, dengue fever mosquito, is predominantly accompanying the transmission of dengue in tropical and subtropical countries of the world, causing millions of deaths every year. Materials and Methods: The current research was carried out to evaluate the larvicidal efficiency of Andrographis paniculata and Tinospora cordifolia against third instar larvae of A. aegypti using in silico and experimental study. Results: The methanolic extract of A. paniculata and ethanolic extract of T. cordifolia showed the highest larvicidal activity with LC50 and LC90 value of 15.75 ppm; 349.60 and 100.64 ppm; 386.37 ppm, respectively after 48 h exposure, which was statistically significant (P = 0.05). However, the combined action of methanolic extract of A. paniculata + ethanolic (50:50) extract of T. cordifolia and the bioactive fraction of methanolic extract of A. paniculata showed the effective larvicidal activity with LC50 value of 113.20 ppm and 236.08 ppm respectively after 24 h treatment which was statistically significant (P = 0.05). The m/z values in liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry graph of bioactive fraction of methanolic extract of A. paniculata predicted the possible amount of bioactive compound class like flavone, phenols, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, phenolic acid, alkaloids, isopalmitic acid, diterpenoids and quinic acid. The best energy binding affinity score against sterol carrying protein-2 of A. aegypti, panicolin (-9.86 kcal/mol), berberine (-10.13 kcal/mol) and their combination (50:50) showed effective larvicidal movement with LC50 value of 25.41 ppm, 23.15 ppm and 17.56 ppm after 24 h treatment. Conclusion: The crude extracts, bioactive fractions and synthetic bioactive compounds and their combination study of A. paniculata and T. cordifolia can be utilized as bio-control agents against A. aegypti mosquito.

}, keywords = {Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae, Andrographis paniculata, Chromatographic techniques, In silico study, Larvicidal activity, Phytochemical screening, Tinospora cordifolia}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_35_20}, author = {Anubrata Paul and V Samuel Raj and Arpana Vibhuti and Ramendra Pati Pandey} } @article {152, title = {Liquid Chromatography High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry Analysis, Phytochemical and Biological Study of Two Aizoaceae Plants: A New Kaempferol Derivative from Trianthema portulacastrum L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {212-218}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {212}, abstract = {

Background: Natural remedies used for the treatment of liver diseases have a major concernworldwide. Objectives: Evaluation of the cytotoxic potential of successive fractions of two Aizoaceae plants; Trianthema portulacastrum L. and Aizoon canariense L. against human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell lines. Moreover, metabolomic profiling of the successive fractions of both plants was carried out. Materials and Methods: Cytotoxic activity of successive fractions of the two plants against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) HepG2 cell lines were evaluated using viability assay, whereas metabolomic profiling was carried out using Liquid Chromatography High-Resolution ElectroSpray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (LC-HR-ESI-MS). Results: Significant cytotoxic activity of the n-hexane and n-butanol extracts of A. canariense (24.7 {\textpm} 3.5 and 55.3 {\textpm} 4.9 μg/mL, respectively) is recorded. On the other hand, metabolomic profiling of both plants resulted in dereplication of 27 metabolites belonging to different chemical classes; for example, sterols, flavonoids, diterpenes, triterpenes, tetraterpenes, alkaloids, lignans, hydrocarbons, and nucleosides. Phytochemical study of the biologically active fractions resulted in the isolation of one new compound; kaempferol-3-O-(2{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright}-O-β-D -glucopyranosyl)-6{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright}-O-E-feruloyl-β-D-glucopyranosid (T1). Biological testing of the isolated compounds indicated significant activity of T1 against HCC (IC50 = 7.19 {\textpm} 0.27 μg/mL). Conclusion: Phytochemicals isolated from T. portulacastrum L and A. canariense L. may be responsible for their cytotoxic activity against HCC HepG2 cell lines.

}, keywords = {Aizoon, Cytotoxic activity, Human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines, Liquid chromatography high-resolution ElectroSpray ionization mass spectrometry, Trianthema}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_119_19}, author = {Hala Abuzaid and Elham Amin and Abeer Moawad and Usama Ramadan Abdelmohsen and Mona Hetta and Rabab Mohammed} } @article {107, title = {Molecular Identification and Next-Generation Sequence Analysis of Interspecies Genetic Variations among Three Varieties of Datura}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {158-162}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {158}, abstract = {

Background: Datura is a well-known plant used in Ayurveda. It is a widely growing plant from Solanaceae family, attributed to poisonous and medicinal values. It is used in the treatment of various skin diseases, fever, etc., It is also used for external application and rarely for oral administration. Objectives: The present study aims to compare three different varieties of Datura which include the species of Datura innoxia Mill., Datura metel L. and Datura arborea are used to study molecular marker and phylogenetic analysis. Materials and Methods: Whole-genomic DNA was isolated from the leaves of Datura and the polymerase chain reactions amplification of DNA barcoding markers are rbcl, mat k, and internal transcribed spacer-4 and 5 were analyzed by 0.8\% agarose gel electrophoresis. Results: The DNA barcoding markers and next-generation sequencing are able to identify the interspecies genetic variations among these closely related plant varieties of Datura. Conclusion: The interspecies genetic variations among these closely related three species of D. innoxia, metel, and arborea was closely related with Datura stramonium isolate NN003 chloroplast genome similarity of 98\%, 99\%, and 99\%, respectively.

}, keywords = {Ayurveda, Datura, Internal transcribed spacer 4, Mat k, Medicinal plants, Next-generation sequencing, Ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase form I gene}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_101_19}, author = {Goli Penchala Prasad and Goli Penchala Pratap and Srinivasan Marimuthu and Shyam Baboo Prasad and Gajendra Rao and Anupam Kumar Mangal and Naryanam Srikanth} } @article {208, title = {Natural Gastroprotective Remedy from the Branches of Spondias tuberosa Arruda}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {455-459}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {455}, abstract = {

Background: Gastric ulcers are a worldwide health problem and their poor healing is one of the most important causes for their recurrence. Several species of Spondias are used in traditional medicine for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, infections, and inflammation, among other conditions. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant properties in vitro and gastroprotective effect in mice of the methanolic extract of branches of Spondias tuberosa (MEB). MEB was screened for antioxidant activities using different methods. Materials and Methods: Measurements of total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and tannins were also evaluated. The profile of phenolic compounds of extract was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). MEB was investigated for acute and chronic toxicity and gastroprotective effects against ethanol-induced lesions in Swiss mice. Results: The extract showed antioxidant activity in vitro and high content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and tannins. The HPLC results identified the presence of gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and t-ferulic acid. The MEB showed no acute and chronic toxicity and in doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, v. o., reduced the area of ulcerative lesions induced by ethanol in 73.74, 72.02, and 72.40{\textquoteright}, respectively. Conclusion: The oral treatment with the extract of S. tuberosa branches (MEB) showed gastroprotective and antioxidant activities.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Gastroprotective, Medicinal plants, Spondias tuberosa, Umbu}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_43_20}, author = {Amanda Dias de Araujo and George Souza Feitoza and Fernanda Granja da Silva Oliveira and Bruno Oliveira de Veras and Francinete Francis Lacerda and Nic{\'a}cio Henrique da Silva and Wolfgang Harand and Silvania T Paz and M{\'a}rio Ribeiro de Melo-J{\'u}nior and Jackson Roberto Guedes} } @article {97, title = {Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Activities of Fraction Isolated from Methanolic Extract of Sapindus laurifolia on Scopolamine Induced Dementia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = {119-126}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {119}, abstract = {

Background: Phytotherapy is considered a complementary approach for preventing and treating many diseases. Plants are rich source of bioactive secondary metabolites of a wide variety such as saponins, tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids. Sapindus laurifolia (fam: Sapindaceae), well known as soapnuts, are used medicinally as an expectorant, emetic, contraceptive, and for treatment of excessive salivation, epilepsy, chlorosis, and migraines. Objective: To isolation of fractions, estimation of total flavonoid content, in vitro antioxidant and in vivo neuroprotective activity of S. laurifolia fruit kernel. Materials and Methods: In this study, in vitro antioxidant activity is estimated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay method. Neuroprotective activity is estimated by scopolamine-induced dementia method. In neuroprotective method, behavioral parameters were checked by escape latency (EL) time (s) by using the Morris water maze, active avoidance testing using elevated plus maze, and neurochemicals such as glutathione, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Cholinesterase were estimated. Results: In scopolamine-induced dementia, increased EL time, active avoidance and neurochemicals such as glutathione, CAT, SOD and cholinesterase decreased. Whereas standard and Fraction S-treated animals decreased in EL time, active avoidance and increased locomotor activity, neurochemicals such as glutathione, CAT, SOD, and cholinesterase also increased. Conclusion: The present study clearly demonstrates that methanolic extract of S. laurifolia Fraction A (50 and 100 mg/kg) kernel significantly attenuate scopolamine-induced dementia by improving the learning, memory, antioxidant potentiality, and anti-acetyl cholinesterase activity. Therefore, this Fraction A can be a potential novel therapeutic strategy for controlling neurodegenerative dementia especially Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease. Yet, advance studies are needed to characterize the active compound(s) and expose the possible mechanism of action.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Dementia, Isolation, Neuroprotective, Sapindus}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_50_19}, author = {Nagaraju Bandaru and A Ramu and S Vidhyadhara} } @article {66, title = {Novel Phytocompounds from Vernonia amygdalina with Antimalarial Potentials}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {53-59}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {53}, abstract = {

Background: Malaria, one of the diseases predominant in the African continent, has been reported to be treated with plants and also some in vitro and in vivo tests have supported this. Vernonia amygdalina belonging to the family of Asteraceae is one of the plants widely used in Nigeria and studied for treatment of malaria and some scientific researchers have validated this claim. Objectives: In the present study, we aimed at isolation of possible compounds from the methanolic stem-bark of V. amygdalina, elucidation and characterization of the isolated compounds, and carry out antimalarial evaluations of the isolated compounds. Materials and Methods: Isolation of compounds was done using column chromatography technique, elucidation and characterization were done based on infrared, Mass, 1H, and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. The in vitro antimalarial activity was carried out on the ring stage of the malaria parasite cycle of chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) and chloroquine-resistant (Dd2) strains. Results: Five novel compounds were isolated; 4α-Hydroxy-n-pentadecanoic acid (CC7), 11α- Hydroxyurs-5,12-dien- 28-oic acid-3α, 25-olide (CC10), 1-Hen eicosanol-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (CC19), 10-Geranilanyl-O-β-D-xyloside (AC2A), 6β,10β,14β-Trimethyl heptadecan-15α-olyl-15-O-β-D-glucopyrano syl-1,5β-olide (CC14), and one new compound; Glucuronolactone (CC3). The compounds CC10, CC19, AC2A, CC14, and CC3 recorded schizont inhibition at different percentages. Compounds CC19, AC2A, and CC14 recorded half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 10.55 μg/ml, 12.56 μg/ml, and 11.68 μg/ml, respectively. Conclusion: The IC50 values obtained are much higher than that of chloroquine, which is 0.02 μg/ml. These compounds showed antimalarial activity at different levels. The presence and effect of these compounds validate the use of this plant for the treatment of malaria in the traditional medicinal practice of Nigeria.

}, keywords = {Antimalarial, Half-maximal inhibitory concentration, Isolation, Phytocompounds, Vernonia amygdalina}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_81_19}, author = {InnocentMary IfedibaluChukwu Ejiofor and Aparoop Das and Showkat R Mir and Mohammed Ali and Kamaruz Zaman} } @article {197, title = {Pharmacognostic Evaluation of Aerial Parts of Euphorbia tirucalli}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {409-415}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {409}, abstract = {

Objectives: This study aimed to establish the pharmacognostic profile of aerial parts of Euphorbia tirucalli (ET) as per World Health Organization guidelines for ensuring the quality and identification of adulteration. Materials and Methods: Standardization parameters such as macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of the study plant were evaluated. Hydroalcoholic and ethyl acetate extracts were prepared and subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening. Further, the extracts were used to analyze total phenol and flavonoid contents, and their antioxidant activities were estimated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide assay. Results: Shape, size, color, odor, surface characteristics, and microscopic images exhibited useful diagnostic characteristics of aerial parts of plants. Total ash, water-soluble, and acid-insoluble ash were found to be 16.65{\textquoteright} {\textpm} 1.050{\textquoteright}, 5.623{\textquoteright} {\textpm} 1.11{\textquoteright}, and 2.56{\textquoteright} {\textpm} 0.706, respectively. The loss on drying was 9.6{\textquoteright}, and water and alcoholic extractive values were 4.0{\textquoteright} and 26{\textquoteright}, respectively. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, steroidal triterpenoids, phenols, and flavonoids. Total flavanoid and phenol content in hydroalcoholic and ethyl acetate extracts of ET was found to be 246 mg rut/g, 120 mg rut/g, 81.36 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g, and 279.58 mg GAE/g respectively. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and nitric oxide scavenging assay revealed the IC50 values of hydroalcoholic and ethyl acetate extracts as 69.599 μg/ml, 20.454 μg/ml, 17.017 μg/ml, and 17.562, respectively. Conclusion: The findings obtained from the present study help to authenticate and establish the pharmacopeia standards for the ET plant.

}, keywords = {2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, Ethyl acetate extracts, Euphorbia tirucalli, Flavonoid content, Hydroalcoholic, Nitric oxide assay, Phenol}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_59_20}, author = {B Swapna and R Harisha and Satvik Kotha and M Raghavendra Rao and S Ramachandra Setty} } @article {195, title = {Pharmacognostic, Phytochemical, and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Corynaea crassa: A Comparative Study of Plants from Ecuador and Peru}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {394-402}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {394}, abstract = {

Background: Corynaea crassa Hook. F (Balanophoraceae), is a hemiparasitic plant that grows on the roots of other species, commonly known as {\textquotedblleft}huanarpo male{\textquotedblright} and traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory and aphrodisiac. Objective: The objective of this work was to carry out a comparative pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and pharmacological study between extracts obtained from plants that grow in Peru and Ecuador. Materials and Methods: Macro and micromorphological analysis, physicochemical characteristics, and phytochemical screening were determined according to established standards. Successive extraction was carried out with solvents of increasing polarity, and the composition of the ethyl acetate extract was performed using a gas chromatograph Agilent connected to the mass spectrometer (GC-MS). The anti-inflammatory activity was determined by the aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the plants by the carrageenan test. Results: The macro- and micromorphological characteristics did not show differences, the physical-chemical properties presented some differences attributable to the ecological conditions of the places of origin, the phytochemical screening exposed a complex chemical composition. In the ethyl acetate extract obtained, safrole and squalene were identified as major components for the Ecuadorian species and hexadecanoic and octadecanoic acids for the Peruvian species. The anti-inflammatory effect of aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts was demonstrated on the carrageenan-induced acute inflammation model in female Wistar albino rats. Conclusion: The extracts showed a similar anti-inflammatory behavior, although less than the indomethacin used as a positive control. This work brings novel results to the pharmacognostic, chemical and pharmacological properties of the species C. crassa.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory activity, Ethyl acetate extract, Gas chromatograph agilent connected to mass spectrometer, Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_42_20}, author = {AJ Lopez-Barrera and YI Gutierrez-Gaiten and Migdalia Miranda-Martinez and IA Choez-Guaranda and SG Ruiz-Reyes and R Scull-Lizama} } @article {115, title = {Pharmacognostical Standardization, Phytochemical Investigation, and Anthelminthic Activity of Arisaema propinquum Schott Rhizomes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {May 2020}, pages = { 181-185}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {181}, abstract = {

Ethnopharmacology: Arisaema propinquum Schott (Araceae) is commonly known as cobra lily. Traditionally, the rhizomes were used as vermifuge, in rheumatism, as stomachache, and in snake bites. Objectives: The present study was designed to evaluate the pharmacognostical parameters and anthelminthic activity of A. propinquum rhizomes. Materials and Methods: The rhizomes of A. propinquum Schott was collected, shade dried and then powdered, and then evaluated for pharmacognostic parameters such as macro- and microscopical characters, physico-chemical parameters, and phytochemical analysis using standard procedures. Anthelminthic activity of the extracts was elevated against Pheretima posthuma. Results: The rhizomes are light brown in color with pungent odor and astringent taste. Transverse section of rhizomes showed intercellular schizogenous cavities, xylem vessels, phloem vessels, and parenchymatous cells. Phytochemical screening of the extracts reveals the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, cardiac glycosides, coumarins, proteins, amino acids, phenols, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, and terpenoids. Physiochemical parameters including ash values showed 6.32\% total ash, 1.77\% acid insoluble ash, 5.15\% water-soluble ash, and 8.55\% sulfated ash. Other parameters such as extractive value, foreign matter, moisture content, swelling index, foaming index, pH of different solvents, and fluorescence analysis were also determined. Both the methanolic and aqueous extracts of A. propinquum showed dose-dependent anthelminthic activity against P. posthuma compared to standard albendazole. Conclusion: This is the first report on the pharmacognostic studies and anthelminthic activity of A. propinquum Schott. Data composed from such studies can be used as a standard in the quality control of this plant used as an herbal medicine for the treatment of various diseases.

}, keywords = {Anthelminthic, Arisaema propinquum, Pharmacognostical standardization, Pheretima posthuma, Phytochemical investigation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_106_19}, author = {Prince Ahad Mir and Roohi Mohi-ud-din and Mohd Akbar Dar and Ghulam Nabi Bader} } @article {975, title = {A Phytochemical Analysis and In vivo Effects of an Herbal Aphrodisiac Newtonia hildebrandtii on Male Wistar Rat Reproductive System}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {243-249}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {243}, abstract = {

Background: The study was aimed at screening phytochemicals and evaluating the effects of aqueous and 50\% (v/v) methanol stem bark extracts of Newtonia hildebrandtii on male rat reproductive system. Materials and Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups and were given different treatments of N. hildebrandtii extracts at 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight. After 8 weeks, body and right testis weight, sperm concentration, hormonal levels, and histological structure of the testis were evaluated. Calorimetric method was used for quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds, whereas gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used for fingerprinting of chemical compounds. Results: Testosterone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol, and follicle-stimulating hormone levels were significantly increased, whereas prolactin levels were significantly decreased in the treated groups compared to the control. Sperm parameters were significantly increased compared to the control. Treated animals showed significant increases in body weight, seminiferous tubule diameter, and germinal epithelial height with the testes showing all the stages of spermatogenesis. Phytochemical screening of the methanolic extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, reducing sugars, steroids, anthraquinones, flavonoids, phenols, and saponins. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of dimethylsilanediol; (R, R)-2,3-butanediol; hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane; succinimide; 1H-1,2,3-triazole-4-carboxylic acid, 1-(4-amino-1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-yl)-5-ethyl-, ethyl ester; l-(+)-ascorbic acid 2,6-dihexadecanoate; cis-13,16 docasadienoic acid, methyl ester; 9-octadecenoic acid (Z)-, 2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl) ethyl ester; and 2-chloro-benzoic acid N{\textquoteright}-[2-(3-oxo-3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[1,4]thiazin-2-yl)-acetyl]-hydrazide. Conclusion: N. hildebrandtii appears to possess androgenic and anabolic effects. The aforementioned phytochemicals seem to be responsible for its aphrodisiac effects. This study supports the ethno-aphrodisiac claims that have been made against it.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, DPPH, Estradiol, Seminiferous tubule, Sperm concentration, Spermatogenesis, Testosterone, Total flavonoids, Total phenols}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_112_19}, author = {Thomson Msiska and Anthony Mwakikunga and David Tembo and Fanuel Lampiao} } @article {190, title = {Phytochemical and Pharmacological Screening of Begonia grandis Dryand}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {375-379}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {375}, abstract = {

Begonia grandis Dryand (Family: Begoniaceae) was screened for its phytoconstituents and evaluated for its ethnomedicinal potential as an antioxidant and hepatoprotective agent. The preliminary phytochemical studies of the B. grandis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, triterpenoids, and steroids. Antioxidant effect of the methanolic extract was assessed by DPPH, superoxide, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, and hepatoprotective effect by CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity. The extract showed significant antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects at a dose of 400 mg/kg similar to that observed in ascorbic acid and silymarin.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Begonia grandis, Begoniaceae, Ethnomedicinal, Hepatoprotective, Silymarin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_67_20}, author = {Srinivasarao Pendy and Krishna Nallamothu and Ganapaty Seru and Sunitha Katta and Sumanta Mondal} } @article {67, title = {Phytochemical Screening, Acute and Sub-Acute Toxicity of Aqueous Extract from a Mixture of Some Recipe of Herniaria glabra L., Opuntia ficus-indica, Zea mays L. and Zizyphus lotus L. Used Traditionally against Renal Lithiases}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {60-64}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {60}, abstract = {

Introduction: Antiurolithiatic plants are used since ancient times, in the form of decoction, infusion, or juice, to eliminate kidney stones and to prevent their recurrence. On the basis of the available ethnopharmacological information, more scientific studies are needed to explore natural and safe antiurolithiatic compounds. Materials and Methods: The present work showed phytochemical screening, acute and sub-acute toxicity of aqueous extract of four plant{\textquoteright}s mixture: Aerial part (branches, flowers and leaves) of Herniaria glabra, flowers of Opuntia ficus-indica, Zea mays styles and fruits of Zizyphus lotus used traditionally against renal lithiases. Phytochemical screening was performed using qualitative methods. To measure acute toxicity, rats were administered orally by single doses of 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 2.0 g/kg body weight (b. w.) of extract of plant{\textquoteright}s mixture. General behavior adverse effects and mortality were determined during 15 days. For sub-acute study, the aqueous extract was administered at 100 mg/kg b. w. for 28 days to Wistar rats. Animals were monitored daily after an oral administration of aqueous extract of the mixture to detect any changes in b. w., behavior, autonomic profiles, or mortality. Calculation of relative organ weight (ROW) and biochemical analysis were carried out. Results: The acute oral toxicity study showed no mortality and no statistically significant decrease in b. w. and ROW of the treated groups of rats when compared to the control group was observed. In biochemical analysis, there was a significant increase in aspartate aminotransferase, creatinine, urea, and uric acid. Conclusion: This study found that aqueous extract of traditional recipe used against renal lithiasis in Fes-Meknes region containing: Flavonoids, tannins, catechic tannins, coumarins and the glycosides. The results of the acute and sub-acute toxicity studies indicated that the recipe extracts induce a slight hepatotoxic effects in rats treated orally with 100 mg/kg (b. w.).

}, keywords = {Acute toxicity, Biochemical parameters, Four plant{\textquoteright}s mixture, Phytochemical screening, Sub-acute toxicity, Toxicological evaluation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_89_19}, author = {Noufissa Touiti and Dalila Bousta and Smahane Boukhira and Mohamed Chebaibi and Sanae Achour} } @article {187, title = {Phytochemical Screening and Bioactive Potential of Pod Seed Extracts of Leucaena leucocephala Linn}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {361-367}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {361}, abstract = {

Background: Free radicals generated during injury lead to the development of various diseases such as diabetes, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular disease, and cancer. Antioxidants present in plants can prevent the deleterious effect of these free radicals. Among various plants, Leucaena leucocephala is a mimosoid, fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing small tree having pods with various medicinal properties. Objective: Hence, the present study was designed to determine the bioactive potential of ethanolic and methanolic extracts of L. leucocephala pod seeds. Materials and Methods: We have assessed the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the extract. In addition, the presence of various metabolites and other compounds was also evaluated though gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Results: The results indicated that the methanol extract had relatively higher antibacterial and antioxidant properties than ethanol extract. Furthermore, GC-MS data revealed the presence of various active constituents in the methanolic extract. Conclusion: Thus, the bioactive potential of various compounds present in methanol extracts of plant parts could be responsible for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Leucaena leucocephala, Phytochemicals, Plant extracts}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_49_20}, author = {Om Prakash and Salma Malik and Kumari Vandana Rani and Vipin Kumar Verma} } @article {62, title = {Phytochemical Screening and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Ethanol Extract of Scambiosa columbabria L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {35-39}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {35}, abstract = {

Background: Scambiosa columbabria L. is commonly known as the wild scabious and is used in South Africa to treat various ailments such as wound bruises, painful menstruation, heartburn, and colic. Despite its extensive traditional usage, the bioactive constituents of this plant are yet to be explored. Objective: The present study was carried out to identify the bioactive constituents of the ethanol extract of S. columbabria by phytochemical screening and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Materials and Methods: Sixty grams of the powdered leaves was sequentially extracted by ethanol and later tested for preliminary phytochemical screening and further subjected to GC-MS analysis. Results: The results showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, steroids, terpenoids, and saponins in the extract. The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 16 major compounds, with flavonoids (40.84\%) being the most represented chemical class. Conclusion: The findings indicated that the plant possesses compounds with biological activities and therefore justifies its traditional usage in the treatment of skin and other diseases.

}, keywords = {Biological activity, Diseases, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Phytochemical screening, Scambiosa columbabria}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_59_19}, author = {Idowu Jonas Sagbo and Ayuk Elizabeth Orock and Elizabeth Kola and Wilfred Otang-Mbeng} } @article {203, title = {Phytochemical Screening, Antibacterial-Guided Fractionation, and Thin-Layer Chromatographic Pattern of the Extract Obtained from Diploknema butyracea}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {437-443}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {437}, abstract = {

Objective: Diploknema butyracea (family: Sapotaceae), commonly known as the Indian butter tree or Chyuri, is habitat to Nepal and distributed from Garhwal to Sikkim up to Bhutan. This study was aimed to investigate and examine the qualitative phytochemical screening, antibacterial-guided fractionation, and thin-layer chromatographic (TLC) pattern of the D. butyracea bark extracts. Materials and Methods: Phytochemical screening of D. butyracea extract was carried out by different chemical tests. Normal-phase TLC was conducted by using different solvent system to investigate the presence of phytochemicals. Antibacterial activity on different fractions of methanolic bark extract was determined by the agar disc diffusion method. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloid, tannin, and flavonoid in barks; alkaloid and flavonoid in flowers; and alkaloid, tannin, and steroid in leaves. Among the different fractions of bark extracts, the acetone fraction was found to be most effective against Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, whereas the highest sensitivity against Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli was shown by n-butanol fraction. Both fractions showed a zone of inhibition of 15 mm at the concentration of 1 mg extract per disc. TLC of the bark extract confirmed the presence of prominently visible compounds at ethyl acetate fraction. Conclusion: Isolated compounds from dried barks of D. butyracea could be the cradle of the new useful drug.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Diploknema butyracea, Phytochemicals, Thin-layer chromatography}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_27_20}, author = {Supriya Tiwari and Samjhana Nepal and Shraddha Sigdel and Sarju Bhattarai and Rabindra Kumar Rokaya and Jitendra Pandey and Ram Bahadur Khadka and Pramod Aryal and Ravin Bhandari} } @article {159, title = {Screening of Cytotoxic Activity of Hematite (α-Fe2O3) Nanoparticles from Butea monosperma on MCF-7 Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {260-266}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {260}, abstract = {

Background: Hematite (α-Fe2O3) has been used as an antimicrobial and disinfectant agent. Nevertheless, there are limited data about antitumor potential. This study was focused on investigating cytotoxic effects of Hematite (α-Fe2O3) from Butea monosperma flower extract on MCF -7 breast cancer cells and its mechanism of action. Materials and Methods: Thus, a green method was created for the synthesis of Hematite (α-Fe2O3) using an aqueous extract of B. monosperma flower. Synthesis of Hematite (α-Fe2O3) was described by different analytical techniques including ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy. Cell viability was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation was measured using probe 2{\textquoteright},7{\textquoteright}-dichlorofluorescein diacetate and intracellular calcium (Cai2+) was evaluated with probe flu3-AM. Cells were treated with different concentrations of Hematite (α-Fe2O3) (1, 3, 6, 10, 15, 25, 50, and 100 μg/mL). Results: The results showed that Hematite (α-Fe2O3) hindered cell growth in a dose-dependent manner. Hematite (α-Fe2O3) appeared to have dose-dependent cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells through activation of the ROS generation and an increase in the intracellular Cai2+ (half-maximal inhibitory concentration 52 {\textpm} 3.14). Conclusion: In conclusion, the results of this preliminary study demonstrated that Hematite (α-Fe2O3) from B. monosperma flower extract may be a potential therapeutic potential medicament for human breast cancer treatment.

}, keywords = {Butea monosperma, cytotoxicity, Hematite (α-Fe2O3), MCF-7 cell line, Nanoparticle}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_115_19}, author = {Debasish Pradhan and Shaktiprasad Pradhan and Bandana Behera and Adyasa Samantaray} } @article {191, title = {Targeted Delivery of Curcumin Using MgONPs and Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Attenuates Aluminum-Induced Neurotoxicity in Albino Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {380-386}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {380}, keywords = {Acetylcholine and acetylcholine esterase, Curcumin, Curcumin loaded magnesium oxide nanoparticles, Curcumin loaded solid lipid nanoparticles, Histological analyses}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_18_20}, author = {Swathi Ganna and Rajasekhara Reddy Gutturu and Rajesh Megala and Rasajna Nadella and Deva Prasad Raju Borelli and John Sushma Nannepaga} } @article {153, title = {Terminalia chebula Retz: A Prospective Agent in Reducing the Doxorubicin-Mediated Cardiotoxicity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {219-224}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {219}, abstract = {

Objectives: The present study evaluated the role of Terminalia chebula Retz. extract against doxorubicin (DXR)-mediated cardiac damages in male and female rats. Materials and Methods: The ethanolic extract of T. chebula (0.25, 0.5, and 1 g/kg) was administered simultaneously with DXR (2.5 mg/kg, three-doses on alternate days by intraperitoneal route). Two additional groups were evaluated by administering 0.5 g/kg of the extract to animals before or after DXR treatment. The study was done separately in male and female adult Wistar rats of bodyweight 180{\textendash}200 mg. The cardiac biomarker levels such as creatine kinase-monoenzyme B, lactate dehydrogenase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase were estimated after each treatment. Histopathology of cardiac tissue was studies analyzed, and the level of superoxide dismutase was determined in serum. The results were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni tests and P \< 0.05 was considered to indicate the statistical significance. Results: The observations indicated that DXR significantly (P \< 0.001) elevated the biomarker levels of cardiac damage in both male and female rats, besides inducing the structural changes in the myocardium tissues and antioxidant status. The co-administration of higher doses of T. chebula extract (0.5 and 1 g/kg) with DXR significantly (P \< 0.01) reduced the cardiac enzyme levels and histopathological changes and improve the antioxidant status compared to DXR group. Post-treatment with T. chebula (0.5 mg/kg) showed mild inhibitory action on the DXR-induced cardiac changes without significantly affecting the antioxidant level. Conclusion: The results suggest that co-administration of T. chebula reduced the DXR-mediated cardiac damages and the action could be related to the enhancement of the antioxidant property in rats.

}, keywords = {Cardiac biomarkers, Doxorubicin, Oxidative stress, Terminalia chebula}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_109_19}, author = {M Aamina and Ahmad Alhowail and Maha Aldubayan and Syed Imam Rabbani} } @article {201, title = {Toxicity Evaluation of Camellia sinensis var. assamica and Its Fermented Miang Product}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {430-436}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {430}, abstract = {

Introduction: Camellia sinensis var. assamica (Assam tea or Cha-Miang [CM]) is widely accepted to be beneficial to health. The tea leaf is used to produce various fermented tea products such as black tea (China, India) and Miang (Thailand). Despite its medicinal properties, toxicological information regarding certain tea variety and its fermented Miang product, especially its long-term toxicity, is currently limited. This study aimed to evaluate the potential toxicity of the extract of fresh resh Cha-Miang leaves (CM) and its fermented Miang product (FCM) in both in vitro and in vivo models. Materials and Methods: Cytotoxic effect on cell viability of HepG2, HEK293, and EA.hy926 cell lines incubated with CM or FCM extract for 24 h and 48 h was investigated by the MTT assay. After that, 14-day repeat oral toxicity test was performed on Wistar rats. Results: No in vitro cytotoxic effect of CM and FCM extract was found in the tested cell types, at a dose up to 1000 {\textmu}g/ml. For in vivo study, both CM and FCM extracts at a dose of 300 mg/kg/day did not produce any sign or symptom of toxicity; no mortality was observed. Furthermore, investigation of hematological parameters, blood chemistry, body weight, and organ weight in the treated rats revealed no significant difference compared with that of normal controls. Conclusion: The results suggested that crude extract of CM and FCM at the doses used in this study are safe, however, further evaluation of possible chronic toxicity is recommended.

}, keywords = {Camellia sinensis var. assamica, cytotoxicity, Fermented tea product, Miang, Subacute toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_22_20}, author = {Sukanya Chachiyo and Kanokwan Kulprachakarn and Chalermpong Saenjum and Kittipan Rerkasem and Somdet Srichairatakool and Kongsak Boonyapranai and Wason Parklak and Voravuth Somsak and Sakaewan Ounjaijean} } @article {151, title = {Toxicological Study of the Effect in vivo and in vitro of Artemisia herba-alba Aqueous Extract in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {207-211}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {207}, abstract = {

Background: Artemisia herba-alba (AHA) is largely used in folk medicine in different countries. However, rare studies provided toxicological evaluation regarding their safety on human health. Objective: This study investigated the safety of the standardized aqueous extract of AHA, like used by patients, to evaluate their toxicity in vivo and in vitro. Materials and Methods: For toxicological evaluation in vivo we used acute (during 14 days) and sub-acute oral gavages in Wistar rats (rats treated daily for 42 days at 1{\textendash}5 g/kg bw) and the 3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay was performed to determine the level of cell viability and the degree of cytotoxicity in vitro (0{\textendash}30 μg/ml) on cultured spleen cells. Results: The LD50was up to 2 g/kg. Signs of mortality and toxicity were observed after single doses and no-observed-adverse-effect levels in the sub acute toxicity was up to 2 g/kg bw. Compared to the control, the treatment did not produce any statistically significant changes on alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase serum titer. However, for creatinine and urea serum value, a significant increase (P \< 0.05) was observed. The histological observations of liver and spleen tissues have shown well-preserved normal cells. Indeed for kidney tissues some artifacts of retraction and vascular congestion were noted for 3{\textendash}5 g/kg doses after sub-chronic treatment. The addition of plant extracts to the spleen cells did not show any sign of toxicity for all doses tested. Conclusion: We conclude that AHA aqueous extract at the dosage up to 2g/kg bw will be toxic and can affect mainly the kidney tissues.

}, keywords = {Artemisia herba-alba, Biochemical parameter, Histopathology, in vivo and in vitro toxicity, Standardized aqueous extract}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_4_20}, author = {Ali Lahna and Naima Benjelloun and Nadia Seddik and Mernissi Farida and Abdallah Naya and Mounia Oudghiri} } @article {178, title = {Trypanocidal Potentialities of Skimmianine an Alkaloid Isolated from Zanthoxylum pistaciifolium Griseb Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {August 2020}, pages = {322-327}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {322}, abstract = {

Background: Zanthoxylum pistaciifolium Griseb (Rutaceae) is an endemic Cuban species traditionally used for respiratory ailment treatments and religious practices. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity from Z. pistaciifolium leaves. Materials and Methods: Four phases obtained from the ethanolic extract were tested against bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), fungi (six Candida spp.) and parasites (Leishmania amazonensis and Trypanosoma cruzi) by microdilution methods. In addition, the cytotoxicity was determined against peritoneal macrophages from BALB/c mice and fibroblast cells L929 using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and resazurin assay. Results: The hexane-butanone phase was the most active against Candida spp. and exhibited moderate effect on T. cruzi trypomastigote (39.3 {\textpm} 5.5 μg/mL). The skimmianine isolated from this phase and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance showed a median inhibitory concentration of 58.0 {\textpm} 4.0 μg/mL against T. cruzi trypomastigotes and 31.2\% {\textpm} 6.5\% of inhibition on amastigote form at 100 μg/mL. Antiprotozoal activity of this alkaloid was selective with a selectivity index of 9. Conclusion: The current study demonstrated for the first time the antimicrobial potential of the leaves of Z. pistaciifolium, supporting its ethnobotanical uses. The trypanocidal activity observed for the alkaloid skimmianine could contribute to development future of an herbal medicine for the treatment of Chagas diseases.

}, keywords = {Antifungal activity, Hexane-butanone phase, Skimmianine, Trypanocidal, Zanthoxylum pistaciifolium}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_44_19}, author = {Yamil{\'e} Heredia Diaz and Julio C{\'e}sar Escalona Arranz and Rosalia Gonz{\'a}lez Fern{\'a}ndez and Ania Ochoa Pacheco and Jesus Garc{\'\i}a D{\'\i}az and Lianet Monzote Fidalgo and Denise da Gama Ja{\'e}n Batista and Cristiane Franca da Silva and Paul Cos} } @article {76, title = {Ulcerative Colitis Induced with Acetic Acid is Ameliorated by Antrocaryon micraster through Reduced Serum Levels of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha and Interleukin-6 in Sprague Dawley Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {85-91}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {85}, abstract = {

Background: Antrocaryon micraster possesses significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. These properties are shared by medicinal plants that have demonstrated beneficial effects in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Objectives: To assess the effect of the total ethanol stem bark of A. micraster extract (AME) on damage to the rat colon in acetic acid-induced colitis. Materials and Methods: Rats were pretreated with sulphasalazine 500 mg/kg or AME 30, 100, and 300 mg/kg daily for 3 days after which colitis was induced in test animals with acetic acid (4\% V/V). Rats were sacrificed 24 h later and blood samples were obtained for hematological and cytokine assays. Colons were dissected for assessment of macroscopic and microscopic damage. Results: AME treatment modified hematological parameters and reduced serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6. Macroscopic assessment showed that AME reduced mucosal erythema, edema, erosions, bleeding, and ulceration. Histology showed preserved mucosal architecture, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, decreased mucosal thickening, preserved goblet cell numbers, and inhibition of mast cell proliferation and degranulation in the colons. Conclusion: Taken together, the total ethanol stem bark AME exerts ameliorative effects on damage to the rat colon in acetic acid-induced colitis.

}, keywords = {Acetic acid-induced colitis, Antrocaryon micraster, Cytokines, Inflammation, Mast cells}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_75_19}, author = {Leslie Brian Essel and David Darko Obiri and Newman Osafo and Aaron Opoku Antwi and Moses Babatunde Duduyemi} } @article {212, title = {Untargeted Gas Chromatography{\textendash}Mass Spectrometry Analysis and Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity of Zingiber nimmonii (J. Graham) Dalzell Rhizome Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {January 2021}, pages = {466-470}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {466}, abstract = {

Background: Zingiber nimmonii (J. Graham) Dalzell (syn. Z. cernuum) endemic to peninsular India have been documented to be in use since ancient times in several traditional systems of medicine. Z. nimmonii with ethnomedicinal applications constitute a rich source of secondary metabolites toward identifying potential bioactive constituents with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Objective: Rhizomes of Z. nimmonii (J. Graham) Dalzell, endemic to the Western Ghats, were analyzed for bioactivity and phytochemical composition. Materials and Methods: Polyphenolic contents, namely total phenolics (TPs), total flavonoids (TFs) and total tannin (TT), were determined and expressed using gallic acid (GA), catechin (C) and tannic acid (TA) as standards. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were evaluated against two Gram-positive, three Gram-negative bacteria and three fungi by agar well diffusion method. Antioxidant activity was determined by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay, and volatile metabolite composition was determined by gas chromatography{\textendash} mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Results: THE highest TF and TT contents were detected in ethyl acetate (557.64 {\textpm} 41.74 mg CE. 100 g-1 DW) and isopropanol (63.995 {\textpm} 2.062 mg TA equivalent. 100 g-1 DW) extract, respectively. High TP content in isopropanol extract (112.80 {\textpm} 10.99 mg GA equivalent. 100 g-1 DW) contributed to antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (16.3 {\textpm} 0.6 mm) and antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus (11.7 {\textpm} 0.6 mm). Methanol extracts showed high antioxidant activity as determined by DPPH (67.4 {\textpm} 12.5 {\textmu}g/ ml) and FRAP (127.8 {\textpm} 12.4 {\textmu}g/ml) assays. Major bioactive phytochemical constituents in Z. nimmonii rhizome following GC-MS analysis included heptanediamide, N, N{\textquoteright}-di-benzoyloxy (arachidonic acid inhibitor), n-hexadecanoic acid (antibacterial, cytotoxic, and antioxidant), and oleic acid (antitumor). Conclusion: The present study demonstrates potential of Z. nimmonii rhizomes as a rich source of secondary metabolites which can be exploited toward developing anti-infective formulations and free radical quenchers.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry, Polyphenolics, Zingiber nimmonii}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_19_20}, author = {Aswati Ravindranathan Nair and G Ganapathy} } @article {52, title = {Vitamin D3, L-Arginine, L-Citrulline, and Antioxidant Supplementation Enhances Nitric Oxide Bioavailability and Reduces Oxidative Stress in the Vascular Endothelium {\textendash} Clinical Implications for Cardiovascular System}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {12}, year = {2020}, month = {February 2020}, pages = {17-23}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {17}, abstract = {

Background: Nitric oxide (NO) is a crucial signaling molecule which regulates the blood flow and prevents the adhesion of blood components to the vascular wall. A deficiency in bioavailable NO concentration is associated with the dysfunction of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and/or an increase in oxidative stress. The deficiency of bioavailable NO is a common denominator of several cardiovascular diseases, including diabetes, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Materials and Methods: We used a nanomedical technology to elucidate the balance between bioavailable NO and oxidative stress (peroxynitrite ONOO-) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) treated with a supplement containing L-arginine, L-citrulline, Vitamin D3, and antioxidants. Nanosensors, with a diameter of 200{\textendash}300 nm, are capable of measuring in situ NO and peroxynitrite (ONOO-) concentrations produced by single endothelial cells. Results: The ratio of the concentration of cytoprotective NO [NO] to the concentration of cytotoxic peroxynitrite [ONOO-] was used to estimate the efficiency of eNOS. HUVECs incubated with L-citrulline, L-arginine, and Vitamin D3 increased the [NO]/[ONOO-] ratio by 25\%, while in the presence of antioxidants, the increase was 15\%. The synergistic effect between the mix of L-arginine, L-citrulline, Vitamin D3, and antioxidants was a favorable increase of the overall [NO]/[ONOO-] ratio by 50\%. Conclusion: The findings of the study presented here clearly indicate that L-arginine, L-citrulline, and Vitamin D3 can significantly alter the function of the endothelium and NO production, in a favorable manner, while pointedly reducing ONOO- {\textendash} the main component of oxidative stress. This effect can be significantly potentiated in the presence of antioxidants.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Endothelium, L-arginine, L-citrulline, Nitric oxide, Peroxynitrite, Vitamin D3}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_79_19}, author = {Hazem Dawoud and Tadeusz Malinski} } @article {90, title = {Acute Toxicity of Flower Extracts from Dolichandrone serrulata in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {230-235}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {230}, abstract = {

Context: Dolichandrone serrulata flowers are widely used as vegetables in northern and eastern Thailand. However, there is no report on the toxicities of this plant. Objective: The present study was aimed to determine the acute toxicity of aqueous flower extracts from D. serrulata in ICR mice. Materials and Methods: The extract at dose of 1000, 1500, and 2000 mg/kg was orally administered once to mice in order to investigate an acute toxicity. Results: The extract did not produce any sign or symptom of toxicity. Dead mouse was not found within the first 24 h and for further 14 days. The body weight increased in comparison to the controls. However, the relative organ weight between the treated and control mice was not different. The hematological values were not altered by the treatment of the extracts. The liver function parameters including aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase among treated mice were not different. The extract did not alter the kidney function parameters (blood urea nitrogen and creatinine). The lipid profiles in treated mice were not changed in comparison to the controls. In addition, histopathological features of the liver and kidney are not altered by the administration of the extracts. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that the maximum dose of D. serrulata flower extracts (2000 mg/kg) does not cause the acute toxicity in male and female mice.

}, keywords = {Acute toxicity, Aqueous extracts, Dolichandrone serrulata, Flower, Mice.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_42_19}, author = {Teeraporn Katisart and Ampa Konsue} } @article {103, title = {Alpha Glucosidase Inhibiting Activity and in vivo Antidiabetic Activity of Fraxinus floribunda Bark in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {273-278}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {273}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a serious health problem being the third largest cause of death worldwide. Natural sources of antidiabetic agents are of high demand due to side effects of modern drugs. Bark of Fraxinus floribunda (FF) is conventionally used in Sikkim to treat diabetes, but there is not a single documented report on the same. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic activity of FF bark. Materials and Methods: FF bark was extracted through four methods, namely normal boiling, pressure boiling (PB), soxhlet, and cold percolation to be subjected to α-glucosidase inhibiting assay. The extract showing the highest in vitro antidiabetic activity was selected for in vivo antidiabetic activity. Results: Extract from PB showed the highest antidiabetic activity (10.25 {\textpm} 4.56 mg/ml FWT); thus, it was selected for antidiabetic property in animal model. The extracts (200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly (P \< 0.05) reduced plasma glucose concentration in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Glibenclamide (0.50 mg/kg) was used as standard. Decrease in bodyweight during diabetes was significantly controlled by the extract which was comparable with the standard at the same concentration. Changes in lipid profile (total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein) of the diabetic rats were also maintained almost to the level of normal rats by the extracts. Histopathology of liver sections of diabetic rats showed damage in the hepatic architecture (swelling of sinusoids, vacuolization of cytoplasm, and inflammation of the central vein) which was controlled by the extracts. Conclusion: This study agrees with the traditional use of FF bark as an antidiabetic agent.

}, keywords = {Antidiabetic, Fraxinus floribunda, Lipid profile, Liver histopathology, Streptozotocin, α-glucosidase.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_32_19}, author = {Arunika Subba and Ram Kumar Sahu and Shiv Bhardwaj and Palash Mandal} } @article {242, title = {Anatomical and Phytochemical Characterization of Physalis angulata L.: A Plant with Therapeutic Potential}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April 2019}, pages = {171-177}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {171}, abstract = {

Background: Physalis angulata L. is widely used in folk medicine. Secondary metabolites with pharmacological potential, including physalins that exhibit anti-inflammatory/immunomodulatory and antiparasitic activities, have been identified in this specie. To date, few studies have investigated storage sites for secondary metabolites in P. angulata. Objective: The objective of the study is to characterize the anatomical structures and determine the phytochemical composition of the vegetative organs of P. angulata. Materials and Methods: Electron and conventional optical microscopy was used for the anatomical characterization of P angulata organs (leaves, roots, stems, and fruits). Methanolic extracts from leaves, roots, stems, and fruits were chemically characterized for the presence of steroids, terpenoids, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, anthraquinones, coumarins, and phenolic compounds. Phenolic compounds, flavonoid contents, and antioxidant capacity of these extracts were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl-free radical scavenging activity. Results: Abaxial leaf stomata were more abundant than the adaxial stomata. Trichomes were more abundant along veins in the petioles and stems, beyond the margin in the sepals and petals, and dispersed in the ovary. Steroids and terpenoids were present in leaves, stems, and fruits of P. angulata. Saponins were exclusive to fruits. Phytochemical screening did not detect flavonoids, anthraquinones, and alkaloids in all tested plant parts. The highest antioxidant capacities were identified in leaf and fruit extracts, possibly due to the presence of phenolic compounds in these organs. Conclusion: This study describes anatomical and biochemical features from P angulata that will assist in future phytochemistry and pharmacological studies, particularly pointing toward organs abundant in antioxidants (leaves and fruits) and steroids (possibly physalins; leaves).

}, keywords = {Anatomy, Botany, Electron microscopy, Photochemistry, Physalis angulata}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_97_18}, author = {L{\'e}a Maria dos Santos Lopes Ferreira and Ademir Evangelista do Vale and Amancio Jos{\'e} de Souza and Kelly Batista Leite and C{\'a}ssia Sacramento and Maria Lucia Vieira Moreno and Thessika Hialla Ara{\'u}jo and Milena Botelho Pereira Soares and Maria Fernanda Rios Grassi} } @article {192, title = {Anticataract Activity of Forskolin by Inhibiting Polyol Pathway for the Prevention of Diabetic Complication}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {352-355}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {352}, abstract = {

Background: Cataract is the opacification or optical dysfunction of the crystalline lens. Diabetes has been considered to be one of the major risk factors of cataract. Objective: The present study was designed to evaluate the anticataract activity of antioxidants such as Coleus forskohlii (CF) Briq and its phytoconstituent forskolin (FS) which were subjected to prevent cataract formation in vitro on glucose-induced cataract model. Materials and Methods: Goat lenses were incubated in Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate buffer pH 7.5 (supplemented with Taxim and streptomycin) containing 55 mM glucose (cataractogenesis) with fidarestat; CF methanolic extract; and FS at a concentration of 1 {\textmu}g/mL, 100 {\textmu}g/mL, and 10 {\textmu}g/mL for 24 hr at 37{\textdegree}C with 5\% CO2 and 95\% air. Glucose-induced opacification of goat lens began 8{\textendash}10 hr\ after incubation and was complete in 24 hr. Polyol (galactitol) levels in incubated lenses were estimated spectrophotometrically. Results: Cataractous lenses showed higher content of galactitol. However, lens treated with fidarestat, CF methanolic extract, and its phytoconstituent FS showed lower content of galactitol. Conclusion: CF and FS prevented the formation and progress of cataract by glucose, as evidenced by lens transparencies with photographic evaluation and lens galactitol levels.

}, keywords = {Aldose reductase, Cataract, Coleus forskohlii, Forskolin, Polyol pathway.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_68_19}, author = {Damera Sujatha and Ajmera Rama Rao and Ciddi Veeresham} } @article {205, title = {Antidiabetic Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Myrtus communis (Myrtle) Fruits in Streptozotocin-Induced and Dexamethasone-Induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April,2019}, pages = {115-120}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {115}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus is characterized by an increase in blood glucose levels, resulting in insufficiency of insulin secretion, insulin resistance, or both. Objective: The effects of hydroalcoholic extract of the Myrtus communis (myrtle) fruits on Wistar rats were investigated in two types of diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: Intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg) was used to induce Type I diabetes. Type II diabetes was induced by subcutaneous injection of 1 mg/kg/day dexamethasone for 10 days. Two groups of the diabetic animals received the hydroalcoholic extract of the fruit by gavage (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg for 45 and 10 days) and the diabetic control groups receiving distilled water. Results: The hydroalcoholic extract of M. communis fruits reduced the serum levels of the glucose, triglyceride, urine volume, urine protein, and malondialdehyde at the end of the 45 day. In Type II diabetic rats, there was a significant effect on plasma glucose levels. On this day, blood glucose-lowering effect was significantly observed after insulin administration as C2\>D2M500\>D2M250\>D2 (P <= 0.05). The plasma level of insulin was completely reversed. There were no differences in the other biochemical parameters. Conclusion: The hydroalcoholic extract of M. communis fruits has a significant effect on the improvement of diabetes mellitus complications especially Type II diabetic animals, which begins with insulin resistance.

}, keywords = {Diabetes mellitus, Hyperlipidemia, in vivo, Insulin resistance., Myrtus communis fruit}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_160_18}, author = {Mohammad Sharif Talebianpoor and Mohammad Shafee Talebianpoor and Mahboubeh Mansourian and Tahereh Vafaiee-Nejad} } @article {176, title = {Antidiarrheal Activity of Some Selected Nigerian Plants Used in Traditional Medicine}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {371-377}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {371}, abstract = {

Context: Herbal preparations of the various parts of Vitellaria paradoxa, Neorautanenia mitis, Senna surattensis, and Hydnora abyssinica have been used in the Nigerian traditional medical practice to treat the symptoms of diarrhea in humans and animals. Aims: This study aims to validate claims of the traditional use of these plants in the treatment of diarrhea and provide a scientific basis for further studies. Materials and Methods: The median lethal dose (LD50) values of the extracts were obtained using the Limit test. Castor oil induced diarrhea and intestinal transit (motility) models in albino rats were used to determine the antidiarrheal activity. Graded doses of the extracts were administered to 3 test groups, while the positive control groups were given standard drugs (atropine and loperamide) and the negative control groups received distilled water per os. Results: The LD50 was considered higher than 2000 mg/Kg for all the extracts. In the castor oil-induced diarrhea model, the highest percentage inhibition of defecation was observed in the test groups treated with the extracts of H. abyssinica (82\%) followed by S. surattensis (81\%), N. mitis (66\%), and V. paradoxa (32\%). H. abyssinica extract significantly decreased the intestinal transit of charcoal meal compared to the other extracts. Conclusion: The antidiarrheal activities of all the extracts give credence to their traditional use. H. abyssinica comparatively had the best antidiarrheal activity and has the potential as an antidiarrheal agent. Thus, the need for further studies of this extract to investigate active fractions, isolate and characterize active compounds, and determine their activities and safety.

}, keywords = {Antidiarrheal activity, in vivo, Nigerian plants, Phytochemicals, Traditional medicine.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_43_19}, author = {Christiana J. Dawurung and Jurbe G. Gotep and Joy G. Usman and Ishaku L. Elisha and Lami H. Lombin and Stephen G. Pyne} } @article {172, title = {Antilipidemic Properties of Calpurnia aurea Leaf Extract on High-Fat Diet Induced Hyperlipidemia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {389-395}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {289}, abstract = {

Background: Hyperlipidemia is described by raised in the plasma lipids including triglycerides (TG), cholesterols, cholesterol esters, phospholipids as well as plasma lipoproteins, for example, very low-density lipoprotein (LDL), LDL, and reduction in the circling high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Objective: To explore the antilipidemic properties of the hydromethanolic extract of Calpurnia aurea (HMECA) leafs against high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemic male albino Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty albino Wistar rats of 60{\textendash}75 days and weights of 150{\textendash}200 g were isolated arbitrarily into six groups of five each. Group I fed with normal diet in as typical control, Group II got high-fat-eating routine (48.8\% fat w/w) containing fat produced using hamburger fat and blended with hydrogenated vegetable oil, Group III fed with high fat diet plus 3.5 mg/kg/day atorvastatin as standard control, and the remaining Groups IV, V, and VI fed with high fat diet along with different does of HMECA at 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg/day separately for 60 days. Food intake, body weight, body mass index, serum lipid profiles, and liver histopathology were studied. Results: The results of this investigation exposed that HMECA has dose-dependent antilipidemic exercises. HMECA treatment of 400 mg/ kg caused a noteworthy bringing down of P \< 0.05 of serum LDL from 28.53 {\textpm} 12.2 mg/dl to 9.70 {\textpm} 5.77 mg/dL; the serum cholesterol level from 92.00 {\textpm} 13.0 mg/dl to 60.33 {\textpm} 8.60 mg/dl; the serum TG leve1 from 84.73 {\textpm} 19.4 mg/dl to 71.83 {\textpm} 13.0 mg/dl mg/dl; and increased the serum HDL-cholesterol levels from 11.66 {\textpm} 1.23 mg/dl to 29.66 {\textpm} 1.52 mg/dl. At the medium dosage of 300 mg/kg, it was not successful as 400 mg/ kg and at the insignificant dosage of 200 mg/kg brought numerical contrast not statistically noteworthy among the serum lipid profile. Conclusion: This research discovered that the HMECA possesses a significant antilipidimic activity in dose dependent manner. The molecular mechanism of antilipidemic exercises of this medication should be contemplated.

}, keywords = {Antilipidemia, Calpurnia aurea, High-fat diet, Hyperlipidemia, Lipid profile.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_10_18}, author = {Welde Mengistu and Seifu Daniel and Natesan Gnanasekaran} } @article {167, title = {Antioxidant Potential of Ethanolic Extract of Canavalia Species in High-fat Diet and Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {400-405}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {400}, abstract = {

Background: The present study is to enlighten the antioxidant effect of ethanolic seed extracts of Canavalia species in high-fat diet and streptozotocin (HFD + STZ)-induced diabetic screening model. Objectives: The dispute between free radicals and antioxidants plays a key role in causing alteration of normal physiological conditions. Inadequate antioxidant in body leads to multiple pathological diseases. Materials and Methods: Ethanolic seed extracts of Canavalia species have been investigated for its antioxidant activity in HFD + STZ-induced screening models. The potential of antioxidants on oxidative stress is measured through certain serum biomarkers such as serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase. Enzymatic markers include lipid peroxidation, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH). Enzymatic parameters were studied in liver and kidney homogenates by measuring these observed biomarkers. Results: SOD, GSH, and CAT were decreased in the diabetic group. However, restoration of SOD, GSH, and CAT levels by treatment with ethanolic seed extracts of Canavalia species was observed and tabulated. Histopathological studies of the pancreas of animals showed comparable regeneration of tissues with EECE. Conclusion: Further the characterization studies will be carried out to know the extract mechanism of antioxidant potential of Canavalia species.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Canavalia ensiformis, Canavalia gladiata, Glibenclamide, Histopathology, Streptozotocin.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_46_19}, author = {Anitha Kuttiappan and Sabapathi Mohana Lakshmi and S.V. Satyanarayana} } @article {130, title = {Antioxidative Properties of Thymus vulgaris on Liver Rats Induced by Paclitaxel}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {315-320}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {315}, abstract = {

Background: Thymus vulgaris (Thym) is a species of flowering plant in the mint family Lamiaceae with potent antioxidant, and it has been beneficial effects during short-term administration. Paclitaxel sold under the brand name Tax (Tax) is chemotherapy drug which capable to produce free radicals. Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effects of Thym against toxic effects of Tax to the liver of rats. Materials and Methods: Sixty-four male rats were assigned to eight groups: Control normal and Tax control groups (20 mg/kg); Thym groups (4.5, 9, 18 mg/kg), and Tax + Thym-treated groups (4.5, 9, 18 mg/kg). Treatments were administered intraperitoneally daily for 2 weeks. Griess technique was assessed for determined serum nitrite oxide (NO) level. Aspartate aminotransferase, ALANINE aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase concentrations were determined for liver functional disturbances. In addition, liver malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), the diameter of hepatocytes, and the central hepatic vein (CHV) were investigated. Results: Tax administration significantly improved liver MDA and NO level, the mean diameter of CHV and hepatocyte, liver enzymes, and decreased TAC level compared to the normal control group (P \< 0.001). The Thym and Thym + Tax treatments at all doses significantly reduced the mean diameter of hepatocyte and CHV, liver enzymes, liver MDA, and NO levels and increased TAC level compared to the Tax control group (P \< 0.001). Conclusion: It seems that Thym administration improved liver injury induced by Tax in rats.

}, keywords = {Liver, Oxidative stress, Paclitaxel, Thymus vulgaris.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_45_19}, author = {Mohammad Reza Salahshoor and Shiva Roshankhah, Cyrus Jalili} } @article {308, title = {Ashwagandha Reverses the Dieldrin-induced Cognitive Impairment by Modulation of Oxidative Stress in Rat Brain}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {92-97}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {92}, abstract = {

Dieldrin (DLD) is an organochlorine pesticide heavily used in agriculture to control pests. Widespread exposures of DLD to human population are likely to contribute in neurological disorders. Withania somnifera (WSF), commonly known as {\textquotedblleft}ashwagandha,{\textquotedblright} is used for its broad spectrum of pharmacological activity. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of WSF (100 mg/kg) on DLD (5 mg/kg)-induced modulation of cognitive function and oxidative stress in male Wistar rats. Cognitive function was measured using step-down latency (SDL) on a continuous avoidance apparatus and transfer latency (TL) on an elevated plus maze. Oxidative stress was estimated by measuring brain malondialdehyde (MDA) level, protein carbonyl (PC), and reduced glutathione (GSH) activity. Significant reduction in both acquisition and retention in SDL was found for the DLD-treated group at the end of the exposure study as compared to the control (P \< 0.001). DLD caused a significant prolongation in both acquisition and retention in TL after 28 days of the treatment as compared to the control (P \< 0.001). Four-week treatment of WSF antagonized the effect of DLD on SDL and TL at the 29th day. DLD produced a statistically significant increase in the brain MDA and PC levels (P \< 0.001), and a significant decrease in the brain GSH activity (P \< 0.001). Treatment with WSF attenuated the effect of DLD on MDA, PC, and GSH activities. Thus, the finding of this study suggests that WSF has potential in reversing cognitive dysfunction and oxidative stress induced by toxicants such as DLD in the brain.

}, keywords = {Ashwagandha, Dieldrin, Glutathione, Malondialdehyde, Protein carbonyl.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_77_18}, author = {Tandra Ghosh and Sanvidhan G. Suke and Chandrashekhar Yadav and Rafat Ahmed and Basu Deb Banerjee} } @article {148, title = {Ashwagandha Reverses the Dieldrin-induced Cognitive Impairment by Modulation of Oxidative Stress in Rat Brain}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {92-97}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {92}, abstract = {

Dieldrin (DLD) is an organochlorine pesticide heavily used in agriculture to control pests. Widespread exposures of DLD to human population are likely to contribute in neurological disorders. Withania somnifera (WSF), commonly known as {\textquotedblleft}ashwagandha,{\textquotedblright} is used for its broad spectrum of pharmacological activity. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of WSF (100 mg/kg) on DLD (5 mg/kg)-induced modulation of cognitive function and oxidative stress in male Wistar rats. Cognitive function was measured using step-down latency (SDL) on a continuous avoidance apparatus and transfer latency (TL) on an elevated plus maze. Oxidative stress was estimated by measuring brain malondialdehyde (MDA) level, protein carbonyl (PC), and reduced glutathione (GSH) activity. Significant reduction in both acquisition and retention in SDL was found for the DLD-treated group at the end of the exposure study as compared to the control (P \< 0.001). DLD caused a significant prolongation in both acquisition and retention in TL after 28 days of the treatment as compared to the control (P \< 0.001). Four-week treatment of WSF antagonized the effect of DLD on SDL and TL at the 29th day. DLD produced a statistically significant increase in the brain MDA and PC levels (P \< 0.001), and a significant decrease in the brain GSH activity (P \< 0.001). Treatment with WSF attenuated the effect of DLD on MDA, PC, and GSH activities. Thus, the finding of this study suggests that WSF has potential in reversing cognitive dysfunction and oxidative stress induced by toxicants such as DLD in the brain.

}, keywords = {Ashwagandha, Dieldrin, Glutathione, Malondialdehyde, Protein carbonyl}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_77_18}, author = {Tandra Ghosh and Sanvidhan G. Suke and Chandrashekhar Yadav and Rafat Ahmed and Basu Deb Banerjee} } @article {297, title = {Assessments of Antioxidant, Antilipid Peroxidation, and In-vitro Safety of Derris scandens Vine Extracts from Southern Thailand}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {60-66}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {60}, abstract = {

Background: Derris scandens (DS) has been used in Thai traditional medicine recipes for musculoskeletal pain relief in Southern Thailand. Changing of terrain and climate affected its phytochemical constituents and led to change antioxidant and toxic properties. Objective: The aim of this study was to study phytochemical contents, antioxidant properties, and toxicity of the DS extracts{\textquoteright} in vitro models. Materials and Methods: The DS ethanolic extract (EE) was partially extracted with chloroform (CE), ethyl acetate (EAE), and water (aqueous extract [AE]). Phytochemical contents, antioxidant properties, and toxicity in Caco-2 cells, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and red blood cells (RBCs) were explored. Results: Genistein and gallic acid were rich in the EE and CE. The CE demonstrated the highest 2,2 - diphenyl - 1 - picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity with half-maximal Radical cavenging concentration (SC50) value {\textendash} 0.81 {\textpm} 0.07 mg/mL. The EE showed the highest 2, 2{\textquoteright}-azino - bis (3 - ethylbenzothiazoline - 6 - sulfonic acid) radical scavenging activity (SC50 = 22.05 {\textpm} 3.91 μg/mL) and all the extracts strongly inhibited lipid peroxidation. The EE and CE were more toxic than the EAE on Caco-2 cells with IC50 values {\textendash} 26.45 {\textpm} 3.57 and 36.36 {\textpm} 6.87 μg/mL, respectively. At high dose, all fractions were not toxic to human{\textquoteright}s PBMCs, but they slightly induced RBC hemolysis by 3-6 percent. Conclusion: The DS grown in Southern Thailand had antioxidant properties, toxic to Caco-2 cells and not toxic to normal cells. High dose and continuous consumption of the DS must be concerned. Further safety assessment models including animals and humans should be performed to find safety dose of the DS.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Derris scandens, Genistein, Phytochemical contents, Toxicity.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_141_18}, author = {Rawiwan Nooin and Pornsiri Pitchakarn and Chaturong Kanchai and Churdsak Jaikang} } @article {143, title = {Assessments of Antioxidant, Antilipid Peroxidation, and In-vitro Safety of Derris scandens Vine Extracts from Southern Thailand}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {60-66}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {60}, abstract = {

Background: Derris scandens (DS) has been used in Thai traditional medicine recipes for musculoskeletal pain relief in Southern Thailand. Changing of terrain and climate affected its phytochemical constituents and led to change antioxidant and toxic properties. Objective: The aim of this study was to study phytochemical contents, antioxidant properties, and toxicity of the DS extracts{\textquoteright} in vitro models. Materials and Methods: The DS ethanolic extract (EE) was partially extracted with chloroform (CE), ethyl acetate (EAE), and water (aqueous extract [AE]). Phytochemical contents, antioxidant properties, and toxicity in Caco-2 cells, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and red blood cells (RBCs) were explored. Results: Genistein and gallic acid were rich in the EE and CE. The CE demonstrated the highest 2,2 - diphenyl - 1 - picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity with half-maximal Radical cavenging concentration (SC50) value {\textendash} 0.81 {\textpm} 0.07 mg/mL. The EE showed the highest 2, 2{\textquoteright}-azino - bis (3 - ethylbenzothiazoline - 6 - sulfonic acid) radical scavenging activity (SC50 = 22.05 {\textpm} 3.91 μg/mL) and all the extracts strongly inhibited lipid peroxidation. The EE and CE were more toxic than the EAE on Caco-2 cells with IC50 values {\textendash} 26.45 {\textpm} 3.57 and 36.36 {\textpm} 6.87 μg/mL, respectively. At high dose, all fractions were not toxic to human{\textquoteright}s PBMCs, but they slightly induced RBC hemolysis by 3-6 percent. Conclusions: The DS grown in Southern Thailand had antioxidant properties, toxic to Caco-2 cells and not toxic to normal cells. High dose and continuous consumption of the DS must be concerned. Further safety assessment models including animals and humans should be performed to find safety dose of the DS.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Derris scandens, Genistein, Phytochemical contents, Toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_141_18}, author = {Rawiwan Nooin and Pornsiri Pitchakarn and Chaturong Kanchai and Churdsak Jaikang} } @article {252, title = {Bioactive Secondary Metabolites from the Locally Isolated Terrestrial Fungus, Penicillium sp. SAM16-EGY}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April,2019}, pages = {162-170}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {162}, abstract = {

Background: Penicillium is a diverse genus occurring worldwide; its species are of major importance in the natural environment as decomposer of organic materials as well as food and drug production. Objective: Chromatographic isolation and identification of its bioactive secondary metabolites and their evaluation as antimicrobial agents. Materials and Methods: Disc agar plate method has been recognized to assess the antimicrobial activities. The antioxidant activity was determined using phosphomolybdenum method. The fungus strain SAM16-EGY was isolated from soil and was molecularly identified as Penicillium sp. SAM16-EGY using 18S ribosomal ribonucleic acid technique (acc. no., KP125952). Results: Seven compounds namely 3-O-docosyl-4-benzoyloxy methyl-3-oxobicyclo (4.1.0) heptane-1,5,6,7 tetrol (3-O-docosyl-3-debenzol rotepoxide) (1), (4bE, 6Z, 8E, 9aS, 10S)-1,4-dihydroxy-9a, 10-dihydro-10,12-epoxy-5-methylbenzo[a] azulen-12-one (2), 7α,9β,15β-triacetoxy-3-β-hydroxy jatropha-5E, 11E-diene (3), sesquiterpene I diol dihexoside malonate ester (4), piperogalone (5), (5R, 8Z, 11Z)-5 β-(6{\textquoteright}-O-malonyl-β-glucopyranozyloxy-6-hyd roxy tetradeca-8, 11-dienoic acid (6), and n-trcosanyl-n-octaced-9-enoate (7) were isolated and identified from this fungus. Their structures were determined on the basis of proton nuclear magnetic resonance and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Compounds 1, 2, 4, and 5 exhibited antimicrobial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans only, whereas compound 3 exerted higher antimicrobial activity against S. aureus (9 mm), P. aeruginosa (9 mm), C. albicans (11 mm), and Aspergillus niger (13 mm) as compared to the other compounds. In the phosphomolybdenum assay, compound 5 showed high total antioxidant capacity value of 608.59 mg ascorbic acid equivalent/g compound, followed by compound 2 (443.66 mg) and compound 1 (332.16 mg). Conclusion: The isolated compounds showed promising antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

}, keywords = {18S Ribosomal ribonucleic acid, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Penicillium sp. SAM16-EGY, Secondary metabolites, Vacuum liquid chromatography.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_102_18}, author = {Mosad A. Ghareeb and Manal M. Hamed and Amal M. Saad and Mohamed S. Abdel-Aziz and Ahmed A. Hamed and Laila A. Refahy} } @article {220, title = {Biochemical Screening and Determination of Bioactive Components of Commercially Cultured Pacific White Shrimp Penaeus vannamei}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April,2019}, pages = {140-146}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {140}, abstract = {

Background: Marine waste is an extraordinarily renewable aid for the restoration of several valued metabolites with potential biological applications. Objectives: The investigation is planned to detect the biochemical components present in the prawn shell waste by qualitative, quantitative methods, to assess the antioxidant potential, and also to find the bioactive compounds existing in the prawn shell waste by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Materials and Methods: Penaeus vannamei shell wastes are collected, cleaned, dried, and powdered well. The bioactive compounds present in crude ethyl acetate extract of P. vannamei shell was determined by qualitative, quantitative, and GC-MS analysis. The free radical scavenging activity of the extract was studied by different in vitro antioxidant assays. Results: The bio-compounds such as carbohydrates, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, and quinones show the positive result by qualitative analysis. The higher tannin content 49.2 {\textpm} 0.084 mg/g was observed in the ethyl acetate extract of P. vannamei shell and the flavonoid was found to be 5.994 {\textpm} 0.044 mg/g. The GC-MS analysis of the P. vannamei shell shows the various numbers of bio-compounds. Some of the identified compounds are Timonacic which has the powerful antioxidant property, Octadecane, 3ethyl5(2ethylbutyl) is a good antifungal agent, Acetamide possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory property. The results of the in vitro assays revealed that P. vannamei shell extract possess significant antioxidant activity. Conclusion: The present study suggests that the effective utilization of prawn shell waste enhances biomedical research field for the development of the natural drug for many chronic diseases with no side effects and at the same time can reduce environmental pollution.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant assays, Flavonoids, Gas chromatography-mass Spectrometry analysis, Penaeus vannamei, Shell wastes, Tannins.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_60_18}, author = {Jayalakshmi Muniyappan and Vanitha Varadharajan and Pushpabharathi Namadevan} } @article {163, title = {Biological Screening of Tri-Jannarose as a Recipe from Thai Traditional Medicine}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April 2019}, pages = {110-114}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {110}, abstract = {

Context: Tri-Jannarose (TJ) is a Thai traditional medicine recipe, the ingredients of which are betel palm seed (Areca catechu L.), Siamese neem tree root (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.), and heart-leaved moonseed vines (Tinospora cordifolia [Thunb.] Miers). The equal mixture of three plants indicated to treatment of antipyretic, diuretic, expectorate, nourishment and appetizing. Aims: Phytochemical screening, antioxidant, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of TJ using different extractions were evaluated. Materials and Methods: The three plants of recipe were extracted using different solvents such as aqueous extract (ATJ), 50\% ethanolic extract (HETJ), and 95\% ethanolic extract (ETJ). The phytochemical screening was determined by total phenolic compounds and total flavonoid contents. The anti-oxidation were tested using by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazy (DPPH) radical scavenging and 2,2 -azinobis- (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS+) assay. The α-glucosidase inhibitory activity was determined for glucose transferase mechanism. Results: Phytochemical screening found that this recipe had both phenolic and flavonoid substances. The ETJ (IC50 = 0.0463 {\textpm} 0.002) was exerted on antioxidation higher than HETJ and ATJ (IC50 = 0.0511 {\textpm} 0.000 and 0.1485 {\textpm} 0.005 mg/mL). Surprisingly, ABTS+ assay, ETJ (IC50 = 0.015 {\textpm} 0.000 mg/mL), and HETJ (IC50 = 0.022 {\textpm} 0.000 mg/mL) showed high effect on free radical scavenging activity than the standard controls, ascorbic acid (IC50 = 0.025 {\textpm} 0.001 mg/mL), and Trolox (IC50 = 0.032 {\textpm} 0.001 mg/mL). The α-glucosidase inhibitory activity found that all of the extract including ATJ (IC50 = 0.0127{\textpm}0.02 mg/mL), ETJ (IC50 = 0.0154{\textpm}0.01 mg/mL) and ETJ (IC50 = 0.0202{\textpm}0.01 mg/mL) were more potent to inhibit α-glucosidase emzyme than acarbose (IC50 =0.745{\textpm}0.026 mg/mL) as a positive control. Conclusion: The pharmaceutical preliminary scarring was confirmed to treatment on Thai traditional medicine. The recipe composed with phenolic compounds and flavonoids contents which chemical substance were more potent anti-oxidation, and bittersweet flavor was stronger to α-glucosidase inhibitory activity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Phytochemical screening, Thai traditional medicine, Tri-Jannarose, α-glucosidase}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_178_18}, author = {Ladachart Taepongsorat and Ampa Konsue} } @article {161, title = {Carqueja (Baccharis trimera) Essential Oil Chronic Treatment Induces Ventricular Repolarization Disorder in Healthy Rats but Not in Type 2 Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {410-413}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {410}, abstract = {

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) development. The pharmacological treatment of T2DM can increase cardiovascular risk in diabetic patients. Carqueja (Baccharis trimera) is an antioxidant and hypoglycemic medicinal plant with promising action for T2DM non-pharmacological treatment. Objectives: The objective of this study is to investigate carqueja essential oil safety on the cardiovascular system of diabetic and non-diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Four experimental groups were used to analyze the carqueja essential oil effects: control group (n = 5), carqueja-treated control group (n = 4), diabetic control group (n = 4), and carqueja-treated diabetic group (n = 5). T2DM was induced by hypercaloric diet followed by streptozotocin administration. Electrocardiogram parameters were used to analyze the alterations in the cardiovascular system. Results: Diabetic rats showed ventricular repolarization dysfunction with prolongation of QT and corrected QT intervals. The treatment increased ventricular repolarization duration in the control group. Conclusion: Carqueja essential oil treatment worsens ventricular repolarization in nondiabetic rats, increasing the arrhythmogenic risk.

}, keywords = {Baccharis, Cardiac hypertrophy, Cardiovascular diseases, Diabetes mellitus, Electrocardiography, type 2.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_54_19}, author = {Alice Pereira Duque and Carole Sant{\textquoteright}ana Massolar and Cristiane Barbosa Rocha and Ana Paula Machado Da Rocha and Ricardo Felipe Alves Moreira and Luiz Fernando Rodrigues Junior} } @article {239, title = {Characterization of the Gain and Loss of Resistance to Antibiotics versus Tolerance to Honey as an Antimutagenic and Antimicrobial Medium in Extended-Time Serial Transfer Experiments}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April 2019}, pages = {147-154}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {147}, abstract = {

Background: Honey contains several substances with antimicrobial properties that appear more recalcitrant to generating bacterial-evolved resistance than traditional antibiotics. Objectives: This study seeks to characterize the evolution of bacteria grown for successive generations in honey as an antimutagenic medium versus ampicillin. Materials and Methods: A naive strain of Staphylococcus aureus was serially cultured for 17 days in Lysogeny broth (LB) containing sublethal concentrations of medical-grade Manuka honey, polyfloral honey, and ampicillin. Glucose as an osmotic control and pure LB were included for comparison. A portion of each culture was removed every 24 h to (a) determine the amount of growth that occurred during the previous 24 h and (b) use as a genetic stock in serially transferred tubes containing the same inhibitory compound as used previously. Results: As indicated by an increase in growth over sequential 24-h period, bacteria rapidly gained resistance to ampicillin in a step-wise pattern. However, bacteria grown in Manuka and polyfloral honey never exceeded their initial growth levels. Bacteria grown in relatively high concentrations of honey for a single 24-h period consistently lost viability after one transfer, a phenomenon that has not been reported in the literature before and which indicates the inability of bacteria to adapt to honey as an antimutagenic medium. While bacteria grown in honey did not evolve the ability to grow at higher concentrations, a single isolate grown in Manuka honey gained tolerance to Manuka by successfully surviving and proliferating beyond second transfers. Bacteria that developed antibiotic resistance were found to remain sensitive to honey. Moreover, bacteria lost their resistance to ampicillin upon a single exposure to Manuka honey.

}, keywords = {Antibiotic resistance, Antimutagenicity, Honey, Manuka, Polyfloral, Second transfer crash}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_175_18}, author = {Salma G. Abdel-Azim and Ahmad G. Abdel-Azim and Brian P. Piasecki and Gamal A. Abdel-Azim} } @article {262, title = {Chemical Characterization and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Litchi chinensis Sonn.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {1-7}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Background: Litchi chinensis is used in traditional Chinese medicine and by Indian medical system. Ethnopharmacological studies show anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and analgesic activities, among others. However, there are few studies of antimicrobial activity. This study evaluates antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity properties of the lychee{\textquoteright}s leaves extract (LE) and fractions. Materials and Methods: Extracts were obtained using an exhaustive extraction method with ethanol: Water (7:3 v/v). Subsequently, LE was concentrated in a rotary evaporator. Finally, LE was dried via lyophilization. Fractions were obtained via the partition process. Bioactivity of the LE and fractions (hexane [Hex], ethyl acetate [EtOAc], n-butanol [BuOH], and aqueous [Aq]) from L. chinensis was evaluated through antimicrobial activity using broth microdilution, antioxidant activity via both 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hidrazila assay and ferric reducing capacity and cytotoxicity through 3-(4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide reduction assay. Furthermore, mass spectrometry technique electrospray ionization ion trap mass spectrometry was used to identify the chemical composition of the LE and fractions. Results: Phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids and condensed tannins were the main substances found. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were higher in EtOAc (541.15 {\textpm} 2.4 mg/g and 31.06 {\textpm} 0.5 mg/g, respectively). This fraction showed the best results for antioxidant activity (IC50 = 3.45 mg/mL) and ferric reducing capacity (20.27\% {\textpm} 0.11). The LE and fractions showed considerable antimicrobial activity, chiefly against Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Proteus mirabilis, with the minimum inhibitory concentration ranging from 50 to 1560 μg/ml. Conclusion: This study revealed that L. chinensis is a source of bioactive compounds potentially useful for pharmaceutical and food industries.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity, Antioxidant activity, Medicinal plants, Phenolic compounds, Phytochemical screening.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_105_18}, author = {Marisa De Oliveira Lopes and Ana Fl{\'a}via Da Silva and Cl{\'a}udio Daniel Cerdeira and Ingridy Simone Ribeiro and Isael Aparecido Rosa and Luis Felipe Cunha Dos Reis and Marcelo Aparecido Da Silva and Marcos Jos{\'e} Marques and Jorge Kleber Chavasco} } @article {109, title = {Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Origanum elongatum Essential Oil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {283-289}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {283}, abstract = {

Background: In recent years, antioxidants have become essential in nutrition because of their ability to protect the body against oxidative cell damage that can produce dangerous diseases. Medicinal plants are a major source of many bioactive molecules that act directly on the body. Objective: The main objective of our work is to highlight the antioxidant potential of the essential oil (EO) of Origanum elongatum Emb and Maire (endemic plant of Morocco), determine its composition, and carry out fractionation operations to isolate the molecule (s) responsible for this activity. Materials and Methods: The measurement of the antioxidant activity of the EO is carried out by trapping the free radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and the composition of the EO is determined using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The fractionation of the EO was carried out by various chromatography techniques. Results: The results show that the EO has an interesting antioxidant activity with an EC50 in the order of 1.2 in comparison with a reference antioxidant, δ-tocopherol whose EC50 is 0.26. The EO of O. elongatum consists of 11 compounds, of which 3 are the majority: carvacrol (60.42\%), para-cymene (13.9\%), and γ-terpinene (9.4\%). Conclusion: Fractionation of the oil made it possible to isolate a purified antioxidant molecule consisting mainly of carvacrol (95\%).

}, keywords = {2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, Antioxidant activity, Essential oil composition, Fractionation, Origanum elongatum.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_157_18}, author = {Hanane Oualili and Rachid Nmila and Fatima Chibi, Mariama Lasky and Abderrahmane Mricha and Halima Rchid} } @article {182, title = {Chromatographic Profiles, Anti-inflammatory, and Cytotoxicity Potential of Extracts of Banisteriopsis pubipetala (A. Juss)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {339-345}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {339}, abstract = {

Background: Banisteriopsis pubipetala is a little-studied species belonging to the same genus of B. caapi, which stands out for the bioactive compounds known to be important in the degenerative diseases treatment. Objective: The objective is to analyze the anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic potential and chromatographic profile of the extracts of B. pubipetala. Materials and Methods: The investigation of the chromatographic profile was performed through high-performance liquid chromatography diode-array detector. Cell viability was determined by a quantitative colorimetric assay with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide. In the pharmacological tests, interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-10, and nitric oxide (NO) levels in cell culture supernatants were performed. Results: In the leaf were observed nine major compounds and in the stem five major compounds. The extracts of B. pubipetala demonstrated concentration-dependent behavior regarding cytotoxicity. The fraction in dichloromethane had inhibitory concentration of 50\% (IC50) = 67.39 μg/mL whereas the extract in ethyl acetate had IC50 = 103.37 μg/mL. The results showed that extracts significantly reduced the production of IL-6 and TNF-α by cells 3T3 cells, however increased the production of IL-10 and NO. Conclusion: The results of the tests indicate that the extracts of B. pubipetala evaluated have potential anti-inflammatory properties and may promote the regulation of inflammation levels.

}, keywords = {Banisteriopsis pubipetala, Interleukin-10, Interleukin-6, Malpighiaceae, Nitric oxide, Tumor necrosis factor-alpha.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_71_19}, author = {Jeane Ferreira Leal de Freitas and Fl{\'a}via Dayrell Fran{\c c}a and M{\'\i}riam Martins Chaves and Elytania Veiga Menezes and Afr{\^a}nio Farias de Melo J{\'u}nior and Dario Alves de Oliveira and Clarice Avelar Almeida and Kamylla Santos Teixeira and Murilo Malveira Brand{\~a}o and Vanessa de Andrade Royo} } @article {193, title = {Comparative Evaluation of in vitro Antioxidant Activities and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Fingerprinting of Fruit Peels Collected from Food Processing Industry Wastes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {346-351}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {346}, abstract = {

Background: An enormous quantity of fruit peel is obtained from food processing industry as leftover materials which cause environmental pollution if not used judiciously. Objective: The present study was focused to explore antioxidant activities and detect bioactive compounds of three different fruit peel wastes (orange, mango, and pomegranate) collected from fruit processing centers. Materials and Methods: Peel extracts were primarily investigated for total phenolic and total flavonoid content (TFC) in three different solvent systems, namely aqueous{\textendash}methanolic (20:80, v/v), ethanolic, and aqueous. These were examined for in vitro antioxidant potential by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl hydrate (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) test. Peel waste extracts were further characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: Pomegranate peel (PP) wastes exhibited significantly (P \< 0.01) high concentration of total phenolic content (TPC) and TFC followed by mango peel (MP) wastes and orange peel (OP) wastes. DPPH and FRAP tests revealed significantly (P \< 0.01) high antioxidant activity in aqueous{\textendash}methanolic and aqueous extract of PP. The degree of antioxidant activities in each type of solvent was in the order of PP \>MP \>OP. Pearson{\textquoteright}s correlation coefficient analysis revealed a strong association between antioxidant activity and TPC. High concentration of gallic acid, salicylic acid, chlorogenic acid, rutin, and catechin was observed in aqueous{\textendash}methanolic (20:80, v/v) extracts of PP, and these might be the reason behind the higher antioxidant activities of PP. Conclusion: Results of this study clearly suggest that PP waste contains strong antioxidant molecules and might be used as additive in commercial feed to ameliorate oxidative stress in animals.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Flavonoid, High-performance liquid chromatography, Peel waste, Phenolic acid.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_13_19}, author = {Sarbaswarup Ghosh and Jayanta Kumar Chatterjee and Alok Kumar Hazra} } @article {973, title = {Cytotoxic Action and Proliferation in vitro and Analgesic Activity in vivo of Resin from Hymenaea stigonocarpa}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {193-200}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {193}, abstract = {

Background:Hymenaea stigonocarpa\ Mart. (Fabaceae\ ) is one of the plant species commonly found in Brazilian cerrado. It is popularly known as jatob{\'a}-do-cerrado. Phytochemical studies of different parts of the plant demonstrated the presence of sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, and oligosaccharides. The species produces an opaque, translucent, pale yellow, or almost white resin rich in labdan{\'o}ides compounds, widely used in folk medicine, but without proving its pharmacological actions.\ Objective:\ To analyze the\ H. stigonocarpa\ resin to confirm its pharmacological actions through specific tests for cicatrization, nociception, and cytotoxicity and to evaluate the chemical composition through the gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS).\ Materials and Methods:\ The cell proliferation/migration capacity was evaluated using the scratch assay method and the cell viability determined by the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]{\textendash}tetrazolium 2,5-diphenyl-bromide cytotoxicity assay. In the pharmacological tests were performed Abdominal Contortions induced by acetic acid and Nociceptive Response evaluated by the Formalin Test. GC-MS was used to trace the profile of the bioactive compounds of the resin.\ Results:\ It was possible to verify the presence of terpene compounds with the labdanos skeleton. Structures that revealed important pharmacological actions regarding healing, evidenced by the scratch assay test and nociceptive activity demonstrated by the animal tests. No cytotoxic activity was detected at the dosages tested.\ Conclusion:\ The results obtained confirm the pharmacological action of the species and can be used to elaborate on new therapies, which will increase the therapeutic arsenal available to the population.

}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_30_19}, author = {Keyla Laisa Araujo E Saldanha and Vanessa de Andrade Royo and Francine Souza Alves Da Fonseca and Elytania Veiga Menezes and Dario Alves de Oliveira and Afr{\^a}nio Farias de Melo J{\'u}nior and Kamylla Santos Teixeira and Murilo Malveira Brand{\~a}o and Marcel Nani Leite and Guilherme Ferreira Caetano and Marco Andrey Cipriani Frade} } @article {140, title = {Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis Induction of Sea Cucumber Holothuria atra Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {41-46}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {41}, abstract = {

Context: Cancer is one of the major causes of death. Sea cucumbers are marine invertebrate that is widely used and utilized in traditional medicine. One of the most studied of sea cucumbers efficacy is its anticancer property. The anticancer property of sea cucumbers is much related to the content of an active compound called saponin. Objective: The objective of this research is to determine the cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction of sea cucumber Holothuria atra ethanol extract and to study its anticancer active compound. Materials and Methods: Sea cucumber of H. atra was taken from Halmahera waters, North Maluku Indonesia. The extraction was conducted by maceration method using ethanol 96\% then continued with liquid-liquid partition and separation using C18 column. The investigation of active compound content was conducted by phytochemical and spectroscopic analysis using liquid chromatography-ion trap-time of a flight-mass spectrophotometer (LC-IT-ToF-MS). The cytotoxicity test was performed by the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide method against human breast ductal carcinoma cell (T47D), human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7), human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell (WiDr), and human cervix adenocarcinoma cell lines (HeLa). The apoptotic induction test was performed using flow cytometry using Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) Annexin-V-Apoptosis and caspase-3 detection using FITC Active Caspase-3 kit. Results: Phytochemical test showed that ethanol extract of H. atra contained alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids-triterpenoids, phenols, and saponins. The extract showed cytotoxic activity against the 4 cell lines with Inhibition concentration 50 values ranging from 9.6 to 14.3 μg/ml. Flow cytometry analysis showed that the T47D cell population underwent apoptosis after treated with ethanol extract. The extract also activated caspase-3 on the T47D cells. The results of LC-IT-ToF-MS analysis showed that the active fraction from C18 column separation contained saponin and identified as Cucumechinol and Philinopgenin B. Conclusions: The results of this study indicated that H. atra active extract has good cytotoxicity and has potential to be developed as an anticancer agent.

}, keywords = {Apoptosis, caspase-3, cytotoxicity, Holothuria atra, Saponin, Sea cucumber}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_3_18}, author = {Muhammad Nursid and Endar Marraskuranto and Ekowati Chasanah} } @article {284, title = {Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis Induction of Sea Cucumber Holothuria atra Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {41-46}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {41}, abstract = {

Context: Cancer is one of the major causes of death. Sea cucumbers are marine invertebrate that is widely used and utilized in traditional medicine. One of the most studied of sea cucumbers efficacy is its anticancer property. The anticancer property of sea cucumbers is much related to the content of an active compound called saponin. Objective: The objective of this research is to determine the cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction of sea cucumber Holothuria atra ethanol extract and to study its anticancer active compound. Materials and Methods: Sea cucumber of H. atra was taken from Halmahera waters, North Maluku Indonesia. The extraction was conducted by maceration method using ethanol 96\% then continued with liquid-liquid partition and separation using C18 column. The investigation of active compound content was conducted by phytochemical and spectroscopic analysis using liquid chromatography-ion trap-time of a flight-mass spectrophotometer (LC-IT-ToF-MS). The cytotoxicity test was performed by the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide method against human breast ductal carcinoma cell (T47D), human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7), human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell (WiDr), and human cervix adenocarcinoma cell lines (HeLa). The apoptotic induction test was performed using flow cytometry using Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) Annexin-V-Apoptosis and caspase-3 detection using FITC Active Caspase-3 kit. Results: Phytochemical test showed that ethanol extract of H. atra contained alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids-triterpenoids, phenols, and saponins. The extract showed cytotoxic activity against the 4 cell lines with Inhibition concentration 50 values ranging from 9.6 to 14.3 μg/ml. Flow cytometry analysis showed that the T47D cell population underwent apoptosis after treated with ethanol extract. The extract also activated caspase-3 on the T47D cells. The results of LC-IT-ToF-MS analysis showed that the active fraction from C18 column separation contained saponin and identified as Cucumechinol and Philinopgenin B. Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that H. atra active extract has good cytotoxicity and has potential to be developed as an anticancer agent.

}, keywords = {Apoptosis, caspase-3, cytotoxicity, Holothuria atra, Saponin, Sea cucumber.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_3_18}, author = {Muhammad Nursid and Endar Marraskuranto and Ekowati Chasanah} } @article {131, title = {Design and Development of Microparticulate Delivery System for Curcumin}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {321-328}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {321}, abstract = {

Background: Curcumin has been associated with remarkable beneficial effects; despite having a broad spectrum of activities, curcumin is characterized by poor water solubility and low bioavailability. Objective: The objective of this study is to enhance the solubility of curcumin using polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG400) and establish a microparticulate drug delivery system in a sodium alginate polymer matrix (microspheres containing curcumin triturated with PEG400 [Cur-PEGMS]) to improve the bioavailability of curcumin. Materials and Methods: The microspheres were formulated using the ionic gelation technique. Nine batches (F1 to F9) were prepared using 32 factorial design. The amount of sodium alginate and calcium chloride was selected as a formulation variable. The prepared Cur-PEGMS were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, differential scanning calorimeter, ultraviolet spectrophotometer, and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). The pharmacokinetics of curcumin was characterized in rats using high-performance liquid chromatography, and calculations were performed using WinNonlin standard edition version 1.1 software. Results: We found that solubility was affected by the use of cosolvent. All F1{\textendash}F9 batches were investigated for entrapment efficiency, and batch F5 was found to be optimum batch which was further evaluated. HPTLC chromatogram of Cur-PEGMS shows peak retention for curcumin. The particle size of microspheres was found to be in the range of 384{\textendash}468 μm. Remarkable improvement in maximum plasma concentration and bioavailability was observed. Maximum the time after administration of a drug when maximum plasma concentration is reached (Tmax) was found to be 0.5 h, and AUC0{\textendash}24 was found to be 374.75 ng/ml and 622 ng/ml for curcumin suspension and curcumin microspheres, respectively. Conclusion: The developed formulation enhances the bioavailability of the drug. This enhanced oral absorption of Cur-PEGMS may provide a practical formulation to conduct a correlative pharmacodynamic study.

}, keywords = {Curcumin, Factorial design, Fharmacokinetics, Microspheres, Polyethylene glycol 400., Sodium alginate}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_24_19}, author = {Aditi Shrinivas Kulkarni and Santosh S. Bhujbal} } @article {144, title = {Determination and quantification of p-coumaric acid in pineapples (Ananas comosus) extracts using gradient mode RP-HPLC}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {67-71}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {67}, abstract = {

Background: Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a good source of phenolic compounds such as p-coumaric acid. P-Coumaric acid is a hydroxycinnamic acid known to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, antimutagenic, and immunoregulatory activities. Objective: The present study aims to determine and quantify the p-coumaric acid in the juice extract and methanol extract of unripe and ripe pineapples by gradient mode reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Materials and Methods: The analysis was carried out using 0.5\% phosphoric acid and 100\% acetonitrile (can) as mobile phase A and B at gradient elution conditions of 0{\textendash}30 min from 5\% B to 80\% B, 30{\textendash}33 min at 80\% B, 33{\textendash}35 min from 80\% B to 5\% B, and 35{\textendash}40 min at 5\% B. The chromatography separation was performed using Gemini C18 column at flow rate of 0.8 mL/min and detection was made at 280 nm. Results: P-Coumaric acid was determined at retention time of 16.16 min. Standard curves were linear at R2 = 0.9973 with low limit of detection and limit of quantification being 0.0208 and 0.0694, respectively. P-Coumaric acid showed the highest concentration in juice extract of ripe pineapple, 11.76 μg/mL compared to the methanol extract, 0.03 μg/mL, respectively. P-Coumaric acid concentration in juice extract of unripe pineapple was 0.41 μg/mL. Conclusion: The gradient mode RP-HPLC proved to be efficient for determination and quantification of p-coumaric acid in pineapples extracts.

}, keywords = {Ananas comosus, Gradient mode, Pineapple, p-coumaric acid, Reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_154_18}, author = {Wan Mazlina Md Saad and Rasdin Ridwan and Nur Syamimi Md Lasim and Fatimah Salim} } @article {300, title = {Determination and Quantification of p-Coumaric Acid in Pineapples (Ananas comosus) Extracts using Gradient Mode RP-HPLC}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {67-71}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {67}, abstract = {

Background: Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a good source of phenolic compounds such as p-coumaric acid.\ P-Coumaric acid is a hydroxycinnamic acid known to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, antimutagenic, and immunoregulatory activities. Objective: The present study aims to determine and quantify the p-coumaric acid in the juice extract and methanol extract of unripe and ripe pineapples by gradient mode reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Materials and Methods: The analysis was carried out using 0.5\% phosphoric acid and 100\% acetonitrile (can) as mobile phase A and B at gradient elution conditions of 0{\textendash}30 min from 5\% B to 80\% B, 30{\textendash}33 min at 80\% B, 33{\textendash}35 min from 80\% B to 5\% B, and 35{\textendash}40 min at 5\% B. The chromatography separation was performed using Gemini C18 column at flow rate of 0.8 mL/min and detection was made at 280 nm. Results: P-Coumaric acid was determined at retention time of 16.16 min. Standard curves were linear at R 2 = 0.9973 with low limit of detection and limit of quantification being 0.0208 and 0.0694, respectively. P-Coumaric acid showed the highest concentration in juice extract of ripe pineapple, 11.76 μg/mL compared to the methanol extract, 0.03 μg/mL, respectively. P-Coumaric acid concentration in juice extract of unripe pineapple was 0.41 μg/mL. Conclusion: The gradient mode RP-HPLC proved to be efficient for determination and quantification of p-coumaric acid in pineapples extracts.

}, keywords = {Ananas comosus, Gradient mode, Pineapple, p-coumaric acid, Reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_154_18}, author = {Wan Mazlina Md Saad and Rasdin Ridwan and Nur Syamimi Md Lasim and Nur Liyana Mohd Rapi and Fatimah Salim} } @article {188, title = {Effect of Geraniol and Clarithromycin Combination against Gastric Ulcers Induced by Acetic Acid and Helicobacter pylori in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {356-362}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {356}, abstract = {

Background: Previous work showed geraniol to have anti-Helicobacter pylori activity in vivo and in vitro. Further, it has augmented the anti-H. pylori activity of clarithromycin in vitro. Objective: Geraniol and clarithromycin combination was investigated for anti-ulcer and anti-H. pylori activity in rats. Materials and Methods: Ulcers were induced by injecting acetic acid into the subserosal layer of the stomach followed by intragastric inoculation of H. pylori for 7 days. Geraniol (30 mg/kg) and a drug combination (geraniol, 30 mg/kg and clarithromycin, 25 mg/kg) were administered twice daily for 14 days, and parameters were measured at the end of treatment. Results: Geraniol alone or in combination with clarithromycin significantly (P \< 0.05) lowered the ulcer index and improved the curative ratio. Histopathological examination showed a significant reduction (P \< 0.05) in the ulcer score in the geraniol and geraniol{\textendash}clarithromycin treated animals compared with the ulcer controls. Both the treatment groups showed significant (P \< 0.05) increase in the glutathione level and reduction in the malondialdehyde, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor-α level in the gastric mucosa compared to control group. Both produced a 50\% reduction in the rapid urease test, which is further confirmed using modified Giemsa staining. Conclusion: Geraniol, alone or in combination with clarithromycin, showed a significant ulcer healing effect which was associated with anti-H. pylori, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects in the gastric mucosa. However, the effects of the geraniol and clarithromycin combination were not significantly different from the effects of geraniol alone in this model.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Antiulcer, Anti-inflammatory, Clarithromycin, Geraniol, Helicobacter pylori.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_21_19}, author = {Subrat Kumar Bhattamisra and Lee Peng Hooi and Lai Pey Shyan and Lee Boon Chieh and Mayuren Candasamy and Priyadarshi Soumyaranjan Sahu} } @article {165, title = {Effect of Plain and Fortified Amla Fruit Powder on Aluminum-induced Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s Disease in Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {406-409}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {406}, abstract = {

Objectives: The present study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant and Nootropic activities of Emblica officinalis against aluminum-induced Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease (AD) in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s was induced using aluminum chloride at a dose of 4.2 mg/kg by intraperitoneal route for 28 days. In prophylactic studies, the plain amla powder (500 mg/kg) and fortified amla powder (300 mg/kg) were administered along with the aluminum chloride. In the curative study, the fortified amla powder (500 mg/kg) was administered to Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s-induced rats. Memory impairment was confirmed by measuring the nootropic activity using Morris water maize. At the end of the treatment, the oxidative stress parameters such as malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase were evaluated. Results: The present study showed statistically significant increase in nootropic activity in terms of decrease in latency period in treatment groups when compared with the controlled Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s-induced group. The administration of amla fruit powder (plain and fortified) decreased the MDA levels and increased the SOD and catalase levels. Conclusion: The present study proved that E. officinalis is a promising tool in antioxidant and neuroprotective activity against aluminum chloride-induced AD.

}, keywords = {Aluminum chloride, Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s, Amla fruit powder, Antioxidant, Fortification, Nootropic.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_17_17}, author = {Thonangi Chandi Vishala and Gummalla Pitchaiah and D. Pravadha and Akula Annapurna} } @article {138, title = {Effects of the Mint Monoterpene (R)-(+)-pulegone Evaluated by Functional Observational Battery: A Potential Short Method}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {31-36}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {31}, abstract = {

Background: Pulegone (PUL) is one of the major constituents of peppermint and pennyroyal. Objective: The main purpose of this study was to investigate the early effects of toxicity of PUL. Materials and Methods: We assessed single doses of toxicity of PUL (2, 0.3 and 0.05 g/kg body weight), administrated by gavage in C57BL/6 mice, evaluated at 1, 6, and 24 h, their clinical status and behavioral, by functional observational battery (FOB), ambulatory conditions, sperm motility, pathological signs, and organ/body weight (O/Bw). Results: No mortality was registered in this in vivo study of oral acute toxicity, in which histological changes were found in selected organs, and PUL mainly showed that the highest concentration reduced mice locomotor activity with significant differences when compared with data of the FOB. Sperm motility also diminished, and hepatic as well as renal alterations were found without modifications in clinical status and O/Bw. Conclusions: We concluded that PUL could be responsible for these findings and consider that FOB is a useful tool to detect early signs of modifications of physiological and biological parameters in mice.

}, keywords = {Central nervous system, Functional observational battery, pulegone, Reproduction, Terpenes}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_115_18}, author = {Yesica P. Zaio and Marco M. Mazzotta and Agripina Ram{\'\i}rez S{\'a}nchez and Elisa Alejandrina Gomez and Mar{\'\i}a Paula Zunino and Andr{\'e}s Alberto Ponce} } @article {275, title = {Effects of the Mint Monoterpene (R)-(+)-Pulegone Evaluated by Functional Observational Battery: A Potential Short Method}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {31-36}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {31}, abstract = {

Background: Pulegone (PUL) is one of the major constituents of peppermint and pennyroyal. Objective: The main purpose of this study was to investigate the early effects of toxicity of PUL. Materials and Methods: We assessed single doses of toxicity of PUL (2, 0.3 and 0.05 g/kg body weight), administrated by gavage in C57BL/6 mice, evaluated at 1, 6, and 24 hr, their clinical status and behavioral, by functional observational battery (FOB), ambulatory conditions, sperm motility, pathological signs, and organ/body weight (O/Bw). Results: No mortality was registered in this in vivo study of oral acute toxicity, in which histological changes were found in selected organs, and PUL mainly showed that the highest concentration reduced mice locomotor activity with significant differences when compared with data of the FOB. Sperm motility also diminished, and hepatic as well as renal alterations were found without modifications in clinical status and O/Bw. Conclusion: We concluded that PUL could be responsible for these findings and consider that FOB is a useful tool to detect early signs of modifications of physiological and biological parameters in mice.

}, keywords = {Central nervous system, Functional observational battery, pulegone, Reproduction, Terpenes.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_115_18}, author = {esica P. Zaio and Marco M. Mazzotta and Agripina Ram{\'\i}rez S{\'a}nchez and Elisa Alejandrina Gomez and Mar{\'\i}a Paula Zunino and Andr{\'e}s Alberto Ponce} } @article {137, title = {Efficacy of Salivary and Diastase Extracts of Piper betle in Modulating the Cellular Stress in Placental Trophoblast during Preeclampsia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {25-30}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {25}, abstract = {

Background: Betle leaf (BL) is an ancient herb with a potential nontoxic natural antioxidant efficacy. Oral intake and chewing betel leaves have an effort on the moving parts of salivary gland and induce salivation and detoxification; hence plays a vital role in oral hygiene. BL produces and activates various salivary enzymes which include α-amylase, lipase, lysozyme, and lactoperoxidase. BL possess antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory, and antihypertensive properties. Hence, it can be effective in the treatment of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy like preeclampsia (PE). Objective: In this context, two extracts of BL (Salivary BL extract [SBLE] and diastase BL extract [DBLE]), proved to impart efficient radical scavenging activity in our previous research work were utilized to analyze their efficacy on the level of 4-hydroxy nonenal (4-HNE), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), adiponectin/leptin in the trophoblast isolated from placental tissue of both normotensive and preeclamptic patients. Materials and Methods: Trophoblasts were isolated from both subjects and incubated with different extracts of Piper betle (saliva and diastase) to assess the cellular stress in placental trophoblast during PE. Results: Results demonstrate that extracts of BL exhibit a significant role in regulating 4-HNE, ADMA, leptin, HO-1, and adiponectin in preeclamptic trophoblasts. Still, SBLE showed relatively higher efficiency in defining the level of 4-HNE, ADMA, leptin, HO-1, and adiponectin in preeclamptic trophoblasts than DBLE, suggesting that it may be attributed to the interaction of the phytochemicals present in BL with the components of saliva. Conclusion: Hence, BL may be recommended as the effective natural remedy in the management of pathological complications of PE; which may preclude low birthweight babies and ensure live fetal delivery.

}, keywords = {Adiponectin, Diastase, Leptin, Saliva, Trophoblast}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_112_18}, author = {Padmini Ekambaram and Chithra Balan} } @article {272, title = {Efficacy of Salivary and Diastase Extracts of Piper betle in Modulating the Cellular Stress in Placental Trophoblast during Preeclampsia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {25-30}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {25}, abstract = {

Background: Betle leaf (BL) is an ancient herb with a potential nontoxic natural antioxidant efficacy. Oral intake and chewing betel leaves have an effort on the moving parts of salivary gland and induce salivation and detoxification; hence plays a vital role in oral hygiene. BL produces and activates various salivary enzymes which include α-amylase, lipase, lysozyme, and lactoperoxidase. BL possess antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory, and antihypertensive properties. Hence, it can be effective in the treatment of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy like preeclampsia (PE). Objective: In this context, two extracts of BL (Salivary BL extract [SBLE] and diastase BL extract [DBLE]), proved to impart efficient radical scavenging activity in our previous research work were utilized to analyze their efficacy on the level of 4-hydroxy nonenal (4-HNE), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), adiponectin/leptin in the trophoblast isolated from placental tissue of both normotensive and preeclamptic patients. Materials and Methods: Trophoblasts were isolated from both subjects and incubated with different extracts of Piper betle (saliva and diastase) to assess the cellular stress in placental trophoblast during PE. Results: Results demonstrate that extracts of BL exhibit a significant role in regulating 4-HNE, ADMA, leptin, HO-1, and adiponectin in preeclamptic trophoblasts. Still, SBLE showed relatively higher efficiency in defining the level of 4-HNE, ADMA, leptin, HO-1, and adiponectin in preeclamptic trophoblasts than DBLE, suggesting that it may be attributed to the interaction of the phytochemicals present in BL with the components of saliva. Conclusion: Hence, BL may be recommended as the effective natural remedy in the management of pathological complications of PE; which may preclude low birthweight babies and ensure live fetal delivery.

}, keywords = {Adiponectin, Diastase, Leptin, Saliva, Trophoblast.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_112_18}, author = {Padmini Ekambaram and Chithra Balan} } @article {245, title = {Efficacy of Topical Herbal Remedies for Insomnia in Iranian Traditional Medicine}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April 2019}, pages = {188-191}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {188}, abstract = {

Background: Insomnia is one of the most prevalent sleep disorders which affect the quality of life. Due to high prevalence of this disease and the side effects of sedative drugs, people tend to use herbal remedies. There are some oral or topical prescriptions in Persian medicine texts for the treatment of insomnia. The aim of this study was to investigate topical treatments for insomnia in Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) and comparing them with current therapies in modern medicine. Materials andMethods: In this study, ITM textbooks including the Canon of Medicine, Teb-e-Akbari, Kholasat al-Hekmah, Makhzan al-Advieh, Exir-e-azam, Al-Aghraz al-Tibbia, Val Mabahess al-Alaiia, Sharh-al-Asbab-val-Alamat, Tohfa-al-Momen, and Qarabadeen-e-Kabir were searched to investigate effective topical therapies for treating insomnia. Further, relevant studies on these topical remedies were searched at databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and ScienceDirect from the beginning till June 2018 and the results were presented as tables. Results: There are some herbs which have been recommended in ITM for the treatment of insomnia in topical dosage form such as ointment, lotion, nasal drop, and oil. The most important herbs used in these topical dosage forms were lettuce, violet, almond, pumpkin, and water lily. Some of these herbal therapies including lettuce and violet have been studied in clinical trial for insomnia. Conclusion: Findings of the present study showed that according to ITM texts, there are some effective topical herbal remedies which can be used in treatment of insomnia with less adverse effects.

}, keywords = {Efficacy, Herbal medicine, Insomnia, Iranian traditional medicine, Topical.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_163_18}, author = {Elham Haghjoo and Asie Shojaii and Mohammad Mahdi Parvizi} } @article {311, title = {Erratum: Antihyperglycemic Potential of Saponin-enriched Fraction from Pithecellobium dulce Benth. Seed Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {102}, type = {Erratum}, chapter = {102}, abstract = {

In the article titled {\textquotedblleft}Antihyperglycemic Potential of Saponin-enriched Fraction from Pithecellobium dulce Benth. Seed Extract{\textquotedblright}, published on pages S23-S26, Issue 9, Volume Supplement 1, of Pharmacognosy Research[1], the name of the second author is written incorrectly as {\textquotedblleft}Jeyabalan Govindrajan{\textquotedblright} instead of {\textquotedblleft}Jeyabalan Govindasamy{\textquotedblright}. The {\textquotedblleft}How to cite this article{\textquotedblright} section should read correctly as {\textquotedblleft}Kumar M, Govindasamy J, Nyola NK. Antihyperglycemic potential of saponin-enriched fraction from Pithecellobium dulce Benth. seed extract. Phcog Res 2017;9:S23-6.{\textquotedblright}.

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.252573} } @article {150, title = {Erratum: Antihyperglycemic Potential of Saponin-enriched Fraction from Pithecellobium dulce Benth. Seed Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {102-102}, type = {Erratum}, chapter = {102}, abstract = {

In the article titled {\textquotedblleft}Antihyperglycemic Potential of Saponin-enriched Fraction from Pithecellobium dulce Benth. Seed Extract{\textquotedblright}, published on pages S23-S26, Issue 9, Volume Supplement 1, of Pharmacognosy Research[1], the name of the second author is written incorrectly as {\textquotedblleft}Jeyabalan Govindrajan{\textquotedblright} instead of {\textquotedblleft}Jeyabalan Govindasamy{\textquotedblright}.

The {\textquotedblleft}How to cite this article{\textquotedblright} section should read correctly as {\textquotedblleft}Kumar M, Govindasamy J, Nyola NK. Antihyperglycemic potential of saponin-enriched fraction from Pithecellobium dulce Benth. seed extract. Phcog Res 2017;9:S23-6.{\textquotedblright}.

}, keywords = {Nil}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.252573} } @article {147, title = {Estimation and Comparison of Amount of Organic Acids from Dried Leaves of Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia indica, Garcinia xanthochymus, and Garcinia morella by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {86-91}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {86}, abstract = {

Background: Pharmacological properties of (-)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA) derived from plants are extensively investigated for preventing lipid storage and controlling appetite. The Garcinia species is most sought out species to recover (-)-HCA. Objectives: Organic acids from dried leaves of Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia indica, Garcinia xanthochymus, and Garcinia morella were extracted and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Materials and Methods: Oven-dried leaves of the four plant samples were subjected to Soxhlet water extraction and further acid extraction. After evaporation, the residue was mixed with 50 ml, 30\% orthophosphoric acid. 20 μL of the sample was injected to a reversed-phase C18 column under gradient elution solvent containing 0.2 M sodium sulfate with a pH of 2.5 adjusted with dilute H2SO4. At a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min, reading was taken using ultraviolet detection at 215 nm. Chromatograms of (-)-HCA, lactone, and citric acid were obtained for standards and the samples. Results: The amount of (-)-HCA, lactone, and citric acid in the dry leaves of G. cambogia was estimated at 7.95\%w/w, 3.25\%w/w, and 0.13\%w/w, respectively. In G. indica, the components were estimated at 5.71\%w/w, 3.21\%w/w, and 0.07\%w/w, respectively. In the dry leaves of G. xanthochymus, it was estimated at 0.02\%w/w, 0.06\%w/w, and 0.18\%w/w. In G. morella, it was estimated at 0.0\%w/w, 0.01\%w/w, and 0.29\%w/w. G. cambogia and G. indica have high amounts of (-)-HCA and lactone in samples of dried leaves. (-)-HCA and lactone are absent in G. morella. Higher amounts of citric acid were found in the leaves of G. morella.

}, keywords = {Citric acid, Garcinia, High-performance liquid chromatography, Hydroxycitric acid, Lactone, Organic acids}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_159_18}, author = {Madappa Machamada Bheemaiah and Bopaiah Ajjikuttira Kushalappa} } @article {307, title = {Estimation and Comparison of Amount of Organic Acids from Dried Leaves of Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia indica, Garcinia xanthochymus, and Garcinia morella by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, pages = {86-91}, chapter = {86}, abstract = {

Background: Pharmacological properties of (-)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA) derived from plants are extensively investigated for preventing lipid storage and controlling appetite. The Garcinia species is most sought out species to recover (-)-HCA. Objectives: Organic acids from dried leaves of Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia indica, Garcinia xanthochymus, and Garcinia morella were extracted and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Materials and Methods: Oven-dried leaves of the four plant samples were subjected to Soxhlet water extraction and further acid extraction. After evaporation, the residue was mixed with 50 ml, 30\% orthophosphoric acid. 20 μL of the sample was injected to a reversed-phase C 18 column under gradient elution solvent containing 0.2 M sodium sulfate with a pH of 2.5 adjusted with dilute H2SO4. At a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min, reading was taken using ultraviolet detection at 215 nm. Chromatograms of (-)-HCA, lactone, and citric acid were obtained for standards and the samples. Results: The amount of (-)-HCA, lactone, and citric acid in the dry leaves of G. cambogia was estimated at 7.95\%w/w, 3.25\%w/w, and 0.13\%w/w, respectively. In G. indica, the components were estimated at 5.71\%w/w, 3.21\%w/w, and 0.07\%w/w, respectively. In the dry leaves of G. xanthochymus, it was estimated at 0.02\%w/w, 0.06\%w/w, and 0.18\%w/w. In G. morella, it was estimated at 0.0\%w/w, 0.01\%w/w, and 0.29\%w/w. G. cambogia and G. indica have high amounts of (-)-HCA and lactone in samples of dried leaves. (-)-HCA and lactone are absent in G. morella. Higher amounts of citric acid were found in the leaves of G. morella.

}, keywords = {Citric acid, Garcinia, High-performance liquid chromatography, Hydroxycitric acid, Lactone, organic acids.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_159_18}, author = {Madappa Machamada Bheemaiah and Bopaiah Ajjikuttira Kushalappa} } @article {304, title = {Euphorbia hirta Methanolic Extract Displays Potential Antioxidant Activity for the Development of Local Natural Products}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {78-85}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {78}, abstract = {

Background: The level of free radicals, which counteract the capability of the antioxidant system in plant products, is often measured in advance for further promising antidisease effect. Objective: In this study, we sought to evaluate the antioxidant activity of local medicinal plants (Angelica keiskei, Annona muricata, Chromolaena odorata, Clinacanthus nutans, Euphorbia hirta, and Leea indica) for their potential of use as distinctive local natural nutraceutical products. Materials and Methods: To recover active compounds, including yield and composition of the plants, the solvent extraction method, the Folin{\textendash}Ciocalteu method, the aluminum chloride approach, and the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay were first performed to evaluate the antioxidant level and capacity of the plant extracts. Results: The aqueous extracts presented the highest yield for all plants, with the highest yield observed in C. nutans. However, the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents were observed in the methanolic extract of E. hirta rather than in the aqueous extract. The methanolic extract of E. hirta also exhibited the most promising antioxidant activity, with the 50\% inhibition concentration (IC50) value of DPPH inhibition at 0.013 mg/mL. Conclusion: High total phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as low IC50 value, suggested that E. hirta methanolic extract is a potential antioxidant agent for the development of local natural products for disease treatment.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Free radical scavenging activity, Natural product, Total flavonoid content, Total phenolic content.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_113_18}, author = {Aziana Ismail and Maizan Mohamed and Yap Fon Kwei and Khoo Boon Yin} } @article {146, title = {Euphorbia hirta Methanolic Extract Displays Potential Antioxidant Activity for the Development of local Natural Products}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {78-85}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {78}, abstract = {

Background: The level of free radicals, which counteract the capability of the antioxidant system in plant products, is often measured in advance for further promising antidisease effect. Objective: In this study, we sought to evaluate the antioxidant activity of local medicinal plants (Angelica keiskei, Annona muricata, Chromolaena odorata, Clinacanthus nutans, Euphorbia hirta, and Leea indica) for their potential of use as distinctive local natural nutraceutical products. Materials and Methods: To recover active compounds, including yield and composition of the plants, the solvent extraction method, the Folin{\textendash}Ciocalteu method, the aluminum chloride approach, and the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay were first performed to evaluate the antioxidant level and capacity of the plant extracts. Results: The aqueous extracts presented the highest yield for all plants, with the highest yield observed in C. nutans. However, the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents were observed in the methanolic extract of E. hirta rather than in the aqueous extract. The methanolic extract of E. hirta also exhibited the most promising antioxidant activity, with the 50\% inhibition concentration (IC50) value of DPPH inhibition at 0.013 mg/mL. Conclusion: High total phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as low IC50 value, suggested that E. hirta methanolic extract is a potential antioxidant agent for the development of local natural products for disease treatment.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Free radical scavenging activity, Natural product, Total flavonoid content, Total phenolic content}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_113_18}, author = {Aziana Ismail and Maizan Mohamed and Yap Fon Kwei and Khoo Boon Yin} } @article {250, title = {Evaluation of Acute Toxicity of Plants{\textquoteright} Mixture Used in Traditional Treatment of Kidney Diseases in Morocco}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April,2019}, pages = {155-161}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {155}, abstract = {

Background: The use of plants{\textquoteright} mixture in the traditional treatment of kidney diseases in Morocco is widespread. Objective: To evaluate the toxic effects of plants{\textquoteright} mixture used in the traditional treatment of kidney diseases in Morocco. Materials and Methods: The phytochemical screening was performed. For acute toxicity, single doses of low dose (300 mg/kg), medium dose (500 mg/kg), high dose (2000 mg/kg), lethal dose (6000 mg/kg), and traditional dose (10 ml/kg) body weight of aqueous extracts of plants{\textquoteright} mixture were administered orally in Wistar rats. Animals were monitored daily for at least 15 days after an oral administration of aqueous extract of the mixture to detect any changes in body weight, behavior, autonomic profiles, or mortality. Calculation of relative organ weight (ROW), hematological, biochemical analysis, and histopathology evaluation were carried out. Results: The acute oral toxicity study showed diarrhea, somnolence, and agitation of different groups of rats, while no mortality and no statistically significant decrease in body weight was observed. Statistically, the kidneys, liver, and spleen showed significant decrease in the ROW of the treated groups of rats when compared to the control group. In biochemical analysis, there was a significant increase in aspartate aminotransferase, creatinine, urea, and uric acid. Hematological parameters showed a significant decrease in leukocytes, eosinophil, basophil, lymphocytes, monocytes, and hematocrit. Histopathological evaluation which revealed major histology changes of liver sections of rats treated with low and medium doses had lymphocyte and plasma cell inflammatory infiltrates; whereas, the liver sections of rats treated with high, lethal, and traditional doses exhibited lymphocyte, plasma cell, and eosinophilic inflammatory infiltrates. Conclusion: The study finds that the plants{\textquoteright} mixture marketed by herbalists for the treatment of kidney diseases is toxic to body organs such as the liver and the hematopoietic system.

}, keywords = {Acute toxicity, Biochemical parameters, Hematological analysis, Histopathological evaluation, Plants{\textquoteright} mixture.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_191_18}, author = {Mohamed Chebaibi and Dalila Bousta and Laila Chbani and Imane Iken and Sanae Achour} } @article {88, title = {Evaluation of Antioxidant and Analgesic Activities of Three Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {248-253}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {248}, abstract = {

Background: Medicinal plant species with antioxidant and pro-oxidant properties contemplate in high number of flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acids. This present study has been designed to evaluate antioxidant and analgesic activities of three Bangladeshi medicinal plants. Materials and Methods: In this study, after the phytochemical screening, antioxidant activity of the crude methanol extracts of three medicinal species naming Bougainvillea glabra (Nyctaginaceae), Licuala grandis (Arecaceae), and Anthurium crystallinum (Araceae) were evaluated using the spectrophotometric 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl-free radical scavenging assay. In addition, total phenolic and total tannin contents have also been determined using standard gallic acid. Finally, analgesic activities of these plants have also been evaluated by acetic acid writhing inhibition and tail flick test in mice. Results: The inhibitory concentration 50\% values of methanol crude extract of B. glabra, L. grandis, and A. crystallinum were 1.72, 2.18, and 13.21 μg/mL, whereas the standard (ascorbic acid) showed the value 3.90 μg/mL. The extracts of B. glabra, L. grandis, and A. crystallinum also showed the total phenolic contents as 40.97 {\textpm} 0.004, 247.272 {\textpm} 0.016, and 302.22 {\textpm} 0.011 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 g, and the total tannin contents as 2172 {\textpm} 0.002, 435.7 {\textpm} 0.01, and 2414.98 {\textpm} 0.028 mg GAE/100 g of dried plant extract, respectively. The three-plant extracts have reduced the pain by both these methods in mice in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: In sum, it can be said that the three-plant species showed potent antioxidant and analgesic activities.

}, keywords = {Analgesic, Anthurium crystallinum, Antioxidant, Bougainvillea glabra, Licuala grandis.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_164_18}, author = {Amir Hossain and Akbar Hossain and Sultana Juhara Mannan} } @article {85, title = {Evaluation of Phytochemical Content of White Tea Clone 100 and Changes the Expression of Tumor Suppressor Genes on Colorectal Cancer Cell Line HCT116}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {224-229}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {224}, abstract = {

Aim/Background: Colorectal carcinoma cancer is one of the main types of cancer with high death rate of patients, according to their non-healthy lifestyle. In this research, we evaluated inhibitory of white tea clone 100 extract on colorectal cancer cell line HCT-116, and its effectiveness in expression level of three tumor suppressor genes. Materials and Methods: Total polyphenolic content in all samples were measured using the Folin{\textendash}Ciocalteu method, and free radical adsorption investigated by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to evaluate the white tea extract inhibitory effect on HCT-116 cells. Results: Among different extraction methods, the white tea aqueous extracts produced the highest amount of polyphenols and DPPH radical scavenging activity (36.67 {\textpm} 0.54 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry weight and 71.74\% {\textpm} 0.42\%, respectively). Cell survival analysis in the MTT assay indicated that aqueous white tea extract could reduce the viability of HCT-116 cells in 8, 16, and 24 h considerably, related to the concentration-dependent manner. The real-time polymerase chain reaction results indicated the significantly increased expression level (P \< 0.05) of tumor suppressor genes DCC, TGFBR2, and P53 in the concentration of 1000 μg/ml at 24 h. Conclusion: White tea aqueous extract because of having hydroxyl group in its structure at optimal concentration in all three times of experimental, could lead to a positive changes effect on gene expression in the tumor suppressor family.

}, keywords = {3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, HCT-116 cell line, Radical scavenging activity, Tumor suppressor genes, White tea}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_39_19}, author = {Fereydoon Bondarian and Asa Ebrahimi and Frouzandeh Mahjoubi and Eslam Majidi Hervan and Reza Azadi Gonbad} } @article {96, title = {Evaluation of the Protective Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Seed Kernel of Caesalpinia bonducella Flem (EECB) on Forced Swimming-Induced Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {254-259}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {254}, abstract = {

Objective: To study the protective effect of Ethanolic extract of seed kernal of caessalpinia bonducella Flem on forced swimming-induced chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in mice. Materials and Methods: Male albino mice of 25{\textendash}40 g were grouped into five groups taking 5 mice in each group. Group A served as na{\"\i}ve control, Group B as stress control, and Group C and D received EECB at a dose of 200 mg/ kg and 400 mg/kg, respectively. Group E was given the standard drug (imipramine 20 mg/kg). All animals received their respective agent orally daily for 7 days. Except for Group A animals, animals in all other groups were subjected to force swimming 6 min daily for 7 days to induce a state of chronic fatigue. Animals were assessed for duration of immobility on day 1, 3, 5, and 7. Level of anxiety (elevated plus maze and mirrored chamber test) and locomotor activity (open field test) were assessed 24 h after the last force swimming which was followed by estimation of oxidative biomarkers in brain homogenate. Results: Treatment with EECB (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) and imipramine resulted in statistically significant (P <= 0.05) reduction in anxiety and duration of immobility, and there was significant increase in locomotor activity when compared to stress control group. Significant reduction in malondialdehyde level and increase in catalase level were seen in EECB and imipramine-treated group compared to stress control group. Conclusion: The study confirms that EECB has protective effect against experimentally induced CFS.

}, keywords = {Caesalpinia bonducella Flem, Chronic fatigue syndrome, Forced swimming, Imipramine.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_172_18}, author = {Phulen Sarma and Mukundam Borah and Swarnamoni Das} } @article {81, title = {Gas Chromatography{\textendash}Mass Spectrometry Analysis of the Volatile Compounds from the Ethanol Extracts of Bulbine asphodeloides and Helichrysum petiolare}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {219-223}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {219}, abstract = {

Background: Bulbine asphodeloides and Helichrysum petiolare are important medicinal plants that commonly used in folklore medicine in South Africa for the management of skin ailments such as acne, burns, wounds, eczema, shingles, hives, psoriasis, sores, rosacea, and rashes. Despite their extensive use in traditional medicine, the chemical profiles of these medicinal plants have not been elucidated. Objective: The present study was carried out to identify and compare the gas chromatography{\textendash} mass spectrometry (GC{\textendash}MS) profiles of the volatile components from the ethanol extracts of both plants. Materials and Methods: The fresh leaves of both plants were collected from Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa, and later oven dried and subjected for extraction and these extracts were further subjected to GC{\textendash}MS analysis using standard procedures. Results: The GC{\textendash}MS analysis revealed the presence of bioactive terpenes in the volatile components of the ethanol extracts of B. asphodeloides and H. petiolare. Conclusion: The findings reveal the presence of various bioactive compounds which therefore validates the therapeutic importance of these plants in the treatment of skin-related diseases.

}, keywords = {Bulbine asphodeloides, Gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry, Helichrysum petiolare, Phytochemicals, Skin ailments.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_26_19}, author = {Wilfred Otang-Mbeng and Idowu Jonas Sagbo} } @article {302, title = {High-temperature Condition Increases Lignanoid Biosynthesis of Schisandra chinensis Seeds via Reactive Oxygen Species}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {72-77}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {72}, abstract = {

Introduction: The herbal medicine used in many countries came mainly from the wild in the past; now, declining yield resource and laborious gathering result in prevailing cultivated medicine, with a result of prevailing inferior quality of herbal medicine. The contents of major functional ingredients varies greatly in the fruits of Schisandra chinensis, a herbal medicine in many Asian countries. Materials and Methods: These fruits were placed at 20{\textdegree}C, 35{\textdegree}C, 45{\textdegree}C, and 55{\textdegree}C for 1{\textendash}6 days, respectively, covered with plastics to prevent cells from anhydration during treating. The contents of H2O2, phenylalanine, and lignanoids and activities of antioxidant enzymes and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) were monitored. Results: The fresh seeds were exposed to 35{\textdegree}C, 45{\textdegree}C, and 55{\textdegree}C for 1 week; the H2O2 was rose sharply at 1 day and then declined but still with a higher level. The superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase activities were lowered, with inefficient antioxidant capacity. The PAL activities had a certain degree of high-temperature tolerance, remained largely unchanged at 35{\textdegree}C, but reduced gradually as temperature increased. High temperature activated the glycolytic pathway and rose the phenylalanine contents, which increased sharply at 1 day for 35{\textdegree}C and 45{\textdegree}C and at the 2 days for the 55{\textdegree}C and then maintained a stable level with almost 1{\textendash}3 times than the 0 day. Conclusion: The increased phenylalanine as substrate accelerated the synthesis of lignanoids; the contents of five lignanoids were increased by as much as 31.2\%{\textendash}81.5\%, respectively.

}, keywords = {Environmental stress, Lignanoids, Phenylalanine, Schisandra chinensis, Secondary metabolism.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_42_18}, author = {Guo Huimin and Wang Jiahui and Gao Huiru and Meng Xiangcai} } @article {145, title = {High-temperature condition increases lignanoid biosynthesis of Schisandra chinensis seeds via reactive oxygen species}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {72-77}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {72}, abstract = {

Introduction: The herbal medicine used in many countries came mainly from the wild in the past; now, declining yield resource and laborious gathering result in prevailing cultivated medicine, with a result of prevailing inferior quality of herbal medicine. The contents of major functional ingredients varies greatly in the fruits of Schisandra chinensis, a herbal medicine in many Asian countries. Materials and Methods: These fruits were placed at 20{\textdegree}C, 35{\textdegree}C, 45{\textdegree}C, and 55{\textdegree}C for 1{\textendash}6 days, respectively, covered with plastics to prevent cells from anhydration during treating. The contents of H2O2, phenylalanine, and lignanoids and activities of antioxidant enzymes and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) were monitored. Results: The fresh seeds were exposed to 35{\textdegree}C, 45{\textdegree}C, and 55{\textdegree}C for 1 week; the H2O2 was rose sharply at 1 day and then declined but still with a higher level. The superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase activities were lowered, with inefficient antioxidant capacity. The PAL activities had a certain degree of high-temperature tolerance, remained largely unchanged at 35{\textdegree}C, but reduced gradually as temperature increased. High temperature activated the glycolytic pathway and rose the phenylalanine contents, which increased sharply at 1 day for 35{\textdegree}C and 45{\textdegree}C and at the 2 days for the 55{\textdegree}C and then maintained a stable level with almost 1{\textendash}3 times than the 0 day. Conclusions: The increased phenylalanine as substrate accelerated the synthesis of lignanoids; the contents of five lignanoids were increased by as much as 31.2\%{\textendash}81.5\%, respectively.

}, keywords = {Environmental stress, Lignanoids, Phenylalanine, Schisandra chinensis, Secondary metabolism}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_42_18}, author = {Guo Huimin and Wang Jiahui and Gao Huiru and Meng Xiangcai} } @article {100, title = {High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography Estimation of Boeravinone-B in Boerhavia diffusa L. and its Polyherbal Dosage Form (Capsule)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {267-272}, chapter = {267}, abstract = {

Background: Qualitative and quantitative marker estimation is the quality basis of Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals. Boerhavia diffusa is a widely used herb in the Indian system of medicine. Objective: Estimation of boeravinone-B in hydroalcoholic extract of raw drug (ingredient) as well as its poly-herbal formulation to authenticate ingredients ratio in finished product by high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) method. Materials and Methods: Based on planar chromatographic method (HPTLC) with optimized mobile phase toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid: methanol (5:3:1:1 v/v). Further densitometry and marker quantification of developed plate were carried out at ultraviolet 254 nm. Results: Presented in the form of comparative characteristic HPTLC fingerprints and densitograms with well-resolved prominent bands for boeravinone-B at retardation factor (Rf) {\textendash} 0.87 in both the samples. The linear regression by calibration plots revealed good linear relationship with 0.99953 with standard deviation 0.74\% with respect to the area in the concentration range of 200{\textendash}1000 ng/spot. Statistical analysis proves that the developed quantification method is reproducible and selective. Findings showed the presence of 0.055\% and 0.012\% w/w boeravinone-B in hydroalcoholic extract of B. diffusa and its polyherbal formulation, respectively, at Rf 0.87 under λ 254 nm. Conclusion: The study established fast, simple, precise, and cost-effective methods for qualitative and quantitative studies of Ayurvedic raw drugs, and polyherbal formulations consist of B. diffusa. It estimated boeravinone-B in raw drug (ingredient) as well as in its polyherbal formulation. The study qualitatively and quantitatively authenticated the presence and ratio of B. diffusa in polyherbal dosage form (capsule). Moreover, it suggested that the plant contains rich amount of boeravinone-B; this may be directed in selection of genuine plant species in formulation development as well as in standardization.

}, keywords = {Boeravinone-B, Boerhavia diffusa, Densitometry, High-performance thin-layer chromatography, Polyherbal formulation.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_161_18}, author = {Arjun Singh and Himanshu Sharma and Ravinder Singh and Narayanam Srikanth} } @article {166, title = {Identification of Bioactive Diterpenoid Lactones using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance from Andrographis paniculata}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April 2019}, pages = {121-126}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {121}, abstract = {

Background: Andrographis paniculata (AP) (Burm. F) Nees, belongs to the family Acanthaceae, it is also known as a highly bitter plant. In South East Asia this plant is commonly used for cold, cough and respiratory tract infections. Andrographolide (ANG), 14-deoxy-11, 12-didehydroandrographolide (DDA) are the major bioactive diterpenoid lactone compounds of the plant shown vasorelaxant effect, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and to treat variety of diseases which is well-documented. Materials and Methods: The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and 1H-NMR analysis of AP chloroform extract (APCE) revealed the presence of ANG, 14-deoxyandrographolide (DA), and DDA. The main advantage of 1H-NMR is simple, rapid and successfully applied to quantify the active diterpenoids and an alternative to HPLC method to check the presence of various bioactive compounds and its presence in the active raw materials of AP. Results: The results revealed that most active bioactive compounds such as ANG, DA, and DDA are present in the APCE portion of the AP. The chemical shifts of various groups confirmed through 1H-NMR that all the three ANG, DA, and DDA has potent vasorelaxant effect and majority of these compounds are present in the APCE portion and not in the methanol or aqueous fractions. The 1H-NMR study confirmed that diterpenoids such as ANG, DA, and DDA from APCE has vasorelaxant effect on the animal study.

}, keywords = {1H-NMR, Andrographis paniculata, Andrographolide, Bioactive compounds, Diterpenoids, Vasorelaxant}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_117_18}, author = {Raghava N Sriramaneni and Amirin Sadikun and Naveen Kumar Hawala Shivashekaregowda and Annegowda Venkatappa and Mohamad Zaini Asmawi} } @article {106, title = {In silico Anti-Preeclampsia Potential of Phytochemical Found in Ficus elastica}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {279-282}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {279}, abstract = {

Context: Preeclampsia (PE) is a disorder found in pregnant women characterized by high blood pressure and high protein content in urine. Delivery of the baby and placenta is the most recommended treatment in PE, but treating its symptoms (hypertension) has also been recommended. Aims: This study is intended to assess the major compounds found in Ficus elastica leaf as anti-PE using an in silico approach. Settings and Design: All in silico analysis was performed under default settings. Subjects and Methods: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory probability values of the five compounds in F. elastica leaf are predicted using quantitative structure{\textendash}activity relationship. The possible binding mode of the compounds is predicted using molecular docking. Results: Based on the structural properties, compounds found in F. elastica leaf have a high probability activity as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. The compounds found in F. elastica, especially morin, have the highest binding affinity toward beta-adrenergic receptor 2 (ADRB2) with similar intermolecular interaction with its known inhibitor. Conclusions: The compounds found in F. elastica may be beneficial for treating PE through its possible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and inhibition of ADRB2. Key words: Ficus elastica, hypertension, molecular docking.

}, keywords = {Ficus elastica, Hypertension, Molecular docking simulation, Preeclampsia, Quantitative structure{\textendash}activity relationship.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_176_18}, author = {Chrismis Novalinda Ginting and I. Nyoman Ehrich Lister and Ermi Girsang and Yolanda Eliza Putri and Maya Sari Mutia and Riastawaty Purba and Wahyu Widowati and Satrio Haryo Benowo Wibowo and Rizal Rizal} } @article {236, title = {In vitro Screening for Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Three Lebanese Medicinal Plants Crude Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April 2019}, pages = {127-133}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {127}, abstract = {

Background: Despite its small geographic area, Lebanon is characterized by a natural wealth in medicinal plants. Lebanese flora has about 2600 species, where \>100 are endemic and are used in traditional medicine for their therapeutic effects. Objective: To evaluate the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of dichloromethane, methanol, and aqueous crude extracts of three Lebanese medicinal plants: Geranium robertianum, Asphodelus microcarpus, and Alcea setosa. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant activity of different crude extracts was determined using the free radical, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated in a plate-hole diffusion assay against two Gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) bacterial strains, one Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacterial strain, and a fungal strain (Candida albicans). Results: Methanol and aqueous extracts of G. robertianum possessed high scavenging activity (Radical scavenging activity ( RSA) \>85\%) at 0.3 mg/mL followed by the extracts of A. microcarpus which showed a moderate activity. G. robertianum extracts exhibited good inhibition diameters against S. aureus growth. Conclusion: Obtained results give an overall view on the bioactivities of three Lebanese medicinal plants crude extracts.

}, keywords = {Alcea setosa, Antimicrobial activity, Antioxidant activity, Asphodelus microcarpus, Crude extracts, Geranium robertianum}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_171_18}, author = {Josiane Alhage and Hoda Elbitar} } @article {129, title = {In vitro Studies on the Inhibition of α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase by Hydro-ethanolic Extract of Pluchea lanceolata, Alhagi pseudalhagi, Caesalpinia bonduc}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {310-314}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {310}, abstract = {

Background: Pluchea lanceolata (Rasna), Alhagi pseudalhagi (Jawasa), and Caesalpinia bonduc (Latakaranja) important medicinal plants widely used in India as folk medicine. These plants have been used to control diabetes in traditional medicinal systems. Objective: In the present study, 50\% volume per volume ethanolic extracts of P. lanceolata, A. pseudalhagi, and C. bonduc subjected to in vitro analysis of antidiabetic effect by alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibitory assay. Materials and Methods: Inhibitory activity of the hydro-ethanolic extract of the all three plants individually against alpha-amylase enzyme and alpha-glucosidase enzyme were examined in different concentrations (3.90{\textendash}500 {\textmu}g/mL), where acarbose used as a positive control. Results: The percentage inhibition of P. lanceolata showed the highest alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Half-maximal inhibitory concentration value P. lanceolata was found to be 4.83 {\textmu}g/ml and 11.94 {\textmu}g/ml for alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibition. Conclusion: This study suggests that the hydro-ethanolic extract of all three plants have antidiabetic property, among these three plants P. lanceolata showed potent enzyme inhibition as compared to other plant extracts and standard acarbose.

}, keywords = {Alpha-amylase, Alpha-glucosidase, Antidiabetic, Hydro-ethanolic, in vitro.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_31_19}, author = {Anupam Kumar Sachan and Ch. V. Rao and Nikhil Kumar Sachan} } @article {174, title = {Inhibitory Effect of Salvadora persica (Miswak) against Cigarette Smoke-induced Mutagenicity and Sperm Abnormalities in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {384-388}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {384}, abstract = {

Objective: The objective of the study is to evaluate the inhibitory effect of Salvadora persica against the cigarette smoke-induced mutagenicity and sperm damages in rats. Materials and Methods: Young male Wistar rats of weight 120{\textendash}140 g were exposed to the cigarette smoke for 8 weeks. The lyophilized decoction of S. persica was administered daily for 4 weeks by oral route at the doses 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. The somatic and germinal cells damages were determined by peripheral blood micronucleus and sperm abnormalities tests, respectively. In vitro antioxidant activity of the decoction was determined by hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay. Ginseng was used as a standard herbal agent. The results were analyzed statistically by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey test. P \<0.05 was considered to indicate the significance of results. Results: The data from the present study indicated that cigarette smoke exposure significantly (P \< 0.01) increased the population of micronucleated erythrocytes and sperm shape abnormalities and, reduced the polychromatic: normochromatic (P/N) ratio, and total sperm count compared to control. The administration of S. persica produced a dose-dependent inhibition on somatic and male germinal cell damages induced by cigarette smoke and the significant (P \< 0.05) activity was observed at 200 mg/kg. However, none of the tested doses enhanced significantly the P/N ratio. Ginseng at 100 mg/kg significantly (P \< 0.01) prevented the cigarette smoke-mediated damages. The in-vitro antioxidant activity indicated both S. persica and ginseng possess scavenging activity against the hydrogen peroxide free radicals. Conclusion: The observation suggests that the decoction of S. persica can prevent the somatic and germinal cell nuclear damages induced by cigarette smoke exposure. These actions could be related to its antioxidant property.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Cigarette smoke, Micronuclei, Salvadora persica, Sperm abnormalities.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_65_19}, author = {Syed Imam Rabbani and Sultan Sajid and Vasudevan Mani and Omar Khan and M. A. A. Salman} } @article {78, title = {Inhibitory Effects of Ficus deltoidea Extracts on UDP-glucuronosyltransferase and Glutathione S-transferase Drug-Metabolizing Enzymes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {210-218}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {210}, abstract = {

Background: Mas cotek or Ficus deltoidea is conventionally used to treat various diseases and often consumed with other medication and this may give rise to herb{\textendash}drug interaction. The potential of F. deltoidea for interactions with drug-metabolizing enzymes of UDP-gucuronosytranserase (UGT) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) have not been investigated. Objectives: We had evaluated the potential of methanol, ethanol, and aqueous extracts of F. deltoidea to cause UGT- and GST-mediated herb{\textendash}drug interaction in vitro. Materials and Methods: The total phenolic content and total phenolic content were determined using modified colorimetric method. In the UGT study, para-nitrophenol (p-NP) was employed as a substrate to determine the UGT enzymes activity in rat liver microsomes (RLM) and human liver microsomes (HLM). For the GST study, 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene was employed as a substrate to determine GST activity in rat liver cytosolic fraction. Results: The total phenolic content in F. deltoidea extracts can be ranked as follows: Methanol extract \> aqueous extract \> ethanol extract, whereas the content of flavonoid compounds in F. deltoidea extracts can be ranked as: Methanol extract \> ethanol extract \> aqueous extract. Assessment using the UGT enzymes of RLM (IC50 [Half-maximal inhibitory concentration] = 881.40 {\textpm} 1.14 μg/mL) and HLM (IC50 = 63.44 {\textpm} 1.20 μg/mL) showed that the methanol extract of F. deltoidea significantly inhibited p-NP glucuronidation compared with ethanol and aqueous extracts. For GST inhibition study, methanol extract strongly inhibited GST activity (IC50 = 70.73 {\textpm} 1.07 μg/mL), whereas no IC50 values were determined for ethanol and aqueous extracts. Conclusion: The methanol extract of F. deltoidea containing the highest flavonoid content highlights the possibility of herb{\textendash}drug interaction through the modulation of p-NP UGT and GST activity.

}, keywords = {1-chloro-2, 4-dinitrobenzene, Ficus deltoideia, Glutathione S-transferases, Herb{\textendash}drug interactions, P-nitrophenol, Uridine 5{\textquoteright}-diphospho Glucuronosyltransferases.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_2_19}, author = {Mohd Halimhilmi Zulkiffli and Norliyana Mohd Salleh and Roziahanim Mahmud and Sabariah Ismail} } @article {132, title = {Leaf Extract of Eugenia uniflora L. Prevents Episodic Memory Impairment Induced by Streptozotocin in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {329-332}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {329}, abstract = {

Background: Eugenia uniflora is a plant found in several countries of South America and is traditionally used in folk medicine as an antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antihypertensive agent. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of the ethanolic extract of E. uniflora leaves on memory impairment induced by streptozotocin (STZ) in rats. Materials and Methods: The ethanolic extract of E. uniflora leaves was used to treat Wistar rats which received intracerebroventricular (ICV)-STZ. Animals were allocated to the control group (n = 10), i.e., ICV vehicle solution + ethanol 10\%; STZ group (n = 10), i.e., ICV-STZ + ethanol 10\%; STZ + E. uniflora (300 mg/kg) group (n = 10), i.e., ICV-STZ +300 mg/kg of leaf extract of E. uniflora; and STZ + E. uniflora (1000 mg/kg) group (n = 10), i.e., ICV-STZ +1000 mg/kg of leaf extract of E. uniflora. The animals were submitted to the treatments 24 h after receiving ICV-STZ. The treatments were performed on alternate days over a 30-day period. After this period, the animals were tested in the elevated plus maze to assess learning and memory. Results: The STZ group presented a higher transfer latency (P \< 0.001) which impaired memory regarding the aversive characteristics of the apparatus. The performance in the sessions regarding this parameter of the groups treated with the leaf extract of E. uniflora was similar to the control group (P \> 0.05) for both the doses. Conclusion: The leaf extract of E. uniflora showed a neuroprotective effect on memory impairment induced by STZ in rats.

}, keywords = {Elevated plus maze, Episodic memory, Eugenia uniflora, Neuroprotection, Streptozotocin.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_37_19}, author = {Ilton Santos da Silva and Joana Rosar Corbellini and Gabrielle Pfutzenreuter and Leila Teresinha Maranho and M{\'a}rcia Regina Pincerati} } @article {92, title = {Mitigation of Radiation-Induced Oxidative Stress by Methanolic Extract of Tragia involucrata in Swiss Albino Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {236-243}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {236}, abstract = {

Background: Tragia involucrata L. has been used in Indian traditional medicine since centuries to treat various ailments. The plant remains unexplored for its radioprotective properties and hence the present study. Objective: The main objective of the study is to ascertain the radioprotective effects of T. involucrata methanolic extract (TME) in Swiss albino mice against whole-body gamma radiation. Materials and Methods: The acute toxicity of TME was evaluated. The optimal protective dose of TME against radiation-induced mortality in mice was determined by survival analysis using the Kaplan{\textendash}Meier curves. To understand the mechanism of radioprotection, TME was tested for hematological changes and antioxidant levels in mice by injecting100 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally for 5 days and irradiated with a sublethal dose of 6 Gy gamma radiation. Results: The lethal dose 50\%/of TME was about 645.65 mg/kgbw. The pretreatment of mice with 100 mg/kgbw of TME increased its survivability to 30\% compared with the radiation control group and hence is considered as a radioprotective dose. The lethal dose 50\%/30\% of the irradiation alone group was found to be 9 Gy and 10.35 Gy for the TME + irradiation group. Hence, the dose reduction factor was about 1.15. The radiation decreased the hematological parameters in the blood, but on pretreatment with TME (100 mg/kgbw), increase in levels was noted. The antioxidant enzyme levels in the mice liver homogenate were found to be replenished in the test group compared with the radiation control. Conclusion: The present study indicates the protective role of TME against gamma radiation-induced mortality and oxidative stress. Hence, it is proposed as a candidate for radioprotection.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant enzymes, Ionizing radiation, Methanolic extract, Radioprotection, Tragia involucrate.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_177_18}, author = {Nivya Machettira Thimmaiah and Chandrashekhar Gajanan Joshi and Rajashekhar K. Patil and Ajay S. Khandagale and H. M. Somashekarappa and D. Ananda, H. M. Manjunath} } @article {269, title = {Mitochondrial Nephrotoxicity induced by Tacrolimus (FK-506) and Modulatory Effects of Bacopa monnieri (Farafakh) of Tabuk Region}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {20-24}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {20}, abstract = {

Background: Tacrolimus is a known immunosuppressive drug used widely for organ transplantation, but its nephrotoxicity mechanism is still unclear. Objectives: The present study investigates the protective efficacy of Bacopa monnieri (BM), against tacrolimus-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: Group 1 (control group); administered orally with normal saline for 30 days; Group 2 (BM extract treated group); Group 3 (tacrolimus-treated group); and Group 4; (tacrolimus plus BM extract treated group). Tacrolimus-treated rats received 1 mg/kg body weight of tacrolimus intraperitoneally for 30 days, and BM-pretreated rats were administered with the dose of 200 mg/kg orally by gavage once a day for 30 days. Results: Tacrolimus-induced nephrotoxicity was assessed biochemically and histopathologically. Pretreatment with BM has shown to possess a significant protective effect against tacrolimus-induced kidney functions regarding urea, creatinine, and albumin levels, respectively. The creatinine, mitochondrial lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances), and protein carbonyl levels were significantly increased dramatically, and however, the total proteins, albumin, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase were decreased when pretreated with tacrolimus. The nephroprotective efficacy of the BM extract was further evident by histopathological analysis and DNA fragmentation. Conclusion: The outcome of this study indicates that BM extracts exerted protection against tacrolimus-induced kidney toxicity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Bacopa monnieri, DNA fragmentation, Nephrotoxicity, Tacrolimus.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_100_18}, author = {Atif Abdulwahab A. Oyouni and Shalini Saggu and Ehab Tousson and Anand Mohan and Abdullah Farasani} } @article {74, title = {Modulation of Chicken Cecal Microbiota by a Phytogenic Feed Additive, Stodi{\textregistered}: A Metagenomic Analysis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {201-209}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {201}, abstract = {

Background: The cecal microbiota plays a critical role in gut health and utilization of nutrients left undigested in the small intestine. Objective: The impact of Stodi{\textregistered} on the composition of cecal microbiota was evaluated in broilers using high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicons. Materials and Methods: A total of 960 1-day-old Ross 308 chicks were allocated to four groups, namely, normal diet (ND), negative control (NTC; challenged with 1.7\% magnesium chloride [MgCl2]), and Stodi{\textregistered} treatment groups which comprise NTC plus Stodi{\textregistered} (500 and 750 g/ton of feed). MgCl2 was used to increase the cecal moisture content, and in turn, to disturb the cecal microbiota. Results: Birds challenged with MgCl2 exhibited poor performance traits as compared to ND group, whereas the supplementation of Stodi{\textregistered} (500 and 750 g/ton) improved the performance of broilers. MgCl2 did not produce a notable change in the microbiota, but supplementation of Stodi{\textregistered} (500 and 750 g/ton) produced a statistically significant shift in the microflora in comparison with ND. The Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio was significantly elevated in comparison to ND. The abundance of energy harvesting bacteria belonging to specific families of Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae were increased by Stodi{\textregistered} supplementation, especially at 500 g/ton of feed. Conclusion: The supplementation of Stodi{\textregistered} was effective in modulating the cecal microbial population in a manner conducive for gut health and performance of broilers, as revealed by the increase in abundance of favorable microflora.

}, keywords = {Cecal microbiota, Gut health, Magnesium chloride, Metagenome, Stodi{\textregistered}.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_8_19}, author = {Saravana Kumar Marimuthu, and Brindhalakshmi Balasubramanian and Ramasamy Selvam and Prashanth D{\textquoteright}Souza} } @article {98, title = {Neuroprotective and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Aegiceras corniculatum (L.) Blanco}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {260-266}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {260}, abstract = {

Objectives: The objective of the study is to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective potential of Aegiceras corniculatum (L.) Blanco. Materials and Methods: Sequential Soxhlet extraction of titled plant material was carried out. Phytochemical analysis was performed using standard procedures. The total phenolic and flavonoid content was estimated along with in vitro antioxidant property of the extracts which was assessed by ferric ion-reducing power assay, phosphomolybdenum assay, 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl assay, and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay. Further, the extracts were assessed for anti-inflammatory property by in vitro protein denaturation assay, whereas neuroprotective activity was performed by pretreatment 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Results: Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, anthraquinones, glycosides, lignins, and sterols. Quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed that the aqueous extract possessed high phenolic content and methanol extract possessed high flavonoid content when compared to other extracts. All the extracts showed antioxidant activity revealed through different assays. Among all the extracts, methanol extract showed significant anti-inflammatory activity with 85.32 {\textpm} 1.63 percentage inhibition of protein degradation. Methanol extract at the concentration of 5 μg showed comparatively significant neuroprotection against trimethyltin (TMT)-induced toxicity with 70.02\% SK-S-NH cell survival against 56.30\% cell survival TMT-intoxicated group. Conclusion: The leaf extracts of A. corniculatum possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.

}, keywords = {Aegiceras corniculatum, Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Mangrove plants, Neuroprotective activity.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_48_19}, author = {Badarinath D Kulkarni and Joy Harris Hoskeri and AB Vedamurthy} } @article {113, title = {An Open-Label, Multi-Center, Prospective, Interventional, Clinical Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Ayuvigo Forte Capsules in Patients Suffering from Oligospermia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {290-294}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {290}, abstract = {

Background: Oligospermia refers to semen with a low concentration of sperms. Oligospermia is one of the common causative factors of male infertility. Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of Ayuvigo forte capsule in patients suffering from oligospermia. Materials and Methods: This was an open-label, prospective, interventional, multi-center clinical study. A total of 30 patients were completed the study. All patients were advised to consume two Ayuvigo forte capsules twice daily orally after meals with a cup of milk for 90 days. Data describing quantitative measures are expressed as a mean {\textpm} standard deviation. Results: The mean total sperm count, mean progressive sperm motility, and total number of spermatozoa increased significantly (P \< 0.05) by 90.54\%, 33.65\%, and 98.88\% at the end of the study, respectively. Most patients had shown significant (P \< 0.05) improvement in subjective parameters of low sperm count assessed as per Ayurveda. Furthermore, significant (P \< 0.05) improvement was observed in mean serum free testosterone level. No statistically significant (P \> 0.05) changes were observed in mean serum luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, prolactin, safety laboratory parameters, and vitals. Excellent overall efficacy and tolerability were observed in majority of patients. Conclusion: Ayuvigo forte capsule is safe and effective for the management of oligospermia.

}, keywords = {Ayuvigo forte capsule, Oligospermia, Sperm count, Sperm motility, Testosterone level.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_158_18}, author = {Sanjay M. Tamoli and Narendra B. Mundhe and Devdatta A. Deshmukh and Shishir Purushottam Pande and Rahul Ramkrushna Kamde and Vidyadhar S. Kumbhar and Sachin Anil Upasani and Swapnali B. Mahadik} } @article {293, title = {Participation of Cytokines, Opioid, and Serotoninergic Systems on Antinociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Simira grazielae Peixoto (Rubiaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {51-59}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {51}, abstract = {

Background: Simira grazielae P. is widely found at Brazil. S. grazielae have been used to treat pain and inflammation in the Northeast of Brazil. Objective: This study investigated the mechanisms of the extract and partitions using pharmacological techniques in mice. Materials and Methods: Male Swiss mice (20{\textendash}22 g) were used in models of pain (acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing, formalin, and tail-flick tests) and inflammation (edema paw and air pouch tests) as well as in model for the evaluation of motor activity (open field test). Furthermore, we evaluate the probable action mechanism of S. grazielae using naloxone, L-nitro-arginine methyl ester, L-arginine, glibenclamide, atropine, 4-chloro-DL-phenylalanine, and ondansetron in tail-flick test. The cytokines production was also evaluated. The methanolic extract from the S. grazielae and its partitions were administered orally at doses of 10{\textendash}100 mg/kg. Results: Methanolic extract from the wood of S. grazielae (SGM) and its partitions showed antinociceptive properties in models of acute pain (SGM and ethyl acetate partition [SGMAc]) as well as in models of inflammation (dichloromethane partition [SGMD]). Prior administration of ondansetron and naloxone reduced the antinociceptive effect of SGMAc. SGMD reduced the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induced by carrageenan. Conclusion: The results show that the anti-inflammatory activity showed by SGMD involves to reduction of the TNF-α, and the antinociceptive activity showed by SGMAc has relation to participation of the serotoninergic receptors and opioid system. These evidence justify the popular therapeutic use of this species in the control of pain and inflammation.

}, keywords = {Extract, Nociception, opioids, Serotoninergic system, Tumor necrosis factor-α.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_99_18}, author = {Gabriela Carmelinda Martins dos Santos and Mirza Nalesso Gomes Sanches and Douglas Siqueira de Almeida Chaves and M{\'a}rio Geraldo de Carvalho and Raimundo Braz-Filho and Bruno Guimar{\~a}es Marinho} } @article {183, title = {Pharmacognostic Evaluation of Carapa guianensis Aubl. Leaves: A Medicinal Plant Native from Brazilian Amazon}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {333-338}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {333}, abstract = {

Background: Carapa guianensis Aubl., known as crabwood, has been used in folk medicine as anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and for the treatment of flu and colds. Objective: The present study aimed to establish the pharmacognostic features of C. guianensis leaves. Materials and Methods: The leaves were investigated according to the World Health Organization guideline on the pharmacognostic specification, which comprised macroscopic and microscopic assessment, phytochemical screening, and physicochemical characterization of the leaves, besides the microscopic analysis of the powder. Results: Leaves were characterized as a compound, coriaceous with elliptic shape, entire margin, acuminate apex, obtuse base, and opposite phyllotaxis. The epidermis has straight periclinal and anticlinal walls. Calcium oxalate crystals were observed in druses, anomocytic stomata just on a lower side (hypostomatic), and dorsiventral mesophyll. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, triterpenes, and steroids in the crude extract. The values of the physicochemical parameters such as total ash, acid-insoluble ash, and loss on drying are 7.16\%, 1.03\% and 7.93\%, respectively; the ethanol and water-soluble extractive values are 19.47\% and 15.97\%, respectively. Conclusion: The information obtained with botanical, physicochemical, and phytochemical studies could be used to identify C. guianensis and to certify the authenticity of commercial samples.

}, keywords = {Andiroba, Morphoanatomy, Phytochemical screening, Quality control, Rutin.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_41_19}, author = {T{\'a}ssio R{\^o}mulo Silva Ara{\'u}jo Luz and Jos{\'e} Antonio Costa Leite and Samara Ara{\'u}jo Bezerra and Ludmilla Santos Silva de Mesquita and Edilene Carvalho Gomes Ribeiro and Jos{\'e} Wilson Carvalho De Mesquita and Daniella Patr{\'\i}cia Brand{\~a}o Silveira and Maria Cristiane Aranha Brito and Cris{\'a}lida Machado Vilanova and Flavia Maria Mendon{\c c}a do Amaral and Denise Fernandes Coutinho} } @article {237, title = {Phytochemical and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Lauridia tetragona (L.F) R.H. Archer: A Medicinal Plant Used for the Management of Dysentery in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April 2019}, pages = {134-139}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {134}, abstract = {

Objective: The present investigation evaluated the in vitro phytochemical and antimicrobial potential of the methanol and acetone leaf extracts of Lauridia tetragona (L.F), a plant consumed as a herb in South Africa. Materials and Methods: Spectrophotometry assays using Folin{\textendash}Ciocalteu, aluminum chloride, and vanillin{\textendash}hydrochloric acid were used for the determination of phenols, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidin contents of the extracts, respectively. The agar dilution technique was used for the antimicrobial evaluation. The inhibitory activity of the extracts was tested on five Gram-negative and five Gram-positive bacteria and four fungi. Results: The methanol extract had a higher phenol (54.87 {\textpm} 4.01 mg gallic acid equivalent [GAE]/g) and proanthocyanidin (78.55 {\textpm} 0.83 mg catechin equivalent [CE]/g) content than the acetone extracts with 45.27 {\textpm} 3.93 mg GAE/g and 63.54 {\textpm} 1.67 mg CE/g, respectively. The acetone extract, however, had higher flavonoid content (462.45 {\textpm} 1.93 mg quercetin equivalent [QE]/g) than the methanol extract (412.20 {\textpm} 3.85 mg QE/g). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the antibacterial assay ranged from 2.5 to 5 mg/mL. All the bacteria except Staphylococcus aureus were susceptible to the acetone extract. Five bacteria, three Gram positive and two Gram negative, were resistant while the remaining five were susceptible to the methanol extract. Conversely, all the fungi tested were susceptible to both extracts with a MIC which ranged from 0.63 to 10 mg/mL. Conclusion: The results obtained revealed that Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi showed some degree of susceptibility to the plant extracts. This gives an indication of broad-spectrum activity exhibited by the crude extracts of L. tetragona and supports its ethnomedicinal usage.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial, Celastraceae, Dysentery, Lauridia tetragona, Phytochemical, Spectrophotometry}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_41_18}, author = {Olubunmi Abosede Wintola and Anthony Jide Afolayan} } @article {94, title = {Phytochemical Content and Antioxidant Activities of Pomelo Peel Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {244-247}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {244}, abstract = {

Background: There is an increasing interest in the antioxidant measurement of some plant constituents. Plant component, especially fruit, has antioxidant components which are safe, economic, and powerful to reduce oxidative stress and replace synthetic ones. Objectives: To quantitatively measure the flavonoids, Vitamin C, and carotenoid content of hydroalcoholic extract and to estimate the antioxidant activity of pomelo peel extract (PPE) and minimum inhibitory concentration 50\% (IC50) of the extract using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) ethanolic solution. Materials and Methods: Hydroalcoholic PPE was prepared; total flavonoids using aluminum chloride method, Vitamin C using thiourea and 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine method, and carotenoid content of the extract were estimated using 95\% ethanol solution. All measurements were estimated using ultraviolet{\textendash}visible spectrophotometer. Antioxidant activity and IC50 of PPE were measured using DPPH method. Results: Flavonoids, Vitamin C, and carotenoid content were measured as 21.20 mg/100 g, 15.13 mg/100 g, and 62.98 μg/g, respectively, of dry PPE. The DPPH radical scavenging activity exhibits a significant dose-dependent inhibition of DPPH radical color, with IC50 being at a concentration of 68.55 μg/ml of the extract, comparable to 55.87 μg/ml IC50 of Vitamin C standard antioxidant. Conclusion: From the study results, we could conclude that pomelo peel possesses high antioxidant properties and it is potentially rich sources of natural antioxidants.

}, keywords = {2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, Antioxidant capacity, Ascorbic acid, Citrus maxima., Flavonoids}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_180_18}, author = {Zead Helmi Abudayeh and Ihab Ibrahim Al Khalifa and Shaimaa M. Mohammed and Asser Ashraf Ahmad} } @article {287, title = {Phytochemistry in Medicinal Species of Solanum L. (Solanaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {47-50}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {47}, abstract = {

Background: The genus Solanum L. is the largest of the family Solanaceae; it has used in food, ornamentation, and medicinal. Objective: This work had as objective to perform the phytochemical screening secondary metabolites: saponins, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, and anthraquinones by means of colorimetric and precipitation analyzes of root bark, stem, leaf, and epicarp of the following species of Solanum genus: Solanum agrarium, Solanum lycocarpum, Solanum palinacanthum, Solanum paniculatum, and Solanum stipulaceum. The species are found in areas of the Cerrado Biome of Northern Minas Gerais state for initial evaluation of the possibility of cultivation for medicinal use. Materials and Methods: The following qualitative tests were performed: Liebermann{\textendash}Burchard reaction for steroids/triterpenoids; foam persistence test for saponins; Bertrand and Dragendorff reagents for alkaloids; reactions with lead neutral acetate at 10\% and ferric chloride at 2\% for tannins; reactions with ferric chloride at 2\% and Shinoda reaction for flavonoids; reaction of Borntr{\"a}eger and reaction with sodium hydroxide at 0.5\% for anthraquinones. Results: Plants of the Solanum L. genus, occurring in Cerrado areas in the city of Montes Claros, have considerable amounts of secondary metabolites, varying between the different species and in different structures analyzed. Conclusion: It is important to continue the study evaluating whether in species from planting occurs production of the secondary metabolites identified in wild plants.

}, keywords = {Solanum agrarium, Solanum lycocarpum, Solanum palinacanthum, Solanum paniculatum, Solanum stipulaceum.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_148_18}, author = {Laudin{\'e}ia de Jesus Matias and Juliana Almeida Rocha and Vanessa de Andrade Royo and Elytania Veiga Menezes and Afr{\^a}nio Farias de Melo J{\'u}nior and Dario Alves de Oliveira} } @article {141, title = {Phytochemistry in Medicinal Species of Solanum L. (Solanaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {47-50}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {47}, abstract = {

Background: The genus Solanum L. is the largest of the family Solanaceae; it has used in food, ornamentation, and medicinal. Objective: This work had as objective to perform the phytochemical screening secondary metabolites: saponins, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, and anthraquinones by means of colorimetric and precipitation analyzes of root bark, stem, leaf, and epicarp of the following species of Solanum genus: Solanum agrarium, Solanum lycocarpum, Solanum palinacanthum, Solanum paniculatum, and Solanum stipulaceum. The species are found in areas of the Cerrado Biome of Northern Minas Gerais state for initial evaluation of the possibility of cultivation for medicinal use. Materials and Methods: The following qualitative tests were performed: Liebermann{\textendash}Burchard reaction for steroids/triterpenoids; foam persistence test for saponins; Bertrand and Dragendorff reagents for alkaloids; reactions with lead neutral acetate at 10\% and ferric chloride at 2\% for tannins; reactions with ferric chloride at 2\% and Shinoda reaction for flavonoids; reaction of Borntr{\"a}eger and reaction with sodium hydroxide at 0.5\% for anthraquinones. Results: Plants of the Solanum L. genus, occurring in Cerrado areas in the city of Montes Claros, have considerable amounts of secondary metabolites, varying between the different species and in different structures analyzed. Conclusion: It is important to continue the study evaluating whether in species from planting occurs production of the secondary metabolites identified in wild plants.

}, keywords = {Solanum agrarium, Solanum lycocarpum, Solanum palinacanthum, Solanum paniculatum, Solanum stipulaceum}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_148_18}, author = {Laudin{\'e}ia de Jesus Matias and Juliana Almeida Rocha and Elytania Veiga Menezes and Afr{\^a}nio Farias de Melo J{\'u}nior and Dario Alves de Oliveira} } @article {170, title = {Potent Procoagulant and Platelet Aggregation Inducing Serine Protease from Tridax procumbens Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {363-370}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {363}, abstract = {

Background: Tridax procumbens extract (TPE) has been widely used in tribal/folk medicine to stop bleeding and to enhance wound healing process. Based on its traditional medicinal importance, the TPE is evaluated for its possible role in blood coagulation cascade. Objective: This study has been conducted to evaluate the TPE for the presence of protease associated with fibrino (geno) lytic, collagenolytic properties, and its action on blood coagulation cascade and platelet aggregation to substantiate its procoagulant nature. Materials and Methods: The TPE was analyzed in vitro for proteolytic, fibrinogenolytic, and collagenolytic activity. It was also analyzed for its effect on blood coagulation and platelet aggregation. In vivo studies have been conducted for hemorrhagic and edema inducing activity. Results: A non-toxic serine protease having procoagulant property associated with fibrino (geno) lytic, collagenolytic (both type I and type IV), and platelet aggregation inducing was identified and evaluated from TPE. The TPE decreased the clotting time of human plasma as evaluated by recalcification time and partial thromboplastin time by 19.8 and 1.53 folds, respectively. This suggests its procoagulant nature. TPE also enhanced the adenosine diphosphate-/epinephrine-induced platelet aggregation by 1.35 and 1.38 folds, respectively. Conclusion: The TPE serine protease is a non-toxic procoagulant with fibrino (geno) lytic and collagenolytic activities and induces platelet aggregation. Further, isolation and characterization of active molecule in TPE will allow us to exploit the pharmacological potential of TPE on coagulation cascade.

}, keywords = {Fibrinogenolytic, Fibrinolytic, Platelet aggregation, Procoagulant, Tridax procumbens.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_4_19}, author = {Vinod Gubbiveeranna and C. G. Kusuma and S. Bhavana and C. K. Sumachirayu and H. Ravikumar and S. Nagaraju} } @article {243, title = {Pretreatment and Optimization of Processing Conditions for Extraction of Oleuropein from Olive Leaves using Central Composite Design}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April 2019}, pages = {178-187}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {178}, abstract = {

Background: The extraction methods used for isolation of biomolecule from Olive leaves show risk of residual solvent and less extraction efficiency. Hence, there is a need to develop novel techniques to encapsulate the risks headed with extraction process. Objective: The goal was to unravel the effect of novel extraction techniques on the extraction efficiency of Oleuropein from Olea europaea, a major secoiridoid resided in Olive leaf. Materials and Methods: Olive leaves were collected, authenticated, and subjected to proximate, phytochemical analysis to contemplate the source of active moiety. The pr{\'e}cised solvent, i.e., water: glycerol (3:1\%v/v) was functionalized to depict the influence of independent variable on response using central composite design. For hot blanching, the independent factors selected were treatment temperature (50{\textdegree}C{\textendash}70{\textdegree}C) and duration of blanching (10{\textendash}30 min) whereas the observed response is percentage extraction efficiency of Oleuropein. The hot blanched leaves were subjected to extraction by cold maceration, microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). The content of Oleuropein was analyzed by high-performance thin-layer liquid chromatography. Results: From the design space, the model is stable at a range of 0.002{\textendash}0.80 which indicates lack of fit is very less and more curvature effects are clearly visualized with P = 5\% level of significance. Maximum response was attained at a temperature of 60{\textdegree}C{\textendash}65{\textdegree}C and duration of 15{\textendash}20 min. Microstructural changes in leaf were observed through scanning electron microscopy studies. From the study, pretreated leaves followed by UAE result in higher yield of Oleuropein compared to MAE and maceration. Conclusion: Hot blanching technique shows a significant linear upswing in the concentration of Oleuropein when compared to direct extraction techniques. Blanching of Olive leaves causes deactivation of enzymes, and further exposure to ultrasonic waves enhances mass transfer of solvent and promotes the release of Oleuropein.

}, keywords = {Central composite design, Extraction efficiency, Hot blanching, Olea europaea, Oleuropein, Olive leaf}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_179_18}, author = {P. Sucharitha and S.V. Satyanarayana and K. Bhaskar Reddy} } @article {181, title = {Production of Antioxidant Exopolysaccharide from Pseudomonas aeruginosa Utilizing Heavy Oil as a Solo Carbon Source}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {378-383}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {378}, abstract = {

Aim/Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is capable of utilizing heavy oil hydrocarbons as a sole carbon source. P. aeruginosa produce exopolysaccharide (EPS) in an inorganic medium in the presence of crude oil. Several environmental factors affect the majority of EPS production. Materials and Methods: Strain of P. aeruginosa were managed under various media (maintenance medium, inoculum, and basal media). Different heavy petroleum oil concentrations (5, 10, 20, and 30 ml/L) were used as solo carbon source to the basal medium. Various conditions of bacterial growth were monitored. The growth of cells was estimated by measuring the absorbance of the mixture of 1 ml of the basal medium diluted with 1 ml of distilled water at 600 nm spectrophotometrically. P. aeruginosa was grown aerobically in a production medium at 37{\textdegree}C and 150 rpm on a rotary shaker. The culture broth was centrifuged to separate the cells. The precipitated polysaccharide was separated by centrifugation and washed with ethanol, acetone, and ether, and then dried under reduced pressure oven at 45{\textdegree}C. The DPPH test was carried out as described by Burits and Bucar to monitor the free radical scavenging activities of the extracts. Results: The preferable culture conditions for EPS production were at 10 ml/L heavy oil, with 0.5 g/L NaNO3 as best N sources at pH 6.0 after 5 days incubation. The net weight of purified EPS production was 0.5 g/L. Conclusion: The obtained polysaccharide showed antioxidant activity that possesses DPPH radical scavenging activity, with an EC50 = 0.201.

}, keywords = {Environmental factors, Exopolysaccharides, Heavy oil hydrocarbons, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_40_19}, author = {Anas A. Darwish and Omar A.M. Al-Bar and Rakan H. Yousef and Said S.Moselhy and Youssri M Ahmed and Khalid Rehman Hakeem} } @article {116, title = {Safety and Antioxidant Potential of Traditional Thai Poly-Herbal Tea {\textquotedblleft}Phy-Blica-D{\textquotedblright} Used as a Rejuvenation Formula}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {295-303}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {295}, abstract = {

Background: The rising popularity of phytonutrient consumption may be due to a vast number of scientific studies that have revealed their health benefits; however, concerns regarding the medical safety of herbal-based products are increasing. Phy-Blica-O is Phyllanthus emblica-based herbal tea used in Thai traditional medicine as a rejuvenating remedy. However, its consumption has been limited due to its strong bitter taste with unpleasant odor. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the safety and antioxidant potential of Phy-Blica-D, the modified formula of Phy-Blica-O which gave high sensory acceptability scores. Materials and Methods: Subacute toxicity studies of Phy-Blica-D infusion was conducted by repeated oral administration of the extract at doses of 5, 50, and 300 mg/kg/day in Sprague-Dawley rats. Results: The formula exhibited antioxidant activity with an IC50 of 0.243 {\textpm} 0.006, 0.486 {\textpm} 0.002 and 0.108 {\textpm} 0.004 mg/mL using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, 2,20-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid and metal chelating assays, respectively. There was no significant treatment-related toxicity as indicated by clinical signs, body weight, food consumption, serum biochemical and hematological parameters, organ weight, and histopathological examination of the animals treated with Phy-Blica-D infusion. These results suggest that the oral no-observed-adverse-effectlevel of Phy-Blica-D extract is \>300 mg/kg body weight/day, or ~3.7 L/kg body weight/day for both sexes. The calculated human equivalent dose value is 48.39 mg/kg/day, or ~600 mL/kg body weight/day. There were no target organs affected. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that Phy-Blica-D infusion can be regarded as safe and could potentially be used as a functional ingredient to reduce oxidative stress in non-communicable diseases.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Folkloric infusion, Functional beverage, Phyllanthus emblica, Subacute toxicity study.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_5_19}, author = {Acharaporn Issuriya and Nuntitporn Puangkeaw and Piyapong Choochana and Patcharawalai Jaisamut and Nongluk Kunworarath and Katesarin Maneenoon and Surasak Limsuwan and Thammarat Kaewmanee and Sasitorn Chusri} } @article {264, title = {Saponin of Momordica cymbalaria Exhibits Anti-Inflammatory Activity by Suppressing the Expression of Inflammatory Mediators in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW264.7 Macrophages}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {8-13}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {8}, abstract = {

Background: Inflammation is an intricate biological process that commonly occurs in response to pathologic stimuli, and natural products have potential in healing inflammation. However, the anti-inflammatory of Momordica cymbalaria is not evaluated yet. Objectives: The anti-inflammatory mechanism of saponin of M. cymbalaria (SMC) was investigated in bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 mouse macrophage cell line. Materials and Methods: The cytotoxicity of SMC on RAW264.7 cells was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay at 500, 250, 125, 62.5, 31.25, 15.625, 7.812, 3.906, and 1.953 μg/mL. For anti-inflammatory activity, RAW264.7 cells were stimulated with Escherichia coli LPS (1 μg/ml) in the presence or absence of SMC (50 μg/ml) for 16{\textendash}24 h. Western blotting was carried to comprehend the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS) whereas expressions of the pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α]) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were studied by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). NO production was estimated by Griess{\textquoteright}s method. Salicylic acid, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, was used as a standard. Results: The saponin did not exert significant cytotoxicity on RAW264.7 cells. Western blot analysis revealed reduction in COX-2 and iNOS expression on SMC treatment. Production of PGE2, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α was also found to be reduced when analyzed by ELISA. NO levels were also lowered. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the SMC possesses potential anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing the expression of inflammatory mediators, COX-2, iNOS, PGE2, and NO, and the cytokines in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells.

}, keywords = {Cyclooxygenase-2, Inducible nitric oxide synthase, Interleukin-1 beta, Momordica cymbalaria, Prostaglandin E2, Tumor necrosis factor-alpha.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_130_18}, author = {Suman Samaddar and Raju Koneri} } @article {266, title = {Screening and Validating of 1, 1-Diphenyl-2-Trinitrophenylhydrazine Scavengers from Danshen-Honghua Herbal Pair}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {14-19}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {14}, abstract = {

Background: Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen [DS]) and Carthamus tinctorius (Honghua [HH]) are commonly used traditional Chinese medicines for activating blood and removing stasis, and they were usually used as DS-HH (Danshen-Honghua [DH]) herbal pair in clinical applications. Characterizing the antioxidant active ingredients in DH herbal pair may be helpful for understanding their curative effect on cardiovascular diseases. Objective: The objective of the study is to screen the 1, 1-diphenyl-2-trinitrophenylhydrazine (DPPH) scavenging active compounds in DH herbal pair by spectrum-effect relationship analysis. Materials and Methods: First, the water extracts of DH herbal pair with different ratios (DS: HH = 1:0, 0:1, 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 5:1, 1:5, 1:3, and 1:2) were prepared. Then, the clearance effects of DH herbal pair and single drugs on DPPH were compared, meanwhile, high performance liquid chromatography was applied for chemical analysis of DH extracts. Finally, DPPH scavengers in DH herbal pair were predicted and identified by spectrum-effect relationship analysis and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis. Results: Compared with single drugs, the extracts of herbal pairs had higher clearance rate to DPPH. Eighteen potential active compounds (peaks) in the extract of DH herbal pair were predicted, and 13 of them were tentatively identified by LC-MS analysis. Furthermore, antioxidant activities of eight pure compounds from the DH herbal pair were validated by DPPH radical scavenging assay with Vitamin C as positive control drug. Among them, six compounds including danshensu, protocatechuic acid, coffee acid, chlorogenic acid, rutin, and salvianolic acid A were found to have high antioxidant activity. Conclusion: DH herbal pair showed strong clearance effect on DPPH, and danshensu, protocatechuic acid, coffee acid, chlorogenic acid, rutin and salvianolic acid A are the active components.

}, keywords = {1, 1-diphenyl-2-trinitrophenylhydrazine scavenger, Active ingredients, Antioxidation effect, Danshen-Honghua, Spectrum-effect relationship analysis.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_94_18}, author = {Ya-Li Wang, Shi-Jun Yin and Sheng-Li Huang, Qian Zhang and Hua Chen, Feng-Qing Yang} } @article {199, title = {Secondary Metabolites from Lichen Usnea longissima and its Pharmacological Relevance}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {April 2019}, pages = {103-109}, type = {Review article}, chapter = {103}, abstract = {

The objective of the study was to isolate chemical compounds from lichen Usnea longissima (UL) and to use lichen metabolites as antibiotics, antifungal, anti-HIV, anticancer, antiprotozoan, and antibacterial agents. Preparation of the lichen extracts: Fine powder of UL lichen was extracted using acetone, methanol, and water in a Soxhlet extractor. In a rotary evaporator, the extracts were filtered and then concentrated under reduced pressure. The dry extracts were stored at 18{\textdegree}C until they were used in the tests. The extracts were used for various assays. Sixteen compounds were isolated from lichen UL using various chromatographic techniques, including silica gel, Sephadex LH-20, operational data store, and semipreparative high-performance liquid chromatography. By spectroscopic data analyses, their structures were identified as (1) useanol, (2) lecanorin, (3) 3-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy-6-methylbenzoate, (4) lecanorin E, (5) 3{\textquoteright}-methylevernic acid, (6) evernic acid, (7) barbatinic acid, (8) 3,7-dihydroxy-1,9-dimethyldibenzofuran, (9) orcinol, (10) O-methyl orcinol, (11) methyl orsellinate, (12) methyl everninate, (13) 2,5-dimethyl-1,3-benzenediol, (14) 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy-3,6-dimethyl benzoic acid, (15) ethyl everninate, and (16) ethyl 2,4-dihydroxy-6-methylbenzoate. UL lichen is a great source of secondary metabolites, which can be used as antimicrobial, antiproliferative, and anticancer agents. This lichen can be used as a natural antioxidant or antitumor agent in clinical practice; commercially, it can be used as an anticancer drug.

}, keywords = {Antifungal, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Antitumor, Lichen, Usnea longissima.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_111_18}, author = {Moumita Dandapat and Santanu Paul} } @article {121, title = {Study of Antidiabetic Properties of Uvaria narum Leaf Extract through Glucose Uptake and Glucose Transporter 4 Expression Studies in 3T3L1 Cell Line Model}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {August 2019}, pages = {304-309}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {304}, abstract = {

Background: Uvaria narum (UN) is known to have antipyretic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antimalarial properties. The antidiabetic properties of UN remains unexplored. The current study has been aimed at understanding the antidiabetic property of UN extract on an in vitro model using 3T3-L1 cell line. Materials\ and Methods: Methanolic extract of UN was prepared, and its cytotoxic effect on 3T3-L1 cells was assessed. Glucose uptake and glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation in 3T3-L1 cell line on treatment with the extract was evaluated against a standard drug, metformin. α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition activities of the extract were also assayed with acarbose as the standard drug. Results: Treatment with UN extract had no cytotoxic effect on the cells. UN extract showed a good percentage inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities. UN extract showed 71.31\% inhibition and the control drug Acarbose exhibited 88.54\% inhibition in α-amylase activity. Furthermore, the extract showed 79.11\% inhibition when Acarbose exhibited 87.35\% inhibition in α-glucosidase activity. IC50 values were also determined. Further, on treatment with the extract, 75.49\% of 3T3-L1 cells took up glucose and 70.67\% had GLUT4 expression. Conclusion: UN extract enhances glucose uptake and GLUT4 expression, inhibits α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, thereby demonstrating the antidiabetic properties in vitro.

}, keywords = {3T3-L1, Alucose transporter 4, Antidiabetic activity, Uvaria narum, α-amylase, α-glucosidase.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_7_19}, author = {Murad Alsawalha and P. B. Janardhana and K. R. Padma and Shiva Shankar Reddy and Abeer M. Al-Subaie and Srinivasa Rao Bolla and Vishnu Priya Veeraraghavan and Joel P. Joseph and Surapaneni Krishna Mohan} } @article {281, title = {A Study of In-vitro Hypoglycemic and Glucose Uptake Activity of Isolated Compound from Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Amaranthus tristis Linn.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {37-40}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {37}, abstract = {

Background: Natural bioactive compounds have a long history to use effectively in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus. Amaranthus tristis Linn (Amaranthaceae) have been used for the treatment of various ailments. Objective: The present work was undertaken to study the effect of an isolated bioactive compound from the leaf of Amaranthus tristis Linn on glucose uptake in cell lines like 3T3-L1 cell lines and inhibition of alphaglucosidase and alpha-amylase enzymes. Materials and Methods: The Ethanolic leaf extract of Amaranthus tristis Linn subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening and isolated compound were tested for its cytotoxicity study by MTT assay. Isolated compound was selected further glucose uptake assay based on cytotoxicity concentration CTC50 value. NMR technique was used to identify the structure of the compound. Results: Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides. The Isolated compound showed moderate cytotoxic activity to 3T3-L1 cell line. Compounds identified as rutin In in-vitro glucose uptake assay of rutin showed an increase in glucose uptake. Conclusion: A. tristis Linn. showed significant antidiabetic activity in dose-dependent manner.

}, keywords = {3T3-L1 cell lines, 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, Amaranthus tristis Linn.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_119_18}, author = {T. Sundarrajan and V. Velmurugan and K. Manikandan and D. Jothieswari} } @article {139, title = {A Study of In-vitro Hypoglycemic and Glucose Uptake Activity of Isolated Compound from Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Amaranthus tristis Linn}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {37-40}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {37}, abstract = {

Background: Natural bioactive compounds have a long history to use effectively in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus. Amaranthus tristis Linn (Amaranthaceae) have been used for the treatment of various ailments. Objective: The present work was undertaken to study the effect of an isolated bioactive compound from the leaf of Amaranthus tristis Linn on glucose uptake in cell lines like 3T3-L1 cell lines and inhibition of alphaglucosidase and alpha-amylase enzymes. Materials and Methods: The Ethanolic leaf extract of Amaranthus tristis Linn subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening and isolated compound were tested for its cytotoxicity study by MTT assay. Isolated compound was selected further glucose uptake assay based on cytotoxicity concentration CTC50 value. NMR technique was used to identify the structure of the compound. Results: Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides. The Isolated compound showed moderate cytotoxic activity to 3T3-L1 cell line. Compounds identified as rutin In in-vitro glucose uptake assay of rutin showed an increase in glucose uptake. Conclusion: A. tristis Linn. showed significant antidiabetic activity in dose-dependent manner.

}, keywords = {3T3-L1 cell lines, 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, Amaranthus tristis Linn}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_119_18}, author = {T. Sundarrajan and V. Velmurugan and K. Manikandan and D. Jothieswari} } @article {309, title = {Suppression of Polyps Formation by Saffron Extract in Adenomatous polyposis coliMin/+ Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February,2019}, pages = {98-101}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {98}, abstract = {

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has been used both as a food additive for flavoring and coloring and in traditional medicine. Saffron extract and its main component crocin decrease the growth of several types of human cancer, including colorectal cancer in vitro. Numerous polyps develop in the small intestine in the Adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) deficiency mice. ApcMin/+ mice are models for human familial adenomatous polyposis and human colon cancer patients. In this study, we examined the efficacy of saffron extract added to diet on reducing the polyp density in ApcMin/+ mice. ApcMin/+ mice were either given a placebo or saffron extract (0.1\% and 0.5\%) diet for 4 weeks. At 12 weeks of age, intestines were analyzed for polyp number in the small intestine. Our analysis confirmed that crocin (1), crocin-2 (2), and crocin-4 (4) are the major compounds in the saffron extract and the content of 1 in the tested saffron extract was 29.2\%. Saffron extract decreased the number of intestinal polyps in a concentration-dependent manner in ApcMin/+ mice. Notably, the number of polyps in the distal small intestine of the mice fed with 0.5\% saffron extract was significantly decreased compared with the placebo. These results indicate that saffron extract can reduce the polyp number in the ApcMin/+ mice.

}, keywords = {Adenomatous polyposis coliMin/+ mice, Crocin, Crocus sativus, Intestinal polyps, Saffron.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_152_18}, author = {Kyoko Fujimoto and Tomoe Ohta and Hitomi Yamaguchi and Nguyen Huu Tung and Gen Fujii and Michihiro Mutoh and Takuhiro Uto and Yukihiro Shoyama} } @article {149, title = {Suppression of Polyps Formation by Saffron Extract in Adenomatous polyposis coliMin/+ Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {98-101}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {98}, abstract = {

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has been used both as a food additive for flavoring and coloring and in traditional medicine. Saffron extract and its main component crocin decrease the growth of several types of human cancer, including colorectal cancer in vitro. Numerous polyps develop in the small intestine in the Adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) deficiency mice. ApcMin/+ mice are models for human familial adenomatous polyposis and human colon cancer patients. In this study, we examined the efficacy of saffron extract added to diet on reducing the polyp density in ApcMin/+ mice. ApcMin/+ mice were either given a placebo or saffron extract (0.1\% and 0.5\%) diet for 4 weeks. At 12 weeks of age, intestines were analyzed for polyp number in the small intestine. Our analysis confirmed that crocin (1), crocin-2 (2), and crocin-4 (4) are the major compounds in the saffron extract and the content of 1 in the tested saffron extract was 29.2\%. Saffron extract decreased the number of intestinal polyps in a concentration-dependent manner in ApcMin/+ mice. Notably, the number of polyps in the distal small intestine of the mice fed with 0.5\% saffron extract was significantly decreased compared with the placebo. These results indicate that saffron extract can reduce the polyp number in the ApcMin/+ mice.

}, keywords = {Adenomatous polyposis coliMin/+ mice, Crocin, Crocus sativus, Intestinal polyps, Saffron}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_152_18}, author = {Kyoko Fujimoto and Tomoe Ohta and Hitomi Yamaguchi and Nguyen Huu Tung and Gen Fujii and Michihiro Mutoh and Takuhiro Uto and Yukihiro Shoyama} } @article {158, title = {Two Lycopodium Alkaloids from the Aerial Parts of Huperzia phlegmaria}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2019}, month = {November,2019}, pages = {396-399}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {396}, abstract = {

Background: Huperzia phlegmaria has been used to enhancing memory and alleviate brain disorders. It contains high amount of alkaloids, which are potent acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor. Materials and Methods: Lycopodium alkaloids from aerial parts of H. phlegmaria were isolated by chromatographic methods. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance. AChE inhibitory effect of isolated compounds in vitro was evaluated using Ellman{\textquoteright}s assay. Results: These compounds were identified as fawcettidine and 12-epilycodoline N-oxide. Two compounds showed moderately AChE inhibitory effects with IC50 values of 33.11 {\textmu}g/mL and 64.56 {\textmu}g/mL, respectively. Conclusion: These isolated compounds could be promising drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease.

}, keywords = {12-epilycodoline N-oxide, Acetylcholinesterase, Fawcettidine, Huperzia phlegmaria, Lycopodium alkaloids.}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_82_19}, author = {Dang Kim Thu and Dao Thi Vui and Bui Thanh Tung} } @article {219, title = {Algae from Portuguese Coast Presented High Cytotoxicity and Antiproliferative Effects on an In vitro Model of Human Colorectal Cancer}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, pages = {24-30}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {24}, abstract = {

Background: The marine environment has shown to be an interesting source of new antitumor agents, representing an important tool in cancer research. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antitumor activities of 12 algae from Peniche coast (Portugal) on an in vitro model of human colorectal cancer (Caco-2 cells). Materials and Methods: The antitumor potential was accessed by evaluating Caco-2 cell{\textquoteright}s viability and proliferation through the 3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and calcein-AM methods. Results: The dichloromethane extracts of Asparagopsis armata and Sphaerococcus coronopifolius induced the highest decrease on cell{\textquoteright}s viability (1 mg/mL; 24 h), 98.96\% {\textpm} 0.39\% and 98.08\% {\textpm} 0.89\%, respectively, followed by the methanolic extracts of S. coronopifolius (96.47\% {\textpm} 1.26\%) and A. armata (92.68\% {\textpm} 1.17\%). Regarding cell proliferation, the highest decrease of Caco-2 cell{\textquoteright}s proliferation (1 mg/mL; 24 h) was induced by the dichloromethane extract of A. armata (100\% {\textpm} 0.48\%), S. coronopifolius (99.04 {\textpm} 0.51\%), and Plocamium cartilagineum (95.05\% {\textpm} 1.19\%). The highest potency was shown by the dichloromethane extract of S. coronopifolius in both, cytotoxicity and antiproliferative tests, with an IC50 of 21.3 and 36.5 {\textmu}g/mL, respectively. Conclusion: The extracts of A. armata and S. coronopifolius are promising sources of new bioactive molecules with application in cancer therapeutics.

}, keywords = {Bioactive compounds, Caco-2 cells, Marine natural products, Red macroalgae, Seaweed}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_151_16}, author = {Celso Alves and Susete Pinteus and Ana Rodrigues and Andr{\'e} Horta and Rui Pedrosa} } @article {210, title = {Alleviation of Heat Stress by a Polyherbal Formulation, Phytocee{\texttrademark}: Impact on Zootechnical Parameters, Cloacal Temperature, and Stress Markers}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {1-8}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Background: The range of thermoneutral zone of chickens is narrow, and they become easily susceptible to environmental stress, a common and major concern for poultry causing a production loss. Objective: The present study was designed to comparatively evaluate anti-stress activity of Phytocee{\texttrademark} and Vitamin C in chickens reared under heat stress. Materials and Methods: A total of 600-day-old chicks of Cobb 400 were randomly assigned to 4 groups with 6 replicates comprising 25 birds each (n = 150). G1 served as a normal control (NC) and supplemented with Vitamin C at 100 g/ton of feed. G2 served as a heat stress control (HSC), subjected to heat stress (34{\textdegree}C{\textendash}36{\textdegree}C) without Vitamin C supplementation. G3 and G4 served as positive control and treatment group (TC), subjected to heat stress and supplemented with Vitamin C and Phytocee{\texttrademark} at 100 g/ton of feed, respectively. The impact on zootechnical parameters and cloacal temperature was assessed at regular intervals, and blood was collected at the end of the experiment for evaluation of stress parameters, namely heterophil lymphocyte ratio (H:L ratio) and serum corticosterone. Results: Exposure of chickens to heat stress caused a significant decrease in body weight, worsening of feed conversion ratio, higher mortality, and poor production efficiency. Moreover, serum corticosterone level, H:L ratio, and cloacal temperature were significantly increased in HSC as compared to NC. However, supplementation of Phytocee{\texttrademark} in feed significantly ameliorated the negative impact of heat stress in broiler birds. Conclusion: The supplementation of Phytocee{\texttrademark} demonstrated an anti-stress effect in chickens through restoration of serum corticosterone level, H:L ratio, and thermoregulatory mechanism.

}, keywords = {Anti-stress, Corticosterone, Heat stress, Heterophil lymphocyte ratio, Phytocee{\texttrademark}, Poultry}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_138_17}, author = {Ramasamy Selvam and Subramaniyam Suresh and Marimuthu Saravanakumar and C. V. Chandrasekaran and D{\textquoteright}Souza Prashanth} } @article {231, title = {Analytical Method Development and Validation for the Simultaneous Estimation of Abacavir and Lamivudine by Reversed-phase High-performance Liquid Chromatography in Bulk and Tablet Dosage Forms}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {92-97}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {92}, abstract = {

Objective: A simple rapid, accurate, precise, and reproducible validated reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was developed for the determination of Abacavir (ABAC) and Lamivudine (LAMI) in bulk and tablet dosage forms. Methods: The quantification was carried out using Symmetry Premsil C18 (250 mm {\texttimes} 4.6 mm, 5 μm) column run in isocratic way using mobile phase comprising methanol: water (0.05\% orthophosphoric acid with pH 3) 83:17 v/v and a detection wavelength of 245 nm and injection volume of 20 μl, with a flow rate of 1 ml/min. Results: In the developed method, the retention times of ABAC and LAMI were found to be 3.5 min and 7.4 min, respectively. The method was validated in terms of linearity, precision, accuracy, limits of detection, limits of quantitation, and robustness in accordance with the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. Conclusion: The assay of the proposed method was found to be 99\% {\textendash} 101\%. The recovery studies were also carried out and mean \% recovery was found to be 99\% {\textendash} 101\%. The \% relative standard deviation from reproducibility was found to be \<2\%. The proposed method was statistically evaluated and can be applied for routine quality control analysis of ABAC and LAMI in bulk and in tablet dosage form.

}, keywords = {Abacavir, Dosage forms, Lamivudine, Method development, Reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography, Validation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_96_17}, author = {Sufiyan Ahmad Raees Ahmad and Lalit Patil and Mohammed Rageeb Mohammed Usman and Mohammad Imran and Rashid Akhtar} } @article {319, title = {Antiarthritic Potential of Aqueous and Ethanolic Fruit Extracts of {\textquotedblleft}Momordica charantia{\textquotedblright} Using Different Screening Models}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {258-264}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {258}, abstract = {

Background: Momordica charantia (Cucurbitaceae) is a plant, reported for its variety of ethnic medicinal uses and widely grown in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean for its edible fruit. Objective: The present work has been planned to screen antiarthritic activity of fruit of the plant with the ethanolic and aqueous extracts. Materials and Methods: Fruit powder was successively extracted with ethanol (95\%) and water using soxhlet extraction and subjected to phytochemical screening to identify different phytoconstituents. Ld50 studies for both (ethanolic and aqueous) extracts were conducted up to the dose level of 2 g/kg by following OECD up and down method of guidelines No. 425. Antiarthritic activity was performed using formaldehyde, Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats, and Collagen-induced arthritis model in mice. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Dunnett{\textquoteright}s t-test. P \< 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Preliminary phytochemical studies revealed the presence of saponins, sterols, mucilage, glycosides, alkaloids, steroidal saponins in both the ethanolic and aqueous extracts of M. charantia. No mortality was observed with aqueous and ethanolic extracts up to the maximum dose level of 2 g/kg. In Formaldehyde induced arthritis model the percentage reduction in paw volume was 30.69\% and 42.81\% for aqueous extract whereas for ethanolic extract it was 25.23\% and 39.5\%. In Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant model, the percentage of reduction in paw volume was 56.1\% and 66.51\% for ethanolic extract and 52.6\% and 63.83\% for aqueous extract, respectively. In collagen-induced arthritis models, the arthritis index was found 6.02 and 3.68 for ethanolic extract at medium and high dosage. The arthritis index of aqueous extract was found 5.66 and 4.03 at medium and high dosage. Conclusion: From the present experimental findings of both pharmacological and biochemical parameters observed from the current investigation, it is concluded that at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg aqueous extract of M. charantia possesses potentially useful anti-arthritic activity since it gives a positive result in controlling inflammation in adjuvant-induced arthritic and collagen-induced arthritis model in rats and mice

}, keywords = {Anti-arthritic, Collagen, Formaldehyde, Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant, Momordica. charantia}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_5_18}, author = {Venu Kola and Prasenjit Mondal and Manish Kumar Thimmaraju and Sumanta Mondal and Nimma Venkat Rao} } @article {224, title = {Anticonvulsant and Antioxidant Effects of Musa sapientum Stem Extract on Acute and Chronic Experimental Models of Epilepsy}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {49-54}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {49}, abstract = {

Background: Musa sapientum (banana) plant extract has been shown to possess antioxidant activity in previous studies. Neuronal injury resulting from oxidative stress is an important factor involved in pathogenesis of epilepsy. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the anticonvulsant activity of M. sapientum stem extract (MSSE) in acute and chronic experimental models in mice and its effects on various markers of oxidative stress in the brain of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-kindled animals. Material and Methods: Maximal electroshock seizures (MES) and PTZ-induced convulsion models were used for acute studies. For the chronic study, the effect of MSSE on the development of kindling was studied. For the evaluation of the effects of MSSE on oxidative stress in brain, malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were estimated in the brains of the kindled animals. Results: MSSE significantly increased the latency to onset of myoclonic jerks and the duration of clonic convulsions following PTZ administration. The MSSE pretreated group showed significantly reduced mean seizure score on PTZ-induced kindling. There was a significant increase in the brain MDA levels and decrease in GSH levels in response to PTZ-induced kindling. On MSSE pretreatment, there was a significant decrease in the MDA levels in the brains, though the increase in the GSH levels was not significant. Conclusion: The results from this study suggest the presence of significant anticonvulsant activity in MSSE, in both acute and chronic PTZ-induced seizure models, which could be due to its antioxidant activity, as is reflected by the change in oxidative stress markers in brain.

}, keywords = {Epilepsy, Musa sapientum, Oxidative stress, Seizure}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_31_17}, author = {Aditya J. Reddy and Ashok Kumar Dubey and Shailendra S. Handu and Prashant Sharma and Pramod K. Mediratta and Qazi Mushtaq Ahmed and Seema Jain} } @article {294, title = {Antidepressant Effect of Hedyotis corymbosa Extract in Olfactory Bulbectomy Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {213-217}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {213}, abstract = {

Background: Hedyotis corymbosa Linn. (family: Rubiaceae) has been used in the Indian indigenous system of medicine, Ayurveda, for treatment of various health aliments. Objectives: The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antidepressant activity of methanolic extract of whole plant of H. corymbosa (MHC) in olfactory bulbectomy rats. Materials and Methods: MHC was prepared and standardized to gallic acid by high-performance thin-layer chromatograph method. Effects of 14 days oral treatment of fluoxetine (30 mg/kg) and three doses of MHC (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) were evaluated on olfactory bulbectomy (OBX)-induced alterations in behavioral and biochemical parameters in rats. Results: MHC treatment reversed the OBX-induced behavioral abnormalities such as increased exploratory activity in open-field paradigm and decreased feeding latency time in novelty-suppressed feeding test. Serum cortisol levels were restored near to normal by the MHC treatment. Further, treatment of MHC prevented the OBX-induced decline of brain levels of serotonin and nor-adrenaline in dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: MHC prevents behavioral and neurochemical changes in OBX-induced depression in rats. These results demonstrate the antidepressant effect of H. corymbosa and support its folklore claim.

}, keywords = {Cortisol, Depression, Hedyotis corymbosa, Olfactory bulbectomy}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_118_17}, author = {Anil T. Pawar and Gayatri D. Gaikwad and Bhanudas S. Kuchekar} } @article {233, title = {Anti-inflammatory Effect of an Extract of Agave americana on Experimental Animals}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {104-108}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {104}, abstract = {

Background: Medicinal plants have the potential treasure to treat medical conditions for a long time based on error and trial method. Agave americana has been known as century plant or American aloe. The leaves contain genins, saponins, steroidal flavonoids, isoflavones, and coumarins. It has long been used for anti-inflammatory effects. Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of the extract of A. americana. Materials and Methods: A. americana leaves extract is collected and the extract is done by percolation method. Inflammation is induced in experimental animals{\textquoteright} carrageenan-induced paw edema model and cotton pellet-induced granuloma model. The extract of A. americana and standard, aspirin and indomethacin are given orally for the anti-inflammatory effects. The anti-inflammatory effects were measured at regular intervals of time to see the percentage inhibition of paw edema and reduction of weight of granuloma with percentage protection to compare the effect of the extract with the control and standard. Results: The extract of A. americana showed improved in percentage inhibition of paw edema in graded doses of hydroalcoholic extract of A. americana (HEAA) as compared with control in carrageenan-induced paw edema model. The percentage inhibition of 400 mg/kg of HEAA at the 3rd h is almost comparable with the standard, aspirin. On the other hand, graded doses (200 and 400 mg/kg) showed a highly significant reduction (P \< 0.001) in the weights of granuloma in comparison with the control in cotton pellet-induced granuloma model. The percentage inhibition of weight of granuloma by 400 mg/kg of HEAA is quite comparable to the standard, Indomethacin. Conclusion: Anti-inflammatory activity is seen with the graded dose of HEAA. The plant contains flavonoids and genins which have been shown to have anti-edematous effects in the acute phase of inflammation. Thus, the plant contributes to its anti-inflammatory activity. Thus, higher doses of A. americana leaves need to be used to have the better understanding of the mechanism of anti-inflammation.

}, keywords = {Agave americana, Anti-inflammatory, Aspirin, Flavonoids, Genins, Indomethacin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_64_17}, author = {Arup Kumar Misra and Sushil Kumar Varma and Ranjeet Kumar} } @article {261, title = {Antilymphoma Potential of the Ethanol Extract and Rutin Obtained of the Leaves from Schinus molle Linn.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {119-123}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {119}, abstract = {

Background: Schinus molle Linn. (Anacardiaceae) is a medicinal plant used by traditional healers in Mexican traditional medicine as antitumoral. Objective: This study was undertaken to obtain information that support the traditional use of the leaves from S. molle as antitumoral. Material and Methods: Antilymphoma properties of the ethanol extract of the leaves from S. molle (EELSm) and rutin were made on athymic CD-1 nu/nu and CD-1 mice inoculated with U-937 cell line (human leukemic monocyte lymphoma [HLML]), and for their antiproliferative effects on U-937 cell line by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Furthermore, the extract and rutin were tested for brine shrimp (BS) toxicity test. In addition, HPLC analysis was realized to known the content of rutin in the leaves from S. molle. Results: An EELSm and rutin exhibited important cytotoxic effects on U-937 cells line (IC50 from 172.0 μg/mL and 9.6 μg/mL, respectively) and showed in vivo antitumoral properties on HLML in two murine models (EC50 from 52.2 and 9.5 mg/kg to CD-1 nu/nu mice; EC50 from 99.4 mg/kg and 6.8 mg/kg to CD-1 mice, respectively). In addition, both showed strong lethality on BS larvae (LC50 <= 22.2 μg/mL). The result of HPLC showed that rutin was the major constituent of EELSm. Conclusions: These test results support traditional medicinal use of S. molle as antitumoral and also suggest that both rutin and EELSm possess antitumor effect on HLML in murine models. Finally, rutin may play an important role in anticancer properties of S. molle.

}, keywords = {Anacardiaceae, Antilymphoma properties, Rutin, Schinus molle}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_90_17}, author = {Fernando Calzada and Jes{\'u}s Ivan Solares-Pascasio and Miguel Valdes and Normand Garcia-Hernandez and Claudia Velazquez and Rosa Mar{\'\i}a Ordo{\~n}ez-Razo and Elizabeth Barbosa} } @article {221, title = {Antioxidant Activities of Basella alba Aqueous Leave Extract In Blood, Pancreas, and Gonadal Tissues of Diabetic Male Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {31-36}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {31}, abstract = {

Background: Oxidative stress is frequently identified as a key element in the pathophysiology of many complications of diabetes mellitus, including reproductive complications. The antioxidant potential of medicinal plants have been suggested for therapeutic focus of diseases in recent reports. Objective: To investigate the effect of Basella alba (Ba) aqueous leave extract on diabetes-induced oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: Forty male Wistar rats (8{\textendash}10 weeks) were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10) and treated as follows; Control (C + Ns) and Diabetic (D + Ns) animals received oral normal saline 0.5 ml/100 g body weight daily, while Healthy Treatment (H + Ba) and Diabetic Treatment (D + Ba) rats were given Ba extract at an oral dose of 200 mg/kg body weight daily. Treatment was by gavage and lasted 4 weeks in all groups. Diabetes was induced in D + Ns and D + Ba rats by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg) and fasting blood sugar (FBS) recorded weekly in all rats afterwards. Animals were euthanized at the end of the experiment and blood samples, pancreas, testes, and epididymis were preserved for analysis of oxidative stress biomarkers. Results: Oral administration of aqueous leave extract of Ba significantly (P \< 0.0001) lowered FBS in D + Ba rats. There was significantly higher blood superoxide dismutase activity and serum ferric reducing antioxidant power, but lower serum concentration of conjugated dienes and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in D + Ba compared to D + Ns rats (P \< 0.05). Conclusion: Ba exerts antioxidant effects in the gonads by enhancing antioxidant parameters in circulating blood, but not necessarily in the gonadal tissues.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Basella alba, Blood, gonads, Oxidative stress, Pancreas}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_84_17}, author = {Dennis Seyi Arokoyo and Ibukun Peter Oyeyipo and Stefan Simon Du Plessis and Yapo Guillaume Aboua} } @article {313, title = {Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activities of Methanolic Extract of Cinnamomum Cassia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {237-242}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {237}, abstract = {

Background: Cinnamomum cassia or Chinese cinnamon is one of the fundamental herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. C. cassia is used as astringent, antiseptic, and used for the treatment of metabolic disorders. The antioxidant and antidiabetic effects of its extracts are unclear. Hence, the present study is planned to investigate the antioxidant and antidiabetic effects of methanolic extracts barks of C. cassia. Materials and Methods: Bark of C. cassia was extracted with methanol, ethanol, and acetone and its antioxidant activity was studied using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) free radical scavenging assays. Acute toxic effect of methanolic extract of C. cassia (MECC) carried out as Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development guidelines. MECC was studied for its antidiabetic effect using streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Results: In both DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging assay, methanolic and ethanolic extracts exhibited free radical scavenging activity. In acute toxicity testing, MECC did not show any significant toxic signs up to 2000 mg/kg, hence the antidiabetic activity of MECC was carried out at the dose levels of 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg. MECC showed antidiabetic activity from 2nd week of the experiment onward. At the end of the study, diabetic animals showed significant increases in the levels of total cholesterol (TC), very-low-density lipoprotein, and TC/high-density lipoprotein radio compare with that of normal control and MECC prevented the STZ-induced hyperlipidemia. In the histopathological analysis, sections from the liver, pancreas, and kidney of the diabetic animals and the animals treated with MECC 500 mg/kg showed mid-to-moderate toxic effects. Conclusion: The MECC exhibited significant antioxidant and antidiabetic activities.

}, keywords = {Cinnamomum cassia, Diabetes, Sprague-Dawley rats, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_162_17}, author = {Jasvin Singh and Subramani Parasuraman and Sathasivam Kathiresan} } @article {288, title = {Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Potential of Endophytic Fungi Isolated from Medicinal Plant Tragia involucrata L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {188-194}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {188}, abstract = {

Objective: The aim of the present study was to test the antioxidant and cytotoxic and DNA protection activities of ethyl acetate extracts of endophytic fungi isolated from Tragia involucrata Linn. (Euphorbiaceae). Materials and Methods: The 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl scavenging, reducing power, and total antioxidant assay were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity. Cytotoxic activity of endophytic fungal extracts against MCF-7 and MOLT-4 cell lines was carried out using 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide method. Results: We have successfully isolated four endophytic fungi from T. involucrata, namely Penicillium citrinum CGJ-C1 (GenBank accession No. KT780618), P. citrinum CGJ-C2 (GenBank accession No. KP739821), Cladosporium sp. CGJ-D1 (GenBank accession No. KP739822), and Cryptendoxyla hypophloia CGJ-D2 (GenBank accession No. KT780619). The ethyl acetate extract of P. citrinum CGJ-C2 showed the highest antioxidant as well as cytotoxic activity among the four fungal extracts taken for the study. All the extracts showed moderate DNA protection activity. Conclusions: Further studies on the isolation and purification of the lead molecule will help in designing the novel therapy for different ailments associated with free radical generation.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, cytotoxicity, Endophytes, Tragia involucrata}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_137_17}, author = {Ananda Danagoudar and Chandrashekhar G. Joshi and Sunil Kumar Ravi and Heggodu G. Rohit Kumar and Balenahalli Narasingappa Ramesh} } @article {366, title = {Antioxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activities and Gas Chromatography{\textendash}Mass Spectrometry Profile of Salak (Salacca zalacca) Fruit Peel Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {385-390}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {385}, abstract = {

Background: Salacca zalacca or better known as salak fruit is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical countries, and it is traditionally used to treat diabetes. This study was aimed to investigate the salak peel extracts for their biological and chemical activities. Also, the chemical profile of the most promising extract was analysed on gas chromatography- mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Materials and Methods: The peel extracts were prepared by maceration process at room temperature with different ratio of ethanol/water. All the extracts were determined for their α-glucosidase inhibitory activity using α-glucosidase enzyme. The antioxidant activities of the extracts were determined through their Ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The chemical constituents of salak peel extracts were analysed using gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry (GC MS). Results: Phytochemical screening showed the presence of phenolic and flavonoid contents in all the extracts. About 100\% ethanol extract shows the highest phenolic content (116.70 {\textpm} 0.764 μg/mL) while 60\% ethanol extract has the lowest content 18.65 {\textpm} 1.155 μg/ml using gallic acid as a reference. 100\% ethanol extract was observed to exhibit highest radical scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities (IC50: 49.45 {\textpm} 3.87 μg/mL, 144.81 {\textpm} 3.72 μg AAE/g, IC50: 11.62 {\textpm} 0.67b μg/mL), respectively. Water extracts had the lowest FRAP, radical scavenging activity as well as α-glucosidase activity. The phytochemical investigation on GC-MS showed the presence of active compounds in salak fruit peel extracts. Conclusion: Salak fruit peels showed the highest antioxidant as well as α-glucosidase inhibitory activities. Phytochemical analysis on GC-MS confirms the presence of gallic acid, linoelaidic acid, palmitic acid, α-tocopherol, and steric acid which may contribute to α-glucosidase inhibitory activity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Phytochemical screening, Salak fruit, Total phenolic, α-glucosidase inhibitory activity}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_7_18}, author = {Mohammed S. M. Saleh and Mohammad Jamshed Siddiqui and Siti Z. Mat So{\textquoteright}ad and Suganya Murugesu and Alfi Khatib and Mokhlesur M. Rahman} } @article {229, title = {Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic Properties, and Phytochemical Characterization of Stem Bark Extract and Fractions of Anthocleista nobilis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {81-87}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {81}, abstract = {

Background: Anthocleista nobilis (Loganiaceae) is used by Mbano people of Imo State, Nigeria, for the treatment of various ailments. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties of the methanol extract, fractions, and subfractions of A. nobilis. Materials and Methods: The powdered stem bark was extracted with methanol and sequentially fractionated into n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and butanol fractions. The constituents of the fractions were analyzed using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), and the components were identified by dereplication. Antioxidant potential of the extracts and fractions was investigated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free-radical scavenging method. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of the extract and fractions were also investigated using xylene-induced inflammation and acetic acid-induced writhing models, respectively. Results: A total of five compounds isovitexin (Rt = 18.77 min), isovitexin-2{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright}-O-xyl (Rt = 19.68 min), p-Hydroxybenzoic acid (Rt = 11.88 min), Sarasinoside L (Rt = 19.64 min), isovitexin (Rt = 18.77), and apigenin monoglycoside (Rt = 19.64 min) were identified by HPLC analysis and dereplication. The ethyl acetate fraction and subfraction elicited the best anti-inflammatory activity. The ethyl acetate subfraction also inhibited acetic acid-induced pain by 79\% and 85.0\% at the doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, respectively, which was better than 71.1\% and 81.3\% observed for diclofenac at similar doses. Conclusion: A. nobilis could be a potential source of anti-inflammatory and analgesic lead compounds.

}, keywords = {Analgesic, Anthocleista nobilis, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, High-pressure liquid chromatography analysis}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_73_17}, author = {Kenneth Gerald Ngwoke and Amaka Godsaveus Akwagbulam and Ernest Oghenesuvwe Erhirhie and Daniel Lotanna Ajaghaku and Festus Basden Chiedu Okoye and Charles Okechukwu Esimone} } @article {225, title = {Antiproliferative and Apoptotic Activities of the Medicinal Plant Ziziphus obtusifolia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {55-59}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {55}, abstract = {

Background: Ziziphus obtusifolia is a spiny shrub found in Northwest Mexico desert, with traditional medicinal use to treat several diseases including cancer. Objective: The aims of the present study were to evaluate the antiproliferative and apoptotic activities of the aerial parts of this plant. Materials and Methods: The methanol extract and its fractions were prepared using several solvents. The antiproliferative activity was evaluated by the (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium) (MTT) assay on HeLa, A549, RAW 264.7, M12.C3.F6, and L-929 cell lines, and the apoptotic activity using Annexin V and (5,50,6,60-tetra-chloro-1,10,3,30-tetra-ethylbenzimidazol-carbocyanine iodide) staining. The most active fraction was further separated by column chromatography. Results: The most active fraction was hexane with an IC50 of 90.4 {\textmu}g/mL against RAW 264.7, 94 {\textmu}g/mL against M12. C3.F6, 165.5 {\textmu}g/mL against HeLa and 187.7 {\textmu}g/mL against A549 cell lines. In apoptotic activity assays the methanol extract and its n-hexane fraction were found to induce mitochondrial depolarization in HeLa cells (83 and 87\% respectively), and both induced the externalization of the phosphatidylserine increasing the percentage of cells in early apoptosis from 1.4\% in untreated control cells, to 1.9\% and 3.5\% for methanol extract and n-hexane fraction-treated cells, respectively, statistically different for the total percentage of apoptotic cells (P \< 0.05). Conclusions: These results show that Z. obtusifolia has antiproliferative a

}, keywords = {Antiproliferative activity, Apoptotic activity, Ziziphus obtusifolia}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_38_17}, author = {Edna D. Molina-Romo and Adriana Garibay-Escobar and Olivia Valenzuela-Antelo and Eduardo Ruiz-Bustos and Javier Hern{\'a}ndez Mart{\'\i}nez and Carlos V{\'e}lazquez and Luisa A. Rasc{\'o}n-Valenzuela and Ram{\'o}n Enrique Robles-Zepeda} } @article {333, title = {Antiproliferative Effect of Saffron and Its Constituents on Different Cancerous Cell Lines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {291-295}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {291}, abstract = {

Background: Use of herbs as medicinal plants to treat various clinical ailments has grown for the last two decades. Cancer is one of the most dreadful disease and extracts of various medicinal herbs have been subjected for the analysis to elucidate their possible role in the prevention of proliferation of cancer cells. Crocus sativus is an autumnally flowering plant rich in active ingredients apocarotenoids such as crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal which have been reported to have antiproliferative potential due to their strong antioxidant potential. Objective: To elucidate the antiproliferative potential of C. sativus extract (CSE) and its major constituents crocin and safranal on four different malignant cell lines (Alveolar lung epithelial cancerous cell line [A549], breast epithelial cancerous cell line [T47D], colon colorectal cell line [HCT-116], and prostrate cancerous cell line [PC3]) and nonmalignant cell line (L929). Materials and Methods: High-performance liquid chromatography was used to measure the content of crocin and safranal in saffron extract and antiproliferative effects of CSE, crocin, and safranal were evaluated by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. All cells were incubated with different concentrations of CSE, crocin, and safranal for 48 h. In a concentration-dependent manner, both safranal and crocin reduced cell proliferation in all malignant cell lines. Results: The IC50 values ranged between 0.32 and 0.42 mM for safranal, 0.31 and 0.92 mM for crocin, and 0.58 and 0.98 mg/ ml for saffron extract. Conclusion: Based on these findings, it can be concluded that saffron and its components can inhibit cell proliferation in cancerous cells. Consequently, these agents could potentially be used as a chemopreventive agent for cancer management in the near future.

}, keywords = {Antiproliferative effect, Crocin, Crocus sativus, High-performance liquid chromatography, Safranal}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_124_17}, author = {Syed Imran Bukhari and Inshah Din and Simmi Grewal and Manoj Kumar Dhar} } @article {342, title = {Antithrombotic Activity and Saponin Composition of the Roots of Panax bipinnatifidus Seem. Growing in Vietnam}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {333-338}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {333}, abstract = {

Background: Panax bipinnatifidus (PB) Seem. is a highly valuable and indigenous medicinal plant wildly distributed in the northwest region of Vietnam. The PB root has been used as a tonic in Vietnamese traditional medicine, but its chemical profile and pharmacological activity have not been extensively studied. Objective: In this study, we investigated the major saponin components and antithrombosis activity of the root of PB. Materials and Methods: Individual saponins were isolated by column chromatography. The structural elucidation of the isolated saponins was based on analyses of nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry spectra. Chromatographic fingerprint analysis of the isolated compounds was run on an Agilent 1260 high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system. To evaluate antithrombotic activity, in vitro anticoagulant, platelet aggregation, and clot lysis effects were successively tested by the respective protocols. Results: Two principal saponins were isolated from the butanolic fraction of the root of PB, and their structures were identified as stipuleanoside R2 (1) and araloside A methyl ester (2). The HPLC analysis suggested that the two isolated saponins are major saponins of the title plant. The biological testing showed that both the crude and butanolic extracts of PB exhibited significantly antiplatelet aggregation activity. The efficacy linearly increased according to the tested doses (0.5{\textendash}5 mg/mL). On anticoagulant activity, only butanolic extract exhibited positive action via prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time and prothrombin time at the high dose. Conclusion: These results suggested that PB Seem. might bring benefits for preventing cardiovascular events through inhibition of platelet aggregation.

}, keywords = {Anticoagulant, Araliaceae, araloside A methyl ester, Panax bipinnatifidus. Seem, Platelet aggregation, stipuleanoside R2}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_58_18}, author = {Vu Thi Thom and Nguyen Huu Tung and Dang Van Diep and Dang Thi Thuy and Nguyen Thi Hue and Dinh Doan Long and Bui Thanh Tung and Pham Thanh Huyen and Duong Thi Ly Huong} } @article {286, title = {Antiurolithic and Antioxidant Activity of Ethanol Extract of Whole-plant Biophytum sensitivum (Linn.) DC in Ethylene-Glycol-induced Urolithiasis in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {181-187}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {181}, abstract = {

Background: Biophytum sensitivum Linn. DC is considered as one of the ten sacred plants called as {\textquotedblleft}Dasapushpam{\textquotedblright} of Kerala state in India. Grounded leaves of this plant have been used conventionally as antiurolithic and diuretic. {\textquoteleft}However, enough scientific evidences were not available about the effect of this plant as nephroprotective and antiurolithic. Objective: The present study was undertaken to investigate antiurolithic and antioxidant activity of ethanol extract of whole plant B. sensitivum Linn. DC (EEBS) on ethylene-glycol (EG)-induced urolithiasis in Wistar albino rats. Materials and Methods: EG 0.75\% v/v in drinking water was fed to all groups, except the control group for 28 days to induce urolithiasis in rats. Groups I, II, and III served as control, toxic control, and standard Cystone groups, respectively. Animals in Group IV were administered with EEBS from 15th day to 28th day, while Group V animals were administered with EEBS from 1st day to 28th day. Several renal functional and injury markers in urine and serum were determined. Antioxidant enzyme activities were also recorded. Results: Co-administration with EEBS exhibited protective effect against EG-induced proteinuria, hypercalciuria, hypomagnesuria hypercalcemia, and hyperphosphatemia. Serum protein levels were significantly increased, whereas blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and uric acid levels were significantly lowered. EEBS-treated rats significantly attenuated the aberrations in the antioxidant enzyme activities, body weight, kidney weight, urine output, and urine pH compared to toxic control animals. Conclusion: Hence, this study confirmed the usefulness of B. sensitivum as an antiurolithic and antioxidant agent.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Antiurolithic, Biophytum sensitivum, Cystone, ethylene-glycol}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_83_17}, author = {B. R. Abhirama and R. ShanmugaSundaram} } @article {328, title = {Antiviral Efficacy of Qust (Saussurea lappa) and Afsanteen (Artemisia absinthium) for Chronic Hepatitis B: A Prospective Single-Arm Pilot Clinical Trial}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {290}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {282}, abstract = {

Background/Aim: Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is a major health concern in terms of high prevalence, as well as restricted and costly health-care resources in India. The objective was to evaluate the antiviral effect of herbal drugs, Saussurea lappa and Artemisia absinthium against hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the management of CHB and to collect data to warrant further clinical trials. Materials and Methods: In an open prospective single-arm study, we assigned thirty patients with HBeAg-negative or positive CHB to receive decoction of S. lappa, 15 mL in the morning, and decoction of A. absinthium, 15 mL in the evening once daily empty stomach for 12 weeks. Test drug was evaluated for its efficacy in loss of HBsAg and HBeAg, plasma HBV DNA level of \<200 IU/mL (complete virologic response [cVR]), mean reduction in HBV DNA, and normalization of alanine aminotransferase levels (ALT) at week 12 (after treatment). Results: HBsAg loss was observed in 35.71\% (n = 14) and 25\% (n = 16) of patients in HBeAg-positive (P \< 0.05) and negative group (P = 0.10), respectively, at week 12 (after treatment). HBeAg loss was observed in 71.42\% of patients at week 12 (P \< 0.001). cVR was achieved in 57.14\% (P \< 0.01) and 37.5\% (P \< 0.05) and ALT normalization in 85.71\% and 81.25\% of patients (P \< 0.001) in HBeAg-positive and negative group, respectively, at week 12. Conclusions: Our study has substantiated that S. lappa and A. absinthium have antiviral effect against HBV in CHB besides being quite safe for a treatment duration of 12 weeks.

}, keywords = {Antiviral, Artemisia, Chronic hepatitis B, Hepatitis B virus, Saussurea, Unani medicine}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_157_17}, author = {Shabnam Ansari and Mohammad Akhtar Siddiqui and Sharad Malhotra and Mohammad Maaz} } @article {329, title = {Antiviral Efficacy of Qust (Saussurea lappa) and Afsanteen (Artemisia absinthium) for Chronic Hepatitis B: A Prospective Single-Arm Pilot Clinical Trial}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {282-290}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {282}, abstract = {

Background/Aim: Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is a major health concern in terms of high prevalence, as well as restricted and costly health-care resources in India. The objective was to evaluate the antiviral effect of herbal drugs, Saussurea lappa and Artemisia absinthium against hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the management of CHB and to collect data to warrant further clinical trials. Materials and Methods: In an open prospective single-arm study, we assigned thirty patients with HBeAg-negative or positive CHB to receive decoction of S. lappa, 15 mL in the morning, and decoction of A. absinthium, 15 mL in the evening once daily empty stomach for 12 weeks. Test drug was evaluated for its efficacy in loss of HBsAg and HBeAg, plasma HBV DNA level of \<200 IU/mL (complete virologic response [cVR]), mean reduction in HBV DNA, and normalization of alanine aminotransferase levels (ALT) at week 12 (after treatment). Results: HBsAg loss was observed in 35.71\% (n = 14) and 25\% (n = 16) of patients in HBeAg-positive (P \< 0.05) and negative group (P = 0.10), respectively, at week 12 (after treatment). HBeAg loss was observed in 71.42\% of patients at week 12 (P \< 0.001). cVR was achieved in 57.14\% (P \< 0.01) and 37.5\% (P \< 0.05) and ALT normalization in 85.71\% and 81.25\% of patients (P \< 0.001) in HBeAg-positive and negative group, respectively, at week 12. Conclusions: Our study has substantiated that S. lappa and A. absinthium have antiviral effect against HBV in CHB besides being quite safe for a treatment duration of 12 weeks.

}, keywords = {Antiviral, Artemisia, Chronic hepatitis B, Hepatitis B virus, Saussurea, Unani medicine}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_157_17}, author = {Shabnam Ansari and Mohammad Akhtar Siddiqui and Sharad Malhotra and Mohammad Maaz} } @article {295, title = {Anti-inflammatory Effect of Procumbenoside B from Justicia spicigera on Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages and Zebrafish Model}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {218-224}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {218}, abstract = {

Background: Justicia spicigera is widely used in the Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of inflammation. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of procumbenoside B (PB) from J. spicigera on pro-inflammatory mediators. Materials and Methods: Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages and Zebrafish model were used to assess the potential anti-inflammatory effects of PB; its structure was elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data. The production of inflammatory mediators such as interferon-β, prostaglandin E2, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65, interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, IL-12, cyclooxygenase (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor-α, and anti-inflammatory IL-10 was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. NO production was measured using Griess reagent. Results: In LPS-induced-inflammatory response in RAW264.7 macrophage cells, PB strongly inhibited secretion of all pro-inflammatory mediators test and increased the production of IL-10 and blockade of NF-κB. In addition, PB suppressed LPS-stimulated nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species generation in a zebrafish model. Conclusion: These results indicated that the anti-inflammatory effects of PB may be attributed to the downregulation of iNOS and COX-2 through the suppression of NF-κB signaling pathway in RAW264.7 macrophages.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Cytokines, Justicia spicigera, Macrophage model, Procumbenoside B, Zebrafish model}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_97_17}, author = {Rosa Martha Perez Gutierrez and Jose Maria Mota Flores and Adriana Maria Neira Gonzalez} } @article {234, title = {Assessment of In vivo Antiviral Potential of Datura metel Linn. Extracts against Rabies Virus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {109-112}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {109}, abstract = {

Objective: The soxhlet, cold, and ayurvedic extracts of Datura metel Linn. were evaluated for in vivo antirabies activity. Materials and Methods: Soxhlet and cold extraction method were used to extract Datura (fruit and seed) extracts, and ayurvedic extraction of Datura was prepared. In vivo toxicity assay was performed as per the OECD 420. LD50 dose was calculated by Reed and Muench method. The in vivo antirabies activity was screened in Swiss albino mice with the virus challenge dose of 10 LD50 (intracerebrally) in both preexposure (PE) and postexposure treatment with oral administration of Datura extracts in Swiss albino mice and observed for 21 days. The virus load in the mice brain was evaluated by TCID50 titration method. Results: Datura (ayurvedic preparation) was found to be nontoxic up to 2000 mg/kg in Swiss albino mice, i.e., 60 mg/30 g of mice, when administered (0.5 ml) orally and observed till 21 days. Up to 20\% survival rate on the test group (PE of Datura extracts) up to 14 days postinfection as compared to the virus control group (10 LD50) was observed. No survival rate was observed in the postexposure group of Datura extract; however, the survival time was increased by 4 days as compared to the virus control group. Viral load of the infected mice brain sample was estimated in vero cell line, and 3 log reduction in the virus titer was observed in text group as compared to the virus control, suggesting that Datura extract has an in vivo antirabies activity. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of in vivo antiviral activity of an ayurvedic preparation of D. metel Linn. against rabies virus. Datura extracts have a potential in vivo antirabies activity.

}, keywords = {Antirabies, Datura, In vivo antiviral assay, Rabies}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_121_17}, author = {Soumen Roy and Lalit Samant and Rajeshkumar Ganjhu and Sandeepan Mukherjee and Abhay Chowdhary} } @article {337, title = {Attenuation of Methotrexate-induced Hepatorenal Damage by Terminalia bellerica Fruit Extract in Experimental Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {301-308}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {301}, abstract = {

Background: Methotrexate (MTX) is used for numerous malignancies and autoimmune disorders. With such widespread use, MTX-induced hepatorenal toxicity is an issue of concern that still needs to be addressed. Objective: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the role of Terminalia bellerica extract (TBE) in MTX-induced hepatorenal toxicity in Wistar albino rats. Materials and Methods: Rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6) {\textendash} received MTX 20 mg/kg intraperitoneally on the 4th day along with pretreatment with different doses of TBE (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg, p.o) given from 1st to 15th day. MTX-induced hepatorenal toxicity was evaluated by biochemical hepatic and renal parameters along with histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Results: Hepatorenal toxicity induced by MTX was attributed to increased oxidative stress, biochemical liver, and kidney parameters and upregulation of caspase-3 and nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB). MTX-treated group observed twofold to threefold rise in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine values{\textendash}138.49 IU/L, 125.81 IU/L, 63.09 mg/dl, and 1.895 mg/dl, respectively. Groups pretreated with TBE (400 mg/kg) observed a significant decrease (P \< 0.001) in oxidative stress and biochemical parameters {\textendash} AST (63.94 IU/L), ALT (55.98 IU/L), BUN (37.02 mg/dl), and creatinine (1.065 mg/dl). Pretreatment with TBE 400 mg/kg, histopathology of both liver and kidney tissues showed improved architectural damage and immunohistochemistry showed downregulation of increased antigens-caspase-3 and NFkB. Conclusion: T. bellerica fruit extract (400 mg/kg) showed significant hepatorenal protection by reducing oxidative stress, elevating serum enzymes, and downregulating the tissue expressions of caspase-3 and NFkB.

}, keywords = {caspase-3, Hepatotoxicity, Methotrexate, Nephrotoxicity, Nuclear factor kappa B, Terminalia bellerica}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_159_17}, author = {Prerna Chauhan and Himanshu Sharma and Surender Singh and Yogendra Kumar Gupta and Uma Kumar} } @article {314, title = {Beneficial Effects of Caesalpinia digyna Extract against acid Aspiration-Induced Acute Lung Injury in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {243-249}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {243}, abstract = {

Objective: Caesalpinia digyna belongs to the genus Caesalpinia, which is known since ancient times for its medicinal properties. The present work was designed to evaluate the beneficial potential of hydroalcoholic extract of the roots of C. dignea against hydrochloric acid (HCl)-induced acute lung injury in mice. Materials and Methods: Ethanolic extract of C. dignea roots at a dose of 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg boy weight was given once orally 90 min before HCl administration. Mice were then analyzed for infiltration of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and oxidative stress markers in the lung tissue. Further, the effects of the extract were compared with bergenin isolated from the extract. Results: Our results showed that an oral administration of the extract 90 min before HCl instillation reduced the infiltration of neutrophils in the lungs in a dose-dependent manner. Reduction in lung inflammation was associated with decline in pulmonary edema as the total protein content in the BALF was found to be decreased substantially. The drug also restored the redox balance in the lungs toward normal on HCl treatment as assessed by measuring the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and catalase activity. Bergenin, isolated from the plant, was able to suppress the neutrophils but increased the macrophage number in BALF when administered before HCl instillation, suggesting immunoregulatory properties of the key constituent of the extract. Conclusion: Our data suggest that hydroalcoholic extract of Caesalpinia digyna roots constitute the phytochemicals that can protect against HCl-induced acute lung injury in mice.

}, keywords = {Acute lung injury, Cesalpinia digyna, Hydrochloric acid, Reactive oxygen species, Redox status}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_4_18}, author = {Manju Chaudhary and Pratibha Sharma and Meenu Mittal and Rajneet Kaur and Vivek Dharwal and Ashwani Kumar and Amarjit Singh Naura} } @article {343, title = {Central Nervous System Activity of Phenol-Rich Fraction of Piper sylvaticum Roots}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {339-342}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {339}, abstract = {

Obective: Piper sylvaticum Roxb. is an important folk medicine in Indian Traditional System of Medicine widely used by different tribes in many countries. In the present study, the anticonvulsant activity of extract/fractions of Piper sylvaticum (PS) roots was investigated. Materials and Methods: 70\% ethanolic extract of PS roots was successively extracted using hexane and ethyl acetate to prepare various fractions. Total phenol content was found at maximum 324.65 mg/gallic acid equivalent/g in ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) (phenol-rich fraction [PRF]). High-performance thin-layer chromatography fingerprinting profiling of PS roots was performed. The anticonvulsant properties of the EAF of roots of PS were examined by maximal electroshock method as compared to standard phenytoin (25 mg/kg body weight). Result: It was found that EAF shows potent anticonvulsant activity at different dose levels against maximum electroshock seizure-induced convulsions in Swiss albino mice. Conclusion: From the observation, it can be concluded that the current study has expressed that the phenol-rich EAF of the ethanolic extract of the roots of PS has shown the dose-dependent anticonvulsant effect in mice. The anticonvulsant potential may be due to the presence of phenolic compounds in PRF. The outcomes suggested a high potential for application of EAF of PS root as an anticonvulsant agent.

}, keywords = {Anticonvulsant activity, High-performance thin-layer chromatography, Piper sylvaticum, Piperine}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_125_17}, author = {Akash Ved and Amresh Gupta and Om Prakash and Ajay Kumar Singh Rawat} } @article {270, title = {Chemical Profile and Biological Activities of the Aerial Parts of Senecio acaulis (L.f.) Sch.Bip}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {136}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {130}, abstract = {

Background: Genus Senecio is known by its phenolic constituents, terpenoids, essential oil (EO), and pyrrolizidine alkaloids. No previous reports could be traced about the phytochemical study of Senecio acaulis. Objectives: To investigate the chemical composition and biological potentiality of EO of S. acaulis aerial parts and to study the phytoconstituents of the plant extract and its spasmolytic activity. Materials and Methods: The EO was obtained by hydrodistillation and its chemical composition was analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. In-vitro screen of antimicrobial, antimalarial, and antileishmanial activities was determined against positive controls. Column chromatography was used to isolate the phytoconstituents from chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions; their structures were elucidated using physical and spectral methods. Spasmolytic activity was measured before and after K+-induced contractions on isolated rabbit jejunum. DNA-fingerprint was established by RAPD-PCR technique using 12 primers. Results: The study of EO revealed the detection of 22 compounds representing 81.08\% of the oil composition. The major constituents were D-limonene (13.32\%), β-pinene (11.54\%), and sabinene (10.79\%). Eight compounds were isolated from the plant extract and identified as β-amyrin, β-sitosterol, lupeol, oleanolic acid, β-amyrin-3-O-β-glucopyranoside, isorhamnetin 3-O-β-glucopyranoside, isoquercitrin, and quercitrin. The oil exhibited moderate antimalarial activity against chloroquine-sensitive and chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. The oil showed a significant antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Cryptococcus neoformans and weak antileishmanial activity. In isolated rabbit jejunum, the ethanol extract produced a relaxation of spontaneous and moderate effect against high K+ (80 mM)-induced contractions. Amplification of DNA yielded 87 RAPD fragments. Conclusion: Senecio acaulis (L.f.) Sch.Bip essential oil can be used as antimicrobial agent against Staphylococcus aureus and Cryptococcus neoformans. In addition, the spasmolytic activity of its ethanolic extract suggests its incorporation in antidiarrheal preparations. Further clinical trials are required to evaluate these effects on humans. Identification of twenty two compounds in its essential oil, isolation of eight compounds for the first time as well as authentication of the plant via DNA finger print may play an important role in its chemotaxonomic classification.

}, keywords = {DNA-fingerprinting, Essential oil, Phytoconstituents, Senecio acaulis, Spasmolytic activity}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_149_17}, author = {Rehab M. S. Ashour and Abeer M. El Sayed and Mohamed F. Elyamany and Dina R. Abou-Hussein} } @article {235, title = {Comparative Molluscicidal and Schistosomicidal Potentiality of Two Solanum Species and Its Isolated Glycoalkaloids}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {113-117}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {113}, abstract = {

Schistosomiasis is the most noteworthy parasitic disease after malaria. Furthermore, the significant activity of the genus Solanum against Schistosoma worms and its intermediate host snails reinforced the study of Solanum seaforthianum Andr. (SS) and Solanum macrocarpon L. (SM) for their molluscicidal and schistosomicidal potentiality. In this study, different extracts, fractions and isolated compounds of both Solanum species are evaluated for the molluscicidal and schistosomicidal potentialities. The niclosamide was used as positive molluscicide control against Biomphalaria alexandrina snails. Different extracts, fractions, or isolated compounds were used at a concentration of 100 {\textmu}g/ml and dead snails were counted in each case. On the other hand, washed and sterilized Schistosoma mansoni adult worms were used in three replicates, and three worm pairs were placed in each well with 2 ml test solution of 100 {\textmu}g/ml concentration. Positive (praziquantel [PZQ] 0.2 ug/ml) and negative controls were concurrently used and examined daily for 3 days for viability. The mortality rate was calculated and then both LC50 and LC90 were determined in triplicates. Highest potency was indicated to total glycoalkaloid (TGA) fraction of SM followed by TGA of SS. On the other hand, TGA fractions of both species showed higher potency than other extracts and isolated compounds. Meanwhile, solasodine-free aglycone showed declined activity compared to its glycosides. Promising molluscicidal and schistosomicidal activities were displayed which are attributed to the glycoalkaloid content. Therefore, this study can efficiently contribute toward validation of the traditional use of SS and SM in schistosomiasis control.

}, keywords = {Glycoalkaloids, Macrocarpon, Molluscicidal, Schistosomicidal, Solamargine, Solanum seaforthianum}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_71_17}, author = {Muhammad A. Alsherbiny and Shymaa A. El Badawy and Hesham Elbedewy and Shahira M. Ezzat and Fatma S. Elsakhawy and Mostafa A. Abdel-Kawy} } @article {339, title = {Comparing the Effect of Rose Drop, Ginger, and Cinnamon on Sexual Function in Depressed Women with Sexual Dysfunction}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {314-318}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {314}, abstract = {

Background: Sexual dysfunction is caused by multiple anatomical, physiological, medical, and psychological factors. Many studies have shown the efficacy of herbal remedies on increasing libido and sexual function. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of three herbs of ginger, cinnamon, and rose on sexual function of depressed women with low sex drive. Materials and Methods: This randomized double-blinded clinical trial was conducted on 140 depressed women with sexual dysfunction who were divided into four groups receiving oral drops of rose, ginger, cinnamon, or placebo. The information about the two variables of sexual function and depression were collected by Female Sexual Function inventory questionnaire and Beck Depression Inventory, respectively. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Kruskal{\textendash}Wallis test, and Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: The mean scores of sexual dysfunction and depression were significantly improved in the three groups after treatment (P \< 0.05) so that sexual dysfunction score in placebo group had the lowest rate of improvement with the mean of 1.55 {\textpm} 0.44 and in ginger group had the highest improvement rate with the mean of 4.04 {\textpm} 1.07. Depression in placebo group had the lowest improvement rate with the mean of 3.71 {\textpm} 1.94 and in cinnamon group had the highest rate of improvement with the mean of 6.29 {\textpm} 1.57, but there was no significant difference between the four groups (P \> 0.05). The factors such as received treatments with impact factor of 0.723 and age with impact factor of 0.170 had direct relation and depression with impact factor of -0.078 had reverse relation to sexual performance improvement (P \< 0.05). Conclusion: Herbal medicines, except for their positive impacts on sexual function, may have positive but minor effects on depression.

}, keywords = {Cinnamon, Depression, Ginger, rose, Sexual desire}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_150_17}, author = {Sheida Shabanian and Mahtab Ebrahimbabaei and Parvin Safavi and Masoud Lotfizadeh} } @article {215, title = {Cytotoxic Compounds from Wrightia pubescens (R.Br.)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {9-15}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {9}, abstract = {

Background: Mixtures of ursolic acid (1) and oleanolic acid (2) (1:1 and 1:2), oleanolic acid (2), squalene (3), chlorophyll a (4), wrightiadione (5), and α-amyrin acetate (6) were isolated from the dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) extracts of the leaves and twigs of Wrightia pubescens (R.Br.). Objectives: To test for the cytotoxicity potentials of 1{\textendash}6. Materials and Methods: The antiproliferative activities of 1{\textendash}6 against three human cancer cell lines, breast (MCF-7) and colon (HT-29 and HCT-116), and a normal cell line, human dermal fibroblast neonatal (HDFn), were evaluated using the PrestoBlue{\textregistered} cell viability assay. Results: Compounds 4, 1 and 2 (1:2), 2, 1 and 2 (1:1), and 5 exhibited the most cytotoxic effects against HT-29 with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 0.68, 0.74, 0.89, 1.70, and 4.07 μg/mL, respectively. Comparing 2 with its 1:1 mixture with 1 (IC50 = 1.70 and 7.18 μg/mL for HT-29 and HCT-116, respectively) and 1:2 mixture with 1 (0.74 and 3.46 μg/mL for HT-29 and HCT-116, respectively), 2 also showed strong cytotoxic potential against HT-29 and HCT-116 (0.89 and 2.33 μg/mL, respectively). Unlike the mixtures which exhibited low effects on MCF-7 (IC50 = 20.75 and 30.06 μg/mL for 1:1 and 1:2, respectively), 2 showed moderate activity against MCF-7 (10.99 μg/mL). Compound 6 showed the highest cytotoxicity against HCT-116 (IC50 = 4.07 μg/mL). Conclusion: Mixtures of 1 and 2 (1:1 and 1:2), 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 from the CH2Cl2 extracts of the leaves and twigs of W. pubescens (R.Br.) exhibited varying cytotoxic activities. All the compounds except 6 exhibited the strongest cytotoxic effects against HT-29. On the other hand, 6 was most cytotoxic against HCT-116. Overall, the toxicities of 1{\textendash}6 were highest against HT-29, followed by HCT-116 and MCF-7. All the compounds showed varying activities against HDFn (IC50 \<30 μg/mL).

}, keywords = {Apocynaceae, Chlorophyll a, cytotoxicity, Half maximal inhibitory concentration, HCT-116, HDFn, HT-29, MCF-7, Oleanolic acid, PrestoBlue{\textregistered} cell viability assay, Squalene, Ursolic acid, Wrightia pubescens R. Brown, Wrightiadione, α-amyrin acetate}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_45_17}, author = {Mariquit M. De Los Reyes and Glenn G. Oyong and Vincent Antonio S. Ng and Consolacion Y. Ragasa} } @article {271, title = {Detection of Estrogenic, Antiestrogenic, and Drug Synergistic Activities of Seven Commercially Available Fruits by In Vitro Reporter Assays}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {137-142}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {137}, abstract = {

Background: Fruits are known to possess antiosteoporotic and anticancer properties in part due to their estrogenic and antiestrogenic activities. Objective: In this study, estrogenic, antiestrogenic, and drug synergistic activities of seven commercially available fruits were evaluated. Materials and Methods: A steroid-regulated transcription system in Saccharomyces cerevisiae containing a human estrogen receptor alpha expression plasmid, and a β-galactosidase gene reporter plasmid was employed for the estrogenic, antiestrogenic, and drug agonistic studies. Results: California table grape extract showed the highest estrogenic activity. The estrogenic activities of other extracts ranked as follows: blackberry, red raspberry, strawberry \> blueberry \> jackfruit, black raspberry. The transcriptional activities of the combination estradiol-fruit extracts (FEs) (400E equivalents) ranked as follows: blueberry (95.9\%), blackberry (86.2\%), black raspberry (88.9\%), and California table grape (81.5\%) \> jackfruit (72.2\%), and red raspberry (73.2\%) \> strawberry (60.7\%). Black and red raspberry extracts showed the highest synergistic activities with 4-hydroxytamoxifen (4-OHT). Black and red raspberry extracts in combination with 4-OHT lowered the estradiol activity by 74.9\% and 73.9\%, respectively. The highest synergistic activity with nafoxidine (NAF) was displayed by red raspberry extract. Together, NAF and red raspberry extract lowered estradiol activity by 77.9\%. Fold changes were calculated for drug synergistic activities of FEs, and they ranged from 1.3 to 15.3 for 4-OHT and 1.5{\textendash}17.4 for NAF, respectively. Conclusions: The active compounds in the FEs studied may be useful in enhancing the antiestrogen activities of chemotherapy drugs and be used as chemopreventive agents for patients at high risk of estrogen-induced cancers.

}, keywords = {4-hydroxytamoxifen, Antiestrogenic, Drug synergism, Estrogenic, Nafoxidine, Steroid-regulated yeast system}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_111_17}, author = {Paramita Basu and Dinu Dixon and Sherin Varghese and Camelia Maier} } @article {298, title = {Dual Anti-cholinesterase Activity of Ajoene by In silico and In vitro Studies}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {225-229}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {225}, abstract = {

The two major forms of cholinesterase enzymes found in the mammalian brain are acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE). BuChE usually found mainly in glial cells and neuron in normal physiological condition, whereas AChE found near nerve synapse and axons, both are involved in the breakdown of acetylcholine (ACh) in the brain. The dual inhibition of these enzymes is considered as a promising strategy for the treatment of a neurological disorder such as Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease, senile dementia, ataxia, and myasthenia gravis. The objective is to study the dual anticholinesterase activity of ajoene using in silico and in vitro methods. The anticholinesterase activity of ajoene was evaluated using Ellman{\textquoteright}s assay, and molecular docking was performed on Schr{\"o}dinger suite software. The present study demonstrated ajoene ([E, Z]-4, 5, 9-trithiadodeca-1, 6, 11-triene-9-oxide) inhibited both AChE and BuChE in a concentration-dependent manner. The IC50 value of ajoene was 2.34 mM for AChE and 2.09 mM for BuChE. Kinetic studies showed mixed noncompetitive inhibition of AChE and uncompetitive inhibition of BuChE. Molecular docking studies revealed that ajoene interacts hydrophobically with catalytic residues of AChE while in case of BuChE the interaction is through noncatalytic binding site residues. Ajoene exhibits dual inhibitory activity against both AChE and BuChE enzymes.

}, keywords = {Acetylcholinesterase, Ajoene, Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s diseases, Butyrylcholinesterase, Molecular docking}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_140_17}, author = {Shivani Kumar and Sayan Chatterjee and Suresh Kumar} } @article {440, title = {Effect of Capsaicin on Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetics of Gliclazide in Animal models with Diabetes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {437-441}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {437}, abstract = {

Background: Food{\textendash}drug interactions can have great effect on the adverse effects of many drugs and also on the success of drug treatment. Gliclazide is one of the drugs of choice to treat type 2 diabetes. Capsaicin is present in Capsicum annuum, a spice found in regular food. Objective: The objective of the present study was to find out the pharmacodynamic (PD) and pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions of capsaicin on gliclazide in animal models using rats and rabbits. Materials and Methods: Single- and multiple-dose interaction studies were conducted in rats (normal and diabetic) and rabbits (diabetic) to evaluate the effect of capsaicin on the activity of gliclazide. Blood samples collected at predetermined time intervals from the experimental animals were used for the estimation of glucose and insulin levels using an automated clinical chemistry analyzer and radioimmunoassay method, respectively. β-cell function was determined by homeostasis model assessment. In addition, high-performance liquid chromatography technique was used to analyze the serum gliclazide levels in rabbits. Results: Capsaicin did not exhibit any hypoglycemic activity in normal rats, but exhibited significant antihyperglycemic activity in both diabetic rats and rabbits with improvement in insulin levels and β-cell function. Gliclazide showed significant reduction in blood glucose levels in normal and diabetic rats and diabetic rabbits. In addition, it significantly increased insulin levels and β-cell function in diabetic animals. The samples analyzed from all time points in combination with capsaicin showed significantly greater reduction in blood glucose levels and a significant increase in insulin levels and β-cell function in diabetic rats and rabbits. The PK parameters of gliclazide were also altered by capsaicin treatment in rabbits. Conclusion: The present study concluded that the interaction of capsaicin with gliclazide on single- and multiple-dose treatment was both PD and PK in nature.

}, keywords = {Capsaicin, Diabetes mellitus, Drug interactions, Gliclazide, Pharmacodynamic{\textendash}pharmacokinetic interactions}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_81_18}, author = {Umachandar Lagisetty and Habibuddin Mohammed and Sivakumar Ramaiah} } @article {344, title = {The Effect of Capsicum Oleoresin on Nitric Oxide Production and Nitric Oxide Synthase Gene Expression in Macrophage Cell Line}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {343-346}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {343}, abstract = {

Background: Nitric oxide (NO) is an inflammatory agent produced by macrophages. It also acts as a neurotransmitter. However, overproduction of NO results in acute or chronic inflammation. Capsicum is well known for its anti-oxidant, anti{\textendash}inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of capsicum oleoresin on NO production and NO synthase gene expression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. Materials and Methods: Macrophage RAW 264.7 cells were obtained from the National Centre for Cell Science, Pune with Passage no 16. RAW macrophages were treated with 12.5 μg/ml, 25 μg/ml, and 50 μg/ml of Capsicum extract with 1 μg/ml of LPS and incubated for 24 h. Results: When capsicum was added at three different doses of 12.5 μg/ml, 25 μg/ml, and 50 μg/ml, the inducible NO synthase (iNOS) levels was significantly suppressed, compared to that of LPS treatment only. The level of NO increased by LPS induction was significantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner when treated with different concentrations of capsicum extract and capsicum had a suppressing effect on iNOS gene expression in LPS {\textendash} stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage. Conclusion: This study concludes that capsicum oleoresin is good enough to suppress iNOS gene expression and NO production. Hence, it may be used in inflammatory conditions with excessive NO production.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Anti-oxidant, Capsicum oleoresin, Macrophages, Nitric oxide}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_46_18}, author = {Srinivasan Manthra Prathoshni and Roy Anitha and Thangavelu Lakshmi} } @article {267, title = {Effect of Pomegranate (Punica granatum) Seed Oil on Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Acute and Chronic Hepatotoxicity in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {124-129}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {124}, abstract = {

Background: Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is one of the most widely used Hepatotoxin that is known to induce oxidative stress and causes hepatic damage by the formation of reactive free radicals in laboratory animals. Objective: This study aims to investigate the hepatoprotective role of pomegranate seed oil (PSO) on histological structure, some biochemical parameters and lipid peroxidation on CCl4-induced acute and chronic liver injury induced rats. Materials and Methods: The study material comprised 80 male Wistar albino rats. They were divided into two study groups including 40 rats for acute and 40 rats for chronic hepatotoxicity induction by CCl4. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to evaluate degree of steatosis, inflammation, necrosis, and fibrosis semiquantitatively. Blood serum aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase enzyme activities and glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, total protein, albumin and liver malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide levels were measured. Results: All control and only PSO given animals liver showed normal histological architecture, but in the acute CCl4-treated animals, an intensive macro and microvesicular steatosis, mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltrations in portal area and parenchyma, and necrotic alterations; in the chronic CCl4-treated group, additionally to acute findings mild-to-severe fibrosis with lobulation formation were observed. Conclusion: The results suggest that administration of PSO has partially ameliorative effects on biochemical and lipid peroxidation parameters in acute period, but it has no effect on the recovery of liver tissue damage or histopathological changes and biochemical parameters induced by CCl4 in chronic period.

}, keywords = {Carbon tetrachloride, Hepatotoxicity, Histopathology, Pomegranate seed oil, Rat}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_122_17}, author = {Duygu Yaman Gram and Ayhan Atasever and Meryem Eren} } @article {278, title = {Effect of UP165, a Zea mays Leaf Extract Standardized for 6-methoxybenzoxazolinone, as Sleep Adjunct}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {156-160}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {156}, abstract = {

Background: Sleep is a natural phenomenon essential for rejuvenating the body, promoting good health, upholding memory, performance, and maintaining overall health. Its deprivation is linked to the increased health risk that leads to poor quality of life and negative socioeconomic consequences. While behavioral techniques, such as improving sleep hygiene, are typically the first-line of intervention, pharmaceutical drugs are frequently used as adjuncts. However, for most, besides being too expensive, the long-term use of these drugs is marred by their severe adverse side effects and crippling dependency. As a result, significant numbers of patients are always in search for a safe and efficacious alternative from natural sources. Materials and Methods: We evaluated the effects of UP165, a Zea mays (commonly known as corn) leaf extract standardized for 6-methoxybenzoxazolinone content, on sleep latency and sleep time in pentobarbital-induced mouse sleep model. The extract was orally administered at 250 mg/kg (low dose), 500 mg/kg (mid dose), and 1000 mg/kg (high dose) daily for 32 days. The immediate impact of the extract on sleep was also assessed. Results: Increases of 11.6 {\textpm} 0.2 (P = 0.008), 10.2 {\textpm} 2.4 (P = 0.022), and 10.5 {\textpm} 0.9 (P = 0.017) minutes in sleep time were observed for the 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg UP165 treated mice compared to vehicle control, respectively. Up to 67\% sleep latency incidence was observed for mice treated with UP165 compared to the 20\% in the vehicle control group. UP165 showed no immediate drowsiness effect. No differences in baseline and end of study bodyweight were observed between groups. Conclusion: UP165 could be used as an adjunct for a sleep disorder.

}, keywords = {6-methoxybenzoxazolinone, Anxiety, Sleep disorder, Stress, Zea mays}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_148_17}, author = {Mesfin Yimam and Ping Jiao and Mei Hong and Lidia Brownell and Qi Jia} } @article {338, title = {Evaluation of AntiCancer Activity of Methanolic Extract of Hiptage benghalensis (L.) Kurz on Cancer Cell Lines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {309-313}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {309}, abstract = {

Aim and Background: This study aimed to study the anticancer effects of Hiptage benghalensis (L.) kurz using various human cancer cell cultures, in vitro using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide MTT assay. Materials and Methods: Human cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cells, human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells, and human neuroblastoma (IMR-32) cells were maintained in a 5\% CO2 incubator at 37{\textdegree}C. Different concentrations of an extract of H. benghalensis in serum-free culture medium were freshly prepared and used for cytotoxic activity using MTT assay activity. Results: Among the plant extract had revealed that, the greater percentage inhibition in all types of cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner using MTT assay. The concentration of the extract causing 50\% cell death values of methanolic extract of H. benghalensis were found to be 50.73, 47.90, and 53.76 μg/mL against HeLa, MCF-7, and IMR-32, respectively. Conclusion: H. benghalensis methanolic extract were showed increased percentage inhibition of MCF 7, HeLa, and IMR 32 cells using MTT assay.

}, keywords = {caspase-3, Cell viability, Hiptage benghalensis, Reactive oxygen species}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_102_17}, author = {Babu Rao Bhukya and Narsimha Reddy Yellu} } @article {232, title = {Evaluation of Antithrombotic Activities of Solanum xanthocarpum and Tinospora cordifolia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {98-103}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {98}, abstract = {

Background: Solanum xanthocarpum and Tinospora cordifolia have been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, antioxidant, antiallergic, and hepatoprotective activities. The origins of many of the currently available antithrombotic treatments are from natural products and natural sources. Objective: To investigate the antithrombotic activities of methanolic leaf extracts of S. xanthocarpum (SXME) and T. cordifolia (TCME). Materials and Methods: Antithrombotic activities were assessed by thrombin inhibition assay, thrombin generation assay, platelet adhesion assay on collagen-coated surface, and platelet PAC1-FITC binding by flow cytometry. Results: SXME significantly inhibited thrombin activity at 5{\textendash}20 mg/ml concentrations, whereas TCME inhibited thrombin activity at 500 {\textmu}g/ml{\textendash}5 mg/ml concentrations. Further, SXME inhibited thrombin generation at 2{\textendash}20 mg/ml concentrations, whereas TCME exhibited significant inhibition at 200 {\textmu}g/ml, suggesting that TCME has higher efficacy as compared to SXME. Moreover, SXME did not inhibit platelet adhesion on collagen-coated surface, whereas TCME inhibited platelet adhesion on collagen-coated surface at 5 mg/ml. Indomethacin showed significant inhibition in platelet adhesion at 300 {\textmu}M. Further, SXME inhibited thrombin-induced platelet activation (PAC1-FITC binding) significantly at 1 mg/ml by about 80\%, whereas TCME inhibited thrombin-induced platelet activation (PAC1-FITC binding) by about 40\% at 1 mg/ml. Conclusion: These results strongly suggested that SXME and TCME possess antithrombotic activities. However, further studies are essential to find out the active constituent responsible for antithrombotic effect.

}, keywords = {Collagen, Platelet, Solanum xanthocarpum, Thrombin, Thrombosis, Tinospora cordifolia}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_80_17}, author = {Onila Lugun and Sobharani Bhoi and Priyanka Kujur and D. Vinay Kumar and William R. Surin} } @article {290, title = {Evaluation of Protective Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Cassia fistula Linn. Pod on Pancreas in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {212}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {205}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with oxidative stress. Medicinal plants and herbs are the rich sources of antioxidants which ameliorate oxidative stress-induced diabetic complications and could play an important role in the management of diabetes. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of 70\% ethanolic extract of Cassia fistula pod on pancreas in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Diabetes was induced in male Wistar rats by single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (60 mg/kg b.wt.). The diabetic rats were administered orally with C. fistula pod extract at three different doses (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg b.wt./day) for 60 days. The results were compared with standard drug glibenclamide (5 mg/kg b.wt./ day) treated rats. Relative pancreatic weight and serum insulin level were determined. Histopathological changes and oxidative stress parameters, i.e., lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substance [TBARS]) and antioxidative defense markers (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and ascorbic acid), in the pancreas were investigated. Results: Oral administration of C. fistula pod extract (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg b.wt./day) or glibenclamide in diabetic rats significantly improved serum insulin level, total protein concentration, relative pancreatic weight, and mean diameter of islets of Langerhans as compared to diabetic control rats. Furthermore, treatment with extract also reduced TBARS levels and improved the levels of antioxidant markers in the pancreas. The histomorphological picture of the pancreas showed marked restoration of islets morphology. These results were comparable with glibenclamide. Conclusions: The results of the present study showed that C. fistula pod extract possesses significant antidiabetic activity though enhanced insulin secretion, improvement of antioxidative status of pancreas, and preservation of the integrity of pancreatic islets.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Cassia fistula, Insulin, Pancreas, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_95_17}, author = {Ram Niwas Jangir and Gyan Chand Jain} } @article {425, title = {Evaluation of Toxicological, Diuretic, and Laxative Properties of Ethanol Extract from Macrothelypteris Torresiana (Gaudich) Aerial Parts with In silico Docking Studies of Polyphenolic Compounds on Carbonic Anhydrase II: An Enzyme Target for Diuretic Acti}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {408-416}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {408}, abstract = {

Background: Macrothelypteris torresiana (Gaudich) is a species of fern having a wide range of reputed medicinal properties for the treatment of inflammation, fever, renal failure, stomach problems, etc. Objective: The present investigation focused on the evaluation of toxicity profile and diuretic and laxative activities of ethanol extract from M. torresiana aerial parts (EEMTAP), with in silico docking studies of polyphenolic compounds on carbonic anhydrase (CA)-II, an enzyme target for diuretic activity. Materials and Methods: Acute and subacute toxicity was performed according to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development guidelines. EEMTAP at doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg, p.o., employed for the assessment of diuretic and laxative activities with loperamide-induced constipation in Wistar albino rats. Furosemide (10 mg/kg, p.o.), agar-agar (300 mg/kg, p.o.), and sodium picosulfate (5 mg/kg, p.o) were used as reference standards, respectively, for activity comparison. During saluretic activity study, total urine volume, body weight before and after the experiment, and urinary levels of Na+, K+ (by flame photometry), and Cl- (by titrimetry) were estimated. Polyphenolic compounds such as caffeic acid and quercetin were successfully detected through chromatographic method of EEMTAP, and to rationalize the results obtained in diuretic activities, we carried out docking studies of the natural phenolic compounds against CA-II enzyme co-complexed with furosemide (Protein Data Bank ID: 1Z9Y CA-II in complex with furosemide as sulfonamide inhibitor). Results: In acute toxicity study, no mortality was observed at 2000 mg/kg, p.o., and in subacute toxicity study, the extract-treated group did not show any significant changes in body weight and organ weights. The hematological and biochemical parameters did not show any significant changes in the sample-treated groups when compared with the control group animals. The laxative activity of the extract was found to be in a dose-dependent increase in fecal output of rats at selected dose levels; similarly, EEMTAP significantly increased the urinary output as well as urinary electrolyte concentration in a dose-dependent manner. The molecular docking studies of phenolic compounds (caffeic acid and quercetin) into the binding site of CA II enzyme reveals that these analogues are having more favourable interaction when compared to the furosemide with better docking scores and hydrogen bonding interactions. Conclusion: The result demonstrated that the EEMTAP possesses a reasonable safety profile and shows promising diuretic and laxative activities in a dose-dependent manner.

}, keywords = {Diuretic, in silico docking studies, Laxative, Macrothelypteris torresiana, Toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_16_18}, author = {Sumanta Mondal and Naresh Panigrahi and Purab Sancheti and Ruchi Tirkey and Prasenjit Mondal and Sara Almas and Venu Kola} } @article {289, title = {Formulation and Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory Cream by Using Moringa oleifera Seed Oil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {195-204}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {195}, abstract = {

Background: Natural oils have a variety of pharmaceutical applications. They can be used in the preparation of a formulation which is beneficial as addictives and also pharmacological agents. One of such medicinally important plants is Moringa oleifera. Objective: The current investigation mainly focuses on the development of anti-inflammatory cream using Moringa seed oil and its pharmacological evaluation. Materials and Methods: The oil was extracted from Moringa seeds using cold pressing technique and then subjected to phytochemical screening which revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, and flavonoids. Various creams were prepared with alkali saponification of free fatty acids present in the oil to get o/w type of emulsion type cream. Various physicochemical tests such as the determination of viscosity, pH, irritancy, dye test, and accelerated stability studies were performed for the prepared creams. Results: Of all the creams, the formulation MF4 prepared with 500 mg potassium hydroxide was suitable for all acceptable characteristics of o/w type emulsion type of cream. The in vitro diffusion studies were carried out using Franz diffusion cell. The extracted oil was also subjected to various characterization studies such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and high-performance thin-layer chromatography. The ex vivo anti-inflammatory activity was carried out using heat-induced hemolysis and protein denaturation techniques. Whereas in vivo anti-inflammatory activity was performed on male Albino rats using paw edema technique. A significant 70\% reduction in paw edema was observed. Conclusion: Thus, the current research reveals the novel formulation with traditional Moringa oil having anti-inflammatory potency.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Behenic acid, Creams, Moringa oleifera oil, Paw edema}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_101_17}, author = {Vidyadhara Suryadevara and Sandeep Doppalapudi and Sasidhar Reddivallam L.C and Ramu Anne and Mounika Mudda} } @article {301, title = {Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometric Determination of Components of Leaves of Aegle marmelos and Psidium guajava and Seeds of Nigella sativa and Correlation with In vitro Antioxidant Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {230-235}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {230}, abstract = {

Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the volatile components of the leaves of Aegle marmelos, Psidium guajava, and seeds of Nigella sativa, using gas chromatography-mass spectrometric (GC-MS) and correlate with their in vitro antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: Plant material was analyzed for heavy metal content (HMC), pesticide residue (PR), and the presence of microbes/ fungi. Following hydrodistillation, the volatile components (AM, PG, and NS) were subjected to GC-MS analysis and in vitro antioxidant assay (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl). Results: The plant material passed the test for HMC, PR, microbial, and fungal contamination. Using GC-MS, the number of compounds identified in AM, PG, and NS were 62, 46, and 58, respectively. The antioxidant activity of AM, PG, and NS was 98.538\%, 98.955\%, and 97.755\%, respectively. Conclusion: GC-MS-based methods can be successfully utilized for phytochemical profiling and standardization of plant material.

}, keywords = {Aegle marmelos, Antioxidant activity, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometric, Nigella sativa, Psidium guajava, Volatile compounds}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_93_17}, author = {C. V. Jayachandran Nair and Sayeed Ahamad and Washim Khan and Varisha Anjum and Rajani Mathur} } @article {285, title = {High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Fingerprint Analyses, In vitro Cytotoxicity, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of the Extracts of Two Cestrum Species Growing in Egypt}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {179-180}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {173}, abstract = {

Background: Cancer diseases and microbial resistance are serious health disorders associated with oxidative stress and infectious diseases. Their risks can be reducing via using polyphenols-rich plants. Methodology: Different solvent extracts from two Cestrum species (Cestrum nocturnum and Cestrum elegans) were evaluated for their biological and chemical activities. Also, the chemical profiles of the most promising extracts were investigated via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-fingerprint analyses. Results: The tested extracts showed weak to moderate cytotoxicity against Vero cell line with IC50 values ranged from 133.67 μg/ ml to 57.634 μg/ml. The only noncytotoxic extractive fraction was the dichloromethane extract of C. elegans leaves with an IC50 value of 204.732 μg/ml, while the most toxic extract was the ethyl acetate extract of C. elegans flowers with an IC50 value of 19.22 μg/ml. The antimicrobial activity results revealed that the n-BuOH extract of C. nocturnum was the most active against four tested microbial strains with inhibition zones (10{\textendash}13 mm). Also, the water and n-BuOH extracts of C. elegans leave exhibited moderate activities with inhibition zones (7{\textendash}9 mm), while for C. elegans flowers both of water and methanol extracts showed strong activities (9{\textendash}14 mm). In the 2,2{\textquoteright}-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay, the most active fraction was EtOAc with IC50 values of 100.52 μg/ml and 64.40 μg/ml for C. elegans leaves and flowers respectively, while for C. nocturnum the most active fraction was methanol with an IC50 value of 161.16 μg/ml, all relative to 7.60 μg/ml of ascorbic acid. HPLC-fingerprint analyses revealed that the major identified compounds in the ethyl acetate extract of C. elegans flowers are caffeic acid, coumaric acid, vanillin, and rutin, while for the n-butanol extract of C. nocturnum leaves are coumaric acid and vanillin. Conclusion: The obtained results revealed that the two species can be used as natural sources of antioxidant compounds with low cytotoxic effect on the mammalian cell line.

}, keywords = {2, 2{\textquoteright}-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, Antimicrobial, Cestrum species, cytotoxicity, high-performance liquid chromatography-fingerprint analyses, Solanaceae}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_145_17}, author = {Sami M. Nasr and Mosad A. Ghareeb and Mona A. Mohamed and Nehal M. Elwan and Abd El-Wanes Anter Abdel-Aziz and Mohamed S. Abdel-Aziz} } @article {360, title = {HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS Characterization of Bioactive Secondary Metabolites from Strelitzia nicolai Leaf Extracts and Their Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities In vitro}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {368-378}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {368}, abstract = {

Background: Strelitzia nicolai Regel and K{\"o}rn (Strelitziaceae) is native to Southern Africa whose phytochemistry and pharmacology were slightly investigated. Materials and Methods: In the current work, different solvent extracts of S. nicolai were screened for their chemical profiles through high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS) analyses. Furthermore, their in vitro antioxidant, cytotoxic, and anticancer activities were evaluated using 2,2{\textquoteright}-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), 2,2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) \& ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and crystal violet staining (CVS) colorimetric assays, respectively. Results: HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analyses led to the identification of nineteen and eleven phenolic compounds from the ethyl acetate and n-butanol extracts, respectively including flavonoids (e.g., quercetin 3-(2 G-rhamnosylrutinoside, quercetin, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, kaempferol-3,7-O-dirhamnoside, isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside and kaempferol-3-O-glucoside), phenolic acids derivatives (e.g., chlorogenic acid glycoside, protocatechuic acid-O-glucoside and caftaric acid ), chalcones (e.g., xanthoangelol), and phenylethanoids (e.g., ligstroside glucoside). Moreover, in the DPPH assay the IC50 value of the most active ethyl acetate extract was 20.49 μg/mL, relative to 2.92 μg/mL of ascorbic acid. ABTS and FRAP results reinforced the results of DPPH assay. According to the National Cancer Institute criteria, the tested extracts showed weak to moderate cytotoxic activities with IC50 values ranged from 65.23 to 451.29 μg/ mL. Furthermore, the EtOAc and n-BuOH extracts showed a noticeable anticancer activity with CVS spectroscopic readings for liver hepatocellular carcinoma growth 0.806 and 0.684 at a concentration (125 μg/mL), as well as 0.730 and 0.618 at concentration (500 μg/mL), respectively against control at 1.022. Conclusion: The obtained results reveal the high efficacy of the phenolic-rich extracts from S. nicolai as naturally occurring antioxidant and anti-tumor agents.

}, keywords = {Anticancer activity, Antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS, Polyphenolics, Strelitzia nicolai}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_89_18}, author = {Mosad Ghareeb and Amal Saad and Wafaa Ahmed and Laila Refahy and Sami Nasr} } @article {324, title = {Hydroxycitric Acid-Induced Activation of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors in 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {275-281}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {275}, abstract = {

Background: Increase in obesity incidence has become serious threat to civilized human population. Traditional Indian System of Medicines may have many potential leads in managing obesity. (-)-Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a unique compound which is present in Garcinia species, has been safely used for centuries in Southeastern Asia for various purposes. Objective: To determine the effect of HCA treatment on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and their target genes. Materials and Methods: Effect of the calcium salt of HCA on adipogenic transcription factors PPARs and their target genes (lipoprotein lipase, fatty acid synthase, fatty acid binding protein, glucose transporter 4, and adiponectin) during adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 was investigated. The extent of adipogenesis was checked by measuring the lipid accumulation and glucose uptake in the presence and absence of HCA. Results: HCA treatment modulated the differentiation of adipocytes in a dose-dependent manner, wherein lower concentrations showed increased accumulation of lipid depots. HCA treatment increased PPARγ and its target genes during adipocyte differentiation, which emphasize the role of HCA in adipocity and obesity. Moreover, the binding conformations of HCA and PPARα and PPARγ were predicted using flexible docking and confirmed with known agonists, which also confirms the bioactivity. Conclusion: HCA decreases circulating lipids through raised levels of adipogenic-specific genes activated by the PPARs, thereby augmenting adiposity and related complications.

}, keywords = {3T3-L1, Adipocyte cells, Garcinia, Hydroxycitric acid, Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_115_17}, author = {Ramesh Parjapath and Veeresh Kumar Sali and Sangeetha M. Kannan and Atmaja Kurapati and Hannah Rachel Vasanthi} } @article {228, title = {Identification of Antidiabetic Compounds from Polyphenolic-rich Fractions of Bulbine abyssinica A. Rich Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {72-80}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {72}, abstract = {

Background: Bulbine abyssinica has been reported to possess a variety of pharmacological activities traditionally. Previous work suggested its antidiabetic properties, but information on the antidiabetic compounds is still lacking. Objective: The present research exertion was aimed to isolate and identify biologically active polyphenols from B. abyssinica leaves and to evaluate their efficacy on carbohydrate digesting enzymes. Materials and Methods: Fractionation of the polyphenolic contents from the methanolic extract of B. abyssinica leaves was executed by the silica gel column chromatography to yield different fractions. The antioxidant activities of these fractions were carried out against 2,2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals, and ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). In vitro antidiabetic experimentation was performed by evaluating the α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory capacity. The isolated polyphenols were then identified using liquid chromatography and mass spectroscopy (LC/MS). Results: Out of the eight polyphenolic fractions (BAL 1{\textendash}8), BAL-4 has the highest inhibitory activity against ABTS radicals whereas BAL-6 showed potent ferric ion-reducing capacity. BAL-5 was the most effective fraction with antidiabetic activity with IC50 of 140.0 and 68.58 {\textpm} 3.2 {\textmu}g/ml for α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, respectively. All the fractions competitively inhibited α-amylase, BAL-5 and BAL-6 also inhibited α-glucosidase competitively, while BAL-4 and BAL-1 exhibited noncompetitive and near competitive inhibitions against α-glucosidase, respectively. The LC/MS analysis revealed the presence of carvone in all the fractions. Conclusions: The present study demonstrates the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the isolated polyphenols from B. abyssinica.

}, keywords = {Antidiabetics, Antioxidants, Bulbine abyssinica, Liquid chromatography and mass spectroscopy, Medicinal plants, Polyphenolics}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_55_17}, author = {Samuel Wale Odeyemi and Anthony Jide Afolayan} } @article {347, title = {In vitro Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activity of Oligopeptides Derived from Different Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Cultivars}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {361-364}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {361}, abstract = {

Background: Several plant peptides have been known to exhibit various pharmacological activities. However, the bioactivity of mulberry peptides is not yet reported. Objective: In the present study, the peptides from different mulberry cultivars, namely S1, V1, S1635, and Dudhiya, were isolated and assessed for their in vitro free radical scavenging capacity and inhibitory activity of two key enzymes (α-amylase [AA] and α-glucosidase [AG]) associated with type-II diabetes. Materials and Methods: The 0.5{\textendash}3 kDa ranged oligopeptides were isolated using cation exchange chromatography and ultrafiltration system and further characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography and protein sequencer. The peptides were investigated for their in vitro antioxidant potential by 1,1-diphenyl-2 picrylhydrazyl, 2,2-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt, and nitric oxide scavenging capacity and reducing power, metal chelating, and anti-lipid peroxidation activity along with in vitro antidiabetic activity by AA and AG inhibition. Results: The results revealed that the peptides were found to possess significant free radical scavenging as well as AA and AG inhibitory activity in a dose-dependent manner. Overall, the peptide isolated from S1 cultivar exhibited the most promising therapeutic potential. Further, the variation in amino acid composition of the oligopeptides could be associated with the observed variation in their bioactivity. Conclusion: These natural peptides may constitute an important part of the antioxidant defense system as well as antidiabetic agent and further could be used for the formulation of functional food and nutraceuticals.

}, keywords = {Antidiabetic, Antioxidant, High-performance liquid chromatography, Mulberry, Oligopeptide, Ultrafiltration}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_70_18}, author = {Suchisree Jha and Saran Kumar Gupta and Phalguni Bhattacharyya and Amitava Ghosh and Palash Mandal} } @article {334, title = {In vitro Antioxidant Potential of Euclea crispa (Thunb.) Leaf Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {296-300}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {296}, abstract = {

Background: Euclea crispa is a South African medicinal plant belonging to the family Ebenaceae. Objectives: The objective of this study was to analyze the in vitro antioxidant activity of different extracts of E. crispa leaves. Materials and Methods: 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, reducing power assay, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, hydroxyl scavenging assay, and nitric oxide scavenging assay were used to analyze free-radical scavenging activity. The superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), total reduced glutathione (TRG), and estimation of vitamin C assays were carried out to analyze the enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants on a fresh leaf of E. crispa. Results: The DPPH radical scavenging assay (135.4 {\textpm} 0.7 μg/ml), hydroxyl scavenging assay (183.6 {\textpm} 0.9 μg/ml), and nitric oxide scavenging assay (146.2 {\textpm} 1.3 μg/ml) showed the significant half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values in ethanolic extract when compared to the ethyl acetate, chloroform, and petroleum ether extract of E. crispa leaves. Further, the ethanolic extract exhibited good reducing power assay and FRAP assay showed (the maximum absorption of 0.79 and 0.68 at 500 μg/ml, respectively) when compared to other solvent extracts. The fresh E. crispa leaves possess high content of enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants such as SOD (41.3 {\textpm} 0.34 units/mg protein), CAT (124 {\textpm} 0.54 μmole of H2O2 consumed/min/mg protein), GPX (261.2 {\textpm} 0.42 μg of glutathione oxidized/min/mg protein), TRG (42.3 {\textpm} 0.16 μg/mg protein), and estimation of vitamin C (185 {\textpm} 0.39 μg/mg) assays. Conclusion: Based on the results obtained from this study, it can be concluded that the E. crispa leaves can be used for the preparation of antioxidative therapeutic agents. However, further studies are necessary to substantiate the current findings.

}, keywords = {Enzymatic, Euclea crispa leaves, Free-radical scavenging activity, Nonenzymatic antioxidant activity, Solvent extractions}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_123_17}, author = {Chella Perumal Palanisamy and Devaki Kanakasabapathy and Anofi Omotayo Tom Ashafa} } @article {428, title = {In vitro Assessment of Antioxidant and Antiurolithic Activities of Ethanol Extract of Whole Plant Biophytum sensitivum (Linn.) DC}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {417-421}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {417}, abstract = {

Background: Previous research studies have demonstrated that the formation of urinary stones leads to oxidative stress in patients; hence, search for antiurolithic drugs possessing antioxidant activities from natural sources has gained great potential. Objectives: The present study was undertaken to investigate in vitro antioxidant and antiurolithic potency of ethanol extract of whole plant Biophytum sensitivum Linn. DC (EEBS). Materials and Methods: The antioxidant potential of EEBS was determined by nitric oxide radical scavenging assay. Inhibition capacity of EEBS on calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystallization was evaluated by nucleation assay, aggregation assay, and microscopic assay (image analysis of CaOx crystal morphology). Results: Half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of nitric oxide radical scavenging activity of EEBS was found to be 90.12 μg/mL and that of ascorbic acid (standard) was 37.23 μg/mL. In nucleation assay, IC50 of EEBS was found to be 68.82 mg/mL, compared with 52. 41 mg/mL for cystone (standard). In aggregation assay, IC50 value was indicated as 52.39 mg/mL and for cystone, it was found to be 41.62 mg/mL. Addition of various concentration of EEBS (20, 40, 80, and 160 mg/mL) resulted in change in structure of CaOx crystals. EEBS a concentration of 160 mg/mL reduced the size of CaOx crystals to 812.68 μm whereas size of CaOx crystal treated with the control was 1398.05 μm. The size reduction of CaOx crystals was found to be dose-dependent. Conclusion: This plant can be used alone or in combination with other herbal drugs, as EEBS showed significant antioxidant and antiurolithic activities.

}, keywords = {Aggregation assay, Antioxidant, Antiurolithic, Biophytum sensitivum, Microscopic assay, Nucleation assay}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_30_18}, author = {B. R. Abhirama and Shanmugasundaram Rajagopal and I. S. Neethu and S. G. Ariya and B. Athira and K. M. Dhanalekshmi} } @article {420, title = {In vitro Assessment of Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic, Anti-inflammatory, and Antidiabetic Activities of Campanula retrorsa Crude Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {397-403}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {397}, abstract = {

Background: Campanula retrorsa belongs to the Campanulaceae family and the Campanula genus. The species of this latter are traditionally known for their antiallergic, spasmolytic, antiphlogistic, antioxidant, and antiviral properties. Few studies were realized on the bioactivity of Calicotome villosa crude extracts. Objective: The objective was to investigate, for the first time, the antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory potentials of dichloromethane, methanol, and aqueous crude extracts of C. retrorsa leaves, flowers, and stems. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant activity of different crude extracts was determined using the free radical, 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. Antimicrobial activity against three Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Enterococcus faecium), two Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumanii) bacterial strains and a fungal strain (Candida albicans) was evaluated in a plate-hole diffusion assay. Cytotoxic activity of C. retrorsa dichloromethane and methanol crude extracts on Hela cells was realized using the Trypan blue dye exclusion technique. Antidiabetic activity against α-glucosidase and anti-inflammatory activity against bee venom phospholipase A2 (PLA2) were assessed using a colorimetric test. Results: Leaf and flower aqueous extracts possessed very high radical scavenging activity = 90\%. The dichloromethane extracts of leaves and flowers were the most active against A. baumanii and C. albicans. After 48 h of treatment, all extracts except the methanol flower extract showed an inhibition of 90\% of cell growth at 2 mg/mL. Dichloromethane and methanol stem crude extracts showed a modest inhibition of α-glucosidase. While no inhibition of the PLA2 was displayed by any of the tested extracts. Conclusion: Obtained results give an overall view on C. retrorsa crude extracts{\textquoteright} bioactivities.

}, keywords = {Antidiabetic activity, Bioactivity, Campanula retrorsa, Crude extracts, cytotoxicity}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_73_18}, author = {Josiane Alhage and Hoda Elbitar and Samir Taha and Thierry Benvegnu} } @article {223, title = {In vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant Potential of Isolated Compounds and Various Extracts of Peel of Punica granatum L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {44-48}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {44}, abstract = {

Background: Punica granatum L. (Lythraceae) peel has been proven to exhibit widespread pharmacological application against multitude of diseases due to the presence of bioactive principles. Objective: The objective is to isolate the bioactive compounds from the pericarp of P. granatum and to evaluate the antioxidant activity of various extracts. Materials and Methods: Dried peel of P. granatum was extracted with aqueous acetone and chromatographed on Diaion HP-20. Enriched fractions were rechromatographed on Sephadex LH-20 and purified on preparative high-performance liquid chromatography to identify individual compounds. The dried peel was extracted with different solvents to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the extracts. Results: On the chemical investigation, three compounds were isolated and characterized as punicalagin, 2,3-(S)-hexahydroxydiphenoyl-D-glucose, and punicalin, using various spectroscopic techniques. Conclusion: Results indicate that the isolated compounds have possessed antioxidant activity, and aqueous, methanol, and aqueous acetone extract showed significant scavenging of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radicals.

}, keywords = {2, 3-(S)-hexahydroxydiphenoyl-D-glucose, Antioxidant, Nuclear magnetic resonance, Punica granatum}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_36_17}, author = {Janani Jacob and P. Lakshmanapermalsamy and Ramanaiah Illuri and Ramanaiah Illuri and Gopala Krishna Sangli and Deepak Mundkinajeddu} } @article {340, title = {In vitro Investigation Effects of 4-Hydroxyacetophenone on Rat Thoracic Aorta{\textquoteright}s Vasomotor Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {319-324}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {319}, abstract = {

Background: Z. clinopodioides Lam. is also known as a {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}Field Mint{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} Seven compounds which have vasodilator activity have been isolated from Z. clinopodioides Lam. and two of them are phenolics compounds and these are acetovanillone, 4-HAP, four of them are flavonoids and these are acacetin, apigenin, chrysin, thymonin, one derivat of cinnamic acid and ethyl 4-coumarate. Objective: In this study, it was aimed that was defined vasodilator activiy mechanisms of fenolic compound 4-HAP on isolated rat thorasic aorta. Material and Method: In this study 40 male adult Sprague Dawley rats were used. Prepared rings were laid out into the 20 ml organ bath with Krebs solution. Rings were stretched by 1g and they were subjected to 1 hour incubation period. In the end of the incubation period, PE, KCI, nifedipine, L-NAME, 4-HAP, SQ22.536, ODQ, ACh, SKF96365, Propranolol, Atropin, TEA, Gibenclamide, 4-aminopyridine and U73122 were implemented to bath with a protocol. Results: Mechanisms of relaxed effect the of 4-HAP were assigned by using antagonists. It was observed that vasorelaksan effect of 4-HAP on endothelilal aorta smooth muscle contractions which had been inductioned by PE under the existance of L-NAME was considerably inhibited. Conclusion: It was stated that 4-HAP relaxed PE and KCI contractions and owing to this activity endothel intact tissues on L-NAME existance notably decreased because of NO pathyway. It is firmly believed that as relaxed effect of 4-HAP declines remarkably under the existance of 4-aminopyridine and nifedipine on endothel denuded aorta rings, activity could be on K+ channel and L-type Ca+2 channel.

}, keywords = {4-hydroxyacetophenone, Aorta, PE, Potassium chloride, Rat}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_11_18}, author = {Volkan Gelen and Fikret {\c C}elebi} } @article {322, title = {Innovative Research on Isolation, Characterization, and Identification of Bioactivity in the Isolated Constituent from Methanol Extract of Galphimia glauca cav. Stems}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {265-274}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {265}, abstract = {

Background: Galphimia glauca Cav (GG) is naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions of the world including India. Objective: The present study has been opted to shed light on GG stems to isolate, characterize, and explore the analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential of the isolated phytomolecule using in vivo models. Materials and Methods: The bioactive fraction of the active stem methanol extract was subjected to column chromatography followed by preparative thin layer chromatography to separate the phytoconstituent. The isolated phytoconstituent was characterized and evaluated for toxicological studies, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory activity. Results: The isolated phytoconstituent {\textquotedblleft}BS-1{\textquotedblright} was characterized by melting point, Rf value, IR spectra, mass spectra, 1H-NMR spectrum, and 13C NMR spectrum. The LD50 of BS-1 was found to be \>2000 mg/kg. The results were significant (P \< 0.001 and P \< 0.01) in hot plate test and tail clip test. The central analgesic effect of BS-1 was further proved through reversal actions of naloxone. The peripheral analgesic actions exhibited by BS-1 were significant (P \< 0.001) in formalin and writhing test when compared to control group. In carrageenan test, BS-1 exhibited significant (P <= 0.05) dose-dependent activity on comparison of the high dose with respective low dose. The BS-1 exhibited significant (P <= 0.05) anti-inflammatory activity, when correlated with the standard drug in cotton pellet induced granuloma test. Conclusion: The BS-1 exhibited significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity in central and peripheral models of analg

}, keywords = {Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Column chromatography, Formalin test, Galphimia glauca Clav, Hotplate test, Isolation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_151_17}, author = {Baba Shankar Rao Garige and Keshetti Srisailam and Vattikuti Uma Maheshwara Rao} } @article {282, title = {Inter Simple Sequence Repeat Analysis of Genetic Diversity and Relationship in Four Egyptian Flaxseed Genotypes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {166-172}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {166}, abstract = {

Background: Flaxseed is a highly important industrial and medicinal plant worldwide. Objective: To use inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) technique for making unique fingerprint for the four newly produced genotypes of flax in Egypt. Materials and Methods: The genetic diversity among four promising Egyptian flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) genotypes was premeditated by means of polymerase chain reaction-based ISSR markers. The phenotypic variation among the four flax genotypes, namely, promising strains 533/39/5/3 (F1), S.402/3/3/7 (F2), S.421/3/6/4 (F3), and S.11 (F4) was studied during the two successive winter seasons of 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 in randomized complete block design through four replications. Results: The promising strain (F3) surpassed the other flax genotypes regarding seed yield/feddan, oil yield/feddan, and oil percentage. Twelve ISSR primers were used for the genetic examination yielding 139 loci, of which 31 were polymorphic. The middling number of amplified loci and the middling number of polymorphic loci per primer were 11.6 and 2.6, correspondingly, while the percent of loci polymorphism ranged from 0.0\% to 58.0\% with a middling of 21.4\% crosswise all the flax genotypes. The more informative primers were GAC (GATA)4 and (GATA)4 GC, while the less informative were (AC)8T and (GT)8G. Unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean derived dendrogram clearly discriminated the flax genotypes in three clusters. The Jaccard{\textquoteright}s similarity coefficient along with the genotypes ranged from 0.91 to 0.95. Conclusion: This study identified S. 421/3/6/4 (F3) strain to be the mainly assorted genotype and recommended its use in propagation programs and for upward mapping populations.

}, keywords = {Cluster analysis, Genotypes, Linseed, Molecular marker, Polymorphism}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_126_17}, author = {Abeer A. El Sayed and Shahira M. Ezzat and Saber H. Mostafa and Saeid Z. Zedan and Essam Abdel-Sattar and Nebal El Tanbouly} } @article {226, title = {Isolation of 5,7-Dihydroxy, 6,8-Dimethyl Flavanone from Syzygium aqueum with Its Antioxidant and Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitor Activities}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {60-63}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {60}, abstract = {

Background: Syzygium aqueum Burm.f. Alston (water apple) belonging to Myrtaceae family was originated from tropical areas. It was traditionally used as a medicinal plant. Objective: The objective of the study was to isolate the active compound from the methanolic extract of S. aqueum leaves. Methods: Extraction was done using continuous extraction with methanol as a solvent. The extract was then fractionated using liquid{\textendash}liquid extraction, vacuum liquid chromatography, and radial chromatography. Recrystallization was done for purification. The structure of the compound was determined by Ultraviolet-Visible and (1D and 2D) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer. Results: The isolate showed maximum wavelengths at 347 (band I) and 296 (band II) nm. After addition of NaOH and CH3COONa, the maximum wavelengths of band II moved to 340 and 339 nm, respectively. There was no change in wavelengths after addition CH3COONa/H3BO3 and AlCl3. The 1H-NMR spectrum showed 16 protons, whereas 13C-NMR spectrum showed 15 carbons. Based on those data, the isolate was determined as 5,7-dihydroxy-6,8-dimethyl flavanone (demethoxymatteucinol). At a concentration of 100 and 50 {\textmu}g/mL, it could inhibit 25.13\% of xanthine oxidase (XO) activity and scavenge 11.87\% of diphenyl-picrylhydrazyl, respectively. Conclusion: Demethoxymatteucinol was isolated for the first time from S. aqueum and it had mild antioxidant and XO inhibitory activities.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Flavonoid, Myrtaceae, Syzygium aqueum}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_59_17}, author = {Muhamad Insanu and Zelika Mega Ramadhania and Evelyne Nadia Halim and Rika Hartati and Komar Ruslan Wirasutisna} } @article {479, title = {Kolaviron, Biflavonoid Complex from the Seed of Garcinia kola Attenuated Angiotensin II- and Lypopolysaccharide-induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Nitric Oxide Production}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2018}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {50-55}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {50}, abstract = {

Introduction: Kolaviron (KV), a biflavonoid extract from Garcinia kola seeds has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, hepato-protective, cardio-protective, nephro-protective and other arrays of chemopreventive capabilities but the mechanism of action is still not completely understood. Materials and Methods: In this study, we investigated the anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative potential of KV in cultured Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells (VSMCs). Effects of KV (25-100 μg/mL) on VSMC proliferation alone or following treatments with mitogen and proinflammatory agents Angiotensin II (Ag II, 10-6 M) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 100 μg/mL) and effects on NO production were determined. Cellular proliferations were determined by MTT assay, nitric oxide (NO) level was determined by Griess assay. KV dose-and time dependently attenuated VSMC growth. Results: Treatment of VSMCs with Ag II and LPS significantly enhanced proliferation of the cell which was significantly attenuated by the treatment with KV. Treatment of VSMC with LPS significantly increased nitric oxide (NO) level in the media which was attenuated by KV. These results demonstrated anti-proliferative antiinflammatory properties of KV as it clearly inhibited cellular proliferation induced by mitogens as well as LPS-induced inflammatory processes. Conclusion: Therefore, KV may mitigate cardiovascular conditions that involve cell proliferation, free radical generation and inflammatory processes such as hypertension, diabetes and stroke. However, the molecular mechanism of action of KV needs to be investigated.

}, keywords = {Angiotensin II, Cardiovascular diseases, cell proliferation, Kolaviron, lipopolysaccharide, Nitric oxide, vascular smooth muscle cells}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178647}, author = {Ademola Adetokunbo Oyagbemi and Temidayo Olutayo Omobowale and Adeolu Alex Adedapo and Momoh Audu Yakubu} } @article {230, title = {Method Development and Validation for the Determination of Caffeine: An Alkaloid from Coffea arabica by High-performance Liquid Chromatography Method}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {88-91}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {88}, abstract = {

Objective: The present study was investigated to develop and validate a reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography method for the determination of caffeine from bean material of Coffee arabica. Materials and Methods: The separation was achieved on a reversedphase C18 column using a mobile phase composed of water: methanol (50:50) at a flow rate of 1.0 mlmin-1. The detection was carried out on a UV detector at 272 nm. The developed method was validated according to the requirements for International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines, which includes specificity, linearity, precision, accuracy, limit of detection and limit of quantitation. Results: The developed method validates good linearity with excellent correlation coefficient (R2 \> 0.999). In repeatability and intermediate precision, the percentage relative standard deviation (\% RSD) of peak area was less than 1\% shows high precision of the method. The recovery rate for caffeine was within 98.78\% - 101.28\% indicates high accuracy of the method. The low limit of detection and limit of quantitation of caffeine enable the detection and quantitation of caffeine from C. arabica at low concentrations. Conclusion: The developed HPLC method is a simple, rapid, precisely, accurately and widely accepted and it is recommended for efficient assays in routine work.

}, keywords = {Caffeine, Coffea arabica, Linearity, Precision, Recovery}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_79_17}, author = {P Naveen and HB Lingaraju and M Deepak and B Medhini and K Shyam Prasad} } @article {317, title = {Optimization of Microwave-Assisted Extraction to Obtain Optimum Antioxidant Activity and Anthocyanin Concentration from Myrmecodia pendens Tubers Using Response Surface Methodology}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {253-257}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {253}, abstract = {

Background: One of the major antioxidants in Myrmecodia pendens (sarang semut) tubers is anthocyanin. Objective: To obtain antioxidant activity and anthocyanin concentration from sarang semut optimally through an appropriate method. Materials and Methods: Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) was chosen because of its brief extraction time (ET), saving solvents, and being inexpensive compared to conventional extraction methods. Experiment design was prepared using response surface methodology. 1,1-diphenyl-1-2-picrylhydrazyl and reducing power method were used for the determination of the antioxidant activity, while the Association of Analytical Communities official method 2005.02 was used for the anthocyanin concentration calculation. Results: It was found that the optimum antioxidant activity was obtained at 80\% ethanol, sample-to-solvent ratio (S/S ratio) 1:12, ET 10 min, and MAE power 50\%. Meanwhile, the optimum anthocyanin extraction was obtained at 80\% ethanol, S/S ratio 1:8, ET 3 min, and MAE 10\%. Conclusion: The optimum condition of antioxidant activity and anthocyanin concentration was the same at the solvent used, yet different at the S/S ratio, ET, and power level which open further research to support this study.

}, keywords = {Anthocyanin, Antioxidant, Microwave-assisted extraction, Myrmecodia pendens, Response surface methodology}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_114_17}, author = {Nurul Fajry Maulida and Bernita Yanuaritamala and Arry Yanuar and Fadlina Chany Saputri and Abdul Mun{\textquoteright}im} } @article {433, title = {Oral Intake of Polyphenols of Chromolaena odorata: A Perspective in Peptic Ulcer, Thrombocytopenia, and Heparin-induced Bleeding Diathesis in Rodent Model}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {426-431}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {426}, abstract = {

Objective: Bleeding disorder is of two types: external bleeding due to trauma, surgery, and internal bleeding which happens mainly due to ulcers and thrombocytopenia or use of excessive anticoagulants. Proven hemostatic activity of Chromolaena odorata (L) in bleeding and wound healing had encouraged to evaluate the efficacy of aqueous extract and spray-dried powder (SDP) on ulcers, thrombocytopenia, and heparin-induced bleeding diathesis. Materials and Methods: Internal bleeding in the form of lesions in empty stomach was induced by absolute ethanol. Busulfan is administered through intraperitoneal injection to produce thrombocytopenia in Wistar rats and heparin at 1000 IU/ml was injected intravenous to mice, and after 30 min, tail was truncated to qualitatively and quantitatively differentiate the bleeding diathesis in treated versus nontreated controls. Results: A significant reduction in the lesions was observed in treated rats as compared to disease control rats which was evident from ulcer index and histopathology data. Considerable protection and production of platelets were observed in the thrombocytopenia model which was drastically reduced in the Busulfan administered disease control. Both aqueous extract and SDP were successful in preventing blood loss in heparin-induced tail-bleeding model. Conclusion: The presence of polyphenols attributes to the crucial role of C. odorata in arresting internal bleeding from stomach ulcer, protecting the thrombocytes from destroying, and minimizing the bleeding diathesis in mice.

}, keywords = {Chromolaena odorata, Gastric ulcer, Heparin, Tail-bleeding assay, Thrombocytopenia}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_107_18}, author = {Tania S. Paul and Biswadeep B. Das and Shakti P. Ingale and Niruta Killedar and Kishori G. Apte} } @article {315, title = {Physical Endurance Enhancing Capacity of Withania somnifera Root Powder Post-water Extraction in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {250-252}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {250}, abstract = {

Background: Withania somnifera (WS), Indian ginseng/ashwagandha, is a common household plant. Its commercially available aqueous or ethanolic root powder extract containing the active substance withanolides is known to enhance physical endurance (stamina). The potency of crude root powders, especially post-extraction, is unknown. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of crude root powder of WS post-extraction with commercial root preparation in enhancing the physical endurance of mice using forced swim endurance model. Materials and Methods: Male Swiss albino mice, 6{\textendash}8 weeks old with mean (standard deviation) weight of 35.17 (3.36) g, were randomized into three groups of six animals each: control {\textendash} carboxymethyl cellulose 0.5\%, standard {\textendash} commercial root preparation of WS (100 mg/kg), and test {\textendash} crude root powder post-extraction (100 mg/kg). Drugs were administered per oral, once daily, for 7 days. On the 8th day, animals were allowed to swim till exhaustion in a propylene tub of dimension 25 cm radius and 30 cm height, with water level at 15 cm. The end point of swim endurance was when the mice near drowned. Results: There was no significant difference in body weight of mice between groups. One-way ANOVA between groups for drowning time was significant (F[2,15] = 12.771, P = 0.001). Tukey{\textquoteright}s post hoc test was significant for test versus control (P \< 0.001) and standard versus control (P = 0.047). However, test versus standard was not statistically significant (P = 0.069). Conclusion: Hence, we conclude that crude root powder of WS after extraction also possesses physical endurance enhancing property and may be used to enhance the stamina.

}, keywords = {Ashwagandha, Forced swim, Physical endurance, Root extract, Withania somnifera}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_153_17}, author = {Jeffrey Pradeep Raj and John Michael D{\textquoteright}Cruz and Tomson Toms and Pradhyumna Muralidharan and Mangala Rao} } @article {279, title = {Phytochemical Screening, Total Phenolic Content, Antioxidant, and Cytotoxic Activity of Five Peruvian Plants on Human Tumor Cell Lines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {161-165}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {161}, abstract = {

Background: Cancer is considered a serious public health problem in the world; searching alternative treatments of medicinal plants constitute a promissory field to find new anticancer drugs. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the phytochemical screening, total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant, and cytotoxic activity of ethanol extracts of Waltheria ovata (WO), Piper aduncum (PA), Myrciaria dubia (MD), Physalis peruviana (PP), and Geranium dielsianum (GD) on human tumor cell lines. Materials and Methods: Phytochemical screening was assessed using chemical reactives. TPC was developed using Folin Ciocalteu reactive, and the antioxidant activity was determined against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals by spectrophotometry. The cytotoxic activity was determined on human tumor cell lines followed as: MCF-7, H-460, HT-29, M-14, K-562, and DU-145. Results: Phytochemical study confirmed flavonoids and phenolic compounds in all extracts. TPC was found to be the highest in WO extract (1250 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g of dried extract) rather than other extracts. The highest antioxidant activity was stablished in WO extract for DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging tests (inhibitory concentration [IC50] = 0.89 {\textpm} 0.01 μg/mL, IC50 = 4.20 {\textpm} 1.50 μg/mL). Ethanolic extracts (μg/mL) showed low cytotoxicity on human tumor cell lines (CI50 \>20 μg/mL) for PA, PP, GD, MD. Meanwhile, WO presented cytotoxicity on H460, MCF-7, and K562 tumor cell lines. Conclusion: In our findings, WO and MD extracts revealed a high antioxidant and TPC. WO exhibited better cytotoxic effect compared with 5-FU. Hence, these medicinal plants could be effective to prevent cancer disease and oxidative stress.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Cancer, cytotoxicity, Oxidative stress, Phytochemical}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_109_17}, author = {Oscar Herrera-Calderon and Corina Alvarado-Puray and Jorge Luis Arroyo-Acevedo and Juan Pedro Rojas-Armas and Victor Chumpitaz-Cerrate and Ren{\'a}n Ha{\~n}ari-Quispe and Rita Valenzuela-Herrera} } @article {341, title = {Protective Effect of Combretum Hypopilinum Diels: Root Bark Extract against CCl4-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {July 2018}, pages = {325-331}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {325}, abstract = {

Background: Combretum hypopilinum is used in Togolese traditional medicine to alleviate various ailments including hepatic disorders. Objective: This study evaluates the hepatoprotective activities of crude ethanolic extract of C. hypopilinum root bark (CECH) and its possible mechanism(s) of action in Wistar rats. Materials and methods: In vitro antioxidant potential was evaluated using DPPH, Ferric-reducing power and hydroxyl radical scavenging assays. Hepatoprotective activity was assessed using CCl4-induced acute hepatotoxicity in rats. Animals were pretreated orally with different doses of CECH (200 and 400 mg/kg) once daily for 7 consecutive days and were subjected to intraperitoneal single injection of CCl4 (1 mL/kg). Serum markers of hepatic damage, hepatic endogenous antioxidants, NO, TNF-α and lipid peroxidation contents were measured out. Results: The pretreatment with CECH significantly decreased levels of hepatic enzymes (p \< 0.05, p \< 0.01, p \< 0.001) and MDA in pretreated rats (p \< 0.05, p \< 0.01). CECH restored the decreased levels of hepatic antioxidants including SOD (p \< 0.01), CAT (p \< 0.05 at 400 mg/kg) and GSH (p \< 0.05 at 400 mg/kg) and significantly inhibited hepatic production of NO (p \< 0.05, p \< 0.01). as well as the level of TNF-α (p \< 0.001) in pretreated rats. Protective effects of CECH were confirmed by histopathological examinations. CECH exhibited antioxidant in vitro and contains also total phenol and flavonoid. Conclusion: This study suggests that CECH protected the liver from CCl4-induced hepatic damage possibly via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

}, keywords = {Combretum hypopilinum, Hepatoprotective, Oxidative stress, Tumor necrosis factor-α}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_27_17}, author = {Kokou Idoh and Kossivi Dosseh and Tchazou Kpatcha and Amegnona Agbonon and Messanvi Gbeassor} } @article {227, title = {The Protective Effect of Different Extracts of Three Artemisia Species against H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in PC12 Neuronal Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {64-71}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {64}, abstract = {

Background: Oxidative stress causes cell damage and is involved in many neurological diseases. The antioxidant properties of plant materials for the maintenance of health and protecting against different diseases stimulated scientist to investigate different herbs. Different Artemisia species have exhibited antioxidant activity. This study aims to investigate whether different Artemisia species could protect the PC12 cells against oxidative stress mediated by H2O2. Methods: For this purpose, different extracts of three Artemisia species (Artemisia aucheri, Artemisia turanica, and Artemisia turcomanica) were prepared using petroleum ether, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and Water: Ethanol mixture (1:1 volume ratio). The protective effect of the prepared extracts against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity and reactive oxygen species production were compared. The effect of treatment of PC12 cells with different extracts on total glutathione (GSH) level, caspase-3 activity, and mitochondrial membrane potential were also compared. Results: The A. aucheri extracts could not rescue the PC12 cells from oxidative stress consequences. The A. turanica and A. turcomanica extracts were found potent in suppressing the toxicity and apoptosis of PC12 cells mediated by H2O2 and significantly antagonized the H2O2-induced GSH depletion. The hydroethanolic and ethyl acetate extracts of A. turanica and the petroleum ether and hydroethanolic extracts of A. turcomanica more efficiently suppressed cytotoxicity and loss of GSH caused by H2O2. Conclusion: This study shows the protective effects of Artemisia extracts on PC12 cell line and suggested that these species could be also considered as promising neuroprotective agents in treatment of different neurodegenerative diseases. Key words: Artemisia aucheri, Artemisia turanica, Artemisia

}, keywords = {Artemisia aucheri, Artemisia turanica, Artemisia turcomanica, Oxidative stress, PC12}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_98_17}, author = {Leila Hosseinzadeh and Alireza Malekshahi and Farahnaz Ahmadi and Seyed Ahmad Emami and Marziyeh Hajialyani} } @article {368, title = {Protective Effect of Ferulago angulata (Schltdl.) Boiss. Hydroalcoholic Extract against Acetic Acid-induced Colitis in Rat: Role of Pro-inflammatory Cytokines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {391-396}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {391}, abstract = {

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease with unknown etiology. Ferulago angulata (Schltdl.) Boiss. has been proposed as an efficacious treatment for gastrointestinal ulcers and UC in the traditional Persian medicine. Objective: In the present study, we investigated the possible protective effect of F. angulata (Schltdl.) Boiss. hydroalcoholic extract (FAE) against acetic acid-induced UC in rats. Materials and Methods: The aerial parts of FAE (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) were administered orally after acetic acid induced-inflammatory bowel disease. On the 3rd day, animals were euthanized by an overdose of ether inhalation and the abdomen was rapidly dissected for macroscopic, histological, and biochemical (tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α, interleukin-1β [IL-1β]) analyses. Results: All doses of F. angulata (Schltdl.) Boiss. extract ameliorated acetic acid-induced macroscopic and microscopic scores, except for 50 mg/kg. Furthermore, our observations were accompanied by a significant (P \< 0.05) suppression in the elevated amount of IL-1β and TNF-α. Conclusion: These findings demonstrated the beneficial effect of hydroalcoholic extract of F. angulata (Schltdl.) Boiss. in acetic acid-induced ulcerative lesions via anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and mucosal healing properties. F. angulata (Schltdl.) Boiss. possesses promising protective function on colitis.

}, keywords = {Ferulago angulata (Schltdl.) Boiss, Herbal medicine, Inflammatory bowel disease, Inflammatory cytokines, Medicinal plant, Traditional medicine}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_9_18}, author = {Fatemeh Farzaei and Fatemeh Heydarpour and Mohammad Hosein Farzaei and Zahra Minush Siavash Haghighi and Zahra Abbasabadi and Ehsan Sadeghi} } @article {274, title = {Protective Effect of Struthanthus marginatus on Ethanol-induced Gastric Damage in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {143-150}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {143}, abstract = {

Background: Our research group previously characterized the antioxidant and gastroprotective effects of Struthanthus marginatus (Loranthaceae), a medicinal herb used in Brazil as a healing agent. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the chemical composition of aqueous extract of S. marginatus (AESm), as well as the mechanisms underlying its gastroprotective and ulcer healing properties using different protocols in mice. Materials and Methods: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry-mass spectrometry/diode array detection analyses to evaluate the chemical composition of AESm were conducted. The antisecretory activity (basal or stimulated) was determined using the pyloric ligature method. The gastroprotective action of nitric oxide and sulfydryl groups ({\textendash}SH groups) were evaluated using ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model. The healing ability was evaluated using an acetic acid-induced chronic ulcer. Results: Chromatographic analyses of AESm permitted to identify several compounds, including 3-trans-caffeoylquinic acid (3-trans-CGA), quercetin, and kaempferol as the major constituents. Oral treatment of animals with AESm (500 mg/kg/day) reduced the severity of ethanol-induced gastric damage similar to omeprazole and in a more pronounced manner than 3-trans-CGA. Such effect was significantly reduced in animals pretreated with Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester. In addition, AESm inhibited gastric acid secretion in pylorus-ligated mice stimulated with histamine or pilocarpine similar to atropine or cimetidine, respectively. A decrease in acetic acid-induced gastric ulcers similar to that promoted by cimetidine was also observed. Conclusion: The results show that S. marginatus is rich in flavonoids and that these compounds contribute directly to the gastroprotective and ulcer healing effects of this herb. The inhibition of gastric secretion is the possible gastroprotective mechanism.

}, keywords = {Antiulcer activity, Gastric ulcers, Herbal medicine, Struthanthus marginatus}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_76_17}, author = {S{\^o}nia Maria de Farias Freire and R{\^o}mulo Vieira Silva and T{\'a}bata Maira Freitas Morais and Rachel Melo Ribeiro and Selma do Nascimento Silva and Maria do Socorro de Sousa Cart{\'a}genes and Iracelle Carvalho Abreu and Maria Nilce de Sousa Ribeiro and Danilo da Cruz Centeno and Luce Maria Brand{\~a}o Torres and Marilene Oliveira da Rocha Borges and Antonio Carlos Rom{\~a}o Borges} } @article {218, title = {Quantitative Phytochemical Constituents and Antioxidant Activities of the Mistletoe, Phragmanthera capitata (Sprengel) Balle Extracted with Different Solvents}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {16-23}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {16}, abstract = {

Objective: The investigation aimed to evaluate the in vitro quantitative phytochemical compositions and antioxidant capacity of the dried leaves of Phragmanthera capitata extracted with different solvents. Methodology: Different phytochemical assays were used to evaluate the phenols, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidin contents of the acetone, methanol, ethanol, and aqueous extracts of the sample. Antioxidant activity was measured using 2,2diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assays. Results: Methanol had the highest extraction yield (21.50\%) followed by aqueous (10.87\%). Acetone and ethanol yielded 6.87\% and 4.3\%, respectively. However, acetone and ethanol extracts had more phenolic content (218.6 {\textpm} 3.38 and 214.8 {\textpm} 3.56 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g, respectively) that were significantly higher (P \< 0.05) than the methanol and aqueous extracts (203.8 {\textpm} 1.95 and 175.5 {\textpm} 0.32 mg GAE/mg, respectively). Acetone extract also had more flavonoid and proanthocyanidin contents (679.8 {\textpm} 6.26 mg quercetin equivalent/g and 645.7 {\textpm} 6.35 mg catechin equivalent/g, respectively) that were significantly higher than the other solvent extracts (P \< 0.05). All the solvent fractions showed great antioxidant activities with the acetone fraction having the highest capacity based on ABTS, DPPH, and TAC assays (half maximal inhibitory concentration [IC50] = \<5 {\textmu}g/ mL, 24.5 {\textmu}g/mL, and 85 {\textmu}g/mL respectively). The methanol extract however had FRAP and nitric oxide antioxidant activities (IC50 = 302 {\textmu}g/ mL and \<25 {\textmu}g/mL respectively). Conclusion: The findings of this study provide evidence that P. capitata has potential as a natural source of antioxidant with acetone showing to be the best extractant of the polyphenolics with corresponding higher antioxidant activities.

}, keywords = {Extractant, Loranthaceae, Mistletoe, Phragmanthera capitata, Polyphenolics, Total antioxidant activity}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_65_17}, author = {Franklin Uangbaoje Ohikhena and Olubunmi Abosede Wintola and Anthony Jide Afolayan} } @article {423, title = {Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides and Hippophae salicifolia) Seed Oil in Combating Inflammation: A Mechanistic Approach}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {404-407}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {404}, abstract = {

Objective: This study assessed and compared in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of Hippophae rhamnoides (HR) and Hippophae salicifolia (HS) seed oil. Materials and Methods: HR and HS seed oil was extracted by Soxhlet apparatus and characterized using gas chromatography mass spectroscopy. Wistar rats were used for predicting anti-inflammatory activity. Results: HR and HS (2 and 4 ml/kg, respectively) exhibited dose-dependent inhibition of carrageenan-, histamine-, prostaglandin-, bradykinin-, and arachidonic acid (AA)-induced paw edema. Significant leukotriene-induced inhibition was observed in HR. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) and lipid-peroxidase (LPO) assays were performed and HR and HS seed oil significantly decreased the level of MPO and LPO at 4 ml/kg dose (P \< 0.001). Conclusion: Dual inhibition of AA metabolism in HR and cyclooxygenase inhibition in HS was observed that might be attributed to the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), specifically, a correct balance of n-3 and n-6 PUFAs. However, the findings should be interpreted in the light of limitation of this study. Detailed experimentation at enzymatic levels would further help in substantiating the results inferred in this study.

}, keywords = {Antibradykinin, Antihistaminic, Arachidonic acid, Leukotriene, Polyunsaturated fatty acid, Prostaglandin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_71_18}, author = {Suchita Dubey and M. V. Ramana and Anuradha Mishra and Pushpraj S. Gupta and Himani Awasthi} } @article {363, title = {Solubility of Calcium Oxalate and Calcium Phosphate Crystallization in the Presence of Crude Extract and Fractions from Kelussia odoratissima Mozaff}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {379-384}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {379}, abstract = {

Background and Aim: Urinary tract stones are the third common urinary tract disease that may lead to renal failure. Kelussia odoratissima is traditionally used in the treatment of kidney stones in Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari region. This study was designed to investigate in vitro effect of crude extract and fractions of K. odoratissima on kidney stones (calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate). Materials and Methods: A total of 70\% ethanolic extract of K. odoratissima was prepared by maceration method followed by liquid{\textendash}liquid extraction with hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and saturated n-butanol to get four fractions. Calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate were synthesized and then were treated with hydroalcoholic extract and fractions. Their effects on the dissolution of generated stone were assayed by calcium kit. The stones were synthesized and confirmed by fourier-transform infrared technique. Results: Results showed that total extract and its fractions had significant potency to dissolve calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate crystals. The results indicate the higher potency of fractions containing nonpolar compounds to dissolve calcium phosphate and calcium oxalate stones compared to the fractions containing polar compounds. n-butanolic fraction had the least effect and hexane fraction had the greatest effect on the calcium phosphate stones. Furthermore, the total extract has less dissolution ability, compared to the fractions. Conclusion: The obtained results of this study exhibited that the use of K. odoratissima extract and its fractions could help to dissolve urinary stones. Therefore, it can be effective in prevention and treatment of kidney stones on people who are prone to the formation of calcium oxalate and phosphate stones.

}, keywords = {Calcium oxalate, Calcium phosphate, Extract, Kelussia odoratissima, Kidney stone}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_68_18}, author = {Akram Torki and Tahereh Hosseinabadi and Sheida Fasihzadeh and Arezo Sadeghimanesh and Joko Priyanto Wibowo and Zahra Lorigooini} } @article {345, title = {Study of Glucose Uptake Enhancing Potential of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) Leaves Extract on 3T3 L1 Cells Line and Evaluation of its Antioxidant Potential}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {347-353}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {347}, abstract = {

Background: The incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing at an alarming rate globally. There is a need for suitable natural alternatives for its treatment, as the regular use of drugs causes several secondary health issues. Aim: This study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the phenol and flavonoid content; antioxidant and anti-diabetic activity of fenugreek seeds and leaves in water and ethanolic extracts. Materials and Methods: Dried and powdered seeds and leaves of fenugreek were treated at different time and temperature combinations (100{\textdegree}C for 10 min; 80{\textdegree}C for 30 min; 60{\textdegree}C for 1 h; 37{\textdegree}C for 6 h; 24{\textdegree}C [room temperature] for 24 h; 100{\textdegree}C for 10 min followed by overnight soaking). Total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and glucose uptake assays on 3T3-L1 cell lines were performed on the extracts. Results: The results show that fenugreek leaves treated at 100{\textdegree}C for 10 min and overnight soaking yield extracts with the highest concentrations of desired phenols (46.08 {\textpm} 0.15 mg GAE/g sample) and flavonoid content (13.02 {\textpm} 0.44 mg/g sample) and antioxidant activity (DPPH) (45.41 {\textpm} 2.1\%) with enhanced glucose uptake activity in 3T3-L1 cell lines. Conclusion: The phenolic and flavonoid content, DPPH radical scavenging activity and antidiabetic activity was highest in the water extract of fenugreek leaves treated at 100{\textdegree}C for 10 min and subsequent soaking for 24 h before filtration as compared to the other protocols tested. Furthermore, water extracts showed enhanced activity as compared to the ethanol extracts in case of both seeds and leaves and in all the treatment combinations.

}, keywords = {3T3-L1 cell lines, Antioxidant, Diabetes, Fenugreek, Glucose uptake}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_50_18}, author = {Debarupa Hajra and Santanu Paul} } @article {437, title = {The Study of Safety and Skin Whitening Efficacy of Melinjo (Gnetum gnemon L.) Seed Extract-Loaded Lipid Particle Gel}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {432-436}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {432}, abstract = {

Background: Melinjo (Gnetum gnemon L.) seed extract (MSE) is potential as skin-whitening agent because it contains trans-resveratrol and its derivatives, to inhibit tyrosinase in melanogenesis process. Using MSE in cosmetic products will be challenging due to resveratrol chemical instability and bioavailability in the skin. Many cosmetic products have been developed using lipid particle technology to improve their limitation. The objective of this research was to examine the skin safety and whitening efficacy of MSE-loaded lipid particle gel in healthy human subjects. Materials and Methods: Single occlusive closed patch test for 24 h was used as the skin irritation analysis. Irritation responses were graded after patch removal and compared to the control for evaluation. The efficacy study was performed using Mexameter to measure skin melanin index on 25 female volunteers. Results: The result showed the test product did not induce skin irritation effect. The skin melanin index was statistically significant decreased (P \< 0.05) after 28 days of application the test product, with the averaged by 3.50\%, and skin melanin index changed by increase 0.75\% in the control group. Conclusion: Application MSE-loaded lipid particle gel can brighten the skin, without cause irritation under normal conditions of use.

}, keywords = {Gel, Gnetum gnemon, Melinjo seed extract, Resveratrol, Safety, Skin whitening}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_17_18}, author = {Imalia Nurrachma Ayuningtyas and Abdul Mun{\textquoteright}im and Sutriyo Sutriyo} } @article {276, title = {Therapeutic Implications of Ajwa Dates (Phoenix dactylifera) in the Inhibition of Liver Tissue Alterations through the Modulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Phosphatase, and Tensin Homolog Gene}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {April 2018}, pages = {151-155}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {151}, abstract = {

Background: Dates are a plant species in the palm family, Arecaceae and is used as staple food in the Middle East for thousands of years. Aim: The current study was undertaken to evaluate the protective role of ajwa dates extract (ADE) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatotoxicity. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out on mice mode through different groups as control group without treatment of CCl4, ADE and CCl4-treated group, and CCl4-treated group only. Results: This finding demonstrated that histological alterations including degeneration, congestion and infiltration of lymphocytes were seen in the liver tissue in CCl4-treated groups. However, ADE-treated groups showed protection to attenuate CCl4-induced liver toxicity through maintenance of architecture of hepatocytes as evident of congestion, necrosis, and degeneration was not noticed. Moreover, a few number of infiltrations of lymphocytes were noticed in ADE-treated groups. However, expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein was evaluated in all groups, and it was observed that PTEN was highly expressed in control group and ADE-treated group. Whereas, PTEN expression was also observed in CCl4-treated group, but out of eight cases, one case showed less expression of PTEN protein. The difference in expression pattern of PTEN protein in CCl4-treated group and ajwa-treated group was statically insignificant (P \> 0.05). VEGF was not expressed in control and ajwa-treated group. While expression of VEGF protein was observed in CCl4-treated group, and it was noticed that two out of eight cases showed expression of VEGF protein. Conclusion: The findings supported the idea that ADE might reduce liver tissue alterations or maintenance of architecture of hepatocytes. Ajwa dates-treated group showed decreased in the VEGF expression and such angiogenesis process involve in migration and differentiation of endothelial cells as well as prevent the loss of PTEN protein expression.

}, keywords = {Ajwa dates, Apoptosis, Carbon tetrachloride, Hepatoprotective activity, Phosphatase and tensin homolog, Vascular endothelial growth}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_119_17}, author = {Arshad H. Rahmani and Amjad A. Khan and Ali Y. Babiker and Masood A. Khan and Mohammad A. Alzohairy} } @article {222, title = {Thermogenic Blend Alone or in Combination with Whey Protein Supplement Stimulates Fat Metabolism and Improves Body Composition in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {February 2018}, pages = {37-43}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {37}, abstract = {

Background: Certain food ingredients promote thermogenesis and fat loss. Similarly, whey protein improves body composition. Due to this potential synergistic effect, a blend of thermogenic food ingredients containing African mango, citrus fruit extract, Coleus forskohlii, dihydrocapsiate, and red pepper was tested alone and in combination with a whey protein supplement for its effects on body composition in sedentary mice during high-fat diet. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the interaction of thermogenic foods on improving body composition during consumption of an unhealthy diet. Materials and Methods: C57BL/6J young adult male mice (n = 12) were placed on a 60\% high-fat diet for 4 weeks and subsequently randomly assigned to receive daily dosing by oral gavage of vehicle, the novel blend alone or with whey protein supplement for another 4 weeks. Body composition, thermal imaging of brown adipose tissue (BAT), mitochondrial BAT uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), and plasma levels of leptin were assessed. Results: Novel blend alone and in combination with protein supplement attenuated body weight gain, fat, and increased surface BAT temperature in comparison to vehicle control and to baseline (P \< 0.5). The combination of novel blend and whey protein supplement also significantly increased UCP1 protein expression in BAT mitochondria in comparison to vehicle control and novel blend alone (P \< 0.5). Conclusions: These data indicate that this novel blend stimulates thermogenesis and attenuates the gain in body weight and fat in response to high-fat diet in mice and these effects were improved when administered in combination with whey protein supplement.

}, keywords = {African mango, Capsiate, Forskolin, Synephrine, Thermogenesis, Whey protein}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_53_17}, author = {Paula de Lima Vieira-Brock and Brent M. Vaughan and David L. Vollmer} } @article {431, title = {Validation of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Method for Quantification of Costunolide Content in Laurus nobilis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {422-425}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {422}, abstract = {

Objective: To establish a method to determine the content of costunolide in Laurus nobilis leaves by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Materials and Methods: The separation was performed on a reversed-phase C18 column (100 {\r A}, 150 mm {\texttimes} 4.6 mm, 5 μm pore size) using a mobile phase composed of water:acetonitrile (40:60) at a flow rate of 1.0 ml/min. The detection was carried out on a ultraviolet detector at 210 nm. The developed method was validated according to the requirements for International Conference on Harmonisation guidelines. Results: The proposed method for costunolide was validated for linearity with excellent correlation coefficient (r2 \> 0.999). The relative standard deviation (RSD) is less than 1\% in precision (i.e repeatability and intermediate) of the method. The recovery rate for costunolide was within 100.54\%{\textendash}102.62\%. The limit of detection and limit of quantitation were 2.29 and 6.64 parts per million, respectively. Conclusion: The developed HPLC method is simple, rapid, precisely, accurately, and widely accepted and it is recommended for efficient assays in routine work.

}, keywords = {Costunolide, Laurus nobilis, Linearity, Precision, Recovery, Validation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_31_18}, author = {Puttaswamy Naveen and Harakanahalli Basavegowda Lingaraju1 and Siddappa Chandrappa1 and Koretekera Shekharappa Priya, and Kodimule Shyam Prasad} } @article {346, title = {Zingiber zerumbet Rhizomes Extract Exhibits Faster Open Wound Healing in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {10}, year = {2018}, month = {October 2018}, pages = {354-360}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {354}, abstract = {

Background: Zingiber zerumbet rhizome ethyl acetate extract (ZZRE) has the potential to be developed as a wound-healing agent with its profound anti-inflammatory property. Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the wound healing effects of 5\% ZZRE on open wound in rats. Materials and Methods: Wistar rats (n = 90) were divided into three groups, negative control (treated with PBS), positive control (treated with solcoseryl gel), and 5\% ethyl acetate extract of Z. zerumbet, respectively. Wounds were induced on the rat{\textquoteright}s dorsal surface on day 0. Measurements of wound closure, total protein, uronic acid, hexosamine, cathepsin B, hydroxyproline, and histological observations were conducted on the wound tissues. Results: ZZRE-treated group showed increment in wound closure, protein, and hydroxyproline level. The uronic acid and hexosamine levels of ZZRE-treated wounds significantly increased on the 3rd day (P \< 0.05). Histological observations demonstrated formation of granulation tissue was faster and denser in ZZRE-treated group. Conclusion: ZZRE enhances open wound healing in rats and has potential to be developed as a healing agent in the future.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Extract, Proteins, Rhizomes, Wound healing, Zingiber zerumbet}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_14_18}, author = {Asmah Hamid and Chong Pek Lian and Nur Hafiza Salleh Hudin and Ahmad Rohi Ghazali and Nurul Farhana Jufri} } @article {534, title = {The Activity of Immunoglobulin Y Anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis on Proliferation and Cytokine Expression of Rat Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s5-s8}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s5}, abstract = {

Objective: It has long been known that chickens, like mammals, are capable of producing antigen-specific immunoglobulin Y (IgY), which functions similar to IgG. The present study was performed to investigate the activity of IgY anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis on proliferation, interleukin (IL)-2, and interferon (IFN)-γ expression of rat peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Materials and Methods: The activity of IgY anti-M. tuberculosis in different doses (25, 50, and 100 μg/ml) on rat PBMCs proliferation was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. The production of IL-2 and IFN-γ in the PBMC supernatant was determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Investigation was performed on mRNA expression of IL-2 and IFN-γ by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: IgY anti-M. tuberculosis significantly increased the proliferation of rat PBMC. Furthermore, IgY anti-M. tuberculosis dose dependently increased IL-2 and IFN-γ production in PBMC, suggesting that pharmacological activities of IgY anti-M. tuberculosis in PBMC may be mediated by regulating the production of cytokines. In the RT-PCR, expression of cytokines such as IL-2 and IFN-γ in PBMC cultures was increased by IgY anti-M. tuberculosis. Conclusions: We concluded that increasing IL-2 and IFN-γ productions in PBMC was related to IgY anti-M. tuberculosis, stimulating the mRNA transcription (gene expression) of these cytokines which can induce proliferation of PBMC.

}, keywords = {Immunoglobulin Y anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Interferon-γ, interleukin-2, Rat peripheral blood mononuclear cell}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_66_17}, author = {Sri Agus Sudjarwo and Koerniasari Eraiko and Giftania Wardani Sudjarwo and Koerniasari} } @article {391, title = {Ameliorative Effect of Curcumin on Olanzapine-induced Obesity in Sprague-Dawley Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {247-252}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {247}, abstract = {

Objective: To evaluate the effect of curcumin on olanzapine-induced obesity in rats. Materials and Methods: Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were used for experiments. The animals were divided into six groups, namely, normal control, olanzapine control, betahistine (10 mg/kg), and curcumin 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg treated groups. Except the normal control group, all other animals were administered with olanzapine 4 mg/kg intraperitoneally to induce obesity. The drugs were administered once daily, per oral for 28 days. During the experiment, body weight changes and behavior alterations were monitored at regular intervals. At the end of the experiment, blood sample was collected from all the experimental animals for biochemical analysis. Part of the liver and kidney tissues was harvested from the sacrificed animals and preserved in neutral formalin for histopathological studies. Results: Curcumin showed a significant reduction in olanzapine-induced body weight gain on the rats and improved the locomotor effects. The effect of curcumin on olanzapine-induced body weight gain is not comparable with that of betahistine. Conclusion: This study has shown metabolic alteration effect of curcumin on olanzapine, an antipsychotic drug, treated SD rats.

}, keywords = {Betahistine, Curcumin, Obesity, Olanzapine}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_8_17}, author = {Subramani Parasuraman and Khor Ming Zhen and Urmila Banik and Parayil Varghese Christapher} } @article {263, title = {Analysis of Soluble Proteins in Natural Cordyceps sinensis from Different Producing Areas by Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate- Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis and Two-dimensional Electrophoresis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {34-38}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {34}, abstract = {

Background: As one of the bioactive components in Cordyceps sinensis (CS), proteins were rarely used as index components to study the correlation between the protein components and producing areas of natural CS. Objective: Protein components of 26 natural CS samples produced in Qinghai, Tibet, and Sichuan provinces were analyzed and compared to investigate the relationship among 26 different producing areas. Materials and Methods: Proteins from 26 different producing areas were extracted by Tris-HCl buffer with Triton X-100, and separated using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE). Results: The SDS-PAGE results indicated that the number of protein bands and optical density curves of proteins in 26 CS samples was a bit different. However, the 2-DE results showed that the numbers and abundance of protein spots in protein profiles of 26 samples were obviously different and showed certain association with producing areas. Conclusions: Based on the expression values of matched protein spots, 26 batches of CS samples can be divided into two main categories (Tibet and Qinghai) by hierarchical cluster analysis.

}, keywords = {Hierarchical cluster analysis, Natural Cordyceps sinensis, Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, Soluble protein, Two-dimensional electrophoresis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199782}, author = {Chun-Hong Li and Hua-Li Zuo and Qian Zhang and Feng-Qin Wang and Yuan-Jia Hu and Zheng-Ming Qian and Wen-Jia Li and Zhi-Ning Xia and Feng-Qing Yang} } @article {456, title = {Annonacin Exerts Antitumor Activity through Induction of Apoptosis and Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinase Inhibition}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {378-383}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {378}, abstract = {

Background: Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynecologic malignancy in developed countries. Annonacin, a natural pure compound extracted from the seeds of Annona muricata, is a potential alternative therapeutic agent to treat EC. Objective: To study the antitumor activity of annonacin and its mechanism of action in EC cells (ECCs). Materials and Methods: Viability of ECCs treated with annonacin for 72 h was determined using methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay. The induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptotic cell death was evaluated using propidium iodide and annexin V-PE/7-AAD assay, respectively. DNA strand breaks were visualized using transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay, and the effects of annonacin on survival signaling were determined using western blotting. Results: Annonacin exhibited antiproliferative effects on EC cell lines (ECC-1 and HEC-1A) and primary cells (EC6-ept and EC14-ept) with EC50 values ranging from 4.62 to 4.92 {\textmu}g/ml. EC cells were shown arrested at G2/M phase after treated with 4 {\textmu}g/ml of annonacin for 72 h. This led to a significant increase in apoptotic cell death (65.7\%) in these cells when compared to vehicle-treated cells (P \< 0.005). We further showed that annonacin-mediated apoptotic cell death was associated with an increase in caspase-3 cleavage and DNA fragmentation. Cell apoptosis was accompanied with downregulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase survival protein expression and induction of G2/M cell cycle arrest. Conclusion: Annonacin may be a potential novel therapeutic agent for EC patients.

}, keywords = {Annona muricata, Apoptosis, caspase-3, Cell cycle arrest, Extracellular signal-regulated kinase, Uterine cancer}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_19_17}, author = {Chee Voon Yap and Kavita S Subramaniam and Sik Wey Khor and Ivy Chung} } @article {283, title = {Antidiabetic Effects of Aqueous and Dichloromethane/Methanol Stem Bark Extracts of Pterocarpus soyauxii Taub (Papilionaceae) on Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {80-86}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {80}, abstract = {

Aim of the Study: The aim is to evaluate the hypoglycemic and antidiabetic effects of aqueous and CH2Cl2/CH3OH stem bark extracts of Pterocarpus soyauxii Taub in normal and diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic and normal adult Wistar rats were orally administered with aqueous and CH2Cl2/CH3OH plant extracts of P. soyauxii at various doses (38{\textendash}300 mg/kg) in a single administration. In addition, STZ-induced diabetic rats received prolonged daily administration for 14 days. Glibenclamide (GB) (10 mg/kg) was used as reference treatment. In acute test, fasting blood glucose was followed for 5 h. In subacute test, body weight, food and water intakes, and blood glucose were followed weekly and serum biochemical parameters evaluated after 14 days treatment. Results: Acute administration of aqueous and CH2Cl2/ CH3OH stem bark extracts moderately decreased fasting blood glucose compared to GB, significantly in normal rats (P \< 0.05 to P \< 0.01) but, as GB, not significantly in diabetic rats. Prolonged treatments in diabetic rats with aqueous and CH2Cl2/CH3OH extracts reduced blood glucose to an extent, respectively, superior or similar to GB. Moreover, P. soyauxii also significantly (P \< 0.01) reduced weight loss, and diabetes increased serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and transaminases (alanine aminotransferase/ aspartate aminotransferase) elevations. Conclusion: P. soyauxii Taub stem bark extracts have possible value for antidiabetic oral medication.

}, keywords = {Antihyperglycemic, Diabetes mellitus, Phytotherapy, Pterocarpus soyauxii Taub, Rats, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199767}, author = {Marie Claire Tchamadeu and Paul D{\'e}sir{\'e} Djomeni Dzeufiet and Nelly Blaes and Jean-Pierre Girolami and Pierre Kamtchouing and Th{\'e}ophile Dimo} } @article {296, title = {Antifungal Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Chrysobalanus icaco Against Oral Clinical Isolates of Candida Species}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {96-100}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {96}, abstract = {

Background: Chrysobalanus icaco is a medicinal plant commonly used to treat fungal infections in Brazilian Amazonian region. Objective: This work aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of C. icaco (HECi) against oral clinical isolates of Candida spp. and to determine the pharmacognostic parameters of the herbal drug and the phytochemical characteristics of HECi. Materials and Methods: The pharmacognostic characterization was performed using pharmacopoeial techniques. Phytochemical screening, total flavonoid content, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis were used to investigate the chemical composition of the HECi. A broth microdilution method was used to determine the antifungal activity of the extract against 11 oral clinical isolates of Candida spp. Results: Herbal drug presented parameters which were within the limits set forth in current Brazilian legislation. A high amount of flavonoid content (132,959.33 {\textpm} 12,598.23 μg quercetin equivalent/g of extract) was found in HECi. Flavonoids such as myricetin and rutin were detected in the extract by HPLC analyses. HECi showed antifungal activity against oral isolates of Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis (minimum inhibitory concentrations [MIC] 3.12 and 6.25 mg/mL, respectively), and C. albicans American American Type Culture Collection (MIC \<1.56 mg/mL). Conclusion: HECi was shown to possess antifungal activity against Candida species with clinical importance in the development of oral candidiasis, and these activities may be related to its chemical composition. The antifungal activity detected for C. icaco against Candida species with clinical importance in the development of oral candidiasis can be attributed to the presence of flavonoids in HECi, characterized by chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques.

}, keywords = {Antifungal activity, Candida spp., Chrysobalanus icaco, Flavonoids, Myricetin, Rutin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199772}, author = {Jo{\~a}o Paulo Bastos Silva and Ana Regina Mau{\'e}s Noronha Peres and Thiago Portal Paix{\~a}o and Andressa Santa Br{\'\i}gida Silva and Ana Cristina Baetas and Wagner Luiz Ramos Barbosa and Wagner Luiz Ramos Barbosa and Marta Chagas Monteiro and Marcieni Ata{\'\i}de Andrade} } @article {251, title = {Antihyperglycemic Activity of the Leaves from Annona cherimola Miller and Rutin on Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {1-6}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Background: Annona cherimola, known as {\textquotedblleft}chirimoya{\textquotedblright} has been reported in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes. Objective: The aims of the present study were to validate and assess the traditional use of A. cherimola as an antidiabetic agent. Materials and Methods: The ethanol extract from A. cherimola (300 mg/ kg, EEAc), subsequent fractions (100 mg/kg), and rutin (30 mg/kg) were studied on alloxan-induced type 2 diabetic (AITD) and normoglycemic rats. In addition, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and oral sucrose tolerance test (OSTT) were performed in normoglycemic rats. Molecular docking technique was used to conduct the computational study. Results: Bioassay-guided fractionation of EEAc afforded as major antihyperglycemic compound, rutin. EEAc attenuated postprandial hyperglycemia in acute test using AITD rats (331.5 mg/dL) carrying the glycemic levels to 149.2 mg/ dL. Rutin after 2 h, attenuated postprandial hyperglycemia in an acute assay using AITD rats such as EEAc, with maximum effect (150.0 mg/dL) being seen at 4 h. The antihyperglycemic activities of EEAc and rutin were comparable with acarbose (151.3 mg/dL). In the subchronic assay on AITD rats, the EEAc and rutin showed a reduction of the blood glucose levels since the 1st week of treatment, reaching levels similar to normoglycemic state (116.9 mg/kg) that stayed constant for the rest of the assay. OGTT and OSTT showed that EEAc and rutin significantly lowered blood glucose levels in normoglycemic rats at 2 h after a glucose or sucrose load such as acarbose. Computational molecular docking showed that rutin interacted with four amino acids residues in the enzyme α-glucosidase. Conclusion: The results suggest that rutin an α-glucosidase inhibitor was responsible in part of the antihyperglycemic activity of A. cherimola. Its in vivo antihyperglycemic activity is in good agreement with the traditional use of A. cherimola for the treatment of diabetes.

}, keywords = {Annona cherimola Miller, Annonaceae, Rutin, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, α-Glucosidase}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199781}, author = {Fernando Calzadax and Fernando Calzada and Jes{\'u}s Iv{\'a}n Solares-Pascasio and RM Ordo{\~n}ez-Razox and RM Ordo{\~n}ez-Razo and Claudia Velazquez and Elizabeth Barbosa and Normand Garc{\'\i}a-Hern{\'a}ndez and David Mendez-Luna and Jos{\'e} Correa-Basurto} } @article {549, title = {Antihyperglycemic Potential of Saponin-enriched Fraction from Pithecellobium dulce Benth. Seed Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s23-s26}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s26}, abstract = {

Background: Indian traditional system of medicine uses Pithecellobium dulce for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Objectives: This study aims to develop an extract rich in saponins derived from seeds of the plant and to evaluate its antihyperglycemic potential in vitro and in vivo. Materials and Methods: Defatted seeds were extracted with methanol and processed to afford saponin-enriched fraction (Pithecellobium dulce saponin-enriched fraction [PDSEF]). This fraction was evaluated for its potential to inhibit enzymes such as α-glucosidase and α-amylase, in vitro. The fraction was subjected to oral toxicity study followed by in vivo sucrose tolerance test. An analytical high-performance liquid chromatography method was developed for fingerprinting of the fraction. Results: The method adopted for enrichment of saponins was robust enough to enrich saponin content to 96.37\% {\textpm}1.21\% w/w. PDSEF displayed superior inhibition of enzymes (α-glucosidase and α-amylase with IC50 of 5.12 {\textpm} 0.15 {\textmu}g/ml and 17.28 {\textpm} 0.23 {\textmu}g/ml, respectively) compared to acarbose. It was found to be safe in mice up to 2000 mg/kg and significantly prevented blood glucose level in sucrose tolerance test by inhibiting enzymes responsible for hydrolysis of sucrose. Conclusion: PDSEF displayed excellent antihyperglycemic activity in vitro and in vivo and should be evaluated further to develop it as a promising drug for the management of diabetes mellitus.

}, keywords = {Antihyperglycemic, Pithecellobium dulce, saponins, α-amylase, α-glucosidase}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_18_17}, author = {Mahesh Kumar and Jeyabalan Govindrajan and Narendra Kumar Nyola} } @article {530, title = {Antinociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Triterpenes from Pluchea quitoc DC. Aerial Parts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s1-s4}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s1}, abstract = {

Background: Pluchea quitoc DC. (Asteraceae), a medicinal plant known as {\textquotedblleft}quitoco,{\textquotedblright} {\textquotedblleft}caculucage,{\textquotedblright} {\textquotedblleft}tabacarana{\textquotedblright} and {\textquotedblleft}madre-cravo,{\textquotedblright} is indicated for inflammatory conditions such as bronchitis, arthritis, and inflammation in the uterus and digestive system. Objective: This study evaluated the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of the triterpenes compounds obtained from P. quitoc aerial parts. Materials and Methods: The triterpenes compounds β-amyrin, taraxasterol and pseudo-taraxasterol in a mixture (T); β-amyrin, taraxasterol and pseudo-taraxasterol acetates in a mixture (Ta); β-amyrin, taraxasterol, pseudo-taraxasterol acetates in a mixture with β-amyrin, taraxasterol and pseudo-taraxasterol myristates (Tafe) were analyzed in the models of nociception and inflammation. The evaluation of antinociceptive activity was carried out by the acetic acid-induced writhing and tail-flick tests while leukocyte migration to the peritoneal cavity was used for anti-inflammatory profile. Results: The oral administration of T or Tafe (40 mg/kg and 70 mg/kg) and Ta (70 mg/kg) to mice reduced acetic acid-induced writhing. The tail-flick response of mice was not affected by T or Tafe (40 mg/kg). T or Tafe (40 mg/kg) and Ta (70 mg/kg) also inhibited peritoneal leukocyte infiltration following the injection of carrageenan. Conclusion: The results demonstrate the anti-inflammatory and peripheral antinociceptive activity of the triterpenes β-amyrin, taraxasterol, and pseudo-taraxasterol that were decreased when these were acetylated; while the acetylated triterpenes in mixture with myristyloxy triterpenes improved this activity. These compounds seem, at least in part, to be related to the plant{\textquoteright}s reported activity.

}, keywords = {Antinociceptive, Anti-inflammatory, Pluchea quitoc, Triterpene}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_51_17}, author = {Francisco Alcione Nobre da Silva and S{\^o}nia Maria de Farias Freire and Marilene Oliveira da Rocha Borges and Francisco Erivaldo Vidal Barros and Maria da Gl{\'o}ria Teixeira de Sousa and Maria Nilce de Sousa Ribeiro and Giselle Maria Skelding Pinheiro Guilhon and Adolfo Henrique M{\"u}ller and Antonio Carlos Rom{\~a}o Borges} } @article {450, title = {Antioxidant Activity and Phenolic and Flavonoid Contents of the Extract and Subfractions of Euphorbia splendida Mobayen}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {362-365}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {362}, abstract = {

Introduction: The harmful action of the free radicals which cause the oxidative stress can be blocked by antioxidant substances, and different plant extracts showed antioxidant activity. The aim of this study is was evaluation the antioxidant activity of total methanol extract (ME) and subfractions of Euphorbia splendida Mobayen. Materials and Methods: Aerial part of E. splendida was extracted by maceration with methanol and then subfractionated by liquid{\textendash}liquid fractionation using petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and water. Antioxidant activity was assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity assay, reduction of ferric ions and ferrous ion chelating potential. Total phenolic contents (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFC) were estimated with Folin-Ciocaltue and aluminum chloride methods, respectively. Results: The findings revealed that E. splendida ME and subfractions showed a dose-dependent antioxidant activity. ME showed the highest antioxidant activity based on total reduction capability and ferrous ions chelating assay tests. Aqueous fraction and then ethyl acetate fraction showed the best IC50 in DPPH radical scavenging test in comparison to butylated hydroxytoluene. ME showed the highest value of TPC and TFC (270.74 {\textpm} 0.005 mg/g and 208.23 {\textpm} 0.007 mg/g, respectively). Conclusion: This study showed that the extract and subfractions of E. splendida have antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activity of the extract and fractions might be attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds. More studies are needed to determine the active antioxidant compounds of this plant.

}, keywords = {1, 1-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, Antioxidant, Euphorbia splendida, Flavonoid, Fractions, Free radicals}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_12_17}, author = {Zahra Kefayati and Saeed Mohammadi Motamed and Asie Shojaii and Mitra Noorix and Mitra Noori and Roshanak Ghods} } @article {388, title = {Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activity of Asparagopsis taxiformis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = { 238-246}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = { 238-}, abstract = {

Background: Asparagopsis taxiformis (Rhodophyta) is a species of red algae belonging to the family Bonnemaisoniaceae. The objective of the present study was to evaluate antioxidant and antiproliferative activity of four fractions (petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and methanol) of A. taxiformis. Materials and Methods: The red seaweed, A. taxiformis was collected from Mandapam Coastal Region, Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu. Epiphytes present in algal extracts were cleaned and washed with seawater and fresh water. In vitro antioxidant activity was determined by hydrogen peroxide scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power, superoxide radical, metal-chelating activity, and phosphomolybdenum reduction assay. Further, the cytotoxic activity was evaluated using brine shrimp lethality assay. This method is rapid, reliable, inexpensive, and convenient as compared to other cytotoxicity assays. Gallic acid, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, ascorbic acid, and quercetin were used as reference antioxidant compounds. Results: Reducing power of chloroform extract increased with increasing concentration of the extract. The radical scavenging activity of extracts was in the following order: ascorbic acid \> methanol \> chloroform \> petroleum ether \> ethyl acetate. Highest metal-chelating activity was observed in petroleum ether fractions (63\%). Reduction of Mo (VI) to Mo (V) increased in methanol extract (27\%) at 100 μg/ml. Moreover, all fractions had an inhibitory effect on the formation of hydroxyl radicals. Results showed that ethyl acetate, methanol, and petroleum ether fractions exhibited potent cytotoxic activity with median lethal concentration values of 84.33, 104.4, and 104.4 μg/ml, respectively. Conclusion: Thus, the results showed that red algae possess strong antioxidant and cytotoxic activity that suggests their possible use in the development of pharmaceutical drugs.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Asparagopsis taxiformis, Cytotoxic, Free radical scavenging}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_128_16}, author = {PV Neethu and K Suthindhiran and MA Jayasri} } @article {453, title = {Antioxidant and Intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species/Reactive Nitrogen Species Scavenging Activities of Three Porcupine Bezoars from Hystrix brachyura}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {366-371}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {366}, abstract = {

Background: Porcupine dates are phytobezoar stones that are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments against cancer, postsurgical recovery, dengue fever, etc. The medicinal values have not been scientifically investigated due to the availability and high pricing of the dates. Objectives: This paper represents the first report on the phytochemical content, in vitro antioxidant and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS)/reactive nitrogen species (RNS) scavenging properties of the extracts of three porcupine dates: grassy date (GD), black date (BD), and powdery date (PD). Materials and Methods: Dried samples were extracted with methanol and lyophilized. Samples were screened for phytochemical constituents, in vitro antioxidant assays based on total phenolic content (TPC), free radical scavenging, and ferric reducing power (FRP) as well as intracellular ROS and RNS scavenging properties. Results: Phytochemical screening and total tannins assay revealed that tannins, cardiac glycosides, and terpenoids were found in all porcupine dates with tannins forming the major portion of the TPC. In comparison to GD, BD and PD were found to contain significantly high TPC, radical scavenging activity, and FRP. At 200 {\textmu}g/ml, BD and PD remarkably scavenged 2, 2-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride-induced ROS in RAW264.7 cells and significantly reduced nitric oxide in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated cells. Conclusion: Overall, BD and PD exhibited promising in vitro antioxidant as well as intracellular ROS/RNS scavenging properties.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Oxidative stress, Phytochemical, Porcupine date, Traditional Chinese Medicine}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_145_16}, author = {Peng Nian Yew and Wai Leng Lee and Yau Yan Lim} } @article {535, title = {Antiplasmodial Activity of Isolated Polyphenols from Alectryon serratus Leaves Against 3D7 Plasmodium falciparum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s57-s60}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s57}, abstract = {

Background: Alectryon serratus was selected from a screening program devoted to search naturally occurring antimalarial compound from plants in Alas Purwo National Park, Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia. The previous studies showed that ethanol extract of A. serratus leaves contains some polyphenol compounds. Objective: This study was designed to isolate and investigate antiplasmodial activity of polyphenol compounds. Material and Methods: The ethanol extract of A. serratus leaves was fractioned using liquid{\textendash}liquid fractionation and column chromatography. Isolated compounds were identified using High-performance liquid chromatography, ultraviolet-visible, nuclear magnetic resonance, and compared with references. The isolates were tested in vitro for antiplasmodial activity against chloroquine-sensitive 3D7 strain of Plasmodium falciparum. Thin blood smears were used to assess the levels of parasitemia and growth inhibition of the isolates. Result: Half maximal Inhibitory concentration of Gallic acid (1), methyl gallate (2), and kempferol-3-O-rhamnoside (3) were 0.0722 μM, 0.0128 μM, and 3.4595 μM, respectively. Conclusion: The results suggest that gallic acid, methyl gallate, and kempferol-3-O-rhamnoside isolated from A. serratus leaves have antiplasmodial activity and are potential to be developed as antimalarial drugs.

}, keywords = {Alectryon serratus, Antiplasmodial, Polyphenol}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_39_17}, author = {Uswatun Khasanah and Aty WidyaWaruyanti and Achmad Fuad Hafid and Mulyadi Tanjung} } @article {321, title = {Antiprotozoal Activities of Tiliroside and other Compounds from Sphaeralcea angustifolia (Cav.) G. Don}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {133-137}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {133}, abstract = {

Background: Sphaeralcea angustifolia (Malvaceae) is extensively used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea and dysentery. Objective: The current study was to validate the traditional use of S. angustifolia for the treatment of diarrhea and dysentery on biological grounds using in vitro antiprotozoal activity and computational experiments. Materials and Methods: The ethanol extract, subsequent fractions, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and a sterol were evaluated on Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia trophozoites. Moreover, molecular docking studies on tiliroside were performed; it was tested for its affinity against pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR) and fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase (G/FBPA), two glycolytic enzymes of anaerobic protozoa. Results: Bioassay-guided fractionation of extract of the aerial parts of S. angustifolia gives tiliroside and apigenin, caffeic acid, protocatechuic acid, and β-sitosterol. The in vitro antiprotozoal assay showed that tiliroside was the most potent antiprotozoal compound on both protozoa with 50\% inhibitory concentration values of 17.5 μg/mL for E. histolytica and 17.4 μg/mL for G. lamblia. Molecular docking studies using tiliroside showed its probable antiprotozoal mechanism with PFOR and G/FBPA. In both cases, tiliroside showed high affinity and inhibition constant theoretic for PFOR (lowest free binding energy from -9.92 kcal/mol and 53.57 μM, respectively) and G/FBPA (free binding energy from -7.17 kcal/mol and 55.5 μM, respectively), like to metronidazole, revealing its potential binding mode at molecular level. Conclusion: The results suggest that tiliroside seems to be a potential antiprotozoal compound responsible for antiamoebic and antigiardial activities of S. angustifolia. Its in vitro antiprotozoal activities are in good agreement with the traditional medicinal use of S. angustifolia in gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea and dysentery.

}, keywords = {6-bisphosphate aldolase, Antiprotozoal activity, Fructose-1, Gastrointestinal disorders, Molecular docking, Pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase, Sphaeralcea angustifolia, Tiliroside}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204644}, author = {Fernando Calzada and Jose Correa Basurto and Elizabeth Barbosa and Claudia Velazquez} } @article {547, title = {Assessment of Nutritional Quality and Global Antioxidant Response of Banana (Musa sp. CV. Nanjangud Rasa Bale) Pseudostem and Flower}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s74-s83}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s74}, abstract = {

Background: The assessment of the nutritional composition and phytochemical screening of banana pseudostem (PB) and flower (FB) advocate this nonconventional food source for routine consumption, considering its various health benefits. Objectives: The aim is to assess the proximate nutrient composition, fatty acids, minerals, amino acid profile, and global antioxidant response (GAR) of PB and FB. Methods: Standard analytical procedures were used to determine the nutritional quality and GAR of PB and FB. Results: The chemical analysis illustrated that functional profile (water holding capacity, oil holding capacity, swelling power, and solubility), and proximate (ash, moisture, protein, fat, dietary fiber, and carbohydrate) contents were substantially high in FB than PB. With a well-proportionate amino acid profile, PB (0.56) and FB (0.54) comprised of a high ratio of essential to nonessential amino acids than those of FAO/WHO requirement (0.38). The mineral analysis revealed that PB and FB were rich in macro and micro minerals in the order K \> Ca \> Mg \> P \> Na and K \> Mg \> Na \> Ca \> P, respectively. Linoleic acid was found to be the major component in PB and FB. Besides, total antioxidant activity conducted for PB and FB by GAR method, measuring both bio-accessible and insoluble fractions, revealed that the soluble fraction fared better than the chemical extracts. Conclusion: The results revealed high nutritional qualities of the byproducts of banana and the low cost of its production promotes their use as a prospective nonconventional food resource with high nutraceutical value.

}, keywords = {Amino acid, Fatty acid, Global antioxidant response, Mineral element, Proximate composition}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_67_17}, author = {Ramith Ramu and Prithvi S Shirahatti and KR Anilakumar and Shivasharanappa Nayakavadi} } @article {552, title = {Astaxanthin Ameliorates Hepatic Damage and Oxidative Stress in Carbon Tetrachloride-administered Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s84-s91}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s84}, abstract = {

Background: Astaxanthin is of carotenoids group which possess strong antioxidant properties. The present study was conducted to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of astaxanthin in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-treated rats. Materials and Methods: Female Long-Evans rats were administered with CCl4 orally (1 ml/kg) twice a week for 2 weeks and were treated with astaxanthin (10 mg/kg) every day for 2 weeks. Blood plasma samples were isolated from each group and were analyzed for alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase activities. Oxidative stress parameters such as malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and advanced protein oxidation product (APOP) were measured. Several enzyme functions such as myeloperoxidase (MPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities in the plasma and liver tissues were also analyzed. Moreover, inflammation and tissue fibrosis were also confirmed by histological staining of liver tissues. Results: This investigation revealed that CCl4 administration in rats increased plasma AST, ALT, and ALP activities which were normalized by astaxanthin treatment. Moreover, CCl4 administration increased as MDA, NO, and APOP level both in plasma and tissues compared to control rats. Astaxanthin also exhibited a significant reduction of those parameters in CCl4-administered rats. Astaxanthin treatment also restored the CAT and SOD activities and lowered MPO activity in CCl4-administered rats. Histological assessment also revealed that the astaxanthin prevented the inflammatory cells infiltration, decreased free iron deposition, and fibrosis in liver of CCl4-administered rats. Conclusion: These results suggest that astaxanthin protects liver damage induced by CCl4 by inhibiting lipid peroxidation and stimulating the cellular antioxidant system.

}, keywords = {Carbon tetrachloride, Fibrosis, Inflammation, Lipid peroxidation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_26_17}, author = {Md. Ariful Islam and Md. Abdullah Al Mamun and Md. Faruk and Md. Tauhid Ul Islam and Md. Mizanur Rahman and Mohammad Nazmul Alam and A. F. M. Towheedur Rahman and Hasan Mahmud Reza and Md. Ashraful Alam} } @article {537, title = {Autonomic Receptors and Nitric-Oxide Involvements in Mediating Vasorelaxation Effect Induced by Syzygium polyanthum Leaves Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s9-s14}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s9}, abstract = {

Context: Syzygium polyanthum (Wight) Walp leaves are traditionally used by Malays for treating hypertension. Our previous study showed that aqueous extract of S. polyanthum (AESP) and methanolic extract of S. polyanthum (MESP) extracts of S. polyanthum leaves significantly reduced blood pressure of normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Aims: This study aimed to investigate their vasorelaxation potential and the possible involvement of autonomic receptors and nitric oxide in mediating their effect. Settings and Design: Both extracts will be tested on isolated thoracic aorta rings of WKY and SHR. The involvement of autonomic receptors and nitric oxide will be elucidated using respective blockers. Materials and Methods: Isolated thoracic aorta rings from WKY and SHR were mounted onto myograph chambers to measure changes in the aorta tension. Increasing concentrations of AESP and MESP, from 1 {\textmu}g/ ml to 10 mg/ml were added onto the myograph chambers. Blockers such as atropine (1 {\textmu}M), phentolamine (1 {\textmu}M), propranolol (1 {\textmu}M), and Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (100 {\textmu}M) were preincubated before addition of extracts to check for involvement of muscarinic, α- and β-adrenergic receptors (AR) as well as nitric oxide, respectively. Statistical Analysis Used: Two-way ANOVA, followed by post hoc Bonferroni test was used, where P \< 0.05 (two-tailed) was considered statistically significant. Results: AESP and MESP caused significant vasorelaxations through nitric oxide pathway. The former was mediated through α-AR while the latter was mediated by β-adrenergic and muscarinic receptors. Conclusion: Vasorelaxation effect by AESP and MESP involved nitric oxide pathway which is possibly mediated by the autonomic receptors.

}, keywords = {Antihypertensive, Ethnomedicine, Hypertension, Nitric oxide, Syzygium polyanthum, Vasorelaxation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_69_17}, author = {Azlini Ismail and Wan Amir Nizam Wan Ahmad} } @article {468, title = {Bioassay-guided In vitro Study of the Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Properties of the Leaves from Excoecaria Lucida Sw}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {396-400}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {396}, abstract = {

Background: Excoecaria lucida Sw. (Euphorbiaceae) is a plant conventionally used throughout the Caribbean in the treatment of infectious diseases. Objective: To evaluate, using bioassay-guided fractionation, the in vitro cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity of E. lucida leaves. Materials and Methods: A 95\% ethanol crude extract was dried and fractionated by solid-liquid separation in four phases (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and butanol). Antimicrobial activity (3 bacteria, 6 yeasts, and 2 fungi) was evaluated by the dilution method with resazurin (2048, 512, 128, 32, and 8 {\textmu}g/mL). The cytotoxicity assays were evaluated in two cell lines: MRC-5 and RAW 264.7; calculating the selectivity index. Assays were performed for the total extract, the isolated compound with the highest yield, and the ethyl acetate and butanol phases. Isolated compounds were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry techniques. Results: Fractionation process led to the isolation of ellagic acid (784.29 mg), 3,3{\textquoteright},4{\textquoteright}-tri-O-methyl ellagic 4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside acid (6.1 mg), and corilagin (6.91 mg). The most active were ethyl acetate phase and ellagic acid with IC50 = 128 μg/mL against seven and five different species of microorganisms, respectively. The total extract (IC50 = 512 {\textmu}g/mL) and the ethyl acetate phase (IC50 = 128 {\textmu}g/mL) were cytotoxic in both cell lines, while butanol phase and ellagic acid both with IC50 \>2048 {\textmu}g/mL seemed to be safer. Conclusions: The results obtained indicate that the Excoecaria leaves can be conventionally used as antimicrobial, but it should be present that some cytotoxicity could appear. In addition, the three identified compounds were reported for the first time in the species.

}, keywords = {Corilagin, Ellagic acid, Ethnopharmacological use, Selectivity index, Tannins}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_124_16}, author = {Ania Ochoa-Pacheco and Julio C{\'e}sar Escalona Arranz and Munyewu Beaven and Renato Peres-Roses and Yordania Matos G{\'a}mez and Miladis I Camacho-Pozo and Gabriel Llaurad{\'o} Maury and Ma{\'\i}ra Bidart de Macedo and Paul Cos and Josean Fechine Tavares and Marcelo Sobral da Silva} } @article {358, title = {Biological Effects of Hesperetin on Interleukin-6/Phosphorylated Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 Pathway Signaling in Prostate Cancer PC3 Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {188-194}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {188}, abstract = {

Background: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional glycoprotein that regulates the growth of some tumors, including prostate carcinomas due to signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2), and AKT signaling pathways. Hesperetin, as a flavanone, has several biological properties such as antitumor and anti-inflammatory. Objective: This study was carried out to evaluate the biological effects of hesperetin on the IL-6 gene expression and phosphorylated STAT3, AKT, and ERK1/2 signaling pathways in PC3 prostate cancer (PC) cells. Materials and Methods: In this study, we used real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and ELISA to evaluate IL-6 gene expression and IL-6 protein secretion, respectively, in the treated PC3 cells with 0, 400, 450, and 500 μM of hesperetin. Cell survival studies were done by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay after 48 h treatment with hesperetin, and cell apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry. The protein levels of activated signaling molecules (pSTAT3, pAKT, and pERK1/2) analyzed by immunoprecipitation technique. Results: Hesperetin-treated PC3 cells resulted in reduction of cell viability. Hesperetin led to the elevation of phosphorylated STAT3, ERK1/2, and AKT signaling proteins after 48 h in a dose-dependent manner as compared to the control cells. IL-6 gene expression, as well as protein level, significantly increased (P \< 0.05) in a dose-dependent pattern in treated PC3 with hesperetin compared to the control cells. Further, hesperetin exposure resulted in the induction of cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase. Conclusion: Hesperetin in PC3 cells led to elevation IL-6 gene expression, IL-6 protein secretion, pSTAT3, pERK1/2 and pAKT intracellular signaling proteins. Our results indicate that hesperetin treatment leads to the inhibition of cell proliferation and the induction of cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Hesperetin can be considered a potent agent which synchronizes and stops cell cycle at G0/G1 phase to apply suitable chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy in PC cells.

}, keywords = {Hesperetin, Interleukin-6, PAKT, Phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2, Phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, Prostate cancer}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204655}, author = {Moein Shirzad and Esfandiar Heidarian and Pezhman Beshkar and Mostafa Gholami-Arjenaki} } @article {364, title = {Botanical and Chemical Fingerprinting of Medicinal Roots of Justicia gendarussa Burm f.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {208-214}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {208}, abstract = {

Background: Justicia gendarussa Burm f. of family Acanthaceae is medicinally important herb used in the treatment of inflammatory disorders, asthma, hepatic injuries, pathogenic infection and also shows antiproliferative activity against various cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods: Pharmacognostical evaluation (macro-microscopy, physicochemical analysis and preliminary phytochemical analysis), high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprinting and chemical profiling by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) of dried roots of J. gendarussa were done according to quality standard procedures. Results: Microscopic analysis revealed the compact arrangement of cells in cork region and thin-walled cortex beneath epidermis. Parenchymatous cells with xylem vessel were observed in the roots of J. gendarussa. Physicochemical studies revealed loss on drying (10.474\%), total ash (2.990\%), acid-insoluble ash (0.099\%), water-soluble ash (1.528\%), alcohol-soluble extractive value (0.564\%) and water-soluble extractive value (4.11\%) of the raw drug. Preliminary phytochemical analysis of ethanolic extract of J. gendarussa showed the presence of alkaloid, steroid, flavonoid, phenol, carbohydrate, saponin and quinone. Rf, color of the spots and densitometric scan were recorded by HPTLC fingerprinting using toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid (5.0:4.0:1.0). On photodocumentation, six spots were visualized under 254 nm, nine spots under 360 nm and six spots at 620 nm. Identification of components in ethanolic extract of J. gendarussa was done by GC-MS. GC-MS results in the presence of oleic acid, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, 6,9,12-octadecatrienoic acid and estra-1, 3,5 (10)-trein-17-β-ol in ethanolic extract of J. gendarussa. Conclusion: These specific identities will be useful in identification and authentication of the raw drug in dried form.

}, keywords = {Gas chromatography-mass specrtometry analysis, High-performance thin layer chromatography fingerprinting, Justicia gendarussa, Pharmacognostic, Quality control}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204643}, author = {Deepa Yadav and Mohd Salim Reshi and Chhavi Uthra and Sadhana Shrivastava and Nalini Srivastava and Sunil Kumar Koppala Narayana and Sangeeta Shukla} } @article {260, title = {Chronic Intake of Green Propolis Negatively Affecting the Rat Testis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {27-33}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {27}, abstract = {

Background: Human and animal evidence suggests that environmental toxicants may have an adverse impact on male reproductive health, reducing the population{\textquoteright}s reproductive output. Owing to the renewed attraction for natural products, some of them constitute effective alternatives to mitigate these effects. Propolis is a candidate for this use because of its intrinsic properties. In many situations, it improved the testicular damage and alleviated the toxic effects induced by environmental contaminant exposure . Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate possible alterations of testicular parameters and certify if its use is really advantageous to the testis, since this could affect rat reproductive function. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups (Co = control, T1 = 3 mg propolis/kg/day, T2 = 6 mg/kg/day, T3 = 10 mg/kg/day) and were exposed during 56 days. The testes were assessed with morphometrical, stereological, and ultrastructural analyses. Cell proliferation and death were diagnosed, respectively, by immunocytochemistry. Connexin 43 (Cx43) and N-cadherin transcript levels were determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Results: Increased cell proliferation and Leydig cell volume were observed in T2, and in contrast, Cx43 upregulation and cell death were observed in T3. Both T2 and T3 showed ultrastructural abnormalities in testicular parenchyma. Conclusion: We recommend a cautious intake of propolis to avoid deleterious effects.

}, keywords = {Cell death and proliferation, Connexin 43, Morphometry, N-cadherin, Stereology, Ultrastructure}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199777}, author = {Grasiela Dias de Campos Severi-Aguiar and Suellen Josine Pinto and Cristina Capucho and Camila Andrea Oliveira and Maria Aparecida Diamante and Renata Barbieri and Fabr{\'\i}cia Souza Predes and Heidi Dolder} } @article {460, title = {Comparative Physicochemical Evaluation of Kharekhasak (Tribulus terrestris Linn.) Before and After Mudabbar Proc}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {384-389}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {384}, abstract = {

Background and Objectives: Mudabbar/Tadbeere advia is referred to the processes performed on the drugs to detoxify, purify, and enhance therapeutic action and to reduce its doses before making the formulations in Unani medicine. It improves quality of drugs either by optimizing its desirable characteristics or minimizing the undesirable ones; it makes drug effective, safe, and specific. There is a need of comparative evaluation to understand its significance. Tadbeer of Kharekhasak (KK) khurd (Tribulus terrestris Linn. fruit) is described by Rabban Al-Tabari in Firdausul Hikmat, Akbar Arzani in Qarabadeene Qadri, etc., during the compounding of aphrodisiac formulations. Mudabbar Kharekhasak (MKK) used in Safoofe Kharekhasak mentioned in Al-Qarabadeene was evaluated in this work. Methods: Mudabbar/Tadbeer process was carried out by blending fresh KK. Juice with powdered dry KK and drying it under the sun. Juice used for process is thrice the weight of dry KK powder. The KK before and after the process was evaluated using physicochemical tests: powder characterization, extractive value, alcohol and water soluble matter, ash value, loss on drying (LOD) at 105{\textdegree}C, pH, high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprinting, and diosgenin content. Results: Powder characterizations were set in. Increase in successive and nonsuccessive extractive values in various solvents, water/ alcohol-soluble content, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, water-soluble ash, and sulfated ash of MKK was noted in comparison with KK. Decrease in LOD at 105{\textdegree}C and pH of MKK powder was observed. HPTLC fingerprinting data were developed for the identification and evaluation. Quantification of diosgenin content increased to 432.1 g/g in MKK as compared to 144.5 g/g in KK, suggesting significant increase in saponin content. Conclusion: Data obtained clearly indicated changes in MKK validating the classical Mudabbar process, probably to enhance/modify the action of drug. Standards for crude and MKK were established for future reference.

}, keywords = {Kharekhasak, Mudabbar evaluation, Physicochemical, Tribulus terrestris Linn., Unani}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_16_17}, author = {Abdullah Tauheed and Hamiduddin and Salma Khanam and Mohd Akhtar Ali and Mohammad Zaigham} } @article {310, title = {Cosmeceutical Effects of Galactomannan Fraction from Arenga pinnata Fruits In vitro}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {39-45}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {39}, abstract = {

Background: Cosmeceuticals refer to natural cosmetics with medical-like benefits due to their bioactive contents. Sugar palm fruit (Arenga pinnata) extract has been claimed for its anti-aging effect in vitro. However, its active compounds for cosmeceuticals is still unclear. Objective: This study was aimed to extract galactomannan from A. pinnata fruits and test its efficacy for tyrosinase inhibition, antioxidant, and anti-photoaging activities in vitro. Materials and Methods: Galactomannan from A. pinnata fruits was extracted by freeze drying and identified for its chemical compounds by using pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (py-GC/ MS). Galactomannan was tested for its tyrosinase inhibition in both cell-based (melanocytes) and enzymatic assays, antioxidant activity using ferrous ion chelating assay (FCA) assay, and anti-photoaging activity for inhibiting the gene expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and MMP-13 in macrophages using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis. Results: Identification of galactomannan fraction from A. pinnata fruits by py-GC/MS mainly consisted of oxonium ion and glucosides. For cellular assay, galactomannan at 5 μg/ mL inhibited \>50\% of tyrosinase activity in melanocytes induced by phorbol myristate acetate. At the enzymatic level, galactomannan at similar concentration showed less tyrosinase activity inhibition (~20\%). FCA results showed that galactomannan at 10 μg/mL exerted \>50\% of antioxidant activity. The qRT-PCR data indicated that galactomannan at 5 μg/mL inhibited \>50\% of MMP-1 and MMP-13 gene expressions in ultraviolet B-treated macrophages. Conclusion: Galactomannan fraction from A. pinnata fruits has efficacy for enlightening effect, antioxidant, and anti-photoaging activity in the dose-independent pattern, indicating its cosmeceutical effects for skin healthcare.

}, keywords = {Arenga pinnata, Cosmeceutical agent, Galactomannan fraction, Sugar palm fruit}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199773}, author = {Yanti and Madriena and Soegianto Ali} } @article {544, title = {Curcumin and Natural Derivatives Inhibit Ebola Viral Proteins: An In silico Approach}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s15-s22}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s15}, abstract = {

Background: Ebola viral disease is a severe and mostly fatal disease in humans caused by Ebola virus. This virus belongs to family Filoviridae and is a single-stranded negative-sense virus. There is no single treatment for this disease which puts forth the need to identify new therapy to control and treat this fatal condition. Curcumin, one of the bioactives of turmeric, has proven antiviral property. Objective: The current study evaluates the inhibitory activity of curcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and tetrahydrocurcumin against Zaire Ebola viral proteins (VPs). Materials and Methods: Molecular simulation of the Ebola VPs followed by docking studies with ligands comprising curcumin and related compounds was performed. Results: The highest binding activity for VP40 is -6.3 kcal/mol, VP35 is -8.3 kcal/mol, VP30 is -8.0 kcal/mol, VP24 is -7.7 kcal/mol, glycoprotein is -7.1 kcal/mol, and nucleoprotein is 6.8 kcal/mol. Conclusion: Bisdemethoxycurcumin shows better binding affinity than curcumin for most VPs. Metabolite tetrahydrocurcumin also shows binding affinity comparable to curcumin. These results indicate that curcumin, curcuminoids, and metabolite tetrahydrocurcumin can be potential lead compounds for developing a new therapy for Ebola viral disease.

}, keywords = {Bisdemethoxycurcumin, Curcumin, Demethoxycurcumin, Docking, Ebola virus, Tetrahydrocurcumin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_30_17}, author = {Shruti Baikerikar} } @article {265, title = {Cytotoxicity Studies of the Extracts, Fractions, and Isolated Compound of Pseudocedrela kotschyi on Cervical Cancer (HeLa), Breast Cancer (MCF-7) and Skeletal Muscle Cancer (RD) Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {46-50}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {46}, abstract = {

Background: This study determined the cytotoxic effects of root and stem bark extracts, fractions, and isolated compounds derived from Pseudocedrela kotschyi on HeLa, MCF-7, and RD cells. Materials and Methods: The cytotoxic activity was determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide colorimetric assay against three cell lines (RD, HeLa, and MCF 7) at concentrations ranging from 0.01 to 1000 μg/mL. Isolation of crude saponin was done from the most active ethyl acetate fraction and further purified using vacuum liquid chromatography and preparative thin layer chromatographic techniques. Results: The cytotoxicity assay revealed that the methanol extract from the root bark and the ethyl acetate fraction from the stem bark exhibited marked anticancer activity with IC50 of 87.36 μg/ml and 21.53 μg/ml, respectively, on HeLa cancer cell line and 101.51 μg/mL and 38.46 μg/mL, respectively, on RD cell line. These values are comparable with that obtained from vinblastine and methotrexate used as standard drugs (IC50 values of 0.01 μg/mL and 0.05 μg/mL, respectively). The isolated crude saponins also gave IC50 values of 5.28 μg/mL and 81.52 μg/mL against the RD cell lines and IC50 values of 1.05 μg/mL and 86.8 μg/mL for the MCF 7 cancer cell lines. PTLC led to the isolation of a compound from the crude saponin which was identified as 7-deacetoxy-7-oxogedunin through spectroscopic analysis and comparison with literature data. Conclusions: P. kotschyi could be considered as a potential source of chemotherapeutic agent. However, further research to determine the exact mechanism of action needs to be carried out.

}, keywords = {3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, 7-deacetoxy-7-oxogedunin, cytotoxicity, HeLa, MCF-7, Pseudocedrela kotschyi, RD}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199776}, author = {Taiwo O Elufioye and Abolaji A Abdul and Jone O Moody} } @article {542, title = {Development and Validation of High-performance Thin-layer Chromatography Method for Simultaneous Determination of Polyphenolic Compounds in Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s67-s73}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s67}, abstract = {

Context: Quantitative standardization of plant-based products is challenging albeit essential to maintain their quality. Aims: This study aims to develop and validate high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method for the simultaneous determination of rutin (Ru), quercetin (Qu), and gallic acid (Ga) from Psidium guajava Linn. (PG) and Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa. (AM) and correlate with antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: The stock solution (1 mg/mL) of standard Ru, Qu, and Ga in methanol: Water (1:1) was serially diluted and spotted (5 μL) on slica gel 60 F254thin-layer chromatography plates. Toluene: Ethyl acetate: Formic acid: Methanol (3:4:0.8:0.7, v/v/v) was selected as mobile phase for analysis at 254 nm. Hydroalcoholic (1:1) extracts of leaves of PG and AM were fractionated and similarly analyzed. Antioxidant activity was also determined using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay. Results: The developed method was robust and resolved Ru, Qu, and Ga at Rf0.08 {\textpm} 0.02, 0.76 {\textpm} 0.01, and 0.63 {\textpm} 0.02, respectively. The intra-day, interday precision, and interanalyst were \<2\% relative standard deviation. The limit of detection and limit of quantification for Ru, Qu, and Ga were 4.51, 4.2, 5.27, and 13.67, 12.73, 15.98 ng/spot, respectively. Antioxidant activity (Log 50\% inhibition) of PG and AM was 4.947 {\textpm} 0.322 and 6.498 {\textpm} 0.295, respectively. Conclusion: The developed HPTLC method was rapid, accurate, precise, reproducible, and specific for the simultaneous estimation of Ru, Qu, and Ga.

}, keywords = {Aegle marmelos, Gallic acid, Guercetin, High-performance thin-layer chromatography, Psidium guajava, Rutin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_122_16}, author = {CV Jayachandran Nair and Sayeed Ahamad and Washim Khan and Varisha Anjum} } @article {541, title = {Development and Validation of High-performance Thin-layer Chromatography Method for Simultaneous Determination of Polyphenolic Compounds in Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s67-s73}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s67}, abstract = {

Context: Quantitative standardization of plant-based products is challenging albeit essential to maintain their quality. Aims: This study aims to develop and validate high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method for the simultaneous determination of rutin (Ru), quercetin (Qu), and gallic acid (Ga) from Psidium guajava Linn. (PG) and Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa. (AM) and correlate with antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: The stock solution (1 mg/mL) of standard Ru, Qu, and Ga in methanol: Water (1:1) was serially diluted and spotted (5 μL) on slica gel 60 F254thin-layer chromatography plates. Toluene: Ethyl acetate: Formic acid: Methanol (3:4:0.8:0.7, v/v/v) was selected as mobile phase for analysis at 254 nm. Hydroalcoholic (1:1) extracts of leaves of PG and AM were fractionated and similarly analyzed. Antioxidant activity was also determined using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay. Results: The developed method was robust and resolved Ru, Qu, and Ga at Rf0.08 {\textpm} 0.02, 0.76 {\textpm} 0.01, and 0.63 {\textpm} 0.02, respectively. The intra-day, interday precision, and interanalyst were \<2\% relative standard deviation. The limit of detection and limit of quantification for Ru, Qu, and Ga were 4.51, 4.2, 5.27, and 13.67, 12.73, 15.98 ng/spot, respectively. Antioxidant activity (Log 50\% inhibition) of PG and AM was 4.947 {\textpm} 0.322 and 6.498 {\textpm} 0.295, respectively. Conclusion: The developed HPTLC method was rapid, accurate, precise, reproducible, and specific for the simultaneous estimation of Ru, Qu, and Ga.

}, keywords = {Aegle marmelos, Gallic acid, Guercetin, High-performance thin-layer chromatography, Psidium guajava, Rutin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_122_16}, author = {CV Jayachandran Nair and Sayeed Ahamad and Washim Khan and Varisha Anjum} } @article {407, title = {Development of Validated High-performance Thin-layer Chromatography Method for Simultaneous Determination of Quercetin and Kaempferol in Thespesia populnea}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {277-281}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {277}, abstract = {

Introduction: Thespesia populnea L. (Family: Malvaceae) is a well-known medicinal plant distributed in tropical regions of the world and cultivated in South Gujarat and indicated to be useful in cutaneous affections, psoriasis, ringworm, and eczema. Bark and fruits are indicated in the diseases of skin, urethritis, and gonorrhea. The juice of fruits is employed in treating certain hepatic diseases. The plant is reported to contain flavonoids, quercetin, kaempferol, gossypetin, Kaempferol-3-monoglucoside, β-sitosterol, kaempferol-7-glucoside, and gossypol. T. populnea is a common component of many herbal and Ayurvedic formulation such as Kamilari and Liv-52. Objective: The present study aimed at developing validated and reliable high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) method for the analysis of quercetin and kaempferol simultaneously in T. populnea. Method: The method employed thin-layer chromatography aluminum sheets precoated with silica gel as the stationary phase and toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid (6:4:0.3 v/v/v) as the mobile phase, which gave compact bands of quercetin and kaempferol. Result: Linear regression data for the calibration curves of standard quercetin and kaempferol showed a good linear relationship over a concentration range of 100{\textendash}600 ng/spot and 500{\textendash}3000 ng/spot with respect to the area and correlation coefficient (R2) was 0.9955 and 0.9967. The method was evaluated regarding accuracy, precision, selectivity, and robustness. Limits of detection and quantitation were recorded as 32.06 and 85.33 ng/spot and 74.055 and 243.72 ng/spot for quercetin and kaempferol, respectively. Conclusion: We concluded that this method employing HPTLC in the quantitative determination of quercetin and kaempferol is efficient, simple, accurate, and validated.

}, keywords = {High-performance thin-layer chromatography, Kaempferol, Quercetin, Thespesia populnea}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.210326}, author = {Hiteksha Panchal and Aeshna Amin and Mamta Shah} } @article {359, title = {Effect of Tamarindus indica L. and Manihot esculenta Extracts on Antibiotic-resistant Bacteria}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {195-199}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {195}, abstract = {

Background: The chemical composition of plants used in traditional medicine exhibits biologically active compounds, such as tannins, flavonoids, and alkaloids and becomes a promising approach to treat microbial infections, mainly with drug-resistant bacteria. Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the hydroethanolic leaf extracts of Tamarindus indica (tamarind) and Manihot esculenta (cassava) as antimicrobial potential against Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolated and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Materials and Methods: Hydroethanolic leaf extracts were prepared and characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography/diode array detection, Fourier transform infrared, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, and ultraviolet-visible methods. The antimicrobial activity against four strains of clinical relevance was evaluated by the microdilution method at minimum inhibitory concentrations. Results: Phenolic compounds such as flavonoids were detected in the plant extracts. T. indica extract at 500 μg/mL showed antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa; however, M. esculenta showed only activity against P. aeruginosa in this concentration. Conclusions: Our results suggested that polyphenols and flavonoids present in T. indica leaf extracts are a potential source of antimicrobial compound. The T. indica extract showed antibacterial activity against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa while M. esculenta had effect only on P. aeruginosa meropenem resistant.

}, keywords = {Antibiotic-resistant bacteria, Antimicrobial, Plant extract}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204648}, author = {Zenon Machado Lima and Lenilson Santos da Trindade and Genelane Cruz Santana and Francine Ferreira Padilha and Marcelo da Costa Mendon{\c c}a and Luiz Pereira da Costa and Jorge A L{\'o}pez and Maria Lucila Hern{\'a}ndez Macedo} } @article {443, title = {Effect of the Administration of Solanum nigrum Fruit on Prevention of Diabetic Nephropathy in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {325-332}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {325}, abstract = {

Background: Our previous study showed antidiabetic effect of aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum Linn fruit (SNE). Objective: This study was designed to explore the antidiabetic and nephroprotective effects of SNE in diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Animals were divided into nine groups to undergo two experiment protocols: Two groups served as nondiabetic controls (NDCs), while the other groups had diabetes induced with a single injection of streptozotocin. SNE-treated diabetic (D-SNE) and SNE-treated controls (NDC-SNE) received 1 g/L of SNE added to the drinking water and insulin-treated diabetic (D-I) for 8 weeks. Furthermore, there were four groups (D-SNE, NDC-SNE, D-I, D) in the second protocol to examine diabetic nephropathy (DN) for 16 weeks. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr) magnesium, nitric oxide (NO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured. Both kidneys were isolated to measure MDA, NO levels, and renal damage. Results: SNE could decrease blood glucose level in diabetic rats. In addition, SNE was more effective than insulin in controlling blood glucose. SNE could decrease BUN, Cr levels, and kidney weight and damage after 8 and 16 weeks of administration. Plasma and kidney levels of NO and MDA also decreased. Conclusion: Our results support the hypothesis that SNE could play a role in the management of diabetes and the prevention of DN.

}, keywords = {Blood glucose, Blood urea nitrogen, Creatinine, Diabetic nephropathy, Malondialdehyde, Solanum nigrum fruit}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_47_17}, author = {Fariba Azarkish and Kobra Hashemi and Ardashir Talebi and Mohammad Kamalinejad and Nepton Soltani and Nima Pouladian} } @article {326, title = {Effects of Ligusticum porteri (Osha) Root Extract on Human Promyelocytic Leukemia Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {156-160}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {156}, abstract = {

Background: Ligusticum porteri roots have been traditionally used in folk medicine, but the scientific basis is unclear. Objective: To investigate the cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of L. porteri root extract on human promyelocytic leukemia (HL-60) cells and H2O2-induced oxidative damaged HL-60 cells. Materials and Methods: HL-60 cells were incubated with different concentrations of root extract, and cells were harvested for viability assays on day 3 and 7. Cytokine levels (interferon-gamma [IFN-γ], interleukin-2 [IL-2], and interleukin-10 [IL-10]) and antioxidant indexes (malondialdehyde [MDA], reduced glutathione [GSH], superoxide dismutase [SOD], and catalase [CAT]) in H2O2-induced-stressed HL-60 were measured after 2 days. Results: The viability of HL-60 challenged with H2O2 declined by 42\% compared to unstressed cells. After 7 days of incubation with 200 or 400 μg/mL L. porteri, the viability of HL-60 cells was two-fold higher than the control. Stressed HL-60 cells treated with 100, 200, and 400 μg/mL L. porteri reduced the lipid peroxidation by 12\%{\textendash}13\%. We noted an increase in GSH levels, SOD and CAT activities in stressed HL-60 supplemented with 400 μg/mL root extract. Treatment with 400 μg/mL L. porteri significantly (P \< 0.05) increased IFN-γ and IL-2 in H2O2-challenged cells. Conclusion: Our data do not support the use of the extract as an antiproliferation and differentiation therapy for acute promyelocytic leukemia. The protective function of L. porteri root extract against oxidative stress could occur through increasing GSH and higher expression of antioxidant enzymes.

}, keywords = {Antioxidative, cytotoxicity, Human promyelocytic leukemia cells, Immune-modulatory, Ligusticum porteri}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204641}, author = {Khanh Nguyen and Jean Sparks and Felix Omoruyi} } @article {306, title = {Erratum: Bioactivity of Diterpens from the Ethyl Acetate Extract of Kingiodendron pinnatum Rox. Hams}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {119}, type = {Erratum}, chapter = {119}, abstract = {

In the article titled, {\textquotedblleft}Bioactivity of Diterpens from the Ethyl Acetate Extract of Kingiodendron pinnatum Rox. Hams{\textquotedblright} published in pages 287-291, issue 4, vol. 8 of Pharmacognosy Research,[1] the name of the second author is written incorrectly as {\textquotedblleft}Attemode Girijanna Devi Prasad{\textquotedblright} instead of {\textquotedblleft}Attimogge Girirajanna Devi Prasad{\textquotedblright}. Read more...

}, keywords = {Nil}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199783} } @article {369, title = {Erratum: Bioactivity of Diterpens from the Ethyl Acetate Extract of Kingiodendron pinnatum Rox. Hams}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {220}, type = {Erratum}, chapter = {220}, abstract = {

In the article titled, {\textquotedblleft}Bioactivity of Diterpens from the Ethyl Acetate Extract of Kingiodendron pinnatum Rox. Hams{\textquotedblright} published in pages 287-291, issue 4, vol. 8 of Pharmacognosy Research,[1] the affiliation of the second author {\textquotedblleft}Attimogge Girirajanna Devi Prasad{\textquotedblright} is written incorrectly as {\textquotedblleft}Department of Environmental Science, PBM Mahajana PG Centre, Mysore, Karnataka, India{\textquotedblright} instead of {\textquotedblleft}Department of Environmental Science, University of Mysore, Karnataka, India{\textquotedblright}. Read more....

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204656} } @article {470, title = {Ethnopharmacological Survey of Medicinal Plants in Albaha Region, Saudi Arabia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {401-407}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {401}, abstract = {

Nasser A Awadh Ali1, Saeed Salah Al Sokari2, Ahmed Gushash3, Sirajudheen Anwar4, Khalid Al-Karani5, Abdulwali Al-Khulaidi6

1Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Albaha University, KSA.

2Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Albaha University, Baljurashi, Albaha, KSA.

3Department of Arabic Language, Faculty of Science and Arts, Albaha University, Baljurashi, Albaha, KSA.

4Department of Medicinal Chemistry {\textendash} Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Albaha University, KSA.

5Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Albaha University, KSA.

6Biology, Faculty of Science and Arts, Albaha University, Baljurashi, Albaha, KSA; Agricultural Research and Extension Authority, Taiz, Yemen.

}, keywords = {Al Bahah, Ethnopharmacology, Folk medicine, Medicinal plants, Saudi Arabia, Survey}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_11_17}, author = {Nasser A Awadh Ali and Saeed Salah Al Sokari and Ahmed Gushash and Sirajudheen Anwar and Khalid Al-Karani and Abdulwali Al-Khulaidi} } @article {405, title = {Evaluation of anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity of AHPL/AYCAP/0413 capsule}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {273-276}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {273}, abstract = {

Background: Conventional therapeutic agents used for treatment of Acne are associated with various adverse effects necessitating development of safe and effective alternative therapeutic agents. In this context, a polyherbal formulation AHPL/AYCAP/0413 was developed for treatment of Acne. Objectives: To evaluate Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity of AHPL/AYCAP/0413. Material and Methods: 1) Anti-inflammatory activity: Anti-inflammatory activity of AHPL/AYCAP/0413 in comparison with Diclofenac was assessed in carrageenan induced rat Paw edema model. 2) Anti-microbial activity for P. acne: Propionibacterium acnes were incubated under anaerobic conditions. Aliquots of molten BHI with glucose agar were used as the agar base. Formulation and clindamycin (10 μg/ml) were introduced in to the Agar wells randomly. 3) Anti-microbial activity for Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus: Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus were incubated under aerobic conditions at 37{\textdegree}C. TSB with glucose agar was used as the agar base. 0.5ml of formulation and clindamycin (10 μg/ml) were introduced in to the wells randomly. The antibacterial activity was evaluated by measuring zones of inhibition (in mm). Result: Significant reduction in rat paw edema (51\% inhibition) was observed with formulation AHPL/AYCAP/0413 which was also comparable to that of Diclofenac (58\% inhibition). Zone of inhibition for formulation was 18.33 mm, 19.20 mm and 26.30 mm for P. acnes, S. epidermidis and S. aureus respectively. This activity was also comparable to that of Clindamycin. Conclusion: AHPL/AYCAP/0413 capsule possesses significant Anti-inflammatory and Anti-microbial activities which further justifies its role in the management of Acne vulgaris.

}, keywords = {Acne vulgaris, AHPL/AYCAP/0413 capsule, Alternative system of medicine, Herbal}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.210328}, author = {Sanjay Nipanikar and Sohan Chitlange and Dheeraj Nagore} } @article {401, title = {Evaluation of Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Activity of Fruit Rind Extract of Garcinia dulcis (Roxburgh) Kurz}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {266-272}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {266}, abstract = {

Background: Garcinia spp. belongs to the family Clusiaceae has been traditionally used for the treatment of many ailments including the liver damage. Garcinia dulcis found in North Eastern region of Assam; India can be a potential candidature to combat different ailments. Objective: The present work has been designed in such a way to appraisal the antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity of fruit rind extract of this plant. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant activity was investigated through the various in vitro models, namely, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine, 2,2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, nitrite oxide. Phytochemical investigation for total phenolic and flavonoids contents were carried out by standard protocol. For the evaluation of hepatoprotective activity, albino Wistar rats were divided into five groups, five animals per group and activity was determined by measuring the contents of liver function marker enzymes such as serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and biochemical parameter, that is, Bilirubin and total protein. Histopathology observation of liver sections was conducted. Results: Phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of both phenolic and flavonoid groups in the extract in a significant amount. Antioxidant activity of the plant extract was observed in all models and percentage of inhibition was dose-dependent. Intoxicated with carbon tetrachloride, elevated the liver function enzymes, bilirubin, and suppressed the production of total protein. Pretreatment with the extract decreased the SGOT, SGPT, ALP, and bilirubin level significantly and increased the production level of total protein in a dose-dependent manner. The histopathological observation supported the hepatoprotective potentiality of the extract. Conclusion: The results indicate that fruit rind part of G. dulcis is nontoxic and the plant can utilize as an antioxidant source. The plant has a protective agent for liver damages and other diseases caused by free radicals.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Free radicals, Garcinia dulcis, Hepatoprotective}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.210330}, author = {Nabajyoti Gogoi and Ankur Gogoi and Bijoy Neog and Dibyojyoti Baruah and Khumanthem Deepak Singh} } @article {327, title = {Evaluation of Antioxidant, Hypolipidemic, and Antiatherogenic Property of Lycopene and Astaxanthin in Atherosclerosis-induced Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {161-167}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {161}, abstract = {

Background: Atherosclerosis is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. Antioxidants play a major role in prophylaxis and prevention of progression and complications of atherosclerosis. Objective: In this study, we are evaluating the antiatherosclerotic effect of two antioxidants such as astaxanthin and lycopene. Materials and Methods: After acclimatization, 24 male SD rats, 8{\textendash}10 weeks old, 150 {\textpm} 10 g, maintained as per CPCSEA guidelines were divided into four groups of six rats each. Baseline values of weight lipid profile and 2-Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS) assay were taken. All the rats were fed with high cholesterol diet (HCD). HCD only, HCD + atorvastatin (50 mg/kg), HCD + lycopene (50 mg/kg), and HCD + astaxanthin (50 mg/kg) were given to control, standard, lycopene, and astaxanthin groups, respectively, through oral gavage for 45 days. The rats were sacrificed at the end of the study, blood sample collected from aorta, and then aorta was dissected for histopathology. Results: The lipid profile showed lycopene and astaxanthin decreased total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), very LDL-C, and triglycerides and increased high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol level significantly (P \< 0.05) compared to the control but less than atorvastatin. The TBARS value of lycopene was significantly lower compared to HCD and atorvastatin groups, whereas astaxanthin was significantly less than HCD group only. The histopathology showed only Type I lesions, no naked fatty streaks, few foam cells in lycopene, and astaxanthin groups compared to control where we observed Type II and III lesions, visible fatty streaks and many foam cells with intimal thickening in HCD group. Conclusion: In this study, lycopene and astaxanthin showed antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, and antiatherosclerotic property. This warrants further study for including them in the treatment of atherosclerosis.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Astaxanthin, Atherosclerosis, Hypercholesterolemia, Lycopene}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204654}, author = {Rajesh Kumar and Kartik Janardan Salwe and Manimekalai Kumarappan} } @article {258, title = {Evaluation of Cholesterol-lowering Activity of Standardized Extract of Mangifera indica in Albino Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {21-26}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {21}, abstract = {

Introduction: Cholesterol lowering activity of Mangifera indica L. has been determined by earlier researchers and kernel, leaf and bark have shown significant activity. However, the specific cholesterol lowering activity of leaf methanol extract has not been determined. Materials and Methods: The present study involved evaluation of cholesterol lowering potential of methanol extract of M. indica leaves using high cholesterol diet model in albino Wistar rats. The acute oral toxicity at a dose of 5000 mg/ kg body weight was also determined in female albino Wistar rats. Phytoconstituents Iriflophenone 3-C-β-D-glucoside and mangiferin were quantified in methanol extracts of different varieties of mango leaves using high performance liquid chromatography. Results and Discussion: Significant cholesterol lowering activity was observed with methanol extract of M. indica leaves, at dose of 90 mg/kg body weight in rats and it was also found to be safe at dose of 5000 mg/kg rat body. Iriflophenone 3-C-β-D-glucoside and mangiferin were found to be in the range of 1.2 to 2.8\% w/w and 3.9 to 4.6\% w/w, respectively which along with 3 β taraxerol and other sterols could be contributing to the cholesterol lowering activity of mango leaves extract. Conclusions: The phytosterols rich extract of Mangifera indica leaves is a good source of nutraceutical ingredient that have the potential to lower serum cholesterol levels.

}, keywords = {Hypercholesterolemia, Mangifera indica, Mangiferin, Mango leaves}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199770}, author = {GM Gururaja and Deepak Mundkinajeddu and A Senthil Kumar and Shekhar Michael Dethe and J Joshua Allan and Amit Agarwal} } @article {416, title = {Ex vivo Antispasmodic Activity of Aqueous Extract of Flowers of Muntingia calabura Linn. on Excised Rabbit{\textquoteright}s Jejunum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {301-303}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {301}, abstract = {

Objective: The present study has been undertaken with the main objective of evaluating the aqueous extract of flowers of Muntingia calabura for antispasmodic activity on isolated rabbit{\textquoteright}s jejunum. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out on isolated rabbit{\textquoteright}s jejunum preparations. The aqueous extract of flowers of M. calabura was applied in different doses by cumulative manner without washing the tissue. Spontaneous contractions abolished by the extract were recorded. Results: In isolated rabbit{\textquoteright}s jejunum preparation, the flower extract of M. calabura inhibited the spontaneous contractions in a concentration-dependent manner with IC100 value of 36 {\textpm} 3.02 μg/mL, which is potent than the standard drug verapamil with IC100 value of 40 {\textpm} 1.02 μg/mL on the rabbit{\textquoteright}s jejunum. Conclusion: The aqueous extract of flowers of M. calabura exhibits significant dose-dependent relaxations of spontaneous contractions in isolated rabbit{\textquoteright}s jejunum preparations.

}, keywords = {Ex vivo antispasmodic activity, IC100 values, Muntingia calabura, Verapamil}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_99_16}, author = {Kannan Vadivel and Gollapudi Sandeep Kumar and , Sitty Manohar Babu} } @article {562, title = {Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry Profiling in Methanolic and Ethyl-acetate Root and Stem Extract of Corbichonia decumbens (Forssk.) Exell from Thar Desert of Rajasthan, India}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s48-s52}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s48}, abstract = {

Background: Corbichonia decumbens (Forssk.) Exell (Molluginaceae), recently has moved to Lophiocarpaceae as per angiospermic plant group (APG) III system, is an annual or short-lived, dwarf, glabrous subshrub, prefers to grow on rocky places and on sand-stones in dry, hot areas of Rajasthan. This is the potential plant with medicinal properties. Vegetative organs under study show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antimicrobial, and antinociception activity. Objective: This study was carried out to identify the phytoconstituents present in the methanolic and ethyl-acetate extract of root and stem of C. decumbens by GC-MS analysis. Materials and Methods: Powdered test samples were sequentially extracted with methanol and ethyl-acetate. The compounds obtained as a result of GC-MS screening were identified on the basis of their retention time, peak area and compared with that of literature available and by interpretation of mass spectra. Results: GC-MS analysis of a methanolic extract of root detected mome-inositol (49.53\%), guanosine (20.91\%), and cis-vaccenic acid (9.25\%). While ethyl-acetate extract of root analyzed pentadecanoic acid (17.91\%), octadecanoic acid (15.01\%) and cis-vaccenic acid (12.04\%). Methanolic extract of stem detected mome-inositol (75.47\%), pentadecanoic acid (6.04\%), and 7-tetradecenal, (Z) (4.54\%) while ethyl-acetate extract of stem revealed the presence of 1-heptacosanol (17.35\%), hexadecanoic acid (17.17\%), and octadecanal (12.64\%). Conclusion: The results suggest that C. decumbens (Forssk.) Exell is a plant of potential medicinal value, yielding various bioactive compounds that confirm the application of this plant as a plant-based drug in pharmacy-industry.

}, keywords = {Bioactive compounds, Corbichonia decumbens, Gas chromatography mass spectrometry screening, Lophiocarpaceae, Phytochemical screening, Retention time}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_62_17}, author = {Sunita Arora and Manju Saini} } @article {280, title = {Growth Inhibition and Morphological Alteration of Fusarium sporotrichioides by Mentha piperita Essential Oil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {74-79}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {74}, abstract = {

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the phytochemical composition, antifungal activity of Mentha piperita essential oil (MPE) against Fusarium sporotrichioides. Methods: The phytochemical composition was conducted by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC MS) analysis and mycelia growth inhibition was determined by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC), the morphological characterization was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Finally, the membrane permeability was determined by the release of extracellular constituents, pH, and total lipid content. Result: In GC MS analysis, 22 metabolites were identified such as menthol, l menthone, pulegone, piperitone, caryophyllene, menthol acetate, etc. The antifungal activity against targeted pathogen, with MIC and MFC 500 μg/mL and 1000 μg/mL, respectively. The MPE altered the morphology of F. sporotrichoides hyphae with the loss of cytoplasm content and contorted the mycelia. The increasing concentration of MPE showed increase in membrane permeability of F. sporotrichoides as evidenced by the release of extracellular constituents and pH with the disruption of cell membrane indicating decrease in lipid content of F. sporotrichoides. Conclusion: The observed results showed that MPE exhibited promising new antifungal agent against Fusarium sporotrichioides

}, keywords = {Fusarium sporotrichioides, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometryGC-MS, Mentha piperita essential oil, Scanning electron microscope}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199771}, author = {P Rachitha and K Krupashree and GV Jayashree and Natarajan Gopalan and Farhath Khanum and K Krupashree and GV Jayashree and Natarajan Gopalan and Farhath Khanum} } @article {357, title = {Hepatoprotective, Antihyperlipidemic, and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Moringa oleifera in Diabetic-induced Damage in Male Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {182-187}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {182}, abstract = {

Background: The number of individuals with diabetes is increasing daily, and diabetes is presently estimated to affect about 422 million adults worldwide. Conventional drugs used to treat diabetes are not without severe side effects, accessibility, and affordability. This study elucidates the potential effects of Moringa oleifera (MO) leaves extract to manage and treat diabetes induced in male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 12/group): NC {\textendash} nondiabetic rats (positive control), MO {\textendash} nondiabetic-treated rats, DM {\textendash} diabetic rats (negative control), DM + MO {\textendash} diabetic-treated rats. Hepatic enzymes and biochemical parameters as well as antioxidant capacity and inflammatory cytokine levels were assessed. Levels of low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, and total cholesterol were evaluated. Results: Oral administration of methanolic extract of MO (250 mg/kg) to diabetic rats for 42 days showed a significant reduction in hepatic enzyme markers and normalized lipid profile parameters in the serum compared to normal control group. Treatment also increased the level of antioxidant capacity and alleviated inflammatory biomarkers of the liver. Histology sections of the liver tissue showed protective effect of MO in treated rats. Conclusions: MO showed hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering effects against streptozotocin-induced hepatotoxicity. Histological section demonstrated specific alterations in the liver of the diabetic and nondiabetic male Wistar rats while MO treatment revealed improvement in liver alterations.

}, keywords = {Diabetes, Hepatic enzymes, Inflammatory cytokines, Lipid profile, Moringa oleifera, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204651}, author = {Elizabeth I Omodanisi and Yapo G Aboua and Novel N Chegou and Oluwafemi O Oguntibeju} } @article {422, title = {High Performance Thin layer Chromatography: Densitometry Method for Determination of Rubraxanthone in the Stem Bark Extract of Garcinia cowa Roxb}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {230-233}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {230}, abstract = {

Context: Garcinia cowa is a medicinal plant widely grown in Southeast Asia and tropical countries. Various parts of this plant have been used in traditional folk medicine. The bark, latex, and root have been used as an antipyretic agent, while fruit and leaves have been used as an expectorant, for indigestion and improvement of blood circulation. Aims: This study aims to determine the concentration of rubraxanthone found in ethyl acetate extract of the stem bark of G. cowa by the high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). Materials and Methods: HPTLC method was performed on precoated silica gel G 60 F254 plates using an HPTLC system with a developed mobile-phase system of chloroform: ethyl acetate: methanol: formic acid (86:6:3:5). A volume of 5 μL of standard and sample solutions was applied to the chromatographic plates. The plates were developed in saturated mode of twin trough chamber at room temperature. The method was validated based on linearity, accuracy, precision, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), and specificity. The spots were observed at ultraviolet 243 nm. Results: The linearity of rubraxanthone was obtained between 52.5 and 157.5 ppm/spot. The LOD and LOQ were found to be 4.03 and 13.42 ppm/spot, respectively. Conclusion: The proposed method showed good linearity, precision, accuracy, and high sensitivity. Therefore, it may be applied for the quantification of rubraxanthone in ethyl acetate extract of the stem bark of G. cowa.

}, keywords = {Chromatography, Densitometry, Garcinia cowa Roxb., High-performance thin-layer chromatography, Rubraxanthone, Validation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_144_16}, author = {Dachriyanus Hamidi and Hilyatul Aulia and Meri Susanti} } @article {316, title = {Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {121-127}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {121}, abstract = {

Honey is one of the most appreciated and valued natural products introduced to humankind since ancient times. Honey is used not only as a nutritional product but also in health described in traditional medicine and as an alternative treatment for clinical conditions ranging from wound healing to cancer treatment. The aim of this review is to emphasize the ability of honey and its multitude in medicinal aspects. Traditionally, honey is used in the treatment of eye diseases, bronchial asthma, throat infections, tuberculosis, thirst, hiccups, fatigue, dizziness, hepatitis, constipation, worm infestation, piles, eczema, healing of ulcers, and wounds and used as a nutritious supplement. The ingredients of honey have been reported to exert antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, anticancer, and antimetastatic effects. Many evidences suggest the use of honey in the control and treatment of wounds, diabetes mellitus, cancer, asthma, and also cardiovascular, neurological, and gastrointestinal diseases. Honey has a potential therapeutic role in the treatment of disease by phytochemical, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Flavonoids and polyphenols, which act as antioxidants, are two main bioactive molecules present in honey. According to modern scientific literature, honey may be useful and has protective effects for the treatment of various disease conditions such as diabetes mellitus, respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and nervous systems, even it is useful in cancer treatment because many types of antioxidant are present in honey. In conclusion, honey could be considered as a natural therapeutic agent for various medicinal purposes. Sufficient evidence exists recommending the use of honey in the management of disease conditions. Based on these facts, the use of honey in clinical wards is highly recommended.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Flavonoids, Honey, Polyphenols, Therapeutic agent, Traditional}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204647}, author = {Saeed Samarghandian and Tahereh Farkhondeh and Fariborz Samini} } @article {974, title = {Identification and Characterization of Memecylon Species using Isozyme Profiling}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {408-413}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {408}, abstract = {

Background: The protein/isozyme fingerprint is useful in differentiating the species and acts as a biochemical marker for identification and systematic studies of medicinal plant species. Objective: In the present study, protein and isozyme profiles for peroxidase, esterase, acid phosphatase, polyphenol oxidase, alcohol dehydrogenase, and alkaline phosphatase of five species of Memecylon (Melastomataceae), Memecylon umbellatum, Memecylon edule, Memecylon talbotianum, Memecylon malabaricum, and Memecylon wightii were investigated. Materials and Methods: Fresh leaves were used to prepare crude enzyme extract for analyzing the five enzymes isozyme variations. Separation of isozymes was carried out using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and the banding patterns of protein were scored. Pair-wise comparisons of genotypes, based on the presence or absence of unique and shared polymorphic products, were used to regenerate similarity coefficients. The similarity coefficients were then used to construct dendrograms, using the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic averages. Results: A total of 50 bands with various Rf values and molecular weight were obtained through PAGE analysis. Among the five Memecylon species, more number of bands was produced in M. wightii and less number of bands was observed in M. edule. The results of similarity indices grouped M. malabaricum and M. wightii in one cluster with 98\% similarity and M. umbellatum, M. edule, and M. talbotianum are grouped in another cluster with 79\% similarity showing close genetic similarities which is in accordance with the morphological identification of Memecylon species. Conclusion: The protein/isozyme fingerprint is useful in differentiating the species and acts as a biochemical marker for identification of Memecylon species.

}, keywords = {Acid phosphatase, Esterase, Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, Peroxidase, Polyphenol oxidase, Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.218499}, author = {TR Bharathi and Shailasree Sekhar and N Geetha and SR Niranjana and HS Prakash} } @article {438, title = {Identification of the Adulterated Asini Corii Colla with Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I Gene-based Polymerase Chain Reaction}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {313-318}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {313}, abstract = {

Background: Asini Corii Colla (ACC) (namely donkey hide gelatin, E{\textquoteright}jiao in Chinese) was one of the most valuable tonic traditional Chinese medicines which is an infallible remedy to promote hematopoiesis. It should be produced by fresh or dried donkey hide according to Chinese Pharmacopeia (2015 edition) with a long-time decoction, while as donkey and horse (or mule) all belong to equids so their hides or their hide gelatins are share much in common, that cause the difficult in distinguishing raw materials donkey hide from horse/mule hide for manufacturer, and the challenge in the quality evaluation of ACC for regulatory authority to identify the adulterated with horse hide. Objective: To establish an effective quality evaluation methods for ACC focused on the qualitative-based identification of the raw material{\textquoteright}s authenticity, mainly to identify the species origin of the gelatins. Materials and Methods: DNA extracted from (1) Raw materials (hides of donkey, horse, mule, bovine and pig); (2) Five hide-glues (bovine, pig, donkey, horse and mule hide-glue); (3) 11 batches of ACC commercial products made by different manufactures from local drug stores. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method with newly designed horse-specific primers I and primer pair II. Results: Use the primer pair I, a 234 bp target product could be amplified sensitively from the DNA sample of horse/mule adulterated commercial ACC products, though the DNA in commercial products is severely degraded. A 219 bp product could be amplified specifically from the DNA sample of horse/mule hide, while the results were all negative for the DNA templates of donkey hide, its gelatin and ACC products without adulteration. Conclusion: The developed PCR method based on primer I and II provide an effective approach to identify the species origin of highly processed product ACC (primer pair I) as well as to distinguish the raw material donkey hide (primer pair II), which might enlighten a new strategy to the Quality Evaluation of ACC.

}, keywords = {Asini Corii Colla, Equids, Polymerase chain reaction, Quality evaluation, Species identification}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_33_17}, author = {Hua-Li Zuo and Jie Zhao and Yi-Tao Wang and Zhi-Ning Xia and Yuan-Jia Hu and Feng-Qing Yang} } @article {557, title = {Improvement of Insulin Secretion and Pancreatic β-cell Function in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats Treated with Aloe vera Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s99-s104}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s99}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. Plant extracts and their products are being used as an alternative system of medicine for the treatment of diabetes. Aloe vera has been traditionally used to treat several diseases and it exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing effects. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced Wistar diabetic rats were used in this study to understand the potential protective effect of A. vera extract on the pancreatic islets. Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the A. vera extract on improvement of insulin secretion and pancreatic β-cell function by morphometric analysis of pancreatic islets in STZ-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: After acclimatization, male Wistar rats, maintained as per the Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals guidelines, were randomly divided into four groups of six rats each. Fasting plasma glucose and insulin levels were assessed. The effect of A. vera extract in STZ-induced diabetic rats on the pancreatic islets by morphometric analysis was evaluated. Results: Oral administration of A. vera extract (300 mg/kg) daily to diabetic rats for 3 weeks showed restoration of blood glucose levels to normal levels with a concomitant increase in insulin levels upon feeding with A. vera extract in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Morphometric analysis of pancreatic sections revealed quantitative and qualitative gain in terms of number, diameter, volume, and area of the pancreatic islets of diabetic rats treated with A. vera extract when compared to the untreated diabetic rats. Conclusion: A. vera extract exerts antidiabetic effects by improving insulin secretion and pancreatic β-cell function by restoring pancreatic islet mass in STZ-induced diabetic Wistar rats.

}, keywords = {Aloe vera, Diabetes, Insulin, Morphometric analysis, Pancreas, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_75_17}, author = {Ayesha Noor and S Gunasekaran and MA Vijayalakshmi} } @article {398, title = {In vitro Antidiabetic Activity of Polar and Nonpolar Solvent Extracts from Leucas aspera (Willd.) Link Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {261-265}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {261}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic illness, and the management of diabetes is a global problem. Successful treatment is required to prevent complications and organ damages. Herbal medicines are having minimal adverse effects when compared to the available synthetic drugs to treat such chronic diseases and disorders. Objective: The present study was aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic and antioxidant activity of polar and nonpolar solvent extracts of Leucas aspera (Willd.) link leaves under in vitro models. Materials and Methods: The in vitro antidiabetic activity of petroleum ether (nonpolar) and ethanol (polar) extracts were evaluated in C2C12 cell lines by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay (cell viability method) and glucose uptake assay. 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging method used for the evaluation of in vitro antioxidant activity. Results: Both the polar and nonpolar solvent extracts of L. aspera had shown better antioxidant activity compared to standard (IC50 = 18.96 and 19.90 μg/mL, respectively). Petroleum ether extract exhibited better cytotoxic activity in C2C12 cell line compared to ethanol extract (concentration of test drug needed to inhibit cell growth by 50\% 110.75 {\textpm} 5.5 vs. 415.25 {\textpm} 8.0 μg/mL) whereas ethanol extract showed enhanced glucose uptake activity than petroleum ether extract in C2C12 cell line at same concentrations. Conclusion: From our study results, we concluded that L. aspera (Willd.) link leaves had shown better antidiabetic activity and antioxidant activity under in vitro models. Nonpolar solvent extract produced slightly better activity than polar solvent extract. This study warrants further research and experiments on animal models.

}, keywords = {In vitro antidiabetic, In vitro antioxidant, Leucas aspera, Nonpolar solvent, Polar solvent}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_141_16}, author = {VM Annapandian and R Shanmuga Sundaram} } @article {538, title = {In vitro Antiproliferative Effect of Earthworm Coelomic Fluid of Eudrilus Eugeniae, Eisenia foetida, and Perionyx Excavatus on Squamous Cell Carcinoma-9 Cell Line: A Pilot Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s61-s66}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s61}, abstract = {

Introduction: The earthworm coelomic fluid (ECF) has shown proven antiproliferative effect against breast, liver, gastrointestinal, and brain cancer, but it is least explored in oral cancer. The present in vitro study is an attempt to investigate the antiproliferative activity of ECF on oral cancer cell line squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)-9. Materials and Methods: ECF was collected from the species Eudrilus eugeniae (EE), Eisenia foetida (EF), and Perionyx excavatus (PE) stored at -80{\textdegree}C. Percentage inhibition of ECF on squamous cell carcinoma-9 cells in vitro was recorded at 24 h. Protein estimation was done using Bradford protein assay validated by the biuret method. Cytotoxicity was tested at 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 μg/ml concentrations by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay in SCC-9 cells in vitro. GraphPad Prism 7.0 software was used to calculate the inhibitory concentration (IC50). Chi-square test was used to analyze the difference between samples. Results: The test samples EE, EF, and PE inhibited the growth of SCC-9 cells significantly in a dose-dependent manner, and the IC50values were found to be 4.6, 44.69, and 5.27 μg/ml, respectively. The antiproliferative effect was found to be variable among the three earthworm species with EE showing the most promising effect followed by PE and EF. Conclusion: Establishing the antiproliferative effect of ECF on oral cancer cells could be an initial step toward drug development and future anticancer research. The preliminary investigation has shown that ECF has a promising antiproliferative effect on oral cancer cells in vitro.

}, keywords = {Antitumor, cell proliferation, Coelomic fluid, Mouth neoplasms, Oligochaeta, Squamous cell carcinoma-9 cell line}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_52_17}, author = {Dominic Augustine and Roopa S Rao and Jayaraman Anbu and KN Chidambara Murthy} } @article {256, title = {The Influence of Pluronic F68 and F127 Nanocarrier on Physicochemical Properties, In vitro Release, and Antiproliferative Activity of Thymoquinone Drug}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {12-20}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {12}, abstract = {

Background: This study reports on hydrophobic drug thymoquinone (TQ), an active compound found in the volatile oil of Nigella sativa that exhibits anticancer activities. Nanoformulation of this drug could potentially increase its bioavailability to specific target cells. Objective: The aim of this study was to formulate TQ into polymer micelle, Pluronic F127 (5.0 wt \%) and Pluronic F68 (0.1 wt \%), as a drug carrier to enhance its solubility and instability in aqueous media. Materials and Methods: Polymeric micelles encapsulated TQ were prepared by the microwave-assisted solvent evaporation technique. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer were utilized for qualitative confirmation of micelles encapsulation. The surface morphology and mean particle size of the prepared micelles were determined by using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Cytotoxicity effect was studied using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3- carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt (MTS) assay. Results: Dynamic laser light scattering (DLS) technique showed hydrodynamic size distribution of optimized micelles of 50 nm, which was in close agreement with the mean particle size obtained from TEM of about 51 nm. Drug release study showed the maximum percentage of TQ release at 61\% after 72 h, while the entrapment efficiency of TQ obtained was 46\% using PF127. The cytotoxic effect of PF127-encapsulated TQ was considerably higher compared to PF68-encapsulated TQ against MCF7 cells, as they exhibited IC50 value of 8 μM and 18 μM, respectively. Conclusion: This study suggests higher molecular weight Pluronic polymer micelles (F127) with hydrophilic-hydrophobic segments which could be used as a suitable candidate for sustainable delivery of TQ. However, comprehensive studies should be carried out to establish the suitability of Pluronic F127 as a carrier for other drugs with similar challenges as TQ.

}, keywords = {cytotoxicity, MCF-7 cell line, Pluronic F68, Thymoquinone-nanoparticle}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199774}, author = {Salwa Shaarani and Shahrul Sahul Hamid and Noor Haida Mohd Kaus} } @article {447, title = {Inhibitory Effects of Pterodon emarginatus Bean Oil and Extract on Staphylococcus aureus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {348-353}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {34}, abstract = {

Background: Pterodon emarginatus is a tree of the Brazilian Savannah. The beans of this tree are used in folk medicine as anti-inflammatory preparations, especially for infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus. These bacteria can cause simple infections or serious illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis, endocarditis, toxic shock syndrome, septicemia, and others. Objective: This study had the goal of verifying the effect of the essential oil (OE) from P. emarginatus on the inhibition of S. aureus in culture medium, i.e., {\textquotedblleft}in vitro{\textquotedblright} tests. Materials and Methods: The vegetable material was cut and crushed with a press. The OE was obtained by extraction using hexane, alcohol, and water. The P. emarginatus extracts obtained were used to evaluate the antimicrobial effect on S. aureus (ATCC 25923) by tests of well diffusion, disc diffusion, and microdilution. The strain used in the assays was maintained in brain heart infusion broth and nutrient agar until testing. Afterward, the bacteria were spread on agar plates with Mueller-Hinton agar medium. In the wells and on the paper discs, the OE suspensions were placed in the following volumes: 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, and 80 {\textmu}L and subsequently they were incubated at 35{\textdegree}C {\textpm} 2{\textdegree}C. After 24 h, the number of colony-forming unit was determined. Results: Pure OE and hydroalcoholic extract inhibited the growth of S. aureus, while aqueous extract had no effect on bacterial growth in all microbial methods used. Conclusion: Thus, the present study showed the potential of sucupira-based extracts against S. aureus growth, opening new perspectives for the evaluation of these bioactive compounds as phytopharmaceutical products.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial test, Diterpenes, medical pathogens, Phytopharmaceutical extract, Sesquiterpenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Sucupira-branca}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_13_17}, author = {VS Mendes and JB Sant{\textquoteright}Anna and S. C. C. Oliveira and Iriani Rodrigues Maldonade and Eleuza Rodrigues Machado} } @article {268, title = {Insulin Plant (Costus pictus) Extract Restores Thyroid Hormone Levels in Experimental Hypothyroidism}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {51-59}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {51}, abstract = {

Background: The aim of the present study was to investigate the preventive effect of Costus pictus leaf extract in experimental hypothyroidism. Materials and Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups with ten rats in each group: Control (C), hypothyroid (H), control+extract (C+E), and hypothyroid+extract (H+E). Rats in C group did not receive any intervention throughout the experimental period. The rats in the C+E and H+E groups received pretreatment with C. pictus leaf extract for 4 weeks. Subsequently, for the next 6 weeks, rats in the H group received 0.05\% propylthiouracil in drinking water while C+E group received C. pictus leaf extract and H+E group received propyl thiouracil and C. pictus leaf extract. Results: Hypothyroid group rats exhibited dramatic increase in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels with concomitant depletion in the levels of thyroid hormones. Treatment with the extract resulted in remarkable improvement in thyroid profile. Extract produced 10.59-fold increase in plasma free T3, 8.65-fold increase in free T4, and 3.59-fold decrease in TSH levels in H+E group in comparison with H group. Treatment with the extract ameliorated hypercholesterolemia, decreased levels of plasma C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor alpha, suppressed tissue oxidative stress and prevented hepatic and renal damage caused due to thyroid hormone depletion in the H+E group. Pentacyclic triterpenes alpha and beta amyrins were identified and quantified in the extract. Conclusions: This is the first study to reveal that C. pictus extract has therapeutic potential to restore thyroid hormone levels and prevent the biochemical complications due to thyroid hormone insufficiency in the animal model of experimental hypothyroidism.

}, keywords = {Costus pictus, Hypothyroidism, Insulin plant, Propylthiouracil, Thyroid hormones}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199766}, author = {S Ashwini and Zachariah Bobby and MG Sridhar and CC Cleetus} } @article {383, title = {Investigation of Effect of 1,8-cineole on Antimicrobial Activity of Chlorhexidine Gluconate}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {234-237}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {234}, abstract = {

Background: Chlorhexidine belongs to a group of medicines called antiseptic antibacterial agents. Chlorhexidine is commonly used for the care and clean off the skin, hands, and wounds. In recent years, medicinal and aromatic plants have been used for prevention of disease, maintaining health, and improving disease in traditional and modern medicine as a medicament. According to recent research, cineole is the isolated active agent of eucalyptus oil and possesses antimicrobial activity. It was demonstrated that cineole could enhance the antimicrobial effects of the other antiseptics. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of 1,8-cineole on the antimicrobial effect of chlorhexidine against some microorganisms. Materials and Methods: The effect of 1,8-cineole on antimicrobial activity of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) was tested using seven different microorganisms. In this study, CHG (128{\textendash}0.125 mg/l) and cineole (512{\textendash}2 g/l) were analyzed together and separately using checkerboard assay. Interactions between CHG and 1,8-cineole have been identified as synergistic, indifferent, or antagonistic. Results: Synergistic activity was demonstrated between CHG and 1,8-cineole against Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans. Indifferent interactions for these compounds were demonstrated against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Conclusion: CHG antiseptic properties were found to be increased when CHG was used in combination with 1,8-cineole. In this way, CHG will reveal stronger effect against microorganisms.

}, keywords = {1, 8-cineole, Chequerboard assay, Chlorhexidine gluconate}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.210329}, author = {Merih Simsek and Re{\c s}at Duman} } @article {555, title = {Marine-derived Fungi Extracts Enhance the Cytotoxic Activity of Doxorubicin in Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer Cells A459}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s92-s98}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s92}, abstract = {

Background: Drug resistance is a major concern in the current chemotherapeutic approaches and the combination with natural compounds may enhance the cytotoxic effects of the anticancer drugs. Therefore, this study evaluated the cytotoxicity of crude ethyl extracts of six marine-derived fungi {\textendash} Neosartorya tsunodae KUFC 9213 (E1), Neosartorya laciniosa KUFC 7896 (E2), Neosartorya fischeri KUFC 6344 (E3), Aspergillus similanensis KUFA 0013 (E4), Neosartorya paulistensis KUFC 7894 (E5), and Talaromyces trachyspermum KUFC 0021 (E6) {\textendash} when combined with doxorubicin (Dox), in seven human cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods: The antiproliferative activity was primarily assessed by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Results: Two extracts, E1 and E2, demonstrated a significant enhancement of Dox{\textquoteright}s cytotoxicity in nonsmall cell lung cancer A549 cells. Accumulation of Dox in the nuclei increased when A549 cells were treated in combination with extracts E1 and E2, with induction of cell death observed by the nuclear condensation assay. The combination of E2 with Dox increased the DNA damage as detected by the comet assay. Ultrastructural observations by transmission electron microscopy suggest an autophagic cell death due to an increase of autophagic vesicles, namely with the combination of Dox with E1 and E2. Conclusion: These findings led to the conclusion that the fungal extracts E1 and E2 potentiate the anticancer action of Dox, through nuclear accumulation of Dox with induction of cell death mainly by cytotoxic autophagy.

}, keywords = {Autophagy, Cell death, Drug combination, Marine-derived fungi extracts, Neosartorya sp, Nonsmall cell lung cancer}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_57_17}, author = {Bruno Castro-Carvalho and Alice A Ramos and Maria Prata-Sena and Fernanda Malh{\~a}o and M{\'a}rcia Moreirax and M{\'a}rcia Moreira and Daniela Gargiulo and Tida Dethoup and Suradet Buttachon and Anake Kijjoa and Eduardo Rocha} } @article {325, title = {The Mealiness and Quality of Herbal Medicine: Licorice for Example}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {151-155}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {151}, abstract = {

Background: The morphological identification is an effective and simple quality evaluation method in Chinese drugs, and the traits of mealiness and color were widely used in the commercial market of Chinese drugs. Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the correlation between mealiness of herbal drugs and its quality; licorice was selected as an example. Materials and Methods: The mealiness of licorice was graded by its weight; meanwhile, the content of glycyrrhizic acid and liquiritin was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography-diode-array detection method; the content of polysaccharides, soluble sugars, pectin, total starch, amylose, and amylopectin was measured by colorimetric method; and the number and diameter of starch granule were observed by microscope. Results: The results showed that the mealiness of licorice which collected from wild and cultivated plants is positively correlated with the content of glycyrrhizic acid, liquiritin, the ratio of amylose to total starch, and the number of starch granules whose diameter was over 5 μm. However, the mealiness is negatively correlated with the total starch. Further, the formation mechanism of starch granule was discussed. Conclusion: It is for the first time to report the positive correlation between the mealiness and the starch granule size, the ratio of amylose to total starch, which can provide rationality for the quality evaluation using the character of mealiness in herbal medicine.

}, keywords = {Liquorice, Mealiness, Quality}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204642}, author = {Xueying Liu and Weilong Hou and Deqiang Dou} } @article {445, title = {Medicinal Plants Used by Traditional Healers in Sangurur, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {333-347}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {333}, abstract = {

Background: Although herbal medical products are still widely used in Kenya, many of the medicinal plants used by traditional medical practitioners (TMPs) have not been documented, despite several challenges that are now threatening the sustainability of the practice. Objective: To document the medicinal plants and healing methods used by TMPs in a region of Kenya with several recognized herbalists for potential research. Materials and Methods: Semi-structured interviews, group discussions, and direct observations were used to collect ethnopharmacological information. The participant{\textquoteright}s bio-data, clinical conditions treated, methods of treatment, medicinal plants used, methods of preparation and administration, and dosage forms were recorded. Results: A total of 99 medicinal plants and 12 complementary preparations employed in the treatment of 64 medical conditions were identified. The most widely used plant was Rotala tenella which was used to treat nine medicinal conditions; seven each for Aloe tweediae and Dovyalis abyssinica; and six each for Basella alba and Euclea divinorum. The plants belonged to 55 families with Fabaceae family being the most frequently used (10), followed by Apocynaceae and Solanaceae, each with six species, respectively. We identified plants used to determine the sex of an unborn baby and those used to treat several conditions including anthrax and cerebral malaria and herbs used to detoxify meat from an animal that has died from anthrax. Of special interest was R. tenella which is used to prevent muscle injury. Conclusions: We have documented several plants with potential therapeutic effects. Further research may be conducted to determine their efficacy.

}, keywords = {Ethnopharmacology, Marakwet, Medicinal plants, Research, Traditional medicine}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_42_17}, author = {Gabriel Kigen and Wilson Kipkore and Bernard Wanjohi and Boniface Haruki and Jemutai Kemboi} } @article {253, title = {Methanol Extract of Adansonia digitata Leaf Protects Against Sodium Arsenite-induced Toxicities in Male Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {7-11}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {7}, abstract = {

Background: Human and animal population exposure to arsenic through the consumption of arsenic contaminated water is rampant in many parts of the world. Protective agents of medicinal plants origin could provide maximum protection against toxicities of various kinds. Objective: The protective role of orally administered methanol extract of the leaves of Adansonia digitata (MELAD) on sodium arsenite (SA) - induced clastogenicity and hepatotoxicity in male Wistar rats was evaluated. Materials and Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats divided into six Groups (1{\textendash}6) of five animals each were used for the study. Group 1 (negative control) received distilled water and normal diet only, Groups 2{\textendash}6 received the extract (at 250 or 500 mg/kg body weight) and/or SA at 2.5 mg/kg body weight. Results: There was statistically significant (P \< 0.05) increase in the number of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes and lipid peroxidation in the SA group as compared with the negative control and treated groups. Administration of the extract reduced the effects of SA on the above parameters. Activities of serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferases did not show statistically significant effects; however, the histological analyses revealed periportal cellular infiltration by mononuclear cells, whereas the MELAD treated groups show mild cellular infiltration and mild portal congestion. Conclusions: MELAD protect against SA-induced toxicities in rats, and it may offer protection in circumstances of co-exposure and cases of arsenicosis

}, keywords = {Adansonia digitata, Alanine aminotransferase, Aspartate aminotransferase, Number of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199768}, author = {Ayodeji Mathias Adegokex and Ayodeji Mathias Adegoke and Michael Adedapo Gbadegesin and Oyeronke Adunni Odunola} } @article {303, title = {Modulating Effect of Hypnea musciformis (Red Seaweed) on Lipid Peroxidation, Antioxidants and Biotransforming Enzymes in 7,12-Dimethylbenz (a) Anthracene Induced Mammary Carcinogenesis in Experimental Animals}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {108-115}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {108}, abstract = {

Background: Breast cancer is the second most widespread diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death in women. Objective: The present work was carried out to evaluate the chemo preventive potential of Hypnea musciformis (ethanol extract) seaweed on oxidative stress markers, bio transforming enzymes, incidence of tumors, and pathological observation in 7,12-dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA) exposed experimental mammary carcinogenesis. Materials and Methods: Female Sprague{\textendash}Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups. Rats in the group 1 served as control. Rats in the group 2 and 3 received a single subcutaneous injection of DMBA (25 mg/kg body weight (b.w)) in the mammary gland to develop mammary carcinoma. In addition, group 3 rats were orally administrated with 200 mg/kg between of H. musciformis along with DMBA injection and group 4 rats received ethanolic extract of H. musciformis every day orally (200 mg/kg b.w) throughout the experimental period of 16 weeks. Results: Our results revealed that treatment with H. musciformis ethanolic extract to DMBA treated rats significantly reduced the incidence of tumor and tumor volume as compared to DMBA alone treated rats. Moreover, our results showed imbalance in the activities/levels of lipid peroxidation by products, antioxidant enzymes, and bio transforming phase I and II enzymes in the circulation, liver and mammary tissues of DMBA treated rats which were significantly modulated to near normal on treatment with ethanolic extract of H. musciformis. All these alterations were supported by histochemical findings. Conclusion: The results obtained from this study suggest that chemo preventive potential of H. musciformis ethanol extract is probably due to their free radicals quenching effect and modulating potential of bio transforming enzymes during DMBA exposed experimental mammary carcinogenesis.

}, keywords = {Chemo prevention, Hypnea musciformis, Mammary carcinogenesis, Oxidative stress, Seaweeds}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.187085}, author = {Mohan Balamurugan and Kathiresan Sivakumar and Arokia Vijaya Anand Mariadoss and Kathiresan Suresh} } @article {335, title = {Neutralization of Inflammation by Inhibiting In vitro and In vivo Secretory Phospholipase A2 by Ethanol Extract of Boerhaavia diffusa L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {174-181}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {174}, abstract = {

Background: Inflammation is a normal and necessary prerequisite to healing of the injured tissues. Inflammation contributes to all disease process including immunity, vascular pathology, trauma, sepsis, chemical, and metabolic injuries. The secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) is a key enzyme in the production of pro-inflammatory mediators in chronic inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, coronary heart disease, diabetes, and asthma. The sPLA2 also contribute to neuroinflammatory disorders such as Parkinson{\textquoteright}s, Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s, and Crohn{\textquoteright}s disease. Aims: The present study aims to investigate the inhibition of human sPLA2 by a popular medicinal herb Boerhaavia diffusa Linn. as a function of anti-inflammatory activity. Materials and Methods: The aqueous and different organic solvents extracts of B. diffusa were prepared and evaluated for human synovial fluid, human pleural fluid, as well as Vipera russelli and Naja naja venom sPLA2 enzyme inhibition. Results: Among the extracts, the ethanol extract of B. diffusa (EEBD) showed the highest sPLA2 inhibition and IC50 values ranging from 17.8 to 27.5 μg. Further, antioxidant and lipid peroxidation activities of B. diffusa extract were checked using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical, thiobarbituric acid, and rat liver homogenate. The antioxidant activity of EEBD was more or less directly proportional to in vitro sPLA2 inhibition. Eventually, the extract was subjected to neutralize sPLA2-induced mouse paw edema and indirect hemolytic activity. The EEBD showed similar potency in both the cases. Conclusions: The findings suggest that the bioactive molecule/s from the EEBD is/are potentially responsible for the observed in vitro and in vivo sPLA2 inhibition and antioxidant activity.

}, keywords = {Ethanolic extract of Boerhaavia diffusa L., Human pleural fluid, Human synovial fluid, Naja naja phospholipase A2, Vipera russelli phospholipase A2}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204650}, author = {Aladahalli S Giresha and Siddanakoppalu N Pramod and A D. Sathisha and K. K. Dharmappa} } @article {312, title = {New Cytotoxic Cembranoid from Indonesian Soft Coral Sarcophyton sp.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {65-68}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {65}, abstract = {

Context: Sarcophyton is a soft coral species that contains various secondary metabolites with cytotoxic activity. The production of cytotoxic compounds in soft corals is suggested as their allelochemical to win space competition. Therefore, if a particular soft coral species dominates a reef area, it may suggest to contain interesting bioactive compounds. Aims: This research aimed to characterize the cytotoxic compounds in dominant soft coral species (Sarcophyton sp.) on the reef at the Western side of Mahengetang Island, Indonesia. Subjects and Methods: Isolation of cytotoxic compounds through ethanol extracts had been done with preparative high-performance liquid chromatography and bioassay-guided fractionation by MCF-7 (breast) cancer cell lines. The structures of each cytotoxic compounds were elucidated on the basis of mass and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic studies. Results: Elucidation through all compounds found a new cembranoid, namely, 2-hydroxy-crassocolide E (1), alongside with 5 known cembranoids; sarcophytoxide (2), sarcrassin E (3), 3,7,11-cembreriene-2,15-diol (4), 11,12-epoxy-Sarcophytol A (5), and sarcophytol A (6). All of these cembranoids were showed to inhibit the growth of MCF-7 (breast) cancer, with 50\% inhibition of tumor cell lines growth lower than 30 mg/L. Conclusions: Results of this study suggest that a soft coral species which dominate a reef area is a potential source for various bioactive compounds.

}, keywords = {Cembranoid, Cytotoxic, Sarcophyton sp., Soft coral}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199779}, author = {Hedi Indra Januar and Neviaty Putri Zamani and Dedi Soedharma and Ekowati Chasanah} } @article {553, title = {Pharmacognostic Assesment of the Endemic and Vulnerable Medicinal Climber-Cayratia pedata (Lam.) Gagnep. var. glabra Gamble and Its Antibacterial Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s27-s33}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s27}, abstract = {

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate a meticulous pharmacognostic cram is to supplement constructive information with regard to its identification, characterization, and standardization of endemic and endangered medicinal climber Cayratia pedata var. glabra and also screening the antibacterial activity of this climber. Materials and Methods: The morphological characters of study plant, microscopic examination of leaf powder, anatomy of young stem, physicochemical analysis of plant powder, extractive values, phytochemical analysis, powder with different chemical reagents, fluorescence analysis of plant powder, and other World Health Organization (WHO) recommended for standardization were analyzed. The antibacterial activity of this study plant is also analyzed. Results: C. pedata var. glabra belongs to the family Vitaceae, commonly known as {\textquotedblleft}Kattuppirandai{\textquotedblright} is one such endemic and endangered species in Thaisholai, Nilgiris South Division, Western Ghats. With the patronage of veteran ethnic group traditional knowledge of this region, the species C. pedata var. glabra was selected for the pharmacognostical examination and antibacterial screening. There were no pharmacognostical reports of this plant, specifically to determine the anatomical and other physicochemical standards required for its quality control. The current study deals with pharmacognostical parameters for the aerial parts of study plant, which mainly consists of macromorphological and microanatomical characters, physicochemical constants (ash values and extractive values), fluorescence analysis, and phytochemical screening, one of the WHO accepted parameter for the identification of medicinal plants. The pharmacognostical exploration was undertaken for this species with the purpose of sketch the pharmacopeial standards. The antibacterial activity of this plant confirms the therapeutic power. Conclusion: The information obtained from pharmacognostical studies will be of used for supplementary pharmacological and therapeutical evaluation of the species and will assist in standardization for quality, purity, and authentication with the help, of which adulteration and substitution can be prevented. The antibacterial activity of this plant confirm the traditional knowledge of local healers on the wound healing property of this species and also suggest this plant species can be used as a promising source for the development of new pharmaceuticals that address the therapeutic needs to cure infectious diseases.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Cayratia pedata var. glabra, Macromorphology, Pharmacognostic, Pharmacological}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_25_17}, author = {S. Sharmila and K. Kalaichelvi and S. M. Dhivya and P. Premamalini and P. Abirami and G. Jayanthi} } @article {318, title = {Pharmacognostic Specification, Chlorogenic Acid Content, and In vitro Antioxidant Activities of Lonicera japonica Flowering Bud}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {128-132}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {128}, abstract = {

Background: Lonicera japonica Thunb. or Japanese Honeysuckle has been widely used in traditional medicine for antipyretic. Objective: To establish the pharmacognostic specification of L. japonica flowering bud in Thailand and to determine its chlorogenic acid content and in vitro antioxidant activities. Materials and Methods: Dried L. japonica flowering bud from 15 various herbal drugstores throughout Thailand were investigated for pharmacognostic specification. Their chlorogenic acid contents were quantitatively analyzed by thin layer chromatography (TLC) densitometry with winCATS software. The mobile phase for TLC development consisted of ethyl acetate: formic acid: acetic acid: water (10:1.1:1.1:2.6). Antioxidant activities were investigated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, ferric ion reducing antioxidant power assay, nitric oxide scavenging assay, and β-carotene bleaching assays. Results: Qualified L. japonica flowering bud in Thailand was presented that the contents of loss on drying, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, and water should not be \>10.11\%, 6.59\%, 1.14\%, and 10.82\% by weight, respectively. The ethanol and water soluble extractive values should not be \<16.46\% and 28.88\% by weight, respectively. Chlorogenic acid content in L. japonica flowering bud was found to be 2.24 {\textpm} 0.50 g/100 g of crude drug. L. japonica flowering bud showed DPPH and nitric oxide scavenging activities as well as reducing power property. Conclusion: This pharmacognostic specification with special reference to the chlorogenic acid content can be used for quality control of L. japonica flowering bud in Thailand. The potential antioxidant of this crude drug was demonstrated in vitro.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Chlorogenic acid, Lonicera japonica Thunb., Pharmacognostic specification, Quantitative analysis, Thin layer chromatography-densitometry}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_117_16}, author = {Chayanon Chaowuttikul and Chanida Palanuvej and Nijsiri Ruangrungsi} } @article {273, title = {Pharmacognostic Specifications and Lawsone Content of Lawsonia inermis Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {60-64}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {60}, abstract = {

Background: Lawsonia inermis L. has been used as a traditional or folk medicine for the treatment of a wide range of skin infectious diseases. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacognostic specifications and lawsone contents of L. inermis leaves. Materials and Methods: The pharmacognostic specifications of L. inermis leaves from 12 sources were evaluated according to the WHO guideline of quality control method for medicinal plant materials. The lawsone contents were analyzed by thin-layer chromatography (TLC) coupled with densitometry and image analysis. Results: Microscopic evaluation of L. inermis powders showed the fragment of mesophyll, fragment of parenchyma, epidermis layer with stomata, and the rosette crystal of calcium oxalate. Physicochemical parameters revealed that total ash, acid-insoluble ash, loss on drying, and water content should be not \<6.98, 1.12, 8.08, and 9.86\% of dried weight, respectively, whereas ethanol and water extractive values should be not \< 19.67 and 23.06\% of dried weight, respectively. The content of lawsone in L. inermis leaves by TLC-densitometry was found to be 0.76 {\textpm} 0.05 g/100 g of dried crude drug, whereas the lawsone content evaluation by TLC image analysis was found to be 0.87 {\textpm} 0.11 g/100 g of dried crude drug. The validation of the methods revealed that both TLC-densitometry and TLC image analysis showed a good sensitivity and accuracy for lawsone quantitation in L. inermis. Conclusion: The pharmacognostic specifications could be used as the standardization data of L. inermis leaves, and the development of TLC method could be applied to determine lawsone content in this plant material.

}, keywords = {Lawsone, Lawsonia inermis L, Pharmacognostic specification, Thin-layer chromatography}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199775}, author = {Rawiwan Charoensup and Thidarat Duangyod and Chanida Palanuvej and Nijsiri Ruangrungsi} } @article {560, title = {Pharmacological Evaluation of Hepatoprotective Activity of AHPL/AYTAB/0613 Tablet in Carbon Tetrachloride-, Ethanol-, and Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity Models in Wistar Albino Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s41-s47}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s41}, abstract = {

Background: Hepatotoxicity ultimately leads to liver failure. Conventional treatment options for hepatotoxicity are limited and not safe. Objective: Formulation AHPL/AYTAB/0613 is developed to provide safer and effective hepatoprotective drug of natural origin. A study was conducted to evaluate hepatoprotective activity of AHPL/AYTAB/0613 (three dosages) in comparison with marketed formulations in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), ethanol, and paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar albino rats. Materials and Methods: Three separate studies were conducted in models of CCl4, ethanol, and paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity. Seven groups of animals were studied comparatively to evaluate the efficacy of AHPL/AYTAB/0613 in low, medium, and high dosage in comparison with silymarin and a marketed polyherbal formulation. The drugs were orally administered to rats for 10 days in CCl4 model and for 14 days in ethanol and paracetamol models. Animals were weighed periodically. After the study period, blood was tested for serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, and total protein levels. Liver tissue of sacrificed animals was examined histopathologically. Results: All the test formulations including all three dosages of AHPL/AYTAB/0613, significantly reduced levels of SGOT, SGPT, ALP, total bilirubin, in CCl4, ethanol, and paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity models. There was significant increase in total protein level in all the tested formulations. All the test formulations effectively preserved the structural integrity of the hepatocellular membrane and liver cell architecture damaged by CCl4, ethanol, and paracetamol. When compared between groups, no statistically significant difference was observed. It can be concluded that AHPL/AYTAB/0613 possesses hepatoprotective activity in CCl4, ethanol, and paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Conclusion: AHPL/AYTAB/0613 can be effectively used as a hepatoprotective agent in the management of hepatitis caused due to various toxins.

}, keywords = {AHPL/AYTAB/0613, Carbon tetrachloride, ethanol, Hepatoprotective, Paracetamol, Polyherbal}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_44_17}, author = {Sanjay U. Nipanikar and Sohan S. Chitlange and Dheeraj Nagore} } @article {556, title = {Pharmacological Screening of Trachyspermum ammi for Antihyperlipidemic Activity in Triton X-100 Induced Hyperlipidemia Rat Model}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s34-s40}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s34}, abstract = {

Background: Mortality rate is increasing due to cardiovascular problems throughout the world. These cardiac problems are directly associated with dyslipidemia. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antihyperlipidemic effect of aqueous extract and methanol extract of Trachyspermum ammi at 1 g/kg, 3 g/kg, and 5 g/kg dose levels in rats. Materials and Methods: For this purpose, 45 male albino rats were used and randomly divided into nine equal groups (n = 5). The lipid levels were increased after 24 h of single intraperitoneal injection of Triton X-100 (100 mg/kg) in rats. Aqueous and methanol extracts equivalent to 1 g/kg, 3 g/kg, and 5 g/kg were administered orally to the rats for 21 days. Atorvastatin (10 mg/kg) was used as standard drug. Blood samples were collected at 0, 2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd day by a direct cardiac puncture in Vacuette{\textregistered} heparin tubes. Serum was separated and then analyzed for lipid profile, liver function test (LFT), and renal function test (RFT) using standard diagnostic kits. Results: Results showed that extracts at 3 g/kg and 5 g/kg decreased the levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein and increased high-density lipoprotein concentration in serum. T. ammi also decreased LFT and RFT parameters at the end of the study. Conclusion: T. ammi possessed antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activities along with hepato- and nephro-protective effects.

}, keywords = {Antihyperlipidemic effect, Hepatoprotective, Oxidative stress, Trachyspermum ammi}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_37_17}, author = {Uzma Saleem and Saba Riaz and Bashir Ahmad and Mohammad Saleem} } @article {533, title = {Picroside I and Picroside II from Tissue Cultures of Picrorhiza kurroa}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s53-s56}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s53}, abstract = {

Background: Picrorhiza kurroa (PK) belongs to Scrophulariaceae family and is a representative endemic, medicinal herb, widely distributed throughout the higher altitudes of alpine Himalayas from west to east, between 3000 and 4500 m above mean sea level. Objective: The objective of the present study is to assess the production of picroside I and picroside II from tissue cultures of PK. Materials and Methods: Auxiliary shoot tips of PK were incubated in Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with indole-3-butyric acid and kinetin phytohormones. The callus produced was collected at different time intervals and was processed for extraction of picroside I and picroside II followed by thin layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography HPLC analysis. Results: The maximum growth index was found to be 5.109 {\textpm} 0.159 at 16-week-old callus culture. The estimation of picroside-I and picroside-II was carried out by (HPLC) analysis; quantity of secondary metabolite found to be 16.37 {\textpm} 0.0007 mg/g for PK-I and 6.34 {\textpm} 0.0012 mg/g for PK-II. Conclusion: This is the first attempt to produce the Picroside-I and II in large amount by the tissue culture technique. It can be observed that the method of callus culture can be used in production of secondary metabolites Picroside-I and II from PK

}, keywords = {Picrorhiza kurroa, Picroside I, Picroside II, Tissue cultures}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_89_17}, author = {Yamjala Ganeshkumar and Ajmera Ramarao and Ciddi Veeresham} } @article {410, title = {The Potency of Red Seaweed (Eucheuma cottonii) Extracts as Hepatoprotector on Lead Acetate-induced Hepatotoxicity in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {282-286}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {282}, abstract = {

Background: Lead is one of the most toxic metals, producing severe organ damage in animals and humans. Oxidative stress is reported to play an important role in lead acetate-induced liver injury. Aim: This study was carried out to investigate the role of ethanol extract of Eucheuma cottonii in protecting against lead acetate-induced hepatotoxicity in male mice. Materials and Methods: The sample used fifty male mice which were divided into five groups: negative control (mice were given daily with Aquadest); positive control (mice were given daily with lead acetate 20 mg/kg body weight (BW) orally once in a day for 21 days); and the treatment group (mice were given E. cottonii extracts 200 mg, 400 mg, and 800 mg/kg BW orally once in a day for 25 days, and on the 4th day, were given lead acetate 20 mg/kg BW 1 h after E. cottonii extract administration for 21 days). On day 25, the levels of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were measured. The data of SGOT, SGPT, ALP, MDA, SOD, and GPx were analyzed with one-way ANOVA, followed by least significant difference test. Results: The results showed that oral administration of lead acetate 20 mg/kg BW for 21 days resulted in a significant increase in SGOT, SGPT, ALP, and MDA levels. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in SOD and GPx levels. Treatment with E. cottonii extracts of 800 mg/kg BW but not with 200 mg/kg BW and 400 mg/kg BW significantly (P \< 0.05) decreased the elevated SGPT, SGOT, ALP, and MDA levels as compared to positive control group. Treatment with E. cottonii extracts of 800 mg/kg BW also showed a significant increase in SOD and GPx levels as compared to positive control group. Treating mice with lead acetate showed different histopathological changes such as loss of the normal structure of hepatic cells, blood congestion, and fatty degeneration whereas animals treated with lead acetate and E. cottonii extracts showed an improvement in these changes and the tissue appeared with normal structures. Conclusion: It can be concluded that E. cottonii extracts could be a potent natural product and can provide a promising hepatoprotective effect against lead acetate-induced hepatotoxicity in mice.

}, keywords = {Biochemical assays, Eucheuma cottonii extracts, Hepatoprotector, Lead acetate}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_69_16}, author = {Giftania Wardani and Nuraini Farida and Rina Andayani and Mahmiah Kuntoro} } @article {305, title = {Potential of Cannabidiol for the Treatment of Viral Hepatitis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {116-118}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {116}, abstract = {

Viral hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) pose a major health problem globally and if untreated, both viruses lead to severe liver damage resulting in liver cirrhosis and cancer. While HBV has a vaccine, HCV has none at the moment. The risk of drug resistance, combined with the high cost of current therapies, makes it a necessity for cost-effective therapeutics to be discovered and developed. The recent surge in interest in Medical Cannabis has led to interest in evaluating and validating the therapeutic potentials of Cannabis and its metabolites against various diseases including viruses. Preliminary screening of cannabidiol (CBD) revealed that CBD is active against HCV but not against HBV in vitro. CBD inhibited HCV replication by 86.4\% at a single concentration of 10 μM with EC50of 3.163 μM in a dose-response assay. These findings suggest that CBD could be further developed and used therapeutically against HCV.

}, keywords = {Cannabidiol, Cannabis, Hemp, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199780}, author = {Henry I. C. Lowe and Ngeh J Toyang and Wayne McLaughlin} } @article {330, title = {Potential Roles of Kleinhovia hospita L. Leaf Extract in Reducing Doxorubicin Acute Hepatic, Cardiac and Renal Toxicities in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {168-173}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {168}, abstract = {

Background: Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent chemotherapy agent; however, its use may lead to cardiac, hepatic, and renal dysfunction. Kleinhovia hospita L extract contains antioxidant compounds that have been shown to reduce chemical-induced hepatotoxicity. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the protective effects of Kleinhovia sp. extract to reduce DOX acute toxicities. Materials and Methods: Thirty male rats were assigned to the following groups: Group I as controls, Group II was given DOX i.p. injection (25 mg/kg); Groups III, IV, and V were treated with Kleinhovia sp. extract 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg orally for 5 days, respectively, prior to DOX i.p. injection. After 24 h, blood and organs were analyzed for biomarker levels and histopathological changes. Results: DOX treatment in Group II significantly increased creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and urea levels compared to controls. Kleinhovia sp. extract at any given dose significantly improved ALT and AST; yet, CK-MB levels only reduced with 250 mg/kg dose (Group IV). Urea and creatinine levels in Kleinhovia sp. groups were also lower compared to DOX-treated rats, but it was not significant. Histopathological analysis showed improved liver, heart, and renal tissue structures in Kleinhovia sp-treated rats, especially at higher doses. Conclusion: Kleinhovia sp. extract at any dose given protected the rats from liver toxicity, but only at dose 250 mg/kg reduced cardiac toxicity. Although renal biomarkers were insignificantly lower, renal architecture was improved with Kleinhovia sp. treatment.

}, keywords = {Acute toxicity, Doxorubicin, Kleinhovia sp. extract}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_129_16}, author = {Yulia Yusrini Djabir and M Aryadi Arsyad and Sartini Sartini and Subehan Lallo} } @article {323, title = {Preclinical Toxicological Evaluation of IDM01: The Botanical Composition of 4-Hydroxyisoleucine- and Trigonelline-based Standardized Fenugreek Seed Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {138-150}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {138}, abstract = {

Objective: To evaluate acute oral toxicity (AOT), subchronic (90-day repeated dose) toxicity, mutagenicity, and genotoxicity potential of IDM01, the botanical composition of 4-hydroxyisoleucine- and trigonelline-based standardized fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L) seed extract in laboratory rats. Materials and Methods: The AOT and subchronic (90-day repeated dose) toxicity were evaluated using Sprague-Dawley rats as per the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guidelines No. 423 and No. 408, respectively. During the subchronic study, the effects on body weight, food and water consumption, organ weights with hematology, clinical biochemistry, and histology were studied. The mutagenicity and genotoxicity of IDM01 were evaluated by reverse mutation assay (Ames test, OECD guideline No. 471) and chromosome aberration test (OECD guideline No. 473), respectively. Results: The IDM01 did not show mortality or treatment-related adverse signs during acute (limit dose of 2000 mg/kg) and subchronic (90-day repeated dose of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg with 28 days of recovery period) administration. The IDM01 showed oral median lethal dose (LD50) \>2000 mg/kg during AOT study. The no-observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of IDM01 was 500 mg/kg. IDM01 did not show mutagenicity up to a concentration of 5000 μg/plate during Ames test and did not induce structural chromosomal aberrations up to 50 mg/culture. Conclusions: IDM01 was found safe during preclinical acute and subchronic (90-day repeated dose) toxicity in rats without mutagenicity or genotoxicity.

}, keywords = {Acute oral toxicity, Fenugreek seed extract, Genotoxicity, Mutagenicity, Subchronic toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204649}, author = {Pallavi O Deshpande and Vishwaraman Mohan and Prasad Arvind Thakurdesai} } @article {361, title = {Protective Effect of Sorrel Extract on Adult Rats Treated by Carbon Tetrachloride}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {200-207}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {200}, abstract = {

Context: Heart, kidneys, and liver are the vital organs present in vertebrates and some other animals. They have a wide range of functions, such as maintaining homeostasis, detoxification, protein synthesis, and production of biochemical, that are necessary for digestion and maintaining circulation. These organs are necessary for the survival, and currently, there are no means to compensate for the absence of their functionalities in a long term. The damage of liver can affect other vital organs, including kidneys and heart. Aims: This study aimed at investigating the effect of sorrel extract in the treatment of some of the diseases of liver, kidneys, and heart using experimental animals. Settings and Design: This study is a randomized, controlled clinical trial. Materials and Methods: Forty mature male albino rats, weighing 150{\textendash}160 g, were used and divided into four equal groups. One group was kept as negative control (C -ve) group whereas the other three groups were injected subcutaneously (s/c) with carbon tetrachloride in 50\% V/V paraffin oil (2 ml/kg b.wt.). Tissue specimens were obtained from all the groups and fixed in 10\% formalin for histopathological examination. Statistical Analysis Used: The obtained data were statistically analyzed using computerized Superior Performing Statistical Software (SPSS) at SAS Institute, Cary, NC, USA. Effects of different treatments were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance test using Duncan{\textquoteright}s multiple range test, and P \< 0.05 was also used to indicate the significance level between different groups (Snedecor and Cochran, 1967). Results: The resulting data showed that the sorrel extract demonstrated a significant enhancement in liver intoxication and all other tested parameters. In addition, it also helped in minimizing the structural tissue damages in the vital organs. Conclusions: According to these results, sorrel can impair the liver function and maintain the functions of the vital organs.

}, keywords = {Carbon tetrachloride, Heart, Histopathological changes, Kidneys, Liver, Sorrel}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204653}, author = {Abdullah Glil Alkushi} } @article {448, title = {Protective effect of Withania coagulans fruit extract on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {354-361}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {354}, abstract = {

Background: Fruits of Withania coagulans (Solanaceae) reported to possess several bioactive compounds as curative agents for various clinical conditions. Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic drug to treat sarcomas, carcinomas, lymphomas, cervical cancer, germ cell tumors, etc. The major factor that limits its clinical use is its dose-dependent nephrotoxicity. Aim: To explore the nephroprotective effect of W. coagulans extract and its modulatory effects against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and genotoxicity. Materials and Methods: W. coagulans fruit extract was quantitatively standardized with withaferin A using high-performance thin-layer chromatography. The subacute toxicity study was performed according to OECD guidelines in experimental rats. Nephrotoxicity in rats was induced by a single dose of cisplatin (6 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). Nephroprotective role of W. coagulans fruit extract at different doses had been evaluated. It includes quantification of serum kidney toxicity markers, renal tissue oxidative stress biomarkers and pro-inflammatory cytokines level, DNA fragmentation assay, and histopathological examination of renal tissue. Results: Withaferin A was found 3.56 mg/g of W. coagulans fruit extract. It significantly prevented the rise in serum urea and creatinine level and also preserve rat kidneys from oxidative stress and free radical induced DNA damage. Histopathological study showed extract treatment eliminates tubular swelling, cellular necrosis, and protein cast deposition in cisplatin treated kidney tissue. It averted the decline in glutathione content, activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase. These parameters were restored to near normal levels by extract in a dose of 400 mg/kg, per oral. Conclusion: It can be justified that W. coagulans possess dose dependent protective effect against cisplatin induced kidney damages, primarily through its free radical scavenging and anti inflammatory activity

}, keywords = {Cisplatin, DNA fragmentation assay, nephroprotective, withaferin A, Withania coagulans}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_1_17}, author = {Sonam Sharma and Apurva Joshi and Siva Hemalatha} } @article {412, title = {Quantification of Quercetin Obtained from Allium cepa Lam. Leaves and its Effects on Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Neuropathy}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {287-293}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {287}, abstract = {

Objective: Antioxidant potential has protective effects in diabetic neuropathy (DN); hence, the present study was designed with an objective to quantify quercetin from shade-dried leaves of Allium cepa Lam. and to study its effects on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced chronic DN. Materials and Methods: The shade-dried leaves of A. cepa Lam. were extracted with methanol and then fractionated using ethyl acetate (ACEA). The quantification of quercetin in ACEA was evaluated by high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). The STZ (40 mg/kg) was administered to Sprague-Dawley rats (180{\textendash}250 g) maintained at normal housing conditions. The STZ was administered once a day for 3 consecutive days. The elevation in blood glucose was monitored for 3 weeks periodically using flavin adenine dinucleotide-glucose dehydrogenase method by Contour TS glucometer. Rats showing blood glucose above 250 mg/dl were selected for the study. Animals were divided into eight groups. ACEA (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg), quercetin (40 mg/kg), metformin (120 mg/kg), and gabapentin (100 mg/kg) were given orally once a day for 2 weeks. The blood glucose level was again measured at the end of treatment to assess DN. Thermal hyperalgesia, cold allodynia, motor incoordination, and neurotoxicity were studied initially and at the end of 2-week treatment. Biochemical parameters were also evaluated after 2-week drug treatment. Results: The quercetin present in ACEA was 4.82\% by HPTLC. All the ACEA treatment reduces blood glucose level at the end of the 2-week study and shows a significant neuroprotective effect in STZ-induced DN in the above experimental models. Conclusion: The quercetin present in ACEA proved protective effect in STZ-induced DN.

}, keywords = {Allium cepa, Diabetic neuropathy, High-performance thin layer chromatography, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_147_16}, author = {Khan Dureshahwar and Mohammed Mubashir and Hemant Devidas Une} } @article {367, title = {Rapid Development and Validation of Improved Reversed-Phase High-performance Liquid Chromatography Method for the Quantification of Mangiferin, a Polyphenol Xanthone Glycoside in Mangifera indica}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {April 2017}, pages = {215-219}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {215-}, abstract = {

Mangiferin, a polyphenolic xanthone glycoside from Mangifera indica, is used as traditional medicine for the treatment of numerous diseases. The present study was aimed to develop and validate a reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method for the quantification of mangiferin from the bark extract of M. indica. RP-HPLC analysis was performed by isocratic elution with a low-pressure gradient using 0.1\% formic acid: acetonitrile (87:13) as a mobile phase with a flow rate of 1.5 ml/min. The separation was done at 26{\textdegree}C using a Kinetex XB-C18 column as stationary phase and the detection wavelength at 256 nm. The proposed method was validated for linearity, precision, accuracy, limit of detection, limit of quantification, and robustness by the International Conference on Harmonisation guidelines. In linearity, the excellent correlation coefficient more than 0.999 indicated good fitting of the curve and also good linearity. The intra- and inter-day precision showed \<1\% of relative standard deviation of peak area indicated high reliability and reproducibility of the method. The recovery values at three different levels (50\%, 100\%, and 150\%) of spiked samples were found to be 100.47, 100.89, and 100.99, respectively, and low standard deviation value \<1\% shows high accuracy of the method. In robustness, the results remain unaffected by small variation in the analytical parameters, which shows the robustness of the method. Liquid chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry analysis confirmed the presence of mangiferin with M/Z value of 421. The assay developed by HPLC method is a simple, rapid, and reliable for the determination of mangiferin from M. indica.

}, keywords = {Liquid chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry, Mangifera indica, Mangiferin, Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, Validation}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.204652}, author = {P Naveen and HB Lingaraju and K Shyam Prasad} } @article {434, title = {A Review of Botany and Pharmacological Effect and Chemical Composition of Echinophora Species Growing in Iran}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {305-312}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {305}, abstract = {

This review was conducted to investigate the botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties of Echinophora species. The information of this review was obtained by searching for keywords Apiaceae, Echinophora, pharmacological effects, and traditional and modern medicine in scientific articles and books published in search engines Scopus, Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, and Web of Science. The traditional uses of Echinophora and the existence of valuable phytochemicals in the plant have led to isolation and drug discovery of natural medicines such as antibiotic, analgesics, and anticancer drugs, and the beneficial effects of these plants can widely be used in healthcare.

}, keywords = {Botany, Chemical composition, Echinophora, Modern medicine, Traditional medicine}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_22_17}, author = {Zohreh Hosseini and Zahra Lorigooini and Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei and Hamzeh Ali Shirmardi and Kamal Solati} } @article {414, title = {Root Exudates of Cyperus alternifolius in Partial Hydroponic Condition under Heavy Metal Stress}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {294-300}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {294}, abstract = {

Secondary metabolites play a vital role in the treatment of various ailments as well as in phytoremediation. The link between secondary metabolites and phytoremediation needs exploration. Hitherto, no information is available regarding the phytochemical components that exist in the root exudates of Cyperus alternifolius. This study was designed to determine the phytocomponents in the root exudates of C. alternifolius under heavy metal stress. C. alternifolius was grown by a novel technique in partial hydroponic conditions and imperiled to a mixture of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Zn, Pb, and Fe) at different concentrations. The root exudates were collected, freeze-dried, redissolved and reconstituted in hexane and analyzed in gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry using JEOL GCMATE II in SAIF IIT-Madras. The analysis revealed that the profile of phytochemicals in root exudates is diverse with biological properties. Few phytochemicals found in the root exudates are not cited earlier in any literature. The composition and percentage of phytochemicals could not be correlated to heavy metal concentration. Phytochemical composition decreased with an increase in heavy metal concentration. Control plant released more phytochemicals than the plants under heavy metal stress. From the results, it is evident that root exudates of C. alternifolius contain various bioactive components. Further research can be extended to evaluate the pharmaceutical importance of the species and explore its role in phytoremediation of heavy metals.

}, keywords = {Cyperus alternifolius, Gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry analysis, Heavy metals, Phytochemicals, Root exudates}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_107_16}, author = {Boopathy Usharani and , Namasivayam Vasudevan} } @article {277, title = {Short-term Effects of Date Palm Extract (Phoenix dactylifera) on Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury Induced by Testicular Torsion/ Detorsion in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {69-73}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {69}, abstract = {

Background: Antioxidants are potent scavengers of free radicals and have beneficial effects on human health. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the potential protective antioxidant activity of the edible portion of date fruit extract in an experimental testicular torsion/detorsion (T/D) model in rats. Materials and Methods: To investigate the potential protective effects of date palm (DP), 30 male Spraque-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: sham-operated, T/D, and T/D + DP-treated (500 mg/kg, PO) groups. Testicular ischemia was induced via keeping the left testis under 720{\textdegree} clockwise torsion for 2 h (h), afterward, detorsion was performed. All rats were sacrificed 4 h after detorsion. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, total oxidative status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and histopathological damage score were evaluated. Results: Serum MDA, TOS, and OSI levels rose significantly in the T/D group. These values were lower in the T/D + DP group. TAS values decreased significantly in T/D group and rose in T/D + DP group. Severe injury was seen in the twisted testes of T/D group. In contrast, ipsilateral-twisted testicular tissue in the DP-treated group showed moderate-to-mild changes. Contralateral testicular tissue in the T/D group had a mild-to-moderate tissue injury; meanwhile, treated group revealed normal-to-mild changes. Spermatogenesis was significantly improved in DP-treated group when compared with the T/D group. Conclusion: The findings suggest a possible protective effect of DP against testicular oxidative damage induced by T/D; however, more detailed studies are warranted.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant markers, Histopathology, Ischemia/reperfusion, Phoenix dactylifera, Testis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.199769}, author = {Alireza Raayat Jahromi and Rokhsana Rasooli and Younes Kamali and Nasrollah Ahmadi and Ehsan Sattari} } @article {394, title = {Spectrophotometric Quantification of Flavonoids in Herbal Material, Crude Extract, and Fractions from Leaves of Eugenia uniflora Linn}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {253-260}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {253}, abstract = {

Background: The traditional use of Eugenia uniflora L. ({\textquotedblleft}Pitanga{\textquotedblright}) is reported due to several properties, which have often been related to its flavonoid content. Objective: The aim was to evaluate analytical procedures for quantification of total flavonoids content (TFCs) by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry in the herbal material (HM), crude extract (CE), and fractions from leaves of E. uniflora. Materials and Methods: The method for quantification of flavonoids after complexation with aluminum chloride (AlCl3) was evaluated: amount of sample (0.25{\textendash}1.5 g); solvent (40\%{\textendash}80\% ethanol); reaction time and AlCl3concentration (2.5\%{\textendash}7.5\%). The procedures by direct dilution (DD) and after acid hydrolysis (AH) were used and validated for HM and CE and applied to the aqueous fraction (AqF), hexane fraction, and ethyl acetate fractions (EAF). Results: The ideal conditions of analysis were ethanol 80\% as solvent; 0.5 g of sample; λmax of 408 (DD) and 425 nm (AH); 25 min after addition of AlCl3 5\%. The procedures validated for standards and samples showed linearity (R2 \> 0.99) with limit of detection and limit of quantification between 0.01 and 0.17 mg/mL (rutin and quercetin); and 0.03 and 0.09 mg/mL (quercetin), for DD and AH, respectively. The procedures were accurate (detect, practice, and repair \<5\% and recovery \>90\%), and stable under robustness conditions (luminosity, storage, reagents, and equipment). The TFCs in AqF and EAF were 0.65 g\% and 17.72 g\%, calculated as rutin. Conclusions: UV-Vis methods for quantification of TFC in HM, CE, and fractions from leaves of E. uniflora were suitably validated. Regarding the analysis of fractions, the EAF achieved enrichment of about nine times in the content of flavonoids.

}, keywords = {Eugenia uniflora L, Fractions, Total flavonoids content, Ultraviolet-visible, Validation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_143_16}, author = {Rhayanne T. M. Ramos and Isabelle C. F. Bezerra and Magda R. A. Ferreira and Luiz Alberto Lira Soares} } @article {442, title = {A Standardized Composition Comprised of Extracts from Rosmarinus officinalis, Annona squamosa and Zanthoxylum clava-herculis for Cellulite}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {319-324}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {319}, abstract = {

Background: Cellulite, characterized by changes in the skin morphology presented as dimpled or puckered skin appearance, is highly prevalent among postadolescent women. Cellulite management ranges from topical cream applications to invasive procedures. While some interventions showed improvements in physical appearances of affected areas, so far, none have reversed the condition to a full recovery. These unsuccessful measures signify the intricate nature of cellulite etiology highlighting its complexity leading to the possibility for a combination treatment approach to target multiple mechanisms. Materials and Methods: We screened our plant library for extracts that reduce cellular lipid accumulation, improve microcirculation, possess high total antioxidant capacity, significant anti-platelet aggregation, and anti-inflammatory activities using lipid accumulation assay in 3T3-L1 cells, Croton oil-induced hemorrhoid test in rats as a model for microcirculation, anti-platelet aggregation assay, nitric oxide (NO) inhibition assay, and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl assay. Results: Three known botanicals such as Rosemary officinalis, Annona squamosa and Zanthoxylum clava-herculis were identified as lead extracts in these tests. Treatment of 3T3 cell with A. squamosa at 1 μg/ml resulted in 68.8\% reduction in lipid accumulation. In croton oil-induced hemorrhoid study, Z. clava-herculis reduced the recto-anus coefficient by 79.6\% at 6 mg/kg indicating improvement in microcirculations. Similarly, R. officinalis caused inhibition of 82\%, 71.8\%, and 91.8\% in platelet aggregation, NO production and free radical generation at 31.25 μg/ml, 6.2 μg/ml, and 40 μg/ml concentrations suggesting its anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Conclusions: Data depicted here suggest that formulation of these well-known botanicals at a specific ratio perhaps may yield a composition with a much wider spectrum of mechanisms of actions to impact the multiple pathways involved in cellulite onset, continuation, or exacerbations.

}, keywords = {Annona squamosa, Cellulite, Rosemary officinalis, Zanthoxylum clava-herculis}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_70_17}, author = {Mesfin Yimam and Young-Chul Lee and Ping Jiao and Mei Hong and Lidia Brownell and Qi Jia} } @article {299, title = {Synergisms in Alpha-glucosidase Inhibition and Antioxidant Activity of Camellia sinensis L. Kuntze and Eugenia uniflora L. Ethanolic Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {February 2017}, pages = {101-107}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {101}, abstract = {

Background: Camellia sinensis, the most consumed and popular beverages worldwide, and Eugenia uniflora, a Brazilian native species, have been already confirmed to have beneficial effects in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. However, their potential acting together against an enzyme linked to this pathology has never been exploited. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the inhibitory properties of individual and combined ethanolic extracts of the leaves of C. sinensis and E. uniflora over alpha-glucosidase, a key digestive enzyme used on the Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) control. In addition, their inhibitory activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH{\textbullet}) and peroxyl radicals was also assayed. Materials and Methods: Enzyme inhibition and antioxidant potential were assessed based on in vitro assays. Total phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and chlorophylls A and B were achieved using spectrophotometric methods. Results: E. uniflora was almost 40 times more active on alpha-glucosidase than C. sinensis and combined extracts showed a significant synergistic effect with an obtained IC50 value almost 5 times lower than the theoretical value. C. sinensis extract was twice more active than E. uniflora concerning DPPH{\textbullet}, in contrast, E. uniflora was almost 10 times more effective than C. sinensis on inhibition of peroxyl radicals with a significant synergistic effect for combined extracts. The extracts activities may be related with their phytochemicals, mainly phenolic compounds, and chlorophylls. Conclusion: Combined C. sinensis and E. uniflora ethanolic extracts showed synergistic effect against alpha-glucosidase and lipid peroxidation. These herbal combinations can be used to control postprandial hyperglycemia and can also provide antioxidant defenses to patients with T2DM.

}, keywords = {Additive effect, Antihyperglycemic effect, Antiradical activity, Diabetes, Phytochemicals, Synergistic effect}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.197797}, author = {Juliana Vinholes and M{\'a}rcia Vizzotto} } @article {454, title = {Teucrium polium-induced Vasorelaxation Mediated by Endothelium-dependent and Endothelium-independent Mechanisms in Isolated Rat Thoracic Aorta}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {372-377}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {372}, abstract = {

Objective: There are some reports on hypotensive and antispasmodic effects of Teucrium polium L. (Lamiaceae) (TP). Subjects and Methods: The activity of different concentrations of TP extract (1, 2, 4 and 8 mg/ml) was evaluated on contractile responses of isolated aorta to potassium chloride (KCl) and phenylephrine (PE). Results: The cumulative concentrations of the extract induced a concentration-dependent relaxation in the aorta precontracted by PE and KCl. Extract-induced vasorelaxations in denuded aortic rings precontracted by PE and KCl at lower concentrations were considerably less than intact aortic rings, but this effect was significantly more at concentrations of 4 mg/ml for PE-, 4 and 8 mg/ml for KCl-induced contractions. All the extract concentrations (except 1 mg/ml) significantly relaxed PE-induced contraction in the presence of NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester. Indomethacin reduced effectively extract-induced vasorelaxation at 1 and 2 mg/ml. The extract reduced PE- and KCl-induced contractions in the presence of cumulative calcium concentrations and after incubation with diltiazem; this vasorelaxant effect of TP was decreased. TP-induced relaxation was inhibited by heparin, ruthenium red, glibenclamide, and tetraethylammonium, but 4-aminopyridine had no effect on TP-induced relaxation. Conclusion: TP extract has vasorelaxant effect on isolated rat thoracic aorta which mediated by endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent mechanisms. The relaxation mainly was mediated by inhibition of calcium influx in vascular smooth muscle cells. It seems that the vasorelaxant effect of extract at lower concentrations was mediated by nitric oxide and prostacyclin.

}, keywords = {Calcium channels, Isolated aorta, Potassium channels, Teucrium polium, Vasorelaxation}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_140_16}, author = {Saeed Niazmand and Elahe Fereidouni and Maryam Mahmoudabady and Mahmoud Hosseini} } @article {559, title = {Therapeutic Significance of Loligo vulgaris (Lamarck, 1798) Ink Extract: A Biomedical Approach}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {December 2017}, pages = {s105-s109}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s105}, abstract = {

Background: The squid ink extract is well known for its biomedical properties. Objective: In this study, squid Loligo vulgaris was collected from Tuticorin costal water, Bay of Bengal, India. Materials and Methods: Proximate composition of the crude squid ink was studied and found to have protein as the major component over lipid and carbohydrates. Further, bioactive fractions of squid ink were extracted with ethanol, and therapeutic applications such as hemolytic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and in vitro anti-inflammatory properties were analyzed using standard methods. Results: In hemolytic assay, the squid ink extract exhibited a maximum hemolytic activity of 128 hemolytic unit against tested erythrocytes. In DPPH assay, the ethanolic extract of squid ink has exhibited an antioxidant activity of 83.5\%. The squid ink was found to be potent antibacterial agent against the pathogens tested. 200 {\textmu}L of L. vulgaris ink extract showed remarkable antibacterial activity as zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli (28 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (22 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (21 mm), and Staphylococcus aureus (24 mm). The 68.9\% inhibition of protein denaturation by the squid ink extract indicated that it has very good in vitro anti-inflammatory properties. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis of the ethanolic extracts of the squid ink indicated the presence of functional groups such as 1{\textdegree} and 2{\textdegree} amines, amides, alkynes (terminal), alkenes, aldehydes, nitriles, alkanes, aliphatic amines, carboxylic acids, and alkyl halides, which complements the biochemical background of therapeutic applications. Conclusion: Hence, results of this study concluded that the ethanolic extract of L. vulgaris has many therapeutic applications such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, DPPH, Hemolytic activity, Ink extracts, Loligo vulgaris}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_81_17}, author = {Sri Kumaran Nadarajah and Vijayaraj Radha and Jayaprakashvel Mani} } @article {463, title = {Toxicological Evaluation of the Aqueous Extract of Caralluma europaea and Its Immunomodulatory and Inflammatory Activities}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {November 2017}, pages = {390-395}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {390}, abstract = {

Background: Caralluma europaea (CE) has been studied for its chemical constituents, and no information is available on its toxicity or its pharmacological activities. Objective: To determine the toxicity of an aqueous extract of CE stems in vitro and in vivo after acute and subchronic oral gavages in Swiss albino{\textquoteright}s mice and its immunomodulatory and inflammatory activities. Materials and Methods: The extract was administrated in single oral dose at 5 g/kg body weight for the acute toxicity test and by gavages daily at doses of 1, 2.5, or 5 g/kg for 30 consecutive days for the subchronic toxicity test. The immunomodulatory activities and inflammatory activities were tested by the evaluation of hemagglutination antibodies (HAs) titers and delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response. Results: For the dose of 1 g/kg, no visible toxic effects were observed. However, for the higher doses, clinical observations of toxicity were noted after 1 week of treatment. This was confirmed by the biochemical parameters values and the histology analyses of the spleen, liver, and kidney tissues. The high cellular mortality rate in vitro when treated with CE extract confirmed their toxicity potential. There was also increase of {\textquotedblleft}HA titer{\textquotedblright} and {\textquotedblleft}DTH{\textquotedblright} response in mice treated with nontoxic dose of CE (1 g/kg) compared to control group. This immune activity was confirmed by the high number of lymphocytes infiltrates noted in the different organs. Conclusion: We conclude that CE at the dose up of 1 g/kg produced toxic effect in mice that induced an immune inflammatory reaction.

}, keywords = {Caralluma europaea, Immunomodulatory reaction, Inflammatory reaction, Toxicity in vivo and in vitro}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_24_17}, author = {Zineb Issiki and Chaimaa Moundir and Farida Marnissi and Nadia Seddik and Naima Benjelloun and Younes Zaid and Mounia Oudghiri} } @article {374, title = {Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. ex Schult.) DC (Rubiaceae) Sensitizes THP-1 Cells to Radiation-induced Cell Death}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {July 2017}, pages = {221-229}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {221}, abstract = {

Background: Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. ex Schult.) DC (Rubiaceae), known as Cat{\textquoteright}s Claw or Uña de gato, is a traditionally used medicinal plant native to Peru. Some studies have shown that U. tomentosa can act as an antiapoptotic agent and enhance DNA repair in chemotherapy-treated cells although others have shown that U. tomentosa enhanced apoptosis. Objective: To determine if treatment with U. tomentosa can significantly enhance cell death in THP-1 cells exposed to ionizing radiation. Materials and Methods: THP-1 monocyte-like cells were treated with ethanolic extracts of U. tomentosa in the presence or absence of bacterial lipopolysaccharide and then exposed to ionizing radiation. Cell proliferation was assessed by MTT and clonogenic assays and the effects on cell cycle measured by flow cytometry and immunoblotting. Changes in cell signaling were determined by immunoblotting and cytokine ELISA and activation of apoptosis measured by caspase activation and DNA fragmentation analysis. Results: Treatment of THP-1 cells with U. tomentosa had a small effect on cell proliferation. However, when the U. tomentosa-pretreated cells were also subjected to 5{\textendash}9 Gy ionizing radiation, they showed a significant decrease in cell proliferation and increased cellular apoptosis as measured by DNA fragmentation and caspase activation. Treatment with U. tomentosa also decreased the expression of Cyclin E and Cyclin B, key regulators of normal cell cycle progression, and decreased the phosphorylation of various stress-activated, cell survival proteins including p38, ERK, and SAP/JNK kinase. Conclusions: These results suggest that U. tomentosa could be useful in enhancing cell death following anticancer therapies including ionizing radiation.

}, keywords = {Cell signaling, Cell survival, Cytokine, Monocyte, Uncaria tomentosa, X-rays}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_83_16}, author = {Lisa Allen and Alison Buckner and Carly A Buckner and Pablo Cano and Robert M Lafrenie} } @article {475, title = {Acute Sodium Arsenite-Induced Hematological and Biochemical Changes in Wistar Rats: Protective Effects of Ethanol Extract of Ageratum conyzoides}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {26-30}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {26}, abstract = {

Background: Ageratum conyzoides L. (Asteraceae) is an annual herbaceous plant used in folklore medicine for the treatment of a wide range of diseases. Objective: To investigate the protective effect of the ethanol leaf extract of A. conyzoides (EEAC) against hematological, serum biochemical and histological alterations induced by Sodium arsenite administration to Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into four groups of five rats each. Group I received propylene glycol and Group II rats were given the (EEAC, 100 mg/kg b.w.) orally for 7 days. Group III were given a single oral dose of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2, 2.5 mg/kg b.w.). Animals in Group IV were pretreated with 100 mg/kg EEAC for 7 days followed by a single oral dose of sodium arsenite. Results: Arsenic exposure resulted in significant reductions (P \< 0.05) in values of packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and red blood cell (RBC) count, and elevation in total white blood cell (WBC) count with insignificant reductions in serum total protein, albumin, and globulin levels. Alterations in aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma glutamyl transferase activities, as well as in serum levels of urea, creatinine, glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, were not statistically significant. EEAC significantly restored (P \< 0.05) the PCV, Hb, RBC, and WBC as well as serum albumin, globulin, and total protein to normal values. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that EEAC possess strong potentials to protect against toxicities induced by sodium arsenite.

}, keywords = {Ageratum conyzoides, Hematology, Histopathology, Liver, Serum Biochemistry, Sodium arsenite}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178645}, author = {Olufunke Eunice Ola-Davies and Akinleye Stephen Akinrinde} } @article {483, title = {Ameliorative Effects of Chloroform Fraction of Cocos nucifera L. Husk Fiber Against Cisplatin-induced Toxicity in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {89-96}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {89}, abstract = {

Background: Cisplatin (Cis) is used in the treatment of solid tumors and is known to elicit serious side effects. Objective: The present study investigated the protective effects of chloroform fraction of Cocos nucifera husk fiber (CFCN) against Cis-induced organs{\textquoteright} damage and chromosomal defect in rats. Quercetin (QUE), standard antioxidant, served as positive control. Materials and Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were assigned into six groups and treated with corn oil (control), Cis alone, Cis + CFCN, CFCN alone, Cis + QUE, and QUE alone. QUE and CFCN were given at 50 and 200 mg/kg/day, respectively, by oral gavage for 7 days before the rats were exposed to a single dose of Cis (10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) at the last 36 h of study. Results: Administration of Cis alone caused a significant (P \< 0.05) increase in the levels of serum creatinine and urea by 72\% and 70\%, respectively, when compared with the control. The activity of serum aspartate aminotransferase was significantly (P \< 0.05) increased while alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase were insignificantly (P \> 0.05) affected in Cis-treated rats. Furthermore, the activities of hepatic and renal catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, and levels of reduced glutathione were significantly (P \< 0.05) decreased in Cis-treated rats with concomitant elevation of malondialdehyde. Cis exposure increased the frequency of micro nucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (mPCE) by 92\%. Pretreatment with CFCN inhibited lipid peroxidation, enhanced the activities of some antioxidative enzymes and reduced the frequency of mPCE. Conclusions: Chloroform fraction of CFCN may protect against organs damage by Cis. Further studies are required to determine the component of the plant responsible for this activity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Cisplatin, Clastogenicity, Cocos nucifera, Lipid peroxidation}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.172658}, author = {Oluwatosin Adekunle Adaramoye and Adesola Fausat Azeez and Olufunke Elizabeth Ola-Davies} } @article {498, title = {Analgesic and Antioxidant Activities of Stem Bark Extract and Fractions of Petersianthus macrocarpus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {181-185}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {181}, abstract = {

Background: Petersianthus macrocarpus (Lecythidaceae) is widely used in the folk medicine in Nigeria to relieve pain and fever associated with malaria. This study evaluated the analgesic and antioxidant activities of the methanol extract and fractions of the stem bark of the plant. Materials and Methods: The analgesic activity was determined in mice using hotplate and acetic acid-induced writhing models. Morphine sulphate (5 mg/kg, i.p.) and aspirin (100 mg/ml, p.o.) were used as reference analgesic agents. The antioxidant potential was evaluated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical; reducing power, iron chelating properties and determination of total phenolic content. Results: The extract at 200 and 500 mg/kg, produced an insignificant (P \> 0.05) increase in pain threshold in hotplate but a significant (P \< 0.05) increase at 1000 mg/kg. The extract significantly (P \< 0.05) reduced the writhing induced by acetic acid in mice in a dose dependent manner. Fractionation increased the analgesic activities significantly (P \< 0.05) in ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions (200 mg/kg). The extract demonstrated strong DPPH radical scavenging activity with IC50 0.05 mg/ml, good reducing power and weak iron chelating activities. The total phenol content was 142.32 mg/gin term of gallic acid. The antioxidant effects were more pronounced in ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions. Conclusion: The findings of the study suggested that the extract has strong analgesic and antioxidant activities which reside mainly in the polar fractions thus confirming the traditional use of the plant to alleviate pains.

}, keywords = {Anti-nociceptive, Lecythidaceae, Pain, radical scavenging, writhing}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.182912}, author = {Celestina Ifeoma Orabueze and Sunday Adeleke Adesegun and Herbert Alexander Coker} } @article {522, title = {Antihyperglycemic and Insulin Secretagogue Activities of Abrus precatorius Leaf Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {303-308}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {303}, abstract = {

Aim: Abrus precatorius leaves methanolic extract (APME) was evaluated for in vivo antihyperglycemic activity and in vitro insulinotropic effect. Materials and Methods: In vivo antihyperglycemic and insulin secretagogue activities were assessed in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats by oral administration of APME (200 mg/kg body weight [bw]) for 28 days. In vitro insulin secretion mechanisms were studied using mouse insulinoma beta cells (MIN6-β). In vivo body weight and blood glucose and in vivo and in vitro insulin levels were estimated. Results: In diabetic rats, APME treatment significantly restored body weight (26.39\%), blood glucose (32.39\%), and insulin levels (73.95\%) in comparison to diabetic control rats. In MIN6-β cells, APME potentiated insulin secretion in a dependent manner of glucose (3{\textendash}16.7 mM) and extract (5{\textendash}500 μg/mL) concentration. Insulin secretagogue effect was demonstrated in the presence of 3-isobutyl-1-methyl xanthine, glibenclamide, elevated extracellular calcium, and K+ depolarized media. Insulin release was reduced in the presence of nifedipine, ethylene glycol tetra acetic acid (calcium blocking agents), and diazoxide (potassium channel opener). Conclusion: The study suggests that APME antihyperglycemic activity might involve the insulin secretagogue effect by pancreatic beta cells physiological pathways via K+-ATP channel dependent and independently, along with an effect on Ca2+ channels.

}, keywords = {Calcium, Diabetes, Glibenclamide, insulin secretagogue, K+-ATP channel, mouse insulinoma beta cells}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188881}, author = {Balekari Umamahesh and Ciddi Veeresham} } @article {491, title = {Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Activities of Jatropha multifida L. (Euphorbiaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {142-146}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {142}, abstract = {

Background: Jatropha multifida is used in Togolease folk medicine for the healing of chronic wounds. Objective: This study aims to investigate antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of the leaves ethanolic extract. Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial activity was assayed by National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards broth microdilution method on strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomoas aeruginosa isolated from wounds, whereas the anti-inflammatory activity was performed by carrageenan and histamine induced paw edema method in rat modele. The 2, 2-diphenyl- 1picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were used for the antioxidant activity. Results: The antibacterial assay showed an in vitro growth inhibition of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus in dose-dependent manner, with minimum inhibitory concentration values ranging from 2.5 to 3.12 mg/mL for S. aureus and from 6.25 to 12.5 mg/mL for P. aeruginosa. The maximum paw anti-inflammatory effect occurred after 3 and 5 h administration of histamine and carrageenan, respectively. The DPPH radical scavenging and the FRAP assays yielded weak antioxidant activity. Conclusion: J. multifida possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities that could justify the use of the plant for the treatment of wounds in the folk medicine. Key words:

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Jatropha multifida, wound}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.172657}, author = {Kokou Anani and Yao Adjrah and Yaovi Am{\'e}yapoh and Simplice Damintoti Karou and Amegnona Agbonon and Comlan de Souza and Messanvi Gbeassor} } @article {577, title = {Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Effect of Barringtonia racemosa and Hibiscus sabdariffa Fruit Extracts in MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cell Line}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {66-70}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {66}, abstract = {

Background: The fruits of Barringtonia racemosa and Hibiscus sabdariffa have been used in the treatment of abscess, ulcer, cough, asthma, and diarrhea as traditional remedy. Objective: This study aims to evaluate cytotoxic effect of B. racemosa and H. sabdariffa methanol fruit extracts toward human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7) and its antioxidant activities. Materials and Methods: Total antioxidant activities of extracts were assayed using 2,2{\textquoteright}-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and β-carotene bleaching assay. Content of phytochemicals, total flavonoid content (TFC), and total phenolic content (TPC) were determined using aluminum chloride colorimetric method and Folin{\textendash}Ciocalteu{\textquoteright}s reagent, respectively. Cytotoxic activity in vitro was investigated through 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Results: B. racemosa extract exhibited high antioxidant activities compared to H. sabdariffa methanol fruit extracts in DPPH radical scavenging assay (inhibitory concentration [IC50] 15.26 {\textpm} 1.25 μg/mL) and {\ss}-carotene bleaching assay (I\% 98.13 {\textpm} 1.83\%). B. racemosa also showed higher TPC (14.70 {\textpm} 1.05 mg gallic acid equivalents [GAE]/g) and TFC (130 {\textpm} 1.18 mg quercetin equivalents [QE]/g) compared to H. sabdariffa (3.80 {\textpm} 2.13 mg GAE/g and 40.75 {\textpm} 1.15 mg QE/g, respectively). In MTT assay, B. racemosa extract also showed a higher cytotoxic activity (IC50 57.61 {\textpm} 2.24 μg/mL) compared to H. sabdariffa. Conclusion: The present study indicated that phenolic and flavonoid compounds known for oxidizing activities indicated an important role among the contents of these plants extract. B. racemosa methanol extract have shown potent cytotoxic activity toward MCF-7. Following these promising results, further fractionation of the plant extract is underway to identify important phytochemical bioactives for the development of potential nutraceutical and pharmaceutical use.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activities, Barringtonia racemosa, Cytotoxic activity, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Phytochemistry}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171104}, author = {Norliyana Amran and Anis Najwa Abdul Rani and Roziahanim Mahmud and Khoo Boon Yin} } @article {390, title = {Antioxidant and Immunomodulatory Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extract and its Fractions of Leaves of Ficus benghalensis Linn.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {50-55}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {50}, abstract = {

Background: Ficus benghalensis is a folk medicine indigenous plant of India. Several studies on this plant reported and focused on the biological profile of the plant. Objectives: This study is aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity of F. benghalensis leaf extract using various in vitro screening methods of both parameters. Materials and Methods: Hydroalcoholic (FB1) extract and it{\textquoteright}s four fractions viz. n-hexane (FB2), n-butanol (FB3), chloroform (FB4), and water (FB5) of leaves of F. benghalensis investigated for their free radical scavenging activity using 1-1-diphneyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and 2, 2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radicals. A dose-response curve was plotted and IC50 values were determined to assess antioxidant activity. Nitroblue tetrazolium test, phagocytosis of killed Candida albicans and candidacidal assay were carried out to assess the immunomodulatory activity. Positive non-lymphoid cell number, mean particle number of killed C. albicans, percent value of killed C. albicans by neutrophils were calculated and presented. Results: All extracts showed antioxidant and prominent immunomodulatory activity with compared to standard. Conclusions: Hydroalcoholic (FB1) extract and its four fractions viz. n-hexane (FB2), n-butanol (FB3), chloroform (FB4), and water (FB5) showed promising antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Candida albicans, Ficus benghalensis, Free radicals, Immunomodulatory}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171107}, author = {Anil Subhash Bhanwase and Kallanagouda Ramappa Alagawadi} } @article {517, title = {Anti-Advanced Glycation End-product and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Plants from the Yucatecan Flora}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {276-280}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {276}, abstract = {

Background: Formation and accumulation of advanced glycation endproducts (AGE) is recognized as a major pathogenic process in diabetic complications, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, reactive oxygen species and free radicals have also been reported to participate in AGE formation and in cell damage. Natural products with antioxidant and antiAGE activity have great therapeutic potential in the treatment of diabetes, hypertension and related complications. Objective: to test ethanolic extracts and aqueous-traditional preparations of plants used to treat diabetes, hypertension and obesity in Yucatecan traditional medicine for their anti-AGE and free radical scavenging activities. Materials and Methods: ethanolic extracts of leaves, stems and roots of nine medicinal plants, together with their traditional preparations, were prepared and tested for their anti-AGE and antioxidant activities using the inhibition of advanced glycation end products and DPPH radical scavenging assays, respectively. Results: the root extract of C. fistula (IC50= 0.1 mg/mL) and the leaf extract of P. auritum (IC50= 0.35 mg/mL) presented significant activity against vesperlysine and pentosidine-like AGE. Although none of the aqueous traditional preparations showed significant activity in the anti- AGE assay, both the traditional preparations and the ethanolic extracts of E. tinifolia, M. zapota, O. campechianum and P. auritum showed significant activity in the DPPH reduction assay. Conclusions: the results suggest that the metabolites responsible for the detected radical-scavenging activity are different to those involved in inhibiting AGE formation; however, the extracts with antioxidant activity may contain other metabolites which are able to prevent AGE formation through a different mechanism.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Diabetes, glycation-end products, Traditional medicine}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188883}, author = {Wendy del C. Dzib-Guerra and Fabiola Escalante-Erosa and Karlina Garc{\'\i}a-Sosa and S{\'e}verine Derbr{\'e} and Patricia Blanchard and Pascal Richomme and Luis M. Pe{\~n}a-Rodr{\'\i}guez} } @article {478, title = {Anti-inflammatory Activity of Berry Fruits in Mice Model of Inflammation is Based on Oxidative Stress Modulation}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {42-49}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {42}, abstract = {

Background: Many fruits have been used as nutraceuticals because the presence of bioactive molecules that play biological activities. Objective: The present study was designed to compare the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of methanolic extracts of Lycium barbarum (GOJI), Vaccinium macrocarpon (CRAN) and Vaccinium myrtillus (BLUE). Materials and Methods: Mices were treated with extracts (50 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.), twice a day through 10 days. Phytochemical analysis was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Antioxidant activity was determine by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, reducing power, lipid peroxidation thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) activity. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by paw edema followed by determination of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and TBARS. Results: High amount of phenolic compounds, including rutin, were identified in all berries extracts. However, quercetin was observed only in BLUE and CRAN. GOJI presents higher scavenging activity of DPPH radical and reducing power than BLUE and CRAN. The extracts improved antioxidant status in liver; BLUE showed the largest reduction (75.3\%) in TBARS when compared to CRAN (70.7\%) and GOJI (65.3\%). Nonetheless, CAT activity was lower in BLUE group. However, hepatic concentrations of GSH were higher in animals treated with GOJI rather than CRAN and BLUE. Despite all fruits caused a remarkable reduction in paw edema and TBARS, only BLUE and CRAN were able to reduce MPO. Conclusion: These results suggest that quercetin, rutin, or other phenolic compound found in these berry fruits extracts could produce an anti-inflammatory response based on modulation of oxidative stress in paw edema model.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, blueberry, cranberry, Goji berry, Paw edema}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178642}, author = {Geisson Marcos Nardi and Adriana Graziele Farias Januario and Cassio Geremia Freire and Fernanda Megiolaro and K{\'e}tlin Schneider and Marlene Raimunda Andreola Perazzoli and Scheley Raap Do Nascimento and Ana Cristina Gon and Lu{\'\i}sa Nath{\'a}lia Bolda Mariano and Glauber Wagner and Rivaldo Niero and Claudriana Locatelli} } @article {413, title = {Anti-Leishmania Activity of Osthole}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {1-4}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Background: Treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is occasionally highly resistant to pentavalent antimonials, the gold standard in pharmacotherapy of CL. Since there is no effective vaccine, the discovery of natural antileishmanial products as complementary therapeutic agents could be used to improve the current regimens. Objective: In this study in vitro and in vivo antileishmanial activities of osthole, a natural coumarin known to possess antibacterial and parasiticidal activities are evaluated. Materials and Methods: Leishmania major infected J774.A1 macrophages were treated with increasing concentrations of osthole. CL lesions of BALB/c mice were treated topically with 0.2\% osthole. Results: Osthole exhibited dose-dependent leishmanicidal activity against intracellular amastigotes with IC50 value of 14.95 μg/ml. Treatment of CL lesions in BALB/c mice with osthole significantly declined lesion progression compared to untreated mice (P \< 0.05), however did not result in recovery. Conclusion: Osthole demonstrated remarkable leishmanicidal activity in vitro. Higher concentrations of osthole may demonstrate the therapeutic property in vivo.

}, keywords = {Cutaneous leishmaniasis, Leishmania major, Leishmanicidal, Osthole}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178650}, author = {Elaheh Kordzadeh Kermani and Seyed Ebrahim Sajjadi and Seyed Hossein Hejazi and Reza Arjmand and Sedigheh Saberi and Abbas Ali Eskandarian} } @article {404, title = {Anti-Lipoxygenase Activity of Leaf Gall Extracts of Terminalia chebula (Gaertn.) Retz. (Combretaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {78-82}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {78}, abstract = {

Lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibitors are the promising therapeutic target for treating a wide spectrum of inflammatory-related diseases such as cancer, asthma, lymphoma, leukemia, and autoimmune disorders. In the present study, the photochemical constituents and the anti-LOX potential of leaf galls of Terminalia chebula are evaluated to exemplify its further potential development as medicine. Extracts of T. chebula galls were tested for anti-LOX activity using linoleic acid as substrate and lipoxidase as an enzyme and also the total content of polyphenols with phytochemical analysis of the extract were determined. The presence of highest total phenolic and flavonoid content of 141 {\textpm} 2.2 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g d.w and 125 {\textpm} 1.4 mg of quercetin equivalent/g d.w and maximal LOX inhibitory activity (52.67\%) at 800 μg/mL concentrations were identified in the ethanolic extracts of leaf galls of T.chebula. The higher LOX inhibitory activity was positively correlated to the high content of total polyphenols/flavonoids. The results of this study confirm the folklore use of T. chebula leaves gall extracts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent and justify its ethnobotanical use. Therefore, the results encourage the use of T. chebula leave gall extracts for medicinal health, functional food, and nutraceuticals applications.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Anti-lipoxygenase, Drug, Gallic acid, Galls, Plants, Terminalia chebula}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171103}, author = {Ravi Shankara Birur Eshwarappa and Yarappa Lakshmikantha Ramachandra} } @article {485, title = {Assessment of Anti-Influenza Activity and Hemagglutination Inhibition of Plumbago indica and Allium sativum Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {105-111}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {105}, abstract = {

Background: Human influenza is a seasonal disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Anti-flu ayurvedic/herbal medicines have played a significant role in fighting the virus pandemic. Plumbagin and allicin are commonly used ingredients in many therapeutic remedies, either alone or in conjunction with other natural substances. Evidence suggests that these extracts are associated with a variety of pharmacological activities. Objective: To evaluate anti-influenza activity from Plumbago indica and Allium sativum extract against Influenza A (H1N1)pdm09. Materials and Methods: Different extraction procedures were used to isolate the active ingredient in the solvent system, and quantitative HPLTC confirms the presence of plumbagin and allicin. The cytotoxicity was carried out on Madin-Darby Canine kidney cells, and the 50\% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) values were below 20 mg/mL for both plant extracts. To assess the anti-influenza activity, two assays were employed, simultaneous and posttreatment assay. Results: A. sativum methanolic and ethanolic extracts showed only 14\% reduction in hemagglutination in contrast to P. indica which exhibited 100\% reduction in both simultaneous and posttreatment assay at concentrations of 10 mg/mL, 5 mg/mL, and 1 mg/mL. Conclusions: Our results suggest that P. indica extracts are good candidates for anti-influenza therapy and should be used in medical treatment after further research.

}, keywords = {Allium sativum, Anti-influenza activity, cytotoxicity, Hemagglutination, Plumbago indica}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.172562}, author = {Rahul Dilip Chavan and Pramod Shinde and Kaustubh Girkar and Rajendra Madage and Abhay Chowdhary} } @article {495, title = {Assessment of Effectiveness of Barleria prionitis on Oral Health}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {169-172}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {169}, abstract = {

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of Barleria prionitis extract mouthwash in comparison with gold standard chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash on the oral health. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 subjects were randomly divided into two groups, B. prionitis group and the CHX gluconate mouthwash group. The data were collected at the baseline and 3 days. The plaque was disclosed using erythrosine disclosing agent and their scores were recorded using the Quigley and Hein plaque index modified by Turesky-Gilmore-Glickman. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the effect of the two drug regime. Results: Our result showed that the CHX and the B. prionitis were statistically equally effective against dental plaque. Although the action of CHX was more pronounced. Conclusions: This study has confirmed antimicrobial potential of the plant B. prionitis, thus supporting its folklore application as preventive remedy against oral microbial diseases.

}, keywords = {Barleria prionitis, Chlorhexidine, Oral health}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.181456}, author = {Devanand Gupta and Rajendra Kumar Gupta and Ankita Jain and Suresh Bindhumadhav and Sangeeta and Purnima Garg and Saurabh Chaturvedi and Vijay Kumar Chattu} } @article {519, title = {Bioactivity of Diterpens from the Ethyl Acetate Extract of Kingiodendron pinnatum Rox. Hams}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {287-291}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {287}, abstract = {

Background: Kingiodendron pinnatum Rox. Hams. is an endangered medicinal plant used in gonorrhoe, catarrhal conditions of genito-urinary and respiratory tracts. The scientific and pharmacological formulation of K. pinnatum has not been established so far though it is being traditionally used by tribes of the region. Objective: P hytochemical screening and identification of the bioactive compounds from the ethyl acetate extract of Kingiodendron pinnatum Rox. Hams. Materials and Methods: Chromatographic separation was carried out by thin layer chromatography and column chromatography. Bio-autography of the column fractioned extract and TLC chromatogram were evaluated in vitro for antibacterial activity. The PTLC, HP TLC were used for crude extract and HPLC, LCMS, FTIR, 1HNMR and 13CNMR were employed for the isolated compound in the ethyl acetate extract of K. pinnatum. Results: Evaluation of solvent system for chromatographic separation revealed that ethyl acetate: petroleum ether in the ratio of 7:2.5 ml was the most appropriate one for the separation of diterpene compounds. The antibacterial bio-autography screening of TLC separated compound showed positive activity with Staphylococcus aureus and negative activity with Escherichia coli. Spectroscopic analysis of the isolated compound from the ethyl acetate extract of K. pinnatum revealed the presence of diterpene compound. Conclusion: It is evident from the present study that the ethyl acetate extract of K. pinnatum is rich in diterpene compounds and having potential antibacterial activity.

}, keywords = {Bio-autography, HPLC, HPTLC, LC-MS, NMR}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188871}, author = {Komal Kumar Javarappa and Attemode Girijanna Devi Prasad and Mahadesh Prasad AJ and Chetana Mane} } @article {392, title = {Bio-enhancing Effect of Piperine with Metformin on Lowering Blood Glucose Level in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {56-60}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {56}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus is the most rampant metabolic pandemic of the 21st century. Piperine, the chief alkaloid of Piper nigrum (black pepper) is widely used in alternative and complementary therapies has been extensively studied for its bio-enhancing property. Objective: To evaluate the bio-enhancing effect of piperine with metformin in lowering blood glucose levels in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Materials and Methods: Piperine was isolated from an extract of fruits of P. nigrum. Alloxan-induced (150 mg/kg intraperitoneal) diabetic mice were divided into four groups. Group I (control 2\% gum acacia 2 g/100 mL), Group II (metformin 250 mg/kg), Group III (metformin and piperine 250 mg/kg + 10 mg/kg), and Group IV (metformin and piperine 125 mg/kg + 10 mg/kg). All the drugs were administered orally once daily for 28 days. Blood glucose levels were estimated at day 0, day 14, and end of the study (day 28). Results: The combination of piperine with therapeutic dose of metformin (10 mg/kg + 250 mg/kg) showed significantly more lowering of blood glucose level as compared to metformin alone on both 14th and 28th day (P \< 0.05). Piperine in combination with sub-therapeutic dose of metformin (10 mg/kg + 125 mg/kg) showed significantly more lowering of blood glucose as compared to control group and also showed greater lowering of blood glucose as compared to metformin (250 mg/kg) alone. Conclusion: Piperine has the potential to be used as a bio-enhancing agent in combination with metformin which can help reduce the dose of metformin and its adverse effects.

}, keywords = {Bio-enhancing effect, Diabetes, Metformin, Piperine}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171096}, author = {Shubham Atal and Sarjana Atal and Savita Vyas and Pradeep Phadnis} } @article {484, title = {Characterization of Anticancer Principles of Celosia argentea (Amaranthaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {97-104}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {97}, abstract = {

Background: An Indian origin, Celosia argentea is a weed growing during rainy season traditionally claimed for treating several ailments. Early researches on C. argentea were focused on the anti-cancer screening of seeds, with few reports on aerial parts. Objective: To isolate and characterize bioactive compounds of aerial parts of C. argentea and evaluate their anticancer potential. Materials and Methods: The methanolic aerial part extract was fractionated on column chromatography using chloroform: methanol mixture. The fractions; 80:20 and 95:5 were purified on MCI-HP20 HPLC column. Chromatographically pure compounds were pooled, concentrated and characterized spectroscopically. The compounds were further screened for antioxidant and cytotoxic potential. Results: Isolated compounds were confirmed as: (1) Luteolin-7-O-glucoside and (2) phenolic, 1-(4-hydroxy- 2-methoxybenzofuran-5-yl)-3-phenylpropane-1,3-dione. Both exhibited significant antioxidant potential with IC50 values of 20.80 and 21.30 μg/ml for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay (***P \< 0.001) and significant Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) values for 2,2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis(3- ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (*P \< 0.05) and ferric reducing antioxidant potential assay (****P \< 0.0001). In 3(4,5-dimethylthiazol- 2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazoliumbromide assay, Compound 1 and 2 showed potent cytotoxicity against SiHa, HCT, MCF-7 cancer cell lines at 20 μg/ml (****P \< 0.0001) and 18 μg/ml (**P \< 0.01), respectively, without affecting the normal Vero cells. Both compounds enabled maximum reduction in cell viability at 50 μg/ml against HT-29 (***P \< 0.001) and MCF-7 cell lines (**P \< 0.01) in try pan blue viability assay. Apoptosis occurred at concentrations of 47.33 {\textpm} 0.8 μg/ml and 56.28 {\textpm} 1.2 μg/ml for Compound 1 and 35.15 {\textpm} 0.4 μg/ml and 28.05 {\textpm} 0.3 μg/ml for Compound 2 for HT-29 and MCF-7 respectively. Conclusion: A novel anticancer phenolic compound; (1-(4-hydroxy-2-methoxybenzofuran-5-yl)-3-phenylpropane- 1,3-dione), isolated from aerial parts of C. argentea was a valuable finding of the research.

}, keywords = {2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazylDPPH, 3(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2- yl)-2, 5-diphenyl-tetrazoliumbromideMTT, anti-oxidant, anticancer, Celosia argentea}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.172659}, author = {Rukhsana A. Rub and Manohar J. Pati and Areej A. Siddiqui and Alpana S. Moghe and Nasreen N. Shaikh} } @article {513, title = {Chemical Characterization and Cytoprotective Effect of the Hydroethanol Extract from Annona coriacea Mart. (Araticum)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {253-257}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {253}, abstract = {

Introduction: Annona coriacea Mart. (araticum) is a widely distributed tree in the cerrado. Its value is attributed principally to the consumption of its fruit which possesses a large nutritive potential. The objective was to identify the chemical profile and evaluate the antimicrobial and cytoprotective activity of the hydroethanol extract of A. coriacea Mart. (HEAC) leaves against the toxicity of mercury chloride. Materials and Methods: The characterization of components was carried out using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by microdilution method in broth with strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For evaluation of the modulatory and cytoprotective activity of aminoglycoside antibiotics (gentamicin and amikacin) and mercury chloride (HgCl2), the substances were associated with the HEAC at subinhibitory concentrations (MIC/8). Results and Discussion: The HPLC analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids such as Luteolin (1.84\%) and Quercetin (1.19\%) in elevated concentrations. The HEAC presented an MIC >=512 μg/mL and significant antagonistic action in aminoglycosides modulation, and it also showed cytoprotective activity to S. aureus (significance P \< 0.0001) and E. coli (significance P \< 0.05) bacteria against the mercury chloride heavy metal with significance, this action being attributed to the chelating properties of the flavonoids found in the chemical identification. Conclusions: The results acquired in this study show that the HEAC presents cytoprotective activity over the tested strains in vitro and can also present antagonistic effect when associated with aminoglycosides, reinforcing the necessity of taking caution when combining natural and pharmaceutical products.

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188882}, author = {Jos{\'e} G. A. S. J{\'u}nior and Henrique D. M. Coutinho and Ticiana C. C. Boris and Janyketchuly S. Cristo and Nara L. F. Pereira and Fernando G. Figueiredo and Francisco A. B. Cunha and Pedro E. A. Aquino and Polyana A. C. Nascimento and Francisco J. C. Mesquita and Paulo H. F. Moreira and S{\'a}skia T. B. Coutinho and Ivon T. Souza and Gabriela C. Teixeira and Najla M. N. Ferreira and Eleonora O. Farina and C{\'\i}cero M. G. Torres and Vanderlan N. Holanda and Vandbergue S. Pereira and Maria I. F. Guedes} } @article {473, title = {Chromatographic Profiling of Ellagic Acid in Woodfordia fruticosa Flowers and their Gastroprotective Potential in Ethanol-induced Ulcers in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {5-11}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {5}, abstract = {

Background: Woodfordia fruticosa, a plant of Indian origin, is extensively used in folk medicine for the treatment of various ailments. Objective: The aim of the present study was to standardize the flowers of W. fruticosa, Kurz (Lythraceae), an important plant of Indian origin and explore the chemical constituents contributing to its anti-ulcer activity. Materials and Methods: High-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) profiling of the three samples of W. fruticosa flowers purchased from three different markets was done using ellagic acid as the biomarker. Two doses of the aqueous extract of the W. fruticosa (AEWF) flowers were evaluated for anti-ulcer activity by ethanol-induced ulcer model in Wistar albino rats. Omeprazole was used as the positive control. The parameters used for the assessment of the anti-ulcer potential were total titratable acidity (TTA), ulcer index, and percentage protection. Results: The HPTLC and HPLC studies confirmed the presence of ellagic acid in all the three drug samples. The AEWF showed significant reduction in terms of TTA at both doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg. The gastroprotection indicated by a lower ulcer index and higher percentage protection was significant for 200 mg/kg dose of AEWF, better than the protection afforded by omeprazole (10 mg/kg). Conclusion: The chromatographic profiling and the anti-ulcer studies served as an efficient tool in the characterization of ellagic acid as an important biomarker for the flowers of W. fruticosa and a probable contributor to the gastroprotective capacity of the drug. The bioactivity studies further supported the traditional use of W. fruticosa in the treatment of ulcers.

}, keywords = {Anti-ulcer activity, Ellagic acid, ethanol-induced ulcer, high-performance thin layer chromatography, Woodfordia fruticosa}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178649}, author = {Yousuf Hussain Syed and Mohib Khan} } @article {474, title = {A Clinico-analytical Study on Seed of Wrightia antidysenterica Linn. as a Therapeutic Emetic Agent (Vamaka Yoga) in the Management of Psoriasis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {19-25}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {19}, abstract = {

Objectives: Wrightia antidysenterica Linn. (WA) is male variety Kutaja stated to be potent therapeutic emetic agent in skin disorders. Expulsion of doshas through oral route is termed as Vamana Karma (VK) (therapeutic emesis). However, so far, its utility for Vamana is not explored in detail, therefore there is a need to revalidate the utility of WA for Vamana. Hence, the above study was conducted to ascertain the efficacy as a therapeutic emetic agent (vamaka yoga) in the management of psoriasis along with quality control and standardization of this herb. Materials and Methods: The drug was standardized as per analytical procedures in Pharmacopeias. Thirty patients of psoriasis fulfilling inclusion criteria were taken for the study and Vamana with WA was conducted. Criteria were prepared to assess the signs and Symptoms of psoriasis. VK was assessed using the classical Lakshanas (features) such as Anthiki shudhi (Ending symptoms of emesis), Vaigiki shudhi (features of vomiting bouts), Maniki shudhi (Quantitative and qualitative purification), complications. Result: VK with WA showed significant relief in parameters of psoriasis such as scaling, itching, candle grease sign (P \< 0.001), and psoriasis area and severity index score (P = 0.001). In VK with WA, mean number of Vegas (vomiting bouts) was 6.91. 66\% patients showing quantitative purification between 301 and 600 ml. 73.33\% showed all Symptoms of purification. 73.33\% patients showed Kaphanta vamana (Moderate expulsion of desire humor). In the level of biopurification, 66.66\% patients showed moderated purification. No complication was noted with moderate drug palatability. Conclusion: Pharmacopeial analytical study showed its standardized values for testing the drug used for the study. It is proved as potent therapeutic emetic agent with no complication showed its clinical benefits over skin disorder like psoriasis.

}, keywords = {Kutaja beej, pharmacopeial analysis, Psoriasis, therapeutic emesis, vamana}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178641}, author = {Nirupam Bhattacharyya and Muralidhar P. Pujar and Ashutosh Chaturvedi and M. Ashvini Kumar and B. A. Lohith and K. N. Sunil Kumar} } @article {502, title = {Croton grewioides Baill. (Euphorbiaceae) Shows Antidiarrheal Activity in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {202-205}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {202}, abstract = {

Based on chemotaxonomy, we decided to investigate the possible antidiarrheal activity in mice of a crude ethanolic extract obtained from aerial parts of Croton grewioides (CG-EtOH). We tested for any possible toxicity in rat erythrocytes and acute toxicity in mice. Antidiarrheal activity was assessed by determining the effect of CG-EtOH on defecation frequency, liquid stool, intestinal motility and intestinal fluid accumulation. CG-EtOH showed no in vitro cytotoxicity and was not orally lethal. In contrast, the extract given intraperitoneally (at 2000 mg/kg) was lethal, but only in females. CG-EtOH produced a significant and equipotent antidiarrheal activity, both in defecation frequency (ED50 = 106.0 {\textpm} 8.1 mg/kg) and liquid stools (ED50 = 105.0 {\textpm} 9.2 mg/kg). However, CG-EtOH (125 mg/kg) decreased intestinal motility by only 22.7\% {\textpm}4.4\%. Moreover, extract markedly inhibited the castor oil-induced intestinal contents (ED50 = 34.6 {\textpm} 5.4 mg/ kg). We thus conclude that CG-EtOH is not orally lethal and contains active principles with antidiarrheal activity, and this effect seems to involve mostly changes in intestinal secretion.

}, keywords = {Croton grewioides, Diarrheal, Intestinal fluid, Motility, Toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.181465}, author = {Anne Dayse Soares da Silva and Karoline de Melo e Silva and Jos{\'e} Clementino Neto and Vicente Carlos de Oliveira Costa and Hilzeth de Luna F. Pess{\^o}a and Josean Fechine Tavares and Marcelo Sobral da Silva and Fabiana de Andrade Cavalcante} } @article {378, title = {Crude Extracts of Marine-derived and Soil Fungi of the Genus Neosartorya Exhibit Selective Anticancer Activity by Inducing Cell Death in Colon, Breast and Skin Cancer Cell Lines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {8-15}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {8}, abstract = {

Background: The crude ethyl acetate extracts of marine-derived fungi Neosartorya tsunodae KUFC 9213 (E1) and N. laciniosa KUFC 7896 (E2), and soil fungus N. fischeri KUFC 6344 (E3) were evaluated for their in vitro anticancer activities on a panel of seven human cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods: The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5- diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was performed, after 48 h treatments with different concentrations of extracts, to determine their concentration of the extract or Dox that inhibits cell viability by 50\% for each cell line. The effects of the crude extracts on DNA damage, clonogenic potential and their ability to induce cell death were also assessed. Results: E1 was found to the void of anti-proliferative effects. E2 was shown to decrease the clonogenic potential in human colorectal carcinoma cell line (HCT116), human malignant melanoma cell line (A375), human breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF7), and human caucasian colon adenocarcinoma Grade II cell line (HT29) cells, whereas E3 showed such effect only in HCT116 and MCF7 cells. Both extracts were found to increase DNA damage in some cell lines. E2 was found to induce cell death in HT29, HCT116, MCF7, and A375 cells while extract E3 increased cell death in MCF7 and HCT116 cell lines. Conclusion: The results reveal that E2 and E3 possess anticancer activities in human colon carcinoma, breast adenocarcinoma, and melanoma cells, validating the interest for an identification of molecular targets involved in the anticancer activity.

}, keywords = {Anti-proliferative activity, Anticancer activity, Cancer cell lines, Cell death, Marine-derived fungi, Neosartorya}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171105}, author = {Alice Abreu Ramos and Bruno Castro-Carvalho and Maria Prata-Sena and Tida Dethoup and Suradet Buttachon and Anake Kijjoa and Eduardo Rocha} } @article {382, title = {Development, Characterization, and Evaluation of Hepatoprotective Effect of Abutilon indicum and Piper longum Phytosomes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {29-36}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {29}, abstract = {

Background: Evidences from ethnopharmacological practices have shown that combination of Abutilon indicum and Piper longum are traditionally used to treat symptoms of the liver disorder. The hypothesis is phytosomes of a combination of both crude drug extract will be more effective and safe as hepatoprotective agent. Aim: Present work is aimed at development and characterization of phytosomes containing ethanolic extract of both drugs to meet the need for better effectiveness and safety. Materials and Methods: Phytosomes were formulated by using Indena{\textquoteright}s patented process. Characterization involved following parameters: Particle size determination, percentage yield, entrapment efficiency, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscope, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and high performance thin liquid chromatography. Liver damage was induced in adult Charles foster rats (150 {\textpm} 10 g) with CCl4 in olive oil (1:1 v/v, i.p) 1 ml/kg once daily for 7 days. LIV 52 (1 ml/kg per oral [p.o]), ethanolic extract of A. indicum and P. longum combination (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg p.o) and phytosomes (100 mg/kg p.o.) was given 3 days prior to CCl4 administration. Estimation of liver marker enzymes and histopathological studies were done. Result was analyzed by using (analysis of variance) followed by Student-Newman{\textendash}Keuls test. Result: Combined extract has shown hepatoprotective activity but phytosomal formulation has more potent hepatoprotective effect on CCl4 induced liver toxicity at very low dose comparative to a higher dose of combined extract. Conclusion: Novel approach for herbal drug delivery is more prominent than conventional which improves bioavailability of polar extract and also patient compliance.

}, keywords = {Abutilon indicum, Characterization, Hepatoprotective activity, Phytosome, Piper longum}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171102}, author = {Sonam Sharma and Alakh Niranjan Sahu} } @article {376, title = {Effect of Beta vulgaris Linn. Leaves Extract on Anxiety- and Depressive-like Behavior and Oxidative Stress in Mice after Acute Restraint Stress}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {1-7}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Background: Stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression. Beta vulgaris is commonly known as {\textquotedblleft}beet root{\textquotedblright} possessing antioxidant, anticancer, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory properties. Objective: To study the protective effect of Beta vulgaris Linn. ethanolic extract (BVEE) of leaves against acute restraint stress (ARS)-induced anxiety- and depressive-like behavior and oxidative stress in mice. Materials and Methods: Mice (n = 6) were pretreated with BVEE (100 and 200 mg/kg, p. o.) for 7 days and subjected to ARS for 6 h to induce behavioral and biochemical changes. Anxiety- and depressive-like behavior were measured by using different behavioral paradigms such as open field test (OFT), elevated plus maze (EPM), forced swim test (FST), and tail suspension test (TST) 40 min postARS. Brain homogenate was used to analyze oxidative stress parameters, that is, malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) level. Results: BVEE pretreatment significantly (P \< 0.05) reversed the ARS-induced reduction in EPM parameters, that is, percentage entries and time spent in open arms and in OFT parameters, that is, line crossings, and rearings in mice. ARS-induced increase in the immobility time in FST and TST was attenuated significantly (P \< 0.05) by BVEE pretreatment at both the dosage. An increase in MDA and depletion of GSH level postARS was prevented significantly (P \< 0.05) with BVEE pretreatment at both the dosage (100 and 200 mg/kg). Conclusion: BVEE exhibits anxiolytic and antidepressant activity in stressed mice along with good antioxidant property suggesting its therapeutic potential in the treatment of stress-related psychiatric disorders.

}, keywords = {Acute restraint stress, Antioxidant, Anxiety, Beta vulgaris, Depression, Oxidative stress}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171100}, author = {Kunjbihari Sulakhiya and Vikas Kumar Patel and Rahul Saxena and Jagrati Dashore and Amit Kumar Srivastava and Manoj Rathore} } @article {512, title = {Effect of Musa sapientum Stem Extract on Animal Models of Depression}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {249-252}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {249}, abstract = {

Background: Musa sapientum, the banana plant, has shown to possess antioxidant activity in previous studies. Oxidative stress has been linked to the pathogenesis of major depressive disorder (MDD) with evidence of increased serum levels of oxidative stress biomarkers in MDD patients. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the antidepressant activity of M. sapientum stem extract (MSSE) in experimental models in mice. Materials and Methods: Forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) were carried out in five different groups (n = 6/ group) of mice. The vehicle, standard drug, and the three test groups were orally administered distilled water (10 mL/kg), fluoxetine (25 mg/kg), and incremental doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg of MSSE, respectively, 45 min prior to the experiment. Results: On FST, the duration of immobility in control group, which was 161.5 {\textpm} 6.78 (in seconds, mean {\textpm} standard error of mean [SEM]), decreased to 149.33 {\textpm} 2.70 (25 mg/kg MSSE), 120.17 {\textpm} 8.35 (50 mg/kg MSSE), and 45.17 {\textpm} 4.11 (100 mg/kg MSSE) in the treated groups. On TST, the duration of immobility in control group, which was 173.83 {\textpm} 12.65 (mean {\textpm} SEM), decreased to 163.17 {\textpm} 6.91 (25 mg/kg MSSE), 139.0 {\textpm} 5.9 (50 mg/kg MSSE), and 124.0 {\textpm} 4.42 (100 mg/kg MSSE) in the treated groups. The difference in the duration of immobility was statistically significant at middle and higher doses, i.e. 50 and 100 mg/kg MSSE (P \< 0.05) respectively, when compared with the control group in both the tests. Conclusion: A significant antidepressant-like activity was found in MSSE, which could be a potential natural compound for use in depression.

}, keywords = {Depression, Musa sapientum, Oxidative stress}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188876}, author = {Aditya J. Reddy and Shailendra S. Handu and Ashok Kumar Dubey and Pramod Kumari Mediratta and Rimi Shukla and Qazi Mushtaq Ahmed} } @article {402, title = {The Effect of Ultrafine Process on the Dissolution, Antibacterial Activity, and Cytotoxicity of Coptidis rhizoma}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {71-77}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {71}, abstract = {

Background: The dosage of herb ultrafine particle (UFP) depended on the increased level of its dissolution, toxicity, and efficacy. Objective: The dissolution, antibacterial activity, and cytotoxicity of Coptidis rhizoma (CR) UFP were compared with those of traditional decoction (TD). Materials and Methods: The dissolution of berberine (BBR) of CR TD and UFP was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The antibacterial activity of CR extract was assayed by plate-hole diffusion and broth dilution method; the inhibitory effect of rat serums against bacteria growth was evaluated after orally given CR UFP or TD extract. The cytotoxicity of CR extract was evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-Yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Results: The dissolution amount of BBR from CR UFP increased 6{\textendash}8-folds in comparison to TD at 2 min, the accumulative amount of BBR in both UFP and TD group increased in a time-dependent manner. The minimal inhibitory concentrations and minimal bactericidal concentrations of CR UFP extract decreased to 1/2~1/4 of those of TD extract. The inhibitory effect of rat serums against bacteria growth decreased time-dependently, and no statistical difference was observed between two groups at each time point. The 50\% cytotoxic concentrations of UFP extract increased 1.66~1.97 fold than those of TD. Conclusions: The antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity of CR UFP increased in a dissolution-effect manner in vitro, the increased level of cytotoxicity was lower than that of antibacterial activity, and the inhibitory effect of rat serums containing drugs of UFP group did not improve.

}, keywords = {Coptidis rhizoma, Dissolution rate, Minimal inhibitory concentration, Serum pharmacology, Ultrafine}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171097}, author = {Zhen-Yu Jiang and Hai-Ying Deng and Zhi-Jun Yu and Jun-Yan Ni and Si-He Kang} } @article {523, title = {Effects of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Extracts and Their Constituents on Phase II Drug-metabolizing Enzymes Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {309-315}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {309}, abstract = {

Background: Curcuma xanthorrhiza is a native Indonesian plant and traditionally utilized for a range of illness including liver damage, hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. Objective: The study determined the effects of C. xanthorrhiza extracts (ethanol and aqueous) and their constituents (curcumene and xanthorrhizol) on UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) and glutathione transferase (GST) activities. Materials and Methods: The inhibition studies were evaluated both in rat liver microsomes and in human recombinant UGT1A1 and UGT2B7 enzymes. p-nitrophenol and beetle luciferin were used as the probe substrates for UGT assay while 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene as the probe for GST assay. The concentrations of extracts studied ranged from 0.1 to 1000 μg/mL while for constituents ranged from 0.01 to 500 μM. Results: In rat liver microsomes, UGT activity was inhibited by the ethanol extract (IC50 = 279.74 {\textpm} 16.33 μg/mL). Both UGT1A1 and UGT2B7 were inhibited by the ethanol and aqueous extracts with IC50 values ranging between 9.59{\textendash}22.76 μg/mL and 110.71{\textendash}526.65 μg/Ml, respectively. Rat liver GST and human GST Pi-1 were inhibited by ethanol and aqueous extracts, respectively (IC50 = 255.00 {\textpm} 13.06 μg/mL and 580.80 {\textpm} 18.56 μg/mL). Xanthorrhizol was the better inhibitor of UGT1A1 (IC50 11.30 {\textpm} 0.27 μM) as compared to UGT2B7 while curcumene did not show any inhibition. For GST, both constituents did not show any inhibition. Conclusion: These findings suggest that C. xanthorrhiza have the potential to cause herb-drug interaction with drugs that are primarily metabolized by UGT and GST enzymes.

}, keywords = {Curcuma xanthorrhiza, Glutathione transferase, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase, Xanthorrhizol}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188873}, author = {Nurul Afifah Mohd Salleh and Sabariah Ismail and Mohd Rohaimi Ab Halim} } @article {497, title = {Effects of Five Bangladeshi Plant Extracts on In vitro Thrombolysis and Cytotoxicity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {176-180}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {176}, keywords = {Argyreia speciosa, Piper betle, Pterospermum acerifolium, Rhaphidophora glauca, Saraca indica, thrombolysis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.181403}, author = {Raju Dash and Talha Bin Emran and Arkajyoti Paul and Mohammad Kutub Uddin Siddique and Mohammad Arfad Khan and Md. Golamur Rahman and Md. Shahid Sarwar and Mir Muhammad Nasir Uddin} } @article {493, title = {Efficacy of Oral Curcuminoid Fraction from Curcuma xanthorrhiza and Curcuminoid Cider in High-cholesterol Fed Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {153-159}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {153}, abstract = {

Background: Hypercholesterolemia is one of the most important risk factors for atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular diseases. Objective: The present work was aimed to study the efficacy of curcuminoid fraction from Curcuma xanthorrhiza and its curcuminoid cider in reducing blood cholesterol level and four genes related to oxidative stress, including cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) in high-cholesterol fed rats in vivo. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups, namely normal group diet, high-cholesterol diet (HCD) 2\%, HCD + 100 mg/kg b.w. curcuminoid fraction, HCD + 300 mg/kg b.w. curcuminoid fraction, HCD + cider 1\% v/v, and HCD + curcuminoid cider 2\% v/v for 4 weeks. Total cholesterol levels were measured at day 1, 14, and 28. Vascular tissues and organs from lung and liver were collected for RNA extraction, followed by quantitative analysis using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: Our results demonstrated that among all the treatment groups, curcuminoid cider at 2\% v/v significantly lowered total cholesterol level compared to those of positive control. Real-time PCR data showed both curcuminoid fractions (100 and 300 mg/kg) and curcuminoid cider (1 and 2\% v/v) inhibited the gene expression of CD44, ICAM-1, iNOS, and LOX-1, indicating their hypocholesterolemic effects via attenuating genes related to oxidative stress in rats in vivo. Conclusion: Oral administration of curcuminoid fraction and its cider product may exert potential inhibitory effects on oxidative stress related-genes for preventing hypercholesterolemia-induced atherosclerosis in vivo.

}, keywords = {Atherosclerosis, curcuminoid cider, curcuminoid fraction, genes related to oxidative stress, Hypercholesterolemia}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.181468}, author = {Flavia Maria Mauren and Yanti and Bibiana Widiati Lay} } @article {518, title = {Elucidation of Flavonoids from Carissa congesta, Polyalthia longifolia, and Benincasa hispida Plant Extracts by Hyphenated Technique of Liquid Chromatography-mass Spectroscopy}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {281-286}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {281}, abstract = {

Background: Carissa congesta (CC), Polyalthia longifolia (PL), and Benincasa hispida (BH) are economically important plants. Objective: Current research encompasses identification of quercetin and rutin and their analogues by liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (LC-MS) from the selected plant species. Materials and Methods: Fresh roots, leaves, and seeds of CC, PL, and BH plants respectively were shade-dried followed by extraction and elucidation of rutin and quercetin by LC-MS. Results: Structural elucidation of CC, PL, and BH extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids such as quercetin (m/z 301) and rutin (m/z 610) as the parent ions along with presence of close analogues such as quercetin-O-hexoside, Vicenin 2, quercetin-3-O-xyloside/arabinoside, and quercetin-3-O-glucoside were identified as fragments. Conclusions: Thus, CC, PL, and BH extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids belonging to the class of flavonols such as rutin and quercetin.

}, keywords = {Benincasa hispida, Carissa congesta, Liquid chromatography, Mass spectroscopy, Polyalthia longifolia, Quercetin, Rutin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.186578}, author = {Gaurav M. Doshi and Vivek V. Nalawade and Aaditi S. Mukadam and Pratip K. Chaskar and Sandeep P. Zine and Rakesh R. Somani and Hemant D. Une} } @article {500, title = {Enhanced Synthesis of Curculigoside by Stress and Amino Acids in Static Culture of Curculigo orchioides Gaertn (Kali Musli)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {193-198}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {193}, abstract = {

Background: Curculigo orchioides Gaertn (Kali musli; Family: Hypoxidaceae) is an endangered medicinal plant used for many medicinal purposes such as impotency, aphrodisiac, tonic, jaundice, and skin ailments. Its hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-cancerous potential have also been evaluated by many scientists. Objective: The objective of this study is to enhance the curculigoside content in tissue culture of C. orchioides. Materials and Methods: The present study deals with the enhancement of an active compound of C. orchioides by incorporating various concentration of phenylalanine (Phe), tyrosine, (20, 40, 60, and 80 mg/100 ml), chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 ppm) into Zenk media in controlled and aseptic conditions. Results: Plant secondary metabolites are unique sources for pharmaceuticals, food additives, flavors, and industrially important biochemicals. Accumulation of such metabolites often occurs in plants subjected to stresses including various elicitors or signal molecules. A significantly remarkable enhancement in all induced samples was noted. Curculigoside content was maximum in the 6-week-old tissue induced with 3 ppm of Cr (7.63\%) followed by 4 weeks tissue of tissue fed with 4 ppm of Ni (5.66\%) and 4-week-old tissue fed with tyrosine 7.5 mg/100 ml (2.38\%) among all samples used. These results suggest that tyrosine is better enhancer than Phe in the biosynthetic pathway of curculigoside. The presence of curculigoside in all extracts was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, high-performance thin layer chromatography analysis with standard compound of curculigoside and histology of treated samples. Conclusion: This investigation was carried out for the 1st time, and it is a significant step in understanding the biochemistry of curculigoside. The developed protocol will be beneficial for marketing in pharmaceutical industries.

}, keywords = {Curculigo orchioides, curculigoside, enhancement, intermediate compound, Medicinal plant, metal stress, Phenolics}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.182915}, author = {Pratibha Chaturvedi and Vincent Briganza} } @article {489, title = {Ethnobotanical Study of Latex Plants in the Maritime Region of Togo}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {128-134}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {128}, abstract = {

Background: In Togo, a little is known about latex plants of the flora used for medicinal purposes. Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the latex plant species and their medicinal uses in the Maritime Region of Togo. Materials and Methods: The methodology was based on ethnobotanical semi-structural individual interviews of 220 informants. Quantitative ethnobotanical index was used to analyze the data. Results: A total of 33 latex plants species were recorded, from 12 botanical families and 24 genera. The most represented families were Euphorbiaceae and Moraceae with eight species each. The relative importance (RI) value of each species and the informant consensus factor (ICF) of the ailments categories showed that Pergularia daemia (Forssk.) Chiov. (RI = 2.00) and Euphorbia hirta L. (RI = 1.91) were the most versatile in relation to their uses, and infectious diseases (ICF = 0.922) were the category with the greatest consensus among 17 categories. Conclusion: These latex plants of Togolese flora are variously used in traditional medicine and it would be important to undertake further investigations in phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology to validate their uses.

}, keywords = {Ethnobotany, Folk medicine, Latex plants, Survey, Togo}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.175613}, author = {Yao Patrick Hoekou and Tchadjobo Tchacondo and Simplice Damintoti Karou and Koffi Koudouvo and Wouyo Atakpama and Passimna Pissang and Apeti Koffi Gbogbo and Agbelessessi Yawo Woegan and Komlan Batawila and Koffi Akpagana and Messanvi Gbeassor} } @article {472, title = {Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants Used for the Treatment of Malaria in the Plateau Region, Togo}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {12-18}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {12}, abstract = {

Background: In Togo, malaria constitutes a major public health problem but, until now, the population still mostly relies on herbal medicine for healing. This study aimed to document medicinal plants used for malaria therapy in the Plateau region of the country. Methodology: Semi-structured questionnaire interviews were used to gather ethnobotanical and sociodemographic data from traditional healers of the study area. Results: A total of 61 plants species belonging to 33 families were found to be in use for malaria therapy in the Plateau region. Caesalpiniaceae were the most represented family with 7 species, followed by Euphorbiaceae and Poaceae with 4 species each. According to the relative frequency of citation (RFC), Newbouldia laevis Seem. (RFC =0.52), Sarcocephalus latifolius (Sm.) E.A. Bruce (RFC =0.48), Acanthospermum hispidum DC. (RFC =0.43), and Senna siamea (Lam.) H.S. Irwin and Barneby (RFC =0.40) were the most cited in the treatment of malaria in the traditional medicine in the Plateau region. The parts of plants used could either be the barks, roots, leaves, or whole plants. The recipes also could be a combination of various species of plants or plant parts. Conclusion: This study highlights the potential sources for the development of new antimalarial drugs from indigenous medicinal plants found in the Plateau region of Togo. Such results could be a starting point for in vitro antimalarial screenings.

}, keywords = {Caesalpiniaceae, Malaria, Medicinal plants, Relative frequency of citation}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178646}, author = {Kodjovi Agbodeka and Holaly E. Gbekley and Simplice D. Karou and Kokou Anani and Amegnona Agbonon and Tchadjobo Tchacondo and Komlan Batawila and Jacques Simpore and Messanvi Gbeassor} } @article {504, title = {Evaluating the Anticancer Potential of Ethanolic Gall Extract of Terminalia chebula (Gaertn.) Retz. (Combretaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {209-212}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {209}, abstract = {

Plants have been an important source for discovery of anticancer compounds. With the current decline in the number of new molecular entities from the pharmaceutical industry, novel anticancer agents are being sought from traditional medicines; therefore the anticancer efficacy of many plants that are used in traditional medicine is yet to be verified. The objective of the study was to evaluate the cytotoxic potential of ethanolic leaf gall extract of Terminalia chebula are evaluated against buffalo rat liver 3A, MCF-7 (Human mammary gland adenocarcinoma) and A-549 (Human lung cancer) cell lines. The cytotoxic effect of the ethanolic extract was evaluated by MTT assay. The extract was potent and effective in inducing cytotoxic effects in all the cell lines with an IC50 value of 305.18 {\textpm} 1.7 μg/mL, 643.13 {\textpm} 4.2 μg/mL, and 208.16 {\textpm} 3.7 μg/mL, respectively. The extract was more effective against A549 cell lines when compared to others. The presences of phenolics, triterpenoids, and flavonoids were identified in the extract. The extract showed total phenolic and flavonoid content of 478 {\textpm} 2.2 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g d.w and 538 {\textpm} 1.4 mg of quercetin equivalent/g d.w, respectively. This higher content of total phenolics and flavonoids found in the ethanolic extract was directly associated to higher cytotoxicity activity. Conclusion: The ethanolic leaf gall extract of T. chebula showed effective cytotoxic activities; which might be attributed to the phenolics/flavonoids present in higher concentration. Future work will be interesting to know the chemical composition of the extract and also better understand the mechanism of action of the constituents present in the extract to develop it as drug for therapeutic application.

}, keywords = {Alternative medicine, Drugs, Indian medicinal plants, Inhibition, Traditional medicine}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.182919}, author = {B. E. Ravi Shankara and Y. L. Ramachandra and S. Sundara Rajan and P. S. Sujan Ganapathy and Nagendra Sastry Yarla and S. A. Richard and Bhadrapura Lakkappa Dhananjaya} } @article {508, title = {Evaluation of Antiulcer and Antioxidant Activity of Barleria gibsoni Dalz. Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {226-230}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {226}, abstract = {

Background: Peptic ulcer is a digestive disorder most commonly found in clinical practice. Given the many side effects of modern medicine, the initial acquisition of fewer side effects, and medication of indigenous drugs, it should be considered as a better alternative for the treatment of peptic ulcer. Objective: To assess antiulcer and antioxidant activity of ethanol extract of Barleria gibsoni (EBG) Dalz. leaves in ulcer-induced rats and in vitro antioxidants method, respectively. Materials and Methods: Ethanol EBG was screened for antiulcer activity in pylorus ligation-induced ulcer models in Wistar rats. In vitro antioxidant activity of the extracts was tested using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging activity. Total phenol and flavonoid content in the extracts were determined spectrophotometrically. Results: Oral administration of ethanol extract of leaves at doses of 250, 500 mg/kg p.o. reduced significant gastric lesions induced by pylorus ligation-induced ulcer as compared to standard omeprazole (20 mg/kg p.o.). The IC50 values were found to be 150 μg/mL in leaves extract. The ethanol extracts showed good antioxidant capacity in DPPH radical scavenging assay and NO radical scavenging activity when compared to standard. The total phenolic content using Folin{\textendash}Ciocalteu reagent estimated in 1 mg of leaves extracts was 368 μg and 481 μg with gallic acid equivalent and also the total flavonoid content found to be 240 and 410 μg, respectively, with quercetin equivalence. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the leaves of B. gibsoni possessed antiulcer potential and antioxidant compared to standard. This is the first ever report of antiulcer and antioxidant activities in B. gibsoni (Acanthaceae).

}, keywords = {Acanthaceae, Barleria gibsoni, Gallic acid, L-ascorbic acid, Pylorus ligation-induced ulcer model, Quercetin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188879}, author = {Firoj A. Tamboli and Harinath N. More} } @article {496, title = {Evaluation of Efficacy of Herbal Intrauterine Infusion Uterofix Liquid in Treatment of Various Reproductive Disorders in Cows: A Field Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {173-175}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {173}, abstract = {

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of herbal intrauterine infusion Uterofix liquid in the treatment of various reproductive disorders in cows. Materials and Methods: Based on symptoms of endometritis, anestrous, metritis, and repeat breeders, 28 cows were selected to study the efficacy of herbal intrauterine infusion Uterofix liquid (M/S Ayurvet Limited) in uterine infections study. Group T0 (n = 8) cows served as control group, no treatment was given to this group, Group T1 (n = 5) repeat breeder cows, Group T2 (n = 5) endometritis effected cows, Group T3 (n = 5) anoestrus cows, and Group T4 (n = 5) metritis suffered cows were treated with Uterofix liquid (25 ml as intrauterine infusion once a day for 3{\textendash}5 days). Total observational period was 60 days. Number of treatments needed, nature of discharge in first posttreatment estrus (physical examination), after treatment number of animal showing heat/estrus out of total treated, and posttreatment conception rate were used as criteria to judge the success or failure of treatment. Results: Results revealed that 18 out of 20 animals (90\%) showed signs of heat with clear discharge, recovered completely without causing any irritation, or severe irritation/sloughing of genital mucous membrane after Uterofix liquid treatment. Conclusion: Herbal intrauterine infusion Uterofix liquid significantly treated the uterine infections in cows.

}, keywords = {Anoestrus, endometritis, metritis, repeat breeder, Uterofix liquid}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.181459}, author = {Satinder Verma and Adarsh Choudhary and Shivi Maini and K. Ravikanth} } @article {515, title = {Evaluation of In vitro Antiviral Activity of Datura metel Linn. Against Rabies Virus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {265-269}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {265}, abstract = {

Objective: The soxhlet and cold extracts of Datura metel Linn. were evaluated for in vitro antirabies activity. Materials and Methods: Soxhlet and cold extraction method were used to extract Datura (fruit and seed) extracts. In vitro cytotoxicity assay was performed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Based on the CC50 range, the in vitro antirabies activity of the extracts was screened by rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test and molecular method. Results: The Datura (fruit and seed) extracts were not cytotoxic below 5 mg/ml (CC50). Titer of 10-4 rabies virus challenge virus standard (RV CVS) (1 50\% tissue culture infective dose [1 TCID50]) was obtained by RFFT method and the challenge dose of 10 TCID50 was used for antirabies assay. Datura fruit and seed (soxhlet and cold) extracts showed 50\% inhibition of RV CVS at 2.5 mg/ml and 1.25 mg/ml (inhibitory concentration 50\% [IC50]), respectively. The tested extracts showed selectivity index (CC50/IC50) ranging from 2 to 4. The viral RNA was extracted and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was performed which also revealed a 2-fold reduction of viral load at 1.25 mg/ml of the Datura seed (soxhlet methanolic and cold aqueous) extracts. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of in vitro antiviral activity of D. metel Linn. against rabies virus. Datura seed extracts have a potential in vitro antirabies activity and, in future, can be further screened for in vivo activity against rabies virus in murine model.

}, keywords = {Antirabies, Antiviral assay, cytotoxicity, Datura, Rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188874}, author = {Soumen Roy and Sandeepan Mukherjee and Sandip Pawar and Abhay Chowdhary} } @article {488, title = {Evaluation of In Vitro Cytotoxic and Antioxidant Activity of Datura metel Linn. and Cynodon dactylon Linn. Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {123-127}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {123}, abstract = {

Aim: To evaluate in vitro cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity of Datura metel L. and Cynodon dactylon L. extracts. Materials and Methods: The extraction of plants parts (datura seed and fruit pulp) and areal parts of durva was carried out using soxhlet and cold extraction method using solvents namely methanol and distilled water. The total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) was determined by established methods. The in vitro cytotoxicity assay was performed in vero cell line by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay method. In vitro antioxidant activity of the extract was performed by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging method. Results: We found that the highest amount of TPC and TFC in methanolic extracts of seed (268.6 μg of gallic acid equivalence/mg of dry plant material) and fruit pulp (8.84 μg of quercetin equivalence/mg dry plant material) of D. metel, respectively prepared by Soxhlet method. The methanolic extract of C. dactylon prepared using soxhlation has shown potent free radical scavenging activity with 50\% inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 100 μg/ ml. The IC50 of a methanolic cold extract of datura fruit was found to be 3 mg/ml against vero cell line. Conclusion: We observed that plant parts of C. dactylon and D. metel have a high antioxidant activity. Further research is needed to explore the therapeutic potential of these plant extracts.

}, keywords = {2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical, Antioxidant, cytotoxicity, Total flavonoid content, Total phenolic content}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.175610}, author = {Soumen Roy and Sandip Pawar and Abhay Chowdhary} } @article {494, title = {Evaluation of Skin Anti-aging Potential of Citrus reticulata Blanco Peel}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {160-168}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {160}, abstract = {

Background: The peel of Citrus reticulata Blanco is traditionally used as tonic, stomachic, astringent, and carminative. It is also useful in skin care. Objective: To study the anti-aging potential of alcoholic extracts of C. reticulata Blanco peel using in vitro antioxidant and anti-enzyme assays. Materials and Methods: Plant extracts were obtained by Soxhlation (CR HAE- Hot Alcoholic Extract of Citrus reticulata) and maceration method (CR CAE- Cold Alcoholic Extract of Citrus reticulata). Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis was performed. Further, in vitro antioxidant, anti-enzyme, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses were performed. Results: Total phenolic and flavonoid contents of CR HAE were found to be higher than CR CAE. EC50 value of CR HAE and CR CAE for 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, Superoxide anion, and 2, 2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assays were 250.33 {\textpm} 40.16 μg/ml and 254.73 {\textpm} 15.78 μg/ml, 221.27 {\textpm} 11.25 μg/ml and 354.20 {\textpm} 23.79 μg/ml, and 59.16 {\textpm} 2.17 μg/ml and 59.12 {\textpm} 6.21 μg/ml, respectively. Oxygen radical absorbance capacity values for CR HAE and CR CAE were found to be 1243 and 1063 μmoles 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetra methylchromane-2-carboxylic acid equivalent/g of substance, respectively. Anti-collagenase and anti-elastase activities were evaluated for both CR HAE and CR CAE. EC50 values of CR HAE and CR CAE for anti-collagenase and anti-elastase were 329.33 {\textpm} 6.38 μg/ml, 466.93 {\textpm} 8.04 μg/ml and 3.22 {\textpm} 0.24 mg/ml, 5.09 {\textpm} 0.30 mg/ml, respectively. CR HAE exhibited stronger anti-collagenase and anti-elastase activity than CR CAE. GC-MS analysis of CR HAE was carried out because CR HAE exhibited higher antioxidant and anti-enzyme potential than CR CAE. Conclusion: C. reticulata peel can be utilized in anti-wrinkle skin care formulations.

}, keywords = {1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, 2, 2{\textquoteright}-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), anti-wrinkle, elastase, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, oxygen radical absorbance capacity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.182913}, author = {Vinita D. Apraj and Nancy S. Pandita} } @article {480, title = {Extracts from Flammulina velutipes Inhibit the Adhesion of Pathogenic Fungi to Epithelial Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {56-60}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {56}, abstract = {

Background: Recently, extracts from natural sources have been tested for their antifungal properties. In this aspect, Flammulina velutipes extracts possess a significant amount of branch-chained carbohydrates with mannose moieties that, hypothetically, can reduce the adhesion. Objective: In this study, we assessed the capacity of extracts from F. velutipes (wild-type AQF-1 and ATCC 34574 as the reference strain) to inhibit the adhesion of S. schenkii and C. albicans to epithelial cells. Materials and Methods: The aqueous extracts from F. velutipes strains were obtained by sonication, total carbohydrate and protein was analyzed by Dubois and Lowry methods respectively. Effect of the extracts (50, 100 and 150 μg/mL) on the fungi adhesion to host cells was evaluated after 1 h interaction, and the percentage of inhibition of adhesion was measured. After of interaction the cytoskeleton from cell was analyzed with phalloidin-FITC. Results: The extract from strain AQF-1 (50, 100 and 150 μg/mL) inhibited the adhesion of: S. schenkii in a dose-dependent manner (4.9, 7.5 and 12.7\%, respectively) and C. albicans in a dose-independent manner (5.2\%). The percentage of inhibition by extracts from the strain ATCC34574 at the same concentrations, shown that are dose independent for both fungi: 3.9\% for S. schenkii and 2.6\% for C. albicans. Conclusion: The extracts from F. velutipes inhibit the adhesion of pathogenic fungi to host cells. The mechanism molecular is unknown; however, is probably an interaction between the polysaccharides from extracts with the fungi receptors. This aspect is currently analyzed.

}, keywords = {Adhesion, basidiomycets extracts, epithelial cells, Flammulina velutipes, fungi}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178648}, author = {Svetlana Kashina and L{\'e}rida Liss Flores Villavicencio and Marco Balleza and Gloria Barbosa Sabanero and V{\'\i}ctor Tsutsumi and Myrna Sabanero L{\'o}pez} } @article {503, title = {Hepatoprotective and Cytotoxic Activities of Abietic Acid from Isodon wightii (Bentham) H. Hara}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {206-208}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {206}, abstract = {

Isodon (Lamiaceae) is a known source of bioactive terpenoids. Diterpenoids isolated from Isodon wightii (Bentham) H. Hara showed antibacterial, antiacetylcholinesterase, antioxidant, anticancer, and anticarcinogenic activities, etc., Hepatoprotective activity of ABA against lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced liver injury in BALB/c mice was studied. Cytotoxic activity of ABA was tested against cervical cancer cells (HeLa) using MTT assay followed by propidium iodide (PI) staining to identify apoptosis. Histopathological analysis revealed that 1.5 μg/mL LPS induced liver damage was attenuated by ABA in a dose dependent manner. ABA showed cytotoxicity with IC50 value of 176.28 {\textpm} 0.02 μg/mL and PI staining of treated cells showed apoptosis. This study proves that ABA would be a promising natural compound for herbal drug preparation.

}, keywords = {Abietic acid, Apoptosis, BALB/c mice, HeLa, lipopolysaccharide}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.182920}, author = {Madhusudhanan Gogul Ramnath and Ramaraj Thirugnanasampandan and Sadasivam Mathusalini and Palathurai Subramanium Mohan} } @article {510, title = {High-performance Thin-layer Chromatography Method Development, Validation, and Simultaneous Quantification of Four Compounds Identified in Standardized Extracts of Orthosiphon stamineus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {238-243}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {238}, abstract = {

Context: Orthosiphon stamineus is a medicinal herb widely grown in Southeast Asia and tropical countries. It has been used traditionally as a diuretic, abdominal pain, kidney and bladder inflammation, gout, and hypertension. Aims: This study aims to develop and validate the high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) method for quantification of rosmarinic acid (RA), 3{\textquoteright}-hydroxy-5,6,7,4{\textquoteright}-tetramethoxyflavone (TMF), sinensitin (SIN) and eupatorin (EUP) found in ethanol, 50\% ethanol and water extract of O. stamineus leaves. Materials and Methods: HPTLC method was conducted using an HPTLC system with a developed mobile phase system of toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid (3:7:0.1) performed on precoated silica gel 60 F254 TLC plates. The method was validated based on linearity, accuracy, precision, limit of detection, limit of quantification (LOQ), and specificity, respectively. The detection of spots was observed at ultraviolet 254 nm and 366 nm. Results: The linearity of RA, TMF, SIN, and EUP were obtained between 10 and 100 ng/spot with high correlation coefficient value (R2) of more than 0.986. The limit of detection was found to be 122.47 {\textpm} 3.95 (RA), 43.38 {\textpm} 0.79 (SIN), 17.26 {\textpm} 1.16 (TMF), and 46.80 {\textpm} 1.33 ng/spot (EUP), respectively. Whereas the LOQ was found to be 376.44 {\textpm} 6.70 (RA), 131.45 {\textpm} 2.39 (SIN), 52.30 {\textpm} 2.01 (TMF), and 141.82 {\textpm} 1.58 ng/spot (EUP), respectively. Conclusion: The proposed method showed good linearity, precision, accuracy, and high sensitivity. Hence, it may be applied in a routine quantification of RA, SIN, TMF, and EUP found in ethanol, 50\% of ethanol and water extract of O. stamineus leaves.

}, keywords = {Eupatorin, High-performance thin-layer chromatography, Orthosiphon stamineus, Rosmarinic acid, Sinensitin, Validation}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188872}, author = {Suzana Hashim and Hooi Kheng Beh and Mohamad Shahrul Ridzuan Hamil and Zhari Ismail and Amin Malik Shah Abdul Majid} } @article {506, title = {Homeopathy in Dentistry: Is There a Role?}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {217}, type = {Letter to the Editor}, chapter = {217}, abstract = {

Dental health care professionals are facing challenges in managing acute or chronic dental conditions due to failure in regression of symptoms or side effects of traditional treatment regimens. Complementary therapies are now becoming the rule rather than the exception in the management of headache and facial pain. It is incumbent on physicians to be aware of and to have a working knowledge of these increasingly popular modalities. A number of unconventional medical methods are being used in dentistry. These include regulation thermography, homeopathy, nosode therapy, acupuncture, magnetic field therapy, ozone therapy, Mora therapy, and lymph drainage.\ READ MORE...

}, keywords = {Nil}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.182917}, author = {Ujwala Rohan Newadkar and Lalit Chaudhari and Yogita K. Khalekar} } @article {476, title = {Ilex paraguariensis Promotes Orofacial Pain Relief After Formalin Injection: Involvement of Noradrenergic Pathway}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {31-37}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {31}, abstract = {

Background: Drinking mate or chimarr{\~a}o, a hot infusion of Ilex paraguariensis (ILEX) leaves, is a common habit in Southern South America that has a social and almost ritualistic role. It has been used as a stimulant beverage in South America and analgesic in regions of Argentina for treatment of headache and others painful inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the pharmacological activity of I. paraguariensis infusion (ILEX) on orofacial nociception model induced by formalin, and study its mechanism of action. Materials and Methods: The analgesic effect of ILEX was assessed through writhing test, paw formalin test, paw edema induced by carrageenan, and orofacial pain induced by formalin. To study the action mechanism of ILEX, opioidergic, dopaminergic, nitrergic, and adrenergic pathways were investigated. Results: The high-performance liquid chromatography analysis of ILEX infusion revealed caffeine and theobromine. The treatment with ILEX reduced the number of writhing. However, it was effective neither in the formalin paw test nor in the paw edema induced by carrageenan. Different from formalin paw test, ILEX was able to reduce the orofacial reactivity to formalin in 31.8\% (70.4 {\textpm} 2.5 s; first phase), and 20\% (127.3 {\textpm} 18.9 s; second phase). The analgesic effect of ILEX results from the modulation of noradrenergic pathways since prazosin (α1-adrenoceptor antagonist, 0.15 mg/kg; intraperitoneal) reversed the analgesic effect of ILEX. Conclusions: The present report demonstrates that analgesic effect of ILEX in orofacial formalin test is due mainly to modulation of noradrenergic pathways.

}, keywords = {Caffeine, Ilex paraguariensis, mate, noradrenergic pathways, orofacial pain}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178643}, author = {Eudislaine Fonseca de Carvalho and Simone Kobe de Oliveira and Viviane Koepp Nardi and Tathiana Carla Gelinski and Marcelo Carlos Bortoluzzi and Marcelo Maraschin and Geisson Marcos Nardi} } @article {380, title = {In vitro and In vivo Antioxidant Evaluation and Estimation of Total Phenolic, Flavonoidal Content of Mimosa pudica L}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {22-28}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {22}, abstract = {

Objective: Mimosa pudica Linn. (Mimosaceae) is traditionally used as a folk medicine to treat various ailments including convulsions, alopecia, diarrhea, dysentery, insomnia, tumor, wound healing, snake bite, etc., Here, the study was aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential of M. pudica leaves extract against 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (in vitro) and its modulatory effect on rat brain enzymes. Materials and Methods: Total phenolic, flavonoid contents, and in vitro antioxidant potential against DPPH radical were evaluated from various extracts of M. pudica leaves. In addition, ethyl acetate extract of Mimosa pudica leaves (EAMP) in doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day were administered orally for 7 consecutive days to albino rats and evaluated for the oxidative stress markers as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) from rat brain homogenate. Results: The ethyl acetate extract showed the highest total phenolic content and total flavonoid content among other extracts of M. pudica leaves. The percentage inhibition and IC50 value of all the extracts were followed dose-dependency and found significant (P \< 0.01) as compared to standard (ascorbic acid). The oxidative stress markers as SOD, CAT, and GSH were increased significantly (P \< 0.01) at 200 and 400 mg/kg of EAMP treated animals and decreased significantly the TBARS level at 400 mg/kg of EAMP as compared to control group. Conclusion: These results revealed that the ethyl acetate extract of M. pudica exhibits both in vitro antioxidant activity against DPPH and in vivo antioxidant activity by modulating brain enzymes in the rat. This could be further correlated with its potential to neuroprotective activity due to the presence of flavonoids and phenolic contents in the extract.

}, keywords = {2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, Brain homogenate, Flavonoids, Mimosa pudica, Oxidative stress}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171099}, author = {Ganesh Patro and Subrat Kumar Bhattamisra and Bijay Kumar Mohanty and Himanshu Bhusan Sahoo} } @article {514, title = {In vitro Antioxidant Activities and Polyphenol Contents of Seven Commercially Available Fruits}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {258-264}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {258}, abstract = {

Background: Fruits are considered one of the richest sources of natural antioxidants. Their consumption has been linked to the prevention of oxidative stress-induced diseases. Objective: In this study, in vitro antioxidant activities of blueberry, jackfruit, blackberry, black raspberry, red raspberry, strawberry, and California table grape extracts were evaluated. Materials and Methods: Antioxidant activities were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP), 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide anion (O2 -) scavenging assays, and ferric reducing power. Results: Black raspberry extract had the highest phenolic (965.6 {\textpm} 2.9 mg gallic acid equivalents [GAE]/g), flavonoid (186.4 {\textpm} 1.7 mg quercetin equivalents/g), and proanthocyanidin (2677 {\textpm} 71.1 mg GAE/g) contents. All fruit extracts exhibited increasing radical scavenging activities with increased concentrations. At 100 μg/ml, red raspberry extract showed the highest ferric reducing power (A700 = 0.3 {\textpm} 0.0052) and FRAP activity (A593 = 11.43 mM Fe2+/g). Black raspberry extract (100 μg/ml) exhibited the highest DPPH activity (A517 = 89.03 {\textpm} 0.0471). Jackfruit extract (100 μg/ml) had the highest ABTS (A734 = 35.6 {\textpm} 0.613), NO (A540 = 81.7 {\textpm} 0.2), and O2 - radical scavenging (A230 = 55.5 {\textpm} 0.2) activities. Positive correlations were observed between IC50 values for different radical scavenging activities and different polyphenolics. Red raspberry extract had the highest Pearson{\textquoteright}s coefficient values (0.952{\textendash}1) between total phenolics, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidins and DPPH and superoxide radical scavenging activities. Conclusions: The antioxidant rich fruits in this study are good source of functional food and nutraceuticals that have the potential to improve human health.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Flavonoids, IC50, Phenols, Proanthocyanidins, radical scavenging}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188875}, author = {Paramita Basu and Camelia Maier} } @article {507, title = {In vivo Study on Depressant Effects and Muscle Coordination Activity of Galphimia glauca Stem Methanol Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {219-225}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {219}, abstract = {

Background: Galphimia glauca is an evergreen shrub found across peninsular India, belonging to family Malpighiaceae. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the in vivo depressant effects and muscle coordination activity of G. glauca stem methanol extract (GGSME). Materials and Methods: The stem methanol extract was administered in Swiss albino mice in 1 day to study the central nervous system (CNS) depressant and muscle coordination activity employing animal models such as sodium pentobarbital-induced sleep test, hole-board test, open field test, pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced convulsions, picrotoxin-induced convulsions, grip strengthening test in mice, and Rota-rod test. Results: The LD50 of GGSME was found to be \>2000 mg/kg body weight (b.w.). Mice treated with stem methanol extract at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, b.w. doses extended the sleeping time induced by sodium pentobarbital (40 mg/kg. b.w., i.p.). The stem methanol extract at 400 mg/kg dose showed a significant (P <= 0.001) dose-dependent decrease in the number of rears and head dipping number in the hole-board test. The extract exhibited a significant (P <= 0.001) effect on the ambulatory behavior of mice in the open field test and also extended the onset of seizures induced by PTZ (90 mg/kg b.w., i.p.) and picrotoxin (10 mg/kg, b.w., i.p.). The extract also exhibited significant (P <= 0.001) effects on muscle coordination in rota-rod and grip strengthening test in mice. Conclusion: The study results conclude that the GGSME has a potential CNS depressant and muscle relaxant effects compared to the standard drugs.

}, keywords = {Convulsions, Galphimia glauca, Grip strength test, Sodium pentobarbital, Stem methanol extract}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188878}, author = {Baba Shankar Rao Garige and Srisailam Keshetti and Uma Maheshwara Rao Vattikuti} } @article {501, title = {In vivo Toxicity Studies on Gall Extracts of Terminalia chebula (Gaertn.) Retz. (Combretaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {199-201}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {199}, abstract = {

The galls of Terminala chebula (Gaertn.) Retz. (Combretaceae) are used for the treatment of various diseases in folk medicine and has been found to posses anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-helmintic, anti-tyrosinase, and anti-aging activities. Considering the ethano-botanical and diverse pharmacological applications of galls of T. chebula, in this study, we investigate the possible toxic effects of different gall extracts of T. chebula by Brine shrimp (Artemia salina) toxicity assay. The cytotoxicity test of leaf gall extracts (petroleum ether, chloroform, ethanol, and aqueous) of T. chebula was evaluated by Brine shrimp (A. salina) toxicity assay, which is based on the ability to kill laboratory cultured Artemia nauplii (animals eggs) and also total content of polyphenols, flavonoids with other qualitative phytochemical analysis of the extract were determined. It was observed that the petroleum ether extract was virtually nontoxic on the shrimps, and exhibited very low toxicity with LC50 value of 4356.76 μg/ml. Furthermore, the chloroform extract exhibited very low toxicity, giving LC50 value of 1462.2 μg/ml. On the other hand, the ethanol extract was very toxic to brine shrimps with LC50 value of 68.64 μg/ml. The ethanol extract had the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content of 136 {\textpm} 1.5 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g d.w and 113 {\textpm} 1.6 mg of quercetin equivalent/g d.w, respectively. The higher toxicity effect was positively correlated to the high content of total polyphenols/flavonoids in the extract. This significant lethality of different extracts to brine shrimp is an indicative of the presence of potent cytotoxic components which warrants further investigation.

}, keywords = {Assay, Brine shrimp assay, Cytotoxic, Drug, Extract, Galls, Toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.182914}, author = {Ravi Shankara Birur Eshwarappa and Y. L. Ramachandra and Sundara Rajan Subaramaihha and Sujan Ganapathy Pasura Subbaiah and Richard Surendranath Austin and Bhadrapura Lakkappa Dhananjaya} } @article {516, title = {Influence of the Extractive Method on the Recovery of Phenolic Compounds in Different Parts of Hymenaea martiana Hayne}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {270-275}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {270}, abstract = {

Background: Popularly known as {\textquotedblleft}jatob{\'a},{\textquotedblright} Hymenaea martiana Hayne is a medicinal plant widely used in the Brazilian Northeast for the treatment of various diseases. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different extractive methods in the production of phenolic compounds from different parts of H. martiana. Materials and Methods: The leaves, bark, fruits, and seeds were dried, pulverized, and submitted to maceration, ultrasound, and percolation extractive methods, which were evaluated for yield, visual aspects, qualitative phytochemical screening, phenolic compound content, and total flavonoids. Results: The highest results of yield were obtained from the maceration of the leaves, which may be related to the contact time between the plant drug and solvent. The visual aspects of the extracts presented some differences between the extractive methods. The phytochemical screening showed consistent data with other studies of the genus. Both the vegetal part as the different extractive methods influenced significantly the levels of phenolic compounds, and the highest content was found in the maceration of the barks, even more than the content found previously. No differences between the levels of total flavonoids were significant. The highest concentration of total flavonoids was found in the ultrasound of the barks, followed by maceration on this drug. According to the results, the barks of H. martiana presented the highest total flavonoid contents. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that both the vegetable and the different extractive methods influenced significantly various parameters obtained in the various extracts, demonstrating the importance of systematic comparative studies for the development of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

}, keywords = {Extractive methods, Hymenaea martiana, Phenolic compounds}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188885}, author = {Fernanda Granja da Silva Oliveira and Sarah Raquel Gomes de Lima-Saraiva and Ana Paula Oliveira and Suzana Vieira Rab{\^e}lo and Larissa Ara{\'u}jo Rolim and Jackson Roberto Guedes da Silva Almeida} } @article {505, title = {Inhibition of Group IIA Secretory Phospholipase A2 and its Inflammatory Reactions in Mice by Ethanolic Extract of Andrographis paniculata, a Well-known Medicinal Food}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {213-216}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {213}, abstract = {

Andrographis paniculata Nees is an important medicinal plant found in the tropical regions of the world, which has been traditionally used in Indian and Chinese medicinal systems. It is also used as medicinal food. A. paniculata is found to exhibit anti-inflammatory activities; however, its inhibitory potential on inflammatory Group IIA phospholipases A2 (PLA2) and its associated inflammatory reactions are not clearly understood. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the inhibitory/neutralizing potential of ethanolic extract of A. paniculata on the isolated inflammatory PLA2 (VRV-PL-VIIIa) from Daboii rusellii pulchella (belonging to Group IIA inflammatory secretory PLA2 [sPLA2]) and its associated edema-induced activities in Swiss albino mice. A. paniculata extract dose dependently inhibited the Group IIA sPLA2 enzymatic activity with an IC50 value of 10.3 {\textpm} 0.5 μg/ml. Further, the extract dose dependently inhibited the edema formation, when co-injected with enzyme indicating that a strong correlation exists between lipolytic and pro-inflammatory activities of the enzyme. In conclusion, results of this study shows that the ethanolic extract of A. paniculata effectively inhibits Group IIA sPLA2 and its associated inflammatory activities, which substantiate its anti-inflammatory properties. The results of the present study warranted further studies to develop bioactive compound (s) in ethanolic extract of A. paniculata as potent therapeutic agent (s) for inflammatory diseases.

}, keywords = {Disease, Drug, Inflammation, Inhibition, Neutralization, Plants}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.182916}, author = {V. Kishore and N. S. Yarla and F. Zameer and M. N. Nagendra Prasad and M. S. Santosh and S. S. More and D. G. Rao and Bhadrapura Lakkappa Dhananjaya} } @article {520, title = {Inhibition of Human Cytochrome P450 2C8-catalyzed Amodiaquine N-desethylation: Effect of Five Traditionally and Commonly Used Herbs}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {292-297}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {292}, abstract = {

Background: In Southeast Asia and many parts of the world, herbal products are increasingly used in parallel with modern medicine. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of herbs commonly used in Southeast Asia on activity of cytochrome P450 2C8 (CYP2C8), an important human hepatic enzyme in drug metabolism. Materials and Methods: The selected herbs, such as Eurycoma longifolia Jack (ELJ), Labisia pumila (LP), Echinacea purpurea (EP), Andrographis paniculata (AP), and Ginkgo biloba (GB), were subjected to inhibition studies using an in vitro CYP2C8 activity marker, amodiaquine N-desethylase assay. Inhibition parameters, inhibitory concentration 50\% (IC50), and Ki values were determined to study the potency and mode of inhibition. Results: All herbs inhibited CYP2C8 with the following order of potency: LP \> ELJ \> GB \> AP \> EP. LP and ELJ inhibited potently at Ki{\textquoteright}s of 2 and 4 times the Ki of quercetin, the positive control. The inhibition by LP was uncompetitive in nature as compared to competitive or mixed type inhibition observed with other herbs. GB exhibited moderate inhibitory effect at a Ki 6 times larger than quercetin Ki. AP and EP, on the other hand, showed only weak inhibition. Conclusion: The herbs we chose represented the more commonly used herbs in Southeast Asia where collision of tradition and modernization in healthcare, if not properly managed, may lead to therapeutic misadventures. We conclude that concurrent consumption of some herbs, in particular, LP and ELJ, may have relevance in drug-herb interactions via CYP2C8 inhibition in vivo.

}, keywords = {Cytochrome P450, Cytochrome P450 2C8, Drug-herb interaction, Inhibition}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188886}, author = {Yasotha Devi Muthiah and Chin Eng Ong and Siti Amrah Sulaiman and Rusli Ismail} } @article {487, title = {Inhibition of Pro-inflammatory Mediators and Cytokines by Chlorella Vulgaris Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {118-122}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {118}, abstract = {

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the in vitro anti-inflammatory activities of solvent fractions from Chlorella vulgaris by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines. Methods: Methanolic extracts (80\%) of C. vulgaris were prepared and partitioned with solvents of increasing polarity viz., n-hexane, chloroform, ethanol, and water. Various concentrations of the fractions were tested for cytotoxicity in RAW 264.7 cells using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and the concentrations inducing cell growth inhibition by about 50\% (IC50) were chosen for further studies. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated RAW 264.7 cells were treated with varying concentrations of C. vulgaris fractions and examined for its effects on nitric oxide (NO) production by Griess assay. The release of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using Celecoxib and polymyxin B as positive controls. Results: MTT assay revealed all the solvent fractions that inhibited cell growth in a dose-dependent manner. Of all the extracts, 80\% methanolic extract exhibited the strongest anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting NO production (P \< 0.01), PGE2 (P \< 0.05), TNF-α, and IL-6 (P \< 0.001) release in LPS induced RAW 264.7 cells. Both hexane and chloroform fractions recorded a significant (P \< 0.05) and dose-dependent inhibition of LPS induced inflammatory mediators and cytokines in vitro. The anti-inflammatory effect of ethanol and aqueous extracts was not significant in the study. Conclusion: The significant inhibition of inflammatory mediators and cytokines by fractions from C. vulgaris suggests that this microalga would be a potential source of developing anti-inflammatory agents and a good alternate for conventional steroidal and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Chlorella vulgaris, Microalgae, Pro-inflammatory cytokines, Pro-inflammatory mediators}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.172660}, author = {G. Sibi and Santa Rabina} } @article {396, title = {Isolation and Characterization of Chemopreventive Agent from Sphaeranthus amaranthoides Burm F}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {61-65}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {61}, abstract = {

Objective: To investigate the in vitro cytotoxic effect and to isolate and characterize a chemopreventive secondary metabolite from Sphaeranthus amaranthoides Burm F (sivakaranthai). Materials and Methods: In vitro cytotoxic effect was carried out by 3 (4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Different concentrations of the extracts were tested on three different cell lines namely A549, HT29, and MCF7. The chloroform extract was subjected to column chromatography, and the isolated compound was characterized by various spectral methods and by single crystal X-ray crystallography. Results: The concentration that cause 50\% growth inhibition value of chloroform extract was found to be 0.9 and 19 μg/mL against MCF7 and A549 cell lines, respectively. Chloroform extract was subjected to column chromatography for the isolation of phytoconstituent. The structure of the isolated compound was identified by spectroscopic techniques such as infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, XRD, and mass spectroscopy. On comparison of complete spectral detail of the compound, the proposed structure was identified as chrysosplenol D (a flavonoid). Chrysosplenol D was isolated for the first time from this plant. Conclusion: The chloroform extract had higher cytotoxic effect, and the isolated chrysosplenol D may be responsible for the anti-proliferative effect of the plant.

}, keywords = {3 (4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) 2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, Characterization, Chemopreventive agent, Chrysosplenol D, Isolation, Sphaeranthus amaranthoides}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171101}, author = {S. Gayatri and R. Suresh and C. Uma Maheswara Reddy and K. Chitra} } @article {511, title = {Kayeassamin A Isolated from the Flower of Mammea siamensis Triggers Apoptosis by Activating Caspase-3/-8 in HL-60 Human Leukemia Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {244-248}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {244}, abstract = {

Background: Mammea siamensis (Miq.) T. Anders. is used as a medicinal plant in Thailand and has several traditional therapeutic properties. In a previous study, we isolated eight compounds from the flower of M. siamensis and demonstrated that kayeassamin A (KA) exhibited potent antiproliferative activity against human leukemia and stomach cancer cell lines. Objective: In this study, we investigated the effect of KA on cell viability and apoptotic mechanisms in HL-60 human leukemia cells. Materials and Methods: Cell viability was measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Nuclear morphology and DNA fragmentation were observed using Hoechst 33258 staining and agarose gel electrophoresis, respectively. The sub-G1 phase of cells was analyzed by flow cytometry after the cellular DNA had been stained with propidium iodide. The protein levels of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and caspases were determined by Western blotting. Results: KA exhibited a significant cytotoxic effect in a dose- and time-dependent manner, and induced chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation, and sub-G1 phase DNA content, known as molecular events associated with the induction of apoptosis. In addition, KA strongly induced the activation of PARP and caspase-3 and -8, with weak caspase-9 activation. Furthermore, KA-induced DNA fragmentation was abolished by pretreatment with z-VAD-FMK (a broad caspase inhibitor), z-DEVD-FMK (a caspase-3 inhibitor), and z-IETD-FMK (a caspase-8 inhibitor), but not by z-LEHD-FMK (a caspase-9 inhibitor) pretreatment. Conclusion: These results indicate that KA triggers apoptotic cell death by activation of caspase-3 and -8 in HL-60 cells.

}, keywords = {Apoptosis, Caspase, Kayeassamin A, leukemia, Mammea siamensis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188884}, author = {Takuhiro Uto and Nguyen Huu Tung and Pinjutha Thongjankaew and Sorasak Lhieochaiphant and Yukihiro Shoyama} } @article {490, title = {Lactoferrin from Camelus dromedarius Inhibits Nuclear Transcription Factor-kappa B Activation, Cyclooxygenase-2 Expression and Prostaglandin E2 Production in Stimulated Human Chondrocytes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {135-141}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {135}, abstract = {

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive joint disorder, which remains the leading cause of chronic disability in aged people. Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF)-κB is a major cellular event in OA and its activation by interleukin-1β (IL-1β) plays a critical role in cartilage breakdown in these patients. Objective: In this study, we examined the effect of lactoferrin on NF-κB activation, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production in stimulated human articular chondrocytes. Materials and Methods: Human chondrocytes were derived from OA articular cartilage and treated with camel lactoferrin and then stimulated with IL-1β. Gene expression was determined by TaqMan assays and protein expression was studied by Western immunoblotting. NF-κB activity and PGE2 levels were determined by ELISA based assays. NF-κB activity was also determined by treatment of chondrocytes with NF-κB specific inhibitor Bay 11{\textendash}7082. Results: Lactoferrin inhibited IL-1β-induced activation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 in human OA chondrocytes. Lactoferrin also inhibited mRNA/protein expression of COX-2 and production of PGE2. Moreover, Bay 11{\textendash}7082 also inhibited IL-1β-induced expression of COX-2 and production of PGE2. The inhibitory effect of lactoferrin on the IL-1β induced expression of COX-2 or production of PGE2 was mediated at least in part via suppression of NF-κB activation. Conclusions: Our data determine camel lactoferrin as a novel inhibitor of IL-1β-induced activation of NF-κB signaling events and production of cartilage-degrading molecule PGE2 via inhibition of COX-2 expressions. These results may have important implications for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the prevention/treatment of OA and other degenerative/inflammatory diseases.

}, keywords = {Chondrocytes, Cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin-1β, lactoferrin, nuclear factor-kappa B, osteoarthritis, Prostaglandin E2}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.175612}, author = {Naila Rasheed and Abdullah Alghasham and Zafar Rasheed} } @article {387, title = {Methanolic Extract of Curcuma caesia Roxb. Prevents the Toxicity Caused by Cyclophosphamide to Bone Marrow Cells, Liver and Kidney of Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {43-49}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {43}, abstract = {

Introduction: With an ever increasing cause of cancer, it has been recommended to treat with conventional drugs, however because of the side effects caused by the conventional drugs, the research on medicinal plants has been intensified due to their less adverse and toxic effects. Objectives: The primary objective of the present study was to evaluate the protective effect of the medicinal plant Curcuma caesia Roxb. against free radicals ABTS+ and O2 -. Also it was aimed to evaluate the protective effect of C.caesia Roxb. against the chemotherapeutic drug Cyclophosphamide and its side effects in liver and kidney. Methods: The rhizomes of the plant was extracted with methanol through soxhlet and its antioxidant activity was tested against ABTS+ and O2 - . For antigenotoxic studies, animals were divided into eight groups and micronucleus assay was employed and for biochemical analysis serum sample was collected from the blood and SGOT, SGPT analysis was performed. Also the biochemical analysis was performed from both the liver and kidney. Results: The methanolic extract of Curcuma caesia Roxb. was found to scavenge the free radicals ABTS+ and O2 - . the micronuclei formation was found to be increased in the positive control group as compared to the negative control group significantly (P\<0.002) however increase in the number of micronuclei was found to be decrease with the pretreatment of the extract at different concentrations significantly as compared to the negative control groups (P\<0.01, P\<0.005,P\<0.001). The increased level of serum SGPT and SGOT as well as peroxidation level in both liver and kidney due to treatment of cyclophosphamide was also found to be decreased with the pretreatment of the extract significantly as compared to the positive control groups. There was decreased in the level of endogenous antioxidant such as GSH and GR in the positive control group however decreased level of GSH and GR was found to be increased with the pretreatment of the methanolic extract of C. caesia Roxb. Conclusion: The present study suggested that the methanolic extract of C. caesia Roxb has not shown any genotoxicity and reduces the genotoxicity caused by cyclophosphamide. It was also to have the protective effects against the liver and kidney. So it could be provided as one of the herbal supplementation in chemoprevention of CP to ameliorate the side effects of it.

}, keywords = {2, 2{\textquoteright} azino bis (ethylbenzthiazolene-6-sulfonic acid) radical cation assay, Curcuma caesia Roxb., Cyclophosphamide, micronucleus assay, Oxidative stress, Superoxide dismutase assay}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171106}, author = {Heisanam Pushparani Devi and Pranab Behari Mazumder} } @article {482, title = {Oxidative Stress Parameters and Erythrocyte Membrane Adenosine Triphosphatase Activities in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats Administered Aqueous Preparation of Kalanchoe Pinnata Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {85-88}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {85}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease that according to the World Health Organization affects more than 382 million people. The rise in diabetes mellitus coupled with the lack of an effective treatment has led many to investigate medicinal plants to identify a viable alternative. Objective: To evaluate red blood cell (RBC) membrane adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activities and antioxidant levels in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats administered aqueous preparation of Kalanchoe pinnata leaves. Materials and Methods: Diabetes mellitus was induced in rats by a single administration of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg). Diabetic rats were then treated with aqueous K. pinnata preparation (three mature leaves ~ 9.96 g/70 kg body weight or about 0.14 g/kg body weight/ day) for 30 days. Serum glucose, RBC membrane ATPase activities, and antioxidant levels were determined. Results: We noted weight loss and reduced food consumption in the treated diabetic group. Serum glucose levels were reduced in the treated diabetic group compared to the other groups. Superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione levels were not significantly elevated in the treated group compared to the diabetic group. However, serum catalase activity was significantly (P \< 0.05) increased in the treated diabetic group compared to the other groups. Serum thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were not significantly altered among the groups. There was a significant (P \< 0.05) increase in Mg2+ ATPase activity and a nonsignificant increase in Na+/K+ ATPase activity in the RBC membrane of the treated diabetic group compared to the diabetic group. Conclusion: The consumption of aqueous preparation of K. pinnata may accrue benefits in the management of diabetes by lowering oxidative stress often associated with the disease and improving the availability of cellular magnesium through an increase in the magnesium ATPase pump in the RBC membrane for increased cellular metabolism of glucose through the glycolytic pathway.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant enzymes, Diabetes, Kalanchoe pinnata, red blood cell membrane adenosine triphosphatases}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.172656}, author = {Nikhil Menon and Jean Sparks and Felix O. Omoruyi} } @article {477, title = {The Potent Inhibitors of Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B from the Fruits of Melaleuca leucadendron}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {38-41}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {38}, abstract = {

Background: Melaleuca leucadendron (Myrtaceae) is a kind of fruit used as Indonesian medicinal component and recorded in Jamu (tonic made of medical herbs) prescription records for the diabetes treatment. Its methanol extract exhibited a strong inhibitory activity with the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 2.05 μg/mL, while it is the same value with positive control RK-682. Objective: To isolate the chemical constituents of M. leucadendron and to evaluate their activity against protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B). Further, determine their toxicity potential against T-cell protein tyrosine phosphatase (TCPTP). Materials and Methods: Methanol extract was fractionated using silica column chromatography, and the obtained fraction was purified using Sephadex 20-LH. The structure of isolated compounds was identified based on 1H and 13Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometry. Furthermore, the compounds were examined against PTP1B and TCPTP. Results: Methanol extract of M. leucadendron (Myrtaceae) afforded two triterpenes: Betulinic acid and ursolic acid in high quantities. Both compounds exhibited a strong inhibitory activity against PTP1B inhibition with IC50 value of 1.5 and 2.3 μg/mL, respectively (positive control RK-682, IC50 = 2.05 μg/mL). Their activity toward TCPTP, on the other hand, were at 2.4 and 3.1 μg/ mL, respectively. Based on this purification work, betulinic acid and ursolic acid presented 7.6\% and 2.4\%, respectively, as markedly M. leucadendron most potential for betulinic acid source among Indonesian plants. The result should have demonstrated that the antidiabetes of M. dendron could be through the inhibition of PTP1B.

}, keywords = {Betulinic acid, diabetes-obesity, Melaleuca leucadendron, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B, Ursolic acid}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178644}, author = {Azis Saifudin and Subehan Ab Lallo and Yasuhiro Tezuka} } @article {509, title = {Probing Regenerative Potential of Moringa oleifera Aqueous Extracts Using In vitro Cellular Assays}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {231-237}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {231}, abstract = {

Background: Molecules stimulating regeneration and proliferation of cells are of significance in combating ailments caused due to tissue injury, inflammation, and degenerative disorders. Moringa oleifera is one of the most valued food plants having the profile of important nutrients and impressive range of medicinal uses. Objective: To evaluate the potential of M. oleifera aqueous leaf and flower extracts to promote the proliferation of cells and explore their effect on cancer cell lines for assessment of safety. Materials and Methods: Aqueous leaf and flower extracts of M. oleifera were investigated for effect on rat-derived primary fibroblast, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and cancer cell lines using cell proliferation assay. They were also tested and compared for wound healing, angiogenesis, and hepatoprotective effect using in vitro assays. Results: Statistically significant increase in the proliferation of primary rat fibroblast, MSCs, and angiogenesis was observed after treatment with aqueous flower extract. The aqueous leaf extract determined a comparatively moderate increment in the proliferation of MSCs and angiogenesis. It however showed prominent cytotoxicity to cancer cell lines and a significant hepatoprotective effect. Conclusion: A very clear difference in response of the two extracts to different types of cells was detected in this study. The aqueous flower extract exhibited a higher potential to stimulate cell proliferation while not exerting the same effect on cancer cell lines. The leaf extract on the other hand, had a prominent antitumor and hepatoptotective effects.

}, keywords = {Aqueous, cytotoxicity, Fibroblast, in vitro, Viability}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188877}, author = {Evangeline E. Fernandes and Anubha V. Pulwale and Gauri A. Patil and Alpana S. Moghe} } @article {385, title = {Quantification of Quercetin and Rutin from Benincasa hispida Seeds and Carissa Congesta Roots by High-performance Thin Layer Chromatography and High-performance Liquid Chromatography}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {37-42}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {37}, abstract = {

Objective: In Indian Ayurvedic system, Benincasa hispida (BH) and Carissa congesta (CC) are well-known plants used for major and minor ailments. BH has been regarded as Kushmanda, whereas CC has been used in immune-related disorders of the human system. Quercetin and rutin identified from the vast plethora of plant extracts have proved to possess ethnopharmacological relevance. Materials and Methods: In present studies, we have determined quercetin and rutin in terms of percentage in BH seeds and CC roots by high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). After extraction and phytochemical screening, the extracts were subjected to quantification for the presence of quercetin and rutin by HPTLC and HPLC. Results: HPTLC showed quercetin as 44.60, 27.13\% and rutin as 32.00, 36.31\% w/w, whereas HPLC revealed quercetin as 34.00, 35.00\% and rutin as 21.99, 45.03\% w/v in BH and CC extracts, respectively. Conclusion: The BH and CC extracts have elucidated peaks that were corresponding with standard peaks on undertaking chromatographic studies.

}, keywords = {Benincasa hispida, Carissa congesta, High-performance liquid chromatography, high-performance thin layer chromatography, Quercetin, Rutin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171098}, author = {Gaurav Mahesh Doshi and Hemant Devidas Une} } @article {379, title = {Quantitative and Qualitative analysis of Phenolic and Flavonoid content in Moringa oleifera Lam and Ocimum tenuiflorum L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {December 2015}, pages = {16-21}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {16}, abstract = {

Background: Number of secondary compounds is produced by plants as natural antioxidants. Moringa oleifera Lam. and Ocimum tenuiflorum L. are known for their wide applications in food and pharmaceutical industry. Objective: To compare phenolic and flavonoid content in M. oleifera Lam and O. tenuiflorum L. by quantitative and qualitative analysis. Materials and Methods: Phenolic and flavonoid content were studied spectrophotometrically and by paper chromatography in M. oleifera Lam. and O. tenuiflorum L. Results: Higher phenolic and flavonoid content were observed in Moringa leaf and flower. Ocimum flower showed higher phenolic content and low flavonoid in comparison to Moringa. Flavonoids such as biflavonyl, flavones, glycosylflavones, and kaempferol were identified by paper chromatography. Phytochemical analysis for flavonoid, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, reducing sugars, and anthraquinones were tested positive for Moringa and Ocimum leaf as well as flower. Conclusions: In the present study higher phenolic and flavonoid content, indicated the natural antioxidant nature of Moringa and Ocimum signifying their medicinal importance.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Flavonoids, Ocimum, Phenolics, Phytochemicals, Qualitative analysis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.171095}, author = {Sangeeta Sankhalkar and Vrunda Vernekar} } @article {492, title = {Standardization of Unani Antidiabetic Tablet - Qurse Tabasheer}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {147-152}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {147}, abstract = {

Background: Quality control of Unani polyherbal formulations is the need of the day for better acceptance of Unani medicine. Qurse Tabasheer (QT) is a Unani polyherbal formulation containing six ingredients, Tabasheer (Siliceous concretions) (Bambosa arundinaceae Retz.), Gule Surkh (Rosa damascena Mill. flower), Gulnar (Punica granatum Linn. flower), Tukhme kahu (Lactuca sativa Linn. seed), Tukhme khurfa (Portulaca oleraceae Linn. seed), and Gile Armani (bole) widely used in treatment of diabetes. The present study was taken up to scientifically evaluate the various physicochemical parameters to standardize the formulation. Objective: To evaluate various physicochemical parameters including ash values, moisture content, extractive values, thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance TLC (HPTLC), friability, disintegration, uniformity, and weight variation for standardization of QT. Materials and Methods: Ingredients were identified by the experts. The method mentioned in national formulary of Unani Medicine with modification was followed for preparation of the tablets. Physicochemical standards were established for ideal batch of tablets on the basis of set parameters regarding friability, hardness, and disintegration. Various parameters such as organoleptic characters, extractive values for the extract and HPTLC fingerprinting postcompression were carried out for evaluation of QT. Results: Parameters for loss of weight on drying, pH, ash values, extractive values documented. Qualitative chemical tests indicated the presence of alkaloid, glycoside, tannins, and steroids. TLC and HPTLC fingerprinting studies showing the presence of major peaks were documented. Friability, hardness, and disintegration time of ideal batch was 0.09 {\textpm} 0.0057, 4.03 {\textpm} 0.087, and 25.57 {\textpm} 0.4860 min, respectively, and it was found to be within the set limit. Weight variation was \<5\%. Total fungal and bacterial counts were found to be within the limit. Conclusion: Standards were established for poly herbal formulation QT, which may be used as reference for preparation and standardization of QT.

}, keywords = {Physicochemical, Qurse Tabasheer, Standardization, Tablet, Unani}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.175611}, author = {Waris Ali and Hamiduddin Shaikh and Abdullah Ansari and Salma Khanam1} } @article {481, title = {Ulcer Protective Activity of Jatropha gossypiifolia Linn. in Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {March 2016}, pages = {61-66}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {61}, abstract = {

Background: Several synthetic drugs are useful in the treatment of peptic ulcer, but almost of these drugs are used in prolonging time, it may cause several adverse reactions. However, the herbal medicines are more potent to the treatment and minimize the side effects. Objective: To evaluate the methanol extract of Jatropha gossypiifolia Linn. (MEJG) for gastro protective activity against Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Anti-ulcer potency of MEJG (100 and 200 mg/kg, b.w.) was assessed using aspirin (200 mg/kg, p.o.) plus pylorus ligation ulcer model and the parameters studied were ulcer index (UI), gastric juice volume, pH, total acidity, and total acid output. Same extract was studied by ethanol-induced (80\%, 5 mL/kg, intragastrically) ulcer model, and the UI and biochemical parameters were studied. Results: The oral administration of MEJG (100 and 200 mg/kg) significantly (P \< 0.001) attenuated the ulcer score and anti-secretary parameters (such as the volume of gastric content, free acidity, total acidity, and total acid output) in the aspirin plus pylorus ligation rats. The extract also significantly attenuated (P \< 0.001) ulcer score in ethanol-induced ulcer model and lipid peroxidation level and significantly increased the level of glutathione peroxides, catalase, and superoxide dismutase activity. The MEJG may possess active constituents such as alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, and terpenes, which may play a major role in gastroprotective effect in Wistar rats. Conclusion: The present study provides scientific support for the anti-ulcer activities of extracts of JG and also claimed that antioxidant potential of the extracts. However, substantiates the traditional claims for the usage of this drug in the treatment of gastric ulcer.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant enzymes, anti-ulcer, Aspirin, ethanol, jatropha gossypiifolia, ranitidine, Wistar rats}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.178640}, author = {Arumugam Ramamoorthy Vijayakumar and Epison Prabu Daniel and Raju Ilavarasan and S. Venkataraman and S. Vijayakumar} } @article {486, title = {UP1304, a Botanical Composition Containing Two Standardized Extracts of Curcuma longa and Morus alba, Mitigates Pain and Inflammation in Adjuvant-induced Arthritic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {February 2016}, pages = {112-117}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {112}, abstract = {

Background: Though, the initial etiologies of arthritis are multifactorial, clinically, patients share pain as the prime complaints. Present day pain relief therapeutics heavily relies on the use of prescription and over the counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as the first line of defense where their long-term usage causes gastrointestinal and cardiovascular-related side effects. Hence, the need for evidence-based safer and efficacious alternatives from natural sources to overcome the most prominent and disabling symptoms of arthritis is an overdue. Here, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of UP1304, a composition that contains a standardized blend of two extracts from the rhizome of Curcuma longa and the root bark of Morus alba in adjuvant-induced arthritis models in rats. Materials and Methods: The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the botanical composition were demonstrated in adjuvant-induced arthritis models in rats with oral dose ranges of 50{\textendash}200 mg/kg. Ibuprofen at a dose of 100 mg/kg was used as a reference compound. Ex vivo sulfated glycosaminoglycan inhibition assays were performed. Results: Statistically significant improvements in pain resistance, suppression of paw edema and ankle thickness were observed in animals treated with UP1304 compared to vehicle-treated diseased rats. These results were similar to those achieved by ibuprofen treatment. Inhibitions of proteoglycan degradation were observed in a range of 37.5{\textendash}61.7\% for concentration of UP1304 at 50{\textendash}200 {\textmu}g/mL when compared to interleukin-1α-exposed untreated explants. Conclusions: These data suggest that UP1304, for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, could potentially be considered agent of botanical origin for the improvement of arthritis associated symptoms.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Arthritis, Bradykinin inhibition, Chronic pain, Curcuma longa, Morus alba}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.172563}, author = {Mesfin Yimam and Young-Chul Lee and Breanna Moore and Ping Jiao and Mei Hong and Jeong-Bum Nam and Mi-Ran Kim and Tae-Woo Kim and Hyun-Jin Kim and Eu-Jin Hyun and Min Chu and Lidia Brownell and Qi Jia} } @article {499, title = {UP1306, a Botanical Composition with Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Effect}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {May 2016}, pages = {186-192}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {186}, abstract = {

Background: Pain, one of the cardinal signs of inflammation, is the most common clinical manifestations of arthritis. Conventional pain relief therapy heavily relies on the use of prescription and over the counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as the first line of defense where their long-term usage causes deleterious gastrointestinal and cardiovascular-related side-effects. Hence, there is an equivocal need for evidence-based safer and efficacious alternatives from natural sources to overcome the most prominent and disabling symptoms of arthritis. Materials and Methods: Carrageenan-induced rat paw edema and abdominal constriction (writhing{\textquoteright}s) assays in mouse were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of UP1306, a composition that contains a standardized blend of extracts from the heartwood of Acacia catechu and the root bark of Morus alba administered orally at dose ranges of 100{\textendash}300 mg/kg. Cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibition assays were carried out to determine the IC50 of Acacia and Morus extracts. The merit of combining these two extracts was also assessed. Results: Statistically significant improvement in pain resistance and suppression of edema were observed in animals treated with UP1306, when compared to vehicle-treated diseased rats and mice. Results from the high dose of UP1306 (300 mg/kg) were similar to those achieved by ibuprofen treatment at a dose of 200 mg/kg in early hours of treatment. In vitro, UP1306 showed dose-dependent inhibition of the enzymatic activities of COX and LO with IC50 values of 20.9 μg/mL, 49.2 μg/mL, and 11.1 μg/mL in COX-1, COX-2, and 5{\textquoteright}-LO, respectively. Conclusions: These data suggest that UP1306, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory agent of botanical origin with dual COX-LO inhibition activity, could potentially be used to alleviate symptom associated to osteoarthritis.

}, keywords = {Acacia catechu, cyclooxygenase-LO dual inhibition, inflammatory pain, Morus alba, osteoarthritis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.182918}, author = {Mesfin Yimam and Young-Chul Lee and Ping Jiao and Mei Hong and Jeong-Bum Nam and Lidia Brownell and Eujin Hyun and Qi Jia} } @article {521, title = {Wound Healing Activity of Silibinin in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {August 2016}, pages = {298-302}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {298}, abstract = {

Background: Silibinin is a semi-purified fraction of silymarin contained in milk thistle (Silybum marianum Asteraceae). Primarily known for its hepatoprotective actions, silymarin may also stimulate epithelialization and reduce inflammation in excision wound. Previous studies show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial actions of silibinin. However, wound healing property of silibinin is not well studied. Objective: This study investigates wound healing activity of silibinin topical formulation. Materials and Methods: Wound healing activity of 0.2\% silibinin gel was assessed by incision and excision wound models in mice. Animals were divided into gel base, silibinin gel, and Mega Heal gel{\textregistered} treated groups with six animals in each group. Wound contraction, wound tissue tensile strength, and hydroxyproline content were measured, and histopathological evaluation of wound tissue of all the above treatment groups was carried out. Results: Application of 0.2\% silibinin hydrogel for 8 days led to 56.3\% wound contraction compared to 64.6\% using standard Mega Heal gel with a subsequent increase in hydroxyproline content, which was significantly higher (P \< 0.001) over control animals showing 33.2\% contraction. After 14 days, percentage of contraction reached 96.1\%, 97.6\%, and 86.7\%, respectively. Wound tissue tensile strength with silibinin (223.55 {\textpm} 3.82 g) and standard (241.38 {\textpm} 2.49 g) was significantly higher (P \< 0.001) than control (174.06 {\textpm} 5.75 g). Histopathology of silibinin and standard gel treated wound tissue showed more fibroblasts, fewer macrophage infiltration, and well-formed collagen fibers. Conclusion: Here, we show potent wound healing activity of silibinin hydrogel formulation.

}, keywords = {Excision wound, Hydrogel, Hydroxyproline, Incision wound, Silibinin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.188880}, author = {Rojalini Samanta and Ashok K. Pattnaik and Kishanta K. Pradhan and Beena K. Mehta and Shakti P. Pattanayak and Sugato Banerjee} } @article {397, title = {Acute oral toxicity studies of Swietenia macrophylla seeds in Sprague Dawley rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {38-44}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {38}, abstract = {

Background: Swietenia macrophylla King. (Meliaceae) seeds (SMS); commonly known as sky fruit and locally known in Malaysia as Tunjuk Langit; have been used in traditional Malay medicine for the treatment of diabetes and hypertension. The people eat only a tiny amount of raw seed, weighing not more than 5 mg. Aim: To evaluate the safety of Swietenia macrophylla seeds (SMS) at a single-dose oral administration of 2 g/kg body weight (bw) in sprague dawley (SD) rats. Materials and Methods: Eight-week old male and female SD rats were administered a single-oral dose of 2g/kg bw. The rats{\textquoteright} general behavior, and toxic signs were observed throughout the 14-day study period. The food and water intake by rats and their body weight were monitored during the study period. At the end of the study period, the relative weights of the organs (lung, liver, spleen, heart, kidney, testis, stomach); the hematological and biochemical parameters were measured; the architecture and histology of the organs (liver, kidney and lungs) were observed. Results: Oral administration of SMS to rats did not affect, either food or water intake; relative organ weight of vital organs; the hematological and biochemical parameters; did not show significant changes in the architecture and histology of vital organs. Overall, there were neither signs of toxicity nor deaths recorded during the study period. Conclusion: The rat dose of 2 g/kg bw is equivalent to the human dose of 325 mg/kg bw, which is well below the usual amount consumed by people, did not show any signs of toxicity in rats.

}, keywords = {Diabetes, Sky fruit, Swietenia macrophylla, Toxicity, Traditional Malay medicine, Tunjuk langit.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147197}, author = {Madhu Katyayani Balijepalli and Velan Suppaiah and An-me Chin and Ayuba Sunday Buru and Sreenivasa Rao Sagineedu and Mallikarjuna Rao Pichika} } @article {529, title = {Alpha-amylase inhibitory activity and phytochemical study of Zhumeria majdae Rech. f. and Wendelbo}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {309-313}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {309}, abstract = {

Background: Zhumeria majdae (Lamiaceae) is an endemic species growing in the South parts of Iran especially Hormozgan province. The plant is so-called Mohrekhosh locally and widely used for medicinal purposes including stomachache and dysmenorrhea. Objectives: In order to separation and identification of the main flavonoid glycosides of the plant (aerial parts including leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits were used) and evaluation of its alpha-amylase inhibitory (AAI) activity, methanolic extract was prepared and fractionated to botanolic portion. Materials and Methods: Isolation of the main compounds of the butanol extract of the plant have been performed using different column chromatography methods such as high-performance liquid chromatography (C18 column) and Sephadex LH-20 as well. The isolated compounds were identified by Hydrogen-1 nuclear magnetic resonance and Carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectra and comparison with those reported in previous literature. Moreover, inhibitory activity of the butanolic extract of the plant against alpha-amylase enzyme was examined in different concentrations (15{\textendash}30 mg/mL), where acarbose used as a positive control. Results: Three flavonoid glycosides: Linarin (1), hispidulin- 7-O-(4-O-acetyl-rutinoside) (2), hispidulin-7-O-rutinoside (3) were successfully identified in the extract. The activity of alpha amylase enzyme was dose-dependently suppressed by the butanol extract. The extract exhibited the highest inhibition at 30 mg/mL toward enzyme (77.9 {\textpm} 2.1\%), while acarbose inhibited the enzyme at 20 mg/mL by 73.9 {\textpm} 1.9\%. The inhibitory concentrations of 50\% for the extract and acarbose were calculated at 24.5 {\textpm} 2.1 and 6.6 {\textpm} 3.1 mg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: Z. majdae contains glycosylated flavones and could be a good candidate for anti-diabetic evaluations in animal and clinical trials due to possessing AAI activity.

}, keywords = {Alpha-amylase inhibitor, Hispidulin-7-O-(4-O-acetyl-rutinoside), Hispidulin-7-O-rutinoside, Linarin, Zhumeria majdae.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.158442}, author = {Behnaz Mirshafie and Najmeh Mokhber-Dezfouli and Azadeh Manay and Soodabeh Saeidnia and Yousef Ajani and Ahmad Reza Gohari} } @article {532, title = {Alpha-amylase inhibitory activity and sterol composition of the marine algae, Sargassum glaucescens}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {314-321}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {314}, abstract = {

Background: Sargassum species (phaeophyceae) are economically important brown algae in southern parts of Iran. Sargassum is mainly harvested as a row material in alginate production industries and is a source of plant foods or plant bio-stimulants even a component of animal foods. Objectives: In this study, Sargassum glaucescens, collected from the seashore of Chabahar, was employed for phytochemical and biological evaluations. Materials and Methods: For that purpose, the dried algae was extracted by methanol and subjected to different chromatographic separation methods. Results: Six sterols, fucosterol (1), 24(S)-hydroxy-24-vinylcholesterol (2), 24(R)-hydroxy-24-vinylcholesterol (3), stigmasterol (4), β-sitosterol (5) and cholesterol (6) were identified by spectroscopic methods including 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and mass spectroscopy. In vitro alpha-amylase inhibitory test was performed on the methanolic extract and the results revealed a potent inhibition (IC50 = 8.9 {\textpm} 2.4 mg/mL) of the enzyme compared to acarbose as a positive control. Conclusion: Various biological activities and distribution of sterols in Sargassum genus have been critically reviewed here. The results concluded that these algae are a good candidate for further anti-diabetic investigations in animals and human.

}, keywords = {Alpha-amylase inhibitor, Brown algae, Sargassum glaucescens, Sterol.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.167893}, author = {Nasrin Payghami and Shahla Jamili and Abdolhossein Rustaiyan and Soodabeh Saeidnia and Marjan Nikan and Ahmad Reza Gohari} } @article {565, title = {Ammi Visnaga in treatment of urolithiasis and hypertriglyceridemia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {397-400}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {397}, abstract = {

Ammi visnaga is a widely distributed Ancient Egyptian medicinal plant used for treatment of several diseases including urolithiasis (kidney stones). The active chemical constituents{\textquoteright} khellin and visnagin obtained from the A. visnaga seeds have activity of antilithiogenic and pleiotropic. However, little is known about its activity on hypertriglyceridemia. The main aim of this review is to explore the use of A. visnaga in urolithiasis and to present a case of relevancy. We highlighted a case of a patient who has recurrent urethral stones and hypertriglyceridemia. The patient was treated with A. visnaga seeds, has recovered completely from ureteral stones and his high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol low levels retained to normal after using of A. visnaga seeds for 10 days. The present case of A. visnaga seeds being local medicinal plant has shown the effect in treating urolithiasis with extended effect on raising HDL-cholesterol. These results may provide insights for in vitro studies for isolation of these biologically active compounds for potential in raising HDL-cholesterol. Whether or not the later effect can have clinical utility remains to be explored.

}, keywords = {Ammi visnaga, High-density lipoprotein, Khellin, Ureteral stones, Urolithiasis, Visnagin.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.167894}, author = {Akshaya Srikanth Bhagavathula and Ahed Jumah Mahmoud Al-Khatib and Asim Ahmed Elnour and Naama M. S. Al Kalbani and Abdulla Shehab} } @article {569, title = {Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Effect of UP3005, A Botanical Composition Containing Two Standardized Extracts of Uncaria gambir and Morus alba}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {s39-s46}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s39}, abstract = {

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic debilitating degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage degradation and synovial inflammation exhibited by clinical symptoms such as joint swelling, synovitis, and inflammatory pain. Present day pain relief therapeutics heavily relies on the use of prescription and over the counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as the first line of defense where their long-term usage causes detrimental gastrointestinal and cardiovascular-related side-effects. As a result, the need for evidence based safer and efficacious alternatives from natural sources to overcome the most prominent and disabling symptoms of arthritis is a necessity. Materials and Methods: Describe the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of UP3005, a composition that contains a standardized blend of two extracts from the leaf of Uncaria gambir and the root bark of Morus alba in carrageenan-induced rat paw edema, abdominal constriction (writhing{\textquoteright}s) and ear swelling assays in mouse with oral dose ranges of 100-400 mg/kg. Results: In vivo, statistically significant improvement in pain resistance, and suppression of paw edema and ear thickness in animals treated with UP3005 were observed compared with vehicle-treated diseased rats and mice. Ibuprofen was used a reference compound in all the studies. In vitro, enzymatic inhibition activities of UP3005 were determined with IC50 values of 12.4 μg/ml, 39.8 μg/ml and 13.6 μg/ml in cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-1), COX-2 and lipoxygenase (5-LOX) enzyme activity assay, respectively. Conclusions: These data suggest that UP3005, analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent of botanical origin with balanced dual COX-LOX inhibition activity, could potentially be used for symptom management of OA.

}, keywords = {Chronic pain, Cyclooxygenase-lipoxygenase dual inhibitor, Morus alba, osteoarthritis, Uncaria gambir}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.157995}, author = {Mesfin Yimam and Young-Chul Lee and Tae-Woo Kim and Breanna Moore and Ping Jiao and Mei Hong and Hyun-Jin Kim and Jeong-Bum Nam and Mi-Ran Kim and Jin-Sun Oh and Sabrina Cleveland and Eu-Jin Hyun and Min Chu and Qi Jia} } @article {462, title = {Analysis of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L., genotype BAT93) Calmodulin cDNA using Computational Tools}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {209-212}, type = { Original Article}, chapter = {209}, abstract = {

Background: Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an important part of the human diet and serves as a source of natural products. Identification and understanding of genes in P. vulgaris is important for its improvement. Characterization of expressed sequence tags (ESTs) is one of the approaches in understanding the expressed genes. For the understanding of genes expression in P. vulgaris pod-tissue, research work of ESTs generation was initiated by constructing cDNA libraries using 5-day and 20-day old bean-pod-tissues. Altogether, 5972 cDNA clones were isolated to have ESTs. While processing ESTs, we found a transcript for calmodulin (CaM) gene. It is an important gene that encodes for a calcium-binding protein and known to express in all eukaryotic cells. Hence, this study was undertaken to analyse and annotate it. Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze and annotate P. vulgaris CaM (PvCaM) gene cDNA and its deduced protein (amino acids) sequence. Materials and Methods: Both strands of PvCaM cDNA clone were sequenced using M13 forward and reverse primer to elucidate the nucleotide sequence. The cDNA sequence and deduced protein sequence were analyzed and annotated using bioinformatics tools available online. The secondary structures and three-dimensional (3D) structure of PvCaM protein were predicted using the Phyre automatic fold recognition server. Results: Results showed that PvCaM cDNA is 818 bp in length. The cDNA analysis results showed that it contains an open reading frame that encodes for 149 amino acid residues. The deduced protein sequence analysis results showed the presence of conserved domains required for CaM function. The predicted secondary structures and 3D structure are analogous to the Solanum tuberosum CaM. Conclusions: This study analyzed and annotated PvCaM cDNA and protein. However, in order to obtain a complete understanding of PvCaM protein, further study on its expression, structure and regulation is essential.

}, keywords = {cDNA, Expressed Sequence Tags, Nutrition, Phaseomics, Proteins}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150536 }, author = {Kassim Amelia and Jasvin Singh and Farida Habib Shah and Subhash J Bhore} } @article {393, title = {Analysis of L-citrulline and L-arginine in Ficus deltoidea leaf extracts by reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {32-37}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {32}, abstract = {

Background:\ Ficus deltoidea (FD) is one of the native plants widely distributed in several countries in Southeast Asia. Previous studies have shown that FD leaf possess antinociceptive, wound healing and antioxidant properties. These beneficial effects have been attributed to the presence of primary and secondary metabolites such as polyphenols, amino acids and flavonoids. Objective: The aim was to develop a reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography method with ultraviolet detection that involves precolumn derivatisation with O-phthaladehyde for simultaneous analysis of two amino acids L-citrulline and L-arginine in FD leaf extracts. Materials and Methods: An isocratic elution program consisting of methanol: acetonitrile: Water at 45:45:10 v/v (solvent A) and 0.1 M phosphate buffer pH 7.5 (solvent B) at A: B v/v ratio of 80:20 on Zorbax Eclipse C18 SB-Aq column (250 {\texttimes} 4.6 mm, 5 {\textmu}m) were used. The flow rate was set at 1 ml/min and detection was carried out at 338 nm with 30 min separation time. Results: Good linearity for L-citrulline and L-arginine was obtained in the range 0.1-1000 {\textmu}g/ml at R2 >= 0.998. The limit of detection and limit of quantification values for both L-citrulline and L-arginine were 1 and 5 {\textmu}g/ml, respectively. The average of recoveries was in the range 94.94-101.95\%, with relative standard deviation (\%RSD) less than 3\%. Intra- and inter-day precision was in the range 96.36-102.43\% with RSD less than 2\%. Conclusion: All validation parameters of the developed method indicate the method is reliable and efficient for simultaneous determination of L-citrulline and L-arginine for routine analysis of FD.

}, keywords = {Ficus deltoidea, L-arginine, L-citrulline, Reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147196}, author = {Armaghan Shafaei and Abdalrahim F. A. Aisha and Mohammad Jamshed Ahmad Siddiqui and Zhari Ismail} } @article {566, title = {Antidermatophytic Activity of Mikania micrantha Kunth: An Invasive Weed}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {s20-s25}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s20}, abstract = {

Context: The incidence of dermatophytosis has risen dramatically in recent years. Limited availability of side-effect free drugs has led to a search for new antidermatophytic agents. Objective: The objective was to investigate antidermatophytic activity and in vitro anti-inflammatory activity (protease inhibition assay) of whole plant (aerial parts only) of Mikania micrantha. Materials and Methods: The dried and powdered aerial parts of M. micrantha were extracted separately with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol. Antidermatophytic activity was determined by agar tube dilution method against Epidermophyton floccosum var. nigricans, Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton rubrum. The activities of various parts of the plant - flowers, leaves and stem were separately analyzed using their ethyl acetate extract. Fungicidal efficacy and trypsin inhibiting activity of the whole plant, flowers and leaves were also analyzed using the ethyl acetate extracts. Statistical Analysis Used: For trypsin inhibition assay results are expressed as mean {\textpm} standard division. For antidermatophytic assay, the significance of the difference between control and test was analyzed statistically using Fisher{\textquoteright}s exact test. Results: Ethyl acetate extract of M. micrantha exhibited excellent antidermatophytic activity, followed by petroleum ether and methanolic extracts. Ethyl acetate extracts of whole plant, flowers, leaves and stem completely inhibited the growth of dermatophytes at the tested concentration of 2 mg/mL. Furthermore, ethyl acetate extracts of whole plant, leaves and flowers were fungicidal, and the percentages of trypsin inhibition exhibited were 33.73 {\textpm} 0.306, 39.0 {\textpm} 0.505 and 35.53 {\textpm} 0.503, respectively. Conclusions: Since M. micrantha possesses antidermatophytic as well as anti-inflammatory activities, the plant is an excellent candidate for the development of new medicaments against dermatophytoses in traditional as well as modern medicine.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory action, Epidermophyton, Microsporum, Trichophyton, Trypsin inhibiting assay}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157994}, author = {Madhavankutty Jyothilakshmi and Mathew Jyothis and Mukalel Sankunni Latha} } @article {441, title = {Anti-inflammatory and Antiarthritic Activity of UNIM-301 (a polyherbal unani formulation) in Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {188-192}, type = { Original Article}, chapter = {188}, abstract = {

Background: UNIM-301 is a polyherbal formulation used in the Unani system of medicine for the treatment of joint pain and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Objective: The objective was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic activity of UNIM-301 in carrageenan-induced paw edema and complete Freund{\textquoteright}s Adjuvant (CFA) induced arthritis. Materials and Methods: The anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic activity of UNIM-301 was evaluated using carrageenan-induced paw edema and CFA induced animal arthritis models, respectively, in doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg body weight. Anti-inflammatory activity of UNIM-301 was evaluated using carrageenan-induced paw edema model using a digital plethysmometer. Anti-arthritic activity was evaluated using CFA induced arthritis, and joint sizes were measured at regular intervals using a micrometer screw gauge. Serum was collected and subjected to estimation of pro-inflammatory cytokine. Indomethacin 3 mg/kg body weight) was used as a standard drug in both the models. The acute and chronic toxicity study was carried out to evaluate the safety of the test drug. Results: UNIM-301 treatment produced a dose-dependent reduction in paw edema and paw thickness in carrageenan-induced paw edema and CFA-induced arthritis, respectively, as compared to control. UNIM 301 also reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory mediator in a dose-dependent manner as compared to control. Conclusion: The result of the present study suggests that anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity of UNIM-301, which might be accredited to inhibitory activity on pro-inflammatory cytokines to its various individual constituents.

}, keywords = {Adjuvant Arthritis, Carrageenan-induced Paw Edema, UNIM-301}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150515}, author = {Surender Singh and Rohit Kumar and Hitesh Jain and YK Gupta} } @article {432, title = {Antioxidant Activities of Ficus glomerata (moraceae) Leaf Gall Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {114-120}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {114}, abstract = {

An excess production or decreased scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diverse metabolic disorders such as diabetes, cancer, atherosclerosis and neurodegeneration. Hence the antioxidant therapy has gained an utmost importance in the treatment of such diseases linked to free radicals. The medicinal properties of plants have been investigated and explored for their potent antioxidant activities to counteract metabolic disorders. This research highlights the chemical composition and antioxidant potential of leaf gall extracts (aqueous and methanol) of Ficus glomerata (F. glomerata), which is extensively used in the preparation of traditional medications to treat various metabolic diseases. The presences of phenolics, flavonoids, phytosterols, terpenoids and reducing sugars were identified in both the extracts. In comparison to the aqueous extract, the methanol extract had the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content at 370 {\textpm} 3.2 mg of gallic acid equivalent per gram of dry weight (mg GAE/g dw) and 155 {\textpm} 3.2 mg of quercetin equivalent per gram of dry weight (mg QUE/g dw), respectively. The antioxidant activities of leaf gall extracts were examined using diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Nitric oxide scavenging, hydroxyl scavenging and ferric reducing power (FRAP) methods. In all the methods, the methanolic extract showed higher antioxidant potential than the aqueous extract. A higher content of both total phenolics and flavonoids were found in the methanolic extract and the significantly high antioxidant activity can be positively correlated to the high content of total polyphenols/flavonoids of the methanol extract. The results of this study confirm the folklore use of F. glomerata leaf gall extracts as a natural antioxidant and justify its ethnobotanical use. Further, the results of antioxidant properties encourage the use of F. glomerata leaf gall extracts for medicinal health, functional food and nutraceuticals applications. Future work will be interesting in knowing the chemical composition and better understand the mechanism of action of the antioxidants present for development as drug for its therapeutic application.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Drug, Ficus glomerata, Gallic acid, Galls, Metabolic diseases, Plants.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147225}, author = {Ravi Shankara Birur Eshwarappa and Shanthi Iyer and Sundara Rajan Subaramaihha and S Austin Richard and Bhadrapura Lakkappa Dhananjaya} } @article {545, title = {Antioxidant and Antiacetylcholinesterase Activity of Teucrium Hyrcanicum,}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {s15-s19}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {s15}, abstract = {

Background:Teucrium hyrcanicum\ belonging to the Lamiaceae family is a native plant in Iran; it is called Maryam nokhodi-e-jangali in Farsi.\ Objective:\ The aim of this study is to evaluate acetylcholinesterase inhibition (AChEI), antioxidant activity and flavonoids content of\ T.hyrcanicum\ methanol extract.\ MaterialsandMethods:\ The air-dried and the ground aerial parts of\ T. hyrcanicum\ were extracted by percolation method with methanol. Antioxidant activity of the extract was investigated by using 2,2{\textquoteright}-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP) methods. In addition, AChEI and flavonoid content of\ T. hyrcanicum\ methanol extract were measured.\ Results:\ The results showed that total flavonoid content of\ T. hyrcanicum\ in reference to the standard curve for quercetin was 20.70 {\textpm} 0.05 mg quercetin equivalents/g of extract. In the FRAP method, the antioxidant activity of\ T. hyrcanicum\ extract and butyl hydroxyanisole (BHA) (as a positive control) were 657.5 {\textpm} 0.04 and 880 {\textpm} 0.06 mmol Fe II/1 g dried extract. According to results of DPPH assay, half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50\ ) value for DPPH radical-scavenging activities of\ T. hyrcanicum\ methanol extract, vitamin E and BHA were 74.6, 14.12 and 7.8 μg/mL, respectively. IC\ 50\ value for AChEI of\ T. hyrcanicum\ and donepezil as a positive control were 2.12 mg/mL and 0.013 mg/mL.\ Conclusion:\ The results of the present study showed\ T. hyrcanicum\ is a natural antioxidant that the flavonoid content can be responsible for extract effects.

}, keywords = {Aantioxidant Activity, Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory, Flavonoid Contents, Teucrium Hyrcanicum}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157993 }, author = {Fereshteh Golfakhrabadi and Fatemeh Yousefbeyk and Tahmineh Mirnezami and Pedram Laghaei and Mannan Hajimahmoodi and Mahnaz Khanavi} } @article {536, title = {Antiproliferative evaluation of terpenoids and terpenoid coumarins from Ferulago macrocarpa (Fenzl) Boiss. fruits}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {322-328}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {322}, abstract = {

Background: Ferulago macrocarpa is a plant used as flavoring agent and protectant in the food industry and as a folk medicinal plant in Iran with no available information on its chemical identity. Ferulago spp. showed to contain biologically terpenoids and coumarins. Objectives: The objective was to isolate and characterize terpenoids and coumarins from the acetone extract of F. macrocarpa fruits and to evaluate their antiproliferative effects on several cell lines. Materials and Methods: A series of normal and reverse phase gravity and high-performance liquid chromatography analyses were used to purify constituents. Compounds 1{\textendash}5 and 7 were evaluated for their cytotoxic effects on MCF-7, HT-29 and H-1299 cell lines. Results: Six compounds including bornyl acetate (1), 1,10-di-epi-cubenol (2), stigmasterol (3) and three coumarins grandivittin (4), prantschimgin (5) and 4{\textquotedblright}-hydroxygrandivittin (7) along with mixtures of feruloyl derivatives (6a-6c) have been purified. Their structures were established by spectroscopic methods including nuclear magnetic resonance and MS analyses. Compound 2 showed moderate cytotoxicity effect with IC50 values of 5.0 and 6.7 μM on MCF-7 and HT-29, respectively. Conclusion: 1,10-di-epi-Cubenol could be considered as a potential proliferation inhibitor of MCF-7 and HT-29 cell lines.

}, keywords = {1, 10-di-epi-Cubenol, Bornyl acetate, Grandivittin, HT-29, MCF-7, Prantschimgin.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.158437}, author = {Seyed-Ebrahim Sajjadi and Maryam Jamali and Yalda Shokoohinia and Gisya Abdi and Behzad Shahbazi and Ali Fattahi} } @article {424, title = {Anti-diabetic effects of ethanol extract of Bryonia laciniosa seeds and its saponins rich fraction in neonatally streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {92-99}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {92}, abstract = {

Context: Bryonia laciniosa Linn. (Cucurbitaceae) seed is used in traditional medicine for a number of ailments including metabolic disorders. Aim: This study evaluated the anti-diabetic action of the ethanol extract of B. laciniosa seeds and saponin fraction of it through its effect on hyperglycemia, dyslipidaemia and oxidative stress in neonatally streptozotocin (n-STZ)-induced diabetic rats (n-STZ diabetic rats). Materials and Methods: Ethanol extract (250 and 500 mg/kg; p.o.), saponin fraction (100 and 200 mg/kg; p.o.) and standard drug glibenclamide (3 mg/kg; p.o.) were administered to diabetic rats when the rats were 6 weeks old and continued for 10 consecutive weeks. Effects of ethanol extract and saponin fraction on various biochemical parameters were studied in diabetic rats. Results: The treatment with ethanol extract and saponin fraction for 10 weeks decrease in the levels of glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, very low-density lipoprotein, serum urea, serum creatinine and diminished activities of aspartate transaminase, and alanine transaminase. The anti-hyperglycemic nature of B. laciniosa is probably brought about by the extra-\ the pancreatic mechanism as evidenced from unchanged levels of plasma insulin. B. laciniosa modulated effect of diabetes on the liver malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activity. Administration of ethanol extract and saponin fraction to diabetic rats showed a significant reversal of disturbed antioxidant status. Significant increase in SOD, CAT, and levels of GSH was observed in treated n-STZ diabetic rats. Conclusion: The present studyreveals the efficacy of B. laciniosa seed extract and its\  \ saponin fraction in the amelioration of n-STZ diabetic rats.

}, keywords = {Diabetes mellitus, Dyslipidemia, Hyperglycemia, Oxidative stress.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147217}, author = {Sandip B. Patel and Devdas Santani and Veena Patel and Mamta Shah} } @article {561, title = {Anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity of a methanol extract from Vitellaria paradoxa stem bark}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {367-377}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {367}, abstract = {

Background: Vitellaria paradoxa is a traditional medicinal plant of Cameroon. Several studies on this plant have focused on the cosmetic profile of its fruits. The present study focuses on the anti-inflammatory potency of stem barks extract of this plant. Objectives: The objective was to evaluate the effect of methanolic extract of V. paradoxa (VPME) stem barks on inflammatory response in rats. Materials and Methods: Anti-inflammatory effects of VPME were evaluated in acute and chronic (28 days) inflammation induced in Wistar albino rats. The effects on hyperalgesia and locomotors activity were also quantified. The relative weight of lymphoid organs was obtained as well as some hematological parameters. Results: In the carrageenan-induced inflammation, VPME (75 mg/kg) exhibited a significant (66.67\%) inhibition after 1 hr. On the complete Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis, VPME showed a significant protective effect with 8.12\% inflammation against 25.00\% for the control group after 2 days of the treatment. The extract (75 and 150 mg/kg) significantly reduced the score of arthritis with a maximum obtained on day 19th of the experimentation. There was a significant increase in the reaction time of rats on the hot plate as well as the exploratory activities of the animals in the open field. This extract significantly prevented weight, hemoglobin and red blood cells losses, and spleen hypertrophy. A protective action against skin destruction and cartilage erosion was evident. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the extract revealed the presence of catechins. Conclusion: These findings suggested that V. paradoxa may contribute to the reduction of the inflammatory response.

}, keywords = {Arthritis, Catechin, Hematological parameters, Hyperalgesia, Inflammation, Vitellaria paradoxa.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.159569}, author = {Harquin Simplice Foyet and David Emery Tsala and Zogo Essono Bodo J.C and Azanfack Name Carine and Lissia Toussoumna Heroyne and Eyong Kenneth Oben} } @article {469, title = {Are Herbal Mouthwash Efficacious Over Chlorhexidine on the Dental Plaque?}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June,2015}, pages = {277-281}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {277}, abstract = {

Aim: To compare the effect of herbal extract mouthwash and chlorhexidine mouthwash on the dental plaque level. Materials and Methods: The subjects (60 healthy medical students aged ranges between 20 and 25 years) were randomly divided into two groups, that is, the herbal group and the chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash group. The data were collected at the baseline and 3 days. The plaque was disclosed using erythrosine disclosing agent and their scores were recorded using the Quigley and Hein plaque index modified by Turesky-Gilmore-Glickman. Statistical analysis was carried out later to compare the effect of all the two groups. Results: Our result showed that the chlorhexidine group shows a greater decrease in plaque score followed by herbal extract, but the result was statistically insignificant. Conclusion: The results indicate that herbal mouthwash may prove to be an effective agent owing to its ability to reduce plaque level, especially in low socioeconomic strata.

}, keywords = {Chlorhexidine, Herbal mouthwash, Holistic dentistry, Plaque index.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.155874}, author = {Devanand Gupta and Swapna Nayan and Harshad K. Tippanawar and Gaurav I. Patil and Ankita Jain and Rizwan K. Momin and Rajendra Kumar Gupta} } @article {446, title = {Assessment of in vitro Cytotoxicity and in vivo Antitumor Activity of Sphaeranthus Amaranthoides burm.f}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {198-202}, type = { Original Article}, chapter = {198}, abstract = {

Background: A number of plants have been used in Indian system of medicine such as ayurveda, unani and siddha, but most of these plants were not explored properly. Sphaeranthus amaranthoides (SA) Burm.f., is one such plant used as an energizer in siddha. Objective: To evaluate the anticancer effect of chloroform extract of the whole plant of SA Burm.f. against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma bearing Swiss albino mice. : The anticancer effect of chloroform extract was investigated in Swiss albino mice bearing Ehrlich ascites carcinoma at two different dose levels. Acute toxicity sMaterials and Methodstudies were also performed to determine the safety of the extract. Mice injected with Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells were treated with the extract of doses 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight and standard 5-fluorouracil 20 mg/kg body weight for 15 consecutive days. Animals were sacrificed on day 15 for determination of anticancer activity by evaluating tumor volume, nonviable and viable tumor cell count and hematological parameters. Results: Mice treated with the extract showed a significant decrease in tumor volume and viable cell count and an increase in nonviable cell count and mean survival time. The hematological parameters were also found to be restored to a normal level. Conclusion: The results indicate that the chloroform extract was producing anticancer activity comparable with that of the standard 5-fluorouracil.

}, keywords = {Antitumor, Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma, Sphaeranthus Amaranthoides Burm.f}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150544 }, author = {S Gayatri and C Uma Maheswara Reddy and K Chitra and V Parthasarathy} } @article {527, title = {Beliefs, attitudes and self-use of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy medicines among senior pharmacy students: An exploratory insight from Andhra Pradesh, India}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {302-308}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {302}, abstract = {

Objectives: To assess the beliefs, attitudes and self-use of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH) medicines among senior pharmacy students. Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among pharmacy students in four pharmacy schools located in Andhra Pradesh in South India. This study was conducted from the August to September 2014. The study population included all pharmacy students enrolled in Doctor of Pharmacy, Bachelor of Pharmacy and Diploma in Pharmacy programs in studied pharmacy schools. The pretested AYUSH survey had 8 questions on AYUSH related beliefs and 8 question on AYUSH related attitudes. The survey also asked participants about AYUSH related knowledge, frequency of use of AYUSH and the reason for using AYUSH. The data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 20. Chi-square test and Mann{\textendash}Whitney U-test were employed to study the association between the independent and dependent variables. Results: A total of 428 pharmacy students participated in the survey. 32.2\% of the study population was females and 32.5\% of the population resided in rural areas. Males were more likely to have positive beliefs about AYUSH when compared to females (odd ratio [OR] = 4.62, confidence interval [CI] = 2.37-8.99, P \< 0.001). Similarly, students living in hostels were more positive in their beliefs about AYUSH compared with students living at home (OR = 2.14, CI = 1.12-4.07, P \< 0.05). Students living in hostel also had a positive attitude about AYUSH use (OR = 1.74, CI = 1.03-2.93, P \< 0.05). Conclusion: Pharmacy students held favorable attitude and beliefs about AYUSH use. This baseline survey provides important information about the pharmacy student{\textquoteright}s perception about AYUSH. Further research is needed to explore the reasons that shape the pharmacy student{\textquoteright}s beliefs and attitudes about AYUSH.

}, keywords = {and Homeopathy, Attitude, Ayurveda, Beliefs, India, Pharmacy students., Siddha, Unani, Yoga and Naturopathy}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.158438}, author = {Akram Ahmad and Muhammad Umair Khan and Bandari Deepak Kumar and Gogikar Sudhir Kumar and Stephanie Perez Rodriguez and Isha Patel} } @article {526, title = {Bioactive compounds from Carissa opaca roots and xanthine oxidase and alpha-amylase inhibitory activities of their methanolic extract and its fractions in different solvents}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {295-301}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {295}, abstract = {

Background: Carissa opaca is known for its many ethnomedicinal uses. There was a need to study its bioactivities and identify its phytochemicals. Objectives: The objective was to isolate and identify phytochemicals from roots of C. opaca and to evaluate xanthine oxidase (XO) and alpha-amylase inhibitory activities of their methanolic extract and its fractions. Materials and Methods: Methanolic extract of finely divided powder of roots of C. opaca was obtained by cold maceration, followed by its fractionation to obtain hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-butanolic, and aqueous fractions. Phytochemicals screening was done by standard protocols. XO and alpha-amylase inhibitory activities of the methanolic extract and its fractions were studied. The most active ethyl acetate fraction was subjected to the column and thin layer chromatography to isolate its compounds, which were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography comparison. Results: Methanolic extract displayed significant activity against both the enzymes with IC50 of 156.0 μg/mL and 5.6 mg/mL for XO and alpha-amylase, respectively. Ethyl acetate fraction showed highest activity against both the enzymes with IC50 of 129 μg/mL and 4.9 mg/mL for XO and alpha-amylase, respectively. Chloroform fraction had IC50 of 154.2 μg/mL and 5.5 mg/mL for XO and alpha-amylase, respectively. Aqueous fraction exhibited significant efficacy against alpha-amylase (IC50 5.0 mg/mL). Hexane fraction showed good activity against alpha-amylase in a dose-dependent manner but exhibited opposite trend against XO. The compounds isolated from ethyl acetate fraction included limonene, vanillin, lupeol, rutin, quercetin, β-sitosterol, Vitamin E, 2-hydroxyacetophenone, naphthalenone, 2,3,3-trimethyl- 2-(3-methylbuta-1,3-dienyl)-6-methylenecyclohexanone, and 2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono(2-ethylhexyl) ester. Conclusion: Moderately polar phytochemicals of C. opaca roots possess exploitable inhibitory activity against both the enzymes.

}, keywords = {Alpha-amylase, Carissa opaca roots, Inhibitory activity, Phytochemicals, Xanthine oxidase.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.158440}, author = {Ramsha Saeed and Dildar Ahmed} } @article {449, title = {Cassia fistula Linn: Potential Candidate in the Health Management}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June,2015}, pages = {217-224}, type = {Review article}, chapter = {217}, abstract = {

Cassia fistula Linn is known as Golden shower has therapeutics importance in health care since ancient times. Research findings over the last two decade have confirmed the therapeutics consequence of C. fistula in the health management via modulation of biological activities due to the rich source of antioxidant. Several findings based on the animal model have confirmed the pharmacologically safety and efficacy and have opened a new window for human health management. This review reveals additional information about C. fistula in the health management via in vivo and in vitro study which will be beneficial toward diseases control.

}, keywords = {Anti-tumor Activity, Antioxidant Activity and Health Management, Cassia fistula.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157956}, author = {Arshad H. Rahmani} } @article {572, title = {Chemical Composition Analysis, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity Evaluation of Essential oil of Atalantia monophylla Correa}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {s52-s56}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s52}, abstract = {

Background: Atalantia monophylla Correa. a small tree belongs to the family Rutaceae. It is distributed throughout India and in Tamil Nadu the species is commonly seen in foothills of dry vegetation. Objective: The aim was to hydrodistillate and analyze the chemical composition of essential oil from the fresh leaves of A. monophylla Correa. collected in two different seasons (December, 2013 and May, 2014) and to evaluate antioxidant and antibacterial activities of isolated essential oil. Materials and Methods: Chemical composition of isolated essential oil was analyzed by gas chromatography, gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Antioxidant activity of oil was assessed using five different antioxidant test systems. Antibacterial activity of oil was tested against six pathogenic bacteria by broth dilution method. Results: Essential oil obtained from the leaves collected during May, 2014 had shown more compounds. Antioxidant activity of oil was moderate when compared with positive control. Minimum inhibitory concentration value of oil was ranges between 139.32 {\textpm} 0.001 and 541.11 {\textpm} 0.003 {\textmu}g/mL against all the tested bacteria. Conclusion: Result clearly indicates essential oil collected during May, 2014 showed more bioactive compounds.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial activity, Antioxidant, Atalantia monophylla, Essential oil, Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.152009}, author = {Ramaraj Thirugnanasampandan and Ramya Gunasekar and Madhusudhanan Gogulramnath} } @article {415, title = {Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of essential oils of Juniperus excelsa Bieb. (Cupressaceae) grown in R. Macedonia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {74-80}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {74}, abstract = {

Background: There are no information of the yield, chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of essential oils of berries (EOB) or leaves (EOL) of Juniperus excelsa Bieb. (Cupressaceae) growing wild in R. Macedonia. Materials and Methods: Plant material was collected from two localities during two seasons. Essential oil composition was analyzed by gas chromatography/flame ionization detector/mass spectrometry (GC/FID/MS) and antimicrobial screening was made by disc diffusion and broth dilution method. Results and Discussion: EOB yield ranged from 1.6-9.4 ml/kg and from 8.9-13.9 ml/kg for EOL. Two chemotypes of essential oil were differentiated, α-pinene-type (with 70.81\% α-pinene in EOB and 33.83\% in EOL), also containing limonene, β-pinene and β-myrcene while the sabinene-type (with 58.85-62.58\% sabinene in EOB and 28.52-29.49\% in EOL), was rich in α-pinene, β-myrcene, limonene, cis-thujone, terpinolene and α-thujene. The most sensitive bacteria to the antimicrobial activity of EOB was Haemophilus influenzae (MIC = 31 {\textmu}l/ml). EOL have showed high activity towards: Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes and Haemophilus influenzae (MIC = 125 {\textmu}l/ml). The pinene-type of essential oil showed moderate activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Corynebacterium spp. and Campylobacter jejuni (MIC \>50\%). The sabinene-type of the oil showed moderate activity to Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemopilus influenzae, Campylobacter jejuni and Escherichia coli (MIC \>50\%). No activity was observed toward Candida albicans. Conclusion: The analysis of EOB and EOL revealed two chemotypes (α-pinene and sabinene type) clearly depended on the geographical origin of the Macedonian Juniperus excelsa which also affected the antimicrobial activity of these oils.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity, Essential oil, Gas chromatography/flame ionization detector/mass spectrometry analysis, Juniper berries and leaves, Juniperus excelsa.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147212}, author = {Floresha Sela and Marija Karapandzova and Gjose Stefkov and Ivana Cvetkovikj and Svetlana Kulevanova} } @article {395, title = {Chemical Constituents and Bioactivities of Glinus Oppositifolius}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {138-147}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {138}, abstract = {

Objectives: To isolate the secondary metabolites from the dichloromethane (DCM) extracts of Glinus oppositifolius; to test for the cytotoxicity of a new triterpene, oppositifolone (1); and to test for the hypoglycemic, analgesic, and antimicrobial potentials of 1, DCM and aqueous leaf extracts of G. oppositifolius. Methods: The compounds were isolated by silica gel chromatography and identified by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The cytotoxicity potential of 1 was tested using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Triterpene 1, DCM, and aqueous leaf extracts were tested for hypoglycemic potential using the oral glucose tolerance test; analgesic potential using the tail-flick assay, and antimicrobial potential using the disc diffusion method. Results: The DCM extracts of G. oppositifolius afforded 1, squalene, spinasterol, oleanolic acid, phytol, and lutein from the leaves; squalene and spergulagenin A from the stems; and spinasterol from the roots. Triterpene 1 was cytotoxic against human colon carcinoma 116 with an IC50 value of 28.7 but did not exhibit cytotoxicity against A549. The aqueous leaf extract at 200 mg/kg body weight (BW) exhibited hypoglycemic activity with a pronounced \% blood glucose reduction of 70.76\% {\textpm}17.4\% within 0.5 h after introduction. The DCM leaf extract showed a lower \% blood glucose reduction of 18.52\% {\textpm}13.5\% at 200 mg/kg BW within 1.5 h after introduction, while 1 did not exhibit hypoglycemic activity. The samples did not exhibit analgesic property and were inactive against multiple drug resistant bacterial pathogens. Conclusion: The compounds responsible for the hypoglycemic activity of G. oppositifolius which are fast acting (0.5 h) are found in the aqueous leaf extract.

}, keywords = {3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, Analgesic, Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic, Glinus oppositifolius Linn, Hypoglycemic, Molluginaceae, Oppositifolone}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150520}, author = {Consolacion Y. Ragasa and Esperanza C. Cabrera and Oscar B. Torres and Adiel Inah Buluran and Dinah L. Espineli and Dennis D. Raga and Chien-Chang Shen} } @article {372, title = {Chemical Constituents from the Leaves of Euphorbia ammak Growing in Saudi Arabia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {14-17}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {14}, abstract = {

Investigation of the chloroform extract of Euphorbia ammak leaves led to the isolation of three compounds: euphol (1), α-glutinol (2) and stigmasterol (3) Their structures were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR, as well as by comparison with the reported data. Compounds 1-3 exhibited cytotoxicity in vitro against human cervical adenocarcinoma (Hela), among which, compound 1 showed the best activity.

}, keywords = {Cervical adenocarcinoma, Euphol, Euphorbia ammak.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147136}, author = {Essam Abdel-Sattar and Dina Abou-Hussein and Frank Petereit} } @article {543, title = {Chemical constituents of Phragmanthera austroarabica A. G. Mill and J. A. Nyberg with potent antioxidant activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {335-340}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {335}, abstract = {

Background: Phragmanthera austroarabica A.G. Mill. and J. A. Nyberg is a semi parasitic plant belonging to family Loranthaceae. It was collected from Saudi Arabia. It is widely used in folk medicine among the kingdom in treatment of various diseases including diabetes mellitus. Objectives: The total alcoholic extract of P. austroarabica collected from Saudi Arabia was investigated for the chemical structure and prominent biological activity of the main constituents. Materials and Methods: Isolation of the active constituents was performed using different chromatographic techniques including column chromatography packed with silica or sephadex and preparative thin layer chromatography. The structures of the isolated compounds were established based on different spectroscopic data as mass spectrum, one-dimensional and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (correlation spectroscopy,
heteronuclear single quantum coherence, and heteronuclear multiple-bond correlation). Results: Phytochemical investigation of the plant resulted in isolation of 12 compounds. The isolated compounds were identified as chrysophanic acid, emodin, chrysophanic acid-8-O-glucoside, emodin-8-O-glucoside, pectolinarigenin, quercetin, dillenetin-3-O-glucoside, catechin, catechin-4{\textquoteright}-O-gallate, methyl gallate, lupeol and ursolic acid. All the isolated phenolic compounds revealed significant free radical scavenging activities when tested using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl reagent. Conclusion: The antioxidant activities of the isolated compounds can justify the use of P. austroarabica in traditional medicine for treatment of diabetes and verify its possible application as an antihyperglycemic drug.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Loranthaceae, Nuclear magnetic resonance, Phragmanthera.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.158436}, author = {Jihan M. Badr} } @article {461, title = {Chemopreventive effect of methanolic extract of Azadirachta indica on experimental Trypanosoma brucei induced oxidative stress in dogs}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June,2015}, pages = {249-258}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {249}, abstract = {

Introduction: The medicinal properties of Azadirachta indica have been harnessed for many years in the treatment of many diseases in both humans and animals. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five apparently healthy dogs weighing between 3 and 8 kg were randomly divided into five groups with five dogs in each group. Ameliorative effect of A. indica on erythrocyte antioxidant status and markers of oxidative stress were assessed. Liver and kidney function tests were also performed. Results: Pre-treatment with methanolic extract of Azadirachta indica (MEAI) at different doses did not significantly alter the values of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activity in Trypanosoma brucei infection. Although, serum creatinine significantly (P \< 0.05) decreased with pre-treatment with 50 mg/kg A. indica, after 2 weeks of T. brucei infection. However, the reduced glutathione (GSH) content of the erythrocyte increased significantly in animals pre-treated with 50 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg of A. indica respectively. Markers of oxidative stress such as malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide generated were higher in animals infected with T. brucei with no significant (P \>0.05) difference compared to the values obtained in pre-treated animals. Pre-treatment with 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg of A. indica significantly (P \< 0.05) decreased serum myeloperoxidase activity at 2 weeks post-infection with T. brucei. Conclusion: From this study, MEAI showed significant ability to attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation during experimental T. brucei infection.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant enzymes, Azadirachta indica, Inflammation, Oxidative stress, Trypanosoma brucei.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157972}, author = {Temidayo O. Omobowale and Ademola A. Oyagbemi and Oyefunbi A. Oyewunmi and Olumuyiwa A. Adejumobi} } @article {554, title = {Cholesterol esterase inhibitory activity of bioactives from leaves of Mangifera indica L}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {355-362}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {355}, abstract = {

Background: In the earlier studies, methanolic extract of Mangifera indica L leaf was exhibited hypocholesterol activity. However, the bioactive compounds responsible for the same are not reported so far. Objectives: To isolate the bioactive compounds with hypocholesterol activity from the leaf extract using cholesterol esterase inhibition assay which can be used for the standardization of extract. Materials and Methods: The leaf methanolic extract of M. indica (Sindoora variety) was partitioned with ethyl acetate and chromatographed on silica gel to yield twelve fractions and the activity was monitored by using cholesterol esterase inhibition assay. Active fractions were re-chromatographed to yield individual compounds. Results and Discussion: A major compound mangiferin present in the extract was screened along with other varieties of mango leaves for cholesterol esterase inhibition assay. However, the result indicates that compounds other than mangiferin may be active in the extract. In vitro pancreatic cholesterol esterase inhibition assay was used for bioactivity guided fractionation (BAGF) to yield bioactive compound for standardization of extract. Bioactivity guided fractionation afford the active fraction containing 3β-taraxerol with an IC50 value of 0.86μg/ml.\ Conclusion: This study demonstrates that M.indica methanol extract of leaf have significant hypocholesterol activity which is standardized with 3β-taraxerol, a standardized extract for hypocholesterol activity resulted in development of dietary supplement from leaves of Mangifera indica.

}, keywords = {3 β-taraxerol., Bioactivity, Hypocholesterol, Mangifera indica}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.159578}, author = {Gururaja G. M. and Deepak Mundkinajeddu and Shekhar M. Dethe and Gopala K. Sangli and Abhilash K. and Amit Agarwal} } @article {528, title = {Cinnamon: Mystic Powers of Minute Ingredient}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {s1-s6}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {s1}, abstract = {

Cinnamon, due to its exotic flavor and aroma, is a key ingredient in the kitchen of every household. From the beginning of its use in 2800 BC by our ancestors for various purposes such as anointment, embalming and various ailments, it has instigated the interest of many researchers. Recently many trials have explored the beneficial effects of cinnamon in Parkinsons, diabetes, blood, and brain. After extensive research on PubMed and Google scholar, data were collected regarding its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antilipemic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and anticancer effect. This systematic review underlines the surplus health benefits of this clandestine ingredient and the scope of further research in these clinical scenarios.

}, keywords = {Blood, Cinnamon, Diabetes, Parkinsons}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157990 }, author = {Pallavi Kawatra and Rathai Rajagopalan} } @article {408, title = {Comparing and Authenticating on Anatomical Aspects of Abrus Cantoniensis and Abrus mollis by Microscopy}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {148-155}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {148}, abstract = {

Background: Abrus cantoniensis is popularly used as traditional Chinese medicine and a cool tea in South of China. However, due to diminishing source of A. cantoniensis, it is usually interchanged or adulterated with other species of Abrus genus because of the limited knowledge in identification and differentiation. Especially, Abrus mollis is widely mixed on herbal markets and pharmaceutical preparation. Objective: To ensure safety and efficacy, a detailed comparison was undertaken to carry out an anatomical and micro-morphological study of two species of A. cantoniensis and A. mollis. Materials and Methods: Microscopic characteristics of roots, leaves and stems, including transverse sections and the crude drug powder, were observed using a light microscope according to the usual microscopic techniques. Results: The basic diagnostic features of A . cantoniensis include that stem is extremely thin; xylem vessels of root are radially arranged in 10 or more bundles; pith is hollow in stem, and the palisade tissue is made up of two layers of palisade cells. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy was used to compare nonglandular hairs and the stomata of the leaflet surface. A table of the key authentication parameters based on the analyzed microscopic characteristics was drawn up. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that the microscopy and related techniques provided a systematic method that is convenient, feasible, and can be unambiguously applied to the authentication of the species of Abrus.

}, keywords = {Abrus Cantoniensis, Abrus mollis, Authentication, Microscopy}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150526}, author = {Zhifeng Zhang and Luyang Lu and Yuan Liu and Linsen Qing} } @article {400, title = {Cycloolivil, a lignan from the roots of Stereospermum suaveolens}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {45-48}, type = {Original Article}, abstract = {

Background: Stereospermum suaveolens DC. (Syn. S. chelonoides) belonging to family Bignoniaceae is an important medicinal plant in India. Traditionally, it is mainly used as analgesic, liver stimulant, astringent, wound healing and antidyspeptic. Roots of this plant are one of the ingredients of Dashamularishta. The plant has been studied for many pharmacological actions, only few were concerned with isolation of active compounds. Objectives: The present work deals with the isolation and identification of phytochemical constituents present in the roots of Stereospermum suaveolens. Materials\ and Methods: The compounds were isolated from the ethyl acetate-soluble fraction from the methanol extract of S. suaveolens by using open silica gel column chromatography and HPLC was carried out for all the fractions to target the major peaks in fractions. Results and Conclusion: The isolated compounds structures were elucidated by analysis of spectroscopic data (UV, IR, 1D-NMR, and MS) and characterized as Cycloolivil (1) reported for the first time from this plant species, Lapachol (2) and β-sitosterol (3), respectively.

}, keywords = {Cycloolivil, Isolation, lapachol, Stereospermum suaveolens, β-sitosterol.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147198}, author = {B. Abdul wahab Sab, Janani Jacob and Gururaja Giligar Manjunath and Vineet Kumar Singh and Deepak Mundkinajeedu and Shashidhara Shankarappa} } @article {386, title = {Cytotoxic Activity of ten Aagae from the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea on Human Beast Cancer cell lines; MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, and T-47D}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {133-137}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {133}, abstract = {

Background:\ Seaweeds have proven to be a promising natural source of bioactive metabolites for drug development.\ Objective:\ This study aimed to monitor the ethanol extract of ten algae from the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea, for their\ in vitro\ cytotoxic activity on three human breast cancer cell lines.\ MaterialsandMethods:\ Three human breast cancer cell lines including MDA-MB-231(ER-\ ), MCF-7(ER\ +\ ), and T-47D (ER\ +\ ) were treated by different concentrations of total ethanol (90\%) algae extracts and the cytotoxic effects were evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Doxorubicin (Ebewe, Austria) was used as a positive control. After 72 h of incubation, the cytotoxic effect of the algae was calculated and presented as 50\%-inhibitory concentration (IC50\ ).\ Results:\ The results indicated\ Gracilariafoliifera\ and\ Cladophoropsis\ sp. to be the most active algae in terms of cytotoxic effects on the investigated cancer cell lines. The IC\ 50\ values against MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, and T-47D cells were, respectively, 74.89 ΁ 21.71, 207.81 ΁ 12.07, and 203.25 ΁ 30.98 mg/ml for\ G.foliifera\ and 66.48 ΁ 4.96, 150.86 ΁ 51.56 and \>400 mg/ml for\ Cladophoropsis\ sp. The rest of the algal extracts were observed not to have significant cytotoxic effects in the concentration range from 6.25 mg/ml to 400 mg/ml.\ Conclusion:\ Our data conclusively suggest that\ G.foliifera\ and\ Cladophoropsis\ sp. may be good candidates for further fractionation to obtain novel anticancer substances. Moreover, stronger cytotoxic effects on estrogen negative breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231(ER-\ )) in comparison to estrogen positive cells (MCF-7 and T-47D) suggest that the extract of\ G.foliifera\ and\ Cladophoropsis\ sp. may have an estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor-independent mechanism for their cellular growth inhibition.

}, keywords = {3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, Algae, cytotoxicity, Oman Sea, Persian Gulf}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150539 }, author = {Nasrollah Erfani and Zahra Nazemosadat and Mahmoodreza Moein} } @article {430, title = {Development of PhytovesiclesCcontaining Triterpenoids from Samadera Indica,}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {176-183}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {176}, abstract = {

Introduction: Samadera indica belonging to Simaroubaceae family is being used traditionally for many diseases including arthritis, edema, itching, skin diseases, constipation, and general debility. Objective: The effectiveness of any drug delivery system depends upon its ability to deliver the active components at therapeutic level. In this study, a novel phyto vesicular formulation for the enhanced topical delivery of methanol extract of S. indica in order to treat skin infections was developed. Materials and Methods: The methanol extract fraction of leaves of S. indica which showed more antifungal activity was purified to separate an antifungal compound. Phytovesicles were formulated using the more antifungal fraction in order to treat topical and deep seated fungal infections. Pytovesicles were prepared using 1:2 molar ratio of antifungal triterpenoid from S. indica (AFTSI)-phosphatidylcholine by film hydration method. Results and Discussion: Chloroform 100\% fraction of methanol extract of S. indica showed more activity against the fungus Candida albicans. Further purification gave a fraction with minimum inhibitory concentration value of 15.6 μg/ml against C. albicans and showed positive test for triterpenoids. The fraction was named as AFTSI. A compound (20 mg) was isolated from this fraction at an RF value. The phytovesicle gel formulated using AFTSI showed enhanced skin permeability and antifungal activity. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that the phytovesicular gel developed using methanol extract of S. indica would be beneficial for treating deep seated fungal infections

}, keywords = {Phytovesicular gel, Samadera Indica, Triterpenoids}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.151461}, author = {Vidya Viswanad and Subin Mary Zachariah and Aiswarya Sathi and N. A. Aleykutty} } @article {419, title = {Effect of Butea monosperma leaf extracts on cyclophosphamide induced clastogenicity and oxidative stress in mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {85-91}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {85}, abstract = {

Background: Butea monosperma is a medium sized deciduous tree of family Fabaceae. It is widely used by rural people in India to cure many disorders. It possesses antioxidant and anticancer activity which is a prerequisite for anticlastogenic activity. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of Butea monosperma leaf extracts on cyclophosphamide induced clastogenicity and oxidative stress in mice. Materials and Methods: The present study assessed the role of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts of B. monosperma (AQEBM and ETEBM) on cyclophosphamide (CP) induced oxidative stress and DNA damage in mice using micronucleus assay for anticlastogenic activity and biochemical estimation of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) for antioxidant activity. The frequency of the micronucleated erythrocytes and mitotic index was studied in peripheral blood and bone marrow after 24 and 48 h of clastogenic exposure. Results: CP treatment led to a significant (P \< 0.001) increase in the frequency of micronuclei and decrease in the mitotic index (MI) in bone marrow and peripheral blood cells. Moreover, CP also significantly increased the lipid peroxidation as evidenced by an increase in the MDA content and decreased the antioxidant enzyme (GSH) in mice liver. Pretreatment with AQEBM and ETEBM reduced the frequency of micronuclei and increased the MI in the bone marrow and peripheral blood cells and also restored the MDA and GSH levels in mice liver. Conclusion: The AQEBM and ETEBM do contain compounds capable of inhibiting the CP induced oxidative stress and subsequent DNA damage in both the peripheral blood and bone marrow cells in mice.

}, keywords = {Anticlastogenic, Lipid peroxidation, Micronucleus, Mitotic index.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147215}, author = {Amarjeet Singh and Mohanjit Kaur and Adarsh Choudhary and Bimlesh Kumar} } @article {548, title = {Effects of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (the alkaloids of Mitragyna speciosa Korth) on 4-methylumbelliferone glucuronidation in rat and human liver microsomes and recombinant human uridine 5{\textquoteright}-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase isoforms}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {341-349}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {341}, abstract = {

Background: Glucuronidation catalyzed by uridine 5{\textquoteright}-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) is a major phase II drug metabolism reaction which facilitates drug elimination. Inhibition of UGT activity can cause drug-drug interaction. Therefore, it is important to determine the inhibitory potentials of drugs on glucuronidation. Objectives: The objective was to evaluate the inhibitory potentials of mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, ketamine and buprenorphine, respectively on 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU) glucuronidation in rat liver microsomes, human liver microsomes and recombinant human UGT1A1 and UGT2B7 isoforms. Materials and Methods: The effects of the above four compounds on the formation of 4-MU glucuronide from 4-MU by rat liver microsomes, human liver microsomes, recombinant human UGT1A1 and UGT2B7 isoforms were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. Results: For rat liver microsomes, ketamine strongly inhibited 4-MU glucuronidation with an IC50 value of 6.21 {\textpm} 1.51 μM followed by buprenorphine with an IC50 value of 73.22 {\textpm} 1.63 μM. For human liver microsomes, buprenorphine strongly inhibited 4-MU glucuronidation with an IC50 value of 6.32 {\textpm} 1.39 μM. For human UGT1A1 isoform, 7-hydroxymitragynine strongly inhibited 4-MU glucuronidation with an IC50 value of 7.13 {\textpm} 1.16 μM. For human UGT2B7 isoform, buprenorphine strongly inhibited 4-MU glucuronidation followed by 7-hydroxymitragynine and ketamine with respective IC50 values of 5.14 {\textpm} 1.30, 26.44 {\textpm} 1.31, and 27.28 {\textpm} 1.18 μM. Conclusion: These data indicate the possibility of drug-drug interaction if 7-hydroxymitragynine, ketamine, and buprenorphine are co-administered with drugs that are UGT2B7 substrates since these three compounds showed significant inhibition on UGT2B7 activity. In addition, if 7-hydroxymitragynine is to be taken with other drugs that are

}, keywords = {4-methylumbelliferone, 7-hydroxymitragynine, Buprenorphine, Glucuronidation, Ketamine, Mitragynine.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.159580}, author = {Munirah Haron and Sabariah Ismail} } @article {389, title = {Evaluation of analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory activity on Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. Leaf}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {126-130}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {126}, abstract = {

Background: Cordia dichotoma G. Forst. is an important medicinal plant of family Boraginaceae. Traditionally, its leaves are used to treat fever, headache, and joint pain but its medicinal activities have not been proven by research. Objective: To evaluate the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activity of C. dichotoma G. Forst. leaf extract. Materials and Methods: The various extracts of leaf powder were prepared by using soxhlet apparatus. The methanol extract was selected for pharmacological study. To evaluate analgesic activity, Eddy{\textquoteright}s hot plate method, to study anti-inflammatory activity, carageenan-induced rat paw edema method, and to study antipyretic activity, yeast-induced pyrexia method was used. SD female rats (180-200 g) were used for the study. Results: In all three tests, the methanol extract high dose (400 mg/kg) was found to be highly significant as compared to standard drug. Conclusion: This study proved the traditional uses of plant leaves and concluded the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activity of the leaf methanol extract.

}, keywords = {Analgesic, Antipyretic, Anti-inflammatory, Boraginaceae, Cordia dichotoma.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147227}, author = {Richa Gupta and Jagjit Kaur} } @article {418, title = {Evaluation of Antidiabetic and Antihyperlipidemic Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Leaves of Ocimum tenuiflorum (Lamiaceae) and Prediction of Biological Activity of its Phytoconstituents}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {156-165}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {156}, abstract = {

Objective: The aim was to evaluate the anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects of hydroalcoholic extract of leaves of Ocimum tenuiflorum (Lamiaceae) and prediction of biological activities of its phytoconstituents using in vivo anti-diabetic model and in silico analysis respectively. Materials and Methods: The leaves of O. tenuiflorum were extracted with 60\% ethanol, and the extract was used for further pharmacological screening. The acute toxicity of the extract was evaluated as per the guidelines set by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, revised draft guidelines 423. The oral anti-diabetic activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of O. tenuiflorum (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg) was studied against streptozotocin (STZ) (50 mg/kg; i.p.) + nicotinamide (120 mg/kg; i.p.) induced diabetes mellitus. The animals were treated with the investigational plant extract and standard drug (glibenclamide) for 21 consecutive days and the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of O. tenuiflorum on blood glucose levels was measured at regular intervals. At the end of the study, blood samples were collected from all the animals for biochemical estimation, then the animals were sacrificed and the liver and kidney were collected for organ weight analysis. Prediction for pharmacological and toxicological properties of phytoconstituents of O. tenuiflorum was carried out using online web tools such as online pass prediction and lazar toxicity prediction. Results: The hydroalcoholic extract of O. tenuiflorum showed significant anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic activity at 250 and 500 mg/kg, and this effect was comparable with that of glibenclamide. Predicted biological activities of phytoconstituents of O. tenuiflorum showed presence of various pharmacological actions, which includes anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic activities. Prediction of toxicological properties of phytoconstituents of O. tenuiflorum did not show any major toxic effects. Conclusion: The hydroalcoholic extract of O. tenuiflorum showed significant anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic activity against STZ + nicotinamide induced diabetes mellitus in rats. Further studies are required to confirm the anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic activities of individual phytoconstituents of O. tenuiflorum

}, keywords = {Anti-diabetic activity, Anti-hyperlipidemic Activity, In silico analysis, Ocimum tenuiflorum, Phytoconstituents}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.151457 }, author = {Subramani Parasuraman and Subramani Balamurugan and Parayil Varghese Christapher and Rajendran Ramesh Petchi and Wong Yeng Yeng and Jeyabalan Sujithra and Chockalingam Vijaya} } @article {573, title = {Evaluation of Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Antidiabetic Potential of Two Traditional Medicinal Plants of India: Swertia cordata and Swertia chirayita}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {s57-s62}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s57}, abstract = {

Background: Swertia cordata and Swertia chirayita are temperate Himalayan medicinal plants used as potent herbal drugs in Indian traditional systems of medicine (Ayurvedic, Unani and Siddha). Objective: Assessment of Antioxidant, antibacterial, and antidiabetic potential of Swertia cordata and Swertia chirayita. Materials and Methods: Phytochemicals of methanolic and aqueous extracts of the two Swertia species were analyzed. The antioxidant potential of all the extracts was assessed by measuring total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and free radical scavenging potential was assessed by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrilhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, antibacterial activity was assessed against various pathogenic and nonpathogenic bacteria in vitro by Kirby-Bauer agar well diffusion method and antidiabetic activity was assessed by α-amylase inhibition. Results: Methanolic leaf extracts of both the species of Swertia contain significant antibacterial as well as anti-diabetic potential, whereas methanolic root extracts of both species were found to have potential antioxidant activity. However, Swertia chirayita showed better activities than Swertia cordata although both species have good reputation in traditional Indian medicine. Conclusion: Both the species are having high medicinal potential in terms of their antioxidant, antibacterial and antidiabetic activities. Studies are required to further elucidate antioxidant, anti-diabetic and antibacterial potentials using various in-vitro, in-vivo biochemical and molecular biology techniques.

}, keywords = {Anti-diabetic activity, Antibacterial activity, Antioxidant, Chirata, Swertia chirayita, Swertia cordata}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157997}, author = {Priyanka Roy and Fatima I Abdulsalam and DK Pandey and Aniruddha Bhattacharjee and Naveen Reddy Eruvaram and Tabarak Malik} } @article {411, title = {Evaluation of antitumor activity and antioxidant status of Alternanthera brasiliana against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma in Swiss albino mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {66-73}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {66}, abstract = {

Objectives: The main objective of the present study was to explore the antitumor activity of the ethyl acetate extract of the Alternanthera brasiliana (EAAB) and its antioxidant status against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) in Swiss albino mice. Materials and Methods: Based on the preliminary in vitro cytotoxicity studies, EAAB was selected for anti-tumor and antioxidant effects. Anticancer activity of EAAB was evaluated against EAC in Swiss albino mice at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg. EAAB was administered for 14 consecutive days after induction of cancer. After 24 hr\ of the last dose and 18 hr of fasting, half of the mice were sacrificed and rest were kept alive for assessing any increase in life span. The antitumor effect of EAAB was assessed by evaluating tumor volume, viable and nonviable tumor cell count, tumor weight, hematological and biochemical parameters of EAC bearing host. Furthermore, the antioxidant and histopathological parameters were evaluated. Results: EAAB treatment has shown significant decrease in tumor volume, viable cell count, tumor weight and elevated the life span of EAC tumor bearing mice in a dose dependent manner. In hematological profile count of RBC, hemoglobin, and WBC were found reverted to normal. EAAB also significantly decreased the levels of lipid peroxidation and significantly increased the levels of GSH, SOD and Catalase. Conclusion: From the above results it may be concluded that EAAB.

}, keywords = {5-Flourouracil, Alternanthera brasiliana, Antioxidant, Antitumor, Ehrlich ascites carcinoma.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147211}, author = {Pavan Kumar Samudrala and Bibin Baby Augustine and Eshvendar Reddy Kasala and Lakshmi Narendra Bodduluru and Chandana Barua and Mangala Lahkar} } @article {466, title = {Evaluation of antiviral activity of essential oil of Trachyspermum Ammi against Japanese encephalitis virus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June,2015}, pages = {263-267}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {263}, abstract = {

Background: Japanese encephalitis is a leading form of viral encephalitis, prevalent mostly in South Eastern Asia caused by Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). It is transmitted by the mosquitoes of the Culex sp. The disease affects children and results in 50\% result in permanent neuropsychiatric disorder. There arises a need to develop a safe, affordable, and potent anti-viral agent against JEV. This study aimed to assess the antiviral activity of ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi: Umbellifereae) essential oil against JEV. Materials and Methods: Ajwain oil was extracted by distillation method and in vitro cytotoxicity assay was performed in vero cell line by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay method. JEV titer was determined by plaque assay and in vitro antiviral activity of ajwain oil was quantified by the plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT). Results: Cytotoxic concentration of the oil was found to be 1 mg/ml by MTT assay. The titer of the virus pool was found to be 50{\texttimes} 107 PFU/ml. we observed 80\% and 40\% virus inhibition in 0.5mg/ml of ajwain oil by PRNT method in preexposure treatment and postexposure treatment (antiviral activity), respectively. Conclusion: Our data indicate ajwain oil has potential in vitro antiviral activity against JEV. Further, the active biomolecule will be purified and evaluated for anti-JEV activity and also to scale up for in vivo trial to evaluate the efficacy of ajwain oil in future.

}, keywords = {Ajwain oil, Antiviral, cytotoxicity, Japanese encephalitis virus.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157977}, author = {Soumen Roy and Pratibha Chaurvedi and Abhay Chowdhary} } @article {377, title = {Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of methanolic extract of leaves of Bougainvillea spectabilis in experimental animal models}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {18-22}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {18}, abstract = {

Background: Bougainvillea spectabilis (BS) (family Nyctaginaceae) is said to possess hypoglycemic and anti-inflammatory activities in experimental animals. We had set forward to examine the potential anti-inflammatory activities of BS in experimental models of inflammation. Materials and Methods: Fresh dried leaves from the flowering plant of BS were collected from the local area during the flowering season and air dried (215.00 g). Methanol was extracted, and the solvent was removed on a rotary evaporator under reduced pressure. The extract was freeze-dried (lyophilized) and the yield was 8 g. This was used as an emulsion prepared in propylene glycol and orally administered (20 and 50 mg/kg). Acute anti-inflammatory activity of BS was evaluated using carrageenan and dextran whereas chronic anti-inflammatory (immunoregulatory) activity was evaluated by Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant-induced arthritis model. Results: BS (20 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg) had shown significant anti-inflammatory effects 20.6\% and 67.6\%, respectively, on carrageenan-induced acute inflammatory models. In dextran-induced edema, the effect was 30\% and 66\%, respectively. The standard drug indomethacin (87.3\% and 91.5\%, respectively) showed better inhibitory response in both models. In arthritic model 50 mg/kg of BS showed significant chronic anti-inflammatory effect (38.46\%) in comparison to the standard drug dexamethasone (84.6\%). Conclusion: Our data indicate that the methanol extract of BS (50 mg/kg) leaves has significant anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory activity. Further studies involving isolation of active principles will help to pinpoint the mechanisms contributing to the observed activities of BS.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Bougainvillea spectabilis, Immunoregulatory.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147194}, author = {Gautam Mandal and Chandan Chatterjee and Mitali Chatterjee} } @article {571, title = {Evaluation of anxiolytic activity of aqueous extract of Coriandrum sativum Linn. in mice: A preliminary experimental study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {s47-s51}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {s47}, abstract = {

Objectives: To evaluate the anxiolytic effect of Coriandrum sativum (CS) aqueous extract in mice. To compare the antianxiety activity of CS against standard drug diazepam (3 mg/kg). Materials and Methods: After obtaining Institutional Animal Ethics Committee approval, Swiss albino mice (18-25 g) of either sex were randomly divided into five groups of six animals each. Dried powder of CS leaves was boiled with distilled water, cooled, filtered, placed on a hotplate for complete evaporation, finally weighed and stored. The control group, test group, and standard drugs group received saline, CS extract (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg), diazepam (3 mg/kg), respectively, by oral feeding. The antianxiety effect was assessed by elevated plus maze (EPM) in mice. Results: In EPM, it implied that CS 50 mg/kg (Group III), 100 mg/kg (Group IV), and 200 mg/kg (Group V) significantly (P \< 0.001) increases the number of entries in open arms compared to control. The time spent in open arms also increased in all the doses of CS extract significantly. Conclusion: The current study demonstrates statistically significant dose-dependent antianxiety activity of CS leaves.

}, keywords = {Antianxiety effect, Coriandrum sativum, Diazepam, Elevated plus maze}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157996}, author = {K Latha and B Rammohan and B. P. V. Sunanda and MS Uma Maheswari and Surapaneni Krishna Mohan} } @article {417, title = {Evaluation of Bacillus cereus and Bacillus pumilus metabolites for anthelmintic activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {81-84}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {81}, abstract = {

Objective: To assess the anthelmintic acivity of Bacillus cereus and Bacillus pumilus metabolites. Materials and Methods: The successive solvent extractions with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol. The solvent extracts were tested for anthelmintic activity against Pheretima posthuma at 20 mg/ml concentration. The time of paralysis and time of death of the worms was determined for all the extracts. Albendazole was taken as a standard reference and sterile water as a control. Results: All the sample extracts showed significant anthelmintic activity in paralyzing the worms comparable with that of the standard drug. The time of death exhibited by BP metabolites was close to the time exhibited by standard. Conclusion: The study indicates both bacteria Bacillus cereus and Bacillus pumilus have anthelmintic activity indicating potential metabolites in them.

}, keywords = {Anthelmintic, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus pumilus, Pheretima posthuma.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147213}, author = {M. L. Vijaya Kumar and B. Thippeswamy and I. L. Kuppust and K. J. Naveenkumar and C. K. Shivakumar} } @article {564, title = {The evaluation of the activity of medicinal remedies of plant and animal origin on the regeneration of the earthworms{\textquoteright} tail segments}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {393}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {393}, abstract = {

Now, in the global community there is enough hard recommendation to replace the vertebrate test animals into simpler organisms at the development, testing, and evaluation of the quality pharmaceuticals. The feature of planarian to regenerate in new individual planarian from a piece, which is only 1/7 of the original animal, allowed to create the alternative methods of testing of drugs, dietary supplements, water quality, influence of electromagnetic fields, and other radiations. The tests on planarian can replace the ones that are held today on mammals. However, the lacks of the bioassays based on the planarian regeneration are the need for complex and expensive video equipment for recording the regrowth of worms{\textquoteright} body, the difficulties of culturing of flatworms and fairly long period of response. These difficulties can be avoided by using another group of the worms of type Annelida. The new individual can be fully recovered only from the front half of the body in many species of earthworms. Thus, the influence of the pharmaceuticals from earthworms, mummy, and Orthilia secunda on the ability of earthworms to regenerate lost tail segments has been investigated. The relations of the activity of preparations tested with doses and the time of the storage have been revealed. The principal possibility of applicability of the test reaction studied as a way to evaluate the effects and quality of remedies based on medicinal plants and earthworms has been shown.

}, keywords = {Earthworms, Medicinal remedies, Mummy, Orthilia secunda, Regeneration, Test-reaction, Vermipreparation.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.159581}, author = {Viktor Alexandrovich Bybin and Daevard Iosifovich Stom} } @article {455, title = {Extraction and Elemental Analysis of Coleus forskohlii Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June,2015}, pages = {237-241}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {237}, abstract = {

Background: Coleus forskohlii Willd. is a popular traditional medicine used since ancient times for treatment of heart diseases, abdominal colic and respiratory disorders. Objectives: The aim of this study was to characterize the root extract of the medicinal plant Coleus forskohlii. Materials and Methods: Dry roots of C. forskohlii were used to extract Forskolin using toluene as a solvent. Thus, obtained extract of C. forskohlii was standardized to 30\% and used for further studies. Results: The physical properties of the extract were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy analysis, while the characterization of root extract through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and element analysis. The morphological feature of the C. forskohlii extract showed a flake like structure and the XRD showed sulfur trioxide (SO3) and trimer of sulfur trioxide (S3O9). Through element analysis, elements such as carbon, oxygen, magnesium, aluminum, silicon, phosphorous, and sulfur were identified. Carbon showed the highest weight of 75.49\% in comparison to all other elements.

}, keywords = {Coleus forskohlii, element analysis, Physical properties, Scanning electron microscope, X-Ray diffraction.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157966}, author = {Haritha Kanne and Narayan Pandurang Burte and V. Prasanna, Ravi Gujjula} } @article {467, title = {Gastrointestinal protective efficacy of Kolaviron (a bi-flavonoid from Garcinia kola) following a single administration of sodium arsenite in rats: Biochemical and histopathological studies}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June,2015}, pages = {268-276}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {268}, abstract = {

Background: Arsenic intoxication is known to produce symptoms including diarrhea and vomiting, which are indications of gastrointestinal dysfunction. Objectives: We investigated whether Kolaviron (KV) administration protected against sodium arsenite (NaAsO2)-induced damage to gastric and intestinal epithelium in rats. Materials and Methods: Control rats (Group I) were given a daily oral dose of corn oil. Rats in other groups were given a single dose of NaAsO2 (100 mg/kg; intraperitoneal) alone (Group II) or after pretreatment for 7 days with KV at 100 mg/kg (Group III) and 200 mg/kg (Group IV). Rats were sacrificed afterward and portions of the stomach, small intestine and colon were processed for histopathological examination. Hydrogen peroxide, reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations as well as activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were measured in the remaining portions of the different gastrointestinal tract (GIT) segments. Results: NaAsO2 caused significant increases (P \< 0.05) in MDA levels and MPO activity, with significant reductions (P \< 0.05) in GST, GPX, CAT and SOD activities in the stomach and intestines. KV significantly reversed the changes (P \< 0.05) in a largely dose-dependent manner. The different segments had marked inflammatory cellular infiltration, with hyperplasia of the crypts, which occurred to much lesser degrees with KV administration. Conclusion: The present findings showed that KV might be a potent product for mitigating NaAsO2 toxicity in the GIT.

}, keywords = {Chemoprevention, Intestines, Kolaviron, Sodium arsenite, Stomach.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157978}, author = {Akinleye S. Akinrinde and Ebunoluwa Olowu and Ademola A. Oyagbemi and Olutayo T. Omobowale} } @article {429, title = {GC-MS analysis of bioactive compounds in the methanol extract of Clerodendrum viscosum leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {110-113}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {110}, abstract = {

Background: Clerodendrum viscosum is commonly found in India and Bangladesh. Previously, various parts of this plant were reported for treatment of different types of diseases and there was no report on GC-Ms analysis. Objectives: To analyze and characterize the phytochemical compounds of methanol extract of Clerodendrum viscosum using GC-MS. Materials and Methods: The preliminary phytochemical screening of methanol extract was carried out according to standard procedures described in WHO guidelines. Various bioactive compounds of the extract were determined by GC-MS technique. Results: The presence of steroids, triterpenoids, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins and carbohydrate was found on phytochemical screening of methanol extract of the leaves. The GC-MS analysis showed 16 peaks of different phytoconstituents namely acetamide,N,N-carbonylbis-, 4-Pyranone,2,3-dihydro-, alpha-D-Galactofuranoside, methyl 2,3,5,6-tetra-O-methyl-, Glycerin, Xylitol, N,N-Dimethylglycine, 4H-Pyran-4-one,2,3-dihydro-3, 5-dihydroxy-6- methyl-, Benzofuran,2,3-dihydro-, 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural, 2(1H)Pyrimidinone,1-methyl-, 2,4-Dihydroxy-5,6-dimethylpyrimidine, 3-Deoxy-d-mannoic lactone, 1,3-Methylene-darabitol, Orcinol, n-Hexadecanoic acid and Phenol,4,4{\textquoteright}-(1-methyl ethylidene) bis etc. Conclusion: The bioactive compounds present in the methanol extract of Clerodendrum viscosum suggest the application of this extract for the treatment of various diseases by the aborigine tribes.

}, keywords = {Bioactive compounds, Clerodendrum viscosum, GC-MS analysis.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147223}, author = {Goutam Ghosh and Pritipadma Panda, Meera Rath and Abhisek Pal and Tripti Sharma and Debajyoti Das} } @article {568, title = {Hematological effects of repeated graded doses of the methanol extract of Paullinia pinnata (Linn.) leaves in Wistar albino rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {34-38}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {34}, abstract = {

Background: Paullinia pinnata is a medicinal plant used for the treatment of various diseases, including anemia in West Africa. Aim: This study was carried out to investigate the effect of increasing doses of the methanolic leaves extract of P. pinnata on hematological parameters in rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty-six male Wistar albino rats were grouped into six groups of six animals each. Five doses; 50,100, 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight of the P. pinnata extract were administered separately to five groups. The sixth group served as a control and received only the vehicle (70\% physiological saline: 30\% Tween 80 [v/v]). Administration was done orally daily for 28 days at 24 h interval. On day 29, the animals were made inactive, blood was then collected from the heart and various hematological parameters were evaluated. Statistical Analysis: Analysis of variance was employed. Results: The packed cell volume and red blood cell count increased significantly (P \< 0.05) in the treatment groups except at 200 mg/kg dose. The hemoglobin concentration increased in all the treatment groups. The values for the neutrophils at 50, 100, 200 and 800 mg/kg doses were higher than that of the control. The white blood cell count increased significantly (P \< 0.05) at 50 and 400 mg/kg doses compared to the control and exceeded the normal physiological range. Conclusion: The maximum tolerable dose is 200 mg/kg body weight of the methanolic leaves extract of P. pinnata and the extract has anti-anemic property with the ability to increase neutrophils count.

}, keywords = {Erythropoiesis, Hematological parameters, Neutrophils, Paullinia pinnata}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150522}, author = {Oluwatoyin A Adeyemo-Salami and Emmanuel O Ewuola} } @article {427, title = {In vitro Antioxidant and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Four Alkanna Species Growing in Iran}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {100-104}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {100}, abstract = {

Background: Medicinal plants are recognized as sources of natural antioxidants that can protect biological system from oxidative stress. Objective: In this study, the antioxidant activities of four species of the Alkanna genus (Alkanna bracteosa, Alkanna frigida, Alkanna orientalis and Alkanna tricophila) were evaluated. Materials and Methods: The dried roots of plant samples (100 g) were extracted separately by percolation method with MeOH/H2O (80/20) and four fractions were provided respectively with hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol and water. Antioxidant activities were investigated by using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, ferric thiocyanate and thiobarbituric acid methods and compared with quercetin (as positive control). Results: The results indicated that the butanol fractions of four species had the highest antioxidant activity and radical scavenging activity compared with the other fractions studied (P \< 0.05). The 50\% effective concentration (half -\ effective doses) values of butanol fractions are less than quercetin and other fractions, so, these fractions showed potent antioxidant activity. This indicated that the active compounds in the root parts of Alkanna species dissolved in the butanol. All the fractions of four species of Alkanna had antioxidant activity, while, there were no significant differences (P \> 0.05) between the total antioxidant activities of same fractions. The total antioxidant activity values of Alkanna fractions in a descending order are as follows: Butanol fraction \> ethyl acetate fraction \> total extract \> hexane fraction \> chloroform fraction \> aqueous fraction. Conclusion: The antioxidant activities of butanol fractions of samples were higher than quercetin. This may be because most of the active compounds of Alkanna species dissolved in the butanol.

}, keywords = {1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, Alkanna, Antioxidant activity, Ferric thiocyanate, Thiobarbituric acid.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147218}, author = {Iraj Salimikia and Ali Reza Yazdinezhad and Fereshteh Golfakhrabadi and Hamid Reza Monsef Esfahani} } @article {403, title = {In vitro free radical scavenging and antioxidant properties of ethanol extract of Terminalia glaucescens}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {49-56}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {49}, abstract = {

Background: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in various pathological conditions. Synthetic antioxidants have adverse health effects, while many medicinal plants have antioxidant components that can prevent the harmful effects of ROS. Objectives: This study quantitatively determined the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant properties of ethanol extract of the stem bark of Terminalia glaucescens (EESTG). Materials and Methods: The objectives were achieved based on in vitro assays. Data were analyzed by Sigma Plot (version 11.0). Results: Using gallic acid as the standard compound, TPC value obtained was 596.57 {\textmu}g GAE/mg extract. TFC content of EESTG, determined as quercetin equivalent was 129.58 {\textmu}g QE/mg extract. Furthermore, EESTG significantly (P \< 0.001) displayed higher reducing power activity than the standard compounds (ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene [BHT]). Total antioxidant capacity assay, measured by phosphomolybdate method, was 358.33 {\textpm} 5.77 {\textmu}g butylated hydroxytoluene equivalents [BHTE]/mg extract. β-carotene-linoleate bleaching method affirmed the potency of EESTG because of its significantly (P \< 0.001) higher anti-oxidant activity when compared with quercetin and BHT. Based on DPPH assay, EESTG displayed significantly (P \< 0.001) higher activity than BHT, while the hydroxyl radical scavenging activities of BHT and quercetin significantly (P \< 0.001) exceeded that of the extract, although EESTG still displayed a high level of activity obtained as 83.77\% in comparison to 92.80\% of the standard compounds. Conclusion: Findings from this study indicate the presence of promisingly potent phytoconstituents in EESTG that have the capability to act as antioxidants and free radical scavengers.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Extract, free-radicals, Standard compounds, Terminalia glaucescens.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147200}, author = {J. Olorunjuwon Olugbami and Michael A. Gbadegesin and Oyeronke A. Odunola} } @article {465, title = {In vivo anti-inflammatory and Antiarthritic Activities of Aqueous Extracts from Thymelaea Hirsuta,}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {213-216}, type = {Short Communication }, chapter = {213}, abstract = {

Background:\ The aerial parts of\ Thymelaeahirsuta\ (TH) are used as a decoction in the treatment of different pathologies in folk medicine in Morocco.\ Objective:\ The aqueous extracts were evaluated for its anti-inflammatory activity and in inhibition of adjuvant induction arthritis in male Wistar rats.\ Materials and Methods:\ The anti-inflammatory activity was carried out using carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model, and the antiarthritic activity was carried out using complete Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant-induced arthritis model.\ Results:\ The plant extract (500 mg/kg body weight) exhibited significant activity in acute inflammation produced 60\% of inhibition after 4 h as compared with that of the standard anti-inflammatory drug, the diclofenac (100 mg/kg) which showed 40\% of inhibition. In arthritis model, the extract produced 85\% inhibition after 18 days when compared with the diclofenac (10 mg/kg; 72\%).\ Conclusion:\ These results indicate that the aqueous extract of TH had an anti-inflammatory activity and inhibited the induction of adjuvant arthritis in male Wistar rats.

}, keywords = {Antiarthritis, Antiinflammation, Medicinal plants, Thymelaea hirsuta, Wistar rats}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150510 }, author = {Zora Azza and Mounia Oudghiri} } @article {574, title = {Induction of rat hepatic mitochondrial membrane permeability transition pore opening by leaf extract of Olax subscorpioidea}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {s63-s68}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {63}, abstract = {

Background: The induction of the mitochondrial membrane permeability transition (MMPT) pore has been implicated in the cascade of events involved in apoptosis (programmed cell death). Olax subscorpioidea is traditionally used for the treatment of several diseases and infection. However, its role on MMPT is not yet established. This study was aimed at evaluating the effects of varying concentrations of the methanol leaf extract of O. subscorpioidea (MEOS) on MMPT pore opening, mitochondrial adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase), and mitochondrial lipid peroxidation. Materials and Methods: Opening of the pore was spectrophotometrically assayed under succinate-energized conditions. Results: In the absence of triggering agent (calcium), MEOS induced MMPT pore opening by 350, 612, 827, 845\% at 36, 60, 86 and 112 μg/ml, respectively. MEOS further induced MMPT pore opening in the presence of a triggering agent by 866, 905, 831, 840, 949\% at 12, 36, 60, 86 and 112 μg/ml, respectively. The extract significantly induced mitochondrial membrane lipid peroxidation in all the concentration used. MEOS also significantly increased mitochondrial ATP hydrolysis by mitochondrial ATPase in all concentration of the extract used. Conclusion: It may be deduced from this results, that MEOS contains certain bioactive components that may find use in pathological conditions that require an enhanced rate of apoptosis.

}, keywords = {Apoptosis, Mitochondrial membrane permeability transition pore, Olax subscorpioidea}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157998}, author = {Oluwatobi Samuel Adegbite and Yetunde Ifeoma Akinsanya and Ayobami Jahdahunsi Kukoyi and Wisdom O Iyanda-Joel and Oluwatoyin O Daniel and Abiodun Humphrey Adebayo} } @article {439, title = {Isolation, Structural characterization and In silico Drug-like Properties Prediction of a Natural Compound From the Ethanolic Extract of Cayratia trifolia (L.)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {121-125}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {121}, abstract = {

Background: Natural products have continually played an important role in drug discovery because it serves as active principles in drugs as well as templates for synthesis of new drugs. Cayratia trifolia (L.) is a medicinal plant, which has been reported to have antiviral, antibacterial, antiprotozoal, hypoglycemic, anticancer and diuretic activities. Objectives: Therefore, the objective of this study is to isolate and identify the natural compound from the ethanolic extract of Cayratia trifolia (L.) and to predict the Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion (ADME) properties of isolated natural compound. Materials and Methods: Column chromatography and thin layer chromatography were used to isolate the natural compound and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to predict the functional groups present in the isolated natural compound. The structural characterization studies were functionally carried out using 1H, 13C, two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry methods. Results: FTIR showed that, the groups of OH, C-H, C = C may be present in the isolated natural compound. 1H, 13C, two-dimensional NMR and mass spectrometry data suggests that the isolated natural compound probably like linoleic acid. In silico ADME properties, prediction of the compound was under acceptable range. Conclusion: Based on the results, it can be concluded that, the isolated natural compound of linoleic acid that has been exhibited good medicinal properties.

}, keywords = {Cayratia trifolia (L.), Chromatography techniques, Linoleic acid and ADME properties., Spectroscopy methods}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147226}, author = {Palanisamy Chella Perumal and Sundaram Sowmya and Prabhakaran Pratibha and Balasubramanian Vidya and Palanirajan Anusooriya and Thangarajan Starlin and Subban Ravi and Velliyur Kanniappan Gopalakrishnan} } @article {373, title = {Minerals salt composition and secondary metabolites of Euphorbia hirta Linn., an antihyperglycemic plant}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {7-13}, type = {Review article}, chapter = {7}, abstract = {

Phytochemical study and research on acute toxicity were performed on the aerial parts (leaves and stems) of Euphorbia hirta Linn. The phytochemical screening and chromatography revealed the presence of saponin, sterol, terpene, alkaloids, polyphenols, tannins and flavonoids and especially mucilage. The evaluation of total polyphenols and total flavonoids gave 120.97 {\textpm} 7.07 gallic acid equivalents (GAE) mg/g (mg of GAE/g of extract) of dry extract and 41.4 {\textpm} 0.5 mg quercetin equivalent per gram (QE/g) (mg of QE/g of plant extract) of dry extract respectively. The physicochemical study revealed moisture content of 7.73\% {\textpm} 0.00\%, total ash 7.48\% {\textpm} 0.03\%. Sulfuric ash 9.05\% {\textpm} 0.01\%, hydrochloric acid insoluble ash of 0.8\% {\textpm} 0.02\%. The search for minerals salt revealed the presence of Cr, Zn, K, Ca and Mg having an important role in glucose metabolism. The acute toxicity study showed that the toxic dose may be above 3000 mg/kg. The results of these studies indicate that extracts from the leaves and stem of E. hirta Linn. contains trace elements and minerals salt and bioactive secondary metabolites which explain their therapeutic uses for treating diabetes mellitus.

}, keywords = {Euphorbia hirta Linn, Mineral salt, Phytochemical, Trace elements.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147131}, author = {N{\textquoteright}Guessan Bra Yvette Fofie and Rokia Sanogo and Kiyinlma Coulibaly and Di{\'e}n{\'e}ba Kone-Bamba} } @article {558, title = {A New Antimicrobial Prenylated Benzo-lactone from the Rhizome of Cissus cornifolia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {363-366}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {363}, abstract = {

Background: Medicinal plants remain one of the largest reservoirs of new bioactive compounds. In this study, a new prenylated benzo-lactone (4, 6-dihydroxy-5-methoxy-3-(1, 2, 3, 4, 5-pentahydroxypentyl)-2-benzofuran-1(3H)-one) was isolated from the acetone extracts of the rhizome of Cissus cornifolia. The antimicrobial activity of the compound was evaluated against some microorganisms including Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, and Candida albicans. Materials and Methods: The acetone extracts of the rhizome of C. cornifolia was separated and purified by various chromatographic techniques. The structure of the isolated compound was characterized by analysis of spectral data including one and twodimensional nuclear magnetic resonance. Results: The isolated compound was characterized as (4, 6-dihydroxy-5-methoxy-3-(1, 2, 3, 4, 5-pentahydroxypentyl)-2-benzofuran-1(3H)- one), it showed activity against 6 out of 10 tested clinical isolates of some microorganisms including S. aureus, S. typhi, and C. albicans. The inhibition zones ranged between 17 mm and 25 mm. The inhibition zones observed compare favorably with the positive control used. Conclusion: The compound could serve as a lead for the development of more potent antimicrobial agent. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the isolation and characterization as well as antimicrobial screening of the compound.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial, Benzo-Lactone, Cissus cornifolia, Prenylated.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.159572}, author = {Aliyu M. Musa and Nasir Tajuddeen and Abdullahi Y. Idris and Abdurahman Y. Rafindadi and Musa I. Abdullahi and Abubakar B. Aliyu and Mikhail S. Abdullahi and Mohammed A. Ibrahim} } @article {384, title = {A novel reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography method for standardization of Orthosiphon stamineus leaf extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {23-31}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {23}, abstract = {

Background: Orthosiphon stamineus Benth. (Lamiaceae) is a traditional medicinal plant which has been used in treating various ailments such as kidney diseases, bladder inflammation, arthritis and diabetes. The leaves contain high concentration of phenolic compounds, thus, rosmarinic acid (RA), 3{\textquoteright}-hydroxy-5, 6, 7, 4{\textquoteright}-tetramethoxyflavone (TMF), sinensetin (SIN) and eupatorin (EUP) were chosen as a marker compounds for standardization of various O. stamineus leaf extracts. Objectives: The aim was to develop and validate a new high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for quantification of 4 marker compounds (RA, TMF, SIN, EUP) in various O. stamineus leaf extracts. Materials and Methods: The method was developed and validated using RP-HPLC-diode-array detection at 320 nm for accuracy, precision and limits of detection and was applied for quantification of it markers in five different extracts prepared in solvents with increasing polarity, using a gradient mobile phase 0.1\% formic acid: Acetonitrile at a flow rate of 1 ml/min on reverse phase acclaim polar advantage II C18 column (3 {\textmu}m, 3 {\texttimes} 150 mm) with 18 min separation time. Results: The developed method provided satisfactory precision, and the accuracy of this method was in the range of 90.2\% to 105.5\%. All of 4 compounds showed good linearity at R2 \> 0.999. Conclusion: The developed method is a simple, cost effective with shorter run time (18 min) in comparison to previous methods (30 min) and utilization of environmental-friendly solvents system. Therefore, this method has the potential to replace currently used methods in the routine standardization work of O. stamineus extracts, raw materials and its commercial products.

}, keywords = {3{\textquoteright}-hydroxy-5, 4{\textquoteright}-tetramethoxyflavone, 6, 7, Eupatorin, Orthosiphon stamineus, Rosmarinic acid, Sinensetin.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147195}, author = {Noor Hafizoh Saidan and Abdalrahim F.A. Aisha and Mohd Shahrul Ridzuan Hamil and Amin Malik Shah Abdul Majid and Zhari Ismail} } @article {452, title = {Nucleotide Sequence of Phaseolus Vulgaris L. Alcohol Dehydrogenase Encoding cDNA and three-dimensional Structure Prediction of the Deduced Protein}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {203-208}, type = { Original Article}, chapter = {203}, abstract = {

Background:\ Common beans (Phaseolusvulgaris\ L.) are widely consumed as a source of proteins and natural products. However, its yield needs to be increased. In line with the agenda of Phaseomics (an international consortium), work of expressed sequence tags (ESTs) generation from bean pods was initiated. Altogether, 5972 ESTs have been isolated. Alcohol dehydrogenase (AD) encoding gene cDNA was a noticeable transcript among the generated ESTs. This AD is an important enzyme; therefore, to understand more about it this study was undertaken.\ Objective:\ The objective of this study was to elucidate\ P.vulgaris\ L. AD (PvAD) gene cDNA sequence and to predict the three-dimensional (3D) structure of deduced protein.\ MaterialsandMethods:\ positive and negative strands of the\ PvAD cDNA clone were sequenced using M13 forward and M13 reverse primers to elucidate the nucleotide sequence. Deduced\ PvAD cDNA and protein sequence was analyzed for their basic features using online bioinformatics tools. Sequence comparison was carried out using bl2seq program, and tree-view program was used to construct a phylogenetic tree. The secondary structures and 3D structure of\ PvAD protein were predicted by using the PHYRE automatic fold recognition server.\ Results:\ The sequencing results analysis showed that\ PvAD cDNA is 1294 bp in length. It{\textquoteright}s open reading frame encodes for a protein that contains 371 amino acids. Deduced protein sequence analysis showed the presence of putative substrate binding, catalytic Zn binding, and NAD binding sites. Results indicate that the predicted 3D structure of\ PvAD protein is analogous to the experimentally determined crystal structure of s-nitrosoglutathione reductase from an\ Arabidopsis\ species.\ Conclusions:\ The 1294 bp long\ PvAD cDNA encodes for 371 amino acid long protein that contains conserved domains required for biological functions of AD. The predicted deduced\ PvAD protein{\textquoteright}s 3D structure reflects the analogy with the crystal structure of\ Arabidopsisthaliana\ s-nitrosoglutathione reductase. Further study is required to validate the predicted structure.

}, keywords = {BAT93, Common Bean, Homology Modeling, Molecular Modeling, Phaseomics, Protein, Protein Structure Prediction}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150532}, author = {Kassim Amelia and Chin Yin Khor and Farida Habib Shah and Subhash J Bhore} } @article {576, title = {Oleanolic Acid Prevents Increase in Blood Pressure and Nephrotoxicity in Nitric Oxide Dependent Type of Hypertension in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {385-392}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {385}, abstract = {

Background: Recently, we have reported antihypertensive activity of oleanolic acid (OA) in glucocorticoid-induced hypertension with restoration of nitric oxide (NO) level. However, the involvement of NO-releasing action of OA was unclear. Objective: To explore antihypertensive activity of OA in Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) hypertensive rats wherein NO is completely blocked, which would allow exploring the possibility of involvement of NO-releasing action of OA. Materials and Methods: Five groups of rats were investigated as normal control, L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day), L-NAME + enalapril (15 mg/kg/day), L-NAME + l-arginine (100 mg/kg/day), and L-NAME + OA (60 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. The systolic blood pressure, body weight, and heart rate were measured weekly for 4 weeks. Serum nitrate/nitrite (NOx) level, urine electrolytes concentration, cardiac mass index, and serum creatinine level were determined followed by organ histopathology. Results: OA and enalapril delayed the rise in blood pleasure following L-NAME administration. Decreased serum NOx level was not significantly increased with any of the treatment. OA produced a small, though nonsignificant, increase in the NOx level. L-NAME administration did not affect cardiac mass index. There was an increase in serum creatinine upon L-NAME administration which was prevented by OA. Decreased urine volume, urine sodium and potassium were reversed by OA. Conclusion: These results suggest that the antihypertensive effect of OA in L-NAME hypertension is due to diuresis and nephroprotection. However, OA has nonsignificantly affected the NO levels.

}, keywords = {Endothelial dysfunction, Invasive blood pressure, Nitric oxide, Triterpenoid, Viscum.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.159575} } @article {406, title = {The optimization of essential oils supercritical CO2 extraction from Lavandula hybrida through static-dynamic steps procedure and semi-continuous technique using response surface method}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {57-65}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {57}, abstract = {

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine and evaluate crucial variables in essential oils extraction process from Lavandula hybrida through static-dynamic and semi-continuous techniques using response surface method. Materials and Methods: Essential oil components were extracted from Lavandula hybrida (Lavandin) flowers using supercritical carbon dioxide via static-dynamic steps (SDS) procedure, and semi-continuous (SC) technique. Results: Using response surface method the optimum extraction yield (4.768\%) was obtained via SDS at 108.7 bar, 48.5{\textdegree}C, 120 min (static: 8{\texttimes}15), 24 min (dynamic: 8{\texttimes}3 min) in contrast to the 4.620\% extraction yield for the SC at 111.6 bar, 49.2{\textdegree}C, 14 min (static), 121.1 min (dynamic). Conclusion: The results indicated that a substantial reduction (81.56\%) solvent usage (kg CO2/g oil) is observed in the SDS method versus the conventional SC method.

}, keywords = {Essential oil, lavandin, Lavandula hybrida, Response surface method, Static-dynamic steps, Supercritical carbon dioxide.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147209}, author = {Hossein Kamali and Noushin Aminimoghadamfarouj and Ebrahim Golmakani and Alireza Nematollahi} } @article {575, title = {Performance of Chromogenic Media for Candida in Rapid Presumptive Identification of Candida Species from Clinical Materials}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {s69-s73}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {s69}, abstract = {

Background: In perspective of the worldwide increase in a number of immunocompromised patients, the need for identification of Candida species has become a major concern. The development of chromogenic differential media, introduced recently, facilitate rapid speciation. However, it can be employed for routine mycology workup only after an exhaustive evaluation of its benefit and cost effectiveness. This study was undertaken to evaluate the benefit and cost effectiveness of chromogenic media for speciation of Candida clinical isolates. Materials and Methods: Sputum samples of 382 patients were screened for the presence of Candida spp. by Gram stain and culture on sabouraud dextrose agar. Candida species were identified using Gram stain morphology, germ tube formation, cornmeal agar with Tween-80, sugar fermentation tests and morphology on HiCrome Candida differential agar. All the Candida isolates were inoculated on HiCrome Candida agar (HiMedia, Mumbai, India). Results: The sensitivity and specificity of HiCrome agar for identification of Candida albicans were 90\% and 96.42\%, respectively whereas sensitivity and specificity of carbohydrate fermentation test were 86.67\% and 74.07\%, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity values of HiCrome agar for detection of C. albicans, Candida parapsilosis and Candida glabrata were above 90\%. Conclusions: We found HiCrome agar has high sensitivity and specificity comparable to that of the conventional method. In addition, use of this differential media could significantly cut down the turnaround time as well as cost of sample processing.

}, keywords = {Candida, Chromogenic differential agar, Presumptive identification}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150528}, author = {MV Pravin Charles and Arunava Kali and Noyal Mariya Joseph} } @article {563, title = {Preclinical screening of phyllanthus amarus ethanolic extract for its analgesic and antimicrobial activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {378-384}, chapter = {378}, abstract = {

Background: To discover a new agent which possesses dual property of analgesic and antimicrobial activity, thereby reducing the burden of polypharmacy. Phyllanthus amarus was screened for its analgesic and antimicrobial activities. Objectives: The objective was to evaluate the analgesic and antimicrobial activity, of P. amarus ethanolic extract (PAEE). Materials and Methods: The ethanolic extract of P. amarus was prepared using Soxhlet apparatus. An in vivo study using Swiss albino mice was done to screen the central and peripheral analgesic activity of P. amarus extract. The extract was administered at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight orally. The peripheral analgesic activity was assessed using acetic acid induced writhing test. The central analgesic activity was assessed using Eddy{\textquoteright}s hot plate apparatus. An in vitro study was carried out to study the antimicrobial activity of the above extract using selected species of Streptococcus mutans, and S. salivarius. The antimicrobial activities were determined using the agar well method. Results: The ethanolic extract of P. amarus showed significant (P \< 0.05) peripheral and central analgesic activity. In vitro antimicrobial screening indicated that the ethanolic extract had shown a zone of inhibition against S. mutans and S. salivarius in the agar wells. Conclusion: This study showed that PAEE exhibited significant analgesic and antimicrobial activities.

}, keywords = {Analgesic, Antimicrobial activity, Ethanolic extract, Phyllanthus amarus.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.159577}, author = {S. Sham Bhat and K. Sundeep Hegde and Sharath Chandrashekhar and S. N. Rao and Shyamjith Manikkoth} } @article {550, title = {Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorder and alternative medicine therapies among dentists of North India: A descriptive study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {350-354}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {350}, abstract = {


Aim: Health professionals especially the dental professional are the frequent targets of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) can be of some help in managing these MSD especially in. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of CAM therapies as a treatment modality for MSD management among dental professionals of north India. Materials and Methods: Registered dentist of North Indian origin, India (n = 3598) were included in the study. The questionnaire was sent to all the dentists which consisted of the demographic profile, MSD in the past year, CAM therapies utilization and opinion about CAM therapies. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 21 and data were presented in tabular and graphic form. Test of significance was done using chi-square statistics with P \< 0.05 considered as significant. Results: A response rate of 80\% (n = 2879) was obtained, and all complained of MDS in some or the other part of their life. The use of CAM was reported among 70\% (n = 2015) of the dentist who suffered from MSD. Other dentists either used conventional treatment or did not use anything. Conclusion: As the name implies, alternative medical systems is a category that extends beyond a single modality and refers to an entire system of theory and practice that developed separately from conventional medicine. CAM should be subject to rigorous scientific inquiry so that interventions that work are systematically distinguished from those that do not. In addition, the use of CAM treatments should be based on evidence of effectiveness and safety as demonstrated in randomized clinical trials.

}, keywords = {Acupuncture, Dentist, Massage, Musculoskeletal disorders.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157810}, author = {Devanand Gupta, Amit Mathur and Gaurav I. Patil and Harshad K. Tippanawar and Ankita Jain and Namita Jaggi and Rajendra Kumar Gupta and Purnima Garg} } @article {426, title = {Psidium guajava Linn. Leaf Extract Affects Hepatic Glucose Transporter-2 to Attenuate Early Onset of Insulin Resistance Consequent to High Fructose intake: An Experimental Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {166-175}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {166}, abstract = {

Background: Insulin resistance (IR) is amalgam of pathologies like altered glucos metabolism, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and associated with type-II diabetes and cardiometabolic diseases. One of the reasons leading to its increased and early incidence is understood to be a high intake of processed fructose containing foods and beverages by individuals, especially, during critical developmental years. Objective: To investigate the preventive potential of aqueous extract of Psidium guajava leaves (PG) against metabolic pathologies, vis-{\`a}-vis, IR, dyslipidemia, hyperleptinemia and hypertension, due to excess fructose intake initiated during developmental years. Materials and Methods: Post-weaning (4 weeks old) male rats were provided fructose (15\%) as drinking solution, ad libitum, for 8 weeks and assessed for food and water/fructose intake, body weight, fasting blood sugar, mean arterial pressure, lipid biochemistry, endocrinal (insulin, leptin), histopathological (fatty liver) and immunohistochemical (hepatic glucose transporter [GLUT2]) parameters. Parallel treatment groups were administered PG in doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg/d, po {\texttimes} 8 weeks and assessed for same parameters. Using extensive liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry protocols, PG was analyzed for the presence of phytoconstituents like Myrecetin, Luteolin, Kaempferol and Guavanoic acid and validated to contain Quercetin up to 9.9\%w/w. Results: High fructose intake raised circulating levels of insulin and leptin and hepatic GLUT2 expression to promote IR, dyslipidemia, and hypertension that were favorably re-set with PG. Although PG is known for its beneficial role in diabetes mellitus, for the first time we report its potential in the management of lifelong pathologies arising from high fructose intake initiated during developmental years.

}, keywords = {Fructose, Glucose Ttransporter-2, Insulin resistance, Leptin, Psidium guajava, Quercetin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.151459 }, author = {R. Mathur and Shagun Dutta and T. Velpandian and S.R. Mathur} } @article {531, title = {Quantification of Total Polyphenols, Catechin, Caffeine, L-theanine, Determination of Antioxidant Activity and Effect on Antileishmanial Drugs of Ethiopian Tea Leaves Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {s7-s14}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {s7}, abstract = {

Objective:\ In this study four tea samples Gumero black, Wushwush black and Wushwush green from Agri- Ceft Plc and East Africa black tea leaves from East African Agribusiness Plc were investigated for total polyphenols, caffeine, catechin and L-theanine content.\ Materials and Methods:\ The aqueous extracts were investigated for their antioxidant and antileishmanial property and effect on amphotericin B, miltefocine and sodium stibogluconate, the commonly used antileishmanial drugs. Antileishmanial studies were conducted on\ L. aethiopica.\ Results:\ Wushwush green tea had the highest content of polyphenol (19.98 {\textpm} 1.15 mg gallic acid equivalent /100 g dry leaf weight), catechin (37.06 mg/g) and L-theanine (48.54 mg/g but the lowest caffeine content). It exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. The highest antioxidant effect of Wushwush green tea may be attributed to the highest polyphenol content. East African black tea had the lowest L-theanine (20.72 mg/g) and antioxidant activity but the highest caffeine (16.60 mg/g) content.\ Conclusion:\ Wushwush green tea showed slight inhibitory effect on\ L. aethiopica\ while the lack tea extracts (Gumero, East Africa and Wushwush) exhibited no antileishmanial activity. Wushwush green tea did not show any synergistic or antagonistic effect on the antileishmanial drugs used in this study while Gumero, East Africa and Wushwush black tea extracts exhibited dose dependant inhibitory activity to the commonly used antileishmanial drugs included in this study.

}, keywords = {Caffeine, Camellia Sinensis, Catechin, L-theanine, Polyphenols}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157991 }, author = {Alemu Tadesse and Ariaya Hymete and Adnan A Bekhit and Salahuddin Farooq Mohammed} } @article {459, title = {Quantitative Analysis of the Nutritional Components in Leaves and Seeds of the Persian Moringa peregrina (Forssk.) Fiori}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June,2015}, pages = {242-248}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {242}, abstract = {

Background: Moringa peregrina (M. peregrina) is an important tropical tree recognized for its nutritional and medicinal properties. The objective of this study was to investigate the nutritional component in the leaves and seeds of the Persian M. peregrina (Forssk.) Fiori. Materials and Methods: The M. peregrina leaves and seeds of wild cultivated trees were collected from the areas of arid environment located in the South-East of the Iran. The leaves and seeds of M. peregrina were dried and grounded to a fine powder and kept in dark for the day of experiment. The acidic digested leaves and seeds were analyzed for Vitamins C and A, calcium, and potassium using atomic adsorption and flame emission spectrophotometer. Results: The analytical data revealed that the leaves and seeds of the Persian M. peregrina (Forssk.) Fiori contain sufficient amounts of Vitamin C: 83 {\textpm} 0.5 and 14 {\textpm} 0.6 mg/100 g/DW; and Vitamin A: 6.8 {\textpm} 0.7 and 24.8 {\textpm} 0.7 mg/100 g/DW, respectively. The elemental analysis in the leaves and seeds showed that the calcium content are 764.8 {\textpm} 1.6 and 1164.8 {\textpm} 43.4 mg/100 g/DW and for potassium content are 900.2 {\textpm} 14 and 572 {\textpm} 10 mg/100 g/DW, respectively. Conclusion: The nutritional characteristics of the Persian M. peregrina (Forssk.) Fiori, investigated in this study revealed that, daily use of leaves and seeds of this plant could significantly provide the recommended dietary allowance for the Vitamins C and A, and minerals, such as calcium and potassium.

}, keywords = {Calcium, Moringa peregrine, Potassium, Recommended dietary allowance, Vitamin A.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157968}, author = {Gholamreza Asghari and Abbasali Palizban and Behnosh Bakhshaei} } @article {451, title = {Review of clinical studies of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. and its isolated bioactive compounds}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June,2015}, pages = {225-236}, type = {Review article}, chapter = {225}, abstract = {

Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. (PMT), officially listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, is one of the most popular perennial Chinese traditional medicines known as He shou wu in China and East Asia, and as Fo-ti in North America. Mounting pharmacological studies have stressed out its key benefice for the treatment of various diseases and medical conditions such as liver injury, cancer, diabetes, alopecia, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases as well. International databases such as PubMed/Medline, Science citation Index and Google Scholar were searched for clinical studies recently published on P. multiflorum. Various clinical studies published articles were retrieved, providing information relevant to pharmacokinetics-pharmacodynamics analysis, sleep disorders, dyslipidemia treatment, and neurodegenerative diseases. This review is an effort to update the clinical picture of investigations ever carried on PMT and/or its isolated bio-compounds and to enlighten its therapeutic assessment.

}, keywords = {Clinical pharmacokinetics, Clinical studies, Herbal hepatotoxicity, Polygonum multiflorum Thunb., Therapeutic assessment.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157957}, author = {Guy-Armel Bounda and Feng YU} } @article {362, title = {Review on Polygonum minus. Huds, a commonly used food additive in Southeast Asia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {1-6}, type = {Review article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Polygonum minus (Polygonaceae), generally known as {\textquoteleft}kesum{\textquoteright} in Malaysia is among the most commonly used food additive, flavoring agent and traditionally used to treat stomach and body aches. Raw or cooked leaves of P. minus are used in digestive disorders in the form of a decoction and the oil is used for dandruff. The pharmacological studies on P. minus have demonstrated antioxidant, in vitro LDL oxidation inhibition, antiulcer activity, analgesic activity, anti-inflammatory activity, in vitro antiplatelet aggregation activity, antimicrobial activity, digestive enhancing property and cytotoxic activity. The spectroscopic studies of essential oil of P. minus showed the presence of about 69 compounds, which are responsible for the aroma. The phytochemical studies showed presence of flavonoids and essential oils. This review is an effort to update the botanical, phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological data of the plant P. minus.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Antiulcer, Phytoconstituents, Polygonum.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147125}, author = {Parayil Varghese Christapher and Subramani Parasuraman and Josephine Maria Arokiaswamy Christina and Mohd. Zaini Asmawi and Murugaiyah Vikneswaran} } @article {539, title = {Seasonal variation in the chemical composition, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content of Artemisia absinthium essential oils}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {October 2015}, pages = {329-334}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {329}, abstract = {

Background: The genus Artemisia belonging to the Compositae (Asteraceae) family and many traditional uses from the Artemisia species were reported. Artemisia absinthium is one of the species in this genus and commonly used in the food industry in the preparation of aperitifs, bitters, and spirits. Objective: Evaluation of the effect of different harvesting stages on the composition of essential oil and antioxidant capacity of A. absinthium. Materials and Methods: Essential oils from the aerial parts of A. absinthium, collected in three stages (preflowering, flowering, and after-flowering) from plants grown in the North Khorasan province of Iran were obtained by steam distillation and the chemical composition of the oils was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and antioxidant activity and total phenolic content were determined by 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay and Folin-Ciocalteu method. Results: Analysis of the isolated oils revealed the presence of 44 compounds, mainly alpha-pinene, sabinene, beta-pinene, alpha-phellandrene, p-cymene and chamazulene. Alpha-phellandrene, and chamazulene were major compounds in preflowering stage, but beta-pinene and alpha-phellandrene were major in flowering and past-flowering stages. Flowering stage had highest yield and after flowering stage had lowest yield. The essential oil of preflowering stage had the highest amount of antioxidant compound (chamazulene). Preflowering stage with highest amount of phenolic compounds had the strongest antioxidant activity with the lowest amount of EC50. Conclusion: This study showed that the harvesting stage had significant effects on chemical composition and antioxidant properties of essential oils, and chamazulene is main compound for antioxidant activity in A. absinthium.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Artemisia absinthium, Harvesting stage, Total phenolic content.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.158441}, author = {A. Mohammadi and T. Ahmadzadeh Sani and A. A. Ameri and M. Imani and E. Golmakani and H. Kamali} } @article {435, title = {Serum Total Aantioxidant Capacity in Oral Carcinoma Patients}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {184-187}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {184}, abstract = {

Context: Oxidative stress is a major determinant in carcinogenesis and serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) indirectly reflects the level of oxidative stress. Although oral cancer is the third most frequent cancer in Indian population, there are no standard noninvasive marker for early detection and monitoring therapeutic response in oral cancer patients. Aims: This study was carried out to investigate implications of serum TAC in oral cancer by evaluating pre- and post-operative levels in oral cancer patients. Settings and Designs: It was a prospective single blinded study. Subjects and Methods: Serum TAC was measured using ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay. Pre- and post-operative values were estimated and compared in 30 oral cancer patients who underwent surgery. Statistical Analysis Used: Paired t-test was used to compare pre- and post-operative values. Results: Compared to the normal value, both pre- and post-operative serum TAC were significantly low in oral cancer patients. However, there was no statistically significant difference between pre- and postoperative levels. Conclusions: In this study, low mean serum TAC was detected in oral cancer patients. However, its diagnostic and prognostic significance in oral cancer needs further investigation.

}, keywords = {Cancer Marker, Oral cancer, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Total Antioxidant Capacity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150513}, author = {K. S. Rathan Shetty and Arunava Kali and K. S. Rachan Shetty} } @article {471, title = {Structural elucidation of chemical constituents from Benincasa hispida seeds and Carissa congesta roots by gas chromatography: Mass spectroscopy}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June,2015}, pages = {282-293}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {282}, abstract = {

Background: Benincasa hispida (BH) and Carissa congesta (CC) are regarded as ethnopharmacological imperative plants in Asian countries. Objectives: Phytochemical screening of the extracts has shown the presence of steroids, flavonoids, saponins, glycosides, tannins, phenolic compounds, fixed oils, and fats in the BH and CC extracts. The presence of lupeol has been reported previously by us using high-performance thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. Materials and Methods: Present research studies encompasses identification of chemical constituents in BH seeds and CC roots petroleum ether extracts by hyphenated technique such as gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (MS) which when coupled gives a clear insight of constituents. Results: The components were identified by matching mass spectra with MS libraries. There were 13 and 10 different compounds analyzed from CC and BH, respectively. The components present were Pentanoic acid, 5-hydroxy, 2,4-butylphenyl; n-Hexadecanoic acid (Palmitic acid); Sulfurous acid, 2-ethylhexylhepatdecyl ester; n-Tridecane; 6-methyltridecane; (9E, 12E)-9,12-Octadecadienyl chloride, Hexadecanoic acid, 3-(trimethylsilyl)-oxy] propyl ester; 9,12-Octadecadenoic acid, 2 hydroxy-1-(hyroxymethylethyl) ester; 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid, 2,3 dihydroxypropyl ester; n-Propyl-9,12-Octadecadienoate, Lupeol; Taraxasterol; 6a, 14a-Methanopicene, perhydro-12,4a, 61a, 9,9,12a-hepatmethyl-10-hydoxy and 9-Octadecene; 2-Isoprpenyl-5-methyl-6-hepten-1-ol; n-Hexadecanoic acid, 2-hyroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl) ethyl ether; Butyl-9,12-Octadecadieonate; Friedoolean-8-en-3-one; friedours-7-en-3-one; 13,27-Cyclosuran-3-one; Stigmaste-7,25-dien-3-ol (3β, 5α); Stigmasta-7,16-dien-3-ol; chrondrillasterol in BH seeds and CC roots extracts respectively. Conclusion: Eluted components from the extracts could provide further researchers to work with various pharmacological activities related models and studies.

}, keywords = {25-dien-3-ol., Apocynaceae, Benincasa hispida, Carissa congesta, Chrondrillasterol, Cururbitaceae, Gas chromatography, Lupeol, Mass spectroscopy, Stigmaste-7}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157179}, author = {Gaurav M. Doshi and Vivek V. Nalawade1 and Aaditi S. Mukadam and Pratip K. Chaskar and Sandeep P. Zine and Rakesh R. Somani and Hemant D. Une} } @article {464, title = {Study of Colouring Effect of Herbal Hair Formulations on Graying Hair}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June,2015}, pages = {259-262}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {259}, abstract = {

Objectives: To screen the hair colouring properties of hair colorants/ herbal hair colouring formulations. Materials and Methods: The dried aqueous herbal extracts of Gudhal leaves (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis), Jatamansi rhizome (Nardostachys jatamansi), Kuth roots (Saussurea lappa), Kattha (Acacia catechu), Amla dried fruit (Embelica officinalis), were prepared. Coffee powder (Coffea arabica)and Henna powder (Lowsonia inermis) were taken in the form of powder ($\#$ 40). Fourteen herbal hair colorants were prepared from these dried aqueous herbal extracts and powders. Activities of hair colorants were observed on sheep wool fibers. On the basis of the above observation six hair colorants were selected. These six formulations were taken for trials on human beings. Observation: The formulation coded HD-3 gave maximum colouring effect on sheep wool fibers as well as on human beings and percentage of acceptance among the volunteers were in the following order: HD- 3 \> HD- 4 \> HD-1 \> HD-13 \> HD- 14 \> HD-11. Results and Discussion: The remarkable results were obtained from five herbal hair colorants, viz., HD-1, HD- 3, HD- 4, HD-13 and HD-14 on sheep wool fibers and human beings. Formulation HD-3, having gudhal, jatamansi, kuth, kattha, amla, coffee and henna, was the maximum accepted formulation and suggested that these herbs in combination acts synergistically in hair colouring action. It also concluded that jatamansi, present in different hair colorants, was responsible to provide maximum blackening on hair

}, keywords = {Colorant formulations, Human hair, Natural hair, Sheep wool fibers.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.157976}, author = {Vijender Singh and Mohammed Ali and Sukirti Upadhyay} } @article {444, title = {A Study of Nigella sativa Induced Growth Inhibition of MCF and HepG2 cell lines: An anti-neoplastic Study along with its Mechanism of Action}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {193-197}, type = { Original Article}, chapter = {193}, abstract = {

Objective:\ To evaluate the anticancer potential of seeds of\ Nigellasativa\ using MCF and HepG2 cell lines along with its mechanism of action.\ Materials and Methods:\ (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and acridine orange/ethidium bromide nuclear staining technique were selected to evaluate anticancer potential and mechanism of action of test extract.\ Results:\ Aqueous extract of\ N.sativa\ at a test dose of 180 mg and 300 mg was identified to be the best as anticancer agent against MCF and HepG2 cell lines among different solvent test extract where doxorubicin and cisplatin were employed as standard references.\ Discussion:\ Further study including separation and characterization of active principles in the aqueous extract shall prove beneficial.

}, keywords = {Anti-neoplastic, HepG2, Human Breast Adenocarcinoma Cells, Nigella Sativa Seeds, Nuclear Staining}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150541 }, author = {Y Padmanabha Reddy and KB Chandrasekhar and Mohammed Jaffar Sadiq} } @article {567, title = {Toxicological and phytoprotective effect of Keayodendron bridelioides and Monodora myristica extracts in Wister rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {June 2015}, pages = {26-33}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {26}, abstract = {

Objectives: The potential toxicity of Keayodendron bridelioides (KB), Monodora myristica (MM) were examined, and phytoprotection of MM and KB stemming from their phytochemical contents against sodium arsenite (SA) induced clastogenicity in Wister{\textquoteright}s rat. Materials and Methods: Dose range studies of KB in rats, genotoxicity of MM and KB by SOS-inductive respomse were investigated using E. coli PQ37. Male rats were exposed to varying concentrations of MM, KB over a five week period to evaluate MM and KB phytoprotectives properties were also evaluated against sodium arsenite induced micronucleated erythrocytes, hepatotoxicity and sperm quality and morphology. Results: In contrast to KB, MM induced micronuclei formation in rat erythrocytes, MM and KB were however not genotoxic. MM, SA alone and in combination were hepatotoxic, characterized by elevated hepatic transaminases. Hepatoxicity were ameliorated by co-administration of KB (P \< 0.05). MM and KB did not induce changes in semen morphology (P \> 0.05); but decreased sperm count and motility (P \< 0.05). Extracts exhibited anti-clastogenic (KB \> MM), hepatoprotective (KB \> MM) activities and maintained semen viability against SA treatment. Conclusion: Finding applications as herbal medicinal and food components KB and MM may be useful in mitigating the effect of toxicants in biological systems susceptible to oxidative damage.

}, keywords = {Keayodendron bridelioides, Micronuclei and phytoprotection, Monodora myristica genotoxicity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.150508}, author = {Solomon E Owumi and Abiodun C Oloidi and Cinzia O Oloye and Oludare O Oladeji and Moses O Obadare and Oyeronke A Odunola} } @article {887, title = {Acetylcholine and Memory-Enhancing Activity of Ficus racemosa Bark}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2014}, month = {November,2011}, pages = {246-249}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {246}, abstract = {

Background: Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder resulting in dementia and enhancement of acetylcholine (Ach) levels in brain using acetylcholinesterase inhibitors is one of the most important approaches for the treatment of AD. Methods: In this study, aqueous extract of Ficus racemosa Linn. (Moraceae) bark having anti-infl ammatory, antioxidant, and anticholinesterase activity was evaluated for its ability to enhance Ach levels, and to ascertain its antidementia activity in rats. This work was carried out under the assumption that the F. racemosa extract may show combination of actions which could be beneficial in the treatment of AD, such as neuroprotection, attributed to antioxidant and anti-infl ammatory property and may elevate levels of Ach like Ficus hispida extract reported earlier. Results: Administration of the extract at two levels viz., 250 and 500 mg/kg signifi cantly raised (P <= 0.05) Ach levels in hippocampi of rats compared to control. The percentage enhancement in Ach levels was found to be 22\% and 38\%, respectively. Further, the extract at both dosage levels elicited signifi cant reduction (P <= 0.05) in transfer latency on elevated plus-maze, which was used as an exteroceptive behavioral model to evaluate memory in rats. Conclusion: It is inferred that it would be worthwhile to explore the potential of F. racemosa in the management of Alzheimer disease.

}, keywords = {Acetylcholine, Alzheimer disease, Memory, Plus-maze, Transfer latency}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.89744}, author = {Faiyaz Ahmed and J. N. Narendra Sharath Chandra and S. Manjunath} } @article {817, title = {Amelioration of Insulin Resistance by Rk 1 + Rg 5 Complex Under Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Conditions}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {292-296}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {292}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic syndrome exaggerated by stress conditions. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) impairs the insulin signaling pathway making the diabetic conditions worsen. Pharmacological agents are supplied externally to overcome this malfunction. Ginsenosides from Panax ginseng C.A Meyer possesses many pharmacological properties and are used for the treatment of diabetes. Objective: To investigate the effects of the Rk 1 +Rg 5 complex on the amelioration of insulin resistance in 3T3-L1 cells under endoplasmic reticulum stress conditions. Materials and Methods: Heat-processed ginseng extracts are found to contain many pharmacologically active ginsenosides. Among them Rk 1 +Rg 5 is found to be present in higher concentrations than the other minor ginsenosides. The Rk 1 +Rg 5 complex was tested for its effect in the 3T3-L1 insulin-resistant model and subjected to the MTT assay, glucose oxidase assay and gene expression studies using RT-PCR and real-time PCR under endoplasmic reticulum stress conditions. Results: Rk 1 +Rg 5 treatment is found to increase the glucose uptake into the cells when compared to that of a positive control (tunicamycin treatment group, TM). Further we have analyzed the role at gene expression level. The Rk 1 +Rg 5 complex was found to show an effect on the IGF 2R receptor, CHOP-10, and C/EBP gene at a particular treated concentration (50 μM). Moreover, stress condition (about 50\% decreases) was overcome by the ginsenoside treatments at 50 μM. Conclusion: The present results showed that under endoplasmic reticulum stress conditions Rk 1 +Rg 5 complex exhibits a potential protective role in insulin-resistant 3T3-L1 cells.

}, keywords = {3T3-L1, Dexamethasone, Diabetes, Ginsenosides, Insulin, Insulin resistance}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.138257}, author = {Shree Priya Ponnuraj and Fayeza Siraj, Sera Kang and Hae Yong Noh, Jin-Woo Min and Yeon-Ju Kim and Deok-Chun Yang} } @article {760, title = {Ameliorative Effect of Matricaria chamomilla.L on Paraquat: Induced Oxidative Damage in Lung Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {199-203}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {199}, abstract = {

Background: Herbal medicines have been long used for antioxidant properties. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of hydroalcholic extract Matricaria chamomilla. L (M. chamomilla) against Paraquat (PQ) induced pulmonary injury in association with its antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: Effective doses of PQ (5 mg/kg/day) and M. chamomilla (50 mg/kg/day) were administered alone or in combination for 7 days. At the end of the experiment, lung tissue of the animals was separated. The activity of enzymatic scavengers such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), lipid peroxidation (LPO) and total antioxidant power (TAP) were measured. Results: In these samples, the LPO, SOD, and GPx were higher in the PQ group as compared with controls. M. chamomilla extract ameliorated LPO, SOD, GPx and increased TAP in plasma and lung tissue of PQ induced changes. Co administration of PQ with M. chamomilla improved LPO and SOD, and GPx. Conclusion: M. chamomilla as natural antioxidant may be considered beneficial for the protection oxidative lung injury in PQ poisoning.

}, keywords = {Lung, Matricaria chamomilla. L, Oxidative stress, Paraquat, Rat}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.132595}, author = {Akram Ranjbar and Fariba Mohsenzadeh and Abdolkarim Chehregani and Farzad Khajavi and Seyed-Mostafa Hossini Zijoud and Hassan Ghasemi} } @article {834, title = {Ameliorative Effect of Phytocee{\texttrademark} Cool Against Carbon Tetrachloride-induced Oxidative Stress}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {320-325}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {320}, abstract = {

Background: Antioxidants from natural sources have a major role in reversing the effects of oxidative stress and promoting health, growth and productivity in animals. Objective: This study was undertaken to investigate the possible antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective effects of Phytocee{\texttrademark} Cool on carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 ) induced oxidative stress and liver damage in rats. Materials and Methods: Animals were pretreated with Phytocee{\texttrademark} Cool for 10 days and were challenged with CCl 4 (1:1 v/v) in olive oil on the 10 th day. After 24 h of CCl 4 administration blood was collected and markers of hepatocellular damage aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were evaluated. Rats were sacrificed and oxidative stress in liver was estimated using malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. Results: CCl 4 caused a significant increase in serum AST, ALT, hepatic MDA and GSH levels, whereas the SOD and catalase activities were decreased. Phytocee{\texttrademark} Cool pretreatment attenuated the MDA, AST ALT levels and increased the activities of SOD and catalase. Conclusion: Phytocee{\texttrademark} Cool demonstrated antioxidant potential and hepatoprotective effects and plausibly be used in the amelioration of oxidative stress.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Carbon tetrachloride, Oxidative stress, Phytocee{\texttrademark} Cool}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138284}, author = {Joshua Allan Joseph and Usha Parackal Thachappully Ayyappan and Suja Rani Sasidharan and Sridhar Mutyala and Krishnagouda Shankargouda Goudar and Amit Agarwal} } @article {703, title = {Analysis of the Essential Oil Components from Different Carum copticumL. Samples from Iran}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {62-66}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {62}, keywords = {Ajwain, Carum copticum L, Essential oil, GC analysis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122920}, author = {Mohammad M Zarshenas and Soliman Mohammadi Samani and Peyman Petramfar and Mahmoodreza Moein} } @article {798, title = {Anti-allergic Activity of the Morinda citrifolia Extract and its Constituents}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {260-265}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {260-265}, abstract = {

Background: Morinda citrifolia (Rubiaceae), commonly known as noni is distributed throughout tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Anti-allergic effects of noni have not been reported despite the clinical usage as an anti-allergic agent. Materials and Methods: To investigate the anti-allergic effects of the 50\% ethanolic extract of M. citrifolia fruits and leaves (MCF-ext and MCL-ext), dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced triphasic cutaneous reaction and picryl chloride-induced contact dermatitis (PC-CD) tests were performed. Results: In DNFB-induced triphasic cutaneous reaction, oral administration of MCF-ext and MCL-ext exhibited dose-dependent inhibition of cutaneous reaction at 1 h (immediate phase response) after the DNFB challenge. MCF-ext also inhibited ear swelling at 24 h (late phase response) and 8 days (very late phase response) after the DNFB challenge. The effect of MCL-ext on the immediate phase response was attributed to the anti-degranulation from RBL-2H3 cells, while MCF-ext had no significant effect on degranulation. The active components of anti-degranulation activity in MCL-ext were determined to be ursolic acid, rutin and kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1{\textrightarrow}6)-β-D-glucopyranoside. In the PC-CD test, both MCF-ext and MCL-ext showed an anti-swelling effect but the potency of MCF-ext was stronger than MCL-ext. Conclusion: These data suggest that noni fruits and leaves can be a daily consumable material for the prevention of allergic symptoms.

}, keywords = {Allergy, Contact dermatitis, Degranulation, IgE-mediated triphasic cutaneous reaction, Morinda citrifolia}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.132608}, author = {Kazuya Murata and Yumi Abe and Kaito Shinohara and Megumi Futamura-Masuda and Akemi Uwaya and Fumiyuki Isami and Hideaki Matsuda} } @article {804, title = {Antiallergic Effect of an Aqueous Leaf Extract of Pistia Stratiotes in Murine Model of Ovalbumin-induced Allergic Conjunctivitis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {274-279}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {274}, abstract = {

Aim: The aim was to investigate the antiallergic effect of an aqueous leaf extract of Pistia stratiotes (ALPS) in a murine model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic conjunctivitis (AC). Materials and Methods: Prior to topical challenge (instillation of 1.5 mg OVA in 10 μL phosphate buffered saline into their conjunctival sacs) to induce AC, groups of sensitized Imprinting Control Region mice (injected IP, on day 1 and 7, with 0.2 ml solution of 100 μg OVA and 0.01 mg aluminum hydroxide in phosphate buffered saline), were treated with 5 mg/kg cetirizine, 10, 50 or 100 mg/kg of ALPS, or 2 ml/kg normal saline per os. Conjunctival redness, lid edema, tearing and lid scratching (clinical symptoms of AC) were scored. Serum OVA specific immunoglobulins were determined using ELISA. Histopathological assessment of the conjunctival mucosal tissue was conducted. The extract was screened for secondary plant metabolites. Results: Pretreatment with the extract significantly (P <= 0.05-0.01) and dose-dependently reduced the scores for clinical symptoms, which were marked in vehicle-pretreated mice. Pretreatment also lowered (P <= 0.01-0.001) serum OVA specific immunoglobulins. Mast cell infiltration and degranulation in conjunctival stroma (measured by an inflammatory score) in histopathological studies was also significantly low (P <= 0.05-0.01) on pretreatment. Conclusion: The ALPS exhibited interesting antiallergic activity and hence could be useful in managing AC.

}, keywords = {Conjunctival redness, Lid edema, Mast cell degranulation, Mast cell infiltration, Tearing}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.138243}, author = {Samuel Abokyi and George Asumeng Koffuor and Samuel Kyei and Emmanuel A Asiamah and Clement Nsobire Atobiga and Agnes Awuah} } @article {738, title = {Anti-allodynic and Anti-hyperalgesic Effects of an Ethanolic Extract and Xylopic Acid from the Fruits of Xylopia aethiopica in Murine Models of Neuropathic Pain}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {172-179}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {172}, abstract = {

Background: Fruit extracts of Xylopia aethiopica are used traditionally in the management of pain disorders including headache and neuralgia. An animal model of vincristine-induced sensory neuropathy was developed after repeated intraperitoneal injection in rats and used in the present work to study the effects of the ethanolic extract of X. aethiopica (XAE) and its diterpene xylopic acid (XA) in vincristine-induced neuropathic pain. Materials and Methods: Vincristine (0.1 mg kg -1 day -1 ) was administered during two cycles of five consecutive days to induce chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain. Static tactile anti-allodynic, anti-hyperalgesic, and cold anti-allodynic effects of XAE (30-300 mg kg -1 ) and XA (10-100 mg kg -1 ) were assessed using Von Frey filaments of bending forces of 4, 8, and 15 g, the Randall-Selitto paw pressure test, and cold water (4.5{\textdegree}C), respectively. Results: Administration of vincristine caused the development of allodynia and hyperalgesia with no significant motor deficit, spontaneous pain, and foot deformity. XAE (30-300 mg kg -1 ) and XA (10-100 mg kg -1 ) exhibited anti-hyperalgesic, tactile, and cold anti-allodynic properties with XA exhibiting greater potency than XAE. Pregabalin (10-100 mg kg -1 ) used as control produced similar effect. Conclusion: These findings establish the anti-allodynic and anti-hyperalgesic effects of the ethanolic fruit XAE and its major diterpene XA in vincristine-induced neuropathtic pain.

}, keywords = {Pregabalin, Randall-sellito, Vincristine, Von Frey filaments}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129041}, author = {Elvis O Ameyaw and Eric Woode and Eric Boakye-Gyasi and Wonder K.M Abotsi and James Oppong Kyekyeku and Reimmel K Adosraku} } @article {824, title = {Anticancer Active Homoisoflavone from the Underground Bulbs of Ledebouria hyderabadensis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {303-305}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {303}, abstract = {

Background: Ledebouria is a genus of deciduous or weakly evergreen bulbs in the Hyacinthaceae family. This is recognized as the first collection made of the new taxon Ledebouria hyderabadensis, exist in the Hyderabad city of Andhra Pradesh, India. Objective: The goal of this work was to investigate the phytochemical constituents present in the new specifies and also to evaluate the cytotoxic properties of the extracts and pure compounds against human cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods: The anticancer activity was evaluated in in vitro mode by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test. Results: Phytochemical investigation of underground bulbs of indigenous, rare, and recently identified herb L. hyderabadensis yielded a bioactive homoisoflavanone, Scillascillin 1. The structure of the compound was established on the basis of various nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectral data. The compound Scillascillin was isolated for the first time from L. hyderabadensis. In vitro anticancer activity, performed using MTT assay, showed compound 1 as significantly active against human cancer cell lines MCF-7 (breast cancer) and DU-145 (prostate cancer) with inhibitory concentration (IC) 50 values 9.59 and 11.32 μg/ml respectively when compared with herb methanol extract (IC 50 values 36.21 and 44.86 μg/ml respectively).

}, keywords = {Anticancer activity, Hyacinthaceae, Ledebouria hyderabadensis, Scillascillin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138272}, author = {Yakaiah Chinthala and Srinivas Chinde and Arigari Niranjana kumar and K.V.N. Satya Srinivas and Jonnala Kotesh Kumar and Kakaraparthy Pandu Sastry and Paramjit Grover and M Venkat Ramana} } @article {856, title = {Anticancer Potential of Syzygium aromaticum L. in MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {350-354}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {350}, abstract = {

Background: The common treatment for cancer is unfavorable because it causes many detrimental side effects, and lately, there has been a growing resistance toward anticancer drugs, which worsens the future of cancer treatment. Therefore, the focus has now shifted toward natural products, such as spices and plants, among many others, to save the future of cancer treatment. Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum L.) are spices with the highest antioxidant content among natural products. Besides acting as an antioxidant, cloves also possess many other functions, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiseptic, which makes them an ideal natural source to be developed as an anticancer agent. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the cytotoxic activity of cloves toward MCF-7 human breast cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods: Different concentrations of water extract, ethanol extract, and essential oil of cloves were investigated for their anticancer potential in vitro through a brine shrimp lethality test (BSLT) and an MTT assay. Results: In both BSLT and MTT assays, the essential oil showed the highest cytotoxic effect, followed by ethanol and water extract. The LD 50 concentration of essential oil in the 24 hr\ BSLT was 37 μg/mL. Furthermore, the IC 50 values in the 24 hr\ and 48 hr\ MTT assays of the essential oil were 36.43 μg/mL and 17.6 μg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: Cloves are natural products with excellent cytotoxicity toward MCF-7 cells; thus, they are promising sources for the development of anticancer agents.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Brine shrimp lethality test, Clove, cytotoxicity, MCF-7}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138291}, author = {Parvinnesh S Kumar and Raden M Febriyanti and Ferry F Sofyan and Dimas E Luftimas and Rizky Abdulah} } @article {708, title = {Anticarcinogenic Effect of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its Ingredients}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {99-107}, type = {Review article}, chapter = {99}, abstract = {

Conventional and newly emerging treatment procedures such as chemotherapy, catalytic therapy, photodynamic therapy and radiotherapy have not succeeded in reversing the outcome of cancer diseases to any drastic extent, which has led researchers to investigate alternative treatment options. The extensive repertoire of traditional medicinal knowledge systems from various parts of the world are being re-investigated for their healing properties Crocus sativus L., commonly known as saffron, is the raw material for one of the most expensive spice in the world, and it has been used in folk medicine for centuries . Chemical analysis has shown the presence of more than 150 components in saffron stigmas. The more powerful components of saffron are crocin, crocetin and safranal. Studies in animal models and with cultured human malignant cell lines have demonstrated antitumor and cancer preventive activities of saffron and its main ingredients, possible mechanisms for these activities are discussed. More direct evidence of anticancer effectiveness of saffron as chemo-preventive agent may come from trials that use actual reduction of cancer incidence as the primary endpoint. This review discusses recent literature data and our results on the cancer chemopreventive activities of saffron and its main ingredients.

}, keywords = {Anticarcinogenic effect, Its ingredients, Saffron}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.128963}, author = {Saeed Samarghandian and Abasalt Borji} } @article {748, title = {Anticonvulsant Activity of Morus alba and its Effect on Brain Bamma-aminobutyric Acid Level in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {188-189}, type = {letter to the editor}, chapter = {188}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129046}, author = {Gaurav Gupta and Mohammad Afzal and Sheba Rani David and Rohit Verma and Mayuren Candaswamy and Firoz Anwar} } @article {764, title = {Anti-diarrhoeal Investigation from Aqueous Extract of Cuminum cyminum Linn. Seed in Albino Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = { 204-209}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = { 204}, abstract = {

Background: Cuminum cyminum Linn. (Umbelliferae), commonly known as Jeera. It is native from mediterranean region, but today widely cultivated in Asian countries. It has been reported to possess various medicinal properties and an important food ingredient. The seed of the plant are claimed for treatment of diarrhoea by various traditional practitioners. Objectives: Hence, the present investigation was undertaken to evaluate aq. extract of C. cyminum seeds (ACCS) against diarrhoea on albino rats. Materials and Methods: The animals were divided into five groups and the control group was applied with 2\% acacia suspension, the standard group with loperamide (3 mg/kg) or atropine sulphate (5mg/kg) and three test groups administered orally with 100, 250 and 500 mg/kg of ACCS. The antidiarrhoeal effect was investigated by castor oil induce diarrhoea model, prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) induced enteropooling model, intestinal transit by charcoal meal test. Results: The ACCS showed significant (P \< 0.001) inhibition in frequency of diarrhoea, defecation time delaying, secretion of intestinal fluid as well as intestinal propulsion as compared to control and the graded doses of tested extract followed dose dependent protection against diarrhoea. Conclusions: The study reveals that the ACCS is a potent antidiarrhoeal drug which supports the traditional claim.

}, keywords = {Antidiarrhoeal effect, Castor oil, Enteropooling model, Intestinal transit, Seed}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.132596}, author = {Himanshu Bhusan Sahoo and Saroj Kumar Sahoo and Sarada Prasad Sarangi and Rakesh Sagar and Mohan Lal Kori} } @article {802, title = {Antihyperlipidemic Potential of Albizia amara (Roxb) Boiv. Bark Against Triton X-100 Induced Hyperlipidemic Condition in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, abstract = {

Background: The plant Albizia amara (Roxb.) Boiv. bark was used in traditional medical practices of India to treat cardiovascular diseases. Hyperlipidemia is the greatest risk factor of coronary heart disease. Objective: The objective of this study was to screen the potential of A. amara against the condition of hyperlipidemia in rats. Materials and Methods: The antihyperlipidemic activity of A. amara ethanolic extract (AAEE) was studied on Triton X-100 induced model of hyperlipidemia in rats. Hyperlipidemia in experimental rats was evidenced by an enhancement in the levels of serum cholesterol, triglycerides (TGs), low density lipoprotein (LDL), very LDL (VLDL) and decrease in high density lipoprotein (HDL). Results: AAEE showed significant antihyperlipidemic effect by lowering the serum levels of biochemical parameters such as a significant reduction in the level of serum cholesterol, TG (104.1 {\textpm} 3.39), LDL (48.2 {\textpm} 2.19), VLDL (20.81 {\textpm} 0.67) and increase in HDL (47.25 {\textpm} 2.05) level with an increase in a dose of AAEE (41.39 {\textpm} 1.24) \< (47.25 {\textpm} 2.05), which was similar to the standard drug atorvastatin. The results of serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase also revealed that the plant extract was found to be safe on liver. Histopathological evaluation also revealed the positive effect of the plant extract. Preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phytoconstituents such as saponins, glycosides and tannins. The preliminary chemical constituents stood as a strong evidence for the study. Conclusion: Summing up the evidences of the pragmatic study, we can conclude that the extract of A. amara (Roxb.) Boiv. Bark aids in declining the condition of hyperlipidemia in rats.

}, keywords = {Albizia amara, Atorvastatin, Hyperlipidemia, Triton X-100}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138237}, author = {Rohit Gundamaraju and Kim Kah Hwi and Rajeev K Singla and Ravi Chandra Vemuri and Sartaj Banu Mulapalli} } @article {807, title = {Antimalarial Activity of Malaysian Plectranthus amboinicus Against Plasmodium Berghei}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {280-284}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {280}, abstract = {

Context: Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by parasitic protozoa from the genus of Plasmodium. The protozoans have developed resistance against many of current drugs. It is urgent to find an alternative source of new antimalarial agent. In the effort to discover new antimalarial agents, this research has been conducted on Plectranthus amboinicus. Aims: This study was conducted to evaluate the toxicity and antiplasmodial properties of P. amboinicus. Materials and Methods: Acute oral toxicity dose at 5000 mg/kg was conducted to evaluate the safety of this extract. Twenty mice were divided into control and experimental group. All the mice were observed for signs of toxicity, mortality, weight changes and histopathological changes. Antimalarial activity of different extract doses of 50, 200, 400 and 1000 mg/kg were tested in vivo against Plasmodium berghei infections in mice (five mice for each group) during early, established and residual infections. Results: The acute oral toxicity test revealed that no mortality or evidence of adverse effects was seen in the treated mice. The extract significantly reduced the parasitemia by the 50 (P = 0.000), 200 (P = 0.000) and 400 mg/kg doses (P = 0.000) in the in vivo prophylactic assay. The percentage chemo-suppression was calculated as 83.33\% for 50 mg/kg dose, 75.62\% for 200 mg/kg dose and 90.74\% for 400 mg/kg dose. Body weight of all treated groups; T1, T2, T3 and T4 also showed enhancement after 7 days posttreatment. Statistically no reduction of parasitemia calculated for curative and suppressive test. Conclusion: Thus, this extract may give a promising agent to be used as a prophylactic agent of P. berghei infection.

}, keywords = {Antiplasmodial, Phytochemicals, Plectranthus amboinicus, Safety, Toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138248}, author = {Norazsida Ramli and Pakeer Oothuman Syed Ahamed and Hassan Mohamed Elhady and Muhammad Taher} } @article {831, title = {Antiproliferative Effects of Plumbago rosea and its Purified Constituent Plumbagin on SK-MEL 28 Melanoma Cell Lines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {312-319}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {312}, abstract = {

Background: Plumbago rosea is used in traditional systems of medicine for the preparation of formulations used for treating inflammations, cough, bronchitis, and gastrointestinal disorders, and also in conjunction with cancer chemotherapy. In the present study, the cytotoxic and anti-proliferative effects of plumbagin, and the ethanolic root extract of P. rosea (ETPR) was evaluated on SK-MEL 28 melanoma cell lines and human lymphocytes. Materials and Methods: MTT and apoptotic assays were used for the evaluation of cytotoxic and anti-proliferative effects, respectively. In addition, the effect of Plumbagin and ETPR in down regulation of BCL-2 expression is investigated using RT-PCR analysis. Results: Both plumbagin and ETPR dose-dependently decreased the cell viability more potently in melanoma cell lines. P. rosea extract demonstrated significant synergy in inhibiting BCL-2 expression than plumbagin. Moreover plumbagin showed more toxicity in human lymphocytes. Conclusion: Plumbagin has anti-cancer potential, but the side effects limits its use; yet plumbagin, in combination with other ingredients in Plumbago rosea extract, displays significant synergy leading to a stronger anticancer effect with significantly less toxicity.

}, keywords = {BCL-2, ethanolic root extract of P. rosea, High performance liquid chromatography, Plumbagin, Plumbago rosea, SK-MEL 28}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138280}, author = {Alexander Ronaldo Anuf and Rajesh Ramachandran and Rajaram Krishnasamy and PS Sudhakar Gandhi and Sureshkumar Periyasamy} } @article {976, title = {Anti-Quorum Sensing Potential of Adenanthera Pavonina}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {7}, year = {2014}, month = {December 2014}, pages = {105-109}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {105}, abstract = {

Background: Quorum sensing (QS) in Pseudomonas aeruginosa plays a key role in virulence factor production, biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance. Because of emerging antimicrobial resistance in P. aeruginosa, there is a need to find an alternate nonantibiotic agent for the control of infections caused by this organism. Objective: To evaluate anti-QS activity of Adenanthera pavonina L., a medicinal plant used in traditional medicine. Materials and Methods: Preliminary screening for anti-QS activity of ethanol extract of A. pavonina was carried out using Chromobacterium violaceum CV026 biosensor strain and inhibition of QS-regulated violacein production was quantified using C. violaceum ATCC12472. Bioassay guided fractionation of ethanol extract resulted in ethyl acetate fraction (AEF) with strong anti-QS activity and AEF was evaluated for inhibition of QS-regulated pyocyanin production, proteolytic, elastolytic activity, swarming motility and biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa\ PAO1. Results: AEF, at 0.5 mg/ml, inhibited pyocyanin production completely and at 1 mg/ml of AEF, complete inhibition of proteolytic and elastolytic activities were observed. However, viability of P. aeruginosa PAO1 was not affected at the tested concentrations of AEF as observed by cell count. Swarming motility was inhibited at the concentration of 0.1 mg/ml of AEF. Thin layer chromatography and biosensor overlay of AEF showed violacein inhibition zone at Rf value 0.63. Conclusion: From the results of this study, it can be concluded that A. pavonina extracts can be used as effective anti-QS agents.

}, keywords = {Adenanthera pavonina, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Quorum sensing, Virulence}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.147220}, author = {Halkare Suryanarayana Vasavi and Ananthapadmanabha Bhagwath Arun and Punchappady-Devasya Rekha} } @article {715, title = {Aphrodisiac Activity of Polyherbal Formulation in Experimental Models on Male Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {120-126}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {120}, abstract = {

Objective: To investigate the aphrodisiac potential of polyherbal formulations prepared from different parts of Tribulus terrestris, Curculigo orchioides, Allium tuberosum, Cucurbita pepo, Elephant creeper, Mucuna pruriens, and Terminalia catappa in Albino rats in specified ratio as suspension. Materials and Methods: The different concentrations of prepared polyherbal formulations i.e. 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg and sildenafil citrate as standard (5 mg/kg) and vehicle (control) were administered orally to rats (n = 6 animals per group) for 3 weeks. Mating behavior parameters in male rats was monitored in first week and third week week of treatment pairing with receptive females. After termination of drug treatment, the mating performance, hormonal analysis, sperm count, and testes-body weight ratio were also evaluated. Results: The polyherbal formulation showed a significant increase in mating behavior as well as mating performance, serum hormonal levels, sperm count, and testes-body weight ratio with dose-dependent relationship as compared to vehicle control. But the dose of 600 mg/kg of polyherbal formulation assumes closer resemblance of above parameters with the standard used. Conclusion: The results of the study strongly suggest that the polyherbal formulations have a good aphrodisiac activity on rats in the above experimental models, which may be an alternative weapon for various sexual dysfunctions in future.

}, keywords = {Aphrodisiac, Mating behavior, Polyherbal formulations, Serum hormonal levels, Sexual dysfunctions, Testes-body weight ratio}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129029}, author = {Himanshu Bhusan Sahoo and Subhangkar Nandy and Aswini Kumar Senapati and Sarada Prasad Sarangi and Saroj Kumar Sahoo} } @article {730, title = {Biphasic effect of Solanum nigrum fruit aqueous extract on vascular mesenteric beds in non-diabetic and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {148-152}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {148}, abstract = {

Background: In Asia, Solanum nigrum fruit is traditionally used to manage, control, and treat diabetes. Objective: This study was carried out to investigate the endothelium and nitric oxide roles in Solanum nigrum-induced vasorelaxation in non-diabetic and diabetic rat vessels. Materials and Methods: Diabetes was induced by a single i.p. injection of streptozotocin. Eight weeks later, superior mesenteric arteries of non-diabetic and diabetic groups were isolated and perfused according to the McGregor method. Solanum nigrum fruit extract (SNE) at concentrations of 0.00001 to 0.6 mg/ml was added to the medium and perfusion pressure was recorded. Results: Baseline perfusion pressure of diabetic group was significantly higher than non-diabetic rats in both intact and denuded endothelium. The low concentrations of SNE have vasodilatory effect in the diabetic and non-diabetic, but high concentrations of SNE produce initial significant contractions, followed by secondary relaxations in normal and diabetic rats. We observed vasorelaxation at low and high concentrations of SNE in both diabetic and non-diabetic groups after endothelium denudation. SNE-induced vasorelaxation in diabetic group is mediated by both endothelium and smooth muscle, but the relaxatory effect of SNE in non-diabetic group is not mediated by endothelium, and SNE has direct action on the smooth muscle. Conclusion: Although the part of SNE-induced relaxation in diabetic vessel was mediated by endothelium, nitric oxide didn{\textquoteright}t play any role in this action, and maybe we can use SNE in the management of diabetes vessel complications in future.

}, keywords = {Diabetes mellitus, Mesenteric bed, Nitric oxide, Solanum nigrum fruit extract vasorelaxation}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129036}, author = {Shahla Sohrabipour and Fatemah Kharazmi and Nepton Soltani and Mohammad Kamalinejad} } @article {704, title = {Caffeoylquinic Acids in Leaves of Selected Apocynaceae Species: Their Isolation and Content}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {: 67-72}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {67}, abstract = {

Background: Three compounds isolated from the methanol (MeOH) leaf extract of Vallaris glabra (Apocynaceae) were those of caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs). This prompted a quantitative analysis of their contents in leaves of V. glabra in comparison with those of five other Apocynaceae species (Alstonia angustiloba, Dyera costulata, Kopsia fruticosa, Nerium oleander, and Plumeria obtusa), including flowers of Lonicera japonica (Japanese honeysuckle), the commercial source of chlorogenic acid (CGA). Materials and Methods: Compound were isolated by column chromatography, and identified by NMR and MS analyses. CQA content of leaf extracts was determined using reversed-phase HPLC. Results: From the MeOH leaf extract of V. glabra, 3-CQA, 4-CQA, and 5-CQA or CGA were isolated. Content of 5-CQA of V. glabra was two times higher than flowers of L. japonica, while 3-CQA and 4-CQA content was 16 times higher. Conclusion: With much higher CQA content than the commercial source, leaves of V. glabra can serve as a promising alternative source.

}, keywords = {Apocynaceae, Caffeoylquinic acids, Chlorogenic acid, Vallaris glabra}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122921}, author = {Siu Kuin Wong and Yau Yan Lim and Sui Kiong Ling and Eric Wei Chiang Chan} } @article {698, title = {Comparative Assessment on In vitro Antioxidant Activities of Ethanol Extracts of Averrhoa bilimbi , Gymnema Sylvestre and Capsicum Frutescens}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {36-41}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {36}, abstract = {

Background: Averrhoa bilimbi, Gymnema sylvestre and Capsicum frutescens are medicinal plants commonly used as traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases. The present study was designed to investigate the antioxidant activities of Ethanolic extract of A. bilimbi, G. sylvestre and C. frutescens. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant activity of the extracts were evaluated using total phenolic and flavonoid contents, ferric reducing power and the free radical scavenging activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Results: Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were higher in G. sylvestre (53.63636 ΁ 0.454545 mg/g gallic acid equivalent) and C. frutescens (26.66667 ΁ 2.081666 mg/g quercetin equivalent) respectively. Reducing power of the crude ethanol extracts increased with the concentrations of the extracts and all the extracts showed moderate free radical scavenging activity against DPPH. The plant extract displayed moderate phenolic and flavonoid contents compared to gallic acid and quercetin equivalent respectively, whereas also exhibited significant scavenging of DPPH radical and reducing power compared with ascorbic acid as standard. Conclusion: Our study suggests that G. sylvestre has significant antioxidant activity. The antioxidant compound of this plant might be a therapeutic candidate against oxidative stress related diseases. Different sub-fraction of A. bilimbi and C. frutescens should be studied further to assess the effect. Further study is necessary for isolation and characterization of the active antioxidant agents for better treatment.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Ethanolic extract, Free radical, G. sylvestre, Oxidative stress}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122915}, author = {Md. Mominur Rahman and Md. Razibul Habib and Md. Anayet Hasan and Mohammad Al Amin and Ayan Saha and Adnan Mannan} } @article {744, title = {Comparative Study of Antidiabetic activity of Cajanus Cajan and Tamarindus indica in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Mice with a Reference to In vitro Antioxidant Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {180-187}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {180}, abstract = {

Background: Oxidative stress not only develops complications in diabetic (type 1 and type 2) but also contributes to beta cell destruction in type 2 diabetes in insulin resistance hyperglycemia. Glucose control plays an important role in the pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance. Some antidiabetic agents may by themselves have antioxidant properties independently of their role on glucose control. Objective: The present investigation draws a comparison of the protective antioxidant activity, total phenol content and the antihyperglycemic activity of the methanolic extract of Cajanus cajan root (MCC) and Tamarindus indica seeds (MTI). Materials and Methods: Antidiabetic potentials of the plant extracts were evaluated in alloxan-induced diabetic Swiss albino mice. The plant extracts at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight was orally administered for glucose tolerance test during 1-hour study and hypoglycemic effect during 5-day study period in comparison with reference drug Metformin HCl (50 mg/kg). In vitro antioxidant potential of MCC and MTI was investigated by using 1, 1- diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity at 517 nm. Total phenolic content, total antioxidant capacity and reducing power activity was also assayed. Results: There was a significant decrease in fasting serum glucose level (P \< 0.001), reduction in blood glucose level (P \< 0.001) in 5-days study, observed in the alloxan-induced diabetic mice. The reduction efficacy of blood glucose level of both the extracts is proportional to their dose but MCC is more potent than MTI. Antioxidant study and quantification of phenolic compound of both the extracts revealed that they have high antioxidant capacity. Conclusion: These studies showed that MCC and MTI have both hypoglycemic and antioxidant potential but MCC is more potent than MTI. The present study suggests that both MCC and MTI could be used in managing oxidative stress.

}, keywords = {1, 1- diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, Alloxan, Antioxidant activity, Hyperglycemia, Metformin hydrochloride, Oxidative stress}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129043}, author = {Laizuman Nahar and Fatema Nasrin and Ronok Zahan and Anamul Haque and Ekramul Haque and Ashik Mosaddik} } @article {822, title = {A Comparative Study of the Effect of Come Nutritional Medicinal Plants Effect on Lead Accumulation in the Liver Following Different Modes of Administration}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {306-311}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {306}, abstract = {

Context and Objectives: Lead (Pb) toxicity leads to cell damage in many organs of the body. Using different treatment interventions and modes of administration we comparatively examined the protective ability of some medicinal plants on liver Pb accumulation. Materials and Methods: Rats were fed on either 7\% w/w Zingiber officinale, 7\% w/w Allium sativum, 10\% w/w Lycopersicon esculentum, 5\%, w/w Garcinia kola (all in rat chow), while Pb (100 ppm) was given in drinking water. The additives were administered together with (mode 1), a week after exposure to (mode 2) or a week before metal exposure to (mode 3) the metal for a period of 6 weeks. The metal accumulations in the liver were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry and compared using analysis of variance. Results: Some additives significantly (P \< 0.05) reduced, while others enhanced Pb accumulation. Mode 2 yielded the highest mean \% protection and mode 3 the lowest, no significant interaction between modes of administration and time of measurement in their relationships to percentage protection, but there was statistically significant (P \< 0.05) interaction between modes of administration and additive used in their relationships to percentage protection. Conclusion: Protective effects of medicinal plants are varied and depend on the nature of lead exposure.

}, keywords = {Accumulation pattern, Allium sativum, Garcinia kola, Lead, Liver, Lycopersicon esculentum, Mode of administration, Zingiber officinale}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138278}, author = {Chukwuemeka Nwokocha and Novie Younger-Coleman and Magdalene Nwokocha and Daniel Owu and Moses Iwuala} } @article {687, title = {Comparative Study to Evaluate the Anti-viral Efficacy of Glycyrrhiza glabra Extract and Ribavirin Against the Newcastle Disease Virus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {6-11}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {6}, abstract = {

Background: The Newcastle disease represents as one of the most infectious viral disease, which afflicts almost every species of the birds. The causative agent of the disease is a single-stranded RNA virus with rapid replication capability. Objective: This study was performed to evaluate the comparative anti-viral efficacy and toxicity of Glycyrrhiza glabra aqueous extract and ribavirin against the Newcastle disease virus. Materials and Methods: The embryonated eggs were divided into six groups (A, B, C, D, E and F). Groups A, B, C, and D were further subdivided into three subgroups. The virus was identified by hemagglutination inhibition test. Spot hemagglutination test and viability of embryos were also evaluated. Three different concentrations i-e., 30 mg/100 ml, 60 mg/100 ml, and 120 mg/100 ml of the Glycyrrhiza aqueous extract and 10 μg/ml, 20 μg/ml, and 40 μg/ml ribavirin in deionized water were evaluated for their toxicity and anti-viral activity in the embryonated eggs. Results: 60 mg/100 ml concentration of Glycyrrhiza extract did not produce any toxicity in the embryonated eggs and showed anti-viral activity against the virus. Similarly, 20 μg/ml ribavirin was non-toxic in the embryonated eggs and contained anti-viral activity. Conclusion: It may conclude from the presented study that 60 mg/100 ml Glycyrrhiza extract inhibits replication of Newcastle disease virus and is non-toxic in the embryonated eggs. So, Glycyrrhiza glabra extract may be further evaluated in future to determine the potentially active compounds for their anti-viral activity against Newcastle disease virus. Furthermore, the mechanism of action of these active phytochemicals as an antiviral agent would be helpful to elucidate the pathogenesis of the disease.

}, keywords = {Anti-viral agents, Embryonated eggs, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Newcastle disease virus, Ribavirin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122911}, author = {Muhammad Ovais Omer and Waleed Hassan AlMalki and Imran Shahid and Shahzada Khuram and Imran Altaf and Saeed Imran} } @article {794, title = {Constituents of Artemisia indica Willd. from Uttarakhand Himalaya: A source of Davanone}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {257-259}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {257}, abstract = {

Background: The genus Artemisia is important due to its medicinal properties as well as vital aroma compounds of commercial value. Objective: The aim of the study was to explore the potential of the essential oil of Artemisia indica wildly growing in Uttarakhand. Materials and Methods: The aerial parts of Artemisia indica Willd. (Asteraceae), collected from wild growing habitat of Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand (north of India) at full flowering stage were hydro-distilled and gave pale yellow oil with the yield of 0.8\% (v/w). The obtained essential oil was analyzed by GC and GC-MS and identified 32 components, amounting 95.42\% of the oil. Results: Among detected compounds, the principal component was found to be davanone (30.80\%), followed by β-pinene (15.30\%) and germacrene-D (5.82\%). Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on A. indica from Himalayan region of India, which detected davanone as major component. The species, collected from a specific location, can be explored for isolation of davanone for its industrial utilization and as alternate source of Artemisia pallens, which have already established commercial value.

}, keywords = {Artemisia indica, Davanone, Essential oil, GC-MS, Himalaya}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.132607}, author = {S. Zafar Haider and Manindra Mohan and Harish Chandra Andola} } @article {725, title = {Development and Validation of a High Performance Thin Layer Chromatographic Method for Determination of 1, 8-Cineole in Callistemon Citrinus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {143-147}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {143}, abstract = {

A new, simple, precise, rapid, and selective high performance thin layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method has been developed and validated for the estimation of 1, 8-cineole in volatile oil of leaves of Callistemon citrinus obtained by hydro distillation. The method was validated as per ICH guidelines and can be utilized for routine analysis. The retention factor for 1, 8-cineole was found to be 0.52. The linearity was found to be in the range of 3 μg-12 μg. The recovery obtained for 1, 8-cineole was 98\%, which is satisfactory. The result obtained in validation indicate the accuracy, reproducibility, and reliability of the developed HPTLC method for determination of 1, 8-cineole.

}, keywords = {1, 8-cineole, Callistemon citrinus, Essential oil, High performance thin layer chromatographic}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.129034}, author = {Archana Shaha and Vijay R Salunkhe} } @article {713, title = {The Effect of 30\% Ethanolic Extract of Indian Propolis on Replica of Human Dentin Compared Against Commercially Available Desensitizing Agent: A Methodological SEM Study In vitro}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = { 113-119}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = { 113}, abstract = {

Objective: This study evaluated the ability of 30\% ethanolic extract of Indian propolis on dentinal tubule occlusion comparatively against CPP-ACP containing desensitizing agent GC tooth mousse. Methodology: The specimens were prepared from 30 freshly extracted sound human third molars stored in 10\% formalin (pH 7.0) at a room temperature. From each specimen, a sectioned sample (5 mm length {\texttimes} 5 mm width {\texttimes} 3.5 mm depth) was obtained including the cervical area. Samples were smoothened and wet-polished with 1000- and 1200-grit aluminum oxide abrasive paper and diamond pastes, in order to stimulate the clinical aspect of hypersensitive dentin cervical surfaces. All the specimens were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 10), according to dentin surface treatments. Negative control: Untreated specimens (n = 4) and pretreated with 6\% citric acid (n = 6); Test Group: 30\% ethanolic extract of Indian propolis (n = 10); Positive Group: GC Tooth Mousse (n =10). All the specimens were prepared for SEM analysis. Results: GC tooth mousse promoted tubule occlusion by crystal-like deposits in the lumen of the tubules. While propolis created a thin, smooth layer over dentin surface. Conclusion: According to the SEM analysis, both desensitizing agent were able to occlude the dentinal tubules.

}, keywords = {Dentin hypersensitivity, Dentinal tubule occlusion, Desensitizing agents, GC tooth mousse, Propolis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129026}, author = {Sudhir Hongal and Nilesh Arjun Torwane and Pankaj Goel and Byarakele Chandrashekar} } @article {699, title = {Effect of Coleus Forskohliiextract on Cafeteria Diet-induced Obesity in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = { 42-45}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = { 42}, abstract = {

Background: Obesity is a metabolic disorder that can lead to adverse metabolic effects on blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides and insulin resistance and also increases the risk of coronary heart disease, ischemic stroke and type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study was designed to determine the effect of Coleus forskohlii on obesity and associated metabolic changes in rats fed with cafeteria diet. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate antiobesogenic and metabolic benefits of C. forskohlii in cafeteria diet induced obesity rat model. Materials and Methods: Rats were randomly divided into five groups of six animals in each group and as follows: Normal pellet diet group; cafeteria diet group; cafeteria diet followed by 50 mg/kg/d Coleus forskohlii extract (CFE), 100 mg/kg/d CFE and 45 mg/kg/d orlistat groups, respectively. Indicators of obesity such as food intake, body weight and alteration in serum lipid profiles were studied. Results: Feeding of cafeteria diet induced obesity in rats. Administration of CFE significantly halted increase in food intake and weight gain associated with cafeteria diet. Development of dyslipidemia was also significantly inhibited. Conclusion: The observed effects validate that supplementation of CFE with cafeteria diet could curb the appetite and mitigate the development of dyslipidemia.

}, keywords = {Appetite, Cafeteria diet, cholesterol, Coleus forskohlii, Lipid profile}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122916}, author = {Hebbani Nagarajappa Shivaprasad and Sushma Gopalakrishna and Bhanumathy Mariyanna and Midhun Thekkoot and Roopa Reddy and Boreddy Shivanandappa Tippeswamy} } @article {844, title = {Effect of Licorice Versus Bismuth on Eradication of Helicobacter Pylori in Patients with Peptic Ulcer Disease}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {341-344}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {341}, abstract = {

Background: Different therapeutic regimens were used for eradication of Helicobacter pylori, based on the cost, effectiveness and patient{\textquoteright}s compliance. The aim of this study was the evaluation of licorice compared with bismuth in quadruple regimen on eradication of H. pylori in patients with peptic ulcer disease (PUD). Materials and Methods: In a double-blind clinical trial study, 60 patients with PUD and positive rapid urease test were enrolled. The patients were randomly allocated into two equal groups. In first group, licorice, amoxicillin, metronidazole and omeprazole and in the second (control) group, bismuth subsalicylate, amoxicillin, metronidazole and omeprazole were prescribed respectively, and 4 weeks after treatment, in order to evaluate H. pylori eradication, urea breath test was done in all patients. The outcome of the study was the preference usage of licorice as an effective medication for H. pylori eradication. Results: Mean age of the patients in the control and case groups were 40.8 {\textpm} 15.5 and 42.2 {\textpm} 15.8 years, respectively (P = 0.726). Seventeen (56.7\%) patients in control group and 16 (53.3\%) in the case group were female (P = 0.795). Both groups were similar based on frequency of gastric or duodenal ulcer. Response to treatment were seen in 20 (67\%) and 17 (57\%) patients of case and control groups, respectively (P \> 0.05). Conclusion: Our study showed that licorice is as effective as bismuth in H. pylori eradication; therefore, in patients whom bismuth is contraindicated, licorice can be used safely instead.

}, keywords = {Bismuth, Helicobacter pylori eradication, Licorice}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138289}, author = {Ali Momeni and Ghorbanali Rahimian and Abass Kiasi and Masoud Amiri and Soleiman Kheiri} } @article {705, title = {Effect of Momordica Dioica Fruit Extract on Antioxidant Status in Liver, Kidney, Pancreas, and Serum of Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {73-79}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {73}, abstract = {

Background: Fruits, leaves, and tuberous roots of Momordica dioica are used as a folk remedy for diabetes mellitus (DM) in India. The aqueous extract of Momordica dioica fruit possesses very good anti-diabetic activity and is having high margin of safety. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to investigate the antioxidative effect of Momordica dioica fruits in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Effect of aqueous extract of Momordica dioica (AEMD) on thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), hydroperoxide (HP), non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidants in liver, kidney, pancreas, and serum was evaluated in diabetic rats after 21 days treatment. Results: Increase in the levels of TBARS, HP and decrease in the levels of non-enzymatic antioxidants and activity of enzymatic antioxidants was observed in liver, kidney, pancreas, and serum of diabetic rats when compared with normal healthy rats. TBARS and HP levels were reduced while non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant enzymes activity was increased in AEMD and glibenclamide-treated rats. Furthermore, histological examination of liver, kidney, and pancreas of diabetic rats showed degenerative changes. AEMD treatment for 21 days rejuvenated liver, kidney, and pancreas histoarchitecture. Conclusion: In conclusion, the present results showed the protective role of AEMD on liver, kidney, and pancreas in severe diabetic rats justifying support for its anti-diabetic use in folk medicine.

}, keywords = {Alloxan, momordica dioica, Oxidative stress, Wistar rat}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122922}, author = {Poonam Sharma and Rambir Singh} } @article {688, title = {Effect of Standardized Aqueous Extract of Withania Somniferaon Tests of Cognitive and Psychomotor Performance in Healthy Human Participants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December 2014}, pages = { 12-18}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {12-18}, abstract = {

Background: Withania somnifera is an herbal medicine that has been known to possess memory-enhancing properties. The current study involved an assessment of cognitive and psychomotor effects of Withania somnifera extract in healthy human participants. Materials and Methods: In this prospective, double-blind, multi-dose, placebo-controlled, crossover study, 20 healthy male participants were randomized to receive 250 mg two capsules twice daily of an encapsulated dried aqueous extract of roots and leaves of Withania somnifera or a matching placebo for a period of 14 days. Cognitive and psychomotor performance was assessed pre-dose (day 1) and at 3 hrs post-dose on day 15 using a battery of computerized psychometric tests. After a washout period of 14 days, the subjects crossed-over to receive the other treatment for a further period of 14 days as per prior randomization schedule. Same battery of test procedures were performed to assess cognitive and psychomotor performance. Results: Significant improvements were observed in reaction times with simple reaction, choice discrimination, digit symbol substitution, digit vigilance, and card sorting tests with Withania somnifera extract compared to placebo. However, no effect can be seen with the finger tapping test. Conclusion: These results suggest that Withania somnifera extract can improve cognitive and psychomotor performance and may, therefore, be a valuable adjunct in the treatment of diseases associated with cognitive impairment.

}, keywords = {Central nervous system, Psychometric tests, Withania somnifera extract}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122912}, author = {Usharani Pingali and Raveendranadh Pilli and Nishat Fatima} } @article {718, title = {Effect on eNOS/NO Pathway in MIRI Rats with Preconditioning of GFPC from Dang Gui Si Ni Decoction}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {133-137}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {133}, abstract = {

Objective: In order to discover whether the eNOS/NO (endothelial nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide) pathway is involved in the protective mechanisms of ischemic myocardium of DGSND (Dang Gui Si Ni Decoction) in MIRI (myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury) SD rats. Materials and Methods: We made I/R (ischemia-reperfusion) model by ligating the left anterior-descending branch of the coronary artery (LAD) for 30 min and releasing the ligature for 120 min. eNOS (nitric oxide synthase) mRNA (message ribonucleic acid) and iNOS (inducible nitric oxide synthase) mRNA were measured by the methods of real-time RT-PCR (Real time Polychainase Chain Reaction), peNOS (phosphorylated eNOS) and iNOS protein were measured by the means of western blot. Results: In PPC group, real-time RT-PCR and western-blot analysis showed that eNOS mRNA and peNOS protein increased markedly (P \< 0.05); iNOS mRNA and protein decreased significantly (P \< 0.05). Conclusion: These results indicate that ischemic preconditioning (IPC) of GFPC from DGSND plays a protective role in I/R heart through regulating the eNOS/NO signal pathway, which could increase the eNOS gene expression and decrease the expression of iNOS mRNA.

}, keywords = {Cinnamic acid, eNOS, Ferulic acid, Glycyrrhizic acid, MIRI, NO, Paeoniflorin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129032}, author = {Guo-qiang Qian and Xia Peng and Chuan Cai and Guo-ping Zhao} } @article {819, title = {Effects of L-citrulline Diet on Stress-induced Cold Hypersensitivity in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {297-302}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {297}, abstract = {

Background: L-citrulline is an amino acid discovered in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus, Cucurbitaceae) and is a known component of the nitric oxide (NO) cycle that plays an important role in adjusting blood circulation and supplying NO and a key component of the endothelium-derived relaxing factor. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of L-citrulline on a newly established stress-induced cold hypersensitivity mouse model. Materials and Methods: When normal mice were forced to swim in water at 25{\textdegree}C for 15 min, their core body temperature dropped to 28.9{\textdegree}C, and then quickly recovered to normal temperature after the mice were transferred to a dry cage at room temperature (25{\textdegree}C). A 1-h immobilization before swimming caused the core body temperature to drop to ca. 24.1{\textdegree}C (4.8{\textdegree}C lower than normal mice), and the speed of core body temperature recovery dropped to 57\% of the normal control. We considered this delay in recovery from hypothermia to be a sign of stress-induced cold hypersensitivity. Similar cold hypersensitivity was induced by administration of 50 mM L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester, a NO synthesis inhibitor. Results: In this study, we showed that recovery speed from the stress-induced hypothermia remarkably improved in mice fed a 1\% L-citrulline-containing diet for 20 days. Furthermore, the nonfasting blood level of L-arginine and L-citrulline increased significantly in the L-citrulline diet group, and higher serum nitrogen oxide levels were observed during recovery from the cold. Conclusions: These results suggested that oral L-citrulline supplementation strengthens vascular endothelium function and attenuates stress-induced cold hypersensitivity by improving blood circulation.

}, keywords = {Citrullus lanatus, Cold hypersensitivity, Cucurbitaceae, L-citrulline, Nitric oxide}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138269}, author = {Yoshinori Kobayashi and Kazuki Narita and Kotaro Chiba and Hiroaki Takemoto and Masahiko Morita and Koji Morishita} } @article {701, title = {The Efficacy of Ginger Added to Ondansetron for Preventing Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Ambulatory Surgery}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {52-57}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {52}, abstract = {

Background: Post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) frequently hampers implementation of ambulatory surgery in spite of so many costly antiemetic drugs and regimens. Objective: The study was carried out to compare the effi cacy of ginger (Zingiber offi cinale) added to Ondansetron in preventing PONV after ambulatory surgery. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective, double blinded, and randomized controlled study. From March 2008 to July 2010, 100 adult patients of either sex, aged 20-45, of ASA physical status I and II, scheduled for day care surgery, were randomly allocated into Group A[(n = 50) receiving (IV) Ondansetron (4 mg) and two capsules of placebo] and Group B[(n = 50) receiving IV Ondansetron (4 mg) and two capsules of ginger] simultaneously one hour prior to induction of general anaesthesia (GA) in a double-blind manner. One ginger capsule contains 0.5 gm of ginger powder. Episodes of PONV were noted at 0.5h, 1h, 2h, 4h, 6h, 12h and 18h post- operatively. Statistical Analysis and Results: Statistically signifi cant difference between groups A and B (P \< 0.05), was found showing that ginger ondansetron combination was superior to plain Ondansetron as antiemetic regimen for both regarding frequency and severity. Conclusion: Prophylactic administration of ginger and ondansetron signifi cantly reduced the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting compared to ondansetron alone in patients undergoing day care surgery under general anaesthesia.

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122918}, author = {Pragnadyuti Mandal and Anjan Das and Saikat Majumdar and Tapas Bhattacharyya and Tapobrata Mitra and Ratul Kundu} } @article {700, title = {Ethanolic Extracts of Alstonia Scholaris and Bacopa Monniera Possess Neuroleptic Activity Due to Anti-dopaminergic Effect}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {46-51}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {46-51}, abstract = {

Background: An increased inclination has been observed for the use of herbal drugs in chronic and incurable diseases. Treatment of psychiatric diseases like schizophrenia is largely palliative and more importantly, a prominent adverse effect prevails with the majority of anti-psychotic drugs, which are the extrapyramidal motor disorders. Existing anti-psychotic drug therapy is not so promising, and their adverse effect is a matter of concern for continuing the therapy for long duration. Objective: This experimental study was done to evaluate the neuroleptic activity of the ethanolic extracts of two plants Alstonia Scholaris and Bacopa Monnieri with different anti-psychotic animal models with a view that these plant extracts shall have no or at least reduced adverse effect so that it can be used for long duration. Materials and Methods: Two doses of both the extracts (100 and 200 mg/kg) and also standard drug haloperidol (0.2 mg/kg) were administered to their respective groups once daily with 5 different animal models. After that, the concentration of the dopamine neurotransmitter was estimated in two different regions of the brain viz. frontal cortex and striatum. Results: The result of the study indicated a significant reduction of amphetamine-induced stereotype and conditioned avoidance response for both the extracts compared with the control group, but both did not have any significant effect in phencyclidine-induced locomotor activity and social interaction activity. However, both the extracts showed minor signs of catalepsy compared to the control group. The study also revealed that the neuroleptic effect was due to the reduction of the dopamine concentration in the frontal cortex region of the rat brain. The results largely pointed out the fact that both the extract may be having the property to alleviate the positive symptoms of schizophrenia by reducing the dopamine levels of dopaminergic neurons of the brain. Conclusion: The estimation of dopamine in the two major regions of brain indicated the alteration of dopamine levels was the reason for the anti-psychotic activity as demonstrated by the different animal models.

}, keywords = {Alstonia, Bacopa monniera, Dopamine, Dyskinesia, Neuroleptic, Psychosis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122917}, author = {Rajiv Jash and K Appana Chowdary} } @article {709, title = {Evaluation of Antiepileptic Activity of Chloroform Extract of Acalypha Fruticosa in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {108-112}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {108}, abstract = {

Aim: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the antiepileptic activity of chloroform extract of aerial parts of Acalypha fruticosa in mice. Materials and Methods: The antiepileptic activity of chloroform extract of A. fruticosa at the doses of 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg, p.o. was evaluated by maximum electroshock (MES), pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) and isoniazid (INH)-induced convulsions in mice. Statistical analysis was carried out by one-way analysis of variance followed by Dunnett{\textquoteright}s test. Results: In MES method, the chloroform extract significantly protected the mice from convulsions induced by electroshock method in a dose-dependent manner and exhibited more activity at the dose of 300 mg/kg when compared with diazepam treated animals. In PTZ method, the extract inhibited convulsions in mice potent than phenobarbitone sodium. In INH method, it delayed the latency of convulsions in mice in a dose-dependent manner but failed to protect the mice against mortality. Conclusion: The chloroform extract exhibited significant and dose-dependent antiepileptic activity, which may be due to the presence of antioxidant principles like flavanoids.

}, keywords = {Acalypha fruticosa, Diazepam, Epilepsy, Isoniazid, Pentylenetetrazole, Phenobarbitone sodium}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.128970}, author = {Sumalatha Govindu and Sreedevi Adikay} } @article {771, title = {Evaluation of Antioxidant and Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitory Activity of Different Solvent Extracts of Leaves of Citrullus colocynthis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {218-226}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {218}, abstract = {

Background: Citrullus colocynthis is a folk medicinal plan of United Arab Emirates. Several studies on this plant reported and focused on the biological and toxicological profile of fruits pulp. The present study focused on the antioxidant potency of leaf extract of this plant. Aim: To evaluate the antioxidant and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activities of C. colocynthis by chemical method. Materials and Methods: Four different solvent extracts (methanol-CCM, methanol: water (1:1)-CCMW, chloroform-CCC and hexane-CCH) of leaves of C. colocynthis were investigated for their free radical scavenging activity using DPPH radical as a substrate, lipid peroxidation (LPO) inhibitory activity using a model system consisting of β-carotene-linoleic acid, superoxide radical scavenging activity (enzymatically/nonenzymatically) and XO inhibitory activity. A dose response curve was plotted for determining SC 50 and IC 50 values for expressing the results of free radical scavenging activity and XO inhibitory activities respectively. Results: The high polyphenolic content of CCM and CCMW extract showed highest antioxidant activity irrespective the method used for this investigation. The overall results decreased in the order of: CCM \> CCMW \> CCC \> CCH. CCH extract was inactive towards chemically generated superoxide radical and poor DPPH radical scavengers. The results of LPO inhibitory activities of leaves extract (0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 mg/mL) also decreased in the order of: CCM \> CCMW \> CCC \> CCH. Overall 1.0 mg/mL leaves extract showed highest antioxidant potency amongst the studied concentration. Conclusion: CCMW and CCM extract of C. colocynthis exhibited promising antioxidants and XO inhibitory activities.

}, keywords = {Citrullus colocynthis, Extracts, Free radical and lipid peroxidation, Superoxide radical, Xanthine oxidase}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.132599}, author = {Fazilatun Nessa and Saeed A. Khan} } @article {697, title = {Evaluation of Phyllanthus emblica Extract on Cold Pressor Induced Cardiovascular Changes in Healthy Human Subjects}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = { 29-35}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = { 29}, abstract = {

Background: Acute and chronic stress is a risk factor for the development and progression of coronary artery disease. Increased arterial stiffness is an independent marker for cardiovascular disease. Cold pressor test (CPT) is known to be associated with substantial activation of the autonomic nervous system. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Phyllanthus emblica extract on cold pressor stress test induced changes on cardiovascular parameters and aortic wave reflections in healthy human subjects. Materials and Methods: This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Participants were randomized to receive either two capsules of P. emblica extract 250 mg (containing aqueous extract of P. emblica, highly standardized by high-performance liquid chromatography to contain low molecular weight hydrolysable tannins emblicanin-A, emblicanin-B, pedunculagin and punigluconin) or two capsules of placebo twice daily for 14 days. Pharmacodynamic parameters such as heart rate, augmentation pressure, augmentation index (AIx), subendocardial viability ratio (SEVR), radial and aortic blood pressure (BP) were recorded before and after CPT at baseline and end of treatment. After washout period of 14 days, subjects crossed over to the other treatment and the same test procedure was repeated again. Safety assessments were done at baseline and at the end of treatment. Results: A total of 12volunteers completed the study. Compared with baseline and placebo, P. emblica extract produced a significant decrease of mean percent change in the indices of arterial stiffness (AIx, radial and aortic BP) and increase in SEVR, an index of myocardial perfusion with CPT. Both treatments were well-tolerated and no serious adverse events were reported. Conclusion: Proprietary P. emblica extract, showed a significant decrease in cold pressor stress test induced changes on aortic wave reflections.

}, keywords = {Augmentation index, Cardiovascular disease, Cold pressor test, Phyllanthus emblica}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122914}, author = {Nishat Fatima and Usharani Pingali and Raveendranadh Pilli} } @article {838, title = {Evaluation of the Efficacy of 2\% Curcumin Gel in the Treatment of Experimental Periodontitis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {326-333}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {326}, abstract = {

Context: Local drug delivery (LDD) systems have been proposed for the treatment of periodontitis. Curcumin could be a suitable agent as LDD for the treatment of periodontitis. Aim: To formulate, evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity and to assess the duration of the action and the efficacy of 2\% curcumin gel in the treatment of experimental periodontitis in Wistar albino rat model. Settings and Design: Twenty-one Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to three groups. Periodontitis was induced using ligature model. Group 1: Control; group 2: Plain gel, and group 3: 2\% curcumin gel. Materials and Methods: About 2\% curcumin gel was prepared. The anti-inflammatory activity and duration of action was assessed. Silk ligature 5-0 was used to induce periodontitis. Gingival index (GI) and probing pocket depth (PPD) were measured. Treatment was done. The rats were sacrificed. Morphometric analysis was performed using stereomicroscope and ImageJ software. Statistical Analysis Used: Analysis of variance followed by Bonferroni{\textquoteright}s test, Wilcoxon{\textquoteright}s test for inter-group comparison, Mann-Whitney test for P value computation was used. The observations are mean {\textpm} standard deviation and standard error of the mean. P \< 0.01 when compared to control was considered as statistically significant. Results: About 2\% curcumin gel showed 42.98\% inhibition of edema and peak activity was noted at 24 hr. There was statistically significant change in the GI and PPD. Morphometric analysis did not show any significant difference between groups. No toxic effects were seen on oral administration of 2000 mg/kg of curcumin. Conclusions: About 2\% curcumin gel was effective in the treatment of experimental periodontitis.

}, keywords = {anti-inflammatory activity, Curcumin gel, Experimental periodontitis, Local drug delivery, Morphometric analysis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138287}, author = {Rajesh Ramesh Hosadurga and SN Rao and Jobin Jose and Narayana Charyulu Rompicharla and Moidin Shakil and R Shashidhara} } @article {774, title = {Exploiting the Phenomenal Anti-ulcerogenic Potential of Talinum portulacifolium Ethanolic Extract Whole Plant on Albino Rats: The Therapeutic Potential of Chinese Herb-mǎ chǐ xi{\`a}n ke (Portulacaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {227-233}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {227}, abstract = {

Background: Ulcerations have been effecting humans and causing major damage in the gastro intestinal tract. A need for development of a flawless anti-ulcer medication was always in the agenda. Thus, the need to conduct a study was provoked. Objectives: The major objective of the present study is to screen the antiulcer activity of the ethanolic extract of Talinum portulacifolium (Forsk) plant. Materials and Methods: The antiulcer activity of the ethanolic extract of T.Z portulacifolium was performed on albino rats. Gastric ulcers were induced by ethanol, pylorus ligated aspirin and histamine induced ulcer models. Omeprazole was used as a standard drug for comparison. Results: Treatment with the T. portulacifolium plant extract significantly protected the ulceration induced by the three models. The gastric volume, pH of gastric juice, total acidity, free acidity and ulcer index were the parameters estimated and did show significant results. 800 mg/kg extracts of T. portulacifolium did show high significant results as that of standard drug. Percentage protection of 800 mg/kg was 79.9\% and the standard drug-treated group did show 84\%. So was with total acidity (38.1 + 1.45) and free acidity (16.5 + 0.76) Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of T. portulacifolium plant was found to possess a significant antiulcer activity.

}, keywords = {ethanol, Histamine, Omeprazole, Pylorus-ligated aspirin, Talinum portulacifolium}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.132600}, author = {Rohit Gundamaraju and Kotla Maheedhar and Kim Kah Hwi} } @article {702, title = {GC-MS Analysis of Bio-active Compounds in Methanolic Extract of Lactuca runcinata DC}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {58-61}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {58}, abstract = {

Background: The presence of phytochemical constitutes has been reported from species of the Compositae (Asteraceae). Hitherto no reports exist on the phytochemical components and biological activity of Lactuca runcinata DC. Objective: The present study was designed to determine the bioactive compounds in the whole plant methanol extract of Lactuca runcinata. Materials and Methods: Phytochemical screening of the entire herb of Lactuca runcinata DC revealed the presence of some bio-active components. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of the whole plant methanol extract of Lactuca runcinata was performed on a GC-MS equipment (Thermo Scientific Co.) Thermo GC-TRACE ultra ver.: 5.0, Thermo MS DSQ II. Results: The phytochemical tests showed the presence of alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, phenols, phlobatannin, reducing sugars, saponins, steroids, tannins, terpenoids, volatile oils, carbohydrates, and protein/amino acids in methanolic extract of L. runcinata. The GC-MS analysis has shown the presence of different phytochemical compounds in the methanolic extract of Lactuca runcinata. A total of 21 compounds were identified representing 84.49\% of total methanolic extract composition. Conclusion: From the results, it is evident that Lactuca runcinata contains various phytocomponents and is recommended as a plant of phytopharmaceutical importance.

}, keywords = {GC-MS Analysis, Lactuca runcinata, Phytochemical screening, Whole plant methanol extract}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122919}, author = {Lakshmi Kanta Kanthal and Akalanka Dey and K Satyavathi and P Bhojaraju} } @article {686, title = {The Hypoglycemic Effect of the Aqueous Extract of the Fruits of Balanites Aegypticea in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {1-5}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Background: Balanites aegypticea is used medically for many purposes e.g. anti-spasmodic, stomach pain, malaria, and yellow fever. The extract of the fruit is also used to reduce the blood glucose levels. Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the hypoglycemic effects of the aqueous extract of the fruits of the Balanites aegypticea in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five adult male Vistar rats were used in this study. The rats were randomly collected and divided into 5 groups (5 rats in each group). The untreated rats (negative control group) received basal diet and tap water only for 15 days. The experimental rats became diabetic by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan (150 mg/kg body weight). The fruit of Balanites aegypticea was powdered, extracted, and dried using organic solvents. The diabetic rats received aqueous extract 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 800 mg/kg, respectively, for 2 weeks. Plasma glucose levels were measured by using Glucose GOD-PAP method through spectrophotometer. Results: The results showed that 800 mg/kg aqueous extract decrease significantly the plasma glucose level (P <= 0.05) in diabetic rats, and there is a considerable gain in body weight (P <= 0.05) compared to the diabetic control group. Four-hundred mg/kg aqueous extract has a mild effect on body weights and plasma glucose levels, while 200 mg/kg aqueous extract has no significant effect on plasma glucose level and a little effect on body weight. Conclusions: The results of the presented study revealed that the aqueous extract of Balanites aegypticea has hypoglycemic properties. It can decrease the plasma glucose level and can improve weight in diabetic experimental animals

}, keywords = {Balanites aegypticea, Diabetic rats, Hypoglycemic effect, Plasma glucose level}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122909}, author = {Abdella Emam Abdella Baragob and Waleed Hassan AlMalki and Imran Shahid and Fatimah Abdullah Bakhdhar and Hanouf Saeed Bafhaid and Omar Muhammad Izz Eldeen} } @article {757, title = {The Influence of Pharmaceutical Vermipreparations on the Test-Reaction of Organisms of the Different Levels of the Organization}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {195-198}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {195}, abstract = {

The efficiency of vermipreparations has been investigated with the help of the test-reactions on various invertebrate organisms, plants and microorganisms. The principal possibility of the use of biotest on the basis of yeast, fungi, algae, water and ground-based plants, sponges, protozoan, small crustaceans, oligochaetes for an estimation of biological activity of vermipreparations and in further and for definition of quality, selection of dose of medicinal complex preparations is shown.

}, keywords = {Algae, Earthworms, fungi, Oligochaetes, Plants, Protozoan, Small crustaceans, Sponge, Test-reaction, Vermipreparations, Yeast}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.132594}, author = {Daevard I. Stom and Viktor Alexandrovich Bybin and Alla E. Balayan and Michael N. Saksonov and Valentina P. Salovarova} } @article {716, title = {Inhibitory Effects by Ayurvedic Plants on Prostate Enlargement Induced in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {127-132}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {127}, keywords = {Ativisha (Aconitum heterophyllum), Daruhalad (Berberis aristata), Prostatic hyperplasia, Tamala (Cinnamomum tamala)}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129031}, author = {Rahul K Dumbre and Manisha B Kamble and Vijay R Patil} } @article {781, title = {Investigation of Effects of Time of Measurement and Modes of Administration on Cadmium Accumulation in Rat Liver Under Some Medicinal Plants Food Supplemented Diet}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {240-245}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {240-245}, abstract = {

Context and Objectives: Cadmium (Cd) toxicity leads to cell and organ damage, we comparatively examined the protection ability of different medicinal plants on Cd liver accumulation following different treatment interventions and modes of administration. Materials and Methods: Rats were fed either 7\% w/w Zingiber officinale, 7\% w/w Allium Sativum, 10\% w/w Lycopersicon esculentum, 5\%, w/w Garcinia kola (all in rat chow), while Cd (200 ppm) was given in drinking water. Additives were administered together with (mode 1), a week after (mode 2) or a week before metal exposure (mode 3) for a period of six weeks. Cd liver was determined using AAS and compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: All additives significantly (P \<0.5) reduced the accumulation of Cd in the liver. After adjusting for time and mode of administration, mean \%protection for week 4 was significantly lower by 14.1\% (P=0.02) from that for week 2 but the means did not differ with respect to additive used or mode of administration, no statistically significant interaction between modes of administration and either of additives used or time of administration in their respective relationships to percentage protection from Cd. Conclusion: Additives significantly reduced Cd accumulation through a reduction in absorption and enhancement of metal excretion.

}, keywords = {Accumulation pattern, Allium sativum, Cadmium, Garcinia kola, Liver, Lycopersicon esculentum, Mode of administration, Zingiber officinale}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.132604}, author = {Chukwuemeka R. Nwokocha and Novie Younger-Coleman and Magdalene Nwokocha and Daniel U. Owu and Moses Iwuala} } @article {707, title = {In-vitro cytotoxicity Study of Methanolic Fraction from Ajuga Bracteosa Wall ex. benth on MCF-7 Breast Adenocarcinoma and Hep-2 larynx Carcinoma Cell Lines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {87-91}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {87}, abstract = {

Objective: Ajuga bracteosa Wall ex Benth (Labiatae) is popularly known in India as "Neelkanthi." A decoction of the leaves, flowers, and barks is used in India for the treatment of cancer including diabetes, malaria, and inflammation etc. The main objective of this study is to investigate the cytotoxic potential of Ajuga bracteosa. Materials and Methods: Successive solvent extraction of Ajuga bracteosa in petroleum ether, methanol, and water extracts was done. These extracts were tested against human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) and larynx carcinoma (Hep-2) tumor cell lines, using the thiazolyl blue test (MTT) assay. Results: The methanolic fraction of Ajuga bracteosa had shown the significant results against MCF-7 and Hep-2 tumor cell lines. The methanolic, petroleum ether and aqueous extract from Ajuga bracteosa, presented an IC50 value at 24 hr of 10, 65, 70 μg/ml and 5, 30, 15 μg/ml on MCF-7 and Hep-2 cells, respectively. Steroids compounds namely β-sitosterol and unknown constituents were identified in the most active methanol extract of Ajuga bracteosa wall ex Benth. These known and unknown compounds exhibited cytotoxic potential against MCF-7 and Hep-2 cancer cells. Conclusion: Among all the tested extracts, methanolic extract can be considered as potential sources of anti-cancer compounds. Further studies are necessary for more extensive biological evaluations.

}, keywords = {Ajuga bracteosa, Cytotoxicity studies, Hep-2, MCF-7, MTT assay}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122923}, author = {Akiriti Pal and Fedelic Ashish Toppo and Pradeep K Chaurasiya and Pradeep K Singour and Rajesh S Pawar} } @article {734, title = {Margaritaria Discoidea (Euphorbiaceae) Stem Bark Extract Attenuates Allergy and Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant-induced Arthritis in Rodents}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {163-171}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {163}, abstract = {

Background: Various parts of Margaritaria discoidea find use in traditional medicine in the treatment of pain and oedema. This study evaluated the anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of a 70\% (v/v) aqueous ethanol extract of the stem bark of Margaritaria discoidea, MDE in rodents. Materials and Methods: Systemic anaphylaxis was induced by the injection of compound 48/80 into mice and their survival rate was monitored to evaluate the anti-allergic action of the extract. The effect of MDE assessed on the maximal and total oedema responses in the mouse carrageenan-induced paw oedema was used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory action of the extract while the Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant-induced arthritis model was employed to study the anti-arthritic effects of MDE. Results: MDE dose-dependently increased the time for compound 48/80-induced mortality in mice. MDE suppressed the mean maximal swelling and the total paw swellings induced over 6 h in the carrageenan-induced paw oedema when administered either prophylactically or therapeutically. MDE caused a reduction in serum levels of TNFα and IL-6 and significantly suppressed Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant-induced arthritis. Conclusion: Margaritaria discoidea suppresses allergy and exhibits anti-inflammatory activity in mice. In addition it attenuates Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant-induced arthritis through a reduction in serum levels of TNFα and IL-6 in rats.

}, keywords = {Allergy, Anaphylaxis, Anti-inflammatory, Arthritis, Margaritaria discoidea}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129039}, author = {David D Obiri and Newman Osafo and Joshua Oppong-Sarfo and Jude K Prah} } @article {840, title = {Novel strategies for optimized delivery of select components of Allium sativum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {334-340}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {334}, abstract = {

Background: Garlic (Allium sativum) has been known to exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities which are attributed mainly to the organosulfur compounds present in it. Allicin and garlic oil, components obtained from garlic, have been explored and found to be biologically active on various fronts. Allicin is known to have major stability issues due to rapid degradation even at low temperatures, whereas garlic oil, being lipophilic, shows poor bioavailability after oral administration. Objective: To develop novel strategies for optimum delivery of allicin and garlic oil so as to achieve effective availability in the physiological system. Materials and Methods: Garlic cloves were lyophilized to obtain allicin-releasing garlic powder (ARGP). This powder was analyzed spectrophotometrically and was used to formulate buccal tablets. Garlic oil was obtained by hydrodistillation of garlic cloves and analyzed by gas chromatography. Self-nanoemulsifying systems (SNS) containing garlic oil were prepared using suitable surfactants and cosurfactants. The SNS were adsorbed on Aerosil 200 and filled in hard gelatin capsules. Both the formulations were suitably evaluated. Results: Buccal tablets containing ARGP showed satisfactory physical parameters as well as in vitro drug release, mucoadhesive strength, moisture uptake capacity and drug content. Evaluation of capsules containing SNS of garlic oil also gave satisfactory results. The adsorbed SNS when dispersed in water formed nanoemulsions. Conclusion: Buccal tablets as well as capsules containing garlic oil SNS provide promising strategies to overcome the difficulties associated with formulation of allicin and garlic oil.

}, keywords = {Allicin, Buccal tablets, Garlic oil, Nanoemulsions}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138288}, author = {Avinash G Phadatare and Vivek Viswanathan and Alka Mukne} } @article {793, title = {Pharmacognostic Specifications and Quantification of (+)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin in Pentace Burmanica Stem Bark}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {251-256}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {251}, abstract = {

Background: According to Thai traditional medicine, Pentace burmanica Kurz. stem bark has been used as crude drug for treating diarrhea. However, the crude drug is also found susceptible to adulteration. Objectives: To develop specific standardization parameters of P. burmanica stem bark in Thailand and to determine the (+)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin contents of P. burmanica stem bark by HPLC analysis. Materials and Methods: P. burmanica stem barks from various sources throughout Thailand were investigated according to WHO guideline of the pharmacognostic specification. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was performed for (+)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin quantification. Results: Macroscopic evaluation was demonstrated as whole plant drawing. Microscopic evaluation of stem bark powdered drug showed fragment of fibers, resin masses, tannin masses, starch grain, calcium oxalate, and fragment of parenchyma. Physico-chemical parameters revealed that total ash, acid insoluble ash, loss on drying, and water content should be not more than 3.58, 0.50, 8.40, and 9.70\% of dry weight respectively; while ethanol and water soluble extractive values should not be less than 21.90 and 19.06\% of dry weight respectively. Both (+)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin were existed in P. burmanica ethanolic extract. Owing to the small amount of (+)-catechin, quantitation of its content was omitted. However, (-)-epicatechin contents was found as 59.74 {\textpm} 1.69μg/mg of crude extract. Conclusion: The pharmacognostic investigations can be used to set the standard parameters of P. burmanica stem bark in Thailand. HPLC method can be applied to determine (+)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin content in plant materials.

}, keywords = {(+)-Catechin, (-)-Epicatechin, High performance liquid chromatography, Pentace burmanica, Pharmacognostic specification}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.132606}, author = {Thidarat Duangyod and Chanida Palanuvej and Nijsiri Ruangrungsi} } @article {850, title = {Phytochemical Screening and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Cnidoscolus quercifolius (Euphorbiaceae) in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, pages = { 345-349}, chapter = {345}, abstract = {

Background: Cnidoscolus quercifolius is a species popularly known as "favela" and "faveleira", and belonging to the Caatinga biome (semi-arid vegetation, Brazil), where is used in folk medicine as an anti-inflammatory. Objective: The aim was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of the ethanolic extract from barks (Cqb-EtOH) and leaves (Cql-EtOH) of C. quercifolius in mice using experimental models of inflammation. Materials and Methods: The preliminary phytochemical analysis of the ethanolic extract was performed. The activity was evaluated by paw edema induced by carrageenan and leukocytes migration to the peritoneal cavity induced by carrageenan methods. Results: A preliminary analysis of Cqb-EtOH revealed that it contained coumarins, flavonoids, monoterpenes/diterpenes and naphthoquinones, while the Cql-EtOH showed positive reaction to coumarins, anthracene derivatives, flavonoids, lignans and triterpenes/steroids. Cqb-EtOH and Cql-EtOH (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) inhibited significantly (P \< 0.01) the increase in the edema volume after administration of carrageenan. In the peritonitis test, acute pretreatment with Cqb-EtOH and Cql-EtOH (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) inhibited the leukocyte migration. Conclusions: It can be concluded that extracts from the barks and leaves of C. quercifolius have anti-inflammatory activity, which supports the popular use of this plant to treat inflammation. Thus, extracts has significant anti-inflammatory properties, which are related probably to inhibition of release of mediators of the inflammatory process.

}, keywords = {Cnidoscolus quercifolius, Euphorbiaceae, Inflammation, Medicinal plants}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.138290}, author = {Leandra Macedo de Araujo Gomes and Leandra Macedo de Araujo Gomes and Juliane Cabral Silva and Julianeli Tolentino de Lima and Lucindo Jose Quintans-Junior and Jackson Roberto Guedes da Silva Almeida} } @article {731, title = {Pioglitazone, Quercetin and Hydroxy Citric Acid Effect on Hepatic Biomarkers in Non Alcoholic Steatohepatitis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {153-162}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {153}, abstract = {

Background: Non alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), severe form of diseases belonging to the spectrum of the Non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It is an asymptomatic disease which leads to fibrosis and finally to cirrhosis, an end stage liver disease. Objective: To study the effect of pioglitazone, quercetin and hydroxy citric acid on hepatic biomarkers and various biochemical parameters in experimentally induced non alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Materials and Methods: Male Wister rats were divided into 8 groups. The activities of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and γ-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) were assayed in serum. The levels of various other biochemical parameters such as serum albumin, total bilirubin, creatinine, urea, uric acid and glucose were also estimated in experimental NASH. Results: The NASH group produced severe liver injury by significantly increasing the serum levels of ALT, AST, GGT and LDH compared with that of the control. However, the experimental NASH rats treated with pioglitazone, with quercetin and with hydroxy citric acid showed an obvious decrease in ALT, AST, GGT and LDH levels when compared with that of NASH induced group. A significant increase in the levels of albumin, creatinine, urea, uric acid, glucose and total bilirubin was noticed in experimentally induced NASH group (group 2) when compared to rats in control group (group 1). Conclusion: It could be inferred from this study that, pioglitazone, quercetin and hydroxy citric acid may afford protection to the liver against NASH, as evidenced by the results of this study on the levels of various biochemical parameters such as glucose, urea, uric acid, creatinine and bilirubin. Whereas from the results of hepatic marker enzymes, it is evident that optimal protection was observed after quercetin treatment against experimental NASH whereas pioglitazone and hydroxy citric acid also confers protection to some extent against NASH.

}, keywords = {Biochemical parameters, Experimentally induced NASH, hydroxy citric acid, Liver marker enzymes, Non alcoholic fatty liver disease, Non alcoholic steatohepatitis, pioglitazone, Quercetin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129037}, author = {Krishna Mohan Surapaneni and Mallika Jainu} } @article {720, title = {Presence of monoterpene synthase in four Labiatae species and Solid-Phase Microextraction- Gas chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy analysis of their aroma profiles}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {March,2014}, pages = {138-142}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {138}, abstract = {

Background: The family Lamiaceae (Labiatae) has included some medicinal plants. some monoterpene synthases, including linalool and limonene synthases, have been cloned and functionally characterized from several plants of Labiatae family. Materials and Methods: In this study, presence of linalool and limonene synthases, in four species of Labiatae family including Nepeta cataria, Lavandula angustifolia, Hyssopus officinalis and Salvia sclarea has been determined by molecular biological techniques together with the Head space SPME - GC-MS analysis of the aroma profile of these species. Results: Indicated that none of the plant species produced distinguishable bands with primer pairs related to d-limonene synthase. Distinguishable bands around 1800 bp in cDNA samples of L. angustifolia, H. officinalis and S. sclarea were observed regarding to the presence of linalool synthase. Head space SPME-GC-MS analysis of the aroma profiles of the above-mentioned plants showed that linalool (31.0\%), linalyl acetate (18.2\%), were found as the major compounds of L. angustifolia, while geraniol (5.5\%), nerol (34.0\%) and α- citral (52.0\%) were identified as the main compounds of the N. cataria. The major components of H. officinalis and S. sclarea oils were determined as cis-pinocamphone (57.3\%), and linalool (19.0\%), linalyl acetate (51.5\%), respectively. Conclusion: H. officinalis was rich of cyclic monoterpenes, L. angustifolia, N. cataria and S. sclarea showed considerable amount of linear monoterpenes. The aroma profile of the above-mentioned plants contained low concentration of sesquiterpenes except N. cataria, which indicated no sesquiterpene. The profiles of the main components of these plants are in agreement with molecular assays.

}, keywords = {Essential oil, Headspace solid phase microextraction, Labiatae, Monoterpene synthase}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.129033}, author = {Soodabeh Saeidnia and Ahmad Reza Gohari and Azita Haddadi and Gholamreza Amin and Marjan Nikan and Abbass Hadjiakhoondi} } @article {696, title = {Protection of CCl 4 -Induced Liver and Kidney Damage by Phenolic Compounds in Leaf Extracts of Cnestis ferruginea (de Candolle)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = {19-28}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {19}, abstract = {

Background: The chemoprevention of chemically-induced hepatotoxicity is a crucial means of minimizing susceptibility to hepatic carcinogenesis and plants remain a rich source of anti-hepatotoxicants with antioxidant properties. Objective: The protective role of defatted-methanol (MECF) and ethyl acetate fractions (EF), obtained from Leaves of Cnestis ferruginea in rats induced with carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 ) toxicity was investigated. Materials and Methods: Adult male Wistar rats were orally administered MECF or EF (125 - 500 mg/kg bwt/5mL) or silymarin (25 mg/kg bwt/5 mL) separately for three days before intervention with an intraperitoneal dose of CCl 4. Biomarkers of liver and kidney toxicity as well as Ca 2+ regulation were evaluated. Results: Pre-treatment with MECF and EF significantly (P \< 0.05) decreased the activities of serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, levels of urea, creatinine and cholesterol. A significantly (P \< 0.05) enhanced Ca 2+ -ATPase activity and lowered levels of membrane cholesterol: Phospholipid ratio were observed in liver microsomes of pre-treated as compared to CCl 4 -only treated rats. Rat liver superoxide dismutase activity was enhanced by 125 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg of EF and MECF, while decreases were observed at 500 mg/kg. MECF and EF, like silymarin, attenuated CCl 4 -induced hepatotoxicity, microsomal membrane Ca 2+ -ATPase inactivation and renal dysfunction. Phytochemistry of MECF revealed the presence of anthraquinones, cardiac and flavone glycosides, tannins and trihydroxyl phenol. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the mechanism of hepatoprotection elicited by MECF and EF, involve its antioxidative properties and regulation of Ca 2+ homeostasis.

}, keywords = {Ca 2+ -ATPase activity, CCl 4 -induced hepatotoxicity, Cnestis ferruginea, Hepatoprotection, Renal protection}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.122913}, author = {Adisa A Rahmat and Farooq Ahsana Dar and Iqbal M Choudhary} } @article {752, title = {Screening of Anticancer Activity from Agarwood Essential Oil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {191-194}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {191-194}, abstract = {

Background: Agarwood is a priceless non-timber forest product from Aquilaria species belonging to the Thymelaeaceae family. As a result of a defence mechanism to fend off pathogens, Aquilaria species develop agarwood or resin which can be used for incense, perfumery, and traditional medicines. Evidences from ethnopharmacological practices showed that Aquilaria spp. have been traditionally used in the Ayurvedic practice and Chinese medicine to treat various diseases particularly the inflammatory-associated diseases. There have been no reports on traditional use of agarwood towards cancer treatment. However, this is most probably due to the fact that cancer nomenclature is used in modern medicine to describe the diseases associated with unregulated cell growth in which inflammation and body pain are involved. Objective: The aim of this current study was therefore to investigate the potential anticancer properties of agarwood essential oil obtained from distillation of agarwood (resin) towards MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Materials and Methods: The essential oil was subjected to screening assays namely cell viability, cell attachment and sulforhodamine B (SRB)-based cytotoxicity assay to determine the IC50 value. Results: The agarwood essential oil caused reduction of the cell number in both the cell viability and attachment assay suggesting a cumulative effect of the cell killing, inhibition of the cell attachment and or causing cells to detach. The agarwood essential oil showed IC50 value of 900 μg/ml towards the cancer cells. Conclusion: The agarwood essential oil exhibited anticancer activity which supports the traditional use against the inflammatory-associated diseases. This warrants further investigation towards the development of alternative remedy towards cancer.

}, keywords = {Agarwood, Aquilaria, Breast cancer, MCF-7, Resin, SRB}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.132593}, author = {Yumi Zuhanis Has-Yun Hashim and Abbas Phirdaous and Amid Azura} } @article {778, title = {Solicitation of HPLC and HPTLC Techniques for Determination of Rutin from Polyalthia longifolia Thwaites}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {234-239}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {234}, abstract = {

Background: Polyalthia longifolia Thwaites is an important traditional plant in India. Rutin, an active constituent has been reported to possess good amount of pharmacological as well as therapeutic potential. Objective: The aim of the present study was to find out by analytical techniques how much percentage of rutin is present in the plant leaves{\textquoteright} ethanolic extract by analytical techniques. Materials and Methods: Shade dried leaves of Polyalthia longifolia were subjected to cold ethanolic extraction followed by monitoring the isolated rutin high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) after carrying out preliminary phytochemical screening. Results: Extraction yield was found to be 13.94\% w/w. Phytochemical screening of the extract showed the presence of flavonoids, steroids, diterpenoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins and phenolic compounds and mucilage. From the Rf value, the ethanolic extract was found to be having constituent identical to rutin. By HPTLC and HPLC the amount of rutin was found to be 11.60\% w/w and 4.03\% w/v, respectively. Conclusion: The active constituent isolated was found to be equal to rutin.

}, keywords = {High performance thin layer chromatography, High-pressure liquid chromatography, Polyalthia longifolia, Rutin, Thin layer chromatography}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.132601}, author = {Gaurav Mahesh Doshi and Sandeep Prabhakar Zine and Pratip Kashinath Chaskar and Hemant Devidas Une} } @article {811, title = {A Study of the Protective Effect of Triticum aestivum L. in an Experimental Animal Model of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {August,2014}, pages = {285-291}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {285}, abstract = {

Background: Oxidative stress plays a major role in the pathogenesis of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Keeping in view the proven antioxidant activity of Triticum aestivum L., this study has been undertaken to explore the potential therapeutic benefit of this plant in the treatment of CFS. Objective: To study the protective effect of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Triticum aestivum (EETA) in an experimental mice model of CFS. Materials and Methods: Five groups of albino mice (20-25 g) were selected for the study, with five animals in each group. Group A served as the na{\"\i}ve control and Group B served as the stressed control. Groups C and D received EETA (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg b.w.). Group E received imipramine (20 mg/kg b.w.). Except for Group A, mice in each group were forced to swim 6 min each for 7 days to induce a state of chronic fatigue. Duration of immobility was measured on every alternate day. After 7 days, various behavioral tests (mirror chamber and elevated plus maize test for anxiety, open field test for locomotor activity) and biochemical estimations (malondialdehyde [MDA] and catalase activity) in mice brain were performed. Results: Forced swimming in the stressed group resulted in a significant increase in immobility period, decrease in locomotor activity and elevated anxiety level. The brain homogenate showed significantly increased MDA and decreased catalase levels. The extract-treated groups showed significantly (P \< 0.05) improved locomotor activity, decreased anxiety level, elevated catalase levels and reduction of MDA. Conclusion: The study confirms the protective effects of EETA in CFS.

}, keywords = {Catalase, Ethanolic extract, Imipramine, Malondialdehyde, Triticum aestivum L}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.138251}, author = {Mukundam Borah and Phulen Sarma and Swarnamoni Das} } @article {706, title = {Synergistic Effect of the Hydroalcoholic Extract from Lepidium meyenii (Brassicaceae) and Fagara tessmannii (Rutaceae) on Male Sexual Organs and Hormone Level in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {December,2013}, pages = { 80-86}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = { 80-86}, abstract = {

Background: Lepidium meyenii is a plant, which has been used in folk medicine to treat infertility and to increase sexual desire. However, few reports have investigated the administration of this plant with other plants having the same properties. Objective: The present investigation was designed to evaluate whether the combination of Lepidium meyenii and Fagara tessmannii can improve spermatogenesis and testosterone level in rats. Materials and Method: Twenty male rats were treated daily for 2 weeks with the hydroalcoholic extract of Fagara tessmannii and Lepidium meyenii (Fag + MN) as follow: (vehicle), (0.01 g + 0.5 mg), (0.1 g + 5 mg) and (1 g+ 50 mg)/kg BW. Results: At doses Fag 0.01 g/MN 0.5 mg and Fag 0.1 g/MN 5 mg, the weight of seminal vesicle, prostate, and testis significantly decreased (P \< 0.05) while at dose Fag 1 g/MN 50 mg, the weight of epididymis and testis significantly increased (P \< 0.05) when compared to the control. We noticed a significant increase of the number of spermatids/test (P \< 0.05), epididymis sperm count (P \< 0.05), and DSP/test of the rats at dose Fag 1 g/MN 50 mg while at dose Fag 0.01 g/MN 0.5 mg and Fag 0.1 g/MN 5 mg, sperm count was reduced in male organs, particularly in vas deferens (P \< 0.05) and epididymis (P \< 0.001). The serum testosterone concentration significantly decreased (P \< 0.05) at lowest dose Fag 0.01 g/MN 0.5 mg. However, at highest dose Fag 1 g/MN 50 mg, the serum testosterone concentration increased significantly (P \< 0.05). The length of stage VII-VIII and IX-I of the seminiferous tubule significantly (P \< 0.05) increased while the length of stage II-VI significantly (P \< 0.05) decreased. Conclusion: The results indicated that the combination of Lepidium meyenii (Black Maca) with Fagara tessmannii can improve male reproductive organs activities.

}, keywords = {Fagara tessmannii, Lepidium meyenii (Maca Negro), Spermatogenesis, Testosterone level}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.121451}, author = {Dieudonn{\'e} Massoma Lemb{\`e} and Manuel Gasco and GF Gonzales} } @article {633, title = {Anti-arthritic Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Tridax Procumbens (Linn.) in Sprague Dawley Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = { 113-117}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {113}, abstract = {

Objective:\ To determine the anti-arthritic effect of whole plant ethanolic extract of\ Tridax procumbens\ (Asteraceae) in female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats using the Freund{\textquoteright}s Complete Adjuvant (FCA) model.\ Materials and Methods:\ The plant was collected from different regions of Madurai District, Tamil Nadu, and the phytoconstituents were identified through chemical tests. Ethanol (95\%) was used to obtain the whole plant extraction through Soxhlet extractor. Female SD rats were used for anti-arthritic screening. Arthritis was induced using FCA, and the anti-arthritic effect of the ethanolic extract of\ T. procumbens\ was studied at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg. The effects were compared with those of indomethacin (10 mg/kg). At the end of the study, the liver enzyme levels were determined and a radiological examination was carried out.\ Result:\ The preliminary phytochemical analysis of the ethanolic extract of\ T. procumbens\ indicated the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids and saponins.\ T. procumbens\ at 250 and 500 mg/kg significantly inhibited the FCA-induced arthritis in the rats. This was manifested by as a decrease in the paw volume. The arthritic control animals exhibited a significant decrease in body weight compared with control animals without arthritis.\ T. procumbens\ animals showed dose dependent reduction in decrees in body weight and arthritis. At the same time,\ T. procumbens\ significantly altered the biochemical and haematological changes induced by FCA (\ P\ \< 0.05). The anti-arthritic effect of\ T. procumbens\ was comparable with that of indomethacin.\ Conclusion:\ The whole plant extract of\ T. procumbens\ showed significant anti-arthritic activity against FCA-induced arthritis in female SD rats.

}, keywords = {Arthritis, Freund's Complete Adjuvant, T. Procumbens}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.110541}, author = {R Ramesh Petchi and C Vijaya and S Parasuraman} } @article {637, title = {Anti-arthritic Activity of Root Bark of Oroxylum Indicum (L.) Vent Against Adjuvant-induced Arthritis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = {121-128}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {121}, abstract = {

Background:Oroxylum indicum\ (Bignoniaceae) also known as Sonapatha is an indigenous medicinal plant widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for over thousands of years. It is an active ingredient of well-known Ayurvedic formulations such as Chyawanprash and Dasamula. Root bark of this plant has tonic and astringent properties and it is also used in rheumatism.\ Objective:\ The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the anti-arthritic activity of different extracts of root bark of\ Oroxylum indicum\ against adjuvant - induced arthritis in rats.\ Materials and Methods:\ Male Wistar rats were used in this study. Arthritis was induced by injecting 0.1 ml Freund{\textquoteright}s complete adjuvant intra-dermally into the left hind paw of the rats. The paw volume, hematological, biochemical, radiographic and histopathological aspects were evaluated.\ Results:\ The relative percentage inhibition potential of paw volume in rats treated with various extracts of\ Oroxylum indicum\ was found to be ethyl acetate extract (67.69\%) \>chloroform extract (64.61\%) \>n-butanol extract (58.46\%) respectively. The hematological parameters like RBC count, hemoglobin content showed significant increase while there was a significant decrease in total WBC count and ESR in all the groups of animals pretreated with root bark extracts. The biochemical parameters such as catalase, glutathione contents showed a significant increase while the lipid peroxide and Cathepsin-D content decreased significantly only in case of ethyl acetate pretreated rats when compared to others.\ Conclusion:\ The present study suggests that the chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol extracts of root bark of\ Oroxylum indicum\ exhibit anti-arthritic activity. The order of activity of extracts was found to be ethyl acetate \>chloroform \>n-butanol respectively.

}, keywords = {Anti-arthritic Activity, Biochemical parameters, Freund's Complete Adjuvant, Histopathology, Oroxylum indicum}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.110543}, author = {Mamatha Karnati and Rodda H Chandra and Ciddi Veeresham and Bookya Kishan} } @article {600, title = {Anti-atherogenic and Anti-ischemic Potentials of Croton Membranaceus Observed During Sub-chronic Toxicity Studies}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {January 2013}, pages = {10-16}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {10}, abstract = {

Background\ :\ Croton membranaceus\ (CM) is used for benign prostate hyperplasia treatment.\ Objective\ : Sub-chronic toxicity studies are non-existent and provided the basis for this study.\ Materials and Methods\ : 90 days oral administration of a low dose (LD) (30 mg/kg b. wt.), medium dose (MD) (150 mg/kg b. wt.), and high dose (HD) (300 mg/kg b. wt.)\ CM\ aqueous root extract to 3 groups (n=6 each) of male Sprague-Dawley rats, alongside a control group, was undertaken. Urinalysis, hepato-renal function tests, lipid profile, cardiac enzymes, and routine hematology tests were performed.\ Results\ : Triglyceride levels (C=1.05{\textpm}0.19, LD=0.64{\textpm}0.08, MD=0.55{\textpm}0.04, HD=0.50{\textpm}0.02 mmol/L) were significantly reduced (P\<0.05). Very low density lipoprotein (C=0.48{\textpm}0.09, LD=0.29{\textpm}0.04, MD=0.25{\textpm}0.02, HD=0.23{\textpm}0.01 mmol/L) decreased significantly (P\<0.05). Cardiac enzymes-creatinine kinase (C=568{\textpm}172, LD=315{\textpm}79, MD=441{\textpm}209, HD=286{\textpm}81 IU/L) decreased markedly (P\<0.05) alongside lactate dehydrogenase (C=2675{\textpm}875, LD=1667{\textpm}1229, MD=1186{\textpm}442, HD=855{\textpm}239 IU/L) (P\<0.05).\ Conclusion\ :\ C. membranaceus\ aqueous root extract is non-toxic but demonstrates anti-atherogenic and anti-ischemic potentials.

}, keywords = {Anti-atherogenic, Anti-ischemic, Croton Membranaceus, Sub-chronic, Toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.105640}, author = {Dan K Afriyie and George A Asare and Kwasi Bugyei and Isaac Asiedu-Gyekye and Ben A Gyan and Samuel Adjei and Phyllis Addo and Archibald Sittie and Alexander K Nyarko} } @article {607, title = {Anti-diabetic Properties of Flavonoid Compounds Isolated from Hyphaene Thebaica Epicarp on Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {January 2013}, pages = {22-29}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {22}, abstract = {

Background:\ Diabetes mellitus, becoming the third killer of mankind after cancer and cardiovascular diseases, is one of the most challenging diseases facing health care professionals today. That is why; there has been a growing interest in the therapeutic use of natural products for diabetes, especially those derived from plants.\ Aim:\ To evaluate the anti-diabetic activity together with the accompanying biological effects of the fractions and the new natural compounds of\ Hyphaene thebaica\ (HT) epicarp.\ Materials and Methods:\ 500 g of coarsely powdered of (HT) fruits epicarp were extracted by acetone. The acetone crude extract was fractionated with methanol and ethyl acetate leaving a residual water-soluble fraction\ WF\ . The anti-diabetic effects of the\ WF\ and one of its compounds of the acetone extract of the (HT) epicarp were investigated in this study using 40 adult male rats.\ Results:\ Phytochemical investigation of active\ WF\ revealed the presence of ten different flavonoids, among which two new natural compounds luteolin 7-O-[6"-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl]-β-D-galactopyranoside\ 3\ and chrysoeriol 7-O-β-D-galactopyranosyl (1{\textregistered}2)-α-L-arabinofuranoside\ 5\ were isolated. Supplementation of the\ WF\ improved glucose and insulin tolerance and significantly lowered blood glycosylated hemoglobin levels. On the other hand, compound\ 5\ significantly reduced AST and ALT levels of liver, respectively. Likewise, the kidney functions were improved for both\ WF\ and compound\ 5\ , whereby both urea and creatinine levels in serum were highly significant.\ Conclusion:\ The results justify the use of\ WF\ and compound\ 5\ of the (HT) epicarp as anti-diabetic agent, taking into consideration that the contents of\ WF\ were mainly flavonoids.

}, keywords = {Anti-diabetic activity, Epicarp, Hyphaene Thebaica, Novel Flavonoids}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.105644}, author = {Josline Y Salib and Helana N Michael and Emad Fawzy Eskande} } @article {650, title = {Antihyperlipidemic Effects of Ginger Extracts in Alloxan-induced Diabetes and Propylthiouracil-induced Hypothyroidism in (rats)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = { 157-161}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {157}, abstract = {

Background:\ Diabetic mellitus and hypothyroidism lead to serum lipoproteins disorders. This study aims to investigate the potential effect of fresh ginger extracts\ Zingiber officinale\ roscoe (Family:\ Zingebiraceae) on serum lipid profile and on blood glucose in alloxan-induced diabetes and propylthiouracil-induced hypothyroidism in rats. Rats were divided into 11 groups: The normal G1, diabetic control rats G2, ginger 500 mg/kg treated diabetic rats G3, 10 mg/day atorvastatine-treated diabetic rats G4, [5 mg/day atorvastatine combined with 500 mg/kg ginger] treated diabetic rats G5, glibenclamid-treated diabetic rats G6, hypothyoidism control rats G7, 300 mg/kg ginger-treated hypothyroidism rats G8, 500 mg/kg ginger-treated hypothyroidism rats G9, 10 mg/day atorvastatine-treated hypothyroidism rats G10, [atorvastatine combined with 500 mg/kg ginger]treated hypothyroidism rats G11. Thirty days after treatment, samples were collected, to compare treated groups with normal and control groups, using Mann-Whitney U test\ P\ \< 0.01.\ Results\ : It revealed a decrease in the levels of total cholesterol (TC), and low density lipoprotein (LDL) in the serum of rats that were treated by ginger extracts, compared with the control groups. Previous extracts were also able to cause reduction in LDL to similar levels compared to normal group and that was the same effect of atorvastatin 10 mg/day. Combined effect was clear between the act of ginger at a dose of 500 mg/kg and atorvastatin; that levels of both TC and LDL in animals which received [atorvastatin 5 mg/day combined with ginger extract] was almost equal to levels in animals that received atorvastatin 10mg/day. Clear reduce in triglyceride, and clear increase in high density liopprotein were also recorded in the ginger-treated groups. Ginger was more active in hypothyroidism rats than in diabetic rats in reducing LDL and TC. Glucose levels were substantially reduced in ginger- treated diabetic groups.

}, keywords = {Alloxan-induced Diabetes, Atorvastatin, Ginger, Glibenclamide, Lipoproteins}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112419 }, author = {Ahmad Sameer Al-Noory and Abdul-Nasser Amreen and Shatha Hymoor} } @article {638, title = {Anti-inflammatory and Anti-hyperalgesic Activities of Acanthopanax Trifoliatus (L) Merr Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = {129-133}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {129}, abstract = {

Context:Acanthopanax trifoliatus\ is a ginseng-like plant, which has been widely used to treat various diseases including inflammatory-related diseases.\ Aims:\ The present study has been designed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperalgesic effects of various fractions of\ Acanthopanax trifoliatus\ leaves ethanolic extract in rats.\ Materials and Methods:\ Anti-inflammatory activity was studied by using carrageenan-induced edema on rat paw whilst anti-hyperalgesic was assessed by using carrageenan-evoked thermal hyperalgesia on plantar test.\ Statistical Analysis Used:\ Data were analyzed using Student\ t-test to compare with control.Multiple comparisons for difference between control and extract-treated groups were evaluated by Tukey HSD (Honestly Significant Difference) test.\ P\ values less than 0.05 (P\ \< 0.05) is considered significant.\ Results:\ Among three different fractions i.e., hexane, dichloromethane, and methanol tested, methanolic fraction displayed the most potent fraction amongst those three. It gave significant anti-inflammatory effect at highest dose, 500 mg/kg, with 77.24\% of inhibition. Whilst for anti-hyperalgesic activity, methanolic fraction showed the highest efficacy at 375 mg/kg. Administration of methanolic fraction of\ Acanthopanax trifoliatus\ inhibited paw edema in a dose- dependent manner. The inhibition for both activities might be due to possible composition of polar compounds, which are flavonoids and phenolics content.\ Conclusions:\ Methanol fraction of\ Acanthopanax trifoliatus\ leaves has potential effect as anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperalgesia in acute inflammation model.

}, keywords = {Acanthopanax Trifoliatus, Anti-hyperalgesic Carrageenan-evoked Thermal Hyperalgesia, Plantar Test}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110544 }, author = {Roslida Abdul Hamid and Teoh Hui Kee and Fezah Othman} } @article {657, title = {Anti-ulcer and Ulcer Healing Potentials of Musa Sapientum Peel Extract in the Laboratory Rodents}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {173-178}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {173}, abstract = {

Background:\ This study investigated the anti-ulcer and ulcer healing potentials of the methanol extract of\ Musa sapientum\ peel in the laboratory rats.\ Materials and Methods:\ Methanol extract of the peels on\ Musa sapientum\ (MEMS) was evaluated for its anti-ulcer using alcohol-induced, aspirin-induced, and pyloric ligation-induced models, and for its ulcer healing employing acetic acid-induced ulcer models in rats.\ Results:\ The findings from this experiment showed that MEMS (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, b.w.) anti-ulcer and ulcer healing activity (P\ <= 0.05) is dose-dependent. Also, MEMS exhibited healing of the ulcer base in all the treated groups when compared with the control group.\ Conclusion:\ The outcomes of this experiment revealed that the anti-ulcer effect of MEMS may be due to its anti-secretory and cyto-protective activity. The healing of the ulcer base might not be unconnected with basic fibroblast growth factors responsible for epithelial regeneration.

}, keywords = {Anti-ulcer, Musa sapientum, Peptic Ulcer, Ulcer Healing}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112423}, author = {Samuel Adetunji Onasanwo and Benjamin Obukowho Emikpe and Austin Azubuike Ajah and Taiwo Olayemi Elufioye} } @article {655, title = {Bronchodilatory Effect of Ethanolic Extract of the Leaves of Nyctanthes Arbortristis,}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {169-172}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {169}, abstract = {

Background:Nyctanthes arbortristis\ has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of asthma and cough.\ Aim:\ In this study, bronchodilatory effect of ethanolic extract of the\ N. arbortristis\ was investigated under\ in vitro\ conditions. The concentration-response curve of the tracheal smooth muscle (TSM) to histamine was recorded in presence or absence of ethanolic extract and Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). Dose-response effect of ethanolic extract on pre-constricted tissues was investigated. The ethanolic extract inhibited the histamine-induced maximum contractile responses of TSM (\ P\ \< 0.001). Ethanolic extract also cause dose-dependent relaxation of TSM. These effects were reversed by L-NAME. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of typical plant constituents. These results suggest the possible use of extract of the leaves of\ N. arbortristis\ as a bronchodilator in therapeutic treatment of asthma.

}, keywords = {a0 sthma, Ethanolic Eextract Nyctanthes Arbortristis, Tracheal Smooth Muscle}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112422 }, author = {Ramadan B Sopi and Muhammad Feroz Hayat Khan} } @article {665, title = {Cellular Responses with Thymoquinone Treatment in Human Breast Cancer cell line MCF-7}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {200-206}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {200}, abstract = {

Background:Nigella sativa\ or black seed extract has been reported to show various medicinal benefits. Thymoquinone which is an active compound of its seed has been reported to contain anti-cancer properties.\ Objective:\ The study addressed the anti-cancer efficiency of long-term\ in vitro\ treatment with thymoquinone towards human breast cancer cell lines MCF-7.\ Materials and Methods:\ Cell proliferation was determined with CellTiter 96 Aqueous. Non-Radioactive Cell Proliferation Assay Kit. It was followed with trypan blue exclusion test to determine the percentage of viable cells. The study incorporated cell cycle assay to distinguish cell distribution at various cell cycle phases using Cycletest Plus DNA Reagent Kit. The apoptosis detection kit was used to determine the percentage of apoptotic and necrotic cells using flow cytometry.\ Results:\ The 50\% inhibitory concentration (IC\ 50\ ) value determined using the proliferation assay was 25 μM thymoquinone. Late apoptotic cell percentage increased rapidly when treatment duration was increased to 24 h with 25 and 100 μM thymoquinone. Further analysis using cell cycle assay showed thymoquinone inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation at minimal dose 25 μM and led to S phase arrest significantly at 72 h treatment (P\ = 0.009). It was also noted elevation sub-G\ 1\ peak following treatment with 25 μM thymoquinone for 12 h. Increase in thymoquinone to 50 μM caused G\ 2\ phase arrest at each time-point studied.\ Conclusion:\ In general thymoquinone showed sustained inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation with long-term treatment. Specificity of phase arrest was determined by thymoquinone dose.

}, keywords = {Apoptosis, cytotoxicity, Long-term Exposure, MCF-7 cell line, Thymoquinone}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112428}, author = {Marjaneh Motaghed and Faisal Muti Al-Hassan and Shahrul Sahul Hamid} } @article {602, title = {Dietary Supplementation with two Lamiaceae Herbs-(oregano and sage) Modulates Innate Immunity Parameters in Lumbric us Terrestris}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {January 2013}, pages = {1-9}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Introduction:Lamiaceae\ herbs have are well known for their immunomodulatory effects, however, the mechanism by which they effect innate immune system is not clearly understood.\ Objective:\ The effect of dietary supplementation with two\ Lamiaceae\ herbs (oregano and sage) modulation of on innate immunological parameters was investigated in\ Lumbricus terrestris.\ Materials and Methods:\ Animals were fed (ad libitum) on herbs supplemented diet [(0.1\% (w/v) and 0.5\% (w/v)] for 6 days. Changes in immune competent cell counts, viability, and relative neutrophil-like cell counts were determined in response to herb treatment. Changes in nitric oxide, phagocytic activity, and respiratory burst index were also determined in response to herb treatment relative to control. Additionally, effect of herb co-treatment cyclophosphamide (50 mg/kg-BW) induced immunosuppression was also evaluated.\ Results:\ Our results suggested abrogation of CP-induced immunosuppression in response to co-treatment with herbs. Significant increase in nitric oxide-mediated immune-competent cell counts, viability, and differentiation into neutrophil-like cells were observed in response to dietary supplementation with\ Lamiaceae\ herbs. Significantly higher phagocytic activity relative to control was also noted in response to dietary intake of oregano and sage. However, the respiratory burst index did not increase exponentially in response to herb treatments, suggesting a potential enhancement in pathogen recognition and antioxidant defenses.\ Conclusion:Lamiaceae\ herbs may have potential immune-modulatory properties important for human health and merits further investigation.

}, keywords = {Cyclophosphamide, Iimmunosuppression Innate Iimmunity, Respiratory Burst, Zingiberaceae Herbs}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.105636}, author = {DA Vattem and CE Lester and RC DeLeon and RC DeLeon and RC DeLeon} } @article {670, title = {Difficulty for Consumers in Choosing Commercial Bilberry Supplements by Relying only on Product Label Information}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {212-215}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {212}, abstract = {

Background:\ Various kinds of bilberry supplements have recently become available on the market. However, it is doubtful whether consumers receive accurate information to be able to compare different supplements.\ Objective:\ We aimed to investigate whether consumers can obtain the expected benefits by relying only on the information printed on the product labels of commercial bilberry supplements.\ Materials and Methods:\ The quality of 20 supplements was investigated by the spectrophotometric method and ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC). Each peak was identified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and quantified using an external standard. The percentage of the actual measured value relative to the indicated value on the product label was determined using the spectrophotometric method. The daily dosage was calculated from the total amount of anthocyanins quantified by UHPLC and information on the product label.\ Results:\ In 14 of 20 supplements, the total anthocyanin content expressed as delphinidin equivalents was within 20\% of the labeled value. However, the extent of degradation could not be determined by the spectrophotometric method. In fresh bilberry fruit, anthocyanidins were barely detected. In 8 of 20 supplements, the anthocyanidin content was \>1.0\%. The daily dosage of anthocyanins varied by about 66-fold among supplements, and the dosage of 6 supplements was less than the recommended level in Japan.\ Conclusions:\ Consumers cannot always obtain the expected benefits by relying only on product label information. Therefore, new rules concerning product label information are required to make it possible for consumers to take the equivalent amounts of anthocyanins for whichever bilberry supplement they choose.

}, keywords = {Anthocyanidins, Bilberry Anthocyanins, Consumer, Product Label Information, Quality}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112432 }, author = {Masao Yamamoto and Katsunori Yamaura and Makiko Ishiwatari and Koichi Ueno} } @article {622, title = {The Effects of Unripe Grape Extract on Systemic Blood Pressure, Nnitric Oxide Production, and Response to Angiotensin II Administration}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = { 60-64}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {60}, abstract = {

Background:\ Hypertension is the most common disease in the world. In Iranian folk medicine, unripe grape juice has been used as antihypertention remedy, but no data is documented for this popular belief. This study was designed to determine the effect of unripe grape extract (UGE) on blood pressure and the response to angiotensin II in rat.\ Materials and Methods:\ Unripe grape was collected, air dried, and extracted and concentrated. Four groups of Wistar rats received single doses of 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg of UGE or saline, respectively. The direct blood pressure and the serum nitrite level were measured one hour post UGE administration. The animals also were subjected to the infusion of various angiotensin II concentrations (100, 300, and 1000 μg/kg/min), and blood pressure was determined.\ Results:\ Mean arterial, systolic, and diastolic pressures (MAP, SP, and DP) in all UGE treated groups were less than the control group, but only at the dose of 125 mg/kg (Group 1) they were significantly different (\ P\ \< 0.05). The level of nitrite in groups 1-3 were significantly greater than the control group (\ P\ \< 0.05). No significant differences were detected for the MAP, SP, and DP to different concentrations of angiotensin II among these groups.\ Conclusion:\ UGE potentially attenuate MAP, SP, and DP via vasodilatation induced by nitric oxide production.

}, keywords = {Angiotensin II, Blood Pressure, Nitric oxide, Unripe Grape Extract, VitisVinifera}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110511}, author = {Mehdi Nematbakhsh and Behzad Zolfaghari and Fatemeh Eshraghi and Tahereh Safari and Zahra Pezeshki and Seyyed Mohammad-Ali Sorooshzadeh} } @article {648, title = {Evaluation of Marine Brown Algae Sargassum ilicifolium Extract for Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {146-149}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {146}, abstract = {

Background\ : The methanolic extract of\ Sargassum ilicifolium\ (Pheophyceae) was used to evaluate its analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity in the present study.\ Materials and Methods:\ Analgesic activity was tested using Acetic acid writhing method and Eddy hot plate method in Male albino mice and Wister rats respectively at a dose level of 1, 10, 50, 100mg/kg p.o. At the same dose, its anti-inflammatory activity was also tested using Carrageenan induced rat paw edema method Result Acetic acid writhing test and Eddy{\textquoteright}s hot plate episodes were significantly and dose dependently reduced. Carrageenan (a standard inflammatory agent) induced paw edema in rats was significantly reduced after intraperitonal administration of methanolic extract.\ Results:\ showed dose dependant significant activity in comparison with standard and control.\ Conclusion:\ Methanolic extracts of the brown seaweeds\ Sargassum ilicifolium\ have potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity at moderate doses.

}, keywords = {Acetic acid Writhing, Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Carrageenan, Granuloma, Hot Plate, Paw edema, Sargassum Ilicifolium}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112413 }, author = {Chandraraj C Simpi and Channabasappa V Nagathan and Santosh R Karajgi and Navanath V Kalyane} } @article {653, title = {Extraction, Gas Chromatography-mass Spectrometry Analysis and Screening of Fruits of Terminalia Chebula Retz. for its Antimicrobial Potential}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {162-168}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {162}, keywords = {Disc Diffusion Assay, Enterobacter Aerogenes, GC-MS, Kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, Pyrogallol, Terminalia chebula}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112421}, author = {Geeta Singh and Padma Kumar} } @article {604, title = {Flavonoid Glycosides and Pharmacological Activity of Amphilophium Paniculatum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {January 2013}, pages = {17-21}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {17}, abstract = {

Background:\ Nothing is reported on\ Amphilophium paniculatum\ (L.) Kunth. This study aimed at investigation of chemical constituents of the leaves of\ Amphilophium paniculatum,\ grown in Egypt, in addition to pharmacological evaluation.\ Materials and Methods:\ Isolation of a new compound, along with 5 known flavonoids. Pharmacological activities were carried out on different extracts of\ A. paniculatum\ leaves.\ Results:\ Identification of a new flavone glycoside, acacetin 8-C-β-D- glucopyranosy l-(1{\textrightarrow}2)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (1) in addition to 5 known flavonoids. The 70\% ethanol crud extract and its successive chloroform, ethyl acetate, and 100\% ethanol extracts showed significant anti-inflammatoryactivity,analgesic effect, antipyretic activity, antioxidant activity, and anti-hyperglycemic activity. Determination of the median lethal dose (LD\ 50\ ) revealed that the different extracts were safe.

}, keywords = {Amphilophium Paniculatum, Bignoniaceae, Flavonoids, Pharmacology}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.105643 }, author = {Mahmoud I Nassar and El-Sayed A Aboutabl and Dina M Eskander and Mary H Grace and Ezzel-Din A EL-Khrisy and Amany A Sleem} } @article {630, title = {The Heavy Metal Contents of Some Selected Medicinal Plants Sampled from Different Geographical Locations}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = { 103-108}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {103}, abstract = {

Background:\ The levels of 5 minerals namely; lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and aluminum were assessed in 10 medicinal plants sampled from 5 different geographical locations to determine the effect of location on the plants{\textquoteright} mineral content.\ Materials and Methods:\ Atomic absorption spectrophotometry (wet digestion) was used for the analyzes, and content of the minerals per sample was expressed as μg/g. The levels of minerals were compared to their limit specification for herbs and daily total intake of these minerals. A two-way analysis of variance, which tends to look at the effect of the location and the medicinal plant itself on the plants mineral content, was used in the statistical analysis.\ Results:\ Lead (Pb) was present in all plant species examined, except\ Ocimum gratissimum. One plant exceeded the maximum safety limit for lead. Cadmium was also detected in some of the medicinal plant species (44\%) whilst majority were below the detection limit (0.002) representing 56\%. 40\% of the plant species exceeded the limit for cadmium. Mercury and arsenic in all the plant species were below the detection limit (0.001). Significant variation existed in mineral content for the various locations (\ P\ <= 0.05).\ Conclusion:\ The findings generally suggest the variation in mineral levels for the various locations. Thus, our study has shown that same species of medicinal plants, growing in different environments, accumulates different levels of heavy metals.

}, keywords = {Geographical Locations, Heavy metals, Medicinal plants, Minerals}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110539 }, author = {Kofi Annan and Rita A Dickson and Isaac K Amponsah and Isaac K Nooni} } @article {649, title = {Hepatoprotective Effect of Commercial Herbal Extracts on Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Damage in Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = { 150-156}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {150}, abstract = {

Background\ : Various hepatoprotective herbal products from plants are available in Mexico, where up to 85\% of patients with liver disease use some form of complementary and alternative medicine. However, only few studies have reported on the biological evaluation of these products.\ Objective\ : Using a model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4\ )-induced hepatotoxicity in rats, we evaluated the effects of commercial herbal extracts used most commonly in the metropolitan area of Monterrey, Mexico.\ Materials andMethods\ : The commercial products were identified through surveys in public areas. The effect of these products given with or without CCl4\ in rats was evaluated by measuring the serum concentrations of aspartate amino transferase (AST) and alanine amino transferase (ALT), and histopathological analysis. Legalon{\textregistered}\ was used as the standard drug.\ Results\ : The most commonly used herbal products were Hepatisan{\textregistered}\ capsules, Boldo capsules, Hepavida{\textregistered}\ capsules, Boldo infusion, and milk thistle herbal supplement (80\% silymarin). None of the products tested was hepatotoxic according to transaminase and histological analyses. AST and ALT activities were significantly lower in the Hepavida+CCl4\ -treated group as compared with the CCl4\ -only group. AST and ALT activities in the silymarin, Hepatisan, and Boldo tea groups were similar to those in the CCl4\ group. The CCl4\ group displayed submassive confluent necrosis and mixed inflammatory infiltration. Both the Hepatisan+CCl4\ and Boldo tea+CCl4\ groups exhibited ballooning degeneration, inflammatory infiltration, and lytic necrosis. The silymarin+CCl4\ group exhibited microvesicular steatosis. The Hepavida+CCl4\ - and Legalon+CCL4\ -treated groups had lower percentages of necrotic cells as compared with the CCl4\ -treated group; this treatment was hepatoprotective against necrosis.\ Conclusion\ : Only Hepavida had a hepatoprotective effect.

}, keywords = {Alanine Transferase, Aspartate Transferase, Hepatoprotection, Liver Injury, Natural Products}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112417 }, author = {Paula Cordero-P{\'e}rez and Liliana Torres-Gonz{\'a}lez and Marcelino Aguirre-Garza and Carlos Camara-Lemarroy and Francisco Guzm{\'a}n-de la Garza and Gabriela Alarc{\'o}n-Galv{\'a}n and Homero Zapata-Chavira and Ma de Jes{\'u}s Sotelo-Gallegos and Cipactli Nadjedja Torres-Esquivel and Ethel S{\'a}nchez-Fresno and Daniel Cant{\'u}-Sep{\'u}lveda and Gerardo Gonz{\'a}lez-Saldivar and Judith Bernal-Ramirez and Linda E u{\~n}oz-Espinosa} } @article {625, title = {Immune-stimulatory and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Curcuma Longa Extract and its Polysaccharide Fraction}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = {71-79}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {71}, abstract = {

Background:\ While curcuminoids have been reported to possess diverse biological activities, the anti-inflammatory activity of polar extracts (devoid of curcuminoids) of\ Curcuma longa\ (C. longa) has seldom been studied. In this study, we have investigated immune-stimulatory and anti-inflammatory activities of an aqueous based extract of\ C. longa\ (NR-INF-02) and its fractions in presence and absence of mitogens.\ Materials and Methods:\ Effects of NR-INF-02 (Turmacin\ TM\ , Natural Remedies Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore, India) on proliferation, nitric oxide (NO), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), interleukins (ILs) and prostaglandin (PGE\ 2\ ) levels of mouse splenocytes and mouse macrophage (RAW264.7) cells were determined.\ Results:\ NR-INF-02 increased splenocytes number in presence and absence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or concanavalin A. Treatment of NR-INF-02 showed a significant increase of NO, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, interferon (IFN) gamma, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha and MCP-1 production in unstimulated mouse splenocytes and mouse macrophages. Interestingly, NR-INF-02 showed potent inhibitory effect towards release of PGE\ 2\ and IL-12 levels in LPS stimulated mouse splenocytes. Further, NR-INF-02 was fractionated into polysaccharide fraction (F1) and mother liquor (F2) to study their immune-modulatory effects. F1 was found to be more potent than F2 toward inhibiting PGE\ 2\ and IL-12 in LPS stimulated splenocytes.\ Conclusion:\ Present findings revealed the novel anti-inflammatory property of NR-INF-02 and its polysaccharide fraction by inhibiting the secretion of IL-12 and PGE\ 2in vitro.

}, keywords = {Curcuma longa, Immunomodulation, Inflammation, Pain, Polysaccharides, Turmacin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110527 }, author = {Chinampudur V Chandrasekaran and Kannan Sundarajan and Jothie R Edwin and Giligar M Gururaja and Deepak Mundkinajeddu and Amit Agarwal} } @article {623, title = {Insulin Secretion Enhancing Activity of Roselle Calyx Extract in Normal and Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = {65-70}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {65}, abstract = {

Background and Objective:\ Our recent study revealed the antihyperglycemic activity of an ethanolic extract of roselle calyxes (Hibiscus sabdariffa) in diabetic rats. The present study had, therefore, an objective to investigate the mechanism underlying this activity.\ Materials and Methods:\ Male Sprague Dawley rats were induced to be diabetes by intraperitoneal injection of 45 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ). Normal rats as well as diabetic rats were administered with the ethanolic extract of\ H. sabdariffa\ calyxes (HS-EE) at 0.1 and 1.0 g/kg/day, respectively, for 6 weeks. Then, blood glucose and insulin levels, at basal and glucose-stimulated secretions, were measured. The pancreas was dissected to examine histologically.\ Results:\ HS-EE 1.0 g/kg/day significantly decreased the blood glucose level by 38 {\textpm} 12\% in diabetic rats but not in normal rats. In normal rats, treatment with 1.0 g/kg HS-EE increased the basal insulin level significantly as compared with control normal rats (1.28 {\textpm} 0.25 and 0.55 {\textpm} 0.05 ng/ml, respectively). Interestingly, diabetic rats treated with 1.0 g/kg HS-EE also showed a significant increase in basal insulin level as compared with the control diabetic rats (0.30 {\textpm} 0.05 and 0.15 {\textpm} 0.01 ng/ml, respectively). Concerning microscopic histological examination, HS-EE 1.0 g/kg significantly increased the number of islets of Langerhans in both normal rats (1.2 {\textpm} 0.1 and 2.0 {\textpm} 0.1 islet number/10 low-power fields (LPF) for control and HS-EE treated group, respectively) and diabetic rats (1.0 {\textpm} 0.3 and 3.9 {\textpm} 0.6 islet number/10 LPF for control and HS-EE treated group, respectively).\ Conclusion:\ The antidiabetic activity of HS-EE may be partially mediated via the stimulating effect on insulin secretion.

}, keywords = {Antihyperglycemic Activity, Insulin Secretion, Pancreas, Roselle}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110520}, author = {Eamruthai Wisetmuen and Patchareewan Pannangpetch and Patchareewan Pannangpetch and Upa Kukongviriyapan and Wiboonchai Yutanawiboonchai and Arunporn Itharat} } @article {640, title = {Isolation and Identification of Bacterial Endophytes from Pharmaceutical Agarwood-producing Aquilaria Species}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = {134-137}, type = {Short Communication }, chapter = {134}, abstract = {

Background:\ Resins and gums are used in traditional medicine and do have potential applications in pharmacy and medicine. Agarwood is the fragrant resinous wood, which is an important commodity from\ Aquilaria\ species and has been used as a sedative, analgesic, and digestive in traditional medicine. Endophytic bacteria are potentially important in producing pharmaceutical compounds found in the plants. Hence, it was important to understand which types of endophytic bacteria are associated with pharmaceutical agarwood-producing\ Aquilaria\ species.\ Objective:\ This study was undertaken to isolate and identify endophytic bacteria associated with agarwood-producing seven (7)\ Aquilaria\ species from Malaysia.\ Materials and Methods:\ Botanical samples of seven\ Aquilaria\ species were collected, and endophytic bacteria were isolated from surface-sterilized-tissue samples. The 16S rRNA gene fragments were amplified using PCR method, and endophytic bacterial isolates (EBIs) were identified based on 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity based method.\ Results:\ Culturable, 77 EBIs were analyzed, and results of 16S rRNA gene sequences analysis suggest that 18 different types of endophytic bacteria are associated with (seven)\ Aquilaria\ species. From 77 EBIs, majority (36.4\%) of the isolates were of\ Bacillus pumilus.\ Conclusion:\ These findings indicate that agarwood-producing\ Aquilaria\ species are harboring 18 different types of culturable endophytic bacteria.

}, keywords = {16S rRNA, Biodiversity, Endophytes, Malaysia, Medicine, Natural Products, Ribosomal DNA, Traditional medicine}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110545 }, author = {Subhash J Bhore and Jagadesan Preveena and Kodi I Kandasamy} } @article {620, title = {New Triterpenoid Acyl Derivatives and Biological Study of Manilkara Zapota (L.) Van Royen Fruits}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = {55-59}, type = {Review Article}, chapter = {55}, abstract = {

β-amyrin-3-(3{\textquoteright}-dimethyl) butyrate, a new natural compound was isolated from the fruits of\ Manilkara zapota\ (L.) Van Royen, in addition to lupeol-3-acetate and 4-caffeoylquinic acid (cryptochlorogenic acid). The structures of these compounds were identified using different spectral methods (IR, MS, UV,\ 1\ H-NMR,\ 13\ C-NMR and 2D-NMR). The alcoholic and aqueous extracts of the unripe fruits, in addition to their aqueous homogenate exhibited antioxidant, antihyperglycemic and hypocholesterolemic activities.

}, keywords = {4-caffeoylquinic acid, Antihyperglycemic, Antioxidant, Hypocholesterolemic, Lupeol-3-acetate, Manilkara zapota, β-amyrin-3-(3'-dimethyl)butyrate}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110505}, author = {Nesrin M Fayek and Azza R Abdel Monem and Mohamed Y Mossa, and Meselhy R Meselhy} } @article {672, title = {Phytochemical Screening Studies on Melia Orientalis by GC-MS Analysis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {216-218}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {216}, abstract = {

Background:Melia orientalis\ (MO) is an important Ayurvedic medicinal plants. The plant part such as leaves and roots are traditionally used for the treatment of diabetes, edema, traumatic swelling, skin diseases, oligospermia and bleeding disorders.\ Objective:\ To investigate the phytochemical identification of ethanol leaf extract of MO.\ Materials and Methods:\ The fresh leaves of MO (1000g) were collected and shade dried at room temperature for 30 days and the dried leaves were made into a fine powder. The ethanol leaf extract obtained was dried and used for phytochemical identification by GC-MS analysis.\ Results:\ The phytochemical screening studies have been carried out and identified ten chemical constituents present in the leaf extract of MO.\ Conclusion:\ Thus, our results show that MO possess important phytocomponents such as phytol, squalene and stigmasterol.

}, keywords = {GC-MS Analysis, Medicinal l Pants, Melia Orientalis, Phytocomponents}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112433}, author = {Srinivasan Marimuthu and Balakrishnan Padmaja and Sudarsan Nair} } @article {628, title = {Production of Podophyllotoxin from Roots and Plantlets of Hyptis Suaveolens Cultivated in vitro}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = {93-102}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {93}, abstract = {

Background:Hyptis suaveolens\ was an important source of food and medicines in pre-hispanic Mιxico and is actually used popularly to treat respiratory and skin diseases, fever, pain, and cramps, between other ailments. In 2008 the presence of podophyllotoxin (PTOX) was reported in this plant.\ Objective:\ To establish\ in vitro\ cultures of\ H. suaveolens\ able to produce PTOX.\ Materials and Methods:\ Explants of\ H. suaveolens\ were cultivated in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with different concentrations of the phytohormones 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BAP), 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and kinetin (Kin), in order to induce the production of podophyllotoxin. Root cultures without hormones were also established and the quantification of PTOX was performed by HPLC analysis.\ Results:\ The presence of growth regulators during\ in vitro\ cultivation of\ H. suaveolens, provoked morphological variations in explants, and induced the accumulation of different levels of PTOX. Roots grown without phytohormones accumulated PTOX at 0.013\% dry weight (DW), while in three of the callus cultures cell lines growing together with roots, PTOX accumulated at concentrations of 0.003, 0.005 and 0.006\% DW when NAA was combined with either Kin or BAP. In wild plant material PTOX was present in trace amounts in the aerial parts, while in the roots it was found at 0.005\% DW.\ Conclusion:\ This study demonstrated that although it is possible to obtain PTOX in a variety of\ in vitro\ cultures of\ H. suaveolens,\ in vitro\ roots grown without the addition of growth regulators were better producers of PTOX.

}, keywords = {Hyptis Suaveolens, in vitro Cultures, Podophyllotoxin}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.110538 }, author = {Rafael A Vel{\'o}z and Alexandre Cardoso-Taketa and Mar{\'\i}a Luisa Villarreal} } @article {662, title = {Protective Effect of Juglans Nigra on Sodium Arsenite-induced Toxicity in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {183-188}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {183}, abstract = {

Background:\ Consumption of arsenic contaminated water has been implicated in metalloid-induced carcinogenesis. Dietary intake of certain plant products with chemoprotective properties may protect against the onset of diseases and promote maintenance of health.\ Objectives:\ We investigated the outcome of black walnut\ Juglans nigra\ (JN) consumption on sodium arsenite (SA)-induced toxicity in rats.\ Materials andMethods:\ Wister albino rats were treated as follows: Control, SA only (positive control) (2.5 mg/kg body weight),\ JN\ only (100 mg/kg weight), and\ JN+SA coadministered. After 5 weeks animals were sacrificed whole blood, femur, liver and testis harvested were assessed for hepatic transaminases and clastogenicity. Histology of the liver, sperm morphology and quality were also assessed. Data were analyzed (ANOVA) and expressed as means {\textpm}SD.\ Results:\ SA treatment elevated hepatic transaminases level in serum (P\ \< 0.05), induced histological changes in liver: fibroplasia and periportal hepatocytes infiltration by mononuclear cells. These changes were ameliorated by\ JN\ (P\ \< 0.05) coadministration. SA induced micronuclei formation (P\ \< 0.05). Again\ JN\ decreased (P\ \< 0.05) micronuclei formation by 50\%. Sperm count and motility decreased (P\ \< 0.05) in all groups compared to control.\ Conclusion:JN\ showed no protection against arsenite effect on sperm quality. Hepatoprotective and anticlastogenic effects were apparent suggesting a chemopreventive potential active against arsenite genotoxicity and chromosomal instability which have implication for metalloid-induced carcinogenesis

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112425}, author = {Solomon E Owumi and Oyeronke A Odunola and Michael A Gbadegesin and Kathleen L Nulah} } @article {612, title = {Protective Effects of Picrorhiza Kurroa on Cyclophosphamide-induced Immunosuppression in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {January 2013}, pages = {30-35}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {30}, abstract = {

Objective:\ To study the immunomodulatory effect of ethanolic and aqueous extract of the rhizomes of\ Picrorrhiza kurroa\ (Scrophulariaceae) in normal and immunosuppressed mice models.\ Materials and Methods:\ The rhizomes extract of\ Picrorrhiza kurroa\ was administered orally according to their body weight in mice. The study was carried out by various hematological and serological tests. The assessment of immunomodulatory activity on specific and non-specific immunity was studied by administration of test extract. The method of cyclophasphamide-induced immunosuppression was employed with slight modification to study the immunomodulatory potential of the extract. Plant extracts were administered by oral feeding canula to the test groups (groups III-VI), group I (control animals) and group II (model control animals) received same volume of normal saline (0.2 ml). Humoral antibody response to SRBC measurement of antibody titer by hemagglutination reaction was done. The mice belonging to the all groups were antigenically challenged with SRBC (0.5x10\ 9\ cells/ml/100 g) on 10\ th\ day intraparitoneally. Cellular immune response (Foot pad reaction test) the edema was induced by injecting SRBC (0.025x10\ 9\ cells) in left paw, and 0.025 ml of saline was injected in right paw.\ Results:\ The plant extract showed protective effects on humoral immunity. The change in percentage deduction in footpad volume was also found significant (P\<0.001). Administration of extract remarkably ameliorated both cellular and humoral antibody response.\ Conclusion:\ It is concluded that the test extracts possessed promising immunostimulant properties. But, the alcoholic extract is more potent than aqueous extract in producing delayed type hypersensitivity response.

}, keywords = {Hematological and Serological Tests, Immunomodulatory Activity, Picrorrhiza Kurroa, Rhizomes}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.105646 }, author = {Arshad Hussain and Wahab Shadma and Ali Maksood and Shahid Hussain Ansari} } @article {667, title = {Protective Effects of Vernonia Amygdalina Against Sodium Arsenite-induced Genotoxicity in Rat}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = { 207-211}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {207}, abstract = {

Objectives:\ Contamination of the environment with arsenic (As) from both human and natural sources is known as a global problem. This study investigated the chemoprotective potential of\ Vernonia amygdalina\ leave extract against sodium arsenite-induced genotoxicity and hepatotoxicity.\ Materials andMethods\ : Genotoxic effects were evaluated in the rat bone marrow using micronuclei. The gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities were assayed in rat serum.\ Results\ : Pre-treatment with extract of\ V. amygdalina\ at doses 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg significantly decreased the frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (PCEs). The GGT and ALP activities were elevated more than fourfold, in the liver of rats treated with sodium arsenite, while it was reduced almost to half when the sodium arsenit-treated rats were fed fresh\ V. amgdalina\ leave extracts The phytochemical constituents of\ V. amygdalina\ assayed in this study may be responsible for high radical scavenging of the DPPH free radical observed.\ Conclusion\ : The present results indicate that\ V. amygdalina\ extract is capable of suppressing the chromosomal aberration induced by sodium arsenite in rat. Thus,\ V. amygdalina\ may be a potent chemoprotective agent against the toxicity of sodium arsenite in rats.

}, keywords = {Anticlastogenicity, Micronuclei Test, Rat, Sodium arsenite, Vernonia amygdalina}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112431}, author = {Adewale Adetutu and Emmanuel Bukoye Oyewo and Ayoade A Adesokan} } @article {627, title = {Regeneration of Multiple Shoots from Petiole Callus of Viola Serpens Wall}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = { 86-92}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {86}, abstract = {

Experiments were conducted to develop methodology for\ in vitro\ propagation and rapid multiplication of\ Viola serpens\ Wall. using petiole explant. The MS medium supplemented with 2, 4-D (6.78 μm) was found most suitable for callus induction in petiole explant. The best growth response and higher rate of shoot regeneration from petiole callus was observed on MS medium containing BAP (11.10 μm) as the average number of shoots could be increased to 36.4 on fourth successive subculturing. Higher rooting response with larger number of roots were observed in shoots inoculated on the half-strength MS medium supplemented with IBA (19.68 μm).

}, keywords = {Callus, Growth Regulators, Multiple Shoots, Petiole, Viola Serpens}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110533}, author = {Umashankar Radheshyam Vishwakarma and Arun Manohar Gurav and Prakash Chandra Sharma} } @article {615, title = {Screening of the Antidepressant-like Effect of the Traditional Chinese Medicinal Formula Si-Ni-San and their Possible Mechanism of Action in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {January 2013}, pages = {36-42}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {36}, abstract = {

Background:\ The traditional Chinese medicine formula Si-Ni-San has well therapeutic applications in improvement of mental diseases including depression. However, the neuropharmacological and neuroendocrine mechanisms of the formula on antidepressant-like action have not been reported.\ Objective:\ Herein, we explored the antidepressant-like effect and its mechanism of Si- Ni-San.\ Materials and Methods:\ Acute effect of Si-Ni-San on the immobility time was assessed in the mouse forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST). Moreover, we investigated the neurochemical, neuroendocrine, and neurotrophin systems involved in the antidepressant-like effect of this formula.\ Results:\ Si-Ni-San significantly decreased the immobility time after acute treatment in the mouse TST (1300 mg/kg) but not in the FST compared with the control group. In addition, pretreatment of mice with PCPA or AMPT prevented the anti-immobility effect of Si-Ni-San (1300 mg/kg) in the TST. Moreover, acute Si-Ni-San (1300 mg/kg) decreased serum corticosterone levels, elevated serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE), and dopamine (DA) levels without affecting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the whole brain exposed to TST.\ Conclusion:\ The acute antidepressant-like action of Si-Ni-San is mediated by the monoaminergic and neuroendocrine systems although underlying mechanism still remains to be further elucidated, and this formula should be further investigated as an alternative therapeutic approach for the treatment of depression.

}, keywords = {BDNF, Corticosterone, Depression, Monoamine Neurotransmitter, Si-Ni-San}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.105647}, author = {Li-Tao Yi and Jing Li and Bin-Bin Liu and Cheng-Fu Li} } @article {674, title = {Seasonal Variation in Content of Camptothecin from the Bark of Nothapodytes Nimmoniana (Grah.) Mabb., using HPLC Analysis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {219-223 }, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {219}, abstract = {

Objective:\ To study and compare seasonal variation in camptothecin (CPT) content from bark samples of\ Nothapodytes nimmoniana\ obtained from geographically and climatologically isolated populations.\ Methods:\ A standard High Performance Liquid Chromatography methodology was used to analyze and quantify CPT from bark samples of\ N. nimmoniana.\ Results:\ Sample collected from Amboli yielded highest CPT content 1.337 g/100 g dry bark powder during the monsoon compared to other localities in study. Monsoon (August) showed to accumulate higher levels of CPT in barks of\ N. nimmoniana\ as compared to summer (May). Amboli averaged highest accumulation of CPT compared to other localities under study.\ Conclusion:\ These findings indicate season to have control over accumulation of CPT. Locality Amboli has highest CPT content in all seasons and were the elite population during the study. The study also suggests the need for further investigation in lights of biosynthesis in the plant.

}, keywords = {Camptothecin, High performance liquid chromatography, Nothapodytes Nimmoniana, Seasonal Variation}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112434}, author = {Sandeep R Pai and Nilesh V Pawar and Mansingraj S Nimbalkar and Parthraj R Kshirsagar and Firdose K Kolar and Ghansham B Dixit} } @article {626, title = {Secondary Metabolites and Bioactivities of Albizia Anthelmintica}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = {80-85}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {80}, abstract = {

Background:Albizia\ species are rich in phenolics and terpenes in the different plant organs. They are widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. So this study investigated the phytochemical and biological activities of\ AlbiziaAnthelmintica.\ Materials and Methods:\ Column chromatography has been performed for the isolation of compounds. Bioactivity studies of\ A. anthelmintica\ leaves were carried out on aqueous ethanol extract and some pure compounds were tested for their antioxidant activities.\ Results:\ Eight compounds have been isolated for the first time from\ A. anthelmintica. The aqueous ethanol extract of\ A. anthelmintica\ showed moderate anti-inflammatory activity and significant for both analgesic and antioxidant activities. Quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, kaempferol-3-O-(6β-O-galloyl-β-D-glucopyranoside and quercetin-3-O-(6β-O-galloyl-β-D-glucopyranoside) exhibited potent antioxidant scavenging activity towards diphenyl-picrylhydrazine.

}, keywords = {Albizia anthelmintica, Analgesic, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Diphenyl-picrylhydrazine, Flavonoids}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110530}, author = {Tahia K Mohamed and Mahmoud I Nassar and Ahmed H Gaara and Walaa A El-Kashak and I{\~n}aki Brouard and Sayed A El-Toumy} } @article {663, title = {Synergistic Effect of Aged Garlic Extract and Naltrexone on Improving Immune Responses to Experimentally Induced Fibrosarcoma Tumor in BALB/c Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {189-194}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {189}, keywords = {Aged Garlic Extract, Fibrosarcoma, Naltrexone, Synergism, Tumor Therapy}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112426}, author = {Soheil Ebrahimpour and Mohaddeseh Abouhosseini Tabari and Mohammad Reza Youssefi and Hamid Aghajanzadeh and Manijeh Yousefi Behzadi} } @article {632, title = {The Triterpenoid Fraction from Trichosanthes Dioica Root Exhibits in Vitro Antileishmanial Effect Against Leishmania Donovani Promastigotes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = { 109-112}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {109}, abstract = {

Background:Trichosanthes dioica\ Roxb. (Cucurbitaceae), called pointed gourd in English is a dioecious climber found wild throughout the plains of the Indian subcontinent and traditionally used in India for several medicinal purposes.\ Objective:\ The present study was aimed at the evaluation of\ in vitro\ antileishmanial effect of triterpenoid fraction from\ T. dioica\ root (CETD).\ Materials and Methods:\ The antileishmanial activity of CETD was evaluated against\ Leishmania donovani\ (strain MHOM/IN/83/AG83)) promastigotes by\ in vitro\ promastigote cell toxicity assay by using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide). Potassium antimonyl tartrate was used as reference.\ Results:\ Here, CETD markedly inhibited the growth of\ L. donovani\ promastigotes\ in vitro\ in a concentration dependent manner and demonstrated IC\ 50\ value of 18.75 μg/ml. The reference drug potassium antimonyl tartrate exhibited IC\ 50\ of 7.52 μg/ml.\ Conclusion:\ From the present study it can be inferred that the triterpenoid fraction of\ T. dioica\ root exhibited remarkable antileishmanial activity against\ Leishmania donovani\ promastigotes\ in vitro.

}, keywords = {Antileishmanial, Cucurbitacins, Leishmania Donovani, Ppromastigotes, Root, Trichosanthes Dioica}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110540}, author = {Sanjib Bhattacharya and Moulisha Biswas and Pallab K Haldar} } @article {645, title = {UP446, Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Botanical Composition}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = {139-145}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {139}, abstract = {

Background:\ Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease. Long-term use of currently available therapies for RA produces adverse effects that limit dosage and duration; hence there is a need for safe and effective alternatives suitable for long term chronic use. UP446, a composition consisting primarily of baicalin from\ Scutellaria baicalensis\ Georgi (Family: Lamiaceae) and (+)-catechin from the heartwoods of\ Acacia catechu\ (Family: Mimosaceae), has been previously shown to reduce production of eicosanoids and leukotrienes through dual inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes and to decreased mRNA and protein levels of the proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α.\ Aim:\ To evaluate the likelihood of UP446 in moderating arthritis and its associated symptoms in an experimental animal model of RA.\ Materials and Methods:\ A RA rat model was induced by injecting Freund{\textquoteright}s complete adjuvant into left and right hind paw and base of the tail. Animals were administered UP446 (50 mg/kg), ibuprofen (150 mg/kg mg/kg) or vehicle by oral gavage 30 min prior to arthritis induction and each day thereafter for 14 days.\ Result:\ Animals treated with UP446 showed 23.7, 31.9, 33.4, 29.3, and 33.1\% reduction in pain sensitivity; 46.0, 36.7, 33.7, 34.8, and 33.4\% reduction in ankle diameter on days 3, 5, 7, 9, and 13; respectively; compared to vehicle. Similarly paw edema was significantly reduced with an average of 30\% for the first inflammatory reaction period (day 1-8) followed by 37.1 and 33.6\% reduction on day 9 and 13.\ Conclusion:\ These data indicate potential benefit of UP446 in alleviating symptoms of RA and support human clinical evaluation of this botanical composition in patients with RA.

}, keywords = {Acacia catechu, Inflammation, Pain, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Scutellaria Baicalensis Georgi}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112406 }, author = {Mesfin Yimam and Lidia Brownell and Mandee Pantier and Qi Jia} } @article {618, title = {Volatile Constituents of Pinus Roxburghii from Nepal}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {January 2013}, pages = {43-48}, type = { Original Article}, chapter = {43}, abstract = {

Background:Pinus roxburghii\ Sarg. Is one of 3 species of pine found in Nepal, the oil of which is traditionally used to treat cuts, wounds, boils, and blisters.\ Objective:\ To obtain, analyze, and examine the anti-microbial and cytotoxic activities of the essential oils of\ P. roxburghii.\ Materials and Methods:\ Three plant parts (cone, needle, and bark) of\ Pinus roxburghii\ were collected in Biratnagar, Nepal. The essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation, and the chemical compositions were determined by GC-MS. The needle and cone essential oils were screened for anti-microbial activity against\ Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Escherichia coli, and\ Aspergillus niger;\ brine shrimp (Artemia salina) lethality; and\ in-vitro\ cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells.\ Results:\ GC-MS analysis for the cone oil revealed 81 compounds with 78 components being identified (95.5\% of the oil) while 98.3\% of needle oil was identified to contain 68 components and 98.6\% of the bark oil (38 components) was identified. The 3 essential oils were dominated by sesquiterpenes, particularly (E)-caryophyllene (26.8\%-34.5\%) and α-humulene (5.0\%-7.3\%) as well as monoterpene alcohols terpinen-4-ol (4.1\%-30.1\%) and α-terpineol(2.8\%-5.0\%). The monoterpene δ-3-carene was present only in needle and cone essential oils (2.3\% and 6.8\%, respectively). Bio-activity assays of the cone essential oil of\ P. roxburghii\ showed remarkable cytotoxic activity (100\% killing of MCF-7 cells at 100 μg/mL) along with notable brine shrimp lethality (LC50\ =11.8 μg/mL). The cone essential oil did not show anti-bacterial activity, but it did exhibit anti-fungal activity against\ Aspergillus niger\ (MIC=39 μg/mL).\ Conclusion:\ The bioactivity of\ P. roxburghii\ essential oil is consistent with its traditional medicinal use.

}, keywords = {Anti-fungal, Brine shrimp lethality, cytotoxicity, Essential oil composition, α-humulene}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.105650}, author = {Prabodh Satyal and Prajwal Paudel and Josna Raut and Akash Deo and Noura S Dosoky and William N Setzer} } @article {660, title = {Volatile Constituents of Saussurea Costus Roots Cultivated in Uttarakhand Himalayas, India}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {May 2013}, pages = { 179-182}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {179}, abstract = {

Background:Saussurea costus\ (Falc.) Lipschitz, syn\ Saussurea lappa\ C.B. Clarke, one of the best-known species within this genus, is commonly known as costus. Due to the remarkable biological activity of\ S. costus\ and its constituents it will have an appropriate place in various systems of medicines all over the globe.\ Objective:\ The main aim is to study the volatile constituents of\ S costus\ cultivated in Uttarakhand Himalayas.\ Material and Methods:\ The volatile constituents were isolated from the root of\ S costus\ cultivated in Chamoli district of Uttrarakhand by hydro distillation and were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS).\ Results:\ A total 35 aroma compounds representing about 92.81\% of the total composition were identified. Aldehyde like (7Z, 10Z, 13Z)-7, 10, 13-hexadecaterinal (25.5\%) was found as a major compound including other ketones like dehydrocostus lactone (16.7\%), alcohols like elemol (5.84\%), γ-costol (1.80\%), vulgarol B (3.14\%), valerenol (4.20\%), and terpinen-4-ol (1.60\%), etc. Esters and acids were found to be completely absent in our samples.\ Conclusion:S. costus\ volatile oil constituents are superior in terms of total identified constituents. Where relative area quantum is higher in Uttarakhand Himalayas samples, when compared with those originated to China and Korea.

}, keywords = {C.B. Clarke, Essential oil, GC-MS, Saussurea Costus}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.112424}, author = {Garima Gwari and Ujjwal Bhandari and Harish Chandra Andola and Hema Lohani and Nirpendra Chauhan} } @article {635, title = {Volatile oil of Artemisia Santolina Decreased Morphine Withdrawal Jumping in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {April 2013}, pages = {118-120}, type = {Original Article }, chapter = {118}, abstract = {

Introduction:\ Flowered aerial parts of\ Artemisia santolina\ Schrenk (Asteraceae), which is found in the central and western regions of Iran were collected from Khorasan province and the volatile oil extracted by hydro distillation.\ Materials and Methods:\ The oil (0.5\% v/w) was analyzed by GC and GC/MS using DB-5 column. The effect of this oil on the withdrawal syndrome was determined in mice. After induction of dependency by morphine, mice were intraperitoneally administered different concentrations of the oil. Morphine-withdrawal inducing by naloxone was assessed by recording the incidence of escape jumps for 60 min.\ Results:\ The results indicated that a significant difference between the essential oil received group (at dose of 3.6 mg/kg) and control group was shown but the lower doses were not effective. Essential oil analysis showed that there were forty-six components, representing 95.4\% of the oil.\ Conclusion:\ The oil of\ A. santolina\ which is rich in oxygenated monoterpenes with the major components,\ trans-verbenol (34.6\%) and\ p-mentha3-en-8-ol (13.1\%), can decreased the number of withdrawal jumping in addicted mice.

}, keywords = {Artemisia santolina, Asteraceae, Essential oil, Morphine withdrawal}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.110542 }, author = {Ahmad R Gohari and Mahdieh Kurepaz-Mahmoodabadi and Soodabeh Saeidnia} } @article {614, title = {Active Spermatogenesis Induced by a Reiterated Administration of Globularia Alypum L. Aqueous Leaf Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {July,2012}, pages = {138-147}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {138}, abstract = {

Background: Globularia alypum L. (Globulariaceae) is a shrub growing in the Mediterranean basin and known to be used as a popular medicine for its several pharmacological properties against rheumatism, gout, typhoid, intermittent fever, and diabetes. Materials and Methods: The acute and chronic toxicities of a G. alypum L. aqueous leaf extract were studied in animals. Acute toxicity was performed in male and female mice whereas chronic toxicity was realized in male and female rats that orally received the drug at the doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg/24 h for 30 days. Results: Acute toxicity showed that the extract, administered by the oral route, does not induce any mortality even for a dose of 10,000 mg/kg. Administered by the intra-peritoneal route to female and male mice, the LD50 of the extract was found to be of 2750 and 2550 mg/kg, respectively. A chronic toxicity study showed that, compared to the control groups that only received the vehicle (water), the drugs affects weight growth (effects more pronounced in female than in male rats), some organs weight after autopsy, hematological and biochemical parameters and histology of some principal organs (lungs: histological grades I to II pulmonary hypertension (PHT), respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and lymphoid hyperplasia; esophagus: thinning down of esophageal wall, atrophic muscular coat). The most important finding of the study was the recorded active spermatogenesis induced by the reiterated administrations of the drug that was confirmed by reducing the administered dose and the period of treatment (100 mg/kg/24 hr\ for 15 days). Conclusion: It is suggested that the G. alypum L. leaf extract contains active substances with androgenic properties that could be used in human therapy.

}, keywords = {Active spermatogenesis, Acute and chronic toxicity, Androgenic properties, Globularia alypum L.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.99073}, author = {Badreddine Fehri and Jean-Marc Aiache and Mueen Ahmed KK} } @article {595, title = {Acute toxicity impacts of Euphorbia hirta L extract on behavior, organs body weight index and histopathology of organs of the mice and Artemia salina}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {July,2012}, pages = {170-177}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {170}, abstract = {

Background: The methanol extract of Euphorbia hirta L (Euphorbiaceae), which is used in traditional medicines, was tested for in vivo toxicity. Materials and Methods: In vivo brine shrimp lethality assay and oral acute toxicity study at single high dose of 5000 mg/kg and observation for 14 days in mice were used to study the toxic effect of E. hirta. Results: Brine shrimp lethality assay was used to calculate the median lethal concentration (LC 50 ) of E. hirta (for leaves, stems, flowers and roots) methanolic extracts at concentrations from 100 to 0.07 mg/ml. The LC 50 values of 1.589, 1.420, 0.206 and 0.0827 mg/ml were obtained for stems, leaves, flowers and roots, respectively. Potassium dichromate (the positive control) had LC 50 value of 0.00758 mg/ml. The acute oral toxicity study of the leaf extract resulted in one third mortality and mild behavioral changes among the treated mice. No significant statistical differences found between body weight, relative (\%) and absolute (g) organ weights of treated and untreated groups (P\> 0.05). Gross and microscopic examination of the vital organ tissues revealed no differences between control and treated mice. All the tissues appeared normal. Conclusion\ : E. hirta leaves methanol extract has exhibited mild toxic effects in mice.

}, keywords = {Acute oral toxicity, Artemia salina, Euphorbia hirta, Methanolic extract}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.99085}, author = {Mohammad Abu Basma Rajeh and Yuet Ping Kwan and Zuraini Zakaria and Lachimanan Yoga Latha and Subramanion L. Jothy and Sreenivasan Sasidharan} } @article {629, title = {Aerva Ianata (Polpala): Its Effects on the Structure and Function of the Urinary Tract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {October ,2012}, pages = {181-188}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {181}, abstract = {

Context: Aerva lanata is not prescribed for long-term use in Ayurveda as it is believed to produce structural changes in the urinary tract of the patients leading to renal failure. Aim: To investigate the toxic effects of Aerva lanata on the structure and function of urinary tract of a rat model (Sprague-Dawley rats). Settings and Design: An experimental study. Thirty male and thirty female healthy rats were randomly assigned to three groups (test groups 1, 2 and control) and administered dried infusion of A. lanata 25g/200ml (low dose), 100g/200ml (high dose) and distilled water respectively, for 30 days. Materials and Methods: Blood and urine were collected and creatinine was measured. Creatinine clearance (Ccr) and urine flow rate (UFR) of rats were determined to assess renal function. Kidneys, ureters, and bladders of rats were harvested for light microscopic (LM) studies. Electron microscopic (EM) studies were done on kidney tissues. Statistical Analysis Used: Difference in mean values of Ccr and UFR between test groups and the control group were compared statistically using independent T test. LM and EM findings of the two treated groups (T1 and T2) were statistically compared with the control group (C) using standard normal distribution. Results: Ccr and UFR of test groups were not significantly different from that of the control group. LM studies did not show any histological changes suggesting toxicity. EM, however showed significant ultra structural changes in proximal convoluted tubular epithelial cells of rats in the two test groups. Conclusion: Administration of dried Aerva lanata for a period of one month did not produce significant effects on renal function of rats. However administration for the same period caused significant ultra structural changes in the proximal convoluted tubular epithelial cells.

}, keywords = {Aerva lanata, Kidney, Sprague-Dawley rats, Toxic effects}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.102259}, author = {Mangala Gunatilake and M.D.S. Lokuhetty and Nuwan A Bartholameuz} } @article {599, title = {Allelopathic Effect of Ashwagandha Against the Germination and Radicle Growth of Cicer Arietinum and Triticum Aestivum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {July,2012}, pages = { 166-169}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {166}, abstract = {

Background: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an important medicinal plant in Indian traditional system of medicine and traditionally has been used for several medicinal purposes in the Indian subcontinent. Objective: The present study was aimed at the evaluation of allelopathic effect of hydroalcoholic extract of ashwagandha against germination and radicle growth of Cicer arietinum and Triticum aestivum seeds. Materials and Methods: The extract at different concentrations was incubated in controlled conditions with the surface sterilized seeds of C. arietinum and T. aestivum and observed periodically for seed germination and radicle growth to assess the allelopathic behavior. Results: The extract mainly at higher concentrations demonstrated promising allelopathic potential by significantly affecting seed germination and radicle elongation of both C. arietinum and T. aestivum in a concentration dependent manner. T. aestivum was found to be more sensitive than C. arietinum. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated remarkable allelopathic potential of ashwagandha against the test seeds. The effect was plausibly due to the alkaloid and withanolide contents of ashwagandha.

}, keywords = {Allelopathic, Ashwagandha, Cicer arietinum, Triticum aestivum, Withanolides}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.99082}, author = {Sangita Chandra and Priyanka Chatterjee and Protapaditya Dey and Sanjib Bhattacharya} } @article {664, title = {Aloe barbadensis Mill. Formulation Restores Lipid Profile to Normal in a Letrozole-induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Rat Model}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {april,2012}, pages = { 109-115}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = { 109}, abstract = {

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), characterized by ovulatory infertility and hyperandrogenism, is associated with metabolic complications such as dyslipidemia, insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction. Almost 70\% PCOS women have abnormal serum lipid levels (dyslipidemia) and 50\% of these women are obese. Several classes of pharmacological agents have been used to manage dyslipidemia. However, studies have shown adverse effects associated with these drugs. In the light of alternate therapy, many medicinal herbs have been reported to show hypoglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic potential. Aloe barbadensis Mill. or Aloe vera is reported as one such herb. This study was to evaluate the lipid correcting effect of Aloe vera gel (AVG) in a PCOS rat model. Materials and Methods: PCOS was induced in Charles Foster female rats by oral administration of non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor letrozole (0.5 mg/kg body weight, 21 days). All rats were hyperglycemic and 90\% rats also showed elevated plasma triglycerides, elevated LDL cholesterol levels, and lowered plasma HDL cholesterol levels indicative of a dyslipidemic profile. PCOS positive rats with an aberrant lipid profile were selected for treatment. An AVG formulation (1 ml (10 mg)/day, 30 days) was administered orally. Results and Conclusion: AVG treated PCOS rats exhibited significant reduction in plasma triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels, with an increase in HDL cholesterol. The gel treatment also caused reversion of abnormal estrous cyclicity, glucose intolerance, and lipid metabolizing enzyme activities, bringing them to normal. In conclusion, AVG has phyto components with anti-hyperlipidemic effects and it has shown efficacy in management of not only PCOS but also the associated metabolic complication : dyslipidemia.

}, keywords = {Aloe vera gel, anovulation, anti-hyperlipidemic effect, Dyslipidemia, Hyperandrogenism, Infertility, Insulin resistance, Letrozole, Polycystic ovarian syndrome}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.94736}, author = {Bhavna N Desai and Radha H Maharjan and Laxmipriya P Nampoothiri} } @article {681, title = {Antibacterial Activity and the Histopathological Study of Crude Extracts and Isolated Tecomine from Tecoma Stans Bignoniaceae in Iraq}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {37-43}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {37}, abstract = {

Background: Tecoma stans (Bignoniaceae) is a central and south American tree used for the control of diabetes, also known as Yellow Elder, it was collected from the gardens of Al-Jadria in Iraq. Materials and Methods: One of the main reported alkaloidal constituents, tecomine, was isolated and confirmed by spectral analysis. The bacteriological assay for different plant leaves extracts; aqueous, ethanolic, and isolated tecomine were conducted to evaluate the antibacterial effect against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Results: Whole alcoholic and aqueous extract exhibited the antibacterial activity and isolated tecomine. Histopathological evaluation was demonstrated on the liver, spleen, and pancreas of the BALB/c mice given the whole alcoholic and aqueous extract that showed no significant changes in the organ texture. Conclusion: Biochemical analysis of the serum obtained showed decrease in the glucose level in the mice treated with plant extract at the most two higher concentrations used with no change in the cholesterol and triglyceride level.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Histopathological, Tecoma stans, Tecomine}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91033}, author = {Amad M Al-Azzawi and Ekbal Al-Khateeb and Kulood Al-Sameraei and Alyaa G Al-Juboori} } @article {678, title = {Antidepressant-like Effects of Young Green Barley Leaf (Hordeum vulgare L.) in the Mouse Forced Swimming Test}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {22-26}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {22-26}, abstract = {

Background: Young green barley leaf is one of the richest sources of antioxidants and has been widely consumed for health management in Japan. In this study, we examined whether oral administration of young green barley leaf has an antidepressant effect on the forced swimming test in mice. Materials and Methods: Mice were individually forced to swim in an open cylindrical container, one hour after oral administration of young green barley leaf (400 or 1000 mg / kg) or imipramine (100 mg / kg). Expression of mRNA for nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and glucocorticoid receptor in the brain was analyzed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: There was a significant antidepressant-like effect in the forced swimming test; both 400 and 1000 mg / kg young green barley leaves, as well as the positive control imipramine (100 mg / kg), reduced the immobility duration compared to the vehicle group. The expression of mRNA for NGF detected in the hippocampus immediately after the last swimming test was higher than that in the non-swimming group (Nil). Oral administration of imipramine suppressed this increase to the level of the Nil group. Young green barley leaf (400 and 1000 mg / kg) also showed a moderate decrease in the expression of mRNA for NGF, in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: Oral administration of young green barley leaf is able to produce an antidepressant-like effect in the forced swimming test. Consequently it is possible that the antidepressant-like effects of the young green barley leaf are, at least in part, mediated by an inhibition of the increase in the hippocampus levels of NGF.

}, keywords = {Antidepressant-like effect, Corticosterone, Forced swimming test, Hippocampus, Nerve growth factor, Young green barley leaf}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91030}, author = {Katsunori Yamaura and Noriyuki Nakayama and Maki Shimada and Yuanyuan Bi and Hideki Fukata and Koichi Ueno} } @article {684, title = {Antihyperglycemic and Antioxidative Effects of the Hydro-methanolic Extract of the Seeds of Caesalpinia Bonduc on Streptozotocin-induced Diabetes in Male Albino Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {57-62}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {57}, abstract = {

Background: No satisfactory effective treatment is available yet to cure diabetes mellitus. Though, synthetic drugs are used but there are several drawbacks. The attributed antihyperglycemic effects of many traditional plants are due to their ability for the management of diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: A hydromethanolic extract was administered orally at a dose of 250 mg/kg of body weight per day for 21 days. Its effects on the fasting blood glucose (FBG) level, activities of key carbohydrate metabolic enzymes like hexokinase, glucose-6-phosphatase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and antioxidant enzymes like catalase and superoxide dismutase along with the effect on the lipid peroxidation level in hepatic tissues were measured. Glycogen levels were also assessed in hepatic and skeletal muscles and some toxicity parameters, such as serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, and alkaline phosphates activities were measured. Results: Treatment of the hydromethanolic extract of the seeds of Caesalpinia bonduc resulted in a significant (P \< 0.05) recovery in the activities of carbohydrate metabolic enzymes along with correction in FBG and glycogen levels as compared with the untreated diabetic group. The extract also resulted in a significant (P \< 0.05) recovery in the activities of toxicity assessment enzyme parameters. Activities of antioxidant enzymes like catalase and superoxide dismutase along with the lipid peroxidation levels were also recovered significantly (P \< 0.05) after the treatment of the extract. The corrective effects produced by the extract were compared with the standard antidiabetic drug, glibenclamide. Conclusion: Our findings provide that the extract shows possible antihyperglycemic and antioxidative activities.

}, keywords = {Antihyperglycemic, Antioxidative, C. bonduc, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91044}, author = {Kishalay Jana and Kausik Chatterjee and Kazi Monjur Ali and Debasis De and Tushar Kanti Bera and Debidas Ghosh} } @article {652, title = {Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of the Leaf Essential Oil and its Constituents Furanodienone and Curzerenone from Lindera pulcherrima (Nees.) Benth. ex hook. f.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {april,2012}, pages = {80-84}, type = {Original Article}, abstract = {

Background: Lindera pulcherrima (Nees.) Benth. ex Hook. f. (Family: Lauraceae), an evergreen shrub, is an important medicinal plant distributed in temperate Himalayan regions. The leaves and bark are used as spice in cold, fever, and cough. Materials and Methods: In this study, the terpenoid composition, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities of the leaf essential oil and its major constituents are being analyzed. Conclusion: The in vitro antioxidant activity showed a potent free radical scavenging activity for the essential oil as evidenced by a low IC 50 value for DPPH radical followed by furanodienone (0.087 {\textpm} 0.03 and 1.164 {\textpm} 0.58 mg/ml respectively) and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation for the oil and furanodienone also followed the same order (IC 50 0.74 {\textpm} 0.13 and 2.12 {\textpm} 0.49 mg/ml, respectively). The oil and the constituents were also tested against three Gram negative (Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica enterica, and (Pasturella multocida) and one Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. The essential oil was effective against S. aureus (IZ = 19.0 {\textpm} 0.34; MIC 3.90 μl/ml) while furanodienone showed potent activity against E. coli and S. enterica enterica (IZ = 18.0 {\textpm} 0.14 and 16.0 {\textpm} 0.10 respectively). On the other hand, curzerenone was found to be slightly effective against E. coli (IZ = 10.8 {\textpm} 0.52). The MIC value of the essential oil was least against S. aureus (MIC = 3.90 μl/ml) and that of furanodienone against E. coli (MIC = 3.90 μl/m

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Curzerenone, Furanodienone, Lauraceae, Lindera.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.94721}, author = {Subhash C Joshi and Chandra S Mathela} } @article {677, title = {Black Tea (Camellia sinensis) Decoction Shows Immunomodulatory Properties on an Experimental Animal Model and in Human Peripheral Mononuclear Cells}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {15-21}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {15}, abstract = {

Background:\ Black tea (Camellia sinensis) has been used as a daily beverage for time immemorial. Immunomodulatory effects of tea are recognized as it stimulates the proliferation of cultured human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Anti-inflammatory effects of tea have also been depicted in the available literature. Therefore, we designed this study to examine the potential immunemodulatory and anti-inflammatory activities of black tea in a rat model and in human peripheral mononuclear cells.\ Aims:\ The purpose of the study was to determine (1) evaluation of anti-inflammatory effects of black tea on rats, (2) evaluation of immunemodulator effects of black tea on rats, and (3) evaluation of immunemodulator effects of black tea on human peripheral mononuclear cells.\ Materials and Methods:\ Black tea decoction (10\% and 20\%) was prepared. Acute anti-inflammatory activity of tea decoction was evaluated using carrageenan and dextran whereas chronic anti-inflammatory (Immunomodulatory) effects were evaluated in a complete Freunds{\textquoteright} adjuvant-induced arthritis model. Immunostimulatory role was evaluated in cultured human (in vitro) peripheral mononuclear cells (T-lymphocytes) by using methyl thioazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) and Trypan blue assay.\ Study Design:\ An experimental study was designed.\ Results:\ Black tea decoction (10\% and 20\%) strength has shown significant anti-inflammatory effects (64.8\% and 77\% reduction, respectively), on carrageenan-induced acute inflammatory models (rat paw edema) which can be comparable with the standard drug indomethacin (89.1\%). In a chronic anti-inflammatory model, black tea decoction (10\% and 20\%) has shown significant suppressive effects on rat paw edema (38.56\% and 69.53\%) observed on 21\ st\ day. Lymphoproliferative action of tea was evaluated on human peripheral mononuclear cells using an MTT assay where the number of living cells were expressed in terms of optical density at 570 nm. An experiment has shown that black tea increases the maximum number of T-lymphocytes at 72 h with a maximum strength of 20\%. Maximum number of viable cells (T-lymphocytes) was observed with black tea at 20\% strength at 72 h. The results were expressed as mean {\textpm} SD, and the significance was evaluated by Student{\textquoteright}s\ t-test\ versus\ control, with\ P\ \< 0.05 implying significance.\ Conclusions:\ Taken together, our data indicate that black tea has potential anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory action and this corroborates with the current trend of tea being promoted as a {\textquoteright}health drink{\textquoteright}.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Black tea, Immunomodulation}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91029}, author = {Chandan Chattopadhyay and Nandini Chakrabarti and Mitali Chatterjee and Sonali Mukherjee and Kajari Sarkar and A Roy Chaudhuri} } @article {656, title = {Chemical and Biological Study of Manilkara zapota (L.) Van Royen Leaves (Sapotaceae) Cultivated in Egypt}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {april,2012}, pages = {85-91}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {85}, abstract = {

Background: Manilkara zapota (L.) Van Royen is an evergreen tree, native to the tropical Americas and introduced to Egypt as a fruiting tree in 2002. No previous study was reported on the plant cultivated in Egypt. Materials and Methods: In this study, the leaves of the plant cultivated in Egypt were subjected to phytochemical and biological investigations. The lipoidal matter was analyzed by GLC. Five compounds were isolated from the petroleum ether and ethyl acetate fractions of the alcoholic extract of the leaves by chromatographic fractionation on silica gel and sephadex, the structures of these compounds were identified using IR, UV, MS, 1 H-NMR and 13 C-NMR. The LD 50 of the alcoholic and aqueous extracts of the leaves was determined and their antihyperglycemic, hypocholesterolemic and antioxidant activities were tested by enzymatic colorimetric methods using specific kits. Results: Unsaturated fatty acids represent 32.32 \% of the total fatty acids, oleic acid (13.95\%), linoleidic acid (10.18 \%) and linoleic acid (5.96 \%) were the major ones. The isolated compounds were identified as lupeol acetate, oleanolic acid, apigenin-7-O-α-L-rhamnoside, myricetin-3-O-α-L-rhamnoside and caffeic acid. This is the first report about isolation of these compounds from Manilkara zapota except myricetin-3-O-α-L-rhamnoside, which was previously isolated from the plant growing abroad. The LD 50 recorded 80 g/Kg b. wt. for both the tested extracts, so they could be considered to be safe. They exhibited antihyperglycemic, hypocholesterolemic and antioxidant activities. Conclusion: The observed biological activities were attributed to the different chemical constituents present in the plant mainly its phenolic constituents.

}, keywords = {Antihyperglycemic, Antioxidant, Flavonoids, Hypocholesterolemic, Manilkara zapota (L.) Van Royen, triterpenes}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.94723}, author = {Nesrin M Fayek and Azza R Abdel Monem and Mohamed Y Mossa and Meselhy R Meselhy and Amani H Shazly} } @article {603, title = {Chemical Composition, Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities of Essential Oil from Cordia Verbenacea DC Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {July,2012}, pages = {161-165}, chapter = {161}, abstract = {

Background: Cordia verbenacea is a Brazilian coastal shrub popularly known as {\textquotedblleft}erva baleeira{\textquotedblright}. The essential oil from fresh leaves was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by CG/MS. The main components were identified as β-caryophyllene (25.4\%), bicyclogermacrene (11.3\%), δ-cadinene (9.\%) and α-pinene (9.5\%). In this study, the antimicrobial activity of Cordia verbenacea was evaluated. Materials and Methods: The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the essential oil was obtained using the broth microdilution assay (from 512 to 8 μg/ml). Results: The results showed that the essential oil presented fungistatic activity against Candida albicans and Candida krusei and antibacterial activity against Gram-positive strains (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus) and against multiresistant Gram-negative (Escherichia coli 27), in all tests the MIC was 64 {\textmu}g/ml. When the essential oil was associated to aminoglycosides (subinhibitory concentrations, MIC/8), a synergic and antagonic activity was verified. The synergic effect was observed to the amikacin association (MIC reduction from 256 mlto 64 {\textmu}g/ml) in all strains tested. Conclusion: The essential oil of Cordia verbenacea influences the activity of antibiotics and may be used as an adjuvant in antibiotic therapy against respiratory tract bacterial pathogens.

}, keywords = {Aminoglycosides, Antimicrobial activity, Cordia verbenacea, Essential oil.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.99080}, author = {Fabiola F. G. Rodrigues and Liana G. S. Oliveira and F{\'a}bio F. G. Rodrigues and Manuele E. Saraiva and Sheyla C. X. Almeida and Mario E. S. Cabral and Adriana R. Campos and Jose Galberto M. Costa} } @article {609, title = {Co-administration of Sodium Arsenite and Ethanol: Protection by Aqueous Extract of Aframomum Longiscapum Seeds}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {July,2012}, pages = {154-160}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {154}, abstract = {

Background: Human exposure to arsenicals, its toxicity, subsequent adverse effects on health has been widely reported and implicated in the etiology of several cancers. Objectives: We investigated the effect of Aframomum longiscapum (AL) extracts on sodium arsenite (SA) and ethanol (EtOH)- induced toxicities in rats. Materials and Methods: Male rats were fed SA, EtOH, and SA + EtOH, with or without AL for 5 weeks. Hepatic transaminases were assessed in serum, micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (mPCEs) from bone marrow, liver histopathology, and semen quality from caudal epididymis were assessed, respectively, and data were represented as mean {\textpm} SD, analyzed by ANOVA. Results: SA, SA + EtOH, and AL alone induced mPCEs formation in rat bone marrow (P \< 0.05). A decrease (P \< 0.05) in mPCEs in AL + SA + EtOH-treated rats compared with SA, and SA + EtOH was observed. SA and EtOH treatment increased serum hepatic transaminases (P \< 0.05) relative to control, while AL treatment resulted in a decrease (P \< 0.05). AL, SA, and SA + EtOH treatment decreased sperm count and motility (P \< 0.05) with no effect on viability compared with control. Semen morphological abnormalities showed no difference (P \> 0.05) across the treated groups. Hepatic histopathology indicated mild mononuclear cellular infiltration in the control group. Necrotic hepatocyte were observed in SA, SA + EtOH treated groups, with no visible lesions seen in the AL treated group. Mild hepatocyte congestion of the portal vessels was observed in AL + SA + EtOH-treated groups. Conclusion: The AL extract exhibited anticlastogenic and hepatoprotective potentials, reduced sperm count, motility, with no effect on viability and morphology. Our findings suggest that AL may mitigate the effect of arsenicals-induced clastogenicity implicated in chemical carcinogenesis.

}, keywords = {Aframomum longiscapum, Arsenite, ethanol, Micronuclei}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.99078}, author = {Solomon E. Owumi and Oyeronke A. Odunola and Mohammed Aliyu} } @article {642, title = {Comparative Analysis on the Effect of Palm Oil (Elaeis guineensis) in Reducing Cadmium and Lead Accumulation in Liver of Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {October ,2012}, pages = {214-218}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {214}, abstract = {

Context: Palm oil from Elaeis guineensis is an edible nutrient substance with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. We examined its protective effect against lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) accumulation in the liver. Materials and Methods: 12\% w/w of palm oil (PO) in rat chow concentrate was fed to rats exposed to Cd (200ppm) and Pb (100ppm) in drinking water at different feeding regimens. PO was administered either at the same time with the metals (group 2), post-treatment after exposure (group 3) or pre-treatment before exposure (group 4) for six weeks. The heavy metal accumulations in the liver were determined using AAS. Results: Weight losses induced by these metals were significantly (P\<0.05) reversed by PO administration. Analysis among the groups showed that post-treatment group had a significant (P\<0.05) higher percentage protection to Cd, but same time treatment for Pb (P\<0.05) when compared with other groups. The protective ability to PO was only significantly (P\<0.05) increased for Pb at week 2, but showed a time-dependent significant (P\<0.05) increase for Cd across all treatment regimens. Conclusion: PO is beneficial in reducing metal accumulation in the liver and has a higher hepatoprotective effect to Cd compared to Pb at the selected doses by possibly affecting the processes of uptake, assimilation and elimination of these metals.

}, keywords = {Accumulation, Cadmium, Heavy metals, Lead, Liver, Protection.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.102266}, author = {Chukwuemeka R Nwokocha and Magdalene I Nwokocha and Daniel U Owu and Joshua Obi and Bukola Olatunde and Chioma Ebe and Ozioma Nwangwu and Moses O Iwuala} } @article {639, title = {Comparative Study on the Hepatoprotection to Heavy Metals of Zingiber Officinale}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {October ,2012}, pages = {208-213}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {208}, abstract = {

Context:Zingiber officinale\ (Zingiberaceae) is a herb used for culinary and therapeutic purposes due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials.\ Objectives:\ We examined its protective ability against mercury (Hg), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) accumulation in the liver.\ Materials \& Methods:\ Ground\ Zingiber officinale\ (7\%, w/w of feed) was administered to rats either at the same time with the exposure ofheavy metals (group 2), a week after exposure to heavy metals (group 3) or given a week before heavy metal exposure (group 4) for six weeks. Animals were exposed to either of Hg (10 ppm), Cd (200 ppm) and Pb (100 ppm) in drinking water. The heavy metal accumulations in the liver were determined using AAS.\ Results:\ Weight losses induced by these metals were not reversed by\ Zingiber officinale\ administration. There was a significant (P\<0.01) increase in protection to Pb (97\%) and Cd (63\%) accumulation when compared to Hg (32\%) at week 2. The protective ability was significantly (P\<0.01) decreased at week 4 when compared to week 2 for Cd and Pb but not to Hg in groups 3 (50\%) and 4 (52\%). At week 6, hepatoprotection to Hg (44\%) and Cd (85\%) was significantly (P\<0.01) different but not to Pb which was only significant (P\<0.05) in week 2 of treatment for all groups.\ Discussion and Conclusion:Zingiber officinale\ affected the bioavailability, elimination and uptake of these metals in a time-dependent way with highest beneficial reducing effect to Cd followed by Hg and least protection to Pb in the liver.

}, keywords = {Accumulation, Cadmium, Lead, Liver, mercury, protection, Zingiber officinale}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.102263}, author = {Chukwuemeka R Nwokocha and Daniel U Owu and Magdalene I Nwokocha and Chibueze S Ufearo and Moses O. E. Iwuala} } @article {675, title = {A computational perspective of molecular interactions through virtual screening, pharmacokinetic and dynamic prediction on ribosome toxin A chain and inhibitors of Ricinus communis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {2-10}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {2}, abstract = {

Background: Ricin is considered to be one of the most deadly toxins and gained its favor as a bioweapon that has a serious social and biological impact, due to its widespread nature and abundant availability. The hazardous effects of this toxin in human being are seen in almost all parts of the organ system. The severe consequences of the toxin necessitate the need for developing potential inhibitors that can effectively block its interaction with the host system. Materials and Methods: In order to identify potential inhibitors that can effectively block ricin, we employed various computational approaches. In this work, we computationally screened and analyzed 66 analogs and further tested their ADME/T profiles. From the kinetic and toxicity studies we selected six analogs that possessed appropriate pharmacokinetic and dynamic property. We have also performed a computational docking of these analogs with the target. Results: On the basis of the dock scores and hydrogen bond interactions we have identified analog 64 to be the best interacting molecule. Molecule 64 seems to have stable interaction with the residues Tyr80, Arg180, and Val81. The pharmacophore feature that describes the key functional features of a molecule was also studied and presented. Conclusion: The pharmacophore features of the drugs provided suggests the key functional groups that can aid in the design and synthesis of more potential inhibitors.

}, keywords = {Benzocaine, Ligand fit, Pharmacophore, Ricin, Virtual screening}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91027}, author = {R Barani Kumar and M Xavier Suresh} } @article {679, title = {Dichlorvos and Lindane Induced Oxidative Stress in Rat Brain: Protective Effects of Ginger}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {27-32}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {27}, abstract = {

Background: Dichlorvos and lindane pesticide causes toxicity in animals including humans. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is widely used as a culinary medicine in the Ayurvedic system of medicine, possessing a number of pharmacological properties. Objective: This study was designed to assess ameliorating effects of ginger juice in dichlorvos and lindane induced neurotoxicity in wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Dichlorvos (8.8 mg/kg bw) and lindane (8.8 mg/kg bw) were orally administered alone as well as in combination to adult male and female wistar rats for 14 days followed by the post-treatment of ginger juice (100 mg/kg bw) for 14 days. Lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH), and activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), quinine reductase (QR), and protein level were measured to evaluate the toxicity of these pesticides in brain. Results: Dichlorvos and lindane administration alone and in combination increased LPO and decreased the GSH level, SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, GR, QR activity, and protein. Oxidative stress due to abnormal production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is believed to be involved in the toxicities induced by these pesticides. Post-treatment of ginger juice decreased LPO and increased the level of GSH, SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, GR, QR activity and protein in the brain of rats. Conclusions: The results indicated that dichlorovos and lindane induced tissue damage was ameliorated by ginger juice.

}, keywords = {Dichlorvos, Lindane, Oxidative stress, Reactive oxygen species, Zingiber officinale}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.91031}, author = {Poonam Sharma and Rambir Singh} } @article {680, title = {Effect of Butea Monosperma Lam. Leaves and Bark Extracts on Blood Glucose in Streptozotocin-induced Severely Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {33-36}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {33}, abstract = {

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that has significant impact on the health, quality of life and life expectancy, as well as on the health care system. Butea monosperma Lam. Kuntze (Fabaceae), commonly known as palash, is widely used in the treatment of various diseases and disorders including diabetes. Materials and Methods: The present study was planned to evaluate the antidiabetic effect of aqueous extracts of B. monosperma leaves and bark in streptozotocin-induced severely diabetic rats. The animals were divided into four groups, with each consisting of six rats, viz. control, diabetic control, leaf extract-treated and bark extract-treated groups. Treatment was continued for 6 weeks. The biochemical estimations included blood glucose and serum insulin levels. Histopathology of pancreas was also performed. Results: The results indicated that both leaf and bark extracts of B. monosperma produced insignificant antihyperglycemic activity. The leaf and bark extracts reduced blood glucose to an extent of 28\% and 11\%, respectively. It was also evidenced that both leaf and bark extracts did not increase insulin synthesis or secretion and did not improve pancreatic architecture as reflected by the histopathologic studies. Conclusions: The findings of the study emphasize that B. monosperma does not possess significant antidiabetic activity in severe experimental diabetes at the dosage tested.

}, keywords = {Butea monosperma, Diabetes, Insulin, Pancreas, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91032}, author = {Faiyaz Ahmed and NS Siddaraju and M Harish, Asna Urooj and Asna Urooj} } @article {786, title = {Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Acacia Auriculiformis Leaves on Learning and Memory in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {6}, year = {2012}, month = {May,2014}, pages = {246-250}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {246}, abstract = {

Background: The effects and benefits of Acacia auriculiformis on health are not well established. This study was planned to evaluate the effect of ethanolic extract of Acacia auriculiformis leaves on learning and memory in rats. Materials and Methods: Learning and memory were evaluated using passive avoidance paradigm and rewarded alternation test (T-maze) after the oral administration of two doses (200mg/kg and 400mg/kg) of ethanolic extract of Acacia auriculiformis with rivastigmine as positive control. Forty eight rats were divided into 4 groups in each study model. Estimation of brain cholinesterase activity was done to substantiate the results of the above mentioned tests. Data was analyzed using one way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey{\textquoteright}s post-hoc test using GraphPad InStat software, version 3.06. Results: The extract produced a dose-dependent improvement in the memory score namely the step through latency in passive avoidance model (P \< 0.001) and the percentage of correct responses in rewarded alternation test (P \< 0.05). Dose-dependent inhibition of brain cholinesterase activity (P \< 0.001) was also noted. Conclusion: The acetylcholinesterase inhibiting property of Acacia auriculiformis contributes to its memory enhancing potential. Further large scale studies are required to elucidate its benefits on cognitive function. This may offer a promising new option for the treatment of dementia and other cognitive deficits.

}, keywords = {Acacia auriculiformis, Acetylcholinesterase, Memory, Passive Avoidance, Rewarded alternation}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.132605} } @article {593, title = {The Effects of Aqueous Extract of Cleistanthus Collinus (Roxb.) (Euphorbiaceae) Leaves On Rat Blood Pressure}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {July,2012}, pages = {178-180}, type = {letter te the editor}, chapter = {178}, abstract = {

The genus Cleistanthus (Euphorbiaceae) comprises about 140 species which includes Cleistanthus collinus, Cleistanthus patulus, Cleistanthus schlechteri, and Cleistanthus gracili.[1] Cleistanthus collinus (Roxb.) Benth. ex Hook. f. (Euphorbiaceae) is known as a toxic plant and found in Africa, India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia.[2] In India, this plant is commonly used as a suicidal poison. All parts of the plant are reported to be toxic and used as suicidal, homicidal, cattle and fish poison and for inducing criminal abortion.[3] In patients, the clinical manifestations of C. collinus poisoning include hyperthermia, hypokalemia, ECG abnormalities (prolongation of QT interval, ST depression, and flat P wave), and elevation of hepatic enzymes such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), and serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT).[2] In some clinical cases, a water decoction of C. collinus causes fall in blood pressure.[2] Hence, this study was planned to determine the effects of aqueous extract of C. collinus leaves on rat blood pressure using an invasive procedure. Read More ....

}, keywords = {Nil}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.99086}, author = {S Parasuraman and R Raveendran} } @article {651, title = {Effects of Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Ceylon cinnamon) on blood glucose and lipids in a diabetic and healthy rat model}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {april,2012}, pages = {73-79}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {73}, abstract = {

Objectives: To evaluate short- and long-term effects of Cinnamomum zeylanicum on food consumption, body weight, glycemic control, and lipids in healthy and diabetes-induced rats. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in two phases (Phase I and Phase II), using Sprague-Dawley rats in four groups. Phase I evaluated acute effects on fasting blood glucose (FBG) (Groups 1 and 2) and on post-oral glucose (Groups 3 and 4) blood glucose. Groups 1 and 3 received distilled-water and Groups 2 and 4 received cinnamon-extracts. Phase II evaluated effects on food consumption, body weight, blood glucose, and lipids over 1 month. Group A (n = 8, distilled-water) and Group B (n = 8, cinnamon-extracts) were healthy rats, while Group C (n = 5, distilled-water) and Group D (n = 5, cinnamon-extracts) were diabetes-induced rats. Serum lipid profile and HbA1c were measured on D-0 and D-30. FBG, 2-h post-prandial blood glucose, body weight, and food consumption were measured on every fifth day. Results: Phase I: There was no significant difference in serial blood glucose values in cinnamon-treated group from time 0 (P \> 0.05). Following oral glucose, the cinnamon group demonstrated a faster decline in blood glucose compared to controls (P \< 0.05). Phase II: Between D0 and D30, the difference in food consumption was shown only in diabetes-induced rats (P \< 0.001). Similarly, the significant difference following cinnamon-extracts in FBG and 2-h post-prandial blood glucose from D0 to D30 was shown only in diabetes-induced rats. In cinnamon-extracts administered groups, total and LDL cholesterol levels were lower on D30 in both healthy and diabetes-induced animals (P \< 0.001). Conclusions: C. zeylanicum lowered blood glucose, reduced food intake, and improved lipid parameters in diabetes-induced rats.

}, keywords = {Blood glucose, Ceylon cinnamon, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Diabetes mellitus, Lipids, Sprague-Dawley rats}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.94719}, author = {Priyanga Ranasinghe and Sanja Perera and Mangala Gunatilake and Eranga Abeywardene and Nuwan Gunapala and Sirimal Premakumara and Kamal Perera and Dilani Lokuhetty and Prasad Katulanda} } @article {636, title = {Evaluation of the Protective and Ameliorative Properties of Garcinia Kola on Histamine-induced Bronchoconstriction in Guinea Pigs}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {October ,2012}, pages = {203-207}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {203}, abstract = {

Context: Zingiber officinale (Zingiberaceae) is a herb used for culinary and therapeutic purposes due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials. Objectives: We examined its protective ability against mercury (Hg), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) accumulation in the liver. Materials \& Methods: Ground Zingiber officinale (7\%, w/w of feed) was administered to rats either at the same time with the exposure ofheavy metals (group 2), a week after exposure to heavy metals (group 3) or given a week before heavy metal exposure (group 4) for six weeks. Animals were exposed to either of Hg (10 ppm), Cd (200 ppm) and Pb (100 ppm) in drinking water. The heavy metal accumulations in the liver were determined using AAS. Results: Weight losses induced by these metals were not reversed by Zingiber officinale administration. There was a significant (P\<0.01) increase in protection to Pb (97\%) and Cd (63\%) accumulation when compared to Hg (32\%) at week 2. The protective ability was significantly (P\<0.01) decreased at week 4 when compared to week 2 for Cd and Pb but not to Hg in groups 3 (50\%) and 4 (52\%). At week 6, hepatoprotection to Hg (44\%) and Cd (85\%) was significantly (P\<0.01) different but not to Pb which was only significant (P\<0.05) in week 2 of treatment for all groups. Discussion and Conclusion: Zingiber officinale affected the bioavailability, elimination and uptake of these metals in a time-dependent way with highest beneficial reducing effect to Cd followed by Hg and least protection to Pb in the liver.

}, keywords = {Asthma, Bronchial histology, Bronchial morphometry, Garcinia kola}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.102262}, author = {Mina T Ibulubo and Gerald I Eze and Raymond I Ozolua and Doroteo Baxter-Grillo and Dickson O Uwaya} } @article {646, title = {Flower Extract of Nyctanthes Arbor-tristis Modulates Glutathione Level in Hydrogen Peroxide Treated Lymphocytes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {October ,2012}, pages = { 230-233}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {230}, abstract = {

Background: Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn (Oleaceae) is a well-known traditional medicinal plant used throughout the India as an herbal remedy for treating various infectious and non-infectious diseases. Objective: To evaluate the antioxidative activity of hydro-alcoholic extract of flower in the lymphocytes exposed to oxidative stress induced by H 2 O 2 . Materials and Methods: Isolated lymphocytes were treated in vitro with extract or extract+H 2 O2, and the level of reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as the activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were measured. Results: Treatment of lymphocyte with flower extract (50, 100, and 200 μg/ ml) significantly increased the level of GSH and decreased the activity of GST. The LDH activity measured in the cell-free medium decreased significantly. Pre-treatment of lymphocyte with flower extract protects the lymphocyte from the H 2 O 2 induced oxidative stress by significantly increasing the levels of GSH as compared to the cells treated only with H 2 O 2 . Pre-treatment also reduced the activity of LDH significantly as compared to the cells treated only with H 2 O 2 . The LDH activity in cell-free medium is associated with membrane damage, the decreased levels of LDH activity reflects the reduced level of membrane damage due to H 2 O 2 . Conclusion: The present findings suggest the protective role of the hydro-alcoholic extracts of the flower of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis against membrane damage induced by H 2 O 2 . The results also suggest that the extract might be rich in phytochemicals with antioxidant/radical scavenging potentials, which might find application in antioxidant therapy.

}, keywords = {Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, Oxidative stress, Reduced glutathione}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.102272}, author = {Anowar Hussain and Anand Ramteke} } @article {676, title = {GC-MS Analysis of Phytocomponents in the Ethanol Extract of Polygonum Chinense L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {11-14}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {11}, abstract = {

Background: The presence of diverse secondary metabolites has been reported from species of the genus Polygonum. However, there has been not much information available on phytochemical components and biological activity in the whole plant ethanol extract of Polygonum chinense L. Objective: This study was designed to determine the phytocomponents in the whole plant ethanol extract of P. chinense. Materials and Methods: GC-MS analysis of the whole plant ethanol extract of P. chinense was performed using a Perkin-Elmer GC Clarus 500 system comprising an AOC-20i auto-sampler and a gas chromatograph interfaced to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS). Results: This investigation was carried out to determine the possible chemical components from P. chinense by GC-MS. This analysis revealed that the ethanol extract of P. chinense (whole plant) contained mainly a triterpene compound-squalene (47.01\%), and a plasticizer compound-1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono[2-ethylhexyl]ester (40.30\%). All identified compounds were, generally, reported as having antimicrobial activity. In addition, the squalene compound also having anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, chemo-preventive, pesticidal and sun-screen properties, while the plasticizer compound -1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono[2-ethylhexyl] ester reported to have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. No activity was reported in the alcoholic compound-4-hexene-1-ol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethanyl)-acetate-(R)-. Conclusions: From the results, it is evident that P. chinense contains various bioactive compounds and is recommended as a plant of phytopharmaceutical importance.

}, keywords = {GC-MS Analysis, Polygonum chinense, Rhytocomponents, Whole plant ethanol extract}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91028}, author = {Bagavathi Perumal Ezhilan and Ramasamy Neelamegam} } @article {683, title = {Hepatoprotective Effect of Poly Herbal Formulation Against Various Hepatotoxic Agents in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {50-56}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {50}, abstract = {

Background: Individually Andrographis paniculata Nees. (Acanthaceae), Phyllanthus niruri Linn.(Euphorbiaceae) and Phyllanthus emblica Linn. single plant extracts have been reported to have hepatoprotective activity. However, literature survey shows that no sufficient scientific data has been publish on pharmacological evaluation of these plants in combined form. Materials\ and Methods: Hepatoprotective activity of the polyherbal hepatoprotaective formulation (PHF)-containing spray-dried aqueous extracts of Andrographis paniculata Nees. (Acanthaceae), Phyllanthus niruri Linn. (Euphorbiaceae) and Phyllanthus emblica Linn. (Euphorbiaceae), was screened against paracetamol, carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 ), and ethanol-induced hepatic damage in rats. PHF was evaluated by measuring levels of serum marker enzymes like SGOT, SGPT, ALP, direct bilirubin (DB), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The histological studies were also studied support the biochemical parameters. Silymarin was used as standard drug. Results: Administration of PHF (100 and 200 mg/kg p.o.) significantly inhibited paracetamol, CCl 4 and ethanol-induced elevation levels of SGPT, SGOT, ALP, DB and LDH. A comparative histopathological study of liver exhibited almost normal architecture as compared to toxicant group. Conclusion: Results suggests that the hepatoprotective effects of PHF might be useful for liver protection due to combined action of all plant extracts along with their phytoconstituents.

}, keywords = {Andrographis paniculata Nees, Carbon tetrachloride, Hepatoprotective activity, Marker enzymes, Paracetamol, Phyllanthus niruri Linn}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91040}, author = {Anil U Tatiya and Sanjay J Surana and Manisha P Sutar and Nehal H Gamit} } @article {685, title = {Identification of the Protease Inhibitor Miraziridine A in the Red Sea Sponge Theonella Swinhoei}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {63-66}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {63}, abstract = {

Background: Miraziridine A, a natural peptide isolated from a marine sponge, is a potent cathepsin B inhibitor with a second-order rate constant of 1.5 x 10 4 M -1 s -1 . In the present study, miraziridine A was isolated from the Red Sea sponge Theonella swinhoei on the basis of chromatographic and spectrometric techniques. We conclude that T. swinhoei from the Red Sea represents an alternative source of the aziridinylpeptide miraziridine A to the previously identified Theonella mirabilis from Japan. We confirmed that the metabolite is produced by marine sponges from different geographical locations. Context : Marine sponges have been proven to be a rich source of secondary metabolites exhibiting a huge diversity of biological activities, including antimicrobial, antitumor and immunomodulatory activities. Theonella species (order Lithistida, Demospongiae) have been shown to be a source of anti-protease and anti-HIV secondary metabolites. Aims: To identify the protease inhibitor mirazirine A in the marine sponge Theonella swinhoei. Materials\ and Methods: The marine sponge Theonella swinhoei was collected by SCUBA diving in the Red Sea in Eilat (Israel). Sponge material was lyophilized and further extracted successively with cyclohexane, dichloromethane and methanol to obtain three crude extracts. LC-MS analysis was performed to confirm the presence of Miraziridine A in the dichloromethane fraction. Results: In the present study, miraziridine A was isolated from the Red Sea sponge T. swinhoei on the basis of chromatographic and spectrophotometric techniques. Conclusions: We conclude that T. swinhoei from the Red Sea represents an alternative source of the aziridinylpeptide miraziridine A to the previously identified Theonella mirabilis from Japan.

}, keywords = {Anti-protease, Cathepsin L, Miraziridine A, T. swinhoei}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91047}, author = {Paula Tabares and Bj{\"o}rn Degel and Norbert Schaschke and Ute Hentschel and Tanja Schirmeister} } @article {644, title = {In vitro anti-plasmodial activity of three herbal remedies for malaria in Ghana: Adenia cissampeloides (Planch.) Harms., Termina liaivorensis A. Chev, and Elaeis guineensis Jacq}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {October ,2012}, pages = {225-229}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {225}, abstract = {

Background: Herbal remedies of Adenia cissampeloides, Terminalia ivorensis, and Elaeis guineensis among others have been used in Ghana for the treatment of various ailments including malaria. However, most of these remedies have not been scientifically investigated. Objective: This study, therefore, seeks to investigate the anti-plasmodial activity of these plants. Materials and Methods: The ethanolic extracts of A. cissampeloides stem, T. ivorensis stem bark, and E. guineensis leaves were tested for in vitro anti-plasmodial activity against chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Thin blood films were used to assess the level of parasitemia and growth inhibition of the extracts. Results: The IC 50 of A. cissampeloides, T. ivorensis, and E. guineensis were 8.521, 6.949, and 1.195 μg/ml, respectively, compared to artesunate with IC 50 of 0.031 μg/ml. Conclusion: The result of this study appears to confirm the folkloric anti-malarial use these plants.

}, keywords = {Adenia cissampeloides, Anti-plasmodial, Elaeis guineensis, Herbal remedies, Terminalia ivorensis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.102270}, author = {Kofi Annan and K Sarpong and C Asare and R Dickson and KI Amponsah and B Gyan and M Ofori and SY Gbedema} } @article {634, title = {In vitro Erythrocyte Membrane Stabilization Properties of Carica Papaya L. Leaf Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {October ,2012}, pages = {196-202}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {196}, abstract = {

Background: Carica papaya L. fruit juice and leaf extracts are known to have many beneficial medical properties. Recent reports have claimed possible beneficial effects of C. papaya L. leaf juice in treating patients with dengue viral infections. This study aims to evaluate the membrane stabilization potential of C. papaya L. leaf extracts using an in vitro hemolytic assay. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in between June and August 2010. Two milliliters of blood from healthy volunteers and patients with serologically confirmed current dengue infection were freshly collected and used in the assays. Fresh papaya leaves at three different maturity stages (immature, partly matured, and matured) were cleaned with distilled water, crushed, and the juice was extracted with 10 ml of cold distilled water. Freshly prepared cold water extracts of papaya leaves (1 ml containing 30 μl of papaya leaf extracts, 20 μl from 40\% erythrocytes suspension, and 950 μl of phosphate buffered saline) were used in the heat-induced and hypotonic-induced hemolytic assays. In dose response experiments, six different concentrations (9.375, 18.75, 37.5, 75, 150, and 300 μg/ml) of freeze dried extracts of the partly matured leaves were used. Membrane stabilization properties were investigated with heat-induced and hypotonicity-induced hemolysis assays. Results: Extracts of papaya leaves of all three maturity levels showed a significant reduction in heat-induced hemolysis compared to controls (P \< 0.05). Papaya leaf extracts of all three maturity levels showed more than 25\% inhibition at a concentration of 37.5 μg/ml. The highest inhibition of heat-induced hemolysis was observed at 37.5 μg/ml. Inhibition activity of different maturity levels was not significantly (P \> 0.05) different from one another. Heat-induced hemolysis inhibition activity did not demonstrate a linear dose response relationship. At 37.5 μg/ml concentration of the extract, a marked inhibition of hypotonicity-induced hemolysis was observed. Conclusion: C. papaya L. leaf extracts showed a significant inhibition of hemolysis in vitro and could have a potential therapeutic effect on disease processes causing destabilization of biological membranes.

}, keywords = {Carica papaya L., Erythrocyte, in vitro, Membrane-stabilization}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.102261}, author = {Priyanga Ranasinghe and Pathmasiri Ranasinghe and WP Kaushalya M. Abeysekera and GA Sirimal Premakumara and Yashasvi S Perera and Padmalal Gurugama and Saman B Gunatilake} } @article {671, title = {In vitro H + -K + ATPase Inhibitory Potential of Methanolic Extract of Cissus Quadrangularis Linn.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {april,2012}, pages = {123-126}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {123}, abstract = {

Objective: This study was undertaken to study in vitro H + -K + ATPase inhibitory potential of methanolic extract of Cissus quadrangularis Linn. Materials and Methods: Total phenolic and flavonoid contents from extract was quantified and H + -K + ATPase inhibition assay was performed in presence of different concentrations of standard (omeprazole) and methanol extract. Results: Extract showed significant (*P \< 0.05) proton pump inhibitory activity in the goat gastric mucosal homogenate which was comparable to standard. Conclusions: These findings showed that methanolic extract of C. quadrangularis Linn. is potent inhibitor of proton pump.

}, keywords = {Cissus quadrangularis Linn., H+-K+ ATPase inhibition assay, in vitro.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.94738}, author = {Priyanka Yadav and Aditya Ganeshpurkar and Gopal Rai} } @article {659, title = {Medicinal Plants Use in Central Togo (Africa) with an Emphasis on the Timing}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {april,2012}, pages = {92-103}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {92}, abstract = {

Background: Plant-based remedies continue to play a key role in the health care of people in Togo; however, there is a lack of published data in medicinal plants and medical practices of the people in the country. Objective: This study was aimed at documenting the plant utilization in the Tem folk medicine in the central region of Togo. Materials and Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted with traditional healers in the central region of Togo using a semi-structured questionnaire. Results: This study demonstrated that local specialists in the central region of Togo tend to agree with each other in terms of the plants used to treat diabetes (ICF = 0.38), infertility, and abdominal pains (ICF = 0.33), but cite a much more diverse groups of plants to treat problems related to arterial hypertension, sickle cell disease, and abscess. They use 144 herbal concoctions made of 72 plants, distributed among 36 botanical families. The Euphorbiaceae family with eight species was best represented in terms of the number of species. The species with the highest use value were Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss. (Meliaceae) (UV = 0.36), Anthocleista djalonensis A. Chev. (Gentianaceae) (UV = 0.27), Trichilia emetica Vahl (Meliaceae) (UV = 0.25), and Sarcocephalus latifolius (Sm.) E. A. Bruce (Rubiaceae) (UV = 0.21). They also rely on the timing in the plant processing and the administration of herbal remedies. Conclusion: All these findings are based on empirical observations; laboratory screenings are needed to check the effectiveness of these plants.

}, keywords = {Chronobiology, Chronotherapy, Folk medicine, Herbal concoctions, Plant administration, Traditional healers.}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.94724}, author = {Tchadjobo Tchacondo and Simplice D Karou and Am{\'e}gninou Agban and Mamouda Bako and Komlan Batawila and Moctar L Bawa and Mensavi Gbeassor and Comlan de Souza} } @article {631, title = {Modulation of Genotoxicity of Oxidative Mutagens by Glycyrrhizic Acid from Glycyrrhiza glabra L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {October ,2012}, pages = {189-195}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {189}, abstract = {

Background: The chemopreventive effects of certain phytoconstituents can be exploited for their use as functional foods, dietary supplements and even as drugs. The natural compounds, acting as anti-genotoxic and free radical scavenging compounds, may serve as potent chemopreventive agents. These can inhibit DNA modulatory activities of mutagens and help preventing pathological processes. Objectives: Present study on Glycyrrhiza glabra L., a promising medicinal plant, widely used in traditional medicine, focused on the bioassay-guided fractionation of its extracts for the isolation of certain phytochemicals with anti-genotoxic potential against oxidative mutagens. Materials and Methods: The methanol extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra rhizomes was subjected to column chromatography, and isolated fraction was evaluated for its anti-genotoxic and antioxidant potential using SOS chromotest, Comet assay, and DPPH radical scavenging assay. Results: GLG fraction, which was characterized as Glycyrrhizic acid, inhibited the genotoxicity of oxidative mutagens viz., H 2 O 2 and 4NQOquite efficiently. In SOS chromotest, using E.coli PQ37 tester strain, it inhibited induction factor induced by H 2 O 2 and 4NQO by 75.54\% and 71.69\% at the concentration of 121.46 μM,respectively. In Comet assay, it reduced the tail moment induced by H 2 O 2 and 4NQO by 70.21\% and 69.04\%, respectively, at the same concentration in human blood lymphocytes. The isolated fraction also exhibited DPPH free radical scavenging activity and was able to scavenge 85.95\% radicals at a concentration of 120 μM. Conclusion: Glycyrrhizic acid is a potential modulator of genotoxins as well as efficient scavenger of free radicals.

}, keywords = {4NQO, Chemoprevention, Glycyrrhiza glabra L., Glycyrrhizic acid, H 2 O 2, Oxidative mutagens}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.102260}, author = {Prabhjit Kaur and Neha Sharma and Bikram Singh and Subodh Kumar and Satwinderjeet Kaur} } @article {682, title = {Moringa Oleifera Lam.: Protease Activity Against Blood Coagulation Cascade}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = { 44-49}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = { 44}, abstract = {

Background: The present study evaluated the protease activity of aqueous extracts of Moringa oleifera (Moringaceae) leaf (MOL) and root (MOR). Materials and Methods: Protease activity was assayed using casein, human plasma clot and human fibrinogen as substrates. Results: Caseinolytic activity of MOL was significantly higher (P <= 0.05) than that of MOR. Similar observations were found in case of human plasma clot hydrolyzing activity, wherein MOL caused significantly higher (P <= 0.05) plasma clot hydrolysis than MOR. Zymographic techniques were used to detect proteolytic enzymes following electrophoretic separation in gels. Further, both the extracts exhibited significant procoagulant activity as reflected by a significant decrease (P <= 0.05) in recalcification time, accompanied by fibrinogenolytic and fibrinolytic activities; clotting time was decreased from 180 {\textpm} 10 sec to 119 {\textpm} 8 sec and 143 {\textpm} 10 sec by MOL and MOR, respectively, at a concentration of 2.5 mg/mL. Fibrinogenolytic (human fibrinogen) and fibrinolytic activity (human plasma clot) was determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), plate method and colorimetric method. Zymographic profile indicated that both the extracts exerted their procoagulant activity by selectively hydrolyzing Aa and Bb subunits of fibrinogen to form fibrin clot, thereby exhibiting fibrinogenolytic activity. However, prolonged incubation resulted in degradation of the formed fibrin clot, suggesting fibrinolytic like activity. Conclusions: These findings support the traditional usage of M. oleifera extracts for wound healing.

}, keywords = {Caseinolytic, Fibrinogenolytic, Fibrinolytic, Moringa oleifera, Procoagulant}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91034}, author = {A Satish and Sudha Sairam and Faiyaz Ahmed and Asna Urooj} } @article {673, title = {Pharmacognosy Research : The Future Looks Very Promising}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {december,2011}, pages = {1}, type = {editorial article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

From my point of view, 2011 has been a very fruitful year for this journal and the outstanding level of research and advances that have been achieved in the area of pharmacognosy research is very encouraging. I am happy to report that our publication Pharmacognosy Research continues to thrive, in 2011 we had a total of 151 articles submitted comprised of short communications, editorials, letters to the editor and of course original articles. Of the 132 articles submitted during the year just under a third were accepted for publication indicating the high standards of those selected articles that were committed to print. Many research groups have been very helpful in suggesting suitable scientists as reviewers. I would like to thank the promptness and thoroughness of our review panel. Read More ...

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.91026}, author = {Ambrose Furey} } @article {661, title = {Phenolic Compounds from Foeniculum vulgare (Subsp. Piperitum) (Apiaceae) Herb and Evaluation of Hepatoprotective Antioxidant Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {april,2012}, pages = {104-108}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {104}, abstract = {

Objective: The study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities of the 80\% methanolic extract as well as the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and butanol (BuOH) fractions of the wild fennel (Foeniculum vulgare (Subsp; Piperitum)) and cultivated fennel (F. vulgare var. azoricum). In addition, quantification of the total phenolic content in the 80\% methanol extract of fennel wild and cultivated herbs is measured. Materials and Methods: An amount of 400 g of air dried powdered herb of wild and cultivated fennel were sonicated with aqueous methanol (80\%), successively extracted with Hexane, EtOAc, and n-BuOH. The EtOAc and n-BuOH were subjected to repeated column chromatography on silica gel and Sephadex LH-20. The antioxidant effect was determined in vitro using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH· ). Hepatoprotective activity was carried out using a Wistar male rat (250-300 g). Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined as chlorogenic acid and rutin equivalents, respectively. Results: Two phenolic compounds, i.e., 3,4-dihydroxy-phenethylalchohol-6-O-caffeoyl-β-d-glucopyranoside and 3?,8?-binaringenin were isolated from the fennel wild herb, their structures were elucidated by spectral methods including 1D NMR, 2D NMR, and UV. The EtOAc and BuOH fractions of wild fennel were found to exhibit a radical scavenging activity higher than those of cultivated fennel. An in vitro method of rat hepatocytes monolayer culture was used for the investigation of hepatotoxic effects of the 80\% methanol extract on the wild and cultivated fennel, which were \>1000 and 1000 ΅g/mL, respectively. As well as, their hepatoprotective effect against the toxic effect of paracetamol (25 mM) was exerted at 12.5 ΅g/mL concentration. Conclusions: Fennel (F. Vulgare) is a widespread plant species commonly used as a spice and flavoring. The results obtained in this study indicated that the fennel (F. vulgare) herb is a potential source of natural antioxidant. Two phenolic compounds, i.e. 3,4-dihydroxy-phenethylalchohol-6-O-caffeoyl-β-d-glucopyranoside ( A ) and 3?,8?-binaringenin ( B ) were isolated from the fennel wild herb for the first time.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant (Apiaceae), Azoricum, Binaringenin, Foeniculum vulgare, Hepatoprotection, Phenolic compounds, Piperitum}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.94735}, author = {Mona T. M. Ghanem and Hany M. A. Radwan and El-Sayed M Mahdy and Yehya M Elkholy and Heba D Hassanein and Abdelaaty A Shahat} } @article {643, title = {Preliminary Phytochemical and Antibacterial Screening of Sesuvium Portulacastrum in the United Arab Emirates}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {October ,2012}, pages = {219-224}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {219}, abstract = {

Background: The present study describes the phytochemical profile and antimicrobial activity of Sesuvium portulacastrum. Materials and Methods: Three extracts of S. portulacastrum obtained by extraction in aqueous, ethanolic and dichloromethane solvents, respectively, were compared for their antimicrobial activity and ethanolic extract further subjected to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to find out the nature of the compounds responsible for the antimicrobial activity. The antibacterial activities were assessed by measuring the diameter of the inhibition zones, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values. Results: Compared to the aqueous and dichloromethane extract, the ethanolic extract showed better antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli, indicating its potential application related to noscomial infections. GC-MS results revealed 22, 23-Dihydrostigmasterol, Benzoic acid, 3,4,5-trihydroxy-(Gallic acid), (2R,3R)-(-)-Epicatechin and Capsaicin in the ethanolic extract to be the molecules responsible for the antimicrobial activity of S. portulacastrum. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on analysis of antimicrobial components from S. portulacastrum in United Arab Emirates (UAE), and our results confer the utility of this plant extract in developing a novel broad spectrum antimicrobial agent.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Phytochemical, Sesuvium portulacastrum}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.102269}, author = {Amad Al-Azzawi and Alyaa Alguboori and Mahmoud Y Hachim and M Najat and A Al Shaimaa and Maryam Sad} } @article {647, title = {Protective Effects of Natsumikan (Citrus natsudaidai) Extract on Acetaminophen-induced Lethal Hepatotoxicity in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {October ,2012}, pages = { 234-236}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {234}, abstract = {

Background: Like other citrus fruits, natsumikan (Citrus natsudaidai ) contains several antioxidative nutrients which occur in higher concentrations in the peel than in the pulp. A high dose of acetaminophen (APAP) generates highly reactive intermediates and causes fatal liver injury. In this study, we examined whether an extract from immature natsumikan peel prevents lethal hepatotoxicity induced by a lethal dose of APAP in mice. Materials and Methods: Male ICR mice were treated orally with natsumikan extract (300 and 1,000 mg/kg) 2, 26, and 50 hr before single oral APAP (300 mg/kg) administration. Mice were fasted for 18 hr before APAP treatment, but given tap water ad libitum. Survival was assessed for 24 hr after APAP treatment. Results: Following administration of 300 mg/kg APAP, all mice died within 6 h. However, pretreatment with natsumikan extract (300 and 1,000 mg/kg) or silymarin (300 and 1,000 mg/kg) increased the survival rate to 16.7\%, 33.3\%, 16.7\%, and 50\%, respectively, at 24 hr. Conclusion: The results suggest that natsumikan has a protective effect on APAP-induced lethal hepatotoxicity.

}, keywords = {acetaminophen (APAP), Hepatoprotective effect, lethal hepatotoxicity, Natsumikan}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.102274}, author = {Katsunori Yamaura and Noriyuki Nakayama and Maki Shimada and Koichi Ueno} } @article {669, title = {Screening Togolese Medicinal Plants for Few Pharmacological Properties}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {april,2012}, pages = {116-122}, chapter = {116}, abstract = {

Background: Terminalia macroptera Guill. et Perr. (Combretaceae), Sida alba L. (Malvaceae), Prosopis africana Guill et Perr. Taub. (Mimosaceae), Bridelia ferruginea Benth. (Euphorbiaceae), and Vetiveria nigritana Stapf. (Asteraceae) are traditionally used in Togolese folk medicine to treat several diseases including microbial infections. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and hemolytic properties of the crude extracts of the above-mentioned plants. Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial and the antioxidant activities were assayed using the NCCLS microdilution method and the DPPH free radical scavenging, respectively. Human A+ red blood cells were used to perform the hemolytic assay. Phenolics were further quantified in the extracts using spectrophotometric methods. Results: Minimal inhibitory concentrations in the range of 230-1800 μg/ml were recorded in the NCCLS broth microdilution for both bacterial and fungal strains with methanol extracts. The DPPH radical scavenging assay yielded interesting antioxidant activities of the extracts of P. africana and T. macroptera (IC 50 values of 0.003 {\textpm} 0.00 μg/ml and 0.05 {\textpm} 0.03 μg/ml, respectively). These activities were positively correlated with the total phenolic contents and negatively correlated with the proanthocyanidin content of the extracts. The hemolytic assay revealed that great hemolysis occurred with the methanol extracts of T. macroptera, S. longepedunculata, and B. ferruginea. Conclusion: These results support in part the use of the selected plants in the treatment of microbial infections. In addition, the plant showed an interesting antioxidant activity that could be useful in the management of oxidative stress.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Hemolytic, Phenolics}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.94737}, author = {Simplice D Karou and Tchadjobo Tchacondo and Micheline Agassounon Djikpo Tchibozo and Kokou Anani and Lassina Ouattara and Jacques Simpore and Comlan de Souza} } @article {621, title = {Sub-acute Effect of N G -nitro-l-arginine methyl-ester (L-NAME) on Biochemical Indices ins Rats: Protective Effects of Kolaviron and Extract of Curcuma longa L}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {July,2012}, pages = {127-133}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = { 127}, abstract = {

Background: Kolaviron (KV) (biflavonoid from Garcinia kola) and extract of Curcuma longa (CL) are frequently used in folk medicine for treatment of hypertension. One of their mechanisms of action is to enhance antioxidant properties in animals. NG- nitro- l- arginine methyl- ester (L- NAME) is L- arginine analogue, which by binding to Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) may induce hypertension partly due to increase in tissues oxidative stress. Objectives: To investigate the effect of L- NAME on some biochemical indices and the possible protective effect of KV or CL. Materials and Methods: Four groups consisting of 6 rats each were used. One group served as control, second group received L- NAME (40 mg/kg/day). Third and fourth groups were treated with KV and CL, respectively and also received L- NAME. KV and CL were given at a dose of 200 mg/ kg/day. Results: L- NAME caused a significant (P \<0.05) increase in the levels of serum urea, creatine kinase and alanine aminotransferase relative to controls. L- NAME treated rats had markedly decreased hepatic catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione- S- transferase (GST) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. Precisely, L- NAME decreased CAT, SOD, GST and GSH by 48, 52, 76 and 40\%, respectively. L- NAME intoxication significantly decreased (P \<0.05) renal GSH and SOD levels. Also, L- NAME caused a significant (P \<0.05) induction of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the animals. Administration of KV or CL with L- NAME caused significant (P \<0.05) inhibition of LPO and augments tissue antioxidant indices. Conclusion: These results confirm the adverse effect of L- NAME on biochemical indices and, the ability of kolaviron or Curcuma longato ameliorate the alterations.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Biochemical indices, Curcuma longa, Kolaviron, NG - nitro- l- arginine methyl ester}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.99071}, author = {Pronobesh Chattopadhyay and Soilyadhar Hazarika and Sunil Dhiman and Aadesh Upadhyay and Anurag Pandey and Sanjeev Karmakar and Lokendra Singh} } @article {624, title = {A Validated UV-HPLC Method for Determination of Chlorogenic Acid in Lepidogrammitis drymoglossoides (Baker) Ching, Polypodiaceae}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {July,2012}, pages = {148-153}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {148}, abstract = {

Background: Lepidogrammitis drymoglossoides (Baker) Ching (L. drymoglossoides), a member of the Polypodiaceae family, was used in the treatment of numerous diseases. However, none of the potential ingredients and the quality control methods concerning this plant medicine was pronounced. Objective: To identify chlorogenic acid (CGA) from L. drymoglossoides and develop a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay of CGA. Materials and Methods: UV, TLC, and HPLC were utilized to identify the phytochemicals of L. drymoglossoides and determine the CGA content, respectively. The HPLC conditions were as following: a Phenomenex Luna C18 (2) (250 {\texttimes} 4.6 mm i.d.; 5 μm particle size; 100 {\r A} pore size) column; the mobile phase of the mixture of acetonitrile and 0.5\% aqueous phosphoric acid (11.5:88.5 v/v); the flow rate of 1.0 mL/min and determination wavelength of 327 nm. Results: The proposed HPLC method has been developed and validated. The calibration curve was y = 28328x + 16610 (R2 = 0.9997). The intra-day and inter-day precision and intermediate precision were validated with the RSD less than 5\%. The mean recovery rate of the method ranged from 95\% to 104\%, with the RSD less than 5\%. The LOD and LQD values were 0.049 and 0.132 mg/L, respectively. The content of CGA in L. drymoglossoides approximately reached 0.24\% (v/v) by the proposed extraction and determination methods. Conclusion: The assay method was simple, convenient, and accurate to the quantification of CGA and can be used for the quality control of the herb.

}, keywords = {Chlorogenic acid, High performance liquid chromatography, Lepidogrammitis drymoglossoides (Baker) Ching, Polypodiaceae, TLC}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.99076}, author = {Jiagen Wen and Liqun Kang and Huan Liu and Yiyun Xiao and Xiuzhen Zhang and Yuxiang Chen} } @article {616, title = {A validated UV-HPLC Method for Determination of Chlorogenic Acid in Lepidogrammitis Drymoglossoides (Baker) Ching, Polypodiaceae}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {July,2012}, pages = {148-153}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {148}, abstract = {

Background: Lepidogrammitis drymoglossoides (Baker) Ching (L. drymoglossoides), a member of the Polypodiaceae family, was used in the treatment of numerous diseases. However, none of the potential ingredients and the quality control methods concerning this plant medicine was pronounced. Objective: To identify chlorogenic acid (CGA) from L. drymoglossoides and develop a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay of CGA. Materials and Methods: UV, TLC, and HPLC were utilized to identify the phytochemicals of L. drymoglossoides and determine the CGA content, respectively. The HPLC conditions were as following: a Phenomenex Luna C18 (2) (250 {\texttimes} 4.6 mm i.d.; 5 μm particle size; 100 {\r A} pore size) column; the mobile phase of the mixture of acetonitrile and 0.5\% aqueous phosphoric acid (11.5:88.5 v/v); the flow rate of 1.0 mL/min and determination wavelength of 327 nm. Results: The proposed HPLC method has been developed and validated. The calibration curve was y = 28328x + 16610 (R2 = 0.9997). The intra-day and inter-day precision and intermediate precision were validated with the RSD less than 5\%. The mean recovery rate of the method ranged from 95\% to 104\%, with the RSD less than 5\%. The LOD and LQD values were 0.049 and 0.132 mg/L, respectively. The content of CGA in L. drymoglossoides approximately reached 0.24\% (v/v) by the proposed extraction and determination methods. Conclusion: The assay method was simple, convenient, and accurate to the quantification of CGA and can be used for the quality control of the herb.

}, keywords = {Chlorogenic acid, High performance liquid chromatography, Lepidogrammitis drymoglossoides (Baker) Ching, Polypodiaceae, TLC.}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.99076}, author = {Jiagen Wen and Liqun Kang and Huan Liu and Yiyun Xiao and Xiuzhen Zhang and Yuxiang Chen} } @article {619, title = {Vitex negundo Inhibits Cyclooxygenase-2 Inflammatory Cytokine-mediated Inflammation on Carrageenaninduced Rat Hind Paw Edema}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {4}, year = {2012}, month = {July,2012}, pages = {134-137}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {134}, abstract = {

Background: Vitex negundo L. (Verbenaceae) is a hardy plant widely distributed in the Indian subcontinent and used for treatment of a wide spectrum of health disorders in traditional and folk medicine, some of which have been experimentally validated. In present study, we aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of V. negundo in carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats, and to investigate the probable mechanism of anti-inflammatory action. Materials and Methods: Paw edema was produced by injecting 1\% solution of carrageenan, and the paw volume was measured before and after carrageenan injection up to 5 hr. V. negundo leaf oil was extracted using a Clevenger apparatus and administered by a trans-dermal route to Wistar rats and the percentage of inhibition of inflammation was observed using a Plethysmometer by comparing a compound aerosol-based formulation with 1 mg diclofinac diethylamine BP and 7 mg methyl salicylate IP/kg body weight served as a standard drug whereas paraffin oil served as the placebo group. After withdrawing of blood, serum was separated and cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 inhibitory activities were measured by the enzyme immuno assay (EIA) method by using a COX inhibitor screening assay kit. Results and Discussion: V. negundo leaf oil significantly (P \< 0.05) reduced the carrageenan-induced paw edema as compared to the placebo group (paraffin oil) and 1 mg diclofinac diethylamine BP and 7 mg methyl salicylate IP showed the maximum inhibition of paw edema as compared to the V. negundo leaf oil treated group and the control group. Also in the present study V. negundo leaf oil showed significantly (P \< 0.05) inhibits COX-1 pathways rather than COX-2 pathways as compared to the V. negundo leaf oil treated group. Conclusion: It is suggested that the V. negundo leaf oil is a potent anti-inflammatory agent and acts via inhibition of COX-2 without much interfering COX-1 pathways.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors, Vitex negundo}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.99072}, author = {Pronobesh Chattopadhyay and Soilyadhar Hazarika and Sunil Dhiman and Aadesh Upadhyay and Anurag Pandey and Sanjeev Karmakar and Lokendra Singh} } @article {924, title = {Acaricidal effect of an isolate from Hoslundia opposita vahl against Amblyomma variegatum (Acari: Ixodidae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {185-188}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {185}, abstract = {

Background: Hoslundia opposita Vahl. (Lamiaceae), a common local shrub in Ghana, is traditionally known not only for its pharmacological benefits but also for its insecticidal properties. Its acaricidal property, however, has not been investigated. Objective: To test the acaricidal effects of the crude extract and fractions of H. opposita leaves as well as to isolate and characterize the acaricidal principles. Materials and Methods: The crude methanolic extract, pet. ether, ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions of the leaves of H. opposita were tested against the larvae of the cattle tick, Amblyomma variegatum, using the Larval Packet Test. A bioassay-guided isolation was carried out to identify the acaricidal principle obtained from the ethyl acetate fraction. Results: The active principle was characterised as ursolic acid, a triterpene previously isolated from the leaves of the same plant. The extract and fractions were less potent than the control, malathion (LC50 1.14 Χ 10 -4 mg/ml). Among the plant samples however the crude methanolic extract exhibited the highest effect against the larvae (LC 50 5.74 Χ 10 -2 mg/ml), followed by the ethyl acetate fraction (LC50 8.10 Χ 10 -2 mg/ml). Ursolic acid, pet. ether and aqueous fractions however showed weak acaricidal effects with LC50 values of 1.13 mg/ml, 8.96 Χ 10 -1 mg/ml and 1.44 mg/ml, respectively. Conclusion: Ursolic acid was not as potent as the crude methanolic extract and the ethyl acetate fraction from which it was isolated. The overall acaricidal effect of H. opposita may have been due to synergy with other principles having acaricidal properties.

}, keywords = {Acaricide, Larval Packet Test, ticks, Ursolic acid}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85004}, author = {Kofi Annan and Nora Jackson and Rita A Dickson and George H Sam and Gustav Komlaga} } @article {938, title = {Amelioration of nitrobenzene-induced nephrotoxicity by the ethanol extract of the herb Euphorbia hirta}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {201-207}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {201}, abstract = {

Background: Euphorbia hirta (L.) (Euphorbiaceae) is a very popular herb amongst practitioners of traditional medicine and used in the treatment of female disorders, respiratory ailments, tumors, jaundice, digestive problems, wounds, etc. We aimed to evaluate the protective effect of E. hirta against nitrobenzene-induced nephrotoxicity in albino rats. Materials and Methods: The nephroprotective activity of the ethanol extract of E. hirta (400 mg/kg body weight) was studied in nitrobenzene-induced albino rats (1000 mg/kg body weight). The activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), total thiols and vitamin C in the kidney tissues were determined. Histopathologic investigation was performed in the kidney tissue samples. Results: Nitrobenzene administration significantly (P \< 0.01) enhanced the lipid peroxidation and significantly (P \< 0.05) depleted the levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, GSH, total thiols and vitamin C. Treatment with the ethanol extract of E. hirta significantly normalized the antioxidant levels. The nephroprotective activity was also supported by histopathologic studies of kidney tissue. Conclusion: The results indicate that the ethanol extract of E. hirta ameliorates renal dysfunction and could be used as an effective protector against nitrobenzene-induced nephrotoxicity, primarily through its antioxidant capacity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Euphorbia hirta, Histopathology, Nephrotoxicity, nitrobenzene}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85009}, author = {Subramanian Suganya and Dominic Sophia and Chinthamony Arul Raj and Muthaiyan Ahalliya Rathi and Lakshmanan Thirumoorthi and Periyasamy Meenakshi and Dugganaboyana Guru Kumar and Velliyur Kanniyapan Gopalakrishnan} } @article {779, title = {Analgesic activity and acute toxicity study of Semecarpus anacardium stem bark extracts using mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = { 57-61}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = { 57}, abstract = {

Background:\ The analgesic activity of petroleum ether, chloroform and methanol extracts of\ Semecarpus anacardium\ was investigated by tail flicking and writhing method using acetyl salicylic acid as the standard reference.\ Materials and Methods:\ The staircase method was adopted for the determination of the acute toxicity. LD\ 50\ of the petroleum ether extract and the chloroform extract was 700 mg/kg; however, the LD\ 50\ for the methanol extract was 500 mg/kg. After 1 h of oral administration of the extracts, 0.6\% acetic acid was administered intraperitoneally and the analgesic activity was evaluated.\ Results:\ The number of writhing observed in the control group was 73.33 writhes. The methanol extract showed a significant analgesic activity, with 28.33 writhes, than the petroleum ether extract and the chloroform extract. But, all the extracts showed proved to be less potent than the standard drug which showed 2.33 writhes. Animals pretreated with saline did not show a signify cant effect on the latent period of tail-flick response. The analgesic effect of the petroleum ether extract was comparatively less evident. The maximum possible analgesia (MPA) increased up to 9.1\% which remained elevated above the basal levels throughout the observation period. The MPA calculated for the chloroform extract increased to 14.03\%. However, the analgesic effect of the methanol extract was also observed at 0.5 h following oral administration and the effect remained significant throughout the 3 h observation period, and was increased to 20.43\%.\ Conclusion:\ Consistent analgesic activity of all the three\ S. anacardium\ extracts was observed by both the methods. The methanol extract was more potent than the petroleum ether and chloroform extracts but was less effective than the standard drug. This investigation supported the ethnomedicinal claims of\ S. anacardium.

}, keywords = {Acute toxicity study, Crude extracts, Tail-flicking method, Writhing method}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79117}, author = {GM Lingaraju and H Joy Hoskeri, V Krishna and P Suresh Babu} } @article {915, title = {Anthocyanins from bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) alleviate pruritus in a mouse model of chronic allergic contact dermatitis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {173-177}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {173}, abstract = {

Background: Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) is one of the richest sources of anthocyanins which are known to have anticancer, wound healing and anti-allergic effects. Here, we examined whether bilberry extract (Bilberon-25) alleviates pruritus in a mouse model of chronic allergic contact dermatitis. Materials and Methods: BALB/c mice with chronic allergic contact dermatitis induced by 3 weeks of repeated application of 2,4,6-trinitro-1-chlorobenzene (TNCB) were administered Bilberon-25 orally for 3 weeks after sensitization with TNCB. The effects of Bilberon-25 on pruritus and inflammation were evaluated by measurement of scratching behaviour and ear swelling, respectively. Results: Treatment with Bilberon-25 significantly attenuated the TNCB-induced increase in scratching behaviour, but dexamethasone did not. In contrast, ear swelling was ameliorated by dexamethasone treatment, and significantly decreased by Bilberon-25. Repeated application of TNCB induced a shift in the cutaneous cytokine milieu from a T helper cell type (Th)1 to a Th2 profile; Bilberon-25 and dexamethasone alleviated this Th2 predominance of the lesional skin. Conclusion: Anthocyanins from bilberry might be beneficial for the treatment of chronic pruritus which can occur in patients with inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis.

}, keywords = {Bilberon-25, Bilberry Anthocyanins, ear swelling, Interleukin-4 messenger Ribonucleic acid, pruritis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85002}, author = {Katsunori Yamaura and Maki Shimada and Koichi Ueno} } @article {946, title = {Antianaphylactic and mast cell stabilization activity of Strychnos potatorum Linn. seed}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {208-213}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {208}, abstract = {

Aim: The antianaphylactic activity of Strychnos potatorum Linn seed extract was evaluated by using compound 48/80 induced anaphylaxis and mast cell stabilization was studied by using peritoneal mast cells of rats. The possible antianaphylactic and mast cell stabilization mechanism was evaluated by using compound 48/80 induced mast cell activation and level of nitric oxide in rat peritoneal mast cells. Materials and Methods: Anaphylactic shock in mice was induced by the intraperitoneal administration of 8 mg/kg compound 48/80, prior to induction of anaphylaxis the animals were treated with S. potatorum Linn. seed extract administered orally 1 h before administration of compound 48/80, the rate mortality was observed in each group of animals. Mast cell stabilization was seen by preincubation of mast cells with the compound 48/80 and the extracts. Results: This study indicates that the chloroform, petroleum ether, and methanolic extracts were shown potent and has significant (P \< 0.01 and P \< 0.001) inhibitory effects on compound 48/80 induced anaphylactic reaction and mast cell activation. This compound also inhibited significantly compound 48/80 induced increased level of nitric oxide in rat peritoneal mast cells. Conclusion: We conclude from this study that the different extracts of S. potatorum seed have potent antianaphylactic activity through mast cell stabilization and inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis. The inhibitory effect of S. potatorum Linn. on release of histamine and nitric oxide protects from compound 48/80 induced anaphylactic reaction may be through blocking vasodilatation, decrease vascular resistance, hypotension and tachycardia induced by immunogenic agent used in this study.

}, keywords = {Antianaphylactic, nitric oxide and mast cells, Strychnos potatorum seed}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85011}, author = {Umesh Jayantarao Patil and Anil Sidram Savali and Manjunath C Jirankali} } @article {910, title = {Antibacterial, anti-infl ammatory, and antioxidant effects of the leaves and stem bark of Glyphaea brevis (Spreng) Monachino (Tiliaceae): A comparative study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {166-172}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {166}, abstract = {

Background: Glyphaea brevis (Spreng) Monachino (Tiliaceae) have traditional uses in the management of conditions characterized by infections, inflammatory disorders and oxidative stress. The paper aims to report the comparative data on the leaves and stem bark of Glyphaea brevis with respect to their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Materials and Methods: The antibacterial effects of the 70\% ethanol extracts of the leaves and stem bark were determined using the agar well diffusion and micro dilution assays. The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using the carrageenan-induced oedema model in 7-day old cockerels. Using the DPPH free radical scavenging, total antioxidant and total phenol content assays, the antioxidant potential of the extract was assessed. Results: The bark extract had the higher antibacterial effect against 6 of the 8 microorganisms used. Noteworthy are its activity against Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecalis with lowest MIC value of 500 ΅g/mL respectively. In doses of 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg, both extracts reduced the carrageenan-induced oedema in 7-day old cockerels. Based on the ED50 values, both extracts demonstrated similar potencies (ED50 =21.00 mg/kg). The stem bark extract exhibited higher free radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 1.392 mg/mL) compared to the leaf extract (IC50 = 9.509 mg/mL). In the total phenol content, the bark extract showed higher content (15.91 mg/g of dry mass) compared to the leaf extract (2.68 mg/g dry mass). Both extracts demonstrated equal potencies in the total antioxidant capacity determinations (0.60 mg/g dry weight of extract). Conclusions: The results of this work provide scientific evidence for the traditional uses of Glyphaea brevis.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Carrageenan-induced oedema, Free radical, Glyphaea brevis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85001}, author = {RA Dickson and E Ekuadzi and K Annan and G Komlaga} } @article {953, title = {Antihistaminic activity of aqueous extract of stem bark of Ailanthus excelsa Roxb.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {220-224}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {220}, abstract = {

Background: Biologically active compounds from natural sources are of interest as possible new drugs for different diseases. Over many centuries humans have been mining the bounties of nature for discovering natural products that have been used for the treatment of all human diseases. Ailanthus excelsa Roxb. (Simaroubaceae) is widely used in the Indian system of medicine as an antiasthmatic, antispasmodic, bronchodilator, anticolic pain, anticancer, antidiabetic etc. The plant was also reported for its antiasthmatic, bronchodilatory, antiallegic and many more such activities. Objective: To evaluate the antihistaminic activity of aqueous extract of stem bark of Ailanthus excelsa Roxb. Materials and Methods: We have studied the effect of aqueous extract of stem barks of A. excelsa Roxb. at a doses 100 μg/mL in the isolated goat tracheal chain preparation in vitro and 100, 200, 400 mg/kg doses orally in passive paw anaphylaxis in rat, clonidine-induced catalepsy in mice models in vivo for its antihistaminic activity. Results: Aqueous extract of stem barks of A. excelsa Roxb. significantly (***P\<0.001) inhibits the percentage contraction at concentration of 100 μg/mL in goat tracheal chain preparation. A. excelsa Roxb. extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg oral) and dexamethasone (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) also significantly reduced (**P\<0.01) the paw volume at fourth hour and the percentage inhibition was found to be 13.98\%, 28.49\%, 42.47\% and 46.77\% respectively. The aqueous extract of stem barks of A. excelsa Roxb. (100, 200, 400 mg/kg, p.o.) and chlorpheniramine maleate (10 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly inhibited (*P\<0.05, **P\< 0.01) clonidine-induced catalepsy in mice at 150 min after the administration of clonidine. Conclusion: The aqueous extract of stem bark of A. excelsa Roxb. possess significant antihistaminic activity (H1-antagonist) and can be attributed to bronchodilating, anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic activity etc. Hence detailed study needs to be conducted to evaluate the phytoconstituent responsible for the above mentioned results and their clinical efficacy in the treatment of related diseases.

}, keywords = {Ailanthus excelsa Roxb, antihistaminic activity, passive paw anaphylaxis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85014}, author = {Dinesh Kumar and ZA Bhat and P Singh and SS Bhujbal and RS Deoda} } @article {788, title = {Antihyperglycemic effect of the alcoholic seed extract of Swietenia macrophylla on streptozotocin-diabetic rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {67-71}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {67}, abstract = {

Background:\ Streptozotocin (STZ) selectively destroys the pancreatic insulin secreting cells, leaving less active cells and resulting in a diabetic state. The present study was designed to investigate the antihyperglycemic effect of the ethanolic seed extract of\ Swietenia macrophylla\ (SME) in normal and STZ-diabetic rats.\ Materials and Methods:\ The experimental groups were rendered diabetic by intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of STZ (40 mg/kg body weight [BW]). Rats with glucose levels \> 200 mg/dL were considered diabetic and were divided into 5 groups. Three groups of diabetic animals were orally administered, daily with seed extract at a dosage of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg BW. One group of STZ rats was treated as diabetic control and the other group was orally administered 600 ΅g/kg BW glibenclamide daily.\ Results:\ Graded doses of seed extract and glibenclamide showed a significant reduction in blood glucose levels and improvement in serum insulin levels. The extract also improved body weight and promoted liver glycogen content. After treatment, hemoglobin (Hb) level increased and glycosylated Hb level significantly decreased in diabetic rats. The activities of the carbohydrate metabolic enzymes showed significant changes in the rats. Of the 3 doses, 100 mg dose showed maximum activity. Histological investigations of pancreas also supported the biochemical findings.\ Conclusions:\ Thus, our findings indicate the folklore use of the seed for diabetes and the mechanism seems to be insulin secretion.

}, keywords = {Glucose, Insulin, strepotozotocin, Swietenia macrophylla}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79119}, author = {Kalpana Kalaivanan and Kodukkur Viswanathan Pugalendi} } @article {901, title = {Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties of Green, Black, and Herbal Teas of Camellia Sinensis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {November,2011}, pages = {266-272}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {266}, abstract = {

Background: The role of non-polymeric phenolic (NP) and polymeric tannin (PT) constituents in the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of six brands of green, black, and herbal teas of Camellia sinensis were investigated. Materials and Methods: Total phenolic content (TPC) and ascorbic acid equivalent antioxidant capacity (AEAC) were assessed using the Folin-Ciocalteu and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays, respectively. Minimum inhibitory dose (MID) against Gram-positive Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus, and Gramnegative. Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was assessed using the disc-diffusion method. Teas were extracted with hot water successively three times for one hour each time. The extracts were fractionated using Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography to obtain the NP and PT constituents. Results: Extraction yields ranged from 12 to 23\%. Yields of NP fractions (70-81\%) were much higher than those of PT fractions (1-11\%), suggesting that the former are the major tea components. Ranking of antioxidant properties of extracts was green tea\>black tea\>herbal tea. For all six teas, antioxidant properties of PT fractions were significantly higher than extracts and NP fractions. Extracts and fractions of all six teas showed no activity against the three Gram-negative bacteria. Green teas inhibited all three Gram-positive bacteria with S. aureus being the least susceptible. Black and herbal teas inhibited the growth of M. luteus and B. cereus, but not S. aureus. The most potent were the PT fractions of Boh Cameron Highlands and Ho Yan Hor with MID of 0.01 and 0.03 mg/disc against M. luteus. Conclusion: Results suggested that NP constituents are major contributors to the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of teas of C. sinensis. Although PT constituents have stronger antioxidant and antibacterial properties, they constitute only a minor component of the teas.

}, keywords = {Extracts, Fractions, Minimum inhibitory dose, Non-polymeric phenolics, Polymeric tannins}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.89748}, author = {Eric W.C. Chan and Eu Ying Soh and Pei Pei Tie and Yon Peng Law} } @article {902, title = {Antioxidant, cytotoxic, antitumor, and protective DNA damage metabolites from the red sea brown alga Sargassum sp}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {160-165}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {160}, abstract = {

Background: Macroalgae can be viewed as a potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory sources owing to their capability of producing compounds for its protection from environmental factors such as heat, pollution, stress, oxygen concentration, and UV radiations. Objective: To isolate major compounds which are mainly responsible for the pharmacological activity of brown alga under investigation, Sargassum sp. Materials and Methods: Algal material was air dried, extracted with a mixture of organic solvents, and fractionated with different adsorbents. The structures of obtained pure compounds were elucidated with different spectroscopic techniques, and two pure materials were tested for protection of DNA from damage, antioxidant, antitumor, and cytotoxicity. Results: Four pure compounds were obtained, of which fucosterol (1) and fucoxanthin (4) were tested; it was found that fucoxanthin has strong antioxidant and cytotoxicity against breast cancer (MCF-7) with IC 50 = 11.5 ΅g/ml. Conclusion: The naturally highly conjugated safe compound fucoxanthin could be used as antioxidant and as an antitumor compound.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, cytotoxicity, Fucoxanthin, Sargassum sp}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85000}, author = {Seif-Eldin N Ayyad and Saleh T Ezmirly and Salim A Basaif and Walied M Alarif and Adel F Badria and Farid A Badria} } @article {585, title = {Antiproliferative and phytochemical analyses of leaf extracts of ten Apocynaceae species}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June,2011}, pages = {100-106}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {100}, abstract = {

Background: The anticancer properties of Apocynaceae species are well known in barks and roots but less so in leaves. Materials and Methods: In this study, leaf extracts of 10 Apocynaceae species were assessed for antiproliferative (APF) activities using the sulforhodamine B assay. Their extracts were also analyzed for total alkaloid content (TAC), total phenolic content (TPC), and radical scavenging activity (RSA) using the Dragendorff precipitation, Folin-Ciocalteu, and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays, respectively. Results: Leaf extracts of Alstonia angustiloba, Calotropis gigantea, Catharanthus roseus, Nerium oleander, Plumeria obtusa, and Vallaris glabra displayed positive APF activities. Extracts of Allamanda cathartica, Cerbera odollam, Dyera costulata, and Kopsia fruticosa did not show any APF activity. Dichloromethane (DCM) extract of C. gigantea, and DCM and DCM:MeOH extracts of V. glabra showed strong APF activities against all six human cancer cell lines. Against breast cancer cells of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, DCM extracts of C. gigantea and N. oleander were stronger than or comparable to standard drugs of xanthorrhizol, curcumin, and tamoxifen. All four extracts of N. oleander were effective against MCF-7 cells. Extracts of Kopsia fruticosa had the highest TAC while those of Dyera costulata had the highest TPC and RSA. Extracts of C. gigantea and V. glabra inhibited the growth of all six cancer cell lines while all extracts of N. oleander were effective against MCF-7 cells. Conclusion: Extracts of C. gigantea, V. glabra, and N. oleander therefore showed great promise as potential candidates for anticancer drugs. The wide-spectrum APF activities of these three species are reported for the first time and their bioactive compounds warrant further investigation.

}, keywords = {Antiproliferative, Apocynaceae, radical scavenging, Total alkaloid content, Total phenolic content}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81957}, author = {Siu Kuin Wong and Yau Yan Lim, and Noor Rain Abdullah and Fariza Juliana Nordin} } @article {714, title = {Anti-ulcerogenic and in vitro antioxidant activities of Lagenaria breviflora (LB) whole fruit ethanolic extract in laboratory animals}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {02-08}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {02}, abstract = {

Background:\ The present study was undertaken to evaluate the anti-ulcer and antioxidant activities of the ethanol extract of\ Lagenaria breviflora\ (EELB) whole fruit in laboratory rats.\ Methods:\ The anti-ulcer property of the ethanolic extract of the whole fruit of\ Lagenaria breviflora\ (LB) was assessed using the cold-restraint stress-induced (CRU) gastric ulcer, pyloric ligation-induced (PL) gastric ulcer, aspirin-induced (ASP) gastric ulcer and alcohol-induced (AL) gastric ulcer models. The scavenging activity of the LB extract was examined with 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), Nitric oxide, Hydroxyl radical and Superoxide anion scavenging models.\ Results:\ EELB (50, 100, 150 and 200 mg/kg, b.w.) protected against the CRU gastric ulcer dose dependently. Similarly, 150 mg/kg b.w. of the LB extract protected against the PL gastric ulcer, ASP gastric ulcer and AL gastric ulcer and was comparable to omeprazole (10 mg/kg b.w.) or Suscralfate (500 mg/kg b.w.), respectively. The\ in vitro\ antioxidant activity of LB was demonstrated by its ability to quench free radicals generated by nitric oxide and superoxide anion with a concomitant scavenging potential against DPPH-induced radical formation.\ Conclusion:\ Taken together, the study showed that the whole fruit extract possess potent anti-ulcer and antioxidant activities.

}, keywords = {Anti-ulcer, Antioxidant, free radical scavenger}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79108}, author = {SA Onasanwo and Neetu Singh and AB Saba and AA Oyagbemi and OA Oridupa and Gautam Palit} } @article {965, title = {Are We in the Polyphenols Era?}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June 2011}, pages = {147}, type = {letter to the editor}, chapter = {147}, abstract = {

Sir, Polyphenols constitute a group comprising about 8000 different molecules, among which flavonoids are the most studied family. Polyphenols are potent antioxidants abundant in medicinal plants, fruits, vegetables and particularly in derived food products such as chocolate, tea and wine. This more {\textquoteleft}natural{\textquoteright} approach to antioxidant supplementation seems to be promising, since the antioxidant capacity of these compounds is not simply related to direct scavenging of reactive oxidant species (ROS), but also to inhibition of enzymatic sources of oxidative stress and augmentation of endogenous nonenzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant systems. Benefits from polyphenol-rich medicinal plants, foods and beverages are likely to arise from multiple pathways, and the antioxidant property appears to be only one of these.[1,2]. Read more...

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81966}, author = {Sanjib Bhattacharya} } @article {870, title = {Assessment of Antioxidant Potentials of Free and Bound Phenolics of Hemidesmus indicus (L) R.Br Against Oxidative Damage Smitha Jayaram}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {November,2011}, pages = {225-231}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {225}, abstract = {

Background: Hemidesmus indicus R.Br. is a twining shrub commonly found in India, which was known to have wide pharmacological actions. 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy-benzoic acid (HMBA) and a number of pregnane glycosides were believed to be responsible for its various bioactivities. Until now, there are no reports regarding the antioxidant properties of phenolics from H. indicus. Objective: To establish the role of phenolics in the properties of H.indicus. Materials and Methods: Hemidesmus free phenolic fraction (HDFP) and Hemidesmus bound phenolic fraction (HDBP) have been isolated from H. indicus, and the antioxidant activity was evaluated for inhibition of lipid peroxidation, DNA protection, free radical scavenging (FRS), reducing power and cytoprotective activities. Results: HDFP and HDBP exhibited potent inhibition of lipid peroxidation (IC50 - 19.5 {\textpm}0.5 and 21.7 {\textpm}0.5 μg gallic acid equivalent - GAE/mL), FRS (IC50 - 7 {\textpm} 0.2 and 8.6 {\textpm} 0.2 μgGAE/mL), reducing power (110.3 {\textpm} 2 and 33.5 {\textpm} 1 U/g) and red blood cell protection (14.8 {\textpm} 0.4 and 14.5 {\textpm} 0.5 μg GAE/mL). HDFP is constituted by gallic (18\%), caffeic (17\%), ferulic acids (16\%) and HDBP by syringic acid (35\%) as major phenolic acids. Besides, both HDFP and HDBP contained significant levels of HMBA; in HDFP (10\%) and HDBP (57\%), respectively. Results indicated a 34-and 27-folds better contribution to the antioxidant activity by HDFP and HDBP, respectively, than that of HMBA. Conclusion: Potent antioxidant activities of phenolics may be one of the mechanisms by which H.indicus is effective against several health disorders as encountered in traditional medicines.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Bound phenolics, DNA protection, Free phenolics, Red blood cell protection}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.89741}, author = {Smitha Jayaram and Shylaja M. Dharmesh} } @article {790, title = {Biomedical Research from Ideation to Publication}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {72}, type = {Book Review}, chapter = {72}, abstract = {

With the evolution of mankind, biomedical research has continued to contribute to improvement of quality of life and life style. Over many generations several noble minds and dedicated scientist have made this difficult task possible. However newer and much more challenging tasks remain ahead of us to be solved by the current and upcoming scientific community. A collateral process in achieving such tasks is by optimal training of the upcoming scientific community so has to prepare them to face and effectively solve the current challenges. While highly skilled mentors are extensively contributing to this training process, the availability of a well-written book detailing the fundamentals of biomedical research starting from conception of ideas for research to effectively communicating/commercializing the research findings can synergize/potentiate the training efforts. Hence the publication of this book has been very timely and necessary, which is skillfully edited by experts in biomedical research and is targeted at any one interested in establishing a carrier in biomedical research. The book has key sections detailing specific aspects of biomedical research written simplistically with illustrations for easy comprehension.\ Read more . . .\ 

}, keywords = {Nil}, author = {Arun H.S Kumar} } @article {882, title = {Cardioprotective Effects of Gallic Acid in Diabetesinduced Myocardial Dysfunction in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {November,2011}, pages = {239-245}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {239}, abstract = {

Background: Normalization of hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and oxidative stress is an important objective in preventing diabetes-induced cardiac dysfunction. Objective: This study was undertaken to examine the effects of gallic acid in myocardial dysfunctions associated with type-1 diabetes. Materials and Methods: Diabetes was induced by single intravenous injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 50 mg/kg i.v.). Gallic acid was administered daily at three different doses (100, 50, and 25 mg/kg p.o.) for 8 weeks at the end of which blood samples were collected and analyzed for various biochemical parameters. Results: Injection of STZ produced significant loss of body weight (BW), polyphagia, polydypsia, hyperglycemia, hypoinsulinemia, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, bradycardia, and myocardial functional alterations. Treatment with gallic acid significantly lowered fasting glucose, the AUCglucose level in a dose-dependent manner; however, the insulin level was not increased significantly at same the dose and prevented loss of BW, polyphagia, and polydypsia in diabetic rats. It also prevented STZ-induced hyperlipidemia, hypertension, bradycardia, structural alterations in cardiac tissue such as increase in force of contraction, left ventricular weight to body weight ratio, collagen content, protein content, serum lactate dehydrogenase, and creatinine kinase levels in a dose-dependent manner. Further, treatment also produced reduction in lipid peroxidation and increase in antioxidant parameters in heart of diabetic rats. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that gallic acid to be beneficial for the treatment of myocardial damage associated with type-1 diabetes.

}, keywords = {Antidiabetic, Antihyperlipidemic, Emblica officinalis, Left ventricular hypertrophy, Myocardial dysfunction, Oxidative stress, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.89743}, author = {Snehal S. Patel and Ramesh K. Goyal} } @article {957, title = {Chemical Composition and Larvicidal Activity of Essential oil of Cupressus arizonica E.L. Greene Against Malaria Vector Anopheles Stephensi Liston (Diptera: Culicidae),}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, pages = {135-139}, chapter = {135}, abstract = {

Background: Using botanical insecticides as an alternative biocontrol technique for vector control is considered by some scientists. Materials and Methods: Chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed using gas chromatography{\textendash}mass spectrometry (GC{\textendash}MS). In addition, the mosquito larvicidal activity of leaf essential oil of Cupressus arizonica was investigated against fourth instar larvae of laboratory-reared An. stephensi according to the method of the World Health Organization. Results: Of 46 constituents in the oil, limonene (14.44\%), umbellulone (13.25\%) and α-pinene (11\%) were determined as the main constituents. Cupressus arizonica volatile oil showed significant larvicidal activity against An. stephensi with LC50 and LC90 values 79.30 ppm and 238.89 ppm respectively. Clear dose-response relationships were established with the highest dose of 160 ppm essential oil with almost 100\% mortality. Discussion: The results from this study revealed that C. arizonica essential oil could be considered as a natural larvicide against An. stephensi. However, the field evaluation of the formulation is necessary.

}, keywords = {Anopheles stephensi, Botanical insecticide, Cupressus arizonica, Essential oil, Iran, Vector control}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81962}, author = {Mohammad Mehdi Sedaghat and Alireza Sanei Dehkordi and Mahnaz Khanavi and Mohammad Reza Abai and Fatemeh Mohtarami and Hassan Vatandoost} } @article {961, title = {Chemical Constituents and Biological Studies of Origanum vulgare Linn.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June 2011}, pages = {143-145}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {143}, abstract = {

Bioassay-guided isolation of methanolic extract of the leaves of Origanum vulgare Linn., yielded two protocatechuic acid ester derivatives, origanol A (1) and origanol B (2) along with ursolic acid (3), oleanolic acid (4), β-sitosterol (5), and triacontanol (6). Structures of the compound were established based on physical and spectral data (UV, IR, 1H and 13C NMR and mass). Origanol A (1) showed significant mushroom tyrosinase inhibition activity.

}, keywords = {Origanol A and B, Origanum vulgare Linn., Triterpene acids, Tyrosinase inhibition, β-sitosterol}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81964}, author = {Gottumukkala Venkateswara Rao and T. Mukhopadhyay and T. Annamalai and N. Radhakrishnan and M. R. Sahoo} } @article {749, title = {Colon-targeted quercetin delivery using natural polymer to enhance its bioavailability}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {35-39}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {35}, abstract = {

The aim of the present study is to develop a polymer (Guar Gum)-based matrix tablet (using quercetin as a model drug) with sufficient mechanical strength, and promising\ in vitro\ mouth-to-colon release profile. By definition, an oral colonic delivery system should retard drug release in the stomach and small intestine, and allow complete release in the colon. By drug delivery to the colon would therefore ensure direct treatment at the disease site, lower dosing, and fewer systemic side effects. Quercetin is antioxidant in nature and used to treat colon cancer, but they have poor absorption in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). As a site for drug delivery, the colon offers a near neutral pH, reduced digestive enzymatic activity, a long transit time, and an increased responsiveness to absorption enhancers. By achieving a colon-targeted drug delivery system, the absorption of quercetin may be increased, which leads to better bioactivity in fewer doses.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Colon cancer, Guar gum, Quercetin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79113}, author = {Anil Singhal and Jain H and Vipin Singhal and Edwin J. Elias and Ahmad Showkat} } @article {950, title = {Combined effects of p-coumaric acid and naringenin against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {214-219}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {214}, abstract = {

Background: Doxorubicin (DOX) is the most active cytotoxic agents having efficacy in malignancies either alone or combined with other cytocidal agents. The clinical usefulness of the anthracycline drug has been precluded by cardiac toxicity. Many therapeutic interventions have been attempted to improve the therapeutic benefits of the drug. This study is based on the possible protective effects of combination of p-coumaric acid (PC) and naringenin (NR) on DOX induced cardiac toxicity in male Swiss albino rats. Methods: Total nine groups of Swiss albino rats were used, Group I (vehicle control) receive saline solution daily and Group II (disease control) receive saline solution daily up to 29 th day and at 30 th day a single dose of DOX (15 mg/kg i.p.) is given. PC alone (100 mg/kg/day p.o.) and (200 mg/kg/day p.o.) also NR alone (15 mg/kg/day) orally administer for 30 days. Similarly a standard drug Vit. E (100 mg/kg/day) administers alone for 30 days. Group PC/DOX and PC and NR/DOX receive PC (200 mg/kg/day) and combine PC (200 mg/kg/day). Results: Doxorubicin induced marked biochemical alterations characteristic of cardiac toxicity including increase in MDA level and decrease SOD, CAT \& GSH level but prior administration of combination of PC \& NR ahead of doxorubicin challenge ameliorated all these biochemical markers. Conclusion: The study proves the beneficial effects of combination of PC and NR in protecting animal against DOX induced cardiotoxicity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidents, cardiotoxicity, doxorubicine, naringenin, p-coumaric acid}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85012}, author = {Shruti S Shiromwar and Vijay R Chidrawar} } @article {928, title = {Cucurbitacins-type triterpene with potent activity on mouse embryonic fi broblast from Cucumis prophetarum, cucurbitaceae}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {189-193}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {189}, abstract = {

Background: Higher plants are considered as a well-known source of the potent anticancer metabolites with diversity of chemical structures. For instance, taxol is an amazing diterpene alkaloid had been lunched since 1990. Objective: To isolate the major compounds from the fruit extract of Cucumis prophetarum, Cucurbitaceae, which are mainly responsible for the bioactivities as anticancer. Materials and Methods: Plant material was shady air dried, extracted with equal volume of chloroform/methanol, and fractionated with different adsorbents. The structures of obtained pure compounds were elucidated with different spectroscopic techniques employing 1D ( 1 H and 13 C) and 2D (COSY, HMQC and HMBC) NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometry) and ESI-MS (Eelectrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry) spectroscopy. The pure isolates were tested towards human cancer cell lines, mouse embryonic fibroblast (NIH3T3) and virally transformed form (KA3IT). Results: Two cucurbitacins derivatives, dihydocucurbitacin B (1) and cucurbitacin B (2), had been obtained. Compounds 1 and 2 showed potent inhibitory activities toward NIH3T3 and KA31T with IC50 0.2, 0.15, 2.5 and 2.0 μg/ml, respectively. Conclusion: The naturally cucurbitacin derivatives (dihydocucurbitacin B and cucurbitacin B) showed potent activities towards NIH3T3 and KA31T, could be considered as a lead of discovering a new anticancer natural drug.

}, keywords = {Cucumis prophetarum, cucurbitacin B, dihydrocucurbitacin B, mouse embryonic fibroblast and virally transformed form}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85006}, author = {Seif-Eldin N Ayyad and Ahmed Abdel-Lateff and Salim A Basaif and Thomas Shier} } @article {955, title = {Design and Development of a Stable Polyherbal Formulation based on the Results of Compatibility Studies}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June 2011}, pages = {122}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {122}, abstract = {

Introduction: Ayurvedic and herbal medicinal products contain a combination of botanicals; each of these contains a number of chemical compounds that may give the anticipated activity in combination. Therefore, it is very important to analyze and evaluate the compatibility of various active constituents and markers from different medicinal plants for their possible chemical interactions with various excipients at different storage conditions during the development of a stable polyherbal formulation. Objective: To study chemical stability of kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) and kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa) extract for their active markers andrographolide, kutkoside and picroside-I and to develop stable polyherbal formulation based on the incompatibility studies. Materials and Methods: The compatibility study was carried out on individual ethanolic extracts of these two plants along with the commonly used excipients in the ratio of 1:1 at 40 {\textpm} 2{\textdegree}C and 75 {\textpm} 5\% relative humidity and at a refrigeration temperature of 5 {\textpm} 1{\textdegree}C for initial, 7-, 15- and 30-day intervals. The analysis was carried out using the validated reverse phase{\textemdash}highperformance liquid chromatography methods. A stable tablet dosage form was developed based on the results of these studies. Result: The study suggested that the active markers of kutki (kutkoside and picroside-I) were found to be degraded in the presence of the kalmegh extract. However, the active marker of the kalmegh extract (andrographolide) was found to be stable. Both the extracts showed excellent compatibility with all the excipients used in making this formulation. No significant decrease in the kutkoside and picroside-I content from the formulation was observed. Conclusion: By separate granulation process the exposure of both the extracts can be minimized thus avoiding the degradation of active markers.

}, keywords = {Andrographolide, Compatibility, Kutkoside, Picroside-I}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81960}, author = {Shrinivas G. Bhope and Dheeraj H. Nagore and Vinod V. Kuber and Pankaj K. Gupta and Manohar J. Patil} } @article {784, title = {Effect of methanolic extract of Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standley fruits on marble-burying behavior in mice: Implications for obsessive-compulsive disorder}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {62-66}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {62}, abstract = {

Context:\ Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is the fourth most common mental disorder and is diagnosed nearly as often as asthma and diabetes mellitus. Over the last decade, the inhibition of burying of glass marbles by mice has been used as an index of anti-OCD drug action in the so-called marble-burying test.\ Lagenaria siceraria\ (Molina) Standley (LS), commonly known as "bottle gourd" (English), possesses several medicinal properties; little is known about its action as a nerve tonic.\ Objective:\ The purpose of this study was to characterize the anti-OCD (anti-compulsive) activity of the methanolic extract of the fruits of\ L. siceraria\ (Molina) Standley (LS) using the marble-burying behavior in mice.\ Materials and Methods:\ The experiment was conducted in specific animal models of Swiss albino mice to evaluate marble-burying behavior.\ Results and Conclusions:\ Intraperitonial administration of 25 and 50 mg/kg of LS extract significantly (P\ \< 0.001) decreased the total number of buried marbles. The effect was comparable to that of the fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, i.p.). Fluoxetine and LS fruit extract do not produce any overt motor dysfunction. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the methanolic extract of LS showed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, sterols, proteins, tannins and carbohydrates. The results of the study for the first time show that the plant possesses anti-compulsive (anti-OCD) activity, confirming the traditional claims. Future research should focus on the identification and the mechanism of action of the constituents from this plant.

}, keywords = {Fluoxetine, Lagenaria siceraria, marble-burying behavior, obsessive-compulsive disorder, preliminary phytochemical screening}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79118}, author = {RP Prajapati and MV Kalaria and VP Karkare and SK Parmar and NR Sheth} } @article {966, title = {Effects of Gum Acacia Aqueous Extract on the Histology of the Intestine and Enzymes of Both the Intestine and the Pancreas of Albino Rats treated with Meloxicam}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June,2011}, pages = {114-121}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {114}, abstract = {

Background: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) cause gastrointestinal damage both in the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract, in addition to their undesirable side effects on the pancreas. Meloxicam like all NSAIDs has damaging effects on the gastrointestinal tract including perforations, ulcers and bleeding. Objective: The present work describes the effects of Gum acacia aqueous extract on the histology of intestine and enzymes of both intestine and Pancreas of albino rats treated with Meloxicam. Materials and Methods: This study was performed on four groups of equally weighed male rats, each group included ten animals; the first group was received a diet containing 0.2 mg/kg bw meloxicam per day; the second was given 1gm Gum acacia per day in its diet; the third was given meloxicam followed by gum in the same doses per day; while the fourth group (control rats) was placed on a normal diet and water. All rats were received their diet for a period of 21 days. Results: A considerable protective effect of Gum acacia aqueous extract on the histology of intestine of albino rats treated with meloxicam was recorded. In addition, the study displayed a significant increase (P \< 0.001) in the intestinal enzymes; lipase, amylase, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the 1st and 3rd groups animals while these enzymes were significantly decreased (P \< 0.001) in the 2nd group when compared with the 4th control group. Conclusion: This study concluded that Gum acacia provides a protection and defense against the harmful effects of meloxicam therapy used as one of the novel anti-Cox-1 and Cox-2 NSAIDs.

}, keywords = {Gum acacia, Ileum, Lipase, Meloxicam, NSAI drugs}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81959}, author = {Ahmed M. A. Abd El-Mawla and Husam Eldien H. Osman} } @article {896, title = {Effects of the Oral Administration of Nonpolar Extract from Ardisia squamulosa Presl (Myrsinaceae) Leaves on Spermatogenesis in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {November,2011}, pages = {260-265}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {260}, abstract = {

Background: Several Ardisia species have been found to possess numerous bioactivities but their reproductive toxicity has been poorly explored. In the present study, the effects of the leaf hexane extract of Philippine indigenous Ardisia squamulosa on epididymal sperm count, \%viability and \%aberration of sperms and weights of seminal vesicle, cauda epididymis, and testes in addition to the weights of liver, kidney, and body were evaluated. Methods: The extracts at daily dose levels of 1, 10, and 100 mg/Kg BW in 10\% polysorbate-80 in corn oil were administered by gavage for 8 successive days to 8-10 weeks old male SD rats and sacrificed after 9 days. Daily body weights and final organ weights were measured. Sperm from the cauda epididymis was extracted and measured according standard sperm parameters (sperm count, morphology, viability and membrane integrity). Results: Significant findings were the decline of left epididymal sperm count to testis weight ratio and increase in \%sperm morphological aberration from both cauda epididymis obtained with the 10 mg/Kg BW dose. Conclusion: The hexane extract from Ardisia squamulosa had significant effect on sperm count but with negligible effect on sperm morphology and viability.

}, keywords = {Myrsinaceae, Sperm count, Sperm morphology, Spermatogenesis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.89747}, author = {Dennis D. Raga and Glorina N. Pocsidio and Annabelle A. Herrera} } @article {753, title = {Evaluation of acute toxicity and hepatoprotective activity of the methanolic extract of Dichrostachys cinerea (Wight and Arn.) leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {40-43}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {40}, abstract = {

Background:D. cinerea\ are the chief source of drug compounds that are active against various ailments such as jaundice, inflammations rheumatism, fever, asthma, body ache, chest problems, toothache, ulcers, wounds, eye diseases and have an aphrodisiac property. In present study, It was aimed to test the hepatoprotective activity of the plant.\ Material and Methods:\ The methanolic extract of\ Dichrostachys cinerea\ (Mimoseae) leaves was subjected to evaluation of acute toxicity and hepatoprotective property, using albino mice and rats. The parameters for estimation of liver function, based on serum markers such as total bilirubin, total protein, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase with histopathological profile of the liver tissue, were studied consequently.\ Results:\ The methanolic extract did not show any mortality up to a dose of 3500 mg/kg body weight. The methanolic extract showed significant hepatoprotectivity. The histopathological profile of the drug-treated liver tissue demonstrated similar morphology as that of controls.\ Conclusions:\ Methanolic extract of Dichrostachys cinerea was found to have significant hepatoprotective activity.

}, keywords = {Acute toxicity, carbon tetrachloride induced, Dichrostachys cinerea, Hepatoprotective}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79114}, author = {P Suresh Babu and V Krishna and KR Maruthi and K Shankarmurthy and Ramesh K Babu} } @article {582, title = {An Examination of the Medicinal Potential of Scaevola spinescens: Toxicity, Antibacterial, and Antiviral Activities}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June,2011}, pages = {85-94}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {85}, abstract = {

Background: Scaevola spinescens is an endemic Australian native plant with a history of use as a medicinal agent by indigenous Australians. Yet the medicinal bioactivities of this plant are poorly studied. Materials and Methods: S. spinescens solvent extracts were tested for antimicrobial activity, antiviral activity and toxicity in vitro. Results: All extracts displayed antibacterial activity in the disc diffusion assay. The methanol extract proved to have the broadest specificity, inhibiting the growth of 7 of the 14 bacteria tested (50\%). The water, ethyl acetate, chloroform, and hexane extracts inhibited the growth of 6 (42.9\%), 5 (35.7\%), 5 (35.7\%), and 4 (28.6\%) of the 14 bacteria tested, respectively. S. spinescens methanolic extracts were equally effective against Gram-positive (50\%) and Gram-negative bacteria (50\%). All other extracts were more effective at inhibiting the growth of Gram-negative bacteria. All extracts also displayed antiviral activity in the MS2 plaque reduction assay with the methanol, water, ethyl acetate, chloroform, and hexane extracts inhibiting 95.2 {\textpm} 1.8\%, 72.3 {\textpm} 6.3\%, 82.6 {\textpm} 4.5\%, 100 {\textpm} 0\% and 47.7 {\textpm} 12.9\% of plaque formation, respectively. All S. spinescens extracts were nontoxic in the Artemia fransiscana bioassay with no significant increase in mortality induced by any extract at 24 and 48 hr. The only increase in mortality was seen for the water extract at 72 hr, although even this extract displayed low toxicity, inducing only 41.7 {\textpm} 23.3\% mortality. Conclusions: The lack of toxicity of the S. spinescens extracts and their inhibitory bioactivity against bacteria and viruses validate the Australian Aboriginal usage of S. spinescens and indicates its medicinal potential.

}, keywords = {Antiviral, Australian medicinal plants, Maroon bush, Medicinal plants, MS2 bacteriophage, Scaevola spinescens}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81955}, author = {Ian E. Cock and Liisa Kukkonen} } @article {898, title = {Extract from peel of Citrus natsudaidai alleviates experimental chronic allergic dermatitis in mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {155-159}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {155}, abstract = {

Background: Citrus natsudaidai (natsumikan) is a typical citrus fruit containing several antioxidative nutrients which are found in higher concentration in the peel than in the pulp of the fruit. In this study, we examined whether extract from immature natsumikan peel prevents development of chronic allergic dermatitis in mice. Materials and Methods: Chronic allergic dermatitis was induced by repeated application of 2, 4, 6-trinitro-1-chlorobenzene in BALB/c mice and natsumikan was administrated orally for 30 days. Ear swelling and dermatitis score were measured after each challenge. The level of derivative-reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROM) in serum was measured on day 30. Results: Treatment of natsumikan significantly attenuated the increase in ear swelling and improved dermatitis scores. In addition, increases in serum d-ROM were attenuated by a treatment of natsumikan. Although the routine treatment with dexamethasone resulted in a clear and significant reduction in body weight, natsumikan treatment did not have such effects. Conclusion: Immature natsumikan peel is beneficial for the treatment of chronic allergic dermatitis.

}, keywords = {2, 4, 6-trinitro-1-chlorobenzene, Citrus natsudaidai, experimental model, Oxidative stress}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.84999}, author = {Noriyuki Nakayama and Katsunori Yamaura and Maki Shimada and Koichi Ueno} } @article {719, title = {Hepatoprotective activity of Ocimum sanctum alcoholic leaf extract against paracetamol-induced liver damage in Albino rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {13-18}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {13}, abstract = {

Background:\ There is a lack of reliable hepatoprotective drugs in modern medicine to prevent and treat drug-induced liver damage. Leaves of Sacred/Holy Basil, i.e. Green Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), belonging to family Lamiaceae are used traditionally for their hepatoprotective effect. We wanted to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of\ Ocimum sanctum and observe whether synergistic hepatoprotection exists with silymarin.\ Materials andMethods:\ Albino rats (150-200 g) were divided into five groups. Groups A and B were normal and experimental controls, respectively. Groups C, D and E received the alcoholic extract of\ Ocimum Sanctum\ leaves (OSE) 200 mg/kg BW/day, silymarin 100 mg/kg BW/day and OSE 100 mg/kg BW/day + silymarin 50 mg/kg BW/day p.o., respectively, for 10 days. Hepatotoxicity was induced in Groups B, C, D and E on the eighth day with paracetamol 2 g/kg BW/day. The hepatoprotective effect was evaluated by performing an assay of the serum proteins, albumin globulin ratio, alkaline phosphatase, transaminases and liver histopathology. The assay results were presented as mean and standard error of mean (SEM) for each group. The study group was compared with the control group by one-way ANOVA, followed by Bonferoni{\textquoteright}s test. A\ P-value of \<0.01 was considered significant.\ Results:\ In groups C, D and E, liver enzymes and albumin globulin ratio were significantly (P\ \< 0.01) closer to normal than in group B. Reduction in sinusoidal congestion, cloudy swelling and fatty changes and regenerative areas of the liver were observed on histopathological examination in groups C, D and E, whereas group B showed only hepatic necrosis.\ Conclusion:\ The Ocimum sanctum alcoholic leaf extract shows significant hepatoprotective activity and synergism with silymarin.

}, keywords = {Hepatoprotective, Hepatotoxicity, Ocimum sanctum, Paracetamol, Silymarin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79110}, author = {Kingshuk Lahon and Swarnamoni Das} } @article {956, title = {Immunomodulatory and Erythropoietic Effects of Aqueous Extract of the Fruits of Solanum Torvum Swartz (Solanaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June,2011}, pages = {130-134}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {130}, abstract = {

Aim: The effect of Solanum torvum (Fam: Solanaceae) on delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, hemagglutinating antibody (HA) titer, white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC) and hemoglobin concentration was investigated in Sprague-Dawley rats to establish immunomodulatory and erythropoietic activity. Materials and Methods: Sheep red blood cells (SRBC)-immunized and challenged rats were treated with Solanum torvum extract, levamisole and dexamethasone. Phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced anemia in rats was treated with the extract. Results: The aqueous Solanum torvum extract and levamisole significantly enhanced DTH response, increased HA titer and WBC count, while dexamethasone significantly decreased DTH response, did not increase HA titer, and did not enhance WBC profile. The extract and Feroglobin, the reference heamatinic, were able to reverse PHZ-induced anemia, and increase the RBCs and Hb concentration above baseline values within 24 days. Conclusion: Solanum torvum extract showed a concentrationdependent immunostimulant and erythropoietic activity.

}, keywords = {Delayed type hypersensitivity response, Hemagglutinating antibody titer, Phenylhydrazine, Sheep red blood cells, Solanum torvum}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81961}, author = {George A. Koffuor and Patrick Amoateng and Terrick A. Andey} } @article {717, title = {In vitro antiproliferative activity of Annona reticulata roots on human cancer cell lines}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {09-12}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {09}, abstract = {

Background:\ The phytochemical and pharmacological activities of\ Annona reticulata\ components suggest a wide range of clinical application in lieu of cancer chemotherapy.\ Materials and Methods:\ Ethanol and aqueous extracts of roots of\ Annona reticulata\ Linn were studied for their\ in vitro\ antiproliferative activity on\ A-549\ (human lung carcinoma),\ K-562\ (human chronic myelogenous leukemia bone marrow), HeLa\ (human cervix) and\ MDA-MB\ (human adenocarcinoma mammary gland) cancer cell lines by MTT [3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] colorimetric assay.\ Results:\ The ethanol extract exhibited a prominent inhibitory effect against\ A-549, K-562, HeLa\ and\ MDA-MB\ human cancer cell lines at a concentration range between 10 and 40 μg/ml, whereas the aqueous extract showed a lower activity at the same concentration. Simultaneously, the effect of the ethanol extract toward the inhibition of\ Vero\ cell line proliferation was lower in comparison with the cancer cell lines.\ Conclusion:\ The significant antiproliferative activity of the ethanol extract of\ Annona reticulata\ roots against\ A-549, K-562, HeLa\ and\ MDA-MB\ human cancer cell lines may be attributed toward the collective presence of acetogenins, alkaloids and lower inhibitory effect on\ Vero\ cell line, which suggests\ Annona reticulata\ be used as a chemopreventive agent in cancer therapy.

}, keywords = {A-549, Annona reticulata, Antiproliferative activity, HeLaand MDA-MBhuman cancer cell lines, K-562, MTT assay}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79109}, author = {HM Suresh and B Shivakumar and K Hemalatha and SS Heroor and DS Hugar and K.R.S Sambasiva Rao} } @article {959, title = {An in vitro Evaluation of the Anthelmintic Activity of Hedychium spichatum Rhizomes and Zingiber zerumbet Rhizomes on the Pheritima Posthuma model: A Comparative Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June,2011}, pages = {140-142}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {140}, abstract = {

Ethanolic extracts of Hedychium spichatum rhizomes and Zingiber zerumbet rhizomes were taken for in vitro comparative studies on the anthelmintic activity against Pheritima posthuma. Different concentrations (25, 50, 100 mg/ml) of both the extracts were used for the activity. Varying albendazole concentrations (25, 50, 100 mg/ml) were used as a reference standard and normal saline (0.9\% NaCl) was used for the control treatment. The results were expressed in terms of time in minutes to report the paralysis and time of death of the earthworms. The results obtained from the study indicate toward the anthelmintic activity, supporting folk use of both the plants when compared with the standard. The results also established that Z. zerumbet was a more potent candidature of as compared with H. spichatum.

}, keywords = {Albendazole, Anthelmintic activity, Hedychium spichatum, Zingiber zerumbetw}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81963}, author = {Shambaditya Goswami and Awanish Pandey and Poonam Tripathi and Asheesh Singh and Amrita Rai} } @article {879, title = {Indigenous Anti-ulcer Activity of Musa Sapientum on Peptic Ulcer}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {November,2011}, pages = {232-238}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {232}, abstract = {

Background: Peptic ulcer disease (PUD), encompassing gastric and duodenal ulcers is the most prevalent gastrointestinal disorder. The pathophysiology of PUD involves an imbalance between offensive factors like acid, pepsin and defensive factors like nitric oxide and growth factors. The clinical evaluation of antiulcer drugs showed tolerance, incidence of relapses and sideeffects that make their efficacy arguable. An indigenous drug like Musa sapientum possessing fewer side-effects is the major thrust area of present day research, aiming at a better and safer approach for the management of PUD. Material and Methods: The unripe plantain bananas (Musa sapientum) were shade-dried, powdered and used for phytochemical analysis and as antiulcer drug. In our present study Group I rats served as control and were treated with saline, Group II was indomethacin-induced ulcerated rats, Group III received aqueous extract of Musa sapientum along with indomethacin and Group IV received esomeprazole along with indomethacin for 21 days. The anti-ulcerogenic activity was investigated by performing hematological, mucosal, antioxidant profile in comparison with the standard drug esomeprazole. Results: Our findings from High - Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) analysis showed that Musa sapientum has an active compound a monomeric flavonoid (leucocyanidin) with anti-ulcerogenic activity. Results were expressed as mean {\textpm} SD. All our results are in congruous with the results of standard drug esomeprazole. Conclusion: It could be clearly concluded that administration of the aqueous extract of Musa sapientum at the dose used in this study tends to ameliorate ulcers. Its use in indigenous medicine should be scientifically scrutinized with further research.

}, keywords = {Esomeprazole, Gastric mucosa, Lleucocyanidin, Musa sapientum}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.89742}, author = {P. Prabha and Thirunethiran Karpagam and B. Varalakshmi and A. Sohna Chandra Packiavathy} } @article {893, title = {Isolation and identifi cation of a new fl avonoid glycoside from Carrichtera annua L. seeds}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {151-154}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {151}, abstract = {

Background: Flavonoids are a major group of constituents and are assumed to be among the beneficial components. Recently, they have also received considerable interest as components of foodstuffs and nutraceuticals because of their antioxidant and anticancer properties. Materials and Methods: About 500 g of air-dried powdered seeds of C. annua were defatted seeds and extracted with 70\% methanol. The combined methanol extract was partitioned with chloroform and n-butanol. The butanol extract was concentrated and subjected to column chromatography on polyamide. Results: The fraction eluted with aqueous methanol (40\% and 50\%) was found to contain three main flavonoids (1, 2, and 3). Repeated column chromatography on polyamide and Sephadex LH-20 gave compound 1. Compounds 2 and 3 were further purified using preparative paper chromatography with 20\% HOAc and Sephadex LH-20 column. Conclusions: Reinvestigation of the flavonoidal constituents of the butanol fraction of the aqueous methanolic extract of Carrichteraannua seeds led to isolation and identification of a new flavonoidal glycosidenamed as quercetin 3-O-[(6-sinapoyl-b-glucopyranosyl)-(1;2)-b-arabinopyranosyl]-7-O-b-glucopyranoside 1, in addition to, quarecetin-3-O-glucoside 2, isorhamnetin-3-O-b-runtinoside3, and isorhamnetin4.Structures of the isolated compounds were established by UV, MS, and 1H and 13C NMR.

}, keywords = {Acylated flavonoid, brassicaceae, Carrichtera annua}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.84998}, author = {Abdelaaty A Shahat and Khaled A Abdelshafeek and Husseiny A Husseiny} } @article {583, title = {Liver Protective Activity of a Hydroethanolic Extract of Arrabidaea chica (Humb. and Bonpl.) B. Verl. (pariri)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June 2011}, pages = {79-84}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {79}, abstract = {

Background: Folk medicine uses preparations of Arrabidaea chica (pariri) leaves to treat various liver pathologies. We evaluated the effects of the hydroethanolic extract of these leaves (CHEE) on an in vivo model of liver intoxication. Materials and Methods: Different groups of rats were treated orally for 7 days with CHEE at doses of 300, 500 or 600 mg/kg or silymarin at 35 mg/kg. The control group received only 0.5 ml of distilled water. After 7 days of treatment, both the groups received CCl 4 , and activities of glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT), glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) and bilirubin level were assessed. The ability of CHEE to suppress hepatic injury triggered by CCl 4 was evaluated based on suppression (\%) of activities of GOT, GPT and bilirubin levels. Results: The chromatograms of the CHEE obtained at 330 and 400 nm show features of two main classes of secondary metabolites: quinones and flavonoids. The administration of 300, 500 or 600 mg/kg of CHEE resulted in the reduction of GPT levels by 85.34\%, 88.59\% and 93.72\%, respectively. The suppression of GOT levels was 56.86\%, 65.27\% and 68.95\%, respectively, and that of plasma bilirubin was 83.81\%, 83.12\% and 84.14\%, respectively. These results demonstrate the protective character of CHEE and its ability to maintain the functional integrity of hepatic cells. Conclusions: The results obtained are possibly due to the presence of quinones and flavonoids in A. chica CHEE, both detected using high performance liquid chromatography

}, keywords = {Arrabidaea chica, Carbon tetrachloride, Flavonoids, Hepatic protection, Quinones}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81954}, author = {Benedito Junior Lima de Medeiros and Kel{\'e}m dos Santos Costa and Jeane Francisca Alves Ribeiro and Jos{\'e} Otavio Carrera Silva Jr and Wagner Luiz Ramos Barbosa and Jos{\'e} Carlos Tavares Carvalho} } @article {921, title = {Methanolic Extracts of Aloe Secundiflora Engl. Inhibits in vitro Growth of Tuberculosis and Diarrhea-causing Bacteria}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, pages = {95-99}, chapter = {95}, abstract = {

Background: The emergence of resistance to antimicrobials by pathogens has reached crisis levels, calling for identification of alternative means to combat diseases. Objective: To determine antimicrobial activity of crude methanolic extract of Aloe secundiflora Engl. from Lake Victoria region of Kenya. Materials and Methods: Extract was tested against four strains of mycobacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis, M. kansasii, M. fortuitum and M. smegmatis), Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and a fungus Candida albicans. activity of the extract was determined using BACTECTM MGITTM 960 system. General antibacterial and antifungal activity was determined using standard procedures: zones of inhibition, Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) and Minimum Bactericidal/Fungicidal Concentrations (MBCs/MFCs). Results: The extract was potent against M. fortuitum, M. smegmatis and M. kansasii where it completely inhibited growth (Zero growth units (GUs)) in all the extract concentrations used. It gave strong antimycobacterial activity (157 GUs) against M. tuberculosis. It showed strong antimicrobial activity (P<=0.05), giving inhibition zones >=9.00 mm against most microorganisms, such as P. aeruginosa (MIC 9.375 mg mL-1and MBC of 18.75 mg mL-1), E. coli (both MIC and MBC of 18.75 mg mL-1), S. aureus and S. typhi (both with MIC and MBC of 37.5 mg mL-1). Preliminary phytochemistry revealed presence of terpenoids, flavonoids and tannins. Conclusion: The data suggests that Aloe secundiflora could be a rich source of antimicrobial agents. The result gives scientific backing to its use by the local people of Lake Victoria region of Kenya, in the management of conditions associated with the tested microorganisms.

}, keywords = {Aloe secundiflora Engl., BACTEC{\texttrademark} MGIT{\texttrademark} 960, growth units, Lake Victoria region, Tuberculosis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81956}, author = {Richard M. Mariita and John A. Orodho and Paul O. Okemo and Claude Kirimuhuzya and Joseph N. Otieno and Joseph J. Magadula} } @article {741, title = {Mining of simple sequence repeats in the Genome of Gentianaceae}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {19-29}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {19}, abstract = {

Simple sequence repeats (SSRs) or short tandem repeats are short repeat motifs that show high level of length polymorphism due to insertion or deletion mutations of one or more repeat types. Here, we present the detection and abundance of microsatellites or SSRs in nucleotide sequences of\ Gentianaceae\ family. A total of 545 SSRs were mined in 4698 nucleotide sequences downloaded from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Among the SSR sequences, the frequency of repeat type was about 429 -mono repeats, 99 -di repeats, 15 -tri repeats, and 2 --hexa repeats. Mononucleotide repeats were found to be abundant repeat types, about 78\%, followed by dinucleotide repeats (18.16\%) among the SSR sequences. An attempt was made to design primer pairs for 545 identified SSRs but these were found only for 169 sequences.

}, keywords = {Gentianaceae, nucleotide, simple sequence repeats}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79111}, author = {R Sathishkumar and P T.V Lakshmi and A Annamalai and V Arunachalam} } @article {963, title = {Monograph: Ochrocarpus longifolius}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June,2011}, pages = {146-}, type = {letter to the editor}, chapter = {146}, abstract = {

Sir, Ochrocarpus longifolius Benth and Hook f. is commonly known as Nagappu, Nagesarpu (Siddha/Tamil) and Laal- Naagakeshar, Surangi (Folk). Ochrocarpus longifolius is also sometimes referred to as Nagakesara[1] and belongs to family Clusiaceae and is found in the evergreen Western Ghats southwards from Konkan to Malabar and Coimbatore.[2] Read more...

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81965}, author = {Roopesh Jain and Archana Tiwari} } @article {932, title = {Neuropharmacological activity of Lippia nodifl ora Linn.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {194-200}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {194}, abstract = {

Introduction: In the recent years, plants containing flavonoids have gained much more interest in research area, as they are found to be specific ligands for benzodiazepine receptors. Material and Methods: In our investigation, we evaluated the neuropharmacological profile of petroleum, chloroform and ethanolic extracts of aerial part of Lippia nodiflora Linn. With experimental models using test such as potentiation of diazepam-induced sleeping time, locomotor activity, motor coordination, exploratory behavior pattern, elevated plus maze and maximal electroshock convulsions. Diazepam at doses of 5, 4, and 1 mg/kg served as standard. Results: Results showed that the ethanolic extract of L. nodifl ora at both doses (250 and 500 mg/kg p.o.) and its chloroform extract at a higher dose of 500 mg/kg produced central inhibitory (sedative) effects, anticonvulsant effect and anxiolytic effect in mice. Values were statistically significant (P \< 0.05 and P \< 0.01) when compared to the control group. The petroleum ether extract of plant at both dose levels (250 and 500 mg/kg p.o.) did not produce any central effects. Conclusion: In conclusion, we can say that the ethanolic and chloroform extracts showed the central inhibitory activity due to the presence of fl avonoids and this fact was also supported by the finding that the petroleum ether extract did not show any central effect and flavonoids were not found in it.

}, keywords = {Lippia nodiflora, neuropharmacological activity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85007}, author = {Kumaresan P Thirupathy and Asish Tulshkar and C Vijaya} } @article {756, title = {Partial in vitro and in vivo red scorpion venom neutralization activity of Andrographis paniculata}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {44-48}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {44}, abstract = {

Objective:\ Red scorpion (Mesobuthus tamulus) is the most lethal among all poisonous species of scorpions. Envenoming by\ Mesobuthus tamulus\ is quite common along the western coast of India, without any established therapy.\ Andrographis paniculata\ is one of the plants that has long been used in traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of poisoning by animal bites. Hence, the study was planned to evaluate the ethanolic extract of\ Andrographis paniculata\ for the treatment of\ Mesobuthus tamulus\ envenoming.\ Materials and Methods:\ Ethanolic extract of the plant\ Andrographis paniculata\ was obtained using a soxhelet apparatus. Lyophilized venom sample of\ Mesobuthus tamulus\ was used. Swiss albino mice weighing 20-30 g were used in the study. Calculation of LD\ 99\ of\ Mesobuthus tamulus\ venom was performed using Turner{\textquoteright}s method. Acute toxicity of\ Mesobuthus tamulus\ venom and its neutralization by the plant extract at a dose of 1 g/kg and 2 g/kg\ in vivo\ was seen. Neutralization of the lethal venom effect of\ Mesobuthus tamulus\ by plant extract at the dose of 1 g/kg and 2 g/kg by Alam and Gome{\textquoteright}s method (in vitro) was also seen.\ Results:\ The LD\ 99\ of\ Mesobuthus tamulus\ venom from this study was determined to be 25.12 ΅g/g and the LD\ 50\ was 15.85 ΅g/g. In the acute toxicity and\ in vivo\ neutralization study, plant extract at the dose of 1 g/kg and 2 g/kg resulted in a mean survival of 62.667 min and 39.333 min, respectively. Neutralization of the lethal venom effect of\ Mesobuthus tamulus\ by the plant extract at the dose of 1 g/kg and 2 g/kg by Alam and Gome{\textquoteright}s method (in vitro) showed a mean survival of 49.667 min and 42.5 min, respectively.\ Conclusion:\ The ethanolic extract of\ Adrographis paniculata\ has some protective effect against the red scorpion venom in mice but does not offer any survival benefit.

}, keywords = {Adrographis paniculata, LD 99, Mesobuthus tamulus}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79115}, author = {Ranjana I Brahmane and Swanand S Pathak and Vikrant V Wanmali and Kartik J Salwe and S John Premendran and Bhawna B Shinde} } @article {142, title = {Participation of Cytokines, Opioid, and Serotoninergic Systems on Antinociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Simira grazielae Peixoto (Rubiaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2011}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {51-59}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {51}, abstract = {

Background: Simira grazielae P. is widely found at Brazil. S. grazielae have been used to treat pain and inflammation in the Northeast of Brazil. Objective: This study investigated the mechanisms of the extract and partitions using pharmacological techniques in mice. Materials and Methods: Male Swiss mice (20{\textendash}22 g) were used in models of pain (acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing, formalin, and tail-flick tests) and inflammation (edema paw and air pouch tests) as well as in model for the evaluation of motor activity (open field test). Furthermore, we evaluate the probable action mechanism of S. grazielae using naloxone, L-nitro-arginine methyl ester, L-arginine, glibenclamide, atropine, 4-chloro-DL-phenylalanine, and ondansetron in tail-flick test. The cytokines production was also evaluated. The methanolic extract from the S. grazielae and its partitions were administered orally at doses of 10{\textendash}100 mg/kg. Results: Methanolic extract from the wood of S. grazielae (SGM) and its partitions showed antinociceptive properties in models of acute pain (SGM and ethyl acetate partition [SGMAc]) as well as in models of inflammation (dichloromethane partition [SGMD]). Prior administration of ondansetron and naloxone reduced the antinociceptive effect of SGMAc. SGMD reduced the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) induced by carrageenan. Conclusion: The results show that the anti-inflammatory activity showed by SGMD involves to reduction of the TNF-α, and the antinociceptive activity showed by SGMAc has relation to participation of the serotoninergic receptors and opioid system. These evidence justify the popular therapeutic use of this species in the control of pain and inflammation.

}, keywords = {Extract, Nociception, opioids, Serotoninergic system, Tumor necrosis factor-α}, doi = {Background: Simira grazielae P. is widely found at Brazil. S. grazielae have been used to treat pain and inflammation in the Northeast of Brazil. Objective: This study investigated the mechanisms of the extract and partitions using pharmacological techniq}, author = {Gabriela Carmelinda Martins dos Santos and Mirza Nalesso Gomes Sanches and Douglas Siqueira de Almeida Chaves and M{\'a}rio Geraldo de Carvalho and Raimundo Braz-Filho and Bruno Guimar{\~a}es Marinho} } @article {886, title = {Pharmacognosy Research - Indexed on PubMed Central}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {149-150}, type = {Editorial}, chapter = {149}, abstract = {

I am delighted to bring you the good news that our journal Pharmacognosy Research is now indexed on PubMed Central (PMC) and on the PubMed list. This is a wonderful achievement and a tribute to the hard work and dedication of all our editorial board members most especially the trojan work of our Managing Editor Prof. Muneen Ahmed KK. Read More ...

}, keywords = {Nil}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.84997}, author = {Ambrose Furey} } @article {711, title = {Prophylactic Measures}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {1}, type = {Editorial}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Prophylactic or disease avoidance approaches feature prominently in the current issue of Pharmacognosy research.


Onasanwo\ et al.\ present a very interesting study on the antiulcerogenic and antioxidant activities of a plant native to tropical Africa called\ Lagenaria breviflora. The authors investigate the effect of plant extracts in rats that have been exposed to a number of typical peptic ulcer inducing agents including aspirin, pyloric ligation and alcohol.

Gastric ulcers have a very high prevalence worldwide. Infection with\ Helicobactor pylori\ infection was once the major cause of gastric ulcer this has recently been superseded by injury caused by aspirin preparations. Patients with peptic ulcers can develop life threatening complications like gastric hemorrhage, perforation and obstruction.\ The work of groups like Onasanwo{\textquoteright}s\ et al.\ affords the possibility of developing a plant-derived antiulcerogenic agent which could be used in conjunction with drugs and compounds known to injure the gastric mucosa or in those carrying the pylori infection, thus reducing or averting the risk of ulcer. Further, such a product could be used to alleviate and reduce the discomfort of those already suffering from peptic ulceration.

Two papers in the current issue also deal with preventative measures against hepatic injury. Lahore and Das are concerned with the hepatoprotective properties of a plant colloquially known in its native India as Holy or Sacred Basil (the name implies that this plant is revered by many) against paracetamol-induced liver injury. Again an\ in vivo\ rat model is used to illustrate the efficacy of the plant extract in reducing the liver damage associated with this common analgesic. Yearly, many patients both young and old are admitted to hospital following deliberate or inadvertent paracetamol overdose most recover but in some cases liver failure can result.\ 

Patients presenting with paracetamol poisoning are usually treated with activated charcoal or with N-acetylcysteine; however, the prognosis for some is poor with liver transplant the only viable option.\ \ In this context we can appreciate the relevance of the work of Lahore and Das.

The second paper in this issue concerned with hepatoprotective plant extracts is by Babu\ et al.\ The authors research both the toxicity and liver protecting properties of a plant called\ Dichrostachys cinerea\ that is found in Southeast Asia, parts of Africa and Australia; a mouse model was used for the investigation. In phase I of the study, mice were dosed with the plant extract to assess its toxicity and in phase II, silymarin was administered concurrently with the plant extract (in controlled studies). The objective was to investigate if the plant extract was effective in protecting the liver from CCl\ 4\ . Results were very encouraging indicating that the extract can indeed protect the liver.

The papers that I have selected this month are very refreshing as they present the possibility of a proactive and logical approach to patient treatment. Many conventional medications are indispensible but induce serious side effects; these research papers offer the potential of developing parallel treatments to reduce the risk of harm to the patient.

}, keywords = {Nil}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79107}, author = {Ambrose Furey} } @article {889, title = {Protective Effects of Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis L.) on Acetaminophen-induced Hepatotoxicity through Inhibition of CYP2E1 in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {November,2011}, pages = {250-255}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {250}, abstract = {

Background: Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis L.) inhibits various cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoforms such as CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, and CYP3A in vitro. High doses of acetaminophen (APAP) generate the highly reactive intermediate, N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI), catalyzed mainly by CYP2E1. The aim of this study was to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of orally administrated goldenseal against APAP-induced acute liver failure (ALF) via inhibition of CYP2E1. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats were treated orally with goldenseal (300 and 1000 mg/ kg) 2, 18, and 26 h before and 6 hr\ after oral APAP (400 mg/kg) administration. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities as well as serum APAP concentration were evaluated. Results: Goldenseal extract inhibited CYP1A2, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, and CYP3A activity, and the inhibitory effect on CYP2E1 was the strongest (IC50 4.32 μg/mL). Treatment with goldenseal (300 mg/kg) significantly attenuated the APAP-induced increase in serum AST and ALT, and the hepatoprotective effect of goldenseal was stronger than that of silymarin (200 mg/kg). Moreover, serum APAP concentration was increased by goldenseal treatment, presumably as a result of the inhibitory effect of goldenseal on the metabolism of APAP to NAPQI. Conclusion: These results suggest that goldenseal ameliorates APAP-induced ALF and that this protection can likely be attributed to the inhibition of CYP2E1 activity, which generates the highly reactive intermediate of APAP.

}, keywords = {Acetaminophen, acute liver failure, CYP2E1, Goldenseal, Hepatoprotective effect}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.89745}, author = {Katsunori Yamaura and Maki Shimada and Noriyuki Nakayama and Koichi Ueno} } @article {134, title = {Saponin of Momordica cymbalaria Exhibits Anti-Inflammatory Activity by Suppressing the Expression of Inflammatory Mediators in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW264.7 Macrophages}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2011}, month = {May 2011}, pages = {8-13}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {8}, abstract = {

Background: Inflammation is an intricate biological process that commonly occurs in response to pathologic stimuli, and natural products have potential in healing inflammation. However, the anti-inflammatory of Momordica cymbalaria is not evaluated yet. Objectives: The anti-inflammatory mechanism of saponin of M. cymbalaria (SMC) was investigated in bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 mouse macrophage cell line. Methods: The cytotoxicity of SMC on RAW264.7 cells was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay at 500, 250, 125, 62.5, 31.25, 15.625, 7.812, 3.906, and 1.953 μg/mL. For anti-inflammatory activity, RAW264.7 cells were stimulated with Escherichia coli LPS (1 μg/ml) in the presence or absence of SMC (50 μg/ml) for 16{\textendash}24 h. Western blotting was carried to comprehend the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS) whereas expressions of the pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α]) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were studied by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). NO production was estimated by Griess{\textquoteright}s method. Salicylic acid, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, was used as a standard. Results: The saponin did not exert significant cytotoxicity on RAW264.7 cells. Western blot analysis revealed reduction in COX-2 and iNOS expression on SMC treatment. Production of PGE2, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α was also found to be reduced when analyzed by ELISA. NO levels were also lowered. Conclusions: The findings suggest that the SMC possesses potential anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing the expression of inflammatory mediators, COX-2, iNOS, PGE2, and NO, and the cytokines in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells.

}, keywords = {Cyclooxygenase-2, Inducible nitric oxide synthase, Interleukin-1 beta, Momordica cymbalaria, Prostaglandin E2, Tumor necrosis}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_130_18}, author = {Suman Samaddar and Raju Koneri} } @article {135, title = {Screening and Validating of 1, 1-Diphenyl-2-Trinitrophenylhydrazine Scavengers from Danshen-Honghua Herbal Pair}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {11}, year = {2011}, month = {February 2019}, pages = {14-19}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {14}, abstract = {

Background: Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen [DS]) and Carthamus tinctorius (Honghua [HH]) are commonly used traditional Chinese medicines for activating blood and removing stasis, and they were usually used as DS-HH (Danshen-Honghua [DH]) herbal pair in clinical applications. Characterizing the antioxidant active ingredients in DH herbal pair may be helpful for understanding their curative effect on cardiovascular diseases. Objective: The objective of the study is to screen the 1, 1-diphenyl-2-trinitrophenylhydrazine (DPPH) scavenging active compounds in DH herbal pair by spectrum-effect relationship analysis. Materials and Methods: First, the water extracts of DH herbal pair with different ratios (DS: HH = 1:0, 0:1, 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 5:1, 1:5, 1:3, and 1:2) were prepared. Then, the clearance effects of DH herbal pair and single drugs on DPPH were compared, meanwhile, high performance liquid chromatography was applied for chemical analysis of DH extracts. Finally, DPPH scavengers in DH herbal pair were predicted and identified by spectrum-effect relationship analysis and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis. Results: Compared with single drugs, the extracts of herbal pairs had higher clearance rate to DPPH. Eighteen potential active compounds (peaks) in the extract of DH herbal pair were predicted, and 13 of them were tentatively identified by LC-MS analysis. Furthermore, antioxidant activities of eight pure compounds from the DH herbal pair were validated by DPPH radical scavenging assay with Vitamin C as positive control drug. Among them, six compounds including danshensu, protocatechuic acid, coffee acid, chlorogenic acid, rutin, and salvianolic acid A were found to have high antioxidant activity. Conclusion: DH herbal pair showed strong clearance effect on DPPH, and danshensu, protocatechuic acid, coffee acid, chlorogenic acid, rutin and salvianolic acid A are the active components.

}, keywords = {1, 1-diphenyl-2-trinitrophenylhydrazine scavenger, Active ingredients, Antioxidation effect, Danshen-Honghua, Spectrum-effect relationship analysis}, doi = {10.4103/pr.pr_94_18}, author = {Ya-Li Wang and Shi-Jun Yin and Sheng-Li Huang and Qian Zhang and Hua Chen and Feng-Qing Yang} } @article {936, title = {Screening for Estrogenic and Antiestrogenic Activities of Plants Growing in Egypt and Thailand}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {June,2011}, pages = {107-113}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {107}, abstract = {

Background: There is a growing demand for the discovery of new phytoestrogens to be used as a safe and effective hormonal replacement therapy. Materials and Methods: The methanol extracts of 40 plants from the Egyptian and Thailand folk medicines were screened for their estrogen agonist and antagonist activities. The estrogenic and antiestrogenic effects of the tested extracts were carried out using the yeast two-hybrid assay system expressing ERα and ERβ. In addition, all the extracts were subjected to a naringinase treatment and retested for their estrogenic activity. Results: The methanol extracts of Derris reticulata and Dracaena lourieri showed the most potent estrogenic activity on both estrogen-receptor subtypes, while, the methanol extracts of Butea monosperma, Erythrina fusca, and Dalbergia candenatensis revealed significant estrogenic activity on ERβ only. Nigella sativa, Sophora japonica, Artabotrys harmandii, and Clitorea hanceana showed estrogenic effect only after naringinase treatment. The most potent antiestrogenic effect was revealed by Aframomum melegueta, Dalbergia candenatensis, Dracena loureiri, and Mansonia gagei.

}, keywords = {Estrogenic activity, Leguminoseae, Yeast two-hybrid assay}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.81958}, author = {Ali M. El-Halawany and Riham Salah El Dine and Mi Hwa Chung and Tsutomu Nishihara and Masao Hattori} } @article {892, title = {Screening of Radical Scavenging Activity and Polyphenol Content of Bulgarian Plant Species}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {November,2011}, pages = {256-259}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {256}, abstract = {

Background: Discovery of new plant species with antioxidant properties is a priority of many research teams. Most of the species included in this study are unstudied for antioxidant properties, but they are taxonomically related to reference plants with well-documented antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: Free radical scavenging activity of plant extracts was evaluated using a 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. An aluminum chloride colorimetric method was used for flavonoid determination. The amount of phenolic compounds in the extracts was estimated by using the Folin{\textendash}Ciocalteu reagent. Results: As a result of screening, it was found that the significant antioxidant properties possess several unstudied until now plant species (Veronica bellidioides L., V. kellereri Deg. et Urm, V. vindobonensis (M. Fisher) M. Fisher, V. beccabunga L., V. rhodopaea L., V. austriaca (Velen.) Degen., Clinopodium vulgare L., Stachys recta L., Clematis vitalba L., and Xeranthemum annum L.). The antioxidant potential of the new species is comparable to that of reference medicinal plants. Conclusions: The existing data presented here provide new information for antioxidant potential of plant species that have not been traditionally used as medicinal plants.

}, keywords = {Asteraceae, DPPH, Flavonoids, Phenols, Salvia, Veronica}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.89746}, author = {Milena Nikolova} } @article {904, title = {A Search for Mosquito Larvicidal Compounds by Blocking the Sterol Carrying Protein, AeSCP-2, through Computational Screening and Docking Strategies}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {November,2011}, pages = {273}, type = {letter to the editor}, chapter = {273}, abstract = {

Sir, We would like to add a note that in our recent publication on {\textquotedblleft}A search for mosquito larvicidal compounds by blocking the sterol carrying protein, AeSCP-2, through computational screening and docking strategies{\textquotedblright}[1] and reported the results based on in silico docking experiments that α-mangostin as a best inhibitor; however, Larson et al. 2010[2] performed assay-based screening and assessed the toxicity and dosage levels of -mangostin. Unfortunately, we missed citing this article which would be important to explain our results and this is not intentional. We greatly acknowledge Dr. Q. Lan for intimating us the same.

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.89749}, author = {R. Barani Kumar} } @article {919, title = {Standardised herbal extract of chlorogenic acid from leaves of Etlingera elatior (Zingiberaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {September 2011}, pages = {178-184}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {178}, abstract = {

Background: Chlorogenic acid (CGA) or 5-caffeoylquinic acid, was found to be the dominant phenolic compound in leaves of Etlingera elatior (Zingiberaceae). The CGA content of E. elatior leaves was significantly higher than flowers of Lonicera japonica (honeysuckle), the commercial source. In this study, a protocol to produce a standardised herbal CGA extract from leaves of E. elatior using column chromatography was developed. Materials and Methods: Freeze-dried leaves of E. elatior were extracted with 30\% ethanol, and sequentially fractionated using Diaion HP-20 and Sephadex LH-20. Results: The CGA fractions, which yielded extracts of 10\% and 40\% w/w purity, possessed antioxidant, tyrosinase inhibition, and antibacterial properties. The entire fractionation process took only 6.5 hours, using gravity flow. From 50 g of leaves, the final yield of CGA extract was 0.2 g (0.4\%). The CGA content of the standardised herbal extract from leaves of E. elatior (40\%) is 1.6 times that of commercial extracts from honeysuckle flowers (25\%). Conclusion: With high CGA content, the standardised herbal extract has a great potential to be developed into functional food and other health products. Leaves of E. elatior, which currently have no economic value, could serve as an alternative source of CGA. Leaves are large, available in abundance, and harvesting is non-destructive to the plants.

}, keywords = {Chlorogenic acid, Column chromatography, Fractionation, standardised extract}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.85003}, author = {Eric W.C Chan and Yau Yan Lim and Shiau Pin Tan} } @article {759, title = {Standardization of some herbal antidiabetic drugs in polyherbal formulation}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {49-56}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {49}, abstract = {

Background:\ Ayurvedic formulations are used to treat a wide variety of diseases including diabetes mellitus Standardization of herbal formulation is essential in order to assess the quality of drugs. The present paper reports standardization of eight herbal anti-diabetic drugs-Momordica charantia\ (seeds),\ Syzigium cumini\ (seeds),\ Trigonella foenum\ (seeds),\ Azadirachta indica\ (leaves),\ Emblica officinalis\ (fruits),\ Curcuma longa\ (rhizomes),\ Gymnema sylvestre\ (leaves),\ Pterocarpus marsupium\ (heart-wood) individually and in polyherbal marketed samples of Baidyanath Madhumehari Churna\ Material and Methods:\ Shivayu Madhuhari Churna, Meghdut Madhushoonya Churna and were compared to the in-house preparation for physicochemical properties.\ Results and Conclusions:\ The limits obtained from the different physicochemical parameters of the individual eight herbal drugs and the marketed formulations could be used as reference standard for standardization of the anti-diabetic drugs in a quality control laboratory.

}, keywords = {Herbal antidiabetic drugs, Physicochemical parameters, Polyherbal formulation, Standardization}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79116}, author = {Harinarayan Singh Chandel and AK Pathak and Mukul Tailang} } @article {745, title = {The study of aqueous extract of Ficus religiosa Linn. on cytokine TNF-α in type 2 diabetic rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {3}, year = {2011}, month = {April 2011}, pages = {30-34}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {30}, abstract = {

Background:\ Chronic systemic inflammation is an early process in pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. Hence the present study was aimed to investigate the effect of traditionally known plant\ Ficus religiosa\ on elevated glucose and inflammatory marker namely tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in type 2 diabetic rats.\ Methods:\ Type 2 diabetes was induced by administering streptozotocin (90 mg/kg, i.p.) in neonatal rat model. Aqueous extract of\ F. religiosa\ at a dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg was given orally to desired group of animals for a period of 4 weeks. After 4 weeks of drug treatment, parameters such as fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose and TNF-α in serum were analyzed.\ Results:\ Aqueous extract of\ F. religiosa\ at both dose levels i.e., 100 and 200 mg/kg decreased the elevated glucose and TNF-α in type 2 diabetic rats. The extract at 200 mg/kg had more pronounced effect.\ Conclusion:\ Modulation of cytokine TNF-α by the aqueous extract of\ F. religiosa\ indicates that the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory property of the plant is related with its potential anti-diabetic activity.

}, keywords = {Ficus religiosa, Inflammation, TNF-α, type 2 diabetes}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.79112}, author = {H Kirana and MV Jali and BP Srinivasan} } @article {897, title = {1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl Radical and Superoxide Anion Scavenging Activity of Rhizophora mangle (L.) bark}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {279-284}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {273}, abstract = {

Background: In recent times, many herbal remedies are used to treat variety of ailments. The leaves of Vitex grandifolia is claimed to be effective in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and as a diuretic in the treatment of high blood pressure. However, there are no scientific reports on the therapeutic benefits or toxicity of this plant. This study therefore investigated the effect of prolonged administration of the aqueous extract of the leaves of this plant in Sprague{\textendash}Dawley rats. Methods: The plant leaves (No. FHI 107055) were dried at 40 oC, powdered and extracted at room temperature in water (pH 5.72) by percolation. Extract was dried in vacuo to give a yield of 27.32 \%w/v. The extract, 0.5{\textendash}2 g/kg b. wt. was administered by gastric probe to rats for 14 days. The liver and kidney functions, blood chemistry, histopathologic alterations of vital organs and extract effect on rats b. wt. were investigated. Results: V. grandifolia caused significant increase in the serum electrolytes, creatinine, and liver function enzyme dose dependently compared with the control (P <= 0.001). The extract had no effect on the heart; however, the architecture of the liver, kidney, and lungs were significantly altered in the treated groups compared with the control. The treated rats had significantly reduced body weight compared with the control (P <= 0.001). Major clinical signs observed in the treated groups were polydipsia, polyuria, puffiness of hair, and calmness, which were consistent with increase in dose of the extract. Conclusion: It could be clearly concluded that prolonged administration of the aqueous leaf extract of V. grandifolia at the dose used in this study tends to be toxic to the rats. Its use in folkloric medicine should be with utmost care.

}, keywords = {Edema, Histopathology, Liver function test, Portal infi ltration, Toxicity, Vitex grandifolia}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72322}, author = {Janet Calero S{\'a}nchez and Roberto Faure Garc{\'\i}a and Ma. Teresa Mitjavila Cors} } @article {785, title = {Analgesic Activity, Toxicity Study and Phytochemical Screening of Standardized Cinnomomum iners leaves Methanolic Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {May 2010}, pages = {76-81}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {76}, abstract = {

Cinnomomum iners standardized leaves methanolic extract (CSLE) was subjected to analgesic, toxicity and phytochemical studies. The analgesic activity of CSLE was evaluated using formalin, hot plate and tail flick tests at doses of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg. CSLE showed significant activity (P \< 0.05) in the formalin model (late phase) on the rats at doses of 200 and 500 mg/kg. However, CSLE did not show activity in the hot plate and tail flick tests. The results obtained suggest that CSLE acts peripherally to relieve pain. For the toxicity study, CSLE was orally administered to the Swiss albino mice according to the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) guideline 423. There was no lethality or toxic symptoms observed for all the tested doses throughout the 14-day period. Phytochemical screening of CSLE showed the presence of cardiac glycoside, flavonoid, polyphenol, saponin, sugar, tannin and terpenoid.

}, keywords = {Analgesic, Cinnomomum iners, Toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62952}, author = {F Mustaffa and J Indurkar and S Ismail and MN Mordi and S Ramanathan and SM Mansor} } @article {813, title = {Analysis of Antimicrobial, Antifungal and Antioxidant Activities of Juniperus excelsa M. B subsp. Polycarpos (K. Koch) Takhtajan Essential Oil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {128-131}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {128}, abstract = {

Juniperus excelsa M.B subsp. Polycarpos (K.Koch), collected from south of Iran, was subjected to hydrodistillation using clevenger apparatus to obtain essential oil. The essential was analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and studied for antimicrobial, antifungal and antioxidant activities. The results indicated α-pinene (67.71\%) as the major compound and α-cedral (11.5\%), δ3-carene (5.19\%) and limonene (4.41\%) in moderate amounts. Antimicrobial tests were carried out using disk diffusion method, followed by the measurement of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). All the Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria were susceptible to essential oil. The oil showed radical scavenging and antioxidant effects.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity, Antioxidant activity, Essential oil, Juniperus excelsa, Thin layer chromatography autographic assay}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65505}, author = {MR Moein and Y Ghasemi and S Moein and M Nejati} } @article {795, title = {Antiarthritic and Antioxidant Effects of the Leaf extract of Ficus exasperata P. Beauv. (Moraceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {May 2010}, pages = {89-97}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {89}, abstract = {

Leaf extracts of Ficus exasperata P. Beauv. (Moraceae) are commonly used in Ghanaian traditional medicine for the treatment of several pathological states including inflammatory disorders. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antiarthritic effect of an ethanolic extract of F. exasperata (FEE) in the Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant-induced arthritis model in rats. Since free radicals and reactive oxygen species are implicated in inflammatory joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, the antioxidant potential of the extract was investigated in in vitro experimental models. FEE as well as the positive controls, dexamethasone and methotrexate, showed significant dose-dependent antiarthritic properties when applied to established adjuvant arthritis. Oral administration of FEE (30-300 mg/kg p.o.) significantly reduced the arthritic edema in the ipsilateral paw of rats with a maximal inhibition of 34.46 {\textpm} 11.42\%. FEE (30-300 mg/kg p.o.) also significantly prevented the spread of the edema from the ipsilateral to the contralateral paws indicating inhibition of systemic spread. The disease-modifying antirheumatic drug methotrexate (0.1-1 mg/kg i.p.) and the steroidal anti-inflammatory agent dexamethasone (0.3-3 mg/kg i.p.) also reduced very significantly the total polyarthritic edema as well as the spread of the arthritis from the ipsilateral to the contralateral paws of the treated animals. The extract also exhibited reducing activity (EC 50 = 8.105 {\textpm} 18.49), scavenged 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH, EC 50 = 0.499 {\textpm} 0.302) and prevented lipid peroxidation (IC 50 = 1.283 {\textpm} 0.923) in rat brain homogenates. Phenols were detected in the extract. These results suggest that ethanolic extract of the leaves of F. exasperata exerts antiarthritic activity after oral administration and also has antioxidant properties which may contribute to its activity.

}, keywords = {DPPH, Ficus exasperata, Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis, Lipid peroxidation, Total phenol}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62958}, author = {Wonder M. K. Abotsi and Eric Woode and George K Ainooson and Ama K Amo-Barimah and Eric Boakye-Gyasi} } @article {755, title = {Anticonvulsant and Anxiolytic Evaluation of Leaf Extracts of Ocimum gratissimum, a Culinary Herb}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {36-40}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {36}, abstract = {

Anticonvulsant and anxiolytic activities of leaf extracts and fraction of Ocimum gratissimum L. (Lamiaceae) were studied using seizures induced by pentylenetetrazol and open-field tests in mice. The results showed that the extracts and fraction increased the latency of tonic and tonic-clonic seizures and death and elicited 50\% protection against mortality. In the open-field test, the extracts and fraction decreased the frequency of line crossing, center square entries, rearing against a wall and grooming, whereas grooming duration and freezing frequency and duration were increased. Acute toxicity test in mice gave an oral LD 50 greater than 5000 mg/kg for the methanol extract. These findings suggest that extracts of this plant possess anticonvulsant and anxiolytic-like properties.

}, keywords = {Anticonvulsant, Anxiolytic, Ocimum gratissimum, Open field}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.60580}, author = {CO Okoli and AC Ezike and OC Agwagah and PA Akah} } @article {878, title = {Antidiabetic Activity and Phytochemical Screening of Crude extract of Stevia rebaudiana in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {258-263}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {258}, abstract = {

Background: Stevia rebaudiana regulates blood sugar, prevents hypertension and tooth decay. Other studies have shown that it has antibacterial as well as antiviral property. Methods: Preliminary phytochemical screening of aqueous, ether and methanolic extracts of S. rebaudiana was done. Acute and sub-acute toxicity were conducted on twenty four Albino rats, divided into one control (Group I) and three treatment groups viz. aqueous extract (Group II), ether extract (Group III) and methanolic extract (Group IV). For the study of antidiabetic effect of S. rebaudiana rats were divided into seven groups (n=6). Diabetes was induced by a single dose of 5\% alloxan monohydrate (125 mg/kg, i.p.) after 24 hour fasting.Blood samples were analysed on day 0, 1, 5, 7, 14 and 28. Results: Phytochemical tests showed presence of different kinds of phyto-constituents in aqueous, ether and methanol extract of Stevia rebaudiana leaves. Daily single dose (2.0 g/kg) administration of aqueous extract (A.E.) , ether extract (E.E.) and methanol extract (M.E.) for 28 days of S. rebaudiana could not show any significant change in ALT and AST levels in rats. Blood sugar level was found to be decreased on day 28 in groups of rats treated with A.E., E.E. and M.E. of S. rebaudiana. Conclusion: The extracts of Stevioside rebaudiana could decrease the blood glucose level in diabetic rats in time dependent manner.

}, keywords = {Aqueous extract, Diabetes, Ether extract, Methanol extract, Rats, Stevia rebaudiana, Sub-acute toxicity}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69128}, author = {R. S. Kujur, Vishakha Singh and Mahendra Ram and Harlokesh Narayan Yadava and K K Singh and Suruchi Kumari and B. K. Roy} } @article {836, title = {Antifungal, Antibacterial and Antimycobacterial Activity of Entada abysinnica Steudel ex A. Rich (Fabaceae) Methanol Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {163-168}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {163}, abstract = {

The purpose of the study was to investigate the antifungal, antibacterial and antimycobacterial properties of methanol extract of Entada abysinnica steudel ex. A. Rich (Fabaceae) leaves used by herbalists from the Lake Victoria region, Kenya. The extract was tested against four strains of mycobacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium kansasii, Mycobacterium fortuitum, and Mycobacterium smegmatis) using BACTEC Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT) 960 system and the proportional method. Standard procedures were used to determine the zones of inhibition, minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentrations (MBCs/MFCs) for Candida albicans, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The extract showed activity against some mycobacteria strains, especially M. tuberculosis. It also showed strong antimicrobial activity (zones of inhibition were between 9.00 and 14.10 mm) against C. albicans, Sa. typhi, and St. aureus. The extract gave a better zone of inhibition against C. albicans than fluconazole whose zone of inhibition was 13.00 mm. The MICs and MBCs for C. albicans and Sa. typhi were good. The crude extracts were also analyzed for the presence of phytochemicals. Phytochemical screening indicated that the extract most abundantly contained tannins, saponins, and flavonoids. The data suggest that the methanolic leaves extract of E. abysinnica could be a rich source of antimicrobial agents, especially antifungals. The results further show that there is some merit in the use of the plant in alternative medical practices. However, bioassays of isolated compounds are underway and will be reported during subsequent communications

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antimycobacterial, Entada abysinnica, Methanol extract}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65511}, author = {Richard M Mariita and John A Orodho and Paul O Okemo and Paul K Mbugua} } @article {845, title = {Antihyperglycemic Activity of Catharanthus roseus Leaf Powder in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {195-201}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {195}, abstract = {

Catharanthus roseus Linn (Apocynaceae), is a traditional medicinal plant used to control diabetes, in various regions of the world. In this study we evaluated the possible antidiabetic and hypolipidemic effect of C. roseus (Catharanthus roseus) leaf powder in diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 55 mg/kg body wt) to male Wistar rats. The animals were divided into four groups: Control, control-treated, diabetic, and diabetic-treated group. Diabetic-treated and control-treated rats were treated with C. roseus leaf powder suspension in 2 ml distilled water, orally (100 mg/kg body weight/day/60 days). In diabetic rats (D-group) the plasma glucose was increased and the plasma insulin was decreased gradually. In the diabetic-treated group lowering of plasma glucose and an increase in plasma insulin were observed after 15 days and by the end of the experimental period the plasma glucose had almost reached the normal level, but insulin had not. The significant enhancement in plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and VLDL-cholesterol, and the atherogenic index of diabetic rats were normalized in diabetic-treated rats. Decreased hepatic and muscle glycogen content and alterations in the activities of enzymes of glucose metabolism (glycogen phosphorylase, hexokinase, phosphofructokinase, pyruvate kinase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase), as observed in the diabetic control rats, were prevented with C. roseus administration. Our results demonstrated that C. roseus with its antidiabetic and hypolipidemic properties could be a potential herbal medicine in treating diabetes.

}, keywords = {Anti Catharanthus roseus, Plasma insulin, Plasma lipids, STZ-induced diabetes}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65523}, author = {Karuna Rasineni and Ramesh Bellamkonda and Sreenivasa Reddy Singareddy and Saralakumari Desireddy} } @article {842, title = {The Antihyperglycemic Effect of Aerial Parts of Salvia splendens (scarlet sage) in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic-rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {190-194}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {190}, abstract = {

Salvia splendens (Labiatae) is widely used in Indian traditional medicine for the control of diabetes mellitus. In this study, the hypoglycemic effects produced by the acute and subacute administration of various extracts of S. splendens were investigated. Both the aqueous extract (SSAE) and the methanolic extract (SSME) from the aerial parts resulted in significant reductions of glycemia in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats after oral administration at a dose of 100 and 200 mg/ kg, respectively. On oral administration, aqueous and methanolic extracts showed statistically significant (P \< 0.001) effect by reducing the effect of glycemia in STZ-induced diabetic rats. These findings suggest the significant antihyperglycemic potential of the S. splendens extracts in ameliorating the diabetic conditions in diabetic rats. No significant effects were found in the normal rats.

}, keywords = {Acute and subacute antidiabetic studies, Glibenclamide, Salvia splendens, Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65520}, author = {P Mahesh Kumar and D Sasmal and Papiya Mitra Mazumder} } @article {951, title = {Anti-inflammatory Activity of Aqueous extract of Mirabilis jalapa Linn. Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {364-367}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {364}, abstract = {

Background: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of aqueous extract of Mirabilis jalapa Linn. (MJL) (Nyctaginaceae) leaves for scientific validation of the folklore claim of the plant. The leaves are used as traditional folk medicine in the south of Brazil to treat inflammatory and painful diseases. Cosmetic or dermo-pharmaceutical compositions containing MJL are claimed to be useful against inflammation and dry skin. Methods: Aqueous extract of the leaves was prepared by cold maceration. Results: The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using carrageenan and formalin-induced paw edema models in Wistar albino rats. The anti-inflammatory activity was found to be dose dependent in carrageenan-induced paw edema model. The aqueous extract has shown significant (P \< 0.05) inhibition of paw oedema, 37.5\% and 54.0\% on 4 th hour at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. Similar pattern of paw edema inhibition was seen in formalin-induced paw edema model. The maximum percentage inhibition in paw edema was 32.9\% and 43.0\% on 4 th day at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. Conclusion: The results of present study demonstrate that aqueous extract of the leaves possess significant (P \< 0.05) anti-inflammatory potential.

}, keywords = {anti-inflammatory activity, Aqueous extract, Mirabilis jalapa, Paw edema}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75456}, author = {Manjit Singh and Vijender Kumar and Ishpinder Singh and Vinod Gauttam and Ajudhia Nath Kalia} } @article {800, title = {Antimicrobial Properties, Antioxidant Activity and Bioactive Compounds from Six wild Edible Mushrooms of Western Ghats of Karnataka, India}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {May 2010}, pages = {107-112}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {107}, abstract = {

Methanolic extracts of 6 wild edible mushrooms isolated from the Western Ghats of Karnataka were used in this study. Among the isolates (Lycoperdon perlatum, Cantharellus cibarius, Clavaria vermiculris, Ramaria formosa, Marasmius oreades, Pleurotus pulmonarius), only 4 showed satisfactory results. Quantitative analysis of bioactive components revealed that total phenols are the major bioactive component found in extracts of isolates expressed as mg of GAE per gram of fruit body, which ranged from 3.20 {\textpm} 0.05 mg/mL to 6.25 {\textpm} 0.08 mg/mL. Average concentration of flavonoid ranged from 0.40 {\textpm} 0.052 mg/mL to 2.54 {\textpm} 0.08 mg/mL; followed by very small concentration of ascorbic acid (range, 0.06 {\textpm} 0.01 mg/mL to 0.16 {\textpm} 0.01 mg/mL) in all the isolates. All the isolates showed high phenol and flavonoid content, but ascorbic acid content was found in traces. Antioxidant efficiency by inhibitory concentration on 1,1-Diphenly-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) was found significant when compared to standard antioxidant like Buthylated hydroxyanisol (BHA). The concentration (IC 50 ) ranged from 0.94 {\textpm} 0.27 mg/mL to 7.57 {\textpm} 0.21 mg/mL. Determination of antimicrobial activity profile of all the isolates tested against a panel of standard pathogenic bacteria and fungi indicated that the concentrations of bioactive components directly influence the antimicrobial capability of the isolates. Agar diffusion assay showed considerable activity against all bacteria. Minimum inhibitory concentration values of the extracts of 4 isolates showed that they are also active even in least concentrations. These results are discussed in relation to therapeutic value of the studied mushrooms.

}, keywords = {Agar diffusion assay, Antioxidant, Bioactive, DPPH mushrooms, in-vitro, Western Ghats}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62953}, author = {Ch. Ramesh and Manohar G Pattar} } @article {875, title = {Antimicrobial Screening of Ethnobotanically Important Stem bark of Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {254-257}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {254}, abstract = {

Background: The stem barks are the rich sources of tannins and other phenolic compounds. Tannins inhibited the growth of various fungi, yeast, bacteria and virus. Hence, ten stem barks of ethnomedicinally important plants were screened for antibacterial and antifungal activities against human pathogenic strains. Methods: Air-dried and powdered stem bark of each plant was extracted with 50\% aqueous ethanol, lyophilized and the dried crude extracts were used for the screening against 11 bacteria and 8 fungi. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were performed according to microdilution methods by NCCLS. Results: The plants Prosopis chilensis, Pithecellobium dulce, Mangifera indica showed significant antibacterial and antifungal activities against Streptococcus pneumonia, Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumonia and Candida albicans with MIC of 0.08mg/ml. Pithecellobium dulce bark also showed significant antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus. Conclusion: The bark of Pithecellobium dulce has more or less similar activity against the known antibiotic and may be considered as potent antimicrobial agent for various infectious diseases.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Antifungal, Bark, Ethnobotany, MIC}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69127}, author = {Meenakshi Singh and Sayyada Khatoon and Shweta Singh and Vivek Kumar and Ajay Kumar Singh Rawat and Shanta Mehrotra} } @article {801, title = {Antiproliferative Activity and Induction of Apoptosis in Estrogen Receptor-positive and Negative Human Breast Carcinoma Cell lines by Gmelina asiatica Roots}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {May 2010}, pages = {113-119}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {113}, abstract = {

Low risk of breast cancer has been proposed to be associated with high intake of lignans. We have reported the presence of lignans in Gmelina asiatica roots. There are no scientific reports on the antiproliferative activity of G. asiatica roots. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of ethyl acetate extract from G. asiatica roots (EGAR) on estrogen receptor-positive (MCF-7) and negative (MDA-MB-231) human breast cancer cell lines. The effects of 50\% inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of EGAR on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol- 2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay kit. The mode of cell death caused by EGAR was determined using dual apoptosis assay kit by observing the cells under fluorescent microscope. The quantification of apoptosis and necrosis in cells caused by EGAR was determined using cell death detection kit through ELISA. Down-regulation of the proliferative activity occurred in a clear dose-dependent response with IC50 values of 32.9 {\textpm} 3.8 μg/mL in MCF-7 and 19.9 {\textpm} 2.3 μg/ mL in MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Treatment of breast cancer cells with EGAR resulted in significant apoptosis. The EGAR contain lignans and flavonoids. The antiproliferative activity of the extract is attributed to the presence of these secondary metabolites. The results suggest the efficacy of G. asiatica roots as antiproliferative agents on human breast cancer cells, supporting the hypothesis that plants containing lignans have beneficial effects on human breast cancer.

}, keywords = {Annexin-V, Caspase-3, Enrichment factor, Lignans, MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, Phosphatidylserine}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62949}, author = {Madhu Katyayani Balijepalli and Satyanarayana Tandra and Mallikarjuna Rao Pichika} } @article {765, title = {Antiulcer Activity of Aqueous extract of Fruits of Momordica Cymbalaria Hook f. in Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {58-61}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {58}, abstract = {

Gastric ulcer is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal disorders, which affects approximately 5\%-10\% of people during their life. The ulcer is an open sore that develops on the inside lining of the stomach (a gastric ulcer) or the small intestine (a duodenal ulcer). Both types of ulcers are also referred to as peptic ulcer disease. The present study was carried out to investigate antiulcer activity of aqueous extract of fruits of Momordica cymbalaria Hook f. Initially the aqueous extract of M. cymbalaria was subjected to acute oral toxicity study according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guidelines, based on which, 500 mg/kg dose of aqueous extract was selected for the study. The animals were pretreated before inducing ulcer. For inducing ulcer in the rats, 80\% ethanol was used. Various parameters such as area of gastric lesion, nonprotein sulfhydryls (NP-SH) concentration, gastric wall mucus concentration, total acidity and volume of gastric content; and histopathological parameters like hemorrhage, edema, erosion, ulceration were studied in the control group and pretreated groups with aqueous extract of fruits of Momordica cymbalaria (500 mg/kg) and standard drug lanzoprazole (30 mg/kg). Pretreatment with aqueous extract of M. cymbalaria fruits showed significant ( P \< 0.05) decrease in the total acidity and ulcer index. Improvements in all histopathological parameters were noticed in the M. cymbalaria-treated group. It also showed significant decrease in gastric lesion and NP-SH and gastric wall mucus concentrations in the M. cymbalaria-treated group. Overall the aqueous extract of M. cymbalaria fruits was shown to possess significant ( P \< 0.05) antiulcer property in rats. The polyphenols like quercetin reported from the plant may attribute to the antiulcer property of the extract.

}, keywords = {Antiulcer activity, Aqueous extract, Gastric ulcer, Momordica cymbalaria, Momordica tuberosa}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60575}, author = {P Bharathi Dhasan and M Jegadeesan and S Kavimani} } @article {851, title = {Assessing Bioactivity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {203-204}, type = {Editorial}, chapter = {203}, abstract = {

In this month{\textquoteright}s issue of Pharmacognosy Research, I would like to concentrate on the methodologies that are employed to assess the nature of the bioactivities of plant extracts. In vivo and / or in vitro test models, together with the structural determination of the chief components, are of course the gold standard in determining the active constituents. Despite the development of very rapid and sophisticated analytical techniques, for example, Liquid chromatography (LC) and Gas chromatography (GC) hyphenated with Mass Spectrometry (MS) and elaborate one and two-dimensional Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) techniques, the bioassay remains indispensable. In general, bioassays examine the response of a whole animal, an isolated tissue / cell line or an organism, to a given extract (or drug, chemical or pollutant) in order to evaluate the bioactivity or toxicity or both. Paradoxically the difference between a {\textquoteleft}cure{\textquoteright} and a {\textquoteleft}poison{\textquoteright} is quantity. Scientists must be able to determine the activity (biological mechanisms) and the identity of the plant-borne substances in order to extrapolate safe levels, dosage forms, and delivery modes, for human use. Read more...

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69101}, author = {Ambrose Furey} } @article {960, title = {An Automated or Semi-automated Identification System using Venation Pattern to Delimit Indian Leaf drugs: A Proposal}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {385-387}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {385}, abstract = {

About 7,200 medicinal plants are known to occur in India, of which, the leaves of a few hundred plants have medicinal properties. Identification of leaf drugs using venation is considered as one of the most reliable and convenient methods. Leaf identification by mechanical means may often lead to wrong identification. Due to the growing volume of illegal trade/malpractice in the crude drug industry on the one hand and lack of sufficient experts on the other, a much faster, convenient and reliable method is mandatory for the identification of Indian leaf drugs. Therefore, a new automated or semi-automated identification system based on venation pattern is inevitable for the present day condition to identify and authenticate the leaves of Indian medicinal plants.

}, keywords = {Automated, Botanist, Identification, Indian leaf drugs, Pharmacognosist, Pharmacognosy, Semi-automated, Venation pattern}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75461}, author = {ABD Selvam} } @article {964, title = {Ayurveda and Cancer}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {393-394}, type = {Letter to Editor}, chapter = {393}, abstract = {

Sir,

Cancer, one of the most deadly challenges spreading drastically in 21 st century, has now officially become the most dangerous killer in the world according to the World Health Organization. Who can deny the fact that cancer is related to adversary of modernization and advanced pattern of irregular and stressed life dominated by Western medicine. Scientists are making their best efforts to fight this disease; however the sure-shot cure is still awaited.

Ayurveda, the oldest Indian indigenous medicine system of plant drugs is known from very early times for preventing or suppressing various tumors using these natural drugs. And nowadays scientists are keener to researches on complementary and alternative medicine for the management of cancer. In Ayurvedic concept, according to {\textquoteright}Charaka{\textquoteright} and {\textquoteright}Sushruta Samhitas{\textquoteright} cancer is described as inflammatory or non-inflammatory swelling and mentioned either as {\textquoteright}Granthi{\textquoteright} (minor neoplasm) or {\textquoteright}Arbuda{\textquoteright} (major neoplasm). [1] The nervous system (Vata or air), the venous system (Pitta or fire) and the arterial system (Kapha or water) are three basics of Ayurveda and very important for normal body function. In malignant tumors all three systems get out of control (Tridoshas) and lose mutual coordination that causes tissue damage, resulting critical condition. Tridoshas cause excessive metabolic crisis resulting in proliferation.[2] Read more...

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75463}, author = {Roopesh Jain and Susmit Kosta and Archana Tiwari} } @article {733, title = {Bioactivity of Syzygium Jambos Methanolic Extracts: Antibacterial Activity and Toxicity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {4-9}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {4}, abstract = {

Methanol extracts from S. jambos leaves were tested for antimicrobial activity and toxicity. S. jambos leaf extract inhibited the growth of 4 of the 14 bacteria tested (29\%). Both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial growths were inhibited by S. jambos leaf extract, although gram-positive bacteria appeared more susceptible. Two of the 10 gram-negative bacteria (20\%) and 2 of the 4 gram-positive bacteria (50\%) tested had their growths inhibited by the extract. The leaf extract also proved to be toxic in the Artemia franciscana bioassay, with a 48-h LC 50 of 387.9 {\textpm} 38.8 {\textmu}g/mL, making it slightly more toxic than Mevinphos (505.3{\textpm} 37.7 {\textmu}g/mL) and approximately 5-fold less toxic than potassium dichromate (80.4 {\textpm} 4.3 {\textmu}g/mL). Whilst potassium dichromate{\textquoteright}s LC 50 remained constant across the 72-hour test period (24-h LC 50 , 86.3 {\textpm} 5.1; 72-h LC 50 , 77.9 {\textpm} 4.9), the extract and Mevinphos LC 50 values decreased by 72 hours (87.0 {\textpm} 11.3 {\textmu}g/mL and 103.9 {\textpm} 12.8 {\textmu}g/mL, respectively), indicating their similar levels of toxicity in the assay.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Medicinal plants, Methanolic extracts, Phytotoxicity, Rose apple, Syzygium jambos}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60577}, author = {S Mohanty and IE Cock} } @article {888, title = {Biochemical and Histologic Changes in Rats after Prolonged Administration of the Crude Aqueous Extract of the Leaves of Vitex grandifolia}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {273-278}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {273}, abstract = {

Background: In recent times, many herbal remedies are used to treat variety of ailments. The leaves of Vitex grandifolia is claimed to be effective in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and as a diuretic in the treatment of high blood pressure. However, there are no scientific reports on the therapeutic benefits or toxicity of this plant. This study therefore investigated the effect of prolonged administration of the aqueous extract of the leaves of this plant in Sprague-Dawley rats. Methods: The plant leaves (No. FHI 107055) were dried at 40 o C, powdered and extracted at room temperature in water (pH 5.72) by percolation. Extract was dried in vacuo to give a yield of 27.32 \%w/v. The extract, 0.5-2 g/kg b. wt. was administered by gastric probe to rats for 14 days. The liver and kidney functions, blood chemistry, histopathologic alterations of vital organs and extract effect on rats b. wt. were investigated. Results: V. grandifolia caused significant increase in the serum electrolytes, creatinine, and liver function enzyme dose dependently compared with the control (P <= 0.001). The extract had no effect on the heart; however, the architecture of the liver, kidney, and lungs were significantly altered in the treated groups compared with the control. The treated rats had significantly reduced body weight compared with the control (P <= 0.001). Major clinical signs observed in the treated groups were polydipsia, polyuria, puffiness of hair, and calmness, which were consistent with increase in dose of the extract. Conclusion: It could be clearly concluded that prolonged administration of the aqueous leaf extract of V. grandifolia at the dose used in this study tends to be toxic to the rats. Its use in folkloric medicine should be with utmost care.

}, keywords = {Edema, Histopathology, Liver function test, Portal infi ltration, Toxicity, Vitex grandifolia}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72322}, author = {Mbang A Owolabi and Moyosola M Abass and Promise M Emeka and Smith I Jaja and Martin Nnoli and Benjamin O.S Dosa} } @article {855, title = {Brine shrimp Lethality and Acute Oral Toxicity Studies on Swietenia mahagoni (Linn.) Jacq. seed Methanolic Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {215-220}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {215}, abstract = {

Background: The seeds of Swietenia mahagoni have been applied in folk medicine for the treatment of hypertension, diabetes, malaria, amoebiasis, cough, chest pain, and intestinal parasitism. Here we are the first to report on the toxicity of the Swietenia mahagoni crude methanolic (SMCM) seed extract. Methods: SMCM seed extract has been studied for its brine shrimp lethality and acute oral toxicity, in mice. Results: The brine shrimp lethality bioassay shows a moderate cytotoxicity at high concentration. The LC50 for the extract is 0.68 mg/ml at 24 hours of exposure. The LD50 of the SMCM seed extract for acute oral toxicity in mice is greater than 5000 mg/kg. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that Swietenia mahagoni crude methanolic seed extract may contain bioactive compounds of potential therapeutic significance which are relatively safe from toxic effects, and can compromise the medicinal use of this plant in folk medicine.

}, keywords = {Acute oral toxicity, Brine shrimp, Swietenia mahagoni seeds}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69107}, author = {Geethaa Sahgal and Surash Ramanathan and Sreenivasan Sasidharan and Mohd Nizam Mordi and Sabariah Ismail and Sharif Mahsufi Mansor} } @article {761, title = {Broad-spectrum Sun-protective action of Porphyra-334 Derived from Porphyra vietnamensis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {45-49}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {45}, abstract = {

There are enormous UV-protective compounds present in the current world market, out of which 98\% give protection against UV-B range and the remaining 2\% are potent against far UV-A range only. Furthermore, these synthetic compounds have various problems related to photo-stability and cross-stability. There is a vital need of sunscreen agents that will remain stable for prolonged periods and provide broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV range. The Indian Ocean contains large amounts of macro-algae which synthesize varied amount of mycosporine amino acids, {\textquotedblleft}sun-protective compounds{\textquotedblright} by shikmic acid pathway. In the present study, we have evaluated the sunscreen protection provided by Porphyra-334, a mycosporine amino acid isolated from Indian sp. of Porphyra. Furthermore, the isolated compound was detected by high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprinting, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultraviolet (UV), whereas nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and infrared spectrometry were used for its structural characterization. Stability studies were performed under different storage and pH conditions. Ultimately a sunscreen formulation was developed and its potential against marketed Aloe vera gel was evaluated by in vitro sunscreen protection method. It was observed that sunscreen potential of Porphyra-334 was 5.11-fold greater than that of the marketed Aloe vera gel preparation.

}, keywords = {Porphyra, Porphyra-334, Sun protection factor, Ultraviolet}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60578}, author = {Saurabh Bhatia and K Sharma and Ajay G. Namdeo and B B Chaugule and M Kavale1 and S Nanda} } @article {799, title = {Bronchodilator activity of Aqueous extract of Stem bark of Ailanthus excelsa Roxb}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {May 2010}, pages = {102-106}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {102}, abstract = {

Biologically active compounds from natural sources are of interest as possible new drugs for infectious diseases. Ailanthus excelsa Roxb. has been used in Indian system of medicine in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, cold, colic pain, etc. Stem bark of A. excelsa Roxb. has been used as a decoction in traditional claims. So, our traditional claims enforced us to evaluate its bronchodilator activity. We have evaluated its bronchodilator activity in milk-induced leukocytosis and eosinophilia, clonidine-induced mast cell degranulation, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and lung histopathology models. The aqueous extract of stem bark in doses of 100, 200, 400 mg/kg showed significant activity.

}, keywords = {Ailanthus excelsa Roxb., Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, Bronchodilator}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62955}, author = {Dinesh Kumar and SS Bhujbal and RS Deoda and SC Mudgade} } @article {885, title = {Can the term Phytosensology be Preferred Over the Term Organoleptic?}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {271-272}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {271}, abstract = {

The term organoleptic literally means the impression on five sense organs of man, namely, eyes, nose, tongue, ears, and touch. Organoleptic evaluation is a qualitative method wherein the worker (pharmacognosist) uses his sense organs to study the characteristic features of crude drugs, especially the crude drugs of plant origin. In this method, the worker uses the sense of sight, smell, taste, hearing, and feeling, to study the crude drugs and records data such as size, shape, colors (external and internal), markings, fractures, texture, odor, taste, and so on. The methodology involved in this study is known as Organoleptic in general and the data obtained is referred to as Sensory characters in particular.

As Organoleptic study is entirely based on the sense organs of Man, who is an important member of animal kingdom, the term Zoological may be aptly applied for this study in a broader sense. Furthermore, the term Zoological brings uniformity among the pharmacognostic parameters. [1] However, in a strict sense, a specific name is required to replace or to represent the Organoleptic study, as the term Organoleptic is unimpressive and unfamiliar to the readers. Keeping this in mind, the author has coined a new term by combining two familiar words, namely, {\textquoteright}phyto{\textquoteright} which means plants and {\textquoteright}sensology{\textquoteright} which means the study of senses/sense organs of Man. In short, the new term, {\textquoteright}Phytosensology,{\textquoteright} may be defined as {\textquoteright}the study of plants or plant parts (vegetable crude drugs) using Sense organs{\textquoteright}. This term is coined on the basis of the term Phytochemistry (study of chemicals that are present in plants).

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69131}, author = {A. B. D. Selvam} } @article {860, title = {C-Glucoside xanthone from the Stem Bark Extract of Bersama engleriana}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {229-232}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {229}, abstract = {

Background: The genus Bersama belongs to the Melianthaceae family and comprises of four species (B. swinnyi, B. yangambiensis, B. abyssinica, and B. engleriana) all of which are very high trees; the latter two detected species are found in Cameroon. Previous phytochemical investigation on B. yangambiensis, B. swinnyi, and B. abyssinica led to the isolation of triterpenes, saponins, flavonoids, and xanthones. Method: The stem bark of B. engleriana were collected in the village, Baham near Bafoussam city, Cameroon in August 2003 and identifi ed by Dr. Onana National Herbaruim, Yaound{\'e}, Cameroon. The air dried and powdered stem bark of B. engleriana (1 kg) was extracted at room temperature with CH2Cl2{\textendash}MeOH (1:1) 5 L for 48 hours. The mixture of the solvent was removed by evaporation to yield 200 g of crude extract. The latter was then dissolved in CH2Cl2 to give the CH2Cl2 soluble fraction of 5 g and a remaining gum of 195 g. Part of the remaining gum (22 g) was dissolved in water and extracted four times with butanol to give 12 g of red oil; which was then separated by paper chromatography, with butanol-acetic acid-water (4:1:5), to give 3 g of orange gum; purification was carried out on HPLC with MeOH (100\%) to yield 2 g of mangiferin (1) as red oil. The CH2Cl2 soluble extract was eluted on silica gel n-hexane-CH2Cl2 gradient ratio and Sephadex LH-20 (n-hexane -CH2Cl2 -MeOH, (7:4:0.5) to afford compounds swinniol (2), Δ4-stigmaster-3β-ol (3), 4-methylstigmaster-5,23-dien-3β-ol(4). Results: Herein, we carried out a phytochemical study of the stem bark of B. engleriana, and we report herein the isolation and structural elucidation of mangiferin, in addition to three triterpenes, previously reported from other species of the genus.[3,5] The assignment of the signals of mangiferin was determined using 1H, 13C-NMR, and 2D-NMR spectral data (HMQC, COSY, HMBC). The terpenoids were identifi ed by comparison of their 1H and 13C-NMR spectra with the literature data. Fractionation of the CH2Cl2{\textendash}MeOH (1:1) extract of the stem bark of B. engleriana Guike gave mangiferin (1), in addition to three previously reported triterpenes, swinniol (2), Δ4-stigmaster-3β-ol (3), and 4-methylstigmaster-5,23-dien-3-β-ol (4). Conclusions: A chemical investigation of the CH2Cl2-MeOH extract of the stem bark of Bersama engleriana afforded a xanthone C-glucoside (mangiferin) and fi rst isolation of three terpenoids from this species: swinniol (2), Δ4-stigmaster-3β-ol (3), and 4-methylstigmaster-5,23- dien-3-β-ol (4). The complete 1H and 13C chemical shift assignments of mangiferin were determined using 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data (COSY, HMQC, HMBC, DEPT). The structures of the terpenoids were determined from their 1H and 13C NMR data and compared with the literature data.

}, keywords = {Bersama engleriana, Mangiferin, Melianthaceae, Terpenoids, Xanthone}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69110}, author = {Pierre C Djemgou and Taha A Hussien and Mohamed-Elamir F. Hegazy and Fran{\c c}ois Ngandeu and Gilles Neguim and Pierre Tane and Abou-El-Hamd H. Mohamed} } @article {739, title = {The Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of the Leaf oil of Cupressus lusitanica from Monteverde, Costa Rica}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {19-21}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {19}, abstract = {

The essential oils from the leaves of three different individuals of Cupressus lusitanica were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography - mass spectrometry. A total of 49 compounds were identified in the leaf oils. The major components of C. lusitanica leaf oil were α-pinene (40\%-82\%), limonene (4\%-18\%), isobornyl acetate (up to 10\%) and cis-muurola-4(14),5-diene (up to 7\%). The essential oil was screened for antimicrobial activity, and it showed antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus and antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger.

}, keywords = {5-diene, Antimicrobial, cis -muurola-4(14), Composition, Cupressus lusitanica, Essential oil, Isobornyl acetate, Limonene, α-pinene}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60585}, author = {Sara L Hassanzadeh and Jessika A Tuten and Bernhard Vogler and William N Setzer} } @article {782, title = {Chemical Constituents of Tephrosia purpurea}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {72-75}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {72}, abstract = {

In continuation of our chemical investigation on some medicinal plants of the genus Tephrosia, reinvestigation of the methylenechloride/methanol (1:1) extract of the aerial parts of Tephrosia purpurea yielded an aromatic ester 1, a sesquiterpene 2 and prenylated flavonoid 3. The structures of the compounds were established by comprehensive NMR studies, including DEPT, COSY, NOE, HMQC, HMBC, EIMS and CIMS.

}, keywords = {Aromatic ester, Prenylated flavonoid, Sesquiterpene, Tephrosia purpurea}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62951}, author = {Ali K Khalafalah and Afifi H Yousef and Abeer M Esmail and Mohamed H Abdelrazik and Mohamed E.F Hegazy and Abou-El-Hamd H Mohamed} } @article {810, title = {Chromatographic Evaluation and Anthelmintic Activity of Eucalyptus globulus oil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {125-127}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {125}, abstract = {

In world Helminthes infections are the most widespread of all the infections in humans. The morbidity due to parasitic diseases has been increasing in our population. The gastrointestinal helminthes become resistant to the currently available anthelmintic drugs. Anthelmintic substances having considerable toxicity to human beings are present in foods derived from livestock, posing a serious threat to human health. Due to this, there is a need to derive new chemical substances from natural sources, for helminthes control. In this study, volatile oil isolated from Eucalyptus globulus Labill was evaluated for its anthelmintic activity on adult Indian earthworms, Pheretima posthuma, which have anatomical and physiological resemblance with the intestinal roundworm parasites of human beings. In concentrations of 0.05, 0.01 and 0.15 ml/ml, respectively, all the oil samples showed potent anthelmintic activity as compared to that of the standard drug albendazole at a concentration of 10 mg/ml.

}, keywords = {Anthelmintic, Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus oil, Pheretima posthumag}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65504}, author = {DJ Taur and VB Kulkarni and RY Patil} } @article {789, title = {Colon Targeted Curcumin Delivery using Guar Gum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {82-85}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {82}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62954}, author = {AK Singhal and N Nalwaya and E Edwin Jarald and Showkat Ahmed} } @article {828, title = {Comparative Measurement of Hydration Effects of Herbal Moisturizers}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {146-151}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {146}, abstract = {

Improvements of skin hydration properties by the use of polyherbal moisturizers are the recent advances in cosmetic preparations to avoid the harmful effects of chemical moisturizers. The main aim of the study was to establish selection preference of different available marketed herbal moisturizers on the basis of the efficiency of constituents for their hydration effects. The criteria for the selection of formulations were presence of herbal constituents, wheat germ oil and Aloe vera extract. Initially, physiochemical and psychometric studies were performed to visualize the compliance of moisturizers with the skin. The clinical study was carried out in six groups of six healthy human volunteers (aged 20{\textendash}25 years) each applying moisturizers twice daily over a period of 3 weeks in their forearm. The skin properties measured were conductance, glow and appearance. The results indicated that all the moisturizers show moisturizing effect in a time-dependent pattern and the maximum increase in skin conductance was 168.125 and 165.24\% for A2 and A1, respectively. Ranking of moisturizers based on conductance as well as physicochemical analysis is A2 \> A1 \> A4 \> A3 \> A5 \> A6. It was found that the formulation A2 having wheat germ oil, Aloe vera extract and turmeric extract in combination showed best results due to their synergistic effect and wheat germ oil or Aloe extract, when present separately produced skin hydration to lesser extent.

}, keywords = {Aloe vera, Herbal moisturizers, Humectant, Skin hydration, Wheat germ oil}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65508}, author = {Swarnlata Saraf and Sneha Sahu and Chanchal Deep Kaur and Shailendra Saraf} } @article {958, title = {A Comparative Profile of Methanol extracts of Allium Cepa and Allium sativum in Diabetic Neuropathy in Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {374-384}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {374}, abstract = {

Introduction: Diabetic Neuropathy (DN) is a major microvascular complication of uncontrolled diabetes. This may result from increased oxidative stress that accompanies diabetes. Hence plants with antioxidant action play an important role in management of diabetes and its complications. Materials and Methods: This study was designed to evaluate preventive as well as curative effect of methanol extracts of outer scales and edible portions of two plants with established antioxidant action - Allium cepa and Allium sativum, in induced DN in albino mice. Mice were divided into control, diabetic and test extracts treated groups. Test extracts were administered daily at a dose of 200 mg/kg p.o. for 21 days, in the preventive group prior to onset of DN, and in the curative group after the onset of DN. Hyperalgesia and oxidative stress markers were assessed. STZ-diabetic mice showed a significant thermal hyperalgesia (as assessed by the tail-flick test), indicating development of DN. Results: Treatment with test extracts prevented loss in body weight, decreased plasma glucose level, and significantly ameliorated the hyperalgesia, TBARS, serum nitrite and GSH levels in diabetic mice. Conclusion: Methanol extract of outer scales of onion has shown most significant improvement; may be due to higher content of phenolic compounds in outer scales of A. cepa.

}, keywords = {Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Diabetic neuropathy, Oxidative stress}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75460}, author = {Abhishek Bhanot and Richa Shri} } @article {937, title = {A Comparison of the Cytotoxic Potential of Standardized Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts of a Polyherbal Mixture Comprised of Nigella sativa (seeds), Hemidesmus indicus (roots) and Smilax glabra (rhizome)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {335-342}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {335}, abstract = {

Background: A decoction (hot-water extract) comprised of Nigella sativa (seeds), Hemidesmus indicus (roots), and Smilax glabra (rhizome) has been reported to prevent chemically-induced hepatocarcinogenic changes in rats and to exert significant cytotoxic effects on human hepatoma (HepG2) cells. However, the decoction used in previous studies to determine cytotoxicity was not standardized. Further, during preparation of pharmaceuticals for clinical use, it is more convenient to use an ethanolic extract. Therefore this study was carried out to (a) develop standardized aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the plant mixture (N. sativa, H. indicus, and S. glabra) used in the preparation of the original decoction, and (b) compare the cytotoxic effects of these two extracts by evaluating cytotoxicity to the human hepatoma (HepG2) cell line. Methods: Aqueous and ethanolic extracts have been standardized by evaluating organoleptic characters, physicochemical properties, qualitative and quantitative analysis of chemical constituents, and analysis of High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) profiles. Cytotoxic potentials of the above standardized extracts were compared by evaluating their effects on the survival and overall cell activity of HepG2 cells by use of the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2yl) -2, 5 - biphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and Sulphorhodamine B (SRB) assays. Results: Results from MTT and SRB assays demonstrated that both extracts exerted strong dose-dependent in vitro cytotoxicity to HepG2 cells. The standardized aqueous extract showed a marginally (though significantly, P\<0.05) higher cyotoxic potential than the ethanolic extract. Thymoquinone, an already known cytotoxic compound isolated from N. sativa seeds was only observed in the standardized ethanolic extract. Thus, compounds other than thymoquinone appear to mediate the cytotoxicity of the standardized aqueous extract of this poly-herbal preparation. Conclusion: It may be concluded that results obtained in the present study could be used as a diagnostic tool for the correct identification of these aqueous or ethanolic extracts and would be useful for the preparation of a standardized pharmaceutical product that may be used in the future for clinical therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma

}, keywords = {cytotoxicity, Hemidesmus indicus, MTT and SRB assays, Nigella sativa, Smilax glabra, Standardization}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75451}, author = {Sameera R Samarakoon and Ira Thabrew and Prasanna B Galhena and Dilip De Silva and Kamani H Tennekoon} } @article {907, title = {A Comparison of Traditional Anti-inflammation and Anti-infection Medicinal Plants with Current Evidence from Biomedical Research: Results from a Regional Study}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {293-295}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {293}, abstract = {

Background: In relation to pharmacognosy, an objective of many ethnobotanical studies is to identify plant species to be further investigated, for example, tested in disease models related to the ethnomedicinal application. To further warrant such testing, research evidence for medicinal applications of these plants (or of their major phytochemical constituents and metabolic derivatives) is typically analyzed in biomedical databases. Methods: As a model of this process, the current report presents novel information regarding traditional anti-inflammation and anti-infection medicinal plant use. This information was obtained from an interview-based ethnobotanical study; and was compared with current biomedical evidence using the Medline{\textregistered} database. Results: Of the 8 anti-infection plant species identified in the ethnobotanical study, 7 have related activities reported in the database; and of the 6 anti-inflammation plants, 4 have related activities in the database. Conclusion: Based on novel and complimentary results from the ethnobotanical and biomedical database analyses, it is suggested that some of these plants warrant additional investigation of potential anti-inflammatory or anti-infection activities in related disease models, and also additional studies in other population groups.

}, keywords = {Ethnobotany, Infection, Inflammation, Medicinal plants, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72326}, author = {A Vieira} } @article {776, title = {Crystal and Molecular Structure of Lancerodiol-p-hydroxybenzoate}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {May 2010}, pages = {69-71}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {69}, abstract = {

Lancerodiol-p-hydroxybenzoate was isolated from the leaves of Ferula sinaica L. (Apiaceae) as light needle crystals. This work reports for the first time the molecular structure and relative configuration of compound 1, established by X-ray analysis.

}, keywords = {Crystal structure, Ferula sinaica, Lancerodiol, Sesquiterpene}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62950}, author = {Mohamed H Abd El-Razek and Mohamed-Elamir F Hegazy and Abou El-Hamd H Mohamed} } @article {830, title = {Determination of Polyphenols and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Tephrosia purpurea linn Leaves (Leguminosae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {152-158}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {152}, abstract = {

Background: Leaves of Tephrosia purpurea Linn. (sarpankh), belonging to the family Leguminaceae, are used for the treatment of jaundice and are also claimed to be effective in many other diseases. This research work was undertaken to investigate the in vitro antioxidant activity of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the leaves. Method: The therapeutic effects of tannins and flavonoids can be largely attributed to their antioxidant properties. So, the quantitative determinations were undertaken. All the methods are based on UV-spectrophotometric determination. Result: The total phenolic content of aqueous and ethanolic extracts showed the content values of 9.44 {\textpm} 0.22\% w/w and 18.44 {\textpm} 0.13\% w/w, respectively, and total flavonoid estimation of aqueous and ethanolic extracts showed the content values of 0.91 {\textpm} 0.08\% w/w and 1.56 {\textpm} 0.12\%w/w, respectively, for quercetin and 1.85 {\textpm} 0.08\% w/w and 2.54 {\textpm} 0.12\% w/w, respectively, for rutin. Further investigations were carried out for in vitro antioxidant activity and radical scavenging activity by calculating its percentage inhibition by means of IC 50 values, all the extracts{\textquoteright} concentrations were adjusted to fall under the linearity range and here many reference standards like tannic acid, gallic acid, quercetin, ascorbic acid were taken for the method suitability. Conclusion: The results revealed that leaves of this plant have antioxidant potential. The results also show the ethanolic extract to be more potent than the aqueous decoction which is claimed traditionally. In conclusion, T. purpurea Linn. (Leguminosae) leaves possess the antioxidant substance which may be responsible for the treatment of jaundice and other oxidative stress-related diseases.

}, keywords = {1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl-radical scavenging assay, Ferric reducing antioxidant power, Tephrosia purpurea Linn. (Leguminosae), Total phenolic content}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65509}, author = {Avani Patel and Amit Patel and Amit Patel and NM Patel} } @article {848, title = {Determination of Teloschistes flavicans (sw) Norm Anti-inflammatory Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = { September 2010}, pages = {205-210}, type = {Editorial}, chapter = {205}, abstract = {

Background: Lichens produce a variety of substances that possesses pharmacological actions. However, rare products are submitted to rigorous scientific tests or have the risk potential or side effects evaluated. The lack of medical and sanitary control, absence of accurate botanical identification or purity certification, founded in diverse natural products, may represent great danger to population health. This work aimed to evaluate toxic effects and anti-inflammatory action in vivo of Teloschistes flavicans (Sw.) Norm. (TFN) unrefined extracts, as well as determinate its main constituents. Methods: The carrageenan induced paw edema and cotton pellet implant induced granuloma methods were utilized, besides a classic acute toxicity test. TFN acetone extract inhibited carrageenan paw edema on 60, 120, and 180 min (inhibition percentiles of 45.03\%, 60.59\% and 41.72\%). Results: TFN ethereal (inhibition percentiles of 23.95\% and 29.01\%) and chloroform (inhibition percentiles of 28.8\% and 22.04\%) extracts inhibited edema on 120 and 180 min. None of the extract inhibited the granuloma development. None of the extract caused death or other acute toxicity signs. Vicanicine (60.26\% in ethereal extract and 51.17\% in acetone extract), parietine (9.60\% in ethereal extract and 15.38\% on second), falacinol (0.78\% in ether and 14.95\% in acetone) and very low concentration of falacinal (0.15\% in ethereal extract and 3.32\% in acetone extract) were detected in the medicine. Conclusions: The tested extracts have antiedematogenic activity, but are not effective on subchronic inflammation. The extracts do not present toxic effects in administered doses.

}, keywords = {anti-inflammatory activity, Lichen substances, Teloschistes flavicans}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69102}, author = {Eug{\^e}nia C Pereira and Nic{\'a}cio H da Silva and Renata Almeida Santos and Ana Patr{\'\i}cia Paiva Sud{\'a}rio and Antonio Alfredo Rodrigues e Silva and Maria Bernadete de Sousa Maia} } @article {912, title = {Development and Evaluation of Formulations of Microbial Biotransformed extract of Tobacco Leaves for Hair Growth Potential}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {300-303}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {300}, abstract = {

Background: Extensive researches are going on to explore the effective and safe drug for their hair growth. Tobacco leaves are traditionally known to potentiate hair growth promotion. Therefore, the aim of present study was to formulate and evaluate the microbial biotransformed extract of tobacco leaves for hair growth potential in male albino wister rats. Materials and Methods: The extract of was prepared by microbial biotransformation of tobacco leaves in cow urine for 28 days. The herbal formulations (lotion) were formulated by general method using o/w type base in various rations or concentrations such as 10\%, 20\% and 30\% of extract. These lotions were applied on shaved skin area of rats for 30 days once in a day and hair length, serum total protein, and total testosterone were measured. Results: Our formulations show increase in hair growth and serum total protein at concentration dependent manner with effect to standard and control groups. Serum total testosterone decreases according to a concentration dependent manner. Conclusion: Further, series of investigations are, however, necessary to remain exploration, which includes their structural elucidation, characterization, clinical safety, reliability and molecular mechanism involved in this pharmacological activity.

}, keywords = {Alopecia, Hair growth, Tobacco leaves}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72328}, author = {Ashlesh V Murkute and Mahesh S Sahu and Prashant Y Mali and Vinod D Rangari} } @article {792, title = {Diuretic activity of Leaves of Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour) Spreng in Male Albino Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {May 2010}, pages = {86-88}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {86}, abstract = {

The shade-dried powder of leaves of Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour) Spreng was subjected to successive extraction using the various solvents (petroleum ether, chloroform, ethanol and water) in increasing order of polarity. The preliminary phytochemical analyses were carried out for all the extracts. The analyses of the leaves revealed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, proteins, amino acids, flavonoids, quinine, tannins, phenolic compounds and terpenoids. Since the phytoconstituents present in the ethanolic and aqueous extracts were similar, both the extracts were selected for further study. The diuretic properties of ethanolic and aqueous extracts were evaluated by determination of urine volume and electrolyte concentration in male albino rats. Furosemide (10 mg/kg) was used as standard while normal saline (0.9\%) was used as control. Both ethanolic and aqueous extracts (500 mg/kg) have shown significant increase in the volume of urine and urinary concentration of Na, K and Cl ions. Thus, from the is study it may be concluded that the leaves of P. amboinicus (Lour) Spreng possess diuretic activities.

}, keywords = {Diuretic, Electrolyte concentration, Plectranthus amboinicus}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62956}, author = {Roshan Patel and Naveen K Mahobia and Ravindra Gendle and Basant Kaushik and Sudarshan K Singh} } @article {763, title = {Diuretic and Natriuretic activity of Two Mistletoe Species in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {50-57}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {50}, abstract = {

In different cultural groups, the hemiparasitic plants of the families Loranthaceae and Viscaceae (mistletoes) are frequently used in the treatment of hypertension and/or as diuretic agents. However, it remains unclear as to what commonality makes them diuretic agents or a remedy for hypertension. In this article, the diuretic activity of methanol extracts of Viscum articulatum (VA) Burm. f. and Helicanthus elastica (HE) (Ders.) Dans. in rats is reported. The extracts were administered orally at doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg to rats that had been fasted and deprived of water for 18 hours. Investigations were carried out for diuretic, saluretic and natriuretic effects. The polyphenolic and triterpenoid contents were determined quantitatively using chemical assays and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, respectively. The extracts of VA and HE demonstrated significant and dose-dependent diuretic activity in rats. It was found that while VA mimics the furosemide pattern, HE demonstrated a dose-dependent increase in diuresis, along with an increase in potassium-sparing effects. Phytochemical analysis revealed that polyphenolics and triterpenoids, such as oleanolic acid and lupeol, are the major phytochemicals involved. It was also found that in different combinations, these phytochemicals differed in the way they influenced the electrolyte excretion. A higher content of polyphenolics in association with lower triterpenoid content was found to favor potassium-sparing effects.

}, keywords = {Diuretic, Helicanthus elastic, Polyphenolics, Potassium sparing, Triterpenoids, Viscum articulatum}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60576}, author = {Namita Jadhav and CR Patil and KB Chaudhari and JP Wagh and SJ Surana and RB Jadhav} } @article {839, title = {Effect of Celastrus paniculatus seed oil (Jyothismati oil) on Acute and Chronic Immobilization Stress Induced In swiss Albino Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {169-174}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {169}, abstract = {

Stress alters the homeostasis and is produced by several factors. Immobilization stress induced due to reduced floor area provided for the mobility results in the imbalance of oxidant and antioxidant status. The modern computer savvy world decreases human mobility in the working environment, leading to the formation of oxygen free radicals and if left untreated might result in severe health problems like hypertension, cardiovascular disease, premature aging and brain dysfunction. Hence, modern medicines rely upon the medicinal plants for some drugs with zero side effects. In this context, Jyothismati oil (JO), extracted from Celastrus paniculatus seeds, was used to treat acute and chronic immobilization induced experimentally. C. paniculatus plant is considered to be rich in antioxidant content and so the seed oil extract{\textquoteright}s efficacy was tested against immobilization stress in albino mice. The animals were kept in a restrainer for short and long durations, grouped separately and fed with the drug. Animals were sacrificed and the samples were analyzed. The antioxidant enzyme levels of the animals regained and markedly increased in the acute and chronic immobilized groups, respectively. The results suggested that the extract of C. paniculatus seed was highly efficacious in reducing the stress induced by least mobility for hours.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Celastrus paniculatus, Free radicals, Oxidative damage}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65512}, author = {George Lekha and Karthik Mohan and Irudhaya Arockia Samy} } @article {751, title = {Effect of Dragon Fruit Extract on Oxidative Stress and Aortic Stiffness in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetes in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {31-35}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {31}, abstract = {

Cardiovascular complications are consistently observed in diabetic patients across all age groups. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of aqueous extract of the fruit pulp of Hylocereus undatus (DFE) on aortic stiffness and oxidative stress in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in rats. Twenty-four male, Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into four groups: I (control), II (diabetic), III (DFE, 250 mg/kg) and IV (DFE 500 mg/kg). Diabetes was induced in groups II, III and IV by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of STZ (40 mg/kg). After confirmation of diabetes, group III and IV received DFE for 5 weeks. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was used as a marker of aortic stiffness and was determined at the end of 5 weeks. DFE significantly decreased ( P \< 0.05) the fasting blood glucose levels in diabetic rats, but not to normal levels. Systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure and PWV were significantly increased ( P \< 0.05) in diabetic rats at the end of 5 weeks in comparison with control group. DFE treatment significantly decreased ( P \< 0.05) these elevations. Oxidative damage was observed in group II after 5 weeks. Plasma malondialdehyde levels significantly decreased ( P \< 0.05), while superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity significantly increased ( P \< 0.05) with DFE treatment in comparison with group II. These data demonstrate that DFE treatment was effective in controlling oxidative damage and decreasing the aortic stiffness measured by PWV in STZ-induced diabetes in rats.

}, keywords = {Arterial stiffness, Diabetes, Hylocereus undatus, Pulse wave velocity, Streptozotocin}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60582}, author = {Kolla R L Anand Swarup and Munavvar A Sattar and Nor A Abdullah and Mohammed H Abdulla and Ibrahim M Salman and Hassaan A Rathore and Edward J Johns} } @article {816, title = {Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Cassia occidentalis Linn. for The Management of Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {132-137}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {132}, abstract = {

Aim: As per traditional claims, root, bark, leaf and flower of the plant Cassia occidentalis Linn. (Caesalpiniaceae) have been reported to possess antidiabetic activity. Based on this traditional indication, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antidiabetic activity of ethanolic extract of C. occidentalis in normal and alloxan induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Ethanolic extract of the whole plant of C. occidentalis was orally tested at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg for evaluating the hypoglycemic effect in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats. In addition, changes in body weight, serum cholesterol, triglyceride and total protein levels, assessed in the ethanol extract treated diabetic rats were compared with diabetic control and normal animals. Histopathologic observations during 21 days of treatment were also evaluated. Results: Ethanolic extract of C. occidentalis produced a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose levels in the normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight. Treatment with ethanolic extract of C. occidentalis in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats led to a dose-dependent fall in blood sugar levels. Significant differences were observed in serum lipid profiles (cholesterol and triglyceride), serum protein and changes in body weight in ethanolic extract treated diabetic animals, when compared with the diabetic control and normal animals. Concurrent histopathologic studies of the pancreas of these animals showed comparable regeneration by ethanolic extract, which were earlier necrosed by alloxan. Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of C. occidentalis exhibited significant antidiabetic activity in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The rats also showed improvement in parameters like body weight and lipid profiles and also, histopathologic studies showed regeneration of β-cells of pancreas and so it might be of value in the treatment of diabetes.

}, keywords = {Alloxan, Antidiabetic activity, Cassia occidentalis, Histopathology}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65506}, author = {Laxmi Verma and PK Singour and PK Chaurasiya and H Rajak and RS Pawar and UK Patil} } @article {934, title = {Effect of Nanohypericum (Hypericum perforatum gold nanoparticles) Treatment on Restraint Stressinduced Behavioral and Biochemical Alteration in Male Aalbino Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {330-334}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {330}, abstract = {

Backgorund: Hypericum perforatum extract (HPE), is known for its antidepressant effect. Methods: In the present study we investigated the effect of H. perforatum gold nanoparticles (Nanohypericum-HPGNPs) protective role against restraint stress-induced behavioral and biochemical alterations in mice. Animals were immobilized for a period of 6 hrs/day. HPE (200 mg/kg) and nanohypericum (20 mg/kg) were administered 30 minutes before the animals were subjected to acute immobilized stress. Behavioral test parameters for anxiety and spatial memory were assessed followed by biochemical parmeters (lipid peroxidation, super oxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione, etc.) subsequently. Results: The behavior study showed severe anxiety and memory loss compared to unstressed animals. Biochemical analyses revealed an increase in lipid per oxidation, depletion of super oxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, catalase activity and glutathione per oxidase as compared to unstressed animal. Twenty one days of H. perforatum and nanohypericum treatment in a dose of 200 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg, respectively, significantly attenuated restraint stress-induced behavioral and oxidative damage. Conclusion: In conclusion nanohypericum prove the modest activity than the HPE.

}, keywords = {Goldnanoparticles, Hypericum perforatum, mirror chamber, Nanohypericum, Stress, T-maze}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75450}, author = {D Jaya Prakash and S ArulKumar and M Sabesan} } @article {826, title = {Estrogenic Activity of Friedelin Rich Fraction (IND-HE) Separated from Cissus quadrangularis and its Effect on Female Sexual Function}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, pages = {138-145}, chapter = {138}, abstract = {

Women experience menopause differently across the world, in terms of their symptomology. Many experience symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, joint pain and loss of libido. Estrogen replacement is the prescribed therapy for most of the sexual dysfunction observed in menopausal women. Many women are reluctant to use exogenous hormone therapy for treatment of menopausal symptoms and are turning to botanical and dietary supplements for relief. In the present study IND-HE (friedelin rich fraction) was studied for estrogenic activity as well as its effect on sexual behavior in overiectomized female Wistar rats.

The rats were divided into 4 groups of six rats each. The Group 1 received distilled water, Group II - IND-HE (75 mg/kg p. o.), Group III - IND-HE (100 mg/kg p. o.) and Group IV received estrogen (estradiol) (1 mg/kg in olive oil suspension, s.c. bi-weekly). The treatment period was 8 weeks. On 1 day, one month and two month of treatment the sexual behavior was studied. At the end of the treatment the blood was withdrawn from retro-orbital plexus. The animals were sacrificed and uterus was removed, weighed and histology was studied. In different group of rats estrous cycle was studied which indicate estrogenic activity and for progestogenic activity of deciduoma formation was studied.

The result indicated that IND-HE (75 and 100 mg/kg p.o.) improved sexual behavior parameters. IND-HE (75 and 100) significantly (P\<0.01) decreased darting and hopping latency. The darting frequency and hopping frequency was significantly (P\<0.01) improved in IND-HE (75 and100 mg/kg p.o.) as well as estrogen group. Lordosis interval (LI) was increased significantly in estrogen group after 1st month (P\<0.05), and after 2nd month (P\<0.01). IND-HE (100) treatment showed increase in LI after 1st month (P\<0.05) remained during 2nd month (P\<0.01). While IND-HE (75) treatment increased LI only after 2nd month (P\<0.05).IND-HE (75 and 100 mg/kg p.o.) showed estrogenic activity as indicated by vaginal cornification, increase in uterine weight and rise in serum estrogen.

}, keywords = {Cissus quandragularis, Estrogenic activity, Female sexual behavior}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65507}, author = {Urmila M. Aswar and S. Bhaskaran and V. Mohan and Subhash. L. Bodhankar} } @article {841, title = {The Evaluation of Antinociceptive Activity of Alkaloid, Methanolic, and Aqueous extracts of Malaysian Mitragyna speciosa Korth leaves in rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {181-185}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {181}, abstract = {

Mitragyna speciosa Korth is a medicinal plant indigenous to Thailand and Malaysia and has been known for its narcotic and coca-like effects. Many studies have been performed on the antinociceptive effect of the plant extracts of Thai origin; however, limited studies have been reported till date on M. speciosa extracts of Malaysian origin. Various concentrations of alkaloid (5{\textendash}20 mg/kg), methanolic (50{\textendash}200 mg/kg), and aqueous (100{\textendash}400 mg/kg) extracts of Malaysian M. speciosa leaves were prepared and orally administered to nine groups of rats. Morphine (5 mg/kg, s.c.) and aspirin (300 mg/kg, p.o.) were used as control. Antagonism of the antinociceptive activity was evaluated by pretreatment with naloxone at a dose of 2 mg/kg (i.p.). Results showed that oral administration of the alkaloid (20 mg/kg), methanolic (200 mg/kg), and aqueous (400 mg/kg) extracts significantly prolonged the latency of nociceptive response compared with control groups in both hot plate and tail flick tests (P \< 0.05). Antinociceptive action of the alkaloid (20 mg/kg), methanolic (200 mg/ kg), and aqueous (400 mg/kg) extracts was significantly blocked by naloxone. In conclusion, these results suggest the presence of antinociceptive effect in various extracts of Malaysian M. speciosa leaves. In addition, the antinociceptive effective doses vary depending on the type of solvents used for extraction.

}, keywords = {Alkaloid, Antinociceptive, Aqueous, Extract, Methanol, Mitragyna speciosa}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65514}, author = {Azadeh Sabetghadam and Surash Ramanathan and Sharif Mahsufi Mansor} } @article {905, title = {Evaluation of Binding Property of Mucilage from Litsea glutinosa Wall}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {289-292}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {289}, abstract = {

Background: Litsea glitinosa is an evergreen tree of medium size which grows to a height of about 20 to 30 feet. It belongs to family Lauraceae. In India it is found mainly in North Eastern region. The leaves and the mucilage from the bark of plant is utilized in the gum for poultices. Methods: Mucilage of Litsea glutinosa was isolated from powdered bark by continuous hot extraction technique using water and precipitation by absolute alcohol (38\% w/w yield). The mucilage was evaluated for binding properties in tablets and granules, using paracetamol as a model drug. The granules were prepared using 4 different concentrations of mucilage (4\%, 6\%, 8\%, and 10\%) and evaluated for percentage of fines, average particle size, total porosity, compressibility index, and flow properties. The prepared tablets were evaluated for content uniformity, hardness, friability, disintegration time, and in vitro dissolution profiles. Results: The results obtained with the lower concentrations of mucilage, that is, less than 6\% were not so encouraging. The tablets prepared by using 10\% mucilage of L. glutinosa as binder exhibited more hardness as compared with the starch. Conclusion: It may be concluded that the concentration ranging from 6\% to 8\% of L. glutinosa mucilage may be considered as better option as a binding agent for the preparation of tablets as compared to the starch (10\%).

}, keywords = {Litsea glutinosa, Mucilage, Polysaccharide}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72325}, author = {Sunil K Mishra and A Kumar and A Talukdar} } @article {947, title = {Evaluation of in vitro Cytotoxic Effect of Trichosanthes dioica Root}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {355-358}, type = {O}, chapter = {355}, abstract = {

Background: Trichosanthes dioica Roxb. (Cucurbitaceae), called pointed gourd in English is a dioecious climber grown in India and used traditionally for various medicinal purposes. Methods: Present study was aimed to evaluate in vitro cytotoxic effect of dichloromethane (DCTD), methanol (METD), and aqueous (AQTD) extracts of T. dioica root using Allium cepa root meristems by keeping them in different concentrations of each test extract under specific experimental conditions followed by determination of root growth inhibition (root length and number) and mitotic index. Results: All the extracts significantly demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition of root length and number and reduction in mitotic index, indicating antimitotic activity demonstrating cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. DCTD was found to be the most potent (EC 50 : 2.8 mg/ml), followed by METD and AQTD. Conclusion: The present study therefore, establishes promising in vitro cytotoxic and genotoxic property of T. dioica root against the test system.

}, keywords = {Allium cepa, Antimitotic, Cytotoxic, Root}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75454}, author = {Sanjib Bhattacharya and Pallab K Haldar} } @article {920, title = {Evaluation of Physicochemical and Phytochemical Properties of Safoof-E-Sana, a Unani polyherbal Formulation}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {318-322}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {318}, abstract = {

Background: Although the formulations of the Unani system of medicine are popular, not much scientific work has been reported so far. The present article is an attempt to establish the scientific basis of one of the popular Unani formulations Safoof-ESana, a polyherbal formulation widely used as a laxative. Methods: Investigations were carried out to study the physicochemical and phytochemical properties of Safoof-E-Sana and its active ingredients. Results and Conclusion: The values of percentage loss on drying, angle of repose, Hausner ratio, and Carr{\textquoteright}s index of the formulation were calculated as 8.25 {\textpm} 0.582, 27.68, 1.23, and 19 respectively, which indicate that the moisture content of the formulation is within the range and depict good flow characteristics. The total ash, acid- nsoluble ash, and water-soluble ash were found to be 19.146 {\textpm} 0.237, 2.351 {\textpm} 0.223, and 49.216 {\textpm} 0.634, respectively; the value of total ash indicates that the inorganic contents of the formulation are below the limits. Alcoholic and aqueous extracts of the formulation and ingredients were prepared and evaluated for phytochemical analysis and extractive values, and the results show that alkaloids of the formulation are more soluble in water than in alcohol and the higher aqueous extractive value (45.784 {\textpm} 0.876) of Unani formulation depicts that water is a better solvent of extraction for the formulation than ethanol.

}, keywords = {Physicochemical properties, Phytochemical properties, Safoof-E-Sana, Tibb-e-Unani, Unani system of medicine}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72332}, author = {Ajazuddin and Shailendra Saraf} } @article {913, title = {Formulation and Evaluation of Floating Tablets of Liquorice Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {304-308}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {304}, abstract = {

Background: Floating tablets prolong the gastric residence time of drugs, improve bioavailability, and facilitate local drug delivery to the stomach. With this objective, floating tablets containing aqueous extract of liquorice as drug was prepared for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori and gastric ulcers. Methods: The aqueous extract of liquorice was standardized by HPTLC. Tablets containing HPMC K100M (hydrophilic polymer), liquorice extract, sodium bicarbonate (gas generating agent), talc, and magnesium stearate were prepared using direct compression method. The formulations were evaluated for physical parameters like diameter, thickness, hardness, friability, uniformity of weight, drug content, buoyancy time, dissolution, and drug release mechanism. The formulations were optimized on the basis of buoyancy time and in vitro drug release. Results: The diameter of all formulations was in the range 11.166-11.933 mm; thickness was in the range 4.02-4.086 mm. The hardness ranged from 3.1 to 3.5 kg/cm 2 . All formulations passed the USP requirements for friability and uniformity of weight. The buoyancy time of all tablet formulations was less than 5 min and tablet remained in floating condition throughout the study. All the tablet formulations followed zero-order kinetics and Korsemeyer-Peppas model in drug release. Conclusion: The optimized formulation was found to be F6 which released 98.3\% of drug in 8 h in vitro, while the buoyancy time was 3.5 min. Formulations containing psyllium husk, sodium bicarbonate and HPMC K100M in combination can be a promising for gastroretentive drug delivery systems.

}, keywords = {Buoyancy time, Floating tablets, Korsemeyer, Liquorice extract}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72329}, author = {HN Aswatha Ram and Prachiti Lachake and Ujjwal Kaushik and CS Shreedhara} } @article {742, title = {In vitro Sun Protection Factor Determination of Herbal Oils used in Cosmetics}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {22-25}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {221}, abstract = {

The aim of this study was to evaluate ultraviolet (UV) absorption ability of volatile and nonvolatile herbal oils used in sunscreens or cosmetics and express the same in terms of sun protection factor (SPF) values. Sun protection factor is a laboratory measure of the effectiveness of sunscreen; the higher the SPF, the more protection a sunscreen offers against the ultraviolet radiations causing sunburn. The in vitro SPF is determined according to the spectrophotometric method of Mansur et al. Hydroalcoholic dilutions of oils were prepared, and in vitro photoprotective activity was studied by UV spectrophotometric method in the range of 290-320 nm. It can be observed that the SPF values found for nonvolatile oils were in between 2 and 8; and for volatile oils, in between 1 and 7. Among the fixed oils taken, SPF value of olive oil was found to be the highest. Similarly among essential oils, SPF value of peppermint oil was found to be the highest. The study will be helpful in the selection of oils and fragrances to develop sunscreens with better safety and high SPF. Oily vehicles are more effective for producing a uniform and long-lasting film of sunscreen on the skin, and their emollient properties protect the skin against the drying effects of exposure to wind and sun. Volatile oils are used as perfumes in cosmetics.

}, keywords = {Erythema, Herbal oils, Spectrophotometric method, Sun protection factor, Sunscreens}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60586}, author = {Chanchal Deep Kaur and Swarnlata Saraf} } @article {962, title = {Inhibitory Effect of Rutin and Curcumin on Experimentally-induced Calcium Oxalate Urolithiasis in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {388-392}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {388}, abstract = {

Background: Renal epithelial cell injury by reactive oxygen species is pre-requisite step in the pathogenesis of urolithiasis. Rutin and curcumin are polyphenolic compounds known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, but their effect on urolithiasis is yet to be elucidated. In the present study, we have investigated the inhibitory effect of rutin and curcumin on calcium oxalate urolithiasis in Wistar albino rats. Methods: Calcium oxalate urolithiasis was induced experimentally by administration of 0.75\% v/v ethylene glycol with 1\% w/v ammonium chloride in drinking water for three days followed by only 0.75\% v/v ethylene glycol for 25 days. Rutin (20 mg/kg body weight) and curcumin (60 mg/kg body weight) were given once daily for 28 days by oral route. After treatment period, calcium and oxalate levels in urine and kidney tissue homogenate were measured. Kidney was also used for histopathological examination. Results: Stone-induction with ethylene glycol and ammonium chloride resulted in elevated levels of calcium and oxalate in the urine and kidney sample, whereas supplementation of rutin and curcumin restored it near to normal. Histopathological study revealed minimum tissue damage and less number of calcium oxalate deposits in kidney of animal treated with rutin and curcumin as compared to calculi-induced animal. Conclusion: The data suggest that the rutin and curcumin inhibits calcium oxalate urolithiasis. This effect is mediated possibly through a lowering of urinary concentration of stone forming constituents, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

}, keywords = {Calcium oxalate, Curcumin, Ethylene glycol, Rutin, Urolithiasis}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75462}, author = {Jaydip Ghodasara and Anil Pawar and Chinmay Deshmukh and Bhanudas Kuchekar} } @article {940, title = {Isolation and Characterization of Phytoconstituents from Chlorophytum borivilianum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {343-349}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {343}, abstract = {

Background: The present communication deals with the identification and characterization of bioactive principles from the roots of Chlorophytum borivilianum. Method: Methanolic extract and its fractions were used to isolate different phytoconstituents. The structures of isolated compounds were characterized and elucidated with chemical and spectroscopic techniques such as Infra Red, Nuclear Mass Resonace and Mass spectroscopy experiments. Fatty acids were characterized by GC-MS analysis. Result: Three Fatty acids were isolated and confirmed. One sterol stigmasterol was isolated. One new saponin named as Chlorophytoside-I (3b, 5a, 22R, 25R)-26-(β-D-glucopyranosyloxy)-22-hydroxy-furostan-12-one-3 yl O-β-D-galactopyranosyl (1-4) glucopyranoside was isolated. Conclusion: The roots of Chlorophytum borivilianum contain three important fatty acids, common sterol stigmasterol and one furostanol saponins.

}, keywords = {Chlorophytoside-I, Chlorophytum borivilianum, Fatty acids, Stigmasterol}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75452}, author = {Sharada L Deorex and Sharada L Deore and Somshekhar S Khadabadi} } @article {970, title = {Isolation of β-sitosterol Diglucosyl caprate from Alpinia galanga}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {264-266}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {264}, abstract = {

Background: The purpose of present investigation to isolate β-sitosterol diglucosyl caprate from the rhizomes of Alpinia galanga. Methods: The methanolic extract of the rhizomes of plant Alpinia galanga was subjected to column chromatography and was eluted with ethyl acetate-methanol (99:1) to yield compound (AG5) β-sitosterol diglucosyl caprate. Various spectral techniques such as Ultraviolet (UV), Infrared (IR), Hydrogen Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1HNMR), Carbon Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (13CNMR), and MASS spectrometry (MS), were employed to determine and elucidate. Results: Chemical and spectral investigation of extract furnished a new steroidal glycoside. Conclusion: The isolated compound β-sitosterol diglucosyl caprate could serve as a lead compound in synthesis of steroids.

}, keywords = {Alpinia galanga, Methanolic extract, Rhizomes, β-sitosterol diglucosyl caprate}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69129}, author = {SB Jaju and NH Indurwade and DM Sakarkar and NK Fuloria and MD Ali and SP Basu} } @article {809, title = {Looking Backward to Find the Path Forward}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {121-124}, type = {Editorial}, chapter = {121}, abstract = {

This month I have the pleasure of having a co-author, Rosari Kingston. Ms. Kingston is the former chair of the Professional Association of Medical Herbalists in Ireland - the Irish Institute of Medical Herbalists. Over the past two decades, Ms. Kingston has sought to develop research for practicing herbalists, so as to provide information about their clinical practice. She is currently carrying out research in the continuity of the Irish herbal tradition through the centuries.

As I did not provide an editorial in last month{\textquoteright}s Pharmacognosy Research, in the current issue I will cast my eye over interesting articles from both the present issue and the previous one. In both issues, I was struck by the very obvious fact of how many countries have utilized their indigenous botanicals for many generations. You may say that they had no alternative, and this is quite true! This has prompted me to consider and examine the parallels between Irish and British {\textquoteright}herbal cures{\textquoteright} and traditional remedies from other regions of the world. Another seemingly obvious fact is that it is only relatively recently, when scientific techniques and technologies became available that we have realized that the use to which the herbs were put in the past were entirely valid and appropriate, and in fact in many instances, had a very sound scientific basis. Read more...

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65503}, author = {Ambrose Furey and Rosari Kingston} } @article {883, title = {Mineral Contents of Some Plants used in Iran}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {267-270}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {267}, abstract = {

In this work, mineral contents of 4 plants used in Iran were determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry. The concentrations were calculated on a dry weight basis. All materials contained high amounts of Na, Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, P, Zn, and I. On a moisture-free basis, the highest levels of Ca, P, and Mg were found in spinach to be 3200 mg/100 g, 2150 mg/100 g, and 460 mg/100 g, respectively. Bi, Cd, Li, Pb, and Se contents of condiments were found to be very low. The results were compared with those from the Spanish, Turkish, and Indian. This work attempts to contribute to knowledge of the nutritional properties of these plants. These results may be useful for the evaluation of dietary information and concluded that the green vegetables are the good sources of minerals.

}, keywords = {Green vegetables, ICP-AES, Mineral contents, Nutritional properties}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69130}, author = {Rahimi Rahmatollah and Rabani Mahbobeh} } @article {858, title = {A Modified MS2 Bacteriophage Plaque Reduction Assay for the Rapid Screening of Antiviral Plant Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {221-228}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {221}, abstract = {

Introduction: Traditional methods of screening plant extracts and purified components for antiviral activity require up to a week to perform, prompting the need to develop more rapid quantitative methods to measure the ability of plant based preparations to block viral replication. We describe an adaption of an MS2 plaque reduction assay for use in S. aureus. Results: MS2 bacteriophage was capable of infecting and replicating in B. cereus, S. aureus and F+ E. coli but not F- E. coli. Indeed, both B. cereus and S. aureus were more sensitive to MS2 induced lysis than F+ E. coli. When MS2 bacteriophage was mixed with Camellia sinensis extract (1 mg/ml), Scaevola spinescens extract (1 mg/ml) or Aloe barbadensis juice and the mixtures inoculated into S. aureus, the formation of plaques was reduced to 8.9 {\textpm} 3.8\%, 5.4 {\textpm} 2.4\% and 72.7 {\textpm} 20.9\% of the untreated MS2 control values respectively. Conclusions: The ability of the MS2 plaque reduction assay to detect antiviral activity in these known antiviral plant preparations indicates its suitability as an antiviral screening tool. An advantage of this assay compared with traditionally used cytopathic effect reduction assays and replicon based assays is the more rapid acquisition of results. Antiviral activity was detected within 24 h of the start of testing. The MS2 assay is also inexpensive and non-pathogenic to humans making it ideal for initial screening studies or as a simulant for pathogenic viruses.

}, keywords = {Aloe vera, Antiviral assay, Camellia Sinensis, MS2 bacteriophage, Plaque reduction assay, Scaevola spinescens}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69108}, author = {Ian Cock and FR Kalt} } @article {949, title = {Modulating Effect of Gmelina arborea Linn. on Immunosuppressed Albino Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {359-363}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {359}, abstract = {

Aim: In the present study, the immunomodulatory effects of roots of Gmelina arborea Linn. were investigated. Materials and Methods: Methanolic extract of G. arborea Linn. (MEGA) and its ethyl acetate fraction (EAFME) were used for evaluating the pharmacological activity. The modulating effect was evaluated on humoral and cell-mediated immune response using animal models like cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression, delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, and humoral antibody (HA) titre. Results: Both test extracts produced significant increase in HA titre, DTH response, and levels of total white blood cell count. Conclusion: This drug is found to be a potential immunostimulant.

}, keywords = {Cellular immunity, Gmelina arborea, Humoral immunity, Immunomodulation}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75455}, author = {SH Shukla and AK Saluja and SS Pandya} } @article {723, title = {Natural Product Taking its Own Place!!!}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {1-3}, type = {Editorial}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

As researchers we are well aware that plants provide an abundance of compounds, many of which have been shown to be effective in the treatment of ailments for hundreds of years. In the recent past, much work has been undertaken to investigate active compounds in plants traditionally used in herbal medicine, venoms and toxins of animal origin and micro organisms. Researchers have developed in vivo and in vitro models to study bioactivity and have used instrumental means to determine their structure and metabolites. Natural products versus synthetic pharmaceuticals are expanding their market share world wide, even in Western countries like France and Germany. [1] Many {\textquoteright}natural medicine{\textquoteright} practitioners claim that by using natural whole extracts the active ingredient is accompanied by other {\textquoteright}synergistic compounds{\textquoteright}, including related analogues, which influence (enhance or moderate) their therapeutic effect making the action of the active ingredient safer and, thereby, diminishing unpleasant side effects (many of these claims are scientifically unproven). Patients often favor plant (or naturally derived) medications for the treatment of long term chronic diseases, for their perceived long standing efficacy and good safety record (occasionally a mistaken belief, a point that I will return to later). Therefore there is a clear need for chemical characterization of plant-derived materials, scientific rigor, clinical trails and stringent quality control measures. Often, naturally derived and isolated compounds are used by pharmaceutical companies as lead compounds (drug targets) in the development of new synthetic drugs. In 1991, Kinghorn and Balandrin estimated that over half of the world{\textquoteright}s best selling drugs owed their origin to natural products, including enalapril and capropril: ACE inhibitors; the β2-agonist salbutamol; the immunosuppressant ciclosporin, and the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents - diclofenac and naproxen. [2]

}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60574}, author = {Ambrose Furey} } @article {843, title = {A New Alkaloid Isolated from Abies webbiana Leaf}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {186-189}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {186}, abstract = {

A new alkaloid namely 1-(4'-methoxyphenyl)-aziridine was isolated from the leaf of Abies webbiana Lindl. (Pinaceae), grown in Sikkim Himalayan region of India. Its chemical structure was elucidated on the basis of elemental and spectral analyses. This is the first experimental report of the isolation of any alkaloid from A. webbiana.

}, keywords = {Abies webbiana Lindl., Aziridine alkaloid, Leaves, Pinaceae}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65516}, author = {Ashoke K Ghosh and Debanjan Sen and Sanjib Bhattacharya} } @article {943, title = {Possible Implication of Oxidative Stress in anti Filarial Effect of Certain Traditionally used Medicinal Plants in vitro against Brugia malayi Microfilariae}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {350-354}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {350}, abstract = {

Introduction: Tropical disease research scheme of World Health Organization has duly recognized traditional medicine as alternative for antifilarial drug development. Polyphenolic compounds present in traditionally used herbal medicines are natural antioxidants; however, paradoxically they may exert pro-oxidant effect. Popular drug diethyl carbamazine citrate harnesses the innate inflammatory response and the consequent oxidative assault to combat invading microbes. Methods: With this perspective, extracts of Vitex negundo L. (roots), Butea monosperma L. (leaves), Aegle marmelos Corr. (leaves), and Ricinus communis L. (leaves) were selected to explore the possible role of oxidative rationale in the antifilarial effect in vitro. Results: Apart from the last, other three plant extracts were reported to have polyphenolic compounds. Dose-dependent increase was found in the levels of lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation for all the three plant extracts except Ricinus communis L. (leaves). Such increase in oxidative parameters also showed some degree of plant-specific predilection in terms of relatively higher level of particular oxidative parameter. High degree of correlation was observed between the antifilarial effect and the levels of corresponding oxidative stress parameters for these three plants. However, extracts of Ricinus communis L. (leaves) which is relatively deficient in polyphenolic ingredients recorded maximum 30\% loss of motility and also did not show any significant difference in various stress parameters from corresponding control levels. Conclusion: These results reveal that targeted oxidative stress might be crucial in the pharmacodynamics.

}, keywords = {Antifilarial effect, B. malayi, Medicinal plants, Oxidative stress}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75453}, author = {RD Sharma and AR Veerpathran and G Dakshinamoorthy and KN Sahare and K Goswami and M.V.R. Reddy} } @article {909, title = {Production of Camptothecin in Cultures of Chonemorpha grandiflora}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {296-299}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {296}, abstract = {

Background: Chonemorpha grandiflora (Syn. Chonemorpha fragrans (Apocynaceae) is an endangered medicinal plant. It is used in different preparations, such as sudarsanasavam and kumaryasavam used in Kerala Ayurvedic system. C. grandiflora is used for the treatment of fever and stomach disorders. Phytochemical investigations have revealed the presence of steroidal alkaloids, such as chonemorphine and funtumafrine in C. grandiflora. Camptothecin, a well-known anticancer alkaloid has been detected in ethanolic extracts of stem with bark and callus cultures derived from C. grandiflora. Methods: Callus cultures of C. grandiflora were raised on Murashige and Skoog{\textquoteright}s medium supplemented with 2, 4-D. Stem with bark and callus were used for phytochemical analysis mainly the alkaloids. Detection and identification of camptothecin was carried out using thin-layer chromatography (TLC), high-performance thin-layer chromatography, (HPTLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results: An important anticancer alkaloid, camptothecin was detected in ethanolic extracts of stem with bark and callus cultures of C. grandiflora. camptothecin content was 0.013 mg/g in stem with bark and 0.003 mg/g in callus. Conclusion : This is the first report on in vivo and in vitro production of camptothecin in C. grandiflora. Camptothecin is known to occur only in six plant sources so, alternative sources for camptothecin are needed. Thus of C. grandiflora could be a new promising alternative source of camptothecin.

}, keywords = {Apocynaceae, Callus, Camptothecin, Chonemorpha grandiflora}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72327}, author = {AV Kulkarni and AA Patwardhan and U Lele and NP Malpathak} } @article {758, title = {Profile of Heavy Metals in Some Medicinal Plants from Ghana Commonly used as Components of Herbal Formulations}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {41-44}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {41}, abstract = {

The levels of some heavy metals in 27 medicinal plant species from Ghana were studied in order to evaluate their health implications. These plant species, especially those used in the treatment of diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and asthma may require long term usage. The metals were copper, zinc, iron, manganese, nickel and cadmium. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (wet digestion) was used for the analyses, and content of metals per sample was expressed as percent {\textmu}g/g. Daily total intake of these metals is discussed based on the recommended daily intake of the medicinal plants or their corresponding formulations. From the results of the study zinc, copper and cadmium were present in all the plant species examined. Manganese was present in all species except V. amygdalina. Iron was found in all except five species (82\%), whilst nickel was (rather rare) detected in only eight (30\%) of the plant species. Significant variations in metal content existed (P\<0.05) among the medicinal plant species with respect to the heavy metals evaluated. The concentrations of copper, zinc, cadmium and manganese were within their respective maximum permissible daily levels. However, some species, especially Ocimum canum (8), Clausena anisata and Rauwolfia vomitoria had levels of iron higher than the maximum permissible level of 1000 {\textmu}g/day and may require care to avoid iron toxicity. The results also highlighted the differences in contents of minerals in Lippia multiflora obtained from different locations in Ghana. The findings generally suggest that the use of these plant species for the management of diseases will not cause heavy metal toxicity and may be beneficial to the users in cases of micronutrient deficiency, as these metals were found to be present in readily bioavailable form.

}, keywords = {Health implications, Heavy metals, Herbal formulations, Mdicinal plant}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60579}, author = {Kofi Annan and Asante Isaac Kojo and Asare Cindy and Asare-Nkansah Samuel and Bayor Marcel Tunkumgnen} } @article {746, title = {Protective Effect of Stem Bark of Ceiba pentandra linn. against Paracetamol-induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {26-30}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {26}, abstract = {

The present study reports protective activity of ethyl acetate fraction of methanol extract of stem bark of Ceiba pentandra against paracetamol-induced liver damage in rats. The ethyl acetate fraction (400 mg/kg) was administered orally to the rats with hepatotoxicity induced by paracetamol (3 gm/kg). Silymarin (100 mg/kg) was used as positive control. High performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprinting of ethyl acetate fraction revealed presence of its major chemical constituents. A significant (P \< 0.05) reduction in serum enzymes GOT (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), GPT alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin content and histopathological screening in the rats treated gave indication that ethyl acetate fraction of methanolic extract of Ceiba pentandra possesses hepatoprotective potential against paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

}, keywords = {Ceiba pentandra, Hepatoprotective, Hepatotoxicity, Paracetamol}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60584}, author = {Nirmal K Bairwa and Neeraj K Sethiya and SH Mishra} } @article {862, title = {Rapid Preparation Process of Antiparkinsonian Drug Mucuna pruriens Silver Nanoparticle by Bioreduction and Their Characterization}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {233-236}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {233}, abstract = {

Backgorund: Development of biologically inspired experimental processes for the synthesis of nanoparticles is evolving an important branch of nanotechnology. Methods: The bioreduction behavior of plant seed extract of Mucuna pruriens in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles was investigated employing UV/visible spectrophotometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform {\textendash} infra red (FT- IR). Result: M. pruriens was found to exhibit strong potential for rapid reduction of silver ions. The formation of nanoparticles by this method is extremely rapid, requires no toxic chemicals, and the nanoparticles are stable for several months. Conclusion: The main conclusion is that the bioreduction method to produce nanoparticles is a good alternative to the electrochemical methods and it is expected to be biocompatible.

}, keywords = {Biosynthesis, Mucuna pruriens, Nanomaterials, Silver nanoparticle, Transmission electron microscopy}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69112}, author = {Subramanian Arulkumar and Muthukumaran Sabesan} } @article {868, title = {A Search for Mosquito Larvicidal Compounds by Blocking the Sterol Carrying Protein, AeSCP-2, through Computational Screening and Docking Strategies}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {247-253}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {247}, abstract = {

Background: Sterol is a very vital compound for most of the insects and mosquitoes to complete their life cycle. Unfortunately mosquitoes cannot synthesize the sterol, it depends on mammals for the same. Mosquitoes take the sterol from the plant decays during their larval stage in the form of phytosterol, which is then converted to cholesterol for further growth and reproduction. This conversion occurs with the help of the sterol carrier protein 2(SCP2). Methods: Mosquito populations are controlled by plant-based inhibitors, which inhibit sterol carrier protein (SCPI-Sterol carrier protein inhibitor) activity. In this article, we explain the methods of inhibiting Aedes aegypti SCP2 by insilico methods including natural inhibitor selection and filtrations by virtual screening and interaction studies. Results: In this study protein-ligand interactions were carried out with various phytochemicals, as a result of virtual screening Alpha-mangostin and Panthenol were found to be good analogs, and were allowed to dock with the mosquito cholesterol carrier protein AeSCP-2. Conclusion: Computational selections of SCPIs are highly reliable and novel methods for discovering new and more effective compounds to control mosquitoes.

}, keywords = {Computational screening, Docking, Mosquito sterol carrier protein, Phytochemicals, SCPI}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69126}, author = {R Barani Kumar and B Shanmugapriya and K Thiyagesan and S Raj Kumar and Suresh M. Xavier} } @article {930, title = {Secondary Metabolites and Bioactivities of Myrtus communis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {January 2011}, pages = {325-329}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {325}, abstract = {

Background: Myrtus species are characterized by the presence of phenolic acids, flavonoids, tannins, volatile oils and fatty acids. They are remedies for variety of ailments. This study therefore investigated medicinal effects of Myrtus communis L. Methods: Bioactivity studies of Myrtus communis L. leaves were carried out on volatile oil, 7\% methanol and aqueous extracts and the isolated compounds myricetin 3-O-β-glucopyranoside, myricetin 3-O-∝-rhamnopyranoside and gallic acid. Results: Determination of the median lethal dose (LD 50 ) revealed that the volatile oil, alcoholic and aqueous extracts were practically nontoxic and highly safe as no lethality was observed. The tested materials (volatile oil, alcoholic and aqueous extracts, myricetin 3-O-β-glucopyranoside, myricetin 3-O-∝-rhamnopyranoside and gallic acid) showed significant antihyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects as compared with control groups and reference drugs. Conclusion : Administration of extracts of M. communis leaves could be safe at the dose used in this study.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Antihyperglycemic, Antinociceptive, LD 50, Myrtus communis, Volatile oil}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.75449}, author = {Mahmoud I Nassar and El-Sayed A Aboutabl and Rania F Ahmed and Ezzel-Din A EL-Khrisy and Khaled M Ibrahim and Amany A Sleem} } @article {969, title = {Senna occidentalis Leaf Extract Possesses Antitrypanosomal Activity and Ameliorates the Trypanosome-induced Anemia and Organ Damage}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {175-180}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {175}, abstract = {

The in vitro and in vivo antitrypanosomal effects of the ethanol extract of Senna occidentalis leaf were investigated. The crude extract exhibited an in vitro activity against Trypanosoma brucei brucei as it completely eliminated parasites{\textquoteright} motility within 10 minutes postincubation with 6.66 mg/ml of effective extract concentration. The extract was further used to treat experimentally T. brucei brucei infected rats at concentrations of 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight, beginning on day 5 post infections (p.i.). At the termination of the experiment on Day 11 p.i., the extract significantly (P \< 0.05) kept the parasitemia lower than was recorded in the infected untreated rats. All the infected animals developed anemia, the severity of which was significantly (P \< 0.05) ameliorated by the extract treatment. The infection caused significant (P \< 0.05) increases in serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferases as well as serum urea and creatinine levels. However, treatment of infected animals with the extract significantly (P \< 0.05) prevented the trypanosome-induced increase in these biochemical indices. Furthermore, the T. brucei infection caused hepatomegaly and splenomegaly that were significantly (P \< 0.05) ameliorated by the extract administration. It was concluded that orally administered ethanol extract of S. occidentalis leaf possessed anti-T. brucei brucei activity and could ameliorate the disease-induced anemia and organ damage.

}, keywords = {Anemia, Antitrypanosomal effect, Senna occidentalis, Trypanosoma brucei brucei}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65513}, author = {MA Ibrahim and AB Aliyu and AB Sallau and M Bashir and I Yunusa and TS Umar} } @article {736, title = {Solanum Trilobatum in the Management of Atopy: Through Inhibition of Mast Cell Degranulation and Moderation of Release of Interleukins}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {March 2010}, pages = {10-14}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {10}, abstract = {

Solanum trilobatum is a widely used plant in the Indian indigenous systems of medicine. It is mainly used in the treatment of respiratory diseases like bronchial asthma. In our present study, we report that the aqueous and alcoholic extracts of S. trilobatum exhibited inhibition of mast cell degranulation. Further, aqueous and alcoholic extracts of S. trilobatum significantly decreased the release of IL1α and increased the release of IL8 from the cultured keratinocytes. Oral administration of the aqueous and alcoholic extracts of S. trilobatum stabilized mast cells in experimental rats.

}, keywords = {Histamine, Immunomodulation, Interleukin, Mast cell, Medicinal plants, Solanum trilobatum}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.60581}, author = {MS Ranjith and A J A Ranjitsingh and S Gokul Shankar and GS Vijayalaksmi and K Deepa and K Babu and Harcharan Singh Sidhu} } @article {864, title = {Standardization of a Compound Unani Herbal Formulation {\textquotedblleft}Qurs-e-Luk{\textquotedblright} with Modern Techniques}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {237-241}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {237}, abstract = {

Background: With global realization that use of synthetic drugs is not safe on the long run, the medical fraternity at large is looking at alternatives from natural sources to combat diseases particularly those wherein conventional modern system of medicine has little to offer. On one hand, this realization has increased demand for herbal drugs and on the other hand need for quality standardization of these drugs has increased. Central Research Institute of Unani Medicine, Hyderabad, being engaged in multidisciplinary research in Unani Medicine, has taken up standardization of herbomineral drugs used in this system of medicine. One such drug {\textquotedblleft}Qurs-e-Luk{\textquotedblright} that is widely used by the practitioners of this system in mobilizing and reducing body fat has been utilized for standardization by modern techniques, so as to ascertain its quality. Methods: The parameters which were carried out are pharmacognostic studies, physicochemical parameters, high-performance thin layer chromatography, microbial load, aflatoxins, heavy metals, and pesticidal residues revealing specific identities for the particular drug and to evaluate pharmacopoeial standards. Results and Conclusion: Results suggest that the drug is safe for therapeutic use and its batch to batch identification for quality control is possible on the basis of present study.

}, keywords = {Heavy metals, HPTLC studies, Microscopic properties, Physicochemical analysis, Qurs-e-Luk}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69115}, author = {NMA Rasheed and VC Gupta} } @article {797, title = {Standardization of Ajmodadi churna, a Polyherbal Formulation}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {May 2010}, pages = {98-101}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {98}, abstract = {

Standardization of herbal formulations is essential in order to assess the quality of drugs, based on the concentration of their active principles. This article reports on standardization of Ajmodadi churna, a polyherbal ayurvedic medicine used as a carminative and an antispasmodic, and is a strong wormifuge, and helps in all painful conditions like sciatica and stiffness in back and also restores normal digestive functions. Ajmodadi churna was prepared as per Ayurvedic Formulary of India. In-house preparation and the marketed drug have been standardized on the basis of organoleptic characters, physical characteristics, and physico-chemical properties. The set parameters were found to be sufficient to evaluate the churna and can be used as reference standards for the quality control/quality assurance laboratory of a Pharmaceutical house.

}, keywords = {Ajmodadi churna, Physico-chemical, Polyherbal formulation, Standardization}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62957}, author = {Neeraj K Sriwastava and CS Shreedhara and HN Aswatha Ram} } @article {900, title = {Standardization of Alpinia calcarata Roscoe rhizomes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {285-288}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {285}, abstract = {

Background: Rhizomes of Alpinia calcarata Roscoe (Family: Zingiberaceae) possess several bioactivities and are used in the traditional medicinal systems of Sri Lanka. Methods: The present investigation was carried out to standardize the rhizomes of A. calcarata by (a) screening for phytochemicals (b) determination of physico-chemical parameters and (c) development of a Densitogram. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of polyphenols, tannins, flavonoids, steroid glycosides and alkaloids in A. calcarata rhizomes. The percentages of moisture, total ash, acid insoluble ash, water soluble ash, ethanol extractable matter and water extractable matter were of 5.5 - 6.8, 8.3 - 8.8, 0.036 - 0.040, 7.2 - 7.8, 22.6 - 24.8 and 18.6 - 20.5 respectively. Conclusion: The results obtained from this study can be used to standardize rhizomes of A. calcarata grown in Sri Lanka.

}, keywords = {Alpinia calcarata, Physico-chemical parameters, Phytochemicals}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72324}, author = {L.S.R Arambewela and L.D.A.M Arawwawala} } @article {918, title = {A Study of the Anti-inflammatory Effect of the Leaves of Psidium guajava Linn. on Experimental Animal Models}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {313-317}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {313}, abstract = {

Introduction : The aim is to study the anti-inflammatory effect of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Psidium guajava (PGE) on experimental animal models. Materials and Methods : Fresh leaves were collected, air-dried, powdered, and percolated in 95\% ethanol. Acute toxicity test was done according to OECD guidelines. Four groups of animals of either sex, weighing 150-200g of the species Rattus norvegicus were taken for the study (n = 6). Group A was taken as control (3\% gum acacia in 10 mL/kg body weight), Group B as test group (PGE 250 mg/kg body weight), Group C as test group (PGE 500 mg/kg body weight), and Group D as standard (Aspirin 100 mg/kg body weight). The animals were studied for acute inflammation by Carrageenan-induced rat paw edema, subacute inflammation by Granuloma pouch method, and chronic inflammation by Freund{\textquoteright}s adjuvant-induced arthritis method. Statistical analysis was done by one-way analysis of variance followed by multiple comparison tests. Results : In acute inflammation, there was significant inhibition of paw edema in Groups B, C, and D in comparison with Group A (P \< 0.05). In subacute inflammation, there was significant inhibition of exudate formation in Groups B, C, and D in comparison to Group A (P \< 0.05). In chronic inflammation, there was significant inhibition of paw edema and inhibition of weight reduction in Groups B, C, and D compared with Group A. Downregulation of arthritis index was also significant in Groups B, C, and D in comparison with Group A (P \< 0.05). Conclusion : The ethanolic extract of PGE has significant anti-inflammatory activity.

}, keywords = {Anti-inflammatory, Arthritis, Carrageenan, Granuloma, Psidium guajava}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72331}, author = {Sarmistha Dutta and Swarnamoni Das} } @article {922, title = {Is the Term Substitution Relevant to Pharmacognosy and/ or Vegetable Crude Drug Industry?}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {323-324}, type = {Short Communication}, chapter = {323}, abstract = {

Since each and every drug plant has its own characteristic features, in terms of its botanical characters, chemical composition and therapeutic properties, considering the highly potential drug plants as genuine plant and less potential (allied or non-allied) drug plants as substitutes is unjustifiable. Moreover, the term Substitution is being used for a couple of centuries in a wrong sense in pharmacognostic studies or in the vegetable crude drug industry. Therefore, the term {\textquoteright}Substitution{\textquoteright} has to be replaced by the relevant and appropriate term, {\textquoteright}Alternative{\textquoteright} or {\textquoteright}Alternative source{\textquoteright}.\ 

}, keywords = {Alternative, Alternative source, Crude drug industry, Pharmacognosy, Substitution}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.72333}, author = {A.B.D Selvam} } @article {832, title = {Triterpenes from Euphorbia rigida}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {July 2010}, pages = {159-162}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {159}, abstract = {

Phytochemical studies of the aerial parts of Euphorbia rigida afforded three triterpenes: betulin (1), cycloart-23Z-ene-3, 25-diol (2) and cycloartan-3, 24, 25-triol (3), firstly isolated from this plant. The structures and relative stereochemistry were determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses, including 1D and 2D NMR experiments (1H NMR, 13C NMR, COSY, NOESY, HMQC and HMBC).

}, keywords = {Cycloartan triterpene, Euphorbia rigida, Euphorbiaceae}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.65510}, author = {Noureddine Gherraf and Amar Zellagui and Naglaa S Mohamed and Taha A Hussien and Tarik A Mohamed and Mohamed-Elamir F Hegazy and Salah Rhouati and Mahmoud F M Moustafa and Magdi A El-Sayed and Abou El-Hamd H Mohamed} } @article {916, title = {Variation in Gymnemic Acid Content and Non-destructive Harvesting of Gymnema sylvestre (Gudmar)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {November 2010}, pages = {309-312}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {309}, abstract = {

Background: Madhunashini (Gymnema sylvestre R. Br.) commonly known as {\textquoteright}Gudmar{\textquoteright} in Hindi is an important medicinal climber and extensively used in almost all Indian System of Medicine as a remedy for diabetes, rheumatism, cough, ulcer, jaundice, dyspepsia, constipation, eyes pain and also in snakebite. In India, it is found growing in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharastra, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. The major phytoconstituents are gymnemic acids, gudmarin and saponins. Methods: In the present study, Gymnema germplasm collected from various regions of Madhya Pradesh was evaluated on the basis of their morphological characteristics and gymnemic acid content. Gymnemic acid content in the leaves was estimated by HPLC. We have also standardized the non-destructive harvesting practices of Gudmar. Selective harvesting was done without harming the main plant. Only mature leaves (60\%) were hand plucked in the month of October. Second harvest was done in the month of June. Results: Data revealed that gymnemic acid content varied between 0.96\% {\textpm} 0.03 (Seoni) to 1.58\% {\textpm}0.03 (Amarkantak). It was also observed that the leaves left at the time of 1 st harvest during October matured in June at the time of 2 nd harvest. Conclusion: Non destructive harvesting practice did not have any negative impact on overall development of the plant. It is evident that there is wide variation in the morphological characteristics and gymnemic acid content in G. sylvestre collected from various locations, which can be exploited for further crop improvement programmes.

}, keywords = {Cultivation, Gymnema sylvestre, Gymnemic acid, Non-destructive harvesting}, doi = { 10.4103/0974-8490.72330}, author = {Ashok Kumar Pandey and Swati Yadav} } @article {866, title = {Vasorelaxant Effect of Diterpenoid lactones from Andrographis paniculata Chloroform Extract on Rat Aortic Rings}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {September 2010}, pages = {242-246}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {242}, abstract = {

Background: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the possible mechanism of the vasorelaxant effect of the Andrographis paniculata chloroform extract (APCE) and diterpenoids, such as, 14-deoxyandrographolide (DA) and 14-deoxy-11, 12-didehydroandrographolide (DDA), on rat aortic rings. Methods: DA and DDA (10 μM to 40 μM) induce relaxation in the aortic rings pre-contracted with KCl (80 mM). Results: The IC50 values are 40.47 {\textpm} 1.44 and 37.43 {\textpm} 1.41\%, respectively, and this inhibition is antagonized by increasing the Ca2+ concentration in the Kreb{\textquoteright}s medium. The results indicate that APCE, DA, and DDA may have a calcium anatgonist property. APCE, DA, and DDA also relax norepinephrene (NE)-induced sustained contractions with IC50 values 41.63 {\textpm} 1.19, 49.22 {\textpm} 2.76, and 37.46 {\textpm} 1.41\% and this relaxant effect is unaffected by the removal of the endothelium or by the presence of indomethacin and Nω-nitro- L-arginine (L-NAME). Moreover, DA and DDA inhibit the phasic and tonic contractions induced by NE in a concentrationdependent manner and show the most potent inhibition on phasic contraction (P \< 0.01). Conclusion: This study shows that APCE, DA, and DDA pre-treatment presents a more potent inhibition compared to post-treatment, after the tension has reached a steady state. These results suggest that the vasorelaxation of APCE, DA, and DDA direct the inhibition of the calcium influx. The vasorelaxant effect is more active in the calcium independent pathway and more sensitive in the intial stage of contraction.

}, keywords = {12-didehydroandrographolide, 14-deoxy-11, 14-deoxyandrographolide, Andrographis paniculata, Aorta, APCE, Vasorelaxation}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.69125}, author = {RN Sriramaneni and Ameer Z Omar and Salman M IbrahimX and Salman M Ibrahim and Sadikun Amirin and Asmawi Mohd Zaini} } @article {770, title = {Wound Healing Properties and Kill Kinetics of Clerodendron splendens G. Don, a Ghanaian Wound Healing Plant}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {2}, year = {2010}, month = {May 2010}, pages = {63-68}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {63}, abstract = {

As part of our general objective of investigating indigenous plants used in wound healing in Ghana, we hereby report our findings from some in vitro and in vivo studies related to wound healing activities of Clerodendron splendens G. Don (Verbanaceae). Methanolic extract of the aerial parts of the plant was tested for antimicrobial activity against Gram positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus faecalis, Micrococcus flavus, as well as resistant strains of Staph. aureus SA1199B, RN4220 and XU212), Gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteous mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae) and Candida albicans using the micro-well dilution method. Survivor-time studies of the microorganisms, radical scavenging activity using 2,2{\textquoteright}-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and various in vivo wound healing activity studies were also conducted on the extract. The extract exhibited biostatic action against all the test microorganisms with a Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) ranging between 64 and 512 μg/ml and a free radical scavenging property with an IC 50 value of 103.2 μg/ml. The results of the in vivo wound healing tests showed that upon application of C. splendens ointment, there was a reduction in the epithelization period from 26.7 days (control) to 13.6 days along with a marked decrease in the scar area from 54.2 mm 2 (control) to 25.2 mm 2 . Significant increase in the tensile strength and hydroxyproline content were also observed as compared to the control and was comparable to nitrofurazone. The above results appear to justify the traditional use of C. splendens in wound healing and treatment of skin infections in Ghana.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Biostatic, Clerodendron splendens, Wound healing}, doi = {10.4103/0974-8490.62948}, author = {Stephen Y Gbedema and Kisseih Emelia and Adu Francis and Annan Kofi and Woode Eric} } @article {877, title = {Analysis of Total Proteins, Polysaccharides and Glycosaponins Contents of Orthosiphon stamineus Benth. In Spray and Freeze Dried Methanol: Water(1:1) extract and its Contribution to Cytotoxic and Antiangiogenic Activities}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {302-326}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {320}, abstract = {

Orthosiphon stamineus (OS), Benth, (Lamiaceae), popularly known as Java tea, is a useful traditional medicinal herb cultivated largely in Malaysia and in Indonesia. This study was conducted to investigate the primary metabolic contents, cytotoxicity and antiangiogenic activity of freeze dried and spray dried extracts of the OS methanol: water (1:1). Primary metabolic contents were evaluated for total proteins, total polysaccharides and glycosaponins (P\<0.05). Freeze dried extract showed high content of proteins and glycosaponins while contents of polysaccharides were high in spray dried extracts. Cytotoxicity was detected by MTT assay using MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line and anti angiogenesis assay was performed on rat aorta. Both extract showed moderate cytotoxic activity using extract in high and medium concentration. Freeze dried extract showed strong antiangiogenic activity while spray dried extract showed no activity. A significant change in total proteins of freeze dried extract may be the reason for strong antiangiogenic activity.

}, keywords = {Antiangiogenesis, cytotoxicity, Glycosaponins, Orthosiphon stamineus, Polysaccharides, Proteins}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Siddiqui M.J and Hafizoh S. N and Ismail Z. and Sahib H.B and Helal M.H.S and Majid A.M.S Abdul} } @article {923, title = {Antidiabetic Effect of Nauclea latifolia Leaf Ethanolic Extract in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {392-395}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {392}, abstract = {

The antidiabetic and possible toxicity of ethanolic extract of the leaf of Nauclea latifolia was studied in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Doses of 100, 200 and 400mg/kg body weight were given orally to the STZ-induced diabetic rats daily for 45 days. All the doses showed significant hypoglycaemic effect. The effect is however not dose dependent. Indices of liver and kidney functions studied were not statistically affected by the extract administration. Ethanolic extract of the leaf of N. latifolia thus exhibited antidiabetic action in STZ-induced diabetic rats with minimal toxicity.

}, keywords = {Antidiabetic activity, Diabetes mellitus, Nauclea latifolia, STZ-induced diabetic rats}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Gidado Abubakar and A. Ameh Danladi and E. Atawodi Sunday and Ibrahim Sani} } @article {732, title = {Antifouling Alkaloids from Crinum augustum (Amaryllidaceae)}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {43-52}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {43}, abstract = {

Fractionation and purification of the ethanolic extract of the bulbs of Crinum augustum Rox. (Amaryllidaceae) cultivated in Egypt yielded five alkaloids 6-methoxy-crinamine (1), crinamine (2), buphanisine (3), ungeremine (4), and hippadine (5); two fatty acid derivatives: myristic acid ethyl ester (6) and palmitic acid ethyl ester (7); four terpenoidal and steroidal compounds: ursolic acid (8), \%-sitosterol-O- \% glucopyranoside (9) and mixture of \%- sitosterol (10) and stigmasterol (11). The structures of all compounds were determined by interpretation of their spectroscopic data; 1D (1H and 13C), 2D (HSQC, COSY, DQF, NOE and HMBC) NMR; MS and UV analyses. The compounds (1-4) and (6-8) were tested towards biofouling activity using larvae of barnacle Balance amphitrie. Significant activities of 1, 2 and 3 with EC50 1.8, 1.2 and 0.75 :g/mL respectively, were observed.

}, keywords = {Amaryllidaceous, Anti-fouling, Crinum augustum, Natural Products}, author = {John Refaat and Ahmed Abdel-Lateff and Mohamed S. Kamel and Ahmed A. Ali and Mahmoud A. Ramadan and Tatsufumi Okino and Yasuyuki Nogata} } @article {917, title = {Antifungal activity of Tabernaemontana stapfiana Britten (Apocynaceae) Organic Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {387-391}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {387}, abstract = {

The methanol and successive (hexane, dichlroromethane, ethyl acetate and methanol) extracts of leaves, fruits, root and stem barks of Tabernaemontana stapfiana Britten were investigated for antifungal activity against four fungi; Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. The extracts of the different plant parts showed varied activities against the tested fungi with the stem and root barks showing significant antifungal activities. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of methanol and sequential extracts ranged between 31.25 and 8000 μg/ml while the minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) ranged between 125 and 8000 μg/ml. Among the test microorganisms, Candida albicans was the most susceptible with the lowest MIC of 31.25 μg/ml followed by Cryptococcus neoformans with an MIC of 62.25 μg/ml. These results show that it is possible to find antifungal compounds in the extracts of T. stapfiana.

}, keywords = {Tabernaemontana stapfiana Britten; Apocynaceae; Antifungal activity; Minimum inhibitory concentration; Minimum fungicidal concentration}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Ruttoh E.K and Bii C and Tarus P.K. and Machocho A and Karimi L.K. and Okemo P} } @article {735, title = {Anti-hepatotoxicity Effect of Orthosiphon stamineus Benth against Acetaminophen-induced Liver Injury in Rats by Enhancing Hepatic GST Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {53-58}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {53}, abstract = {

The present study was undertaken to assess the sub-chronic (14-day treatment) effect of oral administration of O. stamineus on hepatic drug metabolising enzymes and the protective effect against acetaminophen-induced liver injury in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. Healthy male SD rats weighing 200 g {\textpm} 10 g were used throughout the experiments. Isolated hepatocytes and liver cytosolic fraction were used to examine the effect of O. stamineus on the activity of aminopyrine N-demethylase and glutathione-S-transferase respectively. Hepatoprotective effect of O. stamineus was judged by comparing the serum levels of hepatic markers, i.e. AST, ALT and ALP and the percentage of hepatocytes viability between O. stamineus treatment groups and acetaminophen (APAP) control group. O. stamineus extract at 125 mg/kg (P\<0.01) and 500 mg/kg (P\<0.01) exhibited significant hepatoprotective effect by restoring the elevation of serum levels of AST and ALT and increased the percentage of hepatocytes viability in rats. The hepatoprotective effect exhibited by O. stamineus at dose 500 mg/kg was comparable to silymarin at dose 20 mg/kg in acetaminophen-induced liver injury rats. The activity of GST was 17\% higher in the rats treated with 500 mg/kg (P\<0.01) of O. stamineus compared with the control group. There was no significant difference in body weigh gained, food consumption, water intake and relative organ weight between the treatment group and the control group. Methanol extract of O. stamineus protects against acetaminophen-induced liver injury in rats by enhancing the activity of GST in liver.

}, keywords = {Acetaminophen, Glutathione-S-transferase, Hepatoprotective, Orthosiphon stamineus, Serum enzymes}, doi = {Nil}, author = {J.H. Chin and A.H. Hussin and S. Ismail} } @article {903, title = {Antihyperglycemic and Antioxidant Activities of Active Fraction from the Aqueous Extract of Momordica cymbalaria fruits in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {352-358}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {352}, abstract = {

The methanolic supernatant fraction (MSF) of the aqueous extract of Momordica cymbalaria fruits when given to streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats showed a significant reduction (65.9\%, P\<0.001) in fasting blood glucose levels at a dose of 0.5g/kg.b.w. These results were compared to that of glibenclamide, an oral hypoglycemic agent. The active MSF exhibited a dose dependent scavenging activity against 2, 2-diphenly-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and nitric oxide radicals with an IC50 value of 42.5 and 157.2μg/ml, respectively. Further, the MSF had relatively lower reducing power, compared to that of ascorbic acid. The total phenolic content of the fraction was found to be 132mg/gm of dry fraction. In conclusion, MSF possess antihyperglycemic and antioxidant properties, which could be due to the presence of steroidal glycosides or phenolic compounds.

}, keywords = {Antihyperglycemic, Antioxidant, Diabetes mellitus, Momordica cymbalaria, Streptozotocin}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Rajasekhar M.D and Ramesh Babu K and Vinay K and Sampath M.R and Sameena S.K and Apparao Ch} } @article {747, title = {Anti-inflammatory Activity of Ixora coccinea Methanolic Leaf Extract}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {80-90}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {80}, abstract = {

The anti-inflammatory activity of methanolic leaf extract (MLE) of Lxora coccinea Linn. (Rubiaceae) was investigated in this study. MLE showed dose-dependent anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model (r = 0.7; P\<0.01). MLE at a dose of 500, 1000, and 1500 mg/kg showed maximum inhibition of edema 36.7, 46.5, and 64.5\% respectively (P\<0.01). Oral administration of MLE of rats at a dose of 1500 mg/kg significantly inhibited peritoneal phagocytic cell infiltration (45.9\%; P\<0.05), impaired nitric oxide (NO) production in peritoneal cells (40.8\%; P\<0.01) and showed antihistamine activity (54.9\%; P\<0.01). In vitro treatment of rat peritoneal cells with MLE inhibited NO production dosedependently (82.2\% at 400 μg/ml, r = 0.99; P\<0.05). MLE also possessed significant, dose-dependent in vitro anti-oxidant activity (r = 0.88; P\<0.01; IC50 value = 8.0 μg/ml), membrane stabilizing activity (r = 0.81; P\<0.01; IC50 value = 6.4 ng/ml) and lipid peroxidation activity (36.7\% at 250 μg/ml; P\<0.01). Thirty-day oral treatment of rats with 1500 mg/kg did not show any adverse signs of toxicity or behavioral changes. These results suggest that anti-inflammatory activity of\ L. coccinea is mediated via inhibition NO production, phagocytic cell infiltration, anti-histamine effect, scavenging of free radicals, membrane stabilizing activity and lipid peroxidation.

}, keywords = {anti-inflammatory activity, Cell infiltration, Lxora coccinea, Membrane stabilization, Nitric oxide, nti-oxidant}, doi = {Nil}, author = {S. M. Handunnetti and R. R. Kumara and S. A. Deraniyagala and W. D. Ratnasooriya} } @article {589, title = {Anti-inflammatory activity of Sri Lankan black tea (Camellia sinensis L.) in rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {11-20}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {11}, abstract = {

This study examined the anti-inflammatory potential of Sri Lankan black tea (Camellia sinensis L. Family: Theaceae) using both acute (carrageenan-induced paw oedema) and chronic (formaldehyde-induced paw oedema and cotton pellet granuloma test) rat inflammatory models. Three dose of black tea brew (BTB) [84 mg/ml, equivalent to 1.5 cups; 168 mg/ml, equivalent to 3 cups; and 501 mg/ml, equivalent to 9 cups] were made using high grown unblend Dust grade No: 1 black tea samples and was orally administed to rats (n = 6-9/ dose/ test). The results showed that Sri Lankan BTB possesses marked and significant (P \< 0.05) oral anti-inflammatory activity against both acute and chronic inflammation. This anti-inflammatory activity was dose-dependent in the carrageenan-induced paw oedema test and cotton pellet granuloma test. Further, in the carrageenan paw oedema model, the anti-inflammatory activity of BTB was almost identical to green tea brew of both Chinese and Japanese types. Further, the BTB had significant antihistamine activity (in terms of wheal test) phagocytic cell migration inhibitory activity (in terms carrageenan-induced leucocyte peritoneal infiltration test), nitric oxide production inhibitory activity, antioxidant activity (DPPH method) and prostaglandin synthesis inhibition activity (in terms of rat enteropooling test). It is concluded that Sri Lankan black tea has marked anti-inflammatory potential against both acute and chronic inflammation which is mediated via multiple mechanisms.

}, keywords = {Camellia sinensis; Black tea; Anti-inflammatory activity; Anti-inflammation}, author = {W.D. Ratnasooriya and T.S.P. Fernando} } @article {861, title = {Anti-leukemia Activity of Methanolic Extracts of Lantana camara}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {274-279}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {274}, abstract = {

Anticancer effect of Lantana camara{\textquoteright}s root and leaf extracts against Jurkat leukemia cell line was investigated by MTT assay. These extracts had statistically similar antineoplastic property (root IC50, 328.36 {\textpm} 53.08 μg/ml; leaf, 394.41 {\textpm} 99.73 μg/ml; p \> 0.1, n = 3), averagely 1/10 times as activity as carboplatin (IC50 34.83 {\textpm} 3.60 μg/ml; p \< 0.05, n = 3). Decreasing cytotoxicity at higher concentrations implied the existence of cytoprotective compounds. Morphological examinations indicated apoptosis induction as the mechanism of activity on Jurkat cells. In conclusion, L. camara{\textquoteright}s root and leaf extracts might be subjects for further fractionation and identification to find new anticancer agents.

}, keywords = {anticancer, Cell Culture, Jurkat Cell Line, Lantana camara, MTT assay}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Badakhshan Mahdi Pour and Sreenivasan Sasidharan and Rameshwar Naidu Jegathambigai and Ramanathan Surash} } @article {863, title = {Antimicrobial and Resistance Modulatory Activities of Corynanthe pachyceras}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {280-284}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {280}, abstract = {

s part of the project to identify plant natural products which modulate bacterial multidrug resistance (MDR) the methanol extract of Corynanthe pachyceras (Rubiaceae) K. Schum., were tested for in vitro antibacterial and resistance modifying activities against different bacterial strains including resistant staphylococcus SA1199B, RN4220 and XU212 possessing the Tet(K), Msr(A), and Nor(A) multidrug resistance efflux mechanisms respectively. Using the Micro-well dilution method the MIC of the stem bark extract ranged between 128-512μg/ml against the selected bacteria used. At 10μg/ml, none of the different extracts displayed any antibacterial action but in combination with tetracycline, erythromycin and norfloxacin, the stem bark extract displayed a 2-fold, 4-fold and 8-fold potentiation of activities of these antibiotics against XU212, SA1199B and RN4220 possessing the Tet(K) [tetracycline resistant], Nor(A) [norfloxacin resistant] and Msr(A) [macrolide resistant] transporters respectively.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Corynanthe pachyceras, Resistance modulators, Staphyloccocus aureus}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Adu Francis and Gbedema Stephen Yao and Annan Kofi} } @article {914, title = {Antinociceptive activity of aqueous leaf extract of Tetracera sarmentosa L. in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {381-386}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {381}, abstract = {

In Sri Lankan traditional medicine mature leaves of Tetracera sarmentosa L. (Family : Dilleniaceae) is used as a healing agent in the treatment of bone fractures. A strong possibility exists that these leaves could possess antinociceptive activity but this has not been scientifically tested and validated. The aim of this study was to investigate the antinociceptive potential of an aqueous leaf extract (ALE) of T. sarmentosa in rats (doses used : 500, 750, and 1000 mg/kg, given orally) using three algesiometric methods (hot plate, tail flick and formalin tests). The results showed that ALE possesses marked and significant (p\<0.05) antinociceptive action when evaluated in hot plate (in a dose dependant manner) and formalin tests (only the highest dose tested) but not in tail flick test. The antinociceptive action of ALE had a quick onset (within 1 h) and a moderately long duration of action (up to 4 h). The antinociceptive action of ALE was not blocked by atropine (a muscarinic receptor antagonist) or metoclopramide (a dopamine receptor antagonist). Moreover, the ALE did not have sedative (in terms of hole board test) or membrane stabilizing (in terms of in vitro heat induced haemolysis of rat erythrocyte test) activities. ALE contained a wide variety of chemical constituents of which alkaloids, polyphenols, flavonoids, steroids may have contributed to antinociceptive action of ALE. Collectively, these observations suggest that ALE {\textendash} induced antonociception was mediated both centrally, at supraspinal level, and peripherally. The antinocicetion action was not due to cholinergic, dopaminergic, sedative and membrane stabilizing mechanisms but possibly due to opioidergic mechanisms (by indirect evidences). The results also suggest that ALE is effective against both neurogenic and inflammatory pains. In conclusion, this study shows, for the first time, that ALE of T. sarmentosa possesses moderately strong pain relieving activity, which is beneficial in the treatment of bone fractures.

}, keywords = {Antinociception, Nociception, Opioid mechanism, Pain inhibition, Tetracera sarmentosa}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Fernando T. R. G. W and Ratnasooriya W. D and Deraniyagala S. A} } @article {859, title = {Antioxidant activity of aquilaria malaccensis (thymelaeaceae) leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {270-273}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {270}, abstract = {

The phytochemical and antioxidant activity of Aquilaria malaccensis leaves were investigated. The sequential maceration extraction methods utilizing solvents with different polarities namely hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol yielded the corresponding crude extract. The extracts were subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening and revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavanoids, triterpenoids, steroids and saponins. The phytochemical screening suggests that flavanoids present in this species might provide a great value of antioxidant activity. Preliminary screenings of the free radical scavenging activity on the extracts of the plants with 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) were tested and showed positive result. Quarcetine was used as reference standard. The extracts exhibited strong antioxidant activity radical scavenging activity with IC50 value of 8.0 {\texttimes} 102 μg/ml, 1.6 {\texttimes} 102 μg/ml, 1.4 {\texttimes} 102 μg/ml, 30.0 μg/ml and 3.33 μg/ ml for hexane, DCM, ethyl acetate, methanol and quarcetine respectively.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Aquilaria malaccensis, IC50 value}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Huda A.W.N and Munira M.A.S and Fitrya S.D and Salmah M} } @article {948, title = {Antioxidant Activity of Leaves and Inflorescence of Eryngium Caucasicum Trautv at Flowering Stage}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {435-439}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {435}, abstract = {

Methanol extracts of leaves and inflorescence of Eryngium Caucasicum Trautv at flowering stage were investigated for their antioxidant activities employing six in vitro assay systems, i.e. DPPH and nitric oxide radical scavenging, reducing power, linoleic acid and iron ion chelating power. IC50 for DPPH radical-scavenging activity was 0.15 {\textpm} 0.01 for leaves and 0.39 {\textpm} 0.02 mg ml-1 for inflorescence. Reducing powers of both extracts increased with the increase of their concentrations. Leaves extract showed better activity than Vitamin C (p\< 0.05). Extracts showed weak nitric oxide-scavenging activity. Leaves extract exhibited better Fe2+ chelating ability (IC50=0.25 mg ml-1) that was comparable with EDTA. (IC50=18 μg ml-1). Inflorescence extracts had shown a very weak activity. Extracts showed very good scavenging activity of H2O2. IC50 was 25.5 {\textpm} 1.3 for leaves and 177.2 {\textpm} 11.6 mg ml-1 for inflorescence, respectively. No antioxidant activity exhibited in linoleic acid test. Extracts exhibited different levels of antioxidant activity in all the models studied.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, DPPH, Eryngium caucasicum, Folin-Ciocalteau, Free radical scavenging activity}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Ebrahimzadeh Mohamamd Ali and Nabavi Seyed Fazel and Nabavi Seyed Mohammad} } @article {867, title = {Antioxidant Effects of Roots of Clerodendrum serratum Linn.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {294-298}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {294}, abstract = {

Over the past decade, herbal and ayurvedic drugs have become a subject of world importance, with both medicinal and economical implications. A regular and widespread use of herbs throughout the world has increased serious concerns over their quality, safety and efficacy. Thus, a proper scientific evidence or assessment has become the criteria for acceptance of herbal health claims. In the present study we examined the antioxidant effects of ethanolic extract of roots of Clerodendrum serratum (CSR) at various concentrations in the DPPH radical scavenging assay, FRAP assay (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) and the Hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging assay. The results of the present study revealed that the plant extract has significant antioxidant activity and are encouraging for further assessment to elucidate the mechanism of action and to identify the bioactive compounds implicated in the antioxidant effect and the membrane stability.

}, keywords = {1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil); Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power, Antioxidant effect; Clerodendrum serratum Linn; DPPH (1}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Bhujbal S.S and Kewatkar S.M.K. and More L.S and Patil M.J} } @article {927, title = {Antioxidative Effect of Trichosanthes tricuspidata Root Extract on Sildenafil Induced Migraine in Albino Mice}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {402-405}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {402}, abstract = {

Migraine is considered a neurovascular disease involving the dilatation of cerebral arteries. Because of their dual role in modulating neuronal and vascular events, neuropeptides have been implied to be of importance in migraine pathophysiology. It is a highly prevalent disorder which manifests clinically as moderate to severe or severe headache attacks with frequent frontotemporal unilateral location and associated symptoms. The disability of migraine results in considerable economic and social losses .Nitric oxide, a short lived vasodilator and weak oxygen radical has been implicated in the genesis of migraine headaches. Hence the role of all enzymic and non enzymic antioxidants becomes in evitable in the treatment of migraine. Trichosanthes tricuspidata{\textquoteright}s (red apple gourd) antioxidant effect was tested over Sildenafil induced migraine in female albino mice. The levels of antioxidant enzymes such as super oxide dismutase (SOD), lipid peroxidase(LPO), catalase(CAT) and glutahione peroxidase(GPx) were more promising in the treatment group fed with the root extract of Trichosanthes tricuspidata.

}, keywords = {Nitric oxide, Oxygen radical, Sildenafil, Stress}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Nithiya .P and Karthik Mohan} } @article {925, title = {Antiulcer Activity of Methanol Extract of Erythrina indica Lam. Leaves in Experimental Animals}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {396-401}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {396}, abstract = {

Gastric ulcer is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal disorders, which affects approximately 5{\textendash}10\% of people during their life. In recent years, abundant work has been carried out on herbal medicine to clarify their potential efficacy in gastric ulcer prevention or management. Here, present study was carried out to investigate antiulcer activity of methanol extract of Erythrina indica (family: Febaceae) leaves in pylorus ligated and indomethacin induced ulceration in the albino rats. Preliminary methanol extract of E. indica was subjected to the acute oral toxicity study according to the OECD guideline no. 423. Based on which, three dose levels i.e. 125, 250 and 500mg/kg were selected for the further study. In pylorus ligation induced ulcer model, various parameters were studied viz. gastric volume, pH, total acidity free acidity, and ulcer index. Ulcer index and percentage inhibition of ulceration was determined for indomethacin induced ulcer model. Ranitidine at 100mg/kg was used as the standard drug. Pretreatment of methanol extract of E. indica leaves showed significant (P\<0.01) decrease in the gastric volume, total acidity and free acidity. However, pH of the gastric juice was significantly (P\<0.05) increased only at higher dose, 500mg/kg. It showed also significant (P\<0.01) decrease in number of ulcers and ulcer score index in pylorus ligation and indomethacin induced ulceration models. The methanol extract of E. indica leaves possess significant antiulcer properties in a dose dependent manner. In conclusion the antiulcer properties of the extract may be attributed to the polyphenolic compounds that are present in it.

}, keywords = {Antiulcer activity, E. indica, Indomethacin, ranitidine}, doi = {Nil}, author = {S Sakat Sachin and Juvekar Archana} } @article {931, title = {Benincasa cerifera Ameliorates Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Hyperlipidemic Rat}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {406-409}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {406}, abstract = {

To investigate protective effect of Benincasa cerifera (BC) against kidney injury induced by Ischemia/Reperfusion (I/R) in hyperlipidemic (HC) rats. Hyperlipidemia was developed by cholesterol diet (2\% cholesterol and 20 \% coconut oil) feeding for 3 weeks. At the end of 3rd week, renal ischemia was induced by both renal arteries occlusion for 60 min followed 24 h of reperfusion. Methanolic extract of Benincasa cerifera (500 mg/kg/day) was administered orally 7 days before induction of ischemia. Benincasa cerifera treatment reversed all antioxidant parameters like superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents as well serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. This data conclude the renoprotective activity of Benincasa cerifera against renal damage induced by ischemia/reperfusion injury in hyperlipidemic rat.

}, keywords = {Benincasa cerifera, cholesterol, Oxidative stress, Renal ischemia/reperfusion injury}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Bhalodia Y.S and Patel N.J and Patel R.K and Vaghasiya J.D and Jivani N.P and Sheth N.R} } @article {891, title = {Bioactivity-Directed Separation of an Anxiolytic Fraction from Aethusa cynapium L.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {336-341}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {336}, abstract = {

The present study evaluated the putative anxiolytic activity of petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol and water extracts of the aerial parts of Aethusa cynapium using the widely accepted elevated plus-maze (EPM) model in mice. The bioactive fraction was isolated by bioactivity-directed fractionation, and two chromatographic procedures - column and flash chromatography. Fraction 3.1.3.2 derived from the methanol extract of the plant, showed significant anxiolytic activity at a dose of 50 mg/kg p.o. which was comparable to the standard drug, diazepam (2 mg/kg p.o.). This sub fraction comprised two components as seen in the TLC profile. Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of unsaturated fatty acid in Fraction 3.1.3.2. The study demonstrates that A.cynapium has significant anti anxiety activity. This activity may be due to fatty acids present in the bioactive fraction.

}, keywords = {Aethusa cynapium, Anxiolytic effect, Column and flash chromatography, Elevated plus-maze model, L.}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Shri Richa and Singh Manjeet and Sharma Anupam} } @article {772, title = {Biological activity of Crambe orientalis L. growing in Iran}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {125-129}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {125}, abstract = {

Crambe orientalis (Brassicaceae) is a perennial herb growing wild in Iran. Cytotoxic, antioxidant, antimicrobial and phytotoxic effects of the plant leaves extracts have been evaluated by MTT, DPPH, Disc diffusion and lettuce assays, respectively. Our results showed that dichloromethane and methanol extracts of the plant leaves exhibited high cytotoxic effects against Mc-Coy cell line with IC50 value of 659 and 432 -g/ml, respectively. The extracts indicated high antioxidant activity with RC50 value of 33.3 and 40.5 -g/ml, respectively. Methanol extract showed strong antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. All the extracts displayed significant allelopatic potential, as well as. It is assumed that biological activity of the plant may be related to presence of isothiocyanates in the plant leaves.

}, keywords = {Allelopathy, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Crambe orientalis, Cytotoxic}, doi = {Nil}, author = {S. M. Razavi and G. Zarrini and S. Zahri and K. Ghasemi and S. Mohammadi} } @article {941, title = {Biological activity of two red algae, Gracilaria salicornia and Hypnea flagelliformis from Persian Gulf.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {428-430}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {428}, abstract = {

Among marine organisms, algae are a large and diverse group of organisms from which a wide range of secondary metabolites have been isolated. A number of these compounds possess biological activity. In this study, we aim to evaluate the cytotoxic, antibacterial and antifungal activity of two red algae, Gracilaria salicornia and Hypnea flagelliformis, collected from Persian Gulf. Ethyl acetate extracts of both algae showed a potent cytotoxic effect against Artemia salina nauplii (LC50 = 3 and 4 μg.ml-1, respectively). Aqueous methanol (50\%) extracts were also effective. None of the methanol and aqueous methanol extracts of the algae showed antifungal and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger by the Broth-dilution method. Only the ethyl acetate extracts exhibited antibacterial activity (MIC = 2 μg.ml-1) on S. aureus. In conclusion, G. salicornia and H. flagelliformis could be a promising source of cytotoxic components.

}, keywords = {Antibacterial, Antifungal, Cytotoxic, Gracilaria salicornia, Hypnea flagelliformis}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Saeidnia S and Gohari A. R and Shahverdi A. R and Permeh P and Nasiri M and Mollazadeh K. and Farahani F.} } @article {812, title = {Biological and Chemical Study of Cleome paradoxa B.Br.}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {175-178}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {175}, abstract = {

The methanolic extract of Cleome paradoxa B.Br. and its different fractions (viz. hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol) were tested for their antidiabetic activities. The ethyl acetate and hexane fractions exhibited the highest activities, which further subjected to chemical investigation. This study resulted in isolation of two compounds from the ethyl acetate fraction and three compounds from the hexane fraction. These compounds were identified using different spectroscopic methods as quercetin, quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (isoquercetrin), α-amyrin, sitgmasterol and sitgmasterol-3-O-β-D-glucpyranoside. The major compound isolated from ethyl acetate fraction, isoquercetrin, was assessed for its antidiabetic activity.

}, keywords = {Antidaiabetic, Antihyperglycemic, Cleome paradoxa, Isoquercetrin}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Essam Abdel-Sattar and Azza R. Abd El-Monem and Amany A. Sleem} } @article {777, title = {Case Reports of Bedsores Using Aloe Vera Gel Powder with High Molecular Weight}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {136-142}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {136}, abstract = {

It has been reported that the Japanese have higher rate of life expectancy and that Japan is rapidly becoming a super aging society. Almost 5 per cent of the aged, who develop diseases such as cerebrovascular related disorders, mental problems, fractures, cancer and infections also end up suffering from bedsores. It has been found that patients often opt for treatment, when the bedsores become very severe and adding more complications in their treatment. It may be presumed that prevention and early detection are vital for the treatment of bed sores. In our present study, we have tested herbal formulations having Aloe vera gel powder for its efficacy and activity on bed sores. Aloe vera gel powder with high molecular weight (AHM) was prepared from the gel part, by washing with running water using the patented freeze-drying under micro wave and far infra red irradiations in which barbaloin content was less than 10 ppm in powder form. The treatment was given by applying the macromolecule aloe ointment for bedsores from {\textquoteright} degree to ( degree ulcer patients. The results have shown that AHM in the ointment form indicated a high possibility to cure bedsores. Being very difficult to cure, due to the patient{\textquoteright}s peculiar conditions such as old age, inability of the patient to turn by himself/herself and also due to complications caused by other symptoms. We were able to confirm the effectiveness of the macromolecule aloe ointment in four cases of bedsores with two cases of positive control, using the Design Score and by checking the side effects. In this study, our report is based on the preclinical trials for bedsores by the external use of the macromolecule aloe ointment.

}, keywords = {Bedsores, Case reports, Macromolecule Aloe vera ointment}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Keizo Matsuo and Akira Yagi and Amal Kabbash} } @article {814, title = {Cestocidal Activity of Acacia caesia stem bark on Raillietina echinobothrida}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {179-184}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {179}, abstract = {

The effects of the methanol extract of Acacia caesia Linnaeus (Mimosaceae) stem bark were examined on the avian gastrointestinal cestode, Raillietina echinobothrida Megnin. In vitro treatments of the cestodes with different concentrations, viz, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 mg ml-1, of the plant extract indicated that the plant extract caused dose-dependent paralytic and mortality effects similar to that of albendazole, with significant mortality (P \< 0.05) when compared to the control. However, the plant extract showed significant lethal effect only at the higher concentrations such as 5, 10, and 20 mg ml-1 while albendazole was effective at all concentrations tested. Scanning electron microscopy of the cestode treated with 20 mg ml-1 of the plant extract showed profound morphological alterations which were the deliberate hallmark effects of anthelmintic drugs. Devastating obliteration of tegumental surface, focal erosion and degeneration of the microtriches of the proglottids, and distortion of suckers on the scolex were clearly discernible. The plant extract thus showed profound anthelmintic effects and apparently acted trans-tegumentally to cause morphological damages.

}, keywords = {Acacia caesia, Albendazole Anthelmintic, Cestode, Raillietina echinobothrida, Scanning electron microscopy, Tegument}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Lalchhandama K.} } @article {769, title = {Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Artemisia tschernieviana Besser from Iran}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {120-124}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {120}, abstract = {

The oil obtained from hydrodistillation of the aerial parts of Artemisia tschernieviana was analyzed by GC and GC/MS. The main constituents of the 30 identified components were p-cymene (21.3\%), {\textquoteright}-pinene (17.8\%), *-pinene (9.4\%), --terpinene (9.1\%), (Z)-cis-ocimene (8.8\%), and *-cadinol (8.1\%). This species is rich in monoterpenes. Antimicrobial activity was determined against six bacterial strains and one fungal strain. The results show that this oil is active against all the tested strains.

}, keywords = {Artemisia tschernieviana Besser; Essential oil; Antimicrobial activity; p-cymene; {\textquoteright}-pinene; *-pinene; --terpinene; (Z)-beta-ocimene; *-cadinol}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Masoud Kazemi and Mohammad Dakhili and Abdolhossein Rustaiyan and Kambiz Larijani and Mohammad Ali Ahmadi and Valiolah Mozaffarian} } @article {590, title = {Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oil of Artemisia annua L. from Iran}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {21-24}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {21}, abstract = {

The composition of the essential oil obtained from the dried flowering aerial parts of Artemisia annua L. (Compositae) was analysed by GC and GC/MS. Thirty-two components were identified in the essential oil of A. annua L. with campher (48.00\%), 1,8-cineole (9.39\%), camphene (6.98\%) and spathulenol (4.89\%) as major components. The essential oil was evaluated for antibacterial and antifungal activities . The activity was more pronounced against fungal organisms than against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

}, keywords = {Artemisia annua L.; Essential oil; GC/MS; Antimicrobial activity}, author = {Verdian-rizi M.R} } @article {895, title = {Chemical Constituents and Bioactivities of Malabaila suaveolens}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {342-347}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {342}, abstract = {

Volatile oil components, fatty acids, β-amyrin, and sterols were identified in the n-hexane extract of Malabaila suaveolens Coss. fruits. Angelicin, 4,7,9-trimethyl psoralen, isopimpinellin and umbelliferone were isolated from the dichloromethane extract of the plant. 5-Hydroxy 7, 3{\textquoteleft}, 4{\textquoteleft}-trimethoxyflavone, apigenin and its 7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside were isolated from the ethyl acetate extract. From the methanol extract, a new flavonoid, apigenin 7-O-(6{\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}-O-p-hydroxybenzoyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), along with vicenin 2, acacetin 7-O-rutinoside, and 6-hydroxyapigenin 7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside were isolated. Toxicity study of n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate extract and methanolic extracts of the plant proved that it is relatively nontoxic. The tested extracts showed significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects as compared with control groups and reference drugs. Also, the tested extracts showed significant antioxidant activity as compared with reference.

}, keywords = {Bioactivity., Coumarins, Flavonoids, Malabaila suaveolens}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Nassar Mahmoud I and Aboutabl El-Sayed A and Maklad Yousreya A and El-Khrisy Ezzel-Din A and Osman Abeer F} } @article {787, title = {Chemical Investigation of Aerial Parts of Gmelina asiatica Linn by GC-MS}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {152-156}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {152}, abstract = {

This study was carried out to analyze the active constituents present in aerial parts of Gmelina asiatica Linn. (Verbenaceae). Twenty-two compounds in chloroform extract and 12 compounds in ethanolic extract were identified by Gas Chromatography {\textendash} Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. 1, 2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, diisooctyl ester (31.22 \%) was the prevailing compound in chloroform extract and Monolinoleoylglycerol trimethylsilyl ether (38.51\%) was the major constituent of ethanolic extract. This is the first report of identification of active constituents from aerial parts of Gmelina asiatica by GC-MS.

}, keywords = {1, 2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid diisooctyl ester, GC-MS, Gmelina asiatica (Verbenaceae), Monolinoleoylglycerol trimethylsilyl ether.}, doi = {Nil}, author = {N. J. Merlin and V. Parthasarathy and R. Manavalan and S. Kumaravel} } @article {899, title = {A Comparative Study: Antimicrobial Activity of Methanol Extracts of Lantana camara Various Parts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {348-351}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {348}, abstract = {

Finding new resources of antibiotics based on natural products used by traditional practitioners was the main aim to study extracts of root, stem, leaf, flower and fruit of Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae), a medicinal plant available in Malaysia. A panel of organisms including 10 bacteria and 5 fungi were treated by L. camara extracts of different parts based on disk diffusion method and broth microdilution technique. The leaf extract presented the highest antibiotic effect among all parts of plant especially against Gram positive Bacillus cereus (zone of inhibition 13.0 {\textpm} 0.0 mm, MIC/MBC 9.4 {\textpm} 4.4 mg/ml) and Gram negative Salmonella typhi (zone of inhibition 13.5 {\textpm} 2.1 mm, MIC/MBC 12.5 {\textpm} 0.0 mg/ml). In conclusion, this study may support the conventional use of leaf extract of L. camara in some infectious gastroenteritis disorders, a potential subject to further isolation and identification as a supply of antibacterial substances.

}, keywords = {Antimicrobial activity, Broth Microdilution, Gastrointestinal Diseases, Lantana camara, Minimum inhibitory concentration, Zone of Inhibition}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Badakhshan Mahdi Pour and Sasidharan Srinivasan and Rameshwar Naidu Jegathambigai and Ramanathan Suresh} } @article {880, title = {Comparative Study of Cuscuta reflexa and Cassytha filiformis for Diuretic Activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {327-330}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {327}, abstract = {

Aqueous and alcoholic extract of Cuscuta reflexa and Cassytha filiformis were investigated for diuretic activity in Wister rats. The extracts were administered once orally at a dose of 300mg/kg. Frusemide (20mg/kg) was used as standard reference drug and normal saline (25 ml/kg) was used as control. Total urine volume and concentration of Na+, K+ and Cl- excreted in urine were estimated. Aqueous and alcoholic extract of Cuscuta reflexa and Cassytha filiformis exhibited significant diuretic activity and caused marked increase in Na+ and K+ excretion, when compared to saline treated controls. However the diuretic activity of Cassytha filiformis extract was higher than that of Cuscuta reflexa.

}, keywords = {Cassytha filiformis, Cuscuta reflexa, Diuretic activity, Electrolytes}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Sharma Sakshy and Hullatti K.K and Prasanna S.M and Kuppast I.J and Sharma Paras} } @article {849, title = {Comparison Between the Antioxidant Properties of Slurry of the Coffee (Coffea Arabica) and Coffee Beverage}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {245-249}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {245}, abstract = {

Residues of coffee called slurry are totally discarded after preparing coffee beverages and they do not present any potential use. These represent about 15{\textendash}20\% of coffee production on weight basis and attention are giving in how explored them. Coffee residues and beverage were evaluated, after extraction with different solvents such as hexane, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, ethanol and methanol. Antioxidant potential from extracts were evaluated then, for this purpose, was used in vitro models such as radical scavenging activity (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, DPPH.), reducing power activity and chelating capacity. The highest yields were obtained for dichloromethane (B), ethyl acetate (C) and methanol (I). B extract exhibits the maximum radical scavenging activity (91.8\%) followed by C extract (85.6\%) and then, I extract (57.4\%) each one at 200 mg L{\textendash}1. For reducing power activity the extracts B, C, I, ethanol (H) and ethyl acetate (E) showed 85.4\%, 71.6\%, 36.2\%, 19.3\% and 12.4\% of antioxidant activity, respectively, at 1000 mg L{\textendash}1. The chelating capacity for I, ethanol (F), C and B extracts was 14.8\%, 14.7\%, 9.9\% and 4.3\% when compared to etilendiamintetracetic acid (EDTA) chelating capacity. The high antioxidant potentials observed for the extracts of the slurry is due to the presence of phenolic compounds including chlorogenic acids which make them more suitable as a source of natural antioxidant.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant activity, Coffea Arabica Roasted coffee, Slurry of coffee}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Rocha Bruno Alves and Batista Bruno Lemos and Duarte Stella Maris da Silveira and Dos Santos and Marcelo Henrique} } @article {773, title = {Cytotoxic Acetogenins from Annona glabra Cultivated in Egypt}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {130-135}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {130}, abstract = {

Bio-assay guided fraction of the methanolic extract of Annona glabra seeds (Annonaceae), cultivated in Egypt, revealed to the isolation of three bis-tetrahydrofuran acetogenins; squamocin-C (1), squamocin-D (2), and annonin I (3). Compounds 1 and 2 were obtained as stereoisomeric mixture. All isolates were assayed for their cytotoxicity twards brine shrimp and five in vitro cancer cell lines (A549, HT29, MCF 7, RPMI, and U251), and showed significant activity The structures of all compounds were determined by interpretation of their NMR and MS analyses.

}, keywords = {Acetogenin, Annona glabra, Annonaceae, Brine shrimp, Cytotoxic}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Ahmed Abdel-Lateff and Bassem S. El-Menshawi and Mohamed Y. Haggag and Mahmoud A. Nawwar} } @article {803, title = {Damarane Triterpene from Cleome arabica}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {162-165}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {162}, abstract = {

A damarane triterpene was isolated from the aerial parts of Cleome arabica L. (Capparaceae). The structure of the compound was elucidated by extensive spectroscopic methods including 1 D- [1H and 13C] and 2D- NMR experiments [COSY, HMQC, HMBC] as well as HRMALDITOFMS analysis.

}, keywords = {Cleome arabica, Damarane triterpene}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Khalafallah Ali K and Mohamed Abou-El-Hamd H and Yousof Afifi H and Hussien Taha A and Mohamed-Elamir F and Hegazy and Ohta Shinji} } @article {740, title = {Dermal Wound Healing Effect of Pistacia Lentiscus Fruit{\textquoteright}s Fatty Oil}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {66-71}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {66}, abstract = {

Several natural products have been shown to accelerate wound healing process. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of Pistacia lentiscus fruits fatty oil on cutaneous wound healing in rat, and to compare this effect to that of saponifiable and unsaponifiable oily fractions. Full-thickness excision wounds were made on the back of anesthetised rats. The fruit{\textquoteright}s oil and the two fractions were assessed together with a conventional drug, i.e. Madecassol{\textregistered}. Preparations were topically applied on the area of excised wounded once a day and assessed for a period of 26 days. During this period, wound area was measured and photographically documented. Wound contraction, expressed as percentage, was significantly (P\<0.05) enhanced in the presence of Pistacia lentiscus oil, unsaponifiable oily fraction and Madecassol{\textregistered} treatments compared to the control, untreated animals. Furthermore, wound healing potentially effect was more pronounced in case of the oily unsaponifiable fractiontreated group compared to the others groups. Results clearly substantiate the healing potential effect on wound of a topic application of the Pistacia lentiscus fruits fatty oil and its unsaponifiable fraction.

}, keywords = {Dermal wound, Healing activity, Oil, Pistacia lentiscus}, doi = {Nil}, author = {N. Boulebda and A. Belkhiri and F. Belfadel and A. Bensegueni and L. Bahri} } @article {847, title = {Determination of Radical Scavenging Activity of Hydroalcoholic and Aqueous Extracts from Bauhinia divaricata and Bougainvillea spectabilis Using the DPPH Assay}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {238-244}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {238}, abstract = {

Bauhinia divaricata and Bougainvillea spectabilis are medicinal plants widely distributed in Mexico and they are used because of its potential hypoglycemic action; however, no free radical scavenging activity (RSA) studies over these plants are known. Thus, aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts from leaf and stem samples were evaluated for their RSA using 1,1-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl free radical (DPPH{\textbullet}). Total phenolics and flavonoids extracts were determined too. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS statistical program with the significance level set at P\<0.05. Bauhinia divaricata stem aqueous extracts with total phenols content of 12.98 mg GAE/g DW had the highest amount between samples. The same behavior was shown in flavonoids determination. However, when RSA was estimated it was found that stem aqueous extracts from Bougainvillea spectabilis produced more DPPH absorbance reduction (95.66\%), with an IC50 (the concentration to inhibit the oxidation of DPPH by 50\%) and AP (reciprocal of IC50) values of 0.03 μg/mL and 33.33, respectively. These results were superior to common synthetic antioxidants used in the food industry like butylated hydroxyl toluene (BHT, IC50=62 μg/mL) and can be useful for further applications of these plants or its constituents in pharmaceutical and alimentary preparations.

}, keywords = {Antioxidants, Bauhinia, Bougainvillea, Flavonoids, Phenolics}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Chaires-Mart{\'\i}nez L and Monroy-Reyes E and Bautista-Bringas A and Jim{\'e}nez-Avalos H. A and Sepulveda-Jim{\'e}nez G} } @article {837, title = {Development and Evaluation of Polyherbal Formulations for Hair Growth Potential}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {234-237}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {234}, abstract = {

The present study is an effort to formulate and evaluate hair growth promoting activity of three polyherbal formulations. Polyherbal formulations were prepared using extract of Cicer arietinum Linn., Ocimum sanctum Linn. and Cyperus rotundus Linn. in various ratios to obtained the best formulation The extract incorporated into cream were applied topically on shaved skin of rats and primary skin irritation test, hair growth initiation time, completion time, hair length and diameter were recorded. The ratio of Cicer arietinum Linn., Ocimum sanctum Linn. and Cyperus rotundus Linn. in 1:2:3 showed excellent hair growth activity comparable to standard.

}, keywords = {Alopecia, Hair growth, Herbal formulation, Polyherbal}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Rathi Vaishali and Rathi Jagdish Chandra and Tamizharasi Sengodan} } @article {869, title = {Diabetes Induced Oxidative Stress: A Comparative Study on Protective Role of Momordica charantia and Metformin}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {299-306}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {299}, abstract = {

Diabetes mellitus is associated with oxidative stress which plays an important role in development of chronic complications of diabetes. Due to various side effects associated with the drugs used for the management of diabetes, the development of new plant based drugs is the renewed interest of the present time. The new prospective anti-diabetic formulations should possess anti-oxidative potential to resist the oxidative insult of tissues during diabetes and their potential should also be comparable with standard drugs. Momordica charantia is extensively used in India, China and other parts of the world as vegetable. The present study was aimed to investigate the effect of Momordica charantia (MC) on antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation in liver and kidney of alloxan induced diabetic rats. In a 30 days treatment, rats were divided into four groups (I-IV) of five animals in each, experiments were repeated thrice. Administration of MC (13.33 g pulp/kg body weight/day) extract in diabetic rats has remarkably improved the elevated levels of fasting blood glucose. A significant decrease in lipid peroxidation (p\<0.001) and increase in the activities of key antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and reduced glutathione (GSH) contents in liver and kidney tissues of diabetic rats were observed upon MC treatment. The antihyperglycemic and antioxidant properties of MC were comparable with Metformin, a standard hypoglycemic drug.

}, keywords = {Alloxan, Antioxidant status, Diabetic rat, Lipid peroxidation, Momordica charantia and metformin}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Tripathi Uma Nath and Chandra Deepak} } @article {754, title = {Dipeptidyl Peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) Inhibitory Activity of Parotid Exudate of Bufo melanostictus}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {98-101}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {98}, abstract = {

Type 2 diabetes arises as a result of -cell failure combined with concomitant insulin resistance. Glucagon-like peptide-1 is a gastrointestinal hormone that is released postprandially from the L cells of the gut and exerts a glucose- dependent and direct insulinotropic effect on the pancreatic  cell. Which activate adenylate cyclase and enhances insulin secretion. GLP-1 is rapidly degraded by DPP-IV to GLP-1(9-37) amide following release from gut L cells. GLP-1 directly enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion via an increase in -cell cAMP. Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) is a plasma membrane glycoprotein ectopeptidase. In mammals, DPP-IV was widely expressed on the surface of endothelial and epithelial cells and highest levels in humans have been reported to occur in the intestine, bone marrow and kidney. Inhibiting DPP-IV reduces its rapid degradation of GLP-1, increasing circulating levels of the active hormone in vivo and prolonging its beneficial effects. The IC50 value of parotid exudate was found to be 9.4 2g/ml. The maximum \% inhibition (61.8) was showed at a concentration of 122g/ml. Parotid exudate through inhibition of DPP-IV, improves glucose tolerance and enhances insulin secretion. DPP-IV inhibitors are a novel class of oral hypoglycemic agents with a potential to improve pancreatic beta cell function and the clinical course of type 2 diabetes.

}, keywords = {DPP-IV, GLP-1, Parotid exudate, type 2 diabetes}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Allenki Venkatesham and Neerati Prasad and Devarakonda R Krishna and Yellu Narsimha Reddy} } @article {588, title = {Diuretic activity of Sri Lankan black tea (Camellia sinensis L.) in rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {4-10}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {4}, abstract = {

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diuretic potential of Sri Lankan black tea (Camellia sinensis L.). This was assessed in rats using high grown Dust grade No: 1 tea, which is consumed widely by the tea drinkers worldwide. Different doses of hot black tea brew (BTB) (84, 167, 501 or 1336 mg/ml respectively equivalent to 1.5, 3, 9 and 24 cups) were made and orally administered to previously starved (24 h) but subsequently hydrated (with 15 ml of isotonic saline) rats and their urinary output was monitored cumulatively at hourly intervals for 6h. The reference drug used was frusemide (13 mg/kg). The results showed that BTB induced significant (P \< 0.05), mild to moderate and dose- dependent diuresis (starting from 167 mg/ml). This diuretic activity had a fairly rapid onset (within 2 h) and relatively short duration of action (3 h). BTB also significantly (P \< 0.05) increased the overall urinary frequency. Further, the diuretic activity of BTB was less potent to frusemide (by 45\%). Decaffeination of black tea almost completely abolished the diuresis. The diuresis of the BTB was solely due to increased (by 55 \%) urinary Na+ excretion (with no urinary K+ loss). Further, the chronic daily administration of the BTB did not develop tolerance or induce toxicity (general, renal and hepatic). It is concluded that BTB made from Sri Lankan high grown Dust grade No :1 tea has safe, mild to moderate diuretic activity with rapid onset and relatively short duration of action. Further, this study supports the claim made by Sri Lankan indigenous physicians that it is a diuretic.

}, keywords = {Black tea, Camellia Sinensis, Diuresis, Dust grade tea, Sri Lankan tea}, author = {W.D. Ratnasooriya and T.S.P. Fernando and R.A.A.R Ranatunga} } @article {911, title = {Effect of Bark Extract and Gum Exudate of Commiphora Caudata on Aspirin Induced Ulcer in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {375-380}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {375}, abstract = {

Commiphora caudata is used in Indian folk medicine as an antiulcerogenic agent. Despite of its promising use, there has been no scientific report present regarding its antiulcer activity. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the antiulcer activity of bark extract and gum exudate of commiphora caudata on aspirin induced ulcer in rats. Acute toxicity study was performed and 200 mg/kg was selected as an effective dose. Four groups of Albino Swiss rats were included in this study. Aspirin suspended in 0.5 \% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was given orally to group 1 rats as a negative control group. Group 2 and group 3 animals received methanolic extract and gum exudate of commiphora caudata respectively. Sucralfate was given orally to group 4 animals as a positive control. The methanolic extract of commiphora caudata has been found to reduce total acidity as much as by sucralfate. However, it has not changed the fluid secretion. The gum preparation not only reduced the total acidity but also considerably reduce the gastric fluid secretion. In case of ulcer score sucralfate, methanolic extract and the gum have produced the low ulcer score compared to aspirin. Increased gastric mucosal protective mechanism by bark extract and gum exudate is probably due to the presence of some active principles present in the plant. However, further investigations are required to elucidate their exact mechanism of anti-ulcer activity.

}, keywords = {Antiulcer, Aspirin, Bark extract, Commiphora caudata, Gum exudate, Sucralfate}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Nanthakumar R and Stephen Ambrose S and Sriram E and Babu G and Chitra K and Uma maheswara Reddy C} } @article {737, title = {The Effect of Extracts of Andrographis paniculata Aerial Parts on Rat Thoracic Aorta}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {60-65}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {60}, abstract = {

Andrographis paniculata (AP), (Burf.) Nees. of Acanthaceae, has been used for centuries in Asia to treat GI tract and upper respiratory tract infections, fever, herpes, sore throat, and a variety of other chronic and infectious diseases. AP has cardio protective property and is familiarly known as "King of Bitters". The present study was aimed to investigate the vasorelaxant effect of different solvent extracts of AP on rat thoracic aorta. Petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol extracts of AP are used in this study. Experiments are performed on male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats for possible vasorelaxing activity of AP. Cumulative dose response curves are recorded by using isometric force displacement transducer Model FT-03 and it is connected to Grass Polygraph Model 79D. Additionally, HPLC study of chloroform extract of AP is conducted and compared with commercially available standard andrographolide. Petroleum ether and chloroform extract of AP is first suspended in 1\% (v/v) DMSO then volume made up with Krebs solution. The average of responses to each concentration of the agonist is plotted on the ordinate the logarithm of the concentration of the agonist on the abscissa. Among all these extracts of AP, chloroform extract 80 and 160 9g/mL is found to be the highly significant (P\<0.001) vasorelaxant effect on norepinephrine induced contraction on rat thoracic aortic ring preparations.

}, keywords = {Andrographis paniculata, Norepinephrine, Rat aorta, Vasorelaxant}, doi = {Nil}, author = {S. Raghava Naidu and Amirin Sadikun and Mohd. Zaini Asmawi} } @article {876, title = {Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Chlorophytum borivilianum Tubers in Alleviating the Diabetic Impotency in Streptozotocin Induced Male Diabetic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {314-319}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {314}, abstract = {

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) has continued to grow over the past decade, and it is an important cause of organic impotence. In the present study we investigated the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of tubers of Chlorophytum borivilianum (CB) in alleviating the diabetic impotency in rats. Male wistar albino rats were classified into two groups as normal control and diabetic group. Normal control group rats were injected with 0.1 M citrate phosphate buffer (0.1 ml, i.p) while in diabetic group, DM was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 60 mg/kg) freshly dissolved in 0.1 M citrate phosphate buffer (pH 4.5). On confirming the diabetic state, the rats in diabetic group were individually tested for sexual potency by pairing them with pro-oestrus female rat. Diabetic rats showed a significant decline in the sexual potency as compared to the normal control groups. Following this, the diabetic rats were divided into four groups and treated orally as: diabetic control group with distilled water 2 ml/day, CB-100 group with CB 100 mg/kg/day, CB-300 group with CB 300 mg/kg/day and standard group with sildenafil citrate 4 mg/kg/day for 14 days. Their sexual behavior was evaluated on 15th day by pairing with a pro-estrous female rat and evaluated for CB, at 100 mg/kg, for sexual vigor and sexual arousal as compared to diabetic control rats. The study revealed dose dependent improvement in all the parameters of sexual behavior were enhanced against diabetic control group, reflecting increased potency.

}, keywords = {Diabetes mellitus, Hlorophytum borivilianum, Impotency, Streptozotocin}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Vyawahare N.S and Kagathara V.G and Kshirsagar A.D and Rajendran R and Patil M.N and Jagtap A. A and Sadar S. S} } @article {762, title = {Effect of Methyl Jasmonate on Production of Ariltetralin Lignans in Hairy Root Cultures of Linum tauricum}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {102-105}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {102}, abstract = {

Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment increases the levels of plant secondary metabolites, including ariltetraline lignans, which are considered to be the main active compounds in Linum tauricum. This study was concentrated on the induction of production of ariltetralin lignans in hairy roots cultures of L. tauricum, transformed by Agrobacterium rhyzogenes, ATCC 15834 by exposing them to different concentrations (50-200 microM) of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) during the culture period. The content of 4{\textquoteright}-demethyl-6-methoxypodo-phylotoxin (4{\textquoteright}-DM- 6MPTOX) and 6-methoxypodophyllotoxin (MPTOX), the main constituents in hairy roots of L. tauricum increased about 1.2 folds by elicitation of MeJA, however, the fresh weight, dry weight and growth ratio was inhibited by increasing MeJA concentrations. The highest total lignans yield was obtained with 150 microM MeJA treatment. These results suggest that MeJA elicitation is beneficial for lignan accumulation in the hairy roots cultures of L. tauricum.

}, keywords = {Hairy roots, Lignans, Linum tauricum, Methyl jasmonate}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Iliana Ionkova} } @article {591, title = {Effect of the Fractions of Coccinia grandis on Ethanol- Induced Cerebral Oxidative Stress in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {25-34}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {25}, abstract = {

The present study was aimed at investigating the effect of the various fractions of hydromethanol extract of the leaves of Coccinia grandis (Cucurbitaceae) against ethanol-induced cerebral oxidative stress in rats. The leaves of this species is used in traditional medicine for treating jaundice, bronchitis, skin eruptions, burns, rheumatism, syphilis, gonorrhoea, etc. Cerebral oxidative stress was induced in rats by the administration of 20\% ethanol (5 ml/100 g b.w.) for 28 days. The pet-ether (PEF), chloroform (CF), ethylacetate (EAF) and residual (RF) fractions at a dose of 200 mg/kg b.w. were simultaneously administered with ethanol orally for 28 days. Vitamin E at a dose of 100 mg/kg orally was used as the standard. Administration of ethanol resulted in a significant increase in the activities of serum transaminases, alkaline phosphatase, uric acid and lipid levels. In addition, there was a significant elevation in the levels of malondialdehyde and lipid hydroperoxides and a reduction in the activities of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in the brain. Simultaneous administration of the fractions prevented the enzymatic leakage and the rise in uric acid and lipid levels. All the fractions (except the residual fraction) prevented the peroxidative damage caused by ethanol, which is evidenced from the improved antioxidant potential. Further, histopathological examination of the brain tissue revealed that the fractions offered significant protection against ethanol toxicity. Among the fractions tested, the chloroform fraction exhibited appreciable antioxidant property, which was almost comparable with the standard Vitamin E. These results suggest that the leaves of Coccinia grandis exhibit significant antioxidant activity in ethanol-treated rats.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant enzymes, Coccinia grandis, ethanol, Hyperlipidemia, Lipid peroxidation}, author = {M. Umamaheswari and T. K. Chatterjee} } @article {729, title = {Effects of Ephedrine and Ephedra fragilis Crude Extracts on Human Peripheral Lymphocytes}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {38-42}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {38}, abstract = {

Ephedra fragilis Desf. (Ephedraceae), a locally cultivated medicinal plant, is a source of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, two important alkaloids, which have long played an important pharmacological role. The present study investigated the in vitro effects of ephedrine and the Ephedra branch extract on unstimulated lymphocytes. Ephedra alkaloids were extracted from various plant parts and after phytochemical analysis, the brine shrimp lethality test was used to determine the activity of the extracts. The LC50 of the branch extract was 581.395 μg/ml, showing no statistical difference from that of ephedrine (208.203 μg/ml). The ephedrine and extract did not show toxic effects on lymphocytes but exhibited immunostimulant activity. Although ephedrine cannot be used as an immune booster, it can be used as a lead drug for further immunological research.

}, keywords = {cell proliferation, cytotoxicity, Ephedra fragilis, Ephedrine, Lymphocyte activation}, doi = {Nil}, author = {E. Attard and K. Vella} } @article {945, title = {The Effects of N-butanol Fraction and N-butanol Phase Remnant From 50\% Aqueous-Ethanolic Extract of Cyndon Dactylon on Calcium Oxalate Kidney Stones in Rat}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {431-434}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {431}, abstract = {

Renal stones are common and its prevalence has been rising in both sexes. Treatment of patients with kidney stones in primary stages can reduce the side effects and may also prevent the surgical operations and postoperative complications. Several effects including: anti-microbial, anti-diabetic and cardioprotective effects have been reported for Cynodon dactylon. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of N-butanol fractionand N-butanol phase remnant of Cynodon dactylon extracton calcium oxalate kidney stones in male rats.

Twenty four male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups. All groups were studied during 35 days of experiment according to the protocol of study. Normal control group (1) received tap drinking water. Negative control group (2) received 1\% ethylene glycol in drinking water. Experimental groups (3 and 4) were treated with 1\% ethylene glycol as well as 5mg/kg N-butanol fraction or 5mg/kg N-butanol phase remnant from 50\% aqueous-ethanolic extract of Cynodon dactylon from first day of the experiment and continued during all protocol time.At the end of experiment, kidneys were removed for histopathologic study and examined for counting calcium oxalate deposits in 10 microscopic fields. Data were expressed as Mean{\textpm} SEM and were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis and subsequently by Mann-Whitney; p\<0.05 was considered significant. The results showed that the number of calcium oxalate deposits in 10 microscopic fields in groups 3 (p=0.008) and 4 (p=0.00) vs group 2 were significantly decreased. The results of this study revealed that N-butanol fraction and N-butanol phase remnant from 50\% aqueous-ethanolic extract of Cynodon dactylon can reduce calcium oxalate stones in the rat kidney by 40 and 55\% respectively. Therefore, Cynodon dactylon has beneficial effects on kidney stone removal and might be used in human treatment.

}, keywords = {Calcium oxalate, Cynodon dactylon, Ethylene glycol, Kidney stones}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Hajzadeh Musa-Al-Reza and Behnam Rassouli Fatemeh and Khajavirad Abolfaz and Mahmoudian Alireza} } @article {783, title = {Essential Oil Composition of Fruits and Leaves of Zanthoxylum nitidum Grown in Upper Assam Region of India}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, type = {Original Article}, abstract = {

Essential oils isolated by hydro-distillation from the fruits and leaves of Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC (Rutaceae), growing in upper Assam region of North-East India were analyzed by GC and GC-MS. The fruit volatile oil contained 17 components amongst which 75\% were monoterpenes, 12.5\% were sesquiterpenes and 12.5\% were straight chain hydrocarbons; whereas the leaf volatile oil contained 16 components out of which 60\% were monoterpenes, 13.3\% were sesquiterpenes, and 26.7\% were straight chain hydrocarbons. Linalool (23.3\%), limonene (12.9\%), 6-terpineol (8.3\%), 6-pinene (7.9\%) were the predominant monoterpenes of the fruit oil and the main monoterpenes in the leaf oil were limonene (33.1\%), geraniol (10.6\%) and carvone (9.6\%).

}, keywords = {Essential oil, Limonene, Linalool, Monoterpenes, Zanthoxylum nitidum}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Sanjib Bhattacharya and Md. Kamaruz Zaman} } @article {808, title = {Essential Oil Composition of the Dracocephalum moldavica L from Xinjiang in China}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {172-174}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {172}, abstract = {

The essential oil of Dracocephalum moldavica L from Xinjiang in China was isolated by hydrodistillation in yield of 0.15 \%(w/w). The chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed by GC and GCMS. Fifty-one compounds accounting for 99.45\% of the total oil were identified. The major components wereα-Citral (32.55\%),β-Citral (23.53\%), Acetic acid, geranial ester(21.32\%), Trans-Geraniol(3.38\%), Nerolacetate(3.38\%), Octane(2.14\%), and 2,4,6-Trimethyl -3-cyclohexene-1-carboxaldehyde (1.3\%). Monotenepers were the main group of compounds.

}, keywords = {Dracocephalum moldavica L, Essential oil composition, GC-MS}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Tian Shuge and Zhou Xiaoying and Zhang Fan and An Dongqing and Yang Tao} } @article {852, title = {Evaluation of anti-ulcer activity of Ardisia crispa Thunb. D.C}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {250-255}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {250}, abstract = {

Ardisia crispa Thunb D.C (Myrsinaceae), has long been used in treating various ailments among the local villagers. The objective of this study was to investigate experimentally the possible anti-ulcer activity of Ardisia crispa. The effect of hexane fraction of root of Ardisia crispa (ACRH) was evaluated in experimental ulcer models with necrotizing agents ie ethanol, NaCl, HCl, NaOH and also COX-1 inhibitor namely indomethacin as inducers. Four doses ie 10, 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg were selected for further study. Ulcer effects were determined by counting the total surface area of lesion in mm2. Results showed that ACRH provided significant protection in various experimental models used. Pretreatment with ACRH at all doses (10,30,100 and 300 mg/kg) has produced significant inhibition of gastric mucosal damage induced by 80\% EtOH and 25\% NaCl, whilst at 30, 100 and 300 mg/ kg, ACRH significantly reduced the lesion formation in ulcer induced by 0.6 M HCl, 0.2 M NaOH and 30 mg/kg indomethacin. The present study indicates that the hexane fraction of Ardisia crispa (ACRH) exhibits significant anti-ulcer effect.

}, keywords = {Anti-ulcer, Ardisia crispa, Ethanol-induced ulcer, Indomethacin{\textendash}induced ulcer, Necrotizing agents}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Roslida A.H and Teh Y.H and Kim K.H} } @article {827, title = {Evaluation of extracts of leaf of three Ficus deltoidea varieties for antioxidant activities and secondary metabolites}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {216-223}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {216}, abstract = {

Present study aimed to investigate alcoholic and aqueous extracts of three varieties of Ficus deltoidea for antioxidant activity using in vitro models such as free radical scavenging activity, reduction power of iron (III), superoxide anion (O2-) scavenging, xanthine oxidase (XOD), nitric oxide (NO{\textperiodcentered}) and lipid peroxidation. The total polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins were estimated using colorimetry in order to investigate their correlation with antioxidant activities. Alcoholic and aqueous extracts of different varieties of the plant exhibited different radical scavenging activities in different models (P\<0.05). Both the types of extracts displayed high antioxidant activity in DPPH and superoxide anion scavenging models, and the activity was comparable to quercetin, rutin, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), ascorbic acid and allopurinol. A correlation was observed between antioxidant activity and content of total polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins. The results of this study indicate that the extracts of Ficus deltoidea possess promising antioxidant activity.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Ficus deltoidea, Flavonoids, Polyphenols, Tannins}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Abdullah Zunoliza and Hussain Khalid and Ismail Zhari and Mat Ali Rasadah and Pisar Mazura and Jamaludin Fadzureena and Sahdan Rohana} } @article {815, title = {Evaluation of Extracts of Piper Sarmentosum for Accelerated Stability by Metabolomic Fingerprint Profiling}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {185-191}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {185}, keywords = {Metabolomic Fingerprint profiling, Piper sarmentosum, Piperaceae, Stability}, doi = {Nil} } @article {818, title = {Evaluation of Haematinic Potential of a Herbomineral Formulation (HMF-TE) in Haloperidol Induced Anaemic Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {192-196}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {192}, abstract = {

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common nutritional disorders worldwide, especially in India where 87\% of pregnant women suffer from anemia and out of these about 10\% have severe anemia (H \< 80 g/l). In the present study a new modified herbomineral formulation (HMF-TE) containing two natural mineral sources was prepared in laboratory along with different supportive herbs. This formulation was evaluated for its haematinic potential in haloperidol induced anemic rats. The formulation (HMF-TE) exhibited significant haematinic potential by increasing parameters like haematocrit value, hemoglobin concentration, RBC count, MCV, MCH and MCHC.

}, keywords = {Haematocrit, Haloperidol, Herbomineral, Iron deficiency anaemia}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Ashish Trivedi and S.H. Mishra} } @article {820, title = {GC-MS Analysis of Terpenes from Ficus mucuso}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {192-201}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {192}, abstract = {

Fractionation of the CH2Cl2/MeOH extract of the stem bark of Ficus mucuso, a western Cameroonian plant species lead to five main fractions from which eleven terpenes previously reported from other species of the genus were identified. These were based on GC-MS analysis and comparison with the Willey database.

}, keywords = {Ficus mucuso, GC-MS, Moraceae, Triterpene}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Djemgou Pierre C and Ngandeu Fran{\c c}ois and Hegazy Mohamed-Elamir F and Nkanwen Eric Rene and Neguim Gilles and Chosson Elisabeth and Verit{\'e} Philippe and Tane Pierre} } @article {935, title = {In vitro Antioxidant Effect of Rosa canina in Different Antioxidant Test Systems}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {417-420}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {417}, abstract = {

Rosa canina L. has been used since ancient times as a natural product and believed to be safe and almost without side effects. It can be administered easily for some diseases. The actual dose of Rosa canina being consumed is often variable, unpredictable or simply unknown. Therefore, in this study, five different (1\%, 2\%, 3\%, 4\%, 8\%) concentrations of Rosa canina infusions were used to determine the optimum antioxidant dose of Rosa canina by using different in vitro test systems. Our results suggest that Rosa canina has the potential to be used as an antioxidant substance at 3\% concentration. Therefore, it can be suitable to achieve this concentration at tissue level when used as a supplement to therapeutic regimens and for healthy living.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, DNA Damage, in vitro, Rosa canina}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Hasan Kili{\c c}g{\"u}n and Altiner Dehen} } @article {865, title = {Intestinal absorption, anti diarrheic activity of freeze dried aqueous extract from Rhizophora mangle L. Cytoprotective activity of polyphenolic compounds fractions on experimental gastric ulceration}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {285-293}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {285}, abstract = {

The effect of the freeze aqueous extract from red mangrove bark on intestinal absorption was studied in vitro e in situ models in rats. Anti diarrheic activity of this extract was evaluated using a model of ricin oil in rats. The polyphenolic fractions were separated from the aqueous extract and its cytoprotective activity were studied on gastric ulceration induced by ethanol plus hydrochloric acid in rats. The freeze - dried aqueous extract from red mangrove bark was used in both models employed to determinate the intestinal absorption. The freeze dried extract of R. mangle shown a high absorption. It was superiority at 95\% in vitro study and the constant apparent of absorption{\textquoteright}s rate was 2, 03 {\textpm} 0, 77. It was shown a high anti diarrheic effect of R. mangle in experimental model with ricin oil. The low molecular weigh polyphenolic fraction showed the highest level of gastric protection. Not additive effect was obtained by comparison between low and high molecular weigh polyphenols in this aqueous extract. The highest gastric protection was obtained by oral treatment with total of freeze aqueous extract at 500 mg/ kg body weight (b.w.). Probably the cytoprotective activity was resulted of other compounds presents in this extract joint at polyphenol substances.

}, keywords = {Cytoprotection, In vitro e in situ intestinal absorption models, Polyphenolic fractions, Red mangrove, Rhizophora mangle L, Rhizophoraceae}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Perera Luz Mar{\'\i}a S{\'a}nchez and Mancebo Betty and Regalado Ada Ivis and Pelzer Lilliam} } @article {933, title = {Investigation of the Flavonoidal Constituents and Insecticidal activity of Teucrium zanonii}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {410-416}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {410}, keywords = {Flavonoids, Insecticidal activity, Labiateae, Phloeotribus oleae, Teucrium zanonii}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Abdelshafeek Khaled A and Abdelrahem Fahem and Elwahsh Mohemmed A and Abdelkhalek Ismail A} } @article {791, title = {In-vivo Antitussive Activity of Cressa cretica Linn. using Cough Model in Rodents}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {157-161}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {157}, abstract = {

Cressa cretica Linn. Voigt. (Convolulaceae), has also been extensively used to get relief from asthma and cough by the indigenous people of India. In the present study the antitussive effect of the plant was evaluated in two different experimental models. The antitussive effect of aerosols of two different concentrations (2.5\%w/v, 5\%w/v)of methanolic extract of Cressa cretica Linn. (CME), codeine(0.03g/ml), and normal saline were tested by counting the numbers of coughs produced due to aerosols of citric acid 10 min after exposing the male guinea pigs to aerosols of different solutions (n=6). In another set of experiment CME was investigated for its therapeutic efficacy on a cough model induced by sulfur dioxide gas in mice. The results showed significant reduction of cough number obtained in the presence of both concentrations of CME and codeine. The antitussive effect on guinea pigs of higher concentration of CME was significantly (p\<0.01) greater than those of lower concentration and the prototype antitussive agent codeine phosphate (p\<0.01). It exhibited significant anti tussive activity as that of codeine phosphate, when compared with control in a dose dependent manner in sulfur dioxide gas induced cough model. The extract at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o. showed inhibition of cough by 22.1, 34.35 and 55.44 \% within 90 min of performing the experiment.

}, keywords = {Antitussive activity, Citric acid aerosol, Cressa cretica Linn. Voigt., Methanolic extract, Sulpher dioxide gas.}, doi = {Nil}, author = {P. Sunita and S. Jha and S.P. Pattanayak} } @article {806, title = {Iron in Highbush Blueberries and It{\textquoteright}s Effect in Total Antioxidant Status (TAS) Assay}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {166-171}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {166}, abstract = {

Blueberries are well known for their antioxidant property, due to the polyphenolics present in these fruits. The antioxidant activity of blueberries is usually measured by colorimetric assays involving metals such as iron, copper. Total Antioxidant Status (TAS) assay was previously studied on blueberry fractions which has metmyoglobulin (protein bound iron) in its +3 oxidation state to assess the antioxidant activity of compounds. Studies showed that the amount of iron in highbush blueberries is too low to have a significant effect on the antioxidant activity measured by the TAS assay. A short comparative study was also performed using ascorbic acid in TAS assay and bathocuproine copper complex assay for a quick, inexpensive, rapid analysis of crude screening for antioxidant compounds.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Blueberries, Iron}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Kota Radhika and DerMarderosian Ara} } @article {835, title = {Lipid Constituents from Cissus quadrangularis Leaves}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {231-233}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {231}, abstract = {

A phytochemical investigation of Cissus quadrangularis leaves yielded five additional known compounds including eicosyl eicosanoate, tetratriacontanol, tetratriacontanoic acid, α-amyrin and β-sitosterol. The characterization of isolated compounds was achieved by chemical and spectral studies (IR, 1H NMR and Mass Spectroscopy).

}, keywords = {Cissus quadrangularis, Lipids, Vitaceae}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Jain Vandana and Thakur Achal and Hingorani Lal and Laddha KS} } @article {743, title = {Modulation of Phosphatase Levels in Mice Liver by Genistein Treatment against Radiation Exposure}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {72-79}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {72}, abstract = {

Genistein is a soya isoflavone, which is found naturally in legumes, such as soybeans and chickpeas. The intraperitoneal administration of optimum dose (200 mg/kg body weight) of Genistein before 24 hrs and 15 minutes of irradiation (8 Gy at a dose rate of 1.02 Gy/min) increased the acid phosphatase (by 34.7 {\textpm} 12.39\%) and decreased the alkaline phosphatase (by 49.59 {\textpm} 13.82\%) in experimental group as compared to control group in liver of Swiss albino mice. Statistically analyzed survival data produced a dose reduction factor (DRF) = 1.24. The results indicate that Genistein against radiation effect may pave way to the formulation of medicine in radiotherapy for normal tissue and possible against radiomimetic drug induced toxicity. Present study also establishes the fact that Genistein may be used as a radioprotector before and after radiation exposure. Hence the possibility of its use as a radioprotectant and radiotherapeutic drug in accidental conditions or nuclear war conditions can not be ruled out.

}, keywords = {Acid and Alkaline phosphatases., Genistein, Liver, Oxidative stress, Radiation, Tyrosine kinase inhibitor}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Ajay Gaur and A.L. Bhatia} } @article {821, title = {Modulatory Effect of Erythrina vareigata on Experimental Hyperlipidaemia in Male Wistar Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {202-207}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {202}, abstract = {

Erythrina vareigata is a medium sized quick growing tree found distributed in deciduous forests throughout India. Its leaves are eaten as a pot herb and different parts of the plant have folkloric reputation as an anti inflammatory in India, China and South east Asia. Bark, wood, root and flowers are richly represented by isoflavones, pterocarpans and biphenyls. Current investigations were aimed at evaluating the hypolipidaemic activity of this popular hypolipidaemic siddha drug. Its nutritive value was estimated by standard reported methods. Ethyl acetate extract of the dried leaves were analyzed for total phenol content by Folin Ciocalteau and Titanium tetrachloride method. Its in vitro anti oxidant activity was assessed by DPPH, NO and trichloroacetic acid based reducing power method. Male wistar rats were subjected to high fat diet induced (HFD) hyperlipidaemia concurrent with extract administration for 60 days. While normal control group received standard pellet diet, Positive control group was on HFD only. At the end of experimentation, blood was collected for serum estimation of total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides and atherogenic index. The extract had a high total phenol content, beneficially altered lipid parameters and reduced body weight of experimental animals. The leaves are rich in protein, minerals, vitamins and low in carbohydrate and fat. Anti oxidant activity of the polyphenols present in the extract might be mediating the observed hypoplipidaemia. This study validated the traditional medicine claims of its anti obesity effect as well as folkloric tutelage of consumption of leaves as a green vegetable.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant, Erythrina vareigata, Hypolipidaemic, Phenolic content, Pot herb}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Mangathayaru K and Balakrishna K and Kuruvilla Sarah and Reddy C Uma Maheshwara} } @article {939, title = {Molluscicidal activity against Oncomelania hupensis of endophyte JJ18 from Pseudolarix kaempferi Gord}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {421-427}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {421}, abstract = {

To screen a kind of biological controlling measure against the Oncomelania hupensis snails, This study is to research the molluscicidal effect of JJ18 and identify its species. The alcoholic extract of JJ18 broth effectively killed O. hupensis snails, and the n-butanol fraction of the extract had the best molluscicidal activity compared with other fractions. Ochratoxin A was detected from JJ18 broth with ELISA analysis, and it may be a molluscicidal active substance in the broth. JJ18 strain belongs to Aspergillus niger was identified by morphology characteristics of the slide culture and rDNA ITS sequence analyzing.

}, keywords = {Endophyte, ITS sequence, Molluscicidal activity, Oncomelania hupensis, Pseudolarix kaempferi Gord}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Chen Jun and Han Bang-xing and Guo Shang-bin and Wang Yan and He Jia and Zhou Xiao-kun and Yang Xun and Han Fang-an} } @article {750, title = {New secoiridoids from Ligustrum ovalifolium and their hypotensive activity}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {91-97}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {91}, abstract = {

New Secoiridoid glucosides 1-5; ligustaloside A methyl hemiacetal 1, ligustaloside B methyl hemiacetal 2, ligustaloside A dimethyl acetal 3 ligustaloside A butyl-methyl acetal 4, and ligustaloside B butyl hemiacetal 5 have been isolated from the leaves of Ligustrum ovalifolium L. along with five known secoiridoids; ligustaloside B dimethyl acetal 6, 10-hydroxy oleuropein 7, 10-hydroxy ligstroside 8, oleuropein 9 and ligstroside 10, one known iridoid; loganin 11 and two known phenethyl alcohol glucosides; 3,4-di hydroxyphenylethyl--D-glucoside 12 and p-hydroxyphenylethyl--D-glucoside 13. The structures have been elucidated by spectroscopic means including 1D NMR (1H, 13C, and DEPT), 2D NMR (COSY, HMQC and HMBC experiments), UV, IR and FAB-MS (positive mode). Both n-BuOH fraction and the isolated new compounds 1-5 were evaluated for their hypotensive activity on experimental animal. The n-BuOH fraction showed good activity; however, the activity of the isolated new compounds 1-5 did not particularly strong.

}, keywords = {Ligustrum ovalifolium; Oleaceae; Secoiridoid glucosides; Lridoid glucosides, Phenylethanoids}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Mohammed Hosny and Ehab A. Ragab and Abd El-salam I Mohammed and Usama Y. Shaheen} } @article {825, title = {Phytochemical Studies on Cissus quadrangularis Linn}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {213-215}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {213}, abstract = {

Cissus quadrangularis Linn. (Family: Vitaceae) is an ancient medicinal plant, named as Hadjod in Hindi. A triterpene δ-amyrin acetate (1), aliphatic acid hexadecanoic acid (3) and stilbene glucoside trans-resveratrol-3-O-glucoside (9) were isolated for the first time from the stems of Cissus quadrangularis, along with previously reported compounds namely, δ- amyrone (2) δ-amyrin (4), β-sitosterol (5), kaempferol (6), quercetin (7) and resveratrol (8). The structure elucidation of the isolated compounds were performed by spectroscopic techniques (IR, UV, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and MS) and by direct comparison with literature.

}, keywords = {Cissus quadrangularis, Delta-amyrin acetate, Hexadecanoic acid, Trans-resveratrol-3-O-glucoside}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Achal Thakur and Vandana Jain and L. Hingorani and K.S. Laddha} } @article {857, title = {Phytoconstituents from Alpinia purpurata and their in vitro inhibitory activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {261-269}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {261}, abstract = {

Alpinia purpurata or red ginger was studied for its phytochemical constituents as part of our growing interest on Philippine Zingiberaceae plants that may exhibit antimycobacterial activity. The hexane and dichloromethane subextracts of the leaves were fractionated and purified using silica gel chromatography to afford a mixture of C28 to C32 fatty alcohols, a 3-methoxyflavone and two steroidal glycosides. The two latter metabolites were spectroscopically identified as kumatakenin (1), sitosteryl-3-O-6- palmitoyl-β-D-glucoside (2) and β-sitosteryl galactoside (3) using UV, IR, EIMS and NMR experiments, and by comparison with literature data. This study demonstrates for the first time the isolation of these constituents from A. purpurata. In addition to the purported anti-inflammatory activity, its phytomedicinal potential to treat tuberculosis is also described.

}, keywords = {Alpinia purpurata, Fatty alcohols, Kumatakenin, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Sitosteryl glycosides}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Villaflores Oliver B and Macabeo Allan Patrick G and Gehle Dietmar and Krohn Karsten and Franzblau Scott G and Aguinaldo Alicia M} } @article {908, title = {Possible Role of Natural Nephroprotective; Hemidesmus indicus in Congestive Heart Failure}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {367-374}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {367}, abstract = {

Hemidesmus indicus R.Br. is a treasure of the forest and herbal wealth. It is being used as folk medicines and as an ingredient in Ayurveda and Unani preparations against diseases of blood, inflammation, diarrhea, urinary disorders and rheumatism etc. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the role of natural nephroprotectant Hemidesmus indicus for the treatment of congestive heart failure. Hemidesmus indicus extracts were evaluated by using salt water induced left ventricular hypertrophy in Spargue dawley rat model. The property was evaluated using serum creatinine, urea, SGOT, SGPT and urine albumin, creatinine, Na+, K+ and Ca++ as biochemical parameters and histopathological changes including myocyte diameter, neutrophil infiltration and cardiac hypertrophy. Results obtained from the present study indicates that aqueous and methanolic extracts have more significant inhibitory effect on salt water feeding induced severity of microalbuminuria, serum urea and creatinine, myocyte diameter and retention of Na+ and water and increases the serum calcium level. We conclude from the present study that, potent natural nephroprotectant Hemidesmus indicus is also a potent cardioprotective.

}, keywords = {Cardioprotective, Hemidesmus indicus, Left ventricular hypertrophy, Microalbuminuria, Myocytes}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Chidrawar V. R and Ushir Y. V and Sudarshan S and Patel K. N and Patel N and Vadalia K. R} } @article {823, title = {Potential of Sida rhomboidea.Roxb Leaf Extract in Controlling Hypertriglyceridemia in Experimental Models}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {208-212}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {208}, abstract = {

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antihypertriglyceridemic activity of Sida rhomboidea.roxb leaf extract (FESR) (200 and 400 mg/kg bodyweight) in Triton WR 1339 and oral lipid emulsion induced hypertriglyceridemia in rats. Plasma cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG), HDL and Triglyceride secretion rate (TGSR) were assessed in control and Triton WR 1339 rats. TG profile in lipid emulsion treated rats was evaluated at an interval of 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 hour post emulsion and area under curve (AUC) was calculated. FESR (200 \& 400 mg/kg) treatment to Triton WR 1339 treated rats recorded significant decrement in plasma TC (p\<0.05), TG (p\<0.05) while HDL (p\<0.05) was increased at 6th hour and 24th hour post Triton injection. Lowered levels of TGSR were recorded in Triton + FESR treated groups at 6th hour. In the second experiment oral lipid emulsion induced hypertriglyceridemia was significantly suppressed by FESR (200 \& 400 mg/kg), indicated by lowered AUC values compared to its control (Lipid emulsion only). Results clearly substantiate the antihypertriglyceridemic potential of S. rhomboidea. Roxb leaf extract mediated via decreased intestinal absorption and increased catabolism of TG. The present study is of merit in providing pharmacological evidence for use of SR leaf extract as a folklore medicine for controlling obesity amongst north-eastern population of Indian subcontinent.

}, keywords = {Hypercholesterolemia, Hypertriglyceridemia, Sida rhomboidea. Roxb, Triton WR 1339}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Thounaojam MC and Jadeja RN and Ansarullah and Patel VB and Devkar RV and Ramachandran AV} } @article {586, title = {Preliminary Studies on Lipoxygenase Inhibitory Activity of Selected Malaysian Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {1-3}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

A potential source for new lipoxygenase inhibitors is undoubtedly provided by the abundance of medicinal plants used in traditional medicine. As part of screening programme for biologically active plants, 20 extracts of different parts of 10 Malaysian medicinal plants belonging to four families were evaluated for their inhibitory activity on soybean 15-lipoxygenase (15-sLo). The leaves of Peronema canescens Jack. (Verbenaceae) were shown to be the most potent inhibitor with an IC50 value of 25.64 ,g/ml. While the extracts of P. canescens stem and Stereospermum fibricatum DC. (Bignonaceae) leaves were found to possess profound inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 33.65 and 39.41 ,g/ml, respectively. The methanol extracts obtained from Stenolobium stans (L.) D. Don (Bignonaceae) leaves and stems, Piper ribesioides Wall. (Piperaceae) stems and S. fibricatum stems were moderately active with IC50 values ranging from 40 to 60 ,g/ml. While the remaining samples showed low lipoxygenase inhibitory activity at concentration of 100 ,g/ml.

}, keywords = {15-lipoxygenase inhibitory activity, Malaysian medicinal plants, Methanolic extracts}, author = {M.P. Mazura and S.K. Ling} } @article {833, title = {Preparation of Philippine Plant Extract Libraries for High- Throughput Screening}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {228-230}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {228}, abstract = {

Various terrestrial plants were collected from different places in the Philippines. The dried samples were then soaked in methanol and partitioned using modified Kupchan method. Portions of the ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions were treated for the removal of polyphenols. Dried methanolic, hexane, ethyl acetate, aqueous fractions and portions treated for polyphenols were weighed and dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide to give a concentration of 5mg/ml. Philippine Plant Library I, with 200 wells and Philippine Plant Library II, which has 628 wells, are currently deposited at the Institute of Chemistry and Cell Biology Screening Facility at Harvard Medical School are continuously being subjected to different assays.

}, keywords = {High-throughput screen, Natural Products, Plant extracts}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Chichioco-Hernandez Christine L and Villase{\~n}or Irene M} } @article {767, title = {Proximate and Qualitative Analysis of Different parts of Piper sarmentosum, and Quantification of Total Amides in Various Extracts}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {113-119}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {113}, abstract = {

Present study aimed to analyze crude powders and extracts of different parts of Piper sarmentosum for proximate, qualitative and quantitative studies to prepare standardized botanical drugs from the plant. Unlike synthetic drugs, standardization of botanical drugs is always challenging for natural product researchers due to inadequacy and unavailability of standards and methods. Standardization of botanical drugs is not just an analytical process which ends with the detection of few constituents rather it embodies a set of analytical, biochemical and biological protocols. Keeping analytical protocols in view, crude powders were analyzed for the content of moisture, total ash, acid insoluble ash, sulphated ash and soluble extractives in water and methanol. These physicochemical properties were found within specified limits. Comparison of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) fingerprints of crude powders of different parts indicated the difference of constituents. Similarly, comparison of ultra violet (UV) profiles of extracts of all the parts exhibited discrimination. Qualitative analysis of aqueous and ethanol extracts by high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) indicated the presence of amides in ethanol extracts of all parts of the plant. Quantitative analysis of extracts indicated that total amide content was significantly higher by colorimetry as compared to UV spectrophotometry. The distribution of amides in different parts was in the order fruit \> root \> leaf \> stem (P=0.000). It is concluded from the study that amide content varies in different parts of the plant and ethanol is a better solvent for their extraction. Additionally, colorimetric method exhibits high content of amides.

}, keywords = {FTIR, HPTLC, Piper sarmentosum, Piperaceae, Standardization}, doi = {Nil}, author = {K. Hussain and Z. Ismail and A. Sadikun and P. Ibrahim} } @article {872, title = {Psychotropic Activity of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. In Experimental Animals}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {307-313}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {307}, abstract = {

Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. (Asteraceae) is a branched herb with purple color flowers, distributed in wet places. The present study evaluated the neuropharmacological effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of S. indicus (SIE) in rats and mice. Effect of SIE (100, 200 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) on spontaneous motor activity, pentobarbital-induced sleeping time, motor coordination, exploratory behaviour and apomorphine-induced stereotypy were investigated in mice. SIE (100, 200 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) induced catalepsy and effect of SIE on haloperidol induced catalepsy were studied in rats. The SIE showed significant reduction of spontaneous motor activity, exploratory behaviour and prolonged pentobarbital sleeping time in the mice. Neuroleptic potential of SIE was observed by the results in which SIE antagonized apomorphine-induced stereotypy in mice, produced catalepsy and potentiated haloperidol-induced catalepsy in rats. Further, SIE had no effect on motor-coordination as determined by the rota rod test. These results provide evidence that the hydroalcoholic extract of Sphaeranthus indicus may contain psychoactive substances that are sedative in nature with possible neuroleptic properties.

}, keywords = {Apomorphine-induced stereotypic behaviour, Exploratory activity, Haloperidol-induced catalepsy, Pentobarbital sleep, Sphaeranthus indicus Linn., Spontaneous motor activity}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Galani V. J and Patel B. G} } @article {906, title = {Screening of Psidium guajava Leaf Extracts for Antistress Activity in Different Experimental Animal Models}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {359-366}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {359}, abstract = {

Ethanolic extract of leaves of Psidium guajava was investigated on anoxia stress tolerance test in Swiss mice. The animals were also subjected to acute physical stress (swimming endurance test) and acute heat induced stress to gauge the antistress potential of the extract. Further to evaluate the antistress activity of Psidium guajava in chronic stress condition, fresh Wistar rats were subjected to cold restraint stress (4{\textdegree} for 2 h) for 10 days. Stimulation of hypothalamus pituitary adrenal axis in stressful condition alters plasma glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, BUN and corticosterone levels. There is also alteration in the blood cell counts. Pretreatment with the extract significantly (P\<0.001) ameliorated the stress-induced variations in these biochemical levels and blood cell counts in both acute and chronic stress models. The extract treated animals showed increase in swimming endurance time and increase in anoxia tolerance time in physical and anoxia stress models respectively. Treatment groups also reverted back increase in liver, adrenal gland weights and atrophy of spleen caused by cold chronic stress and swimming endurance stress models. The results indicate that ethanolic extract of Psidium guajava has significant adaptogenic activity against a variety of biochemical and physiological perturbations in different stress models.

}, keywords = {Acute heat stress, Adaptogenic, Antistress, Cold restraint stress, Psidium guajava, Swimming stress}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Lakshmi B.V.S and Sudhakar M} } @article {829, title = {Standardisation of Avipattikar Churna- A Polyherbal Formulation}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {224-227}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {224}, abstract = {

Standardisation of herbal formulation is essential in order to assess the quality of drugs, based on the concentration of their active principles. The present paper reports on standardisation of Avipattikar churna, a poly herbal ayurvedic medicine used as remedy for acidity and complications associated with it like headache, nausea and vomiting. It is also used as laxative and helps to increase appetite. Avipattikar churna was prepared as per Ayurvedic Formulary of India. In-house preparation and two marketed have been standardised on the basis of organoleptic characters, physical characteristics and physico-chemical properties. The set parameters were found to be sufficient to evaluate the churna and can be used as reference standards for the quality control/quality assurance laboratory of a Pharmaceutical house.

}, keywords = {Avipattikar churna, Physicochemical parameters, Polyherbal formulation, Standardisation}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Aswatha Ram HN and Kaushik Ujjwal and Lachake Prachiti and Shreedhara CS} } @article {854, title = {Studies on the Effect of Processing Methods on the Antihyperglycemic activity of Herbal Teas from Leaves of Vernonia amygdalina Del}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {256-260}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {256}, abstract = {

The leaves of Vernonia amygdalina Del (Asteraceae) was processed into herbal tea using the black and green tea processing techniques. The green tea obtained was used as such while a portion of the black tea was flavored with O. basilicum or O. gratissimum. Methanol extracts of the flavored and unflavored herbal teas, obtained by cold maceration, were subjected to pharmacological studies for antihyperglycemic activity in alloxan diabetic rats and pytochemical analysis. Results showed that single oral administration of the tea extracts reduced blood glucose level of diabetic rats to varying the extents. Extract of green tea (GTE) caused a moderate reduction in blood glucose levels while black tea (BTE) evoked a mild dose-related effect. Extracts of the flavored tea caused significant (P\<0.05) reductions in blood glucose levels. While the effect of extract of O. basilicum flavored tea (BTOBE) was dose-related, that of O. gratissimum flavored tea (BTOGE) was non-dose-related. A comparison of the magnitude of reduction in blood glucose level showed the order of potency: BTOBE\>BTOGE\>GTE\>BTE. Phytochemical analysis showed relative presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, steroids and terpenoids with GTE having the highest concentration of these constituents. These findings suggest that black tea technique may be preferred for processing leaves of V. amygdalina into herbal tea since it preserved the antihyperglycemic activity. Green tea method may reduce the antihyperglycemic effect even though it preserves the phytochemical constituents better than black tea technique. Flavoring of black tea with Ocimum spp enhances the antihyperglycemic effect due to their inherent hypoglycemic activity.

}, keywords = {Antihyperglycemic, Black tea, Green tea, Herbal tea, Ocimum spp, Vernonia amygdalina}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Okafor G.I and Okoli C.O and Odo A.S and Kelechi N.R} } @article {766, title = {Study on Antioxidant and Hypolipidemic Effects of Polyphenol-rich Extracts from Thymus vulgaris and Lavendula Multifida}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {106-112}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {106}, abstract = {

In the present study, the polyphenol-rich extracts of two medicinal plants widely used in Errachidia country (south east of Morocco) (Thymus vulgaris and Lavendula multifida) were assessed for their antioxidant, hypocholesterolaemic and hypotriglyceridaemic activities.The antioxidant activity of polyphenol-rich extracts was assessed by using the FRAP assay (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power), the RSA method (Radical Scavenging Activity) and the inhibition of the AAPH (2, 2{\textquoteright}-azobis (2-amidinopropane) hydrochloride)-induced oxidative erythrocyte hemolysis. Hyperlipidemia was induced in rats by intraperitoneal injection of Triton WR-1339 at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight. The animals were divided into normolipidemic control group (NCG), hyperlipidaemic control group (HCG) and hyperlipidaemic plus herb extracts (0.2 g/100 g body weight). However, 24 h after treatment by polyphenol-rich extract of Thymus vulgaris and lavendula multifida we not detect any significant effect on both plasma total cholesterol and triglycerides profiles. Our results indicate that, the aqueous extract from lavandula multifida and Thymus vulgaris, present a higher antioxydant activities. Indeed, Lavandula multifida presents an anti-hemolysis activity equivalent to that exhibited by Thymus vulgaris. The addition of AAPH decrease the half time of hemolysis by 45\%. The polyphenol- rich extracts from thymus vulgaris and lavendula multifida varieties increase the half time hemolysis by 533\% and 479\%, respectively. Although, these two varieties of thyme and lavender did cause any hypolipidemic activity. The results found are encouraging for further assessment to elucidate the mechanism of action and to identify the bioactive compounds implicated in the antioxidant effect and the membrane stability.

}, keywords = {Antioxidant effect, Erythrocyte hemolysis, Hypolipidemia, Lavandula multifida., Polyphenol, Thymus vulgaris}, doi = {Nil}, author = {M. Ramchoun and H. Harnafi and C. Alem and M. Benlyas and L. Elrhaffari and S.Amrani} } @article {780, title = {Toxicity Study of the Aqueous Extract of Tithonia diversifolia Leaves using Selected Biochemical Parameters in Rats}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {143-147}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {143}, abstract = {

Tithonia diversifolia has manifold ethnomedicinal uses in traditional settings without much consideration about the possible adverse effects of the consumption of its crude extracts. In this study, effects of repeated oral administration of aqueous extract of Tithonia diversifolia leaves (100 and 200 mg/Kg body weight) for seven days on concentrations of serum electrolytes and biomolecules and the activities of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in serum, heart, liver and kidney of rats were investigated. The extract significantly increased concentrations of serum calcium ion, potasium ion and HDL-cholesterol but reduced serum albumin concentration at both doses administered compared to controls. At 200 mg/Kg body weight, the extract significantly increased alkaline phosphatase activities in the liver and heart. The results of this study suggest that the extract may exert adverse effects on the functions of the liver, heart and kidney.

}, keywords = {Extract, Heart, Kidney, Liver, Tithonia diversifolia, Toxicity}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Adebayo, J.O and Balogun, E.A and Oyeleke, S.A.} } @article {890, title = {X-rays Radiation Directly Produced Favorable and Harmful Effects on the Constituents of Different Medicinal Plants}, journal = {Pharmacognosy Research}, volume = {1}, year = {2009}, month = {January 2010 }, pages = {331-335}, type = {Original Article}, chapter = {331}, abstract = {

The effect of ionizing radiation on the constituents of solid materials of medicinal plants was studied in few reports. The present study was performed to investigate the direct effect of 1.9Gy/min X-rays radiation on the dry leaves of Camellia sinensis (green tea), Salvia officinalis (sage), barks of Cinnamomum verum (cinnamon) and tuberous of Zingiber officinale Rosc. (ginger). Three extracts (1\%) were prepared for each medicinal plant; aqueous, ethanol and methanol. The UV-Visible spectra, and biochemical constituents of each non irradiated and irradiated extract were determined. The results showed that X-rays radiation induced remarkable changes in UV-Visible spectra of irradiated compared with non irradiated medicinal plants. This effect was well observed with irradiated green tea leaves. Irradiated medicinal plants lost considerable percents of allantoin and higher percents of flavonoids as well as total polyphenols were lost from irradiated ginger and cinnamon. Irradiated medicinal plants were superior than non irradiated in releasing nitric oxide. It concludes that irradiated medicinal plants carried favorable and harmful effects on their constituents and their favorable effects can be clinically as well as experimentally applied.

}, keywords = {Medicinal plants, X-ray radiation}, doi = {Nil}, author = {Al-Nimer Marwan S.M and Abdul Lateef Zainab Wahbee} }