Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine via MedWorm.com

Inhibition of Cytokine Expression and Prostaglandin E2 Production in Monocyte/Macrophage-Like Cells by Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables and Chondroitin Sulfate

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:34:47 +0100

Osteoarthritis is characterized by inflammation and increased production of pro-inflammatory mediators including cytokines and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Macrophage-like cells in synovial tissue produce these mediators which induce degradative enzymes that break down cartilage. We determined whether avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) and chondroitin sulfate (CS) can inhibit cytokine expression and PGE2 production using monocyte/macrophage-like cell models. Cells were incubated for 24 hours with either control media alone, ASU alone (NMX1000; 8.3 μg/ml), CS alone (TRH122; 20 μg/ml), or a combination of both preparations. Cells were activated with cytokines or lipopolysaccharide for 1 or 24 hours to determine cytokine gene expression by RT-PCR and PGE2 production by immunoassay, respectiv...

Central Nervous System Activity of Acute Administration of Latex Proteins from Calotropis procera in Mice

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:34:40 +0100

Relevant properties have been detected in protein fraction (LP) isolated from latex of Calotropis procera. In order to best characterize LP potentiality, this work describes some effects of LP on central nervous system (CNS). Three models were performed: elevated plus maze (EPM), open field (OF), and hole-board (HB) tests. LP was administered intraperitoneally to male mice. To assess the probable action mechanism, drugs acting on glutamatergic (ketamine, i.p.), gabaergic (diazepam and flumazenil, i.p.) and dopaminergic (haloperidol, i.p.) systems were used on OF. Decreases in the number of entries in the open and closed arms of EPM were observed at 100 mg/kg and this effect may be due to the reduction in the locomotor activity previously observed. A reduction in locomotor activity was obse...

Optimized St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) Germplasm Lines Exert Cytotoxicity in HT-29 Colon Cancer Cells via Downregulation of NF-κB

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 20:55:35 +0100

Extracts of two germplasm lines of St. John's wort (SJW; Hypericum perforatum L.) selected for enhanced hypericin and hyperforin content were evaluated for potential activity against colon cancer. Bioactivity was assessed in signaling pathways of tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-α) and nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) in HT-29 colon cancer cells. Both extracts and the hypericin standard significantly inhibited growth of HT-29 cells. Levels of active NF-κB were reduced in cells treated with either of the plant extracts or hypericin, but the purified hyperforin standard was comparatively ineffective. The combination of TNF-α and SJW treatments had significantly higher cytotoxic effects, and reduced the expression of NF-κB, inhibitor of NF-κBs (IκBa), IκB kinase b (IKKb), and TNF ...

Inhibitory Effect of Seabuckthorn (Hippophea rhamnoides) on Platelet Aggregation and Oxidative Stress

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 20:53:25 +0100

Extracts from seabuckthorn (Hippophea rhamnoides) leaves, fruit and seed oil were screened for anti-platelet properties in-vitro using human platelets stimulated with 0.2 mM ADP. Half maximal inhibitory concentration was found to be 55 microg/ml platelet rich plasma(PRP) for leaf extract, 47.7 microg/ml PRP for fruit extract and 0.62 microl/ml PRP for seed oil. In-vitro incubation of platelets with increasing concentrations of seed oil was found to inhibit oxidative stress in resting as well as agonist stimulated platelets as evident by decreased formation of peroxide and superoxide radicals. Leaf extract and seed oil were further evaluated for antiplatelet and antioxidant action in-vivo in cholesterol-induced experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits. Rabbits fed on diet supplemented with c...

Thai Yoga as an Appropriate Alternative Physical Activity for Older Adults

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 19:35:38 +0100

Thai Yoga (TY), has been recommended by the Public Health Ministry of Thailand for keeping people fit. There is little known about the physiological demand it places on those practicing it. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine i) the exercise intensity of TY indicating by both absolute intensity (i.e. MET) and relative intensity (i.e. percentage of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2,max) and heart rate (HRmax)) and ii) the impact it has on the cardiovascular system and energy expenditure. Fourteen healthy adults ranging in age from 50 to 65 years performed 30-minute TY and exhaustive cycling exercise (to indicate maximal oxygen consumption) sessions one week apart. Mean of MET and the percentage of mean of VO2 and HR during TY to VO2,max and HRmax were found to be 1.51±0.43 M...

The Antioxidant, Iron Chelating and DNA Protective Properties of 70% Methanolic Extract of 'Katha' (Heartwood extract of Acacia catechu)

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 23:45:20 +0100

The present study was carried out to determine the antioxidant and iron chelating property of 70% methanolic extract of 'katha' (heartwood extract of Acacia catechu). The extract was found to be an antioxidant with a TEAC value of 0.72 ± 0.02. The extract has shown its scavenging activity for different radical and 17.8 ± 0.63 μg/ml, 39.55 ± 1.36 μg/ml, 55.31 ± 7.12 μg/ml, 746.85 ± 30.46 μg/ml, 44.2 ± 4.48 mg/ml, 57.5 ± 4.23 μg/ml, 155.48 ± 3.78 μg/ml were determined as IC50 value for DPPH, superoxide, nitric oxide, peroxynitrite, hydrogen peroxide, singlet oxygen and hypochlorous acid radicals, respectively. The plant was found to inhibit lipid peroxidation with an IC50 of 12.35 ± 0.43 μg/ml. The extract also has the ability to chelate iron with an IC50 of 810.8 ± 20.74 μ...

In Vitro Antioxidant and In Vivo Antihyperglycemic Potential of Mimusops elengi L. in Alloxan-Induced Diabetes in Mice

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 23:54:29 +0100

Mimusops elengi, commonly called 'Bakul' is a medicinally important plant of family sapotaceae. All parts of the tree have medicinal properties. Sushrut Samhita in the Chikitsa chapter explains the treatment strategies for the diabetes. Mimusops elengi (ME) is endowed with the antidiabetic potential. The present study was aimed to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant and antihyperglycemic property of ME. Aqueous extract of ME (MEAQE) exhibited reducing power as well as DPPH and OH radical scavenging activity in vitro. It can be concluded from above observation that the onset of action of antihyperglycemic activity of MEAQE is at the 2nd hr and duration of action is before the 24th hr. in alloxan-induced diabetes. MEAQE may act by increasing peripheral utilization of glucose. Taking into consi...

A Red Wine Extract Supplement Protects against Apoptosis and Inhibits Changes in Mitochondrial Permeability and Membrane Potential

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:53:24 +0100

The effects of a red wine extract supplement (Super S.O.D) on hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced apoptosis were examined in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. Super S.O.D pretreatment dose-dependently protected against hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. The cytoprotection was associated with increases in cellular reduced glutathione level and mitochondrial membrane potential, as well as the decrease in the extent of Ca2+-induced mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) pore opening in both unchallenged and challenged cells, as compared with the unpretreated control. The results indicated that Super S.O.D pretreatment protected against hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyocytes, possibly mediated by the inhibition of MPT triggered by hypoxia/reoxygenation ch...

Antihyperglycaemic Properties of the Ethyl acetate Extract of Dennettia tripetala in Diabetic Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:53:21 +0100

Antihyperglycemic properties of chloroform (CDT), ethyl acetate (EDT) and methanolic (MDT) extracts of D. tripetala were investigated using alloxan- and streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemic rats. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed in EDT-pretreated in both normal and alloxan-induced hyperglycemic rats. Tolbutamide (TLB) was used as the reference drug. TLB (100 mg/g), EDT (100 mg/kg), MDT (100 mg/kg) significantly (p (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Acute and Sub Chronic Oral Toxicity of Sida rhomboidea.Roxb Leaf Extract

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:53:17 +0100

Acute and sub chronic oral administration of Sida rhomboidea.Roxb (SR) aqueous leaf extract did not register any adverse behavioral alterations or significant toxic manifestations. However, significant decrement in food intake and body weight gain along with higher plasma AST and ALT levels were recorded with a dose of 3000 mg/kg body weight. It is inferred that SR extract is non-toxic, therefore, safe for consumption. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Hepatoprotective Evaluation of Scoparia dulcis L.

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 23:55:42 +0100

Scoparia dulcis L. (Family: Scrophulariaceae) is an herb native to America and in tropics and widely present in Karnataka, India. This plant has been traditionally used to cure many liver aliments. Phytochemical screening has revealed that the plant contains diterpenoids, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, triterpenes, hexacosonol, β-sitosterol, ketone, dulcitone and amellin. Liver cirrhosis represents the common pathological outcome for the majority of chronic liver insults (e.g. alcohol, autoimmune, or viral injury, even oxidative stress). The therapeutic potential of antioxidants with respect to liver toxicity has been realized marginally so far. In the present study the in vitro antioxidant activity and antihepatotoxic activity of hydroalcoholic extract of S. dulcis (HASD) was investigat...

Augmentation of Antioxidant Defense System by Tinospora cordifolia: Implications in Radiation Protection

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 23:47:01 +0100

Conclusion: These results imply that RTp treatment augmented antioxidant defense system which afforded an important mechanism of radioprotection. The bio-molecules present in RTp acting in this direction need to be investigated further. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Determination of Phenolic Content of Cassia sophera Linn. and the Potential Antiulcer Activity in Experimentally Induced Ulceration

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:48:09 +0100

Cassia sophera is a medicinally important plant belonging to the family Caesalpiniaceae. It is being used in the ailments of oxidative stress. Cassia sophera was successively extracted with chloroform (CSE1), ethyl acetate (CSE2), methanol (CSE3) and water (CSE4). Extracts demonstrated the presence of anthraquinones and flavonoids. Amongst all of the extracts, CSE2 exhibited highest total phenolic content (250.54 mg/gm) as well as antiulcer potential using ethanol, pyloric ligation, hypothermic restrain stress and indomethacin-induced ulceration. Cassia sophera presented protection against ulceration, which may be because of both cytoprotective and antisecretary mechanisms. The phenolic content could be responsible for the gastro protective activity of CS. (Source: Journal of Complementary...

Globularia alypum L. Lyophilized Methanolic Extract Decreases Hyperglycemia and Improves Antioxidant Status in Various Tissues of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 06:21:24 +0100

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effects of Globularia alypum (Ga) methanolic extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (50 mg/kg, i.p.). Twenty diabetic rats were divided into two groups; one group was fed a casein diet supplemented with Ga extract (1 g/kg body weight), for 4 weeks, and the other group went untreated. In Ga-treated compared to untreated rats, glycemia and HbA1c values were respectively 5.2- and 3.6-fold lower. Plasma total cholesterol, triacyglycerols levels and transaminases activities were decreased significantly (P (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Complementary or Alternative--Does It Matter In Your Questionnaire?

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:11:21 +0100

In this study the impact of the use of the terms complementary medicine and alternative medicine on participants' responses to surveys about the use of, and beliefs about, these therapies was explored. Two identical surveys were prepared, one of which referred to alternative medicines and the other which referred to complementary medicine. A telephone survey was used to gather responses from a random sample of individuals living in 3 geographically close metropolitan cities in Australia. Respondents were those aged over 18 years who consented to participate in the study. Forty five percent of respondents indicated using complementary medicines while 34% used alternative medicine; similarly 40% had visited a complementary medicine practitioner while 29% had visited an alternative medicine p...

Effects of R-Alpha Lipoic Acid on HbA1c, Lipids and Blood Pressure in Type-2 Diabetics: A Preliminary Study

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:13:22 +0100

Conclusions: Three months of R-ALA supplementation may lower HbA1c in a small number of individuals. However, to further confirm these findings, larger studies of longer duration are needed. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Augmentation of Mind-body Therapy and Role of Deep Slow Breathing

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:39:47 +0100

This article overviews the role of slow rhythmic breathing in physiological as well as therapeutic effects of mind-body therapies. Slow deep breathing practice has important implications as it may underlie the basic mechanism that synchronizes the brain with the autonomic response. This article reviews studies that include the effect of deep slow breathing with or without mind-body therapy exercises. In utero studies that monitor patterns of fetal breathing reveal sympathetic activation with irregular, shallow fast breathing movements compared to slow deep breathing. Recognition of respiratory mechanisms in mind-body therapies can lead to development of more effective relaxation exercises that may incorporate deep slow breathing in clinical applications. (Source: Journal of Complementary a...

Static Electric Field by High Voltage Alternating Current Ameliorates Collagen-Induced Arthritis in Mice via the Inhibition of IL-1β Expression

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 23:50:04 +0100

Conclusion: Based on these data, the beneficial effects of EF-HVAC on a murine rheumatoid arthritis model may be attributed to its anti-inflammatory properties. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Effect of Citrullus colocynthis Schard on Testosterone-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:02:21 +0100

The petroleum ether extract of Citrullus colocynthis Schrad (Cucurbitaceae) fruits and a steroidal compound isolated from this extract were tested in Wistar rats for their effect on Prostatic Hyperplasia (PH) induced by testosterone. The PH was induced in rats by daily subcutaneous injection of testosterone for 10 days. Rats of the test group were administered 100 mg/kg of petroleum ether extract of Citrullus colocynthis fruit along with testosterone. Graded doses i.e, 1, 2.5, and 5 mg/kg dose of isolated steroidal fraction were also tested in three groups of rats. Finasteride was used as positive control. Treatment with C. colocynthis extract reduced prostatic weights of the treated animals considerably. The isolated steroidal fraction also diminished the weight of prostate in dose depend...

Protective Role of Pterocarpus marsupium in Diabetes-Induced Hyperlipidemic Condition

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:02:17 +0100

In conclusion, our present results suggest hypolipidemic effect of P. marsupium in hyperglycemic condition. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Probable Mechanism of the Antihyperglycemic Effect of Standardized Extract from Momordica charantia in Streptozotocin Diabetic Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:58:09 +0100

The herb Momordica charantia Linn has been used widely in India and other countries for the treatment of diabetes. In the present study reports the antihyperglycemic activity of standardised Momordica charantia extract (MCE) using in-vivo and in-vitro animal models along with the relevant biochemical and histopathological parameters. The antihyperglycemic activity of MCE was compared with that of glibenclamide, a known potent anti-diabetic drug. MCE treatment reduced blood glucose levels both in normal and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats, and also restored the glucose tolerance significantly in diabetic rats. MCE treatment enhanced glucose uptake process and increased liver glycogen. Furthermore, MCE treatment reduced the elevated serum lipids and glycosylated haemoglobin levels...

Caudal Epididymal Sperm Characteristics and Testicular Morphometrics of Rabbits Fed Graded Levels of a Blood-Wild Sunflower Leaf Meal (BWSLM) Mixture Diet

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 03:04:43 +0100

The effects of feeding graded levels of blood-wild sunflower leaf meal (BWSLM) mixture on rabbit caudal epididymal sperm characteristics and testicular morphometrics were investigated. The BWSLM mixture was included in the feed at 0, 5, 10 and 15% levels in diets 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. The motile-spermatozoa for diet 3, which was 77%, was significantly (P (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Antiproliferative, Antioxidant and Cyto/DNA Protective Properties in Andrographis serpyllifolia: Role of Andrographolide and Phenolic Acids

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:16:28 +0100

Among several Andrographis species, only A. panniculata had been extensively studied and the bioactivity was attributed to the active component - Andrographolide (AG). In the current investigation, we report that aqueous (ASAE) and methanol (ASME) extracts of Andrographis serpyllifolia contained phenolic acids up to 3-5%, in addition to AG which is present at ~2% level. Aqueous extract exhibited ~2 and 10 fold better free radical scavenging and reducing power activities than those of methanol extract and the isolated andrographolide, suggesting that Andrographis species may contain antioxidant components other than Andrographolide as well. Further, about 70-80% of DNA and red blood cells were protected against oxidant-induced damages at 4 μg/mL, and there was about 80% inhibition of prol...

Assessment of in Vitro Antioxidant and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Cajanus cajan

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:09:46 +0100

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities of 70% methanolic extract of Cajanus cajan leaves using various in vitro assays. The TEAC value 0.84 ± 0.05 for the extract indicates it is an antioxidant. The extract had shown its scavenging activity for different free radicals and 175.73 ± 7.50 μg/ml, 27.17 ± 0.9 μg/ml, 60.78 ± 5.15 μg/ml and 250.29 ± 5.70 μg/ml were determined as the IC50 values for hydroxyl, superoxide, nitric oxide and singlet oxygen radicals, respectively. The sample showed reasonable chelation of Fe2+ ion and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. The phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extract were also determined to be 51.33 ± 0.002 mg/ml gallic acid equivalent and 143.0 ± 0.003 mg/ml quercetin equivalent,...

Exposure to Oscillating High Electrical Potential and the Associated Low Frequency Magnetic Field Enhances the Hepatoprotective Action of Schisandrin B in Vivo and in Vitro

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 20:38:30 +0100

The effect of electromagnetic manipulation (EM), consisting of an oscillating (50 Hz) high electrical potential (a maximum value of 20,000 V and an output current < 100 µA) and its associated alternating magnetic field (50-60 Guass), on the hepatoprotective action of schisandrin B (Sch B, an active ingredient isolated from the fruit of Schisandra chinensis) was examined in the mouse model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) hepatotoxicity and the AML12 cell model of menadione-induced toxicity. EM was found to enhance the Sch B-induced hepatoprotective action against CCl4 toxicity in mice and cytoprotective action against menadione toxicity in AML12 hepatocytes. The potentiating effect of EM on the pharmacological action of Sch B may be mediated by the increase in drug availability to tissues o...

Effect on Inhibition of Proliferation and Antioxidant Enzyme Level of Lippia nodiflora in EAC Cell Line Treated Mice

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 16:09:59 +0100

Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that MELN exhibited significant antitumor activity may be due to the increase of antioxidant activity in EAC bearing mice. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Protective Effect of Red Wine Extract Supplement against Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Rats: Effects on Mitochondrial Antioxidant and Structural Parameters

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 16:05:37 +0100

Reperfusion of the previously ischemic myocardium causes a burst of reactive oxygen species production that eventually leads to tissue damage. In the present study, the effect of long-term treatment with a red wine extract-containing antioxidant supplement (Super S.O.D) on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury was examined in rats. To investigate the biochemical mechanism(s) involved in the cardioprotection, the effects of Super S.O.D treatment on myocardial mitochondrial antioxidant and structural parameters were also investigated. Long-term treatment with Super S.O.D (0.55 and 1.10 g/kg/day x 15) caused a dose-dependent protection against myocardial I/R injury in rats, as evidenced by the significant decrease in the extent of lactate dehydrogenase leakage. The cardioprotection was...

Anti-Nociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Extracts from the Stem Bark of Croton macrostachyus (Euphorbiaceae) in Mice and Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 02:42:20 +0100

The present study evaluates the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of the aqueous and methylene chloride/methanol (CH2Cl2 / CH3OH) extracts of the stem bark of Croton macrostachyus. The extracts administered orally at the doses of 150, 300 and 600 mg/kg were examined against pain induced by acetic acid, formalin and pressure and against inflammation induced by carragenan, histamine and formalin. Both extracts induced a significant dose-dependent (P < 0.001) reduction in the number of abdominal constrictions induced by acetic acid. The three doses of the two extracts also significantly reduced (P < 0.001) the two phases of pain induced by formalin. At the dose of 600 mg/kg, the aqueous and the CH2Cl2 / CH3OH extracts exhibited a significant analgesic activity against pressure...

Phytochemical Constituents and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Clerodendron glandulosum.Coleb Methanolic Extract

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 23:46:01 +0100

Conclusion: The results suggest that a methanolic extract of Clerodendron glandulosum.Coleb possesses a strong antioxidant activity against all known radicals and can be considered as a natural antioxidant. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Antidiarrhoeal Activity of Pterocarpus santalinoides L'Hérit ex DC Leaf Extract

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:48:42 +0100

In this study we investigated the methylene chloride-methanol leaf extract of Pterocarpus santalinoides (PSE), a plant believed to possess potent antidiarrhoeal properties in folk medical practice. The antidiarrhoeal and anti-enteropooling activity of PSE were investigated in castor oil induced diarrhoea in rats. The effect on gastrointestinal motility was studied by the charcoal meal transit in mice. Smooth muscle activity of the extract was investigated in isolated guinea pig ileum. P. santalinoides extract (100-500 µg/ml) caused a significant and dose-related inhibition of the frequency of diarrhoeic drops in rats (P< 0.05) and prolonged the time for diarrhoea induction. The extract also exhibited significant anti-enteropooling activity (P (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrat...

Is All Glucosamine Alike? Clarifying the Controversies for Product Selection and Clinical Research

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:42:18 +0100

In the United States, glucosamine is marketed as a dietary supplement therefore subject to less stringent manufacturing, labeling and marketing regulations than pharmaceuticals. The glucosamine product selected for the NIH-sponsored Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT) was required to satisfy Investigational New Drug (IND) application (and therefore pharmaceutical manufacturing requirements). This review describes the procedure that was developed by the authors to identify a high-quality glucosamine product for GAIT and to clarify confusing product information and nomenclature.Proprietary glucosamine products and bulk glucosamine powders of various salt forms were evaluated. Both the published literature and information provided by suppliers of bulk glucosamine powd...

A Review of Side Effects and Adverse Events of Non-Drug Medicine (Nonpharmaceutical Complementary and Alternative Medicine): Psychotherapy, Mind-Body Medicine and Clinical Holistic Medicine

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 12 May 2009 22:05:58 +0100

Conclusions: Non-drug (non-pharmaceutical) medicine seems to be safe even for seriously physically and mentally ill patients and, whenever efficient, therefore recommended as treatment of choice. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Using the Biopsychosocial Model to Understand the Health Benefits of Yoga

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 01:58:43 +0100

We present empirical evidence that supports the involvement of these domains. However, additional well-conducted research is required to further establish the efficacy of yoga for health states, and to understand how posture, breath and meditative activity affect the body, mind and spirit. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

The Effect of Tai Chi in Reducing Anxiety in an Ambulatory Population

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 01:53:20 +0100

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese art that has been practiced for centuries. This mind-body exercise is a standard of medical care in many Asian countries. The Western world lags behind in the study of alternative medical treatments. This pilot study utilized Tai Chi to relieve anxiety in a population diagnosed with moderate-severe anxiety. This diagnosis was made by clinicians utilizing the well-respected Hamilton-Anxiety psychiatric rating scale. This non-pharmacologic method for reduction of anxiety was chosen because medications presently utilized for anxiety often cause untoward side effects. Subjects were recruited throughout the community. Patients completed a health questionnaire and were screened by a psychiatrist before and after participating in a 10-week program of Tai Chi classes ...

Methodological Issues Pertaining to the Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Energy-Based Therapies, Avenues for a Methodological Guide

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 01:49:55 +0100

The current interest in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) begs the question of their integration into the health care system, which will most likely require rigorous scientific evaluation in randomized controlled trials (RCT) before they are fully accepted and integrated. Although some meta-analyses demonstrate the potential of certain energy-based (EB) CAM therapies others highlight significant methodological weaknesses in the study design. It is not only important to verify the effectiveness of energy-based therapies (EBT), but also to do it with methods that are appropriate to the evaluation of this type of therapy. In fact, there are those who question the applicability of traditional research models to the evaluation of CAM therapies. It is with this in mind that we wish to...

In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant and Free Radical Scavenging Activities of Rhodiola imbricata

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 23:35:49 +0100

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant activities of aqueous extract of Rhodiola imbricata rhizome. The plant extract was evaluated for DPPH (1,1-diphenyl, 2-picryl hydrazyl) radical scavenging, superoxide anion radical scavenging, hydrogen peroxide scavenging, anti-lipid peroxidation assay, metal chelating activity, reducing power and total flavonoid content. Rhodiola imbricata aqueous extract (RIAE) exhibited more DPPH scavenging potential with IC50 value of 5.56 µg/ml as compared to standard butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (IC50 = 5.74 µg/ml). The extract also provided superoxide anion radicals' scavenging (IC50 = 4.68 vs 4.63 µg/ml) and anti-lipid per-oxidation activity (IC50 = 5.06 vs 4.91 µg/ml) and IC50 value was comparable to standard α-tocopherol...

Biphasic Modulation of Neutrophil Migration by Aqueous Extracts of Uncaria tomentosa in Murine Lung

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 16:47:43 +0100

In the history of medicine, the treatment of disease has been influenced by an intimate contact with nature. A mice model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury was used to evaluate the protective effects of long-term water-soluble administration ad libitum of Uncaria tomentosa extracts (20 gr/L; UTE) in lung inflammation. Swiss mice had LPS (1,67µg/ml) instilled intranasally 3hs before sacrificed, and were then pre-treated with UTE for 7, 15, 30 or 90 days or with a single dose of dexamethasone (2,5 mg/kg, DX). Inflammatory cell concentration was measured in the bronchoalveolar fluid (BALF) and histology was performed. No acute or chronic toxicity signs were observed in the clinical status. In addition, body weight, food consumption, organ weight, kidney, liver, and lung p...

Ameliorative Role of Vitamin E on Adverse Impact of Azadirachta indica in Reproductive Indices of Male Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 03:21:12 +0100

This study was undertaken to determine the role of vitamin E on reproductive activity of Azadirachta indica extract in rats. Forty adult male albino rats were divided into 5 equal groups. The control group received distilled water while the other groups were treated with Azadirachta indica (150mg/kg bwt) extract alone, vitamin E (100mg/kg bwt) alone, combined Azadirachta indica (150mg/kg bwt) and vitamin E (100mg/kg bwt), and combined Azadirachta indica (150 mg/kg bwt) and vitamin E (150 mg/kg bwt). Group administered Azadirachta indica alone showed significant (p (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Antibacterial Activity and Anticorrosive Efficiency of Aqueous Methanolic Extract of Artemisia pallens (Asteraceae) and Its Major Constituent

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 23:49:39 +0100

An aqueous-methanolic [methanol:water (1:1)] extract of the whole plant of Artemisia pallens (Family: Asteraceae) has shown good antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Shigella flexneri at the concentration of 100 mg/mL. The activity-guided fractionation has led to isolation of compound 4-hydroxyphenyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (which is known as arbutin), as a major constituent and exhibited the same antibacterial activity at a concentration of 17 mg/mL. Both the crude extract and arbutin also showed 94% anticorrosive efficiency against mild steel in 1M HCl at concentration of 200 mg/L. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Free Radical Scavenging Activity and Inhibitory response of Ziziphus mauritiana (Lamk.) Seed Extract on Alcohol-Induced Oxidative Stress

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 23:49:35 +0100

The antioxidant activity within the body has been well correlated with the body's defense mechanism against toxic free radicals. Alcohol ingestion increases the generation of free radicals. The present study was conducted to assess antioxidant potential of seed extract of Ziziphus mauritiana, which was standardized with HPLC. DPPH assay and Fenton reaction system was applied to assess free radical scavenging potential. The Swiss albino mice were used to evaluate the inhibitory activity of extract on oxidative stress induced by alcohol. The animals were treated with graded doses of extract (100-400 mg/kg body weight) before the administration of alcohol. After 6 weeks animals were sacrificed and their livers were assessed for catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione and lipid peroxidatio...

The Potential Role of Daucus carota Aqueous and Methanolic Extracts on Inflammation and Gastric Ulcers in Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 23:43:19 +0100

Daucus carota (DC) is among commonly used plants in folk medicine in Lebanon and the region. The present investigation was undertaken to examine the effects of the aqueous and extracts of Daucus carota umbels against acute and chronic inflammation, gastric ulcer and antibacterial activity on rats. The effects of DC aqueous extract (DCAE) on glycemia, lipemia, hepatic, renal and pancreatic function were also examined. Results on acute inflammation showed that the aqueous and methanolic extracts (DCME) produced maximum anti-inflammatory activity at doses of 400 and 140 mg/kg body weight with 90.9 and 58.6 % inhibition, respectively. In chronic inflammation, the same doses showed maximum anti-inflammatory activity with 58 and 44.1 % inhibition, respectively. DCME showed significant protection...

Exploring Antidiabetic Mechanisms of Action of Galactomannan: A Carbohydrate Isolated from Fenugreek Seeds

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 16:49:48 +0100

The previously studied hypoglycemic effect of fenugreek galactomannan was confirmed in normal rats. Additional investigations were carried out to study the effect of galactomannan on utilization of glucose by hemidiaphragm and its antioxidant activity in diabetic rats. As compared to diabetic control rats, the galactomannan enhanced the uptake of glucose by hemidiaphragm but it was not comparable to the standard drug glibenclamide. Furthermore, galactomannan lowered lipid peroxidation and elevated the levels of antioxidant enzymes. The present study demonstrates that fenugreek galactomannan exhibits little antioxidant activity and little effect on peripheral glucose uptake. Further scope is there to study galactomannan's different antidiabetic mechanism(s) of actions. (Source: Journal of C...

Action of Portulaca oleracea against Streptozotocin-Induced Oxidative Stress in Experimental Diabetic Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:40:15 +0100

Antidiabetic treatment with an extract of Portulaca oleracea leaves (100mg/kg and 250mg/kg body weight) for three weeks showed a significant reduction in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBRAS) and an increase in glutathione reductase (GSH-R) in both the liver and kidney of STZ diabetic rats. The treatment with P. oleracea significantly altered the glutathione and GSH-R to be comparable with the control group. P. oleracea- and tolbutamide-treated rats showed decreased lipid peroxidation that is associated with increased activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase(CAT). The effects of P. oleracea on tissue lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in diabetic animals have not been studied before. The result of this study thus shows that although P. oleracea extract possesses...

Cardioprotective Activity of Polyherbal Extracts in Experimental Myocardial Necrosis in Rodents: An Evidence of Antioxidant Activity

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 01:36:18 +0100

The present study investigates the antioxidant activity of A.V. Circulo (AVC), a polyherbal formulation in isoproterenol(ISO)-induced oxidative stress in rats and attempts to correlate its cardioprotective activity with antioxidant activity. Myocardial necrosis was produced in rats with ISO (85 mg/kg, s.c.), injected twice at an interval of 24 h. AVC (500 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered to rats for 21 days and 45 days and its effect was evaluated on ISO-induced cardiac injury. The marker enzymes - AST, LDH & CPK were assayed in serum and heart, and antioxidant parameters, viz., reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) & glutathione reductase (GR), and malondialdehyde (MDA), were determined in heart homogenate. Significant myocardial ...

Crude Extract of Turmeric Reduces Hepato-Toxicity and Oxidative Stress in Rats Chronically Fed Carcinogens

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 23:49:16 +0100

The crude extract of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.; Zingiberaceae) is widely used in traditional systems of medicine like Ayurveda as a remedy for various diseases. Although various medicinal effects of its active principle, Curcumin, have been extensively studied in various animal models, there appears to be no systematic study on whether the crude extract can reduce hepato-toxicity and oxidative stress in rats induced by chronic feeding of p-dimethyl aminoazobenzene and phenobarbital, two known carcinogens of liver. Tests were conducted in experimental and controlled animals involving several widely accepted toxicity biomarkers at four fixation intervals, namely, 30, 60, 90, and 120 days. Results revealed an increase in activities of acid and alkaline phosphatases, alanine and aspartate ami...

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Systematic Review of Prevalence and Evidence

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 20:52:23 +0100

The objective of this manuscript is to provide healthcare professionals and researchers with a comprehensive review of the prevalence of CAM use in JIA, determinants of use, and outcomes associated with various therapies. The implications for future clinical practice and promising areas of investigation will be discussed. An in-depth search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, and Cochrane Library. Programs from relevant conferences were also searched. Thirty-eight articles were retrieved and 12 were included in the analysis. Eight articles assessed the prevalence of CAM use in JIA, three investigated specific interventions (Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F, relaxation, massage), and one examined reasons for using CAM. Results showed that CAM use is relatively high among JIA patients, but ...

Antidiabetic Activity Assessment of Argania spinosa Oil

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 01:12:11 +0100

Background: Argan or Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels, of the family sapotaceae which is an endemic species of the western south Morocco is used for its antidiabetic activity in local traditional medicine. All the parts of the plants are used to prepare remedies against various diseases. Recently, some studies suggest that Argan oil could play a beneficial role in cardiovascular diseases prevention.Aim: The goal of the present work is to show more evidences of the antidiabetic activity of Argan oil extracted from the almonds of Argan tree. Methods: In a first experiment, we tested the antihyperglycemiant effect on oral glucose tolerance test in healthy rats and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (60 mg/kg). In the second subchronic study, we tested the effect of the repeated oral administrati...

Research that Matters: Linking Researchers, Practitioners, Decision-Makers and the Public: Abstracts from the Fifth Annual IN-CAM Research Symposium November 7 to 9, 2008, Toronto, Canada

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 13:43:11 +0100

The following are abstracts of oral and poster presentations given at the Fifth Annual IN-CAM Research Symposium - Research that Matters: Linking Researchers, Practitioners, Decision-Makers and the Public, held on November 7, 8 & 9, 2008 at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. The Symposium was held in collaboration with two IN-CAM partners, PedCAM and HomeoNet. The abstracts are grouped under: IN-CAM, PedCAM, and HomeoNet. For more information, please visit: www.incamresearch.ca. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Systematic Follow-Up of a Cohort of Smokers Who Received a Standard Smoking Cessation Intervention with Soft Laser Therapy

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 19:16:32 +0100

Discussion:Our results suggest a possible effect of the SLT that would be in the high range of those observed with other interventions. However, absence of control group and other limitations prevent making any conclusion. Double blind placebo controlled randomized trials need to be conducted. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Hypoglycemic Activity of Aqueous Extract of Oscillatoria limnetica, Blennothrix ganeshii, Hydrodictyon reticulatum and Microcoleous lacustris in Normal and Alloxan Induced Diabetic Mice

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:32:15 +0100

This study shows that algae extracts have significant activity on glucose levels in rats. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Antioxidant and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Properties of the Indian Medicinal Plant "Shankhapushpi" Used for Enhancing Memory Function

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 15:50:16 +0100

Objective - At least seven plants known as Shankhapushpi are used in Indian system of medicine for improving memory function. The present study was aimed to analyze the antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory properties of the methanolic extracts of five of these plants, e.g. Clitorea ternatea, Canscora decussata, C. diffusa, Evolvulus alsinoides, E. nummularius.Methods - Acetylcholinesterase activity was assayed modifying the method of Ellman et al. (1961) using mice brain homogenates as the enzyme source. Antioxidant activity of the extracts were determined by measuring DPPH radical and superoxide radical scavenging activity, metal chelation effect and total antioxidant capacity.Results - All the plants (except C. ternatea) inhibited acetylcholinesterase in a dose dependant manne...

Australian Natural Therapists and Mental Health: Survey of Treatment Approaches and Referral Patterns

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:59:58 +0100

This study was an initial examination of practice by Australian naturopaths and Western herbalists in their treatment of insomnia, anxiety and depression. Types of treatments provided and the nature of interactions with mental health professionals were explored. Sixty-nine participants (response rate approximately 9%) completed a questionnaire devised by the authors. A variety of natural medicine modalities were chosen to treat each condition, most frequently herbs, lifestyle advice and dietary modification. Evidence was found for some degree of consistency in the treatment approaches taken to mental health issues, suggestive of common practice approaches amongst suitably qualified practitioners. Findings also indicate considerable interaction between naturopaths/herbalists and mental heal...

The Effects of Borage Oil Supplementation on Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Requirements in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 20:21:12 +0100

Conclusion: This study suggests that Borage oil does has a beneficial effect on controlling pain. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Antiangiogenic Effects of Chinese Medicines (Hachimijiogan and Kogikujiogan) on Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A-Induced Tube Formation in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Co-Cultured with Fibroblasts

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:16 +0100

The aim of this study was to examine the antiangiogenic properties and antioxidant activities of two Chinese medicines (Hachimijiogan and Kogikujiogan). Each of these medicines concentration-dependently inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A)-induced tube formation in a co-culture of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and fibroblasts. In addition, they each at 100 μg/ml inhibited the VEGF-A-induced cell proliferation of HUVECs. Hachimijiogan at 10 and 100 μg/ml and Kogikujiogan at 100 μg/ml also inhibited the VEGF-A-induced cell migration of HUVECs, and Hachimijiogan at 50 μg/ml and Kogikujiogan at 5, 50, and 100 μg/ml inhibited lipid peroxidation in mouse forebrain homogenates. These findings indicate that Hachimijiogan and Kogikujiogan have antiangiogeni...

Comparative Analysis of CAM Use in the U.S. Cancer and Noncancer Populations

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 03:31:50 +0100

Conclusion: While these patterns may have begun during the initial period of cancer diagnosis and treatment, they continue among long-term survivors. Predisposing, enabling, and need factors were strong predictors of CAM use in both populations. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Hypolipidemic Activity Evaluation of DRF/AY/4013, an Herbal Formulation in Experimentally Induced Hyperlipidemic Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 02:13:45 +0100

The present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of an herbal product DRF/AY/4013 for its hypolipidemic activity in various experimental rat models. An indigenous polyherbal formulation DRF/AY/4013, composed of different phytoconstituents like Terminalia arjuna, Commiphora mukul, Allium sativum, Cyperus rotundus and Acorus calamus extracts, exhibited potential hypolipidemic activity treatment in triton induced hyperlipidemic rats. Further, it also showed promising hypolipidemic activity in both high fat diet (HFD) induced hyperlipidemic rats and propylthiouracil (PTU) induced hyperlipidemic rats. In all the experimental hyperlipidemic models, DRF/AY/4013 treatment demonstrated dose dependent hypolipidemic activity at 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg dose levels by decreasing serum lipid and l...

Lepidium meyenii (Maca) Varieties Did Not Alter Female Reproductive Parameters in Adult Intact Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:56:05 +0100

The main goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of three different varieties of Lepidium meyenii (Black, Yellow and Red Maca) during seven estrous cycles in rats. Adult female rats (n=8 per group) were treated with freeze-dried aqueous extract of each maca variety (1 g/kg) during 28 days. The duration of each phase of the estrous cycle and body weight was determined. Animals were sacrificed in first estrous phase after seven estrous cycles and the number of ova from oviduct, wet uterine and body weight and estradiol levels were recorded. Total polyphenols content found in black, yellow and red maca freeze-dried was 0.56, 0.57 and 0.58 g/100g of lyophilized respectively. The maca varieties did not affect any phase of estrous cycle, number of ova recovered within oviduct, serum estrad...

Protective Role of Grewia asiatica on Blood after Radiation Exposure in Mice

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 23:30:06 +0100

Conclusion: It showed that GAE provides protection against radiation-induced alterations in blood of mice. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Magnetotherapy: Changes in the Nature of Biomolecules under a Constant Magnetic Field

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:29:23 +0100

Doses of 0.0175 Weber m-2 magnetic fields were given to four series of biomolecules for up to 40 minutes in aqueous solution. During this, every 5 minutes, viscosities (η) were measured at 303.15 K and one atmospheric pressure. The source of the magnetic field of 0.0175 Weber m-2 was generated by putting two permanent magnets around the solutions. Interestingly, the viscosities of the bimolecules responded to the magnetic field dose and the length of the field exposure with time as compared to their viscosities without a magnetic dose. An initial magnetic dose of 5 minutes causes a drastic decrease in viscosities for vitamins, amino acids and carbohydrates, and a slight decrease for proteins due to the hydrogen-bonded peptides framework. The vitamins, amino acids and carbohydrates show de...

The Antioxidant Defense System Induced by Methanol Extract of Careya arborea in N-Nitroso-diethylamine (NDEA) Induced Hepatocarcinogenesis

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Thu, 22 May 2008 03:13:05 +0100

The methanol extract of stem barks of Careya arborea Roxb (MECA) (Family- Myrtaceae) was evaluated against hepatocellular carcinoma induced by N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA). NDEA is a widely used experimental tool to induce cancer in animals causing oxidative stress and cellular injury due to the enhanced formation of free radicals and is associated with rise in biochemical parameters like serum glutamyl pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum glutamyl oxalacetic acid (SGOT), serum alkaline phosphatase (SALP), bilirubin, as well as decrease in the levels of total protein and uric acid. Furthermore, the protective effect of Careya arborea against perturbations in the levels of antioxidant defense system was also estimated. The MECA was administered at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight/r...

Evaluation of Antioxidant and Free Radical Scavenging Activities of Oxystelma esculentum in Various In Vitro Models

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 21 May 2008 00:24:21 +0100

Conclusion - The results suggest that the methanol extract of Oxystelma esculentum proved its strong antioxidant activity and can be used as a natural antioxidant. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Research Advances on the Anti-aging Profile of Fructus lycii: an Ancient Chinese Herbal Medicine

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 21 May 2008 00:21:31 +0100

Fructus lycii is a common Chinese herbal medicine used in China for nearly 2000 years. It has beneficial effects on eyes, liver and kidneys; and it has long been considered to be an anti-aging herb in ancient Chinese medicine. Modern studies have partially probed the magic anti-aging property of F. lycii. The beneficial effects of F. lycii on aging are largely attributed to its bioactive components such as polysaccharides, carotenoids and flavonoids. This review focuses on the anti-aging aspect of F. lycii, elaborating the bioactive ingredients accounting for the property, anti-aging pharmacology in terms of its antioxidation capacity, immunomodulative effect and neuroprotective activity. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

An Extract from North American Ginseng Stimulates Spontaneous Immunity in Infant Mice: Sustained, Augmented Immunity in Adulthood Long after Withdrawal of the Extract

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:06:24 +0100

The present study evaluated the effect of CVT E002, a proprietary extract of North American ginseng, Panax quinquefolius (CV Technologies, Inc., Edmonton, AB, Canada), in vivo, on the hemopoietic and immune cells when administered intraperitoneally to infant (pre-weaned) mice. The extract was administered to groups of mice daily, for 14 days, from 7 - 21 days after birth, the dosage being adjusted progressively according to body weight as the infants grew. At 21-26 days of age, the period immediately after the last of the injection, and at 7-8 weeks of age, long after the termination of CVT E002, the bone marrow and spleen were removed from treated and control mice (CVT E002-injected and vehicle-injected, respectively). The results revealed that CVT E002 stimulated only those cells acting ...

Increasing Research Literacy and Capacity in Massage Therapy: Investigating the Feasibility of a Peer-Reviewed International, Electronic Massage Therapy Journal

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:30:44 +0100

This article reports on a feasibility study and strategic planning meeting. Participants from the scientific and professional communities concluded that despite significant challenges, there might be sufficient academic interest and professional backing to support a collaborative massage therapy e-journal. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Effect of Pranayama [Voluntary Regulated Yoga Breathing] and Yogasana [Yoga Postures] in Diabetes Mellitus (DM): A Scientific Review

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 15:29:38 +0100

Diabetes is a complex condition with a multitude of metabolic imbalances involving the regulation and utilization of insulin and glucose (sugar) in the body. Diabetes is currently considered an epidemic disease that is largely preventable and treatable through yoga's effectiveness at preventing and treating diabetes is due to its emphasis of a healthy diet and lifestyle as well as its ability to balance the endocrine system, massage and tone the abdominal organs, stimulate the nervous and circulatory systems, and reduce stress. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Effects of Harungana madagascariensis Stem Bark Extract on the Antioxidant Markers in Alloxan Induced Diabetic and Carrageenan Induced Inflammatory Disorders in Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 22:16:22 +0100

The complimentary antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Harungana madagascariensis stem-bark ethanolic extract on the reactive oxygen species (ROS) markers induced in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and carrageenan-induced oedema were examined. The study was carried out on normal and alloxan induced diabetic rats. Oedema was induced by injecting 0.1mL of 1% carrageenan suspension in the right hind paw of rats. The Glutathione (GSH), Lipid peroxidation, Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) were estimated by standard spectrophotometric methods, while the anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated using plethysmometer. The antioxidant activity was estimated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) photometric assay techniques. Administration of ethanolic extract of Harung...

Potential Health Benefits of Garlic (Allium Sativum): A Narrative Review

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 04:48:16 +0100

A member of the Liliaceae family, garlic (Allium sativum) is highly regarded throughout the world for both its medicinal and culinary value. Early men of medicine such as Hippocrates, Pliny and Aristotle encouraged a number of therapeutic uses for this botanical. Today, it is commonly used in many cultures as a seasoning or spice. Garlic also stands as the second most utilized supplement. With its sulfur containing compounds, high trace mineral content, and enzymes, garlic has shown anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antioxidant abilities. Diseases that may be helped or prevented by garlic's medicinal actions include Alzheimer's Disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease (including atherosclerosis, strokes, hypertension, thrombosis and hyperlipidemias) children's conditions, dermatol...

Ginger Modulates Lymphocyte Activity in Vitro and in Vivo and Modestly Prolongs Cardiac Allograft Survival

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 21:34:48 +0100

Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that ginger extract has immunosuppressive effects both in vitro on lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production and in vivo on allograft survival. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

Using the Behavioral Model for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: The CAM Healthcare Model

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 15:39:12 +0100

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, products and practices are increasingly being used across the United States and worldwide by individuals who are healthy, as well as by those who are ill (Barnes, Powell-Griner, McFann & Nahin et al., 2004; Burstein, Gelber, Guadagnoli, & Weeks, 1999; Eisenberg, et al., 1998; Ernst & Cassileth, 1998; Kessler, et al., 2001; Richardson & Straus, 2002). This trend, which is anticipated to continue, reflects changing health care behavior. Individuals, who are experiencing illness, use CAM for treatment, management of illness related symptoms and to enhance quality of life. Those who are well also use CAM to promote health, and prevent disease. This increasing prevalence of CAM has created a need to identify patterns and predictors of use ...

Effect of Andrographolide on Monkey Hepatocytes against Galactosamine Induced Cell Toxicity : An In-Vitro Study

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 22:34:52 +0100

Andrographolide, the active constituent, isolated from the plant Andrographis paniculata showed concentration dependent (1-100 microg/mL) activity against galactosamine (GALN 400 microg/mL) induced acute injury in isolated monkey hepatocytes, following 48 hours of the incubation at 370 C. The effect of andrographolide was measured on viability (trypan blue exclusion and oxygen uptake tests), biochemical marker enzymes - aspartate amino transaminase (AST), alanine amino transaminase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (AlP) and bile contents (bile salts and bile acids). It significantly increased the percent viability of cells and was capable of preserving 90-100% cell integrity. The cellular leakage of enzymes and bile contents following incubation with GALN was significantly modulated by and...

Coming of Age -- Emerging Issues and New Directions in CAM Research: Abstracts from the Fourth Annual IN-CAM Symposium November 1 & 2, 2007, Vancouver, Canada

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 13:02:29 +0100

The following are abstracts of oral and poster presentations given at the fourth annual IN-CAM Research Symposium Coming of Age: Emerging Issues and New Directions in CAM Research, held on November 1 & 2, 2007 at the Four Seasons Hotel, Vancouver, Canada. For more information on the symposium, please visit: www.incamresearch.ca. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)

The Effects of Honey Compared With Sucrose and a Sugar-free Diet on Neutrophil Phagocytosis and Lymphocyte Numbers after Long-term Feeding in Rats

Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 12:22:32 +0100

In conclusion: Honey may have a beneficial effect on immune activity, possibly attenuating the decline seen in older age. (Source: Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine)