MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Phytomedicine' source. Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:46:26 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295808&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711310000395%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295808 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 14:11:21 +0100 3295808 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295817&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711310000218%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Ecdysteroids are steroids found in invertebrates and plants. In mammals they have protein anabolic effects. We have recently published antiosteoporotic effects of Tinospora cordifolia (TC) extract and the search for the possible active ingredients yielded the presence of β-Ecdysone (Ecd). Therefore, we investigated the effects of pure Ecd in ovariectomized rats on morphological changes in joint, epiphyseal cartilage and trabecular tissue. Following ovariectomy rats were fed for 1 month with Ecd containing food at a dose of 52.8mg/day/animal. Positive and negative control animals received 17-β Estradiol (E2, 132μg/day/animal) and soy free (sf) food respectively. At sacrifice, specimens consisting of upper tibiae-lower femurs and knee joint were harvested and processed for histo... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295817 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3295817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295818&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711310000176%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We investigated the anticancer effect of EGCG treatment on a breast carcinoma cell line resistant to tamoxifen (MCF-7Tam cells). As there are no reports about the molecular mechanisms implicated in EGCG treatment of tamoxifen resistant breast carcinoma cells, we studied the effects of EGCG treatment on three plasma membrane proteins that are involved in the mechanism of drug-resistance: Multidrug Resistance Protein (MRP1), P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and Breast Cancer Resistance Protein (BCRP). EGCG treatment (10-100μg/ml for 24-72hours) caused cell growth inhibition and dose-dependent apoptosis: after 100μg/ml EGCG treatment for 24hours, Bax expression increased and Bcl2 expression decreased (p (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295818 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3295818 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237295&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711310000139%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237295 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:16:57 +0100 3237295 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237271&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711310000061%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237271 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:16:52 +0100 3237271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295816&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002268%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The aim of the following study was to evaluate the effect of a purified saponin mixture (PSM), isolated from Astragalus corniculatus Bieb. (Fabaceae), on enzyme-induced and non-enzyme-induced lipid peroxidation (LPO), in liver microsomes from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) – strain Okamoto Aoki, as compared to normotensive Wistar rats (NTRs).The enzyme-induced lipid peroxidation was performed by incubating rat liver microsomes with carbonetetrachloride (CCl4) in the presence of NADPH. In nonenzyme-induced LPO, the microsomes were incubated with a solution of iron sulphate and ascorbinic acid (Fe2+/AA). The effect of PSM (196.5μg/ml) was assessed at 20 minutes’ incubation time. MDA, a product of LPO, was measured spectrophotometrically.The results of our study showed ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295816 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3295816 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237273&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309003341%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: SRB can prevent loss of bone volume and suppress serum IL-6 levels in this postmenopausal model and is a promising candidate for treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237273 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3237273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237274&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309003201%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A randomized, double blind placebo controlled clinical study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of KalmCold™, an extract of Andrographis paniculata, in patients with uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). The assessment involved quantification of symptom scores by Visual Analogue Scale. Nine self evaluated symptoms of cough, expectoration, nasal discharge, headache, fever, sore throat, earache, malaise/fatigue and sleep disturbance were scored. A total of 223 patients of both sexes were randomized in two groups which received either KalmCold™ (200 mg/day) or placebo in a double blind manner. In both the treatments, mean scores of all symptoms showed a decreasing trend from day 1 to day 3 but from day 3 to day 5 most of the symptoms in placebo treated grou... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237274 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3237274 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237277&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309003365%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Green tea catechin may reduce hepatic fibrosis by suppressing oxidative stress and controlling the transcription factor expression involved in stellate cell activation. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237277 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3237277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237272&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309003481%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The MTD of capecitabine was determined to be 1500mg/m2 BID administered in a 7/7 schedule, in combination with PHY906 800mg BID on days 1-4. This combination was well tolerated and warrants further study. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237272 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3237272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160956&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309003250%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160956 Tue, 12 Jan 2010 14:53:19 +0100 3160956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160960&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002670%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Gegen Qinlian dispensing granule, a favorite composite formula, is a combination of Radix Puerariae Lobatae, Radix Scutellariae, Rhizoma Coptidis and Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum Melle. To develop a method to overall evaluate correlation between the formula and its four raw herbs, LC fingerprints of the formula and its raw herbs were developed and LC-DAD-MS was employed to identify the components in the formula fingerprint. According to the characteristic fragmentation behavior of known flavonoids, alkaloids and saponins isolated from the four raw herbs as well as retention time, UV and MS data of detected compounds, a total of 23 constituents in the formula fingerprint were structurally characterized. Chemical correlation between the formula and the four crude he... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160960 Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3160960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054082&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002542%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Every year nearly 200,000 men in the United States are diagnosed with prostate cancer (PCa), and another 29,000 men succumb to the disease. Within certain regions of the world population based studies have identified a possible role for green tea in the prevention of certain cancers, especially PCa. One constituent in particular, epigallocatechin-3-gallate also known as EGCG has been shown in cell culture models to decrease cell viability and promote apoptosis in multiple cancer cell lines including PCa with no effect on non-cancerous cell lines. In addition, animal models have consistently shown that standardized green tea polyphenols when administered in drinking water delay the development and progression of PCa. Altogether, three clinical trials have been performed in PCa pat... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054082 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:03:53 +0100 3054082 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054081&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002967%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054081 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:03:53 +0100 3054081 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054080&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309003043%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054080 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:03:53 +0100 3054080 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295809&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002682%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Suppression of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and other interleukins by wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) extracts were reported recently in in vitro studies. The aim of the present study was to find out if this effect can be also be observed in Crohn’s Disease (CD) patients where TNF-α appears to play an important role. In a controlled trial, 10 randomly selected patients suffering from CD were given in addition to their basic CD therapy 3×750mg dried powdered wormwood for 6 weeks. Ten patients, also randomly selected who met the inclusion criteria served as control group. Minimum score of 200 on Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (CDAI) was required at baseline for inclusion in each group. Patients who received infliximab or similar were excluded from the trial. TNF-α l... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295809 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295809 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160959&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900261X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, our results demonstrate that silexan is as effective as lorazepam in adults with GAD. The safety of silexan was also demonstrated. Since lavender oil showed no sedative effects in our study and has no potential for drug abuse, silexan appears to be an effective and well tolerated alternative to benzodiazepines for amelioration of generalised anxiety. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160959 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054086&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002736%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Diabetes mellitus is the most common and serious metabolic disorder among people all over the world. Many plants have successfully been used to overcome this problem. Cassia fistula, an ethnomedicnal plant, is widely used in Indian medicine to treat diabetes. Methanol extract of stem of plant, reduced the blood glucose levels in Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Bioassay guided fractionation was followed to isolate Catechin from methanol extract. Catechin was administered to Streptozotocin (60mg/kg b.w.)-induced diabetic male Wistar rats at different doses (5, 10, 20mg/kg b.w.) for 6 weeks to assess its effect on fasting plasma glucose. The plasma glucose was significantly (p (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054086 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054085&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002748%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: These findings suggest that crude catechin extract can play a definite role as adjuvant therapy in management of oxidative stress seen in pulmonary tuberculosis patients. More detailed studies are needed to document use of catechin in reducing the frequency and severity of side effects of treatment. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054085 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054085 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054084&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002566%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Among the many known health benefits of tea catechins count anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activities, as well as effects on the regulation of food intake. Here we address cannabimimetic bioactivity of catechin derivatives occurring in tea leaves as a possible cellular effector of these functionalities. Competitive radioligand binding assays using recombinant human cannabinoid receptors expressed in Chem-1 and CHO cells identified (–)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate, EGCG (Ki=33.6μM), (–)-epigallocatechin, EGC (Ki=35.7μM), and (–)-epicatechin-3-O-gallate, ECG (Ki=47.3μM) as ligands with moderate affinity for type 1 cannabinoid receptors, CB1. Binding to CB2 was weaker with inhibition constants exceeding 50μM for EGC and ECG. The epimers (+)-catechin and (–)-epicat... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054084 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968722&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002785%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968722 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:02:41 +0100 2968722 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295812&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002256%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, antimicrobial activities of the RRn extract as well as rhinacanthin-C against Streptococcus mutans, Propionibacterium acnes, Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis and Candida albicans were evaluated by microdilution assay. It was found that the RRn extract exhibited potent bactericidal activity against S. mutans with MIC and MBC of 4μg/ml, and potent bacteriostatic activity against S. epidermidis, P. acnes and S. aureus with the MICs of 8–16μg/ml. However, the RRn extract was not active against C. albicans at concentration up to 2000μg/ml. The antimicrobial activities of the RRn extract was almost equal to those of rhinacanthin-C. Stability evaluations of the RRn extract through a period of 4 months found that the RRn extracts were stable when kept ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295812 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295812 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295823&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002372%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Erythroxylum species have several traditional uses in different countries, including the treatment of hypertension. The ethanol extract from E. gonocladum aerial parts, a species endemic to the Brazilian cerrado, elicited a concentration-dependent inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) (pIC50=4.53±0.05). Extract fractionation led to the isolation of two compounds, whose structures were assigned by spectrometric data as astilbin and β-sitosterol, along with a mixture of palmitic, stearic and linolenic acids. This is the first report on the occurrence of these compounds on E. gonocladum. Astilbin promoted significant ACE inhibition in vitro (pIC50=5.86±0.33) and its activity did not differ from captopril, when both compounds were assayed at 10μM concentration. (Sourc... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295823 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295823 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295821&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002384%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: These compounds showed significant efficacy in L. amazonensis infected mice, providing important knowledge to improve its potential role for a future use in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295821 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237293&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002396%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Our aim was to study the effect of pure mastic gum on Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication in patients suffering from an H. pylori infectionFifty two patients were randomized to receive either 350mg three times a day (tid) of pure mastic gum for 14 days (Group A), or 1,05g tid of pure mastic gum (Group B) for 14 days, or pantoprazole 20mg twice a day (bd) plus pure mastic gum 350mg tid for 14 days (Group C) or pantoprazole 20mg bd plus amoxicillin 1g bd plus clarithromycin 500mg bd for 10 days (Group D). All patients harboured H. pylori before entering the study and that was confirmed by a 13C urea breath test (UBT). H. pylori eradication was tested by a UBT 5 weeks after completion of the eradication regime.Eradication of H. pylori was confirmed in 4/13 patients in Group ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237293 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237293 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054091&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001810%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we isolated a baicalin-deprived-fraction (SbF1) of Scutellaria baicalensis, and baicalin-fraction (SbF3), and evaluated their anti-breast cancer properties using MCF-7 cells. The content of four flavonoids in extract/fractions were determined using high performance liquid chromatography. Analytical data showed that in SbF1, the major constituents are baicalein and wogonin, while SbF3 only contains baicalin. The antiproliferative effects of fractions and SbE were assayed using modified trichrome stain method. SbF1 showed significant antiproliferative effect. Treated with 100μg/ml of SbF1 for 72h inhibited MCF-7 cell growth by 81.6%, while in the same treatment concentration, SbF3 increased cell growth by 22.6%. SbF1 was recognized as an active fraction of SbE. The effects of... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054091 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160958&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002311%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The results indicate that patients with RA may benefit from additional treatment with rose hip powder. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160958 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054083&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002360%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The tea polyphenol epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) displays some antidiabetic effects; however the mechanisms are incompletely understood. In the present study, the investigation of the effects of EGCG on insulin resistance was performed in rat L6 cells treated with dexamethasone. We found that dexamethasone increased Ser307 phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and reduced phosphorylation of AMPK and Akt. Furthermore, glucose uptake and glucose transporter (GLUT4) translocation were inhibited by dexamethasone. However, the treatment of EGCG improved insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by increasing GLUT4 translocation to plasma membrane. Furthermore, we also demonstrated these EGCG effects essentially depended on the AMPK and Akt activation. Together, our dat... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054083 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877637&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711306000456%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The publisher regrets to inform you of an error that occurred in a previous issue of this journal, [Phytomedicine 13 (1–2) (2006) 101] Accidentally, the name of one author of the paper “Protective effects of Rosmarinus tomentosus ethanol extract on the thioacetamide-induced liver cirrhosis in rats”, M. Galisteo et al., [Phytomedicine 13 (2006) 101–108], was incorrectly stated. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877637 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 16:44:38 +0100 2877637 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877624&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002463%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877624 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 16:44:36 +0100 2877624 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295814&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002074%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Leishmanicide potential of Calophyllum brasiliense leaves on promastigote and amastigote of Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis is evaluated. The LD50 of dichloromethane extract and hexane fraction for promastigotes was respectively 40μg/ml and 20μg/ml. In mouse peritoneal macrophages infected with Leishmania amastigotes the Infection Index decreased respectively 100% and 84.2% in 80μg/ml and 40μg/ml concentrations of dichloromethane extract. Hexane fraction decreased infection index respectively by 98.7% and 91.3% within the same concentrations. It was found that pretreatment with dichloromethane extract or with hexane fraction of experimentally infected BALB/c mice decrease the volume of the lesions by L. (L.) amazonensis. Moreover, animals treated topically also revealed h... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295814 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295814 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237279&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900213X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The root of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, a well-known traditional Chinese medicine, has been used effectively for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases for a long time. The mechanisms underlying this therapeutic effect are not, however, fully understood. Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) is one of the major active components of this Chinese medicine. Therefore, the present study was performed to investigate whether Tan IIA, which has shown a cardio-protective capacity in myocardial ischemia, has an inhibitory effect on the inflammatory responses following myocardial infarction (MI) and its potential mechanisms. In an in vivo study, rat MI model was induced by permanent left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) ligation. After the operation rats were divided into three groups (sham, ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237279 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237279 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160957&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002293%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objectives of this review were to examine the evidence of effectiveness and safety of hibiscus in the treatment of hypertension.Methods: We searched several medical databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the specialized register of the Cochrane Hypertension Group and the general engine Google) to January 2009.We included randomized controlled trials that had examined Hibiscus's effectiveness and safety in the treatment of primary hypertension in adults. Two authors independently selected the trials for the review, extracted the data, and critically appraised the included studies.Results: Four trials, with a total of 390 patients, met our inclusion criteria. Two studies compared Hibiscus sabdariffa to black tea; one study compared it to c... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160957 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237275&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002037%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Diet supplementation and/or modulation is an important strategy to significantly improve human health. The search of plants as additional sources of bioactive phenolic compounds is relevant in this context. The aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa is rich in anthocyanins and other phenolic compounds including hydroxycitric and chlorogenic acids. Using this extract we have shown an effective protection of cultured peripheral blood mononuclear cells from the cellular death induced by H2O2 and a significant role in the production of inflammatory cytokines. In vitro, the extract promotes the production of IL-6 and IL-8 and decreases the concentration of MCP-1 in supernatants in a dose-dependent manner. In humans, the ingestion of an acute dose of the extract (10g) was well tolerate... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237275 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295815&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001949%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Infections by protozoans of the genus Leishmania are the major worldwide health problem, with high endemicity in developing countries. The drugs of choice for the treatment of leishmaniasis are the pentavalent antimonials, which exert renal and cardiac toxicity. Thus, there is a strong need for safer and more effective treatments against leishmaniasis. The present study was designated to evaluate, by a bioguided assay, the leishmanicidal activity of extracts (hexane, ethyl-acetate and ethanolic) and molecules both obtained by means of extraction from pericarps of Garcinia brasiliensis fruits. The hexane extract presented the best activity on the extracellular (promastigotes) and intracellular (amastigotes) forms of Leishmania (L.) amazonensis, when compared to the other extracts.... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295815 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295815 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237285&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001780%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, the effects of TGP on oxidative stress were investigated in the kidney of diabetic rats induced by streptozotocin. TGP (50, 100, 200mg/kg) was orally administered once a day for 8 weeks. TGP treatment in all three doses significantly lowered 24 h urinary albumin excretion rate in diabetic rats and attenuated glomerular volume. TGP treatment with 100 and 200mg/kg significantly reduced indices for tubulointerstitial injury in diabetic rats. The level of MDA was significantly increased in the kidney of diabetic rats and attenuated by TGP treatment at the dose of 200mg/kg. TGP treatment in a dose-dependent manner decreased the level of 3-NT protein of the kidney which increased under diabetes. T-AOC was significantly reduced in diabetic rat kidney and remarkably increased by TGP... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237285 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295822&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002050%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Betulinic acid (1), isolated from the crude extract of the leaves of Pentalinon andrieuxii (Apocynaceae), together with betulinic acid acetate (2), betulonic acid (3), betulinic acid methyl ester (4), and betulin (5) were evaluated for their antiprotozoal activity. The results showed that modifying the C-3 position increases leishmanicidal activity while modification of the C-3 and C-28 positions decreases trypanocidal activity. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295822 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295819&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001901%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: It is well known that the garlic-derived organosulfur compounds (OSCs) are effective to inhibit a variety of human cancers such as prostate, breast, colon, skin, lung, and bladder cancers. Herein, the pro-apoptotic effects of diallyl trisulfide (DATS), one of garlic-derived OSCs, on T24 bladder cancer cells were investigated. The results demonstrated that DATS suppressed proliferation of T24 bladder cancer cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner which was associated with induced G2/M Phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Mechanistically, DATS inhibits phosphatidylinositol 3′-kinase/Akt activation that, in turn, results in modulation of Bcl-2 family proteins, leading to enhanced apoptosis of T24 cells. These findings suggest that DATS may be an effective way for treating hum... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295819 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295819 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295810&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002086%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, the antiviral activity of addition of XN to interferon (IFN)-α was examined and compared with each compound alone using bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), a surrogate model of hepatitis C virus (HCV). BVDV E2 protein and the viral RNA level were determined by immunofluorescence and quantitative real-time RT-PCR, respectively. The addition of XN to IFN-α significantly improved CPEs induced by the virus and inhibited BVDV E2 protein and viral RNA levels. The interaction between XN and IFN-α was significant (P (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295810 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295810 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237282&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900186X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our studies indicated that TSPN could inhibit vessel restenosis after vascular intimal injury, and its mechanisms may be related to the blockage of the excessive proliferation of VSMC, the reduction of ECM protein deposition in the endometrium, and the degradation of ECM protein. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237282 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054092&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002098%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Screening of plants from the Iberian Peninsula for anti-human immunodeficiency virus (-HIV) activity revealed that aqueous extract of Tuberaria lignosa gave positive results. Following an activity-guided procedure, the crude extract was counterextracted, and the subsequent fractions obtained tested for their anti-HIV activity in vitro. The bioassay-guided fractionation of the extract afforded an ellagitannin enriched fraction (EEF) isolated for the first time from this species. This EEF exhibited antiviral activity against HIV in MT-2 infected cells, with an IC50 value of 2.33μg/ml (selectivity index greater than 21). Inhibition of HIV infection by EEF appears to be mediated by CD4 down-regulation, the main receptor for HIV entry. CXCR4 and CCR5 receptors were not affected by EE... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054092 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783483&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002153%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783483 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:27:42 +0100 2783483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237281&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002104%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We investigated the effects of crocin, a pharmacologically active constituent of Crocus sativus L., in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced cardiotoxicity with reference to hemodynamic, antioxidant, histopathological and ultrastructural parameters. Rats were administered crocin (5, 10 and 20mg/kg/day) or vehicle orally for 21 days along with ISO (85mg/kg, subcutaneously, at 24h interval) on 20th and 21st day. On 22nd day ISO-control rats showed cardiac dysfunction as indicated by lowering of systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressures. In addition, a significant decrease in maximum positive and negative rate of developed left ventricular pressure (±LVdp/dtmax) and an increase in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) were observed. Furthermore, a marked reduction in th... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237281 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160965&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002049%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Therapeutic control of β-lactamase-producing bacteria has been a major clinical problem. Development of drug combinations containing the β-lactamase inhibitors has given clinicians a novel approach to controlling resistant organisms. In our search for beta-lactamase inhibitors from natural resources, we found that the methanol extract of the roots of Fissistigma cavaleriei showed an inhibitory effect on beta-lactamase. Bioassay-guided isolation of the extract yielded an active compound that was identified as salicylsalicylic acid by physical and spectroscopic methods. The compound showed inhibitory effects on beta-lactamase in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 values of 71μM. Salicylsalicylic acid is not as potent as the original inhibitors such as clavulanic acid, but it may ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160965 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295811&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001937%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The application of antimicrobial combinations may address the rising resistance to established classes of both systemic and topical agents and their clinical relevance is related to the presence of a significant postantibiotic effect (PAE). We investigated the effectiveness in vitro of the association between tobramycin and tea tree oil (TTO) against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The minimal inhibitory concentrations, the bacterial killing and the PAE of tobramycin and TTO were determined both singly and in combination against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213. A synergistic interaction was observed against both strains tested: the mean PAEs were 1.3 and 1.7h for tobramycin against E. coli and S. aureus respectively, 10.8h for tobramycin... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295811 Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295820&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001986%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, the dichloromethane extract from aerial part of A. abyssinica should be considered for further study for the treatment of trypanosomiasis. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295820 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3295813&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309002001%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe here the extraction and identification of several classes of phenolic compounds from the lichens Parmotrema dilatatum (Vain.) Hale, Parmotrema tinctorum (Nyl.) Hale, Pseudoparmelia sphaerospora (Nyl.) Hale and Usnea subcavata (Motyka) and determined their anti-tubercular activity. The depsides (atranorin, diffractaic and lecanoric acids), depsidones (protocetraric, salazinic, hypostictic and norstictic acids), xanthones (lichexanthone and secalonic acid), and usnic acid, as well seven orsellinic acid esters, five salazinic acid 8’,9’-O-alkyl derivatives and four lichexanthone derivatives, were evaluated for their activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Diffractaic acid was the most active compound (MIC value 15.6μg/ml, 41.6μM), followed by norstictic acid (MIC value ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3295813 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3295813 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237284&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001792%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: With the recognition that high levels of sustained stress are associated with the natural course of countless illnesses, effective anti-stress agents have gained importance. Improved endurance to particularly stressful periods is one of the medicinal claims for Marapuama (Ptychopetalum olacoides Bentham, PO), a popular Amazonian herbal. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if PO possesses anti-stress properties. To this end, an extract from PO (POEE) was evaluated on anxiety and glucose levels in mice submitted to the unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) paradigm. POEE did not present anxiolytic effects, but was able to prevent (p (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237284 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237276&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001998%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study included 219 male patients with varicocele-associated infertility. These patients were randomly assigned into three groups: the control, the surgery and the escin group. 106 patients, with a mean age of 30 years old and a mean period of infertility of 5.0 years, were recruited in the escin group and a daily dose of 60mg (30mg every 12h) of escin was administered orally during an uninterrupted period of 2 months. The diameter of spermatic vein was also measured using color Doppler ultrasonography before and after treatment in the escin group. Patients in all groups took composite medicines favorable for sperm quality and semen were obtained and analyzed before and after treatment.Results: In response to treatment, the improvement rates in sperm density in the control, the surgery... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237276 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160964&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001871%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Genital herpes caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is a chronic, persistent infection spreading efficiently and silently as sexually transmitted disease through the population. Antiviral agents currently applied for the treatment of herpesvirus infections include acyclovir and derivatives. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of propolis were phytochemically analysed, different polyphenols, flavonoids and phenylcarboxylic acids were identified as major constituents. The aqueous propolis extract revealed a relatively high amount of phenylcarboxylic acids and low concentrations flavonoids when compared to the ethanolic special extract GH 2002. The cytotoxic and antiherpetic effect of propolis extracts against HSV-2 was analysed in cell culture, and revealed a moderate cytotoxic... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160964 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054093&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001822%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Semen Ziziphi spinosae (Suanzaoren in China) and Radix et Rhizoma Salviae miltiorrhizae (Danshen in China) are conventional herbal drugs in traditional Chinese medicine and have been used widely for the treatment of insomnia. In the present study, the sedative-hypnotic activity of the active fractions extracted from Suanzaoren and Danshen were studied using the method of pentobarbital-induced sleep in the mouse model. Qualitative analysis of the standardized extracts was carried out by HPLC-DAD. The results showed that the water extract of Suanzaoren (SWE) (400 and 800mg/kg body wt.) and the ether extract of Danshen (DTT) (300 and 600mg/kg body wt.) can shorten sleep latency significantly, increase sleeping time and prolong movement convalescence time induced by sodium pentobarbi... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054093 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237278&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001974%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study illustrated that the herb-drug interaction potential should be monitored by both in vitro and in vivo biotransformation/ pharmacokinetic parameters. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237278 Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237278 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968729&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001627%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The genotoxic potential of anti-inflammatory/anti-arthritic and anticancer plant based drug molecule Boswelic acids (BA) was studied by in vivo system. Systematic literature survey revealed that studies on the genotoxicity of BA are not available. Although reports on genotoxicity of Boswellia serrata dry extract and modified 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswelic acid are available and these studies were conducted in in vitro systems. The earlier general toxicity study of BA has been conducted by us, revealed it to be non toxic. The genotoxicity was carried out in Wistar rats using different cytogenetic assay system-abnormalities viz. chromosomal aberrations; sperm morphology, micronuclei and comet assays. Six groups of animals, each comprised of five rats, were taken for each study. Gro... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968729 Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237288&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001809%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study evaluated the effect of intra-median raphe nucleus (MRN) microinjection of 1,3,7-trihydroxy-2-(3-methylbut-2-enyl)-xanthone, present in large quantity in the HE from Kielmeyera coriacea stems, on immobility behaviour in the FST in rats. The effects of xanthone were compared with intra-MRN microinjections of Way100635 (5-HT1A antagonist) or (+) 8-OH-DPAT (5-HT1A agonist).Locomotor activity in the open-field test (OFT) was evaluated as a complementary measure. Xanthone (0.3ng) or Way100635 (2.5μg) reduced, whereas (+) 8-OH-DPAT (5.0μg) increased immobility time in the FST. Way100635 (2.5 or 5.0μg) completely reversed the effects of (+) 8-OHDPAT (5.0μg), and potentiated the anti-immobility effect of the ineffective dose of xanthone (0.2ng) in the FST. The association of effecti... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237288 Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237286&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001688%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study suggests that p21 functions to arrest HCT116 wild-type cells treated with GE, while p21-deficient cells undergo cell death in a ginseng constituent-dependent manner. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237286 Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968724&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001585%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objective of this study was the evaluation of the antiangiogenic effect of a red clover extract (RCE) used in food supplements for menopausal complaints as well as of its main isoflavones in an in vivo system, the chorioallantoic membrane assay of fertilized hen's eggs. At a dosage of 250μg/pellet the red clover extract showed excellent inhibition of angiogenesis. The antiangiogenic activity of the non-methylated isoflavones daidzein and genistein was higher than that of the methylated compounds formononentin and biochanin A. The results demonstrate that RCE is not only suitable for menopausal complaints, but might also be a powerful chemopreventive agent against chronic diseases e.g. which have a high incidence especially in elderly female. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968724 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968724 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968730&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001597%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The present study analyses the effect of two plant phenolic compounds, namely chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid, and a plant alkaloid, berberine, alone and also in combination with two commercial oral hypoglycemic drugs (OHD), namely metformin and 2,4-thiazolodinedione (THZ), on the uptake of 2-deoxyglucose (2DG) by L6 myotubes. 2-DG uptake is determined using an enzymatic assay. All the three natural products enhance the uptake of 2DG in time- and dose-dependent manner. A combination of different concentrations of chlorogenic acid and metformin or THZ, has a synergistic effect in the uptake of 2DG with a maximum of 5.0- and 5.3-times respectively, with reference to the base value (without the drugs or the natural products). Ferulic acid in combination with metformin or THZ has a... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968730 Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054088&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900169X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study examines the regulation of uPA and PAI-1 by a natural polyphenol-rich compound, grape seed extract (GSE). GSE is reported to have beneficial effects in promoting wound healing. Fibroblast cells exposed to different doses of GSE for 18hours were processed for further studies such as ELISA, RT-PCR, western blotting, fibrinolytic assay, cell surface plasmin activity assay and in vitro wound healing assay. GSE treatment caused a significant downregulation of uPA and PAI-1 expression, both at the RNA and protein levels. ELISA also revealed a dose-dependent decrease in uPA and PAI-1 activities. Functional significance of the downregulation was evident in decreased fibrinolytic activity, concomittant with decreased cell-surface plasmin activity. In vitro wound healing studies showed th... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054088 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237294&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001573%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Violacein was isolated from Chromobacterium violaceum, a soil Gram negative bacterium collected from the forest water body soil sample of Kolli Hills; Tamil Nadu, India. In the present study the immunomodulatory, analgesic and antipyretic activities of violacein were investigated in wistar rats and mice. Analgesic effect was evaluated by acetic acid- induced writhing, formalin induced paw licking and hotplate tests. Immunomodulatory effect was investigated by using ovalbumin- induced active paw anaphylaxis and sheep red blood cells (SRBC)-induced DTH tests. Antipyretic activity was evaluated by yeast- induced hyperpyrexia in rats. The anti- oedema effect was compared with indomethacin. Violacein inhibited 42.9% of ovalbumin- induced edema. Further we found that violacein (40mg/kg... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237294 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237294 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237292&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001603%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Ethno pharmacological approach has provided several leads to identify potential new drugs from plant sources, including those for memory disorders. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEI) give a symptomatic relief to some of the clinical manifestations of the disease. The main objective of this study is to standardize the extract of Trigonella foenum graecum L with trigonelline by HPTLC method and determine the in vitro AChE inhibitory activity of Trigonella foenum graecum L and its constituents using galanthamine as a reference. Different concentrations of hydro alcoholic extract of Trigonella foenum graecum and trigonelline were subjected to HPTLC analysis using the mobile phase n propanol, methanol and water (4:1:2, v/v). The Rf of trigonelline was found to be 0.43, and the co... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237292 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237292 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237291&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001305%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Strictosidinic acid 10mg/kg, isolated from Psychotria myriantha leaves, were administered intraperitoneally to Wistar male rats (n=5-6). After 60minutes, striatum was dissected, homogenized and injected onto HPLC-ED chromatographic system. It was observed a 28.7% reduction in the 5-HT levels followed up by an increase of 5-HIAA levels (29.4%). Furthermore there was a decrease of 8.0% in DA levels and an increase in the levels of metabolites DOPAC (21.5%) and HVA (52.5%). The results indicate that strictosidinic acid has a promising effect in the central nervous system, justifying more studies about the central actions of Psychotria compounds. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237291 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237291 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237290&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900124X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study was carried out to investigate whether rosmarinic acid (RA) has antifibrotic effect on experimental liver fibrosis in vitro and in vivo and its possible mechanism. Culture of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) determine proliferation and expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), connective transforming growth factor (CTGF) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). In carbon tetrachloride (CCL4)-induced rat liver fibrosis model, determined biochemical indicator, liver fibrosis grade and histopathological changes, immunohistochemical detected liver TGF-β1 and CTGF expression. The results indicated that RA could inhibit HSCs proliferation, inhibit TGF-β1, CTGF and α-SMA expression in cultured HSCs. It has marked evident in reducing fibrosis grade, ameliorating biochemical in... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237290 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237289&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001548%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Many of the drugs used to treat leishmaniasis are associated with numerous adverse effects. Agents of natural origin have shown activity against different parasites. With this background, an in vitro study was conducted on the activity of (-)α-bisabolol, the principal component of Chamomilla recutita essential oil, against Leishmania infantum promastigotes, the main species responsible for human leishmaniasis in Spain. At the two highest concentrations tested (1000 and 500μg/ml), (-)α-bisabolol and pentamidine (control agent) achieved 100% inhibition of L. infantum promastigote. These in vitro data can be considered promising in support of the therapeutic use of (-)α-bisabolol preparations to treat leishmaniasis caused by L. infantum species. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237289 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237287&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001561%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A prenylated coumarin (diversin, 1) together with four new sesquiterpene lactones (diversolides A, D, F and G, 2-5) isolated from the roots of Ferula diversivittata were studied for their possible inhibitory effects on Epstein-Barr virus early antigen (EBV-EA) activation induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). All of the tested compounds were active against EBV-EA activation. Among these compounds diversin (IC50: 7.7) exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect and was selected to examine its effects on in vivo two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) as initiator and TPA as promoter. Treatment with compound 1 (85nmol) along with DMBA/TPA inhibited papilloma formation up to week 7 and the percentage of papilloma bearers was... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237287 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237283&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001639%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Experimental evidence has shown that some garlic-derived products have a protective effect against ischemic brain injury. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of aged garlic extract (AGE), establish the therapeutic window, and determine its protective mechanism in a cerebral ischemia model. Animals were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 2h and treated with 1.2ml/kg body wt.(i.p.) of AGE 30min before, at the beginning of (0R), or 1h after reperfusion. The 0R treatment significantly reduced the size of the infarct area after 2h of reperfusion. Repeated doses subsequent to the 0R treatment (at 1, 2, or 3h after reperfusion) had no effect on the temporal window of protection. The protective 0R treatment with AGE prevented the increase in nit... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237283 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3237280&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001287%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, the effects of a Danshen ethyl acetate extract containing the major tanshinones, an aqueous extract containing salvianolic acid B and danshensu, and individual tanshinones (tanshinone I, tanshinone IIA and cryptotanshinone) on warfarin hydroxylation was investigated. In rat liver microsomes study, the ethyl acetate extract of Danshen, tanshinone I, tanshinone IIA and cryptotanshinone decreased the formation of 4′-, 6- and 7-hydroxy-warfarin, mediated by CYP1A1, CYP2C6 and CYP2C11 activities, respectively. The aqueous extract of Danshen had no effect on warfarin hydroxylation. Both acute and 3-day Danshen treatment significantly decreased Cmax and prolonged Tmax of warfarin in the rats. The formation of 4′- and 7-hydroxywarfarin in vivo was decreased significantly after 3... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3237280 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3237280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160970&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001536%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The ethyl acetate extract and the decoction show interesting antimalarial and antioxidant activities. The results indicate a good correlations between anthocyanins quantitiy and the potential antioxidant (R2=0.9867) and also to antimalarial activity (R2=0.8175). (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160970 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160970 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160969&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001524%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we examined the effect of cycloartenyl ferulate (cycloartenol ferulic acid ester; CAF), a natural product from rice bran oil-derived γ-oryzanol, on allergic reaction. When CAF and γ-oryzanol were injected intradermally with anti-DNP IgE into the dorsal skin of rats, the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis reaction induced by DNP-HSA was attenuated. CAF and γ-oryzanol also inhibited the degranulation of DNP-IgE sensitized RBL-2H3 mast cells stimulated with anti-DNP-HSA. IgE conjugated with CAF could not be detected by anti-IgE antibody in the ELISA analysis. Although incubation of IgE with CAF did not decrease the amount of IgE, it was possible to precipitate IgE by centrifugation. These results demonstrate that CAF captures IgE, prevents it from binding to FcεRI, and attenuate... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160969 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160969 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160968&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900155X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Caryophyllene oxide was isolated from an unsaponified petroleum ether extract of the bark of Annona squamosa and studied for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity. Caryophyllene oxide at the doses of 12.5 and 25mg/kg body wt. and unsaponified petroleum ether extract at a dose of 50mg/kg body wt. showed significant central as well as peripheral analgesic, along with anti-inflammatory, activity. These activities of caryophyllene oxide were comparable with the standard drug used in the respective experiments. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160968 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160967&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001354%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Latex from Euphorbia lactea (Euphorbiaceae), a native Dominican medicinal plant, is claimed to be useful in the treatment of inflammation. Topical application of tirucallol, a tetracyclic triterpene isolated from Euphorbia lacteal latex, suppressed ear edema in the mouse model in a dose-dependent manner, as well as affecting the influx of polymorphonuclear cells in response to topical application of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-acetate (TPA) in the mouse ear. In addition, the effect of tirucallol, on some macrophage functions was analyzed in vitro. Non-toxic concentrations of tirucallol potently inhibited nitrite production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages. Western blot analysis showed that nitric oxide reduction was a consequence of the inhibition of inducible nitric ox... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160967 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160966&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001329%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Antimicrobial properties of plants essential oils (EOs) have been investigated through several observations and clinical studies which purpose them as potential tools to overcome the microbial drug resistance problem. The aim of this research is to study the antibacterial effect of two traditional plants essential oils, Thymus vulgaris and Eucalyptus globulus against clinical isolates of Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other standard bacterial strains through disk diffusion and agar dilution methods. Gas Chromatography (GC) and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis examined the chemical composition of the oils. Results revealed both of oils to possess degrees of antibacterial activity against Gram (+) and Gram (–) bacteria. T. vulgaris EO ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160966 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160963&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001330%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, both ER subtype-selective and nonselective activities in compounds derived from PCL suggested that PCL could be a new source for selective estrogen-receptor modulators. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160963 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160962&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001263%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, findings derived in the present study presented an overview of SIL many estrogenic effects in OVX rats. SIL significantly prevents the bone loss in rats induced by OVX with mild proliferative effects in uterus. The observed effects may be due to additive beneficial effect of SIL on bone either due to direct interaction with ERβ or increasing bone formation parameters including calcium, phosphorus, osteocalcin and PTH. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160962 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160962 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3160961&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001342%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study we investigated the protective effects of alkaloids from Dendrobium spez. on cortical neurons injured by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/RP) in vitro. Rat primary cultured cerebral cortical neurons were investigated at different time points of OGD/RP. The MTT assay and the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were used to determine cell viability. The concentration of intracellular free calcium [Ca2+]i and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were determined to evaluate the degree of neuron damage. Morphologic changes of neurons following OGD/RP were examined by electron microscope. To evaluate neuron apoptosis, flow cytometry was performed and the expressions of caspase-3 and caspase-12 mRNA were examined by real-time quantitative PCR during OGD 2h/RP 12h. Treat... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3160961 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3160961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054090&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001664%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Here, we report for the first time that S. orientalis L. ssp. carica Edmondson exhibited potent anti-leukaemic properties likely through the anti-proliferative effect of baicalein and the genotoxic property of wogonin. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054090 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054090 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054089&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001615%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Crude extract of Scutellaria baicalensis (S. baicalensis) has cytotoxic effect on human myelogenous leukemia cells (HL-60). We invesigated which compound from the crude extract is responsible for the cytotoxic effect on HL-60 cells. We identified 29 compounds from the crude extract using high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS). Two of the compounds, baicalin and wogonoside, are converted to baicalein and wogonin, respectively, after treatment with β-glucuronidase. We observed a dose-dependent reduction in cell viability when cells with either wogonin or aqueous extract of S. baicalensis. Several of the apoptotic features including deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fragmentation and increased caspase-3 activity were found in cells treated with wogonin and aqu... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054089 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054089 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3054087&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001676%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Leaves of the pantropical genus Bauhinia (Fabaceae) are known popularly as cow's foot, due to their unique characteristic bilobed aspect. The species Bauhinia forficata (Brazilian Orchid-tree) is widely used in folk medicine as an antidiabetic. The present work investigates the hypoglycemic activity of the dried extracts of Bauhinia forficata leaves in vivo, as well as the influence of the drying and granulation processes on this activity. The fluid extract was dried to generate oven-dried (ODE), spray-dried (SDE) and wet granulation (WGE) extracts, with the aid of colloidal silicon dioxide and/or cellulose:lactose mixture. The dried extracts were characterized by spectrophotometric, chromatographic and photo microscopy image analysis. 200 mg/kg body wt., p.o. of each dried produ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3054087 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3054087 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968745&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711308001116%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This book is both potentially useful and peculiarly puzzling. It purports to be a lay guide to understanding and using traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), but it is not clear how the author thinks that lay people will be able to use the book. It contains descriptions of symptoms and syndromes, together with TCM treatments, but insufficient information is given to allow self-diagnosis by lay persons for most of the conditions discussed. It does, however, provide much information that could be fairly easily used at home, and more material that could help Western readers gain an understanding of some aspects of TCM that they may find puzzling. The author, according to the book cover, is a practitioner of TCM who has developed a number of herbal formulas for his patients and established a TCM ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968745 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968744&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711308000755%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This book presents an interesting approach to regional herbal medicine – the utilization of locally available wild plants for self-limiting and self-treatable disorders. A do-it-yourself alternative to commercially available herbal remedies, this guide profiles 100 medicinal and edible plants, native and naturalized to the deserts of the southwestern United States. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968744 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968743&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711308000743%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Plants and animals (and the protists and fungi) are the life support systems of our planet. At least 1.5 million species of plants (about 270,000) and animals (about 1.3 million, the greater portion comprising the arthropods) have been named and taxonomically described. One question for anyone who studies plant and animal diversity, be it taxonomic study, ethnobotany, pharmacognosy, conservation, and ecotourism, among others, is a question on “how to identify” or “recognize” these species, especially, out in the field. Many such field guides for the identification of plants and animals, as well as other components of the biodiversity, have been produced and published. Yet, many areas of the world we live in are still little or unexplored, and no such guides for the identification o... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968743 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968742&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711308000731%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The rising cost of medicine and a greater acceptance by the Western society of herbal treatments have prompted more people to turn to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Healing Power of Chinese Herbs and Medicinal Recipes is a handbook that introduces TCM and describes specific herbs and medicinal recipes for ailments. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968742 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968741&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711307002814%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The pomegranate is an ancient fruit that has been associated with many cultures since the ancient time. It was grown in Egypt about 10,000 years ago when agriculture just started. It was found in the Indus Valley so early that there is a word in Sanskrit for pomegranate. Indian royalty began their banquets with pomegranate, grape, and jujube. The pomegranate is also significant in Jewish tradition. It is said to have 613 seeds to represent the 613 commandments in the Torah. The image of the pomegranate was woven into the high priest's robes, and a brass representation was part of the ancient Temple's pillars. The pomegranate appeared in China during the Han and Sung dynasties, probably brought from the Middle East by traders. It was slowly adopted in medieval Europe and was also known in E... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968741 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968741 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968740&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711307002802%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Psychoactive herbs play a significant role in the history of humankind. They participate in different aspects of life: in religion, diet, medicine, and recreation, affecting essentially all cultures and peoples in different geographical locations over the centuries. Yet, despite their presence, most discussion in popular journals is limited to the religious and recreational use, while the scientific and medicinal applications are reserved for the scholarly textbook. Even when they become subjects of scientific studies, most information often exists in isolation or is difficult to comprehend for all but well-versed scientists. Dr. Marcello Spinella attempts to make these concepts more accessible in his Concise Handbook of Psychoactive Herbs, a short introduction of medicinal plants that hav... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968740 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968739&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711307002796%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Despite their importance, aloes suffer an identity problem. In Charles Dickens’ novel, “Martin Chuzzlewit”, the dubious Montague Tigg praises his more dubious companion, saying, ‘You are the American aloe of the human race, my dear Chiv, which only blooms once in a hundred years!’ Tigg encapsulates several enduring botanical misbeliefs in confusing aloes with agaves, or century plants (so-called because they bloom once after several years of life and then die). Agaves comprise a genus arising solely in the Americas, whereas the annual-flowering aloes are endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, the Arabian peninsula and adjacent islands such as Socotra and Madagascar. However, humans may have introduced aloes to Socotra and other insular locations according to Crosswhite and Crosswhite (De... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968739 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968738&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711307001171%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Ayurveda notes the author, is translated as the “science or knowledge of life.” The preface to this book introduces the reader to the historical and cultural context through which Ayurvedic medicine has evolved. The author, Dr. M.S. Premila, then amplifies the early written accounts of this ancient Indian medical discipline in Chapter 1 followed by an explanation of drug development and evaluation in India in Chapter 2, thereby providing a traditional-use context through which our modern system of pharmacological analysis is utilized to understand the potential of these plants. Dr. Premila notes that a practitioner trained in traditional Ayurvedic medicine will approach illness as an imbalance of doshas or humors that constitute a particular body type. As such, the construct of Ayurved... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968738 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968738 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968737&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711307000281%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Chicken soup was on the menu last week, not only because it is a nourishing meal for cold weather, but also because I was suffering an upper respiratory infection. My wife is well aware that chicken soup is the appropriate prescription for such a condition. As the Lawrence Review of Natural Products puts it (May 1998), “the infusion of selected parts of the common chicken Gallus domesticus … has long been recognized as an important part of the physician's armamentarium”. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968737 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968736&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711306001693%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The consumption of dietary supplements in the United States has risen markedly in the past decade since the passage of the 1994 Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA). Under DSHEA the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dietary supplements, and these regulations differ considerably from those governing drugs. Manufacturers of dietary supplements must be sure that product label information is truthful and not misleading, but efficacy is not a requirement for these products. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968736 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968735&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000804%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A sesquiterpenoid Bakkenolide (1), and two steroids, (3β, 22E)-Stigmasta-5, 22-diène-3-ol (Stigmasterol) (2) and stigmasterol 3β-glucoside (3), isolated from the Hertia cheirifolia (L.) chloroform extract, were evaluated respectively for their spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory activities. We note that these natural products were isolated and purified for the first time from the specie Hertia cheirifolia. Their structures have been established by spectroscopy (1 and 2D NMR experiences) and mass spectrometry. Chloroform-, ethyl acetate- and methanol-extracts were also tested for their spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory activities. Spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory screening were based respectively on the contractile response effects on rat isolated smooth muscles and on the dose-... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968735 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968734&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001226%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Vasorelaxant effects of essential oil of Alpinia zerumbet (EOAZ) and its main constituent, 1,8-cineole (CIN) were studied. In rat isolated aorta preparations with intact endothelium, EOAZ (0.01–3000μg/ml) induced significant but incomplete relaxation of the phenylephrine-induced contraction, an effect that was abolished by removal of vascular endothelium. However, at the same concentrations (0.01–3000μg/ml corresponding to 0.0000647–19.5mM), CIN induced a complete vasorelaxant effects (IC50=663.2±63.8μg/ml) that were significantly reduced in endothelium-denuded rings (IC50=1620.6±35.7μg/ml). Neither EOAZ nor CIN affected the basal tonus of isolated aorta. Vasorelaxant effects of both EOAZ and CIN remained unaffected by the addition of tetraethylamonium chloride (500μ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968734 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968733&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900083X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, six major xanthones, isolated and identified from Halenia elliptica were investigated for their vasodilatory actions in isolated rat coronary artery. The xanthones, including 1-hydroxy-2,3,5-trimethoxy-xanthone (HM-1), 1-hydroxy-2,3,4,7-tetramethoxy-xanthone (HM-2), 1-hydroxy-2,3,4,5-tetramethoxy-xanthone (HM-3), 1,7-dihydroxy–2,3,4,5-tetramethoxy-xanthone (HM-4), 1,5-dihydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-xanthone (HM-5) and 1,7-dihydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-xanthone (HM-7) caused vasodilation in the coronary artery pre-contracted with 1μM 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), with EC50 values ranging from 1.4±0.1μM (HM-1) to 6.6±1.4μM (HM-2). The EC50 values of the other xanthones were between those of HM-1 and HM-2. Removal of endothelium of the coronary artery led to decreases in the vasorelaxa... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968733 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968733 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968732&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001640%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We examined the effects of a turmeric extract on skin damage including changes in skin thickness and elasticity, pigmentation and wrinkling caused by long-term, low-dose ultraviolet B irradiation in melanin-possessing hairless mice. The extract (at 300 or 1000mg/kg, twice daily) prevented an increase in skin thickness and a reduction in skin elasticity induced by chronic UVB exposure. It also prevented the formation of wrinkles and melanin (at 1000mg/kg, twice daily) as well as increases in the diameter and length of skin blood vessels and in the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2). Prevention of UVB-induced skin aging by turmeric may be due to the inhibition of increases in MMP-2 expression caused by chronic irradiation. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968732 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968732 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968731&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001652%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, PPE inhibited the replication of human influenza A/Hong Kong (H3N2) in vitro. Pomegranate extracts should be further studied for therapeutic and prophylactic potential especially for influenza epidemics and pandemics. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968731 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968731 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968728&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001317%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Radix of Isatis indigotica (indigowood root, IR) has been used in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory effect. The purpose of this study is to investigate the radioprotective effects of radiation caused damages in hematopoietic system and normal tissues in mice. A total of 57 BALB/c mice were randomized into six treatment groups: control, IR treatment (0.195, 0.585 and 1.170g/kg, p.o. daily), L-glutamine (0.520g/kg) and sham group. All mice except the sham group were irradiated and then administered for one week. The radioprotective effect on hematopoietic system, serum cytokines, and intestinal toxicity was studied. Protective effects on spleen and thymus are found in IR-treated groups. IR assisted in restoration of leukocytopenia after whole mice irradiation... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968728 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968727&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001299%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The present study was conducted to explore the anti-inflammatory activities of Pinus brutia bark extract and Pycnogenol® in a rat model of carrageenan-induced inflammation. Firstly, the compositions of both samples were determined using HPLC. Then, carrageenan-induced paw edema was used to assess anti-inflammatory activity in mice. Paw volume was measured before and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6h after the injection of carrageenan. Intraperitoneal administration of both the extract and Pycnogenol® inhibited paw swelling dose-dependently at 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6h after carrageenan injection. Both samples exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activities at doses of 75 and 100mg/kg body wt. between 2 and 4 hours after administration (p (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968727 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968726&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001251%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our results demonstrate for the first time that Devil's Claw may interact with the multidrug transporter ABCB1/P-gp, the effect not appearing strictly related to the harpagoside relative content. Modulation of both P-gp activity and P-gp expression by Devil's Claw raise the possibility of herb-drug interactions, to be further explored in depth. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968726 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968726 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968725&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001238%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we demonstrated that scoparone attenuated IgE-mediated allergic response in mast cells. Oral administration of scoparone inhibited passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in rats. Presence of scoparone dose-dependently decreased histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells (RPMC) stimulated by anti-dinitrophenyl IgE. Moreover, scoparone reduced the expression and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 in RPMC. Pretreatment with scoparone inhibited the calcium uptake and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity. Furthermore, scoparone blocked translocation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65 subunit by suppressing IκBα phosphorylation in RPMC. Reduced calcium uptake as well as the suppressed activity of p38 MAPK ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968725 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968725 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2968723&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001275%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The present study investigated whether the D-camphor-crataegus berry extract combination Korodin® elevates blood pressure and enhances cognitive performance in the elderly population. Eighty women aged between 50 and 80 years were examined based on a randomized, placebo controlled double blind design. Blood pressure was measured sphygmomanometrically and through continuous noninvasive recording. Cognitive performance was assessed by means of two tests measuring general information processing capacity and visuomotor speed. The administration of the drug led to a short term increase in blood pressure as well as in cognitive performance as compared to placebo. Potential physiological mechanisms of action mediating this effect, including hemodynamic alterations, sympathetic stimulat... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2968723 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2968723 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877636&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001007%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Everything old is new again. At a time when the regulatory line between food and drug is increasingly blurred, and the marketing of dietary supplements, nutraceuticals and herbal products is at an all-time high, recognizing the differences between the plethora of products and preparations available to the consumer can be a daunting task. The author looks to the rich history of eclectic medicine, especially the writings of John Uri Lloyd, to help consumers and scientists make sense of the plant-based medicines – the variety of preparations and derivatives, including standardized extracts – available to consumers today. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877636 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877636 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877635&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000476%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Swainsonine, an extract from Astragalus membranaceus, is known for its anti-cancer effects and could prevent metastases. In order to investigate the effects and mechanisms of swainsonine in C6 glioma cells, we carry out correlated experiments in vitro and in vivo. After treatment with swainsonine, the effective dose and IC50 value of swainsonine in the C6 glioma cell were examined using the MTT assay. Cell cycle distribution and apoptotic rates were analyzed using FCM and [Ca2+]i was measured by LSCM. Expressions of p16 and p53 protein were evaluated by immunocytochemical methods. Simultaneously, glioma-bearing rats were administered swainsonine at doses of 2, 4 and 8mg/kg body wt. The inhibition rate was calculated and pathological sections were observed. The results indicated t... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877635 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877634&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000907%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Hancornia speciosa Gomes (Apocynaceae) is a Brazilian plant traditionally employed to treat inflammatory conditions, among other uses. The chemopreventive effect of an ethanol extract from H. speciosa leaves (EHS) was evaluated in a battery of in vitro tests [inhibition of aromatase, NF-κB and ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), antioxidant response elements (ARE) induction and cell proliferation assays]. Bioassay-directed fractionation of EHS following by inhibition of 12-O-tetradecanoyl-13-acetate (TPA)-mediated NF-kB activation led to the isolation of the cyclitols quinic acid (1) (85.0±12.3μM) and l-(+)-bornesitol (2) (IC50=27.5±3.8μM), along with rutin (26.8±6.3μM). Based on these lead compounds, the cyclitols per-O-acetyl-1l-(+)-bornesitol (3) (IC50=38.4±6.2μM), myo-ino... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877634 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877633&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000877%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The alkaloid extract and five alkaloids isolated from subterranean stem bark of Duguetia furfuracea (Annonaceae) were investigated for the following activities: antitumoral, trypanocidal and leishmanicidal. Dicentrinone showed weak cytotoxicity, but it had the strongest leishmanicidal activity (IC50 0.01μM). Duguetine and duguetine β-N-oxide caused considerable antitumoral activity in every cell lines evaluated, although duguetine was more active against trypomastigote forms (IC50 9.32μM) than other alkaloids tested. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877633 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877632&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000816%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Dermatophytes are a group of keratinophilic and keratinolytic molds, some of which are responsible for ringworm. Among them Trichophyton equinum, which mostly infects equids, can cause extensive outbreaks in stud farms. The conventional treatment of equine trichophytosis is topic, based upon medicated shampoos to reduce the spread of infection among the animals. Nevertheless the popularity of phytotherapy is at an all-time peak, and the interest for natural alternatives or complements to conventional drug therapy is challenging both in human and veterinary field. Among herbal remedia Tea Tree Oil (TTO) shows a wide range of antimicrobial activities. A randomized open clinical trial was carried out on 60 thoroughbred breeding horses affected by equine ringworm. The animals were ra... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877632 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877631&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001196%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The leaves of Croton zehntneri Pax et Hoffm (Euphorbiaceae) were subjected to hydrodistillation, and the essential oil extracted was examined with respect to antibacterial and antibiotic modifying activity by gaseous contact. The gaseous component of the oil inhibited the bacterial growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with a MID of 0.5 and (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877631 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877631 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877630&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000853%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study investigated the inhibitory efficacy of ESF, which contain two major flavonoids kurarinone (45.5%) and sophoraflavone G (14.7%), in focal cerebral ischemia. Focal cerebral ischemia was induced using the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) method. After 1.5h of MCAO and 24h of reperfusion, the extent of neurological deficits and the infarct volume were measured in Sprague-Dawley rats. Compared with carnosine (50mg/kg), as positive control ESF (20mg/kg) significantly reduced infarct volume and neurological deficits. Treatment of human SH-SY5Y cells with sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a nitric oxide donor, decreased cell viability by causing apoptosis-like cell death. ESF significantly inhibited caspase-3-like enzyme activity and DNA fragmentation. The level of active caspase-3 wa... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877630 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877630 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877629&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001202%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, the ameliorative effects of arctiin, a natural compound isolated from the fruits of Arctium lappa, on rat glomerulonephritis induced by cationic bovine serum albumin (cBSA) were determined. After oral administration of arctiin (30, 60, 120mg/kgd) for three weeks, the levels of serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and 24-h urine protein content markedly decreased, while endogenous creatinine clearance rate (ECcr) significantly increased. The parameters of renal lesion, hypercellularity, infiltration of polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN), fibrinoid necrosis, focal and segmental proliferation and interstitial infiltration, were reversed. In addition, we observed that arctiin evidently reduced the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and pro-inflammatory cytokines incl... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877629 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877628&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900107X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we investigated the effect of paeonol on TNF-α-induced VCAM-1 expression in rat aortic endothelial cells (RAECs). The VCAM-1 expression in paeonol treated RAECs was measured. Paeonol inhibited TNF-α-induced VCAM-1 expression in a concentration-dependent manner. TNF-α induced p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activities that contributed to VCAM-1expression was obviously attenuated after pre-treating RAECs with paeonol. The decrease of VCAM-1 expression by paeonol pretreatment led to a reduction of monocytes adhesion to RAECs. Taken together, our results demonstrated that paeonol inhibited VCAM-1 expression by the attenuation of p38 and ERK1/2 signal transduction pathways. We concluded that paeonol had the potential therapeutic development for use i... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877628 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877628 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877627&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000865%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study plicatin B appeared to exhibit a mixed mechanism, interfering with the formation of the radicals by chelating copper involved in the initiation/propagation reaction, but also by scavenging free hydroperoxyl radicals resulting from ABAP thermolysis. In addition, theoretical analysis indicated that plicatin B preferentially established the chelating complex with Cu2+, because its affinity value is notably higher (by a factor of 5) than that for Cu+. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877627 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877626&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000890%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The aim of the study was to discover possible differential cytotoxicity of triptolide towards estrogen-sensitive MCF-7 versus estrogen-insensitive MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells. Considering that MCF-7 cells express functional Estrogen receptor α (ERα) and wild-type p53, whereas MDA-MB-231 cells which are ERα-negative express mutant p53, the anti-proliferation effect of triptolide on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were examined, the apoptotic effect and cell cycle arrest caused by triptolide were investigated, ERα and p53 expression were also observed in this paper. The results showed that the anti-proliferation effects were induced by triptolide in both cell lines. But the value of IC50 in MCF-7 cells for its anti-proliferation effect was about one tenth of that in MDA-MB-... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877626 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877625&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001214%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Eugenol, the principal chemical component of clove oil from Eugenia aromatica has been long known for its analgesic, local anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects. The interaction of the eugenol with ten different hydrophobic and hydrophilic antibiotics was studied against five different Gram negative bacteria. The MIC of the combination was found to decrease by a factor of 5–1000 with respect to their individual MIC. This synergy is because of the membrane damaging nature of eugenol, where 1mM of its concentration is able to damage nearly 50% of the bacterial membrane. Eugenol was also able to enhance the activities of lysozyme, Triton X-100 and SDS in damaging the bacterial cell membrane. The hydrophilic antibiotics such as vancomycin and β-lactam antibiotic... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877625 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783497&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000567%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Hesperidin, a flavanone-type flavonoid, is abundant in citrus fruit and has a wide range of pharmacological effects. Here we investigated the effect of Hesperidin on dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced experimental ulcerative colitis in mice. Sulfasalazine (positive control) and Hesperidin in doses of 10, 40 and 80mg/kg were administered orally once a day for 7 days, beginning concurrently with exposure to DSS. The symptom of ulcerative colitis was evaluated by disease activity index (DAI) and the wet weight of colon. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the levels of interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in serum were measured to observe the possible mechanisms. Oral administration of Hesperidin significantly decreased DAI, MPO activity, MD... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783497 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783496&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000270%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Curcumin is a phenolic natural product isolated from the rhizome of Curcuma longa (tumeric). It was previously described that curcumin had a potent anti-inflammatory effect and inhibited the proliferation of a variety of tumor cells. In the present study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of curcumin on the response of normal murine splenic B cells. Curcumin inhibited the proliferative response of purified splenic B cells from BALB/c mice stimulated with the Toll-like receptor ligands LPS and CpG oligodeoxynucleotides. LPS-induced IgM secretion was also inhibited by curcumin. The proliferative response induced by either the T-independent type 2 stimuli anti-delta-dextran or anti-IgM antibodies was relatively resistant to the effect of curcumin. We investigated the intracellu... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783496 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783495&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000695%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We investigated the protective effects of magnolol, an active antioxidant and free radical scavenger extracted from Magnolia officinalis, in a hind limb ischemic-reperfusion animal model. Adult male Spraque-Dawley rats were subjected to hind limb ischemic insult for 2 hours and were intravenously treated with magnolol at 0.01mg/kg (n=8), 0.3mg/kg (n=8)mg/kg or 1mg/kg (n=8)mg/kg, or vehicle (n=8). At 24h post-insult, the levels of nitrite/nitrate (NOX), malondialdehyde (MDA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO), as well as the degree of muscle damage, were assessed. Relative to controls, animals treated with magnolol (0.3 and 1mg/kg) had attenuated muscular inflammation, edema and damage. Magnolol (0.3–1mg/kg) also effectively reduced postischemic rises in the MDA, NOx and MPO levels (p (S... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783495 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783493&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000920%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The antidiabetic effect of the total flavonoids fraction from leaves of Eriobotrya japonica (EJF) was evaluated through normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice with graded oral doses of 150, 300, 450mg/kg for 7 days or 14 days. The result showed that the dose of 300mg/kg and 450mg/kg resulted significant hypoglycemic effect on normal mice, the dose of 300mg/kg induced significant decrease in plasma glucose concentration (PGC), glycosylated serum protein (GSP), total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG), and significant increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and serum insulin level in streptozotocin-diabetic mice. These results suggested that EJF has hypoglycemic potential. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783493 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783492&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000919%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study we investigated the in vitro antiviral activity of the Cuban-endemic plant Phyllanthus orbicularis H.B.K. against Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and 2 (HSV-2) reference strains and clinical isolates with different sensitivities to acyclovir. The inhibitory activity on Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) replication was also investigated. The selectivity indexes (SI) found for Ph. orbicularis aqueous extract ranged from 8.7 to 37.6. Studies on the antiviral mechanisms involved revealed that the drug acted at early stages of herpesvirus replication, possibly by producing a virucidal effect, although further inhibition of intracellular replication events could not be ruled out. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783492 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783491&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000841%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study revealed that UPLC-PAD method was simple, sensitive and reliable for quantitative and chemical fingerprint analysis, moreover, for the quality evaluation and control of Rhizoma Coptidis. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783491 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783490&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000488%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study aimed to determine the effect of a lipophilic cannabis extract on adipogenesis, using 3T3-L1 cells, and to measure its effect on insulin sensitivity in insulin resistant adipocytes. Cells were cultured in Dulbecco's modified eagle medium (DMEM) with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and differentiated over a 3 day period for all studies. In the adipogenesis studies, differentiated cells were exposed to the extract in the presence and absence of insulin. Lipid content and glucose uptake was subsequently measured. Insulin-induced glucose uptake increased, while the rate of adipogenesis decreased with increasing THC concentration. Insulin-resistance was induced using TNF-α, exposed to the extract and insulin-induced glucose uptake measured. Insulin-induced glucose was increased in thes... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783490 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783489&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000555%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The effect of a methanol extract of Rosa damascena Mill. flowers was studied, in comparison to the α-glucosidase inhibitor acarbose, in normal and diabetic rats. The inhibition mode of this extract was examined by measuring enzyme activity in different concentrations of substrate for Lineweaver–Burk plot analysis. The results show that Rosa damascena extract has an intensive inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase. Its inhibition was found to be noncompetitive. Oral administration of this plant extract (100 to 1000mg/kg body wt.) significantly decreased blood glucose after maltose loading in normal and diabetic rats in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that Rosa damascena might exert an anti-diabetic effect by suppressing carbohydrate absorption from the intestine and... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783489 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783488&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000786%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Three naphthoquinone derivatives, rhinacanthin-C (1), -D (2) and -N (3) were isolated from the extract of Rhinacanthus nasutus Kurz leaves and were tested for anti-allergic effect. The result indicated that all three compounds possessed very potent anti-allergic activity against antigen-induced β-hexosaminidase release as a marker of degranulation in RBL-2H3 cells with IC50 values of 6.9, 8.9 and 6.4μM, respectively. In addition, the effects of rhinacanthin-C, -D and -N on antigen-induced release of TNF-α and IL-4 were also examined. It was found that rhinacanthin-C showed the most potent on antigen-induced TNF-α release with an IC50 value of 0.7μM, followed by rhinacanthin-D (IC50=3.8μM) and rhinacanthin-N (IC50=10.3μM), whereas those for IL-4 were rhinacanthin-D (IC50=5.... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783488 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783488 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783487&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000774%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Eugenia uniflora L. (Myrtaceae), known as Brazilian cherry tree, is a fruity tree spread all over Brazil used in popular medicine to treat inflammations, rheumatic pain and fever, as hypoglycemic, diuretic and has been widely used in the cosmetics industry. The present study discusses the chemical composition, the antinociceptive and hypothermic profile of the essential oil of pitangueira leaves. The chemical composition was evaluated by GC-MS and the main constituent of the oil was characterized, after isolation, as a mixture of atractylone (1) and 3-furanoeudesmene (2). The essential oil, its pentane fraction and the isolated mixture of sesquiterpenes (1 and 2), given orally, significantly inhibited the acetic acid-induced abdominal constrictions, increased the latency time in ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783487 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783486&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001184%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Curcumin, an active constituent of turmeric, has been shown to possess inhibitory effect of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis towards a board range of tumors. Cell inhibition activities of curcumin are behaved differently in various cell types. To investigate the mechanism basis for the cell inhibition of curcumin on breast cancer cell lines, we examine curcumin effect on NFκB, cell cycle regulatory proteins and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in two breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and BT-483). Cell proliferation was performed by water soluble tetrazolium WST-1 assay. The effect of curcumin's on the activity of matrix metalloproteinase-1, 3, 9 were analyzed by RT-PCR. Cell cycle regulatory protein including cyclin D1, CDK4 and p21 were examined by immunochemist... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783486 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783485&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309001068%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we have evaluated its effect on LPS-induced leukocyte recruitment in vivo and the mechanisms involved in its anti-inflammatory activity. In vivo, intravital videomicroscopy was used to determine the effects of budlein A on LPS-induced leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions in the murine cremasteric microcirculation. In vitro, the effects of budlein A on LPS-induced cytokine, chemokine and nitrites release, T-cell proliferative response as well as cell adhesion molecule expression (CAM) were evaluated. In vivo, intraperitoneal administration of budlein A (2.6 mM/kg) caused a significant reduction of LPS-induced leukocyte rolling flux, adhesion and emigration by 84, 92 and 96% respectively. In vitro, T-cell proliferative response was also affected by budlein A. When murine J7... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783485 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783485 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783484&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000737%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In the present study, we investigated the protective effect of Bacopa monniera, an indigenous Ayurvedic medicinal plant in India, against morphine-induced liver and kidney toxicity in rats. Morphine intoxicated rats received 10-160mg/kg body weight of morphine hydrochloride intraperitoneally for 21 days. Bacopa monniera Extract (BME) pretreated rats were administered with BME (40mg/kg) orally once a day 2h before the injection of morphine for 21 days. Pretreatment with BME has shown to possess a significant protective effect against morphine-induced liver and kidney functions in terms of serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenases and gamma-glutamyl transferase activities and urea, creatinine and u... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783484 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783484 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627911&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000415%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Ononitol monohydrate, structurally similar to glycoside was isolated from Cassia tora L. leaves. Fifty Male rats were divided into five groups. Group I served as normal control. Group II, III and IV rats were induced hepatotoxicity by CCl4 administering single dose of CCl4 on 8th day only. Group III was treated with ononitol monohydrate (20mg/kg body weight) and group IV was treated with reference drug silymarin (20mg/kg body weight) both dissolved in corn oil and administering for 8 days. Ononitol monohydrate with corn oil alone was given for 8 days (group V). At the end of the experimental period all the animals were sacrificed and analyzed for biochemical parameters to assess the effect of ononitol monohydrate treatment in CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity. In in vivo study, ononito... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627911 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:48 +0100 2627911 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627910&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000506%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Our primary studies showed that berberine induced apoptosis in human tongue cancer SCC-4 cells in vitro. But there is no report to show berberine inhibited SCC-4 cancer cells in vivo on a murine xenograft animal model. SCC-4 tumor cells were implanted into mice and groups of mice were treated with vehicle, berberine (10mg/kg of body weight) and doxorubicin (4mg/kg of body weight). The tested agents were injected once per four days intraperitoneally (i.p.), with treatment starting 4 weeks prior to cells inoculation. Treatment with 4mg/kg of doxorubicin or with 10mg/kg of berberine resulted in a reduction in tumor incidence. Tumor size in xenograft mice treated with 10mg/kg berberine was significantly smaller than that in the control group. Our findings indicated that berbeirne inh... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627910 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:48 +0100 2627910 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627909&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000518%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: 4-Methoxycinnamaldehyde, an active constituent of Agastache rugosa, was examined for its cytoprotective activity against RSV by XTT method in human larynx carcinoma cell line. 4-Methoxycinnamaldehyde could effectively inhibit cytopathic effect of RSV (p (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627909 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:47 +0100 2627909 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627908&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000282%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Six phenolic compounds isolated from Curculigo orchioides, including 2,6-dimethoxy benzoic acid (1), curculigoside A (2), curculigoside B (3), curculigine A (4), curculigine D (5) and 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethoxy-7,9′:7′,9-diepoxylignan-4,4′-di-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (6), together with the ethanol extract of Curculigo orchioides were evaluated for their activity on osteoblasts in neonatal rat calvaria cultures and multinucleated osteoclasts derived from rat marrow cells so as to characterize the antiosteoporotic components of this plant and explore the relationship of chemical structure with antiosteoporotic activity. The proliferation of osteoblast was assayed by MTT methods. The activity of ALP (alkaline phosphatase) and TRAP (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase) was measur... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627908 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:47 +0100 2627908 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627907&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000701%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: It is known that a number of transcription factors are key regulators in the complex process of adipocyte differentiation including peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and the CCAAT enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα). Studies have demonstrated that in pre-adipocyte 3T3-L1 cells constitutive expression of the DNA binding proteins GATA-2 and GATA-3 results in protein/protein interactions with C/EBPα resulting in down regulation of PPARγ and subsequent suppressed adipocyte differentiation with cells trapped at the pre-adipocyte stage. Thus it appears that GATA-2 and GATA-3 are of critical importance in regulating adipocyte differentiation through molecular interactions with PPARγ and C/EBPα. Recent reports suggest that berberine, an isoquinoline derivative ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627907 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:47 +0100 2627907 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627906&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900049X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The effects of processed Aloe vera gel (PAG) on the course of established diet-induced non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) were studied in C57BL/6J mice. NIDDM was induced in C57BL/6J mice by feeding them a high-fat diet. Mice exhibiting diet-induced obesity (DIO) with blood glucose levels above 180mg/dl were selected to examine the antidiabetic effects of PAG. Oral administration of PAG for 8 weeks reduced circulating blood glucose concentrations to a normal level in these DIO mice. In addition, the administration of PAG significantly decreased plasma insulin. The antidiabetic effects of PAG were also confirmed by intraperitoneal glucose tolerance testing. PAG appeared to lower blood glucose levels by decreasing insulin resistance. The administration of PAG also lowe... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627906 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:47 +0100 2627906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627905&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000713%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Isoflavones such as genistein, biochanin A, formononetin, and glycetin are fairly abundant in red clover (Trifolium pratense, Fabaceae) and show estrogenic, antioxidant and hypolipidemic activities. To explore these effects mediated by red clover extract at the gene and protein levels, female ovariectomized rats were treated with an isoflavone rich extract of T. pratense. The experimental rats were divided into 2 groups of five animals each: a) control b) experimental group (red clover extract treated with 450mg/kg/day for four days). The treatment influenced the plasma lipid levels differentially. Plasma LDL concentrations were significantly reduced (p (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627905 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:47 +0100 2627905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627904&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000427%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, we have shown that an extract from S. marianum fruits significantly increases circulating prolactin levels in female rats; this effect seems to involve, at least in part, dopamine D2 receptors. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627904 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:47 +0100 2627904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627903&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000798%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion the results demonstrated that Rhodiola rosea extract could improve 5-HT level in hippocampus in depressive rats, and low dosage Rhodiola rosea could induce neural stem cell proliferation at hippocampus to return to normal level, repairing the injured neurons at hippocampus. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627903 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:47 +0100 2627903 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627902&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000439%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, we showed that laetispicine possessed significant antidepressant and antinociceptive properties, making this drug potentially useful in depression and pain. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627902 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:47 +0100 2627902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627901&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000324%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Eosinophilia have been implicated in a broad range of diseases, most notably allergic conditions (e.g. asthma, rhinitis and atopic dermatitis) and inflammatory diseases. These diseases are characterized by an accumulation of eosinophils in the affected tissue. Defining the mechanisms that control the recruitment of eosinophil is fundamental to understanding how these diseases progress and identifying a novel target for drug therapy. Accordingly, this study was conducted to evaluate the regulatory effect of Schizandrae Fructus (SF) on the expression of eotaxin, an eosinophil-specific chemokine released in respiratory epithelium following allergic stimulation, as well as its effects on eosinophil migration.To accomplish this, human epithelial lung cells (A549 cell) were stimulated ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627901 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:46 +0100 2627901 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627900&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000397%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the synergistic hepatoprotective effect of lignans from Fructus Schisandrae chinensis (LFS) with Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) on chronic liver injury in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Subcutaneous injection of 10% CCl4 twice a week for 3 months resulted in significantly (p (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627900 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:46 +0100 2627900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627899&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000750%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: ALE seem not to be effective to improve aminotransferase levels in patients with chronic hepatitis C (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627899 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:46 +0100 2627899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2627898&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900172X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2627898 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:51:46 +0100 2627898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783494&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000464%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study we investigated a synergistic effect between the essential oils Origanum vulgare, Pelargonium graveolens and Melaleuca alternifolia and the antifungal compound Nystatin. Nystatin is considered a drug of choice in the treatment of fungal infections, but it can cause some considerable problems through its side effects, such as renal damage. Finding a new product that can reduce the Nystatin dose via combination is very important. Our findings showed an experimental occurrence of a synergistic interaction between two of these essential oils and Nystatin. The essential oil O. vulgare appeared to be the most effective, inhibiting all the Candida species evaluated in this study. Some combinations of Nystatin and P. graveolens essential oil did not have any synergistic interactions ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783494 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2783494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459667&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711306000523%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We would like to give some responses to the comments on our artiche. As reported in the text, patient anamnesis and clinical examination excluded each systemic diseases, including cardiovascular, thyroid and neoplastic pathologies, that can cause an increase in circulating muscle enzyme levels. In particular myocardial infarction was excluded by repeated ECG registrations; the patient had an uterine fibrome, however the involvement in the symptomatology was excluded due to the improvement after Remifemin® discontinuation. Furthermore, the anamnesis excluded a family history of muscle disease and an alcohol and drug abuse. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459667 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:21:56 +0100 2459667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459666&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS094471130900035X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The Publisher regrets that in the above paper, was printed incorrect. The correct figure is given below. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459666 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:21:51 +0100 2459666 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459665&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711308002419%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, 20 strains of endophytic fungi were isolated from G. macrophylla, and the extracts from five strains had a positive Dragendorff's reaction. Two strains (QJ16 and QJ18) had a component with the same Rf value in TLC as that of authentic gentiopicrin and one ingredient of the QJ18 extract had a retention time identical with that of authentic gentiopicrin in HPLC. Therefore, the fungus appears to produce the bioactive ingredient gentiopicrin, as does its host plant, and could be used for the production of gentiopicrin by fermentation. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459665 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:21:42 +0100 2459665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459664&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000348%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The present study suggests that N. lutea might be a potential source of anti-leishmanial compounds. (Source: Phytomedicine) Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459664 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:21:31 +0100 2459664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459663&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711308002407%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Trypanosomiasis and leishmaniasis pose major public health threats for many countries, particularly those in sub-Saharan Africa and South America. In the present study, we evaluated the in vitro antiprotozoal activity of three irregular, linear sesquiterpene lactones recently isolated from Greek Anthemis auriculata, namely anthecotulide (1), 4-hydroxyanthecotulide (2) and 4-acetoxyanthecotulide (3). Trypomastigote forms of Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense and T. cruzi as well as axenic amastigotes of Leishmania donovani were used for testing. The cytotoxic potential of the compounds was also assessed against mammalian (rat) skeletal myoblasts (L6 cells). All compounds showed potent trypanocidal and leishmanicidal activity. 4-Hydroxyanthecotulide (2) appeared to be the most active c... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459663 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:21:18 +0100 2459663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459662&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000294%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In vitro immunostimulatory effect of Abrus lectins derived peptide fractions (AGP and ABP) was investigated in DL bearing mice. Both AGP and ABP were found to activate splenocytes and induced production of cytokines like IL-2, IFN-γ and TNF-α indicating a Th1 type of immune response. Analysis of in vitro treated splenocytes by flow cytometry revealed an increase in percentage of T and B cell with high expression of activation markers (CD25+ and CD71+). At the same time, expression of co-stimulatory markers was significantly high compared to tumor control. The tumor associated macrophages were able to stimulate NO production, IL-1 secretion, increased phagocytosis and decreased expression of mannose receptor. It was also observed that NK cell was activated by AGP and ABP. These ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459662 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:21:08 +0100 2459662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459661&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000385%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The effects of red sap from Croton lechleri (SdD), Euphorbiaceae, on vascular and gastric smooth muscles were investigated. SdD, from 10 to 1000μg/ml, induced concentration-dependent vasoconstriction in rat caudal arteries, which was endothelium-independent. In arterial preparations pre-constricted by phenylephrine (0.1μM) or KCl (30mM), SdD also produced concentration-dependent vasoconstriction. To study the mechanisms implicated in this effect we used selective inhibitors such as prazosin (0.1μM), an antagonist of α1-adrenoceptors, atropine (0.1μM), an antagonist of muscarinic receptors, and ritanserin (50nM), a 5-HT2A antagonist; none of these influenced vasoconstriction caused by SdD. Likewise, nifedipine (50nM), an inhibitor of L-type calcium channels, did not modify th... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459661 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:20:53 +0100 2459661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459660&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000026%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are thought to underline the process of ageing and the pathogenicity of various diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders and cancer. The use of traditional medicine is widespread and plants still present a large source of natural antioxidants that might serve as leads for the development of novel drugs. In this paper, the alcoholic extract from leaves of Hyptis fasciculata, a Brazilian medicinal plant, and isoquercitrin, a flavonoid identified in this species, showed to be active as 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavengers. The extract of Hyptis fasciculata and isoquercitrin were also able to increase tolerance of the eukaryotic microorganism Saccharomyces cerevisiae to both hydrogen peroxide and menadione, a source of superoxide.... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459660 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:20:52 +0100 2459660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459659&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000312%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study we investigated whether mice, administered intraperitoneally with a lethal dose of acetaminophen, when followed by oral administration of Phyllanthus urinaria extract, may be prevented from death. Histopathological analysis of mouse liver sections showed that Phyllanthus urinaria extract may protect the hepatocytes from acetaminophen-induced necrosis. Therapeutic dose of Phyllanthus urinaria extract did not show any toxicological phenomenon on mice. Immunohistochemical staining with the cytochrome P450 CYP2E1 antibody revealed that Phyllanthus urinaria extract reduced the cytochrome P450 CYP2E1 protein level in mice pre-treated with a lethal dose of acetaminophen. Phyllanthus urinaria extract also inhibited the cytochrome P450 CYP2E1 enzymatic activity in vitro. Heavy metals,... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459659 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:20:41 +0100 2459659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459658&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711308002444%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, the hypoglycemic activity of a polyphenolic oligomer-rich extract from the barks of Cinnamomum parthenoxylon (Jack) Nees was studied in normal, transiently hyperglycemic, and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Oral administration of the extract at doses of 100, 200, and 300mg/kg body wt. caused significant changes in body weight loss and fasting blood glucose levels of normal rats. In STZ-induced diabetic rats, after administration of the extract at doses of 100, 200, and 300mg/kg body wt. over 14 days, the blood glucose levels were decreased by 11.1%, 22.5%, and 38.7%, respectively, and the plasma insulin levels were significantly increased over pre-treatment levels. In an oral glucose tolerance test, the extract produced a significant decrease in glycemia 90min af... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459658 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:20:37 +0100 2459658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459657&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000749%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report about a study investigating the effect of an ethanolic Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract in this system. When given with reperfusion the extract completely protected the cells of the slices from functional injury. The extract also protected at the subcellular level isolated mitochondria which had been subjected to hypoxia/reoxygenation in combination with elevated extramitochondrial Ca2+ concentration from functional injury. In isolated mitochondria the extract protected from Ca2+-induced opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore and reduced lipid peroxidation. Our data demonstrate that the ethanolic extract of Gynostemma pentaphyllum has a high potential to protect from ischemia/reperfusion injury. It should be beneficial as prophylactic nutrition supplement and du... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459657 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:20:21 +0100 2459657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459656&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000300%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: SMND-309, a novel compound named (2E)-2-{6-[(E)-2-carboxylvinyl]-2,3-dihydroxyphenyl}-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) propenoic acid, is a new derivate of salvianolic acid B. The present study was conducted to investigate whether SMND-309 has a protective effect on brain injury after focal cerebral ischemia, and if it did so, to investigate its effects on brain mitochondria. Adult male SD rats were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) by bipolar electro-coagulation. Behavioral tests and brain patho-physiological tests were used to evaluate the damage to central nervous system. Origin targets including mitochondria production of reactive oxygen species, antioxidant potentia, membrane potential, energy metabolism, mitochondrial respiratory enzymes activities and mitochondri... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459656 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:19:54 +0100 2459656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2459655&cid=s_38427_13_f&fid=38427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.phytomedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0944711309000725%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study explored the effects of Danshen on metabolism/pharmacokinetics of model CYP1A2 substrates and hepatic CYP1A2 expression in rats. The effects of Danshen and tanshinones on CYP1A2 activity was determined by metabolism of model substrates in vitro (phenacetin) and in vivo (caffeine). HPLC was used to determine model substrates/metabolites. The effect of Danshen on CYP1A2 expression was determined by Western blot. Tanshinones (1.25–50μM) competitively inhibited phenacetin O-deethylation in vitro. Inhibition kinetics studies showed the Ki values were in the order: dihydrotanshinone (3.64μM), cryptotanshinone (4.07μM), tanshinone I (22.6μM) and tanshinone IIA (23.8μM), furafylline (35.8μM), a CYP1A2 inhibitor. The Ki of Danshen extract (mainly tanshinones) was 72μg/ml. Acute ... Phytomedicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2459655 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:19:25 +0100 2459655