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Gastroprotective and antisecretory effects of Ailanthus excelsa (Roxb)Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Ailanthus excelsa (Roxb), an Egyptian medicinal species highly important for treating numerous diseases, was investigated against experimentally induced gastric ulcer in rodents. We evaluated the gastroprotective effect of four extracts (petroleum ether, diethyl ether, chloroform, and methanol) of A. excelsa bark by using the ethanol-induced gastric lesion model. The pretreatment of animals with methanolic, petroleum ether, and chloroformic extracts (100 mg/kg, oral (p.o.)) from A. excelsa significantly reduced gastric lesion induced by ulcerogenic agent (56, 47, and 70%, respectively) when co...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - November 17, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Elaeocarpionoside, a megastigmane glucoside from the leaves of Elaeocarpus japonicus Sieb. et Zucc.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract From a 1-BuOH-soluble fraction of an extract of the leaves of Elaeocarpus japonicus, six megastigmane glucosides (1–6) were isolated. Five were known compounds (2–6), i.e. amelopsisionoside, citroside A, roseoside, alangionoside A and turpinionoside A, respectively. The structure of the new compound, named elaeocarpionoside, was elucidated to be (3R,4R,5S,6S,7E,9R)-megastigman-7-ene-3,4,9-triol 9-O-β-d-glucopyranoside by spectroscopic analyses and the modified Mosher’s method. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory NoteDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0370-4Authors Junko Shitamoto, Hiroshima Universit...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - November 11, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Antiviral activities of diarylheptanoids against influenza virus in vitroEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The anti-influenza A/PR/8/34 (H1N1) virus activities of ten diarylheptanoids isolated from Alpinia officinarum were examined using the MTT method. The 50% inhibitory concentration of each diarylheptanoid examined was clearly lower than its 50% cytotoxic concentration determined by the MTT assay and/or maximum non-cytotoxic concentration (MNCC) determined by the morphological change of cells. In particular, the influenza virus was more susceptible to 7-(4″-hydroxy-3″-methoxyphenyl)-1-phenyl-4E-hepten-3-one (3) and (5S)-5-hydroxy-7-(4″-hydroxyphenyl)-1-phenyl-3-heptanone (8) than the other diarylh...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - November 6, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Two new triterpenoid saponins from rhizome of Anemone raddeana RegelEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Two new 27-hydroxyoleanolic acid-type triterpenoid saponins, raddeanoside Ra (1) and raddeanoside Rb (2), were isolated from the rhizome of Anemone raddeana Regel. The structures of the two compounds were elucidated to be 27-hydroxyoleanolic acid 3-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-α-l-arabinopyranoside (1) and 27-hydroxyoleanolic acid 3-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 3)-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-α- l-arabinopyranoside (2) on the basis of chemical and spectral evidence. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0369-xAuthors Li Fan...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - November 5, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Effects of Acanthopanax senticosus HARMS extract on drug transport in human intestinal cell line Caco-2Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
In this study, we investigated the effect of AS extract on intestinal drug transporter (P-glycoprotein, or P-gp) and peptide transporter activities in Caco-2 cells. Caco-2 cells were cultured on a culture dish and a permeable membrane for 1–3 weeks. The apical-to-basolateral (A-to-B) transport of digoxin, a P-gp substrate, was significantly increased by the addition of AS extract in a concentration-dependent manner. In contrast, the A-to-B transport of cephalexin, a peptide transporter substrate, was significantly decreased by the addition of AS extract in the same manner. The effects of AS extract addition on ...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - November 5, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Bioassay-guided separation of the proinflammatory constituents from the roots of Euphorbia kansuiEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract In view of the toxic inflammatory reaction induced by Euphorbia kansui roots, a traditional Chinese medicine used for the treatment of edema, ascites, and asthma, the 95% ethanol extract was found to have a significant stimulating effect on inflammatory cells. Bioassay-guided separation of the 95% ethanol extract from the roots of E. kansui led to the isolation of five diterpenoids whose structures were identified by 1H, 13C NMR spectroscopy and HR-ESI–MS as kansuinine B (1), kansuinine A (2), kansuiphorin C (3), 3-O-benzoyl-20-deoxyingenol (4), and 3-O-(2′E,4′Z-decadienoyl)-20-O-acetylingenol (...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - October 21, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Evaluation of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of Peltigera rufescens lichen species in acute and chronic inflammation modelsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The anti-inflammatory effects of the methanol extract of the lichen species Peltigera rufescens (Weis.) Humb (MEPR) (Peltigeraceae) on acute (carrageenan-induced) and chronic (cotton pellet granule) phases of inflammation were investigated. The MEPR was capable of reducing carrageenan-induced inflammation and showed a potent antiproliferative effect (63.5%) in the chronic inflammation model. Inflammation is related to neutrophil infiltration and the production of neutrophil-derived mediators and free radicals. The MEPR reduced the myeloperoxidase and inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activities,...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - October 14, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Evaluation of the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of Curcuma mangga Val and Zijp rhizomesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The effects of Curcuma mangga ethanolic extract (CME) and its fractions, e.g., aqueous, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and hexane fractions, from C. mangga rhizome were investigated on nociceptive responses using writhing, hot plate, and formalin tests in mice and inflammatory models using carrageenan-induced rat paw edema and croton oil-induced mouse ear edema. The results showed that CME and all fractions (200 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly reduced the number of writhings. Oral administration (p.o.) of CME, chloroform, and hexane fractions (200 mg/kg) significantly prolonged the latency time, whe...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - October 14, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Polyacetylene diols with antiproliferative and driving Th1 polarization effects from the marine sponge Callyspongia sp.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract A screening of 30 crude extracts of marine sponges against human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL-60) yielded an EtOAc extract of the sponge Callyspongia sp. (Callyspongiidae) with significant activity. Further bioassay-guided fractionation of the EtOAc extract led to the isolation of three polyacetylene metabolites: a new polyacetylene diol, callyspongidiol (1), along with two known compounds, siphonodiol (2) and 14,15-dihydrosiphonodiol (3). Their structures were determined by a combination of spectroscopic analyses. Compounds 1–3 exhibited antiproliferative activity against HL-60 with IC50 values...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - October 3, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Antioxidant activity of red pigments from the lichens Lethariella sernanderi, L. cashmeriana, and L. sinensisEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract A yellow and new dark red pigments were isolated from Lethariella sernanderi, L. cashmeriana, and L. sinensis as antioxidant components. The yellow pigment was identified as canarione (1), and the others were determined to be 1,2-quinone derivatives, rubrocashmeriquinone (2) and 7-chlororubrocashmeriquinone (3), and 7-chlorocanarione (4) by analysis of their spectroscopic data. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory NoteDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0364-2Authors Kaoru Kinoshita, Meiji Pharmaceutical University 2-522-1 Noshio Kiyose Tokyo 204-8588 JapanTadayasu Togawa, Meiji Pharmaceutical University 2-522-...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - October 3, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Antidepressant properties of bioactive fractions from the extract of Crocus sativus L.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the antidepressant properties of stigmas and corms of Crocus sativus L. The aqueous ethanol extract of C. sativus corms was fractionated on the basis of polarity. Among the different fractions, the petroleum ether fraction and dichloromethane fraction at doses of 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg showed significant antidepressant-like activities in dose-dependent manners, by means of behavioral models of depression. The immobility time in the forced swimming test and tail suspending test was significantly reduced by the two fractions, without accompanying changes i...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - September 29, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Two new monoterpenes from Sibiraea angustataEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Two novel monoterpenes, sibiscolacton (1) and sibiraic acid (2), were isolated from the aerial part of Sibiraea angustata Rchd. along with seven known compounds, namely three phenylpropanoids (3–5), two flavonoids (6,7), one glucityl ferulate (8, sibirate), and a monoterpene glucoside (9, sibiskoside). The structures of 1 and 2 were established on the basis of spectroscopic and chemical data. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory NoteDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0362-4Authors Bin Li, University of Toyama Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences for Research 2630 Sugitani Toyama 930-0194 J...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - September 29, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

A new angeloylated triterpenoid saponin from the husks of Xanthoceras sorbifolia BungeEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract A new angeloylated oleanane-type triterpenoid saponin, sorbifoliaside (1), and a known saponin, xanifolia O54, were isolated from the husks of Xanthoceras sorbifolia Bunge. Their chemical structures were elucidated on the basis of various spectroscopic analyses coupled with chemical degradation. To our knowledge, compound 1 is the first example of a naturally occurring triterpenoid saponin with an angeloyl group at C-2 of the sugar moiety. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory NoteDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0359-zAuthors Hongwei Fu, Zhejiang University Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medi...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - September 29, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Productivity and quality of volatile oil extracted from Mentha spicata and M. arvensis var. piperascens grown by a hydroponic system using the deep flow techniqueEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the differences between spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) and Japanese mint (M. arvensis L. var. piperascens Malinv.) cultivated in either soil or nutrient solution using the deep flow technique (DFT). The differences were measured in terms of harvest period (full bloom period) and quantity and chemical components of volatile oils. The spearmint and Japanese mint were cultivated in four different nutrient formulas: plant standard nutrient, plant standard nutrient with an amino acid mixture, plant standard nutrient with a sulphur compound, and a combination of pl...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - September 17, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Hydroxyespintanol and schefflerichalcone: two new compounds from Uvaria scheffleriEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract A chemical investigation of the petroleum ether extract and chloroform extract of the root of Uvaria scheffleri Diels (Annonaceae) led to the isolation of two new compounds, named hydroxyespintanol (1) and schefflerichalcone (2), together with eight known compounds (3–10). The structural elucidation of compounds 1 and 2 by spectroscopic studies is described. The cytotoxicity of the isolated compounds against human promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 cells was studied. Among these, 2′-hydroxy-3′,4′,6′-trimethoxychalcone (5) exhibited cytotoxicity (IC50 12 µM), and espintanol (3), which was the ...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - September 15, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Antinociceptive effects of the extracts of Xylopia parviflora bark and its alkaloidal components in experimental animalsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract In the present study, we attempted to elucidate the antinociceptive activity of Xylopia parviflora bark using the acetic acid-induced writhing test, hot plate test, and formalin test in mice. The MeOH extract (100 and 200 mg/kg, administered intraperitoneally (i.p.)) had an antinociceptive effect demonstrated by its inhibitory effects on writhing number induced by acetic acid. Three alkaloidal fractions exhibited significant antinociceptive effects in three animal models; the chloroform-soluble fraction, including secondary and tertiary alkaloids, exhibited the strongest effect. This result supp...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - September 15, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Secoiridoid and iridoid glucosides from the leaves of Fraxinus griffithiiEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Phytochemical investigation of the dried leaves of Fraxinus griffithii collected in Okinawa has led to the isolation of three new secoiridoid glucosides, griffithosides A–C (1–3), and one new iridoid glucoside, 7-epi-7-O-(E)-caffeoylloganic acid (4), along with eight known secoiridoid glucosides (5–12). The structures of these compounds were elucidated by means of NMR, MS, and other spectroscopic techniques, as well as comparison with literature data. The isolated compounds were tested for radical-scavenging activity. Among them, compounds 3, 4, and 7 exhibited substantial radical-scavenging acti...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - September 3, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Structural analysis of glycogen-like polysaccharides having macrophage-activating activity in extracts of Lentinula edodes myceliaEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
We examined the active components in L.E.M. by fractionation using an anion exchange carrier and gel chromatography, and determined whether they stimulate production of the cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in RAW264.7 cells. We obtained 2 polysaccharide fractions, IA-a and IA-b, which potently stimulated cytokine production. We also confirmed that IA-a and IA-b significantly stimulate phagocytosis in RAW264.7 cells. To determine the structures of these fractions, we performed sugar component analysis, methylation analysis, FT-IR, 13C-NMR analysis, and molecular weight analysis. The results showed that the maj...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - August 27, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Effect of Tunisian Capparis spinosa L. extract on melanogenesis in B16 murine melanoma cellsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
We report here that Tunisian C. spinosa leaf extract can stimulate melanogenesis in a dose-dependent manner without cytotoxicity by increasing tyrosinase protein expression and has the potential to be used as a possible tanning agent or as a treatment for hair depigmentation. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory NoteDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0355-3Authors Kyoko Matsuyama, University of Tsukuba Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences 1-1-1 Tennodai Tsukuba Ibaraki 305-8572 JapanMyra O. Villareal, University of Tsukuba Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences 1-1-1 Tennodai Tsukuba Ibaraki 305-8572 Ja...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - August 14, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Simple and rapid analysis of aristolochic acid contained in crude drugs and Kampo formulations with solid-phase extraction and HPLC photodiode-array detectionEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Simple and rapid analysis of aristolochic acid (AA) in crude drugs and Kampo extracts using a solid-phase extraction method and HPLC-PDA analysis was investigated. Extraction of AA from samples was accomplished by adding methanol containing 1% ammonia. The addition of ammonia ionized the AA of acidic substances so that they adhered to an acrylamide copolymer of a strong anion exchange resin (Sep-Pak QMA) coupled to diol silica easily. Furthermore, a mixture of acetonitrile–water–phosphoric acid (75:25:2, v/v) was effective in isolating AA from its carrier. Since almost all interfering peaks orig...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - August 12, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Effect of Gastrodia elata on tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced matrix metalloproteinase activity in endothelial cellsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The aim of the present study was to investigate whether an ethanol extract of Gastrodia elata (EGE) rhizome, a traditional Korean herbal medical food, suppresses the endothelial extracellular matrix degradation induced by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Gelatin zymography results showed that pretreatment with EGE to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) decreased TNF-α-induced increase of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2/-9 activities in the range of 1–50 μg/ml. Real-time qRT-PCR results also revealed that TNF-α-induced MMP-2/-9 mRNA expression levels were attenuated by pretreatmen...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - August 11, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Antihyperlipidaemic activity of swertiamarin, a secoiridoid glycoside in poloxamer-407-induced hyperlipidaemic ratsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract We have investigated antihyperlipidaemic effect of swertiamarin (50 mg/kg, oral once) isolated from the perennial herb Enicostemma littorale Blume in poloxamer 407 (P-407)-induced hyperlipidaemic rats. Rats were made hyperlipidaemic by intraperitoneal administration of P-407 (400 mg/kg). Serum lipid levels such as total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased significantly (P < 0.001) compared with normal control rats. All these changes were significantly prevented in the rats treated with swertiamarin. Serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) c...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - July 25, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Evaluation of medicinal plants from Central Kalimantan for antimelanogenesisEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract In the course of searching for new materials to use as whitening agents, we screened 19 methanol extracts prepared from 14 medicinal plants from Central Kalimantan province, Indonesia. The screening methods used were the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging assay, a tyrosinase inhibition assay, and a melanin formation inhibition assay using B16 melanoma cells. The extracts of Willughbeia coriacea (bark part of aerial root), Phyllanthus urinaria (root), Eleutherine palmifolia (bulb), Eusideroxylon zwageri (seed), Dendrophthoe petandra (aerial root), Passiflora foetida (stem), and Vi...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - July 18, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Antiallergic activity of unripe Citrus hassaku fruits extract and its flavanone glycosides on chemical substance-induced dermatitis in miceEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Oral administration of a 50% ethanolic extract (CH-ext) obtained from unripe Citrus hassaku fruits collected in July exhibited a potent dose-dependent inhibition of IgE (immunoglobulin E)-mediated triphasic cutaneous reaction at 1 h [immediate phase response (IPR)], 24 h [late phase response (LPR)] and 8 days [very late phase response (vLPR)] after dinitrofluorobenzene challenge in mice. Naringin, a major flavanone glycoside component of CH-ext, showed a potent dose-dependent inhibition against IPR, LPR and vLPR. Neohesperidin, another major glycoside component of CH-ext, showed an inh...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - July 15, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Curcumin prevents liver fibrosis by inducing apoptosis and suppressing activation of hepatic stellate cellsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This study was designed to investigate the prophylactic effects and the mechanisms of curcumin on liver fibrosis in rats. Liver fibrosis was induced in 72 Sprague Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride. Rats were divided into control, liver fibrosis, high, medium, and low dose curcumin (200, 100, and 50 mg kg−1, respectively), and colchicine (0.1 mg kg−1) groups. After 8 weeks of treatment, histopathological examination was performed on hepatic tissues, and liver fibrosis was graded. Hepatic stellate cells activity was examined by smooth muscle alpha-actin immunohis...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - June 25, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Saponin fraction from Astragalus membranaceus roots protects mice against polymicrobial sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture by inhibiting inflammation and upregulating protein C pathwayEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Sepsis remains the leading cause of death in intensive care units. Uncontrolled systemic inflammation and an impaired protein C pathway are two important contributors to sepsis pathophysiology. Based on the beneficial effects of the saponin fraction from Astragalus membranaceus roots (SAM) against inflammation, liver dysfunction, and endothelium injury, we investigated the potential protective roles and underlying mechanisms of SAM on polymicrobial sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in mice. SAM, orally administered 1 h before and after CLP, significantly elevated the survival ...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - June 23, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Antitumor effect of the seashell protein Haishengsu on Ehrlich ascites tumor: an experimental studyEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The aim of the study was to investigate the in vivo effect of the seashell protein Haishengsu (HSS) on Ehrlich ascites tumor. Mice were inoculated with Ehrlich ascites tumor cells and randomly divided into three HSS groups and a control group. The survival times in the three HSS-treated groups was longer than in the control (P < 0.01) and the increased life span in the high-dose HSS group was greater than in the lower-dose groups (P < 0.05). In comparison with control group, the mice receiving pretreatment of HSS had longer survival times and greater life spans following ino...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - June 18, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Protection against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice by Curcuma comosa Roxb. ethanol extractEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The protective effect of an ethanol extract of Curcuma comosa against cisplatin-induced renal toxicity in mice was studied. Adult male mice were pretreated for 4 days with the ethanol extract of C. comosa [100–200 mg/kg body weight (BW), orally (p.o.)] before injection of cisplatin (12.5 mg/kg BW, intraperitoneally (i.p.)). Five days later the mice were killed, and blood samples were collected to determine blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and plasma creatinine levels. Kidneys were examined histopathologically and levels of lipid peroxidation, gluthathione (GSH) content, and superoxide dism...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - June 18, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Lignan and neolignan glucosides, and tachioside 2′-O-4″-O-methylgallate from the leaves of Glochidion rubrumEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Thirteen compounds (1–13) were isolated from a MeOH extract of leaves of Glochidion rubrum. The structures of four new compounds were elucidated to be (−)-isolariciresinol 2a-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (1), (7R,8S)- and (7R,8R)-4,7,9,9′-tetrahydroxy-3,3′-dimethoxy-8-O-4′-neolignan 7-O-β-d-glucopyranosides (2 and 3, respectively), and tachioside 2′-O-4″-O-methylgallate (4) on detailed inspection of one- and two-dimensional NMR spectral data. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0344-6Authors Wen-Hu Cai, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedica...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - June 9, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

An alkaloidal glycoside and other constituents from Leucosceptrum japonicumEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract A new alkaloidal glycoside (1), a new phenylpropanoid glucoside (2), and a new caffeic acid derivative (3) were isolated from the whole plant of Leucosceptrum japonicum, together with eight known phenylethanoid glycosides (4–11), five known flavone glycosides (12–16), three known flavones (17–19), a known phenylpropanoid glucoside (20), a known iridoid glucoside (21), and eight other phenolic or indole compounds (22–29). The structures and stereochemistries of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of the results of spectroscopic analyses. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - June 4, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Hypoglycemic activity of constituents from Astianthus viminalis in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic miceEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Astianthus viminalis has been used as a medicinal plant for a long time owing to its many physiological actions such as anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic activities. A new tetracyclic triterpenoid 3β,19α-dihydroxyurs-12,20(21)-diene-28-oic acid (1), known constituents oleanolic acid (2) and ursolic acid (3), and the coumarins 7,8-dimethoxycoumarin (4) and 7-methoxycoumarin (5) were isolated from the chloroform extract of the leaves of A. viminalis. The structure and relative configurations of 1 were determined by spectroscopic methods (1H- and 13C-NMR, IR, and MS) and 2D-NMR experiments. The hypog...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - May 30, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Ameliorative effects of Vaccaria segetalis extract on osteopenia in ovariectomized ratsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the ameliorative effects of a crude extract of Vaccaria segetalis (Neck.) Garcke (Caryophyllaceae) (VSE) on osteopenia in ovariectomized (OVX) rats over 12 weeks. Rats were divided into the sham and OVX groups. The OVX rats were allowed to lose bone for 6 weeks. At 6 weeks post-OVX, the OVX rats were divided into four groups treated with water, 17β-estradiol (30 μg/kg, daily subcutaneous injection), or VSE (0.5 or 1.0 g/kg, daily, orally) for 6 weeks. In OVX rats, the increases of serum total cholesterol were significantly dec...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - May 28, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Sedative and anticonvulsant effects of an alcoholic extract of Capparis deciduaEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Capparis decidua (frock) Edgew (family Capparidaceae) is a xerophytic shrub, commonly known as karrel or ker, whose bark and shoot are used as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, and antidiabetic agents. The plant contains generous quantities of alkaloids. An alcoholic extract of aerial parts of C. decidua, including flowers and fruits, was screened for central nervous system (CNS) activity using conventional behavioral animal models. In the open field test all doses of C. decidua extract tested decreased the number of rearings, grooming, and fecal bolus (P < 0.001) when compa...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - May 19, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Evaluation of volatile components from spikenard: valerena-4,7(11)-diene is a highly active sedative compoundEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Valerena-4,7(11)-diene and β-maaliene were isolated from spikenard for the first time, and the effects of inhaling these compounds were investigated. Both compounds reduced the locomotor activity of mice dose-dependently, even at a low dose. Valerena-4,7(11)-diene had a particularly profound effect, with the strongest sedative activity observed at a dose of 0.06%. Caffeine-treated mice that showed an area under the curve (AUC) for locomotor activity that was double that of controls were calmed to normal levels by administration of valerena-4,7(11)-diene. The continuous sleep time of pentobarbital-t...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - May 19, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Inhibitory effect of Lysichiton camtschatcense extracts on Fe2+/ascorbate-induced lipid peroxidation in rat kidney and brain homogenatesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Lysichiton camtschatcense is a well-known plant in Japan where it has been used as a traditional medicine by the “Ainu” people for the treatment of acute nephritis. It is presumed that L. camtschatcense has an inhibitory effect against nephritis caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) owing to its antioxidant activities. Consequently, the antioxidant effect of L. camtschatcense extracts was assessed against Fe2+/ascorbic acid (AsA)-induced lipid peroxidation in rat kidney and brain homogenates. The antioxidant effect of the chloroform extract (CE) was more potent than that of the methanol extra...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - May 12, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

The protective potential of Yucca schidigera (Sarsaponin 30®) against nitrite-induced oxidative stress in ratsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The present study was designed to determine the protective effects of Yucca schidigera (Ys) against oxidative damage induced by acute nitrite intoxication as well as the histopathological evaluation of Ys in rats. The rats were divided into three groups each containing 12 rats: control (C); nitrite intoxication (N); Ys + nitrite intoxication (NY). C and N groups were fed standard rat feed (SRF). The NY group was fed SRF + 100 ppm Ys powder for 4 weeks. Acute nitrite intoxication was induced by subcutaneous (s.c.) administration of sodium nitrite (60 mg/kg) 1 da...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - May 12, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Metabolism and pharmacokinetics in rats of ganoderiol F, a highly cytotoxic and antitumor triterpene from Ganoderma lucidumEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The metabolism of ganoderiol F (GF), a cytotoxic and antitumor triterpene from Ganoderma lucidum, by intestinal bacteria and its pharmacokinetics in rats were investigated by using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). GF was converted to ganodermatriol by anaerobic incubation with bacterial mixtures from rats and humans. This metabolite was detected in rat feces, but not in plasma and urine, after oral administration of GF. The fate of GF after oral (p.o.) and intravenous (i.v.) administration to rats was examined in pharmacokinetics studies. Plasma samples pretreate...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - May 1, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Kopsiyunnanines F and isocondylocarpines: new tubotaiwine-type alkaloids from Yunnan Kopsia arboreaEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Five new alkaloids, including three 19,20-epoxytubotaiwine stereoisomers, viz. kopsiyunnanines F1 (1), F2 (2), and F3 (3), (Z)-isocondylocarpine (4), and (Z)-isocondylocarpine N-oxide (5), along with five known tubotaiwine-type indole alkaloids were isolated from the aerial part of Yunnan Kopsia arborea Blume (Apocynaceae). Their structures including absolute configurations were elucidated by spectroscopic and chemical means. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0334-8Authors Yuqiu Wu, Chiba University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences 1-33 Yayoi-cho, I...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - April 28, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Extract from Calotropis procera latex activates murine macrophagesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Calotropis procera latex has long been used in traditional medicines. Extracts from C. procera latex have been reported to have various pharmacological actions, including protection from myocardial infarction, hepatoprotective action, antitumor activity, antinociceptive, and pro- and anti-inflammatory actions. To evaluate the immunomodulatory functions of the water-soluble C. procera extract (CPE), we investigated its ability to activate macrophages—effector cells in inflammatory and immune responses. Intraperitoneal injection of CPE in mice (2 mg/mouse) induced migration of macrophages to t...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - April 28, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Hydroxychavicol: a potent xanthine oxidase inhibitor obtained from the leaves of betel, Piper betleEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The screening of Piperaceous plants for xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity revealed that the extract of the leaves of Piper betle possesses potent activity. Activity-guided purification led us to obtain hydroxychavicol as an active principle. Hydroxychavicol is a more potent xanthine oxidase inhibitor than allopurinol, which is clinically used for the treatment of hyperuricemia. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory NoteDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0331-yAuthors Kazuya Murata, Kinki University School of Pharmacy 3-4-1 Kowakae Higashi-osaka Osaka 577-8502 JapanKikuyo Nakao, Kinki University Research Ins...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - April 23, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Antinociceptive, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory activities of Putranjiva roxburghii Wall. leaf extract in experimental animalsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The effects of the ether extract from the leaves of Putranjiva roxburghii (P. roxburghii) Wall. were assessed on nociceptive responses in mice by using writhing, hot plate, and formalin tests and the antipyretic activity was determined in yeast-induced fever in rats. Anti-inflammatory activities were also investigated using carrageenin-induced paw edema in rats and croton oil-induced ear and anus edemas. The ether extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) of P. roxburghii dose-dependently produced analgesic activity in acetic acid-induced writhing in mice. The extract had no significant effect in ...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - April 23, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Quantitative analysis of ginsenosides Rb1, Rg1, and Re in American ginseng berry and flower samples by ELISA using monoclonal antibodiesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Quantitative analysis of ginsenosides Rb1, Rg1, and Re in American ginseng berry and flower samples, which were collected in various months throughout the year, was performed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using monoclonal antibodies. The American ginseng flower had the highest content of ginsenosides Rb1, Rg1, and Re (GRb1, GRg1, and GRe). The content of GRb1, GRg1, and GRe decreased in going from young through to ripe berry. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory NoteDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0332-xAuthors Boonchoo Sritularak, Chulalongkorn University Department of Pharmacognosy, Facu...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - April 20, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Protective effect of the ethanol extract of Magnolia officinalis and 4-O-methylhonokiol on scopolamine-induced memory impairment and the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activityEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This study, therefore, suggests that the ethanol extract of Magnolia officinalis and its major ingredient, 4-O-methylhonokiol, may be useful for the prevention of the development or progression of AD. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0330-zAuthors Yong Kyung Lee, Chungbuk National University College of Pharmacy 12, Gaesin-dong, Heungduk-gu Cheongju Chungbuk 361-763 KoreaDong Yeon Yuk, Chungbuk National University College of Pharmacy 12, Gaesin-dong, Heungduk-gu Cheongju Chungbuk 361-763 KoreaTae Il Kim, Chungbuk National University College of Pharmacy 12, Gaesin-dong, Heungduk-...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - April 3, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Protective effect of the ethanol extract of Magnolia officinalis and 4- O -methylhonokiol on scopolamine-induced memory impairment and the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activityEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This study, therefore, suggests that the ethanol extract of Magnolia officinalis and its major ingredient, 4-O-methylhonokiol, may be useful for the prevention of the development or progression of AD. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s11418-009-0330-zAuthors Yong Kyung Lee, Chungbuk National University College of Pharmacy 12, Gaesin-dong, Heungduk-gu Cheongju Chungbuk 361-763 KoreaDong Yeon Yuk, Chungbuk National University College of Pharmacy 12, Gaesin-dong, Heungduk-gu Cheongju Chungbuk 361-763 KoreaTae Il Kim, Chungbuk National University College of Pharmacy 12, Gaesin-dong, Heungduk-...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - April 3, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Chemical composition and antibacterial activity of essential oils of Eugenia speciesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract The essential oils of the leaves of Eugenia brasiliensis, Eugenia beaurepaireana, and Eugenia umbelliflora were analyzed by GC–MS. The major compounds found in the oil of E. brasiliensis were spathulenol (12.6%) and τ-cadinol (8.7%), of E. beaurepaireana were β-caryophyllene (8.0%) and bicyclogermacrene (7.2%), and of E. umbelliflora were viridiflorol (17.7%) and β-pinene (13.2%). These oils were assayed to determine their antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. All of the oils analyzed showed antibacterial activity, ranging from moderate...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - March 24, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Inhibitory effects of constituents of Morinda citrifolia seeds on elastase and tyrosinaseEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract A 50% ethanolic extract (MCS-ext) from seeds of Morinda citrifolia (“noni” seeds) showed more potent in vitro inhibition of elastase and tyrosinase, and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity than extracts of M. citrifolia leaves or flesh. Activity-guided fractionation of MCS-ext using in vitro assays led to the isolation of ursolic acid as an active constituent of elastase inhibitory activity. 3,3′-Bisdemethylpinoresinol, americanin A, and quercetin were isolated as active constituents having both tyrosinase inhibitory and radical scavenging activities. Americanin A a...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - March 24, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

The botanical origin of kratom ( Mitragyna speciosa ; Rubiaceae) available as abused drugs in the Japanese marketsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
In this study, we investigated the botanical origin of the commercial kratom products using the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence analysis of rDNA in preparation for future regulation of this product. In addition, a previously reported method to authenticate the plant, utilizing polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) was applied to the same products in order to estimate the method’s accuracy and utility. The ITS sequence analysis of the commercial kratoms revealed that most of them were derived from M. speciosa or closely related plants, while the others were made from ...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - March 18, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals

Influence of composition upon the variety of tastes in Cinnamomi CortexEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract Cinnamomi Cortex, which is normally referred to as cinnamon, is a very popular spice as well as an important natural medicine. High-quality cinnamon is traditionally believed to taste sweet and be strongly pungent without astringency. Cinnamomi Cortex with larger amounts of cinnamaldehyde was sweeter in taste comparisons. The contents of tannins and sugars in cinnamon powder had little effect on the taste. Evaluations of the sweetness and pungency of cinnamaldehyde solutions (0.1, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.0, and 5.0 mg/ml) were performed using volunteers. The scores for sweetness increased significa...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - March 17, 2009 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Journal of Natural Medicines Source Type: journals