Phytomedicine PlusPub Date : 2025-03-06DOI: 10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100776
Pritimoni Das , Manas Das , Pranjan Barman , Naba Kumar Hazarika , Nabajyoti Goswami
{"title":"A Synergistic anti-obesity effects of Phyllanthus urinaria and Adhatoda vasica nees formulation: An investigation in Swiss albino murine model","authors":"Pritimoni Das , Manas Das , Pranjan Barman , Naba Kumar Hazarika , Nabajyoti Goswami","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100776","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100776","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This work aims at ameliorative evaluation of <em>in vivo</em> and <em>in silico</em> aspects of hydro-ethanolic extract of the Polyherbal Formulation (PHF) of <em>Phyllanthus urinaria</em> L. and <em>Adhatoda vasica nees</em> in High Fat Diet (HFD) induced Swiss albino mice.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Male Swiss albino mice (23–25 <em>g, n</em> = 6) fed with 60 % HFD were treated with a low dose (550 mg/kg b.wt.) and high dose (920 mg/kg b.wt.) of the PHF for 12 weeks. <em>In vivo</em> experiments were performed in subcutaneous adipose tissue and white adipose tissue in HFD induced obese Swiss Albino mice through serum lipid profiling, qPCR analysis of adipogenic, lipolytic genes as well as <em>in silico</em> studies for detection of potent anti-obesity compound through LCMS, molecular docking and simulation based molecular dynamics analysis of target protein CD36.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The PHF-treated mice showed significant (<em>p</em> = 0.01) reduction of obesity by improving lipolysis and lowered adipogenesis than the non-treated obese group. The identified compound Granisetron showed higher binding energy as well as standard stability and notably higher interaction towards Granisetron in 100 ns with CD36 receptor than standard drug (∆G<sub>bind</sub> value -106.32 ± 2.51).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The study validated the efficacy of our novel PHF against HFD-induced obesity in a dose-related manner thereby establishing itself as a potential translational medicine, ensuring the utmost therapeutic value.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 2","pages":"Article 100776"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143783421","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Diuretic effects of hydromethanolic extract of Rumex nepalensis Spreng. leaves and its solvent fractions in mice","authors":"Fasika Argaw Tafesse , Tafere Mulaw Belete , Assefa Belay Asrie","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100775","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100775","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The leaves of <em>Rumex nepalensis</em> Spreng<em>.</em> have been traditionally utilized for treating urinary retention and as a diuretic, but scientific validation is limited.</div></div><div><h3>Purpose of the study</h3><div>This study aimed to evaluate the diuretic activity of <em>R. nepalensis</em> leaf extract and solvent fractions using standardized experimental models.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The leaves of the plant were dried under shade, crushed to a coarse powder, and subjected to cold maceration with 80% methanol and concentrated. A portion of the crude extract was taken and fractionated using solvents of increasing polarity: n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and water. The mice were divided into different groups, including negative control groups (received 2% tween 80 or distilled water), positive control groups (given 10 mg/kg of furosemide), and experimental groups receiving the 80% methanol extract or its solvent fractions at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg orally. Then urine volume was measured at 1st, 2<sup>nd</sup>, 3<sup>rd</sup>, 4<sup>th</sup>, and 5<sup>th</sup> hours post-dosing of the treatments. Meanwhile, a urine sample was taken from each animal for electrolyte analysis and pH measurement. The mean values of the treatment groups were finally compared against those of the negative controls.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The results showed that the 80% methanol extract, ethyl acetate fraction, and aqueous fraction at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg produced significant diuretic effects, marked by substantial increases in urine volume compared to the negative control (<em>p</em> < 0.001). The fractions also demonstrated significant natriuresis and kaliuresis effect at these doses (<em>p</em> < 0.001), further confirming their diuretic efficacy. Additionally, the highest doses of the crude extract (p < 0.01), ethyl acetate fraction (<em>p</em> < 0.001), and aqueous fraction (<em>p</em> < 0.001) significantly increased the pH of the urine.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This investigation demonstrated the diuretic effect of the hydromethanolic extract of <em>R. nepalensis</em> leaves and its ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions. The observed diuretic effect is possibly attributable to the presence of different secondary metabolites. However, this work lacks chemical characterization of the extract and the fractions using advanced analytical techniques and mechanistic studies. These limitations may be addressed by other studies in the future. Despite these limitations, the current study has offered a scientific verification for the traditional therapeutic application of <em>R. nepalensis</em> leaves and this may serve as a foundation for future research on the chemical composition and pharmacological properties of the plant.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 2","pages":"Article 100775"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143629323","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Phytomedicine PlusPub Date : 2025-03-04DOI: 10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100778
Nazir Ahmad , Kaisun Nesa Lesa , Nanang Fakhrudin , Zullies Ikawati
{"title":"Modulation of cognitive activity by plant-based extracts (Allium cepa, Coffea robusta, and Brassica oleracea) through the phosphodiesterase 4B inhibition: Insite from a Mice model study","authors":"Nazir Ahmad , Kaisun Nesa Lesa , Nanang Fakhrudin , Zullies Ikawati","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100778","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100778","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Cognitive dysfunction (CD) is a growing issue worldwide, despite extensive advancements and clinical research in therapeutic strategies. A potential approach in order to treat CD entails phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B), which has a big impact on how well memory works.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>The current investigation aimed to quantify quercetin, sinigrin, and chlorogenic acid in the extracts <em>Allium cepa</em> (<em>A. cepa</em>), <em>Brassica oleracea</em> (<em>B. oleracea</em>), and <em>Coffea robusta</em> (<em>C. robusta</em>), respectively using thin layer chromatography (TLC)-densitometry assessments and to figure out the memory-enhancing effect of combination extract (<em>A. cepa, B. oleracea</em>, and <em>C. robusta</em>) in mice.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The ethanol extracts of <em>B. oleracea</em> and <em>A. cepa</em> were prepared individually using the maceration method, while the <em>C. robusta</em> aqueous extract was obtained through infusion method. Quantification assessment of quercetin, sinigrin, and chlorogenic acid was carried out using TLC-densitometry. While the Morris water maze (MWM) test was used to determine the memory potential of mice. Subsequently, administering the combination extracts, memory performance was evaluated with the MWM test. Additionally, the hippocampus of the mice was analyzed against cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), protein kinase A (PKA), cAMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) activities using Western blot and ELISA methods.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The amounts of quercetin, sinigrin, and chlorogenic acid in the extracts estimated by TLC-densitometry. The combination extracts enhanced cognition in scopolamine-induced CD in mice during behavioral test. Furthermore, the combination extracts blocked PDE4B activity and exhibited memory potential by elevating hippocampal biomarkers.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>In summary, <em>A. cepa, B. oleracea</em>, and <em>C. robusta</em> extracts serve as an excellent sources of quercetin, sinigrin, and chlorogenic acid, respectively. The combination of these extracts was found to improve memory function in mice.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 2","pages":"Article 100778"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143591598","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Antidiabetic and tissue-protective effects of Brachystegia eurycoma leaf extract in alloxan-induced diabetic rat model","authors":"Ayodeji Benjamin Akawa , Isaac Adekola Adu , Oluwaseun Emmanuel Agboola , Olajumoke Tolulope Idowu , Foluso Oluwagbemiga Osunsanmi , Basiru Olaitan Ajiboye , Babatunji Emmanuel Oyinloye","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100774","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100774","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Diabetes mellitus remains a significant global health challenge, with traditional medicinal plants offering promising therapeutic potential. <em>Brachystegia eurycoma</em> has been traditionally employed in African medicine for diabetes management, yet its mechanisms of action remain poorly understood.</div></div><div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>To evaluate the antidiabetic potential and elucidate the molecular mechanisms of <em>B. eurycoma</em> leaf extract through both <em>In vitro</em> and <em>In vivo</em> studies.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The ethanol extract was assessed for antioxidant activity (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP), α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition, and phytochemical content. Alloxan-induced diabetic rats received oral doses (100–400 mg/kg) for 21 days. Multiple parameters, including glycemic indices, insulin, glycogen, metabolic enzymes, antioxidant markers, inflammatory mediators, and lipid profiles, were evaluated.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The extract demonstrated significant antioxidant activity (73.32 % DPPH, 58.88 % ABTS inhibition) with high phenolic (348.8 mg GAE/100 g) and flavonoid (158.26 mg QE/kg) content. In diabetic rats, 400 mg/kg treatment reduced hyperglycemia by 31.5 %, increased insulin by 82 %, and enhanced glycogen by 84 %. Hexokinase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities improved to 11 % and 52.5 % of normal control, while glucose-6-phosphatase decreased to 55 % of diabetes control. Treatment significantly reduced inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6) and improved lipid profiles with a marked increase in HDL and reduction in LDL and triglycerides (<em>p</em> < 0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div><em>B. eurycoma</em> leaf extract exhibits multifaceted antidiabetic effects through antioxidant activity, carbohydrate-metabolizing enzyme inhibition, and metabolic regulation, supporting its traditional use and warranting further clinical investigation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 2","pages":"Article 100774"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143562580","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Phytomedicine PlusPub Date : 2025-03-03DOI: 10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100771
Storm Blockley-Powell , Sarah Andreassend , Bella Paenga , Damian Skinner , Nikki Harcourt , Manu Caddie , Teresa Moreno , Stephen Tallon , Robert A. Keyzers , Andrew B. Munkacsi
{"title":"Indigenous community-guided chemical genomic insight into synergy of rapamycin with nerolidol derived from a leaf extract of kānuka (Kunzea robusta) in Tairāwhiti, Aotearoa New Zealand","authors":"Storm Blockley-Powell , Sarah Andreassend , Bella Paenga , Damian Skinner , Nikki Harcourt , Manu Caddie , Teresa Moreno , Stephen Tallon , Robert A. Keyzers , Andrew B. Munkacsi","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100771","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100771","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Maximizing efficacy and minimizing toxicity are essential in drug discovery. Utilizing a natural product combinatorial approach can offer a promising strategy to preserve bioactivity while reducing the dosage of potentially toxic drugs in patient treatment. Kānuka (<em>Kunzea robusta</em>) is a well-known endemic plant of Aotearoa New Zealand that has therapeutic value with traditional knowledge and preliminary laboratory studies indicating antimicrobial bioactivities, yet combinatorial bioactivity studies of this plant are non-existent. Via a research collaboration led by an indigenous Māori social enterprise that ensured indigenous landowners contributed biological material and knowledge with free, prior and informed consent at each stage of the study, we show that a steam extract of kānuka leaves has synergistic activity with the well-known immunosuppressive agent, rapamycin, resulting in amplified bioactivity in the model organism <em>Saccharomyces cerevisiae.</em> Network analysis of a genome-wide gene deletion screen suggested the extract increased the bioavailability of rapamycin. Subsequent fluorescent microscopy analyses revealed the importance of endocytic and oxidative stress pathways. Bioassay-guided metabolomic analyses elucidated the main component of the steam extract, α-pinene, to not be responsible for the synergistic bioactivity, rather, highlighting nerolidol as a strong synergistic candidate. Given rapamycin is an advanced compound in many clinical studies involving anti-cancer, anti-ageing, and anti-microbial activities, albeit associated with several toxic side-effects, this study provides mechanistic insight into this previously unknown bioactivity of kānuka leaves and illustrates how a lower, and safer, concentration of rapamycin could be potentially used in these diverse clinical settings.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 2","pages":"Article 100771"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143578459","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Phytomedicine PlusPub Date : 2025-02-28DOI: 10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100772
Salik Abdullah , Pritam Chatterjee
{"title":"A review on the molecular mechanisms and pharmacology of andrographolide from Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees in the management of the interplay between type 2 diabetes and breast cancer","authors":"Salik Abdullah , Pritam Chatterjee","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100772","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100772","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div><em>Andrographis paniculata</em> (Burm.f.) Nees is a herbaceous plant originating from the acanthaceae family, the plant has a wide distribution in subtropical regions and commonly known as Chuan-Xin-Lian in China, Kalmegh in the Indian subcontinent. <em>A. paniculata</em> has evolved into a plethora of Chinese proprietary medicines that are frequently utilized in clinical settings; it was originally documented in Lingnan caoyaolu next to an entire list of 480 Chinese herbal remedies.</div></div><div><h3>Materials and methods</h3><div>The present review examines the literature relating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), breast cancer and <em>A. paniculata</em>. To relate all three and find a link a thorough search of literature was done on TCM Bank, TCMSP, PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Embase, and ScienceDirect with keywords such as Chuan-Xin-Lian, traditional Chinese medicine, Andrographolide, breast cancer and diabetes.</div></div><div><h3>Result</h3><div>The molecular mechanism between diabetes and cancer has long been speculated, although it is still unknown. Both diseases contribute to worldwide death rates, and if their causative link is not addressed, it could cause a global health crisis. Thus, complementary/alternative medications from natural Sources with fewer side effects are becoming more popular with <em>Andrographis paniculata</em> (Burm.f.) Nees, being a common Asian herb, has been used to cure several diseases, including diabetes and breast cancer.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>In summary, this review highlights the importance of <em>A. paniculata</em> as a traditional Chinese herb, which has demonstrated promising therapeutic benefits in treating numerous diseases and offers valuable direction for future research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 2","pages":"Article 100772"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-02-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143601113","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Phytomedicine PlusPub Date : 2025-02-28DOI: 10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100768
Maha B. Dafalla , Sara A.A. Elmubarak , Eva H. Naser , Ahmed H. Idries , Yusria E. Abdelrahim , Entsar A. Abdalrhman , Bashir M. Ahmed , Makarim Elfadil M. Osman , Amna K.E. Awadalla , Reem M.A. Ebrahim , Ashraf O. Abdellatif , Ghada H. Haj Ali , Atif A. Elagib , Emadeldin H.E. Konozy
{"title":"Isolation, purification, and characterization of a lectin from Cassia senna seeds with analgesic and gastroprotective effects","authors":"Maha B. Dafalla , Sara A.A. Elmubarak , Eva H. Naser , Ahmed H. Idries , Yusria E. Abdelrahim , Entsar A. Abdalrhman , Bashir M. Ahmed , Makarim Elfadil M. Osman , Amna K.E. Awadalla , Reem M.A. Ebrahim , Ashraf O. Abdellatif , Ghada H. Haj Ali , Atif A. Elagib , Emadeldin H.E. Konozy","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100768","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100768","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Cassia senna</em>, famous for its medicinal qualities, has been crucial in traditional medicine, providing remedies for many ailments. Its seeds, which are abundant in bioactive compounds such as lectins, have significant pharmaceutical potential. In this study, we investigated the biochemical intricacies and therapeutic potential of CsSL, a lectin found in <em>Cassia senna</em> seeds. Hemagglutination assays revealed robust CsSL activity, reaching its peak with 50 mM Tris–HCl buffer at pH 7.5. Ammonium sulfate fractionation was used to purify CsSL, with Fr40 showing the highest activity, confirming successful isolation. GlcNAc-agarose affinity chromatography further purified CsSL, showing its affinity for galactose residues. CsSL is stable, retains its full activity for 45 min at 30–40 °C, and exhibits pH dependence, with peak hemagglutinating activity occurring between pH 3.5 and 4.5 and sharply declining beyond pH 7. N-bromosuccinimide (NBS) modification showed that half of CsSL's tryptophan residues is crucial for its activity, as evidenced by decreased lectin activity. Therapeutically, CsSL demonstrated notable analgesic effects in acetic acid-induced writhing and thermal sensitivity tests. The 12 mg/kg dose particularly showed a remarkable antinociceptive effect (<em>p</em> < 0.05), completely reducing the writhing reflex by 100 % compared to that of the negative control Moreover, CsSL had potent gastroprotective effects, reducing ethanol-induced gastric lesions in a dose-dependent manner. Notably, doses of 0.25 mg/kg and 0.5 mg/kg provided substantial stomach lining protection (<em>p</em> < 0.05), outperforming the standard ulcer medication pantoprazole. CsSL exhibits promise for pain relief and ulcer prevention, with significant analgesic and gastroprotective effects. However, further research is needed to fully understand its underlying mechanisms and clinical applications, as this research has exciting potential in biomedicine and biotechnology.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 2","pages":"Article 100768"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-02-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143578517","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Phytomedicine PlusPub Date : 2025-02-27DOI: 10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100769
Mohammad Fazil , Sadia Nikhat
{"title":"Neuropharmacological profile of Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘: A Unani pharmacopeial formulation for epilepsy","authors":"Mohammad Fazil , Sadia Nikhat","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100769","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100769","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Epilepsy, known in Unani medicine as <em>Ṣar‘</em>, is a neurological disorder caused by abnormal neuronal activity that manifests as recurrent, unprovoked seizures, often with frothing from the mouth. The conventional anti-epileptic drugs carry several adverse effects, and it is also documented that nearly 30 % of the patients fail to respond to therapy. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of plant-based anti-epileptic drugs due to their efficacy in controlling seizures, and other beneficial effects like neuroprotection, multi-dimensional actions, and long-term safety, which are not seen with conventional drugs. In this context, <em>Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘</em> is a Unani pharmacopeial formulation which contains <em>Aloe vera</em> (L.) Burm.f. leaf pulp, <em>Boswellia serrata</em> Roxb. oleo-gum resin, and Castoreum; and is prepared as small pills. It is widely used by Unani physicians in India for the management of epilepsy in both children and adults.</div></div><div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>This study is aimed to explore the neuropharmacological activity of the ingredients of <em>Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘</em>, a Unani anti-epileptic medicine, to understand its action-mechanism and efficacy in epilepsy management.</div></div><div><h3>Methodology</h3><div>The neuro-pharmacological activity of three ingredients of <em>Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘</em> was explored in research articles published between 1996 and 2024 on leading scientific websites, in which any of the three ingredients or their extracts were studied in single form.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Several bioactive constituents present in <em>Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘</em>have a dose-dependent anti-seizure activity, among other important actions which are imperative for epilepsy management. For instance, Aloin, Aloesone (from <em>A. vera</em>), incensole acetate, and <em>β</em>-boswellic acid (from <em>B. serrata</em>) demonstrate a dose-dependent anti-seizure activity. Acetyl 11-keto-β-boswellic acid is attributed with a neuro-protective effect, improves cognition, relieves anxiety, and has also been demonstrated to cause neuronal repair after injury. Phenolic acids and anthraquinones present in <em>A. vera</em> are known to protect against neuronal death. Salicin present in castoreum is the precursor of salicylic acid, which lowers calcium ion reflux and blocks seizures. Hence, the combined effects of these ingredients in <em>Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘</em> can effectively help in managing the symptoms and long-term complications of epilepsy.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This review provides a detailed insight into the actions and neuropharmacological activity of the ingredients of <em>Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘</em>. It is evident that the ingredients of <em>Ḥabb-e-Ṣar‘</em> not only have anti-seizure activity, but also improve memory, cognition, and neurological health, hence leading to a holistic healing effect. However, rigorous scientific studies are required to standardize the formulation an","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 2","pages":"Article 100769"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-02-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143549343","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Phytomedicine PlusPub Date : 2025-02-27DOI: 10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100770
Agnes Llamasares-Castillo , Oliver Villaflores , Yutaka Kuroki , Aya Wada , Xinyi Zhu , Kyle Andrei Cabatit , Jonah Joshua Garcia , Janelan Martin , Ross Vasquez
{"title":"Phytotherapeutic agents for insomnia: A scoping review on the mechanistic insights and evidence from animal models","authors":"Agnes Llamasares-Castillo , Oliver Villaflores , Yutaka Kuroki , Aya Wada , Xinyi Zhu , Kyle Andrei Cabatit , Jonah Joshua Garcia , Janelan Martin , Ross Vasquez","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100770","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100770","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Sleep disorders particularly, insomnia, are a worldwide issue with serious implications for public health and individual well-being. While traditional and psychological therapies are already accessible, there is growing interest in exploring complementary plant-based treatments for insomnia due to their potential efficacy and fewer side effects. This narrative review investigates medicinal plants with sleep enhancing properties, focusing on species from various countries and those also found in the Philippines.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Journal articles that evaluated sleep duration, rapid eye movement, non-rapid eye movement sleep, sleep latency, number of sleep, sleep quality, wake times, and sedative-hypnotic effects of plants <em>in vivo</em> were retrieved from electronic databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Elsevier, SpringerLink, EBSCO, and ScienceDirect.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 39 plants with sleep-enhancing activities were reviewed and identified. Their bioactive components and pharmacological mechanisms were presented. Plants such as <em>Lactuca sativa, Nelumbo nucifera,</em> and <em>Ziziphus jujuba</em> demonstrated consistent efficacy in improving sleep quality through interactions with the GABAergic system, as confirmed by various studies</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Many therapeutic plants exhibit promising potential to manage insomnia and enhance sleep. However, most studies are still preliminary, with the molecular mechanisms behind their sleep-enhancing effects remaining inconclusive.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 2","pages":"Article 100770"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-02-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143528783","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Phytomedicine PlusPub Date : 2025-02-24DOI: 10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100767
Sara A.A. Elmubarak , Maha B. Dafalla , Ahmed H. Idries , Eva H. Naser , Yusria E. Abdelrahim , Entsar A. Abdalrhman , Bashir M. Ahmed , Makarim Elfadil M. Osman , Amna K.E. Awadalla , Reem M.A. Ebrahim , Ashraf O. Abdellatif , Haseeba A. Saad , Emadeldin H.E. Konozy
{"title":"Purification and characterization of Phoenix dactylifera lectin: µ-Opioid receptor-mediated antinociceptive and gastroprotective activities","authors":"Sara A.A. Elmubarak , Maha B. Dafalla , Ahmed H. Idries , Eva H. Naser , Yusria E. Abdelrahim , Entsar A. Abdalrhman , Bashir M. Ahmed , Makarim Elfadil M. Osman , Amna K.E. Awadalla , Reem M.A. Ebrahim , Ashraf O. Abdellatif , Haseeba A. Saad , Emadeldin H.E. Konozy","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100767","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100767","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Phoenix dactylifera</em> (date palm) holds significant medicinal value, particularly in traditional medicine. This study focuses on purifying and characterizing a lectin (PdSL) extracted from its seeds and assessing its physicochemical stability, glycoprotein nature, and therapeutic properties, including analgesic and gastroprotective activities. PdSL was extracted via phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and purified via ion exchange and affinity chromatography, resulting in a twofold increase in purity. Stability tests included varying temperatures (40–100 °C), pH levels (2–13), and exposure to denaturing agents. Biological assays were used to evaluate its analgesic effects in thermal (hot plate, <em>p</em> < 0.05) and chemical (acetic acid writhing, <em>p</em> < 0.01) pain models. Gastroprotective activity was assessed in an ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model in rats, with statistical significance at <em>P</em> < 0.05. PdSL demonstrated exceptional stability, retaining activity across a broad range of temperatures (up to 100 °C) and pH values (5.5–9.5). The lectin maintained hemagglutination activity under challenging conditions and showed specificity for sheep erythrocytes and mannose-binding properties. It was identified as a glycoprotein with 37.64 % neutral sugars and exhibited a hydrophobic binding site for adenine. In analgesic assays, PdSL significantly increased the pain threshold in the hotplate test, particularly at 6 mg/kg after 60 mins (<em>p</em> < 0.003), and in the writhing test, with a dose-dependent pain inhibition of 80–89 % (<em>p</em> < 0.01). Gastroprotective activity revealed dose-dependent ulcer inhibition, with a maximum reduction of 89 % at 1 mg/kg (<em>p</em> < 0.0001), along with normalization of the gastric pH. PdSL from <em>Phoenix dactylifera</em> seeds exhibits remarkable stability and therapeutic efficacy, including pain-relieving and antiulcer activities, with statistically significant results highlighting its potential as a candidate for drug development. These findings encourage further exploration of plant-derived lectins in biomedical research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 2","pages":"Article 100767"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-02-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143549891","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}