Sida rhomboidea.Roxb leaf extract ameliorates gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity and renal dysfunction in rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Sida rhomboidea.Roxb (SR) known as “Mahabala” in Ayurveda and marketed as “Shahadeyi” is used in ethnomedicine to treat ailments such as dysuria and urinary disorders.

Aim of the study

To evaluate nephroprotective potential of SR against gentamicin (GM) induced nephrotoxicity and renal dysfunction.

Materials and methods

Nephrotoxicity was induced in rats with GM (100 mg/kg bodyweight (i.p.) for 8 days) and were treated with SR extract (200 and 400 mg/kg bodyweight (p.o.) for 8 days) or 0.5% carboxymethyl cellulose (vehicle). Plasma and urine urea and creatinine, renal enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants along with lipid peroxidation were evaluated in various experimental groups.

Results

GM treatment induced significant elevation (p < 0.05) in plasma and urine urea, creatinine, renal lipid peroxidation along with significant decrement (p < 0.05) in renal enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. SR treatment to GM treated rats (GM + SR) recorded significant decrement (p < 0.05) in plasma and urine urea and creatinine, renal lipid peroxidation along with significant increment (p < 0.05) in renal enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants.

Conclusion

SR leaf extract ameliorates GM induced nephrotoxicity and renal dysfunction and thus validates its ethnomedicinal use.     

Antidepressant effect of Valeriana wallichii patchouli alcohol chemotype in mice: Behavioural and biochemical evidence

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Valeriana wallichii DC, an ayurvedic traditional medicine has now been shown to exist chemically as three distinct chemotypes. The study aimed to investigate the antidepressant effect of dichloromethane extract of Valeriana wallichii patchouli alcohol chemotype.

Materials and methods

Antidepressant effect of dichloromethane extract of Valeriana wallichii (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg, p.o.) using forced swim test, was determined in both acute and chronic study. The neurotransmitter levels were estimated in mouse forebrain after two weeks of dosing.

Results

Single administration of extract (40 mg/kg) significantly inhibited the immobility period in mice (p < 0.05). Similarly, chronic administration of extract (20 and 40 mg/kg) significantly reduced the immobility period and significantly increased the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in mouse forebrain (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The extract demonstrated antidepressant effect and significantly increased the norepinephrine and dopamine levels in forebrain.     

Hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic effect of Witheringia solanacea in normal and alloxan-induced hyperglycemic rats

Aim of the study

Witheringia solanacea is a small shrub that belongs to the Solanaceae family. The plant is used as an antidiabetic in Costa Rican herbal medicine. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic activity of the aqueous extract of W. solanacea leaves in rodent models.

Materials and methods

A crude extract of W. solanacea leaves was prepared in boiling water and the aqueous filtrate was lyophilized. A single oral dose of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg of the extract was evaluated for hypoglycemic activity in a glucose tolerance test in normal rats and for antihyperglycemic activity in alloxan-induced (140 mg/kg) diabetic rats. The blood glucose level was determined at different times by the glucose oxidase method.

Results

Dosage of 500 and 1000 mg/kg of the extract significantly decreased (p < 0.05) blood glucose levels in the glucose tolerance test in normal rats after 1 h, there was no significant difference observed at 250 mg/kg. Dose of 500 mg/kg of the extract significantly reduced (p < 0.05) blood glucose levels in alloxan induced hyperglycemic rats at 4 and 5 h.

Conclusions

In the present study, the hypoglycemic and antihyperglycemic potential of the W. solanacea was demonstrated in rats. These results give support to the traditional use of W. solanacea as antidiabetic herbal medicine.     

Dual protective effect of Passiflora incarnata in epilepsy and associated post-ictal depression

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Passiflora incarnata L. (Passifloraceae) has been used for the treatment of epilepsy in several traditional systems of medicine.

Aim of the study

The aerial parts of Passiflora incarnata contain multiple bioactive metabolites such as, flavonoids (like, chrysin that show CNS depressant activity by agonizing GABA-benzodiazepine receptor), amino acids (like, GABA), harmala alkaloids (reversible monoamine oxidase-A inhibitor), etc. In view of this, the present study was designed to investigate dual protective effect of the hydroethanolic extract of Passiflora incarnata in pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizure and associated post-ictal depression.

Materials and methods

Different groups of mice were administered with repeated subconvulsive doses of PTZ (50 mg/kg; i.p.) at an interval of 5 days for 15 days. From 5th to 15th day the animals in different groups were administered daily with varying doses of hydroethanolic extract of Passiflora incarnata (150, 300, and 600 mg/kg; i.p.), diazepam (2 mg/kg; i.p.) and vehicle. On every 5th day, after PTZ treatment, seizure severity (score) was noted. Following convulsive episodes the locomotor activity (using actophotometer) and immobility period (using forced swim test) were also determined. On 15th day after behavioral assessment, the brain serotonin and noradrenaline levels were determined using spectrofluorometric methods.

Results

Treatment with the extract significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the seizure severity and immobility period as compared to vehicle control, in a dose and time-dependent manner. Moreover, the extract treatment retained the serotonin and noradrenaline levels of the brain.

Conclusions

The results of present study concluded that the hydroethanolic extract of Passiflora incarnata suppress PTZ-induced seizures, and ameliorates its associated post-ictal depression, which has been found to be get worsened with the standard antiepileptic drug, diazepam.     

Anti-inflammatory activity of Terminalia paniculata bark extract against acute and chronic inflammation in rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Terminalia paniculata Roxb. (Family-Combretaceae) is a wild tree commonly used in traditional ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of inflammation of parotid glands and in menstrual disorders.

Aim of the study

To explore the folk use of Terminalia paniculata on pharmacological grounds to evaluate the scientific basis of anti-inflammatory activity.

Materials and methods

The anti-inflammatory activity of Terminalia paniculata was studied against carrageenan-induced hind paw edema, air pouch inflammation and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis in rats. The aqueous extract of Terminalia paniculata bark (TPW) was administered at the concentrations of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight.

Results

TPW showed significant (p < 0.05) anti-inflammatory activity by reducing the edema volume in carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. Further, TPW (400 mg/kg) also reduced the carrageenan-induced leukocyte migration (50.92 ± 5.71%) and myeloperoxidase activity (49.31 ± 5.24%) in air pouch exudates. TPW (200 mg/kg) exhibits anti-rheumatic and analgesic activities by improving the altered haematological milieu (ESR, CRP, RF, WBC, RBC and Hb) and also by inhibiting the flexion scores and radiographic changes in CFA-induced arthritis. This extract also had significant (p < 0.05) effects on the occurrence of secondary lesions compared to CFA control.

Conclusions

Terminalia paniculata bark may be a potential preventive or therapeutic candidate for the treatment of chronic inflammation and arthritis.     

Subchronic administration of Catha edulis F. (khat) extract is marked by elevation of cardiac biomarkers and subendocardial necrosis besides blood pressure alteration in rats

Ethnpharmacological relevance

Khat is a widely chewed herb for its stimulant effect, however, its effects on the cardiovascular system are a source of growing concern, as prevalence of chewing is increasing and susceptible individuals may experience cardiovascular episodes. This study attempted to evaluate cardiovascular substrates that predispose individuals to these episodes by using both biochemical and morphologic-pathologic studies.

Materials and methods

Rats were treated with either Tween 80 (2% in distilled water) (CON), or khat extract (100 mg/kg, K100; 200 mg/kg, K200; or 400 mg/kg, K400 doses) orally for 6 weeks. Blood pressure (BP) in each group was measured before dosing and 1, 2 and 3 h after-dose as well as weekly for 6 weeks using Tail cuff method. On day 45, blood was drawn for assessment of cardiac biomarkers and animals were sacrificed, and histological examination was undertaken for any overt damage on the myocardium.

Results

K400 was the only dose that significantly increased BP at 2 (p < 0.05) and 3 h (p < 0.001) postdose compared to predose level. Likewise, the 3 h postdose BP of each week was significantly greater (p < 0.001) than baseline BP only at 400 mg/kg. However, when the weekly values were compared among themselves, the difference was not statistically significant and a progressive change in postdose BP had not been observed. On the other hand, predose systolic BP of K400 rats tended to decline at week 3 and significantly decreased (p < 0.05) beyond week 4 compared to baseline values, but the decline was not significant for the rest of the doses. Biomarker assessments revealed that whereas levels of total creatine kinase were found to be elevated significantly for K100 (p < 0.05), K200 and K400 (p < 0.001 in both cases); aspartate aminotransferease was increased in K200 (p < 0.01) and K400 (p < 0.001) compared to CON rats. By contrast, levels of cardiac troponin T was significantly increased (p < 0.001) only in K400 rats. Heart tissues of CON and K100 rats were normal, while those from K200 showed signs of focal lesions but normal architecture of the myocardium was maintained. K400 rats, however, displayed fragmentation and segmentation of fibers, edema and mottled staining.

Conclusions

These findings collectively indicate that the high dose of crude khat extract modulated most of the hemodynamic, biochemical and histopathological parameters in rats and hence chronic use of khat at higher dose and for longer sessions bear a significant risk for cardiovascular morbidities.     

Antidiarrheal activity of Pyrenacantha staudtii Engl. (Icacinaceae) aqueous leaf extract in rodents

Ethnopharmacological relervance

Pyrenacantha staudtii Engl. (Icacinaceae) is a plant which is traditionally used for the treatment of blemnorrhea, hernia, insomnia, intestinal pain and diarrhea in Nigeria. Therefore the core aim of the present study is to evaluate antidiarrheal activity of Pyrenacantha staudtii aqueous extract (PSE).

Materials and methods

The antidiarrheal activity was evaluated using castor oil-induced diarrhea method. The effects of Pyrenacantha staudtii aqueous extract on gastrointestinal motility, intestinal transit and enteropooling were also examined in rodents. The acute toxicity effect of the aqueous extract of Pyrenacantha staudtii was also investigated.

Results

Pyrenacantha staudtii aqueous extract (PSE, 100-400 mg/kg, p.o.) produced dose-dependent and significant (P < 0.05-0.01) protection of rats and mice against castor oil-induced diarrhea, inhibited intestinal transit, and delayed gastric emptying. PSE, produced dose-dependent and significant (P < 0.05-0.01) antimotility effect, caused dose-related inhibition of castor-oil-induced enteropooling in animals, comparable to atropine (1 mg/kg, p.o.). Like loperamide (10 mg/kg, p.o.), PSE, dose-dependently and significantly (P < 0.05-0.01) delayed the onset of castor-oil induced diarrhea, decreased the frequency of defecation, and reduced the severity of diarrhea in the rodents. Compared with control animals, PSE, dose-dependently and significantly (P < 0.05-0.01) decreased the volume of castor oil-induced intestinal fluid secretion, and reduced the number, weight and wetness of fecal droppings.

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicate that PSE possesses antidiarrheal property in rats and mice. These findings confirm the ethnomedicinal use of Pyrenacantha staudtii leaf as a valuable natural remedy for the treatment, management and/or control of diarrhea.     

Anti-ulcerogenic properties of Quassia amara L. (Simaroubaceae) standardized extracts in rodent models

Aim of the study

Quassia amara L. is commonly used in Costarican folk medicine. It has been used for the treatment of a broad range of gastrointestinal symptoms such as dyspepsia, gastritis and constipation. In this study, the gastroprotective activity of two standardized extracts of Quassia amara L., Lipro^® and Ligas^®, was evaluated.

Materials and methods

Anti-ulcerogenic properties were evaluated in female rats under acute ulcer-induction models (ethanol, indomethacin and hypotermic restraint). To get a deeper insight in the anti-ulcerogenic properties of the extracts, Ligas^® was evaluated in the Shay rat model. Five parameters were estimated with this model: gastric mucus barrier, non-protein sulfhydril groups (NPSG) in the gastric mucosa, and pH, total acidity and peptic activity of the gastric juice.

Results

Induction of ulcers by 95% ethanol (0.5 mL per os), indomethacin (100 mg/kg s.c.) and stress (2 h in hypothermic restraint) was inhibited significantly with administration of Lipro^® (p < 0.05), in a dosage range from 4.9 mg/kg/d to 48.9 mg/kg/d. Treatment was given for one week. The extract Ligas^® showed a significant augmentation of NPSG (p < 0.05) in a dosage range from 4.0 to 39.7 mg/kg. Ligas^® did not produce a significant change (p > 0.05) in the other indicators.

Conclusions

Quassia amara L. standardized extracts, Lipro^® and Ligas^®, showed an important anti-ulcerogenic effect in acute ulcer induction models. Their effect was related to an increase in gastric barrier mucus and non-protein sulfhydril groups.     

Hypoglycemic effect of a leaf extract of Pseuderanthemum palatiferum (Nees) Radlk. in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Pseuderanthemum palatiferum (Nees) Radlk (Acanthaceae) was first found in Northern Vietnam and expanded throughout the country including the Mekong Delta region. The leaves of this plant are recommended in folk medicine of Vietnam and Thailand for promoting and treating various diseases including hypertension, diarrhea, arthritis, hemorrhoids, stomachache, tumors, colitis, bleeding, wounds, constipation, flu, colon cancer, nephritis, and diabetes.

Aim of the study

The hypoglycemic effect of an 80% ethanolic leaf extract from the leaves of Pseuderanthemum palatiferum (PPE) was investigated in normal and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

Materials and methods

The PPE was administered daily and orally to the rats at the doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) for 14 days. The levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), serum insulin, and biochemical data such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were evaluated. The hypoglycemic effect of PPE was compared to that of the known anti-diabetic drug glibenclamide (0.25 mg/kg b.w.).

Results

FPG and serum insulin in normal rats were not significantly different from the control and test groups in all dosages. The treated diabetic rats which had received PPE and glibenclamide showed significantly (p < 0.05) decreased FPG and increased serum insulin levels at the end of the experiment. The hypoglycemic effect of PPE at the dose of 250 mg/kg b.w. was significantly (p < 0.05) more effective than that of glibenclamide. The serum insulin in PPE fed diabetic rats at the dose of 250 mg/kg b.w. was not different from those which had received glibenclamide, and this dose was significantly (p < 0.05) more effective than PPE at the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg b.w. while PPE increased HDL and decreased TC, TG, LDL, BUN and ALP in the diabetic rats.

Conclusions

PPE has a beneficial effect in hyperglycemic rats and may prevent the complication of diabetes.     

Antidiabetic potential of unripe Carissa carandas Linn. fruit extract

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Carissa carandas commonly known as Karanda have a long history of use in traditional system of medicine. It is used by tribal healers of Western Ghat region of Karnataka as hepatoprotective and antihyperglycemic. However, no scientific data is available to validate the folklore claim. The present study has been designed to evaluate its unripe fruit for the antidiabetic activity.

Aim

In the present study, methanol extract of unripe fruits and its fractions were studied for its antidiabetic potential.

Materials and methods

The methanol extract and its fractions were screened for antidiabetic activity in alloxan induced diabetic rats. The polyphenolic, flavonoid and flavanone contents of methanolic extract and its fractions were also determined and correlated with its antidiabetic activity.

Results

The experimental data indicated that the methanol extract and its ethyl acetate soluble fraction has significantly lowered the elevated blood glucose levels by 48% (p < 0.001) and 64.5% (p < 0.001) respectively at dose level of 400 mg/kg per oral after 24 h as compared to diabetic control. In order to assess the role of polyphenolic components in the relevant activity, polyphenolic and flavonoid contents were determined. The polyphenolic and flavonoid content of methanol extract and its ethyl acetate soluble fraction were found to be 15.8 ± 1.2 mg and 18.55 ± 0.34 mg (gallic acid equivalent/g extract) and flavonoid content 2.92 ± 0.03 mg and 1.534 ± 0.30 mg (rutin equivalent/g extract) respectively.

Conclusion

The increased antidiabetic potential of ethyl acetate fraction over methanol extract is due to its partial purification achieved by fractionation which resulted in increase in degree of polymerization and segregation of secondary metabolites.     

Comparative effects of Rauwolfia vomitoria and chlorpromazine on locomotor behaviour and anxiety in mice

Aim of the study

Since remedies for mental disorders have been sought through both orthodox and traditional medicine this study compared the effects of the antipsychotic, chlorpromazine (Cpz), the herb Rauwolfia vomitoria (RV) and its alkaloid reserpine (Res) in mice.

Materials and methods

Ninety male CD-1 strain of mice (75-80 days old; 30-34 g body weight) were divided into 3 major groups and each consisting 5 subgroups (n = 6). Cpz (0.0, 0.25, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 mg/kg, i.p.), was administered 30 min before testing. RV (0.0, 0.25, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 mg/kg, i.p.) and Res (0.0, 0.1, 0.4, 0.8, 1.6 mg/kg, i.p.) were administered 24 h before testing. The open field test was used to assess locomotor and exploratory behaviour, acceleratory rotarod for motor coordination, light/dark box for anxiety.

Results

CPZ dose-dependently decreased locomotor and exploration behaviour and impaired motor coordination (p < 0.01). RV also decreased locomotor behaviour at 4.0 mg/kg (p < 0.5) but did not alter exploration and motor coordination. Res however, decreased locomotion and exploration and impaired motor coordination 0.8 and 1.6 mg/kg (p < 0.05). In the light/dark box, CPZ increased anxiety related behaviour at 1.0, 2.0 mg/kg (p < 0.05) whereas RV dose-dependently decreased anxiety from 1.0 to 4.0 mg/kg (p < 0.01). Res, unlike RV, dose-dependently increased anxiety related behaviour from 0.4 to 1.6 mg/kg.

Conclusion

Root bark extract from Rauwolfia vomitoria produced better behavioural effects with less distortion in motor coordination when compared to chlorpromazine and so has a great potential as an alternative antipsychotic agent compared to chlorpromazine. Since Res did not produce same effects as RV, the effect of RV may not be due solely to Res as claimed.     

Screening of Caesalpinia bonduc leaves for antipsoriatic activity

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Leaves of Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb. (Caesalpiniaceae) have been used by traditional Siddha healer of Malabar region for psoriasis treatment.

Aim of the study

To evaluate the Caesalpinia bonduc decoction (CBD), Caesalpinia bonduc hydroalcoholic extract (CBHA) for antipsoriatic activity.

Materials and methods

Mouse tail test for psoriasis was used for the evaluation of antipsoriatic activity. Extracts were tested at a dose of 500 mg/kg b.w. and fractions at 250 mg/kg b.w. in Swiss albino mice. Parameters studied in the mouse tail test were changes in epidermal thickness and percentage orthokeratotic values. In vitro antiproliferant assay on HaCaT cell lines and in vitro lipoxygenase inhibition were also carried out.

Results

Butanol fraction of Caesalpinia bonduc hydroalcoholic extract (CBHAB) and water fraction of Caesalpinia bonduc hydroalcoholic extract (CBHAW) produced significant orthokeratosis (p < 0.001). In relative epidermal thickness, a significant (p < 0.05) reduction with respect to control was observed in groups treated with retinoic acid, CBD, butanol fraction of Caesalpinia bonduc decoction (CBDB), water fraction of Caesalpinia bonduc hydroalcoholic extract (CBHAW). Maximum antiproliferant activity was shown by CBHA (IC₅₀, 77.5 ± 12.7 μg/ml). In lipoxygenase inhibition assay, water fraction of Caesalpinia bonduc decoction (CBDW) showed maximum activity with an IC₅₀ value of 164.71 ± 4.57 μg/ml.

Conclusions

Among all the tested samples only CBHAW showed good activity in the mouse tail test, antiproliferant activity in HaCaT cells and lipoxygenase inhibition assay. Other extracts and fractions showed varying degrees of activity. The present study supports the traditional use of Caesalpinia bonduc leaves for psoriasis treatment.     

Evaluation of anticancer activity of ethanol extract of Sesbania grandiflora (Agati Sesban) against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma in Swiss albino mice

Ethno pharmacological relevance

The plant Sesbania grandiflora (Fabaceae) is commonly known as “Sesbania” and “agathi” in ayurvedic system of medicine and reputed in the indigenous medicine in India. It is also known as “Agati Sesban” or “humming bird tree” in English. All parts of this unique plant are useful and have a wide spectrum of medicinal properties. The plant has various uses in folk and traditional medicines for headache, swellings, anemia, bronchitis, pains, liver disorders and tumors.

Aim of the study

The objective of the present study was to explore the anticancer activity of the ethanol extract of Sesbania grandiflora against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC)-bearing Swiss albino mice.

Materials and methods

Anticancer activity of ethanol extract of Sesbania grandiflora (EESG) of both leaves and flowers were evaluated in Swiss albino mice against Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) cell line at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally. The extracts were administered for 14 consecutive days. Twenty-four hours of last dose and 18 h of fasting, the mice were sacrificed and the anticancer effect of EESG was assessed by evaluating tumor volume, viable and nonviable tumor cell count, tumor weight, hematological parameters and biochemical parameters of EAC bearing host.

Results

Sesbania grandiflora extracts showed significant decrease in (p < 0.01) tumor volume, viable cell count, tumor weight and elevated the life span of EAC bearing mice. Hematological profile such as RBC, hemoglobin and lymphocyte count reverted to normal level in EESG treated mice. The extracts significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the levels of lipid peroxidation and significantly (p < 0.05) increased the levels of GSH, SOD and CAT.

Conclusion

The results showed that the ethanol extract of Sesbania grandiflora was effective in inhibiting the tumor growth in ascitic models and that is comparable to 5-Fluorouracil.     

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity of different extracts of Commiphora myrrha

Aim of the study

This present study was carried out to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of 85% ethanol extract (EE) of Commiphora myrrha and its different fractions partitioned with petroleum ether extract (EPE), ethyl acetate extract (EEA), n-butanol extract (EBu), and the water extract (ECY). Moreover, the chemical constituents in EPE were analyzed and identified by UPLC-QTOF/MS/MS.

Materials and methods

The anti-inflammatory activities were investigated by utilizing the paw edema mice induced by formalin. In addition, we determined the levels of PGE₂ in the edema paw. While the analgesic activity was examined against thermally and chemically induced nociceptive pain in mice, using the acetic acid and hot-plate test methods. The effects of the administration of dolantin or indomethacin were also studied for references. The components in EPE were analyzed by the ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrum.

Results

In the anti-inflammatory test, EE inhibited the development of paw swelling induced by formalin significantly. The pharmacological activities of the petroleum ether fraction (EPE) were stronger than the EE extract and other fractions at the dose of 100 mg/kg, and furthermore significantly decreased the levels of inflammatory factor PGE₂ in the edema paw tissue at the fourth hour after formalin injection. It has been also shown that the ethanol extract (EE) significantly reduced acetic acid-induced writhing response in mice at the dose of 200 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg. The petroleum ether fraction (EPE) showed significant analgesic activity in the model at the dose of 100 mg/kg (p < 0.01), and the ethyl acetate fraction (EEA) exhibited less analgesic activity (p < 0.05). All test samples showed no significant analgesic activity on the hot plate pain threshold in mice. The UPLC-MS/MS chromatogram analysis of EPE stated that EPE contains the ingredients of sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, and diterpenic acids. Moreover, seven main compounds were identified.

Conclusion

These data demonstrated that the EE and EPE posses analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities and may support the fact the traditional application of this herb in treating various diseases associated with inflammatory pain.     

Gastroprotective effect of standardized leaf extract from Argyreia speciosa on experimental gastric ulcers in rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Argyreia speciosa (L.f), Sweet (Family Convolvulaceae) is used traditionally in Indian System of Medicine as aphrodisiac, rejuvenating agent, intellect promoting agent, brain tonic and in the therapy of hepatomegaly, diabetes and chronic ulcer.

Aim of the study

To study the gastroprotective effect of standardized butanol fraction of Argyreia speciosa leaf (ASE).

Materials and methods

The butanol fraction of Argyreia speciosa leaf (ASE; 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight) was administered orally, twice daily for 5 days for prevention from Aspirin (ASP)-, ethanol (EtOH)-, cold-restraint stress (CRS) - and pylorus ligation (PL)-induced ulcers. Estimation of antioxidant enzymes activity was carried out in CRS-induced ulcer model, and various gastric secretion parameters like volume of gastric juice, acid output, and pH value were estimated in PL-induced ulcer model.

Result

ASE showed dose-dependent ulcer protective effect in ASP 23.64-58.76% (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001), EtOH 15.45-58.45% (p < 0.001), CRS 19.39-78.36% (p < 0.001) and PL 19.67-69.04% (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01), respectively. The percentage of protection by standard drug ranitidine was 77.77-84.32% (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001) in various gastric ulcer models. The gastric wall mucus was significantly (p < 0.001) enhanced by ASE and is regarded as the first line of defence against EtOH-induced gastric ulcers showing cytoprotective property. ASE showed a marginal decrease in volume, acid pepsin concentration and acid pepsin output. However, ASE reduced the ulcer index with significant decrease in LPO level (p < 0.001), and SOD level (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001) as compared with CRS-induced group. A gradual and significant increase in CAT values were observed at 100 and 200 mg/kg dose levels (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The results of our study revealed that Argyreia speciosa possess significant dose dependent gastroprotective activity, probably due to its free radical scavenging activity.     

Wound healing activity of Glycosmis arborea leaf extract in rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Glycosmis arborea Roxb, syn. Glycosmis pentaphylla Retz, (Rutacea) is a shrub found all over India, have been used for the healing of wounds of livestock in Indian folk medicine.

Aim of the study

The present study provides a scientific evaluation for the wound healing potential of ethanolic extract of Glycosmis arborea leaves.

Methods and materials

Excision and incision wounds were inflicted upon four groups containing six rats each. Group-1 was assigned as control (ointment base), Group-2 and Group-3 were treated with 5 and 10% EtOH extract ointment. Group-4 was treated with standard Nitrofurazone (0.2%) ointment. The parameters observed were percentage of wound contraction, epithelization period, tensile strength, hydroxyproline content. Ethanolic extract of Glycosmis arborea leaves was given orally at a dose of 200, 400 mg/kg/day in dead space wound model.

Results

Topical application of Glycosmis arborea ointment (10%) in excision wound model significantly (P < 0.05) increased the percentage of wound contraction (96.91%) compared with control (60.27%) and decreased the epithelization time. The tensile strength significantly (P < 0.05) increased in Group-3 at 560.33 ± 6.48 g when compared to control at 319.17 ± 6.16 g. Rats treated with Glycosmis arborea extract (400 mg/kg) showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in hydroxyproline content at 54.94 ± 0.96 mg/g when compared with control at 30.77 ± 1.13 mg/g.

Conclusion

The ethanolic extract of Glycosmis arborea facilitated wound healing significantly, corroborating the folk medicinal use of this plant.     

Reproductive parameters are differentially altered following subchronic administration of Catha edulis F. (Khat) extract and cathinone in male rats

Aims of the study

Controversy surrounds on the effect of khat, a widely chewed herb for its stimulant effect on sexuality. This study investigated the effect of fresh Catha edulis F. (Khat) extract, synthetic cathinone and vehicle on reproductive parameters, including sexual motivation and performance, serum testosterone and cortisol levels, epididymal sperm count, and histoarchitecture of testis in male rats.

Objective

This study investigated the effect of fresh Catha edulis Forsk (Khat, Celastraceae) extract, synthetic cathinone and vehicle on reproductive parameters, including sexual motivation and performance, serum testosterone and cortisol levels, epididymal sperm count, and histoarchitecture of testis in male rats.

Materials and methods

Rats were treated with either Tween 80 (3%, v/v) in water, khat extract (100 mg/kg, K100; 200 mg/kg, K200; and 300 mg/kg, K300 doses) or cathinone (5 mg/kg, CAT5) intragastrically for four weeks and subjected to a battery of behavioral tests. Three days following the last administration, blood was drawn for hormonal analysis and the animals were sacrificed for sperm count and morphologic-pathology studies.

Results

K100 significantly decreased mount latency (ML) (p < 0.05) and intromission latency (IL) (p < 0.01) compared to controls. K200 whilst significantly reduced IL (p < 0.01) and intromission frequency (IF) (p < 0.01), increased postejaculatory latency (PEL) (p < 0.01). K300 significantly reduced IF (p < 0.01) and ejaculatory latency (EL) (p < 0.01), but increased mount frequency (MF), IL, PEL, and ML (p < 0.01, in all cases). With CAT5, MF (p < 0.05) and IL (p < 0.01) were significantly greater but EL and IF were lower (p < 0.05, in both cases) than controls. Serum levels of testosterone were doubled in K100 (p < 0.01), but a significant decrease was recorded in both K200 (18%, p < 0.01) and K300 (50%, p < 0.01) rats. Whereas K100 did not have any effect on cortisol levels, K200 and K300 significantly increased by 83% (p < 0.05) and 164.5% (p < 0.01), respectively. CAT5 affected neither serum testosterone nor cortisol levels. Khat extract demonstrated a dose-dependent decline in epididymal sperm count: 50% with K100 (p < 0.05), 78% with K200 (p < 0.01) and 89% with K300 (p < 0.01). CAT5 did not, however, produce any significant change in sperm count. Khat extract and cathinone did not produce any discernible damage on testis.

Conclusion

Mild dose of khat improves sexual motivation, without much effect on performance. With increasing dose, however, both motivation and performance are reduced. Although testosterone levels correlated well with motivation, there was dissociation with sperm count, indicating optimum level might be required for normal spermatogenesis.     

Antiulcerogenic activity of Lantana camara leaves on gastric and duodenal ulcers in experimental rats

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae), a widely growing shrub has been used in the traditional medicine for treating many ailments. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of methanolic extract of Lantana camara leaves on gastric and duodenal ulcers.

Materials and methods

The antiulcerogenic effect of methanolic extract of Lantana camara was evaluated in aspirin induced gastric ulcerogenesis in pyloric ligated rats, ethanol induced gastric ulcer, and cysteamine induced duodenal ulcer models. The extract was administered orally at two different doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg. The lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione levels of ethanol induced gastric ulcer model and inhibition zone in diameter against Helicobacter pylori also determined.

Results

The L. camara extract significantly (P < 0.01) reduced ulcer index, total acidity and significantly (P < 0.01) increased the gastric pH of aspirin + pylorus-ligation induced ulcerogenesis and ethanol induced gastric ulcer models. The extract also significantly (P < 0.01) reduced the ulcer index of cysteamine induced duodenal ulcer. The L. camara showed significant (P < 0.01) reduction in lipid peroxidation and increase in reduced glutathione levels. The inhibition zone in diameter of extract against H. pylori was 20 mm.

Conclusion

The methanolic extract of Lantana camara leaves shown healing of gastric ulcers and also prevents development of duodenal ulcers in rats.     

In vivo antiulcer activity of the aqueous extract of Bauhinia purpurea leaf

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Bauhinia purpurea (Fabaceae) is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat various ailments, including ulcers. In order to establish pharmacological properties of the leaf of Bauhinia purpurea, studies were performed on antiulcer activity of the plant's aqueous extract.

Materials and methods

The Bauhinia purpurea aqueous extract (BPAE) was prepared in the doses of 100, 500 and 1000 mg/kg. Antiulcer activity of BPAE was evaluated by absolute ethanol- and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer, and pyloric ligation models. Acute toxicity was also carried out.

Results

BPAE, at the dose of 5000 mg/kg, did not cause any signs of toxicity to rats when given orally. Oral administration of BPAE exhibited antiulcer activity (p < 0.05) in all models used. However, the dose-dependent activity was observed only in the absolute ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model. Histological studies supported the observed antiulcer activity of BPAE. In pyloric ligation assay, BPAE increased the gastric wall mucus secretion.

Conclusions

The BPAE exhibits antiulcer activity, which could be due to the presence of saponins or sugar-free polyphenols, and, thus, confirmed the traditional uses of Bauhinia purpurea in the treatment of ulcers.     

Analgesic and antimalarial activities of crude leaf extract and fractions of Acalypha wilkensiana

Aim of the study

Antiplasmodial and analgesic activities of leaf extract and fractions of Acalypha wilkensiana were evaluated to ascertain the folkloric claim of its antimalarial and analgesic activities.

Materials and methods

The crude leaf extract (220–659 mg/kg) and fractions (chloroform and aqueous; 440 mg/kg) of Acalypha wilkensiana were investigated for antiplasmodial activity against chloroquine sensitive Plasmodium berghei infections in mice and for analgesic activity against chemical and heat-induced pains. The antiplasmodial activity during early and established infections as well as prophylactic activity were investigated. Chloroquine (5 mg/kg) and pyrimethamine (1.2 mg/kg) were used as positive controls. Thin films made from tail blood of each mouse were used to assess the level of parasitaemia of the mice. Analgesic activity of the crude extract was also evaluated against acetic acid, formalin and heat-induced pains.

Results

The extract and its fractions dose-dependently reduced parasitaemia induced by chloroquine sensitive Plasmodium berghei infection in prophylactic, suppressive and curative models in mice. These reductions were statistically significant (p < 0.001). They also improved the mean survival time (MST) from 16 to 22 days relative to control (p < 0.01–0.001). The activities of extract/fractions were incomparable to that of the standard drugs used (chloroquine and pyrimethamine). On chemically and thermally induced pains, the extract inhibited acetic acid and formalin-induced inflammation as well as hot plate-induced pain in mice. These inhibitions were statistically significant (p < 0.001) and in a dose-dependent fashion.

Conclusion

The antiparasitaemic and analgesic effects may in part be mediated through the chemical constituents of the plant.