Antifungal effect of Arnica montana and Hamamelis virginiana against Candida species

Objetivo ­ Avaliar a atividade antifúngica dos extratos glicólicos de Arnica montana e Hamamelis virginiana contra cepas de Candida spp. A candidíase é uma infecção fúngica comum, portanto, a pesquisa de novos agentes antifúngicos tem sido um alvo interessante. Várias plantas apresentaram atividades biológicas e, portanto, podem ser fontes promissoras de produtos naturais com atividades an-tifúngicas. Métodos ­ As atividades antifúngicas dos extratos glicólicos foram avaliadas por meio da determinação da concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) de acordo com o protocolo M27-S3 do Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (2008). Resultados ­ O ex-trato glicólico de A. montana apresentou a atividade antifúngica mais forte contra C. tropicalis, com concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) de 10% v/v e concentração fungicida mínima (MFC) de 80% v/v, seguido por C. krusei e C. glabrata, com valores de MIC e MFC de 20% v/v. Além disso, avaliamos a toxicidade dos dois extratos glicólicos no modelo Galleria mellonella usando as curvas de sobre-vivência de larvas tratadas com os extratos. Nossos resultados demonstraram que os extratos glicólicos de A. montana e H. virginiana não exibiram toxicidade contra larvas de G. mellonella e demonstraram atividade antifúngica contra espécies de Candida spp. Con-clusão ­ Assim, ambos os extratos são candidatos promissores para o desenvolvimento de novos agentes antifúngicos.

Objective ­ To evaluate the antifungal activity of Arnica montana and Hamamelis virginiana glycolic extracts against Candida strains. Methods ­ The antifungal activities of glycolic extracts were investigated by determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) according to protocol M27-S3 of Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (2008). Results ­ A. montana glycolic extract showed the strongest antifungal activity against C. tropicalis, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 10% v/v and a minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of 80% v/v, then C. krusei and C. glabrata, with MIC and MFC values of 20% v/v. H. virginiana glycolic extract ex-hibited stronger activity against C. albicans and C. tropicalis, with MIC and MFC values of 10% v/v, than against C. glabrata, C. krusei, and C. parapsilosis, with MIC and MFC values of 20% v/v. Moreover, we evaluated the toxicity of the two glycolic extracts in the Galleria mellonella model using the survival curves of larvae treated with the two extracts. Our results demonstrated that the glycolic extracts of A. montana and H. virginiana exhibited no toxicity against G. mellonella larvae and demonstrated antifungal activity against Candida spe-cies. Conclusion ­ Thus, both extracts are promising candidates for the development of novel antifungal agents.

Aplicación de árnica en gel para el manejo del dolor y reabsorción del hematoma profundo / Application of arnica gel for pain management and deep hematoma reabsorption

Árnica es una planta medicinal de la especie Arnica montana, endémica en Europa Central y Meridional, perteneciente a la familia Asteracae; rica en flavonoides y compuestos fenólicos, lactonas, helenalina y ácido hexurónico que le dan propiedades cicatrizantes, antiinflamatorias, analgésicas, antimicrobianas y anticoagulantes. Se utiliza en casos de contusiones, dolores musculares, reumáticos y hematomas profundos. El artículo describe ocho casos, que presentaron hematoma profundo por punción infructuosa, en pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica terminal con esquema de hemodiálisis, donde se aplicó árnica en gel. Por medio de fotografías se registró cómo los hematomas revirtieron a partir del tercer día, mientras que el dolor disminuyó en un 50% al tercer día. (AU)

Arnica is a medicinal plant of the species Arnica Montana, endemic in Central and Southern Europe, it belongs to the Asteracae family, rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds, lactones, helenalin and hexuronic acid that give it healing, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial and anticoagulant properties. It is used in cases of bruises, muscle pain, rheumatic pain and deep bruises. The article describes eight patients with terminal chronic renal failure under hemodialysis, who presented deep hematoma due to unsuccessful puncture of their dialysis fistula. All patients were treated with local gel arnica. Verbal analogue scale (VAS) and qualitative visual image analysis (photography) on how the hematomas reverted on the third day was analyzed. (AU)

Evaluation of the effectiveness of arnica montana 6ch in the control of postoperative myalgia by isometric effort in dentistry

Arnica montana 6CH is a medicine indicated for inflammatory and painful conditions, especially in muscle structures. The RDC / TMD Axis II questionnaire is a validated tool for the diagnosis of Temporomandibular Muscle Dysfunction. Objective: This multicenter, randomized and controlled study, approved by Human or Animal Research Ethics Committee UniFOA -CAAE: 48680015.3.0000.5237 aimed to verify the clinical performance of Arnica montana 6CH in contractures and muscle pain triggered by isometric stress. Materials and Methods: 70 patients underwent prolongeddental treatment sessions, and they were selected after clinical examination and positive responses to the RDC / TMD questionnaire to confirm signs and symptoms of Temporomandibular Muscle Dysfunction at the first consultation. Randomly, Arnica montana 6CH was prescribed for 35 patients called group I, and placebo for 35 patients called group II, at a dose of 5 globules, 03 times a day, for 1 week. In the second endodontic consultation, after 15 days, a new clinical examination was performed at the beginning and end of the prolonged dental consultation with crossing of data from the RDC questionnaire, to monitor the prevalence of TMD muscle signs and symptoms. The data were tabulated and analyzed. Statistical analysis: The test t de Student was used for paired samples, significant at the level ≤ 0.05%. Results:Anamnetic data from the RDC questionnaire, 86% of the individuals in the GI had lower pain and muscle contracture rates in the second consultation, compared with 22% in the GII. Conclusion:The drug Arnica montana 6CH proved to be effective in preventing muscle changes and clinical symptoms resulting from isometric efforts with a statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.05).

Preclinical studies of hydroalcoholic extract of Calea uniflora Less / Estudios preclínicos de extracto hidroalcohólico de Calea uniflora Less

Calea uniflora Less known popularly as Arnica in Brazil, is a native plant from Brazil, popular used by coastal populations from south of Santa Catarina. The purpose of this study was to verify the safety profile in of hydroalcoholic extract of C. uniflora in florescences.The hydroalcoholic extract of C. uniflora in florescences was evaluated for its acute and sub-acute toxicity. Acute topical toxicity was performed using the methodology of guideline 402 from OECD. Acute oral toxicity was performed using the methodology of guideline 423 from OECD and sub-acute toxicity was performed using the methodology adapted of guideline 407 from OECD. The single dose for oral or topical administration of C. uniflora showed DL50> 5000 mg/kg b.w. The sub-acute treatment induced animal death in groups, which was administered extract in the doses 100, 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg. The main signs of toxicity observed were respiratory difficulty, increase in lung weigh, lung damage and muscular relation. The topical or oral administration of C. uniflora extract in short period did not caused toxicological effects in animals, however, when administered for a longer period and in concentrations of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg (oral.) caused lung damage and even the death of the animal.

Calea uniflora Less conocida popularmente como Arnica en Brasil, es una planta nativa de Brasil, popularmente utilizada por poblaciones costeras del sur de Santa Catarina. El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar el perfil de seguridad del extracto hidroalcoólico de inflorescencias de C. uniflora. El extracto hidroalcoólico de inflorescencias de C. uniflora fue evaluado en cuanto a su toxicidad aguda y subaguda. La toxicidad tópica aguda se realizó utilizando la metodología de la directriz 402 de la OECD. La toxicidad oral aguda fue realizada usando la metodología de la directriz 423 de la OECD y la toxicidad subaguda fue realizada usando la metodología adaptada de la directriz 407 de la OECD. La dosis única para administración oral o tópica de C. uniflora mostro DL50> 5000 mg/kg. El tratamiento subagudo indujo la muerte de animales en grupos a los que se administró extracto en las dosis de 100, 250, 500 y 1000 mg/kg. Los principales signos de toxicidad observados fueron dificultad respiratoria, aumento del peso del pulmón, daño pulmonar y relación muscular. La administración tópica oral del extracto de C. uniflora a corto plazo no causó efectos toxicológicos en los animales, mientras que, cuando se administró por un período mayor y en las concentraciones de 250, 500 y 1000 mg/kg (oral) causaron danos en los pulmones y hasta la muerte del animal.

"Arnicas" from Brazil: comparative analysis among ten species

Abstract The "arnicas" found in Brazil are examples of different species of the family Asteraceae used in popular medicine for its attributed anti-inflammatory action. Among the species known and used as "arnica" we selected: Calea uniflora Less., Chaptalia nutans (L.) Polák, Lychnophora ericoides Mart., Lychnophora pinaster Mart., Lychnophora salicifolia Mart., Lychnophora diamantinana Coile & S.B.Jones, Porophyllum ruderale (Jacq.) Cass., Pseudobrickellia brasiliensis (Spreng.) R.M.King & H.Rob., Sphagneticola trilobata (L.) Pruski, and Solidago chilensis Meyen, due to their extensive use. This research provides new information on leaf morphology and anatomy and on chemistry of the major metabolites found in these species through histochemical tests and phytochemical review. The results revealed anatomical characters for the differentiation and quality control of the vegetal drugs, being these: distinctive epidermal attachments, epidermis cells, parenchymal cells of the mesophyll, vascular bundles, midvein patterns and secretory structures of exudation of secondary metabolites. The review of chemical profiles showed differences in the chemical composition of the species, as different skeletons of sesquiterpene lactones in the species evaluated in addition to other chemical classes such as terpenes, flavonoids, chromenes and phenolic acids derivate. Based on the results obtained in this work it is important to emphasize that the information about the ten species of arnica generate subsidies for differentiation and identification of characteristic markers and for the diagnosis of the species and it can be applied in the "arnicas" quality control.

A comparative analysis of anxiolytic activity of Arnica montana and alprazolam in rats using open field test

Background: Anxiety affects around 7.3% of the total population worldwide. Benzodiazepines are preferred anxiolytic agents and are still frequently used in spite of the side effect profile including muscle relaxation, memory disturbances, sedation, physical dependence. Arnica montana, a traditional herb is known to possess significant anxiolytic effect at the dose of 100mg/kg. In this study, Arnica montana has been compared for the first time with alprazolam, a most commonly used anxiolytic drug.Methods: Forced swim test was used to induce anxiety. Anxiolytic action of study drugs which were given orally, was evaluated using Open field test (OFT) in healthy wistar rats of either sex. Behavior of rats, locomotion and number of squares crossed was recorded. Rats were divided into four groups with eight rats in each group. Study groups were Group I Control; Group II Alprazolam 0.08mg/kg; Group III Arnica montana extract (AME) 100mg/kg; Group IV AME + Alprazolam group 100mg/kg+0.08mg/kg. Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA followed by Tukey抯 test (p<0.05).Results: Increase in frequency of rearing was significant (p<0.05) in AME group and highly significant (p<0.001) in Alprazolam and combination group in comparison to control. Decrease in frequency of grooming was highly significant (p<0.001) in Alprazolam and combination group. AME also showed significant (p<0.05) decrease in grooming activity.Conclusions: Arnica montana extract showed anxiolytic activity and can be used as an add on drug after further studies and validation in the treatment of anxiety disorders.

Arnica montana experimental studies: confounders and biases? / 中西医结合学报

Arnica montana is a popular traditional remedy widely used in complementary and alternative medicine, in part for its wound-healing properties. The authors recently showed that this plant extract and several of its homeopathic dilutions are able to modify the expression of a series of genes involved in inflammation and connective tissue regeneration. Their studies opened a debate, including criticisms to the "errors" in the methods used and the "confounders and biases". Here the authors show that the criticisms raised on methodology and statistics are not consistent and cannot be considered pertinent. The present comment also updates and reviews information concerning the action of A. montana dilutions in human macrophage cells while summarizing the major experimental advances reported on this interesting medicinal plant.

Qualidade do reparo ósseo em ratas ovariectomizadas, lesionadas e tratadas com Arnica montana fitoterápica e homeopática / Quality of bone repair in ovariectomized rats with bone lesions treated with phytotherapic and homeopathic Arnica montana

Objetivo: Dados estatísticos nacionais e mundiais demonstram que o número de indivíduos idosos tende a crescer de maneira exponencial nos próximos anos, tornando-se uma população significativamente e proporcionalmente maior que as demais. Entre as doenças mais comuns nessa faixa estaria encontra-se a osteoporose, doença que reduz a massa esquelética e deteriora a microarquitetura do osso causando fragilidade e aumentando o risco de fraturas. Material e Métodos: Este estudo teve como proposta avaliar o efeito da Arnica montana fitoterápica e homeopática no reparo de lesões ósseas, visando uma possível forma de tratamento de fraturas na vigência da osteoporose. Os ensaios experimentais foram realizados em ratas Wistar adultas, divididas em quatro grupos: ovariectomizado tratado com Arnica montana 6CH homeopática (OVZ 6CH); ovariectomizado tratado com extrato fitoterápico de Arnica montana (OVZ TM); ovariectomizada tratado com placebo (OVZ PL) falsa cirurgia de ovariectomia e tratado com placebo (Sham PL). Após 45 dias da cirurgia sham ou de ovariectomia, foi realizada uma lesão óssea monocortical. Os animais foram eutanasiados após 6, 12, 18 e 28 dias e as tíbias retiradas para avaliação das suas dimensões e analise do reparo ósseo através de densidade óssea radiográfica, ensaios biomecânicos e microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV). Os dados do teste de flexão foram submetidos à analise estatística pelos testes de ANOVA e Tukey (p< 5%). Resultados: Conclui-se que o tratamento com arnica 6CH foi melhor que o com arnica TM quanto à resistência e à qualidade de regeneração óssea, enquanto a TM mostrou melhor valor de densidade óptica. Conclusão: Esse estudo concluiu que o tratamento com Arnica montana homeopática foi mais eficiente que com Arnica fitoterápica na regeneração óssea de ratas com osteoporose (AU)

Objective: National and international data show that in the next years the elder population tends to have an exponential increase becoming to be significantly higher than other ages. Among the frequent diseases in the elderly, osteoporosis is a disease that decreases bone mass and deteriorates bone structure causing fragility and a high risk of fracture. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of phytotherapic and homeopathic Arnica montana on bone repair quality and its possible use in the treatment of bone fracture in patients with osteoporosis. Material and Methods: This experimental study was performed in Wistar adult female rats divided in 4 groups according to the following treatments: ovariectomized treated with homeopathic A. montana 6CH (OVZ 6CH); ovariectomized treated with phytotherapic A. montana (OVZ TM); ovariectomized with placebo (OVZ PL) and rats with sham surgery and placebo (Sham PL). In a period of 45 days after ovariectomy or sham surgery, all animals got a monocortical lesion. They were euthanized after 6, 12, 18 and 28 days and had the tibiae removed to evaluate dimensions and bone repair by radiographic density, biomechanical test and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). Data were analyzed by ANOVA and TUKEY tests (p < 0.05). Results: Results showed that treatment with Arnica 6CH was better than Arnica TM considering bone resistance and bone repair quality. Conclusion: This study concluded that treatment with homeopathic A. montana was more efficient than with phytotherapic Arnica in bone regeneration in rats with osteoporosis.(AU)

Un caso clínico de fractura dental y su abordaje clínico homeopático / A clinical case of dental fracture and its clinical homeopathic approach

Se presenta un caso de trauma dentoalveolar en un paciente masculino de 22 años de edad, al sufrir un asalto en la Ciudad de México. El paciente acude al consultorio dental 29 horas posteriores al incidente; durante la exploración se identifican edema y laceraciones en los labios; movilidad de los dientes centrales superiores y fractura del ángulo mesio-incisal del lateral superior derecho. El estudio radiográfico muestra fractura de las coronas en los centrales superiores. El abordaje terapéutico combinó Homeopatía, tratamiento endodóntico, periodontal y prótesis. Los medicamentos que se administraron fueron: Arnica montana, Hypericum perforatum, Calendula officinalis y Echinacea angustifolia (nombre de marca: Gavosim); se prescindió de antibióticos y antiinflamatorios. A las cuatro semanas del tratamiento endodóntico se remitió al paciente con el periodoncista, y cuatro semanas después, con el protesista. Al final, se logró la rehabilitación total. Se concluye que los medicamentos prescritos facilitaron la recuperación de los tejidos periodontales.

Arnica montana and blood loss, surgical field bleeding and operative time in endoscopic sinus surgery: A Randomized-controlled trial

@#<p><strong>OBJECTIVE:</strong>To determine the association of Arnica montana and blood loss, surgical field bleeding and operative time in endoscopic sinus surgery among adults with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis.</p> <p><strong>METHODS:</p></strong> <p><strong>Design:</strong> Single-blinded Randomized Controlled Trial</p> <p><strong>Setting:</strong> Tertiary government hospital</p> <p><strong>Participants:</strong> Forty-one (41) adults aged 19-76 years old with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis and meeting inclusion criteria were randomly divided into two groups, Arnica and control. The former took 5 sublingual Boiron® Arnica montana 30C pellets, 12 hours then 1 hour prior to surgery; the latter did not. Both groups had routine oxymetazoline and lidocaine-epinephrine decongestion. Intraoperative blood loss, surgical field bleeding quality and operative time were assessed by blinded surgeons and anesthesiologists. </p> <p><strong>RESULTS:</strong> Mean estimated blood loss was 187ml (SD 100.14) for controls versus 72ml (SD 12.59) for the Arnica group; (p < 0.05). Mean operative time was 3.55 hours (SD 1.25) for controls and 3.44 hours (SD 1.57) for the Arnica group; (p=0.9). Surgical field bleeding was graded slight with 75% needing occasional suctioning (grade 2) and 25% needing frequent suctioning (grade 3) in the Arnica group, versus moderate bleeding with more frequent suctioning (grade 4) in 71% and slight bleeding but needing frequent suctioning (grade 3) in 29% of controls.</p> <p><strong>CONCLUSION:</strong> In this randomized clinical trial, Arnica montana was associated with less blood loss and less surgical field bleeding compared to controls, but there was no difference in mean operative times.  Arnica montana may be effective in reducing blood loss and improving surgical field quality during endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis.</p> <p> </p>

Arnica montana does not affect mast cell populations in experimentally induced oral ulcers in rats / Arnica montana não afeta populações de mastócitos em úlceras orais induzidas experimentalmente em ratos

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that Arnica montana shows anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. It has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of several disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Arnica montana on mast cells during the wound healing of oral ulcers. METHOD: An ulcerated lesion was chemically induced on the tongue of 75 male albino rats and, then, treated topically for seven days using saline solution (control), Arnica montana gel or tincture. The animals were killed after 2nd, 7th, 14th, 21th and 42th day of treatment. The tongues were removed and subjected to routine laboratory (0.2% toluidine blue staining). The numbers of mast cell were determined in two regions: superficial and submucosa. RESULTS: The numbers of mast cells were significantly increased for all groups in the region of the deeper tissue when compared to the superficial region. No statistical difference was observed in mast cell numbers for each group. CONCLUSION: This study revealed that Arnica montana tincture and gel were unable to change mast cell population during wound healing of oral ulcer of rats. According to these results, the anti-inflammatory effects of Arnica montana were not related to inhibition of mast cell degranulation.

OBJETIVO: Sabe-se que a Arnica montana mostra atividade anti-inflamatória e anti-oxidante e tem sido usada em medicina tradicional para o tratamento de vários distúrbios. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o efeito da Arnica montana em mastócitos durante a cicatrização de feridas de úlceras orais. MÉTODO: Uma úlcera foi quimicamente induzida na língua de 75 ratos albinos machos e, em seguida, tratada topicamente durante sete dias, utilizando solução salina (controle), gel ou tintura de Arnica montana. Os animais foram sacrificados após 2, 7, 14, 21 e 42º dia de tratamento. As línguas foram removidas e submetidas a rotina de laboratório (coloração com 0,2% de azul de toluidina). A densidade de mastócitos foi determinada em duas regiões: superficial e submucosa. RESULTADOS: O número de mastócitos aumentou nitidamente para todos os grupos na região mais profunda do tecido peri-ulceroso, quando comparada à região superficial. Nenhuma diferença estatística foi observada no número de mastócitos entre os grupos. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo revelou que a tintura ou o gel de Arnica montana foram incapazes de interferir na população de mastócitos durante a cicatrização da úlcera oral de ratos. De acordo com estes resultados, os efeitos anti-inflamatórios de Arnica montana não foram relacionados à inibição da degranulação dos mastócitos.

Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Solidago chilensis in rats

AbstractSolidago chilensis Meyen, Asteraceae, is traditionally used to treat inflammation. However, phytochemical and pharmacology investigations are lacking. This study evaluated the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of hydroalcoholic extract from S. chilensis aerial parts in rats. In oral glucose tolerance tests the rats received saline (0.5 ml/100 g) in control group (C), hydroalcoholic extract (125, 250 or 500 mg/kg p.o.; n = 6) or glibenclamide (10 mg/kg p.o.; n = 6). After 30 min, glucose (4 g/kg) was administered. Rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract 500 demonstrated decreased glucose levels at 180 min (-22.1%), when compared with group C, similar to glibenclamide. Moreover, treatment with hydroalcoholic extract 500 significantly increased the glycogen content in the liver and soleus muscle, and hydroalcoholic extract 250 specifically inhibited the enzyme maltase when compared with group C. Furthermore, all hyperglycemic rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract (125, 250 and 500) exhibited an accentuated decrease in total cholesterol levels (-36.8%, -36.7% and -41.3%, respectively). Our results suggest that hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of hydroalcoholic extract could be associated with increased production and release of insulin as well as with insulinotropic and antioxidant effects.

Arnica montana en el tratamiento del dolor después de la odontectomía de terceros molares retenidos / Arnica montana in the treatment of pain after the odontectomy of third retained molars

Se realizó un estudio de intervención terapéutica en 80 pacientes con dolor luego de la extracción de terceros molares retenidos, en el Hospital Provincial Docente Clinicoquirúrgico "José Ramón López Tabrane" de la provincia de Matanzas, desde enero del 2012 hasta igual mes del 2013, con vistas a evaluar la evolución de estos. Para ello se formaron 2 grupos de 40 integrantes cada uno; a uno se le indicó tratamiento convencional con dipirona de 300 mg (grupo de control) y al otro, homeopatía con Arnica montana en 30 ch (grupo experimental). Los resultados demostraron la existencia de una terapia alternativa que podría ser utilizada cuando los medicamentos de primera elección hayan fallado, ya sea por su baja eficacia o por la aparición de reacciones adversas. En los pacientes tratados con Arnica montana, el efecto fue satisfactorio; además, este remedio homeopático es seguro y menos costoso para el Sistema Nacional de Salud cubano.

A therapeutic intervention study was carried out in 80 patients with pain after the extraction of third retained molars, in "José Ramón López Tabrane" Teaching Provincial Clinical-Surgical Hospital in Matanzas province, from January, 2012 to the same month of 2013, with the objective of evaluating their clinical course. For this purpose, 2 groups of 40 members each were formed; conventional treatment with dipyrone of 300 mg (control group) was indicated to one of them, and to the other homeopathy with Arnica montana in 30 ch (experimental group). The results demonstrated the existence of an alternative therapy that could be used when first election drugs have failed, either for their low effectiveness or for the emergence of adverse reactions. In the patients treated with Arnica montana, the effect was satisfactory; also, it can be said that this homeopathic remedy is safe and less expensive for the Cuban National Health System.

Potencial de óleos essenciais de plantas medicinais no controle de fitopatógenos / Potential of essential oils from medicinal plants to control plant pathogens

Além do valor como recurso terapêutico, plantas medicinais também possuem potencial para serem utilizadas como fonte de princípios ativos contra fitopatógenos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de óleos essenciais das espécies medicinais Baccharis dracunculifolia (alecrim-do-campo), Schinus terebinthifolius (aroeirinha) e Porophyllum ruderale (arnica-brasileira) sobre o crescimento dos fungos fitopatogênicos Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli (Fop), F. solani f. sp. phaseoli (Fsp), Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Ss), S. minor (Sm), Rhizoctonia solani (Rs), Sclerotium rolfsii (Sr) e Macrophomina phaseolina (Mp). Avaliou-se em placas de Petri o crescimento radial desses fungos em meio batata-dextrose-ágar (BDA) com cinco concentrações (0, 250, 500, 1000 e 3000 mg L-1) dos óleos essenciais. Discos de micélio (5 mm de diâmetro) de cada fungo em crescimento foram transferidos para placas de Petri que foram mantidas a 23°C no escuro por 48 horas. O óleo essencial de alecrim-do-campo foi o mais eficiente na redução do crescimento micelial de todos os fungos, com inibição completa quando se utilizou a concentração de 3000 mg L-1. A redução de crescimento variou de 29% (Fs) a 80% (Rs) a 250 mg L-1 do óleo essencial de alecrim-do-campo; a 500 mg L-1, variou de 29% (Fs) a 98% (Sr); e a 1000 mg L-1, de 41% (Fs) a 100% (Sr). A redução do crescimento dos fungos pelo óleo de aroeirinha na concentração de 3000 mg L-1 variou de 27% (Fsp) a 74% (Rs). Nessa concentração, o óleo de arnica-brasileira reduziu o crecimento micelial de Ss em 72%, o de Rs em 80% e o de Mp em 82%, sem efeitos significativos sobre o crescimento micelial de Fsp e Fop. Conclui-se que os óleos essenciais de alecrim-do-campo, aroeirinha e arnica-brasileira possuem potencial para o controle dos fungos fitopatogênicos estudados, com destaque para o óleo de alecrim-do-campo.

In addition to their value as therapeutic resources, medicinal plants also have the potential to be used as a source of alternative compounds against plant pathogens. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of essential oils extracted from the medicinal species Baccharis dracunculifolia, Schinus terebinthifolius and Porophyllum ruderale on the growth of the fungal plant pathogens Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli (Fop), F. solani f. sp. phaseoli (Fsp), Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Ss), S. minor (Sm), Rhizoctonia solani (Rs), Sclerotium rolfsii (Sr) and Macrophomina phaseolina (Mp). The radial mycelial growth of the fungi was evaluated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) in Petri dishes with five concentrations (0, 250, 500, 1000 and 3000 μL L-1) of the essential oils. Mycelial discs (5 mm diameter) of the growing colonies of each fungus were transferred to Petri dishes, which were maintained at 23 °C in the dark for 48 hours. The essential oil of B. dracunculifolia was the most effective oil in the reduction of the mycelial growth of all fungi. It completely inhibited their growth at 3000 mg L-1. At 250 mg L-1, the growth reduction caused by the oil of B. dracunculifolia varied from 29% (Fs) to 80% (Rs); at 500 mg L-1, it varied from 29% (Fs) to 98% (Sr); and at 1000 mg L-1, it varied from 41% (Fs) to 100% (Sr). The reduction of the mycelial growth caused by the oil of S. terebinthifolius at 3000 mg L-1 varied from 27% (Fsp) to 74% (Rs). At this concentration, the oil of P. ruderale reduced the mycelial growth of Ss by 72%, of Rs by 80% and of Mp by 82%, without significant effects on the mycelial growth of Fsp and Fop. We conclude that the essential oils of B. dracunculifolia, S. terebinthifolius and P. ruderale have the potential to be used to control the plant pathogens tested, especially the oil of B. dracunculifolia.

Elaboración de una propuesta de manejo con homeopatía para pacientes con dolor torácico / Preparation of a management proposal with homeopathy for patients with chest pain

El dolor torácico es un motivo de consulta muy frecuente tanto en servicios de urgencias como en consulta externa, se estima que aproximadamente el 20% de las consultas de adultos no quirúrgicas en un servicio general de urgencias, corresponde a dolor torácico. La mayoría de ellos (85 a 90%) no se deben a síndrome coronario agudo (o infarto agudo de miocardio) o a otra potencialmente mortal. No encontramos informada en la literatura médica, una propuesta para el manejo de estos pacientes con homeopatía. Se revisó en medicinas internas y semiologías las diversas formas de presentación de dolor torácico, acorde con varios orígenes: Coronario, Gastroesofágico, Costocondral (Reumático) o Pleural. Seguidamente, se investigó en un repertorio digital (Radar 7) los medicamentos que mejor puntuaban según los síntomas más frecuentes, pretendiendo abarcar la totalidad sintomática del paciente. Se hizo una revisión y resumen de varias materias médicas de 20 medicamentos mejor puntuados y finalmente se elaboró un algoritmo con dos de los síntomas más característicos en las diversas modalidades de dolor torácico. Los medicamentos analizados fueron: Acónitum, Argentum Nitricum, Arsénicum Album, Árnica, Aurum Metálicum, Bryonia, Cactus Grandiflorus, Calcárea Carbónica, Carbo Vegetábilis, Causticum, Digitalis, Kali Carbónicum, Nux Vómica, Phosphorus, Spongia Tosta y Sulphur. A modo de ejemplo, en el dolor torácico de tipo opresivo o anginoso acompañado de angustia y temor a la muerte, los medicamentos más puntuados son: Acon, Dig, Arn y Cact.

Árnica montana como tratamiento homeopático en pacientes con estomatitis subprótesis de grados I y II / Arnica montana as homeopathic treatment in patients with denture stomatitis of grades I and II

Se realizó un estudio de intervención terapéutica en el módulo de San Benito de Mayarí, provincia de Santiago de Cuba, en el primer cuatrimestre de 2010, a fin de evaluar la evolución de 72 pacientes con estomatitis subprótesis de grados I y II, distribuidos de forma alterna en 2 grupos: en el A se incluyeron los números impares, con terapéutica convencional; y en el B los pares, con tratamiento homeopático. En ambos grupos predominaron los integrantes de 45-54 años y del sexo femenino, así como los curados al tercer día (72,2 y 80,6 %, respectivamente). El tratamiento homeopático con árnica montana en pacientes con estomatitis subprótesis de grados I y II, fue tan beneficioso como la terapéutica convencional en igual tiempo de evolución y estuvo exento de reacciones adversas, lo cual justificó el uso de esta modalidad terapéutica, que al igual que otras de la medicina natural y tradicional, es inocua, económica y de fácil acceso.

A study of therapeutic intervention in the module of San Benito, from Mayarí, II Frente municipality, Santiago de Cuba province was carried out in the first quarter of 2010, in order to evaluate the clinical course of 72 patients with denture stomatitis of grades I and II, alternatively distributed in 2 groups: in group A the odd numbers were included, with conventional therapy; and in group B the pairs, with treatment. In both groups the members of 45-54 years and female sex prevailed, as well as those cured at the third day (72.2 and 80.6%, respectively). The homeopathic treatment with arnica montana was as beneficial as the conventional therapy in same time for the clinical course and it had no adverse reactions, what justifies the use of this therapeutic modality which as others modalities of the natural and traditional medicine, it is innocuous, economic and of easy access.

Dermatitis por contacto y árnica montana: Presentación de un caso clínico, revisión y actualización. Ambulatorio. Los grillitos. Diciembre 2013, Maracay - Estado Aragua Venezuela / Dermatitis, contact and árnica montana: Presentation of a clinical case, revision and update. The grillitos clinic. December 2013, Maracay - Aragua Venezuela State

Comunicamos un caso de dermatitis por contacto severa debida al Árnica montana, en una paciente con antecedentes de hipertensión arterial tratada regularmente y controlada; se enfatiza la importancia de un control evolutivo, examen físico semiológico completo y los diagnósticos diferenciales, de estas variantes severas e infrecuentes.

The presentation of a case of irritant contact dermatitis in a patient with a history of high blood pressure regularly treated and controlled, who starts on 19.04.13 with fever of 39º5 which ceded with use of current antipyretic; accompanied by myalgia, retro-ocular pain, arthralgias, headache of strong intensity, complete haematology reports thrombocytopenia and leukocytosis at the expense of segmented, picture that remained for 48 hours; later is associated with stabbing pain and right lower limb rigidity. 22.04.13 presents increase in volume and signs of phlogosis of elevated erythematous edges that extends to the sural region, with blister on right twin region of approximately 10x10 cm with functional limitation of that member. The patient is hospitalized under the diagnosis of Bullous erysipelas, receives broad spectrum antibiotics to Gram +, Gram - and anaerobic. 29.04.13 blister hatches draining not foul-smelling yellowish secretion; it is cultivated and Gram, reporting no bacterial growth. Refers to Central Hospital of Maracay entering it with the diagnosis of cellulitis blistering, where it performed second Gram and cultivation reported without bacterial growth; they perform a biopsy which reports epidermal necrotic dermatitis superficial and deep compatible with dermatitis irritant contact. The case is reevaluated, interrogating again to the patient and the dermal symptoms coincide with the use of Árnica montana product (this data was not reported or questioned in the initial history). Update about the product reported that exists extensive reference on cases of dermatitis contact, mainly by the use of Árnica montana and one of its components; methylparaben, these cases have been reported by prolonged use of the product described as excited skin syndrome or angry back. The patient after to the second questioned referred the use of this product frequently for several years topically and even concerned using infusions of the flower of Árnica montana orally. It was decided to deal with steroids intravenously, resulting in evident improvement with egress to the fifth day and outpatient follow-up, which reported complete remission of picture.

Arnica montana: una revisión bioquímica y homeopática / Arnica montana: A biochemical and homeopathic review

El Arnica montana es uno de los medicamentos que se emplean con mayor frecuencia en la práctica homeopática. Comúnmente, es la primera elección en la atención de traumatismos, contusiones y golpes, especialmente de partes blandas. También se emplea en torceduras, fracturas, esfuerzos exagerados, enfermedades reumáticas, traumas emocionales y para mejorar la recuperación de los pacientes que se someten a intervenciones quirúrgicas. Debido al interés que genera, el Arnica montana ha sido objeto de numerosos estudios en diferentes áreas para comprobar su alcance y determinar sus mecanismos de acción. A continuación se presenta una revisión de algunos artículos publicados sobre este medicamento; unos versan sobre sus principios activos y otros analizan diversos experimentos que se han efectuado.

Arnica montana is one of the most often used drugs in homeopathic practice. Commonly, it is the first choice in the trauma care, bruises and bumps, especially soft tissue. Also used in sprains, fractures, exaggerated efforts, rheumatic diseases and emotional trauma to improve recovery of patients who undergo surgery. Due to the interest generated, Arnica montana has been the subject of numerous studies in different areas to check their range and determine their mechanisms of action. Below is a review of some articles published on this medication, some deal with other active principles and discusses various experiments that have been conducted.

Usos más frecuentes de Arnica montana / Most common uses of Arnica montana

Introducción: Arnica montana es una planta original de Europa central y meridional, cuya eficacia para aliviar el dolor postraumático y otras desviaciones de la salud ha sido demostrada, sin embargo, es limitado el conocimiento que tienen los profesionales de la salud sobre esta y sus efectos beneficiosos. Objetivos: contribuir con el proceso de perfeccionamiento de quienes incursionan en los tratamientos alternativos a partir de la recolección de información actualizada sobre Arnica montana. Métodos: se desarrolló una estrategia de búsqueda con los términos: homeopatía, ensayo clínico, meta-análisis, revisión sistemática, eficacia y seguridad combinados con Arnica montana. Se utilizaron las bases de datos MEDLINE, CUMED, Registro Cochrane de Ensayos Controlados y el registro especializado Cochrane de Medicina Complementaria, limitada a los artículos publicados entre los meses de enero de 2002 a junio de 2012. Conclusiones: la evaluación de la información disponible permite afirmar que este producto natural puede utilizarse de manera segura y eficaz para aliviar el dolor y reducir la inflamación postraumática y posquirúrgica en humanos

Introduction: Arnica montana is a plant native to Central and Southern Europe of proven effectiveness to relieve posttraumatic pain and other conditions. However, knowledge about this plant and its beneficial effects is scant among health professionals. Objectives: contribute to the professional development of those involved in alternative treatments by gathering updated information about Arnica montana. Methods: a search strategy was developed based on the following terms: homeopathy, clinical trial, meta-analysis, systematic review, effectiveness and safety, as combined with Arnica montana. Use was made of the databases MEDLINE and CUMED, as well as the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and the Cochrane Complementary Medicine Specialized Register, limited to articles published from January 2002 to June 2012. Conclusions: based on the evaluation of the information available, it may be stated that this natural product may be used both safely and effectively to relieve pain and reduce posttraumatic and postsurgical inflammation in humans

Toxicological evaluation of ethanolic extract of Lychnophora trichocarpha, Brazilian arnica

The species of the genus Lychnophora, Asteraceae, are popularly known as "arnica" and are native from Brazilian savana (Cerrado). They are widely used in Brazilian folk medicine as anti-inflammatory, to treat bruise, pain, rheumatism and for insect bites. For evaluation of acute toxicity, the ethanolic extract was given to albino female and male mice. In open-field test, the extract of Lychnophora trichocarpha (Spreng.) Spreng. (0.750 g/kg) induced a significant inhibition of the spontaneous locomotor activity and exploratory behavior of the animals were observed 1 and 4 h after administration. In traction test, the same dose reduced the muscular force 1 h after administration. The exploratory behavior reduced significantly in the group that received 0.50 g/kg, 1 and 4 h after administration of the extract. The animals that received the doses of 0.25, 0.50 and 0.75 g/kg did not show any change of blood biochemical parameters comparing to control group and showed some histopathological changes such as congestion and inflammation of kidney and liver. The dose of 1.5 g/kg caused the most serious signs of toxicity. Histopathological changes observed was hemorrhage in 62.5% and pulmonary congestion in 100% of the animals. Brain and liver congestion was found in 62.5% of the animals.