Nano-ayurvedic medicine and its potential in cancer treatment / 中西医结合学报

Nano-ayurvedic medicine is an emerging field in which nanoparticles are functionalized with active principles of potent ayurvedic herbs to enhance their efficacy and target-specific delivery. Scientific advances in the past couple of decades have revealed the molecular mechanisms behind the anticancer potential of several ayurvedic herbs, attributed chiefly to their secondary metabolites including polyphenols and other active substances. With the advancement of nanotechnology, it has been established that size-, shape-, and surface-chemistry-optimized nanoparticles can be utilized as synergizing carriers for these phytochemicals. Nano-ayurvedic medicine utilizes herbs that are commonly used in Ayurveda to functionalize different nanoparticles and thereby enhance their potency and target specificity. Studies have shown that the active phytochemicals of such herbs can be coated onto the nanoparticles of different metals, such as gold, and that they work more efficiently than the free herbal extract, for example, in inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. Recently, an Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH)-based clinical trial in humans indicated the anticancer potential of such formulations. Nano-ayurvedic medicine is emerging as a potential treatment option for hyperproliferative diseases.

The great contribution made by mongolian scientists to the Tibetan medicine / Монголын эм зүй, эм судлал

Abstract@#In the late 16^th century, Tibetan medical schools which were based on Indian Ayurvedic medicine were spread in Mongolia when Buddhism was revived the third time in Mongolia. This was a brand new page in the history of the Mongolian health system. Monasteries were set up in every corner and larger monasteries had doctor’s schools to train tens of doctors. At the end of the 17^th century, Mongolian doctors, scholars started translating and explaining the fundamentals of Indian Ayurveda and Tibetan medicine and even established new branches (schools) blending the Tibetan theory and treatment methods with their empirical knowledge.@*Conclusion@#At that time, in the 18^th century, complete bases were established for the start of the golden period of Mongolian medical development which was characterized by theoretical and practical compliance with the “Four Medical Tantras”. Tens of books of this time were written in the Mongolian and Tibetan languages by Mongolian doctors and scholars alike. A new paradigm containing progress, unique opinions can be seen on pages of “The Mongolian Four Medical Tantras” written by Sumbe khamba Ishbaljor, and “Satisfaction for the Readers” or Uzegsdiin Bayasgalan by Jigmeddanzan jamts and “Secrets of Prescription Recipes” or Uvidasyn Dalai by Mindol Jambal. These scholars reflected new concepts that were not specifically clear in the Four Fundamentals such as warm and cold diseases, which were the basis to categorize cold and common diseases and treat them differently, and the theoretical and practical understanding of the categorization of infectious diseases, in their book.

Protective Roles of Shilajit in Modulating Resistin, Adiponectin, and Cytokines in Rats with Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the effect of Shilajit, a medicine of Ayurveda, on the serum changes in cytokines and adipokines caused by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).@*METHODS@#After establishing fatty liver models by feeding a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks, 35 Wistar male rats were randomly divided into 5 groups, including control (standard diet), Veh (HFD + vehicle), high-dose Shilajit [H-Sh, HFD + 250 mg/(kg·d) Shilajit], low-dose Shilajit [L-Sh, HFD + 150 mg/(kg·d) Shilajit], and pioglitazone [HFD + 10 mg/(kg·d) pioglitazone] groups, 7 rats in each group. After 2-week of gavage administration, serum levels of glucose, insulin, interleukin 1beta (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), adiponectin, and resistin were measured, and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) was calculated.@*RESULTS@#After NAFLD induction, the serum level of IL-10 significantly increased and serum IL-1β, TNF-α levels significantly decreased by injection of both doses of Shilajit and pioglitazone (P<0.05). Increases in serum glucose level and homeostasis model of HOMA-IR were reduced by L-Sh and H-Sh treatment in NAFLD rats (P<0.05). Both doses of Shilajit increased adiponectin and decreased serum resistin levels (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The probable protective role of Shilajit in NAFLD model rats may be via modulating the serum levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-10, adipokine and resistin, and reducing of HOMA-IR.

Efficacy Of An Ayurvedic Intervention In The Management Of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (pcos)- A Case Report

In the present era, Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a documented as one of the most common hormonal endocrine disorders affecting 5-10 % of females due to life style and stress. It is characterized by hyper androgonism, polycystic ovaries, and chronic anovulation along with insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, hypertension, irregular menses, abnormal uterine bleeding and difficulty getting pregnancy. Most of the patients taking allopathic medicine but results are not so good. Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is the treatment of choice in case of PCOS in the conventional system. Noninvasive, safe and economically management is required. Ayurvedic approach to pathogenesis of PCOS can provide the solution to rising cases of this illness. Objective: to assess the clinical efficacy of Ayurvedic intervention in the management of Polycystic ovarian syndrome using with clinical symptoms and Ultrasonography (USG). Material and Method: it was a single case study. Kanchnara guggulu 750mg and Kanya lohadi vati 500mg along with Kanchnar kasaya 20 ml twice in a day with water for 90 days were used. Results: clinical symptoms were reduced and USG were significantly changed from baseline to end of the treatment.

Usage Of Heavy Metals In Ayurvedic Formulations And Its Management: A Review

Ayurveda is a comprehensive and systematic medicinal system, originated in India. It takes into consideration all aspects of health, including mental, physical and social components. According to the principles of Ayurvedic medication, heavy metals possess considerable therapeutic properties and can be administered to the patients after being processed properly as mentioned within the Rasashastra, in prescribed quantities. However, improper manufacturing processes might lead to higher levels of heavy metals remaining in the final product which may be dangerous. They may also be present as impurity rather than being added willfully. Heavy metals possess tendency to accumulate in vital organs and hence, pose a particular health risk. The presence of impurities in drug samples, whether herbal or pharmaceutical, is of great concern, not only because some contaminants are inherently toxic, but also they may negatively affect the stability of the drug and the lifespan, or they can cause unwanted side effects. The quality assurance of herbal formulations is the main concern of current phytomedical era due to the increase in toxicity reports. As a consequence, both organic and inorganic (elemental) impurities must be monitored and controlled in final dosage form starting from the raw materials itself. This article deals with the various aspects of heavy metals in Ayurvedic medicines such as their sources, methods used for their determination, their therapeutic significance, their toxic effects and also summarizes various guidelines and limits for their regulation.

Rationality Behind Fast Acting Drugs In Ayurveda

Ayurveda like any other life sciences, has its integrity and potential to understand and determining the cure of rather potential serious and emergency conditions. There are numerous examples of such clinical success stories mentioned in our ancient texts ranging from various surgical and Para-surgical operations done by Acharya Sushruta during emergency, to the treatment of the patients who are nearby death due to intake of certain poisons incidentally or accidentally, or due to any other chronic medical illness such as fever, Rakta-pitta, Kshataj-kasa, Grahni, Ura-Kshtaja etc., due to excessive blood loss or to any Marmabhighata (injury to vital organs). All these require a highly skilled health care system which is beneficial not only for its preventing aspects but a curative one too and need of fast acting substances or procedures. Most of people who have certain experiences or knowledge of Ayurveda commonly say that Ayurvedic medicines or treatments are slower in action. Is it true ? if yes, why they are so? If not, then what is truth?

Awareness, practice and views about integrating AYUSH in allopathic curriculum of allopathic doctors and interns in a tertiary care teaching hospital in New Delhi, India / 中西医结合学报

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To assess the knowledge, attitude, perception and practice of Ayurveda, yoga, Unani, Siddha, homeopathy and naturopathy (AYUSH) among allopathic doctors and interns and determine their opinion regarding integration of AYUSH education within the allopathic curriculum.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>This prospective, cross sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching Hospital, New Delhi, India, from March 2016 to March 2017. A survey of 500 allopathic doctors and 150 interns was performed using a structured questionnaire.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>A majority of doctors (95.2%) were aware of the term AYUSH and had knowledge of yoga (70.6%), homeopathy (55.6%), Ayurveda (50.3%), Siddha (47.8%), naturopathy (32.9%) and Unani (28.9%). Most of the participants (63.0%) felt that therapies under AYUSH are effective. A majority (84.0%) of the doctors were of the view that more research is required in the field of AYUSH. While homeopathy (44.0%) was the most common system used by doctors for themselves, yoga was the therapy most commonly (60.0%) recommended to patients. Nearly half of the doctors (46.7%) recommended AYUSH to their patients, mainly for chronic illness (74.0%). A majority (77.5%) of the respondents agreed that students of allopathic medicine should be familiarized with AYUSH. The modes of incorporation of AYUSH into the medical curriculum most commonly suggested by respondents were optional courses (54.5%) and introductory lectures (42.3%).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Doctors and interns of allopathic medicine are aware of AYUSH systems. They use it for themselves and recommend it to patients. They believe that familiarization of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery students with AYUSH therapies and their integration with allopathic medicine may help in improving patient care.</p>

Medicinal values of aquatic plant genus Nymphoides grown in Asia: A review

Nymphoides is an aquatic genus consisting about 50 species,of which few were accepted as traditional medicinal plants in Asia.The literature review revealed that Nymphoides species are widely used in Ayurvedic medicine as a popular drug,i.e.Tagara.They are also utilized by the traditional local healers of different Asian countries to treat various diseases,like convulsion,jaundice,fever,headache,etc.According to thein vivo and in vitro pharmacological studies,Nymphoides species have been claimed to possess major biological activities like anticonvulsant,antioxidant,hepatoprotective,cytotoxic,antitumor,etc.Biochemical profiling of different aquatic plants of this genus revealed the presence of some important phytoehemicals as polyphenolic component,flavonoids,triterpenes,carbohydrates,glycosides,etc.Several valuable bioactive compounds including ephedrine,coumarin,secoiridoid glucosides,methyl quercetin,ferulic acid,follamenthoic acid,etc.were also known to be isolated and identified from different Nymphoides species.The aim of this review is to analyze the published report based on the medicinal values of different Asian Nymphoides species,to provide the updlated information about the ethnomedicinal,pharmacological as well as the phytochemical properties for the first time.

Medicinal values of aquatic plant genus Nymphoides grown in Asia: A review

Nymphoides is an aquatic genus consisting about 50 species, of which few were accepted as traditional medicinal plants in Asia. The literature review revealed that Nymphoides species are widely used in Ayurvedic medicine as a popular drug, i.e. Tagara. They are also utilized by the traditional local healers of different Asian countries to treat various diseases, like convulsion, jaundice, fever, headache, etc. According to the in vivo and in vitro pharmacological studies, Nymphoides species have been claimed to possess major biological activities like anticonvulsant, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, cytotoxic, antitumor, etc. Biochemical profiling of different aquatic plants of this genus revealed the presence of some important phytochemicals as polyphenolic component, flavonoids, triterpenes, carbohydrates, glycosides, etc. Several valuable bioactive compounds including ephedrine, coumarin, secoiridoid glucosides, methyl quercetin, ferulic acid, foliamenthoic acid, etc. were also known to be isolated and identified from different Nymphoides species. The aim of this review is to analyze the published report based on the medicinal values of different Asian Nymphoides species, to provide the updated information about the ethnomedicinal, pharmacological as well as the phytochemical properties for the first time.

Comparative study on morpho-anatomy of leaf, stem and root of Boerhaavia diffusa L. (Nyctaginaceae) and its adulterant plants

ABSTRACT Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa L.- Nyctaginaceae) is a promising drug to rejuvenate new cells in the body. It is well known in Ayurvedic medicine and locally called Tambadivasu. Superficially it is similar to other species of Boerhaavia and species of Trianthema and Sesuvium. Due to the minute morphological differences, the above plants are erroneously used in medicine as Punarnava, and at times on purpose as an adulterant. Therefore, it is necessary to highlight the anatomical features of Punarnava for proper identification of the medicinal plant species for local people and for scientific research. Due to the ambiguity in local names and similar apparent appearance, market samples of Punarnava are often adulterated with various species of Trianthema and Sesuvium. These adulterated samples contain neither the Punarnavine alkaloid, nor does it possess anisocytic stomata but possess paracytic stomata. Comparative study of stem anatomy showed two main characteristic differences. First, plenty of starch grains can be seen in both the ground parenchymatous tissues present in between successive cambia and xylem parenchyma of Punarnava which is not observed in species of Trianthema, and second, the phloem around the xylem of Punarnava root has semi-circular or eccentric patches, while that of Trianthema only has narrow strips. This study is focused on comparative SEM study of leaf morphologies and anatomy of leaf, stem, and root of Boerhaavia diffusa L., Trianthema portulacastrum L. and Sesuvium portulacastrum L.

Immunopotentiality of Ayurvedic polyherbal formulations “Saribadi” and “Anantamul Salsa” with augmentation of IgM production and lymphocytes proliferation:A preliminary study

Objective: To assess the immunopotentiality of Ayurvedic polyherbal preparations,“Saribadi”and“Anantamul Salsa”. Methods: Freshly prepared BALB/c mice splenocytes were cultured with“Saribadi”or“Anantamul Salsa” treatment [doses of 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00%, 1.50%, 2.00%, 3.00%and 4.00%(v/v)] at 37 ? C for 5 days. The immunoglobulin M (IgM) production and lymphocytes proliferation were determined by ELISA and MTT methods, respectively. Endotoxin contamination was assessed by treating the preparations with polymyxin B. Results: The doses of“Saribadi”[0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%and 1.00%(v/v)] significantly increased IgM productions (0.966, 0.728, 0.695 and 0.615 mg/mL vs. control 0.265 mg/mL) and lymphocytes proliferation [absorbance 0.311, 0.394, 0.372 and 0.334 optical density (OD) vs. control 0.162 OD]. Similarly, the doses of“Anantamul Salsa”[0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00%and 1.50%(v/v)] promoted IgM productions (0.933, 0.919, 0.917 and 0.892 mg/mL vs. control 0.502 mg/mL) and the doses of “Anantamul Salsa” [0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00%, 1.50%, 2.00%, and 3.00%(v/v)] stimulated lymphocytes proliferation (absorbance 0.395, 0.326, 0.440, 0.398, 0.452 and 0.355 OD vs. control 0.199 OD). The activity of“Saribadi”and“Anantamul Salsa”was not retarded by the treatment of preparations with polymyxin B. Conclusions: Immunomodulatory activity of “Saribadi” and “Anantamul Salsa” was unveiled for the first time.“Saribadi”and“Anantamul Salsa”possess immunostimulating potential acting through the induction of lymphocyte proliferation and IgM production. These preparations may be useful in strengthening immune responses. However, further cellular and in vivo studies are required.

Immunopotentiality of Ayurvedic polyherbal formulations “Saribadi” and “Anantamul Salsa” with augmentation of IgM production and lymphocytes proliferation: A preliminary study

Objective To assess the immunopotentiality of Ayurvedic polyherbal preparations, “Saribadi” and “Anantamul Salsa”. Methods Freshly prepared BALB/c mice splenocytes were cultured with “Saribadi” or “Anantamul Salsa” treatment [doses of 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00%, 1.50%, 2.00%, 3.00% and 4.00% (v/v)] at 37 °C for 5 days. The immunoglobulin M (IgM) production and lymphocytes proliferation were determined by ELISA and MTT methods, respectively. Endotoxin contamination was assessed by treating the preparations with polymyxin B. Results The doses of “Saribadi” [0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75% and 1.00% (v/v)] significantly increased IgM productions (0.966, 0.728, 0.695 and 0.615 μg/mL vs. control 0.265 μg/mL) and lymphocytes proliferation [absorbance 0.311, 0.394, 0.372 and 0.334 optical density (OD) vs. control 0.162 OD]. Similarly, the doses of “Anantamul Salsa” [0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00% and 1.50% (v/v)] promoted IgM productions (0.933, 0.919, 0.917 and 0.892 μg/mL vs. control 0.502 μg/mL) and the doses of “Anantamul Salsa” [0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00%, 1.50%, 2.00%, and 3.00% (v/v)] stimulated lymphocytes proliferation (absorbance 0.395, 0.326, 0.440, 0.398, 0.452 and 0.355 OD vs. control 0.199 OD). The activity of “Saribadi” and “Anantamul Salsa” was not retarded by the treatment of preparations with polymyxin B. Conclusions Immunomodulatory activity of “Saribadi” and “Anantamul Salsa” was unveiled for the first time. “Saribadi” and “Anantamul Salsa” possess immunostimulating potential acting through the induction of lymphocyte proliferation and IgM production. These preparations may be useful in strengthening immune responses. However, further cellular and in vivo studies are required.

CURCUMIN - HEALTH PROMISE FOR THE FUTURE

Curcumin is a phytochemical which is extracted from Turmeric root. It is used as Ayurvedic Medicine. Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is a yellow pigment present in the turmeric (Curcuma longa) which gives the yellow color to turmeric that has been associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, and antibacterial activities. Curcumin, these effects are mediated through the regulation of various transcription factors, growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, protein kinases, and other enzymes. Most westerners know turmeric as gold colored Indian spice. Turmeric and curcumin are not the same thing. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory property of curcumin is much more potent in an extracted form. In the recent research findings of curcumin that it can also eliminate 3% of cancer stem cells present inside the malignant tumor and remaining 97% of cancer cells undergo gradual cell shrinkage which ultimately leads to cell death. Pharmacologically, curcumin has been found to be safe. Human clinical trials indicated no dose-limiting toxicity when administered at doses up to 10 g/day. All of these studies suggest that curcumin has enormous potential in the prevention and therapy of various diseases.

Role of ‘Gokshuradi Yog’ in Early Symptomatic Relief in Urinary Tract Infection in Children.

Background: Gokshuradi Yog used from for strengthening and functioning of genitourinary tract. The study aims to study the role of this Ayurvedic medicine along with antibiotic in early response to treatment of urinary tract infection in children. Methods: This study was conducted on 52 children (32 girls and 20 boys). They had symptomatic and culture proven urinary tract infection. They were randomly allotted the treatment group and control group. Patents in control were given the antibiotics for seven days and were evaluated every alternate day for symptomatic relief. Similarly the patients in treatment group were started the antibiotics along with preparation of ‘Gokshuradi Yog’ for seven days and were evaluated every alternate days. Repeat culture was performed on seventh day of treatment and the final result was evaluated. Results: The most common organism grown on culture was Escherichia coli in 39 patients (22 girls and 17 boys). Of the 28 children in treatment group 26 were asymptomatic in 2 days however they continued to be on therapy for seven days. Two patients were symptomatic even after four days, one of whom was culture positive even after 7 days of treatment and was put on intravenous antibiotics. Six out of 24 patients in control group were asymptomatic in two days; the 18 remaining patients were symptomatic even till day seven of treatment out of which two patients were culture positive. Conclusion: Patients when treated with ‘Gokshuradi Yog’ along with the antibiotics brings early symptomatic relief in children suffering from culture proven UTI.

Review on the research progress of Ayurvedic medicine / 国际中医中药杂志

This paper reviewed the research progress of Ayurvedic medicine in domestic and abroad.The main contents included:the research progress of ayurvedic ancient records and basic theories,morden pharmacological studies,experimental and clinical studies,etc.

Pharmacovigilance: Boon for the safety and efficacy of Ayuvedic formulations.

Pharmacovigilance is a corrective process originating in pharmaco-epidemiology. The 1997 Erice Declaration, presented at the World Health Organisation, became the basis on which the concept was implemented internationally for conventional systems of medicine. The increasing international acceptance of Ayurveda, led regulators to implement a similar program for Ayurveda, particularly as some medical professionals, scientists and members of the public reported adverse reactions after taking Ayurvedic formulations. The World Health Organisation therefore persuaded the Department of AYUSH, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, to implement a pharmacovigilance program for Ayurveda, as a means to ensuring the safety and efficacy of Ayurvedic medicines. After a year of due diligence, the pharmacovigilance program was launched nationally on 29 September 2008. Since that time, Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani medicines have been monitored according to the provisions of a protocol prepared by the National Pharmacovigilance Resource Centre, IPGTRA, Jamnagar, and approved by Department of AYUSH. The program was reviewed, first, on 21st January 2009 by the National Pharmaco-vigilance Consultative Committee for ASU drugs (NPCC-ASU), and again, on 15 Feburary, 2010, when an evaluation meeting effectively rubber stamped the program. Among the outcomes of these meetings were several suggestions of measures to improve the program's efficiency. Recent developments include the constitution of pharmacovigilance centers at all Ayurveda Teaching institutes and research centers.

Antiplatelet activity of white and pink Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn flowers / Atividade antiplaquetária de flores Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn branco e rosa

Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn (Nelumbonaceae) a plant used in Ayurvedic medicine (common name: lotus), is a perennial, large and rhizomatous aquatic herb most prevalent in South India. Preliminary phytochemical screening of both white and pink Nelumbo nucifera flowers revealed the presence of phytochemical constituents (flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols etc,). Hence, an attempt has been made to screen the effect of Nelumbo nucifera flowers (both types) on platelet aggregation. The antiplatelet activity of hydroethanolic extract of both types of flowers was studied using platelet-rich plasma in different concentrations (100-500µg/ml). Both white and pink Nelumbo nucifera flower extracts showed dose-dependent effective antiplatelet activity with maximum activity at 500µg/ml concentration; prevention of platelet aggregation was 50 percent of that achieved with standard aspirin. Furthermore, the antiplatelet activity of white flowers was relatively high (p<0.05; ANOVA) compared to pink flowers. In conclusion, these observations suggest that both varieties of Nelumbo nucifera flower extracts exert different levels of inhibitory action on platelets in vitro (secretion and platelet aggregation suppression) due to differences in phytochemical content (alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, phytosteroids, glycosides and saponins).

Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn (Nelumbonaceae, planta utilizada na medicina Ayurvédica, é erva aquática rizomatosa grande, predominante no sul da Índia. A triagem fitoquímica preliminar das flores brancas e cor-de-rosa de Nelumbo nucifera revelou a presença de constituintes fitoquímicos (flavonoides, alcaloides, fenóis etc). Assim, tentou-se a triagem do efeito das flores de Nelumbo nucifera de ambos os tipos na agregação plaquetária. A atividade antiplaquetária dos extratos hidroetanólico de ambos os tipos de flores foi estudada, utilizando-se plasma rico em plaquetas em duas diferentes concentrações (100 - 500 µg/mL). Tanto os extratos das flores brancas quanto daquelas de cor-de-rosa mostraram atividade antiplaquetária dose-dependente, com o máximo na concentração de 500 µg/mL. A prevenção da agregação plaquetária foi 50 por cento daquela alcançada com o padrão de ácido acetilsalicílico. Além disso, a atividade antiplaquetária das flores brancas foi, relativamente, alta (p<0,05; ANOVA), comparativamente às flores cor-de-rosa. Estas observações sugerem que ambas as variedades de extratos de flores de Nelumbo nucifera exercem diferentes níveis de ação inibitória nas plaquetas in vitro (supressão da secreção e da agregação plaquetária) devido a diferentes constituintes fitoquímicos (alcaloides, flavonoides, fenóis, taninos, fitoesteróides, glicosídeos e saponinas).