Estudio comparativo del dolor abdominal en las culturas maya Tzeltal, maya Tzotzil y maya Q ́eqchi ́y el uso de Ageratina ligustrina para su tratamiento / Comparative study of abdominal pain in the Mayan cultures Tzeltal, Maya Tzotzil and Maya Q ́eqchi´ and use of Ageratina ligustrina for the treatment

El presente estudio es una comparación del dolor abdominal producido por trastornos gastrointestinales, aliviado por Ageratina ligustrina , entre los grupos maya Tzeltal, Tzotzil y Q ́eqchi ́, el cual integró un enfoque etnomédico, etnobotánico y transcultural, comparando estudios previos con el presente trabajo de campo. Para evaluar la eficacia de Ageratina para aliviar el dolor abdominal, se realizó un inventario de las moléculas reportadas en esta especie, así como de su actividad farmacológica, a través de una revisión bibliográfica. Los resultados mostraron que la epidemiología del dolor producido por TGI, su etnobotánica y el modelo explicativo del dolor abdominal fueron similares entre grupos étnicos. Asimismo, se identificaron 27 moléculas con efectos antiinflamatorios y antinociceptivos, lo que podría explicar por qué esta especie es culturalmente importante para los pobladores maya Tzeltal, Tzotzil y Q ́eqch i ́ para el alivio del dolor abdominal, mientras que, desde el punto de vista biomédico, es una especie con potencial para inhibir el dolor visceral.

The current study is a comparison of the abdominal pain conception produced by gastrointestinal disorders, relieved by Ageratina ligustrina , among inhabitants of the Mayan Tzeltal, Tzotzil, and Q'eqchi' groups ethnomedical, ethnobotanical, and cross -cultural approaches were used to compare previous studies with the present field work. To evaluate the efficacy of A. ligustrina to relieve pain, also through a bibliographic review an inventory of the molecules present in this species was performed, as well as their pharmacological activity. The results showed that the epidemiology of pain produced by GID, its ethnobotany, and the explanatory model of abdominal pain are similar among ethnic groups. Likewise, 27 molecules with anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects were identified, which could explain why this species is culturally important for the Mayan Tzeltal, Tzotzil, and Q'eqchi' groups for the relief of abdominal pain, while, from a biomedical point of view, it is a species with potential to inhibit visceral pain.

Ethnomedicinal uses of plants for various diseases in the remote areas of Changa Manga Forest, Pakistan / Usos etnomedicinais de plantas para várias doenças nas áreas remotas da Floresta Changa Manga, Paquistão

This study aims at reporting the indigenous knowledge of the medicinal flora from the inhabitants of surroundings of the World's largest artificial planted forest "Changa Manga", Pakistan. Data were collected by direct interviews and group meetings from 81 inhabitants including 32 local healers having information regarding the use of indigenous medicinal plants over a period of one year. Different statistical tools were applied to analyze the data including Frequency citation (FC), Relative frequency citation (RFC), Use Value, Factor of informants consensus and fidelity level. This study reported 73 plant species belonging to 37 plant families and 46 genera. The majority of plant species belong to compositae family. The most commonly used medicinal plants were P. hysterophorus L., P. dactylifera L., S. indicum L, P. harmala L., P. emblica L., and A. indica A.Juss. The greatest number of species was used to cure gastrointestinal disorders. The highest fidelity level (68.18%) was of E. helioscopia to cure gastrointestinal disorders. Maximum fresh uses (17) were reported by C. dactylon (L.) Pars. While the highest number of species reporting fresh uses in similar number was 13. In this study, five novel plants are being reported for the first time in Pakistan for their ethnomedicinal worth. Our data reflect unique usage of the medicinal plants in the study area. The statistical tools used in the study proved useful in pointing the most important and disease category specific plants. High use value plant and the new reported medicinal plants might prove an important source of the isolation of pharmacologically active compounds.

Este estudo tem como objetivo relatar o conhecimento indígena sobre a flora medicinal dos habitantes do entorno da maior floresta artificial plantada do mundo, a Changa Manga, no Paquistão. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas diretas e reuniões em grupo de 81 habitantes, incluindo 32 curandeiros locais, com informações sobre o uso de plantas medicinais indígenas durante o período de um ano. Diferentes ferramentas estatísticas foram aplicadas para analisar os dados, incluindo citação de frequência (FC), citação de frequência relativa (RFC), valor de uso, fator de consenso dos informantes e nível de fidelidade. Este estudo relatou 73 espécies de plantas pertencentes a 37 famílias de plantas e 46 gêneros. A maioria das espécies de plantas pertence à família Compositae. As plantas medicinais mais utilizadas foram P. hysterophorus L., P. dactylifera L., S. indicum L., P. harmala L., P. emblica L. e A. indica A. Juss. O maior número de espécies foi usado para curar distúrbios gastrointestinais. O maior nível de fidelidade (68,18%) foi de E. helioscopia para cura de distúrbios gastrointestinais. Os usos máximos em fresco (17) foram relatados por C. dactylon (L.) Pars. enquanto o maior número de espécies relatando usos frescos em número semelhante foi de 13. Neste estudo, cinco novas plantas estão sendo relatadas pela primeira vez no Paquistão por seu valor etnomedicinal. Nossos dados refletem o uso exclusivo das plantas medicinais na área de estudo. As ferramentas estatísticas utilizadas no estudo mostraram-se úteis para apontar as plantas mais importantes e específicas da categoria de doença. Plantas de alto valor de uso e as novas plantas medicinais relatadas podem ser uma importante fonte de isolamento de compostos farmacologicamente ativos.

Plantas medicinais da caatinga: uma revisão integrativa dos saberes etnobotânicos no semiárido nordestino / Medicinal plants from the caatinga: an integrative review of ethnobotanical knowledge in the northeastern semi- arid region / Plantas medicinales de la caatinga: una revisión integradora del conocimiento etnobotánico en la región semiárida nororiental

A vegetação da Caatinga é rica em uma diversidade de espécies vegetais utilizadas para satisfazer as necessidades humana. Muitas dessas espécies são utilizadas para fins terapêuticos por populações. As formas de uso dessas espécies podem ser registradas e resgatadas através de estudos etnobotânicos, os quais contribuem no levantamento das potencialidades dos recursos vegetais, bem como em planos de recuperação e conservação da vegetação. Assim, com base em uma revisão integrativa, o presente trabalho buscou copilar informações sobre como os trabalhos de etnobotânica das plantas medicinais estão sendo desenvolvidos, assim como a respeito das principais espécies e famílias botânicas de potencial medicinal descritas, em levantamentos realizados em áreas caatinga localizadas na região semiárida do Nordeste. Para isso, foram selecionados artigos publicados entre os anos de 2010 e 2022, que abordassem a temática relacionada. Foram considerados trabalhos publicados no formato de artigos originais, disponíveis de forma online, gratuito e completo, em língua portuguesa e inglesa. Esses artigos foram consultados em diferentes bases de dados. A análise integrativa evidenciou as características das publicações, como a concentração de estudos direcionados aos estados da Bahia, Paraíba e Pernambuco, bem como demonstrou uma rica diversidade de plantas medicinais que são utilizadas pela população no semiárido nordestino, destacando-se, principalmente, os saberes tradicionais sobre as suas formas de uso e propriedades terapêuticas.

The Caatinga vegetation is rich in a diversity of plant species used to satisfy human needs. Many of these species are used for therapeutic purposes by populations. The forms of use of these species can be registered and rescued through ethnobotanical studies, which contribute to the survey of the potential of plant resources, as well as plans for the recovery and conservation of vegetation. Thus, based on an integrative review, the present work sought to compile information on how ethnobotany works on medicinal plants are being developed, as well as on the main species and botanical families with medicinal potential described, in surveys carried out in caatinga areas located in the semi-arid region of the Northeast. For this, articles published between the years 2010 and 2022 that addressed the related theme were selected. Works published in the format of original articles, available online, free and complete, in Portuguese and English, were considered. These articles were consulted in different databases. The integrative analysis showed the characteristics of the publications, such as the concentration of studies directed to the states of Bahia, Paraíba and Pernambuco, as well as demonstrating a rich diversity of medicinal plants that are used by the population in the northeastern semi-arid region, highlighting, mainly, the knowledge traditional practices about their forms of use and therapeutic properties.

La vegetación de la Caatinga es rica en una diversidad de especies vegetales utilizadas para satisfacer las necesidades humanas. Muchas de estas especies son utilizadas con fines terapéuticos por las poblaciones. Las formas de uso de estas especies pueden ser registradas y rescatadas a través de estudios etnobotánicos, que contribuyen al levantamiento del potencial de los recursos vegetales, así como a los planes de recuperación y conservación de la vegetación. Así, a partir de una revisión integradora, el presente trabajo buscó recopilar información sobre cómo se están desarrollando los trabajos etnobotánicos sobre plantas medicinales, así como sobre las principales especies y familias botánicas con potencial medicinal descritas, en relevamientos realizados en áreas de caatinga ubicadas en la región semiárida del Nordeste. Para ello, se seleccionaron artículos publicados entre los años 2010 y 2022 que abordaran la temática relacionada. Se consideraron trabajos publicados en formato de artículos originales, disponibles en línea, gratuitos y completos, en portugués e inglés. Estos artículos fueron consultados en diferentes bases de datos. El análisis integrador mostró las características de las publicaciones, como la concentración de estudios dirigidos a los estados de Bahía, Paraíba y Pernambuco, además de demostrar una rica diversidad de plantas medicinales que son utilizadas por la población de la región semiárida del nordeste, destacándose, principalmente, los conocimientos tradicionales sobre sus formas de uso y propiedades terapéuticas.

Análise etnofarmacológica de plantas medicinais em uma comunidade quilombola: ênfase em doenças crônicas* / Ethnopharmacological analysis of medicinal plants in a quilombola community: emphasis on chronic diseases* / Análisis etnofarmacológico de las plantas medicinales en una comunidad quilombola: énfasis en las enfermedades crónicas*

RESUMO: Objetivo: entender o conhecimento etnofarmacológico sobre plantas medicinais utilizadas para o tratamento de doenças crônicas em uma comunidade quilombola da Amazônia Brasileira. Método: estudo transversal, descritivo, com um questionário semiestruturado, realizado em uma comunidade quilombola no município de Macapá, Amapá (Brasil), no período de março a junho de 2022. A análise foi realizada por meio da estatística descritiva. Resultados: na comunidade quilombola as mulheres são as maiores detentoras de conhecimento sobre plantas medicinais, e que geralmente esses conhecimentos são adquiridos por pais/avós. Dentre as diversas plantas citadas, o boldo foi o que mais foi referido (13,78%) indicado para o tratamento de doenças hepáticas, seguido do mastruz (6,89%) indicado para questões inflamatórias. Conclusão: os resultados do estudo possibilitaram entender o conhecimento etnofarmacológico da fitoterapia no tratamento de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis, e como ela pode atuar de forma alternativa e positiva nas manifestações clínicas ou complicações ocasionadas por essas doenças.

ABSTRACT Objective: To understand the ethnopharmacological knowledge of medicinal plants used to treat chronic diseases in a quilombola community in the Brazilian Amazon. Method: A crosssectional, descriptive study using a semi-structured questionnaire in a quilombola community in Macapá, Amapá (Brazil), from March to June 2022. The analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics. Results: In the quilombola community, women are the main holders of knowledge about medicinal plants, usually acquired from their parents/grandparents. Among the various plants mentioned, boldo was the most frequently mentioned (13.78%) for treating liver diseases, followed by mastruz (6.89%) for inflammatory issues. Conclusion: The study's results made it possible to understand the ethnopharmacological knowledge of phytotherapy in treating chronic non-communicable diseases and how it can act in an alternative and positive way in the clinical manifestations or complications caused by these diseases.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Comprender el conocimiento etnofarmacológico de las plantas medicinales utilizadas para tratar enfermedades crónicas en una comunidad quilombola de la Amazonia brasileña. Método: estudio transversal, descriptivo, con cuestionario semiestructurado, realizado en una comunidad quilombola del municipio de Macapá, Amapá (Brasil), entre marzo y junio de 2022. El análisis se realizó mediante estadísticas descriptivas. Resultados: En la comunidad quilombola, las mujeres son las principales poseedoras de conocimientos sobre plantas medicinales, y estos conocimientos suelen adquirirlos de sus padres/abuelos. De las diversas plantas mencionadas, el boldo fue la más mencionada (13,78%) para tratar enfermedades hepáticas, seguida del mastruz (6,89%) para cuestiones inflamatorias. Conclusión: Los resultados del estudio permitieron comprender los conocimientos etnofarmacológicos de la fitoterapia en el tratamiento de las enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles, y cómo puede actuar de forma alternativa y positiva en las manifestaciones clínicas o complicaciones causadas por estas enfermedades.

Discovery of drugs to combat covid-19 inspired by traditional Chinese medicine / Descubrimiento de medicamentos para combatir la covid-19 inspirados en la medicina tradicional china

Abstract Contributions from traditional knowledge and history have proven useful in recent years to advance drug discovery. In response to the emergence of covid-19, scientists revisited traditional Chinese medicine. This source of inspiration for drugs to treat this new disease is described here at three different levels: traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, traditional Chinese medical formulas, and traditional Chinese medical texts. Drug discovery inspired by traditional Chinese medicine still faces serious resistance for various reasons, including its system of formulas and clinical trial design. A perspective that includes related issues would benefit the reasonable application of traditional knowledge in drug research and development.

Resumen Las contribuciones del conocimiento tradicional y la historia han demostrado ser útiles en los últimos años para avanzar en el descubrimiento de los medicamentos. En respuesta a la aparición de covid-19, los científicos revisaron la medicina tradicional china. Esta fuente de inspiración de los medicamentos para tratar esta nueva enfermedad se describe aquí en tres niveles diferentes: hierbas medicinales chinas tradicionales, fórmulas médicas chinas tradicionales y textos médicos chinos tradicionales. El descubrimiento de fármacos inspirado en la medicina tradicional china aún enfrenta serias resistencias por varias razones, incluido su sistema de fórmulas y el diseño de ensayos clínicos. Una perspectiva que incluya cuestiones conexas beneficiaría la aplicación razonable de los conocimientos tradicionales en la investigación y el desarrollo de fármacos.

Effect of ethanolic extracts from Piperaceae leaves on the reduction of skin necrosis and wound healing in an animal model of degloving injuries

Purpose: To assess the effect of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of three species of plants from the Piperaceae family on reducing necrosis and enhancing wound healing in an animal model of degloving injuries. Methods: The animals were divided into six groups, each consisting of six animals: sham, negative control, EEPA (Piper amalago ethanolic extract), EEPG (Piper glabratum ethanolic extract), EEPV (Piper vicosanum ethanolic extract), and positive control receiving hyperbaric oxygenation. The animals underwent surgery to induce excision wounds, and the extent of cutaneous necrosis was evaluated using graphic software, while wound healing was assessed through histopathology. Results: Skin necrosis percentage area was: sham group = 62.84% 6.38; negative control group = 63.03% 4.11; P. vicosanum = 40.80% 4.76 p < 0.05; P. glabratum 32.97% 4.01 p < 0.01; P. amalago = 32.40% 4.61 p < 0.01; hyperbaric oxygenation = 33.21% 4.29 p < 0.01. All treated groups showed higher collagen deposition and less intense, plus predominantly mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate, suggesting improved healing process. Conclusions: The three tested extracts demonstrated efficacy in reducing the extent of cutaneous necrosis caused by degloving injuries and also showed evidence of improvement in the wound healing process.

Protective mechanisms of Leontopodium leontopodioides extracts on lipopolysaccharide-induced acute kidney injury viathe NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway / 中国天然药物

Sepsis-induced uncontrolled systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is a critical cause of multiple organ failure. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most serious complications associated with an extremely high mortality rate in SIRS, and it lacked simple, safe, and effective treatment strategies. Leontopodium leontopodioides (Willd.) Beauv (LLB) is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of acute and chronic nephritis. However, it remains unclear whether lipopolysaccharide (LPS) affects LPS-induced AKI. To identify the molecular mechanisms of LLB in LPS-induced HK-2 cells and mice, LLB was prepared by extraction with 70% methanol, while a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced HK-2 cell model and an AKI model were established in this study. Renal histopathology staining was performed to observe the morphology changes. The cell supernatant and kidney tissues were collected for determining the levels of inflammatory factors and protein expression by ELISA, immunofluorescence, and Western blot. The results indicated that LLB significantly reduced the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α in LPS-induced HK-2 cells, as well as the secretion of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β in the supernatant. The same results were observed in LPS-induced AKI serum. Further studies revealed that LLB remarkably improved oxidative stress and apoptosis based on the content of MDA, SOD, and CAT in serum and TUNEL staining results. Notably, LLB significantly reduced the mortality due to LPS infection. Renal histopathology staining results supported these results. Furthermore, immunofluorescence and Western blot results confirmed that LLB significantly reduced the expression of the protein related to the NF-κB signaling pathway and NLRP3, ASC, and Caspase-1 which were significantly increased through LPS stimulation. These findings clearly demonstrated the potential use of LLB in the treatment of AKI and the crucial role of the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway in the process through which LLB attenuates AKI induced by LPS.

Avaliação da composição química de um óleo de copaíba (Copaifera spp) e seu efeito em células-tronco mesenquimais / Evaluation of the chemical composition of a copaiba oil (Copaifera spp) and its effect on mesenchymal stem cells

A oleorresina obtida de copaíferas é amplamente utilizada na medicina tradicional brasileira. Este estudo avaliou a composição química por Cromatografia Gasosa (CG) e o efeito da oleorresina de Copaifera officinalis em células-tronco. Para isso as células foram tratadas com a oleorresina nas concentrações de 0,5, 20, 110, 140, 170 ou 200 µg/ml por 24h. A avaliação por CG identificou os sesquiterpenos ß-cariofileno, trans-α-bergamoteno e óxido de cariofileno II como os compostos majoritários da oleorresina. As menores concentrações de oleorresina utilizadas apresentaram resultados semelhantes ao grupo controle e as maiores concentrações diminuíram significativamente a viabilidade celular e apresentaram maior citotoxicidade. Como conclusão, os principais componentes encontrados na oleorresina de copaíba foram os sesquiterpenos e as baixas concentrações testadas não foram citotóxicas. O aumento das concentrações de oleorresina de copaíba promoveu diminuição da viabilidade celular e aumento dos efeitos citotóxicos nas células-tronco. Embora a oleorresina de copaíba tenha uso etnofarmacológico na cicatrização, este estudo demonstrou efeito citotóxico em células-tronco, as quais estão relacionadas ao processo de regeneração corpóreo. Portanto, deve-se ter cuidado com a dosagem de oleorresina a ser utilizada, uma vez que este estudo in vitro mostrou citotoxicidade e um impacto negativo na viabilidade das células-tronco nas mais altas concentrações testadas. [au]

Oleoresinobtained from Copaifera trees is extensively used in Brazilian traditional medicine. This study hasevaluated the chemical composition and effect of Copaifera officinalisoleoresin on stem cells. The oleoresin was analyzed by Gas Chromatography (GC) and the cells were treated with the oleoresin at concentrations of 0.5, 20, 110, 140, 170 or 200 µg/ml for 24h for cellular tests. GC identified the sesquiterpenes beta-caryophyllene, trans-alpha-bergamotene, and caryophyllene oxide II as the main compounds in oleoresin. The cell viability and cytotoxicity assays showed the lowest concentrations of oleoresin used presented similar results to the control group and the higher concentrations tested significantly decreased cell viability and increased cytotoxicity. In a conclusion, the main components found in copaiba oleoresin were sesquiterpenes and the low tested concentrations were not cytotoxic. The increased concentrations of copaiba oleoresin promoted a decrease in cell viability and an increase of cytotoxicity in the stem cells. Although copaiba oleoresin has ethnopharmacology use in healing, this study showed toxicity in stem cells, which are related to the corporeal regeneration process. Therefore, caution must be taken with the dosage of the oleoresin to be used since this in vitro study showed cytotoxicity and a negative impact on stem cell viability at the higher tested concentrations. [au]

Ethnopharmacology Research: A Scientometric Assessment of Indian Publications During 2011 to 2020

The current research has been conducted to study the ethnopharmacology research output in the past 10 years (2011–2020) after using Web of Science (WoS) database. The present study has used WoS database to collect the ethnopharmacology research output for the specific period. The retrieved data were analyzed using specific parameters. This study investigates the impact of the most productive institutes, countries, authors, subjects, sources, and keywords. For visualizing purposes, VOSviewer has been used. We retrieved 7,159 papers from WoS, consisting of 84.24% journal articles and 14.23% review articles. The data analysis indicates that consistent growth with increasing multiauthorship is a general trend of research. The Council of Scientific Industrial Research (CSIR) India collaborates with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Central Institute of Medicinal Aromatic Plants (CIMAP) in terms of domestic collaboration.

Levantamento e frequência de uso de plantas medicinais por pacientes hipertensos e diabéticos / Survey and frequency of use of medicinal plants by hypertensive and diabetic patients

Além da terapia medicamentosa, muitos pacientes utilizam plantas medicinais para o tratamento da hipertensão e do diabetes, muitas vezes sem o conhecimento sobre a eficácia e a segurança delas. Esta pesquisa investigou a prevalência dessa prática por diabéticos e hipertensos e analisou sua associação com variáveis sociodemográficas. Foi realizado um estudo epidemiológico, descritivo e transversal com 300 pacientes atendidos pela Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS) Ouro Branco, em Umuarama-PR, que responderam a um questionário sociodemográfico e sobre o uso de plantas medicinais. A maioria dos participantes eram mulheres, com baixa escolarização e renda mensal. Em relação ao uso dessas plantas, foram citadas 27 espécies, mas apenas 7,7% dos respondentes as utilizavam de maneira preconizada. Concluiu-se que pacientes hipertensos e diabéticos recorrem a plantas medicinais sem o conhecimento da forma correta de preparo e da potencialidade dessas espécies em causar efeitos adversos.

In addition to drug treatment, many patients use medicinal plants to treat hypertension and diabetes, often without knowledge of efficacy and safety. Thus, this research investigated the prevalence of the use of medicinal plants by diabetic and hypertensive patients and analyzed its association with sociodemographic variables. An epidemiological, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out with 300 hypertensive and diabetic patients attended by the Ouro Branco health unit, in Umuarama-PR, who answered a sociodemographic questionnaire and on the use of medicinal plants. Most patients were women, with low education and family income. Regarding the use of medicinal plants, 27 species were mentioned, but only 7.7% patients used them in a recommended manner. Hypertensive and diabetic patients make use of medicinal plants without knowledge of the correct preparation and the potential of these species to cause adverse effects.

When formulation procedures strongly matter: a case study of ayahuasca use in Centro Luz Divina, Piedade, São Paulo, Brazil

Objectives: The objectives of this study were (a) to describe the history of the formation of the Centro Luz Divina (CLD), Piedade, São Paulo, (b) to describe the plants and recipes involved in making ayahuasca, and (c) to provide information for future chemical and pharmacological studies of ayahuasca. Methods: During the 578 hours of fieldwork between 2017 and 2019, 10 interviewees were interviewed (two priests and eight CLD leaders). The methods and techniques from cultural anthropology were used to conduct a snowball sampling to select respondents and record data through unstructured interviews, participant observation and field diaries. Data on the history of the CLD's formation, plants and beverage recipes were recorded. The plants were dry collected and deposited at the UNIFESP Herbarium. Results: The history of the formation of the CLD, which was founded in 2002, was detailed. This center produces several recipes of the ayahuasca beverage during rituals named feitios in Portuguese by using the plants Psychotria viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi. The process of making two of these recipes was detailed in the present study, and they are the "First Degree beverage" and "Second Degree beverage", which vary in preparation time, concentration, diversity and amount of the plant used and may lead to different "potencies of the beverage", according to the interviewees' reports. From a pharmacological point of view, higher degree beverages are probably richer beverages from the chemical and pharmacological perspectives. Conclusion: Ayahuasca recipes produced at the CLD may have different "potencies". However, future chemical and pharmacological investigations should consider these and other types of ayahuasca found in other Daimist centers in their protocols since many studies suggest the use of the substances in this beverage for treating Parkinson's, anxiety, depression, and other ailments, as described in the scientific literature.

Ethnopharmacological treatment of Cough in Piran, Malakand, Pakistan / Tratamiento etnofarmacológico de la tos en Piran, Malakand, Pakistán

The current study was designed to investigate the traditional recipes used to treat cough in Tehsil Piran, Malakand, Pakistan. These recipes were explored and quantitively analyzed for the first time. A total of 30 species of the plants, 6 animal products and one salt were reported to be used by the community to treat cough. Punica granatum L. and Olea ferruginea Royle dominated with Use value (UV) of 0.84 and Origanum vulgare L. with least use value of 0.1. The frequency citation (FC) of the Papaver somniferum L. is higher (98) while the lowest one is Verbascum thapsus L. (0.13). The large number of traditional recipes used for cough in this area shows that primary health care is still amalgamated in this culture. In future studies, these recipes may be further exploited as a base for modern medicine.

Este estudio fue diseñado con el propósito de investigar las recetas tradicionales utilizadas para tratar la tos en Tehsil Piran, Malakand, Pakistán. Estas recetas fueron exploradas y analizadas cuantitativamente por primera vez. Se constata que la comunidad utilizó un total de 30 especies de plantas, 6 productos animales y una sal para tratar la tos. Punica granatum L. y Olea ferruginea Royle se destacaron con un valor de uso (UV) de 0.84 y Origanum vulgare L. con un valor de uso mínimo de 0.1. La cita de frecuencia (FC) del Papaver somniferum L. es más alta (98) mientras que la más baja es Verbascum thapsus L. (0.13). La gran cantidad de recetas tradicionales utilizadas para la tos en esta área muestra que la atención primaria de salud todavía está amalgamada en esta cultura. En futuros estudios, estas recetas pueden explotarse aún más como base para la medicina moderna.

A preliminary pharmacophylogenetic study of Solanaceae medicinal plants containing tropane alkaloids / 中国中药杂志

The Solanaceae plants distributed in China belong to 105 species and 35 varietas of 24 genera. Some medicinal plants of Solanaceae are rich in tropane alkaloids(TAs), which have significant pharmacological activities. In this paper, the geographical distribution, chemical components, traditional therapeutic effect, pharmacological activities, and biosynthetic pathways of TAs in Solanaceous plants were summarized. Besides, the phylogeny of medicinal plants belonging to Solanaceae was visualized by network diagram. Fourteen genera of Solanaceae plants in China contain TAs and have medical records. TAs mainly exist in Datura, Anisodus, Atropa, Physochlaina, and Hyoscyamus. The TAs-containing species were mainly concentrated in Southwest China, and the content of TAs was closely related to plant distribution area and altitude. The Solanaceae plants containing TAs mainly have antispasmodic, analgesic, antiasthmatic, and antitussive effects. Modern pharmacological studies have proved the central sedative, pupil dilating, glandular secretion-inhibiting, and anti-asthma activities of TAs. These pharmacological activities provide a reasonable explanation for the traditional therapeutic efficacy of tropane drugs. In this paper, the geographical distribution, chemical components, traditional therapeutic effect, and modern pharmacological activities of TAs-containing species in Solanaceae were analyzed for the first time. Based on these data, the genetic relationship of TAs-containing Solanaceae species was preliminarily discussed, which provided a scientific basis for the basic research on TAs-containing solanaceous species and was of great significance for the development of natural medicinal plant resources containing TAs.

Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Applications of Radix Astragali / 中国结合医学杂志

Radix Astragali (RA), a traditional Chinese medicine from the dried root of Astragalus species, is widely distributed throughout the temperate regions of the world. The major bioactive constituents of RA are triterpene glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids, and these compounds mostly exert pharmacological activities on the cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, and hepatic systems. This review summarizes the recent studies on RA and provides a comprehensive summary regarding the status of resources, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, clinical application, and patent release of RA. We hope this review can provide a guidance for further development of therapeutic agents from RA.

Toxicity and phytochemistry of eight species used in the traditional medicine of sul-mato-grossense, Brazil / Toxicidade e fitoquímica de oito espécies usadas na medicina tradicional sul-mato-grossense, Brasil

Abstract The Brazilian Cerrado has several botanical species for medicinal purposes used by traditional communities and many of these plants are not included in the list of Medicinal Plants Research Program of Central Medicines. The purpose of this study was the phytochemical screening and toxicology bioassay front of Brine shrimp L. of ethanolic extracts of eight species of plants used in folk medicine of Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The ethanolic extracts were submitted to phytochemical screening, determination of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Toxicological assays were carried front of Brine shrimp according to standard methodology. The analysis TLC and HPLC-DAD confirmed the predominance of phenolic compounds and derivatives, specifically for the quercetin. The most toxic was the C. affinis DC. with death at all concentrations, the A. humile A. St. Hil. showed no mortality and the other species showed intermediate toxicity. The extracts of the investigated species are rich in phenolic compounds and derivatives, specifically quercetin, and feature toxicity between moderate to high, a fact that requires attention, since much of the traditional communities rely on herbal drugs in its raw form with preventive and curative purpose, meeting the basic health care.

Resumo O Cerrado brasileiro possui diversas espécies botânicas com fins medicinais utilizadas por comunidades tradicionais e muitas dessas plantas não estão incluídas na lista do Programa de Pesquisa de Plantas Medicinais da Central de Medicamentos. O objetivo deste estudo foi a triagem fitoquímica e o bioensaio toxicológico frente ao Brine shrimp L. de extratos etanólicos de oito espécies de plantas utilizadas na medicina popular de Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul. Os extratos etanólicos foram submetidos à triagem fitoquímica, determinação de compostos fenólicos e flavonoides. Os ensaios toxicológicos foram realizados frente ao Brine shrimp de acordo com a metodologia padrão. A análise de cromatografia de camada delgada e HPLC-DAD confirmou a predominância de compostos fenólicos e derivados, especificamente para a quercetina. O mais tóxico foi o C. affinis DC. com a morte em todas as concentrações, o A. humile A. St. Hil. não apresentou mortalidade e as demais espécies apresentaram toxicidade intermediária. Os extratos das espécies investigadas são ricos em compostos fenólicos e derivados, especificamente a quercetina e apresentam toxicidade entre moderada a alta, fato que requer atenção, pois grande parte das comunidades tradicionais conta com fitoterápicos em sua forma bruta com preventivo e finalidade curativa, atendendo aos cuidados básicos de saúde.

Actividad in vitro de los extractos etanólicos de Lantana camara L., Petiveria alliacea L. y Lippia dulcis T. frente a bacterias patógenas / In vitro activity of the ethanolic extracts from Lantana camara L., Petiveria alliacea L. and Lippia dulcis T. against pathogenic bacteria

Resumen Introducción. La biodiversidad colombiana y los saberes tradicionales permiten la exploración de plantas medicinales con potencial actividad antimicrobiana que podrían usarse para tratamiento de infecciones. Objetivos. Determinar la actividad antibacteriana de extractos etanólicos de Lantana camara L., Petiveria alliacea L. y Lippia dulcis T. sobre Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Proteus vulgaris ATCC 6380 y Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó la adquisición del material vegetal y caracterización botánica, se obtuvieron los extractos etanólicos por percolación y se realizó caracterización fitoquímica preliminar mediante cromatografía en capa delgada (CCD). Se evaluó la actividad antibacteriana, mediante pruebas de difusión con disco y difusión en agar en concentraciones de 1mg/mL y 2mg/mL; para extractos activos se estableció la Concentración Inhibitoria mínima (CIM) y Concentración Mínima Bactericida (CMB). Para análisis estadístico se realizó prueba t de Student. Resultados y discusión. Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 fue sensible con Lantana camara L. y Lippia dulcis T. siendo este último activo también sobre Proteus vulgaris ATCC 6380 con efecto inhibitorio superior al 50%. El extracto de Lippia dulcis T. presentó la mayor actividad inhibitoria sobre S. aureus (CMI: 1,95 mg/mL). Ningún extracto mostró actividad sobre Escherichia coli ni Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Metabolitos secundarios, especialmente terpenoides y cumarinas fueron detectados en L. dulcis. Conclusiones. El estudio muestra que productos naturales derivados de plantas medicinales como los extractos etanólicos de Lantana camara y Lippia dulcis, presentan actividad antibacteriana sobre S. aureus y P. vulgaris y podrían ser alternativa promisoria para tratamiento de infecciones bacterianas.

Abstract Introduction. Colombian biodiversity and traditional knowledge allow the exploration of medicinal plants with potential antimicrobial activity, which could be used to treat infections. Objectives. To determine the antibacterial activity of ethanolic extracts of Lantana camara L., Petiveria alliacea L. and Lippia dulcis T. on Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Proteus vulgaris ATCC 6380 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. Materials and methods. Performed the acquisition of plant material and botanical characterization, ethanolic extracts were obtained by percolation and preliminary phytochemical characterization was performed by thin layer chromatography (CCD). The antibacterial activity was evaluated by disc diffusion and agar diffusion tests at concentrations of 1mg/mL and 2mg/mL; for active extracts, the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (CMB) were established. For statistical analysis, Student's t test was performed. Results and discussion. Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 was sensitive with Lantana camara L. and Lippia dulcis T. The latter being also active on Proteus vulgaris ATCC 6380 with inhibitory effect higher than 50%. The extract of Lippia dulcis T. had the highest inhibitory activity on S. aureus (MIC: 1.95 mg/mL). No extract showed activity on Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Secondary metabolites, especially terpenoids and coumarins were detected in L. dulcis. Conclusions. The study shows that natural products derived from medicinal plants such as the ethanolic extracts of Lantana camara and Lippia dulcis have antibacterial activity on S. aureus and P. vulgaris and could be a promising alternative for the treatment of bacterial infections.

Evaluación del efecto acaricida de Momordica charantia, Megaskepasma erythrochlamys y Gliricidia sepium sobre Rhipicephalus microplus / Acaricidal effect of Momordica charantia, Megaskepasma erythrochlamys and Gliricidia sepiumon the Rhipicephalus microplus

RESUMEN Objetivo. Se evaluó la actividad acaricida de Momordica charantia (Mc), Megaskepasma erythrochlamys (Me) y Gliricidia sepium (Gs) sobre Rhipicephalus microplus (Rm). Materiales y métodos. Se realizó la marcha fitoquímica preliminar de hojas del extracto metanólico de Mc (EMc), del extracto etanólico de Me (EMe) y del extracto acetónico de Gs (EGs) a través de la técnica de colorimetría y cromatografía en capa delgada (CCD). La actividad acaricida se realizó a través de pruebas in-vitro utilizando la prueba de inmersión de larvas (LIT) y la prueba de inmersión de adultos (AIT). Para las pruebas in-situ se usaron bovinos en pastoreo infestados naturalmente con garrapatas, utilizando las CL50 obtenidas en las pruebas in-vitro AIT; posteriormente las teleoginas se llevaron a incubación para evaluar su capacidad reproductiva. Resultados. Se determinó la presencia de varios grupos de metabolitos secundarios de interés acaricida. Se demostró el efecto acaricida de los extractos de las plantas sobre teleoginas; aunque sólo EGs mostró actividad larvicida. Los extractos a 160 mg/mL afectaron el ciclo de vida de Rm inhibiendo la ovoposición en un 46.9%, 66.1% y 84.03% (p<0.05) para EGs, EMc y EMe, respectivamente. Por otro lado, en las pruebas in situ se observó diferencia significativa (p<0.05) entre el tratamiento de EMc y EMe respecto a los grupos controles. Conclusiones. Los resultados obtenidos son prometedores para fortalecer la posibilidad de vinculación de los extractos de estas plantas dentro de planes integrados de control de garrapatas en sistemas de producción de bovinos.

ABSTRACT Objective. The acaricidal activity of Momordica charantia (Mc), Megaskepasma erythrochlamys (Me) and Gliricidia sepium (Gs) on Rhipicephalus microplus (Rm) was evaluated. Materials and methods. Preliminary phytochemical analysis of leaves of the methanolic extract of Mc (EMc), the ethanolic extract of Me (EMe) and the acetone extract of Gs (EGs) were carried out through the technique of colorimetry and thin layer chromatography (CCD). The acaricidal activity was performed through in-vitro tests using the larval immersion test (LIT) and the adult immersion test (AIT). For in-situ tests, grazing cattle naturally infested with ticks were used, using the LC50 obtained from the in-vitro AIT tests; later the teleogines were taken to incubation to evaluate their reproductive capacity. Results. The presence of several groups of secondary metabolites of acaricidal interest was determined. The acaricidal effect of the extracts of the plants on teleogines was demonstrated; although only EGs showed larvicidal activity. Extracts at 160 mg/mL affected the life cycle of Rm by inhibiting ovoposition in 46.9%, 66.1% and 84.03% (p<0.05) for EGs, EMc and EMe, respectively. On the other hand, the in-situ tests showed a significant difference (p<0.05) between the treatment of EMc and EMe with respect to the control groups. Conclusions. The results obtained are promising to strengthen the possibility of linking the extracts of these plants into integrated plans for the control of ticks in cattle systems.

Ethnobotany and ethnopharmacology of medicinal plants used in communities of the Soure Marine Extractive Reserve, Pará State, Brazil / Etnobotánica y etnofarmacología de plantas medicinales utilizadas en las comunidades de la Reserva Extractiva Marina de Soure-Pará, Brasil

The study of the relationship between man and nature can reveal the potential of plant resources. In the present study we used non-probabilistic sampling and snowball technique in communities of the Soure Marine Extractive Reserve-Pará, namely, Caju-Úna Community, Céu Settlement, and Pesqueiro Village, in order to analyze the medicinal plants used by these peoples, focusing on the diversity, consensual use and cultural importance of species, and providing ethnopharmacological information available in the scientific literature. To this end, participant observation, semi-structured interviews and free lists were used, as well as ethnobotanical indices and scientific studies retrieved from databases. We identified 90 species, among which Ruta graveolens, Maytenus obtusifolia and Libidibia ferrea stood out. The species were distributed in 50 families, mainly Lamiaceae, Asteraceae and Fabaceae. The most frequent diseases treated with these plants, mainly with preparations in the form of teas, were flu, inflammations and stomach problems. The Caju-Úna Community had the highest indices of total species diversity and evenness. Nine species stood out in the consensus factor and importance value and pharmacological studies corroborated 35% of the popular indications.

El estudio de la relación entre el hombre y la naturaleza puede revelar el potencial de los recursos vegetales. En el presente estudio utilizamos técnicas de muestreo no probabilístico y de bola de nieve en las comunidades de la Reserva Extractiva Marina de SourePará, que incluyeron a la Comunidad Caju-Úna, el Establecimiento de Céu y el Pueblo de Pesqueiro, ello con el propósito de analizar las plantas medicinales utilizadas por estos pueblos. El estudio se centró en la diversidad, el uso consensual y la importancia cultural de las especies, sobre la base de información etnofarmacológica disponible en la literatura científica. Con este fin, se utilizaron observaciones de los participantes, entrevistas semiestructuradas y información de acceso libre, así como índices etnobotánicos y estudios científicos obtenidos de bases de datos. Se identificaron 90 especies, entre las que destacan Ruta graveolens, Maytenus obtusifolia y Libidibia ferrea. Las especies se distribuyeron en 50 familias, principalmente Lamiaceae, Asteraceae y Fabaceae. Las enfermedades más frecuentes tratadas con estas plantas, principalmente mediante infusiones fueron gripe, inflamaciones y problemas estomacales. La comunidad de Caju-Úna tuvo los índices más altos de diversidad y uniformidad total de especies. Se destacaron 9 en el factor consenso y valor de importancia, y los estudios farmacológicos corroboraron el 35% de las indicaciones populares.

A review of the phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Ephedra herb / 中国天然药物

Ephedra herb is a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history. Conventionally, it was used as a folk phytomedicine in many ancient medical books and traditional prescriptions. Up to date, a variety of specific ingredients have been found in Ephedra herb, mainly including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, polysaccharides, organic acids, volatile oils, and many other active compounds. These components from Ephedra herb account for its use as the accurate treatment of cold, cough, cardiovascular and immune system disease, cancer, microbial infection, and other diseases. Moreover, with the fast development of novel chemistry and medicine technology, new chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of Ephedra herb are increasingly identified, demonstrating their great potential for various diseases treatment. Therefore, further detailed understanding and investigation of this ancient herb will offer new opportunities to develop novel therapeutics. This study systematically reviews its progress of phytochemistry, traditional and modern pharmacology based on research data that have been reported, aiming at providing useful insight for commercial exploitation, further study and precision medication of Ephedra herb in future.