In-vitro Anti-hyperglycemic Evaluation of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Delonix regia Bark

Anti-hyperglycemic agents is a substance that helps a person with diabetes control their level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It includes insulin and oral anti-hyperglycemic agents. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by increased blood glucose levels leading to other major complications. Thus, obtaining these anti hyperglycemic agents through easily available flora is necessary. Delonix regia , a tree cultivated worldwide, has also been used as traditional medicine in various disorders. Aim of the project work was to evaluate the anti-hyperglycemic activity in the hydroalcoholic extract of D. regia bark for the treatment of hyperglycemia. The collected bark was dried, powdered and extracted through cold maceration method. The extract was further concentrated to obtain a gummy mass of the hydroalcoholic extract. The extract was subjected to phytochemical analysis through conventional chemical tests and GC-MS. After the identification of the phytoconstituents, they were studied for their clinically proven properties. In-vitro anti-hyperglycemic studies were carried out through assays like alpha-amylase inhibition assay and alpha-glucosidase inhibition assay. The results of the extract were compared with results of standard acarbose. The IC 50 standard values in alpha-amylase inhibition assay and ?-glucosidase inhibition assay were 98.77 and 84.33 ?g/mL, respectively. The IC 50 values of hydroalcoholic extract of D. regia bark in alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibition assay were 167 and 116.31 ?g/mL, respectively. From the study, the hydroalcoholic extract of bark of D. regia exhibit anti-hyperglycemic activity compared to standard acarbose.

Effectiveness of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Terminalia ivorensis on Feet Fungus Disease

Despite the evolution of modern medicine, traditional medicine remains widespread in developing countries and its use continues to increase in industrialized countries.It is the same way that the effectiveness of the hydroalcoholic extract of Terminalia ivorensis was tested on the feet fungus disease of volunteers. Objective: The present work is oriented in the preparation of an antimicrobial hydroalcoholic extract of Terminalia ivorensis, a medicinal plant in order to enhance it. Materials and Methods: One hundred (100) grams of powder from trunk bark’s Terminalia ivorensis were extracted by homogenisation in a solvent mixture of 70% ethanol and 30% distilled water in a blender. After six grinding cycles, the homogenate obtained in each case was first wrung out in a clean white cloth square and then successively filtered twice on cotton wool and on Whatman 3 mm filter paper. The filtrate obtained was dried in a Venticell oven. The powder obtained constitutes the hydroalcoholic extract (or The 70% hydroethanolic extract). The 70% hydroethanolic extract of Terminalia ivorensis obtained was mixed with water to obtain a pasty liquid form before being tested on feet fungus disease using a cotton ball. Results: The extract had activity on these different shapes of feet fungus disease with a marked improvement. The volunteers who finished their treatment have been cured of feet fungus disease. Conclusion: The treatment results obtained revealed that the hydroalcoholic extract has good antimicrobial activity. The hydroalcoholic extract can be an undeniable source for the development of Improved Traditional Medicines (ITM) against feet fungus disease.

Cytotoxic effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Annona Muricata against a human cell line of gastric adenocarcinoma / Efecto citotóxico del extracto hidroalcoholico de la Annona Muricata frente a la línea celular humana de adenocarcinoma gástrico

Background: Therapeutic advances against cancer have not been as successful as expected and have adverse effects that patients rarely tolerate. A study in Peru identified favorable anticancer effects of Annona muricata (AM), a medicinal plant known as soursop, in C-678 mouse gastric adenocarcinoma. However, to date, no results have been reported in human cells. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the cytotoxic effect of AM extract against a human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line (AGS). Methodology: Experimental in vitro analytical study using a hydroalcoholic extract of AM (AMOH) leaves collected in the Amazonas. Chemical functional groups were identified by phytochemical screening. To obtain the cytotoxic effect, different dilutions of extract were added to the plates containing the cell lines and the data were extrapolated to GraphPad employing an observation card. Finally, the cytotoxic effect was expressed as the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and nonlinear regression analysis was performed to determine the growth inhibition of cancer cells. Results: Phytochemical screening showed the presence of reducing carbohydrates, alkaloids, phenols, tannins, triterpenes, steroids, saponins, flavonoids, proteins, cardiac glycosides, and anthocyanins. A calibration curve with gallic acid was used to determine the total phenol content and, quercetin was used to identify the flavonoid content. The AGS cell line showed cytotoxic activity with AMOH with an IC50 at 24 hours of 45.81 µg/mL and 19.05 µg/mL at 48 hours. Conclusion: Several chemical functional groups of AM were identified. In addition, the AMOH showed a cytotoxic effect against the AGS cell line

Antecedente: Los avances terapéuticos frente al cáncer no han tenido el éxito esperado y presentan efectos adversos pocas veces tolerados por el paciente. Un estudio en Perú identificó el efecto anticancerígeno de la Annona muricata (AM), planta medicinal conocida como guanábana, en adenocarcinoma gástrico de ratón C-678 con resultados favorables, sin embargo, no se ha encontrado evidencia previa en células humanas. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el efecto citotóxico del extracto de AM frente a la línea celular de adenocarcinoma gástrico humano (AGS). Materiales y métodos: Estudio experimental in vitro tipo analítico con extracto hidroalcohólico de hojas de AM (AMOH) recolectadas en Amazonas. Mediante screening fitoquímico se identificaron los grupos funcionales químicos. Para obtener el efecto citotóxico, se añadieron diferentes diluciones de extracto a las placas que contienen las líneas celulares y mediante una ficha de observación los datos fueron extrapolados a GraphPad. Finalmente se expresó como la concentración inhibitoria media máxima (IC50) y se hizo un análisis de regresión no lineal con la finalidad de encontrar la cantidad de inhibición de crecimiento de células oncológicas. Resultados: En el screening fitoquímico se pudo identificar la presencia de carbohidratos reductores, alcaloides, fenoles, taninos, tritérpenos y esteroides, saponinas, flavonoides, proteínas, glicósidos cardiotónicos y antocianinas. Para identificar el contenido total de fenoles se utilizó la curva de calibración con ácido gálico el cual nos comprobó la presencia de una buena cantidad de estos metabolitos. Adicionalmente se utilizó quercetina para identificar el contenido de flavonoides, obteniendo resultados favorables ya que se hizo evidente su presencia. La línea celular AGS mostró una actividad citotóxica frente al AMOH con un IC50 a las 24 horas de 45.81ug/mL y 19.05ug/mL a las 48 horas. Conclusión: Se identifica a los grupos funcionales de la AM. Además, AMOH demostró un efecto citotóxico contra la línea celular AGS

Determination of phenolic profile by HPLC-ESI-MS/MS and anti-inflammatory activity of crude hydroalcoholic extract and ethyl acetate fraction from leaves of Eugenia brasiliensis

ABSTRACT Eugenia brasiliensis Lam., Myrtaceae, is used in folk medicine for anti-inflammatory diseases such as arthritis and rheumatism. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory activity and phenolic profile of the crude hydroalcoholic extract and ethyl acetate fraction from E. brasiliensis leaves. Crude hydroalcoholic extract and the ethyl acetate fraction were analyzed by HPLC-ESI-MS/MS in comparison to standard phenolic compounds. The anti-inflammatory activity of the crude hydroalcoholic extract (1, 10 and 25 mg kg-1) and the ethyl acetate fraction (10, 25 and 50 mg kg-1) was evaluated in a swiss mouse model of acute pleurisy induced by carrageenan, being the total cell count, exudation and analysis of nitrite/nitrate the inflammation parameters. HPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis revealed apigenin, catechin, galangin, isoquercetin, myricetin, quercetin and rutin. Crude hydroalcoholic extract and ethyl acetate fraction were effective in inhibiting cell migration in all tested doses. Crude hydroalcoholic extract was effective in inhibiting exudation only at the 10 mg kg-1 dose; ethyl acetate fraction was effective in all tested doses. Results for nitrite/nitrate levels reveals that only the ethyl acetate fraction was effective at the tested doses. This is the first report of the presence of isoquercetin, galangin and apigenin in this species. Results from the phytochemical analysis enhance the chemical knowledge of this species. In the future, together with more studies, validation of its popular use in inflammatory diseases is possible.

Acción virucida directa sobre el virus influenza de un extracto de Punica granatum L (granada) / Direct virucidal action against influenza virus of an extract of Punica granatum L (granada)

INTRODUCCIÓN: la especie vegetal Punica granatum L. se conoce en Cuba como granada. A esta planta se le atribuye acción anticatarral en la medicina tradicional, entre otras propiedades. En estudios previos realizados al extracto hidroalcohólico liofilizado preparado con el fruto de esta planta, se informaron la presencia de numerosos componentes químicos, la mayoría flavonoides. Estos compuestos, unidos a la variedad de metabolitos secundarios detectados, le confieren a este liofilizado la posibilidad de poseer acción antiinfluenza, tal como ha sido demostrado en estudios previos del mismo. OBJETIVO: evaluar la acción virucida directa del extracto hidroalcohólico liofilizado de P. granatum frente a la cepa Influenza A/Mississippi/1/85 (H3N2), con diferentes variantes de tratamiento. MÉTODOS: las variantes de tratamiento directo se realizaron en 27 combinaciones de las variables; tiempo de contacto de: 60, 30 y 15 minutos; concentración del extracto de: 1000, 200 y 125 µg/mL y temperatura de incubación de la mezcla extracto-virus: 4, 25 y 37 0C. La presencia o no de la hemaglutinina del virus influenza en cada una de las muestras tratadas, se midió por la titulación de la Inhibición de la Hemaglutinación (IHA) y el título infectivo viral (DIE50). RESULTADOS: la concentración mínima efectiva para ejercer el extracto liofilizado, la acción virucida directa, in vitro, fue 125 µg/mL, a los 15 minutos. La acción virucida directa de éste extracto estuvo siempre presente en las diferentes temperaturas y tiempos de exposición ensayados. CONCLUSIONES: la variante de ensayo que utilizó 125 µg/mL, con independencia del tiempo y la temperatura de tratamiento, resultó suficiente efectiva para reducir la presencia de hemaglutinina del virus influenza.

INTRODUCTION: Punica granatum L. is known in Cuba as grenade. In traditional medicine, among other properties, antiflu action is attributed to this plant. In previous studies with the hydroalcoholic lyophilized extract, prepared with the fruit of this specie, several chemical compounds were reported, specially the presence of flavonoids. The variety of secondary metabolites detected for this lyophilized extract, added to a flavonoid fraction confers a high possibility of anti-influenza activity, as has been demonstrated in previous studies. OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the virucidal activity of the hydroalcoholic lyophilized extract of P. granatum against Influenza A/Mississippi/1/85 (H3N2), with different schemes of treatments. METHODS: the different schemes of treatments included 27 variants of the variables such as contact time of 60, 30 and 15 minutes; extract concentration of 1000, 200 and 125 µg/mL; an incubation temperature of the mix extract-virus of 4, 25 and 37 0C; and the corresponding replicas. The presence or not of hemaglutinin of influenza virus in each one of the treated samples, was measured by titration of Hemaglutination Inhibition (HAI) and the Embryo Infection Doses (EID50). RESULTS: the minimal effective concentration to show in the hydroalcoholic lyophilized extract the direct virucidal action in vitro was 125 µg/mL, in 15 minutes of contact. This virucidal action was always present in the different assessed temperature and time exposures. CONCLUSIONS: the treatment of 125 µg/mL, regardless of time and temperature of treatment, was effective enough to reduce the presence of hemaglutinin of the influenza virus.

Evaluation of nootropic activity of Curcuma longa leaves in diazepam and scopolamine-induced amnesic mice and rat.

Background: The present study was undertaken to assess the nootropic activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Curcuma longa leaves (HAECL) in diazepam-induced amnesia in mice using Morris water maze method and scopolamine-induced amnesia in rats by using elevated plus maze behavioral paradigm and its effect on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and reduced glutathione (GSH) level were carried out. Methods: Amnesia was induced by administration of diazepam (1 mg/kg i.p.) and scopolamine (0.4 mg/kg i.p.) and treatment groups received HAECL (200 and 400 mg/kg p.o) for 14 and 10 days in scopolamine and diazepam-induced amnesia model, respectively. The extent of improvement in memory was measured by behavioral paradigm. Finally, animals were sacrificed, and the whole brain was isolated for estimation of concentration of AChE and reduced GSH levels. Results: The oral treatment with HAECL with a dose 400 mg/kg has shown an enhancement in the memory function compared to 200 mg/kg. Conclusion: This could be by inhibiting the levels of cholinesterase concentration of enzyme and thereby increasing the concentration of acetylcholine level in brain and improving cognition-memory performance.

Determinação dos compostos fenólicos e da capacidade antioxidante de extratos aquosos e etanólicos de Jambolão (Syzygium cumini L. ) / Determination of phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Jambul (Syzygium cumini)

RESUMO: A espécie Syzygium cumini conhecida como Jambolão é uma das plantas mais utilizadas na medicina popular principalmente no tratamento de febre, estomalgia, gastropatia e diabetes mellitus tipo 2. O rendimento extrativo de compostos bioativos, e mesmo sua propriedade farmacológica, no caso, a capacidade de desativação de radicais livres, são influenciados pelo método e solvente utilizados. No presente estudo foi avaliado o efeito de extração aquosa a quente e a frio, e as extrações hidroalcoólicas em quatro diferentes concentrações de etanol, de folhas e frutos de Jambolão em diferentes estágios de maturação. A quantificação de compostos fenólicos dos extratos foi realizada pelo método de Folin-Ciocalteau, enquanto o método para avaliar a atividade antirradical livre foi realizado através da capacidade de desativação do radical DPPH●. As folhas apresentaram maior quantidade de compostos fenólicos totais (237,52 mg. EAG100 g-1) em relação a qualquer dos cinco extratos dos frutos, independente do estágio de maturação destes. Entre os extratos dos frutos, aquele proveniente de frutos verdes apresentou maior quantidade de compostos fenólicos (109,17 mg.EAG100 g-1). A extração hidro-etanólica a 50% de etanol promoveu os maiores conteúdos de fenóis totais, independente do material vegetal. A maior atividade antirradical livre encontrada dentre os extratos mais ricos em fenóis foi obtida com frutos verdes, IC50 = 2,27 mg.mL-1, a partir da infusão a quente por 30 minutos. Nos extratos de folhas, a maior atividade antirradical livre encontrada foi IC50= 23,07 mg.mL-1 proveniente do extrato hidro-etanólico a 50 % (v/v)

ABSTRACT: Determination of phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Jambul (Syzygium cumini). The species Syzygium cumini, known as Jambul, is one of the most used species in folk medicine because of the possible anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic activity from its extracts. Studies looking for bioactive compounds in several species have tested many extraction methods evaluating the capacity of sequestration of different types of compounds. In the present study, the effects of hot and cold extraction, as well as hydroalcoholic extraction at four different concentrations were evaluated, using as plant material leaves and fruits at different stages of maturation. The content of phenolic compounds of the obtained extracts was evaluated by the Folin-Ciocalteu method, as well as the antiradical activity by the DPPH● scavenging capacity. Analyzing the five different stages of fruit ripening compared to leaves, it was observed that the leaves had higher averages in the amounts of phenolic compounds (237.52 mg GAE 100 g-1) compared to the fruit, being the greenest fruit the one that had the highest amount of phenolic compounds (109.17 mg GAE 100 g-1) when compared to the other stages of maturation tested. The extraction using 50% ethanol showed the best phenol results regardless of the plant material used. The antioxidant activity in the best results for phenols showed a higher antioxidant activity for green fruits (IC50 2.27 mg.mL-1) compared to the leaves (IC50 23.07 mg.mL-1) regardless of the extract type used

Antidiabetic Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extracts of Nardostachys jatamansi in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats.

A review of literature indicates that diabetes mellitus was fairly well known and well conceived as an entity in India with complications like angiopathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and causing neurological disorders. The antidiabetic study was carried out to estimate the anti hyperglycemic potential of Nardostachys Jatamansi rhizome’s hydro alcoholic extracts in alloxan induced diabetic rats over a period of two weeks. The hydroalcoholic extract HAE1 at a dose (500mg/kg) exhibited significant antihyperglycemic activity than extract HAE2 at a dose (500mg/kg) in diabetic rats. The hydroalcoholic extracts showed improvement in different parameters associated with diabetes, like body weight, lipid profile and biochemical parameters. Extracts also showed improvement in regeneration of β-cells of pancreas in diabetic rats. Histopathological studies strengthen the healing of pancreas by hydro alcoholic extracts (HAE1& HAE2) of Nardostachys Jatamansi, as a probable mechanism of their ant diabetic activity.

Atividade Antimicrobiana da Uncaria Tomentosa (Willd) D. C. / Antimicrobial activity of Uncaria tomentosa (Willd) DC

A Uncaria tomentosa (Willd) D. C. (unha de gato) é uma planta amplamente utilizada na medicina popular, originária da Amazônia. Possui atividades biológicas, como anti-inflamatória, antimutagênica e antioxidante. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana do extrato de U. tomentosa, seco e hidroalcoólico, obtido comercialmente, utilizando-se 12 cepas de microrganismos (6 Gram-positvas e 6 Gram-negativas). Os testes antimicrobianos foram realizados em ágar BHI pela técnica de difusão em ágar. Também foram determinadas a Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) e Concentração Microbicida Mínima (CMM). Os testes demonstraram que os extratos inibiram o crescimento de bactérias Gram-positivas e Gram-negativas, sendo o extrato hidroalcoólico mais eficiente que o extrato seco. Conclui-se que o extrato de U. tomentosa possui atividade antimicrobiana podendo ser utilizado como uma alternativa terapêutica de baixo custo...

The plant Uncaria tomentosa (Willd) DC. (cat's claw), found in the Amazon region and widely used in popular medicine, has anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and antioxidant activities. The aim of this study was to test the antimicrobial activity of two commercially prepared extracts of U. tomentosa, one dried extract of bark and the other hydroalcoholic leaf extract, against 12 strains of bacteria (6 Gram-positive and 6 Gram-negative). The antimicrobial tests were conducted by diffusion in BHI agar. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and the Minimum Microbicidal Concentration (MMC) were also determined. The tests showed that both extracts inhibited the growth of Gram-positive bacteria, but the hydroalcoholic extract was more effective and also inhibited Gram-negative bacteria. It is concluded that the U. tomentosa extract has an antimicrobial activity and can be used as a low-cost alternative treatment...

Acute oral toxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of hydroalcoholic extract from Lampaya medicinalis Phil in rats

BACKGROUND: Algesia and inflammation are related with several pathological conditions. It is known that many drugs available for the treatment of these problems cause unwanted side effects. This study was aimed at evaluating acute toxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of Lampaya medicinalis Phil. (Verbenaceae) widely used in the folk medicine of Northern Chile against rheumatism, arthritis and body joints pain. RESULTS: Oral administration of hydroalcoholic extract (HAE) at the highest dose of 3000 mg/ Kg body weight resulted in no mortalities or evidence of significant behavioral changes. Histological examination revealed normal architecture and no significant adverse effects were observed on the liver, kidney, heart, lung or ovaries and testicles. The results suggest that the oral administration of hydroalcoholic extract (HAE) from Lampaya medicinalis did not produce any toxic effect in rats. Hydroalcoholic extract (HAE) significantly inhibited the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema in dose - response relationship, at test doses of 37.5, 75, 150 and 300 mg/Kg body weight. Maximum inhibition (61.98 ± 2.69%) was noted at 300 mg/Kg after 2 h of drug treatment carrageenan induced paw edema, whereas indomethacin produced 47.90 ± 1.16% of inhibition. The inhibitory values of edema at 3 h postcarrageenan were 31.04±0.75%, 40.51 ± 2.36%, 48.97 ± 1.14% and 56.87 ± 0.41% for 37.5, 75, 150, and 300 mg/kg of extract respectively. Indomethacin (10 mg/Kg) gave a percentage inhibition of 49.44 ± 1.44. HAE (300 and 150 mg/kg) induced an anti-inflammatory effect greater than (or comparable) with the effect of indomethacin from 2nd to 4th hours of the experiment. CONCLUSIONS: Our results reveal for first time that compounds contained in the hydroalcoholic extract ofLampaya medicinalis Phil exert anti-inflammatory effect and the oral administration is safe and non toxic up to dose level 3000 mg/kg body weight. The anti-inflammatory activity may be associated with the presence of flavonoids. These findings also justify the traditional use of the plant for treating pain.

Pharmacological activity of the hydroalcoholic extract from Hovenia dulcis thunberg fruit and the flavonoid dihydromyricetin during hypercholesterolemia induced in rats

Cerebrovascular accidents and coronary artery disease are the leading causes of cardiovascular mortalities in Brazil and high levels of LDL cholesterol are one of the main risk factors. In this context, several plant extracts and natural substances have shown promise as cholesterol-lowering. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of the hydroalcoholic extract of the fruit of H. dulcis and of dihydromyricetin in cholesterol reduction in hypercholesterolemic rats. Forty-two Wistar male rats were distributed into seven groups of six animals that received diets supplemented with 1% cholesterol and 0.3% cholic acid, with the exception of the control group, which received conventional diets. Animals were treated with oral suspensions containing: atorvastatin 1.0 mg/kg; H. dulcis extract at 50.0 and 100.0 mg/kg and dihydromyricetin at 25.0 and 50.0 mg/kg vehicle (control group). The following biochemical markers were evaluated; total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, triglycerides, AST, ALT, and alkaline phosphatase. The hypercholesterolemic diet was effective in inducing hypercholesterolemia, increasing total cholesterol by 112.7% relative to the control group. The treatments with two doses of the extract proved to be promising hypocholesterolemic agents, as they were able to substantially reduce total cholesterol and LDL-C, without significantly altering triglycerides, hepatic transaminases, and alkaline phosphatase, thereby encouraging the studies with the plant H. dulcis. The groups treated with the flavonoid dihydromyricetin, although they showed a significant reduction in total cholesterol and LDL-C, and found increases in triglycerides and hepatic transaminases, which is unwanted in the context of hypercholesterolaemia.

No Brasil, o acidente vascular cerebral e a doença arterial coronariana constituem as principais causas de mortalidade cardiovascular, sendo os altos níveis de colesterol LDL um dos principais fatores de risco. Nesse contexto, diversos extratos vegetais e substâncias naturais isoladas têm se mostrado promissoras como hipocolesterolemiantes. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o potencial do extrato hidroalcoólico dos frutos de Hovenia dulcis e do flavonóide diidromiricetina na redução do colesterol em ratos hipercolesterolêmicos. Quarenta e dois ratos Wistar machos, foram distribuídos em 7 grupos de 6 animais, que receberam dieta suplementada com 1% de colesterol e 0,3% de ácido cólico, à exceção do grupo controle, que recebeu ração convencional. Posteriormente, os animais foram tratados com suspensões orais contendo: atorvastatina 1,0 mg/kg; extrato de H. dulcis de 50,0 e 100,0 mg/kg; diidromiricetina de 25,0 e 50,0 mg/kg e veículo (grupo controle). Avaliaram-se os parâmetros bioquímicos: colesterol total, HDL-C, LDL-C, triglicérides, AST, ALT e fosfatase alcalina. A dieta hipercolesterolêmica foi efetiva na indução da hipercolesterolemia, aumentando o colesterol total em 112,7% em relação ao controle. Os tratamentos com as duas doses do extrato mostraram-se promissores como agentes hipocolesterolemiantes, já que foram capazes de reduzir substancialmente o colesterol total e LDL-C, sem alterar significativamente triglicérides, as transaminases hepáticas e a fosfatase alcalina, incentivando, assim, a continuidade de estudos com a planta H. dulcis. Já os grupos tratados com o flavonóide diidromiricetina, apesar de apresentarem redução significativa do colesterol total e de LDL-C, apresentaram elevações nos triglicérides e nos parâmetros hepáticos, resultado indesejável no âmbito das hipercolesterolemias.

Efecto del extracto hidroalcohólico de Zingiber officinale Roscoe (jengibre) en modelo de hepatotoxicidad en ratas / Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Ginger) in the model of hepatotoxicity in rats

Introducción: el rizoma de Zingiber officinale Roscoe (jengibre) familia Zingiberaceae, presenta actividad antioxidante como atrapador de radicales libres y de protección en lipoperoxidación en modelos in vivo e in vitro, debido a sus principales compuestos bioactivos. Objetivo: evaluar el efecto del extracto hidroalcohólico obtenido de Zingiber officinalis en el modelo de hepatotoxicidad por sobredosis de acetaminofén en ratas. Métodos: se preparó un extracto hidroalcohólico del rizoma fresco de Zingiber officinalis. Se utilizaron 42 ratas Wistar, albinas, macho (180-200 g de peso) y se distribuyeron aleatoriamente en 7 grupos (n= 6); 4 grupos fueron administrados con extracto hidroalcohólico vía oral (20,08; 54,58; 148,4 y 244,69 mg/kg) en pretratamiento, durante 8 días consecutivos. En el octavo se administró acetaminofén (750 mg/kg) intraperitoneal. Otro grupo recibió N-acetil-cisteína (1 200 mg/kg) dosis única + acetaminofén, y el grupo control solo sobredosis de acetaminofén. Se obtuvieron muestras séricas para cuantificar las enzimas alanino amino transferasa, y aspartato amino transferasa. Se realizó un estudio histopatológico del hígado en cada uno de los grupos tratados. Resultados: el extracto etanólico del jengibre redujo los niveles de enzimas hepáticas de manera dosis-dependiente. La reducción observada en la dosis de 244,69 mg/kg resultó de 54,3 % (alanino amino transferasa) y 55,5 % (aspartato amino transferasa), comparable al efecto de reducción por la N-acetil-cisteína (45,5 %), el cual fue significativo (p< 0,01) comparado con el grupo de daño hepático inducido por acetaminofén. El estudio histopatológico del tejido hepático dañado mostró diferencias, en comparación con el perfil de protección en los grupos tratados. Conclusiones: los resultados muestran la actividad hepatoprotectora del extracto de jengibre, en el modelo de hepatotoxicidad por sobredosis de acetaminofén en ratas. El consumo concomitante del jengibre normalizó los niveles de enzimas y limitó el daño hepático, lo cual está asociado a la actividad de desintoxicación y a un mejor estado antioxidante.

Introduction: rhizomes of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Ginger) have strong antioxidant activity as free-radical trapper and protection against lipid peroxidation in vivo and in vitro models, from its main bioactive compounds. Objectives: to evaluate the effect of a hydroalcoholic extract of Zingiber officinalis in the model of hepatotoxicity after acetaminophen overdose in rats. Methods: a macerated hydroalcoholic extract was prepared (70 % v:v) from the fresh rhizome of Zingiber officinale.42 male Wistar albino rats (180-200 g) of weight were randomly distributed in seven groups (n= 6). Four groups were administrated with hydroalcoholic extract doses orally (20.08, 54.58, 148.4 y 244.69 mg/kg) in a pre-treatment for eight consecutive days. In the eighth group, intraperitoneal acetaminophen (750 mg/kg) was administered. Other treatment group received N-acetyl-cysteine (1 200 mg/kg) as a single dose and acetaminophen, and the control group only received an overdose of acetaminophen. Serum samples were obtained for each group to quantify the alanine amino transferase and aspartate amino transferase enzymes. A histopathological examination of the liver was performed for all groups. Results: ethanolic ginger extracts reduced serum levels of the hepatic enzymes in a dose-dependent manner. Reduction by 244.6 mg/kg dose of alanine amino transferase (54.3 %) and aspartate amino transferase (55.5 %) was comparable to N-acetyl-cysteine (45.5 %), the effect was significantly (p< 0.01) compared with the control group with hepatic damage induced by acetaminophen. Histopathological assessment of liver tissue damage showed differences as compared with the protective profile in the groups. Conclusions: these findings outline the hepatoprotective activity of ginger extract against hepatotoxicity after acetaminophen overdose, in a dose-dependent manner. Concomitantly, intake of ginger in rats normalized the host liver enzymes related to the detoxificant activity of xenobiotic compounds, providing a better antioxidant-cytoprotector status.

Assessment of Salvia officinalis(L) hydroalcoholic extract for possible use in cosmetic formulation as inhibitor of pathogens in the skin / Avaliação do extrato hidroalcoólico de Salvia officinalis(L) para possível uso em formulações cosméticas como inibidor de patógenos da pele

Salvia officinalis (L.), or common sage, is an aromatic herb that has been used in medicine and cooking since ancient times and has been investigated for the treatment of various diseases, especially infections and skin inflammation. We conducted phytochemical prospecting and quality control with hydroalcoholic extracts of dried sage, to identify active compounds in the plant. The aim was to assess antibacterial and antifungal activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. Antimicrobial susceptibility was investigated in vitro by agar-overlay and well-diffusion techniques, in which disc and well were used. Salvia officinalis (L.) was not effective against Streptococcus agalactiae, Candida albicans or Candida tropicalis, but best results were observed for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Considering the results of the inhibition tests presented here, we suggest that cosmetic formulations containing Salvia officinalis (L.) could contribute to inhibitor of pathogens in the skin microbiota.

A Salvia officinalis (L.) é uma planta com uso difundido, utilizada no tratamento de diversas patologias, principalmente para infecções e inflamações cutâneas. Neste trabalho foi realizada prospecção fitoquímica e controle de qualidade com a planta seca e extrato hidroalcoólico para identificação dos compostos ativos da sálvia, tendo como finalidade comprovar sua atividade antibacteriana e antifúngica frente à Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae Candida albicans e Candida tropicalis. Os métodos de escolha para avaliação in vitro foram ensaios de sensibilidade antimicrobiana por difusão em ágar com discos e cilindros. Dentre os ensaios realizados a sálvia não se mostrou efetiva para Streptococcus agalactiae, Candida albicans e Candida tropicalis, sendo o melhor resultado obtido com Staphylococcus aureus, em que se pode verificar-se atividade antibacteriana. Diante dos resultados obtidos, propôs-se uma formulação de sabonete líquido com extrato hidroalcoólico de Salvia officinalis (L.), para atuar na higiene da pele.

Controle de qualidade e análise sensorial em voluntários de xampu esfoliante com extrato hidroalcoólico de Capsicum frutescens L. (Solanaceae) / Quality control and sensory acceptability of exfoliating shampoo containing hydroethanolic extract of Capsicum frutescens L. (Solanaceae) peppers.

A fitocosmética é um setor em nítido crescimento por se ter verificado reais vantagens na incorporação de produtos vegetais em relação a certos produtos sintéticos em produtos cosméticos. O proposto trabalho foi desenvolvido enfocando-se o uso de xampu com a utilização de microesferas de biopolímero e extrato hidroalcoólico de Capsicum frutescens L., mais popularmente conhecida como pimenta-malagueta, para o tratamento de queda capilar simples (alopecia androgênica). As análises físico-químicas envolveram determinação de cinzas totais, pH, identificação de capsaicina e densidade do xampu, entre outros. Considerando-se os diversos aspectos exigidos para a garantia da qualidade do material botânico, que englobam não somente os aspectos físico-químicos, mas também o microbiológico, realizou-se, tanto no extrato quanto no produto final, a contagem total de micro-organismos, pesquisa de Salmonella sp e Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus e Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Foram realizadas análises sensoriais em voluntários, visando avaliar a qualidade sensorial do produto. Os voluntários avaliaram a amostra segundo questionário aplicado. Para as propriedades avaliadas, as microesferas esfoliantes incorporadas ao xampu mostraram-se ser bem aceitas pelos voluntários, principalmente devido à sensação transmitida pela esfoliação, fazendo com que o extrato hidroalcoólico promova uma maior oxigenação local.

Phytocosmetics is a sector of the market in rapid growth, since real advantages have been demonstrated in the incorporation of plant products in cosmetics, in place of certain synthetic products. The focus of this study was on the use of shampoo containing microspheres of biopolymer and a hydroalcoholic extract of the fruit of Capsicum frutescens L., more commonly known as chili pepper, for the treatment of hair loss (androgenic alopecia). The physical and chemical analysis included the determination of total ash, pH and density of the shampoo and the identification of capsaicin. Considering the various requirements for quality assurance of the plant material, encompassing not only physicochemical but also microbiological criteria, both the extract and the final product were subjected to a total count of microorganisms and tests for Salmonella sp, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The sensory quality of the product was assessed by a panel of volunteers, who rated the sample of shampoo in response to a questionnaire. For the properties assessed, the exfoliating microspheres incorporated into the shampoo proved to be well tolerated by the volunteers, mainly on account of the feeling conveyed by exfoliation, causing the hydroalcoholic extract to promote greater local oxygenation.

Central activities of hydroalcoholic extract from Lafoensia pacari A. St.-Hil. stem bark / Atividades centrais do extrato de Lafoensia pacari A. St.- Hil. da casca do caule

Lafoensia pacari A. St.-Hil. can be found from Amapá to Rio Grande do Sul states, and also in Paraguay and Bolivia. It is popularly known as pacari or mangava-brava and is used to promote weight loss, as an anti-thermal or tonic, to treat gastritis, ulcers, scarring, itching, discouragement, and cancer. In the open field tests, the hydroalcoholic extract from L. pacari stem bark (HEP) decreased the number of rearings, number of invaded squares, and increased immobility time compared to control animals. In the pentobarbital-induced sleep time test, HEP decreased latency time to sleep and increased sleeping time. In the rota-rod test, no changes in the studied parameters were observed. In the elevated plus maze, HEP increased the percentage time and percentage entries in the open arms, indicating that this extract exerts an anxiolytic-like activity.

Lafoensia pacari A. St.-Hil., uma espécie vegetal presente no Brasil, do Amapá ao Rio Grande do Sul, no Paraguai e na Bolívia, é popularmente conhecida como pacari ou mangava-brava e é utilizada como emagrecedor, cicatrizante, antitérmico, tônico e para tratar gastrite, úlcera, coceira, desânimo e câncer. No teste do campo aberto, o tratamento com o extrato hidro-alcoólico de pacari (HEP) reduziu o número de rearings e o número de quadrados invadidos além de aumentar o tempo de imobilidade dos animais em relação ao controle. No sono induzido por pentobarbital sódico o tratamento com HEP causou redução na latência e aumento na duração do sono. No rota-rod, o tratamento com HEP não alterou os parâmetros observados. No teste de labirinto em cruz elevado, com o tratamento com HEP foi observado aumento do percentual do tempo de permanência e de entradas nos braços abertos, caracterizando uma atividade tipo ansiolítica.

Efecto cicatrizante de las diferentes formas farmacéuticas tópicas elaboradas con el extracto hidroalcohólico de juglans neotropica diels nogal en ratones albinos / Healing effect of different topic presentations formulated with hydroalcoholic extract of juglans neotropica diels nogal in albino mice

Introducción: el nogal (Juglans neotropica Diels) crece en valles de tierras profundas y arenosas, de clima templado y lluvioso, en zonas como Cusco, Arequipa y Cajamarca. El objetivo fue determinar el efecto cicatrizante de diferentes formas farmacéuticas de aplicación tópica elaboradas con el extracto hidroalcohólico de Juglans neotropica Diels en ratones albinos. Material y métodos: se usaron hojas recolectadas en la localidad de Urubamba. Se realizaron cortes de 1cm2 en el área dorsal escapular de ratones, a quienes en una primera fase del estudio se les aplicó el extracto a diferentes concentraciones (2.5%-40%), durante 21 días, luego de lo cual fueron sacrificados e inmediatamente se realizó la prueba del tensiómetro propuesto por Vaisberg. En la segunda fase, se formularon cinco formas farmacéuticas tópicas (pomada, emulsión agua en aceite (A/O), emulsión aceite en agua (O/A), pasta e hidrogel) las que se evaluaron según prueba del tensiómetro, en comparación al fármaco patrón (Cicatrin®). Resultados: la concentración mínima efectiva cicatrizante fue de 5%, encontrándose una relación concentración-cicatrización en el rango de 2.5% a 30% y una relación formulación-cicatrización, pues las presentaciones en emulsión O/A e hidrogel obtuvieron mayor resistencia a la fuerza de tensión, incluso mayor a la del fármaco patrón. Los resultados fueron corroborados con el estudio histológico. Conclusión: tanto el extracto hidroalcohólico al 5% como las formas farmacéuticas de emulsión O/A e hidrogel presentanro muy buena actividad cicatrizante.

Background: walnut (Juglans neotropica Diels) grows in deep valleys and sandy land, in temperate and rainy weather, in areas such as Cusco, Arequipa and Cajamarca. The objective was to determine the healing effect of different pharmaceutical presentations and concentrations for topical application from the hydroalcoholic extract of Juglans neotropica Diels in albino mice. Methods: we used leaves collected in the town of Urubamba. 1cm2 cuts were made in the dorsal scapular area of mice, who in the first phase of the study were administered the extract at different concentrations (2.5-40%) for 21 days, after which they were sacrificed and immediately performed the tensiometer test proposed by Vaisberg. In the second phase five topical dosage forms (ointment, water in oil (W/O) emulsion, oil in water (O/W) emulsion, pasta and hydrogel) were evaluated by tensiometer test, and assessed the effect of these forms compared with standard drug (Cicatrin®). Results: minimal effective healing concentration was 5%, with a concentration-healing effect relationship in the range of 2.5% to 30% and a presentation-healing effect relationship, since the O/A emulsion and hydrogel were more resistant to tensile strength, even higher than the standard drug. Results were corroborated by histology. Conclusion: both hydroalcoholic extract at 5% and pharmaceutical presentations O/W emulsion and hydrogel have a good healing activity.

Analysis of fetal and placental development in rats after administration of hydroalcoholic extract from the root of Petiveria alliacea L. (Phytolaccaceae) / Análisis del desarrollo fetal y placenta en ratas después de la administración de extracto hidroalcohólico de la raíz de Petiveria alliacea L. (Phytolaccaceae)

We investigated the effect of hydroalcoholic extract the Petiveria alliacea root on fetal and placental development female rats pregnancy. Thirty female rats were mated and divided in groups: I - rats treated with placebo and sacrificed on the 7th day; II - rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract and sacrificed on the 7th day; III - rats treated with placebo and sacrificed on the 14th day; IV - rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract and sacrificed on the 14th day; V - rats treated with placebo for analysis of the offspring; VI - rats treated with hydroalcoholic extract for analysis of the offspring. The extract was administered by gavage in the dosage of 18mg/kg body wt., in 5th day of pregnancy. The implantation sites and placenta were fixed in Bouin and processed for the embedding in paraffin. The offspring were weighed, measured and counted. The hydroalcoholic extract of the root of the P. alliacea causes significant reduction in the number of implantation sites, but do not cause histological alterations in these sites and placenta. No alterations in the number, length and weight have been observed in offspring. Our results suggest that the hydroalcoholic extract from the P. alliacea in the dosage of 18mg/kg body wt., administered to female rats, on the 5th day of pregnancy, only cause a retard in the implantation process.

Se investigaron los efectos de la extracto hidroalcohólico de la raíz Petiveria alliacea sobre el desarrollo fetal y placentario en ratas preñadas. Treinta ratas hembras fueron criadas y divididas en grupos: I- Ratas tratadas con placebo y sacrificado en el día 7; II- Ratas tratadas con el extracto hidroalcohólico y sacrificadas en el día 7; III- ratas tratadas con placebo y sacrificado el día 14; IV- ratas tratadas con el extracto hidroalcohólico y sacrificaron el día 14; V- ratas tratadas con placebo para el análisis de las crías; VI- ratas tratadas con el extracto hidroalcohólico para el análisis de las crías. El extracto se administró por sonda en dosis de 18mg/kg de peso corporal, en el 5to día de preñez. Los sítios de implantación y la placenta se fijaron en Bouin y se procesaron para la inclusión en parafina. Las crías fueron pesadas, medidas y contadas. El extracto hidroalcohólico de la raíz de P. alliacea provocó una reducción significativa en el número de sitios de implantación, pero no causaron alteraciones histológicas en estos sitios y la placenta. No se observaron alteraciones en el número, longitud y peso de las crías. Nuestros resultados sugieren que el extracto hidroalcohólico de P. alliacea en la dosis de 18mg/kg de peso corporal, administrado a ratas hembras en el 5to día de preñez, sólo causó retardo en el proceso de implantación.

Chromatographic evaluation and antimicrobial activity of Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss., Meliaceae) leaves hydroalcoholic extracts / Avaliação cromatográfica e atividade antimicrobiana de extratos hidroalcoólicos de folhas de Nim (Azadirachta indica A. Juss., Meliaceae)

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is an Indian tree well known for its several pharmacological activities, including antimicrobial activity. More than 300 composites have already been isolated and azadirachtin (AZA) is its main active component. In the present work, Neem leaves hydroalcoholic extracts were prepared by percolation in 96 percent ethanol different concentrations (50 percent, 60 percent, 70 percent, 80 percent and 90 percent (v/v)). The presence of AZA was tested by TLC by eluting the extracts and a standard solution of AZA through a chromatographic plate developed with anisaldehyde/sulfuric acid solution followed by heating. By HPLC, extracts elution took place on a C18 column, water:acetonitrile (60:40) as mobile phase, 1.0 mL/min flow rate and detection at λ217 nm. The extracts did not display AZA spots or peaks, however, they were tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts and a mold fungus. The extracts were tested in different increasing concentrations, in order to detect a dose-dependent relationship of the activity. Despite the absence of AZA, the 70 percent and 80 percent (v/v) ethanol extracts showed activity against Staphylococcus aureus. However, this activity was not dose-dependent according to Tukey's test (q0,05;3;7).

O Nim (Azadirachta indica A. Juss., Meliaceae) é uma árvore indiana conhecida por suas várias atividades farmacológicas, entre elas, a ação antimicrobiana. Dentre mais de 300 compostos já isolados, a azadiractina (AZA) é seu principal componente ativo. No presente trabalho, foram preparados extratos hidroalcoólicos de folhas de Nim em diferentes concentrações de etanol 96 por cento V/V (50 por cento, 60 por cento, 70 por cento, 80 por cento e 90 por cento (V/V)) por meio de percolação estática. A presença de AZA foi verificada por CCD, com eluição dos extratos e da solução padrão de trabalho AZA em cromatoplaca e revelação por solução de anisaldeído/ácido sulfúrico, seguida de aquecimento. Por CLAE, os extratos e da solução padrão de trabalho AZA foram eluídos em coluna C18, fase móvel água:acetonitrila (60:40), fluxo 1,0 mL/min e detecção em λ217 nm. Não foi verificada a presença de manchas ou picos correspondentes a AZA nos extratos. Entretanto, a sua atividade foi investigada contra bactérias Gram-positivas, Gram-negativas, leveduras e um fungo filamentoso. Os extratos foram testados em diferentes concentrações para avaliar a relação dose-resposta. Apesar da ausência de AZA, os extratos hidroalcoólicos a 70 por cento e 80 por cento (V/V) de etanol 96 por cento apresentaram atividade contra Staphylococcus aureus. Porém, não houve relação dose-efeito, de acordo com o teste de Tukey (q0,05;3;7).

A proposal for the quality control of Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew) and its hydroalcoholic extract / Uma proposta para o controle de qualidade de Tanacetum parthenium (tanaceto) e seu extrato hidroalcoólico

Neste trabalho, é apresentada uma proposta para o controle de qualidade físico e químico do pó de T. parthenium (tanaceto) e do seu extrato hidroalcoólico obtido por percolação. A lactona sesquiterpênica partenolídeo, o principal componente ativo da espécie, foi quantificada por CLAE e seu teor foi de 0,49 por cento no pó e 1,06 por cento no extrato. O teor de flavonóides totais foi determinado por espectroscopia no UV e foi de 0,54 por cento no pó e 1,05 por cento no extrato hidroalcoólico. A santina, principal flavonóide da espécie, foi isolada e posteriormente identificada no extrato por CLAE. Uma vez que o partenolídeo também pode ser encontrado em outras espécies de Asteraceae, a análise da santina é importante para certificar a autenticidade do material vegetal. Os resultados obtidos neste trabalho confirmam a autenticidade do material e a eficiência do processo extrativo.

In this study, we present a proposal for the physical and chemical quality control of the powder of the species T. parthenium (feverfew) and its hydroalcoholic extract obtained by percolation. The sesquiterpene lactone parthenolide, the main active compound of this plant, was quantified by HPLC and its content was found to be 0.49 percent in the powder and 1.06 percent in the extract. The total content of flavonoids, determined by UV spectroscopy, was found to be 0.54 percent in the powder and 1.05 percent in the hydroalcoholic extract. Santin, the main flavonoid of this species, was isolated and further identified in the extract by HPLC. Since parthenolide can also be found in other Asteraceae species, the analysis of santin is important to certify the authenticity of the plant material. The results confirmed the authenticity of the plant material and the efficiency of the extraction procedure.