Efecto Antibacteriano del Extracto Etanólico de Equisetum giganteum L. "Cola de Caballo" Frente al Fusobacterium nucleatum, Microorganismo Asociado a la Enfermedad Periodontal

La fitoterapia aplicada a la Odontología se presenta como una eficaz alternativa de tratamiento frente a las enfermedades periodontales (EP) porque busca utilizar los principios activos de las plantas medicinales que se encuentran en gran cantidad en la naturaleza, dándole así las características de ser más asequibles y de menor costo, para combatir los microorganismos patógenos causantes de las EP. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar el efecto antibacteriano in vitro del extracto etanólico de Equisetum giganteum L. frente a cepas ATCC de Fusobacterium nucleatum. El estudio fue de tipo experimental no probabilístico y estuvo constituido en total por 10 placas Petri sembradas con F. nucleatum. Se utilizó extracto etanólico de E. giganteum L. en las concentraciones de 100, 50, 25, 12.5 y 6.25 %. Se utilizó el método de difusión en agar y se incubaron 10 placas a 37 °C durante 07 días. Se midieron los halos de inhibición con un vernier digital, siendo estos datos posteriormente analizados. No se evidenciaron halos de inhibición significativos en ninguno de los discos embebidos con las diferentes concentraciones en las 10 placas Petri sembradas con F. nucleatum, pero sin con la clorhexidina, agente química utilizado como control positivo. En conclusión no se determinó un efecto antibacteriano in vitro del extracto etanólico de E. giganteum L. frente a F. nucleatum, en ninguna de sus concentraciones.

Phytotherapy applied to Dentistry is presented as an effective alternative treatment against periodontal diseases (PD) because it seeks to use the active ingredients of medicinal plants that are found in large quantities in nature, thus giving it the characteristics of being more affordable. and at a lower cost, to combat the pathogenic microorganisms that cause PE. Objective: to determine the in vitro antibacterial effect of the ethanolic extract of Equisetum giganteum L. against ATCC strains of Fusobacterium nucleatum. Material and methods: The study was of a non- probabilistic experimental type and consisted of a total of 10 Petri dishes seeded with F. nucleatum. Ethanolic extract of E. giganteum L. was used in concentrations of 100, 50, 25, 12.5 and 6.25 %. The agar diffusion method was used and 10 plates were incubated at 37 °C for 07 days. The inhibition halos were measured with a digital vernier, and these data were subsequently analyzed. Results: No significant inhibition halos were found in any of the embedded disks with the different concentrations in the 10 Petri dishes seeded with F. nucleatum, but without chlorhexidine, the chemical agent used as a positive control. Conclusions: an in vitro antibacterial effect of the ethanolic extract of E. giganteum L. was not determined against F. nucleatum, in any of its concentrations.

Induction and Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome with Plant Extract in Rats: A Systematic Review

Aims: To review the induction and treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) with plant extract in rats in light of the rising incidence of the condition, its accompanying physical and mental issues, and the role that sex hormone alterations play in its development. Methodology: An extensive literature search was carried out using relevant publications, which were published between 2012 and 2022 and indexed in Google Scholar, PubMed, Elsevier, Scientific Information Database, and Science Direct were investigated. Results: This review shows that the majority of research examined the levels of sex hormones in the serum, the induction of PCOS, and the treatment of animal models. The review also found that 43.75% of the studies induced PCOS with Letrozole, 31.25% with estradiol valerate, 6.25% with Testosterone Enanthate (TE), and 6.25% of the studies induced PCOS with Testosterone Propionate (TP). Conclusion: This study showed that Letrozole, Estradiol valerate, Dhea, Testosterone Enanthate, and Testosterone Propionate effectively induce PCOS in rats. Also, `plant extracts are effective in treating PCOS. More research into the mechanisms of action for plant extracts is required to complete our understanding of the reproductive endocrinological effects of plant extract treatment for PCOS.

Chemical constituents and strong larvicidal activity of Solanum xanthocarpum among selected plants extracts against the malaria, filaria, and dengue vectors

Background & objectives: The role of mosquitoes is instrumental in the transmission of various diseases. Mosquitoeborne diseases account for a significant share of the global burden of total infectious diseases. Vector control is the principal method for the control of these mosquito-borne diseases. Plant-derived insecticides serve as an effective alternative to chemical insecticides. The present study has been undertaken to assess the larvicidal potential of methanol and petroleum ether extracts of leaves of Solanum xanthocarpum, Parthenium hysterophorus, Manihot esculenta, and Chamaecyparis obtusa. Methods: Larvicidal activity was tested against the early four-stage instar larvae of laboratory-reared susceptible strains of the malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi, dengue fever vector, Aedes aegypti, and the lymphatic filariasis vector, Culex quinquefasciatus at 20 to 120 ppm concentrations. Further, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analyses were carried out to identify the bioactive compounds present in the methanolic leaf extracts of Solanum xanthocarpum for designing a larvicidal product in future. Results: After 72 h of exposure high larvicidal activities were observed in methanolic and petroleum ether leaves extract of S. xanthocarpum against An. stephensi, Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus. The larvicidal activities for methanol and petroleum ether leaf extract of S. xanthocarpum with LC50 = 09.201 and 12.435 ppm and LC90 = 21.578 and 27.418 ppm for An. stephensi; LC50 = 11.450 and 10.026 ppm and LC90 = 26.328 and 22.632 ppm for Ae. aegypti and LC50 = 12.962 and 13.325 ppm and LC90 = 26.731 and 30.409 ppm for Cx. quinquefasciatus, respectively, were found to be most effective. GC-MS analysis revealed 43 compounds, amongst these phytol (13.09%), 3-allyl-2- methoxy phenol (9.55%), (9Z, 12Z)-9, 12-octadecadienoyl chloride (7.93%), linoleic acid (5.45%), alpha-tocospiro B (5.08%) and hexadecanoic acid (4.35%) were identified as major compounds. Interpretation & conclusion: Present work showed that leaf extracts of S. xanthocarpum are a source of potential natural candidate that possess several phytochemicals which can be explored further for the development of ecologically safer mosquito control products.

Actividad antimicrobiana de extractos de plantas frente a Staphylococcus aislados de pacientes con conjuntivitis bacteriana / Antimicrobial Activity of Plant Extracts against Isolated Staphylococcus Infection in Patients with Bacterial Conjunctivitis / Atividade antimicrobiana de extratos vegetais contra Staphylococcus isolados de pacientes com conjuntivite bacteriana

Staphylococcus aureus y Staphylococcus epidermidis son los principales agentes etiológicos de las conjuntivitis bacterianas, que al tratarse con antibióticos de manera empírica, incrementan la resistencia antimicrobiana después de exposiciones repetidas. Se están buscando alternativas naturales para el tratamiento de infecciones bacterianas autolimitadas de la conjuntiva. Objetivo: determinar la actividad antimicrobiana de ocho extractos de las plantas frente a bacterias aisladas de pacientes con conjuntivitis bacterianas. Materiales y métodos: se tomaron muestras de 15 pacientes con conjuntivitis bacterianas. Se cultivaron en agar sangre y chocolate durante 24 h a 37 °C y se identificaron mediante el sistema automatizado vitek y pruebas de susceptibilidad antimicrobiana por el método de Kirby-Bauer. A cada aislamiento identificado con el género Staphylococcus se le evaluó su susceptibilidad frente a siete extractos: Ocimum basilicum, Sambucus nigra L., Delphinium elatum, Calendula officinalis, Bixa ore-llana (parte aérea y fruto independiente), Clinopodium brownei y Laurus nobilis, con un uso tradicional reportado para el tratamiento de infecciones oculares. Resultados: las bacterias aisladas con más frecuencia fueron S. epidermidis, S. hominis y S. aureus, las cuales presentaron resistencia antimicrobiana a oxacilina, tetraciclinas y eritromicina. Todos los aislamientos fueron inhibidos por los extractos de O. basilicum (cmi: >0.9 mg/mL) y L. nobilis (cmi: hasta 15 mg/mL). Conclusión: los extractos de C. officinalis y D. elatum tuvieron actividad antimicrobiana solo frente a los aislados con mayor sensibilidad antimi-crobiana. Los extractos etanólicos de O. basilicum y L. nobilis pueden ser una alternativa de tratamiento de las infecciones de la conjuntiva.

Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis are the primary etiological agents of bacterial conjunctivitis which are empirically treated with antibiotics. This results in an increase in antimicrobial resistance due to repeated exposure. Currently, natural treatment alternatives are being sought for self-limited bacterial infections of the conjunctiva. Objective: To determine the antimicrobial activity of eight extracts from Colombian plants against bacteria isolated from patients with bacterial conjunctivitis. Materials and methods: Samples were taken from 15 patients with bacterial conjunctivitis which were grown on blood and chocolate agar for 24 h at 37 °C. These samples were identified by the vitek automated system and antimicrobial susceptibility tests by the Kirby Bauer method. Each isolate identified with the genus Staphylococcus was evaluated for susceptibility to the following eight plant extracts of seven plant: Ocimum basilicum (basil), Sambucus nigra L. (elderberry), Delphinium elatum(belladonna), Calendula officinalis (marigold), Bixa orellana (annatto) (aerial part and independent fruit), Clinopodium brownei (pennyroyal), and Laurus nobilis (laurel), with traditional use previously reported for treating eye infections. Results: The most frequently isolated bacteria were S. epidermidis, S. hominis, and S. aureus, which exhibited antimicrobial resistance mainly to oxacillin, tetracyclines, and erythromycin. All isolates were inhibited by O. basilicum extracts (mic > 0.9 mg/mL) and L. nobilis (mic < 15 mg/mL). Conclusion: The extracts of C. officinalis y D. elatum showed antimicrobial activity only against isolates with higher antimicrobial sensitivity. Ethanolic extracts of O. basilicum y L. nobilis can be used as an alternative treatment for infections of the anterior segment of the eye.

Staphylococcus aureus e Staphylococcus epidermidis são os principais agentes etiológicos da conjuntivite bacteriana, estes são tratados empiricamente com antibióticos, causando aumento da resistência antimicrobiana após repetidas exposições aos mesmos. Atualmente, estão sendo estudadas alternativas naturais para o tratamento de infecções bacterianas autolimitadas da conjuntiva. Objetivo: determinar a atividade antimicrobiana de oito extratos de sete vegetais contra bactérias isoladas de pacientes com conjuntivite bacteriana. Materiais e métodos: foram retiradas amostras de 15 pacientes com conjuntivite bacteriana. As amostras foram cultivadas em ágar sangue e ágar chocolate por 24 horas a 37°C e os isolados foram identificados pelo sistema automatizado vitek, além de testes de susce-tibilidade antimicrobiana pelo método Kirby Bauer. Cada isolado identificado como sendo pertencente ao gênero Staphylococcus foi avaliado quanto à suscetibilidade a oito extratos vegetais: Ocimum basili-cum (manjericão), Sambucus nigra L. (sabugueiro), Delphinium elatum (belladona), Calendula officinalis(calêndula), Bixa orellana (urucum; parte aérea e fruto independente), Clinopodium brownei (poejo) e Laurus nobilis (louro), anteriormente relatados como uso tradicional para o tratamento de infecções ocu-lares. Resultados: as bactérias mais frequentemente isoladas foram S. epidermidis, S. hominis e S. aureus, que apresentaram resistência antimicrobiana principalmente à oxacilina, tetraciclinas e eritromicina. Todos os isolados foram inibidos por extratos de O. basilicum (cim: >0,9 mg/mL) e L. nobilis (cim: até 15 mg/mL). Conclusão: os extratos de C. officinalis e D. elatum apresentaram atividade antimicrobiana apenas contra os isolados com maior sensibilidade antimicrobiana. Os extratos etanólicos de O. basilicum e L. nobilis podem ser uma alternativa de tratamento para infecções conjuntivais.

Antibacterial and antifungal activity of methanolic extracts of Salix alba L. against various disease causing pathogens / Atividade antibacteriana e antifúngica de extratos metanólicos de Salix alba L. contra vários patógenos que causam doenças

Abstract The present study was aimed to manifest the antibacterial and antifungal activity of methanolic extracts of Salix alba L. against seven Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens e.g. Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (1), S. aureus (2), Shigella sonnei, Escherichia coli (1), E. coli (2) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae and three fungal isolates from the air such as Aspergillus terreus, A. ornatus, and Rhizopus stolonifer. Two different serotypes of S. aureus and E. coli were used. The agar well-diffusion method results showed the dose-dependent response of plant extracts against bacterial and fungal strains while some organisms were found resistant e.g. E. coli (1), S. sonnei, A. terreus and R. stolonifer. The highest antibacterial activity was recorded at 17.000±1.732 mm from 100 mg/mL of leaves methanolic extracts against S. pyogenes while the activity of most of the pathogens decreased after 24 h of incubation. The highest antifungal activity was reported at 11.833±1.0 mm against A. ornatus at 50 mg/mL after 48 h of the incubation period. These experimental findings endorse the use of S. alba in ethnopharmacological formulations and suggest the use of methanolic extracts of the said plant to develop drugs to control the proliferation of resistant disease causing pathogenic microbes.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo manifestar a atividade antibacteriana e antifúngica de extratos metanólicos de Salix alba L. contra sete patógenos bacterianos Gram-positivos e Gram-negativos. Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (1), S. aureus (2), Shigella sonnei, Escherichia coli (1), E. coli (2) e Neisseria gonorrhoeae e três isolados de fungos do ar, como Aspergillus terreus, A. ornatus, e Rhizopus stolonifer. Dois sorotipos diferentes de S. aureus e E. coli foram usados. Os resultados do método de difusão em ágar mostraram a resposta dependente da dose de extratos de plantas contra cepas de bactérias e fungos, enquanto alguns organismos foram considerados resistentes, e.g. E. coli (1), S. sonnei, A. terreus e R. stolonifer. A maior atividade antibacteriana foi registrada em 17.000 ± 1.732 de 100 mg/mL de extratos metanólicos de folhas contra S. pyogenes, enquanto a atividade da maioria dos patógenos diminuiu após 24 h de incubação. A maior atividade antifúngica foi relatada em 11,833 ± 1,0 contra A. ornatus a 50 mg/mL após 48 h do período de incubação. Esses achados experimentais endossam o uso de S. alba em formulações etnofarmacológicas e sugerem o uso de extratos metanólicos da referida planta para o desenvolvimento de fármacos que controlem a proliferação de doenças resistentes que causam micróbios patogênicos.

Effect of Plant Extracts on Protein Changes During Adipogenesis: A Scoping Review

@#Plant extracts are gaining popularity among researchers as alternatives from natural sources for the treatment of obesity and inhibition of adipogenic differentiation is one of the mechanisms targeted by these extracts. The main focus of this scoping review is to specifically identify the phytochemicals within the extracts, and the protein changes that occurred during adipogenesis when subjected to the various plant extracts as well as to identify the gaps in the previous studies. A systematic search was conducted using predetermined keywords on three online databases (SCOPUS, PubMed, and ScienceDirect). Overall, a total of 988 articles were retrieved, leaving only 43 articles after applying the exclusion criteria. The selected studies looked at the effects of phytochemicals found in plant extracts on the alterations in adipogenesis-related proteins that results in adipocyte differentiation inhibition mainly in 3T3-L1 cells and mice. Despite plant extracts being the basis of numerous hyperlipidemic treatments, not much is focused on the changes in adipogenic proteins such as PPARs, CEBPs, or SREBPs. Thus, in this review, we discuss how the plant extracts aid in obesity prevention, and possible further research required to fully utilize the natural sources for the betterment of public health.

Antibacterial and antifungal activity of methanolic extracts of Salix alba L. against various disease causing pathogens

Abstract The present study was aimed to manifest the antibacterial and antifungal activity of methanolic extracts of Salix alba L. against seven Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens e.g. Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (1), S. aureus (2), Shigella sonnei, Escherichia coli (1), E. coli (2) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae and three fungal isolates from the air such as Aspergillus terreus, A. ornatus, and Rhizopus stolonifer. Two different serotypes of S. aureus and E. coli were used. The agar well-diffusion method results showed the dose-dependent response of plant extracts against bacterial and fungal strains while some organisms were found resistant e.g. E. coli (1), S. sonnei, A. terreus and R. stolonifer. The highest antibacterial activity was recorded at 17.000±1.732 mm from 100 mg/mL of leaves methanolic extracts against S. pyogenes while the activity of most of the pathogens decreased after 24 h of incubation. The highest antifungal activity was reported at 11.833±1.0 mm against A. ornatus at 50 mg/mL after 48 h of the incubation period. These experimental findings endorse the use of S. alba in ethnopharmacological formulations and suggest the use of methanolic extracts of the said plant to develop drugs to control the proliferation of resistant disease causing pathogenic microbes.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo manifestar a atividade antibacteriana e antifúngica de extratos metanólicos de Salix alba L. contra sete patógenos bacterianos Gram-positivos e Gram-negativos. Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (1), S. aureus (2), Shigella sonnei, Escherichia coli (1), E. coli (2) e Neisseria gonorrhoeae e três isolados de fungos do ar, como Aspergillus terreus, A. ornatus, e Rhizopus stolonifer. Dois sorotipos diferentes de S. aureus e E. coli foram usados. Os resultados do método de difusão em ágar mostraram a resposta dependente da dose de extratos de plantas contra cepas de bactérias e fungos, enquanto alguns organismos foram considerados resistentes, e.g. E. coli (1), S. sonnei, A. terreus e R. stolonifer. A maior atividade antibacteriana foi registrada em 17.000 ± 1.732 de 100 mg/mL de extratos metanólicos de folhas contra S. pyogenes, enquanto a atividade da maioria dos patógenos diminuiu após 24 h de incubação. A maior atividade antifúngica foi relatada em 11,833 ± 1,0 contra A. ornatus a 50 mg/mL após 48 h do período de incubação. Esses achados experimentais endossam o uso de S. alba em formulações etnofarmacológicas e sugerem o uso de extratos metanólicos da referida planta para o desenvolvimento de fármacos que controlem a proliferação de doenças resistentes que causam micróbios patogênicos.

Capacidad pro-apoptótica in vitro de Valeriana rígida y Valeriana decusata sobre una línea celular de cáncer de mama / In vitro pro-apoptotic capacity of Valerian rigid and Valerian decussata in cancer cells

Resumen El cáncer representa un problema de salud pública a nivel mundial, con altas tasas de incidencia y mortalidad en países desarrollados y no desarrollados. En la actualidad se están evaluando alternativas terapéuticas de origen natural, con el propósito de establecer tratamientos más eficientes y menos invasivos. Dado que la apoptosis es el tipo de muerte programada que experimentan las células cancerosas por los tratamientos con los fármacos antineoplásicos,el objetivo de esta investigación, fue evaluar in vitro la capacidad pro-apoptótica y citotóxica de los extractos de valeriana, sobre una línea celular de cáncer de mama (MCF-7). En este estudio las células MCF7 se cultivaron y trataron con diferentes concentraciones de los extractos de la raíz, hojas y tallos de Valeriana rígida y Valeriana decussata. La viabilidad celular se evaluó mediante el ensayo MTT. Para la determinación de la expresión génica de las proteínas anti y pro-apoptóticas (Bax, Bcl-2 y p53), se usó el ensayo de la PCR cuantitativa de transcripción inversa. Las diferentes concentraciones de los extractos (10-8 a 10-1 mg/mL) disminuyeron la viabilidad (proliferación) celular en concentraciones dependientes. Estos extractos indujeron la expresión génica de las proteínas Bax y Bcl-2, pero no de p53. La expresión de Bax fue mayor que la de Bcl-2 e indujo un elevado índice Bax/Bcl-2 (condición proapoptotica). En conclusión, se determinó que los extractos de Valeriana decussata y Valeriana rígida poseen efecto reductor de la viabilidad (proliferación) de la línea celular de cáncer de mama MCF-7, probablemente mediado por la alteración de la relación de las proteínas Bax y Bcl-2 vinculadas a la apoptosis.

Abstract Cancer represents a worldwide public health problem, with high incidence and mortality rates in developed and undeveloped countries. Currently, therapeutic alternatives of natural origin are being evaluated with the purpose of establishing more efficient and less invasive treatments. Apoptosis is the type of programmed death cancer cells undergo during treatment with anti-neoplastic drugs. Therefore, the aim of this research was to evaluate in vitro the pro-apoptotic and cytotoxic capacity of valerian extracts on a breast cancer cell line (MCF-7). In this study, MCF7 cells were cultured and treated with different concentrations of the extracts of the root, leaves and stems of Valeriana rígida and Valeriana decussata. Cell viability was assessed by the MTT assay. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR assays were used for the determination of gene expression of anti- and proapoptotic proteins (Bax, Bcl-2, p53). Different concentrations of the extracts (10-8 to 10-1 mg/mL) decreased cell viability (proliferation) in a concentration-dependent manner. These extracts induced gene expression of Bax and Bcl-2 proteins but not of p53. The expression of Bax was higher than that of Bcl-2, causing an elevated Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (proapoptotic condition). In conclusion, it was determined that Valeriana decussata and Valeriana rígida extracts have a viability (proliferation) reducing effect on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line, probably mediated by altering the ratio of Bax and Bcl-2 proteins linked to apoptosis.

Chemical and Sensory Evaluation of Smoked Fish Treated with Ocimum gratissimum Extract

This work aims to the effect of three different concentrations (20%, 40%, and 60%) of Ocimum gratissimum extract on the proximate, mineral composition and sensory acceptability of smoked catfish and mackerel samples. Fresh fish samples were hot smoked in a locally fabricated smoking kiln at 1100C. Results showed that the moisture content of smoked catfish and mackerel was significantly different (P≤0.05) from the control sample. The percentage of crude protein content decreased in smoked catfish and increased in mackerel samples and also differed significantly (P≤0.05) compared with the control. Ash and fat content decreased in smoked fish and the crude fibre content was slightly increased in smoked mackerel. The minerals composition showed a significant difference (P≤0.05) was observed although there were decrease in iodine and potassium content of catfish. There was a significant difference (P≤0.05) in organoleptic scores among the fish samples treated with 20% and 40% Ocimum gratissimum which were significantly higher than the control. This study concluded that Ocimum gratissimum inclusion does not have any adverse effect on the chemical composition of smoked fish sample but could improve their sensory quality.

Anti-hyperglycaemic Effects of the Ashes of Some Nigerian Anti-diabetic Ethnomedicinal Plants

Aims: To evaluate blood glucose-lowering ability of leaf ashes and compare anti-hyperglycaemic activities of Annona muricata leaf extract and ash. Study Design: Ashes and extract of medicinal plants were assayed using glucose-loaded rats model. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmacognosy, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, between March 2017 and February 2020. Methodology: Adequately prepared ashes of seven plants and A. muricata methanol extract were assayed for anti-hyperglycaemic potentials, using glucose-loaded (10 g/kg, p.o.) Wistar rats that were hyperglycaemic [blood glucose levels ? 7.0 mmol/L] thirty minutes thereafter (T0.0). Groups of 5 rats each, were administered 100, 150, 200 mg/kg of different ashes and A. muricata extract (200 mg/kg). Normal saline and glibenclamide (5 mg/kg) were negative and positive controls, respectively. Their blood glucose levels were determined at 0-4 hours post-extract/ash/drug administration; results analysed using ANOVA followed by the Student-Newman-Keuls’ and Dunnett post-hoc tests. P ? .05 was considered significantly different. Results: 100 mg/kg of Momordica charantia, Azadirachta indica and Eugenia malaccensis leaf ashes was their most active dose, indicating significantly higher extrapancreatic activity. 32, 37, 54, 59 and 36, 43, 50, 48 % reductions elicited by Chromolaena odorata (COLA) and A. muricata (AMLA) ashes (200 mg/kg) at 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 hours, respectively made them the most active ashes. Also, blood glucose levels in glibenclamide (5 mg/kg)-, COLA-, AMLA- and its extract (200 mg/kg)-treated rats were comparable (P > .05) and their anti-hyperglycaemic activity was suggested to be due to the pancreatic (insulinotropic) and extra-pancreatic actions of their constituents. Conclusion: Study justified anti-diabetic ethnomedicinal use of plant-ashes in Nigeria, while doses were recommended for the optimum folkloric usage of these leaf ashes in managing diabetes in the rural areas of Nigeria. The leaf ashes may contain elements with glucose postprandial tolerance factor and insulin stimulating properties.

In vitro antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 of plant extracts used in Colombian traditional medicine / Actividad antiviral in vitro contra el SARS-CoV-2 de extractos de plantas usados en medicina tradicional colombiana

Background: Coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the infection with the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has affected the life and health of more than 222 million people. In the absence of any specific pharmacological treatment, the need to find new therapeutic alternatives is clear. Medicinal plants are widely used worldwide to treat different conditions, including COVID-19; however, in most cases, there are no specific studies to evaluate the efficacy of these treatments. Objective: This article evaluates the antiviral effect of six plant extracts used by indigenous and afro Colombian people against SARS-CoV-2 in vitro. Methods: The antiviral effect of six extracts prepared from plants used in Colombian traditional medicine was evaluated against SARS-CoV-2 through a pre-post treatment strategy on the Vero E6 cell line. Once cytotoxicity was established through an MTT assay, the antiviral effect of the extracts was calculated based on the reduction in the viral titer determined by plaque assay. Results:Gliricidia sepium inhibited SARS-CoV-2 in a 75.6%, 56.8%, 62.5% and 40.0% at 10 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, 6 mg/mL, and 2 mg/mL, respectively, while Piper tuberculatumtreatment reduced viral titer in 33.3% at 6 mg/mL after 48h. Conclusion:G. sepium and P. tuberculatum extracts exhibit antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 in vitro

Introducción: La enfermedad infecciosa causada por el coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) generada por la infección con el nuevo coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 ha afectado la vida y la salud de mas de 222 millones de personas. En ausencia de algún tratamiento farmacológico específico, la necesidad de encontrar nuevas alternativas terapéuticas es clara. Las plantas medicinales son utilizadas en todo el mundo para tratar diferentes condiciones, incluyendo el COVID-19; sin embargo, en la mayoría de los casos no existen estudios específicos que evalúen la eficacia de estos tratamientos. Objetivo: En este artículo, evaluamos el efecto antiviral de seis extractos de plantas usadas por pueblos indígenas y afrocolombianos contra el SARS-CoV-2 in vitro.Metodología: El efecto antiviral de seis extractos preparados a partir de plantas usadas en medicina tradicional colombiana fue evaluado contra SARS-CoV-2 por medio de una estrategia de pre-post tratamiento en células Vero E6. Una vez se estableció la citotoxicidad por un ensayo de MTT, el efecto antiviral de estos extractos fue calculado basado en la reducción del título viral determinado por ensayo de plaqueo. Resultados:G. sepium inhibió SARS-CoV-2 en un 75.6%, 56.8%, 62.5% y 40.0% a 10 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, 6 mg/mL, and 2 mg/mL, respectivamente. Mientras el extracto de Piper tuberculatum redujo el título viral en un 33.3% a 6 mg/mL luego de 48h de tratamiento

Inhibition of preadipocyte differentiation by Lycium barbarum polysaccharide treatment in 3T3-L1 cultures

BACKGROUND: Lycium barbarum (also called wolfberry), a famous Chinese traditional medicine and food ingredient, is well recognized for its significant role in preventing obesity; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying its preventive effects on fat accumulation are not well understood yet. The aim of this study was to determine the effects and mechanism of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on the proliferation and differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. MTT was used to detect the proliferation of 3T3-Ll preadipocytes. Oil red O staining and colorimetric analysis were used to detect cytosolic lipid accumulation during 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation. Real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR (qPCR) technology was used to detect peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor c (PPARc), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein a (C/EBPa), adipocyte fatty-acid-binding protein (aP2), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) expression. RESULTS: The concentration of LBP from 25 to 200 lg/mL showed a tendency to inhibit the growth of preadipocytes at 24 h, and it inhibited the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes in a dose-dependent manner. In the preadipocytes treated with 200 lg/mL LBP, there were reduced lipid droplets in the cytoplasm, and its effect was opposite to that of rosiglitazone (ROS), which significantly reduced the PPARc, C/EBPa, aP2, FAS, and LPL mRNA expression of adipocytes. CONCLUSIONS: LBP exerts inhibitive effects on the proliferation and differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and decreases the cytoplasm accumulation of lipid droplets during induced differentiation of preadipocytes toward mature cells. Above phenomenon might link to lowered expression of PPARc, C/EBPa, aP2, FAS, and LPL after LBP treatment. Thus, LBP could serve as a potential plant extract to treat human obesity or improve farm animal carcass quality via adjusting lipid metabolism.

The Effects of Injected Geophyte Plant (Sternbergia candida) Extract on the Hemato-Immunological Parameters in Gilthead Seabream, Sparus aurata (L. 1758)

Abstract This study investigated effects of a geophyte plant extract (Sternbergia candida) on some hemato-immunological parameters in gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata (L. 1758). To serve this purpose, the plant was collected and extracted in ethanol solvent. A total 300 fish were used in experiment. Three groups were designed including control group, 0.5 mg/fish and 2 mg/fish and plant extract was given by intraperitoneal injection. Following injections on the 1st, 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th and 35th days, blood samples were collected from each group. Some of the hemato-immunological parameters in serum and blood samples such as, phagocytic activity (NBT (+) cells), total leukocyte level, lysozyme activity, total protein, hematocrit level and the differential leucocyte were examined. Present results show that intraperitoneal injection of S. candida plant extract increases some non-specific immune parameters. In the determination of the non-specific immune responses of the gilthead seabream, blood samples collected from 2mg/fish group indicated that maximum levels of pre-determined parameters were reached on days 7, 14, and 21 following the injection. According to these finding, administration of geophyte plant is suggested in seabream to improve non-specific immune response and health status.

In vitro haemostatic efficacy of aqueous, methanol and ethanol plant extracts of three medicinal plant species in Palestine / Eficácia hemostática in vitro de extratos aquosos, metanólicos e etanólicos de três espécies de plantas medicinais na Palestina

Abstract The haemostatic efficacy of different extract types of Satureja thymbra L., Thymbra spicata L. (Lamiaceae) and Verbascum fruticulosum Post. (Scrophulariaceae) was evaluated in this study via the Prothrombin time (PT) and Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) analysis. Aqueous, methanol and ethanol extracts of the examined plant species leaves were prepared to a final concentration 50 mg/mL. In vitro PT and aPTT assays were conducted on normal platelet poor plasma blood samples by a digital coagulation analyzer. The obtained results revealed anticoagulation activity of all investigated plant species with observed variations among them. The aqueous and ethanol extracts of T. spicata as well as the aqueous extract of S. thymbra prolonged PT values significantly (p < 0.05). While, all V. fruticulosum extract types have had no significant effect on the PT values. The recorded aPTT data showed that all aqueous extracts have had a significant effect on the blood haemostasis as they increased aPTT values in all plant species under study. Out of which, both the ethanol and methanol extracts of T. spicata and methanol extract of S. thymbra showed similar effect. Of great concern, it was clearly noticed that the aqueous and ethanol extract of T. spicata and the aqueous extract of S. thymbra possess the strongest anticoagulation effect as they increased both PT and aPTT values significantly relative to the control (p < 0.05). The variable anticoagulation bioactivity among the studied plant species could be referred to the various solvents degrees of solubility of different phyto-constituents. Thus, the efficacy of the plant species extracts evaluation as anticoagulants or coagulants were related to the plant species and to the solvent of extraction.

Resumo A eficácia hemostática de diferentes tipos de extrato de Satureja thymbra L., Thymbra spicata L. (Lamiaceae) e Verbascum fruticulosum Post. (Scrophulariaceae) foi avaliada neste estudo pelo tempo de protrombina (TP) e tempo de tromboplastina parcial ativada (TTPa). Os extratos aquosos, metanólicos e etanólicos das folhas das espécies de plantas examinadas foram preparados para uma concentração final de 50 mg/mL. Os ensaios de TP e TTPa in vitro foram realizados em amostras normais de sangue, pobre em plaquetas, por um analisador de coagulação digital. Os resultados obtidos revelaram atividade anticoagulante de todas as espécies de plantas investigadas, com variações observadas dentre elas. Os extratos aquosos e etanólicos de T. spicata e o extrato aquoso de S. thymbra prolongaram significativamente os valores de TP (p <0,05). Entretanto, todos os tipos de extratos de V. fruticulosum não tiveram efeito significativo sobre os valores de TP. Os dados registrados do TTPa mostraram que todos os extratos aquosos tiveram um efeito significativo na hemostase do sangue, pois aumentaram os valores de TTPa em todas as espécies de plantas em estudo. Dos quais, ambos os extratos etanólicos e metanólicos de T. spicata e o extrato metanólico de S. thymbra mostraram efeito semelhante. De grande preocupação, notou-se claramente que os extratos aquoso e etanólico de T. spicata e o extrato aquoso de S. thymbra apresentam efeito anticoagulante mais forte, aumentando os valores de TP e TTPa significativamente em relação ao controle (p <0,05). A variável bioatividade anticoagulante dentre as espécies vegetais estudadas pôde ser referida aos vários graus de solventes de solubilidade de diferentes fitoconstituintes. Assim, a eficácia da avaliação de extratos de espécies vegetais como anticoagulantes ou coagulantes foi relacionada às espécies vegetais e ao solvente de extração.

Antifungal Activity of Selenium Nanoparticles Extracted from Capparis decidua Fruit against Candida albicans.

Nanotechnology has introduced nanoparticulate form of selenium for a wide variety of applications. Nanoparticles can be used in medicine due to their increased interaction with microbes and also because it has fewer side effects than the drugs. Selenium nanoparticles have unique biomedical applications ranging from antioxidant activity to anticancer activity. It is distinct with its high biological activity and low toxicity and cytotoxic property. Capparis decidua also called as karira belonging to Capparaceae family is a xerophytic small branched shrub found in Africa, Middle East and South Asia. Its fruit is used for preparing curry and pickles in the western parts of India. In our study, the selenium nanoparticles were extracted from its fruit. Candida albicans is pathogenic yeast in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract and the urogenital tract affecting the immunocompromised patients and causes various types of infections. It has gained resistance to present antifungals and new formulations are needed to be discovered. MethodsPlant extract was prepared from Capparis decidua fruit powder and filtered using Whatman No. 1 filter paper. It was kept in magnetic stirrer for nanoparticle synthesis. Colour change was observed which indicates the synthesis of nanoparticles. UV visible spectroscopy was taken in proper intervals. The nanoparticles synthesized were purified by centrifugation technique and checked for its antifungal activity. Antifungal activity of the prepared nanoparticles against Candida albicans was determined by using agar well diffusion assay method or agar disc diffusion method. The zone of inhibition formed around the disc indicates the sensitivity of the fungi to the plant extract. The inhibition zone diameter was measured using a ruler and compared with the inhibition zone formed by the positive control drug which was done in parallel. ResultsAntifungal activity was showed by an inhibition zone which was characterized by a clear zone around the wells. The diameter of the inhibition zone formed for 50 mL of the plant extract was 20.33 mm ± 0.47, for 100 mL of the plant extract was 28.33 mm ± 0.47, for 150 mL of the plant extract was 30.33 mm ± 0.47 and for the positive control drug was 34.33 mm ± 0.47. ConclusionsThe diameter of the inhibition zones was compared with the positive control drug. Selenium nanoparticles extracted from Capparis decidua fruit showed high activity against Candida albicans. Further in vivo research can be done for the same and it may represent an alternative for treating fungal infections.

Antimicrobial effect of herbal extract of Acacia arabica with triphala on the biofilm forming cariogenic microorganisms

BackgroundDental caries is a biofilm-related infectious disease with a multifactorial etiology, over five billion inhabitants have affected worldwide due to this disease.ObjectiveAntimicrobial efficacy of a mixed herbal powder extract (MHPE) against cariogenic microorganisms was investigated.Materials and methodsMIC, MBC, kinetics of killing, biofilm disruption and anticaries effect of MHPE were determined. For biofilm disruption, biofilms of Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus casei, Actinomyces viscosus and Candida albicans were treated with MHPE for 30 min and attached cells were quantified after staining. For live/dead staining biofilm assay, S. mutans biofilm treated with MHPE for 1min, 5min and 1 h was examined with confocal laser scanning system after live/dead staining. Efficacy was experimented by structural quality using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Anticaries effect was determined by formation of caries-like lesion in continuous flow biofilm model.ResultsMHPE exhibited inhibition zones ranging from 12.5 to 24.0 mm. The highest inhibition zone was recorded at concentration of 50 μg/ml. MIC for S. mutans was between 12.23 and 36.7 μg/ml, while the MBC values ranged from 36.7 to 110.65 μg/ml. Inhibitory concentration of MHPE was three fold higher than CHLX. Significant reduction of cell count (49–95%) was observed with increasing time and higher concentration. Percentage biofilm reduction compare with negative control was 96.9% (A. viscosus), 94% (C. albicans), 99.8% (L. casei) and 91.7% (S. mutans). For MHPE-treated biofilm, live/dead staining demonstrated significant (p < 0.05) higher in deceased red fluorescence areas in all kinetics points from 53.6% (1min) to 85% (1h). SEM confirmed the damage in the outer layers of S. mutans. MHPE has components with effective antibacterial activity against caries-inducing microorganisms.ConclusionThe anti-adherence and anti-biofilm effect as well as the faster killing activity suggests that MHPE formula has effective antibacterial activity and could be a useful source of anti-cariogenic agents in near future.

COMPONENTES QUÍMICOS Y ACTIVIDAD ANTIMICROBIANA DEL ACEITE ESENCIAL DE Lasiocephalus ovatus (Asteraceae) QUE CRECE EN ECUADOR / Chemical components and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil of Lasiocephalus ovatus (Asteraceae) that grows in Ecuador

RESUMEN Ecuador es uno de los países más ricos en biodiversidad y endemismo del mundo, y cerca de 3200 especies de plantas tienen usos medicinales. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar la composición química y el efecto antimicrobiano del aceite esencial de Lasiocephalus ovatus Schltdl. (Asteraceae) colectada en la provincia de Chimborazo, Ecuador. Las partes aéreas de L. ovatus fueron sometidas a hidrodestilación para obtener el aceite esencial, el cual fue analizado mediante cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas. La actividad fue evaluada frente a cinco bacterias y una levadura usando la técnica de microdilución en caldo en microplacas de 96 pozos. El rendimiento del aceite fue de 0,05 % y 27 compuestos fueron identificados, representando 95,45 % de la composición total con un elevado contenido de monoterpenos oxigenados (52,17 %). Los compuestos mayoritarios fueron alcanfor (40,48 %) y 1,2,5,5-tetrametil-1,3-ciclopentadieno (11,90 %), seguido por p-menta-1,5-dien-8-ol (5,23 %) y 1,6-dimetilhepta-1,3,5-trieno (4,69 %). Las bacterias más sensibles a la acción del aceite fueron Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 y Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 con concentraciones mínimas inhibitorias de 200-400 µg/mL y bactericidas de 800 µg/mL. La inhibición antimicrobiana frente a las bacterias Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 700603 y la levadura Candida albicans ATCC 10231 fue baja, con un rango de concentración mínima inhibitoria de 800 a 6400 µg/ mL. Este reporte representa un primer análisis de la actividad antimicrobiana del aceite de L. ovatus, por lo tanto, una contribución importante al estudio del género Lasiocephalus.

ABSTRACT Ecuador is one of the richest countries in biodiversity and endemism in the world, and nearly 3200 plant species have medicinal uses. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the chemical composition and the antimicrobial effect of essential oil of Lasiocephalus ovatus Schltdl. (Asteraceae) collected at Chimborazo Province, Ecuador. The aerial parts of L. ovatus were subjected to hydrodistillation to obtain essential oil, which was analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The activity was evaluated against five bacteria and one yeast using the broth microdilution technique in 96-well microplates. The oil yield was of 0.05 %, and 27 compounds were identified, representing 95.45 % of the total composition with a high content of oxygenated monoterpenes (52.17%). The main compounds were camphor (40.48 %) and 1,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclopentadiene (11.90 %) followed by p-mentha-1,5-dien-8-ol (5.23 %) and 1,6-dimethylhepta-1,3,5-triene (4.69 %). The antimicrobial effect of the essential oil was major against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 200-400 µg/mL and bactericidal of 800 µg/mL. Antimicrobial inhibition against the bacteria Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 700603 and the yeast Candida albicans ATCC 10231 was low, with minimum inhibitory concentration ranging from 800 to 6400 µg/mL. This report represents a first study of the chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the oil of L. ovatus, therefore, an important contribution to the study of the genus Lasiocephalus.

Effects of encapsulated sodium butyrate and phytogenic on growth performance, carcass traits and health of growing-finishing pigs / Efeitos do butirato de sódio encapsulado e fitogênico sobre o desempenho, características da carcaça e saúde de suínos em fase de crescimento e terminação

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate two feed additives, one based on encapsulated sodium butyrate (Adimix® Precision) (AD) and the other, a phytogenic (Apex® 5) (AX), associated or not with an antimicrobial growth promoter (tylosin) during the growth and finishing phases on performance, carcass characteristics and health conditions. A total of 300 barrows and females were distributed in six treatments in a randomized block design with ten replicates. The treatments consisted of a negative control (NC), positive control (PC) (tylosin), AD (encapsulated sodium butyrate), AX (phytogenic), PC+AD (tylosin+encapsulated sodium butyrate), and PC+AX (tylosin+phytogenic). The performance (live weight, daily feed intake, average daily gain and feed conversion) and carcass data (carcass weight, backfat thickness, loin depth, lean meat on the carcass) were submitted to ANOVA plus Tukey's test, and the health conditions (occurrence of diseases, culling, and spontaneous deaths) were analyzed by χ2. Animals of the AD group had the highest average daily gain (ADG) over the evaluation period and the highest live weight at 120, 140, and 164 days of age, in addition to the highest carcass weight compared to NC and PC groups. The AX treatment increased the ADG in growth phase II and the live weight at 120 and 140 days of age in relation to the NC. The PC+AX group had a higher final live weight compared to the NC and PC groups and higher carcass weight in relation to the NC group. There was no difference among treatments for backfat thickness, percentage of lean meat in the carcass, or occurrence of diseases and deaths. The inclusion of encapsulated sodium butyrate (AD treatment) was effective in increasing ADG, final live weight, and carcass weight compared to supplementation with tylosin (PC treatment), as was the inclusion of a phytogenic (AX treatment) on FC compared to the PC.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar dois aditivos alimentares, um a base de butirato de sódio encapsulado (Adimix® Precision) (AD) e outro a base de um fitogênico (Apex® 5) (AX), associados ou não a um antibiótico promotor de crescimento (tilosina), durante as fases de crescimento e terminação, sobre o desempenho, características da carcaça e status de saúde. Foram utilizados 300 suínos machos castrados e fêmeas distribuídos em seis tratamentos em um delineamento em blocos casualizados com dez repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram em um controle negativo (CN), controle positivo (CP) (tilosina), AD (butirato de sódio encapsulado), AX (fitogênico), CP+AD (tilosina+butirato de sódio encapsulado) e CP+AX (tilosina+fitogênico). Os dados de desempenho (peso vivo, consumo diário de ração, ganho de peso médio diário e conversão alimentar) e de carcaça (peso de carcaça, espessura de toucinho, profundidade do lombo e carne magra na carcaça) foram submetidos à ANOVA seguido por teste de Tukey, e os dados de condição de saúde (ocorrência de doenças, animais eutanasiados e mortos espontaneamente) foram analisados pelo teste de χ2. Os animais do grupo AD apresentaram maior ganho de peso diário (GPD) durante o período de avaliação e maior peso vivo aos 120, 140 e 164 dias de idade, além de maior peso de carcaça em comparação aos grupos CN e CP. O tratamento AX aumentou o GPD na fase crescimento II e o peso vivo aos 120 e 140 dias de idade em relação ao CN. O grupo CP+AX apresentou maior peso final em relação aos grupos CN e CP e maior peso de carcaça em relação ao CN. Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos para espessura de toucinho, porcentagem de carne magra na carcaça e ocorrência de doenças e óbitos. A inclusão de butirato de sódio encapsulado (tratamento AD) foi efetiva no aumento de GPD, peso final e peso de carcaça em comparação à suplementação com tilosina (tratamento CP), assim como a inclusão fitogênico (tratamento AX) melhorou a conversão alimentar em comparação ao grupo CP.

Comparative Antibacterial Analysis and Synergistic Potency of the Leaf Extracts of Ocimum gratissimum Linn. and Gongronema latifolium Benth. on Some Enteric Bacterial Isolates

The research was undertaken to investigate the comparative phytochemical and in-vitro antibacterial activity of the single and combined strengths of the leaf extracts of Ocimum gratissimum Linn and Gongronema latifolium Benth. on some enteric bacterial isolates. The sensitivity test and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were carried out using a modified agar-well diffusion method. The enteric bacterial isolates tested included Escherichia coli, Shigella dysenteriae, Salmonella Typhi and Enterobacter aerogenes. Standard methods were applied to obtain the ethanol and aqueous leaf extracts. The ethanol extracts of O. gratissimum and G. latifolium produced highly significant inhibitory activity against all the enteric bacterial isolates tested. Comparatively, the ethanol plant extracts were more potent than the commercially available drug, Ciprofloxacin and the aqueous plant extracts. The isolates were sensitive at a minimum inhibitory concentration of 1.25 mg/ml for the ethanol extract but varied from 2.5 mg/ml - 5.0mg/ml in the aqueous extract. It was also observed that the synergistic antibacterial effect of the medicinal plant extracts was greater than the singular antibacterial effect of the individual plant extracts in both the ethanol and aqueous extracts. The potency of the individual extracts and the combined effect may be due to the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, tannins and saponins in the leaves of the plants. This study partly validates the use of the plant extracts in the treatment of disease caused by the enteric bacterial isolates by multiple traditional medicine practitioners in Nigeria, however, strict adherence to dosage is recommended. The leaf extract is a potential source of the new drug if the components are purified and enhanced for treating infections caused by these enteric pathogens.

Antimicrobial activity of Allium cepa and Cinnamomum zeylanicum against common bacteria causing urinary tract infections: in vitro study

Background: This study was undertaken to investigate and compare the antimicrobial effect of Onion bulbs (Allium cepa) and cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) against some common bacteria causing Urinary tract infection.Methods: Antimicrobial activity of the plant extract in different concentrations was observed. Commonly isolated bacteria from the urine samples of suspected and untreated patients which were found to be E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.Results: The comparison between zones of inhibition showed a statistically significant data of both Allium cpea and Cinnamomum zeylanicum. The antimicrobial activity of cinnamon extract showed the maximum effect against Klebsiella pneumoniae, zone of inhibition 25.50 mm±3.72 with 2±l of extract and E. coli with zone of inhibition 11.72mm±1.86. The onion (Allium cepa) extract exhibited some antimicrobial effect, it was most effective against E. coli, though the effect was minimal.Conclusions: From the current study we conclude that the extract of onion and cinnamon bark are promising but were not as effective as the conventional antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and nitrofurantoin but can be a good alternative in selected group of patient.