Evaluación del aceite de hierbaluisa ecuatoriana como inhibidor de algunos patógenos orales / Evaluation of Ecuadorian lemongrass oil as an inhibitor of some oral pathogens

Introducción: El aceite esencial de hierbaluisa tiene propiedades antibacterianas y antifúngicas que merecen ser estudiadas para usarse como alternativa a los fármacos. Objetivo: Determinar el efecto inhibitorio del aceite esencial de hierbaluisa, procedente del oriente (provincia de Pastaza) y la costa (provincia de los Ríos) ecuatoriana al 25, 50, 75 y 100 por ciento a las 24, 48 y 72 horas sobre el Porphyromona gingivalis, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus y Candida albicans. Métodos: Estudio experimental, in vitro. Para medir el efecto inhibitorio se usaron las cepas de P. gingivalis, E. faecalis, S. aureus y C. albicans incubadas en 20 cajas Petri para cada microorganismo (10 para el aceite de la costa y 10 para el oriente). En cada caja se colocaron los discos con la concentración del aceite esencial de hierbaluisa, el control positivo (clorhexidina al 0,12 por ciento para las bacterias y nistatina para C. albicans) y el control negativo (suero fisiológico). Se midieron los halos de inhibición a las 24, 48 y 72 horas. Resultados: El aceite esencial de hierbaluisa del oriente al 100 por ciento a las 24 horas obtuvo los halos de inhibición más altos que fueron de 8,90 mm para la C. albicans; 19,10 mm para el S. aureus; 11,90 mm para el E. faecalis y 8,00 mm para la P. gingivalis. Hubo una sensibilidad media para S. aureus, límite para E. faecalis y nula para C. albicans y P. gingivalis. Conclusiones: El aceite de hierbaluisa de la costa y el oriente ecuatoriano inhibió el S. aureus(AU)

Introduction: The essential oil of lemongrass has antibacterial and antifungal properties that deserve to be studied for using as an alternative to drugs. Objective: To determine the inhibitory effect of the essential oil of lemon verbena from the east (Pastaza province) and the coast (Los Rios province) of Ecuador at 25 percent, 50 percent, 75 percent and 100 percent at 24, 48 and 72 hours on Porphyromona gingivalis, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. Methods: Experimental study, in vitro. To measure the inhibitory effect, P. gingivalis, E. faecalis, S. aureus and C. albicans strains were incubated in 20 Petri dishes for each microorganism (10 for coastal oil and 10 for eastern). In each box were placed the disks with the concentration of the essential oil of lemon verbena, the positive control (chlorhexidine 0.12 percent for bacteria and nystatin for C. albicans) and the negative control (physiological serum). Inhibition halos were measured after 24, 48 and 72 hours. Results: Eastern lemongrass essential oil at 100 percent at 24 hours obtained the highest inhibition halos which were 8.90 mm for C. albicans; 19.10 mm for S. aureus; 11.90 mm for E. faecalis and 8.00 mm for P. gingivalis. There was medium sensitivity for S. aureus, borderline for E. faecalis and null for C. albicans and P. gingivalis. Conclusions: Herbal lemongrass oil from coastal and eastern Ecuador inhibited S. aureus(AU)

Chinese Medicine in Fighting against Covid-19: Role and Inspiration / 中国结合医学杂志

Covid-19 pandemic has caused hundreds of thousands deaths and millions of infections and continued spreading violently. Although researchers are racing to find or develop effective drugs or vaccines, no drugs from modern medical system have been proven effective and the high mutant rates of the virus may lead it resistant to whatever drugs or vaccines developed following modern drug development procedure. Current evidence has demonstrated impressive healing effects of several Chinese medicines (CMs) for Covid-19, which urges us to reflect on the role of CM in the era of modern medicine. Undoubtedly, CM could be promising resources for developing drug candidates for the treatment of Covid-19 in a way similar to the development of artemisinin. But the theory that builds CM, like the emphasis of driving away exogenous pathogen (virus, etc.) by restoring self-healing capacity rather than killing the pathogen directly from the inside and the 'black-box' mode of diagnosing and treating patients, is as important, yet often ignored, an treasure as CM herbs and should be incorporated into modern medicine for future advancement and innovation of medical science.

Extratos glicólicos de Pfaffia paniculata K E Juglans regia L: avaliação do potencial antimicrobiano, anti-inflamatório, citotóxico e genotóxico / Glycolic extracts of Pfaffia paniculata K and Juglans regia L: evaluation of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic and genotoxic potential

A resistência antimicrobiana atingiu proporções alarmantes em todo o mundo, sendo que na Europa mortes causadas por micro-organismos multirresistentes superam os índices de mortalidade da AIDS, tuberculose e a gripe. Assim a fitoterapia desponta no combate a esta problemática, com as diversas atividades biológicas de plantas e seus derivados. Portanto os objetivos do presente estudo foram avaliar a ação antimicrobiana, anti-inflamatória, citotoxicidade, genotoxicidade e constituição fitoquímica dos extratos glicólicos de P. paniculata e J. regia. A ação sobre bactérias anaeróbias (Porphyromonas gingivalis, P. endodontalis, Parvimonas micra e Fusobacterium nucleatum) foi realizada por meio dos testes de microdiluição em caldo (Protocolo M11-A8 - CLSI) e sobre biofilmes monotípicos. Já a ação sobre aeróbios foi realizada sobre 3 cepas de Klebsiella pneumoniae multirresistente, com testes sobre culturas planctônicas (Protocolo M7-A9) e biofilmes; Foi realizada a verificação da atividade antimicrobiana sobre biofilmes heterotípicos de Candida albicans associada a Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans ou Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A citotoxicidade e a genotoxicdade dos extratos foram avaliadas sobre macrófagos de camundongos (RAW 264.7) e queratinócitos humanos (HaCat) pelos testes de MTT e micronúcleos, respectivamente. O potencial antiinflamatório foi verificado dosando os níveis de TNF-⍺, IL-10 e IL-1ß pelo teste de ELISA. Os dados obtiveram distribuição normal sendo a análise estatística realizada por ANOVA e Tukey (p<0,05%). Os extratos de P. paniculata e J. regia promoveram CMM de 50 mg/mL para as anaeróbias. Os biofilmes de P. gingivalis e P. micra foram eliminados com 100 e 200 mg/mL dos extratos (5 min) e com as concentrações de 50 e 100 mg/mL por 24 h; F. nucleatum e P. endodontalis obtiveram reduções variando de 80 a 90%. Os biofilmes heterotípicos de C. albicans e S. mutans obtiveram reduções de até 80% após contato por 5 min. com J. regia e 71% para P. paniculata. Os biofilmes multirresistentes de K. pneumoniae obtiveram reduções na atividade metabólica de até 67,9%. P. paniculata promoveu viabilidade celular variando de 61,1% a 133,8% sobre queratinócitos humanos após 24 h de contato com as concentrações de 12,5 a 0,39 mg/mL, enquanto J. regia obteve 43,9 a 128,4% de viabilidade. Os macrófagos de camundongo obtiveram viabilidade de 18,1 a 101,9% com P. paniculata e 35,4 a 60,6% para J. regia. P. paniculata promoveu a redução nos níveis da citocina pró-inflamatória IL-1ß e aumento nos níveis da citocina antiinflamatória IL-10. Já J. regia promoveu a redução da citocina pró-inflamatória TNF-⍺. Ambos os extratos não promoveram genotoxicidade frente as linhagens celulares. A análise fitoquímica evidenciou a presença de benzofenonas e ácido cafeoilquínico nos extratos de P. paniculata e J. regia, respectivamente. Em conclusão, os extratos de P. paniculata e J. regia demonstraram ação antimicrobiana sobre bactérias aeróbias e anaeróbias e multirresistentes com destaque a eliminação dos biofilmes de P. gingivalis, P. endodontalis, P. micra e K. pneumoniae (multirresistentes). Os extratos demonstraram a ausência de toxicidade e genotoxicidade conforme tempo de aplicação e concentração utilizada, além de possuírem potencial anti-inflamatório(AU)

Antimicrobial resistance has reached alarming proportions worldwide, with deaths in Europe caused by multi-resistant microorganisms exceeding the mortality rates from AIDS, tuberculosis and influenza. Thus phytotherapy emerges in the fight against this problem, with the various biological activities of plants and their derivatives. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to evaluate the antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and phytochemical constitution of the glycolic extracts of P. paniculata and J. regia. The action on anaerobic bacteria (Porphyromonas gingivalis, P. endodontalis, Parvimonas micra and Fusobacterium nucleatum) was carried out by means of broth microdilution tests (Protocol M11-A8 - CLSI) and on monotypic biofilms. The action on aerobes was performed on 3 strains of multi-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, with tests on planktonic cultures (Protocol M7-A9) and biofilms; The verification of antimicrobial activity on heterotypic biofilms of Candida albicans associated with Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans or Pseudomonas aeruginosa was also performed. The cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the extracts were evaluated on mouse macrophages (RAW 264.7) and human keratinocytes (HaCat) by MTT and micronucleus tests, respectively. The anti-inflammatory potential was assessed by the ELISA test, TNF-⍺, IL-10 and IL-1ß levels were measured. The data obtained a normal distribution and the statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA and Tukey (p <0.05%). The extracts of P. paniculata and J. regia promoted CMM of 50 mg / mL for anaerobes. The biofilms of P. gingivalis and P. micra were eradicated with 100 and 200 mg / mL of the extracts (5 min) and with the concentrations of 50 and 100 mg / mL (24 hours); F. nucleatum and P. endodontalis obtained reductions ranging from 80 to 90%. The heterotypic biofilms of C. albicans and S. mutans obtained reductions of up to 80% after contact for 5 minutes with J. regia and 71% for P. paniculata. The multidrug-resistant strains of K. pneumoniae obtained reductions in metabolic activity of up to 67.9%. The P. paniculata extract promoted cell viability ranging from 61.1% to 133.8% on human keratinocytes after 24 h of contact with concentrations of 12.5 to 0.39 mg / mL, while J. regia obtained 43, 9 to 128.4% viability. Mouse macrophages obtained viability from 18.1 to 101.9% with P. paniculata and 35.4 to 60.6% for J. regia. P. paniculata promoted a reduction in the levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1ß and an increase in the levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. J. regia promoted the reduction of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-⍺. Both extracts did not promote genotoxicity against cell lines. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of benzophenones and caffeoylquinic acid in the extracts of P. paniculata and J. regia, respectively. In conclusion, the extracts of P. paniculata and J. regia demonstrated antimicrobial action on aerobic and anaerobic and multiresistant bacteria, with emphasis on the elimination of the biofilms of P. gingivalis, P. endodontalis and P. micra, as well as the reductions of the biofilms of K. pneumoniae multidrug-resistant. The extracts demonstrated the absence of toxicity and genotoxicity according to the time of application and concentration used, in addition to having anti-inflammatory potential(AU)

Myrciaria dubia: su potencial como adjunto en el tratamiento de enfermedad periodontal / Myrciaria dubia: its potential as adjunct in the treatment of periodontal disease

RESUMEN Introducción: El tratamiento de la enfermedad periodontal incluye la terapia mecánica, el cual se complementa con el uso de antibióticos/antisépticos, lo que podría plantear efectos adversos a largo plazo. Objetivo: Describir el potencial farmacológico del fruto de la M. dubia, y su aplicación como complemento en la terapia periodontal. Métodos: Se revisaron revistas internacionales de impacto de la Web of Science relacionadas con el tema (58 revistas). Se consultaron las bases de datos Google Académico, SciELO, PubMed y EBSCO, utilizando los descriptores: "review"; "phytotherapy"; "myrtaceae"; "gingivitis"; "periodontitis"; "periodontal diseases"; "anti-bacterial agents"; "anti-inflammatory agents"; "dental plaque"; "antioxidants"; "plants, toxic"; "adverse effects". Se obtuvo 517 artículos de los cuales 60 fueron incluidos en el estudio. El 91,7 por ciento de los artículos fueron de los últimos tres años. Integración de la información: Se expuso las propiedades y seguridad en humanos del uso de la M. dubia. Conclusiones: La M. dubia tiene actividad antimicrobiana in vitro frente a microorganismos de la biopelícula dental, siendo más sensibles el S. mutans, S. mitis y P. gingivalis al extracto hidroalcohólico de la semilla, y el S. aureus al extracto hidroalcohólico de las hojas y corteza. También se evidencia su actividad antiinflamatoria. Los hallazgos sugieren que el extracto etanólico de la M. dubia podría incorporarse en antisépticos de uso bucal, dado su potencial antibiopelícula y antiinflamatoria(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Treatment of periodontal disease includes mechanical therapy complemented with antibiotics / antiseptics, which could lead to the occurrence of long-term adverse effects. Objective: Describe the pharmacological potential of the fruit of M. dubia and its use as adjunct in periodontal therapy. Methods: A review was conducted of international high impact journals from the Web of Sciences which dealt with the topic (58 journals). The databases Google Scholar, SciELO, PubMed and EBSCO were consulted, using the descriptors "review", "phytotherapy", "Myrtaceae", "gingivitis", "periodontitis", "periodontal diseases", anti-bacterial agents", "anti-inflammatory agents", "dental plaque", "antioxidants", "plants, toxic", "adverse effects". A total 517 papers were obtained, of which 60 were included in the study. 91.7 percent of the papers had been published in the last three years. Data integration: A description was provided of the properties and safety of the use of M. dubia in humans. Conclusions: M. dubia has in vitro antimicrobial activity against dental biofilm microorganisms, particularly S. mutans, S. mitis and P. gingivalis to the seed hydroalcoholic extract, and S. aureus to the leaf and peel hydroalcoholic extract. Anti-inflammatory activity was also observed. Results suggest that M. dubia ethanolic extract could be incorporated into oral antiseptics, given its antibiofilm and anti-inflammatory potential(AU)

Infecções do trato urinário: uma revisão sobre as evidências científicas das principais plantas medicinais utilizadas na prática clínica / Urinary tract infections: a review on the scientific evidence of main medicinal plants used in clinical practice

As infecções do trato urinário (ITUs) afetam cerca de 150 milhões de pessoas por ano e caracterizam-se pela resposta do organismo a uma invasão e multiplicação bacteriana. O tratamento é realizado com antibióticos, mas, devido ao uso indiscriminado, tem-se observado o aumento de resistência bacteriana. Nesse contexto, as plantas medicinais são promissoras, pois possuem baixo custo e fácil acesso, e muitas possuem atividade antimicrobiana. Objetivou-se revisar as principais espécies utilizadas na prática clínica na prevenção e tratamento de ITUs. A utilização da fitoterapia para aliviar sintomas e diminuir a recorrência sintomática das ITUs é uma alternativa válida e promissora, destacando-se a espécie Vaccinium macrocarpon L. (cranberry). Porém, apesar dos avanços e do potencial dessas espécies, há ainda a necessidade de estudos sobre seus respectivos mecanismos de ação. Além disso, a capacitação dos profissionais de saúde para realizar uma prescrição correta, assertiva e segura é essencial.(AU)

Urinary tract infections (ITUs) affect about 150 million people each year and are characterized by the body's response to invasion and bacterial multiplication. Antibiotics are the main therapy used, but due to indiscriminate use, increased bacterial resistance has been observed. In this context, medicinal plants are a promising, low cost and easy access alternative. The aim of this study was to review the main species used in clinical practice in the prevention and treatment of UTIs. The use of herbal medicine to relieve symptoms and reduce symptomatic recurrence of UTIs is a valid and promising alternative, especially Vaccinium macrocarpon L. (cranberry) specie. However, despite the advances and potential of these species, it is necessary to establish their mechanisms of action. Still, the primary training of health professionals to make a correct, assertive and safe prescription is fundamental.(AU)

La Medicina Natural y Tradicional como tratamiento alternativo de múltiples enfermedades / Natural and Traditional Medicine as an Alternative Treatment for Several Diseases

Introducción: El origen de la Medicina Natural y Tradicional está íntimamente unido con la historia del hombre en su lucha por la supervivencia. Las diferentes modalidades de la misma ofrecen grandes potencialidades a la medicina actual. Objetivo: Describir el uso terapéutico de algunas modalidades de la medicina natural y tradicional en la actualidad. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cualitativo descriptivo mediante la técnica de revisión bibliográfica, a través del análisis, desde una visión integradora, de 40 artículos con calidad científica, publicados en los últimos 5 años, referentes a las modalidades de la Medicina Natural y Tradicional como tratamiento alternativo de múltiples enfermedades. Conclusiones: La Medicina Natural y Tradicional constituye una alternativa más de tratamiento para diferentes enfermedades. Dentro de las principales modalidades utilizadas en Cuba se encuentran: Acupuntura, fitoterapia, apiterapia, moxibuxtión, homeoterapia y ozonoterapia. Algunos de sus usos terapéuticos son: expectorantes, antihipertensivos, antifúngicos, antinflamatorios, analgésicas, estimulantes inmunológicos, sedantes, entre otros. En Cuba se aprobó un programa para su aplicación y una guía para la prescripción de productos naturales, que se convirtió en una herramienta de trabajo para el médico(AU)

Introduction: The origin of natural and traditional medicine is closely associated with the history of mankind in the struggle for survival. Its different modalities offer great potentialities to present-day medicine. Objective: To describe the therapeutic use of some modalities of natural and traditional medicine at present. Methods: A qualitative, descriptive study was carried out using the bibliographic review technique, through the analysis, from an integrating view, of 40 articles with scientific quality, published in the last five years, referring to the modalities of natural and traditional medicine as alternative treatment for multiple diseases. Conclusions: Natural and traditional medicine is another treatment alternative for different diseases. Among the main modalities used in Cuba are acupuncture, herbal medicine, apitherapy, moxibustion, homeotherapy, and ozone therapy. Some of its therapeutic uses are as expectorants, antihypertensive, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, immune stimulants, and sedatives. In Cuba, a program was approved for its application, as well as it was a guide for prescribing natural products, which became a working tool for the physician(AU)

Análise dos programas de plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) sob a perspectiva territorial / Analysis of medicinal plant and herbal medicine programs in the Unified Health System (SUS) from the territorial perspective

Resumo É expressivo o crescimento do número de programas de fitoterapia no SUS desde 2006, quando lançada a Política Nacional de Plantas Medicinais e Fitoterápicos. Como esses programas se distribuem no território e como expressam diversidades regionais? A pesquisa analisou como os usos do território condicionam a existência desses programas e como estes promovem maior sinergia técnica (saber local e saber universalizado) e política (estratégias e atores) na produção, circulação, distribuição e dispensação de plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos no sistema público de saúde. A análise envolveu referencial teórico da geografia crítica e saúde coletiva, revisão bibliográfica conceitual e temática, análise documental, levantamento de dados primários e secundários, destacando-se extenso trabalho de campo. Os resultados apontam que o crescimento dos programas foi acompanhado pela opção por fitoterápicos industrializados, concentrando-se espacialmente no Sul e Sudeste. Foram identificadas duas fases nesse processo: 1980-2008, caracterizada por ações mais horizontais ligadas a diversidades regionais; e 2008-atual, caracterizada por ações mais verticalizadas na escala nacional. Conclui-se: a Política Nacional possibilitou aumento do número de programas, mas pouco fomentou suas expressões regionais.

Abstract There has been significant growth in the number of municipal phytotherapy programs in the Unified Health System since the launch of the National Policy of Medicinal Plants in 2006. The aim of the research was to analyze how these programs are distributed throughout Brazil, how they express regional diversity and how land use can influence these programs and promote broad technical synergy (local knowledge and universal knowledge) and policy (strategy and actors) in the production, circulation, distribution and dispe sation of medicinal plants in the public health system. The analysis involved a theoretical framework of critical geography and public health, conceptual and thematic literature review, document analysis, survey of primary and secondary data along with extensive fieldwork. The results show that the growth of programs was accompanied by the choice of industrialized herbal medicines, spatially concentrated in the South and Southeast. Two phases were identified in this process: 1980-2008 characterized by horizontal actions linked to regional diversities; 2008 to the present characterized by verticalized actions on a national scale. The National Policy made it possible to increase the number of programs but did little to promote greater regional diversity.

Efeitos dos picnogenol® na doença aterosclerótica crônica / Effects of picnogenol® on chronic atherosclerosis

A doença aterosclerótica crônica (DAC) é uma condição bastante prevalente em nosso meio e uma das principais doenças cardiovasculares ligadas ao envelhecimento. Dentre as opções terapêuticas adjuvantes, o Picnogenol ®, extrato da casca do Pinus pinaster, tem sido alvo de estudo em decorrência de função antioxidante, anti-inflamatória e antiplaquetária. Este artigo é uma revisão narrativa, cujo objetivo é avaliar o uso do Picnogenol® como opção terapêutica da DAC. Os estudos incluídos foram pesquisados nas bases de dados: PubMed, Scielo, The Cochrane Library, Scopus e LILACS, sendo excluídos, considerando suas restrições para avaliação terapêutica, os relatos de caso e séries de caso com n ≤ 5. Como resultado, os estudos têm apontado vantagens do uso Picnogenol® no tratamento da DAC, assim como de outras doenças cardiovasculares, porém, o número de pesquisas ainda é pequeno (principalmente ensaios clínicos) e há importantes limitações de tamanho amostral, o que dificulta sua atual recomendação na prática clínica

Chronic atherosclerosis is a highly prevalent condition and one of the main cardiovascular diseases linked to the aging process. Among the adjuvant therapeutic options, Pycnogenol® (Pinus pinaster bark extract) has been studied because of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet functions. This article is a narrative review aimed at evaluating the use of Pycnogenol® as a therapeutic option in the treatment of chronic atherosclerosis. The studies included were obtained from the following databases: PubMed, Scielo, The Cochrane Library, Scopus and LILACS. Case reports and case series with n≤5 were excluded due to their restrictions for therapeutic evaluation. As a result, the studies have indicated advantages in the use of Pycnogenol® in the treatment of chronic atherosclerosis as well as other cardiovascular diseases. However, the number of studies is still small (particularly clinical trials), and there are important sample size limitations, which restricts its current recommendation in clinical practice

O uso da fitoterapia durante a gestação: um panorama global / The use of phytotherapy during pregnancy: a global overview

Resumo Este artigo tem como objetivo realizar uma revisão integrativa da literatura sobre a prevalência do uso da fitoterapia durante a gestação. Foi realizado um levantamento nas bases de dados SciELO, Medline e Science Direct com os descritores "herbal and pregnancy", "plant and gestation" e seus correspondentes em português: "planta e gestação"; "erva e gravidez". Dentre os artigos publicados entre 2000 e 2015, 46 estudos clínicos preencheram os critérios de inclusão e exclusão e foram selecionados para esta revisão. Destes, 11 foram realizados na Europa, 10 na Ásia, 5 na África, 3 na Oceania, 16 na América e, apenas um, foi de caráter multinacional. Na maioria dos estudos (67,39%) o método utilizado foi o de entrevista. A prevalência do uso da fitoterapia descrita nas publicações foi muito variável. Ademais, a camomila, o gengibre, o alho, a menta e a equinácea foram as espécies mais utilizadas pelas gestantes. Os dados mostram que o uso da fitoterapia durante a gestação é uma prática disseminada entre mulheres de todo o mundo, independentemente das variáveis socioeconômicas e étnico-culturais que eventualmente possam distingui-las.

Abstract The scope of this study is to present an integrative review of the prevalence of the use of phytotherapy during pregnancy. A review of the topic was made by research in the Scielo, Medline and Science Direct databases using the following key words: "herbs and pregnancy," "plant and gestation," with their respective terms in Portuguese. Forty-six articles published between 2000 and 2015 met the study's inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in this review. Of these, 11 were carried out in Europe, 10 in Asia, 5 in Africa, 3 in Oceania, 16 in America and only one of which was a multinational study. In most of these (67.39%), the interview method was used. A substantial variability in the prevalence of phytotherapy use was reported in the articles. In addition, camomile, ginger, garlic, mint and echinacea were the species most used by pregnant women. Despite the socioeconomic and ethnic-cultural variables among women worldwide, phytotherapy use during gestation is a widespread practice.

Efeito do chá de uxi (Endopleura uchi) na esteatose hepática / Effect of Uxi (Endopleura uchi) tea in hepatic steatosis

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito da Endopleura uchi na esteatose hepática não alcoólica em ratos obesos. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada a indução da dislipidemia por meio do tratamento com ração à base de banha de porco. Foram utilizados 12 ratos machos pesando, em média, 250g. Esses animais foram divididos em dois grupos, com seis animais cada, formando o Grupo Controle e o Grupo Uxi, tratado com Endopleura uchi. Foram analisados ganho de massa corporal, consumo de ração, concentração plasmática de colesterol, triglicerídeos, HDL-c, LDL-c, VLDL, glicose, TGO e TGP. RESULTADOS: Os grupos que consumiram o chá de uxi tiveram redução significativa no ganho de massa corporal (75,9%), bem como na esteatose macro e microvesicular, sendo observada diminuição de 50% do grau da esteatose do grupo que ingeriu o chá de uxi. Além disso, nossos resultados também apresentaram redução da balonização hepatocelular e do infiltrado inflamatório, além do grau de fibrose presente em alguns casos. CONCLUSÃO: O chá de Endopleura uchi não alterou significativamente as concentrações das aminotransferases, mas reduziu significativamente os parâmetros histológicos relacionados à esteatose não alcoólica, além de redução no colesterol total, LDL.(AU)

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of "Endopleura uchi" in nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis in obese mice. METHODS: The induction of dyslipidemia was performed through treatment with a pork lard-based diet. Twelve male rats weighing 250 g on average were used. These animals were divided into 2 groups of 6 animals each, forming the Control Group and the Uxi group, treated with Endopleura uchi. The body mass gain, feed intake, plasma concentration of cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-C, LDL-C, VLDL, glucose, AST, and GTP were analyzed. RESULTS: The groups using Uxi tea had a significant reduction in body mass gain (75.9 %), and a reduction in macro- and microvesicular steatosis, with a 50% reduction in the degree of steatosis being observed in the group that ingested Uxi tea. Furthermore, our results also showed a reduction in hepatocellular ballooning and inflammatory infiltrate, and in the degree of fibrosis present in some cases. CONCLUSION: The tea "Endopleura uchi" did not significantly alter the concentrations of aminotransferases; but it reduced the histological parameters related to nonalcoholic steatosis significantly, and reduced total cholesterol, LDL.(AU)

Influence of Acrylic Resin Denture Base Soaking Length in Siwak Extract Solution (Salvadora persica) on the Growth of Candida albicans

Objective: To know the influence of immersion length of denture base of acrylic resin in Siwak solution (Salvadora persica) on Candida albicans growth. Material and Methods: This type of research is laboratory experimental. The Siwak plant (Salvadora persica) was extracted and 1% solution was formed. The media used were Sabouraud Dextrose Broth (SDB) and Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA). Candida albicans was cultured as 1 dose in 100 ml of SDB medium, and then incubated at shaker rotation for 1x24 hours. The concentration chosen to test the effectiveness of siwak extract solution was 1%, 10%, 15% and 25%. Data were presented as mean ± SD. Results: Zone of 6 hours Siwak extract immersion inhibitor by 43.47 ± 0.35, 8 hours to know the influence of immersion length of denture base of acrylic resin in Siwak solution (Salvadora persica) on candida albicans growth 44.42 ± 0.02, 10 hours of 52.79 ± 0.03. Conclusion: There is a difference of immersion length of denture base of acrylic resin on Candida albicans growth in Siwak extract solution (Salvadora persica).

Plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos na Atenção Primária em Saúde: percepção dos profissionais / Medicinal plants and herbal medicines in Primary Health Care: the perception of the professionals

Resumo O Ministério da Saúde através da Política Nacional de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares (PNPIC) incentiva a oferta de Acupuntura, Homeopatia, Fitoterapia, Medicina Antroposófica e Termalismo no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Este estudo avaliou o perfil de prescrição/sugestão e credibilidade no uso de plantas medicinais e fitoterápicos como terapia complementar entre 157 profissionais de 66 equipes da Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) do município de Blumenau. A coleta de dados foi realizada entre abril de 2014 e fevereiro de 2015, utilizando um questionário semiestruturado em uma amostra composta por 42 (26,8%) médicos, 40 (25,5%) enfermeiros, 66 (42%) técnicos de enfermagem, 05 (3,2%) odontólogos e 04 (2,5%) técnicos de saúde bucal. As associações entre variáveis foram verificadas através da análise bivariada pelo teste Qui-Quadrado ou teste Exato de Fisher. Apesar de 65,6% dos entrevistados relatarem conhecer a PNPIC, a presença de fitoterápicos na Relação Nacional de Medicamentos Essenciais era desconhecida por 85,4%. A maioria (96,2%) dos profissionais acredita no efeito terapêutico das plantas medicinais, mas não prescrevem. No entanto, 98,7% dos entrevistados concordam com a iniciativa de ofertar esta prática integrativa e complementar no SUS após uma capacitação na área.

Abstract The Ministry of Health through the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices (PNPIC) encourages the offer of Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Herbal Medicine, Hydrotherapy and Anthroposophical Medicine in the Unified Health System (SUS). This study evaluated the profile for the prescription/suggestion and credibility of herbal medicine usage as complementary therapy among the 157 professionals from the 66 Family Health Strategy (FHS) teams in Blumenau city. Data collection was conducted between the years of 2014 and 2015 through a semi-structured questionnaire applied to a sample comprised of 42 (26.8%) physicians, 40 (25.5%) nurses, 66 (42%) nursing technicians, 5 (3.2%) dentists and 4 (2.5%) oral health technicians. Bivariate associations were assessed using the Chi-Square test or Fisher's exact test for variables. Despite 65.6% of respondents being aware of the existence of the PNPIC, the presence of herbal medicines on the National List of Medicines was unknown by 85.4%. The majority (96.2%) of the professionals believe in the therapeutic effects of medicinal plants but do not prescribe this medicine. However, 98.7% agreed with the initiative to offer this complementary and integrative practice through SUS after training in the area.

Prevenção do câncer do colo uterino de quilombolas à luz da teoria de Leininger / Prevención del cáncer de cuello uterino de quilombolas a la luz de la teoría de Leininger / Cervical cancer prevention among quilombola women in the light of Leininger's theory

Resumo OBJETIVO Discutir as práticas de prevenção do câncer do colo do útero de mulheres quilombolas. MÉTODO Estudo qualitativo, realizado em 2014 com vinte mulheres de uma comunidade quilombola, localizada na Bahia. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevista semiestruturada e analisados através da etnoenfermagem. RESULTADOS As quilombolas apontaram como práticas preventivas para o câncer do colo uterino o cuidado cultural, através do uso de plantas medicinais, e o cuidado profissional, caracterizado pela realização do Papanicolau. Contudo, uma maioria de mulheres não realizavam prevenção. CONCLUSÃO Questões de ordem social, cultural e de acesso relacionam-se com as práticas preventivas para o câncer do colo uterino de quilombolas. Assim, torna-se imprescindível um planejamento de cuidados congruentes com a realidade dessas mulheres.

Resumen OBJETIVO Discutir las prácticas de prevención del cáncer de cuello de útero de mujeres quilombolas. MÉTODO Estudio cualitativo, realizado en 2014 con veinte mujeres de una comunidad quilombola, localizada en Bahía. Los datos fueron recolectados por medio de entrevista semiestructurada y analizados a través de la etnoenfermería. RESULTADOS Las quilombolas apuntaron como prácticas preventivas para el cáncer de cuello uterino el cuidado cultural a través del uso de plantas medicinales y el cuidado profesional, caracterizado por la realización del Papanicolau. Sin embargo, la mayoría de las mujeres no realizaron prevención. CONCLUSIÓN Cuestiones de orden social, cultural y de acceso se relaciona con las prácticas preventivas para el cáncer de cuello uterino de quilombolas. Así que se torna imprescindible un planeamiento de cuidados congruentes con la realidad de esas mujeres.

Abstract OBJECTIVE Our purpose was to discuss practices of cervical cancer prevention among Quilombola Women. METHOD This study used, in 2014, a qualitative research approach aiming twenty women from a quilombola community (people who live in quilombos, descendants of Afro-Brazilian slaves), which is located in Bahia. A semi-structured interview was developed by researchers in order to collect data. The Ethno-nursing Research method was used to analyze the data. RESULTS The use of cultural care through medicinal plants, and the nursing professional care (Pap Smear exam procedure) were stated by Quilombola women as serving as prevention practices against cervical cancer. However, most women stated that they did not use any prevention practices. CONCLUSION Social, cultural and health access issues are practices that are linked to the cervical cancer prevention among Quilombola Women. Therefore, it is indispensable to create an appropriate care plan for Quilombola women's reality.

Phytotherapy in pediatrics: the production of knowledge and practices in Primary Care / Fitoterapia en pediatría: la producción de saberes y prácticas en la Atención Básica / Fitoterapia em pediatria: a produção de saberes e práticas na Atenção Básica

ABSTRACT Objective: To demonstrate the use of phytotherapy as a therapy adopted in the context of Primary Care to Childhood. Method: Observational and analytical field research, with quantitative-qualitative approach. A semi-structured survey was used on socio-demographic and ethnopharmacological variables, audio interview and daily observation. Results: The production of knowledge about phytotherapy constitutes a family heritage, but incorporated data resulting from the daily experiences shared by the community. The main factors were: easy access to this resource, high costs of conventional treatment, difficulty in accessing medical services and belief in the power of plants. The attributed meanings were: prevention and treatment of injuries, rescue of memory and of experiences, factor integrative with nature and aggregative among members of the community. Final considerations: Rescuing this tradition brings a new meaning to health care.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evidenciar el uso de la fitoterapia como terapia adoptada en el contexto de la Atención Básica a la Infancia. Método: Investigación analítica y de campo observacional, con abordaje cuantitativo-cualitativo. Se utilizó un cuestionario semiestructurado relativo a las variables socio-demográficas y etnofarmacológicas, entrevista grabada en audio y observación en el cotidiano. Resultados: La producción de conocimiento sobre la fitoterapia se constituye en una herencia familiar, pero ha incorporado los datos resultantes de las experiencias cotidianas compartidas por la comunidad. Los factores mantenedores de estas prácticas fueron: fácil acceso a ese recurso, altos costos del tratamiento convencional, dificultad de acceso a los servicios médicos creencia en el poder de las plantas. Los sentidos atribuidos fueron: prevención y tratamiento de agravios, rescate de la memoria y de vivencias, factor integrativo con la naturaleza y agregativo entre los miembros de la comunidad. Consideraciones finales: Rescatar esta tradición trae un nuevo sentido a los cuidados de salud.

RESUMO Objetivo: Evidenciar o uso da fitoterapia como terapêutica adotada no contexto da Atenção Básica à Infância. Método: Pesquisa de campo observacional e analítica, com abordagem quantitativo-qualitativa. Utilizou-se questionário semiestruturado relativo às variáveis socio-demográficas e etnofarmacológicas, entrevista gravada em áudio e observação no cotidiano. Resultados: A produção de conhecimento sobre a fitoterapia constitui-se numa herança familiar, mas incorporou dados resultantes das experiências cotidianas compartilhadas pela comunidade. Os fatores mantenedores dessas práticas foram: fácil acesso a esse recurso, altos custos do tratamento convencional, dificuldade de acesso a serviços médicos e crença no poder das plantas. Os sentidos atribuídos foram: prevenção e tratamento de agravos, resgate da memória e de vivências, fator integrativo com a natureza e agregativo entre membros da comunidade. Considerações finais: Resgatar essa tradição traz um novo sentido aos cuidados de saúde.

Utilização de plantas medicinais como remédio caseiro na Atenção Primária em Blumenau, Santa Catarina, Brasil / Use of medicinal plants as home remedies in Primary Health Care in Blumenau - State of Santa Catarina, Brazil

Resumo Na última década foi observado um aumento no uso de práticas terapêuticas alternativas apoiadas por políticas no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), em particular o uso de plantas medicinais e de fitoterápicos. Este estudo investigou o uso de remédios caseiros pelos usuários da Atenção Primária da Saúde do município de Blumenau, em Santa Catarina. Estudo epidemiológico observacional seccional, cujos dados foram obtidos através de questionário aplicado a 701 indivíduos. Utilizou-se um modelo de regressão logística não condicional para estimar a associação entre uso de remédios caseiros e variáveis sociodemográficas e médicoassistenciais. Observou-se que 21,9% dos entrevistados utilizaram remédios caseiros, sendo as plantas medicinais obtidas no quintal das casas a principal escolha. Como as mais citadas destacaram-se erva-cidreira, camomila, hortelã e limão. O uso de remédios caseiros se mostrou associado ao sexo feminino, à idade mais avançada e à modalidade de serviço, Estratégia Saúde da Família. Os resultados mostraram que as plantas medicinais são utilizadas como alternativa terapêutica. Entretanto, é necessário que os serviços de atenção primária garantam o acesso aos produtos naturais, bem como profissionais qualificados capazes de fornecer orientações sobre sua utilização.

Abstract An increase in the use of alternative therapeutic practices has been observed in the past decade, especially in medicinal plants, herbal and home remedies, which has been supported by policies within the scope of the Unified Health System (SUS). This study investigated the use of home remedies by users of Primary Health Care in Blumenau, State of Santa Catarina. It is a cross-sectional, observational and epidemiological study, the data for which were obtained via a questionnaire applied to 701 individuals. An unconditional logistic regression model was used to estimate the association between the use of home remedies and socio-demographic and medical care variables. It was observed that 21.9% of the sample use home remedies and medicinal plants grown in the back yard are the remedies of choice. Lemon balm, chamomile, peppermint and lime were the remedies most frequently mentioned. The use of home remedies was associated with the female gender, older age and the Family Health Strategy care model. The results supported that medicinal plants are used by the population as a therapeutic alternative option. However, it is necessary that primary care services ensure both access to natural products and supply qualified professionals to give instructions regarding the correct usage of home remedies.

Mast cell concentration and skin wound contraction in rats treated with Ximenia americana L

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate wound contraction and the concentration of mast cells in skin wounds treated with wild plum (Ximenia americana) essential oil-based ointment in rats. Methods: Sixty rats were submitted to two cutaneous wounds in the thoracic region, on the right and left antimeres. Thereon, they were divided into three groups: GX (wounds treated once a day with hydro alcoholic branch extract of Ximenia americana), GP (wounds that received vehicle), and GC (wounds without product application). Wounds were measured immediately after the injury as well as 4, 7, 14 and 21 days post-topical application of the extract. At these days, five rats from each group were euthanatized. Thereafter, samples were fixed in 10% formaldehyde and processed for paraffin embedding. Sections were stained with H.E, Masson's Trichrome and toluidine blue for morphological, morphometrical and histopathological analysis, under light microscopy. The degree of epithelial contraction was measured and mast cell concentrations were also evaluated with an image analyzer (Image Pro-plus®software) . Results: The extract treated group showed lower mast cell concentrations in the 4th day of lesion, as compared to GP (GX<GP=GC, p=0.029), as well as with increased contraction at 7th and 14th days, respectively (7th and 14th days, GX > GP = GC; p<0.05) . Conclusion: Ointment containing 10% X. americana induces a decrease in mast cell concentration, at the beginning of the healing process, and promotes early skin wound contraction in rats.

Effects of ceramic garments on 10-km running performance

Aims: The use of electromagnetic waves by phototherapy to skeletal muscle presents potential ergogenic effects. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of using bioceramic clothes on performance, heart rate (HR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) during a 10 km race. Our hypothesis is that the use of such clothes modifies these variables. Methods: Participants were 10 runners (27.9 ± 4.2 years) who performed two 10 km performances on track under different intervention conditions: bioceramic garments (CER) and placebo garments (PLA). The mean velocity (MV), HR and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were monitored at each trial. Additionally, partial MV was calculated in three phases: (1) start (first 400 m), (2) middle (400-9600 m) and (3) end (last 400 m). Results: MV in CER condition was significantly higher than in PLA condition (11.8 ± 1.0 km·h-1 vs 11.4 ± 1.2 km·h-1; F = 6.200; P = 0.034; ŋp² = 0.408). HR and RPE values in CER condition were not different from PLA condition. Conclusions Our main finding was that the use of bioceramic clothes (CER) increased MV when compared to the PLA condition. Based on these results, bioceramic may be used as an ergogenic resource to increase performance.(AU)

Effects of herbal medicine Sijunzi decoction on rabbits after relieving intestinal obstruction

Intestinal obstruction leads to blockage of the movement of intestinal contents. After relieving the obstruction, patients might still suffer with compromised immune function and nutritional deficiency. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Sijunzi decoction on restoring the immune function and nutritional status after relieving the obstruction. Experimental rabbits (2.5±0.2 kg) were randomly divided into normal control group, 2-day intestinal obstruction group, 2-day natural recovery group, 4-day natural recovery group, 2-day treated group, and 4-day treated group. Sijunzi decoction was given twice a day to the treated groups. The concentration of markers was analyzed to evaluate the immune function and nutritional status. The concentration of interleukin-2, immunoglobulins and complement components of the treated groups were significantly higher than the natural recovery group (P<0.05). The levels of CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ increased then decreased in the treated groups. The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and CD8+ were significantly lower than the natural recovery group. The level of total protein in the treated groups also increased then decreased after relieving the obstruction. The levels of albumin, prealbumin and insulin-like growth factor-1 were significantly higher in the treated groups than in the natural recovery group (P<0.05). Transferrin level in the treated groups was significantly higher than the obstruction group (P<0.05). Sijunzi decoction can lessen the inflammatory response and improve the nutrition absorption after relieving the obstruction.

Total phenolic, flavonoid, alkaloid and iridoid content and preventive effect of Lider-7-tang on lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in rats

Lider-7-tang, a medicine used for the treatment of respiratory diseases especially pneumonia and fever in Mongolian Traditional Medicine, was selected for this phytochemical and pharmacological study. The objectives of the study were to determine total biological active substances and analyze the effects of Lider-7-tang treatment in rats with acute lung injury (ALI). Quantitative determination of the total active constituents (phenolic, flavonoid, iridoid and alkaloid) of the methanol extract of Lider-7-tang was performed using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, aluminum chloride reagent, Trim-Hill reagent, and Bromocresol green reagent, respectively. A total of fifty 8-10-week-old male Wistar rats (200-240 g) were randomized into three groups: control group, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) group (7.5 mg/kg) and LPS+Lider-7 group (90 mg/kg Lider-7-tang before LPS administration). The total content of alkaloids was 0.2±0.043%, total phenols 7.8±0.67%, flavonoids 3.12±0.206%, and iridoids 0.308±0.0095%. This study also evaluated the effects of Lider-7 on levels of inflammatory mediators by observing histopathological features associated with LPS-induced ALI. The rats pretreated with Lider-7 had significantly lower levels of IL-6 (at 3 and 6 h), and TNF-α (at 3, 6, 9, and 12 h). The current study showed that Lider-7 exerted a preventive effect against LPS-induced ALI, which appeared to be mediated by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.