Radioprotective Effect of Nigella Sativa Oil on Heart Tissues of Rats Exposed to Irradition

Abstract Background Various studies are ongoing related to the radioprotective agents. Herbal preparations are currently becoming popular because of their beneficial effects with fewer side effects compared to the synthetic/semi-synthetic medicines, and Nigella sativa oil (NSO) is only one of them. Objective To investigate NSO for its antioxidant effects on the heart tissue of rats exposed to ionizing radiation (IR). Methods Thirty six male albino Wistar rats, divided into four groups, were designated to group I (IR plus NSO group) that received both 5 Gray of gamma IR to total cranium and NSO; group II (IR alone group) that received IR plus saline, group III (control group of NSO) that received saline and did not receive NSO or IR; group IV (control group) that received only sham IR. Alterations in Total antioxidant status (TAS) and Total oxidant status (TOS), Oxidative stres index (OSI), Sulhydryl group (SH), Lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH), Paraoxonase (PON) levels, Arylesterase (ARE) and Ceruloplasmin (CER) activities in homogenized heart tissue of rats were measured by biochemical methods. Results In heart tissue of the rats in the IR alone group (group II) LOOH, TOS and OSI levels were found to be higher, ARE activity and TAS level were found to be lower than all of the other groups (p < 0.01). These results also support that IR increases oxidative stress and NSO's protective effect. Conclusion NSO would reduce the oxidative damage in the irradiated heart tissue in the experimental rat model.

Qualitative and quantitative analyses of Tripterygium hypoglaucum in Yinning Tablets, a compound traditional Chinese herbal preparation / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To conduct qualitative and quantitative analyses of Tripterygium hypoglaucum in Yinning Tablets, a compound preparation of traditional Chinese herbal medicine.@*METHODS@#Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was used for qualitative analysis of Tripterygium hypoglaucum in Yining Tablets and the analytical protocols were optimized. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to quantitatively analyze the content of triptolide (the main active ingredient of Tripterygium hypoglaucum) in Yinning Tablets.@*RESULTS@#The results of TLC analysis showed that the test sample of Yinning Tablets and the positive control samples both produced clear, well separated spots without obvious interference in the blank samples. Assessment of the influences of the thin-layer plates from different manufacturers, temperature and humidity on the test results demonstrated good durability of the test. HPLC analysis of triptolide showed a good linear relationship within the concentration range of 1-100 μg/mL (regression equation: A=22.219C-19.165, r=0.9999); the contents of triptolide in 3 batches of Yinning tablets were 0.34, 0.34, and 0.28 μg per tablet, all within the range of 0.28-0.34 μg per tablet. It was finally determined that each Yinning tablet should not contain more than 0.6 μg of triptolide.@*CONCLUSION@#TLC and HPLC are simple, accurate, durable and specific for qualitative and quantitative analyses of Tripterygium hypoglaucum in Yinning Tablets.

Jugos de fruta y productos herbáceos como perpetradores de interacciones farmacocinéticas mediadas por enzimas metabolizadoras y transportadores de membrana. Relevancia en clínica / Pharmacokinetic interactions of fruit juices and herbal preparations

Drug disposition in the human body is strongly influenced by transporters and metabolizing enzymes expressed in key organs including intestine, liver and kidney. Since drugs and chemicals present in foods such as fruit juices and herb-based products are substrates of the above-mentioned proteins, there is a high probability of pharmacokinetic interactions. Findings from preclinical and clinical studies helped to characterize the mechanisms by which the components of fruit juices and herbs act as perpetrators of pharmacokinetic interactions. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of pharmacokinetic fruit juice- and herb-drug interactions that could be relevant in the clinical setting.

Estratégias terapêuticas e atualizações no tratamento de vitiligo / Therapeutic strategies and updates for treatment of vitiligo

O vitiligo é uma desordem dermatológica complexa, cuja patogênese ainda não é totalmente esclarecida. Apesar de não apresentar complicações funcionais no organismo dos pacientes acometidos, o vitiligo pode resultar em um grande impacto psicossocial. Desse modo, é importante que os médicos saibam como conduzir o tratamento dessa patologia. O objetivo deste estudo foi documentar as terapias disponíveis para o tratamento do vitiligo, assim como apontar pesquisas que relataram a utilização dessas opções terapêuticas e os dados resultantes. As terapias abordadas foram corticoides tópicos e sistêmicos, fototerapia e fotoquimioterapias, antioxidantes, imunomoduladores, fenilalanina, despigmentação, procedimentos cirúrgicos e novas abordagens. A monoterapia parece ser menos eficaz no tratamento do vitiligo. A associação de medicação tópica e/ou sistêmica com o uso da fototerapia ultravioleta B de banda estreita parece ser o padrão-ouro para a repigmentação da pele dos pacientes. Medicamentos novos estão em estudo, porém sua eficácia e o estudo dos possíveis efeitos colaterais, principalmente a longo prazo, têm que ser melhores investigados. É necessário que o médico dermatologista, em conjunto com o paciente, escolha a melhor terapia dentre as disponíveis, de acordo com critérios clínicos e a possibilidade de acesso ao tratamento pelo portador. O acompanhamento e a abordagem por uma equipe multiprofissional também são importantes. (AU)

Vitiligo is a complex dermatological disorder, whose pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. Although it does not present functional complications in the affected patients' body, vitiligo can result in a great psychosocial impact. Therefore, it is important that physicians know how to conduct its treatment. This study aimed at documenting the available therapies for the treatment of vitiligo, as well as pointing out studies reporting the use of these therapeutic options and their resulting data. The therapies addressed were topical and systemic corticosteroids, phototherapy, and photochemotherapies, antioxidants, immunomodulators, phenylalanine, depigmentation, surgical procedures, and new approaches. Monotherapy appears to be less effective in the treatment of vitiligo. The combination of topical and/or systemic medication with the use of narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy seems to be the gold standard for the patients' skin repigmentation. New drugs are under study, but their effectiveness and study of possible side effects, especially in the long run, have to be better investigated. It is necessary that the dermatologist, together with the patient, choose the best therapy among those available, according to clinical criteria and the possibility of access to treatment by the patient. Monitoring and approach by a multiprofessional team is also important. (AU)

Potential of Malawi's medicinal plants in Covid-19 disease management: A review

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has triggered an international pandemic that has led to significant public health problems. To date, limited evidence exists to suggest that drugs are effective against the disease. As possible treatments are being investigated, herbal medicines have shown potential for producing novel antiviral agents for the COVID-19 disease. Aim This review explored the potential of Malawi's traditional medicinal plants for the management of COVID-19. Methods:The authors searched on PubMed and Google scholar for medicinal plants that are used in Malawi and published in openly available peer reviewed journals. Plants linked with antiviral treatment, anti-COVID-19 activity or COVID-19 symptoms management were targeted. These included activity against pneumonia, inflammation, cough, difficulty in breathing, pain/aches, fever, diarrhoea, rheumatism, fatigue, asthma, immunocompromised and cardiovascular diseases.Results:11 studies were found with 306 plant species. 127 plant species had at least one COVID-19 related pharmacological activity. Of these plant species, the number of herbal entities used for each indication was: pain/aches (87), fever (2), pneumonia (9), breathing/asthma problems (5), coughing (11), diarrhoea (1), immunosuppression (8), blood issues (10), fatigue (2), heart problems (11), inflammation (8), rheumatism (10) and viral diseases (12). Thirty (30) species were used for more than one disease and Azedarachta indica topped the list (6 of the 13 COVID-19 related diseases). The majority of the species had phytochemicals known to have antiviral activity or mechanisms of actions linked to COVID-19 and consequent diseases' treatment pathways.Conclusion:Medicinal plants are a promising source of compounds that can be used for drug development of COVID-19 related diseases. This review highlights potential targets for the World Health Organization and other research entities to explore in order to assist in controlling the pandemic.

Antiulcerogenic effects of selected African nightshades (Solanum nigrum Linn. ) genotypes on the rat stomach: a morphologic and morphometric study / Efectos antiulcerogénicos de genotipos seleccionados de solanáceas Africanas (Solanum nigrum Linn. m) en el estómago de ratas: un estudio morfológico y morfométrico

Solanum nigrum (SLN), commonly known as African nightshade, is used as a vegetable as well as in the management and treatment of various ailments including gastric ulcers. We analyzed, both grossly and microscopically using H&E, Masson's trichrome and PSA staining methods, the protective effects of aqueous leaf extracts of three Kenyan SLN genotypes namely S. scabrum (SSB), S. sarrachoides (SSR) and S. villosum (SVL) on ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats. There was evidence of gastro-protection by all the three genotypes with the SSB showing the highest ulcer inhibition score (76.37 %) followed by SSR (72.51 %) and SVL (63.30 %). SLN-pretreated rats showed less areas of gastric mucosal surface erosion. Additionally in the pretreated animals, the depth of the ulcers were markedly reduced, reaching only the gastric pit region except in those treated with SVL where the ulcers penetrated slightly more deeply to affect the gastric glands. Compared with controls, the mean microscopic ulcer index decreased 5.07, 3.55 and 2.37-fold in rats pretreated with SSB, SSR and SVL extracts respectively. Results of this work show extracts of the three SLN genotypes to have antiulcerogenic potential but at varied strengths, thus confirming earlier reports that phytoconstituents and hence the efficacy of a medicinal plant may be influenced by genetic factors.

Solanum nigrum (SLN), comúnmente conocida como la solanácea africana, se usa como vegetal, para el tratamiento de diversas dolencias incluyendo las úlceras gástricas. Analizamos de forma macro y microscópica, de forma macroscópica y microscópica, utilizando para ello tinciones de H&E, tricrómico de Masson y PSA los efectos protectores de extractos acuosos de hojas de tres genotipos SLN de Kenia: S. scabrum (SSB), S. sarrachoides (SSR) and S. villosum (SVL) en lesiones gástricas inducidas por etanol en ratas. Hubo evidencia de gastroprotección por parte de los tres genotipos con el SSB mostrando el puntaje más alto de inhibición de la úlcera (76,37 %) seguido de SSR (72,51 %) y SVL (63,30 %). Las ratas tratadas previamente con SLN mostraron menos áreas de erosión de la superficie de la mucosa gástrica. Además, en los animales pretratados, la profundidad de las úlceras se redujo notablemente, llegando solo a la región del fondo gástrico, excepto en aquellos tratados con SVL donde las úlceras penetraron un poco más profundamente para afectar las glándulas gástricas. En comparación con los controles, el índice medio de úlcera microscópica disminuyó 5,07, 3,55 y 2,37 veces en ratas pretratadas con extractos de SSB, SSR y SVL, respectivamente. Los resultados de este trabajo muestran que los extractos de los tres genotipos de SLN tienen potencial antiulcerogénico en diferentes concentraciones, lo que confirma informes anteriores que los fitoconstituyentes y la eficacia de una planta medicinal pueden estar influenciados por factores genéticos.

Evaluación de la calidad microbiológica de productos naturales procesados de uso medicinal comercializados en Quito, Ecuador / Evaluation of the microbiological quality of natural processed products for medicinal use marketed in Quito, Ecuador

RESUMEN Objetivos: Determinar la calidad microbiológica de una muestra de productos naturales procesados de uso medicinal de libre comercio en Quito, Ecuador. Materiales y métodos: 83 productos se sometieron a recuentos de microorganismos aerobios, mohos y levaduras por técnicas convencionales estandarizadas, de acuerdo a la Farmacopea de los Estados Unidos (USP, por sus siglas en inglés). Se identificaron los microorganismos presentes y se determinó su sensibilidad antimicrobiana usando el método de difusión en agar. Resultados: El 17,0% de los jarabes, el 27,0% de los productos tópicos y el 43,0% de los sólidos orales excedieron los límites especificados para el recuento total de microorganismos aerobios, mientras que el 33,0% de los jarabes, el 7,0% de los productos tópicos y el 36,0% de los sólidos orales excedieron el límite para mohos y levaduras. Los productos de uso ocular no pasaron la prueba de esterilidad. El género bacteriano más frecuentemente aislado fue Bacillus, seguido por Escherichia coli, Klebsiella y Enterobacter. Salmonella ni Staphylococcus aureus se encontraron en ningún producto, pero microorganismos potencialmente patógenos como Pseudomonas se aislaron en el 40,0% de los colirios. Enterobacter y Escherichia coli mostraron resistencia a múltiples compuestos y Pseudomonas no fue resistente a ningún antibiótico. Conclusiones: La calidad microbiológica de los productos examinados no fue adecuada. Se aislaron microorganismos potencialmente patógenos y resistentes a antibióticos. Estos productos podrían no ser aptos para su distribución y consumo, aun cuando muchos de ellos cuenten con registro sanitario. El control y regulación por los entes responsables es indispensable.

ABSTRACT Objectives: To determine the microbiological quality of samples from processed natural products used for medicinal purposes and marketed in Quito, Ecuador. Materials and methods: Aerobic microorganisms, molds and yeasts were counted by conventional standardized techniques, according to the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP), in samples from 83 products. The microorganisms found were identified and their antimicrobial sensitivity was determined using the agar diffusion method. Results: The total aerobic microorganism count exceeded the specified limits in 17.0% of syrups, 27.0% of topical products and 43.0% of oral solids; the molds and yeasts count exceeded the limit in 33.0% of syrups, 7.0% of topical products and 36.0% of oral solids. Products for eye use did not pass the sterility test. The most frequently isolated bacterial genus was Bacillus, followed by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella and Enterobacter. Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus were not found in any product, but potentially pathogenic microorganisms such as Pseudomonas were isolated in 40.0% of the eye drops. Enterobacter and Escherichia coli showed resistance to multiple compounds and Pseudomonas was not resistant to any antibiotic. Conclusions: The microbiological quality of the products examined was not adequate. Potentially pathogenic and antibiotic resistant microorganisms were isolated from the samples. These products may not be suitable for distribution and consumption, even though many of them have sanitary registration. Control and regulation by the corresponding authorities is essential.

Prescription to reduce heart palpitations, a mid-18th century prescription in the New Kingdom of Granada / Formulación para reducir las palpitaciones cardiacas, una receta médica de mediados del siglo xviii en el Nuevo Reino de Granada

Abstract The human being, throughout history, has used plants to prevent and cure diseases. It is important to know that for a long time, the mechanism through which those plants worked was unknown, making herbal medicine a purely empirical science. Medical prescriptions in the 19th century in the Kingdom of Nueva Granada were considered a significant medical advance as a result of knowledge and medical practices in the old continent. Medical literature of the time achieved, despite the lack of studies, the development of new schemes with exact dosages and new therapeutic possibilities. The medical prescription presented in this article was used in the management of heart palpitations, a frequent symptom nowadays, described as thoracic and/or neck beating, underlying various cardiac and non-cardiac diseases. The recipe for the palpitations of the historical archive "Cipriano Rodríguez Santa María" is a mixture of herbal agents that, as reviewed in the medical literature, showed to have anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and antioxidant effects, among others, allowing a beneficial effect on cardiac palpitations. Due to the lack of information on the posology, safety in its use, contraindications, and possible adverse effects, its potential use should have been underestimated at that time for the control of palpitations or as phytochemical agents directed to treat diseases causing this symptom.

Resumen A lo largo de la historia, el ser humano ha utilizado plantas para prevenir, aliviar y curar enfermedades. Cabe destacar que durante mucho tiempo se desconoció el mecanismo por el cual su uso era beneficioso, lo que hacía de la fitoterapia una ciencia netamente empírica. Las recetas médicas eran consideradas un avance médico significativo, resultado de conocimientos y prácticas traídas desde el viejo continente. Pese a la carencia de estudios locales, la literatura médica de la época permitió utilizar la biodiversidad de América para el desarrollo, investigación y uso de nuevos esquemas fitoterapéuticos con dosificaciones establecidas e indicaciones de uso, incluso un lugar específico de dispensación, ampliando aún más las posibilidades terapéuticas. La receta médica que se expone en este artículo era empleada en el manejo de las palpitaciones cardiacas, síntoma frecuente aún en la actualidad, descrito como golpes en tórax y/o cuello, subyacente en diversas enfermedades cardiacas y no cardiacas. La receta para las palpitaciones del archivo histórico Cipriano Rodríguez Santa María es una mezcla de agentes herbarios que, al realizar una revisión en la literatura médica, evidencian efectos antiinflamatorios, ansiolíticos y antioxidantes entre otros, sustentando un posible efecto beneficioso en las palpitaciones cardiacas. Debido a la ausencia de información sobre la posología, seguridad en su uso, contraindicaciones y posibles efectos adversos, es subestimado su potencial uso en aquel entonces para el control de las palpitaciones o como unos agentes fitoquímicos dirigidos para tratar enfermedades causantes de dicho síntoma.

Efficacy of Baccharis dracunculifolia in the treatment of diversion colitis in rats / Eficácia da Baccharis dracunculifolia no tratamento da colite de desuso em ratos

Abstract Rationale: Disuse colitis is frequent in our country and the most effective treatment is high cost and there is a need for effective and low cost therapy. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Baccharis dracunculifolia (field rosemary) in the treatment of exclusion colitis in rats. Method: Eighteen Wistar rats were anesthetized and submitted to colostomy; they were then distributed into two groups: Control Group, receiving intrarectal saline infusion (n = 8) and Group BD receiving intrarectal infusion ofBaccharis dracunculifolia extract (n = 10); after 21 days of treatment they were euthanized, the intestinal segment excluded from intestinal transit was resected and submitted to histopathological study, classifying the degree of inflammation and degree of vascular congestion from 0 to 3. Results: Mean inflammation was 2.7 in Control Group versus 2.1 in BD Group (p = 0.049), while mean vascular congestion was 2.3 and 2, respectively, in Control and BD groups (p = 0.1642). Conclusion: Intra-rectal infusion ofBaccharis dracunculifolia extract significantly minimized the inflammatory process in the exclusion colitis of rats submitted to colostomy, without altering the degree of vascular congestion.

Resumo Racional A colite de desuso é frequente em nosso meio e o tratamento de maior eficácia é de alto custo, havendo necessidade de se encontrar uma terapêutica eficaz e de baixo custo. Objetivo Avaliar a eficácia da Baccharis dracunculifolia (alecrim-do-campo) no tratamento da colite de exclusão em ratos. Método Utilizou-se 18 ratos Wistar, os quais foram anestesiados e submetidos à colostomia; em seguida distribuídos em 2 grupos: Grupo Controle, recebendo infusão intrarretal de solução salina (n = 8) e Grupo BD, recebendo infusão intrarretal de extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia (n = 10); após 21 dias de tratamento foram submetidos a eutanásia, o segmento intesinal excluso de trânsito intestinal foi ressecado e submetido a estudo histopatológico classificando-se o grau de inflamação e grau de congestão vascular de 0 a 3. Resultados Verificou-se média de inflamação 2,7 no Grupo Controle vs. 2,1 no Grupo BD (p = 0,049), enquanto as médias de congestão vascular foram 2,3 e 2, respectivamente, nos grupos controle e BD (p = 0,1642). Conclusão A infusão intrarretal do extrato de Baccharis dracunculifolia minimizou significantemente o processo inflamatório na colite de exclusão de ratos submetidos à colostomia, sem alterar o grau de congestão vascular.

Effectiveness of the Aloe Vera extract in the treatment of fistula-in-ano / Eficácia do extrato de Aloe Vera no tratamento da fístula anal

Abstract Rationale: Considering that anal fistulae are still challenging regarding their treatment due to the risk of fecal incontinence in the most complex cases and the increasing use of phytotherapeutic drugs such as Aloe Vera in medicine, even with proven healing effectiveness, there is interest in researching this drug in the treatment of anal fistulae. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Aloe Vera extract in the treatment of anal fistulae in rats. Method: Thirty male Wistar rats weighing 250-300 g were submitted to anal fistula and after 30 days were divided into three groups: Control Group (GCo) (n = 5), Carbopol Group (GCa) (n = 5), and Aloe Vera Group (GAV) (n = 10). In the GCo no treatment was performed, while in the others a daily infusion of 0.3 mL of solution (Carbopol only in GCa and Carbopol plus Aloe Vera extract in the GAV) was performed through the external orifice of the fistula for 30 days. Afterwards, euthanasia was performed and specimens were removed for histological study. It was evaluated the closure of the fistulous tract, the area of the remaining tract, the inflammatory infiltrate and the degree of vascular congestion. The results were submitted to statistical treatment by Kruskall-Wallis test, considering p<0.05. Results: There was no complete closure of the fistulous tract in any of the animals. The mean area of the remaining tract was 847.2 µm in the GCo, 565.6 µm in the GCa and 377.8 µm in the GAV (p<0.05). The mean of the inflammatory infiltrate score was 2.4 in the GCo, 2.4 in the GCa and 2.3 in the GAV (p<0.05), while in the evaluation of vascular congestion, we observed a mean of 1.6 in the GCo, 1.4 in GCa and 1.1 in GAV (p<0.05). Conclusion: The extract of Aloe vera was able to reduce the lumen of the fistulous tract and reduce the degree of vascular congestion; however, it did not allow the complete closure of the fistulous tract nor diminished the inflammatory process.

Resumo Racional: Considerando que o tratamento das fístulas anais tem risco de incontinência fecal e o crescente uso do Aloe Vera na medicina, há interesse em se pesquisar este fármaco. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia do extrato de Aloe vera no tratamento das fístulas anais em ratos. Método: Utilizou-se 30 ratos Wistar, os quais foram submetidos à criação de fístula anal e após 30 dias distribuídos em três grupos: Controle (GCo), Carbopol (GCa) e Aloe Vera (GAV). No GCo nenhum tratamento foi realizado, enquanto nos outros realizou-se infusão diária de 0,3 mL de Carbopol GCa e Carbopol mais extrato de Aloe Vera no GAV por 30 dias. Foram retirados os espécimes para estudo histológico, avaliou-se o fechamento do trajeto fistuloso, a área do trajeto remanescente, o infiltrado inflamatório e o grau de congestão vascular. Resultados: Não houve fechamento completo do trajeto fistuloso em nenhum dos animais. A média da área do trajeto remanescente foi 847,2 µm no GCo; 565,6 µm no GCa e 377,8 µm no GAV (p<0,05). A média do escore de infiltrado inflamatório foi 2,4 no GCo; 2,4 no GCa e 2,3 no GAV (p<0.05), enquanto na avaliação da congestão vascular observou-se média 1,6 no GCo; 1,4 no GCa e 1,1 no GAV (p<0,05). Conclusão: O extrato de Aloe Vera foi capaz de diminuir o lumen dos trajetos fistulosos e reduzir o grau de congestão vascular, porém, não permitiu o fechamento completo dos trajetos fistulosos nem diminuiu o processo inflamatório.

Programa Academia da Saúde: correlação entre internações por doenças crônicas não transmissíveis e adesão nos municípios brasileiros, 2011-2017 / Programa Academia de la Salud: correlación entre las hospitalizaciones por enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles y adhesión en los municipios brasileños, 2011-2017 / Health Academy Program: correlation between noncommunicable chronic disease hospitalizations and program adherence in Brazilian municipalities, 2011-2017

Objetivo: Descrever as plantas medicinais utilizadas por pessoas com tuberculose (TB) em municípios do norte da Bahia, em 2017. Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo descritivo com dados primários sobre plantas medicinais utilizadas por pessoas com TB ≤18 anos, apresentados por nomenclatura botânica e frequência de consumo. Resultados: Das 80 pessoas entrevistadas, 50 referiram consumir alguma planta medicinal; essas pessoas eram principalmente do sexo masculino (34), ≥47 anos (22), pardas/pretas (34), com até o ensino primário completo (25), casadas (26), não economicamente ativas (30), dispondo de até R$ 300,00/mês (26), com tosse (33) e sem história anterior de TB (44). Duas espécies protagonizaram as citações, Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (mastruz: 23 citações) e Solanum capsicoides All. (melancia-da-praia: 17 citações). Conclusão: Observou-se ampla utilização de plantas medicinais como prática de cuidado com a TB em seis municípios do norte da Bahia.

Objetivo: Describir las plantas medicinales utilizadas por personas con tuberculosis (TB) en municipios del norte de Bahia, en 2017. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo con datos primarios sobre plantas medicinales utilizadas por personas con TB ≥18 años, presentado por nomenclatura botánica y frecuencia de consumo Resultados: De las 80 personas entrevistadas, 50 informaron consumir alguna planta medicinal, entre las cuales, principalmente hombres (34), ≥47 años (22), pardos/negros (34), con educación primaria completa (25), casados (26), no económicamente activos (30), con hasta 300,00 reales/mes (26), con tos (33) y sin antecedentes de TB (44). Dos especies aparecen en las citas, Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (paico: 23 citas) y Solanum capsicoides All. (baya cucaracha: 17 citas). Conclusión: Se observó el uso generalizado de plantas medicinales como práctica para el cuidado de la TB en seis municipios del norte de Bahia.

Objective: To describe medicinal plants used by people with tuberculosis (TB) in municipalities in Northern Bahia, in 2017. Methods: A descriptive study was carried out with primary data on medicinal plants used by people with TB ≥18 years old, presented according to botanical nomenclature and frequency of consumption. Results: Of the 80 people interviewed, 50 reported consuming some kind of medicinal plant; these were mainly male (34), ≥47 years old (22), of brown/black skin color (34), with up to complete primary education (25), married (26), not economically active (30), earning up to BRL 300/month (26), with coughs (33) and with no previous history of TB (44). Two species stood out in the citations, Chenopodium ambrosioides L. (worm-seed: 23 citations), and Solanum capsicoides All. (cockroach berry: 17 citations). Conclusion: There was widespread use of medicinal plants as a TB care practice in six municipalities in Northern Bahia.

Bactericidal and Smear Layer Removal Efficacy of Herbal Alternatives Against Enterococcus Faecalis Dentinal Biofilm - An ex-vivo Study

Abstract Objective: To assess the antibacterial and smear layer removal ability of Trigonella foenum, Syzygium cumini, Terminalia chebula seed extracts against E. faecalis dentinal biofilm. Material and Methods: Agar well diffusion, micro broth dilution assay and time-kill curve assay were performed to determine the antibacterial activity. The ability of the herbal extracts to remove the smear layer on the root canal surface was assessed by scanning electron microscopy. Results: Antibacterial activity was observed for the extracts of S. cumini and T. chebula on E. faecalis dentinal biofilm and its planktonic counterparts. The smear layer was efficiently removed by the seed extracts of T. chebula alone. Seed extracts of T. foenum neither possessed antibacterial effect nor smear layer removal ability. Conclusion: The extracts of T. chebula seeds may replace conventional irrigant due to its antibacterial properties and smear layer removing the ability. The extracts of S. cumini may be used as an intracanal medicament as it exhibited a bactericidal effect against the E. faecalis dentinal biofilm following 18 hours of incubation.

Professor 's experience of infantile spastic cerebral palsy treated with the combination of acupuncture and herbal medicine / 中国针灸

Professor believes that infantile cerebral palsy is located in the brain and closely related to the kidney. The clinical treatment should focus on the brain theory and root at the kidney. In pathogenesis, infantile spastic cerebral palsy refers to flaccidity of and spasticity of . The principle of treatment should be balancing and , promoting the circulation of the governor vessel and regulating the spirit/mind. In clinical treatment, the comprehensive therapy of acupuncture and herbal medicine is adopted. In acupuncture, the acupoints on the head and the face are dominant and the body acupoints are selected rigorously and precisely. The herbal formula with and is used and taken orally with warm water. In acupoint application treatment, and are the main herbal medicines for the external application at Shenque (CV 8) and Baihui (GV 20). All of the above therapies are used in combination to co-achieve the effect of regaining consciousness, opening orifices and benefiting the intelligence. The clinical therapeutic effect of this comprehensive therapy is significant.

Evaluation of wound healing effect of alginate film containing Aloe vera gel and cross-linked with zinc chloride

Abstract Purpose To develop a new wound dressing composed of alginate and Aloe vera gel and cross-linked with zinc ions. Methods The aloe-alginate film was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), swelling profile, mechanical properties, polysaccharide content and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Thirty Wistar rats were divided in two groups a) treated with aloe-alginate film and b) control (treated with sterile gauze). Wound contraction measurements and hystological analysis were performed on 7th, 14th and 21st days after wound surgery. Results The aloe-alginate film presented adequated mechanical resistance and malleability for application as wound dressing. There was no statistical difference in wound contraction between two groups. Histological assay demonstrated that aloe-alginate film presented anti-inflammatory activity, stimulated angiogenesis on proliferative phase and a more significant increased in collagen type I fibers and decreased type III fibers which promoted a mature scar formation when compared to control. Conclusions The aloe-alginate film showed adequate physicochemical characteristics for wound dressing applications. The in vivo assay demonstrated that aloe-alginate film enhanced the healing process of incisional skin wounds.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used for the treatment of Diabetes mellitus in Sidi Bel Abbes region (North-west Algeria) / Estudio etnobotánico de plantas medicinales utilizadas para el tratamiento de la diabetes mellitus en la región de Sidi Bel Abbes (noroeste de Argelia)

An ethnobotanical study was conducted with the aim to identify the medicinal plants used for the treatment of Diabetes mellitus (DM) in Sidi Bel Abbes region (Northwest Algeria). Sidi Bel Abbes, known for its diverse ecological habitats, such as mountains, steppe, lake, and fertile plains with diverse medicinal plants. The data was collected through questionnaire and interviews with inhabitants and traditional healers. The results obtained revealed that 33 plant species distributed in 20 genera belonging to 21 families for the treatment of DM were used. The most represented families were Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Myrtaceae, Fabaceae and Lauraceae. Medicinal plants commonly used were Trigonella foenum-graecum, Olea europaea, Cinamomum cassia, Artemisia herba-alba, Lupinus albus, Juniperus communis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Prunus dulcis and Berberis vulgaris. The study revealed that, leaves, followed by seeds and stem bark were mostly used parts. Also, decoction and infusion were the most frequently used method of preparation. This study confirms that most people with Diabetes mellitus in the study areas rely on traditional medicine for their primary health care needs.

Se realizó un estudio etnobotánico con el objetivo de identificar las plantas medicinales utilizadas para el tratamiento de la Diabetes mellitus (DM) en la región de Sidi Bel Abbes (noroeste de Algeria). Sidi Bel Abbes, conocida por sus diversos hábitats ecológicos, como montañas, estepas, lagos y fértiles llanuras con plantas medicinales. Los datos se recopilaron mediante cuestionarios y entrevistas con habitantes y curanderos tradicionales. Los resultados obtenidos revelaron que 33 especies vegetales distribuidas en 20 géneros pertenecientes à 21 familias fueron utilizadas para el tratamiento de DM. Las familias más representadas fueron Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, Myrtaceae, Fabaceae y Lauraceae. Las plantas medicinales comúnmente utilizadas fueron Trigonella foenum-graecum, Olea europaea, Cinamomum cassia, Artemisia herba-alba, Lupinus albus, Juniperus communis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Prunus amygdalus y Berberis vulgaris. El estudio reveló que las hojas, seguidas de las semillas y la corteza de tallo, eran en su mayoría partes usadas. Sin embargo, la infusión y la decocción son el método de preparación más utilizado. El estudio reveló que las hojas, seguidas de las semillas y las partes del área, eran en su mayoría partes utilizadas. Tambien, la decocción y la infusión fueron los métodos de preparación más utilizado. Este estudio confirma que la mayoría de las personas con Diabetes mellitus en las áreas d'estudio dependen de la medicina tradicional para sus necesidades d'atenciónn primaria de la salud.

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.

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.