survey on the changes of oil compounds of medicinal and edible plants sterilized with gamma radiation

One of the essential problems of using medicinal plants which are mostly collected from the wild is their fungus and microbial infections. Nowadays, exposing the plants to Gamma radiation apparently removes the problem. But, as the plants contain outstanding amount of chemical substances, the exposition can lead to a change in the composition of the plants chemicals and therefore a change in their medicinal effects. Making poisonous, carcinogen or stimulant substances in the plants could be examples of this change. The aim of this research was evaluating effect of Gamma radiation on chemical composition of ten medicinal plants essential oils; Mentha, Coriandrum, Foeniculum, Zingiber, Cuminum, Bunium, Melissa, Thymus and Zataria. Essential oil of the species before and after Gamma radiation were obtained over Clevenger apparatus, analyzed using GC and GC/MS and identified based on RT, KI and authentic references. Results showed that within ten species, the Coriander oil was affected with the 10 and 25 KG of Gamma radiation and changed to the another components. These results of experiment can alert the world, to the threatening consequences of using Gamma radiation concerning human health

[Effect of hypericum performatum L. for treatment of premenstrual syndrome]

The premenstrual syndrome is characterised by Physical and Psychological symptoms apearing regularly during the week prior to menstruation and disappearing within a few days of its onset, causing disruption to occuptional, family and personal functioning. Anecdotal evidence suggests that Hypericum is useful in releving the symtoms of premenstrual syndrome, but as yet there has been no clinical investingation of this. To compare the efficacy of Hypericum with placebo to treat the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. A double blind, placebo controlled, randomised design was used in the clinical study. 70 Students of Tehran University with premenstrual syndrome who were in otherwise good Physical and mental health, completed Daily symptom Ratings for two cycles. Then participants devided were in two groups [active 35, Placebo 35] and took Hypericum or placebo for two complete menstrual cycles [2 x 30 drops for 7 days before menstruation]. Hypericum obtained a mean reduction of%46.45, in symptoms and placebo%18.1. There were significant reductions in all symptoms between two groups. [p=0.000] Treatment was well tolerated and there was not any discontinuation or complication with Hypericum. Hypericum treats premenstrual syndrome, and offers a therapy limited to the luteal phase for at least two cycles