Exploring the potential of omics technologies in medicinal plant research: a review in Colombia / Explorando el potencial de las tecnologías ómicas en la investigación de plantas medicinales: una revisión en Colombia

This review presents advances in the implementation of high - throughput se quencing and its application to the knowledge of medicinal plants. We conducted a bibliographic search of papers published in PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science databases and analyzed the obtained data using VOSviewer (versi on 1.6.19). Given that medicinal plants are a source of specialized metabolites with immense therapeutic values and important pharmacological properties, plant researchers around the world have turned their attention toward them and have begun to examine t hem widely. Recent advances in sequencing technologies have reduced cost and time demands and accelerated medicinal plant research. Such research leverages full genome sequencing, as well as RNA (ribonucleic acid) sequencing and the analysis of the transcr iptome, to identify molecular markers of species and functional genes that control key biological traits, as well as to understand the biosynthetic pathways of bioactive metabolites and regulatory mechanisms of environmental responses. As such, the omics ( e.g., transcriptomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and genomics, among others) have been widely applied within the study of medicinal plants, although their usage in Colombia is still few and, in some areas, scarce. (185)

El extracto de cloroformo (CE) y las fracciones obtenidas de las raíces de Aldama arenaria se evaluaron para determinar su actividad antiproliferativa in vitro contra 10 líneas ce lulares tumorales humanas [leucemia (K - 562), mama (MCF - 7), ovario que expresa un fenotipo resistente a múltiples fármacos (NCI/ADR - RES), melanoma (UACC - 62), pulmón (NCI - H460), próstata (PC - 3), colon (HT29), ovario (OVCAR - 3), glioma (U251) y riñón (786 - 0)]. CE presentó actividad antiproliferativa débil a moderada (log GI 50 medio 1.07), mientras que las fracciones 3 y 4, enriquecidas con diterpenos de tipo pimarane [ent - pimara - 8 (14), ácido 15 - dien - 19 - oico y ent - 8(14),15 - pimaradien - 3 ß - ol], presentaron activid ad moderada a potente para la mayoría de las líneas celulares, con un log GI 50 medio de 0.62 y 0.59, respectivamente. Los resultados mostraron una acción antiproliferativa in vitro prometedora de las muestras obtenidas de A. arenaria , con los mejores resul tados para NCI/ADR - RES, HT29 y OVCAR - 3, y valores de TGI que van desde 5.95 a 28.71 µg.mL - 1, demostrando que los compuestos de esta clase pueden ser prototipos potenciales para el descubrimiento de nuevos agentes terapéuticos

Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemistry of medicinal plants used in the management of HIV/AIDS in Eastern Uganda.

Currently, highly active antiretroviral therapy is unable to cure HIV/AIDS because of HIV latency. This study aimed at documenting medicinal plants used in the management of HIV/AIDS in Eastern Uganda so as to identify phytochemicals with HIV latency reversing potential. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted across eight districts in Eastern Uganda. Traditional medicine practitioners were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical tests were respectively, performed to determine the presence and quantity of phytochemicals in frequently mentioned plant species. Data were analysed and presented using descriptive statistics and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF). Twenty-one plant species from fourteen plant families were reported to be used in the management of HIV/AIDS. Six plant species with the highest frequency of mention were: Zanthoxylum chalybeum, Gymnosporia senegalensis, Warbugia ugandensis, Leonatis nepetifolia, Croton macrostachyus and Rhoicissus tridentata. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of all the six most frequently mentioned plant species revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids and phenolics. Quantitative analysis revealed the highest content of flavonoids in L. nepetifolia (20.4 mg/g of dry extract) while the lowest content was determined in C. macrostachyus (7.1 mg/g of dry extract). On the other hand, the highest content of tannins was observed in L. nepetifolia. (199.9 mg/g of dry extract) while the lowest content was found in R. tridentata. (42.6 mg/g of dry extract). Medicinal plants used by traditional medicine practitioners in Eastern Uganda to manage HIV/AIDS are rich in phytochemicals including flavonoids and tannins. Further studies to evaluate the HIV-1 latency reversing ability of these phytochemicals are recommended to discover novel molecules against HIV/AIDS.

Wellness or medicine? Use and perception of Ayurveda in Germany: data from an online-representative cross-sectional study.

Introduction: Ayurveda, South Asia's largest and most relevant system of Traditional Medicine, holds a legal status akin to conventional Western medicine in India and elsewhere. There is an almost complete lack of data on the use of Ayurveda in Germany. The aim of this study was to investigate Ayurveda's utilization patterns, entry points, and factors influencing its use and the perception of Ayurveda among the German population. Methods: Basis of this manuscript was an online-representative survey which involved 4,065 participants aged 18-75 about the use and acceptance of Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) in Germany. The survey was conducted online using Computer Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) in 2022. The dataset was analyzed descriptively and inferentially. Results: Altogether 9.3% (n = 377) of all survey participants (n = 4,065) had already used Ayurveda somehow, either more often (1.7%) or at least once in a lifetime (7.6%). Responders associated Ayurveda primarily with Indian Medicine (27.7%) and wellness (18%). Commonly used Ayurvedic services included non-medical treatments at wellness resorts/spas (48.3%), in outpatient practices (27.1%), and hotels (23.6%). 30.2% of the participants believe in Ayurveda's therapeutic potential. 76.7% of Ayurveda users find healthy nutrition important or very important. Nine predictors were found to classify Ayurveda users vs. non-users with spirituality and belief in Ayurveda's therapeutic efficacy as the most relevant ones. Ayurveda seems to be primarily used by well-educated and female individuals, often from higher-income groups and with a rather modern social milieu-orientation. Conclusion: Study results suggest that about every tenth German citizen has used Ayurveda in the past and about one third believes in its therapeutic potential. Because Ayurvedic therapies are often not evidence-based, there is an urgent need to perform high quality randomized controlled trials to investigate potential effects and safety of Ayurveda and how evidence-based Ayurveda treatments can be integrated into the German healthcare system.

The Use of Traditional and Complementary Medicine Among Patients With Multiple Sclerosis in Morocco.

BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an acquired chronic, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system. In addition to conventional MS therapy, patients are interested in traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM). Our study aims to describe the use of T&CM in a cohort of Moroccan patients with MS. METHODS: A quantitative descriptive study was adopted to study this subject. For data collection, we opted for an anonymous questionnaire for 98 patients with MS. We gathered data via an electronic survey, using multivariable analysis to examine the effect of specific factors on T&CM use. Data collection took place from March 2022 to June 2022. RESULTS: The results show that 52% of patients use T&CM. Of those, 29.6% use cupping, 23.5% recite the Holy Quran, 15.3% use phytotherapy, 13.2% use apitherapy, and 10.2% use acupuncture. In addition, 66.3% of the surveyed respondents stated that alternative medicine positively affects their health. Finally, 49.1% of surveyed patients who use alternative medicine are between 30 and 40 years old. The results also show that the rate of T&CM use is higher in patients with progressive MS (OR = 2.540) and patients without financial access to disease-modifying therapy (OR = 2.100). CONCLUSIONS: This study invites us to consider societal, cultural, and economic factors when studying the use of T&CM among people with MS. Further research is needed to understand the motivations for using T&CM.

Mental fatigue mediates the relationship between qi deficiency and academic performance among fifth-grade students aged 10-13 years.

Background: Health has effects on children's academic performance. Qi deficiency is generally used to assess an individual's health in the Chinese traditional medicine theory. This study explores the effects of qi deficiency on children's academic performance and examines whether mental fatigue mediates these effects. Methods: A total of 550 students aged 10-13 in fifth-grade were surveyed in a big primary school in Sichuan Province in November 2023 using paper-pencil-based questionnaires. Qi deficiency and mental fatigue were assessed, and exam scores in Chinese and Mathematics were recorded. Pearson's correlation and linear regression analyses were used to test the mediation model and hypotheses. Results: The fifth-grade students had mild qi deficiency (M = 2.09) and a mild state of mental fatigue (M = 2.38) on a five-point Likert scale. The average exam scores in Mathematics and Chinese were 70.07 and 74.44 points out of 100, respectively. Qi deficiency was associated with Mathematics scores (r = -0.37, p < 0.01) and Chinese scores (r = -0.30, p < 0.01), and mental fatigue (r = 0.47, p < 0.01). Furthermore, mental fatigue was associated with Mathematics scores (r = -0.46, p < 0.01) and Chinese scores (r = -0.34, p < 0.01). Linear regression analyses showed that qi deficiency significantly predicted Mathematics scores (ß = -0.26, p < 0.01), Chinese scores (ß = -0.19, p < 0.01), and mental fatigue (ß = 0.41, p < 0.01). When qi deficiency was controlled for, mental fatigue significantly predicted Mathematics scores (ß = -0.28, p < 0.01) and Chinese scores (ß = -0.17, p < 0.01). Conclusion: The mediation model and hypotheses were well supported, indicating that mental fatigue mediated the influence of qi deficiency on academic performance of fifth-grade students. Furthermore, the mediation effect of mental fatigue on Mathematics scores was a little stronger than that on Chinese scores.

Characteristics and comparative study of medicinal materials between China and India based on data mining from literatures.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: China and India have unique traditional medicine systems with vast territory and rich medical resources. Traditional medicines in China include traditional Chinese medicine, Tibetan medicine, Mongolian medicine, Uyghur medicine, Dai medicine, etc. In the third national survey of Chinese medicine resources, 12694 medicinal materials were identified. Traditional medicines in India include Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Homoeopathy, etc. There are 7263 medicinal materials in India. AIM OF THE STUDY: To reveal the characteristics of medicinal materials between China and India respectively, and to compare the similarities and differences in terms of properties, tastes, medicinal parts and therapeutic uses and to promote the exchange of traditional medicine between China and India and the international trade of traditional medicine industry. METHODS: The information of medicinal materials between China and India was extracted from The Chinese Traditional Medicine Resource Records and Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China, as well as from 71 Indian herbal monographs. The information of each medicinal material, such as types, families, genera, properties, distribution, medicinal parts, efficacy, therapeutic uses, dosage form and dosage, was recorded in Excel for statistical analysis and visual comparison. RESULTS: A total of 12694 medicinal materials in China and 5362 medicinal materials in India were identified. The medicinal materials were mostly distributed in Southwest China and northern India. Plants were the main sources of medicinal materials. The common medicinal parts in China were whole medicinal materials, roots and rhizomes, and India used more renewable fruits, seeds and leaves. They are commonly used in the treatment of digestive system diseases. There were 1048 medicinal materials used by both China and India, which were distributed in 188 families and 685 genera. The Chinese and Indian pharmacopoeias had a total of 80 species of medicinal materials used by both China and India. CONCLUSIONS: The characteristics of medicinal materials between China and India were somewhat different, which was conducive to provide a reference basis for traditional medicine in China or India to increase the medicinal parts and indications when using a certain medicinal material, as well as to expand the source of medicine and introduce new resources. However, there were certain similarities and shared medicinal materials, which can tap the potential of bilateral trade of medicinal materials between China and India, so as to promote the medical cultural exchange and economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.

Traditional, complementary and integrative medicine for fatigue post COVID-19 infection: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Background: Chronic fatigue is a predominant symptom of post COVID-19 condition, or long COVID. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) for fatigue post COVID-19 infection. Methods: Ten English and Chinese language databases and grey literature were searched up to 12 April 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Cochrane "Risk of bias" (RoB) tool was applied. Evidence certainty was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE). Effect estimates were presented as risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Thirteen RCTs with 1632 participants were included. One RCT showed that Bufei Huoxue herbal capsules reduced fatigue (n=129, MD -14.90, 95%CI -24.53 to -5.27), one RCT reported that Ludangshen herbal liquid lowered fatigue (n=184, MD -1.90, 95%CI -2.38 to -1.42), and the other one RCT shown that fatigue disappearance rate was higher with Ludangshen herbal liquid (n=184, RR 4.19, 95%CI 2.06 to 8.53). Compared to traditional Chinese medicine rehabilitation (TCM-rahab) alone, one RCT showed that fatigue symptoms were lower following Qingjin Yiqi granules plus TCM-rehab (n=388, MD -0.48, 95%CI -0.50 to -0.46). Due to concerns with RoB and/or imprecision, the certainty in this evidence was low to very low. No serious adverse events was reported. Conclusions: Limited evidence suggests that various TCIM interventions might reduce post COVID-19 fatigue. Larger, high quality RCTs of longer duration are required to confirm these preliminary findings. Study Registration: The protocol of this review has been registered at PROSPERO: CRD42022384136.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine to Treat Fibromyalgia Symptoms. A Systematic Review.

This study aims to investigate the current evidence for the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in fibromyalgia (FM). A systematic review was conducted searching for PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Web of Science databases. Randomized controlled trials published up to December 2023 in peer-reviewed journals were included. Methodological quality was assessed by the Quality Assessment of Controlled Intervention Studies tool. A total of 216 articles were identified and 15 constituted the final sample. The type of CAM most used was traditional Chinese medicine (60%), and the most common instrument used was the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (60%). Our review was grouped into four themes based on the origin of the therapies: 1) Traditional Chinese Medicine; 2) Japanese natural harmonization (eg, Reiki); 3) Ayurvedic Medicine; and 4) Other non-drug therapies. Our systematic review showed that there is a wide range of CAMs used to treat FM. Most of the clinical trials have shown significant results for the effectiveness of these interventions in both physical and mental health outcomes of FM as compared to control groups. However, the heterogeneity of the interventions and outcomes warrants further studies on this topic.

Effects of Pistacia genus on gastrointestinal tract disorders: A systematic and comprehensive review.

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders characterized by persistent and recurrence gastrointestinal symptoms are prevalent. The genus Pistacia is widely emphasized as the relief of gastrointestinal diseases in traditional medicine. This review aimed to investigate the latest evidence on the effect of the Pistacia genus on GI tract disorders. The systematic search was performed following to PRISMA guidelines. The databases PubMed and Scopus were searched from 1980 to 2022 with restrictions to the original studies. Electronic databases were searched in title/abstract, using the keywords relevant to GI tract disorders. Forty-eight studies were included in this review following the inclusion criteria. Fifteen and 22 studies were clinical and animal studies, respectively, of which 6 clinical and 13 animal studies were on Inflammatory Bowel diseases. Seven clinical studies were on functional GI disorders. The most pieces of evidence from animal and clinical studies were on the intestinal inflammation and peptic ulcer affecting the inflammation as well as oxidative stress through different mechanistic pathways. The most referred active phytochemicals seem to be terpenoid compounds. Various in vitro studies have also shown the inhibitory activity of the different plant parts of Pistacia herbs on several GI tract cancer cells. Available scientific evidence supports the effects of various components of Pistacia genus plants in the field of GI tract diseases, especially digestive inflammations. Further studies are required to systematically evaluate the natural products of the genus Pistacia, particularly in the context of digestive disorders.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of Iranian adults toward Persian Medicine: a national survey.

BACKGROUND: Previous researches conducted in both developed and developing countries have demonstrated a rising trend in the utilization of complementary and alternative medicine. The World Health Organization has underscored the importance of studying the prevalence and determinants of such alternative practices. This study delves into the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Iranian adults towards Persian medicine, a distinct form of complementary and alternative medicine, through a national survey for the first time. METHODS: A total of 2882 Iranian adults (aged ≥ 15 years) were randomly chosen from all regions. Data were gathered through structured door-to-door interviews using a survey questionnaire, wherein cases were selected randomly based on postal codes, and interviewers completed the forms at the participants' residences. RESULTS: Approximately 46% of the subjects exhibited familiarity with Persian Medicine. The study revealed that the primary sources of knowledge about Persian Medicine were family, relatives, and friends, with only 2.9% indicating medical staff as their source of information. Furthermore, the study indicated that 21% of participants expressed a strong interest in using Persian Medicine, while 30.3% did not. When comparing Persian medicine to modern medicine, respondents indicated that Persian medicine is more cost-effective and has fewer side effects, yet modern medicine is more widely used globally; although, the majority responded "I don't know" to other questions. The results also demonstrated that approximately 37% of the participants had a history of Persian Medicine utilization in their lifetime. CONCLUSION: This study revealed that Iranian adults have low reliable knowledge (from medical staff, Persian medicine books and other publications) and limited familiarity with Persian medicine, with about one third of the participants expressing disinterest (attitude) and over half of them having not utilized this form of medicine (practice).

Open science practices in traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine research: A path to enhanced transparency and collaboration.

This educational article explores the convergence of open science practices and traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM), shedding light on the potential benefits and challenges of open science for the development, dissemination, and implementation of evidence-based TCIM. We emphasize the transformative shift in medical science towards open and collaborative practices, highlighting the limited application of open science in TCIM research despite its growing acceptance among patients. We define open science practices and discuss those that are applicable to TCIM, including: study registration; reporting guidelines; data, code and material sharing; preprinting; publishing open access; and reproducibility/replication studies. We explore the benefits of open science in TCIM, spanning improved research quality, increased public trust, accelerated innovation, and enhanced evidence-based decision-making. We also acknowledge challenges such as data privacy concerns, limited resources, and resistance to cultural change. We propose strategies to overcome these challenges, including ethical guidelines, education programs, funding advocacy, interdisciplinary dialogue, and patient engagement. Looking to the future, we envision the maturation of open science in TCIM, the development of TCIM-specific guidelines for open science practices, advancements in data sharing platforms, the integration of open data and artificial intelligence in TCIM research, and changes in the context of policy and regulation. We foresee a future where open science in TCIM leads to a better evidence base, informed decision-making, interdisciplinary collaboration, and transformative impacts on healthcare and research methodologies, highlighting the promising synergy between open science and TCIM for holistic, evidence-based healthcare solutions.

Antibacterial, Trichomonacidal, and Cytotoxic Activities of Pleopeltis crassinervata Extracts.

Pleopeltis crassinervata is a fern documented in ethnobotanical records for its use in Mexican traditional medicine to treat gastric disorders and mouth ulcers. Consequently, conducting biological and pharmacological assays is crucial to validate the therapeutic efficacy of this plant within the context of traditional medicine. In the present study, we investigated the biological activity of extracts and fractions obtained from P. crassinervata organs against bacteria (Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, Shigella flexneri, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli) and Trichomonas vaginalis using in vitro models. The precipitate fraction obtained from the frond methanolic extract showed significant antibacterial activity (minimal inhibitory concentration [MIC] 120 µg/mL) against the Staphylococcus aureus strain and was effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The hexane fraction also obtained from frond methanolic extract, showed a trichomonacidal effect with an IC50 of 82.8 µg/mL and a low cytotoxic effect. Hsf6 exhibited the highest activity against T. vaginalis, and the GC-MS analysis revealed that the predominant compound was 16-pregnenolone. The remaining identified compounds were primarily terpene-type compounds.

Exploring Southern Ecuador's Traditional Medicine: Biological Screening of Plant Extracts and Metabolites.

Ecuador stands as a nation inheriting a profound ancestral legacy in the utilization of medicinal plants, reflective of the rich biodiversity embraced by various ethnic groups. Despite this heritage, many of these therapeutic resources remain insufficiently explored concerning their toxicity and potential pharmacological effects. This study focused on a comprehensive evaluation of cytotoxicity and the potential subcellular targets within various extracts and nine isolated metabolites from carefully selected medicinal plants. Assessing their impact on the breast cancer cell line (MCF7), we subsequently examined the most active fractions for effects on the cell cycle, microtubule network, centrosome duplication, γH2AX foci, and E-cadherin. The investigated crude extracts and isolated compounds from Ecuadorian medicinal plants demonstrated cytotoxic effects, influencing diverse cellular pathways. These findings lend credence to the traditional uses of Ecuadorian medicinal plants, which have served diverse therapeutic purposes. Moreover, they beckon the exploration of the specific chemicals, whether in isolation or combination, responsible for these observed activities.

Review of Pharmacotherapeutic Targets in Alzheimer's Disease and Its Management Using Traditional Medicinal Plants.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and impaired daily functioning. While there is currently no cure for AD, several pharmacotherapeutic targets and management strategies have been explored. Additionally, traditional medicinal plants have gained attention for their potential role in AD management. Pharmacotherapeutic targets in AD include amyloid-beta (Aß) aggregation, tau protein hyperphosphorylation, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and cholinergic dysfunction. Traditional medicinal plants, such as Ginkgo biloba, Huperzia serrata, Curcuma longa (turmeric), and Panax ginseng, have demonstrated the ability to modulate these targets through their bioactive compounds. Ginkgo biloba, for instance, contains flavonoids and terpenoids that exhibit neuroprotective effects by reducing Aß deposition and enhancing cerebral blood flow. Huperzia serrata, a natural source of huperzine A, has acetylcholinesterase-inhibiting properties, thus improving cholinergic function. Curcuma longa, enriched with curcumin, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, potentially mitigating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Panax ginseng's ginsenosides have shown neuroprotective and anti-amyloidogenic properties. The investigation of traditional medicinal plants as a complementary approach to AD management offers several advantages, including a lower risk of adverse effects and potential multi-target interactions. Furthermore, the cultural knowledge and utilization of these plants provide a rich source of information for the development of new therapies. However, further research is necessary to elucidate the precise mechanisms of action, standardize preparations, and assess the safety and efficacy of these natural remedies. Integrating traditional medicinal-plant-based therapies with modern pharmacotherapies may hold the key to a more comprehensive and effective approach to AD treatment. This review aims to explore the pharmacotherapeutic targets in AD and assess the potential of traditional medicinal plants in its management.

Exploring the pharmacognostical and phytochemical profiles of aqueous extracts of Kalanchoe.

The use of plants for medicinal purposes has a long history, however it is desirable a continuous evaluation seeking for complementary scientific evidences for their safe application. Species within the Kalanchoe genus are often referred to as "miracle leaf" due to their remarkable healing properties. Traditionally, these plants have been used to treat infections, inflammation, and cancer. Despite their widespread use, the identification of their active components remains incomplete. This study aimed to differentiate K. crenata (KC), K. marmorata (KM), and K. pinnata (KP) by conducting detailed histochemical and phytochemical analyses, and to assess their antioxidant capabilities. The investigation revealed significant differences between the species, highlighting the variability in phenolic (PC) and flavonoid contents (FC) and their distinct antioxidant effects. The KM demonstrated the greatest results (PC: 59.26 ± 1.53 mgEqGA/g; FC: 12.63 ± 0.91 mgEqCQ/g; DPPH• (IC50): 110.66 ug/ml; ABTS•+ (IC50): 26.81 ug/ml; ORAC: 9.65 ± 0.75 mmolTE) when compared to KC and KP. These findings underscore a new reference for research within the Kalanchoe genus.

The maintenance of mexican traditional medicine practices among mexicans in southern Arizona.

Mexicans in the United States have been reported to maintain practices of Mexican traditional medicine at comparably higher rates than most other populations, including other Latino sub-groups. In this cross-sectional study, we examined the pre- and post-migration traditional medicine practices of first-generation immigrants from Mexico living in southern Arizona. Our objective was to assess how migration affected Mexican immigrants' ethnomedical practices and to better understand the mechanisms and motivating factors for the post-migration maintenance of practice. We designed a survey instrument based off prior qualitative data on traditional medicine practices and translated it into Spanish. The survey measured the rates and frequency of six domains of lay healing practices: herbal medicine, healing foods, self-medication with over-the-counter medicine, and three types of specialty healers (curandero/a, and sobador/a, or partero/a), and asked questions about knowledge sources, reasons for maintaining practice post-migration, and to what extent participants believed the remedies were effective. The research team fielded the telephone-based survey from April 2022 to February 2023 to 300 first-generation adult Mexican immigrants residing in southern Arizona. A series of proportions tests were conducted to examine differences in reliance on lay healing pre- and post-migration as well as to assess differences between women's and men's lay practices. The data indicate a general, but moderated decline in lay medical practices post-migration, with the usage of expert healers declining at much higher rates than the three self-care domains. Women tend to use herbal medicine and healing foods at higher rates than men post-migration. This cross-sectional quantitative study confirms prior research indicating that traditional medicine practices are heavily relied upon by Mexican origin people both pre- and post-migration. These findings suggest that public health messaging and medical providers should better address and harness Mexican immigrants' lay medical practices in order to optimize health in this population.

Casearia sylvestris var. lingua (Càmbess.) Eichler leaves aqueous extract improves colon inflammation through mucogenic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions in TNBS- induced IBD rats.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Casearia sylvestris var. lingua (Cambess.) Eichler, a member of the Salicaceae family, holds a prominent place in traditional medicine across various cultures due to its versatile therapeutic properties. Historically, indigenous communities have utilized different parts of the plant, including leaves, bark, and roots, to address a wide array of health conditions. Traditional uses of C. sylvestris var. lingua encompasses the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory infections, wound healing, inflammation, and stomach ulcers. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated the plant's antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, gastroprotective, and immunomodulatory effects. This signifies the first scientific validation report for C. sylvestris var. lingua regarding its effectiveness against ulcerative colitis. The report aims to affirm the traditional use of this plant through pre-clinical experiments. AIM OF THE RESEARCH: This work uses an aqueous extract from C. sylvestris var. lingua leaves (AECs) to evaluate the acute anti-ulcerative colitis efficacy in rat and HT-29 (human colorectal cancer cell line) models. METHODS: To determine the secondary metabolites of AECs, liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (LC-DAD) study was carried out. 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS, 30 mg/0.25 mL EtOH 30% v/v) was used as an enema to cause acute colitis. Three days were spent giving the C. sylvestris var. lingua extract orally by gavage at dosages of 3, 30, and 300 mg/kg. The same route was used to deliver distilled water to the vehicle and naïve groups. After the animals were sacrificed on the fourth day, intestinal tissues were taken for histological examination and evaluation of biochemical tests such as those measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrite/nitrate, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Additionally, interleukin 1 beta (IL-1ß), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin 10 (IL-10), were conducted on the intestinal tissues. Additionally, an MTT assay was used to evaluate the effect of AECs on the viability of HT-29 cells. Additionally, a molecular docking study was carried out to compare some potential target proteins with identified chemicals found in AECs. RESULTS: LC-DAD analysis identified five compounds (caffeic acid, ellagic acid, ferulic acid, gallic acid, and quercetin) in AECs. Pre-administration of AECs (3; 30; 300 mg/kg) and mesalazine (500 mg/kg) reduced macroscopic scores (55%, 47%, 45%, and 52%, p < 0.001) and ulcerated areas (70.3%, 70.5%, 57%, and 56%, p < 0.001), respectively. It also increased SOD, GSH, and CAT activities (p < 0.01), while decreasing MDA (p < 0.001), nitrite/nitrate (p < 0.05), and MPO (p < 0.001) activities compared to the colitis group. Concerning inflammatory markers, significant modulations were observed: AECs (3, 30, and 300 mg/kg) lowered levels of IL-1ß and TNF-α (p < 0.001) and increased IL-10 levels (p < 0.001) compared to the colitis groups. The viability of HT-29 cells was suppressed by AECs with an IC50 of 195.90 ± 0.01 µg/mL (48 h). During the molecular docking analysis, quercetin, gallic acid, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and ellagic acid demonstrated consistent binding affinities, forming stable interactions with the 3w3l (TLR8) and the 3ds6 (MAPK14) complexes. CONCLUSION: These results imply that the intestinal mucogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of the C. sylvestris var. lingua leaf extract may be involved in its therapeutic actions for ulcerative colitis. The results of the in silico study point to the possibility of quercetin and ellagic acid interacting with P38 and TLR8, respectively, in a beneficial way.

An updated inventory of medicinal and ritual plants of southern Africa.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: For the first time in two decades, a comprehensive, up-to-date overview of the medicinal and ritual plants of southern Africa is presented. This data is analysed and compared with a previous survey done in 2002. STUDY AIM: The main aim is to update the checklist of medicinal and ritual plants of southern Africa and to determine the number of new records since 2002. We also provide a high-level perspective on the selection of medicinal and ritual plant species in southern Africa, a taxonomic analysis of the new checklist as well as a chronological perspective on the citation of medicinal and ritual species before and after 2002. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The most recently published medicinal and ritual plants checklist for southern Africa was reviewed and updated. A wide range of ethnobotanical literature, including books, field guides and electronic journals, was used. All calculations were done by using formulas and functions in Microsoft Excel and R Studio. RESULTS: 4120 medicinal and ritual taxa and 3784 medicinal and ritual species have been recorded. Compared with the 2002 checklist, there are 1239 new taxa (1228 new species). A strong correlation between available taxa and selected medicinal taxa exists on order level, which corresponds with the results of an analysis done in 2008. The top 10 species-rich medicinal plant families of southern Africa are Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Apocynaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Asphodelaceae, Malvaceae, Lamiaceae, Poaceae, Rutaceae and Rubiaceae. Different patterns of plant family representation can be seen across certain cultural healing systems of southern Africa. The species popularity (number of citations) of Hypoxis hemerocallidea Fisch. & C.A.Mey. Has increased substantially after 2002. Other medicinal and ritual plant species have been consistently researched, such as Artemisia afra Jacq. ex Willd., Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus, Aloe ferox Mill., Leonotis leonurus (L.) R.Br. and Gunnera perpensa L. CONCLUSIONS: The numerous new medicinal and ritual plant records that have been reported in the last two decades provide evidence of an incompletely documented ethnobotanical heritage that urgently requires documentation. Patterns of taxonomic diversity on family level indicate distinctive differences between cultural healing systems. Signs of the adaptability and dynamics of traditional healing systems in southern Africa can be seen in the changes in the citation of species over time.

Achyrocline satureioides infusion, popularly prepared and consumed, has an in vitro protective effect on human neural cells exposed to rotenone.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Traditional harvest of Achyrocline satureioides (AS) occurs at dawn on Good Friday in some South American countries. Inflorescences are traditionally used as infusions for several disorders, including neuropsychiatric disorders. Pillows and cushions are popularly filled with AS to attenuate the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. However, evidence for the potential beneficial effects of AS on human neural cells remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY: An in vitro model of SH-SY5Y human neural cells was applied to evaluate the effect of AS infusion, prepared as commonly used, on cells exposed to rotenone and to investigate its potential for neuropsychiatric disorders. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A hot aqueous extract was obtained from a traditionally prepared AS inflorescence infusion and chemically characterized by high-resolution mass spectrometry and spectrophotometric quantification of total polyphenols, tannins, and flavonoids. The SH-SY5Y cell cultures were treated with AS extract at concentrations of 1, 3, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 300 µL/mL to determine the potential cyto- and genotoxic effects of AS on neural cells using MTT, Neutral Red, and GEMO assays. Apoptosis modulation was assessed using flow cytometry and apoptosis-modulating genes were evaluated by qRT-PCR. The protective effect of AS on the neurotoxicity triggered by rotenone exposure (30 nM) was determined by analyzing cellular viability and oxidative markers such as lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation, and DNA damage was assessed by micronucleus assay. RESULTS: The AS extract, as traditionally prepared, had estimated concentrations of 409.973 ± 31.107 µg/mL, 0.1041 ± 0.0246 mg GAE/mL, and 63.309 ± 3.178 mg QE/mL of total tannins, total polyphenols, and flavonoids, respectively. At concentrations of 30 and 100 µl/mL, AS decreased apoptotic events, whereas the highest concentration (300 µl/mL) increased apoptosis compared to that in the control (p < 0.05). In cells exposed to rotenone, AS treatment induced cell proliferation, reduced DNA damage (as evaluated by micronuclei), and reduced lipid and protein oxidation. CONCLUSIONS: The data indicate the non-cytotoxic and beneficial effects of AS extract on human neural cells by reducing cellular mortality and oxidative stress in neural cells triggered by rotenone exposure.

A comprehensive review of the botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of two Iranian Rydingia species (Lamiaceae).

Rydingia michauxii and R. persica, respectively, known as Kase Gol and Goldar in Persian, belong to the family Lamiaceae and they are well known herbal medicine in Iran for the treatment of various diseases, particularly diabetes. This review aims to appraise the phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology, and pharmacological activities of Rydingia species growing in Iran and assess their potential in clinical applications. Besides, it critically evaluates existing literature and looks into the perspective for further research and utilization. All available scientific literature was consulted using the database searches involving Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science applying the keyword Rydingia and its Syn; Otostegia. Only the search results that are associated with the Iranian species R. michauxii and R. persica are included in this review. α-pinene, carvacrol, caryophyllene oxide, diisooctyl phthalate, dillapiole, eugenol, hexadecanoic acid, and pentacosane are the major constituents of the essential oils of the Rydingia species. Additionally, these species produce bioactive flavonoids, phenolic acids, steroids, and terpenoids. Extracts and active compounds from Rydingia species have been reported to possess various pharmacological activities including antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and lipid-lowering properties. Based on the information available to date on the Iranian Rydingia species, it will be worth subjecting these species to further developmental work involving preclinical and clinical trials.