Antithrombotic property of an aqueous extract from Pseudocedrela kotschyi and Adenia cissampeloides.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: An aqueous extract from the root bark of Pseudocedrela kotschyi and aerial parts of Adenia cissampeloides has been proven in previous research to elicit significant anticoagulant property in vitro. This, therefore, indicates the potential usefulness of this extract in managing thromboembolic disease, a major global health risk. The aim of the present work was to establish the antithrombotic effect of a product made from extracts of the root bark of P. kotschyi and the aerial parts of A. cissampeloides (PAE). EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH: The effect of PAE at 500-2000 mg/kg in inhibiting tail infarction and inflammation, as well as its effect on the microthrombi count, hematological, and coagulation profiles in a carrageenan-induced thrombosis model in Sprague-Dawley rats, was studied. FINDINGS/RESULTS: PAE significantly (P ≤ 0.01-0.001) reduced length of tail infarction and inflammation (redness, swelling, pain, and temperature). Histopathological studies revealed a significant reduction (P ≤ 0.0001) in microthrombi count in the liver and the lungs with PAE treatment. PAE treatment caused a marginal (P ≤ 0.01) increase in prothrombin time but resulted in a significant (P ≤ 0.01-0.0001) dose-dependent increase in activated partial thromboplastin time, with the hematological profile being normal. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS: PAE showed anticoagulant and antithrombotic effects in vivo, indicative of its potential benefit as a natural product, and cost-effective therapeutic option, and hence could be helpful in thromboembolic therapies.

Clinical Characteristics, Medication Prescription Pattern, and Treatment Outcomes at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of a Tertiary Health-Care Facility in Ghana.

OBJECTIVE: Neonates are more susceptible to infections, as well as medication toxicities. This study, therefore, sought to describe the clinical characteristics, medication prescription pattern, and treatment outcomes for neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a tertiary health-care facility in Ghana. METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted to ascertain clinical records, conditions for admission, spectrum of medications prescribed, and treatment outcomes from neonatal patient folders. FINDINGS: Of 667 folders reviewed (51.4% males and 48.6% female), 61.8% were preterm (mean gestational age: 34.2 ± 3.6 weeks), 64.6% had low birth weight (LBW) (mean birth weight: 2.1 ± 0.9 kg), 90.6% were delivered through spontaneous vaginal delivery, and 57.4% delivered at the tertiary health-care facility. Of the 667 neonates, 70%, 27.1%, and 2.9% were queried with one, two, or three medical conditions, respectively. Respiratory distress, preterm, and pyrexia were common single queried conditions (88.5%). LBW, hypothermia, and single queried medical conditions were associated (P ≤ 0.0001) with preterm male neonates. The mean duration of stay of preterm neonates was 3.5 ± 3.2 days (term babies: 1-2 days [P = 0.0085]). Of 1,565 medications prescribed to the 667 neonates, 67.5% were antibacterial, with gentamicin (53.0%) being the most prescribed. 98.4% of neonates were prescribed at least one medication (i.e., 67.5% were prescribed antibacterial medications, 14.6% supplements, 11.0% bronchodilators, and 7.0% antiseizure); mean medication combination 2.6 ± 0.8 per neonate. Majority (75.4%) of the cases reviewed had treatment success. CONCLUSION: Respiratory distress and preterm deliveries are predominant presenting conditions, with antibacterial medication, mainly gentamicin and ampicillin, on prescription. Treatment success is significantly high at the NICU.

Assessment of Reproductive Toxicity of Hydroethanolic Root Extracts of Caesalpinia benthamiana, Sphenocentrum jollyanum, and Paullinia pinnata.

PURPOSE: Male sexual dysfunction negatively affects an individual's quality of life and thus its of prime public concern, hence the need to boost reproductive abilities in such individuals. This study assessed the effect of hydroethanolic root extracts of Caesalpinia benthamiana (CBRE), Sphenocentrum jollyanum (SJRE), and Paullinia pinnata (PPRE), commonly used as aphrodisiacs in Ghana, using male Sprague-Dawley rats. METHODS: Plasma testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone were assayed in grouped rats treated orally with 1 mL/kg normal saline, 50 mg/kg monosodium glutamate (MSG), and 100, 300, or 1000 mg/kg CBRE, SJRE, and PPRE, respectively, for 60 days. Epididymis and testis weights were determined. Semen was assessed on spermatozoa count, motility, and morphology. Malonyladehyde formation in lipid-peroxidation assay and histological examinations were performed to assess pathological changes in testes. Testicular testosterone was also assayed. RESULTS: While MSG, CBRE, SJRE, and PPRE treatments did not result in significant reduction (p>0.05) in plasma testosterone, there was significant reduction (p≤0.05 -0.0001) in plasma luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. The combined mean wet weights of epididymides and testes of all treated groups did not vary significantly (p>0.05) from the control. There was significant reduction (p≤0.0001) in sperm motility and count, with significant morphological changes (p≤0.05-0.001), ie, bent necks, tails, and midpieces, and multiple anomalies in the spermatozoa in extract and MSG-treated groups. There was also significant (p≤0.0001) reduction in testicular testosterone among all treatment groups. CONCLUSION: Hydroethanolic CBRE, SJRE, and PPRE were found to have detrimental effects on reproductive function with prolonged usage and thus may not be safe to use in healthy males who intend to reproduce.

Hypotensive and Antihypertensive Properties and Safety for Use of Annona muricata and Persea americana and Their Combination Products.

INTRODUCTION: In the management of hypertension (a cardiovascular disease and the leading metabolic risk factor in noncommunicable diseases) with herbal medicines, efficacy and safety are of uttermost concern. This study sought to establish hypotensive, antihypertensive, drug interaction, and safety for use of the aqueous leaf extracts of Annona muricata (AME), Persea americana (PAE), or their combination products (CAPE). Methodology. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), and heart rate (HR) were measured in normotensive Sprague-Dawley rats treated with 50-150 mg/kg of AME, PAE, or CAPE to establish a hypotensive effect. "Combination index" was calculated to establish interaction between AME and PAE. The antihypertensive effect of CAPE was established by measuring SBP, DBP, MAP, and HR in ethanol-sucrose- and epinephrine-induced hypertension. Full blood count, liver and kidney function tests, and urinalysis were determined in ethanol/sucrose-induced hypertension to establish safety for use. RESULTS: AME, PAE, and CAPE significantly (p ≤ 0.001) decreased BP in both normotensive and hypertensive animals. Effects of CAPE 1, CAPE 2, and CAPE 3 were synergistic (combination indices of 0.65 ± 0.07, 0.76 ± 0.09, and 0.87 ± 0.07, respectively). There was a significant decrease (p ≤ 0.01 - 0.001) in SBP and MAP with 100 mg/kg CAPE 1 and 75 mg/kg CAPE 2 treatment in hypertension as well as with nifedipine (p ≤ 0.001) treatment. Epinephrine-induced hypertension in anesthetized cats was significantly and dose-dependently inhibited (p < 0.05 - 0.001) by 25-100 mg/ml CAPE 1 and 37.5-75 mg/ml CAPE 2. CAPE administration had no deleterious effect (p > 0.05) on full blood count, liver and kidney function, and urine composition in hypertensive rats. CONCLUSION: The aqueous leaf extracts of Annona muricata, Persea americana, and their combination products possess antihypertensive properties, with combination products showing synergism and safety with use.

Efficacy and safety of extemporaneously prepared miconazole eye drops in Candida albicans-induced keratomycosis.

PURPOSE: Extemporaneously prepared miconazole eye drops (EPMD) are used by some eye care practitioners to manage keratomycosis in Ghana. This study therefore aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of EPMD using in vitro and in vivo experimental models. METHODS: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of EPMD was determined by the agar-well diffusion method. In vivo, the activity of EPMD on corneal ulcer, neovascularization, clouding, edema, carring and on keratomycotic conjunctivitis and corneal scarring (clinical features) associated with Candida albicans-induced keratomycosis in rabbits was determined by treating them with 0.034-1.08% (weight-in-volume) EPMD for a period of 30 days. The safety of EPMD on the healthy eye was determined by instilling various concentrations into the intact eye of the rabbits. RESULTS: The MIC of EPMD on Candida albicans was 1.08% (zone of inhibition of 13 mm ± 0.578), which resulted in significantly better improvements (p ≤ 0.001) in clinical findings than eyes treated with sterile water (p > 0.05), and showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) compared to eyes treated with 0.3% fluconazole. There were no visible signs of ocular toxicity on instilling it into healthy eyes of rabbits. CONCLUSION: The extemporaneously prepared miconazole eye drops are effective and safe to use in keratomycosis.

Effect of Trichilia monadelpha (Meliaceae) extracts on bone histomorphology in complete Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis.

AIM: This study aimed to assess the effect of petroleum ether extract (PEE), ethyl acetate extract (EthE), and ethanol extract (EAE) of Trichilia monadelpha stem bark on bone histomorphology in arthritis. METHODS: Percentage inhibition of edema and arthritic scores in complete Freund's adjuvant-induced (0.1 ml of 5 mg/ml1 of heat-killed Mycobacterium tuberculosis in paraffin oil-injected subplantar into the right hind paw) arthritic Sprague-Dawley rats treated with PEE, EthE, or EAE (10,30, and 100 mg/kg1, respectively), dexamethasone (0.3-3.0 mg/kg1), or methotrexate (0.1-1.0 mg/kg1) over a 28-day period were estimated. Rat paws were radiographed and scored. Body weights were taken and paw tissues were harvested for histopathological studies. RESULTS: The extracts significantly (P ≤ 0.01-0.0001) and dose dependently reduced the polyarthritic phase of arthritis. EAE and PEE significantly (P ≤ 0.01-0.0001) minimized edema spread from acute arthritic phase (days 0-10) to polyarthritic phase (days 10-28). EthE improved which deteriorated body weight in arthritis. All extracts significantly (P ≤ 0.05-0.01) improved arthritic score; reducing erythema, swelling and joint rigidity, and also significantly (P ≤ 0.05-0.01) reduced hyperplasia, pannus formation, and exudation of inflammatory cells into synovial spaces. CONCLUSION: The stem bark extracts of T. monadelpha reduce bone tissue damage and resorption associated with adjuvant-induced arthritis, hence could be useful in managing arthritis in humans.

The possible mode of antitussive and expectorant activity of the ethanol seed extracts of Picralima nitida ((Stapf) Th. & H. Durand).

It has been established that Picralima nitida has antitussive effect. This study therefore aimed at determining the possible mode of antitussive and expectorant activity of an ethanolic seed extract of P. nitida (PNE). The muco-suppressant, mast cell stabilization, and the anxiolytic effects of PNE were ascertained using ammonium chloride-induced phenol red secretion in BALB/c mice; compound 48/80-induced mesenteric mast cell degranulation assay; and the open field and the elevated plus maze models respectively. Antibacterial potential was ascertained by the agar plate diffusion method and its antioxidant potential by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl hydrate (DPPH) free radical scavenging, linoleic acid lipid peroxidation, reducing power, and total antioxidant assays. Data obtained was analyzed using One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Dunnett's Multiple Comparison post hoc test. PNE (100-500 mg/kg) reduced (P ≤ 0.05-0.001) tracheal phenol red secretion. The extract (100-500 µg/ml) also dose-dependently (P ≤ 0.05-0.0001) stabilized mast cells. PNE (100-500 mg/kg) increased open arm activities in the elevated plus maze (P ≤ 0.05) as well as central zone exploration (P ≤ 0.05) in the open field test. PNE (10-50 mg/ml) showed activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumonia, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Salmonella typhi. By the assays, PNE showed significant antioxidant effect. The ethanolic seed extract of P. nitida has demonstrated very significant mast cell stabilizing, mucus suppressant, and antioxidant activity as well as substantial antibacterial and anxiolytic properties; all of which could contribute to its antitussive and expectorant property.

Anti-Cataract Potential of Heliotropium indicum Linn on Galactose-Induced Cataract in Sprague-Dawley Rats.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the anti-cataract potential of an aqueous whole plant extract of Heliotropium indicum (HIE) on galactose-induced cataract in Sprague-Dawley rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cataract scores were recorded in 3-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats in which cataract was being induced by an oral administration of 1500 mgkg-1 galactose twice daily for 4 weeks, and concurrently being treated with 30, 100, or 300 mgkg-1 HIE daily over the induction period. Fasting blood glucose was monitored at weekly intervals. Changes in body weight as well as total lens protein, lens glutathione, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined initially, and at the end of the experimental period. Crystalline lens weight-to-body-weight ratio was also determined for the various treatment groups at the end of the experimental period. Preliminary phytochemical screening, total antioxidant capacity, and reducing power assays were conducted on HIE. RESULTS: The 30 and 100 mgkg-1 HIE-treated rats recorded significantly lower (p ≤ 0.05-0.001) cataract scores (indicating very significant delays in cataractogenesis by the 3rd and 4th weeks of treatment) and blood glucose levels. Rats with delayed cataractogenesis also exhibited significant (p ≤ 0.05-0.001) weight gain, and reduction in lens weight. Total lens proteins glutathione and SOD levels in the crystalline lens were also significantly preserved (p ≤ 0.01-0.001). HIE showed substantial antioxidant capacity and reducing power. CONCLUSION: The aqueous whole plant extract of Heliotropium indicum delays cataractogenesis at an optimum dose of 30 mgkg-1 in Sprague-Dawley rats.

Anti-anaphylactic effects of Trichilia monadelpha (Thonn.) J. J. De Wilde extracts on rodent models of anaphylaxis.

Effects of petroleum ether and ethanolic extracts of Trichilia monadelpha stem bark (PEE and EAE) on compound 48/80-induced systemic and passive anaphylaxis were determined. Survival rate, extravasation, degranulation of mast cells, and secretion of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured after pre-treatment with extracts (10-100 mg/kg) and disodium chromoglycate (2.5-250 µg/kg) and induction of anaphylaxis in C57BL/6 mice or Sprague-Dawley rats with compound 48/80. Histopathological assessments were made from skin biopsies of rats. Data was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier Survival Log-Rank Analysis, or One-way ANOVA and Holm-Sidak's post hoc test. PEE and EAE inhibited (P ≤ 0.0001) tremors in systemic anaphylaxis passive cutaneous anaphylactic reactions and extravasation, stabilized or prevented (P ≤ 0.001-0.0001) mast cell degranulation, and inhibited (P ≤ 0.001-0.0001) TNF-α and IL-6 secretion. Per the findings, PEE and EAE of T. monadelpha have exhibited substantial anti-anaphylactic and anti-inflammatory property (with PEE performing better) which substantiates its use traditionally in management of allergies and other inflammatory disorders.

Malaria rapid diagnostic test evaluation at private retail pharmacies in Kumasi, Ghana.

OBJECTIVE: Malaria rapid diagnostic test (MRDT) provides a good alternative to malaria microscopy diagnosis, particularly in resource-constrained settings. This study therefore evaluated MRDT in private retail pharmacies (PRPs) as a critical step in community case malaria management. METHODS: In a prospective, cross-over, validation survey at six PRPs in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, 1200 patients presenting with fever in the preceding 48 h were sampled. Fingerstick blood samples were collected for preparation of thick and thin blood films for malaria microscopy. Categorized patients (600 each) went through the processes of MRDT or presumptive diagnosis (PD) of malaria. The malaria disease prevalence of the study area was established. Selectivity (Se), specificity (Sp), positive predictive value (PPV) along with false discovery rate (FDR), and negative predictive value (NPV) along with the false omission rate (FOR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of MRDT were then calculated. FINDINGS: While 43.0% tested positive using the MRDT, 57.0% tested negative. However, 62.0% MRDT-negative patients in addition to all the MRDT positives were given artemether-lumefantrine. Of those diagnosed by PD, 98.2% were prescribed with an antimalarial (microscopy however confirmed only 70.3% as positive). Se and Sp of the MRDT were 90.68 ± 11.18% and 98.68 ± 1.19%, respectively. Malaria prevalence was estimated to be 43.3%. PPV was 98.0%, FDR was 2.0%, NPV was 98.0%, FOR was 2.0%, and DOR was 2366.43. CONCLUSION: Results highlighted good performance of MRDTs at PRPs which could inform decision toward its implementation.

Cryptolepine, an indoloquinoline alkaloid, in the management of diabetes mellitus and its associated complications.

BACKGROUND: Effective long-term management is the key to treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications. AIM: To ascertain the ability of cryptolepine (CRP) in managing DM and some associated complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Changes in fasting blood sugar (FBS), body weight, response to thermally-induced pain, and semen quality were assessed in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats treated with CRP (10, 30, or 100 mg/kg), glibenclamide (10 mg/kg), or normal saline (2 ml/kg) per os. Hematological profile, liver and kidney function tests, lipid profile, as well as liver, kidney, and pancreas histopathological examinations were also conducted to establish possible effects of CRP treatment. RESULTS: CRP treatment reduced (P ≤ 0.001) FBS and body weight, inhibited (P ≤ 0.05 - 0.001) the latency to tail flick or withdrawal from pain stimulus. It did not alter (P > 0.05): Hematological parameters, elevated (P ≤ 0.05 - 0.001) plasma aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase, reduced (P ≤ 0.01) plasma urea, and elevated (P ≤ 0.001) plasma creatinine associated with DM. CRP, however, reversed (P ≤ 0.05 - 0.001) DM-associated elevation (P ≤ 0.05 - 0.001) of plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins, and the reduction in high-density lipoproteins. CRP (10-30 mg/kg) showed dose-dependent regeneration of ß-islet cells but could not repair degenerated liver and kidney tissue. CRP worsens dose-dependently (P ≤ 0.001) reduced sperm quality associated with DM. CONCLUSION: CRP abolishes hyperglycemia, weight loss, cold allodynia, neuropathic pain, and hyperlipidemia as well as pancreatic ß-islet cell damage associated with DM. It, however, does not improve liver and kidney damage and lowered semen quality.

Anti-inflammatory effect of Heliotropium indicum Linn on lipopolysaccharide-induced uveitis in New Zealand white rabbits.

AIM: To investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of an aqueous whole plant extract of Heliotropium indicum (HIE) on endotoxin-induced uveitis in New Zealand white rabbits. METHODS: Clinical signs of uveitis including flares, iris hyperemia and miosis, were sought for and scored in 1.0 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) -induced uveitic rabbits treated orally with HIE (30-300 mg/kg), prednisolone (30 mg/kg), or normal saline (10 mL/kg). The number of polymorphonuclear neutrophils infiltrating, the protein concentration, as well as levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and monocyte chemmoattrant protein-1 (MCP-1) in the aqueous humor after the various treatments were also determined. A histopathological study of the anterior uveal was performed. RESULTS: The extract and prednisolone-treatment significantly reduced (P≤0.001) both the clinical scores of inflammation (1.0-1.8 compared to 4.40±0.40 in the normal saline-treated rabbits) and inflammatory cells infiltration. The level of protein, and the concentrations of TNF-α, PGE2 and MCP-1 in the aqueous humor were also significantly reduced (P≤0.001). Histopathological studies showed normal uveal morphology in the HIE and prednisolone-treated rabbits while normal saline-treated rabbits showed marked infiltration of inflammatory cells. CONCLUSION: The HIE exhibits anti-inflammatory effect on LPS-induced uveitis possibly by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.

Effect of preserved and preservative-free timolol eye drops on tear film stability in healthy Africans.

BACKGROUND: Preserved versus nonpreserved formulations for ophthalmic use have been well described in the literature although not specifically in the African population where beta blockers are frequently used as the first-line therapy due to economic and availability issues. This study sought to determine the effect of preserved and preservative-free Timolol eye drops on tear film stability in healthy black Africans. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty healthy nondry eye subjects aged 19-25 years were randomly assigned into four groups (n = 15) and differently treated with eye drops of phosphate buffered saline (PBS), preservative-free timolol (PFT), benzalkonium chloride (BAK) only, and BAK-preserved timolol (BPT). Noninvasive tear break-up time (NITBUT) was measured using the keratometer at baseline and 30, 60, and 90 min after drop application. RESULTS: No significant decline in NITBUT was observed following treatment with PFT and PBS. However, BAK treatment showed a positive time-dependent significant decline in NITBUT (P < 0.001) while a significant decline in the BPT-treated group was only found at 90 min (-3.52 s; P < 0.001). In comparison to the PFT-treated group, treatment with BAK and BPT showed significantly lower NITBUT (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: BPT is associated with a significant decline in tear film stability in black Africans. This finding has implications in the management of glaucoma in patients with high-risk of dry eyes in this population.

Antitussive, expectorant and analgesic effects of the ethanol seed extract of Picralima nitida (Stapf) Th. & H. Durand.

Picralima nitida is used traditionally for management of cough. This study, therefore, investigated the antitussive, expectorant, and analgesic properties of the ethanolic seed extract of Picralima nitida (PNE), and ascertained its safety for use. Presence of secondary metabolites, and safety of PNE (10-2000 mg/kg) were evaluated by preliminary phytochemical screening, and by Irwin's test respectively. Percentage reduction in cough count, percentage increase in latency of cough, and percentage protection offered by PNE were established by the citric acid-induced cough, acetylcholine- and Histamine-induced bronchoconstriction models. Dunkin-Hartley guinea pigs were treated with 100-500 mg/kg PNE or reference drugs, dihydrocodiene, atropine, mepyramine. Expectorant property of PNE (100-1000 mg/kg) was determined using the tracheal phenol red secretion; with ammonium chloride as a reference medication. Percentage maximal possible analgesic effect in the tail immersion test and the total nociceptive score in acetic acid-induced abdominal writhes, after treatment of BALB/c mice with PNE (100-500 mg/kg), diclofenac, and morphine were also estimated. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, steroids, terpenoids and anthraquinones. PNEdid not cause any extract-related physical, pharmacological and CNS toxicities or mortality; sedation was observed at doses 1000-2000 mg/kg. It showed significant dose-dependent reduction in cough count, and increased cough latency. PNE (1000 mg/kg) enhanced tracheal phenol red secretion. PNE (100-500 mg/kg) significantly and dose dependently increased tail withdrawal latencies, and nociceptive score. PNE has antitussive, expectorant, and analgesic properties, with an LD50>2000 mg/kg.

Anticoagulant effect and safety assessment of an aqueous extract of Pseudocedrela kotschyi (Schweinf.) harms and Adenia cissampeloides (Planch. Ex Hook.) harms.

BACKGROUND: Currently available therapeutic options for thromboembolic disorders are often very expensive and are associated with unfavorable side effects. AIM: To establish the anticoagulant effect and safety profile of an extract made from of the root bark of Pseudocedrela kotschyi (Schweinf.) Harms and the aerial part of Adenia cissampeloides (Planch. ex Hook.) Harms (PAE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: PAE (0.5-2.0 g/L) effect on prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) were evaluated on whole blood drawn from the marginal ear vein of New Zealand White rabbits. Effect of PAE (250-2000 mg/kg) on bleeding time (BT) and clotting time (CT) in Sprague-Dawley rats were also assessed. Histopathological, hematological, and liver function studies were also carried out to assess the safety for use of PAE (250-2000 mg/kg). RESULTS: PAE had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on PT, but resulted in a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05-0.0001) in aPTT. The PAE treatment resulted in a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05-0.0001) in BT and CT in vivo compared with control. Safety studies indicated no deaths with PAE treatment with hematological and liver function tests being normal. Histological studies revealed pathological changes in the liver at a PAE treatment dose of 2000 mg/kg but all doses had no detrimental effect on kidney and stomach tissue. The no-observed-adverse-effect-level was <2000 mg/kg when given orally. CONCLUSION: PAE has anticoagulant effect in vitro and is safe to use at oral doses <2000 mg/kg.

Anti-asthmatic property and possible mode of activity of an ethanol leaf extract of Polyscias fruticosa.

CONTEXT: Polyscias fruticosa (L.) Harms (Araliaceae) is used as a traditional remedy for asthma in Ghana. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to establish the anti-asthmatic property and a possible mode of activity of an ethanol leaf extract of P. fruticosa (PFE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The time (min) for pre-convulsive dyspnea, and time for recovery, after sensitization with 150 µg OVA and induction of bronchospasm with 1% acetylcholine or histamine in normal, and 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg PFE-treated Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs, were recorded. Atropine (0.1 mg), mepyramine (0.1 mg), and PFE (1 mg) effect on a contractile response of 2.0 × 10(-2) µg/ml acetylcholine and 5.8 × 10(-2) µg/ml histamine on the isolated guinea pig ileum was investigated. Cytological and histological studies were conducted using guinea pig peritoneal mast cells and mesenteric cells, respectively, to establish PFE effect on compound 48/80-induced mast cell degranulation. RESULTS: PFE (100-500 mg/kg) prolonged the onset of pre-convulsive dyspnea by 76.1-180.2% (p ≤ 0.01-0.001), and decreased recovery time by 71.9-78.5% (p ≤ 0.01-0.001). It also enhanced percentage protection against histamine-induced bronchospasm by 15.8-80.1-fold (p ≤ 0.05-0.01), and decreased percentage recovery time 2.5-3.3-fold (p ≤ 0.05-0.01). PFE significantly inhibited (60.4 ± 8.3%) contractile responses of histamine and produced significant inhibition (56-79%: p ≤ 0.001) of mast cell degranulation. CONCLUSION: PFE has anti-asthmatic, antihistaminic, and mast cell stabilization effect making it useful in traditional asthma management.

Assessment of an ethanolic seed extract of Picralima nitida ([Stapf] Th. and H. Durand) on reproductive hormones and its safety for use.

BACKGROUND: Picralima nitida seed extract (PNE) has aphrodisiac and contraceptive effect. AIM: To investigate the effect of PNE on reproductive hormones. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The size and length of the combs of white leghorn day-old chicks treated with testosterone (0.5-1.5 mg/kg), cyproterone (3-30 mg/kg), or PNE (50-500 mg/kg) for 7 days, as well as cyproterone (10, and 30 mg/kg) on PNE-induced, and PNE (50-500 mg/kg) on testosterone-induced comb growth, were measured in the chick comb test. The effect of PNE the percentage change in an oviduct-chick weight ratio of Rhode Island Red layer day-old chicks treated with 17-ß-estradiol (0.1-0.9 µg), PNE (30-300 mg/kg) or vehicle, for 6 days, was determined in the chick uterotrophic assay. Liver and kidney function was well lipid, and hematological profile tests were conducted to assess safety. RESULTS: 7-day treatment with PNE and testosterone increased significantly (P ≤ 0.01-0.001) while cyproterone significantly decreased (P ≤ 0.001) comb growth dose-dependently. Qualitatively, testosterone and PNE treatment resulted in relatively brighter red combs. Cyproterone caused significant inhibition (P ≤ 0.001) of both testosterone and PNE-induced comb growth. Co-administration of testosterone and PNE suppressed comb growth significantly (P ≤ 0.001). Administration of 17-ß estradiol and PNE increased (P ≤ 0.001) oviduct-chick weight ratio dose-dependently. No significant changes were observed in assessing liver and kidney function, lipid profile, and hematological parameters. CONCLUSION: PNE exhibits both androgenic (partial testosterone agonist) and estrogenic activity. It has no detrimental effects on the blood, liver, and kidney tissue with prolonged use.

Possible Mechanism of Action of the Antiallergic Effect of an Aqueous Extract of Heliotropium indicum L. in Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Conjunctivitis.

Heliotropium indicum is used traditionally as a remedy for conjunctivitis in Ghana. This study therefore evaluated the antiallergic potential of an aqueous whole plant extract of Heliotropium indicum (HIE) in ovalbumin-induced allergic conjunctivitis and attempted to predict its mode of action. Clinical scores for allergic conjunctivitis induced by intraperitoneal ovalbumin sensitization (100 : 10 µg OVA/Al(OH)3 in phosphate-buffered saline [PBS]) and topical conjunctival challenge (1.5 mg OVA in 10 µL PBS) in Dunkin-Hartley guinea pigs were estimated after a week's daily treatment with 30-300 mg kg(-1) HIE, 30 mg kg(-1) prednisolone, 10 mg kg(-1) chlorpheniramine, or 10 mL kg(-1) PBS. Ovalbumin-specific IgG and IgE and total IgE in serum were estimated using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Histopathological assessment of the exenterated conjunctivae was also performed. The 30 and 300 mg kg(-1) HIE treatment resulted in a significantly (p ≤ 0.001) low clinical score of allergic conjunctivitis. Ovalbumin-specific IgG and IgE as well as total serum IgE also decreased significantly (p ≤ 0.01-0.001). The conjunctival tissue in HIE treated guinea pigs had mild mononuclear infiltration compared to the PBS-treated ones, which had intense conjunctival tissue inflammatory infiltration. HIE exhibited antiallergic effect possibly by immunomodulation or immunosuppression.

Anti-glaucoma potential of Heliotropium indicum Linn in experimentally-induced glaucoma.

BACKGROUND: Heliotropium indicum is used as a traditional remedy for hypertension in Ghana. The aim of the study was to evaluate the anti-glaucoma potential of an aqueous whole plant extract of H. indicum to manage experimentally-induced glaucoma. METHODS: The percentage change in intraocular pressure (IOP), after inducing acute glaucoma (15 mLkg(-1) of 5 % dextrose, i.v.), in New Zealand White rabbits pretreated with Heliotropium indicum aqueous extract (HIE) (30-300 mgkg(-1)), acetazolamide (5 mgkg(-1)), and normal saline (10 mLkg(-1)) per os were measured. IOPs were also monitored in chronic glaucoma in rabbits (induced by 1 % prednisolone acetate drops, 12 hourly for 21 days) after treatments with the same doses of HIE, acetazolamide, and normal saline for 2 weeks. The anti-oxidant property of the extract was assessed by assaying for glutathione levels in the aqueous humour. Glutamate concentration in the vitreous humour was also determined using ELISA technique. Histopathological assessment of the ciliary bodies was made. RESULTS: The extract significantly reduced intraocular pressure (p ≤ 0.05-0.001) in acute and chronic glaucoma, preserved glutathione levels and glutamate concentration (p ≤ 0.01-0.001). Histological assessment of the ciliary body showed a decrease in inflammatory infiltration in the extract and acetazolamide-treated group compared with the normal saline-treated group. CONCLUSION: The aqueous whole plant extract of Heliotropium indicum has ocular hypotensive, anti-oxidant and possible neuro-protective effects, which therefore underscore its plausible utility as an anti-glaucoma drug with further investigation.

The Claim of Anti-Cataract Potential of Heliotropium indicum: A Myth or Reality?

INTRODUCTION: Heliotropium indicum has several uses in traditional medicine attributable to its numerous bioactive compounds. It is used as a traditional remedy for cataracts in Ghana without any scientific verification. This study aimed at verifying the anti-cataract properties of an aqueous whole plant extract of H. indicum. METHODS: The effect (cataract score) of 30, 100, and 300 mg kg(-1) extract (bid for 21 days, per os) on the development of 30 µmol kg(-1) sodium selenite-induced cataract in 10-day-old rat pups was investigated. Soluble lens proteins alpha A and alpha B crystallins, total lens protein, total lens glutathione, and aquaporin 0 in enucleated lens homogenates were determined spectrophotometrically using commercially available kits. Histopathological studies on the lenses were also performed. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging effect and linoleic acid autoxidation (antioxidant properties) of the extract (0.1-3.0 mg ml(-1)), compared to n-propyl gallate, were ascertained using standard procedures. RESULTS: Cataract scores showed that the extract, at all dose levels, significantly alleviated selenite-induced cataracts (P ≤ 0.001). Markers of lens transparency (aquaporin 0, alpha A and B crystallins), as well as total lens proteins and lens glutathione levels, were significantly preserved (P ≤ 0.01-0.001). The extract exhibited activity relevant for scavenging free radicals and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Epithelial and lens fiber integrity in the histopathological assessment were maintained with HIE treatment. CONCLUSION: The aqueous whole plant extract of H. indicum significantly inhibited the development of cataracts in rats via multiple mechanisms.