bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Azadirachta indica leaf extract for hypoglycaemic activity in rats
Authors: Chakrabortty T. , Verotta L. , Poddar G.
Published: October 2006

Water soluble fractions separated from the crude leaf extract of Azadirachta indica A. Juss. lowered hyperglycaemia in streptozotocin diabetes. Systematic fractionation of the concentrates led to the isolation of flavonol glycosides, quercetin‐3‐O‐β‐D‐glucoside, myricetin‐3‐O‐rutinoside, quercetin‐3‐O‐rutinoside, kaempferol‐3‐O‐rutinoside, kaempferol‐3‐O‐β‐D‐glucoside and quercetin‐3‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnoside.
Hordenine content of the marine alga Mastocarpus stellatus and the algal food product Carrageen
Authors: Barwell C. J. , Canham C. A. , Guiry M. D.
Published: October 2006

Hordenine (N,N‐dimethyltryramine) occurs, throughout the year, in the red marine alga Mastocarpus stellatus (Stackh, in With.) Guiry comb, nov., at levels from 1500 μg to 5500 μg/g dry weight. Mastocarpus stellatus constituted 10% to 100% (w/w) of samples of the algal food product Carrageen, the remainder being the red marine alga Chondrus crispus Stackh. The hordenine content of Carrageen samples varied from 10 μg to 1000 μg/g, which was lower than might be expected from the hordenine content of fresh M. stellatus. Studies upon the open air bleaching process used in the production of Carrageen showed it can reduce the hordenine content of M. stellatus by 40% to 90%. However, the hordenine content of some Carrageen may be sufficient to produce adverse pharmacological interactions in some individuals.
Schizontocidal activity of Celastrus paniculatus Willd. against Plasmodium falciparum in vitro
Authors: Pavanandt Katchrinnee , Webster H. Kyle , Yongvanitchit Kosol , Kun‐anake Amporn , Dechatiwongse Thaweephol , Nutakul Wutichai , Bansiddhi Jaree
Published: October 2006

Preparations from the plant Celastrus paniculatus Willd. have been used for treatment of malaria and other febrile illness in the traditional medicine practices of Thailand. Crude solvent extracts from the root bark and stem of C. paniculatus were screened for antimalarial activity against P. falciparum using an in vitro culture system. A fraction of the chloroform extract of the root bark showed the highest antimalarial activity. An active principle was isolated and characterized from the chloroform fraction and identified as a quinonoid triterpene, pristimerin. When tested in vitro against various multidrug resistant isolates of P. falciparum, pristimerin was less active than the conventional antimalarial drugs tested.
Studies on the effect of Schizandra chinensis extract on horses submitted to exercise and maximum effort
Authors: Ahumada F. , Hermosilla J. , Hola R. , Peña R. , Wittwer F. , Wegmann E. , Hancke J. , Wikman G.
Published: October 2006

The effect of the berries extract of Schizundru chinensis on polo and race horses was studied. The concentration of plasmatic lactate and glucose as well as the respiratory and heart rates of these horses submitted to daerent physical effort were examined. Thirty adult horses were used for this experiment; 20 polo horses and 10 race horses. Ten polo horses were submitted to a 12 min gallop at a speed of 400 m/min, and 10 other polo horses to a 5 min gallop at a speed of 700 m/min. The race horses were submitted to a single run on a fixed distance of 800111 at maximum speed. Blood jugular samples from each polo horse (when they were in the stable) were collected for lactate and glucose analysis before the exercise and at 10 and 50 min after the exercise. Heart and respiratory rates were recorded. First each horse was given a single dose of 500 mL of saline half an hour before the race. A week later the same horses were given a single dose of 48 g of Schizundru chinemis berry extract. Treated polo horses showed a lower increase in heart rate at all moments of the exercise. They also showed a quicker recovery of respiratory frequency at the moments immediately after the race (time 0) and 5 min after the same race. The performance of the race horses was improved. In polo horses administration of Schizundru extract led to a significant reduction of the concentration of plasmatic lactate at 10, and 50min after exercise. Plasma glucose concentration in polo horses showed no significant difference between the saline treated and the Schizandru‐treated animals (with the exception at 50 min after the race).
Hypoglycaemic activity of Anthocleista vogelii (Planch) aqueous extract in rodents
Authors: Abuh F. Y. , Wambebe C. , Rai P. P. , Sokomba E. N.
Published: October 2006

The hypoglycaemic effect of Anthocleista vogelii was studied in mice, rats and rabbits. Aqueous extract of the plant obtained by infusion from finely pulverized root was used. The extract (100, 400 and 800 mg/kg) induced significant hypoglycaemic activity in a dose‐related fashion at 2 h after oral administration in mice and rats with ED25 of 250 mg/kg and 350 mg/kg respectively. The extract (800 mg/kg, orally) similarly induced statistically significant lowering of blood glucose levels at 8 h in normoglycaemic rabbits. The extract (400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg, orally) also caused reduction of blood glucose levels in alloxan‐induced diabetic animals. The results of this study indicate that the aqueous extract of the roots of Anthocleista vogelii possess favourable hypoglycaemic activity both in normo and hyperglycaemic animals compared to chlorpropamide as a standard.
Antihepatotoxic actions of traditional chinese medicines. 2. The pharmacological interaction of components of Dai‐saiko‐tǒ employing complement‐mediated cytotoxicity in primary cultured mouse hepatocytes
Authors: Kiso Yoshinobu , Suzuki Michiko , Yasuda Masahiro , Watanabe Hisako , Minegishi Toshihiko , Hikino Hiroshi , Yang Ling‐Ling , Yen Kun‐Ying
Published: October 2006

Antihepatotoxic activities of the components of a traditional Chinese prescription, Dai‐saiko‐tǒ, were examined employing complement‐mediated cytotoxicity in primary cultured mouse hepatocytes. Bupleuri Radix and Scutellariae Radix were shown to be active in this system but did not reach the levels of activity of the prescription. In combination, Bupleuri Radix‐Scutellariae Radix, Bupleuri Radix‐Zingiberis Rhizoma, Scutellariae Radix‐Pinelliae Tuber and Bupleuri Radix‐Zingiberis Rhizoma, exhibited effects comparable to the original prescription. It was therefore concluded that the antihepatotoxic activity of Dai‐saiko‐tǒ is due to the pharmacological interactions of their constituents. In addition, a difference in antihepatotoxic activity of Bupleuri Radix and Aurantii Fructus Immaturus was observed between their water extracts and 50% aqueous ethanol extracts, indicating that active principles in each extract of the prescription seemed to be different and, therefore, the method of extraction was an important factor in the clinical use of Dai‐saiko‐tǒ.
Pharmacological effects of chronic ingestion of Garcinia kola seeds in the rat
Authors: Braide V. B.
Published: October 2006

Male rats were chronically fed a diet containing dry powdered seeds of Garcinia kola, at the level of 10% w/w for 6 weeks. The effect of this diet was investigated on gastrointestinal motility, castor oil induced diarrhea, and pentobarbital sleeping times, as well as organ and body weights at the end of 6 weeks. Garcinia kola caused marked inhibition of gastrointestinal motility, protected against castor oil induced diarrhea, prolonged pentobarbital sleeping time, and caused marked retardation of growth but did not affect organ weights compared to pair‐fed controls. There is a possibility that the observations may be due to the flavonoids contained in G. kola seeds.
Anoectochilus formosanus Hay. Contains substances that affect arachidonic acid metabolism
Authors: Mak Oi‐Tong , Huang Dinq‐Ding , Law Rocky Chau‐Sing
Published: October 2006

The whole plant of Anoectochilus formosanus Hay. was extracted with hot water, and the aqueous solution was re‐extracted with ethyl acetate in order to study the effects on thromboxane A2 (TXA2) production in rabbit platelets and prostacyclin (PGI2) production in bovine aortic tissues. Inhibition of TXA2 production, using either arachidonic acid (AA) or PGH2 as precursors, was manifested on incubation of platelets with the crude water extraction, and the ethyl acetate extraction of A. formosanus Hay., respectively; the inhibitory effects were concentration‐dependent. Incubation of platelets with the aqueous remainder caused activation of TXA2 production, using AA as the precursor, but there was no effect on TXA2 production using PGH2 as the precursor. With the AA precursor, there was activation of PGI2 production on incubation of aortic tissues with both crude water extraction and aqueous remainder of A. formosanus Hay., but not with ethyl acetate extraction, and the activating effects were also concentration‐dependent. No effect on PGI2 production was observed on incubation with PGH2 as the precursor. These results suggest that A. formosanus Hay. contains at least two different components affecting TXA2 production in platelets, and PGI2 production in aortic endothelium, respectively, and these effects might play important roles in the pharmacological effects of A. formosanus Hay.
Comparative haemodynamic effects of the flavonoids rhoifolin and vitexin in the dog
Authors: Occhiuto F. , Circosta C. , de Pasquale A. , Briguglio F.
Published: October 2006

In this communication we have examined the acute haemodynamic effects of two flavonoids with different electrophysiological characteristics, rhoifolin and vitexin, in anaesthetized dogs. The following haemodynamic parameters: mean aortic pressure, left ventricular systolic pressure, left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure, and its first derivative, mean arterial and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, right atrial pressure and heart rate were measured. The results obtained have shown that rhoifolin and vitexin caused a decrease of mean aortic pressure, of the arterial and pulmonary capillary pressure and of heart rate. Differences in the left ventricular performance index of the two flavonoids were also noted.
Effects of pilose antler extracts on doxorubicin‐induced beating abnormalities of cultured myocardial cells
Authors: Huang Sheng‐Lun , Yang Xiu‐Wei , Takahashi Kyoko , Kakiuchi Nobuko , Hattori Masao , Namba Tsuneo
Published: October 2006

Effects of pilose antler extracts and subsequent fractions on normal and doxorubicin (DX)‐administered cultured myocardial cells from mouse embryo were investigated. A water extract did not affect the percentage of beating cells at 1–100 μg/mL but suppressed the beating rate at 100 μ/mL. A pretreatment with the water extract significantly restored the percentage of beating cells which was reduced by administration of DX, and showed a tendency to recover the reduced beating rate. A similar pretreatment with an aqueous EtOH‐solnble portion (fraction 1) of the water extract significantly recovered both the percentage of beating cells and the beating rate, but further fractionation did not improve the activities. LDH leakage from DX‐administered myocardial cells was significantly diminished by the pretreatment with fraction 1, though ATP content in the cells was not appreciably recovered.
The protective and curative action of Withania frutescens leaf extract against CCl4‐induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Montilla M. P. , Cabo J. , Navarro M. C. , Risco S. , Jiménez J. , Aneiros J.
Published: October 2006

We studied the protective and curative action of an ethanol extract of Withania frutescens leaves against CCl4‐induced hepatotoxicity. Hepatoprotective activity was evaluated in terms of the LD50 of CCl4, the modification of Nembutal‐induced sleep, the action on bile flow, serum transaminase and hepatic fatty acids levels and a histopathological study of liver tissue. Curative action was assessed by measuring the duration of Nembutal‐induced sleep and with a histopathological study of liver tisue. The findings indicate that the leaf extract has both preventative and curative activity against CCL4‐induced liver damage.
The source of ca2+ for the spasmolytic actions of longicaudatine, a bisindole alkaloid isolated from Strychnos trinervis (Vell.) Mart. (Loganiaceae)
Authors: de Medeiros C. L. C. , Thomas G. , Mukherjee R.
Published: October 2006

Longicaudatine, a tertiary bisindole alkaloid isolated from the root bark of Strychnos trinervis (Vell.) Mart. (Loganiaceae), antagonized in a noncompetitive manner, carbachol and histamine induced contractions of the guinea‐pig ileum and bradykinin responses in the rat uterus. The respective pD2' values (mean ± SE) were 4.61 ± 0.21, 4.98 ± 0.04 and 4.49 ± 0.01. Longicaudatine, unlike verapamil, had no effect on voltage dependent Ca2+ channels, as it failed to inhibit KCI or CaCl2 induced contractions of guinea‐pig ileum and depolarized rat uterus respectively. When compared with sodium nitroprusside, an antagonist of receptor operated Ca2+ channels, longicaudatine produced a slower and weaker inhibition of noradrenaline induced sustained contractions of rabbit aortic strips. However, in the aorta, the alkaloid antagonized the intracellular calcium dependent transient contractions of noradrenaline and longicaudatine (IC50, 5.01 × 10−7 M) was approximately 133 times more potent that procaine (IC50, 6.68 × 10−5 M), a known inhibitor of the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Longicaudatine may exert nonspecific spasmolytic effects by acting on intracellular Ca2+ stores, rather than on depolarization dependent or receptor operated Ca2+ channels.
Antihepatotoxic biochemical effects of kolaviron, a biflavonoid of Garcinia kola seeds
Authors: Braide V. B.
Published: October 2006

Male rats (200–220 g) were treated with toxic doses of carbon tetrachloride (2 mL/kg per day i.p., for 3 days) to induce liver damage. Another group of rats received kolaviron, a biflavonoid extract from seeds of Garcinia kola (500 mg/kg, i.p.) 1 h prior to receiving carbon tetrachloride. Tests for liver function were performed on all animals. The activities of glutamic oxaloacetatetransaminase (GOT), glutamic pyruvate transaminase (GPT), sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) and glutamic dehydrogenase (GLDH) in serum were determined, as were the concentrations of hepatic glutathione (GSH) and triglyceride in liver. Hepatic lipid peroxidation was assessed by measuring hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) formation in the liver. Carbon tetrachloride induced marked depletion of GSH and increased the formation of MDA and triglyceride in the liver, as well as causing significant increases in activities of the serum enzymes assessed. Pretreatment with kolaviron significantly attentuated all the alterations caused by carbon tetrachloride. The antihepatotoxic action of kolaviron was clearly demonstrated in the model of hepatitis employed in this study.
Isolation of a saikosaponin responsible for the antiinflammatory activity of Bupleurum gibraltaricum lam. Root Extract
Authors: Utrilla M. P. , Zarzuelo A. , Risco S. , Ocete M. A. , Jiménez J. , Gamez M. J.
Published: October 2006

Bupleurum gibraltaricum Lam. root extract demonstrated an antiinflammatory activity against carrageenan produced plantar oedema in the rat. We have isolated a compound responsible for this activity, a glycoside of saikogenin G containing three sugars. This compound differs from saikosaponin d in that the latter contains only two sugars.
Screening for toxic thiophene compounds from crude drugs of the family compositae used in Northern Italy
Authors: Tosi B. , Bonora A. , Dall'Olio G. , Bruni A.
Published: October 2006

The presence and distribution of biosynthetically related di‐ and terthiophenes from 25 crude drugs derived from some genera of the family Compositae were investigated by high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) densitometry. A significant thiophene content was found in Tagetes patula, Achillea millfolium, A. millefolium var. tanacetifolia, Arnica montana, Artemisia absinthium, A. pontica, A. dracunculus, Centaurea cyanus, Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium, Doronicum pardaliandres, Helianthus annuus and Tanacetum vulgare. The results of this study indicate that commercial crude drugs from the Compositae contain amounts of photoactive thiophenes which are potentially toxic.
Sedative hypnotic action of pala papua, Myristica argentea, in mice
Authors: Takahashi Sumiko , Uekane Ayako , Otsuka Kazuoki , Shigenobu Koki
Published: October 2006

An aqueous extract of the seed of Myristica argentea depressed motor activity and caffeine‐induced excitement, and prolonged spontaneous and pentobarbital‐induced sleep in mice; it also inhibited brief tonic spasm caused by pentobarbital before hypnosis. These actions are discussed by comparing them with those of nutmeg essential oil, the seed essential oil of Myristica fragrans.
Effects of Kamikihi‐To, a traditional Chinese Medicine, on learning and memory performance in mice
Authors: Nishizawa Koji , Saito Hiroshi , Nishiyama Nobuyoshi
Published: October 2006

The effects of Kamikihi‐To (KMK), a traditional Chinese medicine (Chinese name Jia‐Wei‐Gui‐Pi‐Tang), on learning and memory performance abilities in normal or memory‐impaired mice were studied using step through and step down type passive avoidance tests. The effects were also studied using shuttle box and lever press type conditioned avoidance tests in normal mice. KMK (0.5 and 1.0 g/kg p.o.) showed no influence on the learning abilities in passive and conditioned avoidance tests in normal mice. In contrast, KMK (1.0 g/kg p.o.) exerted ameliorating effects on memory registration impairment induced by ethanol in step through and step down tests. KMK at this dose also significantly improved memory retrieval disability induced by electroconvulsive shock (ECS) in step through test. Moreover, KMK (0.5 g/kg p.o.) ameliorated memory consolidation impairment induced by ECS in step down test. These results suggest that KMK ameliorates the impaired learning performance through its influence on memory registration, consolidation and retrieval.
Insect feeding‐deterrent activity of some saponin glycosides
Authors: Jain D. C. , Tripathi A. K.
Published: October 2006

Saponins and sapogenins isolated from Balanites roxburghii, Agave cantala and Phaseolus vulgaris were studied for insect antifeedant activity against the larvae of the noctuid, Spilosoma obliqua (Walker). The most active compound was diosgenin‐3‐0‐[α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl (1→2)]‐[β‐D‐glucopyranosyl (1→3)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl (1→4)]‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (X), inhibiting approximately. 73.63 per cent feeding at 0.02 per cent concentration. Relative efficacy of all the tested compounds was assessed, using azadirachtin as standard.
Choleretic activity of p‐hydroxyacetophenone isolated from Artemisia scoparia Waldst. et Kit. in the rat
Authors: Liu Chang‐Xiao , Ye Gui‐Zhen
Published: October 2006

Intraduodenal injection of p‐hydroxyacetophenone (PAP) isolated from Artemisia scoparia Waldst, et Kit. at a dose of 50 mg/kg to normal rats produced significant choleretic activity. At doses of 12.5–250 mg/kg, the relationship between bile secretion and dose was linear. To rats whose liver had been injured by nithiocyamine, intraduodenal injection of PAP at a dose of 50 mg/kg produced a significant increase in bile secretion, solid materials and bile acids in bile. Oral administration of PAP at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day for 4 days reduced the serum icterus index and bilirubin.
Hypertensive effect of glycosidic derivatives of hordenine isolated from Selaginella doederleinii hieron and structural analogues in rats
Authors: Lin R. C. , Peyroux J. , Seguin E. , Koch M.
Published: October 2006

The effect of glycosidic derivatives of hordenine isolated from Selaginella doederleinii and synthetic analogues has been studied on rat blood pressure after oral administration. A hypertensive activity was observed for the first time in this series which supports the chinese traditional medicinal use of the plant.
Inhibitory effects on angiogenesis and pouch fluid exudation by aconite alkaloids in adjuvant‐induced inflammation of the mouse
Authors: Luo Bao , Kobayashi Shinjiro , Kimura Ikuko , Kimura Masayasu
Published: October 2006

The antiinflammatory effect of a water extract of aconite root and its constituent alkaloids on adjuvant‐induced air pouch granuloma in the mouse was investigated. Aconite alkaloids were more potent than, and aconite extracts were equipotentto, hydrocortisone and indomethacin against angiogenesis in chronic inflammation.
Euphytose®, an association of plant extracts with anxiolytic activity: Investigation of its mechanism of action by an in vitro binding study
Authors: Valli Marc , Paubert‐Braquet Monique , Picot Sylvie , Fabre Richard , Lefrançois Gérard , Rod Didier
Published: October 2006

The present results show that the association of plant extracts, Euphytose®, interacts with central benzodiazepine (BDZ) receptors, alpha‐2 adrenoceptors and muscarinic M1 receptors with respective IC50 values of 37.1, 3.6 amd 30.0 μg/mL. In contrast, Euphytose® does not show any interaction with peripheral BZD, 5‐HT1 and 5 HT2 serotoninergic, alpha‐1 adrenergic, DA1 and DA2 dopaminergic and M2 muscarinic receptors. The present in vitro binding data demonstrate clearly the different interactions of Euphytose® with various neurotransmitter binding sites in the central nervous system. This is of importance in order to elucidate the mechanism of action of the putative anxiolytic and/or antidepressant effect of this drug.
Selection and micropropagation of high artemisinin producing clones of Artemisia annua L.
Authors: Elhag H. M. , El‐Domiaty M. M. , El‐Feraly F. S. , Mossa J. S. , El‐Olemy M. M.
Published: October 2006

An in vitro micropropagation method has been used to clone Artemisia annua L. plants from axenic seedlings or field grown plants selected on the basis of morphological characteristics during the growing season. Clones were maintained in culture by continuous transfer every 4–6 weeks. The performance of the various clones in the field as well as their contents of artemisinin and related sesquiterpenes were compared with selected field grown plants. An internally standardized reverse‐phase HPLC method was developed for this evaluation. Artemisinic acid (III) was by far the major sesquiterpene for all clones tested, followed by arteannuin B (II) and then artemisinin (I). However, there was a high degree of variability between various clones for all sesquiterpenes tested. The high artemisinin producing clones are characterized as tall robust plants with long internodes, open branching, dense leaves and thick stems. Results from unorganized callus cultures initiated from the leaves of the corresponding clones did not indicate the formation of artemisinin or related sesquiterpenes in these cultures.
Hepatoprotective activity of Hypericum perforatum L. alcoholic extract in rodents
Authors: Öztürk Y. , Aydin S. , Başer K. H. C. , Kirimer N. , Kurtar‐Öztürk N.
Published: October 2006

In recent years, interest in the hepatoprotective plants and plant based chemicals is increasing. In Turkish folk medicine, Hypericum perforatum L. has been used for various purposes including liver protection. The hepatoprotective effect of H. perforatum was investigated in vivo by cannulating the rat bile duct for choleretic activity and by barbiturate sleeping time following CCI4‐induced hepatic injury. The increase in the bile secretion following intraduodenal injection of H. perforatum extract, and the appearance of its constituents in the bile were observed by its colour change and this observation was confirmed by thin layer chromatographic analysis suggesting the excretion of hypericin into the bile as well. It was observed that the extract shortens the barbiturate sleeping time of CCI4‐treated mice suggesting hepatoprotection.
Garlic and onion extracts. In vitro inhibition of adenosine deaminase
Authors: Koch H. P. , Jäger W. , Hysek J. , Körpert B.
Published: October 2006

Several specimens of garlic bulbs (Allium sativum L., fresh sap and rehydrated dry powder), as well as a few other Allium species, were assayed for their ability to inhibit the enzyme adenosine deaminase (ADA). A clear dose‐dependent inhibition of enzyme activity, leading to an accumulation of the substrate adenosine (Ado) in the system, was observed. A standard in vitro testing procedure was derived which is suitable for quality assessment of either raw or dried garlic, as well as for bioequivalence control of pharmaceutical products derived therefrom.
A screening method for natural products on triatomine bugs
Authors: Schmeda‐Hirschmann Guillermo , de Arias Antonieta Rojas
Published: October 2006

A simple method for screening natural products on triatomine bugs, vectors of Chagas' disease, was developed using fourth instar Rhodnius neglectus nymphs as an insect model. The statistical method of randomized blocks and randomized blocks with a dichotomous variable were compared and the minimum sample size for screening purposes was established. Tests were made on 94 plant extracts from 49 species, 28 of which are traditionally regarded as having some effect on arthropods or parasitic helminths. 50 μg of crude hexane or ethanol extract was topically applied to each insect. The effect on mortality and moulting was assessed. Ten plant species caused an increased mortality (16.0% to 52.3%) compared with untreated controls. Moulting inhibition ranged from 22.2% to 33.3% and was related to insecticidal effect in most cases. Extracts from two Meliaceae plants belonging to the genera Melia and Cabralea were among the most active tested, causing 32.5% and 45% mortality, respectively. Extracts from a Salvia species killed 52.3% of the bugs. Ten of the 13 plants showing activity are used by the rural population in various parts of Latin America for arthropod control or as vermifuges.
Bactericidal effect of the sesquiterpene T‐cadinol on Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Claeson Per , Rådström Peter , Sköld Ola , Nilsson Åsa , Höglund Stefan
Published: October 2006

The antimicrobial effects of the sesquiterpene T‐cadinol, isolated from the Somalian traditional remedy, scented myrrh (resin of Commiphora guidottii Chiov., Burseraceae), were investigated. The compound was found to be active toward Staphylococcus aureus and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. The minimum inhibitory concentration of T‐cadinol on S. aureus was 24 μg/mL and the lowest concentration exerting fungicidal effect on T. mentagrophytes was 2.3 μg/mL. The influence of T‐cadinol cell viability in S. aureus, both in different growth‐phases, and in the absence and presence of chloramphenicol, was studied. It could be concluded that T‐cadinol has a bactericidal rather than a bacteriostatic effect, which acts also in the absence of growth. Furthermore, the effect of T‐cadinol on S. aureus was analysed and documented with transmission electron microscopy. The electron micrographs clearly showed that T‐cadinol interacted with the cell envelopes, causing bacterial lysis and subsequent fatal loss of intracellular material. The effect of the substance was thus characterized as bacteriolytic. The use of scented myrrh in traditional medicine as a remedy for wounds may then be in congruence with this bactericidal effect of T‐cadinol toward the common wound pathogen S. aureus.
Experience of padma 28 in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Korwin‐Piotrowska T. , Nocoń D. , Stańkowska‐Chomicz A. , Starkiewicz A. , Wójcicki J. , Samochowiec L.
Published: October 2006

One hundred subjects suffering from a chronic progressive form of multiple sclerosis were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group 1 received Padma 28, two tablets three times a day, and group 2, the control, were treated only symptomatically. Treatment and observation lasted for 1 year. Examinations performed directly prior to the study and in the course of observation included: neurological state, visual and auditory evoked potentials, basic laboratory tests. A positive effect of Padma 28 was observed in 44% of patients with multiple sclerosis in the form of improvement of general condition, increase of muscle strength, decrease or disappearance of disorders affecting sphincters. In 41% of patients with initially an abnormal tracing of visual evoked potentials, an improvement or normalization was achieved. Of patients, who did not receive Padma 28 none felt better, moreover, 40% of them showed a deterioration. Tolerance of the drug was excellent.
Effects of naringenin and quercetin on experimental chronic gastric ulcer in rat. Studies on the histological findings
Authors: Motilva V. , Alarc de la Lastra C. Ón , Mart Calero M. J. Ín , Torreblanca J.
Published: October 2006

The effects of chronic intragastric administration of the flavonoid derivatives naringenin and quercetin (100 mg/kg body weight) on mucosal lesion induced by acetic acid were studied in the rat. The evolution of the healing process of the ulcer by histological measurement was also investigated. Ranitidine was used as a positive reference drug. Compounds were consecutively administered to different groups of rats for 8, 21 and 50 days. The values for the histological mucosa regeneration index as well as the morphological results, indicated that the naringenin cure potential in prolonged treatments was higher than that of the other drugs.
Modulation of microsomal activity by potential chemopreventive agents of plant origin
Authors: Teel R. W.
Published: October 2006

Ten compounds with potential chemopreventive activity were studied to determine their effects on microsomal mixed‐function oxidase and epoxide hydratase activity. In these studies, the highest nontoxic concentration of each compound was incubated with 1 mg rat liver microsomal protein and either [H3]benzo[a]pyrene 4,5‐oxide or [H3]benzo[a]pyrene 7,8‐dihydrodiol. High performance liquid chromatographic analysis of the metabolites was used to determine the ratio of metabolites to unmetabolized parent compound and then compared with control samples. Three of the ten compounds affected epoxide hydratase activity. Capsaicin inhibited; whereas, catechin and esculetin enhanced EH activity. Seven of the compounds tested inhibited microsomal mixed‐function oxidase activity. In order of potency, these seven compounds were tannic acid, d‐limonene, capsaicin, ellagic acid, propyl gallate, esculetin and catechin. Since the mutagenic and/or carcinogenic action of many chemicals is dependent upon the metabolic activity of microsomal mixed‐function oxidase and epoxide hydrase, the modulation of this activity by these chemicals provides further evidence in support of their potential chemopreventive properties.
Pharmacological studies of the antiinflammatory profile of Mikania cordata (Burm) B. L. robinson root extract in rodents
Authors: Bhattacharya S. , Pal S. , Chaudhuri A. K. Nag
Published: October 2006

The methanolic fraction of the root extract of Mikania cordata was found to possess an inhibitory effect on carrageenin and other mediator—induced oedema; there was a significant inhibition of protein exudation, an increase in peritoneal capillary permeability and leucocyte migration in inflammatory conditions. The extract significantly inhibited both cotton pellet and carrageenin—induced granuloma formation, was effective in experimentally induced arthritic conditions and turpentine—induced joint oedema. The extract also possessed inhibitory effects on sodium urate‐induced experimental gout. A significant reduction of pyrexia was also found to occur when rats were treated with the extract. Thus it may be concluded that the methanolic fraction of M. cordata root extract possessed significant antiinflammatory effects in exudative, proliferative and chronic phases of inflammation and demonstrated an antipyretic activity.
Hypocholesterolaemic and antiatherosclerotic effects of solasodine (C27H42O2N) in cholesterol fed rabbits
Authors: Dixit V. P. , Varma M. , Mathur N. T. , Mathur R. , Sharma S.
Published: October 2006

Solasodine (C27H42O2N), a nitrogen analogue of diosgenin reduced serum cholesterol and LDL cholesterol by 73.3% and 73.5% and prevented atherogenesis (Atherogenic index‐control: 1.99; athero‐ group: 3.12; solasodine treatment 2.12–2.32). The cholesterol/phospholipid ratio was decreased by 42.02% while the HDL ratio was raised significantly. Solasodine treatment prevented the accumulation of cholesterol in the liver and aorta and regressed plaque size in the thoracic and abdominal aorta. Faecal excretion of cholesterol and phospholipids was significantly (p>0.001) increased suggesting that modulation of absorption was affected.
An evaluation of the toxicity of the oils of Cymbopogon citratus and Citrus medica in rats
Authors: Mishra A. K. , Kishore N. , Dubey N. K. , Chansouria J. P. N.
Published: October 2006

In the present study the effect of chronic ingestion of a diet treated with different concentrations of essential oils of Cymbopogon citratus and Citrus medica on body weight, diet consumption, haemoglobin, total and differential leucocyte count, blood glucose, protein, cholesterol and urea levels and glutamic oxalacetic transaminase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase and alkaline phosphatase activity has been investigated in albino rats. Rats in the treated groups showed a more pronounced increase in body weight in comparison to control rats after 60 days. The rats of the treated group consumed more diet than those of the control group. The haemoglobin percentage, total and differential leucocyte count, blood glucose, protein, cholesterol, urea, SGOT, SGPT and alkaline phosphatase did not differ significantly between the rats of control and treated groups.
Antitumour activity of Ganoderma lucidum, an edible mushroom, on intraperitoneally implanted lewis lung carcinoma in synergenic mice
Authors: Furusawa E. , Chou S. C. , Furusawa S. , Hirazumi A. , Dang Y.
Published: October 2006

The antitumour activity of Ganoderma lucidum, called ‘Ling‐Zhi or holy mushroom’in Chinese traditional medicine, was investigated on intraperitoneally implanted Lewis lung carcinoma in syngeneic C57BL/6 mice. An aqueous extract of Ling‐Zhi significantly increased the life span of tumour‐implanted mice, when administered intraperitoneally alone or in combination with cytotoxic antitumour drugs (Adriamycin, fluorouracil, thioguanine, methotrexate, Cisplatin) or a synthetic immunomodulator (Imexon). The aqueous extract was not cytotoxic in cell cultures and the antitumour activity was abolished by pretreatment of mice with cyclosporine. The active principle(s) was found to be present predominantly in the ethanol precipitable fraction of the aqueous extract.
Oligo‐ and macrocyclic diterpenes in thymelaeaceae and euphorbiaceae occurring and utilized in yunnan (Southwest China) 3. Two new daphnane type 9,13,14‐orthoesters from Wikstroemia mekongenia
Authors: Dagang Wu , Sorg B. , Adolf W. , Seip E. H. , Hecker E.
Published: October 2006

From the roots of Wikstroemia mekongenia W. W. Sm. two new isomeric diterpene esters, Wikstroemia factors M1 and M2, were isolated. They are polyfunctional 9,13,14‐orthobenzoates of the daphnane type 3‐deoxo‐1, 2α‐dihydro‐3β,5β‐dihydroxyresiniferonol‐6α,7α‐oxide carrying 3‐O‐(2,4‐decadienoyl) residues. The latter acyl groups are geometrically isomeric in M1 and M2. M1 and M2 are highly active as irritants on the mouse ear.
An extract from Spirulina platensis is a selective inhibitor of herpes simplex virus type 1 penetration into HeLa cells
Authors: Hayashi K. , Hayashi T. , Morita N. , Kojima Ichiro
Published: October 2006

The water‐soluble extract of Spirulina platensis achieved a dose‐dependent inhibition of the replication of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1) in HeLa cells within the concentration range of 0.08–50 mg/mL. This extract proved to have no virucidal activity and did not interfere with adsorption to host cells. However, the extract affected viral penetration in a dose‐dependent manner. At 1 mg/mL the extract was found to inhibit virus‐specific protein synthesis without suppressing host cell protein synthesis if added to the cells 3 h before infection. In an in vivo experiment food containing the extract effectively prolonged the survival time of infected hamsters at doses of 100 and 500 mg/kg per day.
Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oils of different samples of Thymus baeticus boiss
Authors: Cruz T. , Cabo M. M. , Castillo M. J. , Jimenez J. , Ruiz C. , Ramos‐Cormenzana A.
Published: October 2006

Gas chromatography was used to determine the chemical composition of the essential oil of female and hermaphrodite Thymus baeticus Boiss. collected in Ugijar (province of Granada, Spain). The results were compared with the chemical composition of other samples of the same species, collected in Lanjarón. These comparisons showed some qualitative differences, and more obvious quantitative differences, in the compositions of the essential oils. We also investigated the antimicrobial activity of all samples. This activity, although marked in all samples, was greater in essential oils containing larger amounts of geraniol.
Liver protecting and lipid lowering effects of Sempervivum tectorum extract in the rat
Authors: Blázovics A. , Fehér J. , Fehér E. , Kéry A. , Petri G.
Published: October 2006

Liver protecting, lipid level lowering and HDL‐cholesterol enhancing activities of a lyophilized extract of Sempervivum tectorum L. were examined in experimental hyperlipidaemia, in the pathomechanism of steatotic liver of rats. Diffuse hepatocellular degeneration caused by a fat rich diet was improved after treatment with this extract.
Activation of peritoneal macrophages by mangiferin, a naturally occurring xanthone
Authors: Guha S. , Chattopadhyay U. , Ghosal S.
Published: October 2006

Mangiferin, a C‐glucosylxanthone (1,3,6,7‐tetrahydroxyxanthone‐C2‐β‐D‐glucoside), isolated from several plant sources, was shown to be effective in activating murine peritoneal macrophages. It acted as a strong inducing agent with a peak elicitation response at 48 h interval of treatment (10 μg mangiferin/g body weight, g b.w). The mangiferin‐elicited, as well as in vitro mangiferin‐treated, macrophages showed increased lysosomal enzyme acid phosphatase activity and enhanced cytotoxicity, and phagocytosis against ascitic fibrosarcoma (AFS) cells. The augmented tumour killing activities were associated with enhanced tumour target binding by the macrophages. However, the in vivo effect of mangiferin in activating macrophages was of short duration.
Specific stimulation of human endothelial cells by Triticum vulgare extract and its biologically active fraction
Authors: Vanden Berghe D. A. , Yang Q. R. , Totté J. , Vlietinck A. J.
Published: October 2006

The effects of an active fraction, prepared by bioassay‐guided isolation from the aqueous extract derived from Triticum vulgare, the common wheat plant, on cell stimulation and DNA‐synthesis of different cell lines was investigated. This active fraction contained one or more non‐proteinous small molecules, which stimulate the growth of human endothelial cells and/or interfere with the incorporation of thymidine in DNA without affecting growth stimulation. They also enhanced the growth and DNA synthesis of fetal bovine aortic endothelial and baby hamster kidney cells clone 21, but not that of human retinal pigment epithelial cells and human fibroblasts.
Effect of Saussurea lappa alcoholic extract on different endocrine glands in relation to glucose metabolism in the rat
Authors: Chaturvedi P. , Tripathi P. , Pandey S. , Singh U. , Tripathi Y. B.
Published: October 2006

In this report the alcoholic extract of the root of Saussurea lappa C. B. Clarke (Compositae) has been used on albino rats to investigate the response on the histology of the thyroid gland, adrenal gland, pancreas and liver. Its effect on liver glycogen, blood glucose and plasma insulin has also been investigated. Treatment up to 7 days shows a significant hypoglycaemic response without an increase in plasma insulin. The acute response shows the accumulation of glycogen in the liver followed by its depletion. The histology of the thyroid shows stimulation. Liver sections do not show any toxic effects up to 400 mg/kg body weight. No change was observed in sections of adrenal gland and pancreas.
The effect of autoxidation of lemon‐grass oil on its antibacterial activity
Authors: Orafidiya Lara O.
Published: October 2006

The effect of autoxidation of lemon‐grass oil on its antibacterial activity has been studied. Using the Active Oxygen method, the oil was found to undergo rapid oxidation under accelerated test conditions. The oxidized oil samples were found to have reduced activity against bacteria. This activity was completely lost in extensively oxidized oil samples. Inclusion of antioxidants in the oil samples reduced the rate of oxidation and enhanced the antibacterial activity of the oil. The effects of the antioxidants were concentration dependent, and at their effective concentrations, oxidation was completely prevented for the period of the test.
Effects of flavonoids isolated from licorice roots (Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat.) On degranulation in human polymorphonuclear neutrophils
Authors: Kimura Yoshiyuki , Okuda Takuo , Okuda Hiromichi
Published: October 2006

The effects of chalcones and flavanone isolated from licorice roots (Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat.) on human polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) degranulation were investigated. Licochalcone A (2‐methoxy‐4,4′‐dihydroxy‐5‐α,α‐dimethylallylchalcone) and licochalcone B (2‐methoxy 3,4,4′‐trihydroxychalcone), at concentrations of 10−6M to 10−3M, inhibited calcium ionophore A 23187 (A 23187)‐, leukotriene B4 (LTB4) plus cytochalasin B (cyto B)‐, platelet activating factor (PAF) plus cyto B‐ and N‐formyl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine (fMLP) plus cyto B‐induced lysosomal enzyme release from human PMNs. Isoliquiritigenin, isoliquiritin, liquiritigenin and liquiritin had no effects on PMN degranulation induced by various stimuli. In addition, licochalcones A and B, at high concentrations (10−4M–10−3M), increased cyclic AMP in human PMNs. Furthermore, licochalcones A and B, at concentrations of 10−6M to 10−3M, reduced the elevation of cytosolic free calcium concentration induced by calcium ionophore ionomycine (ionomycine), fMLP, PAF and LTB4.
Analgesic and anti‐inflammatory activities of the crude hydroalcoholic extract obtained from the bark of Hymenaea martiana
Authors: Neves Maria C. A. , Neves Paulo C. A. , Zanini José C. , Medeiros Yara S. , Yunes Rosendo A. , Calixto Joäo B.
Published: October 2006

Experiments were designed to examine the analgesic and anti‐inflammatory activities of the crude hydroalcoholic extract (CE) of Hymenaea martiana. The CE of H. martiana (25‐200 mg/kg, i.p.) caused a graded inhibition of hindpaw oedema induced by carrageenan, PAF‐acether (PAF), serotonin (5‐HT), dextran and histamine (HIS). However, the CE given orally up to 500 mg/kg had no effect on the agonist‐induced hindpaw oedema. The CE given intraperitoneally, but not orally, caused a graded and pronounced inhibition of His, 5‐HT, bradykinin (BK) and PAF‐induced increase of vascular permeability. When the CE was given orally (300 mg/kg) once a day for 15 days it caused a significant increase of agonist‐induced increase of vascular permeability. The CE given either by p.o. or by i.p. routes (100‐800 mg/kg) dose‐dependently inhibited arachidonic acid (AA)‐induced ear oedema in mice, being significantly more potent when it was given by the latter route. In contrast, CE at the same doses, failed to inhibit croton‐oil‐induced ear oedema in mice. The CE of H. martiana given by either i.p. or p.o. routes caused a marked and dose‐dependent antinociceptive activity as revealed by its antagonistic action against acetylcholine, acetic acid or AA‐induced writhing responses in mice, being more effective when given intraperitoneally. These results, and those previously reported with the CE of H. martiana in the isolated preparations, provide strong experimental support which argues in favour of the beneficial use of this plant extract in folk medicine. The exact mechanism that underlies its analgesic and anti‐inflammatory profiles remains unclear, but may result from its ability to inhibit the generation of lipoxygenase and/or cyclooxygenase products of the arachidonic acid pathway.
A clinical evaluation of the chinese herbal mixture ‘Aden‐I’ for treating respiratory infections
Authors: Houghton Peter J. , Boxu Zhou , Xisheng Zhao
Published: October 2006

An intravenous injection of the Chinese herbal preparation Aden‐I, a mixture of aqueous extracts of Lonicera japonica flower buds and Forsythia suspensa fruits with the crude flavonoids from Scutellaria baicalensis, was tested in a group with severe respiratory disease. A comparable group were subjected to standard antibiotic therapy. The group treated with Aden‐I responded as well as the group on antibiotic therapy. Evidence is presented to show that ‘Aden‐I’ has both an antibacterial and antiviral effect.
An overview of Kampo medicine: Toki‐Shakuyaku‐San (TJ‐23)
Authors: Hagino Nobuyoshi
Published: October 2006

Toki‐Shakuyaku‐San (TJ‐23) is one of the most popular Kampo medicines in Japan and it is used for the treatment of ovarian dysfunction and menopausal syndrome in women. We have demonstrated that TJ‐23 has a neuroendocrine effect and facilitates hypothalamic‐controlled pituitary and ovarian functions. Furthermore, we have also observed that TJ‐23 has a stimulatory effect for the synthesis and release of neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, dopamine and norepinephrine by activating related enzymes in the brain. Furthermore, TJ‐23 increases the synthesis of nicotine acetylcholine receptors in the brain. Administration of TJ‐23 facilitates memory related behaviour in experimental animals. In addition TJ‐23 has a neuroprotective effect for neuron death. The clinical application of TJ‐23 in open trials for patients with Alzheimer's disease improved their memory related behaviour and intellectual function. Moreover, treatment with TJ‐23 provides motivation for daily life in Alzheimer‐type patients with dementia.

Basic research and clinical trials suggest strongly that TJ‐23 has a therapeutic efficacy for the treatment of dementia of the Alzheimer type.
Inhibitory effects of monomeric and dimeric phenylpropanoids from mace on lipid peroxidation In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Hattori Masao , Yang Xiu‐Wei , Miyashiro Hirotsugu , Namba Tsuneo
Published: October 2006

Repeated p.o. administration of myristicin and dehydrodiisoeugenol, monomeric and dimeric phenylpropanoids from mace, resulted in suppression of the lipid peroxidation in the liver of mice, which was induced by repeated i.p. injection of FeCl2–ascorbic acid–ADP. In addition, a slight decrease of SOD activity by treatment with FeCl2–ascorbic acid–ADP was recovered by administration of these compounds.

Various constituents isolated from mace inhibited the lipid peroxidation in a rat liver homogenate, which was induced by FeCl2–ascorbic acid, CCl4–NADPH or ADP–NADPH. Of these compounds, 2,3‐dihydro‐7‐methoxy‐3‐methyl‐2‐ (3,4‐methylenedioxyphenyl)‐5‐propenylbenzofuran, myristicanol‐B and 7‐hydroxymyristicin strongly inhibited the FeCl2–ascorbic acid‐induced lipid peroxidation by 70%–100% at 0.1–0.2 mM, and most of the constituents also strongly inhibited the ADP–NADPH‐induced lipid peroxidation at the same concentrations. On the other hand, these compounds weakly inhibited the CCl4–NADPH‐induced lipid peroxidation.

On the basis of the above findings, myristicin and dehydrodiisoeugenol administered to mice may inhibit the lipid peroxidation in the liver possibly by scavenging free radicals or active oxygen species directly.
Effect of Shilajit on Mouse Peritoneal Macrophages
Authors: Bhaumik Sraboni , Chattopadhyay Sukumar , Ghosal Shibnath
Published: October 2006

The effect of processed shilajit (SJ‐P) was evaluated on murine peritoneal macrophages and on the cohabiting fibroblasts. The study revealed a dynamic aspect of modulation of the peritoneal cells by SJ‐P (200–600 mcg/mouse), when administered intraperitoneally. The findings further suggested that by carefully determining the dose, SJ‐P can be used in wound healing and in related inflammatory disease states.