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Some phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological properties of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe): A review [...]

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:49:24 -0700

Some phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological properties of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe): A review of recent research.: Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Sep 18; Ali BH, Blunden G, Tanira MO, Nemmar A

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Zingiberacae) is a medicinal plant that has been widely used in Chinese, Ayurvedic and Tibb-Unani herbal medicines all over the world, since antiquity, for a wide array of unrelated ailments that include arthritis, rheumatism, sprains, muscular aches, pains, sore throats, cramps, constipation, indigestion, vomiting, hypertension, dementia, fever, infectious diseases and helminthiasis. Currently, there is a renewed interest in ginger, and several scientific investigations aimed at isolation and identification of active constituents of ginger, scientific verification of its pharmacological actions and of its constituents, and verification of the basis of the use of ginger in some of several diseases and conditions. This article aims at reviewing the most salient recent reports on these investigations. The main pharmacological actions of ginger and compounds isolated therefrom include immuno-modulatory, anti-tumorigenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-lipidemic and anti-emetic actions. Ginger is a strong anti-oxidant substance and may either mitigate or prevent generation of free radicals. It is considered a safe herbal medicine with only few and insignificant adverse/side effects. More studies are required in animals and humans on the kinetics of ginger and its constituents and on the effects of their consumption over a long period of time.

Medicinal plants used by the villagers of a Sundanese community in West Java, Indonesia.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:48:15 -0700

Medicinal plants used by the villagers of a Sundanese community in West Java, Indonesia.: J Ethnopharmacol. 2007 Sep 19; Roosita K, Kusharto CM, Sekiyama M, Fachrurozi Y, Ohtsuka R

AIM OF THE STUDY: Based on the authors' fieldwork in a Sundanese village, Indonesia, this paper aimed to elucidate the roles of herbal medicine in treatment of illnesses and to report medicinal plants and their uses, comparing with those mentioned in the encyclopedic book series of Plant Resources of South-East Asia (PROSEA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Interview survey was conducted for all of the 19 herbalist healers about their therapies for the past 1-month period, and the medicinal plants used were botanically identified. For 70 non-healer households, treatments for all members' illness episodes in the past 1-month period were asked. RESULTS: Medicinal plants were used in two-thirds of illness cases, either through the villagers' self-treatment (60.9%) or by the healers (6.5%). The healers made 96 therapies for illnesses (classified into 23 categories), using 117 plant species. There were 257 types of illness-plant pairs, and only 114 of them (44.4%) were judged conformed to those mentioned in the PROSEA. CONCLUSION: Sundanese villagers have depended heavily on herbal medicine, and high proportion of non-conformed illness-plant pairs suggests necessity of further studies about Sundanese medicinal plants, particularly their pharmacological effects.

[...] Ratanhia-based herbal oral care products for the prophylaxis of oral mucositis in cancer chemotherapy patients: a clinical

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:47:21 -0700

Administration of Ratanhia-based herbal oral care products for the prophylaxis of oral mucositis in cancer chemotherapy patients: a clinical trial.: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2007 Sep; 4(3): 361-6 Tiemann P, Toelg M, Ramos F MH

Oral complications are a common side effect of cancer chemotherapy, as antineoplastic agents affect both the immune system and the oral mucosa. This study demonstrates preventive and therapeutic effects of dental treatment and regular use of Weleda Ratanhia-Mundwasser((R)) (herbal mouthwash) and Weleda Pflanzen-Zahngel((R)) (herbal toothgel) on oral mucositis during chemotherapy. Thirty-two female patients with breast cancer starting on chemotherapy were evaluated in this study. Plaque index, gingival index, degree of mucositis and 10 single symptoms were monitored once weekly for four consecutive weeks. After four weeks, plaque and gingival indexes were slightly decreased compared to baseline values. The degree of mucositis was increased by one grade in 15.6 % of the patients and over 70 % remained without symptoms. On the whole, single symptoms decreased from day 7 since beginning of chemotherapy to day 28. Mucositis symptoms were moderate in severity, and the results indicate a positive influence of using Weleda Ratanhia-Mundwasser and Weleda Pflanzen-Zahngel. Further studies might be promising.

Direct NMR analysis of cannabis water extracts and tinctures and semi-quantitative data on Delta(9)-THC and Delta(9)-THC-acid.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:46:14 -0700

Direct NMR analysis of cannabis water extracts and tinctures and semi-quantitative data on Delta(9)-THC and Delta(9)-THC-acid.: Phytochemistry. 2007 Oct 25; Politi M, Peschel W, Wilson N, Zloh M, Prieto JM, Heinrich M

Cannabis sativa L. is the source for a whole series of chemically diverse bioactive compounds that are currently under intensive pharmaceutical investigation. In this work, hot and cold water extracts as well as ethanol/water mixtures (tinctures) of cannabis were compared in order to better understand how these extracts differ in their overall composition. NMR analysis and in vitro cell assays of crude extracts and fractions were performed. Manufacturing procedures to produce natural remedies can strongly affect the final composition of the herbal medicines. Temperature and polarity of the solvents used for the extraction resulted to be two factors that affect the total amount of Delta(9)-THC in the extracts and its relative quantity with respect to Delta(9)-THC-acid and other metabolites. Diffusion-edited (1)H NMR (1D DOSY) and (1)H NMR with suppression of the ethanol and water signals were used. With this method it was possible, without any evaporation or separation step, to distinguish between tinctures from different cannabis cultivars. This approach is proposed as a direct analysis of plant tinctures.

[Oral anticoagulants: a literature review of herb-drug interactions or food-drug interactions]

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:44:55 -0700

[Oral anticoagulants: a literature review of herb-drug interactions or food-drug interactions]: J Pharm Belg. 2007; 62(3): 69-75 Bourget S, Baudrant M, Allenet B, Calop J

OBJECTIVE: To identify herbal medicines and food products which can interact with anticoagulant therapy. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Literature review using key words: "anticoagulants", "herb-drug interaction", "food-drug interaction", "drug chinese herbal", "medicine herbal", "plant preparation", "dietary supplements". Data sources: Medline (january 1966 to june 2006) and Pascal (1987 to 2006). Case reports, systematic reviews, in vitro studies, clinical studies published in french or in english (or with an english extract) have been undertaken. RESULTS: Eighty articles were selected (two both including a case report and a study): 14 systemic review, 43 case reports, 25 studies (17 studies in humans: nine randomized and controlled, three controlled), six controlled studies in animals and two in vitro studies. DISCUSSION: A wide range of herbal medicines and food products can interact with anticoagulants. Clinical relevance of these effects is difficult to characterise (nature of existing reports, contradiction between studies, difficult extrapolation to human). CONCLUSION: It is difficult to predict the incidence or severity of such interactions. However, awareness of these potential interactions is necessary to achieve optimal anticoagulation therapy: pharmacist can play a crucial role identifying such interactions in case of disturbed INR; clinicians should be informed to monitor closely the therapy, particularly when such products are started or discontinued.

Comparison of glucosamine sulfate and a polyherbal supplement for the relief of osteoarthritis of the knee [...]

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:31:58 -0700

Comparison of glucosamine sulfate and a polyherbal supplement for the relief of osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled trial [ISRCTN25438351].:
BMC Complement Altern Med. 2007 Oct 31;7(1):34 Authors: Mehta K, Gala J, Bhasale S, Naik S, Modak M, Thakur H, Deo N, Miller MJ

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: The efficacy and safety of a dietary supplement derived from South American botanicals was compared to glucosamine sulfate in osteoarthritis subjects in a Mumbai-based multi-center, randomized, double-blind study. METHODS: Subjects (n=95) were screened and randomized to receive glucosamine sulfate (n= 47, 1500 mg/day) or reparagen (n=48, 1800 mg/day), a polyherbal consisting of 300 mg of vincaria (Uncaria guianensis) and 1500 mg of RNI 249 (Lepidium meyenii) administered orally, twice daily. Primary efficacy variable was response rate based on a 20% improvement in WOMAC pain scores. Additional outcomes were WOMAC scores for pain, stiffness and function, visual analog score (VAS) for pain, with assessments at 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks. Tolerability, investigator and subject global assessments and rescue medication consumption (paracetamol) were measured together with safety assessments including vital signs and laboratory based assays. RESULTS: Subject randomization was effective: age, gender and disease status distribution was similar in both groups. The response rates (20% reduction in WOMAC pain) were substantial for both glucosamine (89%) and reparagen (94%) and supported by investigator and subject assessments. Using related criteria response rates to reparagen were favorable when compared to glucosamine. Compared to baseline both treatments showed significant benefits in WOMAC and VAS outcomes within one week (P<0.05), with a similar, progressive improvement over the course of the 8 week treatment protocol (45-62% reduction in WOMAC or VAS scores). Tolerability was excellent, no serious adverse events were noted and safety parameters were unchanged. Rescue medication use was significantly lower in the reparagen group (p <0.01) at each assessment period. Serum IGF-1 levels were unaltered by treatments. CONCLUSION: Both reparagen and glucosamine sulfate produced substantial improvements in pain, stiffness and function in subjects with osteoarthritis. Response rates were high and the safety profile was excellent, with significantly less rescue medication use with reparagen. Reparagen represents a new natural productive alternative in the management of joint health. Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN25438351.

PMID: 17974032 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

[Analysis on clinical treatment in hypertension by traditional Chinese medicine for 10 years in Beijing]

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:30:40 -0700

[Analysis on clinical treatment in hypertension by traditional Chinese medicine for 10 years in Beijing]: Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2007 Aug;32(15):1569-72 Authors: Zou ZD, Liu N, Guo P, Guo LY, Sun Y, Shi J, Wang L

To make a retrospective study of clinical treatment in hypertension by traditional Chinese medicine for 10 years in Beijing, and to mainly analyze in three facets: the study on total regularity of using Chinese herbal medicine, the study on regularity of application, and the study on differentiation of symptoms and signs. RESULT: (1) Total regularity of using Chinese herbal medicine: They are tonic herbs, expelling phlegm and stopping winding herbs, heat-clearing herbs, blood-activating and stasis-resolving herbs, damp-clearing herbs in turn. The frequently used herbs were gouteng, niuxi, tianma, fuling, baishao, zexie, chuanxiong, and so on. (2) The study on regularity of application: The 6 kinds of herbs above were abide by the total regularity and the frequently used herbs were gouteng, niuxi, fuling, tianma, chuanxiong, baishao, zexie, and so on. (3) It was showed that the common syndromes of hypertension and herbs were: The herbs such as gouteng, niuxi, baishao, tianma, chuanxiong, juhua were frequently used in liver yang ascending syndrome. Herbs such as gouqizi, niuxi, shanyao, shudihuang, fuling, mudanpi, were frequently used in symptoms of yin deficiency of liver and kidney. Herbs such as huangqin, xiakucao, gouteng, zhizi, longdancao, juhua were frequently used in syndrome of flarming liver-fire. Herbs such as fuling, banxia, jupi, baizhu, tianma, gancao were frequently used in the stagnation of phlegm. Herbs such as tianma, gouteng, baishao, shijiuming, banxia were frequently used in up-stirring of liver. Herbs such as chuanxiong, chishao, honghua, danshen, sanqi were frequently used in syndrome of blood stasis in the collateral of the brain. Herbs such as shanzhuyu, shudi, fuling, rougui, fuzi, niuxi were frequently used in both-yini-and-yang-deficiency.

PMID: 17972592 [PubMed - in process]

[Advances in studies on pharmacokinetics of aristolochic acid I]

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:29:34 -0700

[Advances in studies on pharmacokinetics of aristolochic acid I]: Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2006 Oct;31(19):1573-5 Authors: Wang G, Wang ZM, Sun QS

Aristolochic acid I (AA-I) was absorbed and distributed quickly in vivo, the plasma concentration-time curve were fit with the open two-compartment model and one-compartment model, respectively. The elimination of AA-I has relationship with the dosage, the low dose group eliminates more quickly than the high dose group. The characters of pharmacokinetics of AA-I induce the cumulation of AA-I in vivo and the nephrotoxin to the kidney and other viscera.

PMID: 17165576 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

[Weighing the efficacy and safety of herbal medicine: the case of Kava-Kava]

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 06:25:03 -0700

[Weighing the efficacy and safety of herbal medicine: the case of Kava-Kava]: Harefuah. 2004 Aug;143(8):592-7, 621 Authors: Ben-Arye E, Reshef A, Berry E

Kava-Kava is an indigenous plant in the Pacific islands and has been traditionally used for centuries for both ceremonial and social purposes. The efficacy of the plant for treatment of anxiety states was recently acknowledged in randomized controlled trials. Although these trials support the safety of Kava for short term usage, a major concern was raised in accordance with emerging reports that relate Kava use to major hepatic damage, including a few cases of fulminant hepatitis that required liver transplantation or ended in death. As a result, most medical authorities in the West restricted or banned Kava use. This review discusses evidence of efficacy and safety in the use of Kava for treating patients with anxiety, as well as its meaning in the therapeutic context and patient-doctor dialogue.

PMID: 15523813 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Biotransformation of Green Tea Polyphenols and the Biological Activities of Those Metabolites.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 06:23:16 -0700

Biotransformation of Green Tea Polyphenols and the Biological Activities of Those Metabolites.: Mol Pharm. 2007 Oct 27; Authors: Lambert JD, Sang S, Yang CS

Green tea ( Camellia sinensis, Theaceae) and its major polyphenol constituents, the catechins, have been reported to have many health benefits including the prevention of cancer and heart disease. Many mechanisms of action have been proposed based on in vitro models; however, the importance of most of these mechanisms remains to be determined in vivo. The bioavailability and biotransformation of tea catechins play a key role in determining the importance of various mechanisms in vivo. Likewise, the biological activity and bioavailability of tea catechin metabolites, an understudied area, are important in understanding the potential beneficial effects of tea. In this article, we review the data available on the biotransformation of the tea catechins and the limited data set available on the biological activities of the catechin metabolites. Careful interpretation of available data, carefully designed animal experiments, and integration of bioavailability and biological activity data are needed if the disease preventive activity of tea is to be understood. We hope this article will spark research efforts on some of the important questions regarding tea polyphenol bioavailability, biotransformation, and the biological activities of tea catechin metabolites.

PMID: 17963356 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa [L.] Nutt.): safety and efficacy for cancer patients.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:52:36 -0700

Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa [L.] Nutt.): safety and efficacy for cancer patients.: Support Care Cancer. 2007 Aug;15(8):913-21 Authors: Walji R, Boon H, Guns E, Oneschuk D, Younus J

GOALS OF WORK: Black cohosh is commonly used to treat hot flashes and other symptoms associated with menopause. It is thought to have multiple mechanisms of action, including potential phytoestrogenic properties. This has caused some concern about its use by patients with hormone-sensitive cancer. This paper will present the results of a systematic review of the safety and efficacy of black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa [L.] Nutt.) in patients with cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A critical assessment of clinical (n = 5) and preclinical (n = 21) studies of black cohosh and cancer (breast and prostate) to treat hot flashes and other related symptoms is presented. In addition, clinical studies, case reports, animal studies, and in vitro assessments of the safety of black cohosh for patients with hormonally sensitive cancers is summarized and interpreted. MAIN RESULTS: In general, the research assessing efficacy of black cohosh for the treatment of hot flashes in women with breast cancer is inconclusive. There is laboratory evidence of antiproliferative properties but no confirmation from clinical studies for a protective role in cancer prevention. Black cohosh seems to have a relatively good safety profile. Concerns about liver toxicity are inconclusive. With relevance to cancer patients, black cohosh also seems not to exhibit phytoestrogenic activity and is in fact possibly an inhibitor of tumor growth. CONCLUSIONS: The use of black cohosh appears to be safe in breast cancer patients without risk for liver disease, although further research is needed in this and other populations.

PMID: 17602247 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Suppressive effect of a standardized mistletoe extract on the expression of activatory NK receptors and function [...]

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:51:27 -0700

Suppressive effect of a standardized mistletoe extract on the expression of activatory NK receptors and function of human NK cells.: J Clin Immunol. 2007 Sep;27(5):477-85 Authors: Lee SJ, Son YO, Kim H, Kim JY, Park SW, Bae JH, Kim HH, Lee EY, Chung BS, Kim SH, Kang CD

Despite long-term use of mistletoe extracts for cancer treatment, their mode of action remains elusive. In this study, it was studied in vitro if mistletoe extract is able to modulate the expression of natural cytotoxic receptors (NCRs) and NKG2D receptor, which stimulate natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Unexpectedly, a mistletoe extract, ABNOBA viscum Fraxini, inhibited the expression level of NKp46 and NKG2D receptors in dose- and time-dependent manners. The levels of NKp30 and NKG2D receptors were remarkably induced and NKp44 was slightly induced after 48 h treatment with IL-2 and IL-15 in both mRNA and surface expression. The activatory NK receptors were not induced significantly after treatment with IL-12, IL-18, and IL-21 for 48 h. Induction of activatory NK receptors by IL-2 and IL-15 was suppressed almost to the untreated levels by treatment with mistletoe extract, which appeared to induce apoptosis of NK cells in a dose-dependent manner. However, the treatment with IL-2 and IL-15 did not prevent the mistletoe-induced NK-cell death. Mistletoe extract inhibited significantly the cytotoxic activity of resting and IL-2- or IL-15-stimulated NK cells. These results suggest that inhibition of survival and function of NK cells by mistletoe extract may curtail in part the therapeutic effects of mistletoe.

PMID: 17530391 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Ginkgo biloba extract improves coronary blood flow in patients with coronary artery disease [...]

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:48:03 -0700

Ginkgo biloba extract improves coronary blood flow in patients with coronary artery disease: role of endothelium-dependent vasodilation.: Planta Med. 2007 Jun;73(7):624-8 Authors: Wu Y, Li S, Cui W, Zu X, Wang F, Du J

Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) has well-documented cardioprotective effects on coronary flow and positive effects on vasodilation through endothelium-derived nitric oxide in experimental animals, but these impacts in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) have not yet been investigated. We designed this study to test the effects of GBE on distal left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) blood flow and endothelium-dependent brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in patients with CAD. Eighty CAD patients were randomly assigned to either GBE or saline (control) groups. LAD blood flow and brachial artery FMD were measured non-invasively using high-resolution ultrasound before and after intravenous administration of GBE or saline. GBE significantly increased LAD blood flow in maximal diastolic peak velocity (MDPV), maximal systolic peak velocity (MSPV) and diastolic time velocity integral (DTVI) compared with the control group (16.14 +/- 10.93 % vs. 0.28 +/- 2.14 %, 9.14 +/- 8.23 % vs. 0.79 +/- 2.56 %, and 15.23 +/- 7.28 % vs. 0.42 +/- 2.43 %, respectively, p < 0.01). Brachial artery FMD was also increased by 69.75 % (from 3.95 +/- 1.49 % to 6.55 +/- 2.51 %, p < 0.01). A linear correlation was found between the percentage changes in MDPV, MSPV, or DTVI of LAD blood flow and the percentage change in brachial artery FMD following treatment with GBE (r = 0.612, 0.486, or 0.521, respectively, p < 0.01). In summary, our data demonstrate that GBE treatment in CAD patients leads to an increase of LAD blood flow in MDPV, MSPV and DTVI, and the increase response might relate to the improved endothelium-dependent vasodilatory capacity. CAD: coronary artery disease DTVI: diastolic time velocity integral FMD: flow-mediated dilation GBE: GINKGO BILOBA extract LAD: distal left anterior descending coronary artery MDPV: maximal diastolic peak velocity MSPV: maximal systolic peak velocity NO: nitric oxide TTDE: transthoracic Doppler echocardiography.

PMID: 17564952 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The effect of thyme extract on beta2-receptors and mucociliary clearance.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:45:41 -0700

The effect of thyme extract on beta2-receptors and mucociliary clearance.: Planta Med. 2007 Jun;73(7):629-35 Authors: Wienkötter N, Begrow F, Kinzinger U, Schierstedt D, Verspohl EJ

Thyme is a broncholytic und secretomotoric agent. Thus, our aim was to investigate the influence of a thyme extract on beta (2)-receptors in competition binding experiments and relaxation experiments on rat uteri and trachea. Furthermore, the influence of the extract on respiratory clearance was of interest. Binding experiments were performed using purified rat lung membranes with the beta(2)-receptor ligand [(125)I]-CYP {[(125)I]-(+/-)-Iodocyanopindolol}. The transport of the fluorescence dye rhodamin 123 concerning ciliary action in the tracheal area of a mouse was investigated using a microdialysis technique. The thyme extract reduces only slightly [(125)I]-CYP binding and amplifies the displacement of [(125)I]-CYP by propranolol (non-specific beta-receptor antagonist): the displacement curve in the concentration range representing beta (2)-receptors (nM) is shifted to the left. Thyme extract had relaxing effects on organs possessing beta (2)-receptors (uterus and trachea). The propranolol-induced antagonism to isoprenaline is reverted concentration-dependently by the extract. A duplication of the rate of ciliary clearance by the extract was observed. In conclusion: 1) There is evidence for an influence of a thyme extract on beta (2)-receptors by both binding studies and biological effects: As can be derived from the shift of the propranolol displacement curve (nM), ingredients of the thyme extract slightly interact with beta (2)-receptors in rat lung tissue. This effect is indirect since no full range competition curve was reached. 2) An at least indirect interaction with beta (2)-receptors in rat uteri and trachea is revealed by a decreased antagonism of propranolol on the relaxing effect of isoprenaline by the plant extract. 3) An additional mechanism is presumed because at high extract concentrations isoprenaline-induced relaxation is complete, whereas the displacement of propranolol at beta (2)-receptors is only weak. 4) Thyme extract has an indirect (modulatory) effect on the beta (2)-receptor system. 5) Mucociliary clearance is improved in vivo. Its mechanism has still to be elucidated.

PMID: 17564943 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A novel polyacetylene significantly inhibits angiogenesis and promotes apoptosis in human endothelial cells [...]

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:43:20 -0700

A novel polyacetylene significantly inhibits angiogenesis and promotes apoptosis in human endothelial cells through activation of the CDK inhibitors and caspase-7.: Planta Med. 2007 Jun;73(7):655-61 Authors: Wu LW, Chiang YM, Chuang HC, Lo CP, Yang KY, Wang SY, Shyur LF

A novel bioactive polyacetylene compound, 1,2-dihydroxy-5(E)-tridecene-7,9,11-triyne (compound 1), was identified from the Bidens pilosa extract using an ex vivo primary human umbilical vein endothelium cell (HUVEC) bioassay-guided fractionation protocol. Our results demonstrate that compound 1 (at 2.5 microg/mL) possessed significant anti-angiogenic effects, as manifested by an inhibition of HUVEC proliferation, migration, and the formation of tube-like structures in collagen gel. Moreover, compound 1 induced HUVECs to undergo cell death in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The mechanisms underlying these pharmacological effects include reduced expression of cell cycle mediators such as CDK4, cyclins D1 and A, retinoblastoma (Rb) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR-1), and promotion of caspase-mediated activation of CDK inhibitors p21(Cip1) and p27(Kip). Moreover, apoptotic induction in HUVECs mediated by compound 1 was found to be in part through overexpression of FasL protein, down-regulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, and activation of caspase-7 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. This study demonstrates the potent anti-angiogenic and apoptotic activities of compound 1, suggesting that phytocompounds such as polyacetylenes deserve more attention regarding their potential as candidates for anti-angiogenic therapeutics.

PMID: 17559025 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Comparison of Echinacea alkylamide pharmacokinetics between liquid and tablet preparations.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:40:19 -0700

Comparison of Echinacea alkylamide pharmacokinetics between liquid and tablet preparations.: Phytomedicine. 2007 Sep;14(9):587-90 Authors: Matthias A, Addison RS, Agnew LL, Bone KM, Watson K, Lehmann RP

The relative oral bioavailability of alkylamides from two different Echinacea dosage forms (liquid and tablet) were compared in a small two-way crossover study in humans (n=3). The liquid preparation investigated contained a mixture of Echinacea purpurea root (300 mg/ml) and Echinacea angustifolia root (200 mg/ml) extracted in 60% ethanol. The tablet preparation investigated was also a mixture of E. purpurea root (675 mg/tablet) and E. angustifolia root (600 mg/tablet), but was prepared from the dried 60% ethanolic extracts of these two Echinacea species. Alkylamides were found to be rapidly absorbed and measurable in plasma from both preparations. No significant differences in the tetraene alkylamide pharmacokinetic parameters for T(1/2), AUC(t-lin) and C(max) in the two different preparations were found. T(max) increased from 20 min for the liquid to 30 min for the tablet, which is not unexpected as the tablet required time for disintegration before absorption could occur. These results suggested that there was no significant difference in the bioavailability of alkylamides from the liquid and tablet Echinacea formulations. Furthermore, the results also indicated that the absorption site and any alkylamide loss due to digestive processes were similar in both preparations.

PMID: 17289362 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The role of alkamides as an active principle of echinacea.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:39:07 -0700

The role of alkamides as an active principle of echinacea.: Planta Med. 2007 Jun;73(7):615-23 Authors: Woelkart K, Bauer R

Alkamides are the major lipophilic constituents of ECHINACEA preparations, which are widely used in some European countries and in North America for common colds. In earlier investigations they have been shown to possess stimulatory effects on phagocytosis. Recent experiments have demonstrated that alkamides are detectable in human blood in relevant concentrations after oral administration of Echinacea preparations. Alkamides show structural similarity with anandamide, an endogenous ligand of cannabinoid receptors. Consequently, it was found that alkamides bind significantly to CB (2) receptors, which is now considered as a possible molecular mode of action of Echinacea alkamides as immunomodulatory agents. It was also demonstrated recently in several studies that alkamide-containing Echinacea preparations trigger effects on the pro-inflammatory cytokines. They were therefore suggested as a new class of cannabinomimetics. However, the therapeutic relevance of these findings is still not clear as clinical studies on the common cold show contradictory results. Among the many pharmacological properties reported, investigations concerning herb-drug interactions have been neglected for a long time. Latest research concludes that prolonged use of Echinacea poses a minimal risk for co-medications metabolized by the P450 enzymes.

PMID: 17538868 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Red American ginseng: ginsenoside constituents and antiproliferative activities of heat-processed Panax quinquefolius roots.

Site Editor — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:38:23 -0700

Red American ginseng: ginsenoside constituents and antiproliferative activities of heat-processed Panax quinquefolius roots.: Planta Med. 2007 Jun;73(7):669-74 Authors: Wang CZ, Aung HH, Ni M, Wu JA, Tong R, Wicks S, He TC, Yuan CS

Red Asian ginseng ( Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer, Araliaceae) is used in many Oriental countries. In this study, the saponin constituents and anticancer activities of steamed American ginseng ( Panax quinquefolius L.) roots were evaluated. The contents of 12 ginsenosides in the roots were determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). After the steaming treatment (100 - 120 degrees C for 1 h and 120 degrees C for 0.5 - 4 h), the quantity of 7 ginsenosides decreased and that of 5 others increased. The content of ginsenoside Rg3, a previously recognized anticancer compound, increased significantly when the root was steamed at 120 degrees C for 0.5 - 3 h. The antiproliferative effects of unsteamed and steamed (120 degrees C for 1 h and 2 h) American ginseng root extracts were assayed by the modified trichrome stain (MTS) method using three cancer cell lines (SW-480, HT-29, NSCLC). Heat-processing increased the antiproliferative effect of American ginseng significantly, and the activity of the extract from roots steamed for 2 h was greater than that of roots steamed for 1 h. Chemical constituents and antiproliferative activities of white and red Asian ginseng have also been evaluated. Five representative ginsenosides, Rb1, Rd, Re, Rg2 and Rg3, were studied. Ginsenoside Rg3 had the most potent effect. The antiproliferative activities of red American ginseng are augmented when ginsenoside Rg3 is increased.

PMID: 17538869 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Moving toward bioadjuvant approaches to head and neck cancer prevention.

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:27:34 -0700

Moving toward bioadjuvant approaches to head and neck cancer prevention.: Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2007;69(2 Suppl):S132-5 Authors: Saba NF, Hammond A, Shin DM, Khuri FR

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma affects >45,000 Americans annually. Patients who are successfully treated for their primary tumor are at high risk of developing a second primary tumor, making effective preventive strategies highly desirable for this disease. Although a landmark study in 1990 suggested some benefit of high-dose retinoids in head and neck cancer prevention, subsequent trials using more tolerable doses have shown limited clinical success. Newer preventive strategies have included bioadjuvant therapy combining retinoids with interferon and alpha-tocopherol, combinations of molecularly targeted agents, and oncolytic viruses. Furthermore, considerable evidence has supported a cancer protective role for several nutrients, including green tea and curcumin analogs. Natural compounds such as these with favorable long-term safety profiles might be particularly suited to the cancer prevention setting, in which patients will usually tolerate only moderate risk and toxicity.

PMID: 17848282 [PubMed - in process]

Epigallocatechin gallate affects human dendritic cell differentiation and maturation.

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:26:50 -0700

Epigallocatechin gallate affects human dendritic cell differentiation and maturation.: J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2007 Oct 10; Authors: Yoneyama S, Kawai K, Tsuno NH, Okaji Y, Asakage M, Tsuchiya T, Yamada J, Sunami E, Osada T, Kitayama J, Takahashi K, Nagawa H

BACKGROUND: Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a component of green tea catechin with the strongest biological activity, has been focused in recent years because of its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional antigen-presenting cells, capable of priming naive T cells, and play the key roles in the activation of T-cell-mediated immune responses. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate the effect of EGCG on human monocyte-derived DCs (MODCs) and, consequently, on the T-cell-mediated immune response. METHODS: The induction of apoptosis, and the detailed phenotypic and functional changes of MODCs, generated by culture of peripheral blood monocytes in the presence of GM-CSF and IL-4, induced by EGCG was investigated and compared with the effects of dexamethasone. RESULTS: Epigallocatechin gallate induced apoptosis and affected the phenotype of the developing DCs. The expressions of CD83, CD80, CD11c, and MHC class II, which are molecules essential for antigen presentation by DCs, were downregulated by EGCG. EGCG also suppressed the endocytotic ability of immature DCs, whereas dexamethasone-treated DCs had higher endocytotic ability than control DCs. Most importantly, mature DCs treated with EGCG inhibited stimulatory activity toward allogeneic T cells while secreting high amounts of IL-10. CONCLUSION: Epigallocatechin gallate induces immunosuppressive alterations on human MODCs, both by induction of apoptosis and suppression of cell surface molecules and antigen presentation. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: These alterations should be considered promising new immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory agents to treat autoimmune and allergic diseases and to prevent the graft rejection in organ transplantation.

PMID: 17935769 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Effects of warm water sitz bath on symptoms in post-anal sphincterotomy in chronic anal fissure [...]

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:21:51 -0700

Effects of warm water sitz bath on symptoms in post-anal sphincterotomy in chronic anal fissure--a randomized and controlled study.: World J Surg. 2007 Jul;31(7):1480-4 Authors: Gupta PJ

BACKGROUND: Sitz bath is frequently recommended by physicians for a variety of anal disorders including anal fissure. The aim of the present study was to determine whether sitz bath does have any therapeutic properties improving upon a patient's postoperative symptoms after a closed lateral sphincterotomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-six patients were randomly assigned to receive analgesics and fiber supplement alone (control patients) or a twice-daily sitz bath along with identical fiber and analgesics (sitz bath group). A 24-h pain score--post-defecation anal burning and symptom improvement--was evaluated on a visual analog scale (VAS). RESULTS: The groups were equally matched for age, gender distribution, and duration of disease. No significant difference in mean pain score between groups (p = 0.284) was noticed after one week. However, the patients from the control group experienced significant anal burning compared with patients from sitz bath group (p < 0.0001). The improvement score was higher in the sitz bath group when compared with the control group; however, it did not reached a statistically significant level. CONCLUSIONS: Patients after sphincterotomy for anal fissure receiving sitz bath experienced similar levels of pain when compared with those not receiving sitz bath. However, they reported a significant relief in anal burning and a marginally better satisfaction score and no reported adverse side effects.

PMID: 17534541 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

B vitamins and berries and age-related neurodegenerative disorders.

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:20:48 -0700

B vitamins and berries and age-related neurodegenerative disorders.: Evid Rep Technol Assess (Full Rep). 2006 Apr;(134):1-161 Authors: Balk E, Chung M, Raman G, Tatsioni A, Chew P, Ip S, DeVine D, Lau J

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects, associations, mechanisms of action, and safety of B vitamins and, separately, berries and their constituents on age-related neurocognitive disorders-primarily Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE and CAB Abstracts. Additional studies were identified from reference lists and technical experts. REVIEW METHODS: Vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, and folate, and a dozen types of berries and their constituents were evaluated. Human, animal, and in vitro studies were evaluated. Outcomes of interest from human studies were neurocognitive function or diagnosis with AD, cognitive decline, PD, or related conditions. Intervention studies, associations between dietary intake and outcomes, and associations between B vitamin levels and outcomes were evaluated. Specific mechanisms of action were evaluated in animal and in vitro studies. Studies were extracted for study design, demographics, intervention or predictor, and neurocognitive outcomes. Studies were graded for quality and applicability. RESULTS: In animal studies, deficiencies in vitamins B1 or folate generally cause neurological dysfunction; supplementation with B6, B12, or folate may improve neurocognitive function. In animal experiments folate and B12 protect against genetic deficiencies used to model AD; thiamine and folate also affect neurovascular function and health. Human studies were generally of poor quality. Weak evidence suggests possible benefits of B1 supplementation and injected B12 in AD. The effects of B6 and folate are unclear. Overall, dietary intake studies do not support an association between B vitamin intake and AD. Studies evaluating B vitamin status were mostly inadequate due to poor study design. Overall, studies do not support an association between B vitamin status and age-related neurocognitive disorders. Only one study evaluated human berry consumption, finding no association with PD. Animal studies of berries have almost all been conducted by the same research group. Several berry constituents have been shown to affect brain and nerve tissue function. Blueberry and strawberry extract were protective of markers of disease, although effects on neurocognitive tests were less consistent. Berry extracts may protect against the deleterious effects of compounds associated with AD. Reporting of adverse events was uncommon. When reported, actual adverse events from B vitamins were rare and minor. CONCLUSIONS: The current research on B vitamins is largely inadequate to confidently assess their mechanisms of action on age-related neurocognitive disorders, their associations with disease, or their effectiveness as supplements. B vitamin supplementation may be of value for neurocognitive function, but the evidence is inconclusive.

PMID: 17628125 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Role of advances in chromatographic techniques in phytochemistry.

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:19:54 -0700

Role of advances in chromatographic techniques in phytochemistry.: Phytochemistry. 2007 Oct 9; Authors: Marston A

Chromatography is the lynchpin of phytochemistry and is the key to obtaining pure compounds for structure elucidation, for pharmacological testing or for development into therapeuticals. It also plays a fundamental role as an analytical technique for quality control and standardisation of phytotherapeuticals. Although liquid chromatography is barely 100 years old, an extraordinary variety of instrumental and ancillary equipment is available, notably in the domain of high-performance liquid chromatography. It is impossible to touch all areas of chromatography in such a review but certain areas are worthy of mention: HPLC, HPTLC, UPLC and countercurrent chromatography. Another important addition has been the development of hyphenated techniques involving HPLC: LC/UV, LC/MS, LC/MS(n) and LC/NMR. These are indispensable nowadays for the early detection and identification of compounds in crude plant extracts.

PMID: 17931672 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

[Research on different processings of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi]

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:19:21 -0700

[Research on different processings of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi]: Zhong Yao Cai. 2006 Sep;29(9):893-5 Authors: Song SH, Wang BL, Feng JK, Wang ZZ

OBJECTIVE: Comparing the different processings of S. baicalensis Georgi with fresh herb. METHODS: Watering, cooking and steaming method were adopted and the contents of flavonoids was determined by HPLC. RESULTS: Cooking and steaming method could not only intenerate the slices, but also destroy the activity of enzyme. So different means could be choosen according to practice. CONCLUSION: Among them, cooking method with 1 time volume of water, heating 10 min, drying at 80 degrees C and steaming method taking 20 min, drying at 80 degrees C is proper.

PMID: 17212039 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The plant alkaloid sanguinarine is a potential inhibitor of follicular angiogenesis.

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:18:06 -0700

The plant alkaloid sanguinarine is a potential inhibitor of follicular angiogenesis.: J Reprod Dev. 2007 Jun;53(3):573-9 Authors: Basini G, Santini SE, Bussolati S, Grasselli F

Sanguinarine (SA), a phytobiotic from Sanguinaria Canadensis, has been demonstrated to inhibit vessel growth. Current restrictions on the use of antibiotic growth promoters have motivated addition of this alkaloid as a naturally appetizing feed additive for farm animals. However, concern may araise since angiogenesis is a fundamental event in ovarian follicle growth. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential negative role of SA in follicular angiogenesis. For this purpose, we studied the effect of 300 nM SA on the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by swine granulosa cells from follicles >5 mm and on the activation of Akt, the main effector of the VEGF signalling pathway. In addition, the potential interference of SA in vessel development was tested in an in vitro angiogenesis bioassay. SA inhibited both VEGF production and VEGF-induced Akt activation in swine granulosa cells. Moreover, it was able to block vessel growth induced by VEGF. Taken together, our results suggest that SA could be detrimental to follicular angiogenesis, and therefore supplementation of feed with this alkaloid should be carefully considered.

PMID: 17310078 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Ethnobotanical tattooing of the gingiva: literature review and report of a case.

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:13:52 -0700

Ethnobotanical tattooing of the gingiva: literature review and report of a case.: J Am Dent Assoc. 2007 Aug;138(8):1097-101 Authors: Brooks JK, Reynolds MA

BACKGROUND: Traditional gingival tattooing, practiced in Ethiopia and occasionally in other African and Middle Eastern nations, is performed for esthetic appeal or superstition, and it occasionally may be used as a homeopathic remedy for dental diseases. The authors provide a literature review and case report of this oral custom. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 54-year-old woman from Ethiopia reported that she had undergone tattooing of the maxillary gingiva six years previously for analgesic management of undisclosed oral disease. The gingiva was pierced with a needle, tipped with lantern soot and resin from the plant Datura stramonium (an herb that possesses potent anticholinergic tropane alkaloids and has demonstrated in vitro antimicrobial activity). However, the patient admitted that this procedure had provided no reduction in the pain. Clinical examination was significant for a pronounced blue pigmentation of the maxillary gingiva, generalized mild periodontitis and several carious lesions. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Practitioners should ascertain whether gingival tattooing had been performed when patients manifest unusual oral pigmentation and be aware of its use in folk medicine for various oral conditions.

PMID: 17670877 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The effect of gender and ethnicity on children's attitudes and preferences for essential oils: a pilot study.

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:12:49 -0700

The effect of gender and ethnicity on children's attitudes and preferences for essential oils: a pilot study.: Explore (NY). 2007 Jul-Aug;3(4):378-85 Authors: Fitzgerald M, Culbert T, Finkelstein M, Green M, Johnson A, Chen S

CONTEXT: Aromatherapy is frequently recommended for children but children's preferences for specific essential oils are not well documented. OBJECTIVE: To measure preferences of school aged children for essential oils based on gender and ethnicity. DESIGN: Descriptive study measuring children's responses to and preferences for selected essential oils. SETTING: Pediatric integrative medicine clinic in a Midwestern children's hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Healthy school-age children of Latino (N = 39) and non-Latino Caucasian (NLC) (N = 48) ethnicity, 41.7% of the NLC group and 59.0% of the Latino Group were males. INTERVENTION: Participants smelled single essential oils, answered three forced choice questions and one open ended question, order of exposure was varied. OUTCOME MEASURES: Participants evaluated each scent's effect on mood and energy, stated their preferences, indicated if scents evoked particular thoughts and selected a favorite essential oil. RESULTS: Females were more likely to feel happy when smelling sweet orange (p = .043). Female Latinos were more likely than NLC females to find sweet orange calming (56.2% vs. 18.5%). Male Latinos were more likely (65.2%) to describe peppermint as "energetic" than male NLC (30%). Children chose an essential oil that they rated as "making them feel happy" (72.6%) and/or as "liking the most" (64.3%). Other results that approached statistical significance were: females felt more energetic with spearmint (p = .055). Latinos preferred spearmint over NLC (p = .075), and all males felt more energetic when smelling ginger (p = .091). Ginger and lavender were the least preferred. Results indicate that children have specific essential oil scent preferences. There is trend toward differences based on gender and ethnicity.

PMID: 17681258 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Antidiabetic drugs used in Europe prior to the discovery of insulin.

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:11:56 -0700

Antidiabetic drugs used in Europe prior to the discovery of insulin.: Pharmazie. 2007 Sep;62(9):717-20 Authors: Helmstädter A

Many therapeutic agents had been used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus before insulin was discovered and several hundred plants have shown some extent of antidiabetic activity. This study tries to explore which agents were most widely used in Europe in the pre-insulin era. According to the scientific literature and the proprietary drug industry around 1900, more than 100 agents were considered to have hypoglycemic activity. Most of them seem to have been used only occasionally while some others were recommended and marketed to a large extent. Among the medicinal plants, Syzygium cumini (syn. S. jambolanum, Eugenia jambolana), Vaccinum myrtillus and Phaseolus sp. were most common, and other frequently used agents were opium, opium alkaloids, other alkaloids like quinine or Belladonna alkaloids, salicylates, alkaline substances like sodium (bi)carbonate and even strong poisons like arsenic or uranium salts. Syzygium jambolanum seed powder seems to be one of the most intensively studied antidiabetic agents of plant origin.

PMID: 17944329 [PubMed - in process]

Anti-inflammatory properties and regulatory mechanism of a novel derivative of artemisinin in [...] autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Site Editor — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:09:34 -0700

Anti-inflammatory properties and regulatory mechanism of a novel derivative of artemisinin in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.: J Immunol. 2007 Nov 1;179(9):5958-65 Authors: Wang Z, Qiu J, Guo TB, Liu A, Wang Y, Li Y, Zhang JZ

Ethyl 2-[4-(12-beta-artemisininoxy)]phenoxylpropionate (SM933) is a novel derivative of artemisinin, an herbal compound approved for the treatment of malaria. In this study, we show that SM933 has unique anti-inflammatory properties through regulation of signaling pathways, leading to amelioration of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. The anti-inflammatory properties of SM933 were characterized by inhibition of encephalitogenic T cell responses that were altered to exhibit a Th2 immune deviation and reduced activity and concentration of NO and inducible NO synthase. The observed effect of SM933 was mediated through regulatory mechanisms involving the NFkappaB and the Rig-G/JAB1 signaling pathways. SM933 was found to inhibit the activity of NFkappaB by up-regulating IkappaB, which accounted for various down-stream anti-inflammatory actions. Furthermore, it up-regulated Rig-G through the action of IFN-alpha and prevented JAB1, a master cell cycle regulator, from entering the nucleus to promote p27 degradation, resulting in down-regulation of CDK2 and cyclin A and cell cycle progression. Regulation of the Rig-G/JAB1 pathway by SM933 led to altered cell cycle activity of encephalitogenic T cells as a result of its selective effect on activated, but not resting, T cells. The study indicates that SM933 is a novel anti-inflammatory agent acting through defined signaling mechanisms and provides regulatory mechanisms required for effective drug targeting in treatment of autoimmune disease and inflammation.

PMID: 17947669 [PubMed - in process]

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate inhibits the invasion of human oral cancer cells [...]

Site Editor — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 05:54:24 -0700

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate inhibits the invasion of human oral cancer cells and decreases the productions of matrix metalloproteinases and urokinase-plasminogen activator.: J Oral Pathol Med. 2007 Nov;36(10):588-93 Authors: Ho YC, Yang SF, Peng CY, Chou MY, Chang YC

Background: Green tea polyphenols are considered beneficial to human health, especially as cancer chemopreventive agents in recent years. Epigallocatechin- 3-gallate (EGCG), the most abundant polyphenol in green tea, has been proven to suppress colonic tumorigenesis in animal and epidemiological studies, whereas its role in the oral carcinogenesis remains to be elucidated. Methods: Cytotoxicity, invasion, and migration assays were used to investigate the effects of human oral cancer cell line OC2 cells exposed to EGCG. To look at the precise involvement of EGCG in cancer metastasis, gelatin zymography and casein zymography were performed to evaluate the impacts of EGCG on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9, and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) secretion in OC2 cells. Results: EGCG exhibited a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on the invasion and migration of OC2 cells in the absence of cytotoxicity (P < 0.05). EGCG was also found to decrease the expressions of MMP-2, MMP-9, and uPA in a concentration-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Taken together, these results suggest that EGCG could inhibit the invasion and migration of human oral cancer cells and that the effects may partially because of the decreased productions of MMP-2, MMP-9, and uPA.

PMID: 17944751 [PubMed - in process]