Phytopharmacological Communications is a biannual, peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online and in print, that includes studies investigating the use of plants and their biological and pharmacological effects based on the principles of skeptical inquiry and the scientific method. Key areas of interest are pharmacology, toxicology, and the clinical applications of herbs and natural products in medicine, including studies of herb-drug interactions and other aspects of the safety of herbal medicines. Papers concerned with the effects of common food ingredients and standardized plant extracts, including commercial products, are particularly welcome, as are mechanistic studies on isolated natural phytocompounds. The journal accepts manuscripts reporting the medicinal properties of plants from all over the world but prefers the exploration of indigenous medicinal plants of Pakistan and the sub-continent.
Chemical Characterization, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial Potential, and Molecular Docking Studies on the Essential Oil of Festuca glauca
Pharmacognostic recognition is growing for Festuca glauca, a perennial ornamental grass with a rich phytochemical profile. This species has shown potential in antibacterial and other therapeutic applications. The purpose of this work was to analyze the essential oil (EO) of Festuca glauca (F. glauca) for its chemical composition, antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities, and the interaction of its primary phytoconstituents with microbial targets using molecular docking. The EO was extracted using hydrodistillation and evaluated using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Antimicrobial activity was determined using diffusion, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC), and dilution techniques. Antioxidant activity was assessed utilizing the (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) DPPH and (2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) ABTS assays. Piperitone's molecular docking was accomplished with Auto Dock, which is available in PyRx. The EO yield was 2% (w/w), with 31 components, piperitone (73.17%) being the main product. The EO showed significant antibacterial activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumonia) (27 mm inhibition zone) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) (28 mm), with MIC values ranging from 156.25-312.5 µg/mL. The antifungal activity was moderate, with Trichoderma wild displaying the maximum susceptibility (MIC = 625 µg/mL). In antioxidant tests, the EO showed IC₅₀ values of 18 µg/mL (DPPH) and 30 µg/mL (ABTS). Piperitone has high binding affinities to several microbial protein targets (−3.8 to −6.7 kcal/mol), which supports its biological activities. We concluded that the EO of F. glauca has excellent antibacterial and antioxidant properties, most probably owing to its high piperitone content, indicating its potential as a natural medicinal agent. More in vivo research, safety assessments, and formulation development are required to enable clinical and commercial use.
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Shafeeq, Sajid Husaain, Fawad Ali, Syed Majid Shah, Sajid Khan Sadozai, Abdul Saboor Pirzada, Muhammad Abbas, Zubair Ahmed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of Pakistani Medicinal Plants Traditionally Used to Treat Leishmaniasis
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is caused by various species of the protozoal parasite Leishmania, affecting approximately ten million individuals globally. CL, which is primarily caused by Leishmania tropica, is most common in Pakistan and has spread throughout the country due to the migration of several million people. Approximately 90% of CL cases have been reported from all provinces of Pakistan. Pentavalent antimonials are the conventional treatment, although they are quite expensive and have several side effects when administered parenterally. Existing chemotherapies can be replaced by reasonable studies on innovative anti-leishmanial medicines. A literature review displayed that no natural compound has been approved against leishmaniasis. Medicinal plants traditionally used to cure Leishmania were collected from various parts of Pakistan. Methanolic extracts and fractions were prepared according to standard methods and tested for important secondary metabolites. Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad (IC50 12.25 µg/mL), Juniperus M. Bieb (IC50 11.97 µg/mL), and Asparagus gracilis L (IC50 10.68 µg/mL) showed strong antileishmanial activity against Leishmania tropica promastigotes. These extracts will be subsequently separated and fractionated. Furthermore, mechanistic research on the isolated compounds from these plants will be carried out in order to discover cost-effective and safe therapies for cutaneous leishmaniasis.
Copyright (c) 2024 Syed Majid Shah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Antidiabetic Potential of Loranthus longiflorus Desr. from Azadirachta indica and Albizzia lebbeck Host Trees: A Cultural Parasitic Medicinal Plant from the Jammu Foothills of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan
This study explores the comparative antidiabetic potential of Loranthus longiflorus from two different hosts, Azadirachta indica and Albizzia lebbeck, in an alloxan-induced diabetic rabbit model. Prior to assessing antidiabetic efficacy, the plant’s ethnobotanical uses and qualitative phytochemical profile were investigated, revealing alkaloids, saponins, and flavonoids as major secondary metabolites, which were comparatively higher in L. longiflorus taken from A. lebbeck than A. indica. Methanolic leaf and bark extracts were administered orally to diabetic rabbits for 30 days, with blood glucose levels, body weights, and serum insulin profiles evaluated across four groups: normal control (NCG), diabetic control (DCG), treatment control (TCG) with glibenclamide (0.2 mg/kg), and trial group (TG). A 1000 mg dose of L. longiflorus leaf extract from A. lebbeck showed the best antidiabetic activity, reducing body weight and blood glucose levels by 14.74% and 76.43% on day 30, compared to 11.06% and 64.20% reductions with the same dose from A. indica. Additionally, the 1000 mg dose from both hosts significantly elevated serum insulin profiles (p < 0.001). The findings suggest that Loranthus longiflorus, particularly when derived from Albizzia lebbeck, holds significant antidiabetic potential, likely due to its rich phytochemical composition. These results underscore the importance of host-tree influence on the therapeutic efficacy of parasitic plants.
Copyright (c) 2024 Muhammad Waqas Mazhar, Muhammad Ishtiaq, Mehwish Maqbool, Muhammad Zaheer Ahmad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Promising Phytochemicals in Fight Against Breast Cancer; A Narrative Review
Breast cancer is the most prevailing cancer affecting women worldwide. This study includes a review of the genetic, molecular, and environmental factors that contribute to breast cancer pathogenesis and its progression including various genes, such as the BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 that are critical in repairing DNA as well as in hereditary breast cancer. We have also reviewed HER-2-positive breast cancer, and also further examined the oncogenic role the Ras and BRAF proteins play in breast cancer pathogenesis and treatment. Despite the conventional therapies being helpful, challenges remain such as tumor relapse and tumor metastasis, which is why alternative novel ways have to be invented for treatment. Several plant-based compounds known as phytochemicals are anticancer agents and are examined in detail in this review. They include Curcumin, EGCG, Genistein, Apigenin, Quercetin and Berberine. These compounds are discussed for properties such as inhibiting cell proliferation in cancers, modulating key molecular pathways, and inducing cell apoptosis. This review also elaborates on challenges faced in the clinical application of phytochemicals, shedding light on their bioavailability issues and drug-drug interactions. We propose that these compounds might work alongside current breast cancer treatments, especially for resistant and relapse cases.
Copyright (c) 2025 Huzaifa Shoaib, Arfa Khan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of In-vitro Cytotoxicity and In-vivo Toxicity of Aqueous Fraction of Ribes orientale
The present research investigated the probability of toxicity of the aqueous fraction of Ribes orientale (ROAF) after acute, subacute, and sub-chronic dose administration. Mice were given doses varying between 10–5000 mg/kg during the acute trial. Rats were administered 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg doses for 30 days, whereas 300, 600, and 900 mg/kg doses were given for 14 days. The rats' weight as a whole, organ weight, hematology and biochemical indices, and histology of liver, kidney, and heart tissue had all been assessed. Because no dose incited notable behavioral alterations or mortality in acute poisoning, the lethal dose 50 (LD50) was higher than 5000 mg/kg. For sub-acute toxicities, ROAF had no effect on body or organ weight, while only slight changes in both serum and blood measurements were identified. Only slight changes in lymphocytes and neutrophils, total protein, ALP, and glucose at some doses were noted but these changes were not allied with histopathological alterations. In sub-chronic toxicity, ROAF did not modify weights (body/organ), and non-significant variances in hematology and biochemistry were observed, affirmed by histopathology. Therefore, the results above indicate that ROAF is rather safe to take orally for therapeutic usage at lower dosages because it did not cause death in animals or create any notable side effects related to hematological, biochemical, or structural processes.
Copyright (c) 2024 Dr. Ambreen Malik Uttrra https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessment of Acute and Chronic Toxicity of the Active Fraction of Lavandula stoechas in Albino Mice: A Comprehensive Study
This study builds upon prior research where the principal components, phenethylamine and α-tocopherol, of Lavandula stoechas (L. stoechas) were identified as responsible for its nootropic potential. The current investigation aimed to determine the acute and chronic toxicity profiles of the active fraction of L. stoechas (AfL.s) in albino mice (ethical approval vide letter no; GCU-AEC-682/24). Acute toxicity assessment involved oral administration of AfL.s at doses of 350 mg/Kg and 300 mg/Kg, with toxicity signs monitored for 72 hours. For chronic toxicity evaluation, two groups of mice were administered either 10 ml/kg P.O. of normal saline or 18 mg/Kg P.O. of AfL.s daily for three consecutive months. At the end of the 90-day period, blood sampling was done via cardiac puncture to perform hematological and biochemical analyses. Additionally, the brain and liver were harvested for histopathological examination. The acute toxicity study revealed that AfL.s induced hyperexcitation, convulsions, ataxia, muscle spasms, and blanching in mice. Chronic toxicity evaluation indicated that a dose of 18 mg/Kg P.O. of AfL.s led to non-significant (P ≥ 0.05) alterations in hematological parameters; RBC count, platelet count, hemoglobin and serum biochemistry; cholesterol, creatinine, glucose, AST (aspartate transaminase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase), and TB (total bilirubin). However, WBC count, hematocrit, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels exhibited slight increases, accompanied by a significant (P ≤ 0.05) reduction in body weight in the treated mice. Histopathological assessments did not reveal any signs of toxicity. Consequently, AfL.s at an oral dose of 18 mg/Kg P.O. is deemed safe for long-term use in mice.
Copyright (c) 2024 Dr. Aamir Mushtaq, Dr. Tanzeela Rehman, Dr. Hamid Saeed , Dr. Sairah Hafeez , Dr. Amjed Hussain, Dr. Qurat Ul Ain, Dr. Umar Farooq Gohar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Scientific Evidence for the Herbal Remedies Used in the Treatment of COVID-19
The recent outbreak of coronavirus in December 2019, now officially named SARS-CoV-2 caused severe acute respiratory syndrome. The lack of significant targeted therapy options led to treating the pandemic symptomatically through the use of antivirals, anti-inflammatory agents, immunoglobulins, and low molecular weight heparins. Non-replicating viral vector vaccines have been manufactured by some organizations however the cure has still not been discovered. Herbal remedies have been used to treat a multitude of illnesses over time and have been the foundation for uncovering the cure for some diseases. This review delves into the scientific evidence of herbs such as Curcuma longa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, and Zingiber officinale having a therapeutic effect against SARS-CoV-2 by binding to various crucial sites on the virus rendering it ineffective. Many of these phytocompounds were found to have a distinguished mechanism of action showing anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Some of them have also exhibited anti-inflammatory properties. The following figure illustrates how the natural compounds mentioned in this article act on SARS-CoV-2 during its various stages of life.
Copyright (c) 2024 Aemen Haroon, Emaan Aamir, Hareem Siddiqui https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
FT-IR Analysis, Phytochemical Content and Antioxidant Activity of Murraya koenigii Leaf Extracts
Murraya koenigii (M. koenigii) which belongs to the family Rutaceae is a medicinal plant that is rich with phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds that can be used as sources for prevention and treatment of many diseases. This study aims to determine the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total antioxidant activity (TAA), and characterisation of phytochemicals of the M. koenigii leaves; after applying different drying methods and a variety of solvents for extraction of phytochemicals. Sun-dried, shade-dried, and fresh M. koenigii leaves are employed in the study along with the use of n-hexane, methanol, and distilled water as a solvent for extraction of phytochemicals based on polarity. The maceration method is used for extraction, the Folin-Ciocalteu method for evaluation of total phenolic content, the colorimetric test for total flavonoid content, phosphomolybdate assay for antioxidant activity analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) for determining various functional groups present in these phytochemicals. Phytochemical contents, antioxidant activities and functional groups are compared in different types of leaves as well as different solvents. The results of the study revealed that shade-dried leaves extracted using distilled water and fresh leaves extracted using methanol have high TAA which is 0.371 ± 0.02 µg/mL and 0.375 ± 0.01 µg/mL, respectively. This high antioxidant activity is due to high phenolic and flavonoid content in these samples, 67.03±3.10, 0.75±0.13 (mg GAE/g dry weight) for M. koenigii Shade Dried Water extract (MKShDW) and 112.94±1.03, 0.52±0.08 (mg QE/g Fresh Weight) for M. koenigii Fresh Methanolic extract (MKFrMe), respectively. Thus, these leaves can be used as a good source of natural antioxidants. Various functional groups are observed in the FT-IR analysis of this study such as alkanes, alcohols/phenols, aldehydes, esters, ethers, amines, amides, etc.
Copyright (c) 2024 Javeria Anwar, Sana Khan, Muhammad Asad Anwar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Phytocompounds as Promising Weapons against Lung Cancer: A Review
Lung cancer is the second most prevalent form of cancer in both men and women, which incurs major economic and public health losses. Notably, easy access to tobacco is the most important cause of pulmonary cancer, with 80%–90% of cases coming from cigarette smokers. Moreover, respiratory issues caused by industrial and automobile smoke, occupational hazards like asbestos, and infections, like Covid-19, exacerbate the impact of lung cancer on the body. To mitigate these effects, traditional lung cancer treatments coupled with awareness campaigns are proving somewhat successful, but many challenges persist. Cancer-resistance development, chemotherapy-induced side effects, and cancer metastasis are some of the significant hurdles to lung chemotherapy success. Plant and phytocompounds can potentially become alternative sources of lung cancer treatments. This review article provides some insight into these natural sources. Particular, hispidulin from Saussurea involucrate, erianin from Dendrobium chrysotoxum, and albanol B from Morus alba are proven to have anti-cancer effects in lung cancer cells, proven through in vitro and in vivo animal models. Furthermore, petroleum ether and ethyl acetate extracts of Marsdenia tenacissima were found to be potent in inhibiting lung cancer cells with an IC50 value of 0.35 mg/ml. This makes M. tenacissima a suitable candidate for further exploration in lung cancer treatment. In addition to the therapeutic effects, plant-based products can also act as dietary supplements for cancer prevention, and may even be recommended for cancer patients. The possibilities are endless but require further research and resource investment for estimating the clinical efficacy, as well as robust drug-delivery mechanisms of these plants and phytocompounds for pulmonic cancer.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nida Saleem https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Molecular Docking & In Silico ADME Analysis of 5-O-Methyl-11-O-Acetylalkannin
In the early phases of drug development, prediction of pharmacokinetic parameters including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME), before synthesis may be helpful in the selection of candidates with less significant pharmacokinetic profiles. 5-O-methyl-11-O-acetylalkannin (MAA) is naphthoquinone isolated from the roots of Alkanna genus, Alkanna cappadocica. The aim of the present study is to predict the in silico ADME study of MAA using web tool called SwissADME. The 2D structure of the compound was drawn on Chemdraw Ultra version 8.0. The colored zone represents the optimal physicochemical region for oral bioavailability, according to the bioavailability radar, which takes into account the characteristics of flexibility, lipophilicity, saturation, size, polarity, and solubility. The pharmacokinetic properties were analyzed using the boiled egg model. The yolk-colored yellow component has a high chance of entering the brain, whereas the white portion has a high chance of being passively absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract. The study concluded that MAA did not violate the recommended ranges for Lipinski’s rule of five, rotational bond count, and Topological Polar Surface Area (TPSA). MAA also showed moderate lipophilicity and good water solubility. It did not act as a substrate for P-glycoprotein. MAA displayed a potential to inhibit CYP1A2, CYP2C19, CYP2C9 and CYP3A4. Besides that, MAA exhibited no action against CYP2D6. It exhibited a uniform and good bioavailability score of 0.55 (55%) with high gastrointestinal (GI) absorption capabilities. Additionally, the Synthetic Accessibility score of the MAA represented easy-step reactions of synthesis. MAA does not violate any of the five drug-likeness parameters including Lipinski, Muegge, Ghose, Veber, and Egan rules. As a result, MAA could be considered a promising molecule in drug discovery. Moreover, the molecular docking analysis showed the formation of a stable protein ligand complex between TNFα and the ligand molecule.
Copyright (c) 2024 Haroon Khan, Haseeba Sardar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Impact of Ashwagandha in Stress, Depression, and Sports; A Systematic Review
Ashwagandha is a well-known traditional medicine and is a part of many formulations in the Ayurveda medicine system. Besides its many medicinal and nutritional uses, the drug has been prescribed to treat stress and depression. The objective of the study is to comprehensively review the use of Ashwagandha in stress, depression, and sports. Due to the presence of multiple nutrients, it has been employed by sportsmen for stamina and strength. The literature was searched by electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. The published data from 1987 till date was included. Based on needs, traditional reports were also reported beside scientific literature. This review included many scientific studies focusing on the use of Ashwagandha in stress, depression, and sports. It was found in the studies that Ashwagandha has proved its logical use in conditions related to stress, anxiety, depression, stamina, and fatigue. In many cases, Ashwagandha was equipotent to the conventional anxiolytic agents. The most important compounds isolated from Ashwagandha for use in stress and depression were withanolides. In sports-related activities, it was found that Ashwagandha increases the oxygen consumption. It is well established from the scientific literature that Ashwagandha has potent regenerative tonic properties, it has anti-stress, and anxiolytic properties. It increases the stamina of sportsmen and improves their physical performance. Thus, the mentioned results clearly showed that the traditional use of Ashwagandha has a logical and scientific basis.
Copyright (c) 2024 Fiaz Alam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Editor's Summaries of the Articles Published in This Issue of Phytopharmacological Communications
In this issue, Hussain and colleagues investigated the chemical composition, antioxidant and anticancer potential of Anchusa arvensis, Shah and colleagues performed the in vitro and in silico evaluation of the antileishmanial potential of isolated compounds from Ifloga spicata, Nida Saleem and Yu-Cheng Chen compiled and reviewed the medicinal remedies for the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Sultan and colleagues investigated the antibacterial properties of turmeric extract and different antibiotics against Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria while Sana Robab and Nida Saleem reviewed and discussed their search for the natural remedies for the treatment of dry cough.
Copyright (c) 2023 Editorial Staff https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Interaction Between Irinotecan and Kangai Injection in Colorectal Tumor-bearing Mice
The potential role of medicinal plants in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer has been a subject of considerable scientific interest. Various compounds found in medicinal plants, such as phytochemicals, have demonstrated anti-cancer properties in preclinical studies. Chen and colleagues investigated the pre-clinical herb-drug interactions between irinotecan (CPT-11) and Kangai (KA) a Chinese herb injection to provide a reference for their clinical co-administration. The results of the investigation indicate that KA injection is helpful in two ways, improving the efficacy of CPT-11 and reducing weight loss due to it (CPT-11). Oxymatrine metabolism in rats was reduced as suggested by the Cmax and AUC0-t of its metabolite, matrine (p < 0.05), from 2.23 ± 0.24 to 1.38 ± 0.12 μg/mL and 8.29 ± 1.34 to 5.30 ± 0.79 μg h/mL, respectively. This effect is not likely to compromise the anti-cancer effect of this herb-drug pair due to the similar efficacy of oxymatrine and matrine. The investigation underscores the benefits and risks of this combination and provides a reference for their clinical co-administration. Front Pharmacol. 2023 Nov 29:14:1282062. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1282062.
Kaempferol Promotes Lung Cancer Cell Autophagy
Autophagy is a cellular process involved in the degradation and recycling of cellular components, and it plays a complex role in cancer. In the context of lung cancer, including lung cell cancer, the relationship between autophagy and cancer is multifaceted and can vary depending on the specific circumstances. Wang and colleagues investigated the molecular mechanism by which kaempferol (from Hedyotis diffusa) promotes autophagy in Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma (NSCLC) cells. Their results suggest that kaempferol significantly inhibits NSCLC cell proliferation. Kaempferol also caused NSCLC cell death by promoting NSCLC cell autophagy. Their experiments reveal that both protein and mRNA expression of Met was significantly inhibited. They also observed the inhibition of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. These results were validated by the overexpression of Met which resulted in the reversal of kaempferol effects on NSCLC cell viability and cell autophagy. They concluded that Kaempferol exerts its anti-NSCLC effect by promoting NSCLC cell autophagy which involves Met and its downstream PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Phytomedicine. 2023 Dec:121:155090. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155090.
Anti-Obesity Constituents in Ginkgo biloba Extract
Obesity is a complex health condition characterized by an excess accumulation of body fat. It is associated with various health risks, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. While lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, are fundamental components of obesity management, several researchers explore complementary and alternative approaches, such as herbal medicine. Zhang and colleagues demonstrated a case study for uncovering the anti-obesity constituents in an anti-obesity herbal medicine (Ginkgo biloba extract) and deciphering their synergistic effects via targeting human pancreatic lipase (hPL). After screening eighty medicinal plants, they found that the most potent anti-hPL activity was possessed by Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE50). They isolated thirty-eight compounds and found that several of them were potent hPL inhibitors showing IC50 values <2.5 μM). Docking studies found that sciadopitysin, bilobetin, isoginkgetin, and ginkgetin) could tightly bind on hPL at cavity 2, which is different from the binding cavity of quercetin on hPL. After further experiments they found that sciadopitysin or bilobetin in combination with quercetin showed synergistic anti-hPL effects, suggesting that the multi-components in GBE50 may generate a more potent anti-hPL effect. They concluded that anti-obesity constituents in GBE50, act synergistically at the molecular level, which will be very helpful for further understanding the anti-obesity mechanisms of Ginkgo biloba. Fitoterapia. 2023 Dec:171:105669. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2023.105669.
MAPK/ERK and NF-κB Signaling Pathways Mediate Attenuation of Psoriasis by Punicalagin
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterized by the rapid and excessive growth of skin cells. It is a non-contagious condition that results in the formation of thick, red, and scaly patches on the skin surface. Psoriasis can affect various parts of the body and is often associated with other health issues. Wang and colleagues explored the impact and molecular mechanism of punicalagin (PU) on M5-stimulated keratinocyte cell lines and imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like skin inflammation in BABL/c mice. Their findings reveal that several indicators of psoriasis and its severity such as splenomegaly, IMQ-induced abnormal epidermal proliferation, CD4+ T-cell infiltration, and inflammatory factor expression were abrogated by PU-enriched pomegranate extract at dosages of 150 and 250 mg/kg/day. The expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IL-17A, IL-22, IL-23A, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were also decreased. This was followed by the inhibition of keratinocyte proliferation in the M5-stimulated cell line model of inflammation. This keratinocyte proliferation inhibition is believed to be mediated through the inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinases/extracellular regulated protein kinases (MAPK/ERK) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways. Their findings suggest that PU may serve as a promising nutritional intervention for psoriasis by ameliorating cellular oxidative stress and inflammation. Phytother Res. 2023 Nov 27. doi: 10.1002/ptr.8071.
Comparative Antidiabetic Effects of Five Medicinal Plants
Kukavica and colleagues examined the antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of ethanol extracts of five medicinal plants, Salvia officinalis, Trifolium pratense, Agrimonia eupatoria, Cichorium intybus, and Vinca minor for their possible use in the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). It was found that A. eupatoria extract contains the highest percentage of flavonoids and showed excellent antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity. Their study revealed that S. officinalis extract contains slightly fewer flavonoids and showed weaker antidiabetic activity but stronger antioxidant activity, and excellent antibacterial activity. T. pratense A extract was found to possess a slightly lower percentage of flavonoids compared to S. officinalis, had excellent antidiabetic activity but weaker antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. C. intybus was found to possess a similar percentage of flavonoids and phenolic acids, and showed moderate antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. The richest source of phenolic acids was V. minor (80%, with the most abundant chlorogenic acid), which resulted in weaker antidiabetic and antioxidant activities (except for Fe2+ chelating ability) and antimicrobial activity. Their results suggest that A. eupatoria has the greatest potential for developing into a T2D treatment. J Ethnopharmacol. 2024 Feb 10:320:117377. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117377.
Lessons From the Use of Medicinal Plants During COVID-19
The use of medicinal plants during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a subject of interest, and several lessons can be learned from this experience. It's important to note that while some medicinal plants may have potential health benefits, their use should be approached with caution, and guidance from healthcare professionals is crucial. There was a surge in public interest in herbal remedies and natural supplements during the pandemic. People explored various options, hoping to enhance immunity or alleviate symptoms. This underscores the importance of providing accurate information and guidance on the use of herbal products. Several communities have a rich tradition of using medicinal plants in healthcare. The pandemic highlighted the importance of acknowledging and respecting cultural practices. Traditional knowledge can offer insights into potential remedies, but it should be complemented by scientific research and validation. Many communities have used medicinal plants for the treatment of COVID-19. For example, in Brazil, the use of medicinal plants for treating respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms similar to those of COVID-19 has been identified. Researchers have identified some important patterns during this time. They found that the use of medicinal plants for COVID-19 in Brazil was associated with females, non-whites, lower schooling, higher income, and comorbidities. There are several aspects of the use of medicinal plants during COVID-19 that were inadequately addressed. These include scientific scrutiny and research, regulatory oversight, potential interactions and adverse effects, and community engagement and education. The pandemic highlighted the importance of community engagement and education. Providing accurate information about the benefits and risks of medicinal plants helps individuals make informed decisions about their health. One of the primary concerns had been the promotion of medicinal plants without sufficient scientific evidence supporting their efficacy against COVID-19. The rapid spread of information, especially through social media, led to the dissemination of unverified claims and misinformation. Similarly, relying solely on unproven herbal remedies for COVID-19 may give individuals a false sense of security. This could lead to neglecting established preventive measures such as vaccination, mask-wearing, and physical distancing, which are supported by strong scientific evidence. The reliance on medicinal plants without proper medical guidance has resulted in delayed or avoided seeking appropriate medical care. In the case of COVID-19, timely medical intervention is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing severe complications. Furthermore, the demand for herbal remedies during the pandemic has led to the proliferation of false claims and scams. Unscrupulous individuals exploited public fear by promoting ineffective products, leading to financial exploitation and potential harm. The use of medicinal plants during the COVID-19 pandemic offers lessons on the integration of traditional practices with evidence-based medicine, the importance of regulatory oversight, and the need for responsible communication. At the same time, their misuse during the COVID-19 pandemic raises concerns related to misinformation, potential harm, and sustainability. As research continues, a balanced and collaborative approach to healthcare that incorporates both traditional and modern perspectives is essential.
Copyright (c) 2023 Abdul Jabbar Shah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
In Vitro and In Silico Evaluation of the Antileishmanial Potential of Isolated Compounds from Ifloga spicata
Ifloga spicata is a tiny annual herb of the Asteraceae family. It is used to treat a wide range of disorders, including heart diseases, skin diseases, and leishmaniasis. The aim of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of compounds isolated from Ifloga spicata for controlling leishmaniasis, via a combination of in vitro and in silico studies. Ifloga spicata was chosen due to its high concentration of secondary metabolites and its historic use in treating leishmaniasis. According to the increasing sequence of polarity, the crude extract and its derived n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanolic, and aqueous fractions were made. The previously discovered bioactive ethyl acetate soluble fraction was suggested for further investigation using column chromatography. Two chemicals were recovered from the ethyl acetate fraction. The structure of these compounds was determined using Mass, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR spectroscopy, which confirmed that the pure compounds were Dodecane and Tetradecane. The compounds were evaluated for antileishmanial activity in vitro using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Both the compounds showed promising anti-leishmanial activity. These compounds were subjected to a molecular docking analysis to find their binding energy with the parasite enzyme trypanothione reductase. Both the compounds docked at the optimal position, showing stable binding energies, and chemical bond types. The binding energies of dodecane and tetradecane were -4.5 and -4.7 kcal/mol, respectively. These findings suggest that the secondary metabolites identified from Ifloga spicata should be investigated further as natural lead compounds to treat leishmaniasis.
Copyright (c) 2023 Syed Majid Shah, Muhammad Shoaib, Sajid Hussain, Fawad Ali, Zahra Batool Manzoor, Farman Ullah, Saeed Ahmad Khan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant and Anticancer Potential of Anchusa arvensis
The purpose of this study was to investigate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant characteristics and cytotoxic effects of Anchusa arvensis (A. arvensis) crude extract (Aa.Cr) and its subsequent fractions: n-hexane (Aa.Hex), chloroform (Aa.Chm) , Ethylacetate (Aa.Et), and Aqueous (Aa.Aq). The antioxidant potential was determined using the Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and azinobis [3-ethylbenzthiazoline]-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging assays. The sulforhodamine-B assay demonstrated anticancer activity against the human cancer cell line NCI-H460. Alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, and tannins were found in Aa.Cr. The Aa.Chm fraction showed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity(74.83 ± 1.36%1.36%) at 1000 µg/mL concentration. The extract fractions Aa.Hex and Aa.Et demonstrated moderate activity, while Aa.Aq showed poor radical scavenging activity. The results show that the Aa. Hex has significant ABTS radical scavenging activity with IC50.of 500μg/mL. Remarkable cytotoxicity was observed for chloroform (Aa.Chm) fraction with a growth inhibitory (GI50) ) value of 31 ± 0.6 µg/mL followed by Aa.Hex growth inhibitory (GI50) ) value of (GI50 45 ± 5.7). The aqueous (Aa.Aq) and ethyl acetate (Aa.Et) fractions failed to display growth inhibitory effects against NCI-H460 cells. These findings indicate that Aa.Cr and its derived fractions possess antioxidant and anticancer effects.
Copyright (c) 2023 Sajid Hussain, Syed Majid Shah, Fawad Ali, Farman Ullah, Sahid Khan Sadozai, Hamza Hussain Bangash, Tahira Hussain https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Study of Antibacterial Properties of Turmeric Extract Against Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus
The Zingiberaceae family includes 40 species, among which Curcuma longa is notable. Numerous genera within this family are recognized for their therapeutic properties in tropical Asia. This research aims to assess the antibacterial potential of Curcuma longa along with various antibiotics. Rhizome-derived ethanol and aqueous extracts were prepared for experimentation. The antibacterial activities were investigated using the agar well diffusion assay, employing Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi, both susceptible to turmeric, as test organisms. In comparison to five standard antibiotics (azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, kanamycin, and ceftriaxone), the inhibition zones of the extracts were evaluated for effectiveness. Ethanol extracts at varying concentrations exhibited significant inhibitory effects against these bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus. Conversely, the aqueous plant extract demonstrated negligible inhibitory activity. Notably, the testing bacteria displayed resistance to the aqueous rhizome extract. The ethanol extract's inhibition zone ranged from 13mm to 18mm against gram-positive bacteria and 9mm to 14mm against gram-negative bacteria. In contrast, the aqueous extract exhibited weak inhibitory activity, indicating bacterial resistance. This study underscores turmeric's potential as an antibacterial agent containing medicinal compounds. The results may contribute to the integration of turmeric into conventional medicine for enhanced antibacterial efficacy.
Copyright (c) 2023 Shahida Sultan, Iqra Sultan, Yasir Nawaz, Fouzia Tanvir, Samiya Rehman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Medicinal Remedies for the Treatment of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
Antimicrobial resistance has led to the rise of formidable microbes like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). This infection can be acquired at the hospital and in a community, making the search for efficient treatment critical, given the rise in inefficacy of conventional treatments such as vancomycin. Phytocompounds can offer protection against these threats. They not only have the ability to kill MRSA but also enhance its susceptibility to previously ineffective antimicrobial agents. Plant-derived anti-MRSA agents can produce therapeutic effects comparable to some conventional treatments, and in some cases, they may even outperform an antibiotic. This article provided many examples of botanical compounds that have proven potent agents against MRSA in both in vitro and in vivo studies. These compounds achieve these effects by inhibiting the resistance mechanisms in MRSA, breaking down its defenses, making it vulnerable, and eventually killing it. Many of these compounds are inherently bactericidal; however, they may produce a synergistic response when combined with allopathic antibiotics. For example, plumbagin, from Plumbago zeylanica, not only disrupts MRSA cell wall morphology, eliciting cytoplasmic changes but also produces a synergistic effect with ciprofloxacin and piperacillin. Moreover, honokiol and magnolol glycosides, from Magnolia officinalis, reversed the quintessential resistance of MRSA by repressing genes, responsible for resistance development. The possibilities are indeed endless, but further research and financial investments are required for proper drug development.
methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus
Copyright (c) 2023 Nida Saleem, Yu-Cheng Chen https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Search for the Natural Remedies for the Treatment of Dry Cough
Cough, also known as tussis, is a normal physiological response to any intrusion in the airway. However, this protective mechanism can turn into a nuisance if it becomes persistent, significantly impacting the social, physical, and psychological performance of a person. Standard antitussive agents like dextromethorphan (DXM), codeine, and gabapentin produce various side effects, and in some cases, cough relapse occurs as soon as drug doses are reduced. In search of better alternatives, this article delves into plant-based antitussive agents, studied in-vivo in various cough models. The cough models used in these studies include sulphur dioxide (SO2), citric acid, ammonia, acetic acid, and capsaicin-induced models. The plant-sourced agents, included in this review article, are not only effective against dry cough but also have better safety profiles and lower addiction potential as compared to the mainstream options. The review article cited the examples of Caesalpinia pulcherrima, arabinogalactan extracted from the roots of Withania somnifera, vitexin from Jatropha mutabilis, Napoleonaea vogelii, Rosa damascene and Hedera helix, which were not only potent antitussives but were also had better safety and performance profile than standard drugs like codeine. By investing in these phytochemicals, exhibiting promising cough-suppression abilities, better, safer, and cheaper antitussive agents can be produced. .
Copyright (c) 2023 Sana Robab, Nida Saleem https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Editor's Summaries of the Articles Published in this Issue of Phtypharmacological Communications
In this issue, Jabeen and colleagues investigate the protective role of Ficus carica L. against experimentally-induced hyperthyroidism, Saeed and colleagues determined the potential antibacterial activity of extracts from two plants Salvadora persica and Salvadora oleoides, Ali and friends screened one of the most common fruits, Malus domestica (MD or apple), used in Pakistan for its potential cardio-protective effects, Bashir et al, describe the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2, its pathophysiology, challenges of current treatment for SARS-CoV-2, and the significance the medicinal plants and their extracts in treating Covid-19, and Ibrahim and colleagues discuss complementary and alternative medicine for the treatment of Hepatitis C virus infection.
Alleviation of Immunologic Contact Urticaria and Mast Cell Degranulation by Myricetin
Myricetin is a flavonoid compound found in various plants, such as berries, fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs. It has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its effects on immunologic contact urticaria and mast cell degranulation. Hu et al investigated the impact of myricetin and found that it may alleviate immunologic contact urticaria and mast cell. Immunologic contact urticaria is a type of allergic reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with certain allergens. It is characterized by the development of hives (urticarial lesions) and symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling. The study investigated the effect of myricetin on immunologic contact urticaria using in vitro and in vivo models. Myricetin was chosen based on its known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase)/Akt (protein kinase B)/NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) pathway is a signaling pathway involved in various cellular processes, including inflammation. Activation of this pathway is associated with mast cell degranulation and the release of pro-inflammatory mediators. The results of the study demonstrated that myricetin treatment attenuated immunologic contact urticaria and mast cell degranulation. Myricetin was found to inhibit the activation of the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway, leading to reduced mast cell degranulation and decreased release of inflammatory mediators. Myricetin significantly inhibited PLCγ1, Akt, NF-κB, and p38 phosphorylation. These findings suggest that myricetin may have potential as a therapeutic agent for the management of immunologic contact urticarial and other allergic conditions. Phytother Res. 2023 May;37(5):2024-2035. doi: 10.1002/ptr.7726.
Antipyretic Effect on LPS-Induced Pyrexia in Rats by Bupleurum Chinense
Bupleurum chinense is a medicinal plant commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been investigated for its potential therapeutic effects, including its antipyretic properties. Kang and colleagues focused on the antipyretic effect of Bupleurum chinense in rats with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pyrexia and found that it exerted a mild antipyretic effect. Pyrexia refers to an elevated body temperature or fever. LPS, a component of the cell wall of certain bacteria, is commonly used to induce an inflammatory response and fever in experimental animal models. The study investigated the potential antipyretic effect of Bupleurum chinense in LPS-induced pyrexia rats. TNF-α is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in the regulation of immune responses. In the study, Bupleurum chinense was found to inhibit the production of TNF-α in the peripheral tissues of LPS-induced pyrexia rats. The inhibition of peripheral TNF-α production by Bupleurum chinense resulted in a mild antipyretic effect, reducing the elevated body temperature in the LPS-induced pyrexia rats. The specific mechanisms by which Bupleurum chinense inhibits peripheral TNF-α production were not described in the study. However, the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of Bupleurum chinense compounds may contribute to this effect. J Ethnopharmacol. 2023 Jun 28;310:116375. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116375.
Anti-inflammatory Actions of Praxelis Clematidea
Praxelis clematidea is a plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South America and has been traditionally used in folk medicine for its medicinal properties. Researchers have investigated the chemical constituents of Praxelis clematidea and identified several anti-inflammatory phenolics and phenylpropanoids. Here is some information about these compounds: The anti-inflammatory properties of Praxelis clematidea phenolics and phenylpropanoids make them of interest for potential therapeutic applications. Studies have identified various phenolics and phenylpropanoids in Praxelis clematidea, including flavonoids, caffeic acid derivatives, coumarins, and lignans. Some of the specific compounds reported include clematidin, clematomandshurin, clematoside-I, clematoside-II, and praxelin. Liang and his colleagues have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory activity of these compounds. They have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, such as nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and pro-inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). They can inhibit the activation of transcription factors like nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1), which are key regulators of inflammatory responses. The authors concluded that given their anti-inflammatory properties, the phenolics and phenylpropanoids from Praxelis clematidea have the potential for use in the development of natural anti-inflammatory agents or as leads for drug discovery targeting inflammation-related conditions. Fitoterapia. 2023 Jun;167:105476. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2023.105476.
Curcumol Attenuates Human Uterine Leiomyoma Cell Development
Curcumol is a major terpenoid compound derived from Curcumae Rhizoma, the rhizome of the plant Curcuma wenyujin. It has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties, including its effects on human uterine leiomyoma cell development. Yu and colleagues investigated the impact of curcumol on uterine leiomyoma cells and found that it may attenuate their development. Uterine leiomyomas, also known as uterine fibroids, are benign tumors that develop in the smooth muscle layer of the uterus. They are the most common type of uterine tumor in women of reproductive age and can cause various symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and reproductive issues. The study aimed to explore the effects of curcumol on the development of human uterine leiomyoma cells. Curcumol was selected due to its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. The results of the study indicated that curcumol treatment attenuated the development of human uterine leiomyoma cells. It achieved this effect by inhibiting the activation of the p38MAPK/NF-κB pathway. The p38MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase)/NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) pathway is a signaling pathway involved in various cellular processes, including inflammation and cell proliferation. Dysregulation of this pathway has been implicated in the development and progression of various diseases, including uterine leiomyoma. Curcumol was found to suppress the phosphorylation (activation) of p38MAPK and subsequently inhibit the nuclear translocation of NF-κB. These actions resulted in decreased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduced cell proliferation in uterine leiomyoma cells. It's important to note that while these findings suggest a potential therapeutic effect of curcumol on uterine leiomyoma cells, further research, including in vivo studies and clinical trials, is needed to validate these findings and determine the optimal use of curcumol in the management of uterine leiomylomas. J Ethnopharmacol. 2023 Jun 28;310:116311. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116311.
Alleviation of Dexamethasone-induced Inhibition of Bone Formation by Salidroside
Salidroside is a natural compound found in the plant Rhodiola rosea. It has been the subject of scientific research due to its potential health benefits. Xie and colleagues investigated the effect of salidroside on dexamethasone-induced inhibition of bone formation and found that it may alleviate this inhibition. The study investigated whether salidroside could counteract the inhibitory effects of dexamethasone on bone formation. The researchers focused on the TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in regulating bone metabolism. Salidroside increased the expression of osteopontin (OPN), runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osterix (Osx), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) proteins and promoted the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 in MC3T3-E1 cells treated with dexamethasone. The results of the study demonstrated that salidroside treatment mitigated the dexamethasone-induced inhibition of osteogenic differentiation and bone formation. Salidroside was found to promote the activation of the TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway, which is involved in bone formation and remodeling processes. Phytother Res. 2023 May;37(5):1938-1950. doi: 10.1002/ptr.7711.
Dual Inhibition of Cyclooxygenase & Lipoxygenase by Natural Products
Cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) are enzymes involved in the metabolism of arachidonic acid, a fatty acid present in cell membranes. COX enzymes convert arachidonic acid into prostaglandins and thromboxanes, which are involved in inflammation, pain, and other physiological processes. On the other hand, LOX enzymes convert arachidonic acid into leukotrienes, which also play a role in inflammation and immune responses. Dual inhibition of COX and LOX pathways has therapeutic implications, especially in conditions characterized by inflammation. Several natural products have been found to possess the ability to inhibit both COX and LOX enzymes simultaneously. Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has been shown to exhibit dual inhibitory effects on COX and LOX enzymes. It can suppress the activity of both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins. Additionally, curcumin inhibits LOX enzymes, thereby reducing the synthesis of leukotrienes. This dual inhibition contributes to the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin. Resveratrol is a polyphenol compound found in various plant sources, including grapes and berries. It has been reported to possess COX and LOX inhibitory activity. Resveratrol inhibits COX enzymes, leading to a decrease in prostaglandin production. It also inhibits the activity of LOX enzymes, reducing leukotriene synthesis. The anti-inflammatory properties of resveratrol have been studied in various inflammatory conditions. Green tea catechins: Green tea catechins, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), are bioactive compounds present in green tea. EGCG has been shown to inhibit both COX and LOX enzymes. It inhibits COX-2 expression and suppresses prostaglandin production. Moreover, EGCG inhibits the activity of LOX enzymes, reducing the synthesis of leukotrienes. Green tea catechins have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in preclinical and clinical studies. Gingerol is a bioactive compound found in ginger. It has been reported to possess dual inhibitory effects on COX and LOX enzymes. Gingerol inhibits COX-2 activity and decreases prostaglandin production. It also inhibits LOX enzymes, reducing the synthesis of leukotrienes. Gingerol's anti-inflammatory properties have been studied in various models of inflammation. It is important to note that the effectiveness and specificity of natural products in inhibiting COX and LOX enzymes may vary. The bioavailability and metabolism of these compounds can also influence their overall impact. Further research is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms and therapeutic potential of natural products in dual COX-LOX inhibition.