Background:Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients with nutritional risk often face both physical and psychological burden, with anxiety and depression being the most common ones, which may affect their clinical outcomes. Objective:To study the influence of psychological nursing intervention on psychological status and all-cause mortality in the ICU. Methods:A total of 100 patients at high nutritional risk, receiving nutrition support in the ICU of our hospital from June 2021 to June 2023, were retrospectively included. Based on whether patients received psychological nursing intervention, they were divided into a control group (n = 50, routine care) and a study group (n = 50, routine care plus psychological nursing intervention). The control group received routine care, and the study group received psychological nursing care, along with routine care. Outcome measures included anxiety and depression, assessed using the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS); all-cause mortality was compared between the two groups, time to death was collected, and the relationship between psychological status and all-cause mortality was assessed using a Cox proportional hazards regression model. Results:The SDS, SAS scores, and all-cause mortality were significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (P < .05). However, the study group demonstrated greater nursing satisfaction than the control group (P < .05). Psychological status and all-cause mortality were significantly related in univariate analysis. Conclusion:Psychological nursing intervention can effectively reduce the incidence of anxiety and depression in ICU patients at nutritional risk, improve the psychological state of patients, reduce all-cause mortality, and improve the prognosis of patients. Keywords:psychological nursing intervention, nutritional risk patients in Intensive Care Unit, psychological status, all-cause mortality.
Background:Managing postoperative pain (POP) effectively is key to improving surgical recovery. Common medications (e.g., opioids) often cause adverse effects, such as nausea, vomiting, sedation, and respiratory depression. Electroacupuncture (EA) may be an effective alternative or complementary strategy for POP relief. Objective:To systematically examine studies evaluating EA as a neuromodulatory technique for managing POP. Methods/Design:We performed a systematic review of studies published within the last 5 years. We searched 7 databases: Scopus, Sage Journals, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, Lilacs, and ScienceDirect. Of 1,789 identified articles, 18 met inclusion criteria. Studies were grouped by whether they reported statistically significant effects, additional recovery-related outcomes, or no meaningful findings. Most studies provided Level 2 evidence. Setting:The reviewed research was conducted in various international clinical and academic institutions, although setting details were inconsistently reported. Participants:Participants included patients recovering from different types of surgery. Populations varied by age and surgical procedure and reporting on adverse events or dropouts was not uniform. Interventions:The intervention assessed was EA. Treatment parameters varied among the studies. Primary Outcome Measures:Pain intensity was the primary outcome, measured using standard scales (e.g., visual analog and numeric rating scales). Secondary outcomes included reductions in pain medication use and other recovery metrics. Results:Most studies demonstrated a significant reduction in pain following EA treatment. Overall, EA appeared to enhance pain control and support recovery. Conclusions:Evidence supports EA as a potential adjunct for POP management. High-quality studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and refine its use. Keywords:Electroacupuncture, Postoperative Pain, Systematic Review, Analgesia, Opioid-Sparing, Opioid Consumption, Integrative Medicine, Complementary Therapies.
Introduction:Postoperative hand tendon injuries often lead to complications, such as stiffness, limited hand mobility, and impaired function, warranting effective rehabilitation. Matrix Rhythm Therapy (MaRhyThe®) is a novel physiotherapy method used in treating various soft tissue disorders. Objective:This pilot randomized controlled trial comparatively evaluated the impact of MaRhyThe® and conventional physiotherapy on hand mobility and function in individuals recovering from postoperative hand tendon injuries. Materials and Methods:Twenty Participants underwent a 2-week intervention program with 4 clinic-based sessions per group. Sessions were conducted every third day, with 2-day home exercise intervals between sessions. Group A (n = 10) received 60 min of MaRhyThe® while Group B (n = 10) received 5 min of conventional physiotherapy (therapeutic ultrasound). The range of motion (ROM) of the wrist and fingers, hand function measured by the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), and pain levels using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) were assessed: pre-intervention (before session 1) and immediately post-intervention (after session 4). Results:Both MaRhyThe® and therapeutic ultrasound significantly improved hand mobility, function, and pain. Group A showed greater mean improvements and larger effect sizes across most outcomes compared to Group B. Wrist flexion improved by 19.5° (d = 1.23) in Group A versus 7° (d = 1.11) in Group B. ARAT total scores increased by 15.2 points (d = 1.04) in Group A and 12.9 points (d = 0.88) in Group B. Pain (NPRS) decreased by 3.1 points in Group A (d = 2.59) and 3.0 points in Group B (d = 3.18). Between-group comparisons favoured MaRhyThe® with significant gains in wrist and finger ROM and lower post-treatment pain scores. Conclusion:MaRhyThe® demonstrated superior post-treatment outcomes across most ROM parameters, with greater pain relief. These pilot findings support further investigation of MaRhyThe® in hand tendon rehabilitation protocols. Keywords:Physical Therapy Modalities, Hand Injuries, Tendon Injuries, Rehabilitation, Postoperative Care, Matrix Rhythm Therapy.
Background:Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is among the most rapidly escalating global health crises of the 21st century. Conventional pharmacological management has unnecessary side effects. Therefore, exploring a safe and effective drug to manage T2DM is a foremost priority. Primary Study Objectives:To evaluate the impact of Survali (Celosia argentea Linn.) seeds as an adjuvant medication in T2DM. Methods:Forty participants with T2DM were randomly assigned to test (n=20) and control (n=20) groups in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Intervention:For 8 weeks, the test group received Celosia argentea Linn. seed powder, and the control group received roasted wheat flour; both were administered 4 g/day in two equal divided doses with water as a complement to conventional medicine. Primary Outcome Measures:HbA1c was assessed at baseline and at the end of the treatment. Secondary Outcome Measures:These include changes in fasting and postprandial blood sugar, and the Asian Diabetes Quality of Life Questionnaire (ADQOL). Subjective parameters (polyphagia, polydipsia, polyuria, and tiredness) were assessed by an arbitrary scale fortnightly. Setting:This clinical trial was conducted at the National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bengaluru, India. Results:All 40 participants completed the study. The test drug showed a statistically significant difference in HbA1c and ADQOL (P < .001). However, the control group demonstrated no significant impact on any of the measures. A significant reduction in fasting blood sugar was observed in the test group, compared to baseline (P = .01), while no such significant changes were observed in the control group. The subjective parameters were non-significant, as both groups showed similar reduction in symptoms (P > .05). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of safety parameters. Conclusion:Celosia argentea Linn. seeds demonstrate efficacy as an adjuvant in the management of T2DM; further research is warranted to confirm the long-term efficacy and safety. Keywords:Fasting Blood Sugar, Unani Medicine, Postprandial Blood Sugar, HbA1c, Asian Diabetes Quality of Life Questionnaire.
Objective:This study aimed to identify risk factors for Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection in children with peptic ulcers and to examine the associated changes in blood routine indexes. Methods:A total of 173 children diagnosed with peptic ulcers in our hospital between January 2017 and January 2022 were included in the study. All participants underwent the 13C rapid urea breath test to detect HP infection. Additionally, routine blood tests were performed to analyze the blood routine indexes. A questionnaire was administered to collect data on hygiene habits and family income, which were then correlated with HP infection. Results:The analysis revealed several significant findings. The following risk factors were identified as independent factors for HP infection in children with peptic ulcers: poor economic conditions (odds ratio [OR] = 2.54, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.36-4.72), small per capita living area (OR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.12-3.34), the use of family-shared tableware (OR = 2.17, 95% CI: 1.25-3.77), poor parental hygiene habits (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.19-3.63), and a family history of ulcer (OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.08-3.29). HP-positive patients exhibited significant differences in blood routine indexes compared to HP-negative patients. Specifically, they had lower RBC count (mean difference = -0.82, 95% CI: -1.45 to -0.19), lower Hb level (mean difference = -0.61, 95% CI: -1.12 to -0.10), lower HCT level (mean difference = -1.08, 95% CI: -1.82 to -0.35), and higher platelet count (mean difference = 36.72, 95% CI: 8.21-65.23). Conclusion:This study provides important insights into the risk factors associated with HP infection in children with peptic ulcers and highlights the changes in blood routine indexes that occur with the infection. The identified risk factors, including poor economic conditions, small living area, family-shared tableware, parental hygiene habits, and family history of ulcer, can guide preventive strategies and interventions for HP infection in children. The findings also emphasize the significance of age as a factor in HP infection rates. Moreover, the observed alterations in blood routine indexes indicate the impact of HP infection on immune function in affected children. This study contributes to the understanding of HP infection in children and offers valuable implications for clinical practice, enabling better prevention and control of HP infection in this vulnerable population. Keywords:children with peptic ulcer, Helicobacter pylori, blood routine test, risk factors.
Background:Lower extremity stability is closely related to sports injuries and muscle fatigue, with the calf complex playing a crucial role. Primary Study Objective:This study aims to investigate the effects of manipulation using traditional Chinese medicine functional manipulation (TCMFM) and maintaining it through the application of kinesiology tape (KT). Study design:Forty-five participants were recruited and randomized to two groups using a crossover design. Setting:All research in this study was conducted at the same university. In this randomized crossover trial, participants received either TCMFM with KT (TCMFM-KT) or KT alone, separated by a washout period to minimize carryover effects. Primary Outcome Measures:Eight positions on the lower limbs were measured using MyotonPRO® to assess soft tissue changes, and the feeling of discomfort was recorded using a visual analog scale. Results:TCMFM facilitates the redistribution of mechanical load from the calf muscle to adjacent or synergistic muscle groups, thereby mitigating localized strain. The variation in muscle tone (∆F%), defined as the proportion of muscle tone at a given measurement point compared with the baseline value (day 1, before intervention), was higher in the TCMFM-KT than in the KT session at the lateral leg from day 1 to day 3. The ∆F% at the anterior leg on day 2 and at the medial leg on day 7 were lower in the TCMFM-KT session than in the KT session. The VAS score in the KT session was higher on day 2 and day 3 than on day 1, whereas no significant change was observed in the TCMFM-KT session. Conclusion:TCMFM has the potential to improve overall muscle activation and coordination in the lower limbs, reducing the impact of muscle fatigue. Keywords:Functional manipulation, Kinesiology taping, Muscle fatigue, Traditional Chinese medicine.
Background:Appendicitis is a common condition typically treated surgically via appendectomy. However, recently there has been increased interest in non-surgical treatment options, such as antibiotics, to avoid risks of surgical complications. Objective:This case report describes a non-surgical, Ayurvedic intervention for uncomplicated acute appendicitis (without perforation). Case Presentation:A 25-year-old male was admitted to hospital and diagnosed with acute appendicitis. Initial management included a single dose of multiple intravenous medications, including antibiotics, an antiemetic, and a proton pump inhibitor. However, he refused laparoscopic appendectomy. The patient sought an Ayurvedic consultation immediately after discharge from the hospital. Intervention:The patient was prescribed an herbal regimen, provided with dietary recommendations, and followed-up closely over the following two weeks. Primary Outcome Measures:The primary outcome measures were visualization and measurement of the appendix via abdominal ultrasound, and pain score (on a scale of 0-10). Results:The patient demonstrated rapid and sustained symptom resolution, with his pain score decreasing from 8 to 0 over two weeks. There was also normalization of diagnostic imaging findings, with the patient's appendix decreasing in size from 9 mm to <4 mm. Conclusion:Overall, this case suggests that Ayurvedic intervention may be useful for treating uncomplicated acute appendicitis as an alternative to surgical intervention, with no adverse effects. However, literature lacks data on the incidence and clinical outcomes of Ayurvedic treatment for appendicitis. Hence, further rigorous studies are needed to investigate the incidence and assess the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatment protocols for uncomplicated acute appendicitis. Keywords:Ayurveda, acute appendicitis, case report, botanical medicine, nutrition therapy.
Background:Bell's palsy is a neurological condition that can occur in the general population; however, its incidence is increased during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Its pathophysiology may be linked to pregnancy-induced vascular and hormonal changes, including fluid retention and immune modulation. Due to limited evidence, there is no standardized treatment protocol for Bell's palsy in this population. Case Presentation:A postpartum female presented with sudden-onset unilateral facial weakness consistent with Bell's palsy. An integrative treatment approach was initiated, including a tapering dose of corticosteroids (Wysolone), Unani regimens and supportive care with an eye patch. The patient also underwent physiotherapy, which included transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), facial exercises, facial massage, along with supportive eye care using lubricating eye drops and eye patching, and steam therapy. Outcome:Over the course of one month, the patient demonstrated marked improvement in facial muscle function and symmetry, with substantial improvement of symptoms and no recurrence during the short-term follow-up. Conclusion:This case underscores the importance of early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary management strategy in postpartum Bell's palsy. The patient showed a favourable outcome following integrated pharmacological, physiotherapeutic, and Unani management. However, more robust studies are needed to establish standardized guidelines for the treatment of Bell's palsy during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Keywords:Bell's palsy, postpartum, facial nerve palsy, physiotherapy, corticosteroids, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, Unani Medicine, case report.
Abstract:Thyroid nodules are a prevalent clinical finding, often benign in nature, yet capable of causing compressive symptoms, aesthetic concerns, or raising suspicion for malignancy. Conventional management strategies-ranging from active surveillance to surgical excision-are effective but may not be suitable or preferred by all patients due to invasiveness, cost, or potential complications. Consequently, there is an increasing interest in natural therapies as complementary or alternative approaches to managing thyroid nodules. This review critically examines the current evidence on natural interventions, including nutritional compounds (e.g., iodine, selenium, and vitamin D), phytotherapeutic agents (e.g., curcumin, green tea polyphenols, and Withania somnifera), and topical treatments such as castor oil. Mechanisms of action explored include modulation of inflammation, reduction of oxidative stress, hormonal balance, and immune regulation. While preclinical and limited clinical studies suggest potential therapeutic effects, high-quality human trials remain scarce. This review underscores the need for rigorous research to establish efficacy, safety, and clinical guidelines for incorporating natural therapies into personalized treatment plans for thyroid nodules. Keywords:Thyroid Nodule, Thyroid Diseases, Complementary Therapies, Integrative Medicine, Dietary Supplements, Phytotherapy.
Background:Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a severe complication of diabetes, resulting in delayed wound healing due to impaired blood flow. While electrical stimulation is promising in wound management, the efficacy of Russian current in this domain remains unexplored. This case report assesses the effectiveness of the Russian current in managing DFUs. Case presentation:A 69-year-old male with type 2 diabetes mellitus and a chronic foot ulcer on the posterior aspect of the right lower leg, just above the heel, underwent a 6-week intervention using Russian current therapy. The patient received Russian current stimulation, thrice weekly for 6 weeks (total 18 sessions), using parameters: 2500 Hz carrier frequency, 50 Hz modulated frequency, 200 millisecond phase duration, with 10-second "on" and 50-second "off" cycles for 20 minutes. Routine wound care was maintained. The ulcer was assessed pre- and post-intervention using the ImitoMeasure app and Bates-Jensen Wound Assessment Tool (BWAT). Result:Post-treatment, a significant reduction in wound dimensions and BWAT score was observed. The patient tolerated the therapy well, with no adverse events. Conclusion:Russian current stimulation showed positive effects on wound healing parameters in this DFU case, warranting further investigation in larger cohorts. Keywords:Diabetic foot, ulcer, Electric Stimulation Therapy, Case Report.
Background:The Unani system of medicine, rooted in Greco-Arabic traditions, emphasizes prevention, holistic care, and community well-being. While its contributions to individualized healthcare and public hygiene are well-documented historically, attention to its contemporary applicability in addressing global health challenges has remained limited. Objective:To explore the principles of preventive and social medicine (PSM) in the Unani framework, highlight their historical foundation, and assess their relevance in modern healthcare, particularly in relation to lifestyle disorders, mental health, and pandemics. Methods:A narrative review was conducted by analyzing classical Unani texts, historical contributions, and contemporary research. Emphasis was placed on Asbāb Sitta Darūriyya (six essential factors), Mizāj (temperament), and collective health practices described in Unani literature. Results:Preventive measures in Unani medicine include dietary moderation, exercise-rest balance, Harakat-o-Sukūn Nafsānī (stress regulation), hygiene, and sanitation. Classical physicians such as Ibn Sina advocated quarantine during epidemics, while Galen emphasized sanitation and environmental health. These principles align with modern public health strategies. Recent AYUSH guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic illustrate the potential of integrating Unani regimens and immunity-boosting interventions into mainstream healthcare. Conclusion:Unani medicine offers a timeless perspective on PSM. Its holistic emphasis on individual well-being, community health, and environmental balance makes it highly relevant to current global healthcare challenges. Future directions include empirical validation of Unani interventions, standardization of practices, and integration into national and global health frameworks. Keywords:Unani Medicine, Preventive Health Services, Public Health, Lifestyle Diseases, Mental Health, Pandemics.
Background:Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, marked by irregular menstrual cycles, elevated androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries. If not adequately managed, PCOS can lead to complications such as infertility, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. Tailored yoga and naturopathy interventions may offer effective management for this condition. Objective:The purpose of this study was to professionally validate the perceived utility of a systematic yoga and naturopathy protocol in managing PCOS. Methodology:The study was conducted by the Department of Physiology at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal. The study involved 35 yoga and naturopathy experts. An extensive literature search was conducted in databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to develop the yoga and naturopathy protocol. The protocol included yoga asanas (postures), Sithilikaran vyayama (loosening exercises), pranayama (breathing exercises), Kunjal kriya (voluntarily induced vomiting), and kati-snan therapy (hip-bath therapy). Results:The protocol was validated for content validity by participants using a 4-point Likert scale; a minimum content validity ratio of 0.31 was considered. The average content validity ratio of our entire protocol was 0.8, indicating its validity. Conclusion:This protocol can be incorporated into research studies with a larger sample size (comprising diverse age groups, socio-economic and geographical backgrounds, with varying metabolic and hormonal profiles) to assess its efficacy and utility. Keywords:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Yoga, Naturopathy, Holistic Health, Naturopathic hydrotherapy, validation of Yoga and naturopathy protocol, content validity score.
Background and Objective:Vector-borne diseases, such as Malaria and Dengue, transmitted by mosquitoes like Anopheles stephensi and Aedes aegypti, are major public health concerns. Although synthetic repellents, particularly DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), are commonly used to prevent mosquito bites. However, growing concerns regarding their safety and environmental impact have increased the interest in natural alternatives. This study investigates the mosquito-repellent activity of a cream formulated with essential oil and methanolic extract of Artemisia absinthium L. Method:The repellent activity of the cream was evaluated using an Artificial Membrane Feeding System simulating human skin. Non-blood-fed female mosquitoes (5-7 days old) from Anopheles and Aedes species, starved for 12 hours, were used. The cream was applied at various concentrations on the membrane, and its efficacy was assessed and compared with DEET. The complete protection time was analysed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results:The test cream showed a dose-dependent repellent activity against both Anopheles stephensi and Aedes aegypti. At a concentration of 12 mg/cm², the cream provided 100% protection for 105 minutes against both species. Whereas DEET, at the same concentration, provided complete protection for 105 minutes against Aedes aegypti and 97.5% protection for 105 minutes against Anopheles stephensi. Conclusion:The Artemisia absinthium-based cream effectively repels both Anopheles stephensi and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, indicating its potential as a natural alternative to synthetic repellents. However, further studies are needed to evaluate its efficacy and safety on human skin under natural conditions. Keywords:Anopheles stephensi, Aedes aegypti, Unani Medicine, Mosquito repellent, Artemisia absinthium.
Background:Large language models have demonstrated remarkable promise in medical data analysis, but serious concerns about reliability and error propagation persist. This study reports a novel approach of using iterative consultation between two independent AI systems to analyze complex clinical neuroimaging data. Methods:A 63-year-old woman with a family history of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinsonism underwent brain MRI volumetry showing apparent 10-13% increases in gray matter volume following intensive multimodal interventions (Functional Medicine and HYLANE™ treatment). Despite clinical improvement, objective cognitive testing declined during the same period. Two AI systems (Claude and Perplexity) independently analyzed neuroimaging reports, cognitive testing, and clinical data over 5-7 iterative cycles, systematically challenging each other's interpretations. Results:Initial analyses diverged substantially (45-60 percentage-point difference in probability estimates). Through autonomous error detection and cross-validation, systems converged to a consensus (<10 percentage-point difference). Critical autonomous discoveries included: (1) 3.5% increase in total intracranial volume (physiologically impossible, indicating measurement artifact), (2) 11-month temporal gap between cognitive testing and MRI, and (3) literature review revealing hyperbaric oxygen therapy produces maximum 1-2% volumetric changes. Final consensus: modest real improvements (2-4%) embedded within measurement artifact (3-5%). Conclusions:Dual-AI iterative consultation achieved autonomous error detection, literature integration, and convergent validity without requiring human identification of critical flaws. This approach may enhance reliability in complex clinical decision-making while maintaining appropriate physician oversight. Keywords:artificial intelligence, clinical decision support, neuroimaging, automated volumetry, large language models, convergent validity, error detection.
Background:This case study examines the effects of diindolylmethane (DIM) on lowering Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and improving hormonal balance in a 78-year-old male patient. It further considers whether the timing of hormonal changes in relation to DIM use suggests a possible causal link. The patient presented with steadily rising PSA levels and declining testosterone, raising concerns about potential prostate pathology. Given his reluctance to undergo a prostate biopsy-due to concerns about its invasiveness and potential complications-a functional medicine approach was adopted to address the hormonal imbalances contributing to his condition. The intervention included discontinuing cholesterol-lowering supplements and introducing 100 mg per day of DIM-Evail™ for three months to modulate estrogen metabolism. Over the three months, the patient's PSA dropped from 4.6 to 2.4 ng/mL, while the total and free testosterone notably increased from 436 ng/dL to 615 ng/dL. This case highlights the potential of targeted nutraceutical interventions in modulating hormone metabolism and supporting prostate health, though, as a single case, the findings warrant further validation through larger clinical studies. Keywords:Diindolylmethane (DIM), Prostate-specific antigen reduction, aromatase inhibition therapy, estrogen metabolism modulation, testosterone restoration, prostate cancer risk biomarkers, nutraceutical intervention for elevated prostate-specific antigen.
Abstract:This case report evaluates the effectiveness of botanical oral health products in managing bacterial overgrowth and enhancing gingival and periodontal health in a 34-year-old female patient with mild-to-moderate gingivitis. The patient presented with bleeding on probing and positive pathogenic bacterial culture testing. The treatment regimen included a botanical toothpaste and oral rinse (Dentalcidin® and Dentalcidin® LS), oral probiotic, and dysbiosis protocol (Bioclear® Microbiome Detox Program). Post-treatment assessments revealed significant reductions in bleeding on probing and a marked decline in bacterial colony counts, indicating improved microbial balance. The bleeding index was reduced from 21% to 4% after six months, and from 4% to 1% during the subsequent three months using a botanical toothpaste and oral rinse. Periodontal pathogens that were present pre-treatment at high-risk levels were reduced to low-risk levels. These findings suggest that botanical oral health products can reduce bacterial overgrowth and improve periodontal parameters, offering a viable alternative to conventional therapies. Keywords:case report, oral microbiome, biofilm, oral dysbiosis, Tannerella forsythia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, herbal (botanical) medicine.
Background:Kundalini Yoga (KY) integrates breathwork, meditation, dynamic movement, and chanting, and has gained recognition as a therapeutic intervention. Despite promising results from individual randomized controlled trials (RCTs), to our knowledge, no systematic review has exclusively synthesized RCT evidence on KY across health domains. Objective:To critically assess the clinical effectiveness and safety of KY interventions across diverse cognitive, psychological, emotional, sleep-related, and physical health outcomes. Methods:PRISMA-guided systematic review of RCTs evaluating KY was conducted from January 2015 to December 2024. Databases included MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, CENTRAL (Cochrane Library), Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL. Risk of bias was independently assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist. Setting:Studies were conducted worldwide, across multiple sites. Participants:Approximately 1370 participants ranging from healthy adults to those diagnosed with conditions such as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), insomnia, chronic pain, and post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome. No serious adverse events were reported. Intervention:KY protocols (pranayama, asana/kriya, meditation, chanting) delivered in person, online, or hybrid formats; duration 6 weeks-12 months (most 8-12 weeks) with practice from once weekly to daily. Outcome Measures:Pre-specified validated measures assessed cognitive function, psychological symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression), sleep quality, emotional regulation, and physical health outcomes (e.g., hippocampal metrics, absenteeism, blood pressure). Results:This systematic review included 15 studies, among which 13 demonstrated a low risk of bias. The findings suggest that KY significantly improves memory, executive functioning, and hippocampal structure, reduces symptoms of anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and depression, enhances sleep quality and emotional regulation, and modestly improves fatigue, blood pressure, and functional outcomes. Conclusion:KY appears safe and shows benefits for a wide range of cognitive, psychological, and physical health conditions. However, larger, standardized RCTs with active comparators, biomarkers, and longer follow-up are needed. Keywords:Kundalini Yoga, randomized controlled trials, cognitive function, mental health, sleep, PTSD, hypertension, complementary therapy, mind-body intervention.
Objective:This 28-day pilot study aimed to evaluate the effects of plant-based melatonin (phytomelatonin) derived from Somato® tomato fruit extract (Nutraland USA) on key physiological and psychological domains associated with sleep quality, autonomic function, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Methods:Thirty-five healthy men and women (mean age: 42 years) were enrolled in a decentralized, open-label, real-world evidence study. Participants consumed 2 mg of phytomelatonin daily from Somato® oral strips for 28 days. Objective biometric data were collected using Oura Ring wearable devices. Validated participant-reported outcomes (e.g., Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36)) helped to explore perceived tolerability, early efficacy signals, and mechanistic trends in a healthy adult population. Results:Twenty-two participants completed the study and were included in the final analysis. Compared to baseline, supplementation with Somato® tomato fruit extract significantly improved percentage change of sleep latency (-33%, PSQI, P = .005; -11.55%, Oura ring, P = .016), time awake (Oura ring, -10.08%, P = .002), sleep efficiency (Oura ring, -1.21%, P = .011), and global PSQI score (-14.22%, P = .025). A significant improvement was also noted in emotional well-being (8.22%, P = .02) based on the SF-36 health-related quality of life questionnaire. Other SF-36 variables also showed improvements that did not reach statistical significance, including general health (3.22%), energy & fatigue (15.12%), limitations due to emotional problems (15.22%), pain (5.83%), social functioning (6.11%), and physical function (2.81%). Conclusion:Supplementation with 2 mg/day of phytomelatonin from Somato® tomato fruit extract improved both physiological and psychological measures associated with sleep quality, autonomic function, and health-related quality of life. These findings support the feasibility of phytomelatonin as a plant-based sleep aid and warrant further investigation in a larger, randomized controlled trial. Keywords:tomato, melatonin, phytomelatonin, sleep latency, sleep efficiency, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Short Form 36 Health Survey, Oura ring, emotional well-being, energy, fatigue, pain, social functioning, physical function.
