Background Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer with limited therapeutic options and a poor prognosis. DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) maintains aberrant silencing of tumor suppressor genes, contributing to cancer progression. Our previous work demonstrated that Lantana camara leaf extract induces G0/G1 arrest and apoptosis, while inhibiting migration in MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells. Purpose This study investigated the role of DNMT1 in mediating the anticancer effects of Lantana camara extract. Study Design An in vitro experimental study was performed using MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells. Methods Cells were treated with the extract, and DNMT1 expression was analyzed at the mRNA and protein levels. Expression of tumor suppressor genes was assessed at the mRNA level. Functional assays were conducted following DNMT1 overexpression to examine its impact on extract-induced effects. Expression of methyl-CpG binding domain protein 2 (MBD2), histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), and histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) was evaluated at the mRNA level. Results The extract significantly downregulated DNMT1, resulting in the reactivation of multiple tumor suppressor genes. Overexpression of DNMT1 counteracted the extract-induced reduction in cell viability, reduced G0/G1 arrest, attenuated apoptosis, and enhanced migratory capacity, while suppressing the mRNA expression of tumor suppressor genes. Additionally, the extract downregulated the mRNA expression of MBD2, HDAC1, and HDAC2, suggesting broader modulation of epigenetic regulators. Conclusion Suppression of DNMT1 is a key mechanism underlying the anticancer activity of Lantana camara extract. These findings highlight its potential as a natural epigenetic modulator and a promising therapeutic candidate for TNBC.
Introduction Chronic liver diseases such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), and viral hepatitis pose a growing global health burden with limited treatment options. The hepatic endocannabinoid system (ECS) is destabilised in major chronic liver diseases; gut microbiota regulates ECS tone and hepatic homeostasis via the gut–liver axis. This review examines evidence on the hepatoprotective properties of phytocannabinoids principally cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), and cannabigerol (CBG)—with respect to gut microbiota-mediated actions. Methods A structured literature search was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library CENTRAL using three Boolean concept domains covering cannabinoids, liver disease, and gut microbiota. Studies using toxic solvents were excluded per journal policy. A narrative synthesis prioritised human observational studies, clinical trials, and systematic reviews. Results CB1 hyperactivity contributes to steatosis and fibrosis across major chronic liver diseases; CB2 hyperactivity is counter-regulatory and hepatoprotective. In preclinical models, CBD, THCV, and CBG show multi-receptor hepatoprotection. Phytocannabinoids may modulate gut microbiota composition, including enrichment of Akkermansia, Lactobacillus, and short chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing taxa, with downstream effects on intestinal barrier integrity, portal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) flux, and bile acid signalling contributing to hepatoprotection. Population-level data associate cannabis use with reduced ALD burden. Discussion/Conclusions Preclinical and observational evidence suggests phytocannabinoids offer a mechanistically relevant, multi-target approach via modulation of the hepatic ECS and gut–liver axis. Evidence remains limited by observational designs, preclinical models, and small trials. Adequately powered RCTs with standardised formulations, microbiome co-primary endpoints, and liver-specific histological outcomes are needed.
Objective Depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide and disproportionately affect women. This study aimed to examine whether the use of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) for women’s health is associated with changes in Four-Item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4) scores among women in Taiwan. Material and methods We analyzed data from 4456 women in the Taiwan Biobank after excluding those with missing CHM or PHQ-4 data. Participants were categorized as CHM users (n = 411) or non-users (n = 4045) and retrospectively followed over a median of four years. We examined whether different CHM indications—tocolysis, recuperation, menstrual regulation, and menopause management—were associated with PHQ-4 score changes using paired tests and multivariable regression models. Results At baseline, CHM users had higher PHQ-4 scores than non-users. Both groups showed significant score reductions (p < 0.001), with a greater annual decrease in the CHM group (β = −0.07, p = 0.016). Compared with non-users, the Regulate Menstruation group showed a trend toward greater annual PHQ decline (LSMean difference = −0.095, p = 0.057). Among those with PHQ-4 ≥ 3, the tocolysis group showed the largest improvement (mean change = −1.4). Conclusion Use of women’s health–related CHM was associated with reductions in PHQ-4 scores among women. Formulas prescribed for menstrual regulation and tocolysis appeared to be particularly beneficial in improving psychological distress. These findings suggest that CHM may have a potential role as part of integrative strategies to support women’s mental health in population settings.
Introduction Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, requiring multi-target therapeutic strategies. Momordica charantia (bitter gourd) is a medicinal plant with diverse pharmacological activities, including anticancer properties. However, its molecular mechanisms and multi-target interactions remain unclear. This study aimed to elucidate its anticancer mechanisms using an integrated computational framework. Methods A computational approach fused network pharmacology, docking studies, MD simulation, and DFT analyses was employed. Nine bioactive phytochemicals were analyzed for pharmacokinetic and drug-like properties. Compounds-associated targets were predicted and intersected with cancer-related genes. Protein–protein interaction network analysis, Gene Ontology, and KEGG enrichment analyses were conducted. Results All nine compounds possess non-toxic, highly bioavailable, and drug-like properties. A total of 486 overlapping genes were identified. Key hub genes such as AKT1, EGFR, CASP3, GAPDH, STAT3, SRC, TNF, ESR1, and HSP90AA1 are involved in tumor proliferation, endocrine resistance, apoptosis, and survival signaling pathways. Enrichment analyses revealed significant involvement in pathways related to proteoglycans in cancer, HIF-1 signaling, and general cancer pathways. Docking showed the highest binding affinities, with kaempferol demonstrating most favorable binding profiles (-7.50 to −10.0 kcal.mol⁻¹). MD simulations validated the structural, while DFT calculations identified cryptoxanthin as highly reactive and kaempferol as an electronically stable multi-target candidate. Conclusions Momordica charantia mediates its anticancer effects through multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway. Kaempferol is emerging as a key lead compound and a promising basis for further experimental validation and therapeutic development.
Introduction The present study was designed to evaluate the phytoconstituents, antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic properties of the aerial parts and root extracts of A. amoenus, A. microcephalus, A. sterocalyx, A. tigridis, and A. yuksellii. Methods The chemical composition was evaluated by spectrophotometric methods and LC–MS-qTOF metabolomic analysis. Antioxidant properties were examined by in vitro chemical assays. The enzyme inhibitory effects were investigated using key enzymes. Antibacterial and antifungal effects were observed against various bacterial and fungal strains. DU-145 (prostate cancer), HeLa (cervical adenocarcinoma), A549 (lung adenocarcinoma), and HEK-293 (cells derived from embryonic kidney tissue) cell lines were used for evaluating cytotoxic effects. Results Metabolomic analysis revealed that hydroxybenzoic acid, hydroxycinnamic acid, and methyl glutamic acid were key metabolites in the aerial parts. In contrast, dihydrobenzoic acid, methylmalonic acid, and kaempferide were key metabolites in the root parts. Aerial parts of A. amoenus showed the highest antiradical and ion reducing properties. Roots of A. tigridis and A. microcephalus, as well as the aerial parts of A. amoenus exerted the highest acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity. Escherichia coli (ATCC 10536) showed the highest sensitivity towards A. yuksellii roots, while its aerial parts displayed significant antifungal activity against Candida albicans (YEPGA 6379), C. parapsilosis (YEPGA 6551), and C. tropicalis (DBVPG 6184). A. microcephalus, A. tigridis, and A. amoenus were toxic to the A549, DU-145, and HELA cell lines but had a low selective index (<1). Conclusion In conclusion, the five Astragalus species studied show strong potential as sources of bioactive molecules for diverse food and pharmaceutical applications.
Introduction: Episiotomy, the most common surgical intervention in midwifery, is used to widen the opening of the vagina in the perineal area. As with any other wound, complications such as delayed healing are possible. The present study sought to ascertain the impact of an ointment formulation comprising Malva sylvestris L. on the healing process of episiotomy wounds in primiparous women referred to Mahdiyeh Hospital in Tehran. Methods: The present triple-blind randomised clinical trial involved 92 (analyzed) primiparous women, with 43 and 49 participants in the intervention group and placebo group, respectively. Subsequent to the delivery, the ointment was administered topically to the incision area in both study groups and follow-up participants on the 5th and 10th days after delivery, with applications occurring at 12-hour intervals. The data collection instruments employed in this study encompass a demographic questionnaire, an obstetrics and gynecology characteristics checklist, a health status form, and the REEDA scale. The analysis of the data was conducted using SPSS statistical software, which facilitated the implementation of various statistical methods, including Chisquare, independent t-tests, Fisher's exact tests, and repeated measure. Results: A comparison of the mean wound healing scores at three time points (e.g., baseline, 5th day, 10th day) revealed that the healing process was significantly enhanced in the intervention group on days 5 and 10 after delivery (P < 0.001, [CI 95%: -1.963_-0.709]). Therefore, the ointment derived from Malva sylvestris L. exhibited a substantial impact on the healing process of episiotomy wounds. Conclusion: Because of statistically significant difference between intervention and control groups, the application of Malva sylvestris L. ointment has been demonstrated to enhance wound healing processes in primiparous women. Trial registration: This trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials with the IRCT ID: IRCT20100130003226N19 in 2022/11/28. https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/search/result?query= IRCT20100130003226N19.
Background and objective Maternal and child health remains a global priority, challenges like postpartum hemorrhage, preeclampsia, and sepsis contribute to maternal morbidity. Saireito is a Japanese alternative medicine with documented use in inflammatory conditions and immunosuppression. However, evidence is fragmented. This review evaluates the impact of Saireito on maternal and child health outcomes. Methodology Included studies involving pregnant or lactating women who consumed Saireito in any form as monotherapy or as an adjunct and reported maternal or child/infant outcomes were included. Medline, Embase, Cab abstracts, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, CINAHL, Clinicaltrials.gov, International clinical trials registry platform and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched without date restriction. All types of study designs except reviews and case reports were included. Data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and quality appraisal were performed, and evidence was synthesized narratively. Results Three studies were included (two retrospective and one non-randomized trial) with risk of bias ranging moderate to serious. Reported outcomes included pregnancy rate, live birth rate, recurrent spontaneous abortion prevention, and reduction in titres of anti-phospholipid and anti-nuclear antibodies. Overall, Saireito used alone or as an adjunct therapy, was associated with improved pregnancy outcomes. However the evidence from three individual studies could not be synthesised due to high heterogeneity. Conclusion The evidence on Saireito’s role in improving pregnancy outcomes remains inconclusive in this systematic review of three studies. Evidence from robust randomized controlled trials are needed before recommending it for clinical practice.
Introduction: Ethnobotanical knowledge remains a critical but underutilised resource for venereal disease (VD) management. We explored plant-based and auxiliary remedies used for VD management among traditional medical practitioners (TMPs) in Okitipupa, Nigeria, with emphasis on biomedical interpretability, consensus, and translational relevance. Methods: Using a snowball sampling strategy, we engaged 19 TMPs through community intermediaries based on their expertise in addressing VD presentations recognisable within contemporary biomedical classifications. Data were analysed using ethnobotanical indices, including use-value, fidelity level, and informant consensus factor. Matrix coding queries (NVivo) were used to examine preparation methods, administration routes, potency attribution, and practitioner consensus. Results: Thirty-six plants were documented for VD management. Root was the most cited, followed by leaf and fruit. Therapeutic use-reports were focused on gonorrhoea, while unspecified venereal conditions and HIV/AIDS were infrequently cited. Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad. had the highest specificity (fidelity level = 100%) for gonorrhoea, whereas Strophanthus hispidus DC. recorded the highest use-value, indicating broad therapeutic utility. Informant consensus factor values peaked for gonorrhoea, suggesting strong cultural consolidation around this condition. Other natural resources (e.g., hen, eggs, and crayfish) were occasionally incorporated as adjuncts. Comparative analysis revealed substantial convergence between Indigenous disease staging and biomedical clinical trajectories, alongside divergence in perceived transmission pathways. Conclusion: We position Yor & ugrave;b & aacute; materia medica for VDs as a structured and internally consistent knowledge system with clear implications for pharmacological prioritisation, biodiversity conservation, and integrative health research. High-consensus taxa identified herein warrant further investigation through metabolomics, antivirulence assays, and safety profiling to inform contemporary ethnopharmacological investigation.
Introduction: Traditional Chinese medicine has shown potential in managing neurodegenerative diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study aimed to evaluate the impact of clinical herbal medicine on creatinine levels in hospitalised patients with ALS, providing insights into improved treatment strategies. Methods: Data were collected from patients with ALS hospitalised at two tertiary hospitals specialising in traditional Chinese medicine between 2018 and 2023. Patients were categorised based on changes in creatinine levels before and after herbal treatment. Logistic regression was used for analysis after dose normalisation, and restricted cubic splines assessed dose-response relationships. Mendelian randomisation analysis and molecular docking studies were conducted to validate causal associations between identified herb targets and ALS. Results: High doses of Shudihuang, Chenpi, and Huangqi were significantly associated with increased creatinine levels (Shudihuang: odds ratio [OR] = 4.86, 95% CI: 1.20-22.82; Chenpi: OR = 7.20, 95% CI: 1.55-42.64; Huangqi: OR = 8.64, 95% CI: 1.83-51.15). Restricted cubic splines analysis revealed nonlinear dose-response relationships, with creatinine increases at exposures of 217 to 521 g for Shudihuang, 271 to 604 g for Huangqi, and 121 to 291 g for Chenpi. Mendelian randomisation analysis confirmed a causal link between the target genes of these herbs and ALS risk. Molecular docking showed strong interactions (binding energies < -5 kcal/mol) between active compounds and their targets. Conclusions: High-dose administration of Shudihuang, Chenpi, and Huangqi effectively modulates creatinine levels, potentially improving outcomes for hospitalised patients with ALS. These findings highlight the clinical value of these herbs in ALS management and underscore the role of Chinese herbal medicine in enhancing therapeutic strategies.
Background: The growing prevalence of acne vulgaris and adverse effects associated with its conventional treatment necessitate the evaluation of alternative treatment options. This clinical study aimed to assess the efficacy of a Unani formulation in managing acne vulgaris. Methods: In this single-blind, randomised, controlled study, recruitment of patients started from March 2023 to December 2023. A total of 72 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were randomly allocated into two groups (36/group). The test group received Lat & umacr;kh (epithem) of Inj & imacr;r (Ficus carica L.), Kalonj & imacr; (Nigella sativa L.), and Sirka Ang & umacr;r & imacr; (Grape Vinegar) locally at bedtime, whereas the control group received clindamycin 1% locally at bedtime for 40 days. Results: Per protocol analysis was performed on 60 patients. Itching severity significantly improved in both groups (P < 0.0001); the test group showed a more favourable outcome. Severity of redness (Test Group: P = 0.010; Control Group: P = 0.046) and eruptions (P < 0.0001) improved significantly in both groups posttreatment, with no significant difference between groups (redness: Chi-sq = 3.83, df = 2; P = 0.147; Eruptions: Chi-sq = 5.360, df = 3; P = 0.147). Based on Global Acne Grading System, Investigator's Global Assessment of Acne, and photographs (each with P < 0.0001), both groups exhibited highly significant improvement in acne severity post-treatment; however, based on Global Acne Grading System, the test drug demonstrated superior results (P = 0.05), whereas intergroup comparison based on Investigator's Global Assessment of Acne (Chi-sq = 1.52, df = 3; P = 0.676) and photographs (P = 0.701) revealed no significant differences. Quality of life improved significantly in both groups posttreatment (P < 0.0001) with no significant difference in intergroup comparison (P = 0.239). Conclusion: The study revealed that test medication improves quality of life and manages acne vulgaris effectively with no adverse events. Clinical trial registration no: CTRI/2023/03/050493; Date of trial registration: 09-03-2023; Date of patient enrolment: 15-03-2023; https://share.google/UvVeSbUHG573bO9Lo
Background Cedrus atlantica is an endemic North African conifer traditionally used for the management of inflammatory and rheumatic disorders. In Algeria, this species is naturally fragmented across the Tellian and Saharan Atlas Mountains, where contrasting ecological conditions may significantly influence its phytochemical diversity and bioactivities. Objective To evaluate the influence of provenance and extraction solvent on the phytochemical composition and bioactivities of C. atlantica needle extracts, with a particular emphasis on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihaemolytic, and antiarthritic properties. Methods Needles collected from two ecologically distinct provenances (Theniet el Had and Boutaleb) were extracted using aqueous and hydroethanolic solvents. Total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin contents were quantified using standard spectrophotometric methods. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays. Anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic potentials were evaluated via human red blood cell membrane stabilisation and inhibition of heat-induced ovalbumin denaturation, whereas antihaemolytic activity was assessed using AAPH (2,2 '-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride)-induced haemolysis. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's post hoc test, and multivariate analyses were conducted to explore relationships between variables. Results Hydroethanolic extracts exhibited significantly higher phenolic contents compared to aqueous extracts. Extracts from Boutaleb provenance consistently showed superior phytochemical content and bioactivity across all assays, indicating a marked influence of arid ecological conditions on secondary metabolite accumulation. Biological assays demonstrated dose-dependent antioxidant, membrane-stabilising, antihaemolytic, and antiarthritic activities. Strong positive correlations were observed between phenolic content and bioactivities (r >= 0.83, P <= 0.01), while multivariate analysis revealed that the first principal component explained the majority of variance (>90%) and clearly discriminated samples according to provenance and extraction solvent. Conclusion These findings demonstrate that ecological heterogeneity associated with provenance is a key determinant of phytochemical content and bioactivity in C. atlantica. They provide experimental support for a provenance-driven effect, whereby environmental conditions modulate secondary metabolite biosynthesis and, consequently, biological activities. This study highlights the importance of rational selection of plant origin and extraction conditions to optimise the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants, further establishing C. atlantica as a promising source of natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents.
Introduction Limitations of conventional respiratory therapies have driven interest in thyme-based preparations. Thymus vulgaris and Zataria multiflora preparations offer a strong ethnopharmacological foundation, exhibiting potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Despite this potential, clinical evidence remains fragmented. Objective This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of thyme-based preparations, including Thymus vulgaris and Zataria multiflora extracts and active constituents like thymol and carvacrol, in managing symptoms of COPD, asthma, bronchitis, and COVID-19. Methods Databases including Cochrane, PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Science Direct, SAGE, Google Scholar, and EMBASE were searched without time or language restrictions using keywords such as thyme, thyme oil, Thymus vulgaris, Zataria multiflora, COPD, asthma, bronchitis, and COVID-19. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were critically assessed by two independent reviewers. The review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251135675). Results Of 468 articles screened, 15 met the inclusion criteria. Thyme-based preparations alleviate respiratory symptoms through anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects. Evidence suggests these formulations reduce symptoms in asthma and COPD. In COVID-19 patients, thyme interventions are associated with symptomatic relief and physiological stabilization; however, clinical data remain limited and preliminary. Overall, the findings are characterized by significant methodological heterogeneity and small sample sizes. Conclusion Thyme-based preparations show potential as complementary approaches for managing respiratory diseases. While symptomatic relief is more established for asthma and COPD, evidence for COVID-19 is still limited. Current data are not robust enough for definitive clinical recommendations. Future research should prioritize high-quality randomized controlled trials to confirm efficacy, safety, and optimal dosing across different formulations.
Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial endocrine-metabolic disorder in which oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and DNA damage contribute to ovarian dysfunction and metabolic complications. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1), a key regulator of DNA repair and inflammatory signalling, has emerged as a mechanistically relevant but underexplored therapeutic target in PCOS. This study aimed to identify potential PARP1 inhibitors from Carissa carandas L. phytoconstituents using an integrated in silico approach. Methods: A curated library of 45 phytoconstituents was screened against PARP1 (PDB ID: 7KKP) using molecular docking. Drug-likeness and ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) properties were predicted using ADMETlab 3.0. Top-ranked compounds were further evaluated through 200 ns molecular dynamics simulations, principal component analysis, free energy landscape analysis, and molecular mechanicsgeneralized born surface area (MM-GBSA) binding free-energy calculations using Schr & ouml;dinger tools. Results: Docking analysis revealed ellagic acid (-10.8 kcal/mol), kaempferol (-9.9 kcal/mol), quercetin (-9.8 kcal/mol), and flavylium (-9.4 kcal/mol) as the strongest binders, outperforming the reference drug. These compounds consistently occupied the catalytic pocket and interacted with key residues. Molecular dynamics simulations of the PARP1-ellagic acid complex demonstrated structural stability, with protein RMSD stabilising at 2.8 to 3.5 & Aring; and ligand RMSD remaining 1.8 to 2.4 & Aring;. Principal component analysis and free energy landscape analyses revealed limited conformational space and dominant low-energy basins. MM-GBSA calculations confirmed a favourable binding free energy (Delta G_bind = -74.81 +/- 4.86 kcal/mol). ADMET predictions supported acceptable drug-likeness and low nephrotoxicity for lead flavonoids. Conclusion: Carissa carandas serves as a promising natural source of PARP1 modulators for PCOS, but experimental validation is required.
Introduction: The increasing prevalence of diabetes illustrates its global health impact, demanding the exploration of traditional medicine-based therapeutic alternatives. This research aimed to explore the efficacy of an ethno-polyherbal formulation used by the tribals in Jawadhu Hills, India, to control diabetes Methods: To ascertain the efficacy of ethno-polyherbal formulation extract, glucose homeostasis, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity effects were performed. The in silico-based alpha-amylase inhibitory and breast cancer susceptibility protein-1 enhancement assessment was carried out to determine the active metabolites responsible for the antidiabetic and antibreast cancer actions. Results: Ethanolic extract of the ethno-polyherbal formulation found 55 compounds through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis with phenetole, laminitol, 1-phenyl-2-propanol, lidocaine, and palmitic acid as major compounds. With IC50 values of 43.41 +/- 0.37 and 40.74 +/- 0.06 & micro;g/mL, the intestine-digested extract effectively inhibits alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase enzymes, which are critical for controlling postprandial blood glucose levels. It also exhibited the highest ABTS (IC50 = 41.73 +/- 1.07) and superoxide (IC50 = 41.73 +/- 1.07) radical scavenging activity. A 500 & micro;g/mL dosage of intestine-digested extract showed 72.31% of glucose absorption against RIN-5F cells. Moreover, the extract showed concentration-dependent cytotoxicity against Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) cells. Molecular docking studies found laminitol as a possible inhibitor of alpha-amylase and cancer cell proliferation, with docking scores of-5.922 and-4.894 kcal/mol, respectively. Conclusion: The research indicates that an intestine-digested ethno-polyherbal formulation alters the phytochemical profile and biological activities, influencing glucose absorption and homeostasis. The results demonstrate that indigenous knowledge and scientific validation are crucial for sustainable development and the formulation of antidiabetic phytopharmaceuticals.
Introduction Dracontomelon dao (Blanco) Merr. & Rolfe (D. dao), commonly known in Thailand as Phrachao Ha Phra Ong, is recognised for its therapeutic applications and is particularly used in traditional medicine for ulcers and infections. This study aims to determine the antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity, and wound-healing properties of D. dao bark ethanol extract. Methods D. dao bark was extracted using 60% ethanol and then was investigated for phytochemicals and in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial activities, along with the wound healing properties. Results The extract demonstrated high phenolic (474.58 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid contents (48.06 mg QE/g), along with strong antioxidant activity that might be attributed to long-chain fatty acids. Moreover, treatment with D. dao bark extract inhibited hydrogen peroxide-induced reactive oxygen species production in a dose-dependent manner in primary normal human dermal fibroblast and human embryonic kidney-293 cells. In addition, treatment of human embryonic kidney-293 cells with the extract (50 mu g/mL) significantly upregulated the mRNA expression of catalase and glutathione peroxidase-1, supporting its role in cellular antioxidant defence. Antibacterial activity by the agar disc diffusion method revealed significant inhibitory effects on Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin-resistant S. aureus with minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration values of 0.49 mg/mL and 0.98 mg/mL, respectively. The D. dao bark extract also promoted fibroblast migration, as determined by wound-healing assays in primary normal human dermal fibroblast cells, indicating potential applications in tissue regeneration without cytotoxic effects. Conclusions These findings position D. dao bark extract as a promising candidate for developing natural antioxidant, antibacterial, and wound-healing agents, warranting further research into its therapeutic applications.
Introduction Biodiversity protection and medicinal plant use in traditional medicine create new research avenues. Several medicinal plant species are used to treat gynaecological illnesses such as infertility, premenstrual syndrome, dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, and irregular uterine bleeding, decreasing their consequences. Tribal and rural Himachal Pradesh populations employ these ethnomedicinal plants to cure gynaecological disorders. These plants are discussed in this review article. Methods Several sorts of literature, books, and essential papers from Google Scholar, Research Gate, Scopus, Science Direct and PubMed have been used to gather information on the usage of indigenous medicinal plants to treat a variety of gynaecological problems. The gathered information, which includes the botanical names of the plants, the part used, the stated region, the disease they are used to treat is described in a tabulated form. Results A total of 109 species of ethnomedicinal plants from 62 distinct families are known to be used for various gynaecological disorders, with the most prevalent species being used for treating menstrual problems in Himachal Pradesh. It has been discovered that various phytochemicals and extracts prepared from a wide range of plants have a preventive effect against gynaecological problems such as menstrual disorders, abortion, leucorrhea, urinary disorder, abdominal pains, dysmennorhea, post-delivery pains, vaginal discharge, oligomenorrhea, bladder infection and amenorrhea. Conclusion This study documented the ethnomedicinal knowledge of rural and tribal populations in Himachal Pradesh, Western Himalaya, regarding plant-based treatments for gynaecological disorders and suggests the need for further scientific validation to develop effective pharmaceuticals aligned with traditional or folk medicine approaches.
Aim This study assessed the efficacy and reliability of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) using meta-analysis (MA). Furthermore, network pharmacology analysis (NP) was performed on TCMs with the highest frequency to investigate their potential therapeutic targets and pathways for preventing and treating AD. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials published between 2012 and 2025 in eight international databases, focusing on studies of TCM treatment for patients with AD and AD-related outcomes. The active components and their corresponding targets of Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata (RRP), the most frequently used TCM, were collected from the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacological and Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Databases. AD-related disease targets were screened and selected via GeneCards, Therapeutic Target, and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man databases. A protein-protein interaction network was constructed using the STRING database. The functions and mechanisms of RRP were predicted using gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analyses, and the results were visualized in bubble plots. Molecular docking was performed between the most active components of RRP and core targets. Results MA results indicated that TCM improved daily activities and cognitive function in patients with AD, with RRP being the most frequently used TCM. NP analysis revealed that PTGS2, BCL2, HSP90AA1, and MMP9 were core targets of RRP with favorable binding energies, and that the phosphoinositol 3-kinases/protein kinase B, endocrine resistance, and IL-17 signaling pathways were the primary pathways through which RRP exerts therapeutic effects on AD. These findings provide a scientific reference for the clinical application of TCM and for subsequent related research.
Introduction: Menopause is a universal and irreversible aspect of the aging process. This study aims to evaluate the current knowledge of menopause and menopausal hormonal therapy (MHT) in women in Jeddah city. Methodology: A community-based study was conducted in Jeddah from November 2022 to March 2023. The study enrolled 302 women aged 35 to 65 years. A structured, validated questionnaire was administered through an online, self-administered format. The "Menopause Knowledge Scale", menopause symptom knowledge and MHT practice were used. Linear logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between the knowledge scale and independent factors. Results: Data revealed that 11.3% of study samples were prescribed MHT. The most recognised symptom was mood swings (65.8%). An 82.1% of the study sample agrees that menopause starts when menstruation ceases. Menopausal state was the sole significant predictor for knowledge and accounted for around 3% in the model (P < 0.005). Conclusion: Participants demonstrated good knowledge of menopause but limited awareness and uptake of MHT. Menopausal status was the only factor significantly associated with knowledge levels. These findings highlight the need to improve awareness of menopausal symptoms and available treatment options.
Objectives: Building on our previous real-world evidence that traditional Chinese medicine benefits dementia care and slows disease progression, this study aimed to explore stage-specific prescription patterns of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) in a broader dementia cohort, as treatment strategies may vary with disease severity. We identified the core CHMs by analysing CHM networks that were constructed from a multicentre research database, to address the knowledge gap regarding CHM usage and Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) stages. Methods: We selected patients with dementia aged >= 45 years between January 2004 and May 2021 from the Chang Gung Research Database. A total of 5479 CHM prescriptions were analysed, and CHM networks were constructed using association rule mining and social network analysis. Results: Across all CDR stages, commonly prescribed CHMs included Gui-Lu-Er-Xian-Jiao (GLEXJ), Acorus calamus var. angustatus Besser (ACB), Polygala tenuifolia Willd. (PTW), and Gastrodia elata Blume (GEB). Furthermore, social network analysis revealed that higher CDR scores were associated with fewer clusters, indicating a shift toward more centralised treatment strategies. It also identified three common therapeutic orientations: tonifying, resuscitating, and tranquilising. The core CHMs for tonifying and resuscitating, such as GLEXJ, ACB, and PTW, were consistently used, whereas those for tranquilising varied, except for GEB. Conclusions: The study identified distinct clusters of CHM prescriptions across CDR stages and highlighted common therapeutic orientations in CHM usage, offering guidance for the development of novel CHM-based therapies for dementia. Notably, GLEXJ, ACB, PTW, and GEB may play significant roles in the treatment of dementia.
