Drug-Induced Nutrient Deficiencies are an important but often underappreciated adverse effect of long-term pharmacotherapies. A wide variety of medications are known to affect the absorption, metabolism, distribution, or excretion of key vitamins and minerals, including proton pump inhibitors, metformin, diuretics, anticonvulsants, antibiotics, corticosteroids, and oral contraceptives. Disturbances in vitamin B12, folate, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and fat-soluble vitamins are among nutrients that commonly result in clinically significant deficiencies. Although these nutrient deficiencies often develop slowly, they have the potential to cause significant disease. Patients at highest risk include the elderly, individuals with chronic diseases, those receiving multiple medications, and patients on prolonged therapy with agents known to induce nutrient losses. It is important to ensure early identification by targeted screening, education of the patient, and routine monitoring to prevent complications. Nutrient assessment as part of therapeutic planning enables clinicians to predict the likelihood of deficiencies even before symptoms become evident. This review synthesizes current evidence of medications most commonly associated with nutrient depletion, outlines key mechanistic pathways, and discusses clinical implications related to patient care. It also underlines strategies for monitoring and managing nutrient deficiencies, putting particular emphasis on the healthcare professional's role, especially clinical pharmacists in optimizing therapy and avoiding adverse outcomes. Greater awareness regarding drug-induced nutrient deficiencies will lead to improved medication safety and management that is holistic in its approach to patients. Identifying at-risk individuals, instituting preventative measures, and incorporating nutritional considerations into pharmacotherapy may yield significant improvements in overall treatment outcomes. These deficiencies are particularly significant in palliative care settings, where polypharmacy and chronic illness increase vulnerability, making early recognition essential for improving quality of life.
Trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride (TPH) is an anticholinergic drug commonly used to manage psychosis-associated extrapyramidal symptoms and Parkinsonian disorders. However, its oral administration is associated with limitations such as first-pass metabolism, fluctuating plasma drug levels, and frequent dosing requirements, which may reduce patient compliance. The present study aimed to develop and optimize TPH-loaded transdermal patches using a combination of natural and synthetic polymers for sustained drug delivery. Patches were prepared by the solvent-casting method employing varying concentrations of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), chitosan, xanthan gum, and gum tragacanth. A factorial design was utilized to optimize formulation variables and evaluate their effects on physicochemical and drug-release characteristics. The prepared patches were assessed for thickness, weight variation, folding endurance, moisture content, moisture uptake, tensile strength, surface pH, drug content uniformity, and in vitro drug release. The optimized formulation exhibited satisfactory physicochemical properties, uniform drug distribution, good mechanical strength, and excellent flexibility. In vitro studies demonstrated sustained and controlled drug release over an extended period. The combination of natural and synthetic polymers significantly influenced the mechanical properties and release behavior, resulting in an optimized matrix system with improved performance. The developed transdermal patch represents a promising alternative to conventional oral therapy by providing sustained drug delivery, potentially enhancing therapeutic efficacy, patient compliance, and overall quality of life in long-term psychopharmacological management. Keywords: Trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride, Transdermal patch, Natural polymers, Synthetic polymers, Controlled drug delivery, Optimization, Psychosis management.
Aim: To comparatively analyze the pathophysiology of Fawāq (hiccups) by examining classical Unani concepts alongside contemporary biomedical understanding and identifying areas of conceptual convergence. Objectives: This review aimed to (i) evaluate the Unani concept of Fawāq with special reference to Sū’-i-Mizāj, gastric and diaphragmatic dysfunction; (ii) summarize the current biomedical understanding of hiccup pathophysiology; and (iii) compare both systems to identify similarities and complementary interpretations. Methods: A narrative comparative review was conducted using authoritative classical Unani texts, including Al-Qānūn fi’l-Ṭibb, Kitāb al-Ḥāwī, Firdaus al-Ḥikmat, Zakhīra Khwārazm Shāhī, Akseer-e-Aʿẓam, and Ṭibb-e-Akbar, together with contemporary peer-reviewed biomedical literature. Data were analyzed through a theme-based comparative framework focusing on anatomical involvement, etiological factors, pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, classification, and diagnostic principles. Results: The comparative analysis demonstrated substantial conceptual concordance between the two medical systems. Unani medicine describes Fawāq as a consequence of Sū’-i-Mizāj affecting the stomach (Miʿda), diaphragm (Ḥijāb-e-Ḥājiz), and associated organs, resulting in abnormal activation of Quwwat Dāfiʿa. Modern medicine explains hiccups as a reflex-mediated neurophysiological disorder involving vagal and phrenic afferents, brainstem integration, and diaphragmatic contraction. The Unani classification of simple (Sāda) and material (Māddī) dystemperaments showed conceptual correspondence with gastrointestinal, neurological, metabolic, and pharmacological etiological factors recognized in modern medicine. Conclusion: The findings indicate that classical Unani descriptions of Fawāq exhibit meaningful conceptual agreement with contemporary neurogastroenterological mechanisms despite differences in theoretical frameworks. Integrating these perspectives provides a more comprehensive understanding of hiccups by combining individualized temperament-based assessment with modern pathophysiological principles. This comparative approach supports the scientific relevance of Unani medicine and highlights its potential contribution to integrative gastroenterology and future interdisciplinary research. Keywords: Fawāq, Hiccups, Sū’-i-Mizāj, Quwwat Dāfiʿa, Miʿda, Ḥijāb-e-Ḥājiz
Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder causing pain, stiffness, and disability. Conventional therapies are effective but limited by adverse effects. Unani medicine offers polyherbal formulations such as Majoon‑e‑Ushba (MU), traditionally prescribed for Waja ‘al Mafāṣil. Objectives: To assess the efficacy and safety of Majoon‑e‑Ushba (MU), with adjunct Unani powders in early RA, stratified by serological status. Methods: A prospective, open‑label case series at Ajmal Khan Tibbiya College & Hospital enrolled five patients (Stage 1–2 RA) based on ACR/EULAR 2020 criteria (three RF/ACPA positive, two seronegative). Majoon‑e‑Ushba (6 g twice daily) plus a powder blend (Colchicum luteum, Trigonella foenum graecum, Nigella sativa, Lepidium sativum) was administered for 8 weeks. Outcomes: It included VAS pain, stiffness, joint counts, and inflammatory markers. Results: Significant improvements were observed: VAS 7.4 ± 1.1 to 3.2 ± 0.8 (t=9.21, p<0.001); stiffness 45 ± 12 to 12 ± 5 min (t=8.74, p<0.001); joint counts 6.8 ± 2.3 to 2.0 ± 1.1 (t=7.95, p<0.001); ESR and CRP declined (p<0.01). One seronegative patient achieved remission. Conclusion: Majoon‑e‑Ushba with adjunct powders produced statistically significant clinical and laboratory improvements in both seropositive and seronegative RA, supporting traditional claims of immunomodulatory and bone‑protective effects. Larger controlled trials are warranted. Keywords: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Majoon‑e‑Ushba, Unani medicine, Polyherbal formulation.
Background: Neuropsychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, anxiety, and depression, represent a major public health burden in West Africa, where traditional medicine remains the primary therapeutic option for many patients. Bombax costatum Pellegr. & Vuillet (Malvaceae), commonly known as the red kapok or false kapok tree, is widely used in traditional West African pharmacopoeia for these conditions. Objective: This narrative review aimed to synthesize the ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and preclinical pharmacological data on Bombax costatum and to evaluate its neuroprotective potential. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, AGORA, and Lotus Base, covering the period from 1964 to mai 2026. After removal of duplicates and application of inclusion/exclusion criteria, 86 distinct documents were selected and analyzed using thematic synthesis. Results: Bombax costatum is a multipurpose species with more than 86 documented traditional uses, mainly for epilepsy, anxiety, depression, and hepatic disorders. Major bioactive compounds identified include epicatechin (isolated from root bark), lupeol (stem bark), along with high levels of polyphenols and flavonoids. Preclinical studies demonstrated significant anticonvulsant effects (PTZ and MES models), antidepressant-like activity (chronic mild stress model), anxiolytic properties (elevated plus maze), and antioxidant activities, primarily through GABAergic modulation, monoaminergic enhancement, and reduction of oxidative stress. The plant also exhibited hepatoprotective effects with a good safety profile (LD₅₀ > 5,000 mg/kg). Conclusion: Bombax costatum shows promising neuroprotective potential that aligns with its traditional uses. However, current evidence is limited to preclinical studies. Future research should prioritize standardization of extracts, pharmacokinetic studies, and rigorous clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety in humans. Keywords: Bombax costatum, neuroprotection, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, epicatechin, lupeol, traditional African medicine, oxidative stress, GABAergic
Introduction: Sickle cell disease is characterized by sickle hemoglobin (HbS) polymerization under deoxygenation conditions, causing erythrocyte sickling, hemolysis, and vaso-occlusive complications. Red grape polyphenols exhibit antioxidant properties that may contribute to erythrocyte protection. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro anti-sickling activity of red grape juice (Vitis vinifera L. var. Crimson Seedless) on HbSS erythrocytes. Methods: An experimental in vitro study was conducted using blood samples from SS phenotype donors. Sickling was induced with 2% sodium metabisulfite according to the Emmel test. Erythrocytes were treated with three grape juice dilutions (1/10, 1/100, and 1/1000). Sickled erythrocytes were quantified by light microscopy, and sickling inhibition was calculated relative to the control. Results were obtained from six independent biological experiments. Results: Red grape juice reduced erythrocyte sickling in a concentration-dependent manner. The highest inhibitory activity was observed at the 1/10 dilution, with 58.52% inhibition, while the 1/100 and 1/1000 dilutions showed lower inhibition rates of 16.03% and 8.24%, respectively. Microscopic analysis showed better preservation of erythrocyte morphology at the 1/10 dilution. Conclusion: Red grape juice (Vitis vinifera L. var. Crimson Seedless) exhibits in vitro anti-sickling activity on HbSS erythrocytes. These findings suggest a potential interest in grape-derived bioactive compounds as complementary candidates for sickle cell disease research. Further studies are needed to identify active compounds, assess safety, and confirm efficacy in preclinical and clinical models. Keywords: Sickle cell disease; SS erythrocytes; anti-sickling activity; Vitis vinifera; Crimson Seedless; polyphenols; Emmel test.
Background: Wet cupping therapy (WCT), also known as Ḥijāma-bil-Sharṭ, is a traditional therapeutic modality widely practiced in complementary and alternative medicine. In recent years, increasing scientific interest has focused on elucidating its physiological mechanisms and evaluating its clinical efficacy across various health conditions. Objective: To provide a comprehensive review of the historical evolution, underlying mechanisms, and therapeutic applications of wet cupping therapy, integrating traditional concepts with contemporary biomedical evidence. Methods: A structured literature review was conducted using databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Relevant English-language publications, including original research articles, clinical trials, review papers, and classical medical texts, were identified using keywords such as “wet cupping,” “Ḥijāma-bil-Sharṭ,” and “mechanisms of action.” Studies addressing mechanisms, clinical outcomes, safety, and traditional perspectives were included, while duplicates and low-quality studies were excluded. Results: WCT appears to exert therapeutic effects through multiple mechanisms, including haemodynamic modulation, nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation, neurophysiological pain regulation via Diffuse Noxious Inhibitory Controls and Pain Gate Theory, and potential immunomodulatory and biochemical alterations. Evidence supports its effectiveness in pain management, particularly in musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain and arthritis. Additional benefits have been reported in neurological disorders, sleep quality, cardiovascular health, and fertility, although evidence remains limited. Conclusion: Wet cupping therapy demonstrates promising therapeutic potential as a complementary intervention. However, current evidence is limited by methodological heterogeneity and lack of standardization. Further high-quality randomized controlled trials and mechanistic studies are required to establish its efficacy, safety, and integration into evidence-based clinical practice. Keywords: “Wet cupping”, “Ḥijāma-bil-Sharṭ”, “Cupping therapy”, and “Mechanisms of action”
Background: Plasma cell granuloma (PCG) is a rare benign inflammatory lesion characterized by infiltration of polyclonal plasma cells within connective tissue stroma. Although most cases are localized and indolent, oral involvement, particularly on the gingiva, is uncommon and may clinically mimic malignancy or reactive lesions. PCG usually occurs in adolescents and young adults, while in pediatric patients are rare and diagnostically challenging. Poor nutritional status and poor oral hygiene are systemic vulnerabilities that may worsen severity and complicate diagnosis. This report aims to present a case of gingival PCG mimicking malignancy in pediatric patient with poor oral hygiene and malnutrition, highlighting diagnostic challenges and management. Case Presentation: A 3-year-old boy was referred due to gingival swelling and bleeding two weeks after a traumatic fall. The patient had never cleaned his teeth and was diagnosed with malnutrition. Clinical examination showed poor oral hygiene and widespread gingival enlargement with bleeding. Incisional biopsy confirmed plasma cell granuloma, showing plasma cell infiltration within fibrous stroma without atypia. Management included oral hygiene instruction, antiseptic gargle, oral debridement, nutritional correction, and oral antibiotics, which improved gingival condition. Discussion and Conclusions: This case highlights the diagnostic difficulty of differentiating gingival PCG from malignancy and should be confirmed histopathologically. Although PCG is a reactive lesion, poor oral hygiene contributed to chronic inflammation, while malnutrition may compromise mucosal integrity and immune function. In pediatric patient with systemic vulnerabilities such as malnutrition and poor oral hygiene, gingival PCG may clinically mimic malignancy. Multidisciplinary approach, surgical excision, and histopathological confirmation are crucial for diagnostic accuracy and favorable outcomes. Keywords: Gingiva, Malnutrition, Oral Hygiene, Pediatric, Plasma Cell Granuloma
Background: Hypertension is when the pressure in blood pressure vessels is too high. The heart has to work harder to pump blood. Hypertension also known as silent killer. There are 2 types of hypertensions each has a different cause. It causes complications such as heart attack or stroke heart failure, kidney problems, metabolic syndrome, etc. The risk of hypertension increases with age. Smoking and alcohol consumption also raises blood pressure. Objective: The present investigation to observe and compare cardiovascular drug chlorthalidone versus hydrochlorothiazide the first line drug therapy of hypertension. Methodologies: - The present observational study was conducted on 133 hypertension patients. This study was evaluated for the comparative study of two prescribed drugs that is, hydrochlorothiazide and chlorthalidone on hypertension patient the data was collected using suitable design data collection form. Patients having comorbidities conditions were excluded. Results: Among 133 patients, 26% of total study population were females and 74% of total population were males. Majority of the patients were in the age group of 45-54 years accounting 33.83% of total study population and total 24.06% were alcoholic and chronic smoker. In this study we were included the patient on drug therapy of hydrochlorothiazide and chlorthalidone in which 61% were prescribed for hydrochlorothiazide treatment and 39% to a prescribed for chlorthalidone treatment and as per the data collected chlorthalidone lasts longer in the body than hydrochlorothiazide and it lasts up to 36 hours in the body. Chlorthalidone is 1 to 2 times as potent as hydrochlorothiazide but the quality of life of hydrochlorothiazide is better than chlorthalidone accounting with 61% Conclusion: The present study revealed that the hypertension patients have poor quality of life and it is very important to improve their quality of life so that the patients can enjoy their day-to-day life. Experts prefer chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide both works well but hydrochlorothiazide prescribe more often. Keywords: Hypertension, blood pressure, chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide
O. basilicum is a annual herb commonly referred to sweet basil and used in various traditional systems, is a member of the Lamiaceae family. The objective of this study is to gain comprehensive pharmacognostic, physicochemical characteristics, and phytochemical analysis of the leaves. The pharmacognostic criteria were assessed, including macroscopic and microscopic evaluations, transverse sections of the leaf, powder microscopy, fluorescence analysis, and physicochemical properties (Total Ash 14.60%, acid-insoluble ash 4.15%), water-soluble ash 3.27%; alcohol-soluble extractive value 2.4%; water-soluble extractive value 1.6%; moisture content 13%. Phytochemical screening of ethanolic leaf extracts indicates the presence of flavonoids, saponins, phenolic, tannins, and cardiac glycosides. The Rf values determined were 0.60, 0.68, and 0.72. The standardized parameters for pharmacognostics, physicochemical parameters, phytochemical properties, total phenolic content, total flavonoids content, and chromatographic analyses of O. basilicum leaves are revealed in this work. Keywords: Fluorescence analysis, Physicochemical, Thin layer chromatography, TPC, TFC
Trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride (TPH) is an anticholinergic drug commonly used to manage psychosis-associated extrapyramidal symptoms and Parkinsonian disorders. However, its oral administration is associated with limitations such as first-pass metabolism, fluctuating plasma drug levels, and frequent dosing requirements, which may reduce patient compliance. The present study aimed to develop and optimize TPH-loaded transdermal patches using a combination of natural and synthetic polymers for sustained drug delivery. Patches were prepared by the solvent-casting method employing varying concentrations of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), chitosan, xanthan gum, and gum tragacanth. A factorial design was utilized to optimize formulation variables and evaluate their effects on physicochemical and drug-release characteristics. The prepared patches were assessed for thickness, weight variation, folding endurance, moisture content, moisture uptake, tensile strength, surface pH, drug content uniformity, and in vitro drug release. The optimized formulation exhibited satisfactory physicochemical properties, uniform drug distribution, good mechanical strength, and excellent flexibility. In vitro studies demonstrated sustained and controlled drug release over an extended period. The combination of natural and synthetic polymers significantly influenced the mechanical properties and release behavior, resulting in an optimized matrix system with improved performance. The developed transdermal patch represents a promising alternative to conventional oral therapy by providing sustained drug delivery, potentially enhancing therapeutic efficacy, patient compliance, and overall quality of life in long-term psychopharmacological management. Keywords: Trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride, Transdermal patch, Natural polymers, Synthetic polymers, Controlled drug delivery, Optimization, Psychosis management.
Background: Emtricitabine (FTC) is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor widely used in combination antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection. Its pharmacokinetic characteristics and need for regular dosing may affect patient adherence. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have been considered beneficial in terms of drug entrapment and drug delivery. The study was conducted using a Quality-by-Design (QbD) strategy along with Box–Behnken Design (BBD) in order to optimize FTC-loaded SLNs systematically. Methods: A three-variable, three-level Box-Behnken Design consisting of seventeen runs has been employed to investigate the effects of stearic acid concentration, Tween 80 concentration, and homogenization speed on the entrapment efficiency of FTC. Results: The optimized quadratic model exhibited exceptional predictive ability (R² =0.9989, adjusted R² = 0.9976, predicted R² = 0.9867), along with a non-significant lack of fit (p = 0.1047). It was found that stearic acid had the highest positive effect on EE%, while an increase in Tween 80 concentration and homogenization speed reduced the drug entrapment significantly. Results from the numerical optimization indicated that the optimized formulation had 164.68 mg of stearic acid, 2.09% of Tween 80 concentration, and a homogenization speed of 12,074.8 rpm, which yielded an EE% of 85.32%. Experimental validation indicated an EE% of 85.28%, which matched quite closely with the predicted value, yielding a prediction bias of 0.047%. Conclusion: The QbD-driven BBD method developed a reliable and statistically valid optimization method for SLNs loaded with FTC. The optimization study provided an effective formulation with high entrapment efficiency and corroborated the reliability of the approach employed, leading to promising possibilities for the physical and chemical characterization, controlled release assessment, and future reproduction of emtricitabine-loaded lipid formulations. Keywords – Emtricitabine[FTC]; Solid lipid Nanoparticles[SLNs]; Quality by Design[QbD]; Entrapment efficiency; Box-Behnken design [BBD]; Nanocarrier optimization.
Background: Effective drugs for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) remain scarce. Antioxidant compounds are increasingly being explored for their anti-Alzheimer’s potential. This has led to the inclusion of up to three compounds in the 2023 Alzheimer's drug development pipeline for phase 3 trials targeting oxidative stress. This study presents the antioxidant effects of ResArginTM (a conjugate of resveratrol and the amino acid arginine) and its protective effects against memory loss in a rat model of AD induced by AlCl3. Method: Female rats were given AlCl3 (50mg/kg bw) by oral gavage, except for the normal control group. One hour later, they were given distilled water for the positive control, 300 and 500 mg/kg b.w ResArginTM for the test groups, or 1 mg/kg b.w Donepezil (reference 1) or 100mg/kg for vitamin E (reference 2) by daily gavage for 42 days. Neurobehavioral tests (Elevated Plus Maze and Morris Water Maze) were performed. Subsequently, the rats were sacrificed and the levels of MDA and GSH in rat brains were measured. The activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx) and the level of reduced glutathione (GSH) were assessed in the rat brain. Histological sections of the regions of the hippocampus were made. Results: ResArginTM (300mg/kgbw and 500 mg/kgbw) treatments preserved the learning profile and reduced latency time to reach the target quadrant in the MWM. ResArginTM at 500mg/kg b.w (RSA500) significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the latency time to reach the target quadrant from 5.0 ± 1.01 seconds at week 2 to 2.3 ± 0.4 seconds at week 6. They protected the different areas of the brain (CA1, 3, and DG) from alterations induced by AlCl3 and prevented oxidative stress in the brain. Conclusion: ResArginTM prevents memory disorders, memory loss, altered hippocampus areas, and oxidative stress induced by AlCl3 in rats. Keywords: ResArginTM, oxidative stress, memory loss, Alzheimer's Disease, hippocampus, prevention
Objective(s): Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder marked by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation, and remains a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in developing countries. This study was undertaken to assess the clinical profile, drug prescribing pattern, and maternal-fetal outcomes among women with risk factors for preeclampsia attending a tertiary care teaching hospital. Design: A prospective observational study. Intervention(s): Case records of pregnant women with moderate-to-high risk factors for preeclampsia, attending the antenatal clinic of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, MMIMSR, Mullana, were reviewed over a six-month period. Demographic data, obstetric history, clinical findings, laboratory parameters, and prescribed antihypertensive and supportive medication were recorded on structured case record forms after obtaining informed consent. Main outcome measure(s): Drug prescribing pattern assessed using WHO prescribing indicators, and maternal-foetal outcomes. Results: Of 100 antenatal records screened, 60 women met the risk criteria for preeclampsia. Most patients were 20-30 years of age, and 55% were stratified as high risk and 38.3% as moderate risk on the basis of clinical and laboratory parameters. Labetalol (75%) was the most frequently prescribed antihypertensive, followed by low-dose aspirin/Ecosprin (40%) and magnesium sulphate (15%) for seizure prophylaxis. Supportive therapy included calcium (98.3%), iron (95%), folic acid (16.6%), L-arginine (31.6%), and protein powder (31.6%). About one-third of the women received additional treatment for concomitant illnesses such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and thyroid disorders. Conclusion: The drug therapy prescribed to women at risk of preeclampsia at this centre was broadly consistent with WHO and ACOG recommendations, with labetalol as the antihypertensive of choice and low-dose aspirin used for prophylaxis. Standardised treatment protocols, early risk stratification, and continued monitoring are needed to further improve maternal and fetal outcomes. Keywords: Preeclampsia, Drug Utilization Pattern, Antihypertensive Therapy, Maternal and Fetal Outcomes, Magnesium Sulfate, Biomarkers, Observational Study.
The present study focuses on the development and evaluation of a novel ketoconazole-loaded transferosomal hydrogel designed to enhance transdermal delivery for effective treatment of fungal infections. Transferosomes, flexible vesicular carriers composed of phospholipids and edge activators, were employed to improve drug encapsulation and skin penetration. A 3² full factorial design was used to optimize critical formulation parameters. The optimized vesicles were thoroughly characterized for particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and other physicochemical properties. To enable topical application, the transferosomes were incorporated into a hydrogel matrix, which was subsequently for drug content estimation, viscosity, in vitro diffusion, and antifungal activity. Drug release followed the Higuchi model, characterized as a diffusion-controlled process where the drug moves from a polymeric matrix into the surrounding medium. An excellent match is indicated by the high R² value (R2 value of 0.9941), which confirms that Fickian diffusion through the hydrogel matrix. The results demonstrated that the transferosomal hydrogel exhibited zone of inhibition of 46mm and conventional formulation exhibited zone of inhibition of 30mm, transferosomal hydrogel exhibited superior antifungal efficacy against Candida albicans and significantly enhanced epidermal penetration and retention in contrast to traditional formulations. 85.86±5.68% of Transferosomal hydrogel drug was diffused through the goat skin while the marketed cream was only 45.78±2.56 diffused through the goat skin within 8 hours. These findings underscore the potential of this system as a promising and effective topical antifungal therapy. Keywords: Ketoconazole, Phospholipid, Vitamin E, Transferosomes, Hydrogel, Ex Vivo Skin Permeation.
Neurodegenerative disorders and neuronal injuries resulting from oxidative stress, inflammation, excitotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction represent significant global health challenges. Medicinal plants possessing neuroprotective properties are increasingly investigated as potential therapeutic agents for prevention and management of neurological diseases. This systematic review evaluates phytochemicals responsible for neuroprotection, mechanisms underlying neuronal survival including antioxidant defense, modulation of neurotransmission, inhibition of apoptosis and regulation of neuroinflammatory pathways, along with pharmacological evidence and safety considerations. Flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolic acids and glycosides contribute to preservation of neuronal integrity and synaptic function. Experimental studies demonstrate improvement in cognitive performance and reduction in neuronal degeneration. Although clinical data remain limited, plant-derived neuroprotective compounds show promising therapeutic potential requiring further standardization and controlled clinical evaluation. Keywords: Neuroprotection; Medicinal plants; Neuronal survival; Oxidative stress; Phytochemicals.
Background: Excessive gestational weight gain has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and placental dysfunction. However, the histopathological alterations occurring in placental tissue under these conditions have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate placental histomorphological changes in women with excessive gestational weight gain. Methods: Placental tissues were obtained from healthy pregnant women and women with excessive gestational weight gain. Histopathological evaluation was performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Villous architecture, trophoblastic morphology, stromal organization, syncytial knot formation, and fibrinoid deposition were examined and compared between groups. Results: Control placentas demonstrated preserved villous architecture, regular syncytiotrophoblast morphology, well-organized stromal structures, and minimal fibrinoid deposition and syncytial knot formation. In contrast, placentas from women with excessive gestational weight gain exhibited disrupted villous architecture, trophoblastic thickening, stromal edema and vacuolization, increased syncytial knot formation, fibrinoid deposition, and degenerative villous changes. These alterations were accompanied by impaired cellular organization and reduced structural integrity of the villi. Conclusion: Excessive gestational weight gain is associated with significant placental histopathological alterations, including villous degeneration, stromal edema, trophoblastic thickening, increased syncytial knot formation, and fibrinoid deposition. These findings suggest that excessive maternal weight gain may adversely affect placental structure and potentially compromise placental function. Keywords: Placenta; excessive gestational weight gain; histopathology; villous degeneration; pregnancy.
Shea butter has played a vital role in the cultural, economic and everyday lives of people in Ghana and the West African area. But its contemporary significance for the world sometimes overshadows the deep historical institutions of knowledge that have underpinned its creation for decades. This research looks at the history of shea butter to its current position in the beauty industry. One of the major approach is the indigenous knowledge systems. Methods maintained and transmitted by northern Ghanaian women, have shown resilience in adjusting to changes in economic and social circumstances while sustaining core cultural practices. The study also investigates the role of current local corporations, such as Miller and Marian, in showing how ancient knowledge is retained and actively reinterpreted in modern production and branding. The research therefore views shea butter as a living cultural resource that links the past, present and future. Keywords: Miller and Marian, shea, butter, West Africa, Ghana
Linum usitatissimum Linn. (flaxseed; Tukhm-e-Katan) is an important medicinal and nutraceutical plant widely described in both classical Unani literature and contemporary biomedical research. Classical Unani physicians, including Ibn Sina and Zakariya al-Razi, documented its therapeutic utility in inflammatory disorders, respiratory ailments, and female reproductive conditions. In Unani medicine, Tukhm-e-Katan is recognized for its nutritive, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, and restorative properties, contributing to the maintenance of humoral balance. Phytochemical investigations have identified flaxseed as a rich source of lignans, particularly secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), along with α-linolenic acid, dietary fibre, proteins, mucilage, vitamins, and minerals. These bioactive constituents exhibit significant phytoestrogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, hypolipidemic, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities. Experimental and clinical studies suggest beneficial effects of flaxseed in menopausal symptoms, hormone-dependent disorders, hyperlipidemia, polycystic ovarian syndrome, osteoporosis, and gastrointestinal dysfunctions. Emerging evidence also supports its role in women’s health through modulation of estrogenic pathways and oxidative stress. The present review highlights the pharmacological, nutraceutical, and phytoestrogenic potential of Linum usitatissimum while integrating evidence from modern scientific literature with traditional Unani perspectives, thereby emphasizing its therapeutic relevance in integrative and preventive medicine. Keywords: Flaxseed, Linum usitatissimum, Phytoestrogenic activity, Menopause, Atrophic Vaginitis; Phytochemicals.
Scalp disorders are frequently perceived as minor conditions, although dandruff may interfere with scalp comfort, hair appearance, and personal hygiene. Dandruff is a mild scalp disorder characterized by visible white flakes and pruritus. Pomade, as a hair-styling and hair-care product, can be developed with natural active ingredients, including Cananga odorata flowers (Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook. F. & Thomson), which have been reported to possess antimicrobial and antifungal properties. This study aimed to formulate a pomade containing ethanol extract of Cananga odorata flowers and evaluate its antifungal activity against Candida albicans, one of the fungi associated with dandruff formation. This experimental study comprised simplicia preparation, extraction, pomade formulation, physical evaluation, and antifungal activity testing against Candida albicans. The ethanol extract of Cananga odorata flowers was successfully incorporated into pomade formulations at concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15%. All formulations demonstrated acceptable physical characteristics, including organoleptic properties, homogeneity, pH, spreadability, hair-retention capacity, irritation safety, hedonic acceptability, and stability. The formulation containing 15% extract produced the largest inhibition zone, with a mean diameter of 20.5 mm, indicating strong antifungal activity. These findings suggest that ethanol extract of Cananga odorata flowers has potential as a natural active ingredient in anti-dandruff pomade preparations. Keywords: antifungal, Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook. F. & Thomson, Candida albicans, dandruff, pomade.
